Chapter Two Astronomy Tower
Anna threw a pumpkin pasty across the kitchen at Honey who screamed. "Dad, Anna's throwing things at me again!!"
Snape slammed a book down on the desk in his study and looked up toward the kitchen. "Stop tormenting her and she'll stop throwing things at you," he said looking quite irritated. There was some additional screaming and then he heard the sound of thundering footsteps headed his way. He rolled his eyes and looked up just in time to see all three children run in, Anna in the lead, followed closely by Wolf who was giggling wildly and Honey who was in tears and had a hair full of something sticky. Snape put his arm out and stopped them. "What is all this about?" They all began shouting out at once until he held up a hand and silenced them. "One at a time."
Anna took a deep breath and began. "Honey keeps bragging about school Daddy, tell her to shut up and we'll let her be," sassed Anna. Honey cracked a devilish smile and then looked at Snape innocently.
"I can't help it daddy, I'm just excited about school starting back tomorrow," chimed Honey. Wolf snickered at both of them and sat down on the floor.
Snape shook his head and sighed. "Anna, Honey can't help it if she's excited about school. You're going to be just as excited next year and think of how that's going to make Wolf feel." Wolf looked up at Severus and wrinkled his nose. "Sorry son." Honey looked over her shoulder at Anna and grinned. "That's enough Honey; you don't have to rub their noses in it either." Severus sighed and listened to them as they began to bicker again. "Go on then I don't feel like listening to this," he said pushing them toward the door. Anna began to cackle and ran off with Wolf close on her heels, Honey turned to look at her father. "What?" he asked looking at her confused.
"You are going to remember to come and get me before the feast tomorrow aren't you Dad?" she asked looking very doubtful.
"I promised I would and I will Honey," he said trying not to look irritated that she had asked for the third time in three days. Honey smiled and then sighed as she ran her hand through the sticky spot in her hair. Severus resisted the urge to laugh and looked away.
"I guess I have to go and wash my hair now," she muttered to herself walking off. As she disappeared into the next room he turned back to listen to the fading chaos and sighed. He decided that he was not going to get anything done at home and after telling everyone good morning, including Mrs. Walker he headed off toward the castle.
Snape was thinking about everything that had happened to him in the last couple of months and then more importantly in the last couple of days and decided there was someone that he needed to speak to before he made his way to the dungeon. He wasn't surprised to find her sitting in her dark classroom pouring over a large book. "Good morning Sybill," he said taking her by surprise and causing her to jump slightly.
Trelawney rose quickly and straightened the folds of her satin robes, she jingled as she straightened and glistened in the stream of sunlight that peaked through a nearby window. "Severus I didn't hear you come in." She smiled and after a slight hesitation crossed the room and stood nervously across from him. "It's nice to see you again."
"Yes, well I meant to come up sooner but," he paused. "Actually Sybill you've been on my mind a great deal since we had our drink together the other day. I was wondering if you would like to have dinner tonight?"
She smiled. "Dinner, tonight?" she repeated.
"If you'd like," he asked shifting a bit nervously now.
"I'd love to have dinner with your family again Severus," she agreed giggling slightly.
"Well actually I meant you and me." Severus was looking very uncomfortable and it was spreading to Sybill as well.
"Oh, well certainly," she said swallowing hard. "How about if I make it for you?" she suggested turning red. "I'm not a fabulous cook but with a little magic I think I can manage," she said giggling once more.
"Well, I hadn't meant to trick you into making me dinner, but I'd like that," he admitted cracking a smile. "I'm sure it's going to be a very long day."
"Yes, shall we try for around seven?"
"All right," he agreed nodding. "I'll see you then." He turned to walk away and then stopped, turned around and gave her another kiss on the cheek. "Have a good day." Trelawney stood dumbfounded and nodded.
She had to admit to herself as he descended the ladder to her classroom that she had been thinking about Severus too. It had been a long time since she had thought of anyone but herself, why all of the sudden was he so heavy on her mind. She placed her hand to her cheek, smiled, and for a long time was lost in thought. It would be very hard to get back to her lesson planning, but eventually she did and before she knew it, she had worked well past lunch and into the afternoon very late.
"Damn I've missed another meeting. I'm going to get into so much trouble if I don't stop doing that," she mumbled to herself looking at the clock.
"I told Albus that you were very behind in your lesson planning and had asked me to send your apologies." Trelawney looked up to see Severus standing at the other end of her office and admitting to lying horribly for her. "I hope you don't mind."
Sybil shook her head and giggled. "You shouldn't have. I don't want you getting in trouble on my account."
"I didn't get in trouble, you needn't worry," he assured her crossing the room to stand in front of her. "I'm afraid I'm earlier than I predicted, I just couldn't concentrate on work any longer."
Sybil looked into his eyes and found she could no longer concentrate herself. "It's all right I'm glad you're here. Gives me the excuse I need to give in." She rose from her desk and crossed the room. "Shall we go?"
In a matter of moments, they were headed down the hallways toward her humble home. At first, they were quiet and then Sybill made idle chat about classes starting back, she was feeling quite foolish again, about how nervous she was. They were nearly there when she heard Professor's McGonagall and Flitwick coming and felt like running. "Sybill you're being silly," said Severus looking down the hallway toward the voices. She sighed and looked at him slightly wounded. "I'm sorry."
"I know I'm being foolish I'm just not in the mood to be snapped at," moaned Sybill. Snape smiled, shook his head, and looked around. There was a door to their right, which he quickly opened. Severus pulled Sybill into the small dark space he found there. After a moment they heard the voices of McGonagall and Flitwick go by and on down the hallway. Sybill looked up into his eyes and smiled; she was very unnerved by closeness of the closet. "That was very sweet of you Severus," she whispered nervously.
He starred into her eyes and cleared his throat. "Yes well, you shouldn't let Minerva intimidate you but I didn't mind sharing a dark closet with you for a moment or two," he said with a devilish glint in his eye.
"Well I suppose we can go now," she said backing up and loosing her footing, causing her to fall forward and into his arms. She looked up in full out panic. Severus began to laugh.
"Are you all right Sybill?" he asked smiling. She smiled and tried not to look so terrified.
"Yes, I'm just feeling quite stupid right now," she confessed. "It's been a very long time since I found myself in the arms of a man."
Severus thought for a moment about what she said and how long it had been since he had held a woman. He was sure that it had not been the same amount of time but that did not diminish the need that he felt or how he felt at the moment, that that need was being met. He found himself pulling her in tighter and then kissing her. Sybill pulled back and backed herself against the wall. "I'm sorry," he apologized quickly. "I shouldn't have."
"No," she whispered looking confused but pleased. "It's all right." She stood there for a moment thinking about what had happened and then reached for the handle on the door. "I think we can go now," she said running her tongue along her lips and placing her hand to her mouth. "I'll make you that dinner." She opened the door quickly and he followed her out trying to sort out what had just happened in his mind.
It hadn't been that long since Trista had disappeared out of his life, even though their relationship had been deteriorating for quite some time. He and Sybill had been friends for years, why would he suddenly be having feelings for her. Was it just because he was lonely? They walked silently the rest of the way, neither one of them wishing to be the first one to speak. Not until she had given him another bottle of wine to open and she had begun to struggle with dinner did they strike up conversation again.
"I hope you like chicken," she called from the small kitchen of her quarters.
"I'm sure that anything that you cook will be splendid," he called back after opening the wine and pouring two glasses. He rose and took one to her.
"I usually go down to the kitchen and talk them out of food," she said after taking the glass of wine and thanking him. She set it off to the side and went back to her cooking. "They all think I'm quite comical. I'll take my crystal ball and do a reading for them they're very easily amused." She was giggling now.
Severus chuckled. "I'm sure it's quite a sight."
"Yes, well if they find me annoying at least they don't let on," she said looking down at the skillet. She was quiet again and then quickly went on. "So Honey will be in my class again?"
"Yes, I believe she's looking forward to it you're one of her favorites," assured Severus.
"Well, I'll try not to predict her death straight off," said Sybill giggling. Severus chuckled.
"I'd appreciate that. All though knowing Honey she may feel slighted if you don't." They both began to laugh now. Sybill picked up her wine and took another drink. "Is there anything I can do to help?" he asked.
"Well, you could lay the table if you like. The plates and things are in that cabinet," she said pointing to her right. He nodded and in a few moments, he was setting up her small table so that they could eat.
They were on their second bottle of wine by the time they sat down to eat and Sybill was feeling slightly tipsy. "This is very good," said Severus after his second bite.
"Thank you," answered Sybill. "I can make one or two things without too much difficulty. So I guess Honey won't be arriving on the Hogwart's express," she said giggling.
"No," said Severus chuckling he paused and then added quietly. "Her mother used to bring her round to the school."
"Oh," said Sybill sorry she had brought it up.
"I'm going to go fetch her tomorrow afternoon. She's made me promise. She's only reminded me twice daily since we decided," he told her shaking his head.
Sybill smiled a sad smile. "She loves you Severus, she just wants your approval that's all."
"I'll never understand why women need everyone's approval," he said looking slightly irritated. Sybill lowered her eyes to her plate and began to pick at her food. Severus immediately felt bad for what he had said but didn't know how to get out of it. "Well now I just have to remember to go and get her or I'll never hear the end of it." Sybill didn't look up she just nodded into her plate. He took another bite of his food and then leaned back into his chair with his glass of wine. "I see you've put your hair up again," he said starring at her for a moment.
Sybill shifted uncomfortably in her chair and pulled at the few locks that had fallen around her face. "Well, it's just more convenient when I'm working to have it up," she said looking up and into his eyes. Severus leaned across the table and pulled her hair from its bindings causing it to fall around her face. He leaned back and watched her blush.
"I've decided I like it better down," he said grinning devilishly. Sybill found herself caught between embarrassment and distress and decided she was no longer hungry. She pushed her plate away and took another drink of her wine. Severus felt that he had made her uncomfortable and found his appetite disappear as well. "It was wonderful," he said looking down at his plate. "But I'm afraid I'm too tired to eat very much," he lied badly.
Sybill smiled. "Its all right it is rather late and tomorrow is start of term." He leaned across the table again and took her hand. Sybill felt a shiver and took a deep breath. "Let me clean up," she said pulling back nervously and starting to stand up.
"It can wait," said Severus trying to keep her eye contact. He kept a tight hold of her hand and pulled her into the next room to sit.
He pulled her to her small sofa and they sat down where they sat uncomfortably for a moment until Sybil spoke suddenly, "Oh I have something that I wanted to show you."
Severus looked at her curiously. "All right."
She rose from the couch and began to ramble on. "I saw an old friend of mine last week. She's a North American Indian, a Shaman; she brought me these Medicine Cards. They are the most interesting things." She had disappeared into the next room and was rummaging around in some things until she finally emerged from the room holding a leather pouch and leather bound book. There was a smile on her face and a glint in her eye as she approached Severus sitting on the couch. She stopped when she reached him though and sighed, he had once again fallen asleep.
Sybill placed her gifts on a nearby table and leaned down to touch his shoulder. "Severus," she whispered gently. "You need to go home."
Snape opened his eyes slowly and when he realized what he had done sat up. "Sybill I'm so," She placed her hand to his lips and shook her head.
"It's all right Severus really. You're under a lot of stress right now and well I understand," she offered sympathetically. "There will be other nights."
He looked at her and smiled. "Yes indeed." He rose from the couch, took her into his arms, and kissed her taking her quite by surprise. "And that's a promise," he said pulling back. She backed away slowly and looked at him both shocked and contented. "Thank you for dinner."
"Thank you for the company."
Severus laughed slightly. "I'm not sure that I would consider myself good company. It's seems that twice I have been invited to your home and twice I have been very poor company."
"I wouldn't say that at all," said Sybill blushing still and touching her hand to her lips once more. "I don't have a problem forgiving you for being sleepy," she decided giggling. After a few more awkward apologies and thank yous, Severus gave leaned over and gave her a quick kiss.
Sybill stood by the door for a moment and thought about everything that had happened to her in the last few days. She thought about how she felt she had changed in the last months and she thought about how she was finding herself in a spot that she hadn't been in a very long time. She was falling for the same person that she had fallen for many years ago and she was wondering if anyone was going to get in her way this time.
Severus felt Honey hovering over top of him, opened his eyes, and smiled. "I'll be home to get you. I promise," he said after yawning and sitting up.
"I'm just worried that you're going to get so busy that you're going to forget dad. I mean you haven't been home much lately because you've been so busy." Severus looked into his daughter's eyes. He knew that he couldn't be angry with her, he hadn't been there for them a lot these past few months, and he could see why she would doubt his sincerity. He reached forward and took her hands.
"I won't let you down, I promise." Honey sighed and smiled nodding her head and at that moment, Anna and Wolf came bounding in at full speed and screeching joyfully.
"Daddy, Daddy you're awake," screamed Anna.
"Yes," he said shaking his head and laughing. "And I need to get up because I have to be at the school."
"Aaaawwww!!!" they all said at once.
"Now, none of that. Classes start back tomorrow and the students arrive tonight I have a tremendous amount of work to do," he said pushing them gently aside and rising out of the bed.
"Yeah, we've got a tremendous amount to do," echoed Honey. Severus sighed and gave her a slight look of displeasure because of what he knew was to happen next.
"Shut it Honey," yelled Anna.
"Yeah," moaned Wolf.
Severus shook his head. "I really don't wish to listen to this again. Honey you go to your room and finish packing. Someone will be down from the school to collect your things sometime this morning. Anna and Wolf go find Mrs. Walker and tell her that I don't have time to breakfast." All three children moaned again but then left giving each other additional dirty looks as they did. Severus allowed himself a laugh and then went to get ready for his workday, but he had more than just work on his mind.
Sybill was sitting alone in her classroom sorting through papers, looking through large old books, and thinking about Severus when it suddenly occurred to her that he was probably at the meeting she should also be attending. She looked up at her clock, jumped up, and headed down the ladder of her classroom and toward the Great Hall where the meeting was supposed to be held. She giggled at the thought of her attending a faculty meeting and wondered what kind of looks she was going to receive by being there. She was very glad that Professor Dumbledore had begun talking and had everyone's attention when she snuck in and over to Severus who was near the back when she got there. He smiled and scooted over to make room for her to sit. "Did I miss anything?" she whispered as she sat.
"No," he whispered shaking his head. "I'm pleased you came."
"As am I," she said brushing past his hand under the table and feeling at bit unnerved.
She was sure that at the end of the meeting, she hadn't heard a word of what anyone had said but she was happy that she had come just the same. When they were exiting the Hall, she brushed off the snide remark that McGonagall made about her presence there and followed Severus out into the entranceway. She was just about to inquire about the rest of his morning when Dumbledore pushed his way forward to interrupt them. "Severus may I have a word?" he asked looking very concerned. Severus excused himself and went off to the side with Dumbledore as Sybill watched. She didn't have to be privy to the conversation to know what it was that Dumbledore was asking him to do. "Then I can count on you Severus," he said as they walked back toward her after a moment. Severus nodded silently and then Dumbledore turned to Sybill. "Nice to see you Sybill. I'm glad you could join us this morning."
Trelawney blushed slightly and nodded. "I regret that I've missed so many lately sir," she apologized absent-mindedly.
"It's quite all right. I'll see you soon Severus. Sybill," he said bowing to leave. Sybill watched him leave and then turned to Severus.
"I suppose you're busy for lunch," she said smiling a sad smile.
He forced a smile and reached out to take her hand. "I'm sure I'll see you later. I'm truly glad that you came this morning," he added looking slightly taxed.
"I am too," she looked around uncomfortably and then quickly leaned forward kissed him and then giggling walked off. "I'll see you later," she called to him without looking back.
"I'll come to your classroom when I return," he called after her. Severus chuckled to himself and then sighed and walked off toward his office thinking about what he had to do.
Sybill was once again lost in her work and would probably worked well into the night if she hadn't been thinking about Severus and wondering when he would arrive. The third time she really gave it some thought she looked up and noticed that it had begun to get dark outside. She turned quickly and looked at the clock. "Oh my," she thought. She thought about Severus and where she thought he might be and then she thought about how about Honey and how he most likely was not keeping that appointment either. She debated for a moment or two as to what to do and then decided that she owed him at least one favor. Grabbing a cloak she made her way down the ladder of her classroom, to the front of the school, and once off the school grounds she quickly apparated to the door of Snape's home. She hesitated and then knocked lightly on the door.
"Good evening miss," answered Mrs. Walker giving Sybill a curious look as she opened the door. "Can I help you?"
"You must be Mrs. Walker?" started Sybill. "I'm Professor Trelawney; I work with Professor Snape at the school."
Mrs. Walker smiled. "Yes Professor, I've heard the Professor Snape speak of you. Is everything all right?" she asked donning a concerned look.
"Yes ma'am. It's just that," Sybill was having a hard time finding the right words, but was soon to be rescued in an odd way as Honey pushed her way forward now.
"Is it Dad?" she whined slightly and then she saw Sybill and frowned. "Oh, it's you Professor. Is my Dad coming?"
"Well, actually Professor Dumbledore had something important for your father to do and he asked me to come and," Sybill could see the disappointment surfacing in her eyes and was trying to think of something to say, but again she would be rescued this time by Anna and Wolf.
"Professor Trelawney oh man you get to go with Professor Trelawney that's not fair," whined Anna who had just pushed her way into the front.
"Yeah, we want to go," echoed Wolf.
Honey looked at their eager and jealous faces and was suddenly just as anxious to go with Sybill as they were. "Well you can't, so go away," spat Honey at her brother and sister.
"Mrs. Walker!!" screeched Anna.
"Honey, that's enough now you've had this conversation with your father a dozen times," scolded Mrs. Walker.
"I'm sorry," she half apologized turning to look at Sybill. "So you're going to take me to the castle?"
"If that's okay?" she asked looking quite overwhelmed by everything that was going on around her.
"Mrs. Walker?"
"Run along and get your robes on so you're not late," she said smiling. Sybill watched as Honey took off across the hallway and then looked down at the very disappointed faces of Anna and Wolf.
She leaned down and smiled. "Disappointed you're not going?" Anna and Wolf both nodded. "I'll tell you what; you can come and have lunch with me tomorrow agreed?" Their eyes became as wide as sickles and they grinned and nodded. Sybill turned her head up to Mrs. Walker. "Will you bring them up Mrs. Walker?"
She smiled and then looked at them both. "If they promise to behave I don't have a problem with that Professor," she said smiling slyly at the Professor.
Sybill forced back a giggle. "We'll be good," promised Anna. "Won't we Wolf?"
"Yeah, we promise," grinned Wolf.
Honey had returned now in full Hogwart's attire. "I'm ready Professor. Dad all ready had my things taken over," she said excitedly. Sybill smiled at all three children.
"All right then," said the Professor looking at Honey very glad now that she had decided to come to get her. "Are you looking forward to classes?" Sybill asked as they stepped out of the house to leave.
"Yeah." Honey looked up at her and then back at her family and house. "Thank you for coming to get me."
"It's my pleasure." Sybill felt a tear forming in her eye and a burning sensation in the back of her throat in she fought it. She looked back at Anna and Wolf. "I'll see you two tomorrow." They grinned and giggled. "Mrs. Walker nice to meet you finally, I've heard a lot about you from Severus."
"Yes Professor nice to meet you as well. I hope we see more of you around here," she said smiling at her curiously. "I'll see you tomorrow if Anna and Wolf are good that is," she added winking. Sybill giggled and then taking Honey gently by the arm they headed toward Hogwart's.
Honey talked all the way about school, her friends and how much she was looking forward to classes and of course Divination. Sybill was enjoying the conversation and the feeling that she was a part Honey's adventure. There was a part of her that was very worried about where Severus was but she also knew that he was very capable of taking care of himself and that if he could be here he would be. As they approached the front doors, of the castle, Honey stopped and Sybill did too. "What's wrong?"
"Thank you," she said looking at the ground and then back up to Sybill.
"Your welcome," said Sybill matter-of-factly.
"No, I mean it. I'm sure that Dad forgot and some how you figured it out and well, thank you," she repeated.
"Actually, he really sent me," started Sybill but she would be interrupted.
"No Sybill she's right." Sybill turned around to find Severus standing behind her and Honey. "I didn't forget but I was too busy to be there and I'm very grateful that Professor Trelawney was able to come and get you for me," he said looking first to Honey and then to Sybill. "Thank you."
"Daddy," said Honey first pouting and then smiling and giving him a hug. "I'm so glad you're here."
"So am I. Forgive me?" he said pulling back. Honey giggled and nodded. "Shall we go in ladies?" She nodded again and he gave her his arm and then offered his other arm to Sybill who backed away.
"Oh no," she said smiling. "I don't go to start of term banquets. In fact I'm sure there's not even a chair for me." Sybill backed further away and smiled directly at Honey. "Thanks for the conversation Honey, have a good evening. Good evening Severus."
Severus took a step toward her. "Sybill, wait I'm sure that they can find you a chair."
"Yes Professor won't you come?" However, they were both talking to the darkness because she was gone. Honey looked up at her father. "Dad why do you think she did that?"
Severus looked off at the darkness and then down at his daughter. "Well I'm afraid Professor Trelawney is not big on crowds Honey," he explained. "Come on we're going to be late if we don't get going." Honey nodded and with her clutching his arm tighter, they started up the front stairs.
Sybill sighed, turned another card over, and giggled. "Oh, I'm no longer intimidated by you," she said to the card wagging a finger. She laughed again and then turned one more. "Ooooooo, now that's interesting."
"Finding out what the cards have in store for us Sybill?" Severus had entered her room and she jumped at the sound of his voice.
"Severus," she said looking first at the cards that lay before her and then at her attire. "What are you doing here?"
"Well," he said moving forward and making her more nervous. "The feast is over and it's very late so I know that Anna and Wolf are all ready fast asleep. I got to thinking that I hadn't properly thanked you for what you did for Honey. So I thought that I would come and say thank you."
"You all ready said thank you Severus and it's all right really," she said as she began to gather the cards that lay before her.
Severus was standing next to her and grinning devilishly. "I've come to take you somewhere."
Sybill looked at herself and shook her head. "Severus I'm in my nightgown," she whispered turning quite red.
Severus chuckled "That's not going to get you out of going," he said looking around and spied her cloak draped over a chair nearby. He crossed the room and brought it back to her placing it around her shoulders.
"Severus, you've lost your mind if you think," but before she could say anything else, he had picked her up and was carrying her out of the room. Sybill was so flabbergasted that she had lost her voice completely. She wouldn't say anything again until he put her down when they had made it to the top of the Astronomy tower. Sybill turned around and looked up into the night sky. "I haven't been up here, well since we were children," she said looking around. "The sky is so beautiful."
Severus wasn't looking at the stars he was looking at Sybill. "Almost as beautiful as you," he said staring into her eyes. Sybill looked down now to meet up with his eyes and looked at him curiously. She was feeling very warm from the embarrassment that was building up inside of her. She was thinking about what she had thought of the night before.
"Severus, I can't help but think that Trista could still be out there and that she could just show up," she whispered after a moment's thought.
"That doesn't mean that I care for her or that I would take her back," he said still looking into her eyes.
"But the children."
"Would be more than welcome to spend some time with their mother, which does not mean that I would want to." Severus pulled her in close and held her tightly. "Sybill, I was beginning to think that something was happening between us. Was I wrong?" he asked still looking into her eyes.
Sybill stared there for a moment and then sighed. "No you weren't wrong. That is to say," she stopped and sighed. "I have a feeling that something is happening between us too but I have to be honest with you, this is all very new to me and I'm terrified."
"That's all right. I'll hold you until you're no longer scared," he assured her. Sybill felt her heart begin to beat faster as he pulled her in even closer.
"You really think that Anna and Wolf are all ready asleep?" she whispered in his ear. He nodded and kissed the side of her neck. "So you don't need to go home anytime soon then?" she asked quietly. Severus pulled back looked into her eyes again with a devilish glint in his eye.
"Sybill are you asking me to stay?" Sybill smiled and reached up to kiss him. Severus grinned and picking her up again carried her back down to her quarters. As they entered the room, Sybill lowered all the lights. "Are you positive about this?" he asked laying her gently on her bed.
"If you are," she answered looking into his eyes.
"Nox," he said extinguishing the lights all together.
Anna threw a pumpkin pasty across the kitchen at Honey who screamed. "Dad, Anna's throwing things at me again!!"
Snape slammed a book down on the desk in his study and looked up toward the kitchen. "Stop tormenting her and she'll stop throwing things at you," he said looking quite irritated. There was some additional screaming and then he heard the sound of thundering footsteps headed his way. He rolled his eyes and looked up just in time to see all three children run in, Anna in the lead, followed closely by Wolf who was giggling wildly and Honey who was in tears and had a hair full of something sticky. Snape put his arm out and stopped them. "What is all this about?" They all began shouting out at once until he held up a hand and silenced them. "One at a time."
Anna took a deep breath and began. "Honey keeps bragging about school Daddy, tell her to shut up and we'll let her be," sassed Anna. Honey cracked a devilish smile and then looked at Snape innocently.
"I can't help it daddy, I'm just excited about school starting back tomorrow," chimed Honey. Wolf snickered at both of them and sat down on the floor.
Snape shook his head and sighed. "Anna, Honey can't help it if she's excited about school. You're going to be just as excited next year and think of how that's going to make Wolf feel." Wolf looked up at Severus and wrinkled his nose. "Sorry son." Honey looked over her shoulder at Anna and grinned. "That's enough Honey; you don't have to rub their noses in it either." Severus sighed and listened to them as they began to bicker again. "Go on then I don't feel like listening to this," he said pushing them toward the door. Anna began to cackle and ran off with Wolf close on her heels, Honey turned to look at her father. "What?" he asked looking at her confused.
"You are going to remember to come and get me before the feast tomorrow aren't you Dad?" she asked looking very doubtful.
"I promised I would and I will Honey," he said trying not to look irritated that she had asked for the third time in three days. Honey smiled and then sighed as she ran her hand through the sticky spot in her hair. Severus resisted the urge to laugh and looked away.
"I guess I have to go and wash my hair now," she muttered to herself walking off. As she disappeared into the next room he turned back to listen to the fading chaos and sighed. He decided that he was not going to get anything done at home and after telling everyone good morning, including Mrs. Walker he headed off toward the castle.
Snape was thinking about everything that had happened to him in the last couple of months and then more importantly in the last couple of days and decided there was someone that he needed to speak to before he made his way to the dungeon. He wasn't surprised to find her sitting in her dark classroom pouring over a large book. "Good morning Sybill," he said taking her by surprise and causing her to jump slightly.
Trelawney rose quickly and straightened the folds of her satin robes, she jingled as she straightened and glistened in the stream of sunlight that peaked through a nearby window. "Severus I didn't hear you come in." She smiled and after a slight hesitation crossed the room and stood nervously across from him. "It's nice to see you again."
"Yes, well I meant to come up sooner but," he paused. "Actually Sybill you've been on my mind a great deal since we had our drink together the other day. I was wondering if you would like to have dinner tonight?"
She smiled. "Dinner, tonight?" she repeated.
"If you'd like," he asked shifting a bit nervously now.
"I'd love to have dinner with your family again Severus," she agreed giggling slightly.
"Well actually I meant you and me." Severus was looking very uncomfortable and it was spreading to Sybill as well.
"Oh, well certainly," she said swallowing hard. "How about if I make it for you?" she suggested turning red. "I'm not a fabulous cook but with a little magic I think I can manage," she said giggling once more.
"Well, I hadn't meant to trick you into making me dinner, but I'd like that," he admitted cracking a smile. "I'm sure it's going to be a very long day."
"Yes, shall we try for around seven?"
"All right," he agreed nodding. "I'll see you then." He turned to walk away and then stopped, turned around and gave her another kiss on the cheek. "Have a good day." Trelawney stood dumbfounded and nodded.
She had to admit to herself as he descended the ladder to her classroom that she had been thinking about Severus too. It had been a long time since she had thought of anyone but herself, why all of the sudden was he so heavy on her mind. She placed her hand to her cheek, smiled, and for a long time was lost in thought. It would be very hard to get back to her lesson planning, but eventually she did and before she knew it, she had worked well past lunch and into the afternoon very late.
"Damn I've missed another meeting. I'm going to get into so much trouble if I don't stop doing that," she mumbled to herself looking at the clock.
"I told Albus that you were very behind in your lesson planning and had asked me to send your apologies." Trelawney looked up to see Severus standing at the other end of her office and admitting to lying horribly for her. "I hope you don't mind."
Sybil shook her head and giggled. "You shouldn't have. I don't want you getting in trouble on my account."
"I didn't get in trouble, you needn't worry," he assured her crossing the room to stand in front of her. "I'm afraid I'm earlier than I predicted, I just couldn't concentrate on work any longer."
Sybil looked into his eyes and found she could no longer concentrate herself. "It's all right I'm glad you're here. Gives me the excuse I need to give in." She rose from her desk and crossed the room. "Shall we go?"
In a matter of moments, they were headed down the hallways toward her humble home. At first, they were quiet and then Sybill made idle chat about classes starting back, she was feeling quite foolish again, about how nervous she was. They were nearly there when she heard Professor's McGonagall and Flitwick coming and felt like running. "Sybill you're being silly," said Severus looking down the hallway toward the voices. She sighed and looked at him slightly wounded. "I'm sorry."
"I know I'm being foolish I'm just not in the mood to be snapped at," moaned Sybill. Snape smiled, shook his head, and looked around. There was a door to their right, which he quickly opened. Severus pulled Sybill into the small dark space he found there. After a moment they heard the voices of McGonagall and Flitwick go by and on down the hallway. Sybill looked up into his eyes and smiled; she was very unnerved by closeness of the closet. "That was very sweet of you Severus," she whispered nervously.
He starred into her eyes and cleared his throat. "Yes well, you shouldn't let Minerva intimidate you but I didn't mind sharing a dark closet with you for a moment or two," he said with a devilish glint in his eye.
"Well I suppose we can go now," she said backing up and loosing her footing, causing her to fall forward and into his arms. She looked up in full out panic. Severus began to laugh.
"Are you all right Sybill?" he asked smiling. She smiled and tried not to look so terrified.
"Yes, I'm just feeling quite stupid right now," she confessed. "It's been a very long time since I found myself in the arms of a man."
Severus thought for a moment about what she said and how long it had been since he had held a woman. He was sure that it had not been the same amount of time but that did not diminish the need that he felt or how he felt at the moment, that that need was being met. He found himself pulling her in tighter and then kissing her. Sybill pulled back and backed herself against the wall. "I'm sorry," he apologized quickly. "I shouldn't have."
"No," she whispered looking confused but pleased. "It's all right." She stood there for a moment thinking about what had happened and then reached for the handle on the door. "I think we can go now," she said running her tongue along her lips and placing her hand to her mouth. "I'll make you that dinner." She opened the door quickly and he followed her out trying to sort out what had just happened in his mind.
It hadn't been that long since Trista had disappeared out of his life, even though their relationship had been deteriorating for quite some time. He and Sybill had been friends for years, why would he suddenly be having feelings for her. Was it just because he was lonely? They walked silently the rest of the way, neither one of them wishing to be the first one to speak. Not until she had given him another bottle of wine to open and she had begun to struggle with dinner did they strike up conversation again.
"I hope you like chicken," she called from the small kitchen of her quarters.
"I'm sure that anything that you cook will be splendid," he called back after opening the wine and pouring two glasses. He rose and took one to her.
"I usually go down to the kitchen and talk them out of food," she said after taking the glass of wine and thanking him. She set it off to the side and went back to her cooking. "They all think I'm quite comical. I'll take my crystal ball and do a reading for them they're very easily amused." She was giggling now.
Severus chuckled. "I'm sure it's quite a sight."
"Yes, well if they find me annoying at least they don't let on," she said looking down at the skillet. She was quiet again and then quickly went on. "So Honey will be in my class again?"
"Yes, I believe she's looking forward to it you're one of her favorites," assured Severus.
"Well, I'll try not to predict her death straight off," said Sybill giggling. Severus chuckled.
"I'd appreciate that. All though knowing Honey she may feel slighted if you don't." They both began to laugh now. Sybill picked up her wine and took another drink. "Is there anything I can do to help?" he asked.
"Well, you could lay the table if you like. The plates and things are in that cabinet," she said pointing to her right. He nodded and in a few moments, he was setting up her small table so that they could eat.
They were on their second bottle of wine by the time they sat down to eat and Sybill was feeling slightly tipsy. "This is very good," said Severus after his second bite.
"Thank you," answered Sybill. "I can make one or two things without too much difficulty. So I guess Honey won't be arriving on the Hogwart's express," she said giggling.
"No," said Severus chuckling he paused and then added quietly. "Her mother used to bring her round to the school."
"Oh," said Sybill sorry she had brought it up.
"I'm going to go fetch her tomorrow afternoon. She's made me promise. She's only reminded me twice daily since we decided," he told her shaking his head.
Sybill smiled a sad smile. "She loves you Severus, she just wants your approval that's all."
"I'll never understand why women need everyone's approval," he said looking slightly irritated. Sybill lowered her eyes to her plate and began to pick at her food. Severus immediately felt bad for what he had said but didn't know how to get out of it. "Well now I just have to remember to go and get her or I'll never hear the end of it." Sybill didn't look up she just nodded into her plate. He took another bite of his food and then leaned back into his chair with his glass of wine. "I see you've put your hair up again," he said starring at her for a moment.
Sybill shifted uncomfortably in her chair and pulled at the few locks that had fallen around her face. "Well, it's just more convenient when I'm working to have it up," she said looking up and into his eyes. Severus leaned across the table and pulled her hair from its bindings causing it to fall around her face. He leaned back and watched her blush.
"I've decided I like it better down," he said grinning devilishly. Sybill found herself caught between embarrassment and distress and decided she was no longer hungry. She pushed her plate away and took another drink of her wine. Severus felt that he had made her uncomfortable and found his appetite disappear as well. "It was wonderful," he said looking down at his plate. "But I'm afraid I'm too tired to eat very much," he lied badly.
Sybill smiled. "Its all right it is rather late and tomorrow is start of term." He leaned across the table again and took her hand. Sybill felt a shiver and took a deep breath. "Let me clean up," she said pulling back nervously and starting to stand up.
"It can wait," said Severus trying to keep her eye contact. He kept a tight hold of her hand and pulled her into the next room to sit.
He pulled her to her small sofa and they sat down where they sat uncomfortably for a moment until Sybil spoke suddenly, "Oh I have something that I wanted to show you."
Severus looked at her curiously. "All right."
She rose from the couch and began to ramble on. "I saw an old friend of mine last week. She's a North American Indian, a Shaman; she brought me these Medicine Cards. They are the most interesting things." She had disappeared into the next room and was rummaging around in some things until she finally emerged from the room holding a leather pouch and leather bound book. There was a smile on her face and a glint in her eye as she approached Severus sitting on the couch. She stopped when she reached him though and sighed, he had once again fallen asleep.
Sybill placed her gifts on a nearby table and leaned down to touch his shoulder. "Severus," she whispered gently. "You need to go home."
Snape opened his eyes slowly and when he realized what he had done sat up. "Sybill I'm so," She placed her hand to his lips and shook her head.
"It's all right Severus really. You're under a lot of stress right now and well I understand," she offered sympathetically. "There will be other nights."
He looked at her and smiled. "Yes indeed." He rose from the couch, took her into his arms, and kissed her taking her quite by surprise. "And that's a promise," he said pulling back. She backed away slowly and looked at him both shocked and contented. "Thank you for dinner."
"Thank you for the company."
Severus laughed slightly. "I'm not sure that I would consider myself good company. It's seems that twice I have been invited to your home and twice I have been very poor company."
"I wouldn't say that at all," said Sybill blushing still and touching her hand to her lips once more. "I don't have a problem forgiving you for being sleepy," she decided giggling. After a few more awkward apologies and thank yous, Severus gave leaned over and gave her a quick kiss.
Sybill stood by the door for a moment and thought about everything that had happened to her in the last few days. She thought about how she felt she had changed in the last months and she thought about how she was finding herself in a spot that she hadn't been in a very long time. She was falling for the same person that she had fallen for many years ago and she was wondering if anyone was going to get in her way this time.
Severus felt Honey hovering over top of him, opened his eyes, and smiled. "I'll be home to get you. I promise," he said after yawning and sitting up.
"I'm just worried that you're going to get so busy that you're going to forget dad. I mean you haven't been home much lately because you've been so busy." Severus looked into his daughter's eyes. He knew that he couldn't be angry with her, he hadn't been there for them a lot these past few months, and he could see why she would doubt his sincerity. He reached forward and took her hands.
"I won't let you down, I promise." Honey sighed and smiled nodding her head and at that moment, Anna and Wolf came bounding in at full speed and screeching joyfully.
"Daddy, Daddy you're awake," screamed Anna.
"Yes," he said shaking his head and laughing. "And I need to get up because I have to be at the school."
"Aaaawwww!!!" they all said at once.
"Now, none of that. Classes start back tomorrow and the students arrive tonight I have a tremendous amount of work to do," he said pushing them gently aside and rising out of the bed.
"Yeah, we've got a tremendous amount to do," echoed Honey. Severus sighed and gave her a slight look of displeasure because of what he knew was to happen next.
"Shut it Honey," yelled Anna.
"Yeah," moaned Wolf.
Severus shook his head. "I really don't wish to listen to this again. Honey you go to your room and finish packing. Someone will be down from the school to collect your things sometime this morning. Anna and Wolf go find Mrs. Walker and tell her that I don't have time to breakfast." All three children moaned again but then left giving each other additional dirty looks as they did. Severus allowed himself a laugh and then went to get ready for his workday, but he had more than just work on his mind.
Sybill was sitting alone in her classroom sorting through papers, looking through large old books, and thinking about Severus when it suddenly occurred to her that he was probably at the meeting she should also be attending. She looked up at her clock, jumped up, and headed down the ladder of her classroom and toward the Great Hall where the meeting was supposed to be held. She giggled at the thought of her attending a faculty meeting and wondered what kind of looks she was going to receive by being there. She was very glad that Professor Dumbledore had begun talking and had everyone's attention when she snuck in and over to Severus who was near the back when she got there. He smiled and scooted over to make room for her to sit. "Did I miss anything?" she whispered as she sat.
"No," he whispered shaking his head. "I'm pleased you came."
"As am I," she said brushing past his hand under the table and feeling at bit unnerved.
She was sure that at the end of the meeting, she hadn't heard a word of what anyone had said but she was happy that she had come just the same. When they were exiting the Hall, she brushed off the snide remark that McGonagall made about her presence there and followed Severus out into the entranceway. She was just about to inquire about the rest of his morning when Dumbledore pushed his way forward to interrupt them. "Severus may I have a word?" he asked looking very concerned. Severus excused himself and went off to the side with Dumbledore as Sybill watched. She didn't have to be privy to the conversation to know what it was that Dumbledore was asking him to do. "Then I can count on you Severus," he said as they walked back toward her after a moment. Severus nodded silently and then Dumbledore turned to Sybill. "Nice to see you Sybill. I'm glad you could join us this morning."
Trelawney blushed slightly and nodded. "I regret that I've missed so many lately sir," she apologized absent-mindedly.
"It's quite all right. I'll see you soon Severus. Sybill," he said bowing to leave. Sybill watched him leave and then turned to Severus.
"I suppose you're busy for lunch," she said smiling a sad smile.
He forced a smile and reached out to take her hand. "I'm sure I'll see you later. I'm truly glad that you came this morning," he added looking slightly taxed.
"I am too," she looked around uncomfortably and then quickly leaned forward kissed him and then giggling walked off. "I'll see you later," she called to him without looking back.
"I'll come to your classroom when I return," he called after her. Severus chuckled to himself and then sighed and walked off toward his office thinking about what he had to do.
Sybill was once again lost in her work and would probably worked well into the night if she hadn't been thinking about Severus and wondering when he would arrive. The third time she really gave it some thought she looked up and noticed that it had begun to get dark outside. She turned quickly and looked at the clock. "Oh my," she thought. She thought about Severus and where she thought he might be and then she thought about how about Honey and how he most likely was not keeping that appointment either. She debated for a moment or two as to what to do and then decided that she owed him at least one favor. Grabbing a cloak she made her way down the ladder of her classroom, to the front of the school, and once off the school grounds she quickly apparated to the door of Snape's home. She hesitated and then knocked lightly on the door.
"Good evening miss," answered Mrs. Walker giving Sybill a curious look as she opened the door. "Can I help you?"
"You must be Mrs. Walker?" started Sybill. "I'm Professor Trelawney; I work with Professor Snape at the school."
Mrs. Walker smiled. "Yes Professor, I've heard the Professor Snape speak of you. Is everything all right?" she asked donning a concerned look.
"Yes ma'am. It's just that," Sybill was having a hard time finding the right words, but was soon to be rescued in an odd way as Honey pushed her way forward now.
"Is it Dad?" she whined slightly and then she saw Sybill and frowned. "Oh, it's you Professor. Is my Dad coming?"
"Well, actually Professor Dumbledore had something important for your father to do and he asked me to come and," Sybill could see the disappointment surfacing in her eyes and was trying to think of something to say, but again she would be rescued this time by Anna and Wolf.
"Professor Trelawney oh man you get to go with Professor Trelawney that's not fair," whined Anna who had just pushed her way into the front.
"Yeah, we want to go," echoed Wolf.
Honey looked at their eager and jealous faces and was suddenly just as anxious to go with Sybill as they were. "Well you can't, so go away," spat Honey at her brother and sister.
"Mrs. Walker!!" screeched Anna.
"Honey, that's enough now you've had this conversation with your father a dozen times," scolded Mrs. Walker.
"I'm sorry," she half apologized turning to look at Sybill. "So you're going to take me to the castle?"
"If that's okay?" she asked looking quite overwhelmed by everything that was going on around her.
"Mrs. Walker?"
"Run along and get your robes on so you're not late," she said smiling. Sybill watched as Honey took off across the hallway and then looked down at the very disappointed faces of Anna and Wolf.
She leaned down and smiled. "Disappointed you're not going?" Anna and Wolf both nodded. "I'll tell you what; you can come and have lunch with me tomorrow agreed?" Their eyes became as wide as sickles and they grinned and nodded. Sybill turned her head up to Mrs. Walker. "Will you bring them up Mrs. Walker?"
She smiled and then looked at them both. "If they promise to behave I don't have a problem with that Professor," she said smiling slyly at the Professor.
Sybill forced back a giggle. "We'll be good," promised Anna. "Won't we Wolf?"
"Yeah, we promise," grinned Wolf.
Honey had returned now in full Hogwart's attire. "I'm ready Professor. Dad all ready had my things taken over," she said excitedly. Sybill smiled at all three children.
"All right then," said the Professor looking at Honey very glad now that she had decided to come to get her. "Are you looking forward to classes?" Sybill asked as they stepped out of the house to leave.
"Yeah." Honey looked up at her and then back at her family and house. "Thank you for coming to get me."
"It's my pleasure." Sybill felt a tear forming in her eye and a burning sensation in the back of her throat in she fought it. She looked back at Anna and Wolf. "I'll see you two tomorrow." They grinned and giggled. "Mrs. Walker nice to meet you finally, I've heard a lot about you from Severus."
"Yes Professor nice to meet you as well. I hope we see more of you around here," she said smiling at her curiously. "I'll see you tomorrow if Anna and Wolf are good that is," she added winking. Sybill giggled and then taking Honey gently by the arm they headed toward Hogwart's.
Honey talked all the way about school, her friends and how much she was looking forward to classes and of course Divination. Sybill was enjoying the conversation and the feeling that she was a part Honey's adventure. There was a part of her that was very worried about where Severus was but she also knew that he was very capable of taking care of himself and that if he could be here he would be. As they approached the front doors, of the castle, Honey stopped and Sybill did too. "What's wrong?"
"Thank you," she said looking at the ground and then back up to Sybill.
"Your welcome," said Sybill matter-of-factly.
"No, I mean it. I'm sure that Dad forgot and some how you figured it out and well, thank you," she repeated.
"Actually, he really sent me," started Sybill but she would be interrupted.
"No Sybill she's right." Sybill turned around to find Severus standing behind her and Honey. "I didn't forget but I was too busy to be there and I'm very grateful that Professor Trelawney was able to come and get you for me," he said looking first to Honey and then to Sybill. "Thank you."
"Daddy," said Honey first pouting and then smiling and giving him a hug. "I'm so glad you're here."
"So am I. Forgive me?" he said pulling back. Honey giggled and nodded. "Shall we go in ladies?" She nodded again and he gave her his arm and then offered his other arm to Sybill who backed away.
"Oh no," she said smiling. "I don't go to start of term banquets. In fact I'm sure there's not even a chair for me." Sybill backed further away and smiled directly at Honey. "Thanks for the conversation Honey, have a good evening. Good evening Severus."
Severus took a step toward her. "Sybill, wait I'm sure that they can find you a chair."
"Yes Professor won't you come?" However, they were both talking to the darkness because she was gone. Honey looked up at her father. "Dad why do you think she did that?"
Severus looked off at the darkness and then down at his daughter. "Well I'm afraid Professor Trelawney is not big on crowds Honey," he explained. "Come on we're going to be late if we don't get going." Honey nodded and with her clutching his arm tighter, they started up the front stairs.
Sybill sighed, turned another card over, and giggled. "Oh, I'm no longer intimidated by you," she said to the card wagging a finger. She laughed again and then turned one more. "Ooooooo, now that's interesting."
"Finding out what the cards have in store for us Sybill?" Severus had entered her room and she jumped at the sound of his voice.
"Severus," she said looking first at the cards that lay before her and then at her attire. "What are you doing here?"
"Well," he said moving forward and making her more nervous. "The feast is over and it's very late so I know that Anna and Wolf are all ready fast asleep. I got to thinking that I hadn't properly thanked you for what you did for Honey. So I thought that I would come and say thank you."
"You all ready said thank you Severus and it's all right really," she said as she began to gather the cards that lay before her.
Severus was standing next to her and grinning devilishly. "I've come to take you somewhere."
Sybill looked at herself and shook her head. "Severus I'm in my nightgown," she whispered turning quite red.
Severus chuckled "That's not going to get you out of going," he said looking around and spied her cloak draped over a chair nearby. He crossed the room and brought it back to her placing it around her shoulders.
"Severus, you've lost your mind if you think," but before she could say anything else, he had picked her up and was carrying her out of the room. Sybill was so flabbergasted that she had lost her voice completely. She wouldn't say anything again until he put her down when they had made it to the top of the Astronomy tower. Sybill turned around and looked up into the night sky. "I haven't been up here, well since we were children," she said looking around. "The sky is so beautiful."
Severus wasn't looking at the stars he was looking at Sybill. "Almost as beautiful as you," he said staring into her eyes. Sybill looked down now to meet up with his eyes and looked at him curiously. She was feeling very warm from the embarrassment that was building up inside of her. She was thinking about what she had thought of the night before.
"Severus, I can't help but think that Trista could still be out there and that she could just show up," she whispered after a moment's thought.
"That doesn't mean that I care for her or that I would take her back," he said still looking into her eyes.
"But the children."
"Would be more than welcome to spend some time with their mother, which does not mean that I would want to." Severus pulled her in close and held her tightly. "Sybill, I was beginning to think that something was happening between us. Was I wrong?" he asked still looking into her eyes.
Sybill stared there for a moment and then sighed. "No you weren't wrong. That is to say," she stopped and sighed. "I have a feeling that something is happening between us too but I have to be honest with you, this is all very new to me and I'm terrified."
"That's all right. I'll hold you until you're no longer scared," he assured her. Sybill felt her heart begin to beat faster as he pulled her in even closer.
"You really think that Anna and Wolf are all ready asleep?" she whispered in his ear. He nodded and kissed the side of her neck. "So you don't need to go home anytime soon then?" she asked quietly. Severus pulled back looked into her eyes again with a devilish glint in his eye.
"Sybill are you asking me to stay?" Sybill smiled and reached up to kiss him. Severus grinned and picking her up again carried her back down to her quarters. As they entered the room, Sybill lowered all the lights. "Are you positive about this?" he asked laying her gently on her bed.
"If you are," she answered looking into his eyes.
"Nox," he said extinguishing the lights all together.