I do not claim ownership to any of J.K. Rowling's characters, and I'm not making any money from this. It's simply for a larf. Please R&R. Thanx. ~ZiMsta~

THE RETURN

They rode for a long time, stopping only when they reached a clearing surrounded by weeping willows. Genevieve slid off of Severus' back, then stood away as he transformed back into his human form. His face was slightly red, looking tired from the long ride. "I enjoyed that. But you look tired." Genevieve said, sitting down on the carpet of soft grass. "It is good for me." Severus said, grinning down at her. "Sit with me." Genevieve said, patting the ground next to her. He looked uncomfortable, and Genevieve realized that he must not be accustomed to sitting on the ground.

"Don't worry. You're wearing the proper attire for hiding grass stains." She teased. Severus let out a feint laugh, then took a seat next to her. "Speaking of, I'm assuming that black is your favourite colour?" she asked, picking at some honeysuckle that was nestled in the grass. "Though it is a very nice shade, I am quite partial to green." He said, trying to move his legs into a more comfortable sitting position. Genevieve finally assisted when he almost fell backward in the attempt.

"Here. Cross your legslike this." She showed him by unfolding his legs, then refolding them again. Severus looked at her as if she were speaking a foreign language while performing some profound act of Yoga. "It's not hard. Here" She reached over and grabbed one of his legs, and was shocked when he grabbed her wrist with incredible strength. She looked at him just as he realized what he was doing, and he released his grip. "I'm sorry. I am just not used to being touched." He explained quietly, letting go of her. "That's ok. I should have asked first." She said, moving her hand away.

"You should not have to ask. I justThis is a very new experience for me and it will take some time for me to adjust." He said. "So I suppose sneaking up on you is out of the question." Genevieve said, trying to lighten the mood. "Not unless you have a death wish." He said, attempting, once again, to cross his legs. He finally managed to do it, but appeared to be straining a bit. "May I ask you a question?" Genevieve asked, twirling the honeysuckle between her fingers.

"You may." He said, giving her his curious attention. "Why did you become a Death Eater?" She asked in a soft tone. Severus looked away for a moment in thought. "It was a very different time then. Voldemort had gained power over much of the magical world, as well as the muggle. At that time, I had nothing to lose, and decided that it would be best to join forces with him, rather than fight him." He explained. Genevieve noticed that he was looking at his left arm as he spoke.

"What made you decide to become a Spy and rejoin the side of the good?" She continued. Severus sort of sighed. "I came to realize that what Voldemort was doing was far beyond wrong. And as I became older, I knew that fighting him was my only option. So I sought out Dumbledore. The rest is history, as they say." He finished. Genevieve nodded, wanting to ask more about it, but didn't want to push him any farther than he was willing.

"Dumbledore was the only man who would trust me and look past my mistakes. I was surprised to find that you, a student who had dealt with mysometimes overbearing behavior for so many years, was able to do the same. To search for the real person within. I'm not sure that he even still exists." Severus was becoming more and more uncomfortable, fidgeting with his robes. "Do you honestly think that I would be sitting here with you now if he didn't?" Genevieve asked, looking at him with great compassion.

"No. I suppose not. He may not be gone entirely, but he is very weak. I wonder if he is even worth finding." He said in a quiet voice. Genevieve reached out and gently took his hand, giving it a light squeeze. "You know that he is worth finding. And I want to help you find him." She said, rubbing her thumb over the top of his hand. Severus was silent, staring at there joined hands with wonder. Genevieve pulled his hand to her lips, kissing it.

"You are quite an amazing creature, Genevieve." Severus whispered as she gave him back his hand. She blushed at his words, still not sure if they were coming from his mouth. She scooted closer to him, resting her head on his shoulder. "So are you, Severus." She said, closing her eyes. She could feel him watching her with his tunnel-like eyes, and she didn't mind. She had wanted those eyes to gaze at her in that way for so long. She lifted her head, smiling at him. His mouth soon curved into a gentle smile, and he leaned forward to kiss her, but a sudden whistle broke the moment.

"What was that?" Genevieve whispered, moving away from Severus as her eyes searched the forest. Her question was answered when Fawkes, Dumbledore's Phoenix, appeared from behind the trees and flew toward them. Genevieve and Severus both stood up to greet him, and Fawkes landed gently on Severus' shoulder. "Fawkeswhat are you doing here?" Severus asked the Phoenix. Fawkes nodded his vibrantly coloured head toward his legs, where there was a sealed parchment attached. Severus took the letter quickly as Fawkes looked down at Genevieve.

"It can't be." Severus half gasped. "What is it?" Genevieve asked. Severus folded the note, tucking it into his robes. "Hogwarts" Severus started. Fawkes spread his great red and gold wings, taking off as Severus kept his eyes on hers. "Hogwarts has re-opened. Classes are back in session."

****

Genevieve and Severus said goodbye to Selena, thanking her for everything. Genevieve gave her an extra hug, thanking her for the dress, and the ball, and everything that she had done for her. When everything was in order, Genevieve and Severus apperated back to the front gates of Hogwarts. It was strange, returning to Hogwarts now. So many things had changed. Genevieve and Severus were now a couple, so to speak. And she didn't know how she was going to confront Malfoy and Harry, after what they had done to her. She still wasn't sure why Harry and Malfoy were suddenly so chummy, but she was determined to find out, no matter how uncomfortable the confrontation may be.

"Genevieve" Severus looked at her as they stood before the grand gates of Hogwarts. "This should probably go without saying, but we cannot show ouraffection toward one another here." He said, slipping back into his professional, teacher-student mode. "I know, SevI mean, Professor." Genevieve quickly caught herself. Severus nodded, then led the way back into Hogwarts. Back to the way things used to be. Teacher/student, loathing/dislike. At least Genevieve knew that there was always that place in their hearts where two lovers resided.

Classes resumed as if no one had ever heard of Voldemort. His only mention was at the first meal back at school, when Dumbledore revoked all further visits to Hogsmead. That caused more than a few uprisings of protest, especially from Fred and George Weasley, who now had nowhere to purchase their dungbombs and exploding snaps. Everyone knew that it was for their best interest, however, and that no candy from Honeydukes was worth dying for. Or, at least, most people felt this way. Genevieve had heard Malfoy telling everyone at the Slytherin table that he had no reason to fear Voldemort, and all of the Slytherin girls (aside from Genevieve, of course) were swooning over him.

"Nice to see you again, Hemlock. Have a nice holiday?" Malfoy asked, giving her a malicious grin. She looked away, focusing on her plate. She would have normally turned to Ezzie, but Ezzie had not shown up when school reconvened. Genevieve had sent her an Owl, but hadn't gotten a response, which worried her. Ezzie didn't just disappear like that, and it was one of the many things that was bothering Genevieve. Tomorrow was Saturday, the day that she was supposed to meet Dylan in London. It wasn't something that she was looking forward to.

Her attention was drawn from her plate, to the staff table. Sitting to Dumbledore's right, keeping to himself as he ate, was Severus. He looked tired, his movements sluggish and his eyes not wandering. She wanted more than anything to go to him. To put her arms around him as he held her close. It had been more difficult to keep away from him than she had thought. Watching him as he resumed his role as hated potions master, wanting to put a loving hand on his shoulder to let him know that she was there for him. But she knew that that was something he was aware of, and would not easily forgeteven if he sometimes acted like he had.

"Miss Hemlock, do watch what you are doing! Unless you would like to blow this whole lot into pieces, which is something that I ponder daily!" Severus shouted at her during her potions lesson, glaring at the entire class at his last words. Genevieve realized that she was about to add raven droppings one step too soon, and cursed herself for her absentmindedness. "Sorry, sir." She apologized quietly. "You will be if you continue to neglect following instructions. Five points from Slytherin." Severus glowered at her, then moved on to the next cauldron, promptly criticizing its owner. Good to see that he had no problem turning back into dear old Snape.

It always seems that the days that you are dreading come along far faster then the days that you are looking forward to. When Saturday arrived, Genevieve had a very difficult time dragging herself out of bed. She had been to see Dumbledore the night before to ask permission to go to London. It was no easy task.

"Sir, I was wondering if you would permit me to go to London tomorrow? I haveand appointment." Genevieve explained. Dumbledore sat behind his desk, slowly stirring his after dinner tea. "I am assuming that this is a matter of importance, since you are asking even during the crisis we are currently dealing with?" He asked, looking over his spectacles at her. "Wellthis appointment was made prior to our return to Hogwarts. I told him that I would come." She explained further. Dumbledore nodded. "And this person whom you are meeting withhe does not know of Lord Voldemort?" He inquired. Genevieve shook her head 'no'. "Miss Hemlock, I would be putting you in danger were I allow you to go. Surely you have considered the fact that your mother may be lurking about, waiting for an opportunity such as this?" Dumbledore pointed out, taking a sip of his tea.

"Yes sir, I have. And Severus"Genevieve stopped, realizing what she had just said. Dumbledore raised an eyebrow at her. "Professor Snape has agreed to accompany me, were that to be the case." She finished in a weak voice. "Professor Snape? Well, in that case, you may go to London, Miss Hemlock. Good evening." And Dumbledore left it at that. "Thank you, Sir." Genevieve stood from her chair, quickly leaving his office. She couldn't believe she had called Severus by his first name, and in front of Dumbledore, no less. Severus would gut her if he ever found out.

Genevieve dressed in her muggle clothes, wearing a green sundress, and lace up twine sandals. At first glance, it would seem that she was dressing to impress Dylan. But she was actually trying to look nice for Severus, as he had never seen her out of school uniform, aside from the ball (and a few times in her nightgown). She was curious to see what his reaction would be. She also wondered what Severus was going to wear. She had only ever seen him in his black robes, and that certainly wasn't going to go unnoticed in muggle London.

She waited patiently at the front doors, where she and Severus were to meet. When he appeared, his face looked livid, and he was dressed in his usual flowing black robes. "Professoryou're wearing your robes" She questioned when he stopped in front of her. "I am aware of that. Let's get this over with." He said, barely looking at her. She didn't press the matter any further, and was quiet until they left the grounds of Hogwarts.

"Where is your wand, Genevieve?" Severus asked, and Genevieve's body tingled as he said her first name again. She had grown so tired of the cold 'Miss Hemlock's. "I didn't bring it." She told him. Severus stopped and pulled his wand from his sleeve. "You should carry your wand at all times. You never know when you are going to need it." Severus chided her. He pointed his wand at himself and mumbled a small incantation. His robes quickly transformed before her eyes. He now wore a white T-shirt, with a gray over shirt, jeans, and a pair of black Doc Martins. It was then that Genevieve realized how skinny he was.

"I presume that this is adequate? " Severus asked for her approval. Genevieve nodded. "You look very nice. But you should pull your hair back." She offered. Severus turned to his wand once again, pulling his hair back with a magical tie. He was a handsome man, and was looking much younger with his current appearance. Genevieve wanted to be close to him now more than ever, but was too shy to move.

"Come here, Miss Hemlock." Severus ordered. Genevieve took a few steps forward, standing before him. At first, his face was stern and searching. But his eyes lightened, and he grinned. "You're beautiful." He said. He reached out, taking her in his arms. She rested her head on his chest as he held her, relieved to be back in his arms. "I've missed you." She whispered, looking toward his face. "I missed you, too." Severus grew serious again, leaning down and giving her a tender kiss.

"Shoving off, I see?" Dumbledore's voice broke Genevieve and Severus apart. They both watched in horror as Dumbledore came toward them. "Headmaster" Severus started, completely shocked by his presence. Dumbledore held his hand up, stopping him from speaking. Genevieve began to shake with nerves and embarrassment. "Please, Severus. I have only one question. Is this with whom you were meeting with, Miss Hemlock?" Dumbledore had turned his attention to Genevieve. Severus looked at her as well. "No, sir." She answered quietly. "WellI must say, I never expected to find you in such a manner, Severus. Especially with a student." Dumbledore said, folding his hands in front of him.

"Headmaster, Sir" Severus tried to speak again, but Dumbledore stopped him once more. "Severus, please do not try to explain yourselves!" Dumbledore boomed with an impatient tone. Severus' mouth snapped shut, and Genevieve was fearful of Dumbledore's reaction. But was shocked when he smiled, putting a hand on Severus' shoulder. "There is nothing to explain. Genevieve is of age, and as long as you keep it outside of Hogwarts, there is absolutely nothing about your actions that need explaining, Severus." Dumbledore continued to smile. Severus only seemed slightly relieved, but was clearly not happy about being crept up on. He was supposed to be a Spy, after all.

"And might I add that you look very much like a muggle in that clothing," Dumbledore commented. Severus curled his lip. "Quite an efficient disguise. I would have never guessed that you are a respected wizard." Dumbledore complimented Severus good-naturedly. "Thank you, Sir." Severus took it in stride. Genevieve still didn't say a word as Dumbledore bowed his head. "So, I bid you both farewell, with safe journey and return. Please be careful." He then turned and disappeared into the grounds of Hogwarts.

"That was certainly interesting." Genevieve finally managed a word. Severus looked down at her, his expression remaining neutral. "Yes. It most certainly was." He said. "Shall we be off then?" Genevieve offered, glancing at him. He took her hand, nodding. They both stood up strait, looking forward in preparation to disapperate. Within seconds, Genevieve found herself in a small ally, Severus standing right next to her. She could hear the hustle and bustle of London just ahead of them, and she noticed that Severus was looking quite uncomfortable with his new surroundings.

"I will stay here. I have a clear view. Do not look over here at any time. "Severus whispered, looking out over the general area. "All right. I shouldn't be too long. We meet back here, right?" Genevieve put her hand on his shoulder. He looked down at her, his face covered with a soft seriousness that was far from his harsh, penetrating glare. Genevieve was sure she was seeing Severus nervous for the first time. "Right. Be careful." He responded. Genevieve smiled. "Right." She gave him a quick kiss, then hurried out into the busy streets of London.

She saw Dylan right away, sitting at a café table just outside of Harrods. He did look quite miserable, sipping at his latte, shoulders hunched. He looked just as she remembered him. Shockingly thin, light brown hair that fell in front of his blue eyes (much like a Beatles haircut). As she approached the table, breathing quickly, he noticed her. He smiled that perfect smile of his, standing to greet her.

"Genevieve, you look great." Dylan said, reaching out to hug her. She took a step back, denying him. "Thank you." She said. Dylan lowered his arms, his face reddening. "Umdo you want a coffee or something?" He asked, taking his seat again and offering one to her. She took it. "No thanks. Look, Dylan, I'm in a hurry, so could we just get on with it?" She pushed. She wanted this to be over. She was worried about Severus, watching her sit there with Dylan, somewhat vulnerable in the muggle world.

"OkI love you, Genevieve. You have to believe me. I don't know what I was thinking when I sent you that letter. You're the only woman that I have ever loved. I can't lost you." Dylan finished almost frantically. Genevieve stared at him, wanting to strangle him, but at the same time, she just wanted to laugh in his face.

"Dylan, that's all very well and good. But you broke my heart at the worst possible time. How can you expect me to offer it to you again?" She crossed her arms over her chest. Dylan looked away, stirring his latte with his finger. "I made a mistake. Everyone makes mistakes." His tone held a twinge of irritation. "Yes, well. I'm beginning to think that it wasn't a mistake." Genevieve said, standing up to leave. Dylan reached out and grabbed her arm.

"Don't do this to me!" He growled through clenched teeth. "I'd suggest letting go of my arm, unless you enjoy being attacked." Genevieve warned him with an even voice. "You can't hit me." Dylan said, not letting up on his grip. Genevieve sort of laughed. "Who said I was going to attack you?" She said with a smile. Dylan threw her a confused look, letting go of her arm.

"Did you come here with someone?" Dylan asked, standing up and looking around. "That's none of your business. Now if you're quite finished, I have to get back to school." Genevieve turned to leave, but Dylan grabbed her once again, this time by the waist. "Dylan, let go of me." She demanded, struggling to get away while trying not to make a scene. "You can't" Dylan stopped mid-sentence, a blank look covering his face. He let go of her, moving over to the table they had been sitting at. He stood up onto his chair, then onto the table.

"Dylan, what are you doing?!" Genevieve asked in a loud whisper, looking around at the other tables. Everyone was watching curiously. "Attention, everyone. I just wanted to tell you all what a dunderhead I am for breaking up with this beautiful, wonderful, intelligent woman." Dylan began. "Get DOWN from there!" Genevieve begged him. Dylan continued on, however, with his blank expression, the surrounding muggles sniggering at them. "I am scum. As low as a snake's belly. Worthless. A poor excuse for a human being. A weasel. Just thought I would let you all know." Dylan stepped down from the table, the life finally returning to his features.

"Umright. Where was I?" Dylan asked Genevieve in bewilderment. Genevieve narrowed her eyes, spinning around toward where Severus was standing. He had a small grin on his face as he tucked his wand back up his sleeve. Genevieve felt the blood rush to her face as she turned back to Dylan.

"I'll send you an Owl, ok? I have to go." She didn't hesitate, walking strait to the crosswalk, waiting impatiently for the light to turn. She couldn't believe that Severus had used the Imperio curse on Dylan. She realized that he had had something to do with it when Dylan said 'dunderhead', a word that he had never even heard. True, using the curse had been a sufficient way of getting Dylan to let go of her, but Severus had used an Unforgivable Curse on a muggle. It was just enough to remind her that he was a Death Eater, a fact she desperately wanted to forget.

She stormed toward the ally way, stopping directly in front of Severus. He was almost smiling, until he saw the look of fury on her face. "What in the hell were you thinking? Why did you do that?" She demanded, her hands balled into fists at her side. "I thought it would be humorous." Severus explained, slight guilt covering his face. "Yeah, well it wasn't. I can't believe you did that!" Genevieve shouted. She was so angry with him, that she dissapperated back to Hogwarts without another word.

She was alone for a moment, only making it a few steps before Severus apperated behind her. "Genevieve! Come back here right now!" Severus shouted in a voice that would even make Dumbledore stand at attention. She sighed, turning around and crossing her arms. He grabbed her upper arms with surprising gentleness, considering his jaw was clenched, and his eyes were flashing with anger.

"He should not have touched you in any way, especially not in anger. He's lucky the worst I did was humiliate him." Severus tried to explain, his tone getting grittier when he spoke of what he had done. "You didn't just humiliate him, Severus, you humiliated me, too. And you used an Unforgivable Curse. I just don't understand." Genevieve said, looking away from him. Severus let go of her arms. "Forgive me. I acted before thinking. I apologize, Genevieve." He said quietly. He was sincere, but she was cautious. Dealing with the fact the Severus was a Death Eater and a Spy was becoming a challenge.

"We should get back." She said, heading once again to Hogwarts. "I am not moving until I am forgiven." Severus called to her. "Let's hope the nights don't get to cold." She said with great effort to refrain from giggling. She had forgiven him, but could not pass up the opportunity to have the upper hand. Severus remained silent, so she turned around to show him her smile. His face was a rather strange mixture of irritation, sadness, and worry. "I thought that would be humorous." She said, throwing his own words at him. He did not look amused, but she knew that he understood. She moved forward, taking his face in her hands and kissing him.

"I forgive you, Severus. But please don't do anything like that again." She said, stroking his cheek. Severus smirked at her, pulling her in for another kiss. "My beloved" he whispered into her ear, caressing the back of her head. Genevieve noticed that he had never said 'I love you', but she had no doubt that he did. Perhaps it was something that he was not used to saying, and needed time to warm up to. She did not mind, because watching his eyes as they looked into hers was more fulfilling than words could ever be.