Days seemed to fly by at as Tirza explored the manor from top to bottom and
spent countless hours each day playing in her attic playhouse. Father's Day
was quickly approaching and was in fact only two days away. Tirza had
convinced Severus early after their arrival at the manor that they needed a
swimming pool for when it got hot. He had initially refused, but when the
heat did hit, he relented and ended up enjoying the pool just as much as
Tirza. Tirza had already been swimming twice today and was in the mood to
go flying and Severus seemed to be busy, as he had been hiding away in his
office for the last few hours.
"Daddy, can I go flying?" Tirza yelled in the general direction of Snape's office. "Be back in two hours," Snape replied, distracted and not really listening to what she was saying. His giving her permission to fly on her own struck her as odd, but Tirza just shrugged it off and headed outside with her broom. She started to play an imaginary game of quidditch and was deeply involved in the make believe game, when a voice behind her spoke up. "And where is your father?" Tirza screamed in surprise and almost lost her balance on the broom. She started to yell as she turned around to face whoever had scared her, then stopped. "Grandpa!" she shouted. Dumbledore smiled. "Let's get down sunshine," he told her. Tirza followed him down to the ground, and then threw her arms around him. Dumbledore hugged her close for a moment. "Should we go inside and get some lunch?" he asked.
Tirza nodded and led him inside. "Daddy!!!!!!" she shouted. Severus grumbled to himself before he left his office and spotted Dumbledore with Tirza. "Grandpa's here! Grandpa's here!" she was chanting, bouncing around the older wizard. Severus chuckled, but Dumbledore looked rather grave. "Severus, did you know Tirza was outside flying by herself?" Snape looked shocked. "So that is what you asked," he mused. "Weren't you listening?" Tirza asked. Severus shook his head. "I received a rather distressing letter; several of my relatives will be invading us in July so they can meet you." Dumbledore chuckled. "They aren't really as bad as your father thinks they are," he whispered to Tirza. Tirza giggled. "Do they have kids?" Severus nodded. "Woodworth and his wife have a child, a little girl; definitely not the best looking child." Tirza giggled. "Daddy, that's not nice," she told him through her laughter.
"How about some lunch?" Dumbledore asked. Tirza sighed. "Ask him," she said, pointing at Severus. "I'm not allowed to play in the kitchen." Tirza was still bouncing circles around Dumbledore, who finally picked her up to get her to stop and he followed Severus into the kitchen. "Daddy, why can't I ever fly by myself?" Tirza asked as they started eating the sandwiches he had made. "Because you are still learning and are accident prone at times and I don't want you to get hurt," Severus told her. Tirza rolled her eyes. "So how was Italy, Albus?" Severus asked, changing the subject.
Dumbledore smiled. "Very relaxing and enjoyable; one of my favorite places to visit. But I must admit that I missed my little sunshine." Tirza beamed and blew him a kiss. "I've been having lots of fun too," Tirza told him. "I got a play house and a pool and daddy even goes swimming with me!" Albus started chuckling at the thought of Severus swimming and the younger wizard rolled his eyes. "Did you bring me a present?" Tirza asked. Severus sighed. "Tirza, just because he goes out of town doesn't mean he has to bring you a present." "Of course I did!" Dumbledore replied. He summoned one of his bags to him and opened it up and dug until he found the right package. Tirza started bouncing in her chair with excitement as he handed her the package. She tore away the yellow flowered wrapping and was a large real china tea set, decorated with pink flowers, with her initials TS on all the plates and cups. "Wow!" she shouted, looking at the delicate tea set. "And that's not all," Dumbledore said.
Another package was pulled from the bag; it was a music box that opened to reveal a little ballerina that danced to the tune 'Once Upon A Dream' from Sleeping Beauty, a song that she had told Albus many times was her very favorite. She carefully put down the music box and special tea set and jumped onto Albus' lap. Severus chuckled softly as Albus tried to hide a groan; Tirza had done that to him many times! "Thank you grandpa!" Tirza exclaimed, hugging him and repeatedly kissing him. Dumbledore kissed her head and hugged her in return.
"Now those are some very intelligent mice," Dumbledore commented as he watched Cinderella with Tirza that night. "They are cute; Gus is my favorite, cuz he's so cute and chubby," Tirza told him. They had just gotten to the part where Gus and Jack were trying to get the key from the nasty stepmother when Severus shut the TV off. "Bedtime," he announced. Tirza rolled her eyes. "Always at the good parts!" she muttered. "Daddy, I wanna ask you something, but tell me if it makes you sad, okay?" Severus nodded, wondering what was up now. "Can Grandpa tuck me in? If it makes you sad, you can," she told him. Severus smiled and picked her up, hugging her close. "No, that doesn't make me sad," he assured her. Tirza kissed his face. "That's good, because you're always the specialist." He gave her a hug and kiss, and then Tirza led Dumbledore upstairs to her room.
"Grandpa, how long are you going to stay?" Tirza asked as he tucked the covers in around her. "Several days, maybe even a whole week," Dumbledore told her. "I didn't realize how much I'd miss my sunshine." He kissed her cheek and she giggled. "You are the best grandpa in the whole world, you know that?" He smiled. "And you are the best granddaughter in the whole world." Albus went over to her bookshelf and picked out her special fairy tale book with the moving pictures. "Now what story would you like?" Tirza picked out her favorite, The Twelve Dancing Princesses; Albus sat next to her and began reading. Before long, Tirza's breathing had deepened and she was sound asleep. He made sure that the covers were tucked in around her, and then lightly kissed her forehead before leaving the room.
Severus Snape rarely slept late; this morning, however, he did. It was just after 10am; he put on his robe and made his way to Tirza's room. She never remembered to set her alarm and he woke her up each morning. He entered Tirza's room and found the bed empty. He was surprised that she was obviously already up; it was her habit to sleep as late as he allowed. Figuring that she was finding herself some cereal for breakfast, he trudged downstairs to the kitchen. He passed a window and heard a familiar giggle and looked out; there was Tirza, swimming by herself, which was NOT allowed. He stalked downstairs to the back door and pulled out his wand. "Accio Tirza," he said.
Tirza had been swimming around and was all of a sudden lifted from the pool by an unseen force. "Hey, what's going on!?" she yelled. Severus came into view a few seconds later; the look on his face was a clearly unhappy one. She waved trying to look innocent, but the look (a mixture of anger, annoyance and worry) didn't change. The spell was broken just in front of Severus and he reached out and brought her to him. He knelt down to her height and she started fidgeting. "Have I or have I not told you that you were not allowed to swim by yourself?" he asked. His voice was stern, but his eyes held kindness and concern. "Yeah," she admitted. "And do you know why I have that rule?" Severus prodded. "Cuz you think I'm stupid and I'm going to drown myself," she retorted. He sighed. "You know very well that I do not think you are stupid; you are a very smart little girl. But accidents happen, you could get hurt and not be able to keep your head above water and drown. And it's not as silly as it sounds; it can happen and I don't want it to happen to you. You're my little girl and it's my job to protect you and keep you safe, but I can't do that if you refuse to listen to the rules, can I?"
Tirza sighed. "But you don't always come outside when I wanna swim," she whined. "I'm sorry, but that doesn't excuse you from going outside and swimming anyways when I've told you no. I have rules to keep you safe, not to keep you from having fun. And besides, I'm sure that Grandpa is up and you could have asked him. Do you understand what I'm saying?" Tirza nodded. "Am I in trouble?" she asked. Severus nodded. "Not big trouble, but yes you are. You need to learn that you can't always have everything your own way that you need to listen. I love you, but you have to listen to me, do you understand?" She shook her head yes. He kissed her forehead, then leaned her over his lap and swatted her hard a dozen times. She was sniffling loudly, close to crying, when he let her up and hugged her close.
Someone handed Severus the large beach towel that Tirza had brought with her. They both looked up to see Dumbledore standing beside them. "He's right you know, sunshine," Dumbledore said as Snape wrapped her in the large towel and carried her inside. "I made breakfast," Dumbledore told them. "I seem to remember a little girl who loves chocolate chips in her pancakes." Tirza beamed. Severus kissed her forehead and set her down. "Go get changed into dry things and come eat; then I promise I will WATCH you swim." She nodded and ran off.
Breakfast turned into brunch since it was already close to lunch time, followed by swimming for Tirza, while the adults watched her. "You're going to look like a raisin," Severus said with a chuckle; his watch said that Tirza had been in the pool for nearly two hours. She giggled and tossed a large beach ball at him. Severus caught it and threw it back. After swimming, Tirza changed into shorts and a Scooby-Doo t-shirt and little jelly sandals. She crawled onto the hammock Severus was sitting in and turned them upside down in the process. She giggled and Severus laughed; he picked her up and repositioned himself on the hammock and set her on his lap. She cuddled against him; he took her sandal off and started tickling her foot, making her giggle like crazy. "You have the tiniest feet," Severus commented as he put her sandal back on. Tirza shrugged. "Grandpa says the best presents come in small packages." The men chuckled. "Very true," Severus told her, kissing her forehead. "Because you are the best present I ever received."
The next morning, an ear piercing scream woke Dumbledore, who rushed in the direction of where it came from: the kitchen. Tirza was standing in the middle of the floor, holding her arm, crying. There was a pan on the floor, as well as some scrambled eggs littered all over the place. "My dear what happened?" Dumbledore questioned as he rushed over to Tirza. "I was trying to make breakfast and I tipped the pan and the grease was hot!!!" she said, crying and holding her arm. "Let's have a look," Dumbledore said as he gently pried her fingers apart. She sobbed as he looked. "It huuuuuurts!" "We gotta clean it up and then what you say we make breakfast together?" Dumbledore asked.
After he had cleaned up her wound they trotted back to the kitchen "So exactly what were you trying to make?" Dumbledore questioned. "Scrambled eggs and pancakes and it has to be special, for Father's Day," she told him. "Well we will certainly make them special," Dumbledore said with a twinkle in his eye. Tirza giggled and wiped the last of her tears away. "That's my girl. Now why don't you get the ingredients and I'll start making them," Dumbledore said. She nodded and grabbed the muggle pancake mix that she had insisted Severus buy, the milk, and more eggs, as well as butter and maple syrup. "Why don't you pour the milk and juice," Dumbledore prompted. "Sure!" Tirza very carefully poured the orange juice for Snape to drink and put the ingredients into the pancake mix. "Here, grandpa," she said, handing him the bowl with the mix. "Good girl; now why don't you run out to the garden and pick a couple of flowers to put on the tray," Dumbledore requested.
She smiled and ran outside, still in her pajamas and gathered several daisies and pansies, her favorites and rushed back inside and put them in a glass with water. Dumbledore already had the food ready and placed on a tray. "Great; now it is time to go surprise your dad," Dumbledore said as he led the way. Tirza carried the tray into Severus' room while Dumbledore stood out in the hallway. She stood beside the bed and nudged him with the edge of the tray. "Daddy," she whispered. "Wake up." "Huh what?" Severus mumbled as he rubbed his eyes. "Happy father's day!" Tirza shouted, thrusting the tray out towards him. "Huh? What's that?" Snape said as he began to eat the good food. Tirza's mouth dropped open. "You don't know what father's day is?" "Sorry my dear but no," Snape said as he took a bite of the pancakes. "I take it you made these Albus?" "Of course but Tirza helped immensely," Albus offered.
"Daddy, father's day is a special day for daddies when you do nice things for them cuz you love them," Tirza told Severus. "I like that idea" Severus smiled as he pulled Tirza up on the bed with him. She smiled and stole a pancake from the large pile. "Well that's good," she told him. "Cant believe you didn't know about that!" "Sorry dear but not all muggle traditions make it to Hogwarts," Snape told her. She giggled. "Is it good?" she asked. "I added the blueberries. You like them?" "They are delicious, thank you" Severus said offering her another bite. She accepted and snuggled close as he ate. "You don't have any plans today do u?" she asked. "I'm gonna leave you two alone and I'll check back with you later," Albus said as he slipped out. "Of course not dear why do you ask?" Severus replied. "Cuz I gots big plans for us," she told him happily.
"And what might they be?" Severus asked as he polished off his juice. "Well, we're gonna go to lunch and I got a present for you and then anything you wanna do." "Sounds good to me but how about we get dressed first," Severus said laughing at their attire. She nodded and bounced out of the room, returning in shorts and a plain blue t-shirt, her hair in pigtails. "Where to first?" Severus asked. "Anywhere. It's your day, you pick," Tirza told him. "How about we get our swimsuits and go play in your pool?" Severus suggested.
"Yeah!" Tirza shouted. She ran back inside, followed more slowly by Severus and saunter out to the pool with a large princess beach towel, wearing a very modest one piece pink swimsuit. "Did you remember your ear plugs?" Severus asked. Tirza sighed. "Do I have to wear them?" He nodded. "Yes or else you will not be able to swim for a week," Severus reminded her. She sighed, but went back inside and got the ear plugs. Normally she would have whined about it, but it was father's day after all. "Thank you and you will thank me later when you don't get an ear infection for forgetting them," Severus said as he took off his cover-up to reveal a modest pair of trunks. She rolled her eyes and jumped into the pool, splashing him in the process. "Now you've done it" Severus said as he jumped in after her. She giggled and tried to doggie paddle away from him but he caught up with her quickly and pulled her under then bounced her back up. "Hey!" she shouted, throwing a beach ball at his head. "Hey yourself" Severus said as he deftly caught it and threw it back at her.
They apparated to Hogsmeade for lunch, where Tirza insisted paying for their meal at Madame Rosmerta's; she had told him that it was all part of Father's Day and that he better let her. Severus had chuckled and allowed her to pay; Rosmerta had to help her count out the correct amount of wizard money, then they left for home again. A large wrapped box sat in the middle of the living room when they returned. "Open it daddy!" Tirza shouted, bouncing around. He chuckled at her energy and opened the large package; it was a very large cauldron. Tirza giggled. "I couldn't think of what to get you, but I know you love your cauldrons," she told him, beaming. Severus smiled and hugged her close. "It's the very nicest father's day present I've ever gotten," he assured her. Tirza laughed so hard she was doubled over. "Daddy, it's the ONLY father's day present you've ever gotten," she pointed out through her laughter. He chuckled and started tickling her.
That night, Tirza fell asleep in Severus' arms while they watched Snow White (Sev's favorite, because of the potion, lol!). "I think the pool of one of the best ideas; she spends so much time swimming that she's worn out at night!" Severus told Dumbledore. Albus laughed and Severus brought Tirza up to her room and tucked her in, then returned to the living room. Dumbledore gave the younger wizard a kind smile. "You know, you've turned out to be an excellent father," Dumbledore said. "You sure you're talking about the same person Albus because I don't think I am," Severus said as he sat down opposite the older wizard. Dumbledore frowned slightly. "I most certainly am talking about the same person. Why don't you think so?" I'm crabby, I yell at students, I can't even keep track of her at times," Severus sighed as he listed off a few reasons. Dumbledore chuckled. "I don't think any parent can claim to know where their child is twenty four hours a day. And yes, you are crabby to your students, but you are really crabby with Tirza. In face, with her you've exhibited more patience then I ever would have guessed you were able to possess."
Still I don't think I qualify for father of the year material," Severus retorted. "I know that Tirza would beg to differ. Why do u insist on being so hard on yourself?" Dumbledore questioned. It wasn't often that Severus opened up about things and he hoped the younger wizard would share more with him. "Albus you know as well as I do that my family life was hell growing up and every time I turn around I feel like I'm turning into the monster my dad was," Severus stated clearly not wanting to harp on the subject. Why do u think you're turning into a monster? I have never seen any such evidence of that from you and if I haven't by now, I won't. With as sensitive as Tirza is, don't you think she'd tell me if she thought you were being a monster?" Dumbledore tried to reason with him. "I really don't know Albus," Severus sighed defeated.
Dumbledore continued. "What have u ever done that to you seemed monstrous?" "Choice of friends, house I was sorted into, giving my students grief, yelling at Tirza, should I go on?" Sev questioned. "Everyone makes mistakes Severus; unfortunately being a parent doesn't exempt you from that. But I cannot think of one single mistake that you have made with Tirza. I may not necessarily agree with your discipline practices, but you are not by any means harming her, nor are you a monster," Dumbledore explained patiently.
"Are you sure Albus? Sometimes I'm not even sure she wouldn't have been better off with someone else." Severus whispered trying to control his emotions. Dumbledore shook his head no. "Are you and I seeing the same little girl when we look at Tirza? I see a little girl whose spirit is growing stronger every day, who is becoming more confident, who has finally accepted that things were not her fault and has even testified at two trials. None of that would have happened if it weren't for you Severus. Of that, I am absolutely positive." Severus sighed. "That's true Albus, but I still can't make the nightmares stop, nor can I keep her from harm and what happens when school starts next year and she has to stay in the dorms?"
"Severus, if she needs you, she can come to you. And if she chooses to stay in your chambers instead of the dorms I will not be opposed to that at all. And nothing can make her nightmares stop and every child has accidents, those things are beyond your control. You are doing a wonderful job and I would not tell you so if I did not believe it. I knew your father Severus......I assure you that you are NOTHING like he was." It was true; Dumbledore had known Sebastian Snape and he was not a good man, nor a good father; but Severus was nothing like him. "Thank you Albus for that" Severus sighed "I guess it's just hard for me to accept that I'm totally different from him when for so long I was told I was just like him."
Dumbledore nodded. "Anytime my friend. Try not to be so hard on yourself. Tirza is a wonderful little girl; so much different from the little girl that sat in my office after fighting with Malfoy in the great hall almost a year ago. And she owes that all to you; do not forget that." "Thank you Albus I have no clue what Tirza or I would have done without you this last year," Severus stated. Dumbledore smiled. "It's been my pleasure, it truly has been. I love Tirza very much and I have always enjoyed having you as a friend Severus, even if you are cranky at times," he said with a wink. "As well it has been pleasant to have you as a friend Albus," Severus said offhand before both men retired for the night.
NOTE TO ALL FLAMERS: Flames are not accepted! I have no problems if you do not like my story, but try and be an adult about it and not go around teasing me because you are not grown up enough to understand the story. All future flames will be printed and nibbled by my sweet little bunnies. But please, flames are not necessary. The adult thing to do is ignore this story from now on if it bothers you, so please be kind and do that instead of bashing.
A/N: So even Severus has some insecurities! Hmmm, wonder what his daddy was like? Maybe we'll find out..no promises though. July coming up next, lots of fun, so stay tuned!
Alrick: Haven't heard from you in a while, hope everything is going well for you!
Emma: No, I did not think that your review was a flame dear! Your review was a suggestion presented with kindness and respect and those kind of suggestions are ALWAYS welcome. But the thing of no McDonald's is Severus, from a wizarding family and having limited access to the Muggle world would not know of it and there would be none by Hogwarts... although that would be funny if there was one!
Harryzbabe: Glad you like it! So much more coming, so stay tuned!
Trekfear: Hope you enjoyed the chapter!
MissLKid: Hope you enjoyed the chapter and have fun at the party! I know I did!
Fire'N'Ice: You're right! Tirza did grow up in the land of McDonald's, having no idea that witches and wizards were real until she went to live with Severus. And Sevvie is such a sweetie! He's so good to Tirza. And thanks for trying to make me feel better! You're sweet!
Slitherin-Sweetie: Hey, I'll try and swing that for you. Email me a little bit more about her background and such and I'll see what I can do!
Luinthoron: Glad you liked it!
Padfoot1979: The stuff at the burrow will be fun! The new segment/part/thingy starts after the next chapter or two and will be called "Tirza Snape, Hogwarts Student." It will start just before her birthday.
Murh4303: I will try and see how that goes. It would be funny to have Sev's relatives just drop in on him, I think he'd lose it, LOL!
Obsessedwithbritishpeople: I like long reviews, LOL! Hope you enjoy!
Oasis gir: Glad you liked it! Sevvie is so sweet to Tirza.
Sapphire: I know, I wish I had had a playhouse like that too!
Kenomee: Hope everything is going well, haven't heard from you in a while!
LostSoul: How's life? Haven't heard from you in a while either!
Elfmoon87: Caught up yet dear?
And nobody tell me what's going on in book five! I haven't had much chance to start it yet! Hugs, Kerry
.
"Daddy, can I go flying?" Tirza yelled in the general direction of Snape's office. "Be back in two hours," Snape replied, distracted and not really listening to what she was saying. His giving her permission to fly on her own struck her as odd, but Tirza just shrugged it off and headed outside with her broom. She started to play an imaginary game of quidditch and was deeply involved in the make believe game, when a voice behind her spoke up. "And where is your father?" Tirza screamed in surprise and almost lost her balance on the broom. She started to yell as she turned around to face whoever had scared her, then stopped. "Grandpa!" she shouted. Dumbledore smiled. "Let's get down sunshine," he told her. Tirza followed him down to the ground, and then threw her arms around him. Dumbledore hugged her close for a moment. "Should we go inside and get some lunch?" he asked.
Tirza nodded and led him inside. "Daddy!!!!!!" she shouted. Severus grumbled to himself before he left his office and spotted Dumbledore with Tirza. "Grandpa's here! Grandpa's here!" she was chanting, bouncing around the older wizard. Severus chuckled, but Dumbledore looked rather grave. "Severus, did you know Tirza was outside flying by herself?" Snape looked shocked. "So that is what you asked," he mused. "Weren't you listening?" Tirza asked. Severus shook his head. "I received a rather distressing letter; several of my relatives will be invading us in July so they can meet you." Dumbledore chuckled. "They aren't really as bad as your father thinks they are," he whispered to Tirza. Tirza giggled. "Do they have kids?" Severus nodded. "Woodworth and his wife have a child, a little girl; definitely not the best looking child." Tirza giggled. "Daddy, that's not nice," she told him through her laughter.
"How about some lunch?" Dumbledore asked. Tirza sighed. "Ask him," she said, pointing at Severus. "I'm not allowed to play in the kitchen." Tirza was still bouncing circles around Dumbledore, who finally picked her up to get her to stop and he followed Severus into the kitchen. "Daddy, why can't I ever fly by myself?" Tirza asked as they started eating the sandwiches he had made. "Because you are still learning and are accident prone at times and I don't want you to get hurt," Severus told her. Tirza rolled her eyes. "So how was Italy, Albus?" Severus asked, changing the subject.
Dumbledore smiled. "Very relaxing and enjoyable; one of my favorite places to visit. But I must admit that I missed my little sunshine." Tirza beamed and blew him a kiss. "I've been having lots of fun too," Tirza told him. "I got a play house and a pool and daddy even goes swimming with me!" Albus started chuckling at the thought of Severus swimming and the younger wizard rolled his eyes. "Did you bring me a present?" Tirza asked. Severus sighed. "Tirza, just because he goes out of town doesn't mean he has to bring you a present." "Of course I did!" Dumbledore replied. He summoned one of his bags to him and opened it up and dug until he found the right package. Tirza started bouncing in her chair with excitement as he handed her the package. She tore away the yellow flowered wrapping and was a large real china tea set, decorated with pink flowers, with her initials TS on all the plates and cups. "Wow!" she shouted, looking at the delicate tea set. "And that's not all," Dumbledore said.
Another package was pulled from the bag; it was a music box that opened to reveal a little ballerina that danced to the tune 'Once Upon A Dream' from Sleeping Beauty, a song that she had told Albus many times was her very favorite. She carefully put down the music box and special tea set and jumped onto Albus' lap. Severus chuckled softly as Albus tried to hide a groan; Tirza had done that to him many times! "Thank you grandpa!" Tirza exclaimed, hugging him and repeatedly kissing him. Dumbledore kissed her head and hugged her in return.
"Now those are some very intelligent mice," Dumbledore commented as he watched Cinderella with Tirza that night. "They are cute; Gus is my favorite, cuz he's so cute and chubby," Tirza told him. They had just gotten to the part where Gus and Jack were trying to get the key from the nasty stepmother when Severus shut the TV off. "Bedtime," he announced. Tirza rolled her eyes. "Always at the good parts!" she muttered. "Daddy, I wanna ask you something, but tell me if it makes you sad, okay?" Severus nodded, wondering what was up now. "Can Grandpa tuck me in? If it makes you sad, you can," she told him. Severus smiled and picked her up, hugging her close. "No, that doesn't make me sad," he assured her. Tirza kissed his face. "That's good, because you're always the specialist." He gave her a hug and kiss, and then Tirza led Dumbledore upstairs to her room.
"Grandpa, how long are you going to stay?" Tirza asked as he tucked the covers in around her. "Several days, maybe even a whole week," Dumbledore told her. "I didn't realize how much I'd miss my sunshine." He kissed her cheek and she giggled. "You are the best grandpa in the whole world, you know that?" He smiled. "And you are the best granddaughter in the whole world." Albus went over to her bookshelf and picked out her special fairy tale book with the moving pictures. "Now what story would you like?" Tirza picked out her favorite, The Twelve Dancing Princesses; Albus sat next to her and began reading. Before long, Tirza's breathing had deepened and she was sound asleep. He made sure that the covers were tucked in around her, and then lightly kissed her forehead before leaving the room.
Severus Snape rarely slept late; this morning, however, he did. It was just after 10am; he put on his robe and made his way to Tirza's room. She never remembered to set her alarm and he woke her up each morning. He entered Tirza's room and found the bed empty. He was surprised that she was obviously already up; it was her habit to sleep as late as he allowed. Figuring that she was finding herself some cereal for breakfast, he trudged downstairs to the kitchen. He passed a window and heard a familiar giggle and looked out; there was Tirza, swimming by herself, which was NOT allowed. He stalked downstairs to the back door and pulled out his wand. "Accio Tirza," he said.
Tirza had been swimming around and was all of a sudden lifted from the pool by an unseen force. "Hey, what's going on!?" she yelled. Severus came into view a few seconds later; the look on his face was a clearly unhappy one. She waved trying to look innocent, but the look (a mixture of anger, annoyance and worry) didn't change. The spell was broken just in front of Severus and he reached out and brought her to him. He knelt down to her height and she started fidgeting. "Have I or have I not told you that you were not allowed to swim by yourself?" he asked. His voice was stern, but his eyes held kindness and concern. "Yeah," she admitted. "And do you know why I have that rule?" Severus prodded. "Cuz you think I'm stupid and I'm going to drown myself," she retorted. He sighed. "You know very well that I do not think you are stupid; you are a very smart little girl. But accidents happen, you could get hurt and not be able to keep your head above water and drown. And it's not as silly as it sounds; it can happen and I don't want it to happen to you. You're my little girl and it's my job to protect you and keep you safe, but I can't do that if you refuse to listen to the rules, can I?"
Tirza sighed. "But you don't always come outside when I wanna swim," she whined. "I'm sorry, but that doesn't excuse you from going outside and swimming anyways when I've told you no. I have rules to keep you safe, not to keep you from having fun. And besides, I'm sure that Grandpa is up and you could have asked him. Do you understand what I'm saying?" Tirza nodded. "Am I in trouble?" she asked. Severus nodded. "Not big trouble, but yes you are. You need to learn that you can't always have everything your own way that you need to listen. I love you, but you have to listen to me, do you understand?" She shook her head yes. He kissed her forehead, then leaned her over his lap and swatted her hard a dozen times. She was sniffling loudly, close to crying, when he let her up and hugged her close.
Someone handed Severus the large beach towel that Tirza had brought with her. They both looked up to see Dumbledore standing beside them. "He's right you know, sunshine," Dumbledore said as Snape wrapped her in the large towel and carried her inside. "I made breakfast," Dumbledore told them. "I seem to remember a little girl who loves chocolate chips in her pancakes." Tirza beamed. Severus kissed her forehead and set her down. "Go get changed into dry things and come eat; then I promise I will WATCH you swim." She nodded and ran off.
Breakfast turned into brunch since it was already close to lunch time, followed by swimming for Tirza, while the adults watched her. "You're going to look like a raisin," Severus said with a chuckle; his watch said that Tirza had been in the pool for nearly two hours. She giggled and tossed a large beach ball at him. Severus caught it and threw it back. After swimming, Tirza changed into shorts and a Scooby-Doo t-shirt and little jelly sandals. She crawled onto the hammock Severus was sitting in and turned them upside down in the process. She giggled and Severus laughed; he picked her up and repositioned himself on the hammock and set her on his lap. She cuddled against him; he took her sandal off and started tickling her foot, making her giggle like crazy. "You have the tiniest feet," Severus commented as he put her sandal back on. Tirza shrugged. "Grandpa says the best presents come in small packages." The men chuckled. "Very true," Severus told her, kissing her forehead. "Because you are the best present I ever received."
The next morning, an ear piercing scream woke Dumbledore, who rushed in the direction of where it came from: the kitchen. Tirza was standing in the middle of the floor, holding her arm, crying. There was a pan on the floor, as well as some scrambled eggs littered all over the place. "My dear what happened?" Dumbledore questioned as he rushed over to Tirza. "I was trying to make breakfast and I tipped the pan and the grease was hot!!!" she said, crying and holding her arm. "Let's have a look," Dumbledore said as he gently pried her fingers apart. She sobbed as he looked. "It huuuuuurts!" "We gotta clean it up and then what you say we make breakfast together?" Dumbledore asked.
After he had cleaned up her wound they trotted back to the kitchen "So exactly what were you trying to make?" Dumbledore questioned. "Scrambled eggs and pancakes and it has to be special, for Father's Day," she told him. "Well we will certainly make them special," Dumbledore said with a twinkle in his eye. Tirza giggled and wiped the last of her tears away. "That's my girl. Now why don't you get the ingredients and I'll start making them," Dumbledore said. She nodded and grabbed the muggle pancake mix that she had insisted Severus buy, the milk, and more eggs, as well as butter and maple syrup. "Why don't you pour the milk and juice," Dumbledore prompted. "Sure!" Tirza very carefully poured the orange juice for Snape to drink and put the ingredients into the pancake mix. "Here, grandpa," she said, handing him the bowl with the mix. "Good girl; now why don't you run out to the garden and pick a couple of flowers to put on the tray," Dumbledore requested.
She smiled and ran outside, still in her pajamas and gathered several daisies and pansies, her favorites and rushed back inside and put them in a glass with water. Dumbledore already had the food ready and placed on a tray. "Great; now it is time to go surprise your dad," Dumbledore said as he led the way. Tirza carried the tray into Severus' room while Dumbledore stood out in the hallway. She stood beside the bed and nudged him with the edge of the tray. "Daddy," she whispered. "Wake up." "Huh what?" Severus mumbled as he rubbed his eyes. "Happy father's day!" Tirza shouted, thrusting the tray out towards him. "Huh? What's that?" Snape said as he began to eat the good food. Tirza's mouth dropped open. "You don't know what father's day is?" "Sorry my dear but no," Snape said as he took a bite of the pancakes. "I take it you made these Albus?" "Of course but Tirza helped immensely," Albus offered.
"Daddy, father's day is a special day for daddies when you do nice things for them cuz you love them," Tirza told Severus. "I like that idea" Severus smiled as he pulled Tirza up on the bed with him. She smiled and stole a pancake from the large pile. "Well that's good," she told him. "Cant believe you didn't know about that!" "Sorry dear but not all muggle traditions make it to Hogwarts," Snape told her. She giggled. "Is it good?" she asked. "I added the blueberries. You like them?" "They are delicious, thank you" Severus said offering her another bite. She accepted and snuggled close as he ate. "You don't have any plans today do u?" she asked. "I'm gonna leave you two alone and I'll check back with you later," Albus said as he slipped out. "Of course not dear why do you ask?" Severus replied. "Cuz I gots big plans for us," she told him happily.
"And what might they be?" Severus asked as he polished off his juice. "Well, we're gonna go to lunch and I got a present for you and then anything you wanna do." "Sounds good to me but how about we get dressed first," Severus said laughing at their attire. She nodded and bounced out of the room, returning in shorts and a plain blue t-shirt, her hair in pigtails. "Where to first?" Severus asked. "Anywhere. It's your day, you pick," Tirza told him. "How about we get our swimsuits and go play in your pool?" Severus suggested.
"Yeah!" Tirza shouted. She ran back inside, followed more slowly by Severus and saunter out to the pool with a large princess beach towel, wearing a very modest one piece pink swimsuit. "Did you remember your ear plugs?" Severus asked. Tirza sighed. "Do I have to wear them?" He nodded. "Yes or else you will not be able to swim for a week," Severus reminded her. She sighed, but went back inside and got the ear plugs. Normally she would have whined about it, but it was father's day after all. "Thank you and you will thank me later when you don't get an ear infection for forgetting them," Severus said as he took off his cover-up to reveal a modest pair of trunks. She rolled her eyes and jumped into the pool, splashing him in the process. "Now you've done it" Severus said as he jumped in after her. She giggled and tried to doggie paddle away from him but he caught up with her quickly and pulled her under then bounced her back up. "Hey!" she shouted, throwing a beach ball at his head. "Hey yourself" Severus said as he deftly caught it and threw it back at her.
They apparated to Hogsmeade for lunch, where Tirza insisted paying for their meal at Madame Rosmerta's; she had told him that it was all part of Father's Day and that he better let her. Severus had chuckled and allowed her to pay; Rosmerta had to help her count out the correct amount of wizard money, then they left for home again. A large wrapped box sat in the middle of the living room when they returned. "Open it daddy!" Tirza shouted, bouncing around. He chuckled at her energy and opened the large package; it was a very large cauldron. Tirza giggled. "I couldn't think of what to get you, but I know you love your cauldrons," she told him, beaming. Severus smiled and hugged her close. "It's the very nicest father's day present I've ever gotten," he assured her. Tirza laughed so hard she was doubled over. "Daddy, it's the ONLY father's day present you've ever gotten," she pointed out through her laughter. He chuckled and started tickling her.
That night, Tirza fell asleep in Severus' arms while they watched Snow White (Sev's favorite, because of the potion, lol!). "I think the pool of one of the best ideas; she spends so much time swimming that she's worn out at night!" Severus told Dumbledore. Albus laughed and Severus brought Tirza up to her room and tucked her in, then returned to the living room. Dumbledore gave the younger wizard a kind smile. "You know, you've turned out to be an excellent father," Dumbledore said. "You sure you're talking about the same person Albus because I don't think I am," Severus said as he sat down opposite the older wizard. Dumbledore frowned slightly. "I most certainly am talking about the same person. Why don't you think so?" I'm crabby, I yell at students, I can't even keep track of her at times," Severus sighed as he listed off a few reasons. Dumbledore chuckled. "I don't think any parent can claim to know where their child is twenty four hours a day. And yes, you are crabby to your students, but you are really crabby with Tirza. In face, with her you've exhibited more patience then I ever would have guessed you were able to possess."
Still I don't think I qualify for father of the year material," Severus retorted. "I know that Tirza would beg to differ. Why do u insist on being so hard on yourself?" Dumbledore questioned. It wasn't often that Severus opened up about things and he hoped the younger wizard would share more with him. "Albus you know as well as I do that my family life was hell growing up and every time I turn around I feel like I'm turning into the monster my dad was," Severus stated clearly not wanting to harp on the subject. Why do u think you're turning into a monster? I have never seen any such evidence of that from you and if I haven't by now, I won't. With as sensitive as Tirza is, don't you think she'd tell me if she thought you were being a monster?" Dumbledore tried to reason with him. "I really don't know Albus," Severus sighed defeated.
Dumbledore continued. "What have u ever done that to you seemed monstrous?" "Choice of friends, house I was sorted into, giving my students grief, yelling at Tirza, should I go on?" Sev questioned. "Everyone makes mistakes Severus; unfortunately being a parent doesn't exempt you from that. But I cannot think of one single mistake that you have made with Tirza. I may not necessarily agree with your discipline practices, but you are not by any means harming her, nor are you a monster," Dumbledore explained patiently.
"Are you sure Albus? Sometimes I'm not even sure she wouldn't have been better off with someone else." Severus whispered trying to control his emotions. Dumbledore shook his head no. "Are you and I seeing the same little girl when we look at Tirza? I see a little girl whose spirit is growing stronger every day, who is becoming more confident, who has finally accepted that things were not her fault and has even testified at two trials. None of that would have happened if it weren't for you Severus. Of that, I am absolutely positive." Severus sighed. "That's true Albus, but I still can't make the nightmares stop, nor can I keep her from harm and what happens when school starts next year and she has to stay in the dorms?"
"Severus, if she needs you, she can come to you. And if she chooses to stay in your chambers instead of the dorms I will not be opposed to that at all. And nothing can make her nightmares stop and every child has accidents, those things are beyond your control. You are doing a wonderful job and I would not tell you so if I did not believe it. I knew your father Severus......I assure you that you are NOTHING like he was." It was true; Dumbledore had known Sebastian Snape and he was not a good man, nor a good father; but Severus was nothing like him. "Thank you Albus for that" Severus sighed "I guess it's just hard for me to accept that I'm totally different from him when for so long I was told I was just like him."
Dumbledore nodded. "Anytime my friend. Try not to be so hard on yourself. Tirza is a wonderful little girl; so much different from the little girl that sat in my office after fighting with Malfoy in the great hall almost a year ago. And she owes that all to you; do not forget that." "Thank you Albus I have no clue what Tirza or I would have done without you this last year," Severus stated. Dumbledore smiled. "It's been my pleasure, it truly has been. I love Tirza very much and I have always enjoyed having you as a friend Severus, even if you are cranky at times," he said with a wink. "As well it has been pleasant to have you as a friend Albus," Severus said offhand before both men retired for the night.
NOTE TO ALL FLAMERS: Flames are not accepted! I have no problems if you do not like my story, but try and be an adult about it and not go around teasing me because you are not grown up enough to understand the story. All future flames will be printed and nibbled by my sweet little bunnies. But please, flames are not necessary. The adult thing to do is ignore this story from now on if it bothers you, so please be kind and do that instead of bashing.
A/N: So even Severus has some insecurities! Hmmm, wonder what his daddy was like? Maybe we'll find out..no promises though. July coming up next, lots of fun, so stay tuned!
Alrick: Haven't heard from you in a while, hope everything is going well for you!
Emma: No, I did not think that your review was a flame dear! Your review was a suggestion presented with kindness and respect and those kind of suggestions are ALWAYS welcome. But the thing of no McDonald's is Severus, from a wizarding family and having limited access to the Muggle world would not know of it and there would be none by Hogwarts... although that would be funny if there was one!
Harryzbabe: Glad you like it! So much more coming, so stay tuned!
Trekfear: Hope you enjoyed the chapter!
MissLKid: Hope you enjoyed the chapter and have fun at the party! I know I did!
Fire'N'Ice: You're right! Tirza did grow up in the land of McDonald's, having no idea that witches and wizards were real until she went to live with Severus. And Sevvie is such a sweetie! He's so good to Tirza. And thanks for trying to make me feel better! You're sweet!
Slitherin-Sweetie: Hey, I'll try and swing that for you. Email me a little bit more about her background and such and I'll see what I can do!
Luinthoron: Glad you liked it!
Padfoot1979: The stuff at the burrow will be fun! The new segment/part/thingy starts after the next chapter or two and will be called "Tirza Snape, Hogwarts Student." It will start just before her birthday.
Murh4303: I will try and see how that goes. It would be funny to have Sev's relatives just drop in on him, I think he'd lose it, LOL!
Obsessedwithbritishpeople: I like long reviews, LOL! Hope you enjoy!
Oasis gir: Glad you liked it! Sevvie is so sweet to Tirza.
Sapphire: I know, I wish I had had a playhouse like that too!
Kenomee: Hope everything is going well, haven't heard from you in a while!
LostSoul: How's life? Haven't heard from you in a while either!
Elfmoon87: Caught up yet dear?
And nobody tell me what's going on in book five! I haven't had much chance to start it yet! Hugs, Kerry
.
