Author's Note: Part three of Dark Places. It's a Narcissa/Severus story
that will span three parts. This is the last part.
This is the last of this series. I am already thinking of a sequel to the piece but I don't know when I'll start it. I know I left some things open, but I didn't want it to be a fairy tale happy ending because sometimes life is not a fairy tale happy ending. As anyone who actually lives in the real world knows, life hurts and there are consequences to your actions and sometimes you have to sacrifice things to get what you want and that may all sound maudlin but it also happens to be true. So I was trying to add just a touch of realism to this story by not tying up all the loose ends.
The Particulars: It's a PG-13 because there is some sexual content, although not graphic sex, in the story. There are no real spoilers. The story is kind of taken out of time and there is no specific times mentioned in the story. The characters used (as well as the world) are not mine and belong to J.K. Rowling.
Dedications: Dedicated to Echo and her wonderful Narcissa story (Tomorrow Never Knows) that got me thinking about Narcissa enough that I had to write. I keep telling the girl she inspires me to write.I wasn't wrong. Also dedicated to Jasper, who came up with the idea of an all Narcissa all the time group!
Please email me if you want to put this or any of my stories on your website. I never say no, but I like knowing which sites are supporting my writing. Thanks!
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"It was only a dream, my love," Severus whispered to her as she cried into her pillow. She hated to cry; yet she couldn't help it. What if Draco did respond like he did in the dream? What if he was so upset he tried to hurt Severus? What if Severus hurt him? What if Lucius hurt either of them or both? The questions just swarmed in her mind as Severus lay next to her, trying desperately to comfort her.
Although the dream hadn't taken long, it was four in the morning when she had woken up, screaming. Severus had tried to get her to tell him what happened, but she couldn't bring herself to do so.
"Narcissa, it was just a dream," he said soothingly. "He won't hurt you anymore."
Maybe it was easier to let him believe it was Lucius she had dreamt about, she thought. It would keep her from having to explain her fears. She wasn't accustomed to sharing her thoughts, feelings, hopes, dreams, or anything of that nature with someone. It wasn't as if Lucius had ever been there for her, or cared to, in an emotional way.
She forced herself to get a grip and calm her tears. As they ebbed, Severus kissed her ear gently and tucked her pale blond hair behind her ear. In the morning she would have to talk to Draco.
"Do you need some water?"
"Oh! Let me, Miss Narcy, let me." Filly said from her hiding place. She was peeking around behind the door to the room Severus had put Filly and Feles. It was a work room, where he sometimes liked to read, research, and create potions and not be accosted by the faculty or the students. He had borrowed a cot from the hospital wing and set the two elves up in that room.
Severus scowled at Filly. "What are you doing up?"
"Oh, Filly sorry sir, but when me heard Missy Narcy cry."
"Narcissa," she said softly, reminding Filly of her promise to address her by her name. Filly blushed a little and nodded. "Yes, Filly, I would like a glass of water, please." Filly dashed off to get it. Narcissa turned to Severus a little and whispered, "Don't be so hard on her, she isn't used to being free."
He smiled a little and kissed her nose, making Narcissa wrinkle it.
"Here's water, Mis- ah Narcissa," Filly said as she came towards her, trying not to spill the water as she went. Narcissa took the cup gratefully and drank a little from it. She set it next to the bed and smiled to Filly, wiping away a stray tear.
"Now go to sleep, Filly. You don't need to wake so early."
Filly just nodded and turned to go. She gave Narcissa a last look before she disappeared into her bedroom.
"She probably thought I was beating you," Severus joked.
Narcissa didn't smile. "She probably did."
Severus' smile slipped. "I would never-" he stopped when Narcissa put her slim fingers to his lips.
"I know. But it's all she knows."
His eyes bore into hers and finally he nodded and kissed her fingers. She smiled and tried to get comfortable again for sleep. She lay with her back against his stomach and his left hand curled around her, making her feel protected. Although sleep eluded her, she was comfortable and enjoyed listening to the sounds of Severus' slumber and the feel of his breath on her neck.
Inevitably, her thoughts turned to Lucius and what awaited her and Severus for their actions. Narcissa shivered a little bit and in his sleep, Severus pulled her closer. The action hurt her ribs but she didn't try to stop him. The pain was welcomed and she moved closer to him, trying to get him to pull harder, and unconsciously he did. She winced as dull thuds of pain trailed from her ribs to the rest of her. It was amazing how often you got used to pain when it was given to you on a nightly basis. It was familiar to her, and although the familiar was cruel, it was comforting.
She would have to go to Dumbledore, she realized. Otherwise she might not be allowed to stay here. None of the other teachers had girlfriends or boyfriends with them. She let her mind linger on the thought of being someone's girlfriend, but she quickly tucked those thoughts away with the other thoughts she didn't want to think about right now and returned to the thoughts of Dumbledore. If she wanted to remain here under the safety of Severus, she'd need to go to Dumbledore. In return, she was willing to offer him information on her husband and other Death Eaters. At least this way when the Death Eaters were rounded up, she would not be among them and she could keep Draco.
Morning found her still contemplating her situation. She pulled herself away from Severus and made use of the bathroom, taking a shower and dressing in a pale blue dress that was lined with silver. She was thankful that her bruised face had cleared up during the time she was unconscious. She started to pull her hair back in the severely swept back look that she normally wore it. Lucius never liked for her to wear her hair long and every time she did, she was punished for it.
She stopped midway through the hairdo and frowned at her reflection. Slowly she took the pins out of her hair and let it tumble down to her waist. She ran her fine brush through the silken stuff until it shown and curled around the brush. She smiled a little and the look transformed her. Suddenly she looked younger and more beautiful. She arranged the hair using some silvery pins to keep it out of her face but leaving it as unpinned as possible. When she was finally pleased she left the bathroom, feeling a bit nervous.
Severus was just tying his robe around him, her back to her.
"Good morning, love," she purred to him. He turned around and his jaw dropped. She knew she looked good and the way his eyes were traveling over her just proved that to her even more and emphasized how good she felt at that moment.
"You are stunning," he whispered.
With a coy look she took the few steps to close the distance between them. Also whispering she said, "You don't have to whisper, Severus, it's ok that the house elves know you think I'm stunning." Her small mouth smiled innocently at him. He seemed to have to swallow to keep his mouth dry. She was thoroughly enjoying his reaction to her and the warmth that was creeping into every part of her.
When he bent down to kiss her, she wasn't surprised. It was the reaction she was trying to attain. His eyes closed and his arms encircled her as his soft lips caressed hers. She pulled him close and tried to crush her lips on his, but he held his head back a little, making their kiss deliberately gentle as his hands lightly trailed up and down the lower half of her spine. She tingled all over with unaccustomed warmth. She tried again to make the kiss more passionate, more crushing, but he held her just enough away while his lips barely suckled hers. Finally she could stand it no longer and she pushed him away, a confused look on her face. She was panting and looking at him strangely.
Severus obviously hadn't been expecting to be pushed away so he also wore a look of confusion as he stared at her. What was he trying to do, she asked herself. Nothing was familiar in the way she was feeling. They stood, each short of breath, staring at each other in confusion. And then there was a knock on the door.
Panic flooded Narcissa's eyes for a moment as she thought that surely Lucius had come. Severus just walked to the door, but paused to lay a comforting hand on her shoulder before he did. She turned towards the door, placing her folded hands down in front of her, while she nervously awaited the opening of the door. No one knew she was here, did they? Could it just be some faculty member for Severus? What would they think when they saw her, alone, in his suite? The moment she thought about moving into the back room so she wouldn't be seen, the door was opened to reveal Albus Dumbledore.
"Headmaster," Severus said, bowing slightly. He opened the door wider to allow the man access.
Narcissa was staring at Dumbledore and trying to hide her thoughts. Everything Lucius ever said about the danger Dumbledore presented to them, came to her mind and she started to doubt whether coming here was a good idea.
Dumbledore was also watching Narcissa. She could not tell what his expression meant because at this moment he was much better at concealing it than she was. Severus closed the door behind him.
"Would you care for some tea, Headmaster?" Severus asked quietly, taking in the scene before him.
"Oh, some tea would be quite lovely, Severus. Thank you."
Severus smiled a bit and shot a reassuring look to Narcissa before he went into the kitchenette to make the tea.
Narcissa and Dumbledore stood on opposite sides of the living room watching each other until Dumbledore's eyes were drawn elsewhere. Narcissa looked as well and saw a streak of white duck back into the spare room. She smiled a little. Then, promptly, Feles came out of the room, holding himself almost regally as he bowed to Narcissa and Dumbledore before making his way to Severus.
"Sir, would you like me to make the tea?" Feles asked. Narcissa looked to Dumbledore, who looked a little shocked at the intelligent house elf.
Severus seemed to remember that he had house elves suddenly. He smiled. "I will have to get used to this arrangement," he said as in way of apology. He knew that by not calling the elf to make the tea, his actions could be construed as an insult to the elf's abilities.
"Think nothing of it, sir. I will bring tea to you and your guest when it is ready."
Narcissa noted the singularity of guest, as if she wasn't one. It warmed her, and she noticed that again, Dumbledore was watching her. The situation was shaping up to be fairly ridiculous. She shouldn't have to be afraid of this man, he was supposed to be the good guy. And if Severus trusted him, maybe she could too.
"I believe I have left my manners, Headmaster," Narcissa said as she walked over to Dumbledore. "It is good to see you again," she held out a hand that was shaking despite her best efforts.
The man's face split into a grin as he took her hand. "That must have been very hard, dear," he said as he covered the back of her hand with his other. His hands were warm, giving hers the feel of iciness.
She returned his smile and started to feel better.
"Shall we sit?" Severus asked and offered Narcissa and Dumbledore comfortable stuffed chairs in his living room area. All of them sat and Narcissa noted that Severus sat closer to her, and it made her feel better. From Dumbledore's look, he had noted the same thing.
"I received word that you were here," Dumbledore said in explanation, "and I thought you and I should talk."
Narcissa nodded. "I was actually planning on coming to speak to you as well, so it is good that you are here, Professor Dumbledore."
Severus looked over at her, mildly shocked. She hadn't told him of her plans.
"Please, do me the honor of calling me Albus," Dumbledore said. She smiled and nodded.
The small jingling of a tea set announced the tea as Feles and Filly carried the large tray to the table in between everyone. The tray was too big for one house elf, as Severus had never needed on that would be smaller. Narcissa noted it, thinking a few smaller trays would be a fine idea.
Dumbledore smiled a little. "Two house elves, Severus? Although it is not entirely unheard of for private elves, I have never known you to indulge in such things, much less.over indulge."
"Actually that would be my fault," Narcissa said. "They were rescued from my husband," she said quietly.
Dumbledore nodded thoughtfully. He watched the elves as Feles went about pouring tea and Filly stood back, shaking in nervousness. He smiled a kind smile to Filly and held his hand out to her. "Come here, little one, don't be afraid."
Filly looked over at Narcissa for permission and Narcissa just nodded to her. Filly walked cautiously to Dumbledore and seemed to cringe when she got within arms reach. Dumbledore merely put his hand at her back and leaned down so that their faces were about the same level. In silence, Dumbledore locked eyes with the shaking elf. Filly's shaking seemed to increase and Narcissa frowned. She didn't want Filly to be afraid. She almost said something but Severus placed a hand onto hers, stopping her. She looked from him to Dumbledore and noticed that Filly was no longer shaking. Dumbledore smiled and the little elf smiled back and suddenly flung her arms around the man, hugging him. The action made Severus smile to himself and Narcissa stare in shock.
"Now then," Dumbledore said as he released Filly and she went scampering off towards Feles, "let us get to business." He took the tea and took a sip and his eyebrows went up in approval. "An excellent cup of tea, uh, Feles was it?" he said, addressing the elf as if it were human.
Feles' chest came out in a prideful way. "Thank you Master Dumbledore," he said.
"That'll be all, Feles," Severus said quietly and the elf bowed to the trio and took Filly with him into the other room.
"Charming pair," Dumbledore said after they had gone. "Especially that Filly. She does love you very much, Mrs. Malfoy." Narcissa cringed at the name so badly that Dumbledore looked immediately shamed. "I'm sorry, my dear. It was a slip."
She nodded. "You may call me Narcissa," she said, her tone telling him that she was desperate for her to do so. He nodded to her.
"Very well, Narcissa. I have to say, I am most confused by the happenings of the last few days." He took another drink of the tea and eyed the little cakes that were sitting on the plate beside the tea. He took one and munched it for a moment, watching the two.
"No more than I, Albus, I assure you," Narcissa said with a faint smile. "I will clarify for you if you wish."
Dumbledore nodded and seemed to settle back to munch his cake and sip his tea.
"About a week or so ago I had a lunch date with Severus," she glanced over to him who smiled reassuringly. "I was coming to check on the progress of my son. Every so often, Severus and I have these lunches so this was nothing new. But my husband is a very jealous man and he found out about this lunch date and forbade me to go. I complied, as I usually do when he forbids me to do something, and I wrote Severus that I would not be coming. He-" she paused, looking down into her lap for a moment before raising her eyes to meet Dumbledore's, "he hit me. Often enough. And I had a bruise across my cheek. Usually I remove such marks before he returns from the Ministry of Magic, but this time I did not. I had forgotten it was there. He became suspicious that I might be hiding something from him, so he tortured Filly to gain information, as she was my personal house elf. I don't know why this time was different than any other time, but it was. I burst into his office, cast a spell that left him motionless, and took Filly here, knowing that she'd be safe under Severus' care and that even if he didn't want a house elf around, that you might employ her." He nodded to this and she smiled a little before continuing. "I paid for that," and her look got very far away and she suddenly stopped talking as if she were elsewhere.
When Severus' hand covered hers she looked over into his frowning face and smiled a little. "He broke some ribs and did other various damage," she looked at Dumbledore again. "Nothing too serious."
"Yet you still feel the pain from your ribs," Dumbledore noted, noticing how she moved very gingerly.
She nodded. "I do. They are tender, but they will heal. I spent the better part of a week in bed, fevered, and Feles took care of me." Dumbledore looked like he was concealing anger at the mention of what she had suffered. "It was then that I realized he was intelligent. He helped me to contact Severus so that I would be free of Lucius. Severus came to me and saved me and Feles from Lucius, only just in time," she said, giving a grateful smile to Severus.
"And so you came here," Dumbledore said.
"Yes. I didn't know where else to turn," she said, softly, wondering if he was going to ask her to leave after all.
"Headmaster, if I may, she will not be safe out there. He will track her down and who knows what will happen then. It could be much worse than a beating," Severus interjected. He opened his mouth to speak again, but Dumbledore's hand raised, asking for him to stop.
"I am not suggesting that she leave here, Severus," he said. "I am merely gaining facts."
Severus nodded, visibly relieved. Narcissa was relieved as well, but she had a growing uneasiness taking hold of her.
"You see," he said, addressing Narcissa, "it is not common for the professors here to have their loved ones living within the confines of this school. Especially unmarried ones," he noted in a tasteful manner. "Usually they stay in Hogsmeade, actually. They are close enough to visit often and discreetly. But I do not believe that will be in your best interest. But I cannot have you living here," he said finally.
Narcissa's back went rigid as she nodded her acceptance of his words. It would be highly improper for her to live with Severus, especially since she was married to another man and her son attended this school.
"And I would offer you another room, but they are reserved for professors only," he said, breaking into her thoughts.
"Headmaster, please," Severus said, a little desperately, "I must ask that exceptions be made in this instance." His eyes were intense black fires and Narcissa swallowed back her own fear.
She placed a hand on Severus'. "He is right, Severus. It would be improper for me to stay here." Dumbledore nodded. Severus just looked from Dumbledore to Narcissa. He looked moments from explosion. Narcissa could see it in his eyes. He would quit this job and follow her. The thought made tears want to come, but she didn't allow herself the luxury of feeling that way in front of Dumbledore. She would not let him believe that she was crying because she had to leave.
"It seems to me," Dumbledore said, "that the solution is to have you become a professor," he said, stunning the two and making them look to him. Severus immediately looked ashamed and relaxed, Narcissa saw from the corner of her eye. She still felt a little confused. "Is there a subject you think you can teach to the students?" he asked her. "It would not have to be a core subject, but perhaps an elective that they might choose to take in their later years, when such options become possible."
Narcissa leaned back in her chair, barely wincing at the pain in her ribs. What kind of class could she teach? She had never taught anything before. Instantly something came to mind. Her eyes lit up and she sat up straight, this time hurting herself a little more. She put her hand to her side and winced but it didn't squelch the excitement in her eyes.
"I used to be very good at conjuration," she said. "It is not a mainstream magic, I know, but I picked it up from the many books I read as a child. I stopped only because Lucius forced me too. He could not do it, you see, and every time I did, it was a reminder of some talent that I had and he did not. I offered to teach it to him, but only once," she said, her eyes hardening a little. "After that I have not practiced the art, but I know I could practice and be ready to teach it to others if given the chance."
Dumbledore nodded slowly and set his empty teacup down on the table. "It is mid-year now, and starting a class would be impossible. By next year, when it will be a wonderful addition to our curriculum, I believe you would be ready, if you used the time to practice," he observed.
"I would, Headmaster," she said, nearly holding her breath in excitement.
"I should warn you," Dumbledore said, "your husband is here."
It was like ice water was being poured over her just after she had gotten out of a hot bath. She shivered and looked to Severus as he shot up.
"What?" he said, his voice half raised.
"Severus, sit down," Dumbledore said, causing Severus to do just that. When he was seated, Dumbledore looked at Narcissa. "He is demanding that Severus took you unlawfully from your home, confusing you with some hex, and that you be returned to him while Severus be banished to Azkaban."
Severus made a choked noise but said nothing to that. Narcissa, on the other hand, looked quite frightened. She was not as familiar with Dumbledore and was unsure if he meant to turn her over to her husband. It there was a better time to tell him what she had decided to, she didn't know it.
"Professor Dumbledore, before you make any decision, just know, I have information about Death Eaters and Voldemort." Severus' head swiveled to her sharply, his mouth open in shock. "I can give you that information; I'll tell you anything you want to know. I am valuable to you, but not if you hand me over to Lucius. If I live, my mind will be wiped clean and all you'll know is that some illness has stuck me due to Severus' 'hex'." She was breathing heavily as if she was quite panicked.
Dumbledore looked surprised at her and stood up making both Severus and Narcissa stand as well. He rounded the table, slowly and pulled Narcissa into a hug, stunning her into full compliance. She felt calmer and safer in his arms than she had a moment ago and she let herself relax.
"Dear child," he said softly but so that all could hear him, "I was never going to turn you over to Lucius. I was merely giving you the information. And while your generous offer of information would be very helpful, it is not required as proof of your value, nor will I accept it for your ability to stay here. You are welcome in my school and if you are willing, you may take the new professorship I offer, but I am not negotiating your value to me or to this school." He ran his hand comfortingly over her hair as tears she didn't realize were creeping up on her, spilled out onto his robes. "After everything you told me about that monster, I would never set you into his care again, rest assured. You are safe here, not only with me as your guardian, but you have a fine champion in Severus. It is very obvious that he loves you very much. And with such wonderfully cheerful and charming house elves as friends, and your son close by, it is my wish that you find great happiness here."
He continued to comfort her as she cried. She felt another hand to her back and recognized Severus' touch. She disengaged herself from Dumbledore and went straight into Severus' waiting arms.
"Thank you, Headmaster," Severus said softly. Narcissa could hear the gratitude in his voice. After a moment, he asked, "What are you going to do with Malfoy?"
"As much as I would love to toss him out on his arse," Dumbledore said with mirth in his voice, "I cannot," he said with heavy finality. "If I disrespected him in that way he would surely pull Draco from this school and from his mother."
Narcissa stiffened at that and her head came up to look at Dumbledore. Quickly she composed herself, knowing she needed to be completely alert for this conversation.
"What will we do?" she asked softly.
"Well, I believe that we should speak to Draco himself," Dumbledore said sagely. "If he wished the protection of this school, then Lucius would need the council of the Ministry to retrieve Draco and I believe that I could win any case he brought against me."
Severus nodded and Narcissa did as well.
"I shall have the boy brought here," Dumbledore said and went to the door, pulling a small cord that hung there. It was a device that was installed into all the rooms of the professors, providing them with service from the school's house elves. Moments later Dumbledore answered a knock at Severus' door, revealing one of the school's elves. Dumbledore gave the little elf directions to go to Slytherin house and ask for Draco to come straight away to Severus' rooms. The elf bobbed and scurried away to do the chore, leaving the three adults alone again.
Feles came in and poured more tea, making sure it was still hot and fresh. The trio settled back into their chairs and sipped the warm tea. Narcissa absently played with a ruffle in her dress, hoping that this talk would go well.
"How long will Lucius wait?" Severus asked quietly.
"As long as necessary," Dumbledore said with some hardness to his voice. Severus only nodded in acceptance of that truth and waited in silence.
It seemed a long time before a smart knock sounded at the door. Narcissa stood so quickly she felt dizzy and lightheaded from pain. Severus stood as well, steadying Narcissa before he went to the door. Dumbledore and Narcissa walked away from the table and chairs but stood more in the middle of the room, facing the door in anticipation.
When Severus answered the door, Draco stood there, a picture of his mother and father's beauty wearing the stiff condescending look of a Malfoy on his face.
"I was told to come see you, Professor Snape," he said before noticing his mother behind the teacher. His eyes narrowed in confusion. When Severus opened the door wider, Narcissa watched Draco's eyes shoot to Professor Dumbledore. He walked into the room, quietly and Severus closed the door behind him.
"What's this all about?" he asked, looking from Dumbledore to his mother.
Narcissa smiled a little and went to Draco, embracing him and placing a kiss on his head. He accepted the affection patiently, but not lovingly, as he waited to be told the nature of this meeting. Narcissa noted the coldness in his response to her, but did not take offense. It was always that way with him.
"We need to talk to you, Draco," Narcissa said softly. "Come, sit down." She offered him the seat beside her on the small couch and he took his seat when she did, like a gentleman. Severus and Dumbledore retook their seats and both took up their teacups in silence. Narcissa knew this would be on her to explain and she knew that was as it should be.
"Shouldn't someone explain to me what is going on?" Draco asked, a bit impatiently.
"Of course," Narcissa answered but she didn't know where to begin. She just watched him, and he looked like he was losing his patience. When he opened his mouth to speak, irritation clearly etched on his face, Narcissa blurted out, "I'm leaving your father."
"What?" he said in a low hiss, his eyes burning with intensity. "What did you say?"
"Draco, I am not happy with him." She was reluctant to tell him the truth of what had happened to her because she did not want to turn the boy against his father. She just wanted him to understand and not be angry with her. "We have grown apart from one another," she lied. There had never really been a 'togetherness' to grow apart from, but it sounded better than 'your father beats me and I can't take it anymore.' From the look on Draco's face, he didn't accept this as a good excuse.
"I don't believe this," Draco said scathingly. "I don't believe you are doing this to me; to him!" Draco said angrily.
"Mr. Malfoy," Severus said, now if full Professor Snape mode, "I will remind you only once to show some respect for your mother. She is too kind a woman to tell you what a monster your father is."
"Severus," she said urgently, turning her eyes to him.
Draco looked from Severus to his mother and realization burned in his eyes. His look was resentful and it was pinned onto Severus.
"This is all your fault, isn't it?" he asked, not really wanting an answer. "You've confused her; turned her against my father, haven't you?" His voice was rising and he was starting to stand up. Severus just watched him, his look was calculating. When Narcissa noticed Draco's hand going for where his wand was kept a flash of her dream hit her full on.
"No!" she yelled as she grabbed Draco's arm. He looked at her as if she had gone crazy and in a way she had. It was time for the insanity to stop. "Draco, listen to me. You know he hit me before. You've seen it," she said, her face beseeching him to listen. "You've seen the way he can treat me. I couldn't live like that anymore. I couldn't stay. Please understand," she asked as he stared coldly at her. Her eyes met his and she knew it would not be understanding that he showed. It would not be her that she chose.
"I understand," Draco said, his voice low and surprisingly like his father's. "I understand that you obviously do not know your place."
Narcissa gasped at the hatred that was starting to spark in Draco's eyes and at the words that he said to her. Severus shot out of his seat and grabbed Draco roughly by the arm.
"If you EVER talk to your mother like that, I will personally-"
"Severus," Dumbledore said in warning, also standing. He looked at Draco, who pulled his arm out of Severus' grasp. Narcissa could not help the tears that came to the surface, again. She just sat there, staring at her son. He seemed so distant; like a stranger to her. "It's clear to me what Mr. Malfoy's feelings are about this situation." He looked at Draco. "But you should know that your mother intends to live here and next fall she will teach here."
Draco's eyes shot icy sparks to the three inhabitants of the room. "If you are finished, I would like to attend breakfast."
Dumbledore nodded after a moment. Draco walked away from the three of them but then stopped, his back to them. Narcissa's hopes raised a bit as she stood up and went to stand beside Severus. Draco turned around, his face now a mask, hiding his feelings so well that Narcissa had to wonder what he experienced to give him that ability. He bowed at the waist. "Good morning to you Professor Dumbledore, Professor Snape, and," he looked at his mother, "Professor Malfoy." He turned and left with perfect coldness.
Narcissa stood there in utter shock, not quite comprehending the pain that was buried in her stomach. She looked down and wouldn't have been surprised to see a sword thrust into her gut. But there was no sword and she knew the pain was that of feeling her son ripped from her. She started to waver and felt strong hands grab her and lead her back to the couch. She barely registered the worried looks she was getting from the two men.
"Filly?" she heard Severus call. The white elf bounded out to him. "Please take Narcissa to the bedroom and lay her down."
Filly nodded and took Narcissa's hand. She looked down at the white hand that had hers and closed her fingers around it. She stood and let Filly lead her to the bedroom where she was undressed and put into a very warm nightgown and laid onto the bed. Filly drew the covers up to her shoulders and after making sure Narcissa wanted nothing else, she left her alone.
Narcissa faintly registered that the two men were talking in the other room and that because the bedroom door had been left open, she could hear them.
"Headmaster, Lucius will take his son out of school if he learns that Narcissa will be staying here. I don't want that to happen. You and I both know what Lucius is and what Draco will become if Lucius is his only guiding parent."
"I will take care of that. See that she sees Madam Pomfrey about her ribs," Dumbledore said.
"Thank you," she heard Severus say. Moments later the front door to the suites were closed and she realized Dumbledore had gone. She closed her eyes, feigning sleep and predictably heard Severus' footsteps as he neared the bed. After a moment the bed moved as he crawled into it, wrapping his arms around her. She snuggled into him but said nothing, letting herself fall into her dark place.
When she woke up, it was to the sound of the front door closing. She frowned and realized she was alone in bed. From the light in the room she guessed that it was midday. She pushed the covers off of her self and gingerly pulled her robe on. Her slippers were waiting beside the bed and she slipped them on before going to investigate.
Severus was just taking off his black robes revealing his black trousers and dress shirt underneath. He hung the robes up and turned around and smiled in surprise to see Narcissa standing there. She smiled back, feeling a little bit better. At least her head was more clear.
"How are you feeling?"
"Better," she said honestly.
"I'd like you to go see Madam Pomfrey this afternoon."
"Is Lucius still here?" she asked, taking a seat on the couch and pulling her slender legs up to be covered by her warm nightgown and robe.
"No. Dumbledore got rid of him."
Narcissa nodded. She cast her eyes low and asked the question that worried her the most. "Is Draco still here?"
"Yes," he said, coming to sit beside her. He took her small hands in his larger ones and kissed the back of each. She smiled a little. "Dumbledore has arranged it so that Lucius will not take your son from this school."
Her eyes touched his. "But how?"
"He told Lucius that that you were under his protection and that he would not turn you over to him. Lucius was also informed that you would be teaching at this school and Lucius predictably said that he would yank Draco out of it." Narcissa's eyes clouded over and nodded. "But Professor Dumbledore told Lucius that doing so would be a grave mistake. He told him that he was privy to information that might link Lucius with Voldemort and that information like that could destroy his career and he could end up in Azkaban." Narcissa gasped at that.
"Dumbledore actually said that?"
"Yes," Severus said, smiling faintly. "Lucius eventually agreed to allow Draco to stay here at Hogwarts, which provides you a chance to get young Malfoy to see things a little less one sided," he said, his eyes seeming to harden at the mention of Draco.
Narcissa frowned. "What?"
Severus sighed. "I'm just not sure how much I like you opening yourself up to that kind of pain."
"What do you mean?" she asked.
"I mean Draco. The way he spoke to you. I wanted to rip his-"
"Severus," she interrupted, "Draco is my son. He's been highly influenced by his father, but that doesn't mean he's a lost cause." She calmed down a little bit. "Besides, now I'll have time enough to persuade him."
He nodded and smiled to her. "Dumbledore also told me that what he said about you staying here still holds. He would like you to have your own quarters."
Narcissa nodded. She had been hoping to be able to live with Severus, but she understood why that would be difficult.
"I announced to Dumbledore my intentions to court you," Severus said after a moment.
Narcissa's eyebrows came up. "You did?"
"Yes. I did."
She smiled to him lovingly. "I should probably dress then so you can show me these new quarters."
He nodded and she left him in the living room and put her dress back on, straightening her hair and her make up. When she was again fresh, Narcissa followed Severus down the hall to a door. It was about three doors down from his and she was glad for the relative nearness.
Severus opened the door and waved her in, following afterwards. The room was nice and clean and the decorations were fairly generic. She saw many improvements that she could make upon it, to make it more hers. But all in all it was a handsome suite that had a large bedroom and bathroom, a sitting room, and a spare room. There was a kitchenette off of the sitting room where she could make tea and the paneling and furniture were all done in dark woods.
"What do you think?" she heard Severus say as he closed the door behind her.
"It's a fine place. I'll have to add some touches, naturally, but it is the geography of the room that makes it near perfect," she said turning towards him with a smile. His mouth turned upwards into a deep smile for her.
She turned and walked toward the bedroom, her stride was smooth and she seemed to possess a certain grace. When she reached the bedroom door she turned her face to him. He was watching her with such intensity that she could feel her heart quicken. Her eyes were hooded with excitement. She had wanted Severus since she was young and now she was finally free to have him. She knew she was being more than suggestive, but she was hoping he'd be more than accommodating.
Severus walked towards her and she entered the bedroom. He met her by the bed and she crushed herself against him, her mouth feeding off of him hungrily. His arms went about her and he tried pulling back again, softening his lips and caressing her mouth. After a moment of frustration she pushed away from him again.
"What is it, Narcissa?" Severus asked, panting from the passion he felt.
"I-I don't know. I want to be-" she stopped. She was going to say rougher. Sex was always rough. She knew no other way. But she felt embarrassed to have to explain this to him. She turned away from Severus, not sure what to do about this. "I have never known lovemaking to be so gentle," she said softly, almost inaudibly.
She felt his hands close around the tops of her arms. His lips grazed the skin at her neck. Narcissa felt herself flush with heat. Warm hands traveled down her arms and enclosed around her waist, pulling her back flush with is body. Her firm backside was pressed against his mounting lust and she moaned to have him touch her so boldly. Severus' hands and lips were everywhere. Her hair, her breasts, her spine, her legs; none of her was spared. He covered her with sweet kisses that inflamed her body and pushed her senses to the limits. She felt her frustration growing and the pleasantness of his touches and his kisses only made it worse.
When he finally took her it wasn't with the same harshness that Lucius always did. It wasn't with the pain and the quickness or with the same selfishness to only please himself and be done with it. But despite its gentle nature and sweet caresses, the fires of lust burned bright and the intensity of their love shown in every caring gesture. It filled her; completed her; made her whole. And when their passion was spent and they curled up together to rest, Narcissa could not help but feel great joy and great fear. Joy for finding her love and having the opportunity to be with him. Fear because now that she knew what it was to have, she knew what it would be to loose.
She looked over to Severus, who slept quietly surrounded by the white sheets of her bed. It was actually quite strange to see him in white, given the way he always dressed. She leaned over and placed her lips to his temple.
"You are mine, Severus Snape." He moaned a little in his sleep. She smiled. She settled beside him but lay awake for several hours. She felt too happy to go to her dark place, yet sleep eluded her. So instead she lay there and plotted ways to keep what she now lay claim to as hers.
This is the last of this series. I am already thinking of a sequel to the piece but I don't know when I'll start it. I know I left some things open, but I didn't want it to be a fairy tale happy ending because sometimes life is not a fairy tale happy ending. As anyone who actually lives in the real world knows, life hurts and there are consequences to your actions and sometimes you have to sacrifice things to get what you want and that may all sound maudlin but it also happens to be true. So I was trying to add just a touch of realism to this story by not tying up all the loose ends.
The Particulars: It's a PG-13 because there is some sexual content, although not graphic sex, in the story. There are no real spoilers. The story is kind of taken out of time and there is no specific times mentioned in the story. The characters used (as well as the world) are not mine and belong to J.K. Rowling.
Dedications: Dedicated to Echo and her wonderful Narcissa story (Tomorrow Never Knows) that got me thinking about Narcissa enough that I had to write. I keep telling the girl she inspires me to write.I wasn't wrong. Also dedicated to Jasper, who came up with the idea of an all Narcissa all the time group!
Please email me if you want to put this or any of my stories on your website. I never say no, but I like knowing which sites are supporting my writing. Thanks!
*~*~*
"It was only a dream, my love," Severus whispered to her as she cried into her pillow. She hated to cry; yet she couldn't help it. What if Draco did respond like he did in the dream? What if he was so upset he tried to hurt Severus? What if Severus hurt him? What if Lucius hurt either of them or both? The questions just swarmed in her mind as Severus lay next to her, trying desperately to comfort her.
Although the dream hadn't taken long, it was four in the morning when she had woken up, screaming. Severus had tried to get her to tell him what happened, but she couldn't bring herself to do so.
"Narcissa, it was just a dream," he said soothingly. "He won't hurt you anymore."
Maybe it was easier to let him believe it was Lucius she had dreamt about, she thought. It would keep her from having to explain her fears. She wasn't accustomed to sharing her thoughts, feelings, hopes, dreams, or anything of that nature with someone. It wasn't as if Lucius had ever been there for her, or cared to, in an emotional way.
She forced herself to get a grip and calm her tears. As they ebbed, Severus kissed her ear gently and tucked her pale blond hair behind her ear. In the morning she would have to talk to Draco.
"Do you need some water?"
"Oh! Let me, Miss Narcy, let me." Filly said from her hiding place. She was peeking around behind the door to the room Severus had put Filly and Feles. It was a work room, where he sometimes liked to read, research, and create potions and not be accosted by the faculty or the students. He had borrowed a cot from the hospital wing and set the two elves up in that room.
Severus scowled at Filly. "What are you doing up?"
"Oh, Filly sorry sir, but when me heard Missy Narcy cry."
"Narcissa," she said softly, reminding Filly of her promise to address her by her name. Filly blushed a little and nodded. "Yes, Filly, I would like a glass of water, please." Filly dashed off to get it. Narcissa turned to Severus a little and whispered, "Don't be so hard on her, she isn't used to being free."
He smiled a little and kissed her nose, making Narcissa wrinkle it.
"Here's water, Mis- ah Narcissa," Filly said as she came towards her, trying not to spill the water as she went. Narcissa took the cup gratefully and drank a little from it. She set it next to the bed and smiled to Filly, wiping away a stray tear.
"Now go to sleep, Filly. You don't need to wake so early."
Filly just nodded and turned to go. She gave Narcissa a last look before she disappeared into her bedroom.
"She probably thought I was beating you," Severus joked.
Narcissa didn't smile. "She probably did."
Severus' smile slipped. "I would never-" he stopped when Narcissa put her slim fingers to his lips.
"I know. But it's all she knows."
His eyes bore into hers and finally he nodded and kissed her fingers. She smiled and tried to get comfortable again for sleep. She lay with her back against his stomach and his left hand curled around her, making her feel protected. Although sleep eluded her, she was comfortable and enjoyed listening to the sounds of Severus' slumber and the feel of his breath on her neck.
Inevitably, her thoughts turned to Lucius and what awaited her and Severus for their actions. Narcissa shivered a little bit and in his sleep, Severus pulled her closer. The action hurt her ribs but she didn't try to stop him. The pain was welcomed and she moved closer to him, trying to get him to pull harder, and unconsciously he did. She winced as dull thuds of pain trailed from her ribs to the rest of her. It was amazing how often you got used to pain when it was given to you on a nightly basis. It was familiar to her, and although the familiar was cruel, it was comforting.
She would have to go to Dumbledore, she realized. Otherwise she might not be allowed to stay here. None of the other teachers had girlfriends or boyfriends with them. She let her mind linger on the thought of being someone's girlfriend, but she quickly tucked those thoughts away with the other thoughts she didn't want to think about right now and returned to the thoughts of Dumbledore. If she wanted to remain here under the safety of Severus, she'd need to go to Dumbledore. In return, she was willing to offer him information on her husband and other Death Eaters. At least this way when the Death Eaters were rounded up, she would not be among them and she could keep Draco.
Morning found her still contemplating her situation. She pulled herself away from Severus and made use of the bathroom, taking a shower and dressing in a pale blue dress that was lined with silver. She was thankful that her bruised face had cleared up during the time she was unconscious. She started to pull her hair back in the severely swept back look that she normally wore it. Lucius never liked for her to wear her hair long and every time she did, she was punished for it.
She stopped midway through the hairdo and frowned at her reflection. Slowly she took the pins out of her hair and let it tumble down to her waist. She ran her fine brush through the silken stuff until it shown and curled around the brush. She smiled a little and the look transformed her. Suddenly she looked younger and more beautiful. She arranged the hair using some silvery pins to keep it out of her face but leaving it as unpinned as possible. When she was finally pleased she left the bathroom, feeling a bit nervous.
Severus was just tying his robe around him, her back to her.
"Good morning, love," she purred to him. He turned around and his jaw dropped. She knew she looked good and the way his eyes were traveling over her just proved that to her even more and emphasized how good she felt at that moment.
"You are stunning," he whispered.
With a coy look she took the few steps to close the distance between them. Also whispering she said, "You don't have to whisper, Severus, it's ok that the house elves know you think I'm stunning." Her small mouth smiled innocently at him. He seemed to have to swallow to keep his mouth dry. She was thoroughly enjoying his reaction to her and the warmth that was creeping into every part of her.
When he bent down to kiss her, she wasn't surprised. It was the reaction she was trying to attain. His eyes closed and his arms encircled her as his soft lips caressed hers. She pulled him close and tried to crush her lips on his, but he held his head back a little, making their kiss deliberately gentle as his hands lightly trailed up and down the lower half of her spine. She tingled all over with unaccustomed warmth. She tried again to make the kiss more passionate, more crushing, but he held her just enough away while his lips barely suckled hers. Finally she could stand it no longer and she pushed him away, a confused look on her face. She was panting and looking at him strangely.
Severus obviously hadn't been expecting to be pushed away so he also wore a look of confusion as he stared at her. What was he trying to do, she asked herself. Nothing was familiar in the way she was feeling. They stood, each short of breath, staring at each other in confusion. And then there was a knock on the door.
Panic flooded Narcissa's eyes for a moment as she thought that surely Lucius had come. Severus just walked to the door, but paused to lay a comforting hand on her shoulder before he did. She turned towards the door, placing her folded hands down in front of her, while she nervously awaited the opening of the door. No one knew she was here, did they? Could it just be some faculty member for Severus? What would they think when they saw her, alone, in his suite? The moment she thought about moving into the back room so she wouldn't be seen, the door was opened to reveal Albus Dumbledore.
"Headmaster," Severus said, bowing slightly. He opened the door wider to allow the man access.
Narcissa was staring at Dumbledore and trying to hide her thoughts. Everything Lucius ever said about the danger Dumbledore presented to them, came to her mind and she started to doubt whether coming here was a good idea.
Dumbledore was also watching Narcissa. She could not tell what his expression meant because at this moment he was much better at concealing it than she was. Severus closed the door behind him.
"Would you care for some tea, Headmaster?" Severus asked quietly, taking in the scene before him.
"Oh, some tea would be quite lovely, Severus. Thank you."
Severus smiled a bit and shot a reassuring look to Narcissa before he went into the kitchenette to make the tea.
Narcissa and Dumbledore stood on opposite sides of the living room watching each other until Dumbledore's eyes were drawn elsewhere. Narcissa looked as well and saw a streak of white duck back into the spare room. She smiled a little. Then, promptly, Feles came out of the room, holding himself almost regally as he bowed to Narcissa and Dumbledore before making his way to Severus.
"Sir, would you like me to make the tea?" Feles asked. Narcissa looked to Dumbledore, who looked a little shocked at the intelligent house elf.
Severus seemed to remember that he had house elves suddenly. He smiled. "I will have to get used to this arrangement," he said as in way of apology. He knew that by not calling the elf to make the tea, his actions could be construed as an insult to the elf's abilities.
"Think nothing of it, sir. I will bring tea to you and your guest when it is ready."
Narcissa noted the singularity of guest, as if she wasn't one. It warmed her, and she noticed that again, Dumbledore was watching her. The situation was shaping up to be fairly ridiculous. She shouldn't have to be afraid of this man, he was supposed to be the good guy. And if Severus trusted him, maybe she could too.
"I believe I have left my manners, Headmaster," Narcissa said as she walked over to Dumbledore. "It is good to see you again," she held out a hand that was shaking despite her best efforts.
The man's face split into a grin as he took her hand. "That must have been very hard, dear," he said as he covered the back of her hand with his other. His hands were warm, giving hers the feel of iciness.
She returned his smile and started to feel better.
"Shall we sit?" Severus asked and offered Narcissa and Dumbledore comfortable stuffed chairs in his living room area. All of them sat and Narcissa noted that Severus sat closer to her, and it made her feel better. From Dumbledore's look, he had noted the same thing.
"I received word that you were here," Dumbledore said in explanation, "and I thought you and I should talk."
Narcissa nodded. "I was actually planning on coming to speak to you as well, so it is good that you are here, Professor Dumbledore."
Severus looked over at her, mildly shocked. She hadn't told him of her plans.
"Please, do me the honor of calling me Albus," Dumbledore said. She smiled and nodded.
The small jingling of a tea set announced the tea as Feles and Filly carried the large tray to the table in between everyone. The tray was too big for one house elf, as Severus had never needed on that would be smaller. Narcissa noted it, thinking a few smaller trays would be a fine idea.
Dumbledore smiled a little. "Two house elves, Severus? Although it is not entirely unheard of for private elves, I have never known you to indulge in such things, much less.over indulge."
"Actually that would be my fault," Narcissa said. "They were rescued from my husband," she said quietly.
Dumbledore nodded thoughtfully. He watched the elves as Feles went about pouring tea and Filly stood back, shaking in nervousness. He smiled a kind smile to Filly and held his hand out to her. "Come here, little one, don't be afraid."
Filly looked over at Narcissa for permission and Narcissa just nodded to her. Filly walked cautiously to Dumbledore and seemed to cringe when she got within arms reach. Dumbledore merely put his hand at her back and leaned down so that their faces were about the same level. In silence, Dumbledore locked eyes with the shaking elf. Filly's shaking seemed to increase and Narcissa frowned. She didn't want Filly to be afraid. She almost said something but Severus placed a hand onto hers, stopping her. She looked from him to Dumbledore and noticed that Filly was no longer shaking. Dumbledore smiled and the little elf smiled back and suddenly flung her arms around the man, hugging him. The action made Severus smile to himself and Narcissa stare in shock.
"Now then," Dumbledore said as he released Filly and she went scampering off towards Feles, "let us get to business." He took the tea and took a sip and his eyebrows went up in approval. "An excellent cup of tea, uh, Feles was it?" he said, addressing the elf as if it were human.
Feles' chest came out in a prideful way. "Thank you Master Dumbledore," he said.
"That'll be all, Feles," Severus said quietly and the elf bowed to the trio and took Filly with him into the other room.
"Charming pair," Dumbledore said after they had gone. "Especially that Filly. She does love you very much, Mrs. Malfoy." Narcissa cringed at the name so badly that Dumbledore looked immediately shamed. "I'm sorry, my dear. It was a slip."
She nodded. "You may call me Narcissa," she said, her tone telling him that she was desperate for her to do so. He nodded to her.
"Very well, Narcissa. I have to say, I am most confused by the happenings of the last few days." He took another drink of the tea and eyed the little cakes that were sitting on the plate beside the tea. He took one and munched it for a moment, watching the two.
"No more than I, Albus, I assure you," Narcissa said with a faint smile. "I will clarify for you if you wish."
Dumbledore nodded and seemed to settle back to munch his cake and sip his tea.
"About a week or so ago I had a lunch date with Severus," she glanced over to him who smiled reassuringly. "I was coming to check on the progress of my son. Every so often, Severus and I have these lunches so this was nothing new. But my husband is a very jealous man and he found out about this lunch date and forbade me to go. I complied, as I usually do when he forbids me to do something, and I wrote Severus that I would not be coming. He-" she paused, looking down into her lap for a moment before raising her eyes to meet Dumbledore's, "he hit me. Often enough. And I had a bruise across my cheek. Usually I remove such marks before he returns from the Ministry of Magic, but this time I did not. I had forgotten it was there. He became suspicious that I might be hiding something from him, so he tortured Filly to gain information, as she was my personal house elf. I don't know why this time was different than any other time, but it was. I burst into his office, cast a spell that left him motionless, and took Filly here, knowing that she'd be safe under Severus' care and that even if he didn't want a house elf around, that you might employ her." He nodded to this and she smiled a little before continuing. "I paid for that," and her look got very far away and she suddenly stopped talking as if she were elsewhere.
When Severus' hand covered hers she looked over into his frowning face and smiled a little. "He broke some ribs and did other various damage," she looked at Dumbledore again. "Nothing too serious."
"Yet you still feel the pain from your ribs," Dumbledore noted, noticing how she moved very gingerly.
She nodded. "I do. They are tender, but they will heal. I spent the better part of a week in bed, fevered, and Feles took care of me." Dumbledore looked like he was concealing anger at the mention of what she had suffered. "It was then that I realized he was intelligent. He helped me to contact Severus so that I would be free of Lucius. Severus came to me and saved me and Feles from Lucius, only just in time," she said, giving a grateful smile to Severus.
"And so you came here," Dumbledore said.
"Yes. I didn't know where else to turn," she said, softly, wondering if he was going to ask her to leave after all.
"Headmaster, if I may, she will not be safe out there. He will track her down and who knows what will happen then. It could be much worse than a beating," Severus interjected. He opened his mouth to speak again, but Dumbledore's hand raised, asking for him to stop.
"I am not suggesting that she leave here, Severus," he said. "I am merely gaining facts."
Severus nodded, visibly relieved. Narcissa was relieved as well, but she had a growing uneasiness taking hold of her.
"You see," he said, addressing Narcissa, "it is not common for the professors here to have their loved ones living within the confines of this school. Especially unmarried ones," he noted in a tasteful manner. "Usually they stay in Hogsmeade, actually. They are close enough to visit often and discreetly. But I do not believe that will be in your best interest. But I cannot have you living here," he said finally.
Narcissa's back went rigid as she nodded her acceptance of his words. It would be highly improper for her to live with Severus, especially since she was married to another man and her son attended this school.
"And I would offer you another room, but they are reserved for professors only," he said, breaking into her thoughts.
"Headmaster, please," Severus said, a little desperately, "I must ask that exceptions be made in this instance." His eyes were intense black fires and Narcissa swallowed back her own fear.
She placed a hand on Severus'. "He is right, Severus. It would be improper for me to stay here." Dumbledore nodded. Severus just looked from Dumbledore to Narcissa. He looked moments from explosion. Narcissa could see it in his eyes. He would quit this job and follow her. The thought made tears want to come, but she didn't allow herself the luxury of feeling that way in front of Dumbledore. She would not let him believe that she was crying because she had to leave.
"It seems to me," Dumbledore said, "that the solution is to have you become a professor," he said, stunning the two and making them look to him. Severus immediately looked ashamed and relaxed, Narcissa saw from the corner of her eye. She still felt a little confused. "Is there a subject you think you can teach to the students?" he asked her. "It would not have to be a core subject, but perhaps an elective that they might choose to take in their later years, when such options become possible."
Narcissa leaned back in her chair, barely wincing at the pain in her ribs. What kind of class could she teach? She had never taught anything before. Instantly something came to mind. Her eyes lit up and she sat up straight, this time hurting herself a little more. She put her hand to her side and winced but it didn't squelch the excitement in her eyes.
"I used to be very good at conjuration," she said. "It is not a mainstream magic, I know, but I picked it up from the many books I read as a child. I stopped only because Lucius forced me too. He could not do it, you see, and every time I did, it was a reminder of some talent that I had and he did not. I offered to teach it to him, but only once," she said, her eyes hardening a little. "After that I have not practiced the art, but I know I could practice and be ready to teach it to others if given the chance."
Dumbledore nodded slowly and set his empty teacup down on the table. "It is mid-year now, and starting a class would be impossible. By next year, when it will be a wonderful addition to our curriculum, I believe you would be ready, if you used the time to practice," he observed.
"I would, Headmaster," she said, nearly holding her breath in excitement.
"I should warn you," Dumbledore said, "your husband is here."
It was like ice water was being poured over her just after she had gotten out of a hot bath. She shivered and looked to Severus as he shot up.
"What?" he said, his voice half raised.
"Severus, sit down," Dumbledore said, causing Severus to do just that. When he was seated, Dumbledore looked at Narcissa. "He is demanding that Severus took you unlawfully from your home, confusing you with some hex, and that you be returned to him while Severus be banished to Azkaban."
Severus made a choked noise but said nothing to that. Narcissa, on the other hand, looked quite frightened. She was not as familiar with Dumbledore and was unsure if he meant to turn her over to her husband. It there was a better time to tell him what she had decided to, she didn't know it.
"Professor Dumbledore, before you make any decision, just know, I have information about Death Eaters and Voldemort." Severus' head swiveled to her sharply, his mouth open in shock. "I can give you that information; I'll tell you anything you want to know. I am valuable to you, but not if you hand me over to Lucius. If I live, my mind will be wiped clean and all you'll know is that some illness has stuck me due to Severus' 'hex'." She was breathing heavily as if she was quite panicked.
Dumbledore looked surprised at her and stood up making both Severus and Narcissa stand as well. He rounded the table, slowly and pulled Narcissa into a hug, stunning her into full compliance. She felt calmer and safer in his arms than she had a moment ago and she let herself relax.
"Dear child," he said softly but so that all could hear him, "I was never going to turn you over to Lucius. I was merely giving you the information. And while your generous offer of information would be very helpful, it is not required as proof of your value, nor will I accept it for your ability to stay here. You are welcome in my school and if you are willing, you may take the new professorship I offer, but I am not negotiating your value to me or to this school." He ran his hand comfortingly over her hair as tears she didn't realize were creeping up on her, spilled out onto his robes. "After everything you told me about that monster, I would never set you into his care again, rest assured. You are safe here, not only with me as your guardian, but you have a fine champion in Severus. It is very obvious that he loves you very much. And with such wonderfully cheerful and charming house elves as friends, and your son close by, it is my wish that you find great happiness here."
He continued to comfort her as she cried. She felt another hand to her back and recognized Severus' touch. She disengaged herself from Dumbledore and went straight into Severus' waiting arms.
"Thank you, Headmaster," Severus said softly. Narcissa could hear the gratitude in his voice. After a moment, he asked, "What are you going to do with Malfoy?"
"As much as I would love to toss him out on his arse," Dumbledore said with mirth in his voice, "I cannot," he said with heavy finality. "If I disrespected him in that way he would surely pull Draco from this school and from his mother."
Narcissa stiffened at that and her head came up to look at Dumbledore. Quickly she composed herself, knowing she needed to be completely alert for this conversation.
"What will we do?" she asked softly.
"Well, I believe that we should speak to Draco himself," Dumbledore said sagely. "If he wished the protection of this school, then Lucius would need the council of the Ministry to retrieve Draco and I believe that I could win any case he brought against me."
Severus nodded and Narcissa did as well.
"I shall have the boy brought here," Dumbledore said and went to the door, pulling a small cord that hung there. It was a device that was installed into all the rooms of the professors, providing them with service from the school's house elves. Moments later Dumbledore answered a knock at Severus' door, revealing one of the school's elves. Dumbledore gave the little elf directions to go to Slytherin house and ask for Draco to come straight away to Severus' rooms. The elf bobbed and scurried away to do the chore, leaving the three adults alone again.
Feles came in and poured more tea, making sure it was still hot and fresh. The trio settled back into their chairs and sipped the warm tea. Narcissa absently played with a ruffle in her dress, hoping that this talk would go well.
"How long will Lucius wait?" Severus asked quietly.
"As long as necessary," Dumbledore said with some hardness to his voice. Severus only nodded in acceptance of that truth and waited in silence.
It seemed a long time before a smart knock sounded at the door. Narcissa stood so quickly she felt dizzy and lightheaded from pain. Severus stood as well, steadying Narcissa before he went to the door. Dumbledore and Narcissa walked away from the table and chairs but stood more in the middle of the room, facing the door in anticipation.
When Severus answered the door, Draco stood there, a picture of his mother and father's beauty wearing the stiff condescending look of a Malfoy on his face.
"I was told to come see you, Professor Snape," he said before noticing his mother behind the teacher. His eyes narrowed in confusion. When Severus opened the door wider, Narcissa watched Draco's eyes shoot to Professor Dumbledore. He walked into the room, quietly and Severus closed the door behind him.
"What's this all about?" he asked, looking from Dumbledore to his mother.
Narcissa smiled a little and went to Draco, embracing him and placing a kiss on his head. He accepted the affection patiently, but not lovingly, as he waited to be told the nature of this meeting. Narcissa noted the coldness in his response to her, but did not take offense. It was always that way with him.
"We need to talk to you, Draco," Narcissa said softly. "Come, sit down." She offered him the seat beside her on the small couch and he took his seat when she did, like a gentleman. Severus and Dumbledore retook their seats and both took up their teacups in silence. Narcissa knew this would be on her to explain and she knew that was as it should be.
"Shouldn't someone explain to me what is going on?" Draco asked, a bit impatiently.
"Of course," Narcissa answered but she didn't know where to begin. She just watched him, and he looked like he was losing his patience. When he opened his mouth to speak, irritation clearly etched on his face, Narcissa blurted out, "I'm leaving your father."
"What?" he said in a low hiss, his eyes burning with intensity. "What did you say?"
"Draco, I am not happy with him." She was reluctant to tell him the truth of what had happened to her because she did not want to turn the boy against his father. She just wanted him to understand and not be angry with her. "We have grown apart from one another," she lied. There had never really been a 'togetherness' to grow apart from, but it sounded better than 'your father beats me and I can't take it anymore.' From the look on Draco's face, he didn't accept this as a good excuse.
"I don't believe this," Draco said scathingly. "I don't believe you are doing this to me; to him!" Draco said angrily.
"Mr. Malfoy," Severus said, now if full Professor Snape mode, "I will remind you only once to show some respect for your mother. She is too kind a woman to tell you what a monster your father is."
"Severus," she said urgently, turning her eyes to him.
Draco looked from Severus to his mother and realization burned in his eyes. His look was resentful and it was pinned onto Severus.
"This is all your fault, isn't it?" he asked, not really wanting an answer. "You've confused her; turned her against my father, haven't you?" His voice was rising and he was starting to stand up. Severus just watched him, his look was calculating. When Narcissa noticed Draco's hand going for where his wand was kept a flash of her dream hit her full on.
"No!" she yelled as she grabbed Draco's arm. He looked at her as if she had gone crazy and in a way she had. It was time for the insanity to stop. "Draco, listen to me. You know he hit me before. You've seen it," she said, her face beseeching him to listen. "You've seen the way he can treat me. I couldn't live like that anymore. I couldn't stay. Please understand," she asked as he stared coldly at her. Her eyes met his and she knew it would not be understanding that he showed. It would not be her that she chose.
"I understand," Draco said, his voice low and surprisingly like his father's. "I understand that you obviously do not know your place."
Narcissa gasped at the hatred that was starting to spark in Draco's eyes and at the words that he said to her. Severus shot out of his seat and grabbed Draco roughly by the arm.
"If you EVER talk to your mother like that, I will personally-"
"Severus," Dumbledore said in warning, also standing. He looked at Draco, who pulled his arm out of Severus' grasp. Narcissa could not help the tears that came to the surface, again. She just sat there, staring at her son. He seemed so distant; like a stranger to her. "It's clear to me what Mr. Malfoy's feelings are about this situation." He looked at Draco. "But you should know that your mother intends to live here and next fall she will teach here."
Draco's eyes shot icy sparks to the three inhabitants of the room. "If you are finished, I would like to attend breakfast."
Dumbledore nodded after a moment. Draco walked away from the three of them but then stopped, his back to them. Narcissa's hopes raised a bit as she stood up and went to stand beside Severus. Draco turned around, his face now a mask, hiding his feelings so well that Narcissa had to wonder what he experienced to give him that ability. He bowed at the waist. "Good morning to you Professor Dumbledore, Professor Snape, and," he looked at his mother, "Professor Malfoy." He turned and left with perfect coldness.
Narcissa stood there in utter shock, not quite comprehending the pain that was buried in her stomach. She looked down and wouldn't have been surprised to see a sword thrust into her gut. But there was no sword and she knew the pain was that of feeling her son ripped from her. She started to waver and felt strong hands grab her and lead her back to the couch. She barely registered the worried looks she was getting from the two men.
"Filly?" she heard Severus call. The white elf bounded out to him. "Please take Narcissa to the bedroom and lay her down."
Filly nodded and took Narcissa's hand. She looked down at the white hand that had hers and closed her fingers around it. She stood and let Filly lead her to the bedroom where she was undressed and put into a very warm nightgown and laid onto the bed. Filly drew the covers up to her shoulders and after making sure Narcissa wanted nothing else, she left her alone.
Narcissa faintly registered that the two men were talking in the other room and that because the bedroom door had been left open, she could hear them.
"Headmaster, Lucius will take his son out of school if he learns that Narcissa will be staying here. I don't want that to happen. You and I both know what Lucius is and what Draco will become if Lucius is his only guiding parent."
"I will take care of that. See that she sees Madam Pomfrey about her ribs," Dumbledore said.
"Thank you," she heard Severus say. Moments later the front door to the suites were closed and she realized Dumbledore had gone. She closed her eyes, feigning sleep and predictably heard Severus' footsteps as he neared the bed. After a moment the bed moved as he crawled into it, wrapping his arms around her. She snuggled into him but said nothing, letting herself fall into her dark place.
When she woke up, it was to the sound of the front door closing. She frowned and realized she was alone in bed. From the light in the room she guessed that it was midday. She pushed the covers off of her self and gingerly pulled her robe on. Her slippers were waiting beside the bed and she slipped them on before going to investigate.
Severus was just taking off his black robes revealing his black trousers and dress shirt underneath. He hung the robes up and turned around and smiled in surprise to see Narcissa standing there. She smiled back, feeling a little bit better. At least her head was more clear.
"How are you feeling?"
"Better," she said honestly.
"I'd like you to go see Madam Pomfrey this afternoon."
"Is Lucius still here?" she asked, taking a seat on the couch and pulling her slender legs up to be covered by her warm nightgown and robe.
"No. Dumbledore got rid of him."
Narcissa nodded. She cast her eyes low and asked the question that worried her the most. "Is Draco still here?"
"Yes," he said, coming to sit beside her. He took her small hands in his larger ones and kissed the back of each. She smiled a little. "Dumbledore has arranged it so that Lucius will not take your son from this school."
Her eyes touched his. "But how?"
"He told Lucius that that you were under his protection and that he would not turn you over to him. Lucius was also informed that you would be teaching at this school and Lucius predictably said that he would yank Draco out of it." Narcissa's eyes clouded over and nodded. "But Professor Dumbledore told Lucius that doing so would be a grave mistake. He told him that he was privy to information that might link Lucius with Voldemort and that information like that could destroy his career and he could end up in Azkaban." Narcissa gasped at that.
"Dumbledore actually said that?"
"Yes," Severus said, smiling faintly. "Lucius eventually agreed to allow Draco to stay here at Hogwarts, which provides you a chance to get young Malfoy to see things a little less one sided," he said, his eyes seeming to harden at the mention of Draco.
Narcissa frowned. "What?"
Severus sighed. "I'm just not sure how much I like you opening yourself up to that kind of pain."
"What do you mean?" she asked.
"I mean Draco. The way he spoke to you. I wanted to rip his-"
"Severus," she interrupted, "Draco is my son. He's been highly influenced by his father, but that doesn't mean he's a lost cause." She calmed down a little bit. "Besides, now I'll have time enough to persuade him."
He nodded and smiled to her. "Dumbledore also told me that what he said about you staying here still holds. He would like you to have your own quarters."
Narcissa nodded. She had been hoping to be able to live with Severus, but she understood why that would be difficult.
"I announced to Dumbledore my intentions to court you," Severus said after a moment.
Narcissa's eyebrows came up. "You did?"
"Yes. I did."
She smiled to him lovingly. "I should probably dress then so you can show me these new quarters."
He nodded and she left him in the living room and put her dress back on, straightening her hair and her make up. When she was again fresh, Narcissa followed Severus down the hall to a door. It was about three doors down from his and she was glad for the relative nearness.
Severus opened the door and waved her in, following afterwards. The room was nice and clean and the decorations were fairly generic. She saw many improvements that she could make upon it, to make it more hers. But all in all it was a handsome suite that had a large bedroom and bathroom, a sitting room, and a spare room. There was a kitchenette off of the sitting room where she could make tea and the paneling and furniture were all done in dark woods.
"What do you think?" she heard Severus say as he closed the door behind her.
"It's a fine place. I'll have to add some touches, naturally, but it is the geography of the room that makes it near perfect," she said turning towards him with a smile. His mouth turned upwards into a deep smile for her.
She turned and walked toward the bedroom, her stride was smooth and she seemed to possess a certain grace. When she reached the bedroom door she turned her face to him. He was watching her with such intensity that she could feel her heart quicken. Her eyes were hooded with excitement. She had wanted Severus since she was young and now she was finally free to have him. She knew she was being more than suggestive, but she was hoping he'd be more than accommodating.
Severus walked towards her and she entered the bedroom. He met her by the bed and she crushed herself against him, her mouth feeding off of him hungrily. His arms went about her and he tried pulling back again, softening his lips and caressing her mouth. After a moment of frustration she pushed away from him again.
"What is it, Narcissa?" Severus asked, panting from the passion he felt.
"I-I don't know. I want to be-" she stopped. She was going to say rougher. Sex was always rough. She knew no other way. But she felt embarrassed to have to explain this to him. She turned away from Severus, not sure what to do about this. "I have never known lovemaking to be so gentle," she said softly, almost inaudibly.
She felt his hands close around the tops of her arms. His lips grazed the skin at her neck. Narcissa felt herself flush with heat. Warm hands traveled down her arms and enclosed around her waist, pulling her back flush with is body. Her firm backside was pressed against his mounting lust and she moaned to have him touch her so boldly. Severus' hands and lips were everywhere. Her hair, her breasts, her spine, her legs; none of her was spared. He covered her with sweet kisses that inflamed her body and pushed her senses to the limits. She felt her frustration growing and the pleasantness of his touches and his kisses only made it worse.
When he finally took her it wasn't with the same harshness that Lucius always did. It wasn't with the pain and the quickness or with the same selfishness to only please himself and be done with it. But despite its gentle nature and sweet caresses, the fires of lust burned bright and the intensity of their love shown in every caring gesture. It filled her; completed her; made her whole. And when their passion was spent and they curled up together to rest, Narcissa could not help but feel great joy and great fear. Joy for finding her love and having the opportunity to be with him. Fear because now that she knew what it was to have, she knew what it would be to loose.
She looked over to Severus, who slept quietly surrounded by the white sheets of her bed. It was actually quite strange to see him in white, given the way he always dressed. She leaned over and placed her lips to his temple.
"You are mine, Severus Snape." He moaned a little in his sleep. She smiled. She settled beside him but lay awake for several hours. She felt too happy to go to her dark place, yet sleep eluded her. So instead she lay there and plotted ways to keep what she now lay claim to as hers.