Chapter 30 - Snape's Birthday Surprise
Ok, here it is, chelz aelle's review has bothered me terribly and I had to respond, so I decided to post another chapter at the same time. I had a lot of trouble deciding on a rating and after a lot of discussion with some friends I decided on PG-13. Unfortunately my new reader is 13 and was disturbed by Chapter 7. For that I am very sorry. So very sorry I want to cry. I hope she/he keeps reading and enjoys the rest of the story; however the thought that I may have upset a child so severely is difficult for me to cope with.
As a result I am now considering putting the rating up to R, again. I need to know how many of you would stop reading if I did this. The alternative is that I put the chapter in question, and one that is to come, that deals with similarly traumatic issues, up as a separate fiction, with a message in the current fiction at the appropriate places that mature people should go there and read the next chapter, the way it was written, with just a cut down basic version or possibly only an outline for those of the less mature type. I don't think the whole fiction needs to be re-rated. I think that would be overkill - generally I don't read/watch R rated stuff, and I am 33, but that is a personal choice that can change with my mood. What do you guys think of that idea? I don't want to make it hard for you, but I don't want to go around offending people willy nilly either.
Anyway, onto happier things, here is the next chapter. It is LONG. It was two, but they are so related I have combined them. To Yankeebelle I am glad you like it, snapefan51 yes, I agree, Albus does need a smack and something else. I will probably try and re-write this later - like after my exams; as for the bird - what bird? *grins* You will just have to wait and see. Sorry! I agree though, she probably wouldn't have hated him more for what he did to her grandmother. She IS angry about him sending Snape to be hurt though. If he had any sense, he would use that anger to get the knife, but well, what can I say even JKR feels that wizards aren't the most logical of beasts. ahappyjtm I am glad you weren't expecting that. Nor was I. When I realised what was going to happen I nearly fell of my chair.
I have to thank you all again. Originally this fic was about 3 chapters long, barely more than an outline, just a beginning and an end, but all your reviews encouraged me, and look at what has happened. It has grown into a monster and there is still 10 chapters to go. I can't believe it. A diet of reviews has helped me to weave a story that I can't even believe is mine. I have never achieved so much in my writing before, and for that I will be eternally grateful to you all. This is my first fan fic, my other fic, Generations of Deceit was started after, but is FAR shorter, which is why it is finished already.
I hope you all enjoy this. Please, as always, read and review, and tell me what you think of my idea of changing the rating or removing the questionable material to a separate story. Thanks.
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"Hermione."
"Hmm." Hermione answered, absorbed in her book. She didn't notice that Jane seemed uncomfortable.
"I want to be beautiful like you." Jane finished in a rush.
Hermione dropped her book and looked up, surprised. "What?"
"I want to be beautiful like you." Jane repeated.
"You are beautiful."
Jane shook her head. "No, no I'm not. I am plain, my clothes are wrong and I don't fit in here because I don't look right. I want to look beautiful."
"Jane, you have been here for nearly two months, why does what you look like matter now?"
Jane looked at Hermione, the earnestness of her desire etched upon her face. "It is Severus' birthday on Saturday. He wants me to join him in the Great Hall for meals, but I am afraid I would be out of place looking like this. I figured if I at least looked like I belonged I might be less afraid. I think it would be a good birthday present - it isn't like I can give him anything else."
Hermione sighed; she had to admit Jane was right. She really didn't fit in. She wore Muggle clothes. They suited her, but she looked out of place, and even if nobody had caused problems since Draco's failed attack, she knew the girl felt uncomfortable because she stood out.
"I think that would be a very nice gift for him. It would show that you cared enough to try. That would be a new experience for him I am guessing."
"Do you really think he would like it? I really want to make him happy."
Hermione doubted that anything would make the capricious Potions Master truly happy. If anything could though, it would be Jane, and the thought of playing dress ups with the girl was irresistible. "I don't know if anything will ever make him truly happy, but I will help you to try."
"Thanks so much Hermione. I really appreciate it." Jane returned to her writing practice. Hermione was impressed at the speed the girl learned. She had quickly progressed to simple words. Hermione had provided Jane with a charmed workbook. Jane could say a word she wanted to write and the word would appear on the page in front of her so she could practice it. The book would then delete her work if it wasn't good enough, so she could try again, or cheer if it was. It took a lot of the work from Hermione and allowed her to study while Jane practiced.
**********
Snape looked at the girl sitting at his desk working on her writing. Head down, long blonde hair now clean, she seemed to glow with contentment. It made him happy that he had the ability to make someone content, even if Jane wasn't hard to satisfy.
"So what are your plans for today?" He asked, his normally caustic tone mellowed for this child.
Jane answered without thinking of the implications of her words. "Hermione is coming over to get me and I am going to have some more lessons. She is free all day, so we should get a lot of work done."
Snape didn't respond, and Jane realised with a suddenly heavy heart, just what she had done. Looking up quickly she saw the fleeting look of disappointment that crossed Snape's face, a look not missed by the Raven watching from the window. Idiot, she thought to herself, it is HIS day off too, and his birthday. Internally she berated herself. Of course he would have expected her to be with him, particularly today.
Jane tried to shake off the sinking feeling that she had betrayed him, after all, she was doing this for him. She just hoped he would forgive her when he found out the truth. "You don't mind do you?" She asked, knowing full well that he did mind but that he would never admit it.
"Why would I mind? It is important for you to learn." He answered a little strained.
Jane thought he sounded hurt, and she regretted her decision to meet Hermione, regardless of the reason. The last thing she had wanted was to upset him, particularly on his birthday.
There was a knock on the door. Snape waved his hand, and the door opened to admit Hermione. "Good morning Miss Granger." Snape's tone was back to normal. The last thing he wanted was for a student to know of his disappointment.
"Good morning Professor." The young witch replied quickly, desperately trying to overcome the desire to wish him a happy birthday. That would just spoil the surprise they had planned for him. "Morning Jane, are you ready?"
"All set Hermione." Jane stood up and moved quickly to the door. Before she walked out, she turned and addressed the sulking Potions Master. "See you later Severus."
Snape grunted, not looking up from the potions journal he was reading. "I expect so." He glanced up as Jane and Hermione left his chambers. Jane was smiling as she joined her friend. It really shouldn't have surprised him that she wanted to spend her time with the witch rather than with him. He had always known that it would only be a matter of time before Jane became more comfortable at Hogwarts, and then of course, working with Hermione would be more enjoyable than spending the day with him.
Turning, he noticed that she had left her books behind, and the last shreds of happiness in him dissolved. She hadn't even been honest enough to tell him the truth; that she couldn't bare to be with him any longer, he thought sullenly.
Snape briefly considered finding the pair and delivering the forgotten books, but he discounted the idea, shaking his head at the foolish notion. If Jane wanted to escape him that badly he would let her go. Besides, he could always spend this birthday the way he had spent most of his others - stalking the halls and making students miserable. The most disappointing thing was that she hadn't even wished him a happy birthday. surely she hadn't forgotten.
Snape's buoyant spirits flagged and he sighed. As long as the girl was happy it shouldn't matter. What right did he have to dictate her activities or monopolise her time? So why did he feel so disappointed and alone?
**********
Hermione grabbed Jane's arm. "Do you think he suspects anything?"
Jane shook her head. "No, I think he is disappointed. This may be a mistake. I get the impression that he was upset when I told him I was going to be with you. I think he may have had something planned for us to do together.
"Oh." Hermione felt terrible. She had a feeling that an unhappy Snape could mean trouble, knowing the improvement in his behaviour was only a thin veneer, brought about by Jane's presence, she was a little fearful of what her apparent loss would do to his demeanour. If he were to feel betrayed, things could easily return to their previous, more unpleasant state.
Hermione took comfort in the fact that the apparent desertion would only be for a few hours. How much damage could he do in such a short time? She shrugged off the feeling of impending disaster and drew Jane forward. "Come on, I have found some clothes that should suit our purposes with a few adjustments. When we are finished Ron and Harry are going to judge the outcome."
"Thanks so much for this Hermione. I don't know what I would have done without all your help. No one has ever been so kind to me without a reason before."
"What about Snape?" Hermione asked, surprised.
"He's different. I helped him, now he is paying me back."
"Oh, no. I think it is more than that. He has really changed. That is more than just returning a favour."
"Do you really think so?" Jane asked hopefully.
"Oh yes." Hermione paused, thinking. "You really like him don't you."
Jane stopped, turned and looked into her friend's gentle brown eyes. "More than anything in the world." She answered earnestly. "My father treated me so badly when my mother died that I ran away and lived on the streets for seven years. I was alone and no one cared. Severus was the first person in a long time, that looked at me like I mattered." Her explanation trailed off, but Hermione understood.
**********
"Now, before we go in, I think you should know that I decided that if we are going to make you look beautiful, we are really going to make you look beautiful. By the time I finish with you, you will look like a princess. You will still stand out, but this time it will be because you are outstanding." Hermione opened the door to her room, as prefect she had a room of her own, and it had its advantages. She pulled Jane inside. "Now, close your eyes. I want this to be a surprise."
Jane stood motionless, waiting with her eyes closed, while Hermione gathered the clothes she had chosen. She had no idea what to expect - she certainly hadn't expected the gown that Hermione produced.
She gasped when she saw the creation. It was a silvery blue dress made with folds of shimmering fabric that seemed to dance as Hermione held it up. There was also an accompanying cloak of dark blue with silver embroidery and a petite pair of silver court shoes. The outfit was the most beautiful thing Jane had ever seen.
"Oh, Hermione, I can't. It is too beautiful." Jane she protested in an awed whisper.
"Of course you can. You will look beautiful, just like you wanted to. We will do your hair and add a little makeup and you will look like a princess. If that doesn't make Professor Snape happy, nothing will."
"But it is too much. Where did you get it?"
"My parent's bought it for me to wear at the Yule ball this year. I have made some adjustments and modifications so it should fit. It will look wonderful on you."
"But what if I damage it?"
"Don't worry. You wont."
Jane sighed, giving in. "Alright, if you are sure."
"I am, now go and get your clothes off and have a bath then put this on." She handed Jane a dressing gown, "Then we will get to work on your hair."
Jane returned from the bathroom, smelling of orange blossom, her hair and skin glowing. "Now what?"
"Sit down over here." Hermione motioned towards a chair placed in front of a large mirror. "We will do your hair first."
Jane sat and waited while Hermione prepared her things, then watched closely as the witch's skilled fingers commenced braiding and twirling her hair until her head was a crown of curls and plaits. She couldn't believe the transformation. Hermione truly was magic, and she hadn't even used her wand.
"What do you think?" Hermione asked, already knowing the answer from the look on the girl's face. Jane's eyes were shinning brightly.
"Oh, Hermione, I never imagined I could look like this."
Hermione smiled. "Don't get too excited, we aren't finished yet. Now, let me see your hands."
Jane held out her hands and Hermione manicured each nail, rubbing sweet smelling oils into them. Then she finished each nail with a nail polish that seemed to glow in a colour that was similar to the silvery blue of her dress.
Makeup came next, Hermione applied just a little to the young girl to accentuate her clear blue eyes and pale skin, and then she added a little lipstick for the finishing touch. When she was finished, she was more pleased with the result than she had expected. It was obvious that Jane was too, by the look of amazement on the girl's face.
"You look wonderful."
Jane blushed. "Do I really? It isn't too much is it?"
Hermione realised that it would take more than her word to convince the girl of her beauty, and was glad she arranged for Harry and Ron to judge her success at transforming her. "Yes, you really do, and while it is a bit much for everyday, this isn't every day is it?"
Jane shook her head.
"Good. Now for the dress. Take off the dressing gown."
Hermione wondered why Jane stiffened; suddenly tense.
**********
Snape found it hard to concentrate on the journal he was reading. He kept glancing at his desk, expecting Jane to be there studiously practicing her writing skills, only to be disappointed again when he remembered that being with him was the last thing she desired, even on his birthday. His joy in his birthday, a birthday he had actually been looking forward to for once because he would have someone to celebrate it with, was gone - as gone as the child who had brought the foolish notion of joy, into his life in the first place.
He sighed and slammed the journal down after reading the same paragraph for the 5th time. He just couldn't concentrate. What was the point? He may as well give up the effort to be on his best behaviour and revert to his old ways. Yes, he thought, a little old fashioned stalking and harassment was just what he needed to cheer him up.
He stood and put on his outer cloak, before moving to the door. "Happy Birthday Severus," he said quietly as he opened it. He figured he would be the only one to give him birthday greetings this day. Somehow living seemed pointless all of a sudden. He wasn't really angry with Jane for deserting him though, he was angry with himself for expecting more. For a time things had been so much better. He sighed; he had been a fool to expect it to last.
Snape closed the door behind him and was about to head for the Great Hall, when he felt the familiar tingling in his arm. For a moment, he considered ignoring the call, knowing full well that to attend would likely end in his death, but he decided against that. After all, what did he have to live for anyway?
For even less time, he considered returning to his chambers to leave a message for Jane, but he discounted that too. Why bother when it was clear she didn't care? Rather than turning towards the Great Hall, Severus Snape turned towards the school's exit, preparing to take his punishment, and not really caring if he returned or not - after all, no one else would either.
**********
"Come on Jane, off with the dressing gown."
Jane didn't move. "I don't want to." Suddenly she sounded like a baby being asked to give up its favourite toy.
"What?" Hermione was surprised by the girl's sudden reluctance to comply.
"Do I have to? I don't want to."
"Well, you have to if you want to put the dress on." Hermione answered simply.
Jane looked at the beautiful gown, shimmering silver and blue in the light streaming in the window. Oh, how she wanted to wear that dress, oh how she wanted to feel that cloud of shimmering fabric floating around her!
"What's wrong Jane?" Hermione asked puzzled.
Jane didn't answer.
Hermione grew worried. "Jane." She encouraged gently.
Jane stood up suddenly and dropped the dressing gown from her shoulders, revealing to Hermione, for the first time, the scars that covered her back. She closed her eyes, not wanting to see the look of disgust on her friend's face, and hung her head in shame.
Hermione gasped in horror. "Jane, what happened? Did Snape do this?"
"Severus? No!" The young girl answered quickly. "No, my father." She admitted more quietly. "He used to beat me for being bad." Jane finished.
"You can't have been that bad. Nobody can be. Is that why you left?" Hermione was indignant at the damage done to her friend.
"One of the reasons, but not the only reason." Jane answered furtively. "Hermione, you can't tell Severus. He doesn't know, and I don't want him to. Only Madam Pomfrey knows."
Hermione looked at her, surprised that the observant Potions Master was unaware of the scars his charge bore. "He doesn't know? You're kidding right?"
Jane shook her head.
Hermione sighed. "Ok, I promise not to tell him, or anyone else." She added after Jane looked at her with a pleading look she just couldn't ignore. She touched the largest scar gently, and felt the smooth, tight skin. Jane stiffened again, but did not complain. "I am sorry." She said quietly.
Jane merely nodded, silently, trying to overcome the tears that threatened to ruin her makeup.
**********
Snape apparated into the midst of a circle of Death Eaters. What a wonderful birthday gift, he thought. It just couldn't get better than this.
He fell to his knees before the Dark Lord. "Master."
"Ahhh, Ssseveruss, welcome back my trusssted sservant." Voldemort's sibilant voice hissed. "You didn't think I would forget your birthday did you?"
Snape was speechless. This game was unlike the games Voldemort normally played. "No, Master." Snape answered quietly, not looking into Voldemort's face.
"Very good." He pointed his wand towards the kneeling man. "Happy birthday."
"Thank you Master."
"Crucio."
Snape writhed in pain as the spell hit him. "Thank - you - Master." He managed to gasp out in a voice almost hoarse from the pain.
"Alwayss a pleasure Ssseveruss." The Dark Lord laughed, before indicating to his loyal followers that they were free to continue the spy's punishment.
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Hermione finished arranging the folds of the dress around Jane. She couldn't believe how beautiful the dress looked on the blonde girl. Hermione knew she would never be able to wear it again. "Now, keep your eyes closed until I say."
She took Jane's arm and led the girl to the full-length mirror sitting beside her bed. "Ok, now you can look."
Jane opened her eyes, blinked a couple of times, as though she didn't believe what she was seeing, then gasped in astonishment at her reflection. "I can't believe it! I look like a Princess."
"You are a princess for today."
"Oh Hermione, thank you."
Hermione smiled. "It was worth it to see you so happy. Now, let's see what Harry and Ron think."
"Are you two ready?"
Harry and Ron nodded. They felt like they had been waiting for hours. "Yes." They answered in unison.
Hermione stood aside and Jane carefully walked down the stairs. She was quite nervous and even more self-conscious than normal. Smiling shyly she stepped into the common room and looked at Ron and Harry. "Well, what do you think?"
While Jane hadn't known exactly what to expect, she certainly hadn't been prepared for silence and the look of surprise both boys wore. Eyes wide, and mouths wider, they both sat there stunned and gawking at her. Blood rose in her cheeks.
"Wow." Harry was the first to respond.
"Bloody brilliant!"
Hermione smiled, proud of her achievement, but perhaps just a little jealous of her best friends' reactions. "See, I told you it would be worth the wait. Okay, let's go or we will miss dinner."
The two boys and two girls hurried from the common room and made their way to the Great Hall. This would be a surprise for everyone, not just the Potions Master.
Ok, here it is, chelz aelle's review has bothered me terribly and I had to respond, so I decided to post another chapter at the same time. I had a lot of trouble deciding on a rating and after a lot of discussion with some friends I decided on PG-13. Unfortunately my new reader is 13 and was disturbed by Chapter 7. For that I am very sorry. So very sorry I want to cry. I hope she/he keeps reading and enjoys the rest of the story; however the thought that I may have upset a child so severely is difficult for me to cope with.
As a result I am now considering putting the rating up to R, again. I need to know how many of you would stop reading if I did this. The alternative is that I put the chapter in question, and one that is to come, that deals with similarly traumatic issues, up as a separate fiction, with a message in the current fiction at the appropriate places that mature people should go there and read the next chapter, the way it was written, with just a cut down basic version or possibly only an outline for those of the less mature type. I don't think the whole fiction needs to be re-rated. I think that would be overkill - generally I don't read/watch R rated stuff, and I am 33, but that is a personal choice that can change with my mood. What do you guys think of that idea? I don't want to make it hard for you, but I don't want to go around offending people willy nilly either.
Anyway, onto happier things, here is the next chapter. It is LONG. It was two, but they are so related I have combined them. To Yankeebelle I am glad you like it, snapefan51 yes, I agree, Albus does need a smack and something else. I will probably try and re-write this later - like after my exams; as for the bird - what bird? *grins* You will just have to wait and see. Sorry! I agree though, she probably wouldn't have hated him more for what he did to her grandmother. She IS angry about him sending Snape to be hurt though. If he had any sense, he would use that anger to get the knife, but well, what can I say even JKR feels that wizards aren't the most logical of beasts. ahappyjtm I am glad you weren't expecting that. Nor was I. When I realised what was going to happen I nearly fell of my chair.
I have to thank you all again. Originally this fic was about 3 chapters long, barely more than an outline, just a beginning and an end, but all your reviews encouraged me, and look at what has happened. It has grown into a monster and there is still 10 chapters to go. I can't believe it. A diet of reviews has helped me to weave a story that I can't even believe is mine. I have never achieved so much in my writing before, and for that I will be eternally grateful to you all. This is my first fan fic, my other fic, Generations of Deceit was started after, but is FAR shorter, which is why it is finished already.
I hope you all enjoy this. Please, as always, read and review, and tell me what you think of my idea of changing the rating or removing the questionable material to a separate story. Thanks.
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"Hermione."
"Hmm." Hermione answered, absorbed in her book. She didn't notice that Jane seemed uncomfortable.
"I want to be beautiful like you." Jane finished in a rush.
Hermione dropped her book and looked up, surprised. "What?"
"I want to be beautiful like you." Jane repeated.
"You are beautiful."
Jane shook her head. "No, no I'm not. I am plain, my clothes are wrong and I don't fit in here because I don't look right. I want to look beautiful."
"Jane, you have been here for nearly two months, why does what you look like matter now?"
Jane looked at Hermione, the earnestness of her desire etched upon her face. "It is Severus' birthday on Saturday. He wants me to join him in the Great Hall for meals, but I am afraid I would be out of place looking like this. I figured if I at least looked like I belonged I might be less afraid. I think it would be a good birthday present - it isn't like I can give him anything else."
Hermione sighed; she had to admit Jane was right. She really didn't fit in. She wore Muggle clothes. They suited her, but she looked out of place, and even if nobody had caused problems since Draco's failed attack, she knew the girl felt uncomfortable because she stood out.
"I think that would be a very nice gift for him. It would show that you cared enough to try. That would be a new experience for him I am guessing."
"Do you really think he would like it? I really want to make him happy."
Hermione doubted that anything would make the capricious Potions Master truly happy. If anything could though, it would be Jane, and the thought of playing dress ups with the girl was irresistible. "I don't know if anything will ever make him truly happy, but I will help you to try."
"Thanks so much Hermione. I really appreciate it." Jane returned to her writing practice. Hermione was impressed at the speed the girl learned. She had quickly progressed to simple words. Hermione had provided Jane with a charmed workbook. Jane could say a word she wanted to write and the word would appear on the page in front of her so she could practice it. The book would then delete her work if it wasn't good enough, so she could try again, or cheer if it was. It took a lot of the work from Hermione and allowed her to study while Jane practiced.
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Snape looked at the girl sitting at his desk working on her writing. Head down, long blonde hair now clean, she seemed to glow with contentment. It made him happy that he had the ability to make someone content, even if Jane wasn't hard to satisfy.
"So what are your plans for today?" He asked, his normally caustic tone mellowed for this child.
Jane answered without thinking of the implications of her words. "Hermione is coming over to get me and I am going to have some more lessons. She is free all day, so we should get a lot of work done."
Snape didn't respond, and Jane realised with a suddenly heavy heart, just what she had done. Looking up quickly she saw the fleeting look of disappointment that crossed Snape's face, a look not missed by the Raven watching from the window. Idiot, she thought to herself, it is HIS day off too, and his birthday. Internally she berated herself. Of course he would have expected her to be with him, particularly today.
Jane tried to shake off the sinking feeling that she had betrayed him, after all, she was doing this for him. She just hoped he would forgive her when he found out the truth. "You don't mind do you?" She asked, knowing full well that he did mind but that he would never admit it.
"Why would I mind? It is important for you to learn." He answered a little strained.
Jane thought he sounded hurt, and she regretted her decision to meet Hermione, regardless of the reason. The last thing she had wanted was to upset him, particularly on his birthday.
There was a knock on the door. Snape waved his hand, and the door opened to admit Hermione. "Good morning Miss Granger." Snape's tone was back to normal. The last thing he wanted was for a student to know of his disappointment.
"Good morning Professor." The young witch replied quickly, desperately trying to overcome the desire to wish him a happy birthday. That would just spoil the surprise they had planned for him. "Morning Jane, are you ready?"
"All set Hermione." Jane stood up and moved quickly to the door. Before she walked out, she turned and addressed the sulking Potions Master. "See you later Severus."
Snape grunted, not looking up from the potions journal he was reading. "I expect so." He glanced up as Jane and Hermione left his chambers. Jane was smiling as she joined her friend. It really shouldn't have surprised him that she wanted to spend her time with the witch rather than with him. He had always known that it would only be a matter of time before Jane became more comfortable at Hogwarts, and then of course, working with Hermione would be more enjoyable than spending the day with him.
Turning, he noticed that she had left her books behind, and the last shreds of happiness in him dissolved. She hadn't even been honest enough to tell him the truth; that she couldn't bare to be with him any longer, he thought sullenly.
Snape briefly considered finding the pair and delivering the forgotten books, but he discounted the idea, shaking his head at the foolish notion. If Jane wanted to escape him that badly he would let her go. Besides, he could always spend this birthday the way he had spent most of his others - stalking the halls and making students miserable. The most disappointing thing was that she hadn't even wished him a happy birthday. surely she hadn't forgotten.
Snape's buoyant spirits flagged and he sighed. As long as the girl was happy it shouldn't matter. What right did he have to dictate her activities or monopolise her time? So why did he feel so disappointed and alone?
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Hermione grabbed Jane's arm. "Do you think he suspects anything?"
Jane shook her head. "No, I think he is disappointed. This may be a mistake. I get the impression that he was upset when I told him I was going to be with you. I think he may have had something planned for us to do together.
"Oh." Hermione felt terrible. She had a feeling that an unhappy Snape could mean trouble, knowing the improvement in his behaviour was only a thin veneer, brought about by Jane's presence, she was a little fearful of what her apparent loss would do to his demeanour. If he were to feel betrayed, things could easily return to their previous, more unpleasant state.
Hermione took comfort in the fact that the apparent desertion would only be for a few hours. How much damage could he do in such a short time? She shrugged off the feeling of impending disaster and drew Jane forward. "Come on, I have found some clothes that should suit our purposes with a few adjustments. When we are finished Ron and Harry are going to judge the outcome."
"Thanks so much for this Hermione. I don't know what I would have done without all your help. No one has ever been so kind to me without a reason before."
"What about Snape?" Hermione asked, surprised.
"He's different. I helped him, now he is paying me back."
"Oh, no. I think it is more than that. He has really changed. That is more than just returning a favour."
"Do you really think so?" Jane asked hopefully.
"Oh yes." Hermione paused, thinking. "You really like him don't you."
Jane stopped, turned and looked into her friend's gentle brown eyes. "More than anything in the world." She answered earnestly. "My father treated me so badly when my mother died that I ran away and lived on the streets for seven years. I was alone and no one cared. Severus was the first person in a long time, that looked at me like I mattered." Her explanation trailed off, but Hermione understood.
**********
"Now, before we go in, I think you should know that I decided that if we are going to make you look beautiful, we are really going to make you look beautiful. By the time I finish with you, you will look like a princess. You will still stand out, but this time it will be because you are outstanding." Hermione opened the door to her room, as prefect she had a room of her own, and it had its advantages. She pulled Jane inside. "Now, close your eyes. I want this to be a surprise."
Jane stood motionless, waiting with her eyes closed, while Hermione gathered the clothes she had chosen. She had no idea what to expect - she certainly hadn't expected the gown that Hermione produced.
She gasped when she saw the creation. It was a silvery blue dress made with folds of shimmering fabric that seemed to dance as Hermione held it up. There was also an accompanying cloak of dark blue with silver embroidery and a petite pair of silver court shoes. The outfit was the most beautiful thing Jane had ever seen.
"Oh, Hermione, I can't. It is too beautiful." Jane she protested in an awed whisper.
"Of course you can. You will look beautiful, just like you wanted to. We will do your hair and add a little makeup and you will look like a princess. If that doesn't make Professor Snape happy, nothing will."
"But it is too much. Where did you get it?"
"My parent's bought it for me to wear at the Yule ball this year. I have made some adjustments and modifications so it should fit. It will look wonderful on you."
"But what if I damage it?"
"Don't worry. You wont."
Jane sighed, giving in. "Alright, if you are sure."
"I am, now go and get your clothes off and have a bath then put this on." She handed Jane a dressing gown, "Then we will get to work on your hair."
Jane returned from the bathroom, smelling of orange blossom, her hair and skin glowing. "Now what?"
"Sit down over here." Hermione motioned towards a chair placed in front of a large mirror. "We will do your hair first."
Jane sat and waited while Hermione prepared her things, then watched closely as the witch's skilled fingers commenced braiding and twirling her hair until her head was a crown of curls and plaits. She couldn't believe the transformation. Hermione truly was magic, and she hadn't even used her wand.
"What do you think?" Hermione asked, already knowing the answer from the look on the girl's face. Jane's eyes were shinning brightly.
"Oh, Hermione, I never imagined I could look like this."
Hermione smiled. "Don't get too excited, we aren't finished yet. Now, let me see your hands."
Jane held out her hands and Hermione manicured each nail, rubbing sweet smelling oils into them. Then she finished each nail with a nail polish that seemed to glow in a colour that was similar to the silvery blue of her dress.
Makeup came next, Hermione applied just a little to the young girl to accentuate her clear blue eyes and pale skin, and then she added a little lipstick for the finishing touch. When she was finished, she was more pleased with the result than she had expected. It was obvious that Jane was too, by the look of amazement on the girl's face.
"You look wonderful."
Jane blushed. "Do I really? It isn't too much is it?"
Hermione realised that it would take more than her word to convince the girl of her beauty, and was glad she arranged for Harry and Ron to judge her success at transforming her. "Yes, you really do, and while it is a bit much for everyday, this isn't every day is it?"
Jane shook her head.
"Good. Now for the dress. Take off the dressing gown."
Hermione wondered why Jane stiffened; suddenly tense.
**********
Snape found it hard to concentrate on the journal he was reading. He kept glancing at his desk, expecting Jane to be there studiously practicing her writing skills, only to be disappointed again when he remembered that being with him was the last thing she desired, even on his birthday. His joy in his birthday, a birthday he had actually been looking forward to for once because he would have someone to celebrate it with, was gone - as gone as the child who had brought the foolish notion of joy, into his life in the first place.
He sighed and slammed the journal down after reading the same paragraph for the 5th time. He just couldn't concentrate. What was the point? He may as well give up the effort to be on his best behaviour and revert to his old ways. Yes, he thought, a little old fashioned stalking and harassment was just what he needed to cheer him up.
He stood and put on his outer cloak, before moving to the door. "Happy Birthday Severus," he said quietly as he opened it. He figured he would be the only one to give him birthday greetings this day. Somehow living seemed pointless all of a sudden. He wasn't really angry with Jane for deserting him though, he was angry with himself for expecting more. For a time things had been so much better. He sighed; he had been a fool to expect it to last.
Snape closed the door behind him and was about to head for the Great Hall, when he felt the familiar tingling in his arm. For a moment, he considered ignoring the call, knowing full well that to attend would likely end in his death, but he decided against that. After all, what did he have to live for anyway?
For even less time, he considered returning to his chambers to leave a message for Jane, but he discounted that too. Why bother when it was clear she didn't care? Rather than turning towards the Great Hall, Severus Snape turned towards the school's exit, preparing to take his punishment, and not really caring if he returned or not - after all, no one else would either.
**********
"Come on Jane, off with the dressing gown."
Jane didn't move. "I don't want to." Suddenly she sounded like a baby being asked to give up its favourite toy.
"What?" Hermione was surprised by the girl's sudden reluctance to comply.
"Do I have to? I don't want to."
"Well, you have to if you want to put the dress on." Hermione answered simply.
Jane looked at the beautiful gown, shimmering silver and blue in the light streaming in the window. Oh, how she wanted to wear that dress, oh how she wanted to feel that cloud of shimmering fabric floating around her!
"What's wrong Jane?" Hermione asked puzzled.
Jane didn't answer.
Hermione grew worried. "Jane." She encouraged gently.
Jane stood up suddenly and dropped the dressing gown from her shoulders, revealing to Hermione, for the first time, the scars that covered her back. She closed her eyes, not wanting to see the look of disgust on her friend's face, and hung her head in shame.
Hermione gasped in horror. "Jane, what happened? Did Snape do this?"
"Severus? No!" The young girl answered quickly. "No, my father." She admitted more quietly. "He used to beat me for being bad." Jane finished.
"You can't have been that bad. Nobody can be. Is that why you left?" Hermione was indignant at the damage done to her friend.
"One of the reasons, but not the only reason." Jane answered furtively. "Hermione, you can't tell Severus. He doesn't know, and I don't want him to. Only Madam Pomfrey knows."
Hermione looked at her, surprised that the observant Potions Master was unaware of the scars his charge bore. "He doesn't know? You're kidding right?"
Jane shook her head.
Hermione sighed. "Ok, I promise not to tell him, or anyone else." She added after Jane looked at her with a pleading look she just couldn't ignore. She touched the largest scar gently, and felt the smooth, tight skin. Jane stiffened again, but did not complain. "I am sorry." She said quietly.
Jane merely nodded, silently, trying to overcome the tears that threatened to ruin her makeup.
**********
Snape apparated into the midst of a circle of Death Eaters. What a wonderful birthday gift, he thought. It just couldn't get better than this.
He fell to his knees before the Dark Lord. "Master."
"Ahhh, Ssseveruss, welcome back my trusssted sservant." Voldemort's sibilant voice hissed. "You didn't think I would forget your birthday did you?"
Snape was speechless. This game was unlike the games Voldemort normally played. "No, Master." Snape answered quietly, not looking into Voldemort's face.
"Very good." He pointed his wand towards the kneeling man. "Happy birthday."
"Thank you Master."
"Crucio."
Snape writhed in pain as the spell hit him. "Thank - you - Master." He managed to gasp out in a voice almost hoarse from the pain.
"Alwayss a pleasure Ssseveruss." The Dark Lord laughed, before indicating to his loyal followers that they were free to continue the spy's punishment.
**********
Hermione finished arranging the folds of the dress around Jane. She couldn't believe how beautiful the dress looked on the blonde girl. Hermione knew she would never be able to wear it again. "Now, keep your eyes closed until I say."
She took Jane's arm and led the girl to the full-length mirror sitting beside her bed. "Ok, now you can look."
Jane opened her eyes, blinked a couple of times, as though she didn't believe what she was seeing, then gasped in astonishment at her reflection. "I can't believe it! I look like a Princess."
"You are a princess for today."
"Oh Hermione, thank you."
Hermione smiled. "It was worth it to see you so happy. Now, let's see what Harry and Ron think."
"Are you two ready?"
Harry and Ron nodded. They felt like they had been waiting for hours. "Yes." They answered in unison.
Hermione stood aside and Jane carefully walked down the stairs. She was quite nervous and even more self-conscious than normal. Smiling shyly she stepped into the common room and looked at Ron and Harry. "Well, what do you think?"
While Jane hadn't known exactly what to expect, she certainly hadn't been prepared for silence and the look of surprise both boys wore. Eyes wide, and mouths wider, they both sat there stunned and gawking at her. Blood rose in her cheeks.
"Wow." Harry was the first to respond.
"Bloody brilliant!"
Hermione smiled, proud of her achievement, but perhaps just a little jealous of her best friends' reactions. "See, I told you it would be worth the wait. Okay, let's go or we will miss dinner."
The two boys and two girls hurried from the common room and made their way to the Great Hall. This would be a surprise for everyone, not just the Potions Master.