Chapter Seven: Settling In

Rose checked her notes one last time before turning in for the night; menus, cleaning schedules, possible alternate exits and entrances, and various preferences of both of the Malfoy gentlemen. The lists were already extensive, but she added a few remembered items, now.

As she jotted them down, an unexpected vivid memory swept her away.

"Really, Miss Borgin, your notes are appalling. What did you mean by calling this abomination an essay?" the potions master snapped.

"Sorry, Sev," Alex answered, lowering her head-- not in shame, but to hide her smile. School had just resumed after the Christmas break. The situation with the Ministry interfering at the school was becoming intolerable, and he was in no mood to be laughed at.

"It is impossible to make any sense of this chaotic clutter," he complained, sliding her parchments back across his desk. "You will organize your notes, and rewrite this disaster three times over for wasting my time today-- and it had better be perfect, Madam. My first year brats can do better than this rubbish."

"I am not rewriting this thing, Sev," Alex answered, her temper rising. "--much less three times. It's as good as it's going to get and if you think---"

"Miss Borgin!"

Alex stopped short. Snape had barely raised his voice over hers, but she was no match for his rich baritone, or his vehemence. He used the moment of uncomfortable silence to settle her with a furious glare before continuing.

"Miss Borgin, do you think I do this for my own welfare?" he hissed.

"No, Sev. I know you don't. I just--"

"You just what? You think that I have no right to set standards for your work?"

"Of course you do, but it's not like I'm a kid, Sev."

"Your age is immaterial. You are my student, and I am attempting to teach you how to survive. This is unacceptable work. You will do as I tell you and correct it-- in triplicate. I expect it handed in by tomorrow night."

"WHAT?" Alex shouted. She immediately lowered her voice, surprised by the violence of the echo in Severus' office. "Sev, I can't finish this by tomorrow. I have a business to run."

"And, I have students to teach, homework to grade, work to complete for the Order, assignments from the Dark Lord, and lesson plans to draw for one whiny thief." He rose gracefully from his desk and swooped around the corner to loom over her. "If you disobey me, Miss Borgin, if you make a mockery of my profession and my time, I will punish you."

She would have thought he was making a rare joke were it not for the fact that his eyes and face had gone very, very cold. Alex knew him well enough to quake inside. Severus was a great lover, a congenial friend (in a weird way), and a brilliant instructor, but he was not a wizard to be trifled with. She would simply have to find a way to finish the essay.

In the meantime, the professor was looking quite flushed. His eyes glittered angrily in the firelight as ebony hair framed his pale face. It was a beautiful sight, and she responded with her usual enthusiasm, rising from her chair and kissing him deeply. When he drew her close, he did so roughly enough to bruise her arms. This he followed by burying his hands in her hair and yanking her head back, baring her throat. The room echoed with cries of pain and moans of passion. When the Professor was angry he became an absolute demon.

They were in his bed in seconds.

Rose sighed deeply. It had been one of their bad days, but right now it seemed like Heaven. Looking back, she realized that she'd give her wand arm to be back there in her lover's arms, falling more deeply in love with every shared breath. Merlin and Mab, she missed him! How she longed to fall into those strong arms and lose herself in his feral passion.

She blinked back the tears that stung her eyes, threatening to overwhelm her. It would do her no good to think this way. She was here to do a job and there would be no time with Severus until she completed her task. It was inspiration to finish quickly; to strike like a serpent and retreat over and over again until the enemy was decimated to helplessness.

Maybe then the guilt that was eating away at her would begin to dissolve, maybe she'd have some measure of peace. Not that she deserved a life of peace. Two innocent lives had been taken in her name. In moments like these, she was appalled to find that she still felt she was deserving of anything but death.

She caught a flash of green from her wrist before she felt the telltale warmth from the summoning bracelet. Silver light was a summons from the Lord of the Manor. Green indicated that Draco needed her. She checked the clock. One-thirty. What the hell could that kid need at this hour?

She fingered the bracelet lightly and whispered the boy's name, bypassing the anti-apparation wards and appearing immediately at his side. Draco was in his elaborately-furnished room which was decorated in Slytherin house colors and hung with pictures of Quidditch teams, dragons, serpents, and an illustrated guide to the deadliest poisons. The younger Malfoy himself was curled up in a lush emerald green chair reading an enormous book on Quidditch techniques. He didn't even look in her direction as he snapped a one-word order.

"Coffee."

Rose bit back a small smile. So, this is how little boys make themselves feel big.

"Right away, sir."

It looked as though he would be immersed in that book for awhile. He was still fully dressed, indicating that he hadn't even bathed yet. If he didn't go easy on the coffee, he'd be up all night. And, somehow, she figured she'd probably take the blame for that.

Lucius Malfoy had never given her any instructions where the boy was concerned except to tell her to treat him as she would himself. He was too old for a governess, so she really had no authority to tell him to hop in the shower and get his overbearing, wealthy butt to bed.

Oh, well. At least he's up reading. It could be worse, she thought as she prepared a small pot of coffee and warmed three teacakes she'd made earlier that day. Perhaps a midnight snack would help to convince him that she wasn't his enemy. It was going to be hell living with that boy all summer if their relationship didn't change for the better, and if their past few encounters were any indication, she'd have to be the one to make the effort.

Back in Draco's room, she sat the tray on a nearby table and moved it within easy reach of the younger Malfoy who was still thoroughly engrossed in his book. She was almost out of the room when she heard him finally speak. Unfortunately, it wasn't the "thanks" she'd hoped for.

"What is this?" he asked incredulously.

Pivoting on her heel, she saw that his gaze was directed at the cakes on the tray. "They're cinnamon teacakes. I thought maybe you'd like--"

"Did I ask you to bring teacakes?" he spat.

Rose clenched her teeth and inhaled deeply. Don't strangle him, Rose, don't strangle him---

"No, sir," she answered steadily. "You didn't. I thought you might get hungry."

"And, you hoped to avoid extra work by dropping off this leftover tripe? When I'm hungry, I'll summon you."

The nastiness she was almost beginning to expect. She was, however, caught completely off guard when one of the tea cakes was hurled at her head. Her reflexes saved her from the embarrassment of wearing the snack she'd brought. Deftly, she snatched it from the air, appreciating his aim, but ready to verbally shred the boy for his spitefulness. Luckily for her, she didn't get the chance, having instead to save herself again. She caught the second confection in her left hand with little effort, rolling her eyes at his tirade.

It was time to make this kid see how silly he was being. When he predictably threw the third, she tossed the first cake in the air as she caught it, soon the other two were airborne as well. She laughed merrily as she continued juggling the cakes.

"Hey," she called softly. "I forgot I knew how to do this." She continued juggling as she began backing from the room. "Sure you don't want one?"

His disgusted glare was the only answer she received. Catching one cake in her teeth and the other two in opposite hands, she took a small bow and mumbled thickly through the teacake in her mouth, "Suit yourself."

With that, she stepped lightly from the room, still giggling.

Breakfast was a quiet affair. The Malfoy heir, predictably, was barely able to hold his eyes open, much less berate her for laughing at him the night before. Or, maybe he just didn't want his father to know he'd been up all night. Whatever the reason, the morning went smoothly-- until Zephyr arrived.

The huge gray owl flew in through the open window, ignored the recipient of the letter he carried on his leg, and circled Rose, hooting happily in greeting, until she held out her arm allowing him to perch there. The Malfoy gentlemen stared open-mouthed as the bird explored the maid's short hair with his beak and nipped affectionately at her finger.

No, you stupid bird! What are you doing? How do you even know it's me? Her panicked thoughts were screaming at her to run now before her cover was completely blown. Thankfully, her logical mind took over before she could do so. Zephyr had met Lucius a few times at the shop and absolutely despised him. Malfoy hadn't even been able to come near Borgin's Curiosities without the bird diving at him like a feathered bludger. It made sense that he wouldn't want to go near Lucius, even to deliver his letter. She could still play this off. Pushing the panic aside, she forced a gentle laugh. "Well, hello to you, too. Do you have a letter for me?"

She removed the letter, and peered at the name on the outside. "You silly bird. I'm not Lucius Malfoy. He's the good-looking wizard at the head of the table." She smiled playfully at the furious-looking head of the household, praying to anyone who was listening that her fear didn't show through, and handed the letter over.

It hovered there for a few pregnant moments while the senior Malfoy narrowed his eyes with suspicion, and Rose chanted a stream of silent profanities to keep from screaming. Even if he found out, Rose, he couldn't hurt you, she reminded herself. The contract still stood as life insurance. Otherwise, she never would've put herself in this position.

Still, she almost sighed audibly when he slowly slid the letter from her frozen fingers, broke the seal, and began reading. "I'll get a treat for the owl," Rose murmured inanely as she left the room, the owl still clinging stubbornly to her arm.

When they reached the kitchen, she filled her hand with owl treats and stroked his feathers lovingly while giving him a stern talking-to. "Now, listen, Zephyr. We had this conversation. You have to stay at Hogwarts for now. I'll be coming back for you, sweetie. I promise." The owl turned his attention to her face, fixing her with a pitiful look. He let out a low hoot of protest before she continued. "I need you to go back, okay? Please?" Ruffling his feathers irritably, he grabbed one more treat before sailing off through the kitchen window.

"Rose!" The sudden bark from the dining room caused her to start violently. And she was at Malfoy's side in a heartbeat.

"Yes, sir."

"We shall be having a dinner guest tonight, a professor from my son's school." Rose's heart leapt. "Prepare something elegant." He held out a small bag that clinked when she took it. "And, for Merlin's sake, go buy a uniform. Highest quality. Basic black only. Madam Malkin should be able to suit you."

"Yes, sir."

She left immediately, her heart lighter than it had been in days. The chance to see her beloved Severus again, to hear his voice, was an almost unbearably sweet surprise. The joy of spending a night in his presence coupled with the frustration of not being able to speak to or touch him would be taxing, but well worth the effort.

At Madam Malkin's, Rose picked out what she knew Lucius would consider an appropriate uniform, a short skirt coupled with a skin-tight blouse with a plunging neckline, then immediately dismissed it. Giving him the idea that she was fair game was the last thing she wanted to do, and she had no idea how she would turn him down gracefully if he made unwanted advances. For a servant to refuse the attentions of a pure-blood noble was almost unheard of.

Being in his household and preparing his food without poisoning it was difficult enough. She couldn't stand the idea of having him try to take her to his bed. And, the knowledge that part of her would want to was torture. This was the man who had killed Nina, for Mab's sake!

Besides, when enchanting the small hoop earring with her glamour, she had chosen every part of this look for a specific purpose. Her own body, she'd kept, only changing her skin tone to look more Italian. The face she'd created was sweet-looking, gentle, trustworthy, and fairly pretty, knowing that Malfoy would be unlikely to hire a truly unattractive maid.

But she'd given herself really, really short hair to repel any romantic interest Lucius might be inclined to take. Most men, particularly old-fashioned nobles, found short locks on a woman to be positively revolting. But, this alone would not spare her.

So, it was with great care that she looked for a suitable set of clothes. She passed by the skirts, both short and long, entirely, opting for her traditional trousers, and came upon a pair that was perfect. They were black, as requested, sat low on her hips and fit closely without being uncomfortable. In fact, they fit rather like her old jeans.

Perfect.

The blouse she chose was completely form-fitting, molded to her body like a glove, actually, but with a high collar and long sleeves. Sexy, but very subtle, probably too subtle for Lucius to even notice. Perhaps it would turn Severus' head, though, whether he knew who she was or not. It would be fun to see his reaction, at any rate.

Madam Malkin's expert eye roved appreciatively over her choices when Rose checked out with her purchase. "Oh, these are lovely, my dear," she said. Alex smiled warmly, thanking her, while trying to swallow the lump that formed in her throat. That was too close to the way Nina spoke to her.

Trying not to think about it, she ordered a spare uniform to be sent to the Malfoy residence as soon as it was ready. "Oh, my dear, you're not working there, are you?" the witch gasped.

"Yes, ma'am, I am. I'm the new maid," she answered simply.

"Oh, my dear, please be careful! He is a very dangerous man." The genuine concern in her voice as she spoke was touching, and Alex felt compelled to reassure her, not for Malfoy's sake, but for her own.

"I truly believe what he told the Ministry, Madam, that the Death Eaters threatened to kill his son if he didn't cooperate with them." Madam Malkin let a tiny snort of disbelief. "He's been very kind to me; and he's treated me with nothing but respect so far. I know he's powerful, but I sincerely believe that he's innocent."

"Well, be that as it may, my dear, you be careful. Keep your wand with you at all times. And try not let him talk you into any-- compromising-- situations. He has a reputation for being overly friendly with the help, if you know what I mean."

Rose laughed lightly. "Well, I admit that he's gorgeous, damn near irresistible, but I have no intention of going anywhere near his bed. That would just make everything awkward."

"That's a bright girl. Just mind your own words, now, and keep your head about you." She beamed warmly as Rose turned to leave.

Neither, of course, noticed the disillusioned figure of Draco Malfoy lurking behind a dressing booth listening intently to every word.

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R&R's: Thank you, thank you, thank you! Hugs and e-cheek-pecks to all of you! The next chapter's almost finished. I'll be posting it in a day or so.

Rycca: Yes, she is going through a lot of trouble, but the girl has a plan. It's her nature to get carried away. And, Lucius is a turncoat, yes. But, what kind of turncoat? Is he more or less dangerous in this state? I'm glad your writer's block seems to have cured itself. That last chapter was dynamite!

Intel Ewok: Yeah, Lucius' recognition of Alex's habit made me a bit nervous, too. He's no fool. But, quit biting those nails! (lightly smacks hand) Do what I do and chew on your pen instead-- just don't anybody use it afterwards. Yucky! I'm relieved you liked Draco's intro. I can't see those two not having some serious sparks. And thank you so much for your compliments on chapter five. I've never enjoyed writing a chapter more, and your appreciation of it just makes it sweeter.

arwen 70: Ah,-- "Alex has balls of steel"-- a greater compliment she couldn't ask for. I agree that she takes an unbelievable amount of risks, but she rarely seems to be at a loss. I'm envious. And, man-oh-man, do I ever agree with you about her attraction to Lucius! It's nothing but trouble. In a few chapters, I'll give her one more very good reason to steer clear of his bed. I hope it's enough. She's really crazy about him. Yes, Severus is coming back soon. I missed him, too.

Lady Jenilyn: It's getting better? Really? Hurray! (Escaped does dance of joy, sending cat running out of the room in embarrassment) You are too kind. And if my characterization is any better at all, it's your advice that's helped. So, bless you, you dear lady! I will be reading your recommended fic as soon as humanly possible. I rarely read humor fics, but it sounds great! You're right about not killing Draco. The girl has gone a bit around the bend, as I will illustrate shortly, but she's not that far gone! I'm twisty? Really? Joy!

Fleur K: I'm glad that you intend to hone your Jedi skills. They are too good to waste. I'm happy that you liked the chapter and that Rose's treatment of Draco didn't upset you. He needs someone to laugh in his face occasionally. The boy takes himself far too seriously. Hope you continue to be satisfied with the antics of the now-slightly-unbalanced Alex.

Siverfey: I had hoped the girls would share a few traits, but not be too alike. That would be too easy for Lucius to guess. He's a bit thick when it comes to women, but he's not stupid. Draco, though, you gotta watch out for that kid. He's crafty-- and Rose totally underestimates him! She got lucky in this chapter, but she'll need to wise up soon.