Making The First Move

by Divess

The truth: Brilliant, educated and versatile people can also be ridiculous and obstinate. Hermione and Severus are in a battle to see which of them can be the most ridiculous and the most obstinate. We will have a ringside seat to watch the implosion and what comes after in the lives of our characters. Primarily Sevione. AU/OOC/T-M/OC.

74. Chapter 74

Previously on Making The First Move: Chapter 73

Randy jumped up before Mother Jordan could leave the room. "Hold on mum. Whether we agree or disagree, you won't be leaving me without giving a hug. I love you Belle Jordan. I just want you safe."

"I promise to conduct myself safely." Belle replied as she hugged Dani. "However, if I'm lucky, I'll find that special wizard who will want to keep me safe. Goodnight my loves."

Then she was gone.

/*/

Dani rolled her eyes at Randy.

"What Danella? I just want what's best for mum."

After a brief pause, Dani got her husband good and told. By the time she was finished with her tongue lashing, Randy didn't have any doubt that the women in his life had just won the battle. With his arms wrapped around the love of his life, Randy sheepishly apologized for being obnoxious while humbly admitting defeat before snapping back into his Jordan persona.

"I've apologized because I don't want you to hex my arse while I'm sleeping, but I'll be keeping a close eye on Mother and having a conversation with Lee as well. Now. What's for dinner? I'm starved."

Dani gave Randy a cuff across the arm as she set a heaping plate of food in front of him. "Please let the food stop that mouth before I hex you right to your face while you're still awake."

Randy winked at his wife. "I can do that, for now."

/

Making The First Move: Chapter 74

Belle Jordan arrived home in a very cheery mood. She had stated her mission to her son and come away victorious. Belle knew she hadn't really heard the last of it, but she'd deal with that as it came. Removing her outerwear, she plopped down on the couch before drawing her wand to send coat, purse and shoes to their proper places in the bedroom summoning her house slippers at the same.

"Blast it!" She murmured as she raised her wand to summon back her purse. All the materials she had received from The Witches of London Club. After retrieving the papers, Belle sent the purse back to its proper place.

"Much better."

She hadn't shared the last little bit with Dani and Randy. The bit where The Witches of London Club had welcomed her with open arms. She had paid the membership fees and was now a member in good standing for one year.

A still cheery Mother Jordan assured herself vocally. "One year. If Belle Jordan can't find a nice, upstanding wizard in that amount of time, she will settle for a group of witch friends. Good company is good company. The few I met today were quite welcoming."

Glancing at the pamphlet in her hand, Belle ticked off in her mind which events in which she would like to participate.

"Shopping on Wednesday. Of course shopping. It had been ages that she had been out and about browsing. Besides, I have a fair few galleons. I've saved quite a bit on my own as well as gifts received from Randy, Dani, Lee and Millie. Yes, shopping Wednesday was an event she would attend. Thursday salon treatments. That was a go as well. Maybe not every Thursday, a few a month. Friday neighborly visits. Belle definitely would participate in those. How wonderful it would be to have company. If she understood it correctly, members would assist in whatever meal was to be presented at the neighborly visits. The Saturday event was what had Belle most excited. Saturday Mix and Mingle definitely sounded intriguing. Randy and Lee probably won't like it, but I plan to mix and mingle as much as possible."

Rising from the couch, Belle began waving her wand before she even reached the kitchen. Tonight felt like a steak and gravy night. It would be solitary but she was used to that.

"Not for long." She said, speaking with a sing song lilt.

Once her dinner was ready, Belle summoned a glass and the old bottle of brandy Randy had left at the house.

"Scandalous." Then she rephrased. "Not as scandalous as it might get."

/*/

After dinner, Belle, who was a tad bit tipsy sat on the side of her bed ticking off the events she planned to attend. Before taking a shower, Belle called Owl Delivery Services to send the weekly diary back to The Witches of London Club.

/*/

After finishing their meal and having a short chat with their son, Severus and Hermione put their mini me down for the night.

"Ah silence. Our son is very talkative. So what do I need to know about WWW?" Severus asked.

"Nothing monumental love. Sebbie and I passed by WWW and he wanted to stop in. I, of course, being the loving and stern mother refused him. Before you go off on all fronts, let me say I explained that WWW wasn't a shop for young wizards. He and I had a short back and forth about the age he had to be to visit. The conversation ended when I told him to check with you."

Reaching out, Severus began massaging the back of Hermione's neck. "I wasn't about to go off on all fronts. I know you'll always say and do what is best for Sebastian. Besides, I am in total agreement. That shop isn't suitable for most adults never mind a child."

"Thank you love. Just explain it all to your son."

"Not a problem. When he wants an in depth discussion about Patented Day Dream potions, Love potions, Brown Bag items, or anything else along those lines, I'll entertain his questions."

Hermione shrugged. "What do you know about Brown Bag items? Anyway, be prepared the in depth discussion with your son might come sooner than you think. I had to make another small change."

"Regarding Brown Bag items, I have heard talk that's all. What would I look like stepping through the doors of WWW to face the two imbecile owners to ask for some nonsense in a brown bag. Will never happen. What's this about another change? You've been busy."

Hermione chuckled. "I definitely can't imagine you stepping through WWW doors for anything. The additional change is nothing monumental. Sebbie wet his bed last night. Although accidents do happen, I feel it best if we cut down on the amount of liquids Sebbie drinks, especially in the evening."

Shaking his head in approval, Severus agreed with Hermione's decision. "Sounds like a good plan. I'll watch his intake. Have you thrown out the Camembert?"

"I did. It felt a bit wasteful but weighed against the problem it caused my body I gladly chucked it."

"Good. We were quite busy at the shop today as well starting at the first hour of the day."

Hermione turned to face Severus. "Really? Tell me everything. Don't leave out a thing."

Moving his hand from the back of Hermione's neck to her hair, Severus chuckled. Although she had been gone from S & L for years, she always wanted to be kept abreast of the happenings.

"First off, as expected, we are now the primary resource for St Mungo's medicinal needs. David has secured an entire flat of Mimosa Pudica. He and Allen have their newest babies under lock and key. No one touches, breathes on or even glances directly for too long including me."

Stretching to give her husband a kiss on the cheek, Hermione did it with a laugh. "Poor Severus locked out of his own cubicles. David and Allen do not play when it comes to their delicate or dangerous charges. I believe that's why they are so successful. A belated congratulations on getting the St Mungo's placement. S & L deserves it. You, Neville and the boys will dazzle St Mungo's."

Severus smiled yawning at the same time. "I concur, but they would be highly agitated if they heard you refer to R & W as my anything. Those wizards are convinced the shop belongs to them."

"Well, I think you couldn't find better. Perhaps next week I can have a look at the Shameplants. I've only seen them in books. Sebbie will be glad to see everyone."

Severus hesitated before replying to Hermione. He had to phrase it just right so she wouldn't want an argument. "I'm sure David and Allen and all the rest would be glad to see you, but…."

Hermione gave Severus a direct stare and huffed at him. "But, but what? Afraid your son and I will cause some kind of commotion?"

Severus sighed as he reached out for Hermione's hand. "Neither did I state nor imply that you and Sebastian would be unwelcome. It's simply a matter of timing Hermione. Immediately after we return from the conferences, we will be doing the full remodel I spoke about. Why don't you plan to visit the week after?"

Hermione let out a huge breath. "I'd forgotten about the remodel. I thought it would be sometime in October or November. I'll have to tamp down on these pregnancy hormones. I'm sorry love. I do have a question though. Why does Neville have to wait until you get back? I know you very well Sev. If you are speaking about a remodel, your plans are already in place. Have Neville hire a few magical hands to assist and let him have at it. There won't be any difference if you're there or not."

Severus was silent for a full two minutes. "You are absolutely correct Mrs. Snape. There won't be a difference. Neville and I are meeting early tomorrow morning. I'll definitely run it by him. I have such a brilliant wife."

"Yes you do love, but I have a husband who has too much on his mind or he would have thought of it. Sebbie and I will put off our visit, but I do want to see the Shameplants. Perhaps when I come visit I can leave Sebbie at WWW. I'm sure Lee or George would love to babysit your child."

Although Severus knew Hermione to be joking, an immediate scowl appeared on his face. "As if. Mr. Jordan and Mr. Weasley are the last two people I'd let sit for our son and WWW is the last door Sebastian will cross. Other than that, my family is always welcome at S &L."

Hermione chuckled as she tried to pull Severus up from the couch. "Stop resisting you git."

Severus stood and left a kiss on Hermione's nose. "I'm not resisting. Our daughter must be sapping some of your strength. Okay, I'm up. Now what?"

"The what is we will check our son then retire to the bedroom where you will entertain your daughter."

A shiver ran through Severus. His wife was talking sex without talking sex. She wanted him to put his mouth on her. That he would be glad to do. He would always be glad to do.

/*/

At the end of day, Zeke Masters and Doria Collins held a whispered conversation at the lifts. They were both surprised to learn of Anthony's resignation but chuffed to have been chosen to join Harry's top team.

"I think we've made the big time Doria. Harry has chosen us over all the others. I believe Kenny wasn't all that happy with the news, but whatever."

Doria had a pleased smirk on her face, but responded with a humble answer. "Slow down Masters. We've been invited to apply and we've applied. However, Harry is very thorough. He'll be checking our records for any black marks before allowing us to join. My record is clean."

Zeke gave Doria a roll of the eyes. "Perhaps it's you who should slow down Collins. Harry Potter has a reputation for being very thorough, or weren't you aware? If he invited us, he or Randy or Justin has already combed through our files. So as I said, we've been chosen over all others. Do you want to stop by The Leaky for a drink?"

The lift had reached the main floor.

"Thanks for the invite, but I'd rather go home and bask in the knowledge I will soon be a fully fledged Auror on Harry's team and have a bit of dinner as well. Perhaps another evening."

Zeke smiled. It was Monday. Only tossers sat around the pub on Monday. Depending on how the rest of the week went, he'd revisit the question on Friday. "Alright Miss fully fledged Auror, I'll see you in the morning."

"Goodnight Zeke. Stop grinning."

Zeke's hand automatically went to his mouth before he realized Doria was having him on. He apparated away feeling a bit silly.

/*/

While Doria and Zeke were at the lifts discussing their promotions, Randy, Justin and Ernie were sitting in Randy's office discussing them.

"So. How do you think this will go?" Asked Justin.

"The boss doesn't make mistakes. Everything should go along spiffingly." Ernie replied before Randy had a chance to speak.

Both Justin and Randy gave Ernie a direct stare with Randy replying to his statement.

"Harry is the best but we all know he does make a mistake every now and then."

Ernie sat there with a puzzled look on his face. "Name one."

Randy sighed because the last thing he wanted to do was bring up old shite but he had to poke Ernie's memory. He drew his wand and with a quick flick, he closed the door. "If I said MC or Michael Corner, what would come to mind Ernie? Throw in Millie if you like."

It only took Ernie a few seconds to get what Randy meant. He immediately went red.

Looking around almost furtively. "I'd almost forgotten about the MC fiasco. I agree. That was definitely a mistake. However, it was as much a mistake on our part as it was Harry's. Michael should have been penalized a lot sooner than he was. Anyway, it wouldn't do any of us good if Harry walked in on this conversation, so let's get back on track. Zeke Masters and Doria Collins. After they are legally onboard, shall we allow them to partner each other or shall we choose one?"

Randy was quick to answer. "I'll take Zeke. One of you single blokes can take Doria."

"Hahaha. Always the joker Randy."

In all seriousness, Randy responded to Ernie. "What's the joke Ernie? I'm dead serious. I'm a married man while you two wankers are blissfully single."

After taken this all in, Justin finally spoke. "I've known you and Dani for years and I haven't yet seen an inkling of jealousy between you. I think you're barking."

Randy let out a loud laugh. "Of course I'm joking you tosser. I'll take whomever Harry places with me as any top team Auror would as you two will take whomever he places with you. It's my belief Harry will rotate the new Aurors among us. This is probably a good time to go over our guide books. I don't know the last time I opened mine."

"You haven't opened it because you know it all." Offered Justin.

Leaning back in the chair with his hands behind his neck, Randy nodded. "You have that right mate, but even someone who is as accomplished as me, might need a refresher. We don't want to get Doria and Zeke off on the wrong foot."

Justin moved his head from side to side as though stretching his neck. "I don't think we're giving Zeke and Doria enough credit. They are good enough to be chosen. I think all we'll have to teach them are the inside tips of our team."

"We'll know more tomorrow when the boss makes his statement. Until then, I have first dibs on Zeke."

The three wizards left Randy's office laughing like some nutters.

/*/

While Belle was making choices for her new club, Randy was finished with his dinner and pestering his wife. Kissing Dani's temple and rubbing her stomach at the same time, Randy thanked her for dinner adding he wanted to have a short visit with Lee.

"The meal was lovely Dani and our baby is doing tricks. She must know her daddy is in the room."

"As if. Our baby thinks the grocer has come to visit."

Grabbing Dani up in his arms, Randi nipped her neck. "Really, the grocer? I'd think you'd want better after having me."

Wrapping her arms around Randy's neck, Dani kissed him on the lips. "Now that I've had you, I'll never want anyone but you."

Dani's words made Randy feel some type of way. He wanted sex with his wife. Mother's news could wait. He'd stop in WWW and have a chat with Lee tomorrow. Lifting Dani off her feet, Randy whispered naughty things in her ear as he carried her to their bed.

"I love you Mrs. pregnant Jordan."

Dani laughed patting her own stomach. "I would hope so Mr. Jordan, especially after the fine work you've done making a baby."

Randy's trousers were getting tighter and tighter. "Time to stop talking and start undressing. I'll use my wand if you wish."

With a lightning quick summoning of her wand, Dani called an Undress spell before laying her head on Randy's shoulder.

"Now what, father to be?"

Without breaking stride and with trousers growing even tighter, Randy whispered a bit of cheek.

"Now, I'm about to be all up in my pussy. On Merlin."

/*/

Long after the shop closed for the evening, David and Allen were walking the floor of R & W Florarium discussing their good fortune.

"I've had a thought I would like to run by you Allen."

"Alright David. Let's make it a somewhat short discussion. Valera is waiting dinner for me."

"Nothing monumental lad. I'll keep it short. What are your thoughts on me suggesting the renovation start as soon as tomorrow?"

Allen's eye got wide. It seemed as though David was entering dangerous territory. Was he attempting to challenge Severus and Neville's plans?

"I-um. I think that might not be a smart thing. It has been mentioned that the renovations will start after the conferences conclude. Severus and Neville must have a reason to set things that way. Let's not upset the sometimes arbitrary Severus and have him rescind his offer. In any case, that's my opinion, however, if you want to speak on it, please speak on it in private. No need for either Severus or Neville to be embarrassed in front of staff."

David gave Allen a pat across the back. "You're right. What was I thinking? I believe this spot of good fortune has driven me around the bend. If the renovations are to be started on the twentieth, so be it. We'll take what we can get. Thanks for your input lad. Now get home to your lovely wife and the highly vocal Stria. We'll speak in the morning. Meeting is set for 8:00 am sharp. My regards to Valera."

"Alright David. Have a good evening. I'll see you in the morning."

/*/

David didn't dawdle around. Shortly after Allen left, he took a last look at the Mimosa Pudica, Mandrakes and Golden Mandrakes before gathering up his things. It was time to get home to his solitary dinner. One bright spot was he looked forward to Sunday when he would see young Sebastian without his father being around.

When that last thought crossed his mind, David took a quick look around. As foolish as it sounded, he didn't want anyone hearing his thoughts.

After locking up, David apparated to his flat ready for some leftover stew.

/*/

Harry had dazzled Ginny with all that had gone on and was going on within the Auror Department while they ate dinner. Ginny listened quietly, but her ears perked up when Harry mentioned a witch on the team. If she remembered correctly, Doria was a very comely witch who had sometimes frequented Club Pudding. Bold, little witch. Ginny blushed remembering the night she had had a few words with Doria over Joshua. How stupid she's been. The witch had better stay away from Harry.

"Wow Harry. All that in one shift. You must be dead on your feet. How are Randy, Justin and Ernie taking Anthony's change of career? What do they think of the new hires? Is Doria the tall, brunette witch who used to date…."

Harry put down his fork to stare at Ginny.

"Doria will be one of my Aurors. She's not my daughter. I have no idea who she has or hasn't dated. I only care that she works well within the team."

Ginny didn't appreciate Harry's tone but remained composed because she had brought up the nonsense. "Calm down love. The name just sounded familiar. She'll probably turn out to be just as good as Millicent. Speaking of good Aurors, I know you miss Anthony. Do you think he'll be happy in the Emirates?"

Harry ignored most of what Ginny had said only choosing to respond to her comment about Anthony without getting into his personal business. "Happiness is subjective Gin. Anthony will be alright. Onto another subject. Yesterday you said you wanted to discuss us getting pregnant. I'd like to hear what you have to share."

Ginny shifted in her chair. Here is where the rubber met the road.

"I do have something to share Harry but I'll only share if you promise not to judge me."

Harry didn't like where this conversation was going. "Judge you? Why would I do that?"

Ginny sighed as she accio'd her wand then a bottle of Ogden's. "I don't know Harry. Maybe it's because sometimes you can be judgmental. Be that as it may, I'll take my chances. Have a drink love. You'll need it."

Harry stared at Ginny thinking, I thought we left all the nonsense in the past. "Just share it Gin. I'd like to know what you know."

"I'm the reason we haven't been able to get pregnant."

Harry shifted so he was looking Ginny in the face. "What?"

"I'm the reason we haven't been able to get pregnant. Evidently, I was hit by a curse when we were dueling the Death Eaters the night the Burrow was burned down. I've seen a Healer who is sure he can fix whatever got tangled up when the curse hit me."

Harry was overwhelmed. Pulling Ginny towards him, he wrapped her in his arms. "You are not responsible for what some arsehole Death Eater did to you. Why do you think I would judge you for something like that? I love you Gin and I want us to have a baby. If this Healer has a solution, let's do it unless it would be dangerous for you. If that's the case, forget it. We just won't have children."

Ginny clung to Harry. "It might be a bit dangerous but I want to try. You'll have to play a part. Will you support me?"

Kissing his wife all over her face, Harry immediately agreed to participate. "Of course I'll support you."

Ginny untangled herself from Harry and raised her wand. With a circle, flick and swish, she summoned a fairly thick folder. "This procedure has not been sanctioned by the Ministry but the Healer is an experienced wizard and discreet. Let's read through these documents together."

Harry was slightly torn. He was part of The Ministry but wanted a family. Words like unsanctioned and illegal were going back and forth in his head. After the fiasco with Michael, he hadn't ever stepped out of line. Everything was by the book. Now here he was being asked to flout the rules to have a baby. What was he supposed to do? It didn't take Harry more than two minutes to come to a decision. Whatever it took, he would do, inside or outside the rules.

"Alright Mrs. Potter. Let's go through these documents to learn what we'll have to do."

The documents fell off Ginny's lap as she jumped into Harry's lap. "I love you so much Harry. Thank you."

"Easy witch. If you don't get that knee off my baby maker, I might be done for all time."

Ginny laughed out loud.

The couple held each other for several minutes before Harry pulled away. "Let's have a look at these documents. I want to know how soon we'll be pregnant."

"If all goes well Harry, we might have a child in ten months. We'll be parents."

Harry was once again overwhelmed by the thought of fatherhood. His only remark was a short one.

"Let's get reading."

So they did.