Author's Notes:
A bit more thread laying in this chapter for future use and relationship development. I like giving you snippets!
Again words in "italics" with two quotation marks are our lovebirds communicating non verbally.
Naughtiness alert
I own nothing but my imagination and my muses belong elsewhere.
Enjoy!
Oh and for those unfamiliar with shopping in London, Bond Street is well known for high end designer shopping. Alas I am familiar with the area as my credit card bill does attest!
Hangovers, Hot Stones and Chicken?
Climbing into bed, Hermione sighed. She needed to be a contortionist to occupy the only available space not occupied by her very drunk boyfriend. Tempted to try and move him, she realised that she risked provoking a drunken hexing and thought better of it. Instead, she settled for gently letting Severus know she was there and hoped that he would move of his own free will.
And sure enough after three hours of stroking his hair, gentle kisses and wiping the alcohol-induced sweat away from his skin, he rolled onto his side. The only slight issue was that in so doing, the dead weight of his arm now pinned her to the bed and she was unable to move it. "Oh fabulous," she grumbled now aware of the fact that she needed the loo.
Having exhausted every physical method of moving him, Hermione tried to contact Severus in his mind. She had nothing to lose.
Sev. Sweetheart. Can you move your arm please darling? she thought. Nothing.
Severus, please move your arm. I need to go to the loo. Again nothing.
She sighed. Oi, you great lump, move your arm or else I'll end up weeing myself. And then I'll hex you into next week or worse, I won't give you a blow job ever again.
There was a loud snort and Severus flopped onto his back. Whether her threat had worked or it was a total coincidence, Hermione found herself not giving a toss as she ran into the bathroom.
Sitting down on the loo, she buried her head in her hands as the effects of her night out began to kick in. Her head was throbbing and she was starting to feel a bit sick, but once she'd worked out that she wasn't about to vomit, she stepped back into the bedroom only to be greeted by the sound of Severus snoring...loudly.
"Sod it," she huffed, storming out of the room and down to the kitchens to get a glass of water.
Despite all the advantages of a magical existence, there were still certain things that Hermione still liked to do the Muggle way. She found it comforting. It reminded her of her Mum and Dad.
Taking a glass out of the cupboard, she ran the tap until the water ran colder. It was something her Mum always did. She didn't even realise that tears were falling down her face when a voice purred in her ear, "Am I forgiven yet?"
Hermione jumped, the glass slipping through her fingers and smashing into the sink. "Oh shit! Lucius, I'm sorry," she gasped before chiding the blond. "Just don't come at me from behind like that again."
With one hand on Hermione's hip, Lucius wandlessly fixed the glass and unaware of how upset Hermione was, he quipped smoothly, "And how exactly would you like me to come at you?"
"Oh why don't you just fuck off?" the young witch spat, spinning round to face him.
Caught off guard, Lucius' trademark sneer appeared, but softened when he saw the tears tracking down Hermione's face.
"Oh darling, what are the tears for?" Lucius asked, placing his hands gently on her upper arms.
Immediately, Hermione fell apart and she began sobbing desperately. "I miss my Mum and Dad," she choked out as Lucius pulled her to him.
Holding her tight and gently stroking her hair, Lucius struggled to find the right words to comfort the distraught girl in his arms. Finally, they came to him. "You know, you are fortunate to be able to miss your parents. I hated mine. Severus hated his father, and I haven't exactly been a shining beacon of fatherhood either.
"But Severus told me about what you had to do to protect your mother and father, and I am sure that you will see them again. It will all work out, my sweet."
Hermione looked up at the wizard. "Why did he tell you that?"
Not wishing to elaborate on the conversation earlier between Severus, himself and Pius, Lucius just smiled. "I was teasing your beloved about having to ask your father's permission to marry you."
"It's a bit soon for that," Hermione sniffed, burying her face into his chest again.
"Perhaps. Now, please try not to ruin the dressing gown with your tears or worse, my love. It's silk, you know" Lucius teased before planting a kiss atop Hermione's curly hair. He had to admit, that her really hoped Severus' plan to bring back her parents succeeded. Muggles they may be, but they were responsible for creating Hermione and even Lucius Malfoy had to admit, that was something very magical indeed.
He had to face the facts. Lucius had to admit that he was attracted to Hermione, but, ultimately, he was content just being in her presence, relishing in her platonic embraces. Despite their past conflicts, he knew now that he would defend her with his life and would be the first to confront Severus should he ever treated her badly. And although he and Severus had often shared a witch, his estranged wife included, Lucius knew that Severus was unlikely to share Hermione, unless it was at her insistence. Assuming that Hermione was not that kind of girl—unfortunately—he knew that moments like this were probably the closest and most intimate that he'd ever share with her, and he drank in the moment just in case it never happened again.
The two embraced for several minutes before, all of a sudden, Hermione pulled back. "How did you know I was in here?"
Lucius gave her a soft smile. The peace he had felt whilst holding her in his arms had completely stripped him of all the trappings of his pompous self and his response was totally unguarded. "I've been having trouble sleeping and when I heard a door shut, I thought it may have been Draco. He always ends up in here when he can't sleep. When he was younger I used to make him hot chocolate and send him back to bed. Shall I make you one?"
Hermione nodded, her lips twitching for the briefest of moments as Lucius set to work to deliver two mugs of creamy, chocolatey goodness effortlessly. The idea of him doing something so ordinary should have seemed quite unbelievable, but the more she got to know the man behind Lord Malfoy's facade, it was actually quite endearing.
"Will you be taking this back to bed with you?" Lucius enquired, finishing off each steaming mug with whipped cream.
"Actually, if it's alright with you, could we have a chat. I need to let Sev get the snoring out of his system," she said with a wry smile.
"Ah yes. Snape and his infamous drunken snoring. I would suggest a localised Silencing Charm, but in this instance, may I escort you to the drawing room, m'lady?" Lucius asked, bowing his head deferentially and holding out his arm.
Unable to contain herself, Hermione giggled. "You are far too kind, m'Lord Malfoy."
As they sat in the large wing back chairs drinking their hot chocolate, the unlikely companions discussed their mutual love of all things french and Severus, of course.
They had begun to discuss the ballroom at Malfoy Manor when Hermione blurted out, "Who are you taking to the Ball?"
Placing his cup on the table to his side, Lucius concede, "I honestly don't know. Do you know any single witches or wizards?"
Hermione's tried not to look aghast. "Wizards?"
Lucius chuckled. "Darling, I am predominantly a witch man but for the right wizard...well who knows. Although, if I've ever been with a wizard it's been a one off arrangement. I fell in love with a wizard once but, like the two witches I've ever fallen in love with, it's been completely unrequited."
Hermione was surprised by his response. "But surely you and Narcissa weren't unrequited?"
"It was an arranged marriage. Sex was perfunctory. We got on, she got pregnant with Draco and therefore my job was complete. Oh, we tried to produce other children, but she had many affairs—as did I of course. She was also very greedy and completely happy to be shared. In the end, she fell in love a couple of years ago and once the war was over I couldn't live a lie anymore. That's why she's now in Switzerland. And good luck to her whilst I swim around in my sea of wanting those whom I cannot have."
Looking down at the floor, Hermione felt a slight pang of guilt for turning down Lucius' advances now she realised how lonely he was feeling. "I'm so sorry, Lucius," she whispered into the air.
"Whatever for?"
Realising that Lucius held no ill will towards her, Hermione immediately perked up. "We need to find you a date before you resort to paying for someone."
"Darling, I can go to a function on my own, you know," Lucius told her with an air of exasperation. "But at least I know you'll dance with me and I promise to keep my hands off your arse."
"Damn! That was the only reason I wanted to dance with you," Hermione pouted mischievously, looking more disappointed, however, that her mug was now bereft of hot chocolate.
"Even I would not attempt to incur the wrath of your boyfriend," Lucius laughed as he stood up, took her mug and knelt beside her. He wasn't quite sure what he was doing, but he had to say something now or else the moment could be lost forever.
"My dear, I wish you to know that despite our past differences, I care about you more than I ever thought possible and I am honoured that you care about me as well. You have found your way into my heart, but I cannot deny that you and Severus are meant to be together. He can be a moody bastard but I have never seen him so in love. Lily was nothing compared to you.
"Since you befriended Draco I've begun to think of you as part of my close circle, but now you're with Severus you have secured your place as family. I'll always be here for both of you, but please look after him for me. He's not coping well with the pressures of this bond. Just watch his drinking. He always hits the bottle when things get too much for him emotionally. Just keep him safe from himself. He is totally devoted to you and you to him. Just make sure he knows that you are."
Hermione was touched by the blond wizard's words, but there was something else behind them. She eyed Lucius carefully before she spoke. "The wizard you are in love with, it's Severus, isn't it?"
He gave her a rueful smile and nodded.
"Does he know?"
Lucius shook his head. "I don't know. If he does he's never confronted me. I can only assume that he is not bothered by it, but it is not a confession that I will make to him."
"Well, he won't hear it from me either," Hermione assured him. Bending forward, she kissed Lucius on the forehead. "I better get back to Sleeping Beauty. Sleep tight, Lucius."
Taking her hand, Lucius ran his thumb over her soft skin before raising it to his lips. "And you, love," he told her before letting her go.
He couldn't help but watch as the witch walked out of the room and sighed. Fuck me, she has a gorgeous arse, he thought.
Hermione returned to the bedroom to find Severus lying on his side and thankfully on one side of the bed. She slid under the covers, cuddled up and draping her arm over him began tracing circles on his stomach. Just as she was about to fall asleep, she felt him weave his fingers between hers and pull her hand up to his chest. Planting a kiss on his back, she whispered, "I love you." In response, she felt him squeeze her fingers tighter. She didn't know if he was awake or it was done subconsciously, but the fact that somehow he knew she was there meant everything to her.
The next conscious thought Hermione had was that she was angry. Unfortunately, that thought was not accompanied by a reason why. Severus had started to come round and was groaning, covering his eyes with his hand. as he put his hand over his eyes. Reaching over to her bedside table she picked up a vial of Hangover potion and waved it in front of him.
"Take this," she commanded.
"Can you take the stopper out for me?" the dark-haired wizard asked pathetically, feeling very sorry for himself.
"What did your last slave die of?" Hermione snapped.
"Please, love, my whole body hurts. Don't want to move."
"Oh, what a shame," she grumbled. "Stop being a baby and sit up and take it. I don't want you choking on it."
"Can't. My head's going to explode."
Shaking her head, Hermione rolled her eyes. "Well, you take it then, don't spill it and don't choke."
Severus went silent for a moment before snatching the vial from her and downing it without a word. Five minutes later, he groaned. "Have you got another one?"
Dutifully, Hermione handed him an open vial, but whilst he managed a 'thank you' this time, she didn't say anything to him.
After another five minutes, Severus spoke. "Fuck, I need coffee."
"Have you lost the ability to summon a house elf?" Hermione huffed, chewing the inside of her cheeky, her anger continuing to rise.
"Don't be a bitch. I'm not in the mood," Severus moaned, turning his head to look at her.
"You're not in the mood?" Hermione yelled, kneeling up beside him in a flash. "You're not in the mood? I hardly slept because of you last night and you're not in the mood?"
"Don't shout. Is there a headache potion there?" he asked, ignoring her outsburst.
Exasperated, Hermione snapped. "Yes, there is," but she made no attempt to retrieve it.
Severus closed his eyes and sighed deeply. "Could I have it...please?" If he were being honest, he was starting to feel guilty for causing her bad mood, but the small Cruciatus that was going on in his head was preventing him from telling her.
"Here," she told him, thrusting the vial into his hand. "I'm going to have a shower and get some breakfast. I'll have some coffee sent up for you."
It was then that Severus realised the extent to which Hermione was upset and reaching out to grab her wrist, he pleaded, "Stay here, please, sweetheart."
However, she yanked her arm away from him. "No, Severus. I'm too pissed off with you."
And she was angry with him and she finally knew why. She was angry that it was Lucius who held her when she cried because all she wanted was to find comfort in Severus' arms. She was annoyed he was trying to keep his worries away from her. But she was also annoyed at the bond for how it was making both of them feel and being tired and slightly hungover wasn't helping either.
"Lucius told me how much you had to drink," Hermione told him quietly, with an air of disappointment. "What the hell were you thinking?" she asked as she slid off the bed.
Pinching the bridge of his nose, Severus' response was simple. "I don't know." And then his insecurity hit him. It was happening already. She was rejecting him.
There was something in his tone that stopped Hermione in her tracks. His usual silky drawl had cracked. He turned away from her and between his hand and his hair she couldn't see his face. Lucius' words sprang to mind as did a sense of panic. She lay back down next to him, propping herself up slightly on the pillows.
"Come here, sweetheart," she whispered and had never seen him turn over so quickly to seek her comfort. She cradled him in her arms, kissing his temple and running her fingers through his hair. "Hey, what's wrong?"
There was an indeterminable sniff before Severus began to speak. "For so many years I have not been fully in control of my life, and just when I thought I could be my own man this fucking bond kicks in. Not that I would wish to be separated from you, but I don't feel in control of anything anymore and last night...I can't describe it. It was as if part of me was missing and there was an ache in my chest and stomach. I've been trying to block it out, but it's been getting worse. When we're together or even if we're both at Hogwarts but doing separate things, I feel better than I have felt ever, but once one of us leaves the castle I feel restless and last night with both of us away and apart, I just wanted to scream. I'm so frustrated by it. I feel so weak."
Hermione looked into his black eyes and saw they were deep pools of unshed tears. Continuing to stroke his hair, she said, "I feel it, too. And it pisses me off that we feel miserable and hurt when we're not together. I mean, we can miss each other—I think that's normal—but this isn't right. It feels like the bond is so desperate for us to be together, but it's going about it the wrong way. It needs to back off because I'm not going anywhere. Are you?"
Severus tightened his arm around her and shook his head.
"And weak is one thing that you're not," Hermione continued. "We've just got to concentrate on what's important, Severus: us. Nothing else matters," she told him adamantly, slipping down the bed until she lay facing him.
"I don't want it to drive a wedge between us," Severus admitted plaintively, pulling her into him.
Hermione kissed above the scar on his neck. "We won't let it."
Kissing her way up his throat she finally she pressed her lips against his. Tracing circles on his back she told him, "I'm sorry I snapped at you," Hermione told him sincerely. "I'm sure I'm not feeling as bad as you but I had a few too many last night myself and I really didn't sleep well. And I'm worried about you. I don't care if you go out and get pissed, but don't bury yourself in a bottle to hide away again, please."
Playing with her hair, Severus gave her a soft smile. The potions were finally working and as he looked into her brown eyes everything melted away. "I'm sorry, too," he told her before his mouth crashed against hers and he began to push her onto her back. He had an overwhelming desire to possess her and once she was finally beneath him, he growled, "Fuck I want you."
Pushing up her top over her breasts, he teased her nipples, flicking and sucking her nipples before grazing them with his teeth. He was making her arch against him, moaning softly for him and he hadn't even reached home yet. Somehow Hermione had managed to magically remove her pyjama bottoms and Severus found himself with a dilemma.
Tracing his tongue around her belly button, she chuckled as she tangled her fingers in his hair, undecided whether to pull him up for a kiss or push him further down. However, Severus made the decision for her. He trailed his tongue up over her stomach, between her breasts and then slowly up her throat before planting soft kisses aling her jaw. Then his mouth hovered over hers, stilling completely as he felt her lust ignite beneath him. And then he waited.
Hermione felt bereft...agitated...frustrated. She realised that he was no longer touching her apart from the warmth of his breath lightly caressing her cheek. Her eyes flew open and were met by his. He looked at her for a moment before bringing his hand up and pushing his fingers through her hair. Smiling, he slowly lowered her head but stopped just short of her lips. Closing her eyes again in anticipation, she expected a repeat of the previous onslaught but instead she felt a gentle flick of tongue against her top lip, followed, a few seconds later, by similar treatment on the other.
She whimpered softly, begging him to carry on. He pressed his lips to her top lip softly before doing the same to her bottom lip, each time letting his own bottom lop linger for a just few seconds longer before gently dragging it away. Opening her mouth slightly, he stroked his tongue between her lips, each time exploring a little bit further. By the time her mouth was completely open, his tongue was caressing hers languidly, his fingertips tracing over her skin.
With his one hand still in her hair he rolled onto his back and took her with him. She lay on top of him rubbing herself against his still covered hardness as they continued to kiss. He firmly squeezed her arse which caused her to gasp into his mouth before, all of a sudden, she straddled him. It was the first time that she'd been completely naked in this position, and as she rolled her hips over him, Severus could feel her juices soaking through his boxers. She drew her fingers slowly across his chest as he cupped her breasts. A low groan came from his throat as she teased his nipples.
The slower she rubbed herself against him the more his fingers dug into her flesh. She already knew just how to touch him; she was driving Severus crazy to the point where all he wanted to do was flip her over, lose his boxers and sink home.
Shit why did she give me a fucking date? Why do I have to be so fucking honourable? he thought to himself. She didn't say when on Saturday...is a minute past midnight pushing it? Idiot, you've got it all planned for later...control yourself!
Hermione couldn't believe how good it felt to have him between her thighs like this. She arched backwards as she felt the pressure building and instinctively began to rub her now aching clit.
Severus just looked at her in awe. This was one of the most beautiful sights he'd ever seen as his naked witch pleasured herself. He felt her body tighten and saw her skin flush as she reached her climax but as she crashed her hot juices squirted out over him and that was it: he sat up, wrapped her legs around his waist and laid her down on the bed.
Positioning himself between her legs and although he was still covered, he thrust up against her. His boxers were clinging to him and Hermione's hand slipped under the waistband and grabbed his arse. Capturing her nipple in his mouth, Severus felt another orgasm building in her. Her hands were all over him and eventually as he bit down on her shoulder she gripped the sheets as another wave of pleasure flowed through her.
"I want you naked," she growled, kissing him roughly.
"Oh, I don't think that's a very good idea," he whispered, kissing and nipping down her neck again.
"I don't care," she panted, moving her hands down his body and hooking her thumbs under the waistband of his boxers.
"But you do care and so do I," he chuckled deeply, trailing kisses down her body, removing her access to the last vestige of his modesty.
Why isn't it tomorrow? Why did I have to give him a day that he'd hold me to? Hermione thought to herself in frustration.
Severus had to distract her, but it was he who found himself distracted as he spread her legs only to see exactly how wet she was for him. Closing his eyes, he swallowed hard, frustration overtaking him.
We could always make the last two declarations now we could just...oh, for fuck's sake, Sev. For her sake, control yourself.
Slipping his arm under her to give himself better access, he scooped up her pooling juices with his tongue and covered her with his mouth, sucking and teasing her clit. Hermione gasped, screaming out his name as she pushed her fingers through his hair, commanding him not to stop. He gently pushed his tongue into her, his thumb teasing her clit as she bucked her hips against him. And then he heard the words that he so wanted to hear, but just not now.
"Severus, fuck me."
Oh shit Severus thought to himself. Ignore her. Just concentrate on making her cum again and slipped two fingers inside her, pumping and twisting whilst his tongue flicked over her clit. He'd never had her screaming like this before...he'd never had any woman screaming like this before...and he'd never been so hard.
His tongue and fingers teased her through two more orgasms, and he knew she was too spent to complain as he withdrew his mouth. Smiling at the beautiful, trembling mess before him, he laid down beside her.
She turned her head, her breathing still hard and heavy. "I think I got a bit carried away there," she giggled, pushing herself up onto her elbows. "It's all your fault."
"It invariably is," he quipped, trying to ignore his aching erection.
The problem was, his witch had failed to ignore it, and once again she told him to take off his boxers.
"You don't have to do anything," Severus tried to protest as her hand grazed over his cock.
Moving down his body, never breaking eye contact, Hermione purred, "Oh, but I do," as she pulled down his boxers and took him in her mouth. She continued to look up at him, working her lips down his cock and sensed that he wouldn't last much longer. Sure enough, within minutes she felt his fingers tighten in her hair and heard him groaning her name as he released into her mouth.
It was then that the fourth declaration poured from him. "Hermione, I am yours and I offer you my deepest love and devotion."
Her response was immediate. "Severus, I am yours and I, too, offer you my deepest love and devotion."
The kiss to seal the declaration caused their orbs to do their happy dance, and it was then that Hermione remembered Lucius' words. "I'm totally devoted to you, Sev. You know that, don't you?"
Severus pulled back and looked at the witch in his arms. "If you are as devoted to me as I am to you, then all will be well."
The smile that immediately sprang onto Hermione's face was rewarded with another searing kiss, before they couple snuggled into each, basking in the warmth that surrounded them. Their peace, however, was rudely interrupted when a scrap of parchment appeared on the bedside table.
Picking it up, Severus noticed that it was in Lucius' hand and rolling his eyes, read it. The resulting chuckle caused Hermione to snatch the note from him, her cheeks burning as she read it.
S
Glad you are still alive and if I may be so bold
Instructions for casting a Silencing Spell
Step 1: Remember to bloody well do it.
You have may have scarred Draco for life!
L
Hermione groaned. "Oh god, that's so embarrassing."
"That's not embarrassing, my love. The fact that he was probably having a wank over us is of more concern," Severus laughed, as he got out of bed and walked to the bathroom.
"He wouldn't...oh hang on, we're talking about Lucius, aren't we?" Hermione called out loudly so Severus could hear.
"Indeed," came the reply.
"Where have you two been?" were the first words that greeted Severus and Hermione as they Apparated into his office.
"Good morning, Minerva," Severus said with a slight sigh.
"I've been worried sick about you. You said you were coming back last night," Minerva continued shrilly.
Severus grimaced as he realised his hangover was still determined to stay with him. "Sorry Mother."
"Oh, you and your cheek, Severus," his deputy head tutted. "Anyway did you both have a good night?"
"Yes, I had a few Screaming Orgasms," Hermione deadpanned and was pleased that she continued to keep a straight face as Severus nearly choked at the look on Minerva's face.
"Well I...I...never...," she managed to bluster, blushing profusely before Hermione explained that was the name of her favourite cocktail.
"The more I see of you two, the more I believe it inevitable that some poor professor is going to have to teach your progeny, but I digress. How is poor Pius faring after his loss?"
"Obviously, he misses her, but he was drooling over Hermione so I don't think it'll be long before he gets back in the saddle."
Severus was about to continue when he was interrupted by two things: Hermione giving him a kiss on the cheek before flooing to her rooms, and Minerva saying, "Yes, yes, you've made your point. He was always such a studious boy. It was a terrible shame what he was put through, and to have so little control of his actions. Truly terrible and poor Alice. A lovely girl. She didn't deserve that."
"Well, he's settling back in at the Ministry nicely, " and then in a hushed tone added, "Now, not a word to Hermione, but he's going to put the feelers out for her parents."
"You should tell her Severus," Minerva protested, shocked that he would wish to keep something like this from his witch.
"No," he snapped. "If all goes well then they will be the best Christmas present I can give her and if it can't be done by then, I don't want her disappointed."
"Contrary to popular belief, you have such a big heart, Severus," Minerva said smiling softly.
Picking up his post and scowling as he noticed yet another parchment embossed with the Ministry's seal, Severus growled, "And you can keep quiet about that as well!"
"If you insist," Minerva chuckled before adding, "Would you like to discuss why I have been looking for you all morning?"
Opening one of the parchments, Severus shook his head and sat behind his desk. "I doubt that if I said no it would deter you, so what did you wish to discuss with me?"
Narrowing her eyes, Minerva began. "Well, first of all, Miss Parkinson would like to make an appointment to see you next week. She didn't state why which seemed strange to me."
"This is Miss Parkinson we're talking about she is a law unto herself."
"True, but still. And speaking of laws unto themselves, Miss Lovegood is coming to see myself nd Filius this afternoon to discuss her future. Seemingly, she's had a visit from some Unspeakables."
Severus threw the letter he'd been reading into the bin. "Lucky you and lucky her," he quipped.
Minerva sighed deeply. "Do you have to be so difficult? Now I can see why she said she wanted to talk to us and not you."
Something in Minerva's tone made the headmaster look up at her.
"I did ask her why she didn't want to speak to you and all she said was that it would not be appropriate. I have no idea what she means," Minerva continued, looking carefully for Severus' reaction.
He simply shrugged. "Who knows with that girl, but it is interesting. Pius said the Department of Mysteries were in a tizz over something. I've often wondered whether Miss Lovegood's abilities would attract their attention."
"It had crossed my mind, also," Minerva concurred before changing the subject. "Oh and may I just say as Head of Gryffindor, thank you to the former Head of Slytherin for his impassioned defence of my noble house which the Prophet saw fit to report this morning."
"You may. It is the truth," Severus conceded reluctantly.
"Stil,l I never thought I would live to see the day," Minerva joked.
Severus chuckled softly. "You can die happy then...just not for a long time please, dear, if you can help it."
"Since when have you become so silver tongued?" the deputy headmistress asked, blushing at his words.
Severus tried to feign innocence.
"Oh, I really don't want to know," she told him brusquely as she turned to leave his office.
Severus looked up towards his office door with a start. The knock that had alerted him to someone's imminent presence had threat to burst the door of its hinges.
"Come in," he said knowing full well it was Hagrid.
"Aft'noon 'eadmaster. Yer well?" Hagrid asked cheerfully.
"Apart from a secondary hangover, I am very well," Severus informed the half-giant, curtly.
"I was like that on Sunday," Hagrid admitted with a hearty chuckle. "Anyways, I've managed to track down a couple o' likely candidates for yer. Both good personalities but I prefer this one," he said handing some documents over to the headmaster.
"I agree," Severus said matter of factly. "Can you make the necessary arrangements as discussed?"
"I certainly can," Hagrid stated ,proudly.
"Thank you. Oh and Hagrid, not a word," Severus warned.
"My lips are sealed. Now, if tha's all, I'll be on my way and seal the deal. Good day, Professor," Hagrid told him as he headed for the door.
Just as the door closed, Severus looked again at the file Hagrid had left and smirked. He just hoped that he had indeed made the correct choice.
Sweetheart, are you busy? Severus thought to his witch.
Well, I am decimating your notes again. How's your head? she thought back.
I've had to take another headache potion, but I'm fine. I've just had an owl from my housekeeper asking how many bedrooms to make ready for tomorrow. I didn't want to be presume and say just mine. I can have them make up a room for you if you would prefer.
How are you going to make love to me if I'm in another room, Severus? It's not that big! Hermione giggled
It's big enough, you cheeky minx. I will inform her that my room will be sufficient. Are you going to come up to London with me in the morning or just meet me after I finish my appointments?
Not sure yet. Probably just meet you afterwards. Ginny and Draco are busy and I don't fancy shopping on my own, Hermione said ruefully.
Well, I've booked a table for lunch at 1pm so can meet you there. The restaurant isn't that far from Bond Street, Severus told her nonchalantly.
You're taking me shopping in Bond Street? Hermione asked in a state of shock.
Something wrong? Severus asked.
No, but everything's so expensive down there, Hermione protested. Severus, you can't...
Don't tell me what I can and can't do especially when I want to spoil you! Severus grumbled in her head. Anyway, can you meet me in the courtyard by Gryffindor Tower in about an hour?
Yes, of course. You don't need to spoil me you know, she thought to him.
I know, and the fact that I don't have to means that I want to, Severus smirked. At least with Hermione he knew she wasn't with him for his money.
I love you. See you in an hour, Hermione thought and smiled at Severus' response.
Love you, too, and go easy on the red ink!
Hermione gasped as she surveyed the fallen masonry. "This is awful."
"I agree," Severus admitted. "Most of this debris came from the tower itself. We tried to reclaim the stone to rebuild that section up there," he told her, pointing to the gaping hole in Gryffindor Tower, "but the castle has proved to be decidedly difficult. We had the same problem in the Great Hall and all over the castle to be honest."
Hermione walked towards the pile of rubble. "The castle has a lot to answer for at the moment," she grumbled, reaching out to touch a large piece of stone.
Severus watched carefully as his witch's hand hovered over the surface. Ever since they had entered the small quadrangle, the natural magical field had been pulsing, but as Hermione approached the fallen stones, it had started to surge which had piqued the headmaster's curiosity.
"Fuck!" Hermione jerked her hand away from the stone. "It's hot," she told him, beckoning Severus to her. "Come and feel it."
Taking a step forward, Severus gently laid his hand on the stone. It was cold. He didn't know whether to smile or be concerned.
"See?" Hermione pressed before noticing that he still had his hand on the stone.
"As it is only my boots and not my hands that are made of dragon-hide, I would suggest that I don't find the stone hot," Severus drawled.
"But...," Hermione protested, touching the stone again. Immediately she withdrew her hand again. "I don't understand," she mumbled before looking at Severus. "What does this mean?"
The raven-haired wizard shrugged. "I am unsure, but the theory Dumbledore outlined to me may well be proven. Bear with me."
Severus ran back into the corridor and spoke to two of the portraits. As he walked back into the courtyard he witnessed Hermione trying to touch another piece of masonry.
Bewildered, Hermione twisted her mouth in consternation. "This is crazy, Sev. Why wasn't it hot when you touched it? Is it me? I'm not hot, am I?"
"Well, let me see. The answer would depend on the context of the question," he said, smirking as she blushed at his comment that she was indeed very hot registered in her mind. "However, in terms of is your temperature raised? No, would be the answer to that. You feel fine," he assured her, intertwining his fingers with hers. "As to why it became hot at your touch and not mine, I have requested the old busy-body's presence in my office once we are finished here. Don't worry."
He gave her a reassuring kiss which quickly developed into something more passionate. However, before Severus had chance to consider pushing Hermione against the wall and having his wicked way with her the ground shook, startling the couple. Pulling his witch to his chest, he looked in disbelief as the pile of rubble before him began to glow.
Before Hermione knew what was happened, Severus grabbed her hand and practically dragged her across the courtyard.
"Once we've seen Albus," Severus began urgently, "I want you to go to the library and pull out everything you can on elemental magic, specifically the characteristics of elemental magic in witches and wizards and any relevant diagnostic spells."
As they reached the arch, the chief stone mason and two of his workmen arrived following Severus' summons via the portraits.
Waving his hand in the general direction of the pile of rubble, Severus told them abruptly, "See if it co-operates now and let me know the results."
All three men looked at each other as the headmaster strode off with Hermione Granger who found was firing off a rapid succession of questions at him whilst she struggled to keep up.
Harry sat at the kitchen table in Grimmauld Place watching Ginny pour over various cook books.
"Do you think Severus likes chicken? I can't burn chicken can I?" the flame-haired witch asked.
"'Severus' now is it?" he chuckled. "I don't know why you don't want me to cook. I really don't mind, and at least we won't be eating cremated chicken. I still can't believe that the only daughter of Molly Weasley can burn a boiled egg!" Harry giggled.
Ginny poked her tongue out at him. "No one is allowed to cook in that house but Mum, that's why I can burn a boiled egg and I want to cook because otherwise I won't learn. And yes it is 'Severus' now...well, out of school anyway. He is Hermione's boyfriend after all."
"Don't remind me," Harry grumbled. "I still can't get my head around it. But, I must admit, they do seem happy"
"I know. She's so lucky," Ginny sighed.
"Oh really?"
"Well yeah! I mean older man, voice of a god, he's good looking in a weird way...has a body to die for...not that I've been looking of course...and I bet he's good with his hands."
Harry looked at her incredulously. "Got a bit of crush on your best friend's boyfriend, have we?"
Continuing to flick through the recipe book, Ginny giggled. "I've always thought he had hidden depths, but I'm marrying you, you lucky boy. As long as Hermione tells me all about the hot sex, I'll be happy to crush away."
Harry smiled, watching his witch engrossed in her culinary research. Until a few months ago, he could only dream of such a scene. He didn't know if they'd live to see the next morning most days let alone be able to think about the future. And now here he was sitting in his house with his fiancée doing something as domestic as planning what to cook their friends'...not that he would necessarily call Severus Snape a friend...for dinner.
"I hope my twat brother doesn't show up," Ginny declared, pulling Harry from his thoughts.
"It's not likely," he told her. "He's playing on Wednesday and you know they'll be curfewed the night before. I can always close the Floo so it looks like I'm out. And if your Mum and Dad and George know Hermione's here they won't give the game away."
Ginny gave Harry a wry smile. "I think George is going to kill him. The twins love Hermione...," Her voice trailed off. She was still having difficulty accepting that Fred wasn't around anymore and seeing how upset she was, Harry went to her.
After a moment of being held tight, Ginny pulled herself together enough to say, "Hermione's asked Severus about George becoming the new flying instructor to, you know, give him something to take his mind off things."
"I think Severus may have already asked him. I bumped into Angelina Johnson in Diagon Alley today. She said that seen George and he'd mentioned something about being scared shitless when Snape's owl arrived with a letter." Harry was quite pleased that he could provide this small piece of gossip.
"Hermione uses Obs as well mind," Ginny informed him absent mindedly.
"You're even calling his bloody owl by it's pet name!" Harry sighed in exasperation.
Ginny smirked and whispered in Harry's ear, "You better remind me of whose witch I am then."
"Yes, I think I better," the Chosen One agreed and was about to run upstairs with the love of his life when the grate sprung into life as a Floo call came in.
"Do you have time for snakes bearing gifts Potter?" the voice of Draco Malfoy rang out.
Harry was about to say no, when his lesser nemisis added, "I've got cake, Ginny."
"Oh, we've definitely got time," Ginny replied, remembering to conceal her engagement ring just in time.
Harry was finding Draco far more tolerable these days. Partly it was because of Hermione, but also because Draco genuinely seemed determined to make amends and heal the rivalry between them.
Ginny had been much easier to win over. Hermione had informed her new-found friend that Harry's girlfriend was rather partial to very decadent cakes and so upon his first conciliatory visit, Draco presented her with a rich chocolate fudge cake. Since then he had become quite the regular visitor at Grimmauld Place whether Hermione was there or not.
Stepping out of the Floo, Draco immediately noticed the recipe book in Ginny's hand. "Please tell me you're not trying to cook."
"Shut up, Malfoy! I'm trying to work out what to cook when Hermione and Severus come over to dinner on Tuesday. Does your godfather like chicken?"
"As long as it's not cremated," he deadpanned, which caused Harry to snort in amusement.
"I hate you all," Ginny declared indignantly. "Now make tea, Draco, and give me cake. Did Lucy-lu make it?"
"He may have done," the blond wizard said, cringing at the pet name the redhead had started to bestow upon his father. However, for once, Draco was here on business and he let it pass without comment.
Filling the kettle, Draco tried to disguise the contempt in his voice as he asked, "Have you heard from your brother?"
Ginny sighed and shook her head. "No and neither has Mum. She's resorted to sending howlers. I just can't believe he's dragged you and your father into this. I love Ron, but I'm so ashamed of him at the moment. My family has been through enough without him trying to ruin our closest friend. I don't think 'Mione was ever really happy with him and in a way she did him a kindness by ending it. There's just no need for him to be a bastard over it."
Draco sat down, focusing on his hands which he had placed upon the rustic kitchen table. "The reason I came over was to tell you...and this much be kept between ourselves...that there are those seeking to humiliate your brother as much as he has humiliated Hermione." Then looking up at Harry, he said, "It has been suggested by a very talented witch of our acquaintance that we solicit your advice, if not your help, in the matter, Potter."
"Hey, hang on!" Ginny protested, looking at her Harry to support her.
But by his expression, Ginny knew that Harry was would at least hear Draco out.
"I take it said very talented witch is currently dating our illustrious Headmaster?" Harry asked, pushing up his glasses.
Stirring the tea, Draco confirmed that it was Hermione before placing two steaming mugs before them.
"Ginny," the blond wizard began. "I know he's your brother, but surely you can see that the dishonour he has done Hermione cannot go unchecked. Everything he said was untrue and to say it so publicly is unforgivable. Now, she has forbidden my godfather from getting involved, but there are those at the very highest level who wish to see her avenged and publicly."
Draco sat down with his tea. "If anything this is the best option. Although Hermione has told him to stay away, I cannot see Severus letting this lie. If others do the dirty work for him, it will stay his hand because should he act on his own...well, let's just say humiliation is the best option."
Ginny thought for a while. Taking a sip of tea, she finally spoke. "He'll just be humiliated, won't he? Promise me that he won't be hurt."
"You have my word," Draco confirmed with all the diplomatic poise of Lucius. "We are doing this for Hermione. However, Gin, it is best that you don't know any more. Potter will you accompany me to the Ministry?"
Harry nodded.
Ginny's eyes widened. "The Ministry?"
"Oh yes. The Ministry. Hermione has a few high profile supporters more than willing to help."
Ginny tried to rationalise the situation. "I suppose the higher up they are the more they have to lose if they fuck it up."
Draco smirked. "Exactly. I promise not to keep lover boy too long. And where's my dinner invitation anyway?"
"We haven't seen you for a week. I was beginning to think you didn't love us anymore!" Ginny giggled.
Setting down his mug, Draco feigned looking hurt. "Of course I do. Just blame Hermione and my uncle for suddenly becoming interesting!" Draco laughed setting down his mug.
Harry and Draco arrived at the Ministry and walked into the office of the Head of Magical Law Enforcement only to find Lucius already there.
Holding out his hand in greeting, Pius Thicknesse welcomed Harry into his office. "Mr Potter, it's an honour to finally meet you in person. Please, sit."
"Thank you, sir," Harry responded, sitting down on one of the proffered chairs.
"Please, call me Pius. Tea?" the older wizard asked.
"Please," both Draco and Harry said together.
It was then Harry noticed the empty chair. He looked between Draco and Lucius to see if they knew who else they were expecting, but the low, silky voice soon gave their identity away.
"I have fifteen minutes gentlemen before she feels my absence from the castle."
Harry looked concerned as the headmaster sat down. "She'll kill you if she finds out, Severus. You know that don't you?"
"If she finds out, yes. But I don't know, when you've spied for twenty years you tend to pick up a trick or two," Severus smirked
"Right then," Pius said solemnly, "as Severus is on a schedule, ideas please gentlemen?"
"Fancy a quick drink?" Draco asked as he and Harry left Pius' office. "I'm staying at Uncle Sev's apartment this weekend and have an hour to kill before I meet my...," he checked Lucius wasn't in earshot, "other half."
"Oh, another person with a secret lover. Ginny and I must seem very boring," Harry chuckled.
"Shut up, Potter," Draco sneered before completely relaxing and laughing disarmingly. "I can't keep this shit up. Come on Harry, first round's on me."
The Leaky Cauldron was bustling as usual and the arrival of Voldemort's vanquisher and his unlikely companion had the tongues of the wizarding community's busiest of busy-bodies wagging.
The only table available was thankfully in a corner and as the pair sat down with their mugs of ale.
Thoughtfully, Harry took a sip of beer. "I think we've come up with a good plan."
"Yes," Draco agreed, slowly turning his pint pot around. "If we can get the other person involved things should run smoothly."
Sensing that Draco's mind was elsewhere, Harry asked, "So, male or female?"
"I am very much male."
Harry rolled his eyes. "I guessed that, but are you shagging a male or a female?"
"Neither. But my other half is called Adrian. We just haven't, as you so eloquently put it, shagged. I'm hoping tonight's the night, though," Draco informed him, a blush tingeing his pale cheeks.
The former of bane of Malfoy Junior's life, smiled. "I'm pleased you've found someone."
A little embarrassed at having exposed more of his relationship than intended, Draco took a sip of his drink. "I don't know how far it will go but I'm happy right now. But what do you think about 'Mione and Severus?"
"Well, I can't quite get my head around it," Harry admitted, "but she seems happy and I guess that's all that counts."
"Trust me, after what I heard this morning, I think she is very happy."
Harry screwed up his face in disgust. "I don't want to know, do I?"
Draco shook his head before holding up his pint. "A toast is in order I feel."
Harry raised his glass accordingly.
"To putting the past behind us and new relationships."
Harry responded enthusiastically. "Agreed, oh and for Ginny to learn to cook."
Draco couldn't contain his laughter. "For your sake, I couldn't agree more."
Chapter updated 28/02/16