Personal note: I am so sorry that I haven't posted on this lately. Had a
few misadventures of my own I had to settle, plus the fact that my Muse
decided to take her vacation right in the middle of it all. I think I am
back now and ready to resume my tale. I hope you haven't given up on me.
Enjoy!
Disclaimer: I do not own any of these characters, only those that I created myself. Please do not harm me in any way. I only do this for fun.
A Secret worth Keeping
Chapter twenty-five: Fate or Destiny
Hermione woke and stretched lazily, relishing the early morning quietness that greeted her. The sun shone brilliantly through the window and draped its sunbeam across the foot of her bed, casting a warmth that caressed her legs beneath the down comforter. She lay in bed for a bit longer, reveling in the silence that having her own room allowed her. Ever since she had managed to find her way back to Hogwart's, things had finally been looking up for her and Sebastian. In just a few short days, her life had changed dramatically. She had a son, a home, and friends back in her life along with a possible loving relationship with Sebastian's father. Things couldn't get any better than that.
She threw back the duvet and grabbed up her robe. Her heart sang in gladness as she remembered the night before. She had told Severus that she loved him and his face had radiated his joy. Now if only she could give him what he deserved.
If only she could.
She shook her head at that line of thought. She really didn't need to think about that right now. Severus said that he would give her time and she knew he would keep his word and not pressure her. He was a man of his word, a true gentleman.
She crossed the span of the floor to the doorway of the nursery to check on Sebastian. He normally started howling just as she woke up, wanting to be fed. Her son's ability to sense when she woke was a bit astounding and unsettling at times, but it also allowed her to know when he was awake as well. Right now he was quiet and that unusual quietness had her just a bit worried. She reached out to turn the doorknob when a voice drifted from the other side. Curious, she paused just long enough to tie the sash of her robe tight and quietly eased open the door.
A smile lit her face as she took in the sight before her. Sebastian lay contentedly in his father's arms. Severus was feeding their son from a bottle she kept in the muggle-styled refrigerator for emergencies. It was such a tender sight to see the two together, contented, one rocking the other. She held in a laugh as she watched as Sebastian's small fingers tried to reach out and grab onto his father's nose. She raised a hand to her chest feeling her love for the two growing even more so. Next to the time when she watched Severus give their son a bath, this was going to be her second favorite memory.
Hermione reflected, realizing that this man before her was a man of varying degrees. Most of her young life she only knew of him the one extreme, a very hateful and hurtful being. But now, after seeing the more tender side of him, she was starting to understand his individuality. She respected the teacher, the disciplinarian, but she was falling in love with this other Severus. Whether by design or by fate, he was pulling her into his web. And to her amazement, she found herself not struggling but willingly allowing him to wind his silky threads around her heart.
She took a few steps into the room when she realized that he wasn't merely talking to Sebastian. He was singing with a voice low and soothing. Quietly she moved closer to hear more of the song. It sounded like a lullaby. Stopping before he could notice her, she listened, captivated by his fluid and effortless voice.
"Sing me a song of lasting love of fathers and sons and daughters and mothers. I'll duteously call on the Gods above to endlessly watch over all sisters and brothers. You're the thief of my heart, the light of my soul, to which our lives forever entwine. Your mother's eyes and father's nose, you are ours, 'O precious child of mine. If you give me your dreams and wishes a plenty, I'll simmer them with dewshine in a copper rimmed brew. I'll promise you hope and enviable legacy and I'll do anything to make them all come true. You're the thief of my heart, the light of my soul, to which our lives forever entwined. Your mother's eyes and father's nose you are ours, 'O precious child of mine."
Hermione had tears in her eyes as she listened to the lullaby. She sniffed loudly which caused Severus to stop singing and turn to look at her. The look on his face when he saw her standing there made her grin. He looked like a cat that got into the chicken coop.
"Busted." She whispered and walked over to them leaning down to give the baby a kiss.
"How long have you been standing there?"
"Long enough. You have a wonderful voice, Severus. What was that you were singing? It was beautiful."
Severus looked down once more into the dark eyes of their child. "My mother used to sing that to me when I wouldn't settle down to sleep. She would tuck me firmly within the sheets, sit on the edge of my bed, and sing." His eyes seemed to glaze over in memory as he spoke. "I remember her hand on my brow, stroking my head gently as I closed my eyes. I'm afraid that I don't know the third verse of the song. I tended to fall to sleep before the end. My mother...my mother had a lovely voice." His words faltered slightly in his memory.
"I'm sure she did, Severus. It was a beautiful song." She kissed his cheek and sank into the sofa directly across from them. "How long have you two been awake?"
"Not long. Half an hour maybe?" Severus shifted Sebastian slightly and readjusted the bottle. "I just wanted some father and son time before you and Potter got the daily charade started."
She nodded and watched the two together for a few moments. "Do you want some more time alone? I could go and take a shower."
Severus's gaze settled on her and shook his head. "No, I don't wish to disrupt your routine with him. I know how important routine is to a growing child."
She shook her head and stood up once more. "No, we haven't had substantial time enough to establish a proper routine just yet, Severus. Take your time and enjoy your son. I will be back in a bit." She moved close, ran a hand over her son's head, and gazed into Severus's eyes. "I think Father and son deserve to have time together. Things are going to get a bit rough soon. The more you know of each other, the better and easier it will be." She lowered her gaze to the baby. "Harry will be here soon. Let him in if I'm not ready. We have a lot to discuss and you have a lot to tell me about the meeting last night."
"Yes dear."
Hermione laughed at his impish grin and shook her head. "Don't start acting henpecked, Severus. I wouldn't know what to do with you. I want my snarky Professor."
His face fell into his more familiar scowl. "This better?"
She smiled and traced his frowning lips with a fingertip. "Much better. That's the man I adore."
His expression couldn't stop the tilt of his lips as he fought a grin. "Then I suggest that you go and take your blasted shower and let me and my son have our time together." "Yes sir!" She grinned and hurried out of the room.
Fifteen minutes after Hermione left for her shower, a knock came on the door. Severus stood to his feet and gently laid Sebastian into his bassinet, after which he went to the door. Just outside stood his past tormentors.
"Potter, Weasley."
"Sorry Sir, but I thought that Hermione would be waiting for us by now."
"She was, but she's taking a bath at the moment. Come in if your coming in. She shouldn't be much longer."
The two young men entered the living area and both sets of eyes turned to the bassinet. Ron was the first to cross to see the baby kicking and fussing, completely aware of his surroundings. Sebastian's eyes locked on Ron's and he cooed happily.
"Wow, just look at how black his eyes are, Harry! How are you gonna hide those?"
"A glamour charm, Mr. Weasley." Severus answered for Harry. "Hermione and I have already given that thought some consideration. Outside of these chambers, his eyes will be green, within our home they will revert to their true color."
"Cool. Can I hold him?"
Severus eyed the red head with mock disdain before nodding. "Just be careful, Mr. Weasley. He's not a quaffle."
Ron reached into the bassinet and gently extracted the infant. Happy, Sebastian's hand automatically went to the brilliant red hair. Tucking the baby in the crook of his arm, Ron perched on the arm of the sofa.
"You'd make a good father, Ron." Harry smiled, coming over to gaze at his pseudo son. "You have a natural knack for it."
"Someday, mate." Ron gave him a wide grin before turning his attention back to the baby in his arms. "Ouch, Careful there Sabby. Don't hurt Uncle Ronny." Ron chuckled and gently nudged his hair from the grasp of the baby.
"Sabby?" Severus's eyebrow rose at that. "I don't think so. No son of mine will be tagged with a nickname such as that. It's ridiculous."
Ron gave him a shrugged grin. "Sorry, just came out. But it's better than Bastian don't you think? Too much like...well...a word that I won't mention that refers to a child born out of wedlock." He offered up a finger, which the baby immediately grabbed onto. "I have a feeling that Sebastian will be very important in the future. He has something about him. Something that screams out...destiny."
"I think you've been in Trelawney's class to long, Ron." Harry laughed.
"He will be called Sebastian. Not Bastian and most certainly not Sabby." Severus stated with a scowl.
"Sabby? Good Gods no. I'd die first." Hermione emerged from the bathroom dressed in clothing that was more casual. "His name is Sebastian Samuel Snape, and that is what he is to be called. I hate nick names."
"You like 'Mione." Harry teased giving her a raised eyebrow that mimicked Severus.
"I hate 'Mione. You just refused to believe my complaints." Hermione slapped Harry on the shoulder. "Just because you hate Harold and Ron despises Ronald, doesn't mean that I dislike Hermione."
"Sorry." Both boys laughed at her slightly miffed look. However, she couldn't hold the façade long and eventually gave in to her grin.
Taking a seat on the sofa next to the area where Ron was perched with the baby, she studied the men before her. "Okay, who would like to fill me in on what occurred at the meeting last night?"
"The Professor hasn't told you yet?" Harry inquired, leaning forward and placing his elbows on his legs.
"It was very late when he got in. He said that he would tell me today. So...who would like to start?"
Harry looked across from his seat at the older man. "You may as well start, Professor. Most of it was all your ideas anyway."
Severus stood to his feet and began to pace the floor, feeling her anxious eyes following his form. "First, It was decided that we needed an alliance between houses, therefore I transferred two voluntary students each into Slytherin and Ravenclaw. It was felt that, with the joining, it would fuse the groups more and also help to keep the peace in the future."
"And to allow the other to tattle on one another." Ron butted in.
"Hopefully that wont come to pass, Mr. Weasley. They are to simply inform us if something is amiss within the houses. I believe that Misters Malfoy and Zabini can keep their house in line as you two can."
Hermione frowned as she listened. "Is that wise to transfer them into separate houses? What will their true houses say? Which ones did you transfer?"
Severus raised a hand to quell her questions. "Garrett Wyman and Michel Churchill and Desmond D'Lacour and Marcus Bradbury have been chosen by their group leaders. I feel that the choices were good."
"Who is going where?"
Wyman and D'Lacour will be in Slytherin and Bradbury and Churchill will stay in Ravenclaw."
"Garrett Wyman is a Gryffindor, is that wise to put him in with the Slytherins?"
"Draco assured me that he will be treated well enough."
Hermione nodded, but the frown line on her forehead failed to decrease in her worry. "I don't know Bradbury much, but I know that Michel will keep the him safe all right. I suppose it was a good idea."
Severus chuckled lightheartedly. "Glad that you approve."
Hermione stuck her tongue at him teasingly.
"Don't do that, my love. Your friends may get the wrong idea."
Ron and Harry simply shook their head in amusement. "Don't worry about us, Professor. What you two do is strange enough that we don't need to get any more ideas, thank you."
"Oh hush." Hermione gave him a mock frown, then turned her attention back to Severus. "What else?"
"It was discussed that one of the Slytherins go undercover and try to find out where the next meeting will be held. I told them that it would be impetuous and foolish. I would know before any of them would be able to find out. It was also discussed that Draco would be the best student to go in. With his father being in the inner circle of the Death Eaters, he would be the easiest to get inside."
"He would be in great danger if he is discovered." Harry mused.
"So is Severus, every single time he is called." Hermione pointed out.
"True, and now that Professor Snape isn't exactly in the inner group, this extra person could hear things that would be kept from the Professor intentionally." Ron added.
Hermione shivered. "Severus? What do they mean by not exactly in the inner group? I wasn't aware that things weren't the same with the Death Eaters. What happened to change that?"
Severus sighed and took a seat next to her. "I had an altercation with the Death Eaters at one point. Not a deadly altercation, but an altercation none the less. After you had left Hogwart's, Lucius made mention of it at a revel. Not in a way that made me think that you left for any other reason than you did. However, he did manage to place the blame on my head. It seemed that he must have wanted to bring you to one of the revels to use as a play toy. I think he may have talked to the Dark Lord about it at some point."
He paused for a moment to let that sink in.
"Anyway, the Dark Lord was a bit angry with me for allowing you to escape his clutches so easily." Severus ran an unconscious hand over his face in a weary way, trying hard not to remember that day in vivid detail. "Somehow they had 'neglected' to inform me that they desired you and when you left I was, of course, blamed for it. Voldemort was under the impression that I forewarned you and that was why you ran. I have been cast down until I can once more prove to them that I am trustworthy again."
Hermione reached across and rested her hand on his arm. "It wasn't your fault completely, Severus. It would be interesting to see how Voldemort would react if he knew that it was Lucius that made me...run away."
Severus reached out a hand and covered hers with his. "He must never know, Hermione. He must never suspect that Sebastian is mine or you and he would be in more danger than you ever know."
"Did they hurt you?" She whispered, keeping her eyes locked with his, not allowing his gaze to falter.
"No more than usual, Hermione." He replied, bringing her hand up to his lips to kiss away her worry.
Ron stood to his feet with the baby still in his arms. "I still can't believe this little guy is a part of the both of you. He just seems so innocent." Ron grinned at them both. "I guess we had better take advantage of his innocence now. With you two as his parents, I'm sure that he will have his nose in a book and a plethora of potions brewing every minute of every day. He has no choice in the matter with two such smart people as his Mum and Dad."
Hermione grinned and reached out her arm for her child, to which Ron handed him over. "He will be intelligent..." Hermione agreed, staring down at her son. "He will have the best of the both of us. There will be nothing that he can't do if he wishes to."
"Here, here." Severus agreed, reaching out and smiling as Sebastian grabbed onto one of his long, tapered fingers. "As Mr. Weasley said earlier, he has a destiny to fulfill. Its just up to him to seek it out and resolve it."
Hermione shivered, cuddling the baby closer to her chest. "Destiny? I don't like the sound of that. I don't want him...harmed."
"Neither do I, my love. But that's destiny. As it was Harry's and as it was yours, now it is Sebastian's. Whatever lays before him, he will have the strength to carry it through. He has us and his..." He looked over to the other two boys. "...Uncles."
Harry and Ron nodded in eager agreement but stayed silent.
"Do you think it has to do with Voldemort?" Hermione couldn't take her eyes off of her child.
"No, that particular prophecy has already been given to Harry. It is his to deal with the Dark Lord himself. I think Sebastian's prophecy has to do with something else entirely. I don't know what, and we may never know until he ages. Until then, I wouldn't worry about it, my love..."
Hermione stood to her feet and walked to the nursery door. "Excuse me gentlemen, but I'm putting my son down for a nap. When I come back, I want to know everything else that happened at that meeting."
The three simply nodded as she left the room. Ron turned to the elder man with a wide grin.
"So...are you gonna tell her now?"
Severus gave the redheaded boy a miffed look. "I was the one that offered her services, therefore I will tell her."
Harry's grin now matched Ron's. "She's gonna kill you, you know."
Severus looked towards the closed door and nodded. "I am quite aware of that, thank you."
A/N's and acknowledgements:
Maddy-Riddle: I'm glad that you like the DaRats. The two students are going to switch houses. It hasn't been discussed as to how they are going to accomplish it but Draco will have a lot to do with it. Trust me. They will keep on their own schedules, classes and stuff, but sleep will take place in the new house.
Ana Morales: Thank you. No, I don't think she would have fell into bed with him that easily. There is still tons of emotional baggage for her to get through before they can get to that level.
Rickman love: I love a fresh look into this story and welcome all new readers to tell me what they think. Now, I think like most men, Severus has a loving heart. He just never had a chance to let it show. I try not to take him to far out of character with the other characters, just with Hermione and her two friends. There wont be a love triangle though. LOL. Sorry about that! Glad that you liked the DaRats! Oh, and the love scenes WILL be graphic when I finally get them there. Don't worry about that.
FireValkyrie: I don't know what the problem is on that link. Sorry you are having problem. I hope it isn't your computer. Perhaps it was just a glitch. I don't know how 'original' this fic is but I am having a wonderful time writing it. Thanks for your kind words. I have another chapter of To Love and To Lose coming up soon. Oh...and I'm doubly glad that you liked my other little stories too. Thanks!
Cianna Greenwood: LOL. Sorry about that. I have no realistic experience with it comes to infants and their behaviors. I have never had any and even though I have 25 nieces and nephews, I rarely saw them. Sad, I know.
Leyna Rountree: I love a fresh view on this story, new readers are always welcome to let me know how I'm doing. Thank you so much for your kind words. They are most encouraging.
Ladyreason: You wish is my command. Hope you liked it!
Emma-Kitty: I don't think it would be Severus without his attitude. I didn't feel that Hermione was ready for an intimate relationship just yet. They have a long way to go still.
Artemis' arrow: I think paring off all house members would seem very interesting to Voldemort's followers. With just two boys changing houses would be more on the sly, less noticeable to questionable parents.
Potions Mistresss: There will be some intimacy in upcoming chapters. Don't worry, that white candle will come into play. I cant keep their hands off of each other forever you know. And no hexing...if you hex me there will be no more chapters, then where will you be? Hum?
Slayer2003: Sorry for the delay. I hope it was worth the wait.
Allore NightShadow: Thanks. I hope I can keep them more in character as this goes on. Let me know how I am doing.
Musicgrl130: Aw! Thanks Hon. I'm glad this one is one of your favorite stories. Makes me feel good to know that!
Blue Drgnfly: Glad you like the DaRats! More is coming up soon!
Amanda C: I am so glad I was able to show you how some stories can be plausible. I hope you continue to read some of these shippers. There are some fantastic fiction writers out there that do Hermione and Snape proud. Thank you for your kind words. I hope to hear from you again in the future!
Lindiel Eryn: I'm glad that you are enjoying this fic. I hope you continue to do so. Thanks Hon!
And last by not least:
Raclswt, RebelRikki, Rosmerta, someone28, Tracy3, DigidestinedGirlAlex, blackwolfs900, Claire S!x, DustofAPhoenix, theophania, Serena, X- 2love4ever, jean jelly bean, Sarahamanda, HopelesslyRomanticGoth, Embers and BlackCherry2: Thank you all so much for your kind words and encouragement. They really mean a lot to me.
Disclaimer: I do not own any of these characters, only those that I created myself. Please do not harm me in any way. I only do this for fun.
A Secret worth Keeping
Chapter twenty-five: Fate or Destiny
Hermione woke and stretched lazily, relishing the early morning quietness that greeted her. The sun shone brilliantly through the window and draped its sunbeam across the foot of her bed, casting a warmth that caressed her legs beneath the down comforter. She lay in bed for a bit longer, reveling in the silence that having her own room allowed her. Ever since she had managed to find her way back to Hogwart's, things had finally been looking up for her and Sebastian. In just a few short days, her life had changed dramatically. She had a son, a home, and friends back in her life along with a possible loving relationship with Sebastian's father. Things couldn't get any better than that.
She threw back the duvet and grabbed up her robe. Her heart sang in gladness as she remembered the night before. She had told Severus that she loved him and his face had radiated his joy. Now if only she could give him what he deserved.
If only she could.
She shook her head at that line of thought. She really didn't need to think about that right now. Severus said that he would give her time and she knew he would keep his word and not pressure her. He was a man of his word, a true gentleman.
She crossed the span of the floor to the doorway of the nursery to check on Sebastian. He normally started howling just as she woke up, wanting to be fed. Her son's ability to sense when she woke was a bit astounding and unsettling at times, but it also allowed her to know when he was awake as well. Right now he was quiet and that unusual quietness had her just a bit worried. She reached out to turn the doorknob when a voice drifted from the other side. Curious, she paused just long enough to tie the sash of her robe tight and quietly eased open the door.
A smile lit her face as she took in the sight before her. Sebastian lay contentedly in his father's arms. Severus was feeding their son from a bottle she kept in the muggle-styled refrigerator for emergencies. It was such a tender sight to see the two together, contented, one rocking the other. She held in a laugh as she watched as Sebastian's small fingers tried to reach out and grab onto his father's nose. She raised a hand to her chest feeling her love for the two growing even more so. Next to the time when she watched Severus give their son a bath, this was going to be her second favorite memory.
Hermione reflected, realizing that this man before her was a man of varying degrees. Most of her young life she only knew of him the one extreme, a very hateful and hurtful being. But now, after seeing the more tender side of him, she was starting to understand his individuality. She respected the teacher, the disciplinarian, but she was falling in love with this other Severus. Whether by design or by fate, he was pulling her into his web. And to her amazement, she found herself not struggling but willingly allowing him to wind his silky threads around her heart.
She took a few steps into the room when she realized that he wasn't merely talking to Sebastian. He was singing with a voice low and soothing. Quietly she moved closer to hear more of the song. It sounded like a lullaby. Stopping before he could notice her, she listened, captivated by his fluid and effortless voice.
"Sing me a song of lasting love of fathers and sons and daughters and mothers. I'll duteously call on the Gods above to endlessly watch over all sisters and brothers. You're the thief of my heart, the light of my soul, to which our lives forever entwine. Your mother's eyes and father's nose, you are ours, 'O precious child of mine. If you give me your dreams and wishes a plenty, I'll simmer them with dewshine in a copper rimmed brew. I'll promise you hope and enviable legacy and I'll do anything to make them all come true. You're the thief of my heart, the light of my soul, to which our lives forever entwined. Your mother's eyes and father's nose you are ours, 'O precious child of mine."
Hermione had tears in her eyes as she listened to the lullaby. She sniffed loudly which caused Severus to stop singing and turn to look at her. The look on his face when he saw her standing there made her grin. He looked like a cat that got into the chicken coop.
"Busted." She whispered and walked over to them leaning down to give the baby a kiss.
"How long have you been standing there?"
"Long enough. You have a wonderful voice, Severus. What was that you were singing? It was beautiful."
Severus looked down once more into the dark eyes of their child. "My mother used to sing that to me when I wouldn't settle down to sleep. She would tuck me firmly within the sheets, sit on the edge of my bed, and sing." His eyes seemed to glaze over in memory as he spoke. "I remember her hand on my brow, stroking my head gently as I closed my eyes. I'm afraid that I don't know the third verse of the song. I tended to fall to sleep before the end. My mother...my mother had a lovely voice." His words faltered slightly in his memory.
"I'm sure she did, Severus. It was a beautiful song." She kissed his cheek and sank into the sofa directly across from them. "How long have you two been awake?"
"Not long. Half an hour maybe?" Severus shifted Sebastian slightly and readjusted the bottle. "I just wanted some father and son time before you and Potter got the daily charade started."
She nodded and watched the two together for a few moments. "Do you want some more time alone? I could go and take a shower."
Severus's gaze settled on her and shook his head. "No, I don't wish to disrupt your routine with him. I know how important routine is to a growing child."
She shook her head and stood up once more. "No, we haven't had substantial time enough to establish a proper routine just yet, Severus. Take your time and enjoy your son. I will be back in a bit." She moved close, ran a hand over her son's head, and gazed into Severus's eyes. "I think Father and son deserve to have time together. Things are going to get a bit rough soon. The more you know of each other, the better and easier it will be." She lowered her gaze to the baby. "Harry will be here soon. Let him in if I'm not ready. We have a lot to discuss and you have a lot to tell me about the meeting last night."
"Yes dear."
Hermione laughed at his impish grin and shook her head. "Don't start acting henpecked, Severus. I wouldn't know what to do with you. I want my snarky Professor."
His face fell into his more familiar scowl. "This better?"
She smiled and traced his frowning lips with a fingertip. "Much better. That's the man I adore."
His expression couldn't stop the tilt of his lips as he fought a grin. "Then I suggest that you go and take your blasted shower and let me and my son have our time together." "Yes sir!" She grinned and hurried out of the room.
Fifteen minutes after Hermione left for her shower, a knock came on the door. Severus stood to his feet and gently laid Sebastian into his bassinet, after which he went to the door. Just outside stood his past tormentors.
"Potter, Weasley."
"Sorry Sir, but I thought that Hermione would be waiting for us by now."
"She was, but she's taking a bath at the moment. Come in if your coming in. She shouldn't be much longer."
The two young men entered the living area and both sets of eyes turned to the bassinet. Ron was the first to cross to see the baby kicking and fussing, completely aware of his surroundings. Sebastian's eyes locked on Ron's and he cooed happily.
"Wow, just look at how black his eyes are, Harry! How are you gonna hide those?"
"A glamour charm, Mr. Weasley." Severus answered for Harry. "Hermione and I have already given that thought some consideration. Outside of these chambers, his eyes will be green, within our home they will revert to their true color."
"Cool. Can I hold him?"
Severus eyed the red head with mock disdain before nodding. "Just be careful, Mr. Weasley. He's not a quaffle."
Ron reached into the bassinet and gently extracted the infant. Happy, Sebastian's hand automatically went to the brilliant red hair. Tucking the baby in the crook of his arm, Ron perched on the arm of the sofa.
"You'd make a good father, Ron." Harry smiled, coming over to gaze at his pseudo son. "You have a natural knack for it."
"Someday, mate." Ron gave him a wide grin before turning his attention back to the baby in his arms. "Ouch, Careful there Sabby. Don't hurt Uncle Ronny." Ron chuckled and gently nudged his hair from the grasp of the baby.
"Sabby?" Severus's eyebrow rose at that. "I don't think so. No son of mine will be tagged with a nickname such as that. It's ridiculous."
Ron gave him a shrugged grin. "Sorry, just came out. But it's better than Bastian don't you think? Too much like...well...a word that I won't mention that refers to a child born out of wedlock." He offered up a finger, which the baby immediately grabbed onto. "I have a feeling that Sebastian will be very important in the future. He has something about him. Something that screams out...destiny."
"I think you've been in Trelawney's class to long, Ron." Harry laughed.
"He will be called Sebastian. Not Bastian and most certainly not Sabby." Severus stated with a scowl.
"Sabby? Good Gods no. I'd die first." Hermione emerged from the bathroom dressed in clothing that was more casual. "His name is Sebastian Samuel Snape, and that is what he is to be called. I hate nick names."
"You like 'Mione." Harry teased giving her a raised eyebrow that mimicked Severus.
"I hate 'Mione. You just refused to believe my complaints." Hermione slapped Harry on the shoulder. "Just because you hate Harold and Ron despises Ronald, doesn't mean that I dislike Hermione."
"Sorry." Both boys laughed at her slightly miffed look. However, she couldn't hold the façade long and eventually gave in to her grin.
Taking a seat on the sofa next to the area where Ron was perched with the baby, she studied the men before her. "Okay, who would like to fill me in on what occurred at the meeting last night?"
"The Professor hasn't told you yet?" Harry inquired, leaning forward and placing his elbows on his legs.
"It was very late when he got in. He said that he would tell me today. So...who would like to start?"
Harry looked across from his seat at the older man. "You may as well start, Professor. Most of it was all your ideas anyway."
Severus stood to his feet and began to pace the floor, feeling her anxious eyes following his form. "First, It was decided that we needed an alliance between houses, therefore I transferred two voluntary students each into Slytherin and Ravenclaw. It was felt that, with the joining, it would fuse the groups more and also help to keep the peace in the future."
"And to allow the other to tattle on one another." Ron butted in.
"Hopefully that wont come to pass, Mr. Weasley. They are to simply inform us if something is amiss within the houses. I believe that Misters Malfoy and Zabini can keep their house in line as you two can."
Hermione frowned as she listened. "Is that wise to transfer them into separate houses? What will their true houses say? Which ones did you transfer?"
Severus raised a hand to quell her questions. "Garrett Wyman and Michel Churchill and Desmond D'Lacour and Marcus Bradbury have been chosen by their group leaders. I feel that the choices were good."
"Who is going where?"
Wyman and D'Lacour will be in Slytherin and Bradbury and Churchill will stay in Ravenclaw."
"Garrett Wyman is a Gryffindor, is that wise to put him in with the Slytherins?"
"Draco assured me that he will be treated well enough."
Hermione nodded, but the frown line on her forehead failed to decrease in her worry. "I don't know Bradbury much, but I know that Michel will keep the him safe all right. I suppose it was a good idea."
Severus chuckled lightheartedly. "Glad that you approve."
Hermione stuck her tongue at him teasingly.
"Don't do that, my love. Your friends may get the wrong idea."
Ron and Harry simply shook their head in amusement. "Don't worry about us, Professor. What you two do is strange enough that we don't need to get any more ideas, thank you."
"Oh hush." Hermione gave him a mock frown, then turned her attention back to Severus. "What else?"
"It was discussed that one of the Slytherins go undercover and try to find out where the next meeting will be held. I told them that it would be impetuous and foolish. I would know before any of them would be able to find out. It was also discussed that Draco would be the best student to go in. With his father being in the inner circle of the Death Eaters, he would be the easiest to get inside."
"He would be in great danger if he is discovered." Harry mused.
"So is Severus, every single time he is called." Hermione pointed out.
"True, and now that Professor Snape isn't exactly in the inner group, this extra person could hear things that would be kept from the Professor intentionally." Ron added.
Hermione shivered. "Severus? What do they mean by not exactly in the inner group? I wasn't aware that things weren't the same with the Death Eaters. What happened to change that?"
Severus sighed and took a seat next to her. "I had an altercation with the Death Eaters at one point. Not a deadly altercation, but an altercation none the less. After you had left Hogwart's, Lucius made mention of it at a revel. Not in a way that made me think that you left for any other reason than you did. However, he did manage to place the blame on my head. It seemed that he must have wanted to bring you to one of the revels to use as a play toy. I think he may have talked to the Dark Lord about it at some point."
He paused for a moment to let that sink in.
"Anyway, the Dark Lord was a bit angry with me for allowing you to escape his clutches so easily." Severus ran an unconscious hand over his face in a weary way, trying hard not to remember that day in vivid detail. "Somehow they had 'neglected' to inform me that they desired you and when you left I was, of course, blamed for it. Voldemort was under the impression that I forewarned you and that was why you ran. I have been cast down until I can once more prove to them that I am trustworthy again."
Hermione reached across and rested her hand on his arm. "It wasn't your fault completely, Severus. It would be interesting to see how Voldemort would react if he knew that it was Lucius that made me...run away."
Severus reached out a hand and covered hers with his. "He must never know, Hermione. He must never suspect that Sebastian is mine or you and he would be in more danger than you ever know."
"Did they hurt you?" She whispered, keeping her eyes locked with his, not allowing his gaze to falter.
"No more than usual, Hermione." He replied, bringing her hand up to his lips to kiss away her worry.
Ron stood to his feet with the baby still in his arms. "I still can't believe this little guy is a part of the both of you. He just seems so innocent." Ron grinned at them both. "I guess we had better take advantage of his innocence now. With you two as his parents, I'm sure that he will have his nose in a book and a plethora of potions brewing every minute of every day. He has no choice in the matter with two such smart people as his Mum and Dad."
Hermione grinned and reached out her arm for her child, to which Ron handed him over. "He will be intelligent..." Hermione agreed, staring down at her son. "He will have the best of the both of us. There will be nothing that he can't do if he wishes to."
"Here, here." Severus agreed, reaching out and smiling as Sebastian grabbed onto one of his long, tapered fingers. "As Mr. Weasley said earlier, he has a destiny to fulfill. Its just up to him to seek it out and resolve it."
Hermione shivered, cuddling the baby closer to her chest. "Destiny? I don't like the sound of that. I don't want him...harmed."
"Neither do I, my love. But that's destiny. As it was Harry's and as it was yours, now it is Sebastian's. Whatever lays before him, he will have the strength to carry it through. He has us and his..." He looked over to the other two boys. "...Uncles."
Harry and Ron nodded in eager agreement but stayed silent.
"Do you think it has to do with Voldemort?" Hermione couldn't take her eyes off of her child.
"No, that particular prophecy has already been given to Harry. It is his to deal with the Dark Lord himself. I think Sebastian's prophecy has to do with something else entirely. I don't know what, and we may never know until he ages. Until then, I wouldn't worry about it, my love..."
Hermione stood to her feet and walked to the nursery door. "Excuse me gentlemen, but I'm putting my son down for a nap. When I come back, I want to know everything else that happened at that meeting."
The three simply nodded as she left the room. Ron turned to the elder man with a wide grin.
"So...are you gonna tell her now?"
Severus gave the redheaded boy a miffed look. "I was the one that offered her services, therefore I will tell her."
Harry's grin now matched Ron's. "She's gonna kill you, you know."
Severus looked towards the closed door and nodded. "I am quite aware of that, thank you."
A/N's and acknowledgements:
Maddy-Riddle: I'm glad that you like the DaRats. The two students are going to switch houses. It hasn't been discussed as to how they are going to accomplish it but Draco will have a lot to do with it. Trust me. They will keep on their own schedules, classes and stuff, but sleep will take place in the new house.
Ana Morales: Thank you. No, I don't think she would have fell into bed with him that easily. There is still tons of emotional baggage for her to get through before they can get to that level.
Rickman love: I love a fresh look into this story and welcome all new readers to tell me what they think. Now, I think like most men, Severus has a loving heart. He just never had a chance to let it show. I try not to take him to far out of character with the other characters, just with Hermione and her two friends. There wont be a love triangle though. LOL. Sorry about that! Glad that you liked the DaRats! Oh, and the love scenes WILL be graphic when I finally get them there. Don't worry about that.
FireValkyrie: I don't know what the problem is on that link. Sorry you are having problem. I hope it isn't your computer. Perhaps it was just a glitch. I don't know how 'original' this fic is but I am having a wonderful time writing it. Thanks for your kind words. I have another chapter of To Love and To Lose coming up soon. Oh...and I'm doubly glad that you liked my other little stories too. Thanks!
Cianna Greenwood: LOL. Sorry about that. I have no realistic experience with it comes to infants and their behaviors. I have never had any and even though I have 25 nieces and nephews, I rarely saw them. Sad, I know.
Leyna Rountree: I love a fresh view on this story, new readers are always welcome to let me know how I'm doing. Thank you so much for your kind words. They are most encouraging.
Ladyreason: You wish is my command. Hope you liked it!
Emma-Kitty: I don't think it would be Severus without his attitude. I didn't feel that Hermione was ready for an intimate relationship just yet. They have a long way to go still.
Artemis' arrow: I think paring off all house members would seem very interesting to Voldemort's followers. With just two boys changing houses would be more on the sly, less noticeable to questionable parents.
Potions Mistresss: There will be some intimacy in upcoming chapters. Don't worry, that white candle will come into play. I cant keep their hands off of each other forever you know. And no hexing...if you hex me there will be no more chapters, then where will you be? Hum?
Slayer2003: Sorry for the delay. I hope it was worth the wait.
Allore NightShadow: Thanks. I hope I can keep them more in character as this goes on. Let me know how I am doing.
Musicgrl130: Aw! Thanks Hon. I'm glad this one is one of your favorite stories. Makes me feel good to know that!
Blue Drgnfly: Glad you like the DaRats! More is coming up soon!
Amanda C: I am so glad I was able to show you how some stories can be plausible. I hope you continue to read some of these shippers. There are some fantastic fiction writers out there that do Hermione and Snape proud. Thank you for your kind words. I hope to hear from you again in the future!
Lindiel Eryn: I'm glad that you are enjoying this fic. I hope you continue to do so. Thanks Hon!
And last by not least:
Raclswt, RebelRikki, Rosmerta, someone28, Tracy3, DigidestinedGirlAlex, blackwolfs900, Claire S!x, DustofAPhoenix, theophania, Serena, X- 2love4ever, jean jelly bean, Sarahamanda, HopelesslyRomanticGoth, Embers and BlackCherry2: Thank you all so much for your kind words and encouragement. They really mean a lot to me.