Severus and Hermione apperated in a snowy field with in sight of the Snape Manor. Hermione was awe struck by the grandiose House. Severus Smiled at her look, "I told you the house was big,"
He said.
They walked towards the immense house, "I Never thought it would be that big though,"
"Twenty bedrooms, thirteen baths, two libraries; one is mine." he sighed, "And if you are curious, Yes there is even a dungeon."
Hermione giggled.
He smiled again, it had been several years since he had seen his family, it hadn't been safe for him to do so.
****
They reached to steps leading to the front door, Severus raised his hand to open the door, but it opened before he reached it. "Severus?!" A tall dark haired man who looked eerily like Severus smiled. "It's been too long, Oh who's this?" the man said spotting Hermione.
"Salazar this is Miss Hermione Granger," Severus said smiling, "Hermione this is my Brother Salazar,"
"A pleasure to meet you," Hermione gave Salazar a great smile.
"The pleasure is all mine I'm sure," He took her hand and gave it a light kiss. "Severus, It's about time you came home," He let them inside and shut the door behind them.
"It was Hermione's doing that convinced me to come back here," Severus replied reluctantly. "We're only be here for a few days though,"
"That's quite all right," Hermione turned to see a very pretty very pregnant woman. "As long as you're here,"
"Seline," Severus smiled as the woman, though heavily pregnant, glided gracefully towards him and embraced him.
Seline spotted Hermione, "Miss Granger, It's a pleasure to meet you, I saw you're lecture at St. Mungo's,"
Hermione smiled, "Really?," Seline was pulling her away from the men, "I didn't think anyone would understand my theories though,"
"I'm a Medi-Witch," Seline started taking her into the living room, the room was the size of her entire chambers at Hogwarts, "I thought that your theories were brilliant. I even know the reason behind your Potion," sat on a couch across from another where a man about Seline's age slept, "That's Serrento, he just came in from Italy,"
"The potion does work, you know, On Severus," Hermione said as the sat, "I'm just glad my fifteen minutes of fame are up,"
"You love him don't you," Seline started, "It's obvious, Severus would never have brought along anyone here,"
Hermione laughed, "I do love him, very much and I can't imagine my life without him."
"I've Just met you, and already I like you," Seline smiled. She glanced at Serrento, "He really should wake up," She stood and shook her brothers shoulder, "Serrento wake up Severus Is Home, He brought a friend with him too,"
the man stirred and opened his eyes, "Did you say Severus was back? and He brought a friend?" He sat up and rubbed his eyes, he spotted Hermione, "Oh hello, Sorry if I snored any, I'm Serrento Snape, I assume you're Severus' friend?"
"My name's Hermione," She smiled at him, "And you weren't snoring,"
He laughed, it was almost like Severus' but not as velvety.
*****
Severus stood in the entry way with his brother, Salazar, "Severus, It's good to have you home, Mother is arriving tomorrow." He gave his little brother a smile, "She's quite a little Fox, that lovely young lady you brought with you, Hermione?"
"She is at that, But she's also brilliant; She found a way to stave off the phantom pains. Her skilled are rivaled only by mine," he smiled, "That and I've fallen madly in love with her,"
"It's about bloody time you fell in love," Salazar said grinning, "You deserve to be happy, you've been through enough,"
"I have at that," He heard laughing coming from the living room, "Shall we see what they're up to in there?" Severus asked.
"Knowing that Sister of ours She'll have gotten to embarrassing stories of us already," they hurried towards the living room.
Hermione, Seline and Serrento were laughing, Hermione spotted Severus first, "Severus you never told me you were into fencing,"
"You never asked," he sat with Salazar across from the trio, they had a photo album in front of them, "Seline you had to bring the pictures out didn't you?"
"What Kind of a sister would I be without a chance to embarrass my older brothers?" she smiled, "Besides, Hermione here doesn't mind, I'm sure she's seen worse," Hermione giggled.
The all began to laugh until they heard a strong female voice, "I know that my family is here, why haven't shown up and greeted their mother?"
They all jumped up Seline and Serrento went out first then Salazar and finally Severus holding Hermione's hand. A tall woman in green, with her gray hair in a severe bun at the back of her head was standing in the entry way with two large suitcases beside her.
"Mother, we thought you were coming tomorrow," Salazar started. "Severus is even here too,"
"Severus?" She looked at her brood, Severus was towards the back, "Severus come over here,"
Severus stepped forward still holding Hermione's hand, he let go of her hand as he gave his mother a hug and a kiss on the cheek, "Hello mother,"
"It's about time you came home for a visit," She said after they let go of each other, "Who is this Pretty young woman?"
"Mother, this is Miss Hermione Granger," Severus said stepping aside so his mother could get a good view of her,
"How do you do Mrs. Snape?" she gave a small curtsy, "It's a pleasure to meet you,"
"She has sense, and is very polite," Sabine Snape started, "She's a bit young isn't she?"
"I am twenty three," Hermione replied before Severus could answer.
"Old enough," The old woman cackled, "You seem to have your wits about you,"
Severus let out a sigh, so far so good, he thought.
*****
Severus and Hermione walked to the Library in the the right wing off the house, "Severus, I like your family a lot,"
"I wonder at times If I'm adopted," he said chuckling, "They are good people, I just seemed to have forgotten that,"
They entered the Library Severus claimed was his. There were rows upon rows of books, many of them were duplicates of the ones Severus had already at Hogwarts, with the exception of the rarer ones that Severus only had one copy of.
"I love you Severus," She said kissing him on the lips,
"I love you too Hermione. He embraced her and felt her head on his chest. He sighed; content.
******
Carmilla Nettleburn sat alone on the train that was taking her home, well it was home for the next week. the train pulled to a stop and she took her suitcases as they called the stop.
She wrapped her cloak around her an muttered a warming spell, "Too damned bloody cold," She looked at the train platform and scowled, Where was he? she thought as the snowflakes started to float down around her.
"Carmilla," A voice that sent a chill down her spine called her name, "It's about time you got here,"
She turned and let herself smile, "I almost didn't take the train at all, Just the thought of making you suffer..." She set her bag down and embrace the tall man beside her, "I'm so glad that you came to my rescue,"
The man standing beside her kissed the top of her head, "We should be going, wouldn't want to catch our deaths out here," He smiled and took her suitcases for her.
"Draco, freezing to death is the least of our worries right now," she leaned up and gave him a kiss on the lips. Carmilla smiled at the man whose white blond hair was so like her own. Thank the gods we're not related, that would put a damper in our relationship, she thought as he kissed her back.
******
******
Draco Malfoy and Carmilla Nettleburn sat together at the Draco family manor. They were cuddled together, talking about Hogwarts.
"Professor Snape had finally gone off the deep end you know," Carmilla started, "He's seeing the assistant Librarian, I believe you went to Hogwarts with her, and she's not even Slytherin"
"Who is it," Draco asked, his curiosity piqued, he couldn't think of anyone it could be.
"Hermione Granger," Carmilla said bitterly, "She's a stuck up Gryffindor,"
Draco was shocked, he had secretly lust after her their sixth and seventh years, "That is a shock, he's twice her age," he had always hoped that he could win her somehow, despite being a mudblood. She must be a bloody good lay, Draco thought, If Professor Snape is with her, why else would he see a Gryffindor mudblood?
"He must be using her for something, She did find a cure for the phantom cruciatus pains, there has to be another reason," She replied nuzzling against him. "I think I am going to enjoy my Christmas for once,"
Draco wrapped his arms around her and rested his cheek on the top if her head, he was already enjoying his holiday, he had his family's wealth, house and now he had a beautiful girl in his arms. What more could he ask for? Well other than the death of many many Muggles?
******
Severus Snape lay entwined in the sheets of his bed, Hermione was sleeping in the room next to his out of courtesy to his mother and the rest of his family here. That and his mother thought it wasn't proper for a Hermione to share his bed, Hermione obliged her and wanted to remain Severus' mother's good side.
He fell asleep longing to have Hermione wit him there and had to use a freezing spell before he could finally fall asleep.
Hermione slept, curled in a ball, in the next room. She smiled in her sleep dreaming of Severus and her making love in his office. she wrapped the blanket around her and fell into a deeper sleep.
The Snape household was oblivious to the snow falling around them; they all slept.
****
Cicely Rosewood sat with her grandmother, the surprisingly young looking woman sat with the wrapped package from hagrid on her lap, "Who is this from my dear?"
"It's from Hagrid," she smiled, "I know he's my grandfather,"
"I knew you'd find out sooner or later, I had planned on telling you," She began to unwrap the package, "I wish i hadn't run away from him, he really is a good hearted man," she pulled the wrapping paper from the box and opened it, inside were dozens of pictures and two smaller boxes.
She opened up the larger of the two boxes and was surprised to see a hair stick inside, "What is that Grandma?" Cicely asked curious.
"It's a hair stick I thought I had lost years and years ago in the woods," she held up the sparkling silver rod, "Hagrid must have found it, and kept it all these years," She picked up the other box inside was a small rose carved from a piece of unicorn horn. "He always said he would finish this for me,"
Cicely smiled and left her grandmother alone with the pictures and the two gifts. She would ask her grandmother tomorrow if she could go back to Hogwarts, and if she would like to see Hagrid after all of these years,
She went to her room and slipped into her bed, it was late and she was tired. plenty of time for plans tomorrow, she thought, just before she fell asleep.
******
******
Cicely skipped down the stairs of her Grandmothers house, she could smell pancakes and was very hungry. she skipped into the kitchen where her grandmother stood at the stove, "Good morning grandmother," she said kissing her on the cheek.
"Good morning dear," She said sliding another pancake on the growing tower of them, "We are to have a visitor by the way,"
Cicely looked around the kitchen and saw no one other than her and her grandmother, "Who?"
"Rubeus hagrid," She answered, smiling at Cicely's grin, "He's not going to be here for a few more days yet."
Cicely fidgeted as she ate, Hagrid? Here? she smiled to herself, And to think she was going to ask her grandmother that very morning if they could go to Hogwarts to see him.
****
Hagrid packed his meager suit case and hummed as he bustled around his little hut, he had gotten a hair cut and trimmed his beard. He hadn't seen Persephone in over thirty years, and now out of the blue she had invited him to spend Christmas eve at her home.
Fang and cuddles slept by the fire, Remus had agreed to watch them while he was gone. "Now you two be good while I'm away," Hagrid patted each of them on the head.
He took the picture of him and Azine and put it in the suitcase as well, he would only be staying a couple of days, but he knew it would seem like a month, and he would enjoy the time spent there he felt it in his bones.
He put the packed bag by the door, he was leaving in the morning, he had the address copied three times and in the pockets of his coat. He sat down and poured himself some tea and tipped some amber liquid into the cup.
*****
Remus Lupin sat in his office, he was nervous, he had a dozen vials of his wolfsbane potion sitting in front of him the full moon fell on Christmas eve, he hadn't changed in almost eight months, and he knew that he was being unduly concerned. If Severus had wanted to poison him he would have done it years ago, he thought, heard the door to his office creaking, "Albus, pleasant surprise," Remus knew it was him.
"I often wonder what other senses the lycanthropy has enhanced." Albus said as he shuffled into the office, "Preparing for the full moon?"
"I have four more months to go, If I don't change in that time i can be considered cured." he said looking up, "That will be the happiest day in my life,"
Albus sat down in the chair in front of Remus' desk, "That will be a joyous day indeed, For all of us here at Hogwarts. We don't have to worry for your health as much as we do then."
"I've got an invitation to Harry's Christmas party," Remus said, "I don't know If I am going to go though."
"You should, I have word that Severus will be there should anything go wrong," he smiled.
"As well as a large portion of the Ministry," Remus frowned, "I suppose I could drop by for a while, Are you going?"
"Too old for such things, besides someone has to stay here with the remaining students, there are more here this year,"
"Sirius was invited too," this should be interesting, he thought.
"You go and enjoy yourself," Albus said patting his hand, before standing and leaving the office.
*****
Hermione knocked on the door to Remus' chambers, She smiled and waited patiently, Remus opened the door and immediately smiled. "Hermione," he opened the door and let her into his sparse chambers, "What brings you here?"
"I wanted to see if you were going to harry's party and if you needed help deciding what to wear," she smiled warmly.
"I am indeed going," he replied, "But as to what I am going to be wearing..." Hermione knew his clothes were still kind of shabby.
"I think you need a trip to Hogsmeade for some clothes," she said smiling wickedly, "I'll help you pick out something acceptable, I did after all pick out Severus' outfit for the party."
"Severus won't mind?" he asked not sure how if the potions master was the jealous type or not, he didn't seem to be.
"He won't mind, he's not the jealous type," Hermione said smiling, "I'll just explain to him that you need new a new outfit," She smiled.
"Meet you in the main hall in half an hour?" Remus asked, he had planned on taking a shower when she knocked.
"Okay meet you there," She smiled and left his chambers.
"Gods Severus is a lucky man," he said quietly after she left.
*****
Hermione glided down the dungeon hall, no students were crazy enough to be in the frigid halls during Christmas holidays unless they were serving a detention, which rarely ever happened.
"Taimat," she said the password that led into Severus' chambers. He was sitting at him writing desk when she entered, "Hello love,"
"You're extra cheerful," he said without looking up, "Either you're up to something or you''re going to tell me something,"
"Lovely mood today Severus," Hermione started, "I'm taking Remus down to Hogsmeade to get a new outfit for Harry's party."
He felt a wave of curiosity mixed with jealousy, Remus may be the same age as him, but he was far better looking than Severus, and Severus knew it. "oh really," he said this dryly and as a comment rather than as a question.
"Severus Snape, Do I detect a bit of jealousy?" Hermione said gliding over and sitting on the edge of the desk, "My dear Professor Snape, Part of my annoying Gryffindor nature is my undying loyalty to my friends and those I love. Part of your nature, thought i don't blame you terribly, is that all of your years with the Deatheaters has left you paranoid."
"I..." She was right and he knew it, he chided himself and looked up at her, "I'm sorry,"
"Don't be," she said kissing his forehead, she got up off of the desk, "I'm supposed to meet him in a few minutes, is there anything you need or do you want to come along,"
"I have no need of anything right now," he started dryly, "I think I have had enough shopping for a while though, thank you,"
"Suit yourself," she said giving him a smile, "I'll be back in a couple of hours." she pulled her black cloak off of the the back of the chair were it lay, and left the chambers. She pulled her cloak on realized that it was the one she had enchanted with the silver serpents along the edge.
She smiled as she made her way down to the main hall, she spotted Remus in a frayed cloak, one of his favorites. "Mione," he said warmly as she walked over to him. "Are you ready?" she nodded, "Okay, take me shopping," she gave him and evil grin.
*****
Severus felt a nagging twinge of jealousy, he knew that she loved him to death but she was right he had a bit of a paranoid streak in him. he set his quill down and spotted Crookshanks sleeping by the fire, the cat now spent all of his time in Severus' chambers.
He looked at the picture of himself and Hermione on the mantel, he was indeed smiling, and Hermione never did tell him who had taken the picture. He began to rationalize his jealousy, slowly fitting the pieces together in his mind; she was young yet only twenty three, she turned heads wherever she went... The more he tried to rationalize the more he decided that she was indeed loyal and faithful to him.
"Gods Severus, you need to relax a bit," he said out loud, "She is devoted to you,"
He stood up and stretched, maybe I'll go to the library, though I have most of the books I could possibly want.
****
Remus reluctantly allowed Hermione to pull him into Gladrags, She let him look around for a few minutes before putting her own opinion in, "Remus, browns work very well for you," she said when he found a rich chocolate brown robe.
"What about dark gray?" he asked when he spotted a suit that was a deep charcoal gray, "Will this work?" he said holding the suit up to him thin frame.
"I suppose," she said eying the suit, "It might help if you try it on,"
Remus agreed to try that one one as well as three other ones Hermione had picked out, the first three were failures, "The dark gray definitely suits you," Hermione said as he stepped out of the dressing room. he stepped up to the mirror and looked at himself, he did look well in it and the suit was charmed to fit the wearer,
"I like it," he said softly when Hermione smiled at him, "Think it will work for the party?"
"Yes definitely," she started, "It may even work for classes as well."
Remus paid for his suit and they stepped out into the freezing air. "Hermione, I thought you said Severus didn't want to go out today?"
Hermione looked an sure enough spotted the tall brooding man walking into the apothecary, "He wasn't but from his look I'd say he decided to make a potion and was an ingredient short,"
They headed over to the store Severus had walked into and stepped inside. Severus had his back to them, Hermione walked over to him and slipped her arms around his waist, he jumped and turned around, "Mione!" he looked surprised to see her.
"I thought you weren't going to leave the dungeons today love," she said letting go of him.
"I wasn't, then I decided to go to the library, got bored and decided to see if I could make your phantom pain potion, but it seems that I am low on unicorn tears,"
"I meant to get you more, I just haven't had time," Hermione said stepping back over to Remus.
"Remus have you had any problems with the wolfsbane potion,"
Severus asked as he took several bottles of unicorn tears from the shelf above him.
"None, I haven't changed in eight months," he said rather proudly, "I have you to thank, for giving me another chance,"
Severus just raised his eyebrow, "I hope shopping goes well and I will see you later," Severus paid for the unicorn tears and left the store.
"What was that about?" Remus asked after Severus had gone.
"I think he has had enough of shopping with me for a while, I always pull him into the shops that embarrass him, last time it was a lingerie shop,"
Remus laughed, "I bet that was a fun one for him,"
"Don't laugh to soon this trip isn't just about you getting clothes, why do you think I wanted to come here?" Hermione asked.
"You don't mean? Oh no..." Hermione gave him a wicked grin, "You do mean..."
******
******
Hagrid tromped through the snow leading up to Persephone Rosewood's home, he had never seen the house before as she wasn't living there at the time. He held his meager suitcase as he stood on the porch, he knocked on the door, lightly as not to damage it.
He felt nervous as he stood outside, waiting.
The door opened and Hagrid saw a tall and beautiful woman standing before him, "Rubeus?" the woman asked, Hagrid immediately smiled, "I was beginning to think you wouldn't show,"
"Persephone," he set his suit case down and hugged her, "It's been far to long," she didn't seem to have aged.
"Come inside or you'll catch your death of cold," She said after he let go of her, "I'm sorry I didn't contact you after all these years."
Hagrid shrugged as he stepped inside the massive house, "Tis okay, fate just separated us for a bit of time," he set his suitcase down just inside the door.
"Take off that coat and go warm yourself up by the fire, I'll bring some tea for you," Persephone said as she walked back to the kitchen, she walked to the back door and opened it, "Cicely, stop coloring those snowflakes and come in, our visitor is here,"
Cicely put her wand in her coat sleeve and ran up to the door, "Hagrid's here?!" she smiled as she stepped inside.
"Yes child, now take off those soggy clothes," Persephone used a drying spell oh her granddaughter, "All dry, now be good," She called after Cicely as the girl half skipped and half ran to the living room.
*****
Hagrid was standing by the fire looking at the pictures of Azine on the mantle when he felt something running into him. He turned and smiled when he saw Cicely. "Cicely," he picked the girl up and hugged her.
"Hagrid," she wrapped her arms around his neck and hugged him, "You made it!"
"Course I did, wouldn't pass up and invitation to spend the holidays with my lovely gran'daughter and her beautiful Gran'mother," HE set the girl down and smiled at Persephone who was carrying a tea tray.
"Flattery will get you nowhere Rubeus," Persephone replied as she set the try down. "Cicely will you be a dear and get the tray of cookies from the kitchen," she nodded and walked of to the kitchen to retrieve the tray.
"She is such a good child," Persephone said as she poured the tea.
"She's a dear," hagrid replied, "Did she tell you she's thought of highly by professor Snape?"
"You don't mean Severus do you?" she asked, she had remembered the brooding boy from her visits to Hogwarts on ministry business.
"Aye, he's put her into an advanced potions class," hagrid said, as Cicely walked back into the living room with the tray. "Isn't that right lass,"
"Professor Snape says that my talent shouldn't be wasted, even if i am a Gryffindor," she sat down next to her grandmother.
"So he turned out all right?"
"About as right as he could be turned," hagrid replied.
*****
Cicely went back outside after Hagrid was settled and had found a small half frozen lizard in a stump, "You shouldn't be out here, you'll freeze to death,"
the lizard blinked at her as if it understood, "Do you want me to find you a warmer place?" blink. "Okay," she found the compost heap in the corner of the front yard and dug a small hole, "There you spend the winter in there, there are plenty of insects here for you to eat and other lizards to talk to," she covered the lizard in the warm compost.
When she stood up she caught sight of a black cloaked figure standing on the path leading to her house, "Can I help you?" she called out, but there was no reply.
She could see no notable features other that the the figure was tall and was in a hooded black cloak. She watched the figure for several minutes. it made no movement; but she knew that it was alive. She pulled out her want and tried to remember what spell she could use if the figure moved towards her. but when she looked up again the figure was gone. She felt fear wash over her and ran into the house.
"Grandma! Grandma!" she called out when she had slammed the front door behind her.
"Cicely?!" Her grandmother ran out from the kitchen followed by hagrid, "What's wrong child?" She was shaking and her grandmother held her.
"There was someone outside," was all that she could say through her chattering teeth. hagrid took the girl and carried her to the living room and set her in the chair closest to the fire. he rushed out the living room and outside, while Persephone sat next to her granddaughter trying to calm her.
*****
Hagrid walked around the house and into the surrounding woods, there was no one there, the only thing he could see were a single set of footprints that made hagrid nervous.
He walked back to the house. Persephone had managed to calm the child down, "Rubeus she says it was a tall figure in a black hooded cloak, and that's all she could see."
Hagrid frowned, there shouldn't be stuff like that here, he thought, "Maybe we should all go back to Hogwarts," he said.
Persephone shot him a strange look, "Do you know something?"
"Nay," he answered, "I just don't think that it's safe here if there are strange people apperating-"
"Apperating?" She stood up, "Did you find footprints?"
"I found a single set of footprints," Hagrid looked at Cicely, she was crying softly, "It's just an odd feeling that I have that's all,"
****
"She's at her grandmothers' house," the dark cloaked figure said reporting to another cloaked figure, "Rubeus Hagrid is with them,"
"It won't matter, We'll get the child, it took us four years to find her and I am not about to lose this opportunity, even if it means killing two to get her."
"We mustn't risk letting ourselves get caught..." the sentence was strangled as the Cruciatus was hurled at the figure.
"Don't forget what I can do to you," the figure said slipping the want back into the folds of the cloak, "All of you," the voice was cold and icy, there were nearly four dozen shadowy figures in the snowy cemetery, the number having doubled since the last meeting. "Christmas day we make our move, Not killing the two if we can help it, though if we have too we will. We take the child and after that we make plans to bring Severus back into the fold."
********
********
Snow fell like balls of cotton on Godric's hollow, Guests were arriving for Harry Potter's Christmas party, the guest list was the longest in the four years the party had been thrown.
Ginny Weasely greeted guests as they arrived, She wore a cream colored gown stitched with opal beads around the neckline, When is she going to get here? she thought, waiting impatiently for Hermione to arrive with her 'mystery' guest.
Harry's home at Godric's hollow had an immense ballroom that could easily hold five hundred people comfortably, luckily the list was only two hundred and fifty long. Harry wore a black suit, his hair was as unruly as ever, he spotted Ginny mingling with the guest and headed over to her, the party was only just beginning, "Ginny, Has Hermione arrived yet?" he asked when he reached her.
"Not yet, relax, she'll be here," she gave him a kiss.
*****
Severus pulled at the laces of Hermione's bodice, "That should do it Severus, please tie them now." Severus tied the laces into a bow then tied that again.
She turned around, and smiled, Severus was wearing the deep red waistcoat he had bought in Diagon alley only days before. "Am I acceptable?"
"Very," Hermione said pulling her black cloak about her, "We should go now, we're already late,"
Not by much," Severus said running his fingers through his thick black hair, "Shall we?" He led her out of the dungeons of Hogwarts and towards the main entrance.
Hermione wore a deep burgundy bodice dress, with tight sleeves that went to her wrists, She's absolutely stunning Severus thought as the many lit candles in the hallway, shined on her beauty.
They had returned to Hogwarts a few days before from his family's home, they loved her and accepted her, even after Severus had told them she wasn't a pureblood. He remembered his mothers words, "Severus my dear son, we should be past looking at whose blood is pure and whose isn't, You love her and she loves you that's all that matters," He smiled as they walked off the snowy grounds of Hogwarts to apperate to Harry's residence.
*****
Remus and Sirius sat at the bar watching the guests as they arrived, "Glad you decided to show up," Sirius started, "If the guests thought that Oliver and George were a shock wait until Hermione arrives, you know she will bring Severus,"
"I know," Remus said smiling, "The man is only now beginning to live," he chuckled.
"There haven't been anymore news of those meetings, maybe they stopped," Sirius had finally managed to push the nagging feeling out of his mind.
"Don't count on it," Remus replied taking a straight gin from the bartender.
*****
Severus and Hermione were the last ones to arrive, they walked up to the door and were greeted by Ginny waiting impatiently for them, "It's about time you showed up," she said smiling at Hermione, "I knew Severus would be your quest,"
"We're not that late," Hermione said as the entered, "You have told Ron and Harry right?"
Severus saw Ginny's look first, "That look, Miss Weasely, says that you haven't told them yet,"
"Well I did tell Harry that you to had become very close friends," she said sheepishly, "But it's not that far from the truth, I'm going to go ahead of you two," Ginny glided away
"She has a point there," they began to walk to the Ballroom,
Severus felt uncomfortable as the made their way to the room, Hermione looped her arm around his elbow as they walked, "It'll be okay, we couldn't have kept hidden away for eternity you know,"
"Why not?" Severus said as the walked into the Ballroom.
****
Ginny was holding Harry's arm and pulling him towards the couple, he didn't see Severus as first, "Snape?!" Harry was immediately astonished, "What are you doing here?" he said in a quieter tone.
"I, Mr. Potter, am here with Miss Granger," he replied coolly as he and Hermione walked down the three steps that led them past the threshold.
"As a date?" he asked, Ginny had said they were just friends, she had known all along and hidden it away from him.
"Yes, as a date," Hermione interrupted, "Ginny was supposed to tell you weeks ago,"
Harry was hurt and confused, what did she see in him? he didn't understand, "Whatever floats your boat," he said before walking over to the bar.
"See that wasn't so bad after all," Hermione said smiling, "Severus Go over and try to talk to him, And behave we've already had our discussion on how I can and or will punish you,"
"Yes ma'am," he smiled and gave her a kiss before walking off to join Harry at the bar.
****
"Hermione that dress is absolutely stunning," Ginny pulled her into the throng of people, "Parvati and Lavender are around here somewhere," she spotted the two women and waved them over.
"Hermione you made it," Lavender gave her a brief hug, "Love the dress,"
"It's so good to see you again Mione," Parvati also hugged her, "Did you bring anyone along with you?" she hadn't seen her arrival with Severus. Ginny giggled, "What's so funny?"
"I did bring along a date if you must know, seeing as he'll probably be over here in a few minutes you might as well know,"
Hermione was purposely dragging out her response.
"Mione, you're teasing us," Lavender said giving her a pout, "Who did you bring?"
"A former teacher," Hermione smiled, "You have to promise not to kill him either,"
"Oh Hermione will you just bloody tell them, or do you want me too?"
"All right All right, I brought along Severus," She smiled as she watched the two women's expressions.
Both Parvati's and Lavender's Jaw dropped, "You brought Snape?!"
"Bloody hell woman did you get hit in the head or something?" Parvati spoke up, "You can't be serious,"
"I am very serious," Hermione replied, "He's not the big scary teacher we all thought he was,"
"I have the feeling you didn't bring him here just out of the kindness of you heart," Oliver Wood stood behind Hermione,
"Oliver," she smiled, she turned and smiled, "And where is George?"
He smiled, "With Fred and causing mischief," he gave her a friendly hug. "I knew Quidditch players weren't what you were looking for, But come on, the potions master? I never would have guessed,"
"I'm in love and happy what more could I want?"
"Someone to neuter the greasy git," Ron appeared next to Oliver, "I never would have guessed,"
He hugged Hermione, "You look absolutely smashing," He said smiling. He had hoped she would arrive alone, he wanted to ask her out, though they had been friends for such a long time and he did have a snowballs chance in hell that it would work.
*****
Severus watched harry staring at his drink, "Mr. Potter? Severus stepped to to him, "Perhaps we should talk?"
"What is there to talk about?" Harry replied looking up from his drink, "I'm just disappointed, you're taking advantage of her,"
"I am in no way taking advantage of her," Snape replied coldly, standing over, "You are over exaggerating,"
"That what do you call it?" Harry said staring at him coldly.
"Mr. potter, It's called love," Severus took a seat on the empty bar stool, "Yes, even someone who is supposedly a cold-hearted bastard can love another,"
Harry thought for a moment, he seems sincere and he did save my life, as well as dozens of others, "Break her heart and you'll wish that Voldemort had finished you off,"
"Harry," Severus felt awkward calling him by his first name, "I would sooner flay myself then allow Hermione's heart to be broken. It's about time we put aside childish differences and at least try to be nice to one another," Severus said in a low voice, that only harry could hear.
"It is at that, I won't promise much but I can be polite," he said, giving Severus a forced smile, "If only for Hermione's sake,"
"If only for her sake," Severus agreed as he stood up, he picked up two flutes of champagne from a passing tray and walked away from the bar.
He was walking slowly when he heard, "Severus," he looked up to see Remus and Sirius striding towards him, "Hermione kept her word and brought you," Remus said smiling.
"It's not like she dragged me kicking and screaming," Severus said, permitting himself a small smile. "I came voluntarily,"
Sirius smiled, "You two really are made for each other, both stubborn and thickheaded," He was just now allowing himself to accept them as a couple, "I know I have been an ass a couple of times," Remus snorted, "Okay I'm an ass most of the time, and for what it's worth I'm sorry,"
Severus raised an eyebrow, "I egged you on most of the time, provoking you because I knew I could get a rise out of you," he smiled cruelly, "Now, if you'll excuse me I must find Hermione." he left them standing there drinks in hand.
****
Hermione was sitting with George and Oliver when Severus walked up, "There you are, I was beginning to wonder."
"Whether or not Mr. potter had ripped me limb from limb? I actually ran into Remus and Sirius" Hermione nodded and smiled as he handed her a flute of champagne and sat down beside her. "Mr. Wood, Mr. Weasely,"
"It's good to see you Prof... I mean Severus," Oliver said smiling, "Actually surprising to see a smile on your face,"
"I do hope that that was a compliment," Severus said dryly.
"It was," Oliver replied, "Hermione was just telling us what a good shag you are," Severus choked on his champagne, he shot Hermione a sour look. Oliver laughed, "We're joking, we were trying to get that information out of her before you showed up,"
"Oliver, be nice to the straight couple," George said jokingly, "They might bite, and I don't know if they are up on their shots,"
Severus raised his eyebrow, and laughed, Hermione smiled at the two men across from them, "Scary isn't it,"
Severus and Hermione sat and chatted with the two men for a while until the music started and people started to dance, "Miss Granger may I have this dance?" Severus asked extending his hand to her.
"But of course," she replied taking it, He guided her to the dance floor and placed his hand on the small of her back, she shivered slightly at his touch.
They slow danced, oblivious to the people staring at them. They were in their own little world as they waltzed. Hermione put her head against his chest and wrapped her arm tighter around his waist.
Ginny sat with Harry and Ron, "They actually make a cute couple,"
"Gods Ginny whose side are you one?" Ron asked, slightly disgusted.
"If you must know I was the one she asked for help in this matter," She smiled, "She deserves to be happy, and So does Severus."
"I Know I know," Ron said acquiescing, "But it's Snape,"
"Does that really matter anymore? We're not in school anymore," Harry replied. "He's really not so bad, you have get to know him before you make your judgment," Ron nodded in agreement.
****
"Severus?" Hermione asked as they still danced.
"Yes, Mione?" he said as the swayed to the music.
"I glad you agreed to come tonight," she said smiling, "They seem to accept you, us,"
"I would follow you to the ends of the earth..." he sighed, "We agreed to try to get along if only for you," he murmured.
"I glad," Hermione was happy to be with her friends and the man she loved, to be accepted and understood.
She saw George and Oliver slow dancing up to them, "You're hogging the spotlight you two," Oliver said smiling. Severus and Hermione both smiled at the couple and headed off the dance floor.
They joined Ginny and Harry at a table, "We were hogging the spotlight," Hermione said as they sat down.
Severus looked at her, She was absolutely beautiful, her hair cascaded down to her bare shoulders in ringlets. She had indeed turned a few heads tonight, he thought, but mine was always among those turned.
****
Severus and Hermione stood outside with Harry and Ginny, "That was a lovely party," Hermione said giving Ginny a hug.
"Ginny said there would be something more interesting than George and Oliver, I didn't believe her." Harry said hugging Hermione next.
Severus stood waiting quietly, "Mr. Potter, Miss Weasely," he turned as Hermione walked to him and they walked away from the grand house to apperate back to Hogwarts.
He said.
They walked towards the immense house, "I Never thought it would be that big though,"
"Twenty bedrooms, thirteen baths, two libraries; one is mine." he sighed, "And if you are curious, Yes there is even a dungeon."
Hermione giggled.
He smiled again, it had been several years since he had seen his family, it hadn't been safe for him to do so.
****
They reached to steps leading to the front door, Severus raised his hand to open the door, but it opened before he reached it. "Severus?!" A tall dark haired man who looked eerily like Severus smiled. "It's been too long, Oh who's this?" the man said spotting Hermione.
"Salazar this is Miss Hermione Granger," Severus said smiling, "Hermione this is my Brother Salazar,"
"A pleasure to meet you," Hermione gave Salazar a great smile.
"The pleasure is all mine I'm sure," He took her hand and gave it a light kiss. "Severus, It's about time you came home," He let them inside and shut the door behind them.
"It was Hermione's doing that convinced me to come back here," Severus replied reluctantly. "We're only be here for a few days though,"
"That's quite all right," Hermione turned to see a very pretty very pregnant woman. "As long as you're here,"
"Seline," Severus smiled as the woman, though heavily pregnant, glided gracefully towards him and embraced him.
Seline spotted Hermione, "Miss Granger, It's a pleasure to meet you, I saw you're lecture at St. Mungo's,"
Hermione smiled, "Really?," Seline was pulling her away from the men, "I didn't think anyone would understand my theories though,"
"I'm a Medi-Witch," Seline started taking her into the living room, the room was the size of her entire chambers at Hogwarts, "I thought that your theories were brilliant. I even know the reason behind your Potion," sat on a couch across from another where a man about Seline's age slept, "That's Serrento, he just came in from Italy,"
"The potion does work, you know, On Severus," Hermione said as the sat, "I'm just glad my fifteen minutes of fame are up,"
"You love him don't you," Seline started, "It's obvious, Severus would never have brought along anyone here,"
Hermione laughed, "I do love him, very much and I can't imagine my life without him."
"I've Just met you, and already I like you," Seline smiled. She glanced at Serrento, "He really should wake up," She stood and shook her brothers shoulder, "Serrento wake up Severus Is Home, He brought a friend with him too,"
the man stirred and opened his eyes, "Did you say Severus was back? and He brought a friend?" He sat up and rubbed his eyes, he spotted Hermione, "Oh hello, Sorry if I snored any, I'm Serrento Snape, I assume you're Severus' friend?"
"My name's Hermione," She smiled at him, "And you weren't snoring,"
He laughed, it was almost like Severus' but not as velvety.
*****
Severus stood in the entry way with his brother, Salazar, "Severus, It's good to have you home, Mother is arriving tomorrow." He gave his little brother a smile, "She's quite a little Fox, that lovely young lady you brought with you, Hermione?"
"She is at that, But she's also brilliant; She found a way to stave off the phantom pains. Her skilled are rivaled only by mine," he smiled, "That and I've fallen madly in love with her,"
"It's about bloody time you fell in love," Salazar said grinning, "You deserve to be happy, you've been through enough,"
"I have at that," He heard laughing coming from the living room, "Shall we see what they're up to in there?" Severus asked.
"Knowing that Sister of ours She'll have gotten to embarrassing stories of us already," they hurried towards the living room.
Hermione, Seline and Serrento were laughing, Hermione spotted Severus first, "Severus you never told me you were into fencing,"
"You never asked," he sat with Salazar across from the trio, they had a photo album in front of them, "Seline you had to bring the pictures out didn't you?"
"What Kind of a sister would I be without a chance to embarrass my older brothers?" she smiled, "Besides, Hermione here doesn't mind, I'm sure she's seen worse," Hermione giggled.
The all began to laugh until they heard a strong female voice, "I know that my family is here, why haven't shown up and greeted their mother?"
They all jumped up Seline and Serrento went out first then Salazar and finally Severus holding Hermione's hand. A tall woman in green, with her gray hair in a severe bun at the back of her head was standing in the entry way with two large suitcases beside her.
"Mother, we thought you were coming tomorrow," Salazar started. "Severus is even here too,"
"Severus?" She looked at her brood, Severus was towards the back, "Severus come over here,"
Severus stepped forward still holding Hermione's hand, he let go of her hand as he gave his mother a hug and a kiss on the cheek, "Hello mother,"
"It's about time you came home for a visit," She said after they let go of each other, "Who is this Pretty young woman?"
"Mother, this is Miss Hermione Granger," Severus said stepping aside so his mother could get a good view of her,
"How do you do Mrs. Snape?" she gave a small curtsy, "It's a pleasure to meet you,"
"She has sense, and is very polite," Sabine Snape started, "She's a bit young isn't she?"
"I am twenty three," Hermione replied before Severus could answer.
"Old enough," The old woman cackled, "You seem to have your wits about you,"
Severus let out a sigh, so far so good, he thought.
*****
Severus and Hermione walked to the Library in the the right wing off the house, "Severus, I like your family a lot,"
"I wonder at times If I'm adopted," he said chuckling, "They are good people, I just seemed to have forgotten that,"
They entered the Library Severus claimed was his. There were rows upon rows of books, many of them were duplicates of the ones Severus had already at Hogwarts, with the exception of the rarer ones that Severus only had one copy of.
"I love you Severus," She said kissing him on the lips,
"I love you too Hermione. He embraced her and felt her head on his chest. He sighed; content.
******
Carmilla Nettleburn sat alone on the train that was taking her home, well it was home for the next week. the train pulled to a stop and she took her suitcases as they called the stop.
She wrapped her cloak around her an muttered a warming spell, "Too damned bloody cold," She looked at the train platform and scowled, Where was he? she thought as the snowflakes started to float down around her.
"Carmilla," A voice that sent a chill down her spine called her name, "It's about time you got here,"
She turned and let herself smile, "I almost didn't take the train at all, Just the thought of making you suffer..." She set her bag down and embrace the tall man beside her, "I'm so glad that you came to my rescue,"
The man standing beside her kissed the top of her head, "We should be going, wouldn't want to catch our deaths out here," He smiled and took her suitcases for her.
"Draco, freezing to death is the least of our worries right now," she leaned up and gave him a kiss on the lips. Carmilla smiled at the man whose white blond hair was so like her own. Thank the gods we're not related, that would put a damper in our relationship, she thought as he kissed her back.
******
******
Draco Malfoy and Carmilla Nettleburn sat together at the Draco family manor. They were cuddled together, talking about Hogwarts.
"Professor Snape had finally gone off the deep end you know," Carmilla started, "He's seeing the assistant Librarian, I believe you went to Hogwarts with her, and she's not even Slytherin"
"Who is it," Draco asked, his curiosity piqued, he couldn't think of anyone it could be.
"Hermione Granger," Carmilla said bitterly, "She's a stuck up Gryffindor,"
Draco was shocked, he had secretly lust after her their sixth and seventh years, "That is a shock, he's twice her age," he had always hoped that he could win her somehow, despite being a mudblood. She must be a bloody good lay, Draco thought, If Professor Snape is with her, why else would he see a Gryffindor mudblood?
"He must be using her for something, She did find a cure for the phantom cruciatus pains, there has to be another reason," She replied nuzzling against him. "I think I am going to enjoy my Christmas for once,"
Draco wrapped his arms around her and rested his cheek on the top if her head, he was already enjoying his holiday, he had his family's wealth, house and now he had a beautiful girl in his arms. What more could he ask for? Well other than the death of many many Muggles?
******
Severus Snape lay entwined in the sheets of his bed, Hermione was sleeping in the room next to his out of courtesy to his mother and the rest of his family here. That and his mother thought it wasn't proper for a Hermione to share his bed, Hermione obliged her and wanted to remain Severus' mother's good side.
He fell asleep longing to have Hermione wit him there and had to use a freezing spell before he could finally fall asleep.
Hermione slept, curled in a ball, in the next room. She smiled in her sleep dreaming of Severus and her making love in his office. she wrapped the blanket around her and fell into a deeper sleep.
The Snape household was oblivious to the snow falling around them; they all slept.
****
Cicely Rosewood sat with her grandmother, the surprisingly young looking woman sat with the wrapped package from hagrid on her lap, "Who is this from my dear?"
"It's from Hagrid," she smiled, "I know he's my grandfather,"
"I knew you'd find out sooner or later, I had planned on telling you," She began to unwrap the package, "I wish i hadn't run away from him, he really is a good hearted man," she pulled the wrapping paper from the box and opened it, inside were dozens of pictures and two smaller boxes.
She opened up the larger of the two boxes and was surprised to see a hair stick inside, "What is that Grandma?" Cicely asked curious.
"It's a hair stick I thought I had lost years and years ago in the woods," she held up the sparkling silver rod, "Hagrid must have found it, and kept it all these years," She picked up the other box inside was a small rose carved from a piece of unicorn horn. "He always said he would finish this for me,"
Cicely smiled and left her grandmother alone with the pictures and the two gifts. She would ask her grandmother tomorrow if she could go back to Hogwarts, and if she would like to see Hagrid after all of these years,
She went to her room and slipped into her bed, it was late and she was tired. plenty of time for plans tomorrow, she thought, just before she fell asleep.
******
******
Cicely skipped down the stairs of her Grandmothers house, she could smell pancakes and was very hungry. she skipped into the kitchen where her grandmother stood at the stove, "Good morning grandmother," she said kissing her on the cheek.
"Good morning dear," She said sliding another pancake on the growing tower of them, "We are to have a visitor by the way,"
Cicely looked around the kitchen and saw no one other than her and her grandmother, "Who?"
"Rubeus hagrid," She answered, smiling at Cicely's grin, "He's not going to be here for a few more days yet."
Cicely fidgeted as she ate, Hagrid? Here? she smiled to herself, And to think she was going to ask her grandmother that very morning if they could go to Hogwarts to see him.
****
Hagrid packed his meager suit case and hummed as he bustled around his little hut, he had gotten a hair cut and trimmed his beard. He hadn't seen Persephone in over thirty years, and now out of the blue she had invited him to spend Christmas eve at her home.
Fang and cuddles slept by the fire, Remus had agreed to watch them while he was gone. "Now you two be good while I'm away," Hagrid patted each of them on the head.
He took the picture of him and Azine and put it in the suitcase as well, he would only be staying a couple of days, but he knew it would seem like a month, and he would enjoy the time spent there he felt it in his bones.
He put the packed bag by the door, he was leaving in the morning, he had the address copied three times and in the pockets of his coat. He sat down and poured himself some tea and tipped some amber liquid into the cup.
*****
Remus Lupin sat in his office, he was nervous, he had a dozen vials of his wolfsbane potion sitting in front of him the full moon fell on Christmas eve, he hadn't changed in almost eight months, and he knew that he was being unduly concerned. If Severus had wanted to poison him he would have done it years ago, he thought, heard the door to his office creaking, "Albus, pleasant surprise," Remus knew it was him.
"I often wonder what other senses the lycanthropy has enhanced." Albus said as he shuffled into the office, "Preparing for the full moon?"
"I have four more months to go, If I don't change in that time i can be considered cured." he said looking up, "That will be the happiest day in my life,"
Albus sat down in the chair in front of Remus' desk, "That will be a joyous day indeed, For all of us here at Hogwarts. We don't have to worry for your health as much as we do then."
"I've got an invitation to Harry's Christmas party," Remus said, "I don't know If I am going to go though."
"You should, I have word that Severus will be there should anything go wrong," he smiled.
"As well as a large portion of the Ministry," Remus frowned, "I suppose I could drop by for a while, Are you going?"
"Too old for such things, besides someone has to stay here with the remaining students, there are more here this year,"
"Sirius was invited too," this should be interesting, he thought.
"You go and enjoy yourself," Albus said patting his hand, before standing and leaving the office.
*****
Hermione knocked on the door to Remus' chambers, She smiled and waited patiently, Remus opened the door and immediately smiled. "Hermione," he opened the door and let her into his sparse chambers, "What brings you here?"
"I wanted to see if you were going to harry's party and if you needed help deciding what to wear," she smiled warmly.
"I am indeed going," he replied, "But as to what I am going to be wearing..." Hermione knew his clothes were still kind of shabby.
"I think you need a trip to Hogsmeade for some clothes," she said smiling wickedly, "I'll help you pick out something acceptable, I did after all pick out Severus' outfit for the party."
"Severus won't mind?" he asked not sure how if the potions master was the jealous type or not, he didn't seem to be.
"He won't mind, he's not the jealous type," Hermione said smiling, "I'll just explain to him that you need new a new outfit," She smiled.
"Meet you in the main hall in half an hour?" Remus asked, he had planned on taking a shower when she knocked.
"Okay meet you there," She smiled and left his chambers.
"Gods Severus is a lucky man," he said quietly after she left.
*****
Hermione glided down the dungeon hall, no students were crazy enough to be in the frigid halls during Christmas holidays unless they were serving a detention, which rarely ever happened.
"Taimat," she said the password that led into Severus' chambers. He was sitting at him writing desk when she entered, "Hello love,"
"You're extra cheerful," he said without looking up, "Either you're up to something or you''re going to tell me something,"
"Lovely mood today Severus," Hermione started, "I'm taking Remus down to Hogsmeade to get a new outfit for Harry's party."
He felt a wave of curiosity mixed with jealousy, Remus may be the same age as him, but he was far better looking than Severus, and Severus knew it. "oh really," he said this dryly and as a comment rather than as a question.
"Severus Snape, Do I detect a bit of jealousy?" Hermione said gliding over and sitting on the edge of the desk, "My dear Professor Snape, Part of my annoying Gryffindor nature is my undying loyalty to my friends and those I love. Part of your nature, thought i don't blame you terribly, is that all of your years with the Deatheaters has left you paranoid."
"I..." She was right and he knew it, he chided himself and looked up at her, "I'm sorry,"
"Don't be," she said kissing his forehead, she got up off of the desk, "I'm supposed to meet him in a few minutes, is there anything you need or do you want to come along,"
"I have no need of anything right now," he started dryly, "I think I have had enough shopping for a while though, thank you,"
"Suit yourself," she said giving him a smile, "I'll be back in a couple of hours." she pulled her black cloak off of the the back of the chair were it lay, and left the chambers. She pulled her cloak on realized that it was the one she had enchanted with the silver serpents along the edge.
She smiled as she made her way down to the main hall, she spotted Remus in a frayed cloak, one of his favorites. "Mione," he said warmly as she walked over to him. "Are you ready?" she nodded, "Okay, take me shopping," she gave him and evil grin.
*****
Severus felt a nagging twinge of jealousy, he knew that she loved him to death but she was right he had a bit of a paranoid streak in him. he set his quill down and spotted Crookshanks sleeping by the fire, the cat now spent all of his time in Severus' chambers.
He looked at the picture of himself and Hermione on the mantel, he was indeed smiling, and Hermione never did tell him who had taken the picture. He began to rationalize his jealousy, slowly fitting the pieces together in his mind; she was young yet only twenty three, she turned heads wherever she went... The more he tried to rationalize the more he decided that she was indeed loyal and faithful to him.
"Gods Severus, you need to relax a bit," he said out loud, "She is devoted to you,"
He stood up and stretched, maybe I'll go to the library, though I have most of the books I could possibly want.
****
Remus reluctantly allowed Hermione to pull him into Gladrags, She let him look around for a few minutes before putting her own opinion in, "Remus, browns work very well for you," she said when he found a rich chocolate brown robe.
"What about dark gray?" he asked when he spotted a suit that was a deep charcoal gray, "Will this work?" he said holding the suit up to him thin frame.
"I suppose," she said eying the suit, "It might help if you try it on,"
Remus agreed to try that one one as well as three other ones Hermione had picked out, the first three were failures, "The dark gray definitely suits you," Hermione said as he stepped out of the dressing room. he stepped up to the mirror and looked at himself, he did look well in it and the suit was charmed to fit the wearer,
"I like it," he said softly when Hermione smiled at him, "Think it will work for the party?"
"Yes definitely," she started, "It may even work for classes as well."
Remus paid for his suit and they stepped out into the freezing air. "Hermione, I thought you said Severus didn't want to go out today?"
Hermione looked an sure enough spotted the tall brooding man walking into the apothecary, "He wasn't but from his look I'd say he decided to make a potion and was an ingredient short,"
They headed over to the store Severus had walked into and stepped inside. Severus had his back to them, Hermione walked over to him and slipped her arms around his waist, he jumped and turned around, "Mione!" he looked surprised to see her.
"I thought you weren't going to leave the dungeons today love," she said letting go of him.
"I wasn't, then I decided to go to the library, got bored and decided to see if I could make your phantom pain potion, but it seems that I am low on unicorn tears,"
"I meant to get you more, I just haven't had time," Hermione said stepping back over to Remus.
"Remus have you had any problems with the wolfsbane potion,"
Severus asked as he took several bottles of unicorn tears from the shelf above him.
"None, I haven't changed in eight months," he said rather proudly, "I have you to thank, for giving me another chance,"
Severus just raised his eyebrow, "I hope shopping goes well and I will see you later," Severus paid for the unicorn tears and left the store.
"What was that about?" Remus asked after Severus had gone.
"I think he has had enough of shopping with me for a while, I always pull him into the shops that embarrass him, last time it was a lingerie shop,"
Remus laughed, "I bet that was a fun one for him,"
"Don't laugh to soon this trip isn't just about you getting clothes, why do you think I wanted to come here?" Hermione asked.
"You don't mean? Oh no..." Hermione gave him a wicked grin, "You do mean..."
******
******
Hagrid tromped through the snow leading up to Persephone Rosewood's home, he had never seen the house before as she wasn't living there at the time. He held his meager suitcase as he stood on the porch, he knocked on the door, lightly as not to damage it.
He felt nervous as he stood outside, waiting.
The door opened and Hagrid saw a tall and beautiful woman standing before him, "Rubeus?" the woman asked, Hagrid immediately smiled, "I was beginning to think you wouldn't show,"
"Persephone," he set his suit case down and hugged her, "It's been far to long," she didn't seem to have aged.
"Come inside or you'll catch your death of cold," She said after he let go of her, "I'm sorry I didn't contact you after all these years."
Hagrid shrugged as he stepped inside the massive house, "Tis okay, fate just separated us for a bit of time," he set his suitcase down just inside the door.
"Take off that coat and go warm yourself up by the fire, I'll bring some tea for you," Persephone said as she walked back to the kitchen, she walked to the back door and opened it, "Cicely, stop coloring those snowflakes and come in, our visitor is here,"
Cicely put her wand in her coat sleeve and ran up to the door, "Hagrid's here?!" she smiled as she stepped inside.
"Yes child, now take off those soggy clothes," Persephone used a drying spell oh her granddaughter, "All dry, now be good," She called after Cicely as the girl half skipped and half ran to the living room.
*****
Hagrid was standing by the fire looking at the pictures of Azine on the mantle when he felt something running into him. He turned and smiled when he saw Cicely. "Cicely," he picked the girl up and hugged her.
"Hagrid," she wrapped her arms around his neck and hugged him, "You made it!"
"Course I did, wouldn't pass up and invitation to spend the holidays with my lovely gran'daughter and her beautiful Gran'mother," HE set the girl down and smiled at Persephone who was carrying a tea tray.
"Flattery will get you nowhere Rubeus," Persephone replied as she set the try down. "Cicely will you be a dear and get the tray of cookies from the kitchen," she nodded and walked of to the kitchen to retrieve the tray.
"She is such a good child," Persephone said as she poured the tea.
"She's a dear," hagrid replied, "Did she tell you she's thought of highly by professor Snape?"
"You don't mean Severus do you?" she asked, she had remembered the brooding boy from her visits to Hogwarts on ministry business.
"Aye, he's put her into an advanced potions class," hagrid said, as Cicely walked back into the living room with the tray. "Isn't that right lass,"
"Professor Snape says that my talent shouldn't be wasted, even if i am a Gryffindor," she sat down next to her grandmother.
"So he turned out all right?"
"About as right as he could be turned," hagrid replied.
*****
Cicely went back outside after Hagrid was settled and had found a small half frozen lizard in a stump, "You shouldn't be out here, you'll freeze to death,"
the lizard blinked at her as if it understood, "Do you want me to find you a warmer place?" blink. "Okay," she found the compost heap in the corner of the front yard and dug a small hole, "There you spend the winter in there, there are plenty of insects here for you to eat and other lizards to talk to," she covered the lizard in the warm compost.
When she stood up she caught sight of a black cloaked figure standing on the path leading to her house, "Can I help you?" she called out, but there was no reply.
She could see no notable features other that the the figure was tall and was in a hooded black cloak. She watched the figure for several minutes. it made no movement; but she knew that it was alive. She pulled out her want and tried to remember what spell she could use if the figure moved towards her. but when she looked up again the figure was gone. She felt fear wash over her and ran into the house.
"Grandma! Grandma!" she called out when she had slammed the front door behind her.
"Cicely?!" Her grandmother ran out from the kitchen followed by hagrid, "What's wrong child?" She was shaking and her grandmother held her.
"There was someone outside," was all that she could say through her chattering teeth. hagrid took the girl and carried her to the living room and set her in the chair closest to the fire. he rushed out the living room and outside, while Persephone sat next to her granddaughter trying to calm her.
*****
Hagrid walked around the house and into the surrounding woods, there was no one there, the only thing he could see were a single set of footprints that made hagrid nervous.
He walked back to the house. Persephone had managed to calm the child down, "Rubeus she says it was a tall figure in a black hooded cloak, and that's all she could see."
Hagrid frowned, there shouldn't be stuff like that here, he thought, "Maybe we should all go back to Hogwarts," he said.
Persephone shot him a strange look, "Do you know something?"
"Nay," he answered, "I just don't think that it's safe here if there are strange people apperating-"
"Apperating?" She stood up, "Did you find footprints?"
"I found a single set of footprints," Hagrid looked at Cicely, she was crying softly, "It's just an odd feeling that I have that's all,"
****
"She's at her grandmothers' house," the dark cloaked figure said reporting to another cloaked figure, "Rubeus Hagrid is with them,"
"It won't matter, We'll get the child, it took us four years to find her and I am not about to lose this opportunity, even if it means killing two to get her."
"We mustn't risk letting ourselves get caught..." the sentence was strangled as the Cruciatus was hurled at the figure.
"Don't forget what I can do to you," the figure said slipping the want back into the folds of the cloak, "All of you," the voice was cold and icy, there were nearly four dozen shadowy figures in the snowy cemetery, the number having doubled since the last meeting. "Christmas day we make our move, Not killing the two if we can help it, though if we have too we will. We take the child and after that we make plans to bring Severus back into the fold."
********
********
Snow fell like balls of cotton on Godric's hollow, Guests were arriving for Harry Potter's Christmas party, the guest list was the longest in the four years the party had been thrown.
Ginny Weasely greeted guests as they arrived, She wore a cream colored gown stitched with opal beads around the neckline, When is she going to get here? she thought, waiting impatiently for Hermione to arrive with her 'mystery' guest.
Harry's home at Godric's hollow had an immense ballroom that could easily hold five hundred people comfortably, luckily the list was only two hundred and fifty long. Harry wore a black suit, his hair was as unruly as ever, he spotted Ginny mingling with the guest and headed over to her, the party was only just beginning, "Ginny, Has Hermione arrived yet?" he asked when he reached her.
"Not yet, relax, she'll be here," she gave him a kiss.
*****
Severus pulled at the laces of Hermione's bodice, "That should do it Severus, please tie them now." Severus tied the laces into a bow then tied that again.
She turned around, and smiled, Severus was wearing the deep red waistcoat he had bought in Diagon alley only days before. "Am I acceptable?"
"Very," Hermione said pulling her black cloak about her, "We should go now, we're already late,"
Not by much," Severus said running his fingers through his thick black hair, "Shall we?" He led her out of the dungeons of Hogwarts and towards the main entrance.
Hermione wore a deep burgundy bodice dress, with tight sleeves that went to her wrists, She's absolutely stunning Severus thought as the many lit candles in the hallway, shined on her beauty.
They had returned to Hogwarts a few days before from his family's home, they loved her and accepted her, even after Severus had told them she wasn't a pureblood. He remembered his mothers words, "Severus my dear son, we should be past looking at whose blood is pure and whose isn't, You love her and she loves you that's all that matters," He smiled as they walked off the snowy grounds of Hogwarts to apperate to Harry's residence.
*****
Remus and Sirius sat at the bar watching the guests as they arrived, "Glad you decided to show up," Sirius started, "If the guests thought that Oliver and George were a shock wait until Hermione arrives, you know she will bring Severus,"
"I know," Remus said smiling, "The man is only now beginning to live," he chuckled.
"There haven't been anymore news of those meetings, maybe they stopped," Sirius had finally managed to push the nagging feeling out of his mind.
"Don't count on it," Remus replied taking a straight gin from the bartender.
*****
Severus and Hermione were the last ones to arrive, they walked up to the door and were greeted by Ginny waiting impatiently for them, "It's about time you showed up," she said smiling at Hermione, "I knew Severus would be your quest,"
"We're not that late," Hermione said as the entered, "You have told Ron and Harry right?"
Severus saw Ginny's look first, "That look, Miss Weasely, says that you haven't told them yet,"
"Well I did tell Harry that you to had become very close friends," she said sheepishly, "But it's not that far from the truth, I'm going to go ahead of you two," Ginny glided away
"She has a point there," they began to walk to the Ballroom,
Severus felt uncomfortable as the made their way to the room, Hermione looped her arm around his elbow as they walked, "It'll be okay, we couldn't have kept hidden away for eternity you know,"
"Why not?" Severus said as the walked into the Ballroom.
****
Ginny was holding Harry's arm and pulling him towards the couple, he didn't see Severus as first, "Snape?!" Harry was immediately astonished, "What are you doing here?" he said in a quieter tone.
"I, Mr. Potter, am here with Miss Granger," he replied coolly as he and Hermione walked down the three steps that led them past the threshold.
"As a date?" he asked, Ginny had said they were just friends, she had known all along and hidden it away from him.
"Yes, as a date," Hermione interrupted, "Ginny was supposed to tell you weeks ago,"
Harry was hurt and confused, what did she see in him? he didn't understand, "Whatever floats your boat," he said before walking over to the bar.
"See that wasn't so bad after all," Hermione said smiling, "Severus Go over and try to talk to him, And behave we've already had our discussion on how I can and or will punish you,"
"Yes ma'am," he smiled and gave her a kiss before walking off to join Harry at the bar.
****
"Hermione that dress is absolutely stunning," Ginny pulled her into the throng of people, "Parvati and Lavender are around here somewhere," she spotted the two women and waved them over.
"Hermione you made it," Lavender gave her a brief hug, "Love the dress,"
"It's so good to see you again Mione," Parvati also hugged her, "Did you bring anyone along with you?" she hadn't seen her arrival with Severus. Ginny giggled, "What's so funny?"
"I did bring along a date if you must know, seeing as he'll probably be over here in a few minutes you might as well know,"
Hermione was purposely dragging out her response.
"Mione, you're teasing us," Lavender said giving her a pout, "Who did you bring?"
"A former teacher," Hermione smiled, "You have to promise not to kill him either,"
"Oh Hermione will you just bloody tell them, or do you want me too?"
"All right All right, I brought along Severus," She smiled as she watched the two women's expressions.
Both Parvati's and Lavender's Jaw dropped, "You brought Snape?!"
"Bloody hell woman did you get hit in the head or something?" Parvati spoke up, "You can't be serious,"
"I am very serious," Hermione replied, "He's not the big scary teacher we all thought he was,"
"I have the feeling you didn't bring him here just out of the kindness of you heart," Oliver Wood stood behind Hermione,
"Oliver," she smiled, she turned and smiled, "And where is George?"
He smiled, "With Fred and causing mischief," he gave her a friendly hug. "I knew Quidditch players weren't what you were looking for, But come on, the potions master? I never would have guessed,"
"I'm in love and happy what more could I want?"
"Someone to neuter the greasy git," Ron appeared next to Oliver, "I never would have guessed,"
He hugged Hermione, "You look absolutely smashing," He said smiling. He had hoped she would arrive alone, he wanted to ask her out, though they had been friends for such a long time and he did have a snowballs chance in hell that it would work.
*****
Severus watched harry staring at his drink, "Mr. Potter? Severus stepped to to him, "Perhaps we should talk?"
"What is there to talk about?" Harry replied looking up from his drink, "I'm just disappointed, you're taking advantage of her,"
"I am in no way taking advantage of her," Snape replied coldly, standing over, "You are over exaggerating,"
"That what do you call it?" Harry said staring at him coldly.
"Mr. potter, It's called love," Severus took a seat on the empty bar stool, "Yes, even someone who is supposedly a cold-hearted bastard can love another,"
Harry thought for a moment, he seems sincere and he did save my life, as well as dozens of others, "Break her heart and you'll wish that Voldemort had finished you off,"
"Harry," Severus felt awkward calling him by his first name, "I would sooner flay myself then allow Hermione's heart to be broken. It's about time we put aside childish differences and at least try to be nice to one another," Severus said in a low voice, that only harry could hear.
"It is at that, I won't promise much but I can be polite," he said, giving Severus a forced smile, "If only for Hermione's sake,"
"If only for her sake," Severus agreed as he stood up, he picked up two flutes of champagne from a passing tray and walked away from the bar.
He was walking slowly when he heard, "Severus," he looked up to see Remus and Sirius striding towards him, "Hermione kept her word and brought you," Remus said smiling.
"It's not like she dragged me kicking and screaming," Severus said, permitting himself a small smile. "I came voluntarily,"
Sirius smiled, "You two really are made for each other, both stubborn and thickheaded," He was just now allowing himself to accept them as a couple, "I know I have been an ass a couple of times," Remus snorted, "Okay I'm an ass most of the time, and for what it's worth I'm sorry,"
Severus raised an eyebrow, "I egged you on most of the time, provoking you because I knew I could get a rise out of you," he smiled cruelly, "Now, if you'll excuse me I must find Hermione." he left them standing there drinks in hand.
****
Hermione was sitting with George and Oliver when Severus walked up, "There you are, I was beginning to wonder."
"Whether or not Mr. potter had ripped me limb from limb? I actually ran into Remus and Sirius" Hermione nodded and smiled as he handed her a flute of champagne and sat down beside her. "Mr. Wood, Mr. Weasely,"
"It's good to see you Prof... I mean Severus," Oliver said smiling, "Actually surprising to see a smile on your face,"
"I do hope that that was a compliment," Severus said dryly.
"It was," Oliver replied, "Hermione was just telling us what a good shag you are," Severus choked on his champagne, he shot Hermione a sour look. Oliver laughed, "We're joking, we were trying to get that information out of her before you showed up,"
"Oliver, be nice to the straight couple," George said jokingly, "They might bite, and I don't know if they are up on their shots,"
Severus raised his eyebrow, and laughed, Hermione smiled at the two men across from them, "Scary isn't it,"
Severus and Hermione sat and chatted with the two men for a while until the music started and people started to dance, "Miss Granger may I have this dance?" Severus asked extending his hand to her.
"But of course," she replied taking it, He guided her to the dance floor and placed his hand on the small of her back, she shivered slightly at his touch.
They slow danced, oblivious to the people staring at them. They were in their own little world as they waltzed. Hermione put her head against his chest and wrapped her arm tighter around his waist.
Ginny sat with Harry and Ron, "They actually make a cute couple,"
"Gods Ginny whose side are you one?" Ron asked, slightly disgusted.
"If you must know I was the one she asked for help in this matter," She smiled, "She deserves to be happy, and So does Severus."
"I Know I know," Ron said acquiescing, "But it's Snape,"
"Does that really matter anymore? We're not in school anymore," Harry replied. "He's really not so bad, you have get to know him before you make your judgment," Ron nodded in agreement.
****
"Severus?" Hermione asked as they still danced.
"Yes, Mione?" he said as the swayed to the music.
"I glad you agreed to come tonight," she said smiling, "They seem to accept you, us,"
"I would follow you to the ends of the earth..." he sighed, "We agreed to try to get along if only for you," he murmured.
"I glad," Hermione was happy to be with her friends and the man she loved, to be accepted and understood.
She saw George and Oliver slow dancing up to them, "You're hogging the spotlight you two," Oliver said smiling. Severus and Hermione both smiled at the couple and headed off the dance floor.
They joined Ginny and Harry at a table, "We were hogging the spotlight," Hermione said as they sat down.
Severus looked at her, She was absolutely beautiful, her hair cascaded down to her bare shoulders in ringlets. She had indeed turned a few heads tonight, he thought, but mine was always among those turned.
****
Severus and Hermione stood outside with Harry and Ginny, "That was a lovely party," Hermione said giving Ginny a hug.
"Ginny said there would be something more interesting than George and Oliver, I didn't believe her." Harry said hugging Hermione next.
Severus stood waiting quietly, "Mr. Potter, Miss Weasely," he turned as Hermione walked to him and they walked away from the grand house to apperate back to Hogwarts.