Deputy Headmaster and Husband
The following Friday began the second weekend in March. When Severus woke that morning, he felt like three weeks worth of activities had occurred in a few short days and was relieved they would go to the cabin instead of Hogwarts that afternoon.
At Monday's meeting with the Ministry regarding their counseling program, much had gone as expected. It was the first time he'd seen Dolores Umbridge since the Wizengamot tried him the previous fall. One might expect a hint of embarrassment from an honorable person, he had thought sardonically, but she entered the meeting and began her official interrogation cheerfully, as though she'd forgotten trying to ruin his life.
"Ah, our good Healers," she'd cooed at Pye and Smethwyck. "Delightful to see you again."
Healer Smethwyck smiled warmly and said, "Madam Umbridge, I don't believe you've met Healer Fletcher, the man who has revolutionized our understanding of mental health healing."
The undersecretary turned and studied Michael coolly as though he were a prospective potion ingredient, thought Severus, his fingers itching to grasp the wand he could not carry inside the Ministry.
"Interesting," she said. "Professor McGonagall, Professor Snape and Mr. Weasley, please sit down here at the table. We're all very busy people; so let's get down to business. I have a list of questions from Minister Scrimgeour and I'm empowered to add any that I believe relevant. The younger Mr. Weasley will take notes."
Arthur Weasley had paled slightly at the sight of his son following Umbridge into the room, but father and son both remained impassive and sat down to the business at hand.
Michael was precise and businesslike, all joking gone from his demeanor. Severus was proud of his friend's cleverness and competence. He spoke at great length, as they had planned, on the theory behind their new practice. Percy Weasley's hand must be numb, he reflected.
The repulsive woman was unrelenting, but after the Healers had finished being interrogated, Minerva was next.
"No, I'm afraid I cannot give you the names of students without the permission of their families. Their families have most assuredly not given permission," said Minerva pleasantly.
"But we at the Ministry must have some way to assure that this so-called treatment is beneficial," cooed the former High Inquisitor.
"I believe you must trust the staff at St, Mungo's and myself for that assurance. As you must be aware, Dolores, my first priority is the well being of our students," she replied with a hint of steel in her voice.
Dolores Umbridge then turned to the Healers and questioned their trust in their new non-magical colleague at great length. They responded, also at great length. Severus felt the temperature in the room rising as the hours passed, and he was surprised that he was largely left out of the conversation. Only when Minerva asked him for clarification on a point did he even speak, although he felt those protuberant eyes on him frequently.
As the meeting was winding down, she turned suddenly to Arthur Weasley, who was technically there representing the Ministry. He'd barely spoken a word.
"It's good to be working with you today, Arthur," she simpered. "How good to see both Weasley men at the Ministry working together today. You must be very proud of your son."
Arthur had been prepared for something of the sort; since it was well known that the two were still estranged.
"Very proud," he replied pleasantly, refusing to be drawn further.
"If we're finished here, my dear Dolores, I have a school to tend," snapped Minerva.
"Ah, of course," she cooed. "But one more thing. Professor Snape, word has reached us of your recent marriage. May I offer my sincere congratulations?"
His fingers wanted the wand he'd checked at the entrance.
He kept his face expressionless and replied, "Thank you."
"You neglected to register your marriage with the Ministry. An oversight, I'm sure," she said sweetly. "If you wish, I can take all the information right now and handle it for you."
"How thoughtful, but I'm late for an appointment and must be off immediately. I shall remedy the oversight soon, however," he replied crisply.
In the ensuing departure, Severus noticed Arthur Weasley cautiously watching his son organize the vast pile of notes he'd taken during the meeting. As soon as Umbridge left the room, Arthur walked up to Percy and said a few words. Percy flushed, frowned and replied even more briefly, then hastily gathered his work and followed his superior from the room.
"Art?" said Michael, putting a hand on the man's shoulder. "Time to go. I thought it went well, didn't it?"
"Very well indeed," replied the wizard quickly, remembering where he was. "Yes, it's time to go, isn't it? These things go on interminably, don't they?"
That day Severus had been later than usual returning to Zelda, and the next two weren't much better. Between catching up with activities at the school, debriefing after that long meeting and his other duties, Severus was worried about Zelda, as always. It was her last week at work, where she was turning over her work to her young colleague. She was grieving over the necessity and he felt guilty that his own work prevented him from being with her more.
&&&&&&&&&
The alarm blared suddenly and Severus winced at the shouting voice on the Muggle radio. He smiled as his wife rolled over and slammed her hand down on top of it, silencing it.
"Come here," he murmured, drawing her close and kissing her.
"The last day," she said, her voice catching slightly. "I still can't believe it."
Guilt smote him at her sadness, since she was giving up this work that she loved for him. His arms tightened around her and he kissed her furrowed brow.
Tears spilled from her eyes as she looked at him.
"It'll be okay. I choose this," she said, smoothing the frown line between his black brows. "There's a price to pay, but you're worth it."
A small pressure from within her touched Severus's belly, filling him with the same sense of wonder he experienced every time he felt it. He kissed her mouth softly and then put his cheek to her bare belly, feeling their child move again.
"Good morning, fetus," he said, moving his hands to rub her back consolingly.
Filled with sorrow, joy in his presence and love for both Severus and their child, she wondered how one person could feel so much at one time. But besides that…
"I have to pee," she said wryly.
"Run along, my darling girl. I'm going to make your breakfast," he said.
He smiled as he cooked, hoping the day would go well. Later they would go to the cabin to see the children, and Kingsley would bring Michael, which would cheer her up.
Zelda appeared, dressed for her last day as a teacher. She wore a black print dress covered with blue morning glories that had an open neck to display the sapphire he'd given her for Christmas.
"You look like a summer morning in that dress," he said, smiling.
She chuckled and said, "I took off the belt and removed the elastic. Luckily the skirt's full enough to cover.
"You look lovely," he said. "Now eat, my voracious wife. It's a long time until lunch."
"Are you really coming to my farewell luncheon?" she asked hopefully, sipping her orange juice. "The classroom party too?"
"I wouldn't miss it," he said smoothly. "As far as they know, I just flew in from Scotland."
She laughed mischievously. "You're adorable. Have you ever experienced Muggle flight?"
His eyes narrowed and he asked, "Is it something I should experience?"
"No," she replied with her mouth full of toast.
"Good," he said. "I'll be there at half past eleven."
"What are you going to wear?" she asked curiously.
"Muggle clothing," he told her, trying to look hurt that she'd doubt his judgment.
It worked, guilt appeared on her face and she said, "I'm sorry. It doesn't matter what you wear, Sev."
He kissed the top of her head and said magnanimously, "It's all right, pet. Now finish your breakfast so you won't be late."
Once she was on her way, Severus began preparing for the weekend at the cabin. The cats looked at him balefully, knowing they'd be abandoned yet again.
"I'm sorry, but my need of her is greater than yours," he said to the explosion of orange fur that was Muffy.
Actually, he'd grown rather fond of the felines and knew each of their personalities. The two older ones had been together for years, and the young white one was often isolated. Needless to say, she was the one who was most determined to get his attention. He now had to check his clothing for white cat hairs before going to Hogwarts.
Finally all was ready, so he headed for the shower to get ready for the afternoon at Zelda's school. After the shower, he dried himself and went to the guest room closet. Kingsley and Michael had assured him this would please Zelda.
"The jeans and leather have their place, no doubt," Michael had told Severus. "But this way no one's going to wonder why she's leaving a perfectly good job to go trailing after sexy old you."
Rolling his eyes at the memory, Severus began to dress. The new white cotton shirt was immaculate, he had to admit, and the black suit fitted like a glove.
"Normally I wouldn't expect anyone who's straight to carry this off, but you'll do it adequately," Kingsley had said with a wicked grin.
When the tailor finished with the suit, Severus had tried it on for the two. Michael had strolled around him, studying the effect from every angle.
"Not bad," he said offhandedly, his eyes sparkling.
Kingsley roared with laughter and gasped, "Don't listen to him, Severus. You were born to wear Armani, you lucky bloke. Michael's just jealous, since he's too fat to do it justice."
Now, remembering their absurd admiration, he flushed as he tied his tie. Michael had chosen silk, but magnanimously allowed him to choose the color. The rich Slytherin green, shot with a subtle black and gray pattern, pleased him and created an elegant contrast with the fine black fabric. He stood before the full-length mirror and studied his reflection critically. He'd never admit it to some wizards, but this beautiful suit delighted him. He hoped it would cheer up his Zelda.
The day was mild, with early spring sunshine melting the snow. No overcoat was needed, he decided. He had ten minutes, just enough time to walk to the school and savor a few moments of peace. As he walked through the house, Marshmallow made a beeline for him, on a mission to rub adoringly against his leg.
"Not now," he said firmly, hastily closing the door in her face. He stepped out to the sidewalk, took a deep breath and headed for the school.
&&&&&&&&&
Zelda had seen her class off to lunch and was preparing to attend her farewell luncheon a bit nervously. The majority of her colleagues were very young women, mostly under thirty, and while they were all cordial together, she'd been closer to the teachers who'd retired in the past five years. She hoped Severus wouldn't be too uncomfortable. His willingness to attend, in spite of his hatred of social occasions, melted her heart. He should be there any minute.
"Will your husband really come today, Zelda?" asked Mrs. Bergman, the grey haired principal.
"He promised," she said, absurdly excited at the prospect.
The doors at the far end of the corridor opened and someone walked toward them, but backlit by the light from the doors, Zelda couldn't see anything for a moment. Then she gasped.
Severus looked incredible. He was wearing a gorgeous black suit and was striking as a male model as he strode down the corridor. She closed her mouth and went quickly to meet him.
"Mrs. Snape," he said, feeling oddly shy.
She gazed at him, her eyes shining with delight.
"I'd hug you, but you're so beautiful! I don't want to spoil the effect," she said. "So amazingly sexy."
"Come here, wife," he said, pulling her close and kissing her. "Someone is approaching, must I behave now?"
"Only if you want to," she said, caressing his cheek. "I love you."
Mrs. Bergman followed Zelda slowly, wanting to give her a moment alone with her husband. She wasn't sure what she'd expected the British husband to be like, but the reality was remarkable. His hair was quite long and black, and his features harsh for a man slightly younger than Zelda. He wasn't a tall man, but slim and elegant, dressed beautifully in a designer suit. She recognized Armani when she saw it, since her brother was in the garment trade in New York.
"Sarah, this is my husband, Severus Snape," Zelda said happily. "Severus, Sarah Bergman's the best principal I've ever worked for."
Sarah shook the thin hand that he offered and gazed up into penetrating black eyes.
"I'm happy to meet you at last," she said. "I should hold a grudge, since you're taking a fine teacher away from me, but Zelda's happy, so I'll consider forgiving you."
"Thank you," he said softly. "I do feel a twinge of guilt at taking her away. Zelda speaks very highly of you, Mrs. Bergman."
His voice was low, his accent was impeccable, and Sarah had to remind herself that she was married to a dear man that she loved. This new husband of Zelda's was amazingly attractive.
"Please call me Sarah. How long have you been here?" she asked hastily.
"I arrived this morning," said Severus, following as they headed for the staff room.
Sarah Bergman couldn't wait to see what the other teachers would think of this sexy, sophisticated man. This was going to be fun, she thought.
Severus held Zelda's hand, absurdly pleased by Zelda's delight. He glanced around him as they walked, seeing colorful paintings and young children's projects displayed all over the walls. He remembered the Muggle primary school he'd been forced to attend in his early years as a grim, dark place that enforced rigid discipline. This school was very different.
The staff lounge was a sunlit room. There was a hum of conversation as they approached, but no sooner had Zelda stepped inside, holding the hand of a slender, black haired man, than silence fell. The entire staff stood still, staring unashamedly.
"I've never heard silence in a room full of my colleagues before," said Zelda mockingly. "Everyone, this is Severus. He just arrived this morning, so be gentle."
Seeing the wide-eyed surprise of her fellow teachers, she wanted to laugh. Even Sarah, she realized, had been shocked by his unwitting magnetism. He was extra gorgeous in this suit, she thought.
A large woman in her sixties, with artificially red hair, finally stepped forward.
"Introduce me to the beautiful man, Zel," she said with a throaty chuckle.
"Severus, this is Olga, the only teacher who's been here longer than I have. Of course she began teaching at age four, so she's much younger than I am," said Zelda.
"I see why Zelda's ready to drop everything and run away to Scotland with you," said Olga. "You two are going to have fun, I'd say."
Olga had broken the ice and the rest of the staff came forward eagerly, chattering again. They were all friendly and very accepting. Behind them there were women placing a large variety of dishes, hot and cold, on the tables. Zelda broke away and whispered a few words to Mrs. Bergman, who nodded warmly. She then went to the women who had set the tables and put out the food.
"Please stay and have lunch with us," she said. "You and your kids are family, and it would be a shame if you didn't get to eat some of this lovely food."
Severus was finding the female staff very welcoming, but rather overwhelming. When Zelda came to collect him he glanced at her with relief.
"Come sit with me," she told him. "Sorry to be so greedy, but he just got here and we haven't seen enough of each other lately."
"You'll see more of him after today," said Sarah.
"Tough," she said. "Humor the hormonal pregnant woman, okay?"
Severus found himself seated between Zelda and Sarah Bergman, with Olga nearby. Knowing that the staff had a limited time for lunch, he exerted himself to make it enjoyable for Zelda. It seemed that school staffs were all the same, he thought. Just as the staff at Hogwarts had riveted their collective gaze on Zelda, so these people were all staring at him. He forced his attention back to the people closest to him and to the food, which was rather a mixed lot, but very tasty.
As soon as the meal was concluded, Olga pounded a spoon on the table and began to speak.
"Zelda, we weren't sure we could forgive you for leaving us, especially before the end of the school year. But after meeting Severus, I'd never forgive you if you were stupid enough to choose us over him. We'll miss you a lot, though. I know you hate getting gifts, but suck it up, because this is for you."
Zelda chuckled. "I'll miss you all, but Olga… I'll come back to haunt your dreams. You'd better keep teaching here forever, since I can't!"
Sarah Bergman brought out several brightly wrapped packages and laid them on the table.
"Open them before everyone has to go back to class," she commanded.
The first contained a lovely silk shawl and a smaller matching silk scarf in glowing colors.
"How gorgeous," Zelda exclaimed. "Thank you so much."
"Now, the next one is for the bridal shower we never got to have for you," said Olga.
Zelda's eyes widened and she said, "Is this something that'll make me blush? Should I ask Severus to leave the room?"
The entire room was filled with sudden laughter.
"Just open it!" someone called out.
Zelda glanced briefly at Severus, whose lips were twitching.
"Open it," he suggested softly.
She ripped the paper off and opened a large box. Inside were three lovely silk negligees, one a soft violet and one black. The last was a glowing scarlet.
"Beautiful," she said wistfully. "I'll wear them in the fall."
"You'll wear them now," said one young woman whose name Severus had forgotten. "Two are maternity, Zel. Just because you're pregnant doesn't mean you can't feel pretty."
Zelda laughed, even as tears came to her eyes.
"You're too smart for your own good," she said. "I can't wait to try them on. Thank you so much."
The last package had paper with pictures of babies on it.
"You're kidding, a baby gift?" she said, chuckling.
"Well, since you'll be having the kid in the summer, and who knows where, we thought we'd better get it covered now," said Olga. "Besides, I doubt you have anything useful left from your long ago babies. This one deserves some new things."
Zelda opened a huge box and discovered enough tiny clothes for three babies, soft cotton blankets, a handsome teddy bear and a vast collection of colorful children's books.
"How did you all know that I didn't have a thing yet for the baby?" she asked, so touched she could hardly speak. "Thank you so much. I'll really miss being here with you all."
A bell rang and they all sprang to their feet. Zelda stood up and went to say goodbye, since she and Severus would be leaving before the end of the school day. There were many hugs and not a few tears by the time the room was almost empty.
"Theresa, we'll be down in ten or fifteen minutes," said Zelda.
The young blond woman nodded sympathetically and left the room.
Severus had watched his wife say goodbye to her colleagues and her old life, as he stood next to Sarah Bergman.
"You're a lucky man," commented Sarah. "She's crazy about you."
"I'm a very lucky man," he said. "I wish it hadn't come to a choice. This is difficult for her."
"Perhaps when your child is older she can find a position where you'll be living."
He smiled faintly and said, "I hope so."
Zelda came to them, her eyes wet with tears. He held out his arms and she snuggled carefully against him.
"I don't want to get tears and snot all over your lovely suit," she said.
"Damn the suit. It's only a suit. Snot away, my girl," he replied acerbically.
Mrs. Bergman chuckled. "It must be love if you care more about her feelings than a three thousand dollar Armani suit."
She handed Zelda a tissue and watched her blow her nose, then sigh and lean her head against her husband's shoulder.
"This part's going to be even harder," she said. "They'll be fine. Theresa's doing a good job, but I hate leaving a job unfinished."
"They'll miss you. We all will," replied Sarah. "But change is inevitable. You've given them the best you could, and your best is impressive. Don't let your conscience bother you."
"Thanks. Change is hard, even though it's right. I've been in my little rut for years and it's time to climb out." Zelda took a deep breath, looked up at Severus and said, "Okay, time for the classroom party. Come and meet my students."