Surprise!
They were standing outside a stone cottage rather like Harry's.
"Why are we here?" she asked. "Are we visiting someone?"
"D' you want to be my neighbor?" asked Harry with a teasing smile.
She looked at Severus, a question in her eyes.
"You love to get away from Hogwarts, and this place is for sale. If it's not what you like, we'll look at others," said Severus.
She threw her arms around his neck and said, "Can we afford it? Let's look around. It's so pretty here! Where are we?"
"My house is over that hill," Harry told her, pointing into the distance. "I looked around last weekend. There's a sign down by the road, but I think they've given up hope of selling it. I think you'll like it a lot."
Zelda took Severus's arm and they walked to the house. There was a climbing rose by the front door. It was blooming with a glorious scent to welcome them.
"Ohhh…" she sighed, pausing to sniff at one lush pink blossom.
Harry flung open the door and ushered them pass inside. They all went into the sitting room, which was dimly lit by filthy windows. The wooden floor creaked underfoot.
"It's a handsome room," said Zelda, taking in the proportions. "Is it bigger than your house, Harry?"
"There are four bedrooms upstairs and the stairway's a bit wider," he replied. "It faces the same way mine does, I know you like that. With a bit of fixing up, I think you'd like it."
She looked up at Severus with a faint smile. "Is this what you want?"
"It is," he said. "I don't need to live at Hogwarts. There's magic enough here around us. I know how happy you've been at Potter's house, and this seems an appropriate place for Alaric."
They passed into the kitchen, which was old fashioned and large, like Harry's. She looked out the grimy window over the sink and there was a kitchen garden that beckoned. Impulsively she went out the back door and began looking at plants. The farther she went, the more delights she found.
"There's some awesome rhubarb over here and a patch of wild strawberries by the edge of the trees," she called, a brilliant smile on her face. "Herbs too, and asparagus. How much of this land goes with the house?"
"Three acres," replied Severus. "Enough that we're unlikely to be disturbed by random pests."
She came back and hugged him, amazed that he'd found something so perfect for them.
"Let's go see the rest of our house," she said. "How soon can we move in?"
"I spoke with Minerva's pet estate agent on Friday while you were napping. He's arranging the matter. He hopes we'll buy all the abandoned houses in the countryside. By next weekend we'll have the title."
She grinned. "Can we find a jumble sale to furnish our home?"
"If you wish," he said, allowing her to go upstairs first.
The rooms on the front of the house were of uneven size. One was very large and the other tiny, with a door between them.
"Perfect," said Zelda. "Our bedroom and Alaric's room."
The other bedrooms were of equal size and overlooked the kitchen garden and trees.
"A guest room and an office. I can have a computer here," she said happily.
"And a TV," suggested Harry, smirking.
She frowned at him. "Alaric can trot over to visit you if he wants his little brain contaminated. This house is going to be nice."
Finally they explored the bathroom and found it to be surprisingly large, with an elaborate claw-footed bathtub.
"I love it," she told Severus, her eyes shining. "Do you really want this?"
He put his arms around her and she put her face up to be kissed.
"I want this," he said, offering his mind to her.
It was true, he wanted to live here, she saw. It was all she needed to accept it.
"Let's come back later and wash the windows," she suggested.
"You must rest after your exploring," said Severus. "I don't want to deny you the pleasure of furnishing it, but I'll collect a few essentials before you return."
"It's your house too, so you can do what you want," she said. "Can we show it to the kids today?"
"After your nap," he said sternly. "I'll return to put wards on it before you and Alaric come here."
They went downstairs and closed the doors, and together they all Apparated back to Harry's house.
&&&&&&&&&
The following week at Hogwarts flew by. The baby woke every three hours at night, so Zelda was sleep deprived, but so excited about their new home that it delighted Severus. He was used to sleeping in short bursts, so he often woke with her and changed the baby after feedings. Severus was also working as needed, and several times he went to prepare for his family's homecoming the following weekend.
He was descending the stairs from Minerva's office one evening when Professor Sinistra appeared before him.
"Good evening, Severus," she said provocatively.
His wand was in his hand at once. "Go away," he said curtly.
"You've avoided me well. You must feel something for me or you wouldn't fear my company," she murmured. "Congratulations on the birth of your son. If you'd enjoy celebrating with me tonight, come to my boudoir, my dear wizard."
Only knowing that she'd be fired at the end of the school year made him refrain from cursing her. She little knew that his wife generously made love to him even while she was healing from childbirth. The delicious memory of that night he'd gotten drunk flitted through his mind.
"If I avoid you, it's because you dared to attack me with Amortentia. You're disgusting. Stay away from me and mine."
He strode past her, struggling to control his rage. He'd be at ease once he'd settled his family in their new home. Upon reaching the dungeon level, he met Professor Davis in the corridor.
"Severus, I was looking for you. I want to know what you think of Potter's ambition."
"Come to my office," replied Severus, flinging open the door and lighting the fire. "What do you think?"
They sat down and Solomon Davis said earnestly, "I'm impressed with the boy. Very few wizards have any interest in the old magic. But is he serious?"
"Zelda believes he is," replied Severus slowly. "She pointed out that if he avoids Ministry politics, he'd be able to work in the obscurity he craves. I've always known he's bright, but only recently has he matured enough to ponder such abstract subjects."
"I'll sponsor him and if he wishes it after a trial period, Harry shall be an apprentice Unspeakable. DoM is the best place to do magical research in Britain."
"It's the last thing I'd have expected," commented Severus. "Zelda's thoughts on the subject gave me a different perspective, however."
"He said he plans to visit Zelda's son and see a bit of Muggle America too. An interesting idea, I often think better understanding of the Muggle world might inform our understanding of ourselves."
"Please let me know how Potter does," he said. "If I can facilitate his progress, I'll do it."
"I thought you disliked Potter," Davis said ironically.
"Potter is a Hogwarts student. We must help all of our students succeed," replied Severus austerely.
A smile lightened the normally serious wizard's face and he rose, saying, "Thanks. I appreciate your insight, and that of your wife. I'll see you later."
They left the office and Severus turned toward home, relieved that Potter seemed to have his immediate future under control.
&&&&&&&&&
Severus was going downstairs on Friday to collect his wife and son. They'd walk down to the gates and then Apparate to their country home. Rounding the corner, he collided with Harry Potter.
"God! Sorry, Professor," said Harry, staggering back.
"Potter," snapped Severus in resignation. "Is the castle on fire?"
"I'm going down to see Professor Davis," said the young man enthusiastically. "I need to convince them at DoM that I'm serious, so I want to make sure I nail my Potions NEWT."
Severus snorted, but managed to refrain from sarcasm. It seemed that Harry wasn't fooled, however.
'I know," he said resignedly. "Say, have you thought about re-writing the other Potions books? Professor Davis is good, but he doesn't know all your improvements to the curriculum."
"Another assignment? Most fortunately I'm no longer in prison, so I doubt I'll have the leisure necessary."
Harry grinned and changed the subject. "Are you and Zelda moving in soon?"
Severus barely managed to suppress the smug smile that threatened to burst from him. "We're leaving now."
"I'll stay away," said Harry. "I have tons of studying to do this weekend."
Severus nodded and said, "If you'll send your owl, she'll enjoy telling you about the place."
Harry grinned. "She writes great letters, you know, really funny ones. We love to get them. I'll send Hedwig this afternoon."
They descended to the dungeon in relative harmony, each rather nervous as they realized that their lives were now truly entwined, baggage and all. They separated at Professor Davis's office and Severus went into his quarters.
He found Zelda dressing the baby in clean clothes. Their bags had already gone ahead to their new home.
"Are we ready?" she asked, turning quickly to smile at him.
"Everything's set," he replied. "If your appointments for next week are set, we'll go home."
Zelda put on a baby carrier and Severus helped insert Alaric into it. He'd never seen a Muggle device like it, but the baby was nestled securely against her breast, and she seemed comfortable.
"I like the way you say home," she said. "Let's go."
They left the castle and began walking toward the gates. It was the longest that Zelda had walked yet while wearing the baby carrier, and she was tired and sweaty by the time they left the grounds of Hogwarts. Severus embraced them and they Apparated to their new house.
They were at the gate, looking up the path. The sun was shining, the grass and trees were a rich green and suddenly Rowena was running down to them.
"How perfect," exclaimed Zelda as she started up the path and greeting the dog. "Do you like it here, Rowena?"
"Come along and sit down," said Severus, absurdly excited.
The climbing roses were still blooming around the front door, making it look so romantic that Zelda felt she should puke. Instead tears came to her eyes.
"It's beautiful," she whispered, pausing to admire it.
Severus opened the door and ushered them inside. The first sight that greeted Zelda was Marshmallow. The white cat rushed up to bat Rowena's nose, then dashed toward the kitchen, the dog following.
"Oh…" she sighed, delighted to see her cat.
Severus removed Alaric from the carrier. She removed it with a sigh of relief and hung it on a hook in the hall.
"Come see the bedrooms," he said, leading the way upstairs.
The windows were sparkling clean and their bedroom was extremely inviting. The bed was very large and made up with plump pillows and a comforter. She grinned at Severus, sharing his value for a large, comfortable bed. He'd also found a huge old wardrobe and a rocking chair, complete with comfy cushions.
He led her into the small adjoining room. There was a dresser, a changing table and a sturdy cot with Alaric's teddy bear in the corner of it. The walls were white and fresh.
"You must decorate it."
"It's wonderful," she said. "You worked hard making it nice, didn't you?"
"With magic it was easy," he replied.
"But you thought of everything."
Zelda took the baby, kissed him and laid him in his new bed.
"I'd like to see the rest and then clean up. I didn't expect to be so sweaty after a short walk."
Severus took her hand and led her to a master bathroom that had not existed previously. It was across their bedroom, and though small, everything was new and shiny. There was a bathtub with a shower, and Severus had remembered to bring towels.
"How tempting," she said. "Maybe I should shower now."
"I'll make lunch and try to forget how much I'd enjoy scrubbing your back."
She threw her arms around his neck and hugged him fiercely.
"I'll make it up to you," she offered sadly.
He kissed her reassuringly and murmured, "I'll make it up to you, pet. Time's passing quickly; Alaric's almost two weeks old. Don't worry."
In truth, thought Severus as he prepared their first meal in the house, though every moment seemed so profoundly important, this time would be brief in the span of their life together. He looked around the kitchen, knowing she'd be pleased. He'd found a sturdy old table, worn and scrubbed by years of use. There were only two chairs. They'd acquire everything else gradually.
"I love this house more every minute that I'm here," said Zelda, entering the kitchen and sinking into a chair. "It's happened so fast that I'm dizzy."
Severus poured her a cup of tea and set it on the table.
"Working at Hogwarts is fine, but I saw the difference in you when we were at Potter's house. Also, it's better for Alaric to grow up away from Hogwarts. We'll Apparate wherever we wish, but this is a good home for a young child."
Marshmallow trotted into the kitchen and leaped on the table.
"No, silly girl," scolded Zelda as she scooped the cat into her arms and nuzzled the soft head. "I've missed you, kitty."
Setting Marshmallow on the floor, she drank her tea, looking around her. The kitchen was very old fashioned, but had everything essential.
"We'll get newer things," promised Severus.
"As long as it all works, why? You may have noticed that I like to keep old things going," said Zelda. "Unless you want to change it."
"Women are supposed to be mercenary and demanding. Are you actually female?" he asked mockingly. "You're appallingly easy to please."
Her blue eyes flicked over him complacently and she drawled, "I already have the best, dear boy."
"As do I," he replied. "Now, my wife, eat your lunch so you can feed our gifted child."
They ate together, speaking very little. When they were washing up together, Zelda finally spoke.
"I'm glad we don't need small talk," she said, hanging up the dishtowel.
They went to the sitting room, where Zelda found a large, squashy couch and a cradle next to it. The rest was empty, waiting for her.
"Perfect," she sighed. "But we should check on the baby."
Entering the baby's room, they were shocked to see that he wasn't alone. A small white cat was curled in a ball, snuggled against the back of the sleeping baby. Rowena was lying on the rug before the cot and her tail thumped when her humans came into the room.
"Goddess!" exclaimed Zelda weakly, realizing the cat could have attacked the baby while they were downstairs.
Marshmallow raised her head and gazed complacently at them. She was purring, they realized.
Severus felt ill at this evidence of a danger he hadn't anticipated, but studying the cat, he realized she liked the baby.
"It's all right," he said, slipping an arm around her. "She seems to have adopted Alaric."
He stepped forward calmly and stroked the white ears. "Good girl, Marshmallow."
The cat rubbed adoringly against his thin hand, purring even louder when he picked her up and held her.
"I can't believe I was so careless," said Zelda, slumping against him weakly.
He set the cat on the floor and said, "You haven't rested since you got here. Come lie down."
He eyed the animals cautiously, but Rowena was already deeply protective of the baby. He'd trust the dog to alert him to problems. When Zelda got into bed, he stroked her hair and said, "I'll deliver Alaric to you when he's hungry. I want you to stay here until you're completely rested."
The connecting door to the baby's room was open, so they could hear him. Zelda put a hand to his cheek and said, "Lie down, Sev. He'll wake any minute, but I need a hug first."
Obligingly he climbed into bed and drew her against him and she pressed her cheek to his. He thought she seemed overtired, so he rubbed her back and held her comfortingly. When the restless cry of the baby reached him, he kissed his wife's forehead and went to collect the baby.
She was drowsy as she nursed Alaric.
"It must be catching up with me. I'm tired," she sighed.
When Marshmallow jumped onto the bed they watched her. The cat seemed fascinated by this new kitten and watched the baby breastfeeding, purring loudly.
"We'll try to keep her out of his room when he's sleeping, but I'm not worried about her intentions," said Severus, stroking the cat kindly.
Zelda smiled at him, soothed by his kindness. "I need to sleep," she told him. "Will you bond with the offspring when he's finished?"
He smirked at her ironically. "Your brain's weak from exhaustion, my girl. Sleep now, and I'll explain potion-making to Alaric this afternoon."
He sat by them, waiting until the baby was done feeding. He kissed his weary wife, picked up the baby and said, "Rest, my girl."
Then he took his son into the other room, did the needed maintenance and brought him downstairs. Alaric Snape gazed calmly up at his father with wide eyes as they went.
"Let's see, shall I give you the speech I always gave to my first years?" Severus asked ironically, kissing the tiny forehead. "No, perhaps another day."