Late Arrivals and Lifetime Rivals: Snape's Worst Halloween
Chapter 19: Making Plans
Professor Vector entered Snape's office and paused in front of his desk.
"Er, Snape, I need to have a word with you," she hesitated, with both arms behind her back, swinging on the balls of her feet.
"So do I," said Snape still staring at the invitation on his desk.
"The Order is going out to celebrate Halloween this year. We are going to The Three Broomsticks, I think, and we were wondering…"
"Fine," spat Snape, looking up and narrowing his eyes at her. "I have to go out anyway that evening. Dumbledore will not leave me in peace until I agree, of course," said Snape sneeringly.
"However, there is a catch, Vector, and I am sure Dumbledore will agree with me if I am to accept your invitation. You will dress as a hag if I accompany you." (Snape knew that Dumbledore would agree with anything to get Snape out to a social event.) "And there is a party later on and you shall join me there as well," said Snape smoothly.
"Which party?" Professor Vector looked perplexed. Who in their right mind would invite Snape?
"The Dark Lord's," said Snape softly.
"OH NO! Merlin, NO! Snape," shouted Vector in disbelief.
"This is also Order business, Vector. I insist if I am to wear that insufferable costume yet again…"
Professor Vector's jaw dropped. She had not anticipated this.
"Why don't you get another, newer costume, Snape," coaxed Vector cautiously. "Er, we already saw you in that one," she offered hopefully. Thoughts of the unsightly snake costume coiled in her mind.
Snape scowled. "Where do you suggest I procure another one on such short notice?"
Septima guessed that nothing could be worse than the last costume.
"After all, I might add, why should I not represent Slytherin House and its symbol?" queried Snape unconvincingly.
Vector wanted to point out that it was her belief that Salazar Slytherin was still turning in his grave from last year. However, she restrained herself.
Professor Vector nodded weakly and left. She headed for the library.
