Making The First Move

by Divess

The truth: Brilliant, educated and versatile people can also be ridiculous and obstinate. Hermione and Severus are in a battle to see which of them can be the most ridiculous and the most obstinate. We will have a ringside seat to watch the implosion and what comes after in the lives of our characters. Primarily Sevione. AU/OOC/T-M/OC.

81. Chapter 81

Previously on Making The First Move: Chapter 80

Lee didn't think much of the idea. He would be breaking a promise to Leon. Unacceptable. He answered Millie in nine words.

Postponing the trip is unacceptable. We will talk tonight.

Me.

/*/

Millie was bullshite when she read Lee's reply. She was trying to solve a problem and he was being an idiot. She ranted so loudly Leisha began to cry as Leon stood by wide eyed. Picking up her daughter, Millie gave her kisses all over her face until she calmed down. Leon turned to walk away but Millie pulled him into a hug.

"Mummy is sorry she was talking so loud. In fact, why don't we put on our jumpers and go for a walk? It's a lovely day and for once, it's not raining. Go get your jumper Leon. I'll get mine and Leisha's. We are going on an adventure."

Leon walked away with a smile on his little face. Leisha was smiling because her mum was giving her kisses.

/*/

By the time they had finished their walk, Millie had reasoned that the important thing was for Lee and Leon to have their bonding time. She would stay home with Leisha while Lee spent time with Leon at the zoo. Their would be other times to have a family outing. After getting Leon and Leisha settled down, Millie sent Lee her last Owl of the day.

Hello love:

After thinking it over, I realize there's no need to have a contentious conversation. I will stay home with Leisha while you and Leon have your time. We can have a family outing before the weather gets too cold. Sorry to have been such a bitch about it. Love you.

Mil.

/*/

Initially, Lee had been exasperated when Verity brought him another Owl from Millie. However, his attitude changed when he read the content. Millie had come around. Thank Merlin because he hadn't been looking forward to a night of dissension in the Jordan household.

Verity gave him a strange look when he returned to the floor with his Jordan persona turned up high.

/

Making The First Move: Chapter 81

It was coming on 3:00 pm. Severus set his wand alarm for 5:30, gotten a letter off to Hermione then laid down for a quick nap. However, instead of dropping off to sleep he laid awake thinking there weren't going to be many more multiple nights away from Hermione and Sebastian. After this, Noah, Ethan and Austin would handle any multiple day out of town conferences.

Along with thoughts about future conferences, Severus' mind began to run over the enlarged premises at S & L hoping Neville would have the house in order by the time he got back. Severus had to correct himself. Neville would have in order what he could get in order. Severus yawned and smiled. He could visualize the all hands on deck message for Saturday business going out Friday evening. One more yawn and Severus finally closed his eyes. It was 3:20. He had two hours to rest his eyes.

/*/

Hermione and an excited Sebbie arrived at the doors of Skinner's (Papa's) End at 2:05. Hermione was sure David hadn't changed permissions, but decided it wouldn't be very courteous of her to just walk in. There wasn't any need for a decision because David opened the door with a flourish and a small bow.

"Hello Hermione. Hello Sebastian. Welcome to my new home."

"Hi Papa. It's not a new house. Daddy…."

Hermione cut across Sebbie as she hugged the grandfather. "Never mind what daddy did. The house is new for your Papa. How are you David? Thanks for the invitation. Sebbie is anxious to hear what you'll be doing in the yard."

David laughed as he took Sebbie by the hand. "Please don't stand in the doorway like strangers. Come on through. I made a lovely pasta salad. I hope you'll be staying for dinner."

Sebbie glanced over at his mum. "Daddy's not home so we can stay as long as we want. We're staying for dinner, right mum?"

"Yes love. We're staying for dinner. We don't want a lovely pasta salad to go to waste. Give me your coat. If Papa allows, you may have a short look around."

David reached for both coats. "Let me take your coats. Go have a look around Sebbie. In fact, let's all take a walk around. Maybe mum can give me some pointers."

Sebastian gave his point of view as well. "Okay Papa. Let's have a walk around to give you some pointers. After that, I'll need my coat back so we can have a walk around the yard."

/*/

The walk through wasn't a long one. David had the house well set up. Hermione made only one suggestion which was to set up a workroom off the back of the house where he could work on his flora and fauna projects.

David recognized a good idea when he heard it. "Excellent Hermione. I probably would have thought of it once I had time to put on my thinking cap."

Hermione laughed out loud as she hugged the wizard she had championed. What David said sounded like something her father would have said. "My apologies Papa David. I spoke too quickly. I should have given you time to put on your thinking cap."

Sebastian had some thoughts as well. He wanted to be sure there was an area for him when he came to spend time. All was well when David showed Sebastian his space. After that, Sebastian asked for his coat. He was ready to tour the yard.

David nodded. "Sounds like a good plan Sebastian. Let's go see what we can think up. Mum may remain inside if she chooses. Walks through an untidy yard aren't for everyone you know."

Hermione let out a chuckle. Although he didn't know the reason, David was right on the money. She didn't feel up to traipsing through briars and brambles. "I'll remain inside and keep myself busy. If you don't mind David, I'll whip us up a nice dessert while you and Sebbie explore."

Sebastian grinned at his Papa. "Mum makes wonderful desserts. I think she should make apple crumble, and if there is enough, we can take some to share with daddy when he gets home."

"Fine idea Sebastian. Luckily, all the ingredients are in my lovely kitchen. Have at it Mrs. Snape. We look forward to some delicious apple crumble."

/*/

As Sebastian, Hermione and David ate dinner, he explained how being first down at the docks that morning had allowed him to secure not one, not two, but three small flats of Moly that had been abandoned. Hermione was surprised and even a bit annoyed because she hadn't ever heard of Moly.

"Moly David? I know I've been away from the shop for ages, but I don't ever remember ever hearing about Moly? Does it have another name?"

David glanced at Hermione. Perhaps he was imagining it, but it sounded as though her question had a tone to it. He answered accordingly. "As far as I know Hermione, Moly doesn't have any other name. Although not exceedingly rare, Moly doesn't get shared very often which is why I was extremely happy to get access to three flats. It is a powerful plant that can be eaten to counteract enchantments, and is used as a potion ingredient such as in the brewing of the Wiggenweld Potion as well. I recognized it quite easily due to the distinctive black stems and white flowers. I think while Severus most certainly has heard of the Moly he hasn't ever had a specimen. I believe he'll be pleased with my lucky break. In fact, I stopped by S & L earlier to set up two of the Moly flats where I ran into Neville who was their doing a walk through. I requested he not mention the Moly to Severus before I had a chance. I wouldn't want Severus to think I bypassed him with news he should know first.

Neville shared with me he had sent messages asking everyone to report to work Saturday at 10:00 am to start putting their areas in order. I imagine it won't be too long of a day."

Hermione sighed. "Thanks for the explanation and information David. I just hate being uninformed. I'm sure Severus will be pleased. Now how about some apple crumble?"

Reaching over to pat Hermione on the hand, David offered assurances. "You've never been uninformed. This is just something that has never come up. Now young Snape, how about you and I have some apple crumble with a scoop of vanilla ice cream."

David lifted his wand, gave it a few twists and the ice cream landed on the table.

"I'd like that Papa. Thank you for making this nice dessert mum. Daddy will be sorry he missed this."

Neither Hermione nor David replied to Sebastian. There was no need.

/*/

Randy knew it was time he got out of his own head, but knowing and doing were two different things. His wife and his mother were going to be among strangers and he didn't like it. Not one bit. The galling part was he couldn't do anything about it. His mum wanted to get out to meet other witches and wizards, and his wife was aiding and abetting. He kicked the door to his office closed causing quite a bang. As soon as he'd done it, Randy felt sheepish. Here he was going on and on about something he couldn't change. It was time for him to buck up, and perhaps think of some way to protect his witches. He didn't have too long of a think because Ernie opened the door and stepped in.

"I don't know what's up your nose today Jordan, but you've been pissy all day. Now you're slamming doors like a five year old. I'm telling you to stop the nonsense before Harry has to tell you."

Randy put his head in his hands. "You're right Ernie. My apologies."

Ernie hadn't ever seen Randy like this before. Usually, it was all Jordan nonsense all the time. This was a bit unnerving. "Is there something you need to get off your chest? I'll listen."

Randy knew he had truly fucked up if Ernie Macmillan was offering a shoulder. Pulling on the Jordan facade, Randy gave a short reply. "Thanks Ernie, but there' no need to be concerned. I'm having my monthly and I'm just under the weather."

Ernie laughed. "Alright arsehole. Have it your way. Your monthly, as if. Just keep your monthly shenanigans to yourself. If you're free, I'm going to check out a report of misuse of magic against muggles. Why not come along?"

Randy jumped up. "Of course I'll come along. It'll be much better than just sitting here waiting for my next pad change."

Ernie rolled his eyes. "Yes wizards and witches. There he is. My barking mad teammate."

Randy laughed out loud. "Yes wizards and witches. My Jordan persona has returned. Be careful of what you wish for Wizard Macmillan. Let's get going."

Ernie smiled but sniped at Randy. "I should have just passed by the door."

/*/

Mother and Dani had communicated several times throughout Friday getting all details settled. Mother was still a bit nervous about proper attire. It wasn't as though she didn't know proper attire, she did. The problem, most, if not all, her proper attire had been hanging in her closet for ages. If she was going to make a decent impression, Mother wanted to impress in new clothes. To that end, Mother had made a quick run to the ladies shops in Diagon Alley where she had found five different, very stylish outfits along with several pairs of shoes, undies and several pairs of earrings.

Back home, Mother used her wand to float all five outfits in front of her face where she decided on a lovely, royal purple pants set paired with a light purple lace, collarless blouse. Her bag and shoes would be spelled to a color to be determined. After pushing the other four outfits back to her closet with her wand, she sat back with a satisfied smile covering her face.

Belle Jordan grinned over the thought of Randy viewing her purchases. Her son and her nephew expected her to walk around wearing a sack cloth standing in the kitchen watching her pots. Actually, Randy hadn't ever expected this turn in his mother's life at all. Belle shrugged. Neither had she.

Dani sent her last Owl before the meet up just before leaving work. Mother replied with a few details regarding her outfit, the event time, Dora Washington's address in Chelsea, and instructions they were to meet in front of the home at 7:00 sharp. After sending the reply, Mother headed to the bathroom to work on her long, thick, bushy head of hair thinking she would probably end up with some sort of bun.

/*/

Randy arrived home while Dani was reading the Owl from Mother. Giving Dani a kiss on top of her head, he read the message along with his wife trying to hide the annoyance he promised he would not have, but…

"So, my two favorite witches have their plans all sewed up for the evening."

Dani glanced at Randy trying to gauge his temperament. "Yes love. We have our itinerary all planned out."

Randy sat down in a chair. "Without seeming like I'm trying to dispute already discussed plans, may I ask why my mother and my wife are traveling separately to a place neither has been before? In my opinion, it seems more prudent for Mother if she comes here and you both leave together."

Dani slapped the message down on the table before heading to the kitchen. "Your opinion has been noted Jordan. I will not be treating Belle Jordan like she is a child who can't get from one place to another without assistance. For your information, it was Mother who suggested we meet at Dora's house."

Randy followed his wife and took her in his arms. "Please don't get yourself worked up. The Jordan child, much like his father, does not do well with stress. It was a simple question and I have my answer. I'm going to take a quick shower, after which, I will liberally douse myself with wizard's cologne in order to smell sweet in case I'm invited to a Neighborly Visit."

Dani gave Randy a hard pinch before telling him he should save his wizard's cologne for another time. "And hurry it up. I need to shower and dress. I don't want to use the bathroom out here. The baby is as excited as I am. He's been kicking up a storm."

The words weren't all the way out of her mouth when a half naked Randy was back in the kitchen squeezing her to him. He spoke softly with tears in his eyes. "He? Did you say he has been kicking up a storm? Is this real? Are we having a son?"

Dani let out an exasperated sigh. She had accidentally given away the plot. She had asked her Obstetrics Healer to keep the baby's gender a secret. Now here she was speaking out of turn. She laid her head on Randy's chest. "I wanted to keep the gender a secret so you would be surprised. We are having a son. I've spoiled it for you, but let's keep it to ourselves."

Randy squeezed Dani even tighter. "You're my wife. I love you more than words can explain. You haven't spoiled anything. I'll keep our secret, but I am chuffed to have found out we're having a son. Right now, I'd like to take you to our bed, kiss that lovely tummy then make love to you all night long."

Stepping back, Dani told Randy he would have to hold onto those thoughts because she had a function to attend. "It's almost 6:30. Seeing how you've used up your bedroom bathroom time, you may take your shower in the front bathroom, unless you would like to wait. I'll only be a few minutes."

"Way to ruin a moment." Randy groused before heading to the front bathroom. "I still think…"

Dani cut across him in a sing song voice. "Lalala. I can't hear you."

Randy was grinning as he turned on the shower.

/*/

Randy was finishing up his dinner and Dani was finishing up her toilette when the doorbell rang.

"Can't be anyone except Lee. No one else would show up at dinnertime. The wizard has no decorum."

"Just get the door Randy. That way you'll see who doesn't have decorum and not have to grouse about it."

Suddenly another voice piped up. "I hope my lovely daughter-in-law is not referring to me."

Dani hurried out of the bedroom to hug Mother. "Your daughter-in-law was doing no such thing. I'm a little surprised. I thought we were going to meet in Chelsea."

Grinning in the Randy's direction, Mother explained herself. "Yes, originally, that was the plan. However, I got to thinking how my son would be a little more at ease if we left together. My appearance would also give him the chance to evaluate my outfit. So son, what do you think? Am I presentable enough for a Neighborly Visit?"

Smirking at his wife, Randy grabbed his mum up in a big hug. "Evaluation done. You look perfectly presentable in your lovely, purple outfit Belle Jordan. Thank you for easing my troubled mind. Since you are both going to leave from here, will you need me to accompany you as far as the front doors of …."

Dani huffed at her husband. "Knock it off Jordan, or you'll be accompanying your arse to St Mungo's for treatment."

Randy left Mother's side to go snuggle up against Dani. "We can't have that now, can we? You know you don't want me around all those fit healers."

Dani pulled away from Randy. "Please go finish your dinner and clean up behind yourself. Mother and I will be leaving shortly. I've had two thoughts. One, since Mother is already here, we should use one of our portkeys. Two, I'll have to refrain from calling you Mother. For tonight, tomorrow and the next event, I'll be calling you Belle."

Belle Jordan agreed. "Sounds good to me love. It would be a bit awkward for you to be calling me Mother when I'm trying to establish myself as a worldly witch."

Mother and Dani had a laugh. Randy not so much. "Alright you two, go so you can get back home. I'll be pacing the floor the entire time."

Giving her husband a kiss and a wink, Dani promised she and Mother would only act a little worldly.

Randy hugged them both as they stepped up to touch the small shaker portkey now addressed to the Chelsea address.

"I love you both. Be safe." Randy called out softly as he watched his mother and wife disappear.

After finishing his dinner and clearing up, Randy plopped himself down in the living room chair which faced the door.

/*/

Severus' 6:30 presentation was over and done. However, like any good team they remained in the auditorium until the last presentation was completed. Austin, Noah and Ethan were bursting with pride over being part of the S & L Team. There were other good teams making presentations, but the three S & L Heads were convinced theirs was the best team.

On the way to the dining hall to get a late dinner, Noah suddenly went stiff as he told Ethan and Austin to go on ahead. All three wizards recognized something was wrong and got stuck on stubborn.

"What's wrong Noah?" Both Ethan and Austin asked at the same time.

"Nothing mates. I just need a minute."

By this time, Severus was curious as well. "If something is upsetting you this much, I'll remain here as well." Severus added as he watched an unknown wizard approach. Severus didn't have the gift of Sight, but somehow realized the approaching wizard could only be the tosspot James Mason. Severus would not have walked away at that point for fifty galleons.

Realizing neither his superior nor his his mates were going to walk away, Noah steeled himself for an interaction with the wizard who had almost made Severus lose trust in his Head of Development. The interaction was not going to be pretty. However, Noah changed his stance when Severus softly reminded Noah where he was.

"Noah mate. How are you?"

Noah didn't hesitate to introduce Mason around. "Severus, this is James Mason the wizard who didn't think S & L was up to snuff enough for him. James Mason, Severus Snape. That chap is Austin Lively Head of Research at S & L. Austin meet James Mason. Last but not least, this is Ethan White, Head of Brewing. Ethan this is James Mason."

After being introduced, Ethan and Austin walked away without another word heading for the dining hall. Severus remained behind.

As Mason watched Austin and Ethan walk away, he started to ask a question. "Was that…?"

Severus didn't even let Mason get out the entire question before cutting him off. "It's getting late Mr. Gables. I think we should go have dinner before the night gets any older." Without any acknowledgment of James Mason, Severus too walked away heading in the direction of the dining hall.

Although he was livid, Noah took Severus' words into consideration. He should remember where he was. Noah remembered but still read James Mason every riot act he knew. When Noah walked away stiff back and all, James Mason realized his antics had lost him a chum. He had missed his chance to join one of the finest shops in London because he had let prejudice get in the way. After all this, the Austin chap didn't even smell.

Mason had been headed to the dining room, but remembering Noah's temper, changed path realizing he'd gotten off easy and wanted it to stay that way.

/*/

The late dinner was a bit awkward until Severus spoke words his team thought they would never hear come out of his mouth.

"We had to come all the way to Manchester just to run into a bloody arsehole. It is fortuitous for S & L that we don't entertain arseholes." Severus then moved to the next subject. "Your turn coming up in the morning Mr. Lively. Mr. White and Mr. Gables did bang up jobs. As last wizard in, I expect you to out do your peers. Bragging rights are at a premium in our shop."

The three wizards all broke out in wide grins. As irritable and obnoxious as he could sometimes be, Severus Snape was their hero.

Austin was the only one to reply. "Duly noted Severus. Duly noted. Thank you for your support."

Severus, Noah and Ethan knew Austin's thank you for your support comment was something far and away from a business presentation.

/*/

Hermione and Sebastian arrived back home around 6:30. After getting her son settled, Hermione took a quick shower then put on her pajamas. Standing sideways she took a minute to run her hands over her rounding stomach. "Ah baby Snape! I won't tell your daddy, but I believe you are our little witch. Witch or wizard doesn't matter as long as you are healthy. We love you."

After her heart to heart talk with her coming child, Hermione checked their Owl area to find a message from Severus.

Hello love,

I'm about to have a short nap before my presentation. I just want you and Sebastian to know I miss you, although I'm just telling you something you already know. I'll inform you in advance I intend to rub that stomach raw. Well not raw. It seems being away from my family has driven me spare.

I'll just end saying I love my family. There is a chance I'll be home sooner than expected. That's all I'll say about that.

Have an enjoyable evening.

S

After reading the message, Hermione went to check on Sebastian who was sitting in his chair with a book in front of him. "Hi mum."

"Hello there my handsome, little wizard. Daddy sent us another message. He misses you and can't wait to get home."

"I know daddy misses me. I'm his little Snape."

Hermione grinned as she ran her fingers through Sebbie's hair. "You are most definitely his little Snape. Would you like a half glass of juice and a few crackers?"

"Yes mum, I would. Papa David gave me a plant book. After my crackers and juice, will you look through the book with me?"

"Of course. Mum is always glad to help out her baby boy."

Giving Hermione a bit of a direct stare, his face took on a look of incredibility. "That's funny mum. I'm five. I'm a boy but not a baby."

Running her fingers through Sebbie's thick head of hair again, Hermione agreed. "You're right my love. My mistake. You aren't a baby. I'll be right back."

"Mum?"

"Yes love?"

"I think you ate too much apple crumble."

A stunned Hermione stopped in her tracks and turned around to look at Sebbie. "What makes you say such an unkind thing?"

Sebbie didn't mean to be unkind. His mum's words upset him.

Rushing over, Hermione took him in her arms. "Hey there. There's no reason to be upset. Mum used the wrong word. Tell me why you think I ate too much crumble."

Sniffling a bit, Sebbie explained that her tummy was getting big and it must be from the apple crumble. Hermione was stunned. Was her stomach that noticeable? She didn't think so, but it was obviously big enough for her son to notice. Hermione wanted to laugh. Her son had noticed something she and Severus thought was a secret. So much for hiding a pregnancy. Unwilling to discuss her state with a five year old, Hermione changed the subject. She and Severus needed to have a discussion about when to share their baby news with little Snape.

"I'm going to get your crackers and juice. Then we'll look through your plant book."

The fat tummy subject had disappeared from his train of thought. "Alright mum. Before I have my juice and crackers, I need to use the toilet. I won't forget to wash my hands."

Hermione left the room shaking her head. Snape child number one most certainly wasn't a baby.

/*/

Lee was exceptionally happy to arrive home to a calm household. After the back and forth he and Millie had done, peace was all he wanted.

"Hello love." Millie said before leaving a quick kiss on Lee's lips. "I apologize for…"

Lee cut her off. "No need for apologies Mil. We've had back and forth before and we'll have them again. What matters is that Leon will have his trip to the zoo. I'm sure he and I will come home full of tales about strange creatures who live in cages and behind bars. I know it sounds absurd, but I think the wizarding world should figure out a way to have a magical zoo so our children can learn about the creatures in our world."

"Nice try Jordan, but what would happen if a Hungarian Horntail fried a young witch or wizard? The daily Prophet would surely blame the wizard who thought up the wonderful idea of housing magical creatures. Let's just let Leon have his day at the muggle zoo. Go greet your children then wash up. I'm putting dinner on the table as we speak."

Lee hugged both his children before heading to the bathroom.

While Millie fed Leisha, Lee discussed their trip to the zoo with an excited Leon.

"I'm so happy daddy. Just you and me going on a trip alone. I love mum and Leisha but a wizard needs time with his son. Anyway, if you have the money, we can bring mum and Leisha back a present."

Millie lifted her eyes to glance at Lee hoping the love she had for her family was showing in her eyes.

Still gazing into Millie's eyes, Lee replied to his son. "I'll always have enough money to purchase gifts for our girls. They love us."

"Yes daddy. You'll always have money for our girls. They love us and we love them."

The conversation between father and son was making Millie emotional. All she could do was send a silent entreaty to Merlin thanking him for pushing her to visit the Leaky that Friday evening. The Friday that changed her life.

/*/

By the time Leon and Leisha were in bed, all Millie and Lee could do was hurry to their bedroom to release some of their emotions.