Chapter Thirty-Four
In Sickness and In Health
A/N: I did it…After almost two years…I have finally - FINALLY - been able to write the next goddamn chapter! Holy fucking shit! Also, this is completely separate, but my birthday is coming up on the 29th this is both a present to myself and to all my readers, followers, fangirls, fanboys, and overall lovers of this story.
I seriously would not continue to be here if it wasn't for all the love and support this story has received over the years. Seriously - thank you 3
Disclaimer: I only own Aurora and any other OCs. Remember, I will occasionally use quotes from both the books and/or the movies; I do not own direct quotes or phrases. The chapter images (ArchiveOfOurown, Quotes, and Wattpad) do not belong to me. I have either found them through Google or through Pinterest. I take absolutely NO credit.
~ oOo ~
In the weeks following the first task for the Triwizard Tournament, Aurora found herself receiving side glances and whispers from the students wherever she walked by. Whether that be in the hallways near her Muggle classroom, down in the dungeons before Potions, walking around the grounds on her way to see Hagrid, even as she made her way to the staff table in the Great Hall. No matter where she went, the murmured voices followed. The witch would be lying to herself if she said the words didn't bother her and she knew Severus could hear the same rumors whenever he moved through the castle. But they didn't. She couldn't stand the rumors, couldn't stand the gossip, and not about herself. She hated that the words were aimed at Severus.
The woman persisted in pushing through. Aurora refused to bring this up to her husband, knowing his words would be that she needed to "ignore what they were saying". But she couldn't. She didn't appreciate that the students were rude, stating Severus shouldn't have been allowed to marry or that Aurora deserved better than him. Hearing such words made the woman sick to her stomach but she continued to push on. Not for herself, but for Severus.
Well, it did make her sick to her stomach but she'd been suffering from constant nausea these past few weeks. No matter what she did, Aurora rose in the morning with an upset stomach and fell asleep feeling worse.
Ignoring that annoying sensation in her stomach, Aurora meandered through the depths of the dungeons towards her classroom where she planned on grading the recent essays her sixth years had completed. They were to write about the ingredients, effects, and efficiency of the Star Grass Salve and so far she had been impressed with their work. Sinking into her chair at the front of the class, she pulled forth the remaining essays, immediately beginning to grade with her blue ink, as she despised using red, feeling it caused more anxiety in her students. Taking a short break after each essay she graded, as they needed to be three parchments in length, Aurora leaned back in her chair, her thoughts always wandering back to that night at the Malfoy Manor.
She understood what her future was to be, now that she was the wife of Severus Snape. Never for a second had she regretted her decision and knew she never would. Yet that night, as she sat beside Severus and was stared down by Lucius, the woman knew everything was now to become much harder in her life. Inhaling deeply, the woman still did not care. She had promised Severus that she would always remain by his side, through thick and thin, through whatever trials and tribulations were thrown at their feet. Though it caused her pain to call herself a Mudblood, she hadn't been lying that night when she exclaimed how she would do it again and again if necessary. Because Aurora was willing to fight with and for her husband. The witch knew Severus believed her words, but being a man of action himself, Aurora wanted to use her actions to prove once and for all that their love, their relationship, and their marriage were worth everything in this entire world. She would fight alongside Severus, and they would win.
Glancing back down at the remaining essays, she took hold of the next after peering through the rest of the pile Eight - three were eight essays left, and Aurora was determined to grade them all before heading back to enjoy a relaxing evening with Severus, Merlin, and Sapphire. Her head suddenly tilted upward when she heard a quick succession of knocks against her door. Thinking it to be her husband, she waved her hand, granting Severus access as she grasped her quill, ready to continue grading.
She heard his footsteps though when he didn't say anything, she decided to speak. "I thought we agreed that I would use this time to grade?"
"Sorry Aurora, we didn't mean to disturb you."
Head snapping upward, Aurora leaned back in her chair, surprised to see it was Harry and Ron, though she was even more surprised to find that Hermione was not with them. That was odd in and of itself, though not uncommon. "Well, well," she placed her quill back into its ink pot. "What do I owe the pleasure of seeing you two gentlemen? Shouldn't you be enjoying your Saturday morning?"
Raising an eyebrow, Ron countered with, "Shouldn't we be asking you that? Why are you grading on the weekend?"
This caused the woman to snort, placing a hand over her mouth to conceal her laughter. "Oh, Ronald…how and when do you think your professors grade? That we magically place a number on every assignment and POOF it's graded?"
He scratched his temple. "Well…yeah? Isn't that what you do?"
Aurora was quick to shake her head. "Of course not! Trust me, we're always grading. Some nights we're in our offices late into the night and sometimes we spend our weekends catching up on what we didn't finish during the week." She waved her hand to the pile of essays littering her desk. "Hence why I'm here right now."
The redhead's eyes widened. "Bloody hell…"
Lacing her fingers on her desk, the woman leaned forward. "All right, spill. I know you two didn't come all the way down to the dungeons to question my grading practices. Why are you down here seeking me out when you could enjoy the beginning of the winter weather? It's still snowing outside, right?"
Harry finally spoke up. "It slowed when we entered the castle, but I wouldn't call this weather lovely. The dungeons are always colder than outside. How you live down here makes no sense."
"Good, it's about time the weather turned, we had a pretty humid summer. But still," she flicked Harry's forehead who chuckled. "You still avoided my question."
Laughter falling to silence, the two boys turned their heads, staring long and hard at each other. Now it was Aurora's turn for her eyebrow to raise as she patiently waited for the boys to decide whether they would tell her the truth or not.
Unit Ron turned to her sharply and bluntly stated, "Why the bloody hell are you married to Snape?"
Immediately taken back, Aurora removed herself from their close presence. Crossing her arms, the woman could do nothing but stare incredulously at the two boys. Shocked and in utter disbelief that they would suddenly, and randomly, question her on such a private matter left the woman felt as if she had just been slapped. "How…I mean…what gives you two the right to ask me such a question…?"
"We-We just can't believe the rumors!" Harry cried. "We just didn't know what to believe, but with all the rumors going around…" Harry covered his mouth, glancing at Aurora to see her lips were in a thin line.
"I know of the rumors. Your classmates aren't exactly quiet when Professor Snape or myself walk by." Sighing, Aurora rand a hand down the side of her face, still in shock she was having this conversation with two fourteen-year-olds. "Listen…you heard Dumbledore that night. He correctly announced my marriage to Professor Snape, so whatever rumors you have heard, whatever gossip is spreading, I don't bloody care. We were married this past June and that's that. Accept or deny that fact does not bother me whatsoever."
"But-But how can that be? We're talking about Professor Snape!" Ron stated with a bite to his voice. "How can you just marry someone like him?!"
Slamming a hand down on her desk, the two boys jumped back slightly. "I'm sorry…someone like him? What does that entail, exactly, Mr. Weasley?"
"Come on, Aurora, you know what we are talking about!"
As calmly as she could, the woman replied, "No, I do not, that's why I am asking. Please, explain yourselves."
Smacking his best friend's arm, Harry was quiet as he said to Ron, "I told you we shouldn't have come here! It's none of our business!"
Ignoring his friend, Ron then stated, "Because it's-it's Professor Snape! The man's a greasy git, he's a terrible teacher, and lord only knows how he probably treats you! Considering how he treats us, he-he's probably hitting or taking advantage of you!"
Chair screeching across the stone floor, Aurora slammed her fists on her desk, rattling the ink pot as it spilled all over the remaining essays. Ignoring the blue ink swimming toward her hands, Aurora had never become so frustrated with these two boys as she had at that moment. Feeling the corners of her eyes prick with tears, the woman shook her head, stumbling over what to say next, still in disbelief of their audacity.
In a venomous, whispered tone, Aurora said calmly, "Ronald Weasley…if you say one more word, I will not only send a howler to your parents, but it will be your fault Gryffindor loses all their accumulated house points and you will spend every Saturday and Sunday with myself and Professor Snape in detention for the rest of the year. Do I make myself clear?"
"Wha'?! You can't do that! That's abuse of your power!"
"Considering what you just said to me about a fellow professor and my husband, I believe that's a lax punishment. What gives you the audacity to speak to me in such a manner? You just insinuated that my own husband treats me poorly! I can't…" Removing herself from behind the desk, Aurora moved across the room, head held in her hands as she stared long and hard at her chalkboard. "I can't believe you said what you just said to me…"
"Aurora, please! I…" Harry seemed at a loss for words as he shoved Ron out of the way, taking tentative steps toward her. "You've done so much for us since we were First Years and we-we just want to make sure that you're ok!"
"Why wouldn't I be ok?!" The woman nearly screeched, head snapping in their direction.
"Because you married Snape! Of all people, why did it have to be him?!" Harry raised his voice as he spoke.
At a loss for words, Aurora stepped closer to the two boys though she still kept her distance. They took a step back, their backs met the hardwood on her desk, locking them before the furious woman. "You two need to listen. You may have experienced certain situations these past three years, but you are both still only fourteen and you need to stop meddling in the affairs of adults. Regardless of my reason for marrying Professor Snape, all you need to know and understand is that I love him and that he loves me. Whether you think he's capable of that doesn't matter because we are consenting adults and we know the truth. Stop trying to pry and determine that he is not good enough for me or that he treats me terribly. You only know him as your professor but I know him as the man outside of school, remember that."
"Aurora…" Ronald's eyes were wide.
"Don't, Ronald Weasley, just…just don't even try. You've done enough." Quickly turning as not to see, Aurora cupped her mouth, hating the fact her husband was treated the way he was. It bothered her that people were questioning her decision but Aurora didn't care for she was the one to make such a decision and would stick with it until the day she died. Suffocating herself so the sob wouldn't escape, Aurora started to shake, tears soon falling past her eyes. Quickly moving from the front of her classroom to the door, she grasped the iron handle, narrowed vision staring the two boys down. "Please leave," she said as quietly and strongly as she could muster.
She couldn't tell if Ron seemed to understand his mistakes, but looked somber as he tried to speak. The woman raised her hand to quiet him, even Harry grasped his friend's arm, nearly dragging him out of her classroom. Just as the two passed through the door's threshold, Harry turned back and muttered quietly, "I'm so sorry…"
The woman barely nodded as she gently closed the door behind them though she slammed her back once it was shut. Hand holding her stomach, the woman was growing sick at the discussion she just held. If anything, it made Aurora more determined to stay as Severus' wife and partner. The man deserved to have at least one person by his side and Aurora would be that one person. As she said, until her death, she would do whatever was needed to protect her Severus.
Stiffening while turning around, there was a knock at the door, confusing Aurora as she slowly reopened the wooden contraption, thinking it was Harry without his friend. Surprised to find it was Severus, the woman nearly fell into her husband as he caught her arms, his eyes slowly widening at the sight of her reddened eyes.
"Aurora…? What's wrong?"
She couldn't say anything as there was nothing to say. She didn't want to explain her frustrations with the man nor did she want to explain what had just transpired with Harry and Ron, knowing the relationship the three shared. Wiping her eyes, Aurora leaned her forehead against Severus' chest, feeling his arms about to encase her when the woman suddenly shoved the man away. Running back toward her desk, the woman fell onto her knees, clutching the trash bin to her chest as she threw her face inside, hurling away anything that remained in her stomach. Her body heaved as the door across the room slammed shut, Severus running behind her as he held her hair away from her face, rubbing small circles into her back. It didn't take long for Aurora to rid her body of what it wanted to hurl yet she continued to dry heave for several minutes, tears pooling more in her eyes, several falling before she was finally finished. Shoving the bin aside, the woman fell into the leg of her desk, meekly peering upward at her husband to see him staring softly down at her.
Brushing strands of sweaty hair away from her face, Severus cupped her cheek. "Hey, what was all that about?"
Biting her lip, Aurora allowed more tears to fall, her eyes closing as Severus wiped them away with the brush of his thumb. "I…I don't want to talk about it." The man huffed, causing Aurora to open her eyes, seeing as the man's stare had softened.
"I saw Mr. Potter and Mr. Weasley leave your classroom before I arrived. Was it something they said?" She nodded, knowing there was nothing she could keep from the man, even if she wanted to, Severus had a way of Aurora spilling what she didn't think needed to be said aloud. "I need you to tell me."
Refusing to speak this aloud, mainly because she didn't want to, the woman surged the depths of her mind forward, seeking Severus' right before her. Sensing the secret code they developed to indicate that it was one of them, Severus accepted her mentality within his own. As she reached the center of his mind, Aurora poured everything from the last fifteen minutes, giving Severus access to see and hear everything that occurred during her most recent conversation.
Stiffening beside her, Severus instantly grew angry. How dare the two young wizards corner Aurora in her classroom, deliberately questioning her actions and decisions. Teeth grinding against each other, the wizard could taste blood in his mouth as both hands curled tightly into fists. Feeling smaller hands grip his, Severus peeked downward to see Aurora had taken hold of his fists, uncurling his fingers to intertwine theirs together.
"Please," she pleaded quietly. "Please do not speak of this to them. I know they had no right to bring up such a private matter with me, but please, I beg of you, do not treat them differently because of this."
"Aurora, do you not understand the severity of this? They have accused me of abusing you!"
Several more tears fell from her eyes, and the woman started to shake once again with sobs echoing from her body. "I know, but I do not care what they have to say because I know the truth." Cupping his cheek, the woman squeezed his flesh.
Seeing right through her words, Severus understood the underlining meaning of her statement. Lifting the woman beneath her legs, Severus stood, gently placing Aurora on one of the student desks. "You…you've been bothered by what the students have been saying about me." Eyes closing once more, the woman cast her head to the side, unable to hold a stare with her husband. Not accepting such movements, Severus grasped Aurora's chin, pulling her attention back to him as he commanded softly, "Aurora-Nyx, I need you to look at me."
Knowing he meant well, Aurora slowly blinked her vision until it was clear. Her eyelids fluttered, trying to rid of any remaining tears that blurred her vision. Leaning his forehead against hers, Severus was gentle with his words. "Aurora, listen to me. It does not matter what the students have to say. They have been speaking ill things about me since I started out as a teacher. Do not concern yourself with such trivial matters."
"But…!" Cupping his other cheek, the woman held him close, noses barely touching as she longed to kiss his lips. "I can't just sit by and allow them to speak of such things about my husband. It…it sickens me to hear such words used against you!"
Dropping his lips to her forehead, Severus was quick to reply. "It's not worth making yourself sick over this, Aurora."
Licking her lips, Aurora muttered, "You've known I've been feeling sick?"
"Despite you throwing up just now? Yeah, I did. You didn't hide it very well, you've been off ever since we returned returned from the manor." Eyes peeling back and forth between his, Aurora was at a loss of words. Instead of speaking, Severus continued to fill the void. "The way our marriage was released was unexpected and unjustly done against our privacy. Regardless, our secret is out. Though I am not happy about what Ms. Skeeter has done, we can do one of two things: we can either cower in fear or stand up and own the fact that we love another and that we are married."
Surprising herself by chuckling, the woman kissed her husband's cheek, lips lingering longer for several seconds. "Oh Severus, what have you done with my husband? Several months ago you would have never been this accepting of our marriage being public."
"I don't appreciate such a private manner being put in the spotlight as it has. Regardless, there is nothing we can do about that now; the students know and Lucius knows. I…I will say this," basting his head away now, Aurora was caught off guard to see pink coating the man's cheeks. "I do find it interesting that I have caused much confusion amongst my students. I like knowing I have one upped them and proved I am not just the bat of the dungeon they thought I was."
Giggling even more, Aurora wrapped her arms around the man, pulling him closer into her chest. Despite not wanting to explain the situation and her feelings to Severus, the witch did have to admit that she felt a weight had been lifted from her shoulders. Kissing his cheek again, she whispered, "Thank you."
Rubbing the side of her head, Severus clearly said, "No thanks is needed, Aurora." Pulling back, Severus stared long and hard into her ever-beautiful orbs. "I do need you to tell me something."
"Anything."
"How long have you felt ill?"
Caught off guard, the woman's eyes widened. Severus mentioned he'd noticed a change in her behavior and how she had been acting weird, but was it that obvious? "I…" she started to say, not sure where to go with the rest of her answer. "W-Well…I think it honestly started the day we discovered Rita spilled the beans, telling the entire world of our marriage. Having to confront Lucius in his own home didn't help, and…I've just had an upset stomach since then that's fairly persistent."
Heaving a sigh, Severus clutched her hand tightly. "And how many times, besides just now, that you have become sick?"
Biting her lips the woman had to think back to the last three weeks. She'd first realized something was amiss several days after returning from the Malfoy Manor but she had first gotten sick was about one week later after her morning class had ended. There had been another time right before lunch as the mere thought of eating upset her stomach greatly; then there was several nights ago when Severus was on patrol duty. Sheepishly, she answered with, "I-Including just now…? I'd say four times."
"Four times? And you hadn't thought of mentioning this to me at all until now?"
"I-I honestly didn't think anything of it until you just brought it up!"
Rubbing his temple, the man's facade screamed he was angry though his next words were the complete opposite. He was gentle and concerned when he next spoke. "Aurora…even if we weren't married, I'd want you to tell me how you are doing physically. Now that we are, I expect you to refrain from keeping me in the dark considering situations such as this."
Tears forming once more, she never meant to cause her husband any form of pain. "I-I'm sorry…you've been busy and I…as dumb as it sounds, I didn't want to bother you with something as stupid as this."
"Don't," the man said sharply, pinching her cheeks between his fingers. "Don't you ever say that your health is stupid. If I haven't proved it by now, my entire world revolves around you, Aurora-Nyx. Your health is an upmost important factor in our relationship and I expect some courtesy that you'll tell me everything. Whether that be you're feeling perfectly fine to you think you could be dying. Do I make myself clear?"
She quickly nodded, having never wanted to disappoint the male. "I'm still sorry. I never meant to hide this from you."
"I know," he kissed her head. Peering back to her desk, Severus took note for he essays still lingering that needed to be graded. "I'm assuming you haven't finished?"
"No," she shook her head. "Ron and Harry interrupted me before I could, and I only have about eight left."
Turning back, Severus lifted the woman once more, holding her close to his chest as he escaped her classroom, locking the door behind him as he made his way to their chambers. Keeping quiet, Aurora wasn't about to fight his decision. Even though she had thrown up, Aurora's stomach was still bothering her so she closed her eyes, willing the nausea to quell and leave her alone.
Upon entering their private chambers, Severus gently laid her down on their bed, removing her shoes and placing them off to the side. Seeking her eyes for permission, the woman nodded as he undid the snap of her jeans, pulling the material down her luscious legs before folding them and setting them aside as well. Kneeling, the male said, "I think you deserve a nap. How is your stomach right now?"
She avoided from shaking her head as any sudden movement at the moment was not a good idea. "It's starting to act up again."
Huffing, the male hung his head. "I think you should go see Poppy."
"What? But why?"
Narrowing his eyes at her, Severus was blunt. "Aurora, you've been sick four times in a matter of two weeks, that isn't just a coincidence. Besides, you worked as a medi-witch, shouldn't you be able to deduce what could be causing you a physical ailment such as this?"
Severus was right. Thinking back to her time working at St. Mungo's, the woman recalled working with woman who would come into the medical ward seeking help for symptoms similar to hers. Checking off a list of what she had, the woman recalled numerous headaches, the obvious sickness and constant nausea. Blinking rapidly instead of widening her eyes, Aurora realized she was experiencing more symptoms than she realized. The nausea and headaches were just a front. Bringing forth a calendar within her mind, Aurora calculated the days and the weeks, realizing she was missing something important.
Oh shit.
Sighing, the woman carefully shook her head no. "Unfortunately, nothing is coming to mind."
Frowning, Severus was quiet. Just from her quietness, he knew Aurora was lying based on her expressionless facade. What she didn't know is that her lips had faltered ever so slightly, causing the man to believe Aurora thought of something she had not realized before. "Are you sure?" She muttered a quick 'yes'. Surprisingly, Severus wouldn't be too mad if she was hiding something. The woman was probably scared thinking about what could be ailing her, not quite wanting to speak upon the matter unless she conversed with Poppy first. "I'll make you a compromise. If you throw up one more time, you'll seek out Poppy then. How does that sound? If not, I'll carry you over my shoulder to the Hospital Wing myself, regardless of those watching, staff and students included."
Swallowing, Aurora was quick to nod, knowing Severus was serious with his threat. Staring down at her hands, she was able to mutter, "T-That seems fair."
"Good." Kissing her forehead, Severus chuckled. "Because you had no other choice." Huffing, the woman blew air past her lips, staring lovingly at her husband with an annoyed expression. "Don't give me that look," he chuckled some more. "That's what you get for keeping this a secret from me."
Rolling her eyes, the woman was at a loss. Her argumentative skills could not compare to those of her husband. No matter what she could say, Severus would always be the winner during any conversation. "If I'm to make a compromise with you, then you have to make one with me."
Arching an eyebrow, Severus questioned her. "And what would that be?"
Slapping his side of the bed, the woman smiled. "If I am to take a nap, can you at least lay with me until I fall asleep?"
Now it was Severus' turn to roll his eyes. "Geez, you act like you can't stand a moment without me."
Aurora huffed again, pouting at her husband. "Despite your words being true, can't you say the same about yourself?"
The man had the audacity to smirk without replying. Removing his shoes, Severus climbed into his side of the bed, curling an arm around Aurora as she leaned against his chest, hating how the small movement was enough to enforce more nausea. Focusing on the warmth of Severus' body, Aurora refused to speak, only closing her eyes, not realizing just how tired she actually was. She was aware of in tune Severus was with everything about her - mind, soul, and body. She just didn't understand how he could know so much without her registering it.
But that's just one characteristic of Severus Snape she loved. The man surely struggled with his words and most people never acknowledge that it's his actions that speak the loudest. He has been an attentive lover and husband from day one (regardless of him ending their relationship that one time), having done everything in his power to show Aurora that, not only did he love her, but that he would do anything for her.
Tilting her head slightly, Aurora placed a gentle kiss on his chest, hoping the male could feel her love through his thick clothing. As she readjusted her head, the woman was practically asleep, adoring the way Severus's arm tightened around her as a hand gently played with her hair. And that is how she remained asleep for what seemed like hours upon hours.
The next thing she knew, Aurora was abruptly woken up.
Throwing her body forward, the woman stared into the stillness of her bedroom. Severus was nowhere to be seen, having left her in the bedroom as he most likely working at his desk. Curiosity ran through her, wondering why the hell she had suddenly woken up from such a death-like state. And then it was upon her.
Tripping over the blanket as she called her husband's name, Aurora barely made it to the bathroom, she quickly grasped the toilet bowl, hurling everything her stomach could offer inside. Just as she had fallen to her knees, there was Severus right behind her, doing as he had done earlier. Pulling her hair away from her face, Severus rubbed circles into her back, offering soft words though knowing he couldn't stop her pain. This time, Aurora released nothing except acidic bile from the depths of her stomach. And this time, she dry heaved longer, the harsh smell continuing to filter through her nose, erupting her stomach to surge with bursts of pain, her insides trying to expel whatever remained inside her body.
Finally, when her body started to relax, Aurora spat one last time into the toilet, flushing the disgusting sight as Severus helped her to her feet. Slowly moving from her knees to stand before the sink, Aurora first rinsed her mouth out, the warm water slightly soothing before she cast the liquid down the drain. Reaching for her toothbrush, Aurora took her time cleaning her entire mouth, using the tiny bristles to reach between her teeth to rid of any and all that remained from her sudden sickness. Gurgling, the woman spat the remains into the sink, staring at Severus through the mirror once she was done. Turning into him, Aurora placed her face into the crook of his neck, inhaling his delectable scent that always managed to calm her nerves. Gently carrying the woman back to bed, Severus sat her on the edge as he claimed the seat beside her, his hand still rubbing circles into her back.
"Aurora, last I checked you were fast asleep. What brought this on?"
"I have no idea. I'm dead asleep, the next thing I know, I'm jolted awake before running toward the bathroom." Head falling into his, Aurora was quick to add. "Don't even say it. I know I have to go see Poppy."
"We did compromise."
"I did, just as you compromised to stay with me." Rubbing the side of her face, Aurora glanced off to the clock on her nightstand, seeing how it was at least two hours after lunch had been served. "Well, it's probably not a good thing I haven't eaten."
"It's better that you didn't, you probably wouldn't be able to keep anything down."
"That's true," she whispered.
Knowing they shouldn't wait any longer, Severus stood, extending his hand down for her to take. "The Hospital Wing's not going anywhere but we still need to get you checked. Would you like me to go with you?"
She took a moment to consider his question. She both did and didn't want Severus there. Based on their earlier conversation, Aurora had a feeling she knew what was wrong, not knowing whether she wanted her husband in the room as she spoke on the matter with Poppy. Still, she found herself saying, "Yes," as she slowly nodded, thankful her stomach had finally settled. Standing, Aurora found her jeans, placing them on as she then searched for her shoes and a warm jacket. Waiting for her by the door, Severus took her hand, leading them out into the dungeons as no students would be down there unless they were his Slytherins leaving the Common Room.
Even though their secret had been spilled, Severus was still not one for public display of affection. Today, however, was a different story. He held her hand from the moment they stepped out of their chambers, all the way through the dungeons, and even up to the main floor when they passed by the Great Hall, still slightly full of students who seemed to be enjoying their Saturday afternoon. There were students who lingered outside the large double doors, their conversations halted, and their attention immediately moved to that of her and her husband. Several of the individuals were her current students so she raised the hand she had grasped with Severus and waved in their direction. To her surprise, they smiled and waved back, immediately returning to either their previous conversation or were now discussing the two of them.
And Aurora was accepting of that. The woman didn't know if it had anything to do with her speaking on the matter to Severus earlier, but she felt at ease thinking that the students were gossiping about her and the male still clutching her hand.
Just as they entered the fourth floor, Severus turned his head as his name was called. From the opposite end of the corridor stood Albus as he waved his hand, beelining straight toward them. Waving at the couple, he said, "Good afternoon, you two! How are you faring this Saturday?"
Aurora grunted as she stared off to the pictures along the wall, hating the fact she didn't feel up to having a conversation. The one she was about to hold with Poppy was enough to make her stomach feel queasy again. And ever to save the day was Severus as he spoke in her stead. "We're actually headed to the Hospital Wing, sir."
This had the Headmaster raise his eyes. "The Hospital Wing? Is everything all right?"
Severus slyly glanced at Aurora, not sure what she wanted to say, so she shrugged. No matter what was said, Aurora knew that Albus would see right through her so she might as well be as honest as she allowed herself to be. "I haven't been feeling well since our marriage was so poorly announced so I need to speak with Poppy."
Peering over the top of his half-moon glasses, Albus only needed one second to stare straight into Aurora's ever-being heart. Sensing something was amidst, Albus lowered his gaze slightly. "I apologize for hearing that, Aurora, I do hope your health increases back to normal. Unfortunately, I must steal Severus away, he is the individual I've been looking for."
Seemingly caught off guard, Severus grasped the bridge of his nose. "Can this not wait until later, Albus?"
Though the elder was frowning, Aurora knew the Headmaster wanted to smile. Whatever he could see, Albus somehow knew Aurora wanted to be alone. And if she had to be honest with herself, that notion was true. Knowing the conversation she was about to have with Poppy, she wasn't ready to have Severus there. This was something she needed to do on her own.
"I have already asked the other Heads of Houses to meet me in my office. You are the last person I needed to find."
Sighing out of annoyance, Severus turned to Aurora. Ignoring the Headmaster, who just so happened to turn his back toward them, the Potions Master cupped his wife's cheek, pulling their heads closer together. "Will you be ok on your own?"
The woman giggled softly, placing her hand over Severus'. "You make it sound like I've never been to the Hospital Wing before. You do remember how many times I injured myself while we were in school, right? Let alone the times I've harmed myself over these past three years?"
The man rolled his eyes. "This time is different and you should know that."
"I am aware." She kissed his cheek, loving the tinge of pink that grew on his skin. "But I can manage this on my own. You go with Albus and I'll meet you back in our chambers when we're done, deal?"
Not happy with the situation, Severus still nodded, knowing his Head of House duties sometimes had to come first before his marriage. All his duties would at some point and he had to accept that fact. "Fine." Dropping a kiss to her lips, Severus released his hand just as Albus turned back around. The man held a gentle smile on his face as the two made their way back to the moving stairs. She tried listening in to their conversation though much could not be heard other than something was to happen on Christmas Eve.
Well, Severus will tell me everything when I see him later, she thought to herself.
Meandering through the halls, Aurora made her way toward the clock tower, soon finding herself before the entrance to the Hospital Wing. Stepping through, she was surprised, though mostly thankful, there were no students that could be seen. Not seeing Poppy, Aurora walked up to the closed door to the midi-witches office and politely knocked, the door soon opening to see the elderly witch.
"Why if it isn't Aurora! My, we missed you at lunch! How have you been my dear?"
Scratching her cheek, Aurora wasn't sure exactly how to state why she was there. "Um…well, that's kinda why I'm here."
"Say no more, say no more." Guiding the professor to an open bed near her office, Poppy had Aurora sit on the edge. "All right, now, what has been going on? What ailments have you been experiencing?" The woman pulled a notepad out of her apron, ready to take extensive notes if need be. With this, Aurora didn't think she would need it.
"W-Well, um…" Biting her thumbnail, Aurora struggled with explaining what she had thought down in her chambers. Why was she suddenly so embarrassed? She, herself, worked as a medi-witch for several years, having been in countless sessions where she told each and every patient they had to reason to be nervous when it came to their health. Taking a deep breath, the woman knew it was now or never. "I-I've been experiencing a severe upset stomach for a few weeks now."
Ears perked, Poppy glanced upward. "A few weeks? How many to be exact? When did this start?"
"Umm, I would say about three weeks, when my marriage to Severus was announced in the Prophet."
Poppy shook her head. "I am so sorry about that, Aurora. I read the paper and was disgusted the author would do such a thing to you and Severus. How dare she reveal something you two wanted to keep private." Making a quick note on her paper, Poppy set the notepad on the nightstand before gently placing her hand on Aurora's abdomen. "How would you describe your pain right now, between a one and a ten?"
"My nausea has quelled a bit so I would say a two, no higher than a three."
"So you've been experiencing nausea as well?"
"…yes, and I've thrown up several times in the past three weeks."
"How many is several?"
"Five…two of which are from today, the most recent being no more than thirty minutes ago."
Peering into the younger witch's eyes, Poppy raised an eyebrow. "That is most unusual."
Biting her nail again, Aurora forced her hand down as she twiddled her fingers in her lap. "Poppy, I…I think I know what's wrong…"
"And what would that be, Aurora?"
"I…I think I'm pregnant."
~ oOo ~
Standing before the Headmaster's desk, Severus stood next to the other three Heads of Houses, wondering why he had been sought out specifically and why he was needed. Albus had talked with him the entire time from the Grand Staircase until they were walking into his office, but the Potions Master was not paying attention. Then, and now, his attention was solely on Aurora, wondering if she had made it to the Hospital Wing in decent condition without getting sick and what Poppy diagnosed her with. Considering the ailments she was currently suffering from, Severus couldn't fathom what was wrong with his wife. All he had to do was suffer through this meeting then he could run down to their shared chambers.
"I thank you all for meeting me here on this lovely Saturday afternoon. I have been speaking with the Headmaster of Durmstrang and the Headmistress of Beauxbatons and we have decided on something wonderful."
"Please tell me you're canceling the rest of the tournament."
"Unfortunately, that is something I cannot do."
Severus would never laugh aloud, but he did chuckle on the inside at Minerva's statement though that did not stop Filius or Pomona from snickering. No staff was fond of this tournament and their detest for the challenges grew even more after the first task was now complete. Rubbing his temple to stop him from laughing, Severus dared to ask, "Since the tournament is not canceled, why have we been called here?"
Clapping his hands before him, Albus smiled brightly as he answered, "This Christmas Eve, Hogwarts will be hosting the Yule Ball!"
Severus immediately groaned, slamming a hand to his forehead. Minerva squealed, Pomona clapped, while Filius simply murmured to himself about having to start preparing the music.
"Pray, this isn't another one of your jokes now is it, Albus?" Minerva was the most excited of the four. "The Yule Ball is a notable tradition of Hogwarts, one we have not had in quite some time."
Yeah, not since Aurora's seventh year, Severus thought, thinking back to that night during his first year of teaching. It was the same night Severus admitted his feelings for Aurora when they had snuck out of the castle late into the night, the witch still in her beautiful evening gown. He remembered that night as if it had just happened. Forgetting the aspect that there would be students at this Yule Ball and that he would be chaperoning the event, Severus had to admit…he would love to see Aurora in another beautiful dress. Granted, she would never be as beautiful as she was the night of their wedding, but she would be beautiful nonetheless.
"Unfortunately, the Yule Ball tradition has been lacking for some time, for which I apologize. But this time, we are to host two additional schools while representing the Triwizard Tournament. This will be a huge event for Hogwarts, thus why I have called you here." Gathering all their attention, Albus added, "For this event, we are only allowing students who are fourth years or higher to attend. Considering this is a Ball, the students need to learn how to dance. That is where," Albus waved his hand before the four staff members, "the four of you come into play. You will need to gather your students within these years and teach them how to dance."
Severus scoffed. "You expect us to teach these teenagers how to dance appropriately for such a noble event?"
Albus still smiled as he quickly nodded. "Yes, yes I do."
Stepping forward, Filius was quick to ask, "What kind of music will you want to be played, Albus?"
"There is a traditional piece that must be played during the first dance. I will make sure the score is sent to you as soon as I can, Filius. Though I expect it won't take you and your musicians long to master the piece. Other than that, you have free reign during the first portion of the Ball."
"The first portion?" Pomona asked.
"Yes. We've decided to allow the students the second part of the ball to be designed around them. Once the students enter the Great Hall, the four champions and their dates will be the last to walk in. They will make their way toward the dance floor and will begin the first dance. Soon after, the floor will open up for others, followed soon by dinner. For the last portion, I have hired the Weird Sisters to be the band to perform. This will allow the students to have fun at their leisure without having to follow the strictness the Yule Ball technically requires."
Crossing her arms, Minerva spoke next, uncertain by the Headmaster's words. "Are you sure that is acceptable, Albus?"
"Why wouldn't it be?"
"Because you are asking for trouble," Severus intervened. He followed his female colleague and crossed his arms as well. "You're asking fourteen to seventeen-year-olds to pile together for a night of dancing, crammed together in the Great Hall. Not only have you hired a band that is currently popular - " Acknowledging the stares from his colleagues through his peripherals, Severus then added, "Aurora listens to them occasionally. Not only that, you're giving them free reign to do what they like. That alone is asking for some risky behavior to occur. And we'll - " He pointed to the other three staff members. "Including the rest of the staff, we will have to monitor them."
"I understand and appreciate your concern, Severus. But I believe this is something the student's will need." Raising his eyebrows ever-so-slightly, Albus was asking for Severus to read his mind. Quickly, Severus accessed this power, easily entering the Headmaster's mentality, able to access one statement he did not to speak aloud in from of the others: I have a feeling this year will only grow darker. I want the students to have a pleasant memory they can remember with a smile on their faces.
Removing himself just as quickly, Severus huffed, though he barely nodded, just enough for Albus to understand that Severus knew what he wanted the man to know. Oh, Aurora is not going to believe this when I tell her.
Just thinking his wife's name left the man seething that he wasn't by her side. As her husband, wasn't he supposed to remain by her side in sickness and in health? The woman was clearly 'in sickness' and he for sure needed to be with her. Scolding himself, Severus bit the inside of his cheek until he tasted blood. Being the Head of Slytherin House, he understood why he was called to this meeting. He knew Aurora was an understanding person as she accepted all the responsibilities that were placed on his shoulders outside of just being a professor. Currently, at the moment, Severus believed this meeting was something that could have been held at a different time. Granted, he was slightly biased but didn't give two shits about the Yule Ball.
However, thinking back to the calendar, there was only a little over three weeks before the event was to be held. Groaning internally, Severus wanted to retract his previous statement. This was probably the only time Albus could gather the Heads of Houses together before it became too late.
Glancing back to the others, Severus realized he had been so lost in thought he hadn't heard a single word of the current conversation filling the room.
"…wouldn't you agree, Severus?"
"Hm?" Lifting his head he discovered all eyes were now on him. "Sorry, I have not been keeping track of this conversation, I apologize."
All three were about to speak when Albus raised his hand, quietly asking them to remain silent. "Please excuse Severus for a moment. I stole him as he was escorting Aurora to the Hospital Wing. It's understandable that his mind is slightly preoccupied."
That caught everyone's attention, their minds now focused on his wife. Their questions bombarded him as they placed the topic of the Yule Ball on the back burner. Huffing a chuckle, he answered the most important question all three were asking. "For the most part, Aurora's all right. She's been rather sick for a few weeks and I finally pushed her to go to Poppy."
"She's been sick?" Pomona asked, her eyebrows furrowed together. "But she's seemed fine anytime I have seen her."
"Tch, well, my wife's ability to conceal her physical well-being is uncanny. If she doesn't want you to know how she is fairing, you won't be able to tell anything is wrong."
"Severus, you said a few weeks, right? Does this have anything to do with that nasty article that was in the Prophet about you two?"
"Unfortunately. Aurora took the article to heart, especially after she explicitly told Rita Skeeter she did not want to be mentioned in the Prophet."
"Oh dear, I hope she is all right," Minerva stated softly. She cared much for her previous student and wanted nothing more than for her fellow staff member to be well.
Seeing the sadness beneath his perfect facade, Albus decided he shouldn't have separated the couple as he had done. He did need to speak with Severus regarding the Ball though he truly was not needed at that exact moment. The main reason he dragged Severus away from his wife was Aurora herself. The Headmaster could tell her heading to the Hospital Wing was more than what she was letting on and he assumed she wanted the moment to be alone with Poppy. Deciding it was time, he turned to the Potions Master and said, "I believe we have covered enough of the Ball for now. We'll probably hold another meeting several days before the event to go over any last-minute details."
Taking his chance, Severus countered. "Then I hate to ask in such a manner, but may I please be excused?"
Albus instantly nodded. "You may, Severus. Please give my wishes to Aurora for a swift recovery." Severus had turned and was out the door before Albus could finish his sentence. Running down the spiral staircase, he could still clearly hear the murmuring of his fellow staff. He could hear Pomona congratulating Severus for wanting to be by Aurora's side whilst Minerva squealed, stating she was loving this new, romantic side of her longtime friend.
Scoffing at their statements, he ignored her words, eagerly moving through the castle. Taking the secret passage on the third floor down to the dungeon cut the male's travel time by half and by the time he reached the portrait to their chambers, the man was, surprisingly, out of breath. Opening upon seeing the Potions Master, the portrait creaked open, allowing Severus to step inside. Swinging his head, Severus looked around; Aurora was not in the kitchen or in the front room.
"Severus? Is that you?"
"Yes, it's me. Are you in the bedroom?" Severus was already moving through the giant front room to the door that led to their private chamber. It wasn't fully closed, leaving a breath's width of space between the frame and the door itself. He could hear his wife mutter something though she was disturbingly quiet. Slowly, Severus nudged the door open to see his wife sitting in one of the two armchairs, staring through one of the windows they typically hid behind a dark curtain. Now that the curtain was open, it was possible to see a tentacle of the Giant Squid, Grindylows, and the occasional pool of fish swim by. For the most part, it was just dark, murky water, considering how deep the castle dungeons were.
Legs pulled tightly against her chest, Aurora placed her chin on her knees, her eyes solely focusing on the movement of the black water. As there was still some sunlight outside, it gradually filtered to their depth, leaving some mystery to be seen within the water. Even as Severus stepped into the room, Aurora did not pass him a glance. If anything, she only moved her sight from the darkened glass to what lay before her, which was Severus' empty armchair. From his viewpoint, Aurora looked solemn, leaving the male very worried about what she had learned while in the Hospital Wing.
The man slowly inched his way forward until he was an arm's length away from her seat. "Aurora?" He called for his wife tentatively.
Without missing a beat, she responded, "Yes, Severus?"
"May I take a seat?"
Though she nodded, she still said quietly, "…please."
As he claimed his seat in his assigned chair, Severus rested his elbows on his knees, keeping close contact with his wife, though he still kept a distance, not knowing if she wanted physical touch at the moment. Taking a minute to study the woman, Severus could see the red around her eyes, the slight swell of her lip from constant biting, and even the red rimming around her nose. The woman had been crying, and this thought only caused the Potion Master's heart to increase to a deadly pace.
What had happened? What was wrong? Surely it's nothing too serious, right? Severus could not stop the questions from running amuck in his own mind.
Knowing he wasn't one for words, Severus leaned forward, gently placing a hand on the side of her knee. Barely closing his eyes for a second, Severus immediately shot them open when he felt Aurora place her hand upon his, tightly clenching her fingers around his. Sensing this as a good sign, the man released a heavy breath. He wanted to ask all the questions he could think of. With this, however, he knew Aurora was the one who should determine when to speak. If he had been there with her, the matter would be different. Since he wasn't, only she knew the outcome of speaking with Poppy.
Still, what if…what if she -?
"Severus…"
Ears perking at the sound of his name, Severus lifted his head to see his wife peering at him through her peripherals. Gulping, he could only not, words failing him at such a moment, unsure of how he should respond.
"I…I sorta…lied to you earlier, when…B-Before…" Swiping at her eyes, Aurora could feel the sting of tears once more. She didn't want to cry. To her, she felt as if she didn't have a reason to cry. Swallowing his response, Severus remained silent, giving Aurora the time she needed to continue. "Before I fell asleep, you asked if I knew what my symptoms could relate to because I worked at St. Mungo's…I told you nothing came to mind, but that was a lie. I knew - well, I thought I knew what was wrong."
Although he knew she had been lying, Severus wasn't upset. At least…it depended on what her suspicion had been. "And what was your initial thought?"
Refraining from answering for a moment, Aurora swiped at her eyes, the tears starting to fall once more. Taking in a shaky breath, the woman turned back toward the glass, the dark gleam cast a shadow across her face. Severus knew something was wrong. There were moments when his wife could be silent, but at those, she found peace in silence. This…this was something completely different.
Moving her head until they were staring straight at each other, Aurora was honest. "…I'm pregnant."
~ oOo ~
I have been wanting to leave this cliffhanger for so long.
DragonGoddess629