Prologue
In the radiant glow of the June sun in 1978, Hogwarts was adorned with a golden hue, illuminating every stone of the castle. Cassandra Rice, affectionately called Cassie by those closest to her, navigated the time-worn passageways with confidence. Her seventh year unfolded like a tapestry of enchantments and concoctions, her refined lineage reflected in the fluid motion of her wand as she weaved complex spells. While most Slytherins esteemed pureblood lineage above everything else, Cassie's priorities were rooted in academic pursuits and nurturing meaningful relationships.
With each step, her long chocolate brown hair swayed like silk curtains, framing her face with a touch of elegance. Her piercing light blue eyes held a depth akin to the vast ocean, hinting at mysteries hidden beneath their serene surface. Among the ambitious Slytherins, Cassie stood out like a rare gemstone, cherished by the other houses for her compassionate heart and unwavering loyalty to the other houses as well and non-purebloods and those deemed by Slytherin house to be a blood traitors.
Despite the whispers that followed her every move within the stone walls of Hogwarts, Cassie remained true to herself. She shared a unique bond with Severus Snape, finding solace in their shared love for potion-making and late-night conversations under the starlit sky. To some, she was an enigma within Slytherin house, an anomaly whose kindness shone brighter than any dark magic. But to those who truly knew her, Cassie Rice was a beacon of light in a world cloaked in shadows and secrets.
Cassie wandered through the bustling crowd of students bidding farewell at the end of term, her eyes scanning for Severus. She had just left her friend group by the Black Lake to find him.
Finally, she spotted him beneath a sprawling oak tree, engrossed in a book. A gentle smile tugged at her lips as she approached him.
"Severus," she murmured, causing him to glance up, pushing aside a stray lock of his hair. "Cassie... everything alright?" he inquired, his tone laced with concern.
With a soft chuckle, Cassie nodded. "Just wanted to say goodbye. It's our last day here at Hogwarts before we embark on new adventures."
"Not all of us have secured grand destinies like you, Cassie. Some of us aren't as fortunate to have job offers waiting," Severus remarked solemnly, gesturing for her to join him on the grassy patch beside him. "Although Dumbledore has hinted at a teaching opportunity for me here once I acquire more experience. I'm aiming for Defense Against the Dark Arts."
"That is wonderful, Sev! You will be a great professor," she smiled at him, clearly very proud. "I am not sure if I should join the ministry. My father got me the position. At least he is allowing me to work instead of marry me off like he did my sister to that Parkinson creep."
"Isn't Mr. Parkinson your father's age."
Cassie's gaze lifted to the canopy of leaves above, their soft rustle accompanying her hushed words. "You know, that fellow never lets up on Victoria about having a baby. It's as if he views her solely as a vessel for childbirth. I almost wish she'd have a boy just to silence him."
Drawing nearer to him, her eyes sparkled with a yearning for adventure. "But as for me? I have no desire to be shackled by routine. I crave exploration, the thrill of discovering new horizons," she revealed, urgency lacing her voice. "We're young, and in these uncertain times shadowed by war, playing it safe is a luxury we can't afford. Life is too fleeting to be confined by the confines of an office," she murmured, her tone bold and resolute.
Severus tensed momentarily when she closed the distance between them but gradually relaxed. Her presence brought him comfort; after losing Lily's friendship, rediscovering companionship was a balm to his loneliness. "Cassie..."
"Hmm?" She met his gaze.
"I...I..." Uncertainty clouded his expression as he struggled to articulate his feelings.
"I feel the same way about you, and not just platonically. My feelings run deeper than that."
With a pause, she locked her piercing gaze onto his, and leaned in slowly to plant a tender kiss on his lips. Surprised yet willing, Severus met her gesture with an equal tenderness, wrapping his arms around her and pulling her closer in a silent vow of deep understanding and adoration for one another. As their bodies melded together, the air hummed with a charged energy, crackling with the intensity of their unspoken connection.
She carefully extracted herself from his arms. "Should we search for a more secluded place?" Her gaze scanned the area, ensuring they were secluded in privacy. "A spot meant only for us?"
He simply nodded, rendered speechless. With a chuckle, she rose to her feet, and together they retraced their steps back to the school until they stumbled upon a forgotten classroom.
Cassie's love for Severus was genuine, but her motives for being with him ran deeper. It wasn't just about romance; it was a strategic move to break free from her father's controlling grip. While her sister had succumbed to their father's influence through marriage into the Parkinson family, Cassie was determined to defy him. By becoming pregnant out of wedlock especially with a non pureblood baby, she knew her father would be forced to disown her to protect the family's reputation. Returning home soon, she braced herself for the inevitable branding with the dark mark, a fate she intended to resist at all costs. Taking a calculated risk, Cassie had ingested a fertility potion, hoping that news of her pregnancy would surface before the ominous mark tainted her skin against her will.
Severus led Cassie to a secluded corner of Platform 9 3/4 the following day, away from the bustling crowds of students reuniting with their families. With a solemn expression, "I want you to have this," he murmured softly, his eyes reflecting a mix of emotions.
"How could I ever forget you? You are very special to me" she spoke softly to him watching as he placed a hand inside his pocket.
He let out a long, controlled breath, his fingers moving with practiced ease as he retrieved a glistening necklace from a secret pocket. The piece was a rare and precious discovery, unearthed in the depths of the obscure pages of the Daily Prophet amidst pages of mundane advertisements for bespoke jewelry. A delicate and slim chain held a dainty periwinkle flower pendant, its intricate petals adorned with delicate silver veins that glinted in the light.
"We can't predict the future, but may this token always serve as a reminder of our bond," he whispered gently, his eyes locked on hers. He wasn't the best at expressing himself, yet this small flower said everything about their unspoken connection.
On a frosty winter morning, as they strolled towards Hogsmeade, their fingers brushed against the frost-kissed petals of a rare moonlight orchid. This elusive flower held the key to perfecting the potions they were eager to concoct. Their eyes met in surprise and delight as they realized their shared interest in its mystical properties. A bond formed between them, growing like ivy on Hogwarts' ancient walls, transforming their casual nods in the hallways into meaningful conversations that echoed with laughter and whispered secrets.
She beamed with delight, her eyes sparkling. "This is exquisite," she whispered. A question lingered in her gaze. "Must I put it on myself?"
His gentle denial was accompanied by a reassuring smile, prompting her to pivot gracefully, cascading waves of hair falling down her back for him to fasten the necklace around her slender neck. As the clasp clicked into place, she pivoted back towards him, gratitude shining in her eyes as she planted a soft kiss on his lips. "I'm grateful. I promise to send you a letter."
"I look forward to it," he whispered as she walked away to find her parents, who like always were not there to greet her but the family house-elf.
Upon returning to the grand manor that had been her family's for generations, Cassie secluded herself in the opulent confines of her chamber, only emerging for meals as the days slipped by in a haze of trepidation. The dreaded evening finally descended upon her when she was summoned downstairs to an elaborate dinner gathering orchestrated by her parents. Among the assembled guests were potential suitors vying for her hand, and notably, the enigmatic Dark Lord himself stood in attendance. This night also marked the ominous ceremony where she was slated to receive the infamous Dark Mark, a fate she had fervently hoped to evade. The unsettling uncertainty lingered within her as she pondered whether she carried Severus' child, a detail that could alter her destiny irrevocably.
The smooth, jet black material of the dress clung to her curves like a lover's embrace. Its neckline plunged daringly low, held in place by delicate silver straps that shimmered in the light like tiny stars. Completing the ensemble were a dazzling diamond necklace and earrings, each facet catching the light and sending glittering reflections throughout the room. The elegant black stiletto heels she slipped into added an extra touch of sophistication and grace, their pointed tips elongating her legs and giving her a regal stature. With each step, she exuded confidence and poise, her outfit perfectly complementing her striking features.
The dining room exuded an air of mystery, shrouded in darkness save for the flickering candles adorning the table and the warm glow emanating from the fireplace that bathed most of the room in a soft light. The walls bore the rich hues of burgundy and black, a visual tribute to her family's esteemed colors. As she neared, the doors parted effortlessly by magic.
Erling Rice, a towering figure with a mane of dark hair and piercing eyes, donned a sleek black suit adorned with intricate gold details, symbolizing the esteemed family's signature colors. He mingled effortlessly with a cluster of eminent men at the gathering, including his son-in-law, whose attire exuded flawless tailoring down to his gleaming shoes. Next to him stood Orion Black, father of her longest friend Sirius, projecting an aura of power and refinement that naturally drew all eyes towards him.
Cassie stepped into the grand dining room, its opulent chandeliers casting a warm glow over the polished mahogany table. The gazes of the men present immediately honed in on her, their curiosity palpable. She couldn't help but feel like an exotic bird amidst a gathering of predators rather than a respected individual.
Suddenly, Erling's commanding voice pierced the air, drawing all attention to her as he uttered her full name, Cassandra. She approached her father who stood surrounded by distinguished pureblood gentlemen, each radiating authority and influence.
"Tonight marks a pivotal moment for you," her father declared, his outstretched arm silently urging to take for him to escort her to the table.
A knot of resistance tightening in her core as she studied the arm he extended towards her. The daunting responsibility awaiting her pressed down like a lead weight in her gut.
With a tremulous nod, she whispered, her fingers tentatively curling around his extended arm. Every fiber of her being recoiled in protest, but she summoned the grace of years of training to embody obedience flawlessly. "Yes, father," she breathed softly, her voice a fragile thread in the tense air that enveloped them.
"Come now," Erling beckoned gently, leading his youngest towards the grand table where Lord Voldemort sat with an aura of chilling authority.
With a menacing aura, the Dark lord stood up effortlessly, causing Erling to tremble involuntarily. "My Lord," Erling's voice quivered with a blend of fear and respect as he lowered his gaze in reverence, "Allow me to introduce my youngest daughter, Cassandra."
Cassandra felt the weight of Voldemort's gaze as it swept over her form, assessing and calculating. With a practiced poise that masked her inner turmoil, she dipped into a respectful curtsy before him.
"My Lord."
"You aspire to join my ranks this evening?" His voice, like frost creeping over her skin, made her shiver.
"Indeed, my lord," she replied, straightening from her curtsey. She met his gaze with a steely resolve, concealing any hint of discomfort that might betray her true feelings about being in his presence.
His gaze bore into her, a piercing intensity that made her insides churn with unease. "I've heard murmurs suggesting you question my authority," he stated coolly.
Her heart raced like a wild stallion, its thunderous beats threatening to burst from her chest. Maintaining a mask of calm, she replied, "The gossip is baseless. I am eager to stand by your side. During my time at Hogwarts, I walked a lonely path with few allies."
He offered a slight incline of his head, his eyes unwavering as they locked onto hers. "So, the reports filtering through are inaccurate."
"I have full confidence in their inaccuracy. I am prepared to lay down everything to champion your cause."
Lord Voldemort's cold gaze fixated on Cassie, his steps deliberate as he moved around her like a predator stalking its prey. "Seventeen?" he inquired with a chilling tone.
"Eighteen, My Lord," Cassie replied evenly, her voice steady despite the fear simmering beneath the surface. "My birthday was in May."
"You are aware I need more females to establish another line of Death Eaters to allow our views to continue for generations to come. I have more loyal male Death Eaters. I need females and younger is preferred like yourself."
Cassie's gaze fixated on the painting hanging above the crackling fireplace, a solemn family portrait capturing her lineage. The unsettling proposal laid before her wasn't a call to arms but a sinister plan to exploit her for birthing future Death Eaters. The dilemma gnawed at her soul - the choice between betraying her allies in bloodshed or surrendering to becoming a vessel for perpetuating Lord Voldemort's dark legacy. The weight of these options twisted her stomach into knots, churning with a sickening blend of dread and revulsion.
Cassie's gaze shifted towards Voldemort, his presence looming over her. "Yes, My Lord," she answered with unwavering determination. "I am committed to bearing offspring until my body can bear no more, ensuring the continuity of your powerful lineage."
Cassie stood with her head held high, determined to have her loyalty remain unquestioned. The coldness of the room and the weight of the decision she had just made seemed to crush her spirit. Yet, she refused to let it show on her face.
Voldemort's lip twisted into a sinister grin, his eyes gleaming with satisfaction. "Excellent," he purred, moving closer to Cassie until they were only inches apart. His hand reached out and cupped her chin, tilting her head up to meet his gaze. Cassie forced herself not to flinch at his touch.
"A pureblood witch like yourself is essential to our cause," Voldemort continued, his voice low and menacing. "The purity of your bloodline will ensure powerful offsprings."
Cassie felt bile rise in her throat as she thought about what was being asked of her. To be used solely as a vessel for birthing future Death Eaters, without any regard for her own desires or well-being, was a horrifying prospect.
But she knew she had no choice as she never came to be with Severus' child. Now it was too late betraying Voldemort and his followers would mean certain death for herself and possibly for those she cared about. She couldn't risk that.
"I am honored to serve you in this way, My Lord," Cassie forced out through gritted teeth.
Voldemort released her chin and stepped back, his black eyes still fixed on hers. "You have proven your loyalty tonight," he said finally. "I expect you will continue to do so in the future."
Cassie nodded stiffly, keeping a blank expression on her face as she fought back the urge to run from the room.
"Now, your arm," Voldemort's cold voice commanded, his wand gleaming ominously. Cassie obediently extended her arm towards him, feeling a shiver run down her spine as he branded her with the mark. She gazed at the sinister symbol etched on her skin, a mix of fear and determination in her eyes. Her heart raced with uncertainty as she glanced from Voldemort to her father and back again before finally meeting his crimson gaze.
"Thank you," she murmured, her voice tinged with both reverence and apprehension. "It is an honor to join your ranks."
Voldemort acknowledged her words with a slight nod before his gaze shifted to the vacant seat beside him. "Sit," he ordered, his tone devoid of warmth.
The chair slid out invitingly for Cassie. She hesitated for a moment, feeling the weight of her decision pressing upon her, before gracefully taking her place. The chair smoothly glided back into position as she settled into it, sealing her allegiance to the dark forces that now claimed her loyalty.
The dinner commenced with a grand display of culinary delights, each dish more exquisite than the last. As she mingled with the guests, her eyes discreetly scanned the room for a potential match among the carefully selected bachelors approved by her discerning father. Despite their charming smiles and polite manners, none managed to ignite a spark within her. The night wore on, conversations flowing effortlessly, but as the clock struck midnight, she found herself bidding farewell to the last departing guest without that elusive feeling of euphoria she had hoped for.
The night had been long and eventful, but now Cassie found herself alone in her room, the weight of her decision pressing upon her. She sat at her vanity, gazing at the dark mark etched on her arm with a mixture of sadness and regret.
"You did well tonight," her mother's voice broke through her thoughts as she entered the room with a house-elf. Cassie stood and allowed her mother to undress her from out of her formal dress.
Cassie watched as her mother handed the dress to a house-elf to be cleaned, unable to meet her eyes. "I hope father approved," she said softly, running a finger over the mark on her arm.
Her mother paused, studying Cassie's reflection in the mirror before placing a comforting hand on her shoulder. "He will never admit it," she said with a small smile. "But he does approve."
Cassie felt a surge of relief wash over her. Despite all that had happened that night and all that was to come, knowing that her father at least approved of this new path gave her some solace as he had never approved of her.
"But what about you?" Cassie asked quietly, turning to face her mother. "Do you approve?"
Her mother's expression softened and she gently stroked Cassie's hair. "You are my daughter," she said. "My love for you will never change, no matter which side you choose."
Tears welled up in Cassie's eyes as she embraced her mother tightly. She knew it wouldn't be easy being caught between two worlds - one of darkness and one of light - but having the support and love of at least one parent made it a little easier.
Over the course of a month Cassie began to feel unwell making her believe the potion had finally worked. She took a trip to St. Mungos in London. Her trip to London was veiled as a simple shopping excursion in the eyes of her parents. Secretly, she sought out a healer to confirm her suspicions. The healer conducted a mystical potion test on a vial of her urine, revealing the truth she had been anxiously awaiting: she was with child.
Cassie returned home to find her parents nestled in their cozy living room, each immersed in a different book, the flames of the crackling fire casting dancing shadows on the walls. Nervously, she approached them. "Mother, Father," her voice quivered mother lifted her gaze from the pages, a spark of curiosity igniting in her eyes. "What's on your mind, dear? How was your time in London?"
"I'm sure it was bustling with muggles," Erling interjected took a deep breath before revealing, "It was quite hectic. I visited St. Mungos today."
"Are you feeling alright?" concern laced her mother's words. "You've been under the weather quite often lately."
"That visit will cost us dearly," Erling grumbled.
"I didn't touch any of our savings," Cassie hurriedly clarified. "I covered it with my earnings from the ministry."
Confusion painted their expressions as they waited for more details to unravel.
"I'm pregnant," Cassie announced softly.
Her mother gasped audibly while her father's features contorted with anger. "Pregnant!"
"Yes... pregnant."
His voice laced with disbelief and fury, he demanded answers about the identity of the father and questioned if it was someone from Cassie's suitors.
Shaking her head solemnly, Cassie revealed the truth that shattered their expectations. "No, the father is from my Hogwarts days. Although he belonged to my house, our child will be of mixed blood."
The revelation ignited a storm within her father; he erupted in rage and condemnation. Rising abruptly from his seat, he hurled his book across the room and delivered an ultimatum that pierced through Cassie's heart like a blade: "Leave! You bring shame upon our family name! I refuse to accept a daughter who carries an illegitimate child! And I will not acknowledge a half-blood grandchild!"
Her mother stood up as well, "Let's reconsider this. Maybe we can marry her off quickly and pass the child as his if we make the wedding happen quickly enough."
"No! I will not have a grandchild who is a half-blood!" he was bright red in the face with anger, "You will leave with nothing. You will have no money."
"That is fine I have my own money and still have my flat closer to the ministry."
She looked at her mother and then her father, "Goodbye," she said and left the room. She returned to her room and gathered her belongings, things she had paid for with her own money, not her father's money.
As she packed her mother came to her room, "Cassie…"
"I do not want a lecture, mother."
"I am not going to give you a lecture," she said and placed a large bag of coins on the vanity, "this is what is left from my inheritance from when your grandfather passed. Take it and take care of my grandchild. Please stay in touch if you can. I will try to bring your father around but I do not believe I will be able to."
Cassie picked up the bag, "Thank you, Mother. I will stay in touch if I can," she closed her trunk and placed the bag of coins into her purse. "Goodbye, mother."
"Goodbye, my darling," her mother was on the verge of tears as Cassie apparated to her flat.
A week into her newfound solo living, she extended an invitation to Ann.
Ann was her first friend at Hogwarts besides Sirius. Ann was halfblood in Ravenclaw, who had married her Hogwarts sweetheart Patrick Porter shortly after graduation.
Ann came over for a visit. "Your place is absolutely adorable!" she exclaimed upon arrival. The small flat was filled with cozy furnishings and vibrant decorations, each telling a story of its own. As they sat on the plush couch, sipping tea and catching up, the sunlight filtered through the delicate lace curtains, casting playful patterns on the walls. Laughter and chatter filled the air, making it feel even more welcoming and inviting.
"Thank you. It came furnished not my style…or the life I am used to but it is mine."
"That is true. It is yours. Now what is this about you have some news to share with me," she asked as Cassie made them both teas.
"I am pregnant," she said. "What do I do," she already knew what she wanted to do but wanted to appear like this was a surprise to her.
Ann sighed, "Cassie you do not have many options. You can keep it and raise it or give birth and give it up for adoption although with the current war there's already so many orphaned children or you can..."
Cassie shook her head stopping Ann from finishing her sentence "I think I wany this baby...I love the father I do but he is not fully there I think he is still in love with someone else."
Ann placed a hand on her friend's "Then there is your answer. You can keep the baby; I would tell the father but that is me. If you do not want him involved then do not tell him. If he is still in love with another then he will never be able to fully love you, the child maybe but not you."
"I have not seen him since we went our separate ways at King's Cross...I am doing this on my own. This is my baby and I will raise it the way I see fit"
"If that is what you want to do then I will support you and I know Patrick will too. Everyone in our group will. You will not raise the baby alone we are here for you"
Cassie hugged her "You are the best!"
In March of 1979, as the cherry blossoms bloomed in delicate hues of pink and white, Cassie felt the first pangs of labor signaling the imminent arrival of her child. Despite her anticipation and nervous excitement, a tinge of sadness lingered in her heart as she recalled the unanswered letters she had sent to Severus, the father of her unborn baby. In his absence, Ann and Molly Weasley were her unwavering support, stood by Cassie's side through every contraction and whispered word of encouragement.
"Alright Cassie, feel the cool breeze from the open window on your skin, let it soothe you as you gather all your strength for one last push," the healer's voice was gentle yet firm.
With a surge of determination, Cassie pushed with all her might, feeling a mix of exhaustion and anticipation swirling within her. And then, amidst the hushed room, a cry pierced through the air, announcing the arrival of new life.
The healer's eyes lit up with joy as she cradled the newborn in her arms, a tiny bundle wrapped in soft blankets. "Congratulations," she whispered to Cassie, her voice filled with warmth and delight, "you have a daughter."
The healer gently passed the newborn to a colleague, who carefully placed the tiny bundle in Cassie's arms. Tears welled up in Cassie's eyes as she whispered, "She's so perfect... she's mine."
Ann and Molly stood by her side as Ann offered a reassuring squeeze of her hand. "Absolutely, she is yours. A stunning little one, and no one will ever separate you two."
Cassie and her child were quickly moved into a recovery room, followed by Ann, who was remiss to leave Cassie's side. The baby girl had been wrapped in a pink blanket by hospital staff, and the women were left alone in the room, Cassie cradling her infant tenderly. "Do you have a name picked out?" Ann asked, smiling down at the baby in question.
Cassie touched the necklace Severus had given her while looking at her daughter. "Periwinkle Elizabeth King," she said firmly.
"King?" Ann was confused and wondered where this name came from, "I do not remember attending school with someone with the last name King."
She looked up. "You did not know him. I met him in Hogsmeade and had a bit too much spiked butterbeer."
She decided on the surname King after discovering Severus identified as the Half-Blood Prince, a fact she stumbled upon while browsing his well-worn copy of Advanced Potion-Making. Their conversation about this alias led to him confessing that he chose to go by the moniker. Naming her daughter Periwinkle King subtly honored Severus without divulging her true paternity. Her deliberate choice to distance her child from her own family name stemmed from the painful memories of her upbringing and the desire to shield Periwinkle from any association with it.
Ann gave a small nod but did not believe that.
Cassie, a single mother to Peri, balanced her job at the ministry with raising her daughter in September 1981.
Despite Ann's persistent invitations to join the Order, Cassie felt overwhelmed juggling work and motherhood. The dark mark on her skin served as a constant reminder of her past, making it hard for her to consider joining the order as well as it would result in killing people she had grown up with or possibly even her family.
On that particular evening at the burrow, Cassie found herself in the company of Ann and Patrick's twins, Hallie and Holly, looking after Molly while others were out fighting death eaters. As the children slept peacefully, Cassie and Ann quietly tidied up the living space, their minds filled with worry for their loved ones battling against darkness.
"Shouldn't they be back already?" Cassie asked, her fingers nervously tapping on the wooden table, her gaze flicking to the ornate grandfather clock. Just then, the brass hand of Arthur on the clock clicked to home, and a sense of unease settled in her stomach.
"There they are," Molly exclaimed with a mix of relief and apprehension as Arthur strode in, his dark cloak billowing behind him like a shadow come to life. Behind him trailed several other members of the Order, their expressions grim and determined, their eyes reflecting the weight of their mission.
"Molly," Arthur said, hugging her and kissing her.
Cassie's frantic gaze darted around, seeking out familiar faces. "Where's Ann? Patrick?"
The once bustling room fell into a heavy silence, each person avoiding her desperate eyes. Remus exchanged a knowing glance with Sirius, who hesitantly moved closer to his distraught friend. With a deep breath, he began, "Cassie, it was a brutal battle—"
Cassie's surroundings twisted into a whirl of confusion, her vision blurring as she collapsed against Sirius, tears cascading down her cheeks without restraint. "It can't be true! They can't be gone!" Her words choked with grief.
Sirius enveloped her in a tight embrace, his voice heavy with sorrow. "I'm truly sorry."
Molly approached them, offering comfort in a gentle tone. "There, Cassie, we'll find a way through this storm."
A cry sounded from upstairs, "I got it," Remus said as he disappeared upstairs.
Cassie gently eased herself out of Sirius's hug, feeling the warmth of his presence lingering nearby. Despite their romantic history during their sixth year, a deep bond had evolved between them that transcended mere romance. They had discovered a profound connection as platonic soulmates, their friendship now the cornerstone of their relationship.
"Their daughters…they have no family! Ann was an orphan herself and Patrick lost his parents months ago. These girls have no one!" Her voice was shaky as she spoke, she was in shock, but tried to hold back tears from forming.
Moody stood stoically near the entryway of the living room, his voice devoid of emotion as he mentioned, "I reckon they'll end up at the Silver Birch Orphanage until a family takes them in."
Molly's gaze shifted from Arthur to the assembled members of the Order. "We can give them a home with us," she suggested, her voice filled with determination. "Raising twins won't be new to us, and it would mean Ginny gaining sisters."
Cassie's eyes brimmed with resolve as she shook her head in response. "No, it must be me," she insisted firmly. "I owe it to their parents and our friendship. As their godmother, I will take on the responsibility...but staying here is no longer an option. I no longer feel safe here. I'm relocating to America for their safety."
Sirius's gaze locked onto her, the silence in the room palpable. "Are you certain about this?" he asked, his voice soft yet firm.
"They are my godchildren," she replied, her voice wavering slightly with emotion. "In the event something happens to Ann and Patrick, it falls upon me to care for them." She fought back tears, her resolve shining through. "It is my duty to nurture and shield them as if they were Peri."
He remained quiet, his eyes scanning the faces around them before speaking again. "Then so it shall be. Raising three children single-handedly won't be without its challenges."
"I may be the primary caregiver," she said firmly, "but I am not alone in this. I have all of you here to support me. Yet, ultimately, their well-being rests on my shoulders."
Molly's nod was filled with assurance. "Indeed. We will stand by you every step of the way and as much as we can once you move."
The sun had risen and set a few times before the somber day arrived for the joint funeral of Ann and Patrick. The one year olds Hallie and Holly were in Cassie's arms dressed in matching black dresses adorned with delicate bows that their mother had carefully fastened as Peri stood beside her mother in a matching outfit to her sisters.
"Mummy and daddy cherished you both deeply," she whispered to them, her voice gentle yet heavy with sorrow, as the bewildered girls gazed up at her, unaware of the weight of loss hanging in the air.
Cassie gently rocked the twins, their tiny forms finally succumbing to sleep. With the girls settled, she stole a moment of solitude at the outskirts of the Burrow's property. Leaning against a sturdy oak tree, she felt the brisk early October wind tousling her hair, a harbinger of the impending chill in the air. Pulling her coat tighter around her frame, she closed her eyes and let the rustling leaves and distant bird songs fill her senses.
Amidst this peaceful backdrop, Cassie's thoughts swirled with a tumultuous mix of emotions. The recent loss of her best friend weighed heavily on her heart, magnified by the daunting prospect of single-handedly navigating motherhood for not one but three children. As determination solidified within her, she acknowledged the harsh reality that staying at the Burrow was no longer an option for their safety.
Acknowledging the bittersweet gratitude for the support she had received over the past week, Cassie made a silent resolve. America beckoned as a sanctuary where they could start anew. With a heavy heart yet steely determination, she knew that their path to safety lay across the vast ocean ahead.
Footsteps whispered closer from behind her, prompting a subtle tilt of her head. "I need a moment alone, please," she murmured.
"You had a child," the words dripped with bitterness.
Her eyes snapped open at the familiar voice. She met Severus' gaze,"Severus, what brings you here?"
"I am part of the order now. I came to pay my respects," his tone softened slightly.
Her eyes fell to the delicate pendant around her neck. "Periwinkle."
Severus's gaze lingered on the necklace. "Periwinkle... Is she-?"
Her gaze returned to him, "Severus, I must leave. Tomorrow, I depart for America," she interjected, moving past him swiftly.
Severus's voice boomed, a stark departure from his usual calm demeanor as he halted Cassie's steps by gripping her arm tightly. "Tell me the truth," he demanded, his eyes searching hers for any sign of deception.
Cassie's voice quivered as she struggled to break free from his grasp, fear flickering in her eyes.
Lily rushed over, her brow furrowed with worry. "Cassie, what's going on?" she inquired, her concern palpable.
Breathing heavily, Cassie managed to free herself as Severus abruptly let go. Without a word, he turned away and stormed off, leaving an uneasy stillness behind him.
"I'm okay, Lily," Cassie reassured her friend, forcing a smile despite the turmoil within. "Just dealing with Peri's troublesome father."
Lily hesitated before gently asking, "Is Severus Peri's father?" She treaded carefully, not wanting to pry too deeply into Cassie's private affairs but hoping for a positive connection that could bring happiness to Severus and his daughter.
She said nothing but gave a simple nod. "I do not want him to know."
Lily nodded disappointed but understood, "I understand."
The next morning, Cassie stood at the bustling docks, her hands adjusting the strap of her worn leather satchel, filled with a few cherished belongings. The salty sea breeze tousled her chestnut hair as she scanned the horizon for the ship that would carry her across the vast expanse of ocean to America.
"Are you certain about your decision to depart?" Molly inquired, her brow furrowed with concern.
"I am certain. It's not secure for the girls here. Hallie and Holly have already endured the loss of both their parents; I won't leave them on their own again," Cassie affirmed, her voice resolute.
Molly nodded understandingly before enveloping them in a warm embrace, a silent reassurance of support. The rest of the group followed suit, each hug conveying unspoken words of farewell and encouragement.
"You possess remarkable bravery, Cassie," Sirius commended her, his gaze filled with respect as he bid his final goodbye.
"One day I will return. I wish for the girls to experience Hogwarts, to discover their roots and meet everyone. But until the time feels right for our comeback, I'll stand by them in America," Cassie vowed, determination shining in her eyes.
He nodded as the ship blew its horn for final boarding. She adjusted the twins on her hips. "Alright girls let's go find our new home."
With excited grins, Cassie and her girls eagerly boarded the boat, their colorful day dresses fluttering in the breeze. As the engine hummed to life, they leaned over the railing, their laughter mingling with the seagulls' cries. With enthusiastic waves, they bid farewell to their friends on the docks, their voices filled with anticipation for the adventures awaiting them across the sparkling sea.
Severus silently observed from a distance as members of the Order bid farewell at the bustling docks. Unseen by anyone else, Lily caught sight of Severus lingering in the shadows. Without a word, she passed Harry to James and casually excused herself, mentioning an needing to use the loo.
She approached him, her steps hesitant on the wooden planks. "You did not want to say goodbye?" she inquired softly.
His gaze met hers, shadowed with regret. Inhaling deeply, he tasted the briny air of the ocean stretching out before them. As the ship started its departure, a pang of guilt gripped his chest, amplified by the mournful sound of the departing horn echoing through the bustling docks.
Lily looked at him then back towards the ship as a tug boat tugged it further into the sea, "Did you? Or did you bail on her? From what I gathered from Ann, you never answered her letters when she wrote. She did not know why she was even writing to you but it was obvious of course. Cassie was in love with you."
Watching the ship leave he let out a deep breath, stuffing his hands inside his coat and simply saying, "I was in love with another, but she deserves better," he did not look in Lily's direction. "I love her too, but not as much as I loved someone else."
"Her daughter is yours. It is of course very obvious; Peri resembles you very much."
He gave a small nod closing his eyes for a brief moment remembering the birth announcement that Dumbledore had forwarded to him containing a small picture of Peri wrapped in a light blue blanket with a white bow around her head. He reopened his eyes, "I am not the father type. She deserves better."
Lily did not press on anymore but returned to her family without another word.
Severus watched the ship leave until it was but a speck on the horizon.