Previously on Making The First Move: Chapter 83

Moving in a circular pattern, Hermione shouted. "Not today and not at the home of Severus Snape. I will kill you with a curse."

Severus landed in the hallway and had to quickly deflect a curse Hermione had thrown.

"This is not the welcome I imagined." Severus remarked drolly with his hand still in the air.

Hermione dropped her wand and ran straight into Severus' arms. "You are early. I thought an intruder…"

Severus ended the sentence by landing a long kiss on her lips. "You know better than that. An intruder wouldn't dare. I am home. Where is my son?"

Hermione pulled herself together and gazed into her husband's eyes. "I was protecting our son. Somehow he knew it was his daddy trying to get through but I dismissed him. Just like he can smell his Papa, Sebbie can smell his daddy as well."

"My son will always know when I'm about. Sebastian, come. Daddy is home."

Sebastian came out of his room and ran straight to Severus.

Mummy scared me. I tried to tell her it was you but…."

Leaning down to pick up his mini me, Severus cut across his son. "Never dispute your mum. Whatever she does is for the good of the family and your protection. I missed you brave, little wizard. Come help me unpack."

With a wink at Hermione, Severus took hold of Sebastian's hand as he tried to push his daddy's case into the bedroom.

Severus was home and all was right in the Snape household.

/

Making The First Move: Chapter 84

When they finally got the case into the bedroom, Sebastian promptly took a seat in the bedroom chair while Hermione sat on the edge of the bed. Severus smiled internally. His family missed him so much they were going to sit and watch him do something as simple as clearing his case and putting away his things. Severus raised his wand commanding his case to hover in the air before putting things in their proper places.

"I like it when you use your wand for big things daddy."

Giving Hermione a quick wink, Severus turned to Sebastian. "Big things Sebastian?"

Hermione took a deep breath knowing exactly what Sebbie meant. The young wizard thought his daddy didn't use his wand enough.

"Yes daddy. Mum uses her wand to Summon and cook dinner and clear up all the time, but you don't. Sometimes I want to see you use your wand."

Pointing his wand directing his case to remain in a hover, Severus sat down beside Hermione gesturing for his son.

"Come here to me Sebastian."

Sebastian hesitated for a second or two wondering if he had said the wrong thing. His daddy had already spoken on the subject. He would use his wand when he felt like using his wand.

"Yes daddy?"

"Do you remember what I told you when we were sitting at the table about me using my wand?"

Sebbie glanced at Hermione before answering. "I remember you will use your wand to protect me and mum and when you feel like it."

Hermione tried to stifle a chuckle. Sebastian Snape was quite correct. His growly father had said exactly that while sitting at the table acting like a total knob.

"I did say that son, however, I will rebut those words. Using a wand is a privilege which I believe in. From now forward, I will use my wand more. In fact, I'll do it now."

Severus pointed his wand and shouted Come. Before they realized what was happening, both Hermione and Sebbie found themselves on Severus' knees.

"Happy now? You will not be able to extract yourselves until I make it so."

Sebbie was overjoyed, Hermione, not so much.

"Thank you for this lovely demonstration Severus. However, I think you should release me. I have shite to do."

Severus laughed. "Language Mrs. Snape. I was only trying to show what I could do with my wand. Relashio."

Sebastian grinned at his daddy. "Can I stay in here to watch you finish up?"

"Of course you may. We'll excuse mum because she has….things to do."

Hermione gave both her men a kiss before setting off to do the shite she needed to do.

/*/

With Sebbie down for the night, Severus and Hermione had a long discussion most of which revolved around his declaration that the multi day conference he had just attended would be the last multi day conference he would attend. Hermione had given him a pinch and a look of disbelief.

"I'll believe it when I see it Mr. Snape. Nothing means more to you than having things done right. Will you be able to rest knowing you aren't up on what was going on?"

Severus' face had turned to a scowl until he realized Hermione was messing with him. "I'll deal with it when it comes, however, suffice it to say I'd be expecting hourly reports."

A chuckling Hermione gave him a kiss on the neck. "I knew that. What else do you expect?"

And Severus told her about what he expected from himself, Neville, his Heads, and the staff of S&L. By the time he was finished his recitation, Hermione could barely keep her eyes open. Severus noticed.

"Come on love. Let's get you and our daughter to bed."

That was the evening of 9/18/2011.

/***/

Six years later. 8/31/2017.

/*/

Hermione was waiting with out stretched arms when Severus plopped down beside her on the couch.

"Come here love. I know what it's costing you to watch your son leave home. He's been your pride and joy for the last eleven years. Just remember the professors at Hogwarts now have reasonable personalities. Sebbie will be fine."

Severus managed a half smile as he pulled Hermione close. His wife knew him inside and out.

"The last six years have passed so quickly. It seems like yesterday you and he were welcoming me home from my only multiple day stay away from home."

Hermione lifted her head to kiss Severus. "You mean the evening I almost hexed you even though our son was telling me it was his daddy."

"Yes love. That evening. Our boy has grown up. Too bad Albus won't be there to welcome him."

Hermione sighed. "No Dumbledore love, but Minerva will be there. Sebbie will be fine."

Severus didn't have a rebuttal.

/*/

Sebastian, who was in a state of anxiety had run his five year old sister Leenie from his room. She, of course, had gone running to their father to tattle.

Sebastian cringed when his father called out. "Sebastian. Do not mistreat your sister or there will be consequences."

Under his breath, Sebastian said several mean things about his baby sister Eileen, but only under his breath. Out loud, he responded as any respectful son would.

"I'm not mistreating Leenie father. I'm trying to pack my trunk and she keeps getting in the way. I need to have everything ready for the Hogwarts Express tomorrow. I love my sister, but she is really being bothersome."

Suddenly Hermione called out. "Eileen Jean Snape! Come here and leave your brother alone."

Leenie let out a wail hoping her father would intercede. "Wah. I'm not doing anything to Sebbie mum. He's just trying to get me in trouble."

Severus did intercede but not in the manner Eileen had hoped.

"Enough from the both of you. Eileen, go see what your mother wants and stop that whining. Sebastian, finish packing. I'll be in to check everything over in a few minutes."

"Okay father. I'm almost done. I just have a few more things to pack."

As he put the last of his school supplies into the trunk, Sebastian once again got a case of nerves. He'd never been away from home for days at a time. He had spent a week with his Papa when he had time off but nothing like being away for months at a time. Sebastian would never say it out loud, but he was frightened. Frightened he might not fit in. Frightened he would be sorted into Hufflepuff or Ravenclaw when he wanted to be in Slytherin or Gryffindor. Frightened he wouldn't measure up. He was frightened of so many things.

Squawk, squawk.

Sebastian had put his fears aside as he walked over to his amazing Scottish Countryman Owl Papa had given him as a gift for starting school. Sebastian held out a hand to his fluffy brown with a ton of white feathers owl and spoke softly.

"Are you nervous as well Altor? Don't be. You and I will be formidable. Even if I don't get any friends, I'll have you."

Severus stood in the doorway watching his handsome son. When he was at Hogwarts as a student and then as a professor, he'd really only had himself. It wouldn't be that way for his son.

"Do I sense a bit of nervousness?"

Sebastian sighed. He would never lie to his father. "Yes father, a bit. However, I remember your advice. Even in the worst of times, I'll always have my family and Altor as well."

Severus smiled as he ran his hand through the thick hair of his first born. "Correct. You remember well son. However, you are personable, handsome and brilliant. Whatever House you are assigned to will be getting an amazing student. Your Papa and uncle will be with mum, Leenie and I to see you off tomorrow."

"Thank you father. I'm going to make you, mum and Papa proud of me."

Severus needed to bring this conversation to a close because his son's words were making the obnoxious Severus Snape emotional. His son would have something he'd never had, family and friends.

"I'll always be proud of you no matter what. Keep your back straight and your head high and everything will fall in line. Take your shower tonight so you won't have to do it in the morning. I love you son."

Then he was gone leaving Sebastian to think how lucky he was to have such a wonderful father.

/*/

After Severus left the room, Sebbie spent a few minutes speaking to Altor as though the owl understood every word he said. With the strong bond forming between the two, it was possible Altor understood every word his owner said. In those few minutes, Sebbie explained how he would miss his parents and sister of course, but his Papa as well. He explained how he would miss working in the garden he and his Papa had built up over the years. The garden was his favorite place to be. In the back of his mind, Sebbie had thoughts of joining Reese & Wilson when he finished Hogwarts. However, whenever that thought crossed his mind, Sebbie smiled knowing his father would never agree to it. At that moment, Sebbie's made a last whispered comment to Altor before heading to the bathroom.

"Perhaps by the time I've finished Hogwarts, I'll be making decisions on my own."

Altor made a soft squawk and Sebbie laughed.

"You're right my friend. My dad will probably always be making decisions for me."

/*/

Harry Potter was lying on the couch while his four year old son James was jumping up and down on his legs.

Harry loved his son but was trying to recover from a very long day.

"Gin? Please come get James. I think if he jumps any harder we can forget any thoughts of another child."

Harry could hear Ginny cackling from the other end of the house.

"Funny is it? Come get James please. It must be time for a bath or bed or something."

Ginny entered the room still cackling.

James crawled the length of Harry to grab his cheeks. "Mum is happy daddy. She's laughing."

Ginny plucked James from off his father. "Yes love. Mum is happy. She has a wonderful husband and a very delightful son. I couldn't be happier. Time for bed. Give daddy a kiss."

Harry received the sloppy kiss with all the grace of a wonderful dad. "Goodnight James. Sleep well."

"Back in a minute Harry."

While Harry had a moment to himself, his thoughts meandered back to 2011 when he and Ginny were trying so hard to have a child. Sad as it was to say the healer's procedure hadn't worked out, but he and Ginny finally got pregnant naturally in 2013. They hoped for more children but were satisfied with the one. James was a handful.

Ginny came back. "Your son is out like a light. Your mini me is as stubborn as his father. He would have jumped up and down on you all night if I hadn't intervened. So, what is Harry Potter, Auror lying there thinking about?"

Harry grabbed Ginny and pulled her down on top of him. "Harry Potter, Auror was thinking how nice it would be to feel that lovely pink bottom against his very rigid front. I'd like a romp or a soak, your choice."

Standing up and reaching out, Ginny had an answer. "I've already had a soak. I'd like a romp."

Grinning for all he was worth, Harry jumped up and showcased the very rigid member poking out of his trousers.

"A romp it is then witch. Let's go."

/*/

Leisha, who was now seven and Leon now nine were sitting in Leon's room going over numbers and letters. Leon was lording it over Leisha but she wasn't having it.

"I don't want to study anymore Leon. I want to look through all our zoo books."

Leon scowled at his sister. "You look at those books nearly every day Leish. You need to learn your numbers and letters. In two years, I'll be going to Hogwarts and won't be here to help you."

Pulling on a pout, Leisha had words for her brother. "So, two years is a long time. If mum tells you to help me, you have to help me. Anyway, I'm seven Leon. I know my numbers. I want to look over all the muggle animals. I think when I'm finished Hogwarts, I want to live in the muggle world."

When Leisha started talking crazy like this, it frightened her brother. "Mum. Leisha is talking about going to the muggle world when she gets out of school again."

The siblings were surprised when their father turned up at the door instead of their mum.

"I thought you two were in here studying, but I'm hearing nonsense about the muggle world. Forget about the muggle world Leisha. Concentrate on the here and now."

"Yes daddy. I am concentrating on the here and now. Leon is upset because I want to look over our zoo books instead of reviewing books I won't need for four years."

Lee sat down on Leon's bed letting out a soft sigh as he sat knowing he had started it all with that initial visit to the Wales Zoo. He had been trying to inspire confidence in his son but somehow had awakened an interest in the muggle world for Leisha. Over the years, they had put together five different zoo books which Leisha studied with resolve. Even though she was only seven, he feared his daughter would one day leave the magical world for the muggle world. He sighed again, but immediately snapped back to the Jordan persona.

"Leon, your sister is right. She won't be needing what's in those books for four more years. I think we can indulge her some time to look over her favorite zoo books. I also suggest you take time away from studies to do something you enjoy. You are a brilliant young wizard who will do well at Hogwarts even without all the extra studying."

Leon grinned at his father. "You and mum always tell me to study up."

Lee was caught. Leon was correct. He and Millie were always pushing him to study. However, now wasn't the time to address that. Now was the time for him to explain about balancing life.

"Millie love. Daughter coming your way."

Lee told Leisha to go gather up her zoo books and sit with her mum because he wanted to talk to Leon. For the next hour, Lee explained how even though he was brilliant they wanted him to know as much as he could before Hogwarts, therefore always reminding him to study. Conversely, to become a well rounded, confident wizard he should always make time for things he enjoyed as well. At the end of the discussion, Lee was happy to receive the very tight hug from his daddy.

"So, I'll leave you to yourself for just a minute but I'll be right back. I'm sure your mum won't mind if you shower in the morning. In the mean time, how about a game of Wizard's Checkers to pass the time."

Nodding as he headed to the game cabinet, Leon was so happy he had such an amazing father.

/*/

While Millie and Leisha were looking through the infamous zoo books, the phone rang.

"Accio mobile."

Glancing at the phone, Millie told Leisha she would be right back. Auntie Dani was on the phone.

"Okay mum. Tell Auntie Dani, Uncle Randy and cousin Anna I said hi."

"Alright love."

Hello Dani. Your niece sends her regards to all.

Hi Auntie Millie. It's me Anna. Mummy dialed you up so I could have a short chat with Leisha. May I speak with her?

It was Anna. Millie was surprised not because her niece was calling for Leisha but because it was almost 8:00 pm and she and Dani had already discussed a visit for the next day. However, a short conversation wouldn't hurt anything.

Of course you may speak to her love. She's right here.

Leish. Anna wants to speak with you.

Leisha was surprised and she wasn't. Even though Anna was only five, she had become very interested in the zoo books and pestered her cousin for a look at the animals.

Leisha took the phone.

Hi Anna. Are you still coming over tomorrow?

Yes Leish. Mummy is bringing my by in the morning. Can we look at your zoo books?

Yes we can. I'll remind you of all the names.

Thanks Leisha. I can't wait. I have to give mummy the phone now. I'll see you tomorrow.

Okay Anna, goodnight.

Leisha handed Millie the phone. "Auntie Dani wants to speak to you."

/*/

Millie and Dani spoke for thirty minutes before Dani needed to excuse herself to get Anna ready for her bath. Millie had laughed out loud when she heard Randy shouting in the background about getting off the phone with the bad Jordans. Dani had also laughed out loud before hanging up. She was going to kill her husband with a curse.

/*/

Belle Jordan had made progress over the years since joining The Witches Club. In addition to Elise and Dora, she had met more than a few witches and several eligible wizards. Three years ago in 2014 she had surprised everyone by sharing her intention of selling her home. However, after a lengthy discussion, she had offered the Jordan home to Randy and Dani who had jumped at the chance to keep the home in the family. Belle had then purchased a modern two bedroom flat with a large spare room which could be used for anything she wished. Initially, Lee had raised sand about not being asked to purchase the house but Millie had hexed him good before the first whine was completely out of his mouth, and that had settled that. Of course, even until this day, Randy low key teases his cousin about not being the one to have the Jordan home. Of course, even until this day, Lee tells Randy he'll get the house when he dies. It's all in good fun.

It hadn't been too long after the sale of the house Belle Jordan had shared some additional news with the family. She was keeping company with a wonderful wizard named Walter Bishop. Neither Randy nor Lee had been pleased but kept their displeasure to themselves. Their arses were still smarting from the dressing down Mother had given them back in 2014 when she first told them she was open to meeting a wizard and they had acted like arses. Funnily enough, Walter had fit right into the family winning over everyone in record time. In that same record time, Walter became like a grandfather figure to all the young Jordans. It was all about family.

In 2016, Belle had more news to share. She and Walter announced to the family they planned to marry. The family hadn't had time to digest the news before the wedding day was set. Belle Jordan became Belle Jordan Bishop on the 11th of March 2017. The Witches Club of London where the ceremony had been performed had been dressed out to perfection. Some of the words thrown around to describe the venue as well as the ceremony had been exquisite, elegant, and opulent. The entire Jordan/Bishop family had been pleased.

Belle and Walter had spent a month in the Maldives before returning home to settle into married life.

/*/

In the past six years, Reese & Wilson Florarium had flourished right along with Snape & Longbottom Herbologists and Purveyors. After the big upgrade in 2011, David had outdone himself. Nearing the end of December he and Allen had developed a total of eight new species as well as ten new ingredients most of which benefited St Mungo's in some way.

Noah was often heard saying he thought he was in love with both David and Allen. Ethan and Austin always laughed knowing full well what Noah meant. Severus didn't laugh at the comment, but deep down felt the same way. All his staff was top tier.

In 2013, a down on his luck James Mason had phoned Noah asking to be considered for any open position at S&L. It had been both Noah and Severus' pleasure to each leave a message for James that he wouldn't be comfortable working at the most prominent shop in England because Austin Lively was still a premiere Head and they knew how he felt about Squibs. Out of Severus' sight and hearing, the three Heads had laughed like bastards. Noah had laughed the loudest.

/*/

With the ownership of Papa's (Spinner's) End, David was able to entertain his good friend Minerva on many occasions. Several of those occasions also included several of the most senior Hogwarts professors as well. They were all good friends who enjoyed a good libation every now and then.

The last several times David and Minerva spent together Minerva brought up the topic of her leaving Hogwarts and turning the school over to the Assistant Headmaster. Each time she said it, David let out a chuckle admonishing her for telling untruths. Minerva would simply nod and take another sip of wine. David hadn't realized it at the time, but Minerva was somewhat serious with her statement and was only waiting for a commitment from him. To this day they remain special friends without any commitment being made.

/*/

By 2017, Michael, Anthony, Terry and Andreas AKA BR5 had become seasoned and prominent Curse Breakers who had received all kinds of accolades and rewards from the Goblins. In fact, Anthony who had been promoted to Senior Cursebreaker in May of 2014 had kept his team intact as they moved from Site 19, Section 2 in the Ajman Emirate to the bigger sites and bigger rewards. Their last promotion had landed the BR5 Team in Abu Dhabi the largest of the Emirates and also included a month off. Each of the team decided he would make a short visit to his home country then move on to the next. Since Andreas was from Wales and everyone else was from England, they decided to visit Wales first then on to London where they would fill their money bags to the brim.

With most of their wants and needs covered by Curse Breaker Services, the four wizards deposited almost the entirety of their pay into a Gringotts account where the galleons, sickles and knuts accumulated interest.

It was this holiday plan that landed Anthony, Michael, Terry and Andreas in London on September 1st 2017.

/*/

On Friday, 9/1/17, the Snape household was up very early, but no one was up earlier than Sebastian Snape who spent his alone time in a one way conversation with Altor.

At 7:00 am, Hermione, who opened the door to Sebbie's room expecting to have to rouse her son from a deep sleep was delighted to see the dark, brown eyes of her first born looking back at her.

She hurried over to leave a kiss on Sebbie's forehead. "Good morning love. Good morning Altor."

"Good morning mum."

Squawk, squawk.

Hermione smiled. Even Altor was ready to see what the day would bring.

"Breakfast will be ready in a few minutes love. Papa, and Neville will be here shortly. Daddy has hired a car so we'll all be traveling to Platform 9 ¾ together."

"Yes mum."

Time was getting shorter. Sebbie was beginning to have a case of nerves hoping he wouldn't cry and embarrass himself.

Suddenly Severus was at the door.

"Well son, it's almost time. I don't want to pump you up, but I do want to remind you of what we've talked about. You are a Snape. You will excel. That's it. That's all. Breakfast is ready and the rest of your family is here. Come to the table."

Father and son left the room together. Breakfast and family were waiting.

/*/

The next thing Sebbie knew it was 9:15 am and his dad was Levitating his trunk out to the car. Papa followed carrying Altor while Sebbie and Leenie walked out with Neville and Hermione. Once everyone was settled, Severus gave the magical car its orders and they were off.

Not ten minutes later, the group was stepping out of the car at Kings Cross. Even though he had been through Kings Cross several times, to Sebbie it was as though he was seeing it for the first time. Then, Sebbie thought his head would pop as Severus led the group through the wall marked 9 ¾.

He was on the path to Hogwarts.

Neville couldn't stop smiling at the looks on both Leenie and Sebastian faces remembering that same look had probably been on his own face back in 1991. The family surrounded Sebbie giving him pats on the back and hugs with Leenie giving him the tightest hug of all.

"I love you Bastian. Come home soon."

Sebbie smiled at his sister. "I'll come home on holidays Leenie."

As the Hogwarts Express pulled into the station, Severus, Hermione and Papa gave Sebbie a last hug. Sebbie was so intent on waving goodbye to everyone he bumped into the back of a small, red headed witch who turned to give him a brilliant smile when he apologized.

Severus and Neville spoke at the same time. "Hopefully, not a Weasley."

Hermione scowled at them both. "A friend is a friend and I think Sebbie has met his first."

Neville looked ashamed but Severus just returned Hermione's scowl.

After taking a very deep breath, Sebastian Severus Snape climbed onto the train holding Altor high.

/*/

As the train was pulling out of the station, Neville and David excused themselves to get to work.

"I won't be long behind you. I'll see Hermione and Leenie home then I'll be there." Severus remarked to the backs of David and Neville. To Hermione he suggested they take Leenie for a short stroll down Diagon Alley to unwind.

"Alright love. A short stroll sounds nice. Perhaps Leenie and I will stop for a cone."

Severus gave Hermione the side eye before softly whispering in her ear. "An ice cream cone at 10:20 in the morning? Is there something you want to tell me?"

Hermione reached over Leenie's head and gave him a discreet pinch.

"I guess that would be a no." Severus mumbled softly.

/*/

Anthony, Michael, Terry and Andreas spent a few minutes talking at the front doors of the hotel where they had taken rooms for the length of their stay in London.

Anthony shared his itinerary. "I'm going to see if I can track down Harry. Andreas, who wants to meet The Chosen One will accompany me."

Michael and Terry laughed out loud with Terry exclaiming that Andreas might be a tad bit disappointed because The Chosen One was just a wizard who had been chosen.

Anthony scowled at Terry who was quick to say he was only joking. "Remain calm Ant. The day is young. You'll have plenty of time to show your arse this evening."

Michael smiled at the camaraderie among his mates before telling them he was going to visit the men's shop in Diagon Alley to grab a few pairs of boxers because his boys had been squeezed together long enough.

Anthony gave Michael a slight shove before grabbing Andreas by the arm. "Same old refrain Michael. Someday you'll finally get used to briefs. We'll see you all later."

Anthony and Andreas hadn't gotten five steps away before Terry called out that he wanted to see The Chosen One as well.

Michael headed towards Diagon Alley shaking his head over Terry's nonsense thinking he would also catch up with The Chosen One before they left London.

/*/

As Hermione, Severus and Leenie were walking up Diagon Alley, Michael Corner was walking down. Severus and Hermione recognized Michael as he recognized them. Because of his stellar performance over the last six years and the accolades, Michael felt no embarrassment in stepping to Severus with an outstretched hand. For those very same reasons, Severus felt no embarrassment in taking Michael's outstretched hand before stepping aside to allow Michael to greet Hermione and Leenie.

The three held a short, general conversation before continuing on their way. Severus gave Hermione's shoulder a soft squeeze which she returned with one of her infamous pinches.

"Nothing to see here Mr. Snape. It's all water under the dam. Just water under the dam."

Leenie didn't understand what was water under a dam nor did she understand why her mum was calling her dad Mr. Snape. His name was daddy and Severus that's all. However, Leenie was wondering why her mum hadn't used her wand to clean her sticky hands.

"Mum. My hands are sticky. I need a swish and flick."

Hermione smiled as did Severus. They had a son starting his education at Hogwarts the best magical school in Europe. They also had a sweet daughter who would probably drive them mad before she was of age to attend Hogwarts, but neither would change any of it. They had a very good life.

/Epilogue/

Sometimes fate is fickle and sometimes it is filled with irony. We leave this story as we began this story with an interaction among Hermione, Severus and Michael. Although the initial interaction among the three in 2006 had been contentious, this time it was welcoming because everything in between had just been water under the dam.

Complete.