Chapter Thirty-Eight

The Yule Ball

A/N: I told you there'd be a second chapter. Please let me know what you think!

Disclaimer: I only own Aurora and any other OCs. Remember, I will occasionally use quotes from the books and the movies; I do not own direct quotes or phrases. The chapter images (ArchiveOfOurOwn, Quotes, and Wattpad) do not belong to me. I have found them either through Google or Pinterest. I take NO credit.

~ oOo ~

The two exited simultaneously as they walked back to her shared chambers, Aurora waving at Hermione as she watched the witch up toward the first floor. Once the girl was out of sight, Aurora entered as Sapphire - the creature had been asleep the entire last two hours - flew to her spot near the fire and fell back asleep, causing the woman to snicker.

Lifting his head from his book, Severus smiled. "And you're back. How'd it go?"

"It was wonderful. Hermione could not believe what I had done. I can't wait for you to see; she looks beautiful."

He hummed. "I'm sure you did a fantastic job. You never do anything less than perfection, so I'm not surprised she liked it." Checking the time, he said, "You have enough time to get ready?"

She nodded. "Yeah, so whatever you need, I suggest you get it now because I'll be locking you out of the bedroom."

He stood and stepped toward their room. "How rude," he muttered before kissing her on the cheek. He returned swiftly with a new set of robes. Leave it to Severus Snape to wear his typical set of clothing to an event such as the Yule Ball.

"Of course," she mumbled. "I should have guessed better."

"At what?" He eyed her curiously.

"That that's what you were going to wear."

"Well, I didn't want to wear my dress robes; that's what I wore to our wedding."

She weighed his answer in her head, understanding his reasoning, something she suddenly accepted. "Mmm, yeah, okay, that I can understand." Standing on her tiptoes, she kissed his lips. "I'll be as quick as I can be."

She entered their room and promptly locked the door, not wanting Severus even to glimpse her attire before she was ready. Taking a quick shower, Aurora washed off the grime that had accumulated throughout the day, including the musky air from her old chambers. Having washed her body in three minutes, she was already drying off as she rummaged through her drawers, knowing precisely what she was looking for.

In her bottom drawer, she found the specific item: the green lingerie piece she had gifted Severus on his birthday. It was that same birthday that had initially ended their relationship. That was part of the reason she had never worn the garment, but since they had moved past that and were now married, she considered that maybe it was time to be sexy for her husband. Pulling on the thong, she carefully stepped through the lace as it contoured to her curvy form. There was a small band that sat at the smaller section of her waist that connected to her lace thigh-highs. The thin, lace bodice corset was tight as she secured it in place, and the strapless bra was see-through but secured her breasts, which was the feature she needed.

Taking a glimpse into the mirror, Aurora stepped backward. She had seen herself in lingerie before, but she had never seen herself like this. There was one word that could describe how she looked: tantalizing. Sexy, curvy, appetizing, alluring, hungry - all these synonyms ran through Aurora's mind as she continued to stare. And the best part about it was the concept that she believed all these words. She felt alluring; she felt comfortable in her body. But most importantly, she was excited for Severus to see her later that night.

However, what made things worse was that she suddenly wanted her husband.

Aurora growled at the sensation coursing through her lower abdomen. She had barely done anything other than think of her husband, and she could feel the slickness between her legs.

Ignoring the sensation, Aurora sat before her vanity and started working on her hair. The woman wanted something simple so that the main focus would be on her dress. First, she loosely curled her long tresses before twisting small sections and pinning them behind her head. She did that for all the sections until there was a beautiful twisted bun with loose strands falling out. Additionally, she pulled strands to frame her face and curled those to add texture. Lastly, she pulled small sections from the bun until it loosened the entire look so it wasn't tight. The style was similar to Hermione's, and that's probably why Aurora thought of it, as this was something she was already going to do to her hair.

Next came the dress.

Having cast an illusion charm on it, she had hidden the dress from Severus for the past few weeks.

First, probably the first time she had forgone, was there was no lace. She opted for something different because, even though she wanted to be just as pretty, she didn't want to mimic her wedding dress, which had been entirely lace. It was a mermaid-style dress tight on her thighs and flared at her knees until it fell to the floor with a decent train following behind. It had a high neckline that wrapped around her neck and long sleeves. It was on the modest side, but she had to remember that this was a student function, and she couldn't wear anything excessively revealing; despite wanting to, she kept her modesty.

Stepping into the dress, she allowed the cool material to cover her skin, forming her curves as she had magically altered the dress to fit her perfectly. The dress fell into place as she magically zipped the back. Snug, tight, and formfitting, Aurora glanced into the mirror, loving the image she saw, and hoped that Severus would too. Placing a small diamond necklace around her neck along with a jeweled bracelet and ensuring that her wedding rings could be seen, Aurora knew she was ready. Stepping into her high heels, she spritzed some perfume across her body, stole one last look in the mirror, and stepped toward the door.

Slightly opening the door, she peeked out, noticing Severus had already changed and was standing in the kitchen drinking something dark, probably bourbon. Even though he was wearing his standard teaching attire, he looked put together, clean, and neat. Additionally, he kept his promise and tied his hair back, the green ribbon flowing gently behind his head as several curly strands framed his face.

The man was beyond handsome, and Aurora had to momentarily moan silently.

"Hey…are you ready?"

Severus' head moved to their bedroom door. "To see my lovely wife? Always."

"Alright. Close your eyes!" Waiting until he had done so, Aurora tentatively stepped out. She took a deep breath and paused momentarily, wanting Severus to suffer silently before he could see her. "Okay, you can open your eyes."

Severus blinked slowly, adjusting back to the light as he instantly sought his wife across the room. There was much about her outfit he had to intake, but the first word that came to his mind was that his wife was beautiful. Whistling, he stepped forward, arms reaching outward to grip her arms as he stared long and hard, glancing up and down across her body.

"Bloody hell, Aurora. I - this - how…?" The man was at a loss for words. Stepping back, he twisted his finger for Aurora to turn around, a silent order she obeyed diligently. The man released a groan as she faced him once more. Stepping forward, he pressed a slow kiss to her cheek. "Aurora Snape, you look…bloody gorgeous."

Blushing, she muttered bashfully, "You think so…?"

"I know so," he answered. "This dress, I…you were right. It's simple, but damn, does it accentuate your curves. And is this? Oh, you did not?" He touched the dress, running his fingers up and down the length of her arm.

"Did what?" She smirked. She knew exactly what she had done and hoped her husband would notice.

"Is this velvet?" he nodded eagerly, extremely happy. The wizard was suddenly transported to that night of her Seventh Year, where she wore a blue velvet dress the year she desperately wanted to dance with the man she had been crushing on for several years. Though they had danced in his office later that night, she wanted to dance with him in front of her peers. "I can't believe you're wearing a dress similar to that one."

"I wanted to surprise you. You don't like it?"

"Like it? Oh, sweetheart, I adore this." He leaned forward and nipped her neck, causing the woman to squeak. Her knees grew weak as Severus lightly licked her neck, gently sucking on her pulse point, but not hard enough to leave a mark. "But I wish the night was over. I cannot wait to rip this off of you tonight." He stared at her with a puppy dog look. "I can rip it off, right?"

"This one you can," she murmured, staring into his eyes.

Groaning, Severus stood, staring at the clock. They had fifteen minutes until the ball, and he knew his wife had been looking forward to this night for several weeks. Despite wanting to throw her onto their bed and ravish her, Severus took this moment to grab her hand and kiss the back.

"If we don't leave now, we won't leave for several days."

She gave the best seductive look she could. "Is that a promise?"

"Always."

Stepping forward, she touched his lips with hers, sneaking her tongue inside for a quick, heated kiss, removing herself long before Severus was done. Aurora quickly placed a cloak over her shoulders. The dungeons would be below freezing, and she didn't know what it would be like in the Great Hall. She had to assume it would be warm, but Aurora knew that she wouldn't remain there the entire night.

Stepping outside, they made their way upstairs, stepping toward the Great Hall. Numerous individuals were outside the doors to the Great Hall; some were couples, while others were waiting for their dates or friends. Several of the Champions were waiting as they were to lead the night with the formal dance at the beginning. Seeing Minerva maneuvering the students inside the hall, Aurora grasped her previous professor's arm.

"Minerva, do you need any help with anything?"

Turning, Minerva glanced at Aurora and smiled. "My dear, you look absolutely stunning tonight!" She didn't give the woman a chance to answer. "But, no, thank you, dear, I've got this covered. You and Severus should head inside and find your seats. We don't have much longer until we can get started. We're just waiting on Mr. Diggory and Mr. Potter."

She and Severus nodded, acknowledging other students pointing in their direction. Most students could not believe that Aurora and Severus were married together. They were still a talking matter for their gossip, but the idea didn't bother Aurora as much as it had initially. Surprisingly, she kept the article Ms. Skeeter had posted about them as she occasionally reread it. The article was ludicrous, but at the same time, it was hilarious.

Stepping inside the Great Hall, Aurora's mouth fell slightly. She had a basic idea of how they would decorate the hall for the ball but had no idea that they were going for a 'Winter Wonderland' concept. There were Christmas trees covered in decorations; snow gently fell from the magical ceiling, and long icicles were dripping down along the windows. The placements towards the back of the hall were meant for the staff and attendees; the dance floor was right before that, and the food tables, along with the tables for the students, sat in the middle toward the doors. They truly had utilized the room available in the Great Hall, and it left Aurora mesmerized by the beauty.

She could feel a slight tingle in her head, and she allowed Severus to penetrate her mind briefly.

He leaned over just enough for her to hear his words. "This might be pretty, but it doesn't compare to your beauty." She smirked, a blush coating her cheeks as she gently pinched the arm she was holding.

Several students stepped forward and ogled Aurora, stating her dress was something they had never seen, some even mentioning that they wished they had worn something similar. She dismissed them politely, saying they deserved to spend this evening with their friends. Several more rumors were spreading as most of the guests in the hall stared at the couple. Even those who were standing near the staff tables were staring. Aurora began blushing for a different reason as Severus tightened the grip on her hand, looping through his arm. They reached the front and found their seats, sitting as they patiently waited the last several minutes before the event was to begin.

Aurora began conversing with the person next to her, some individual from the Ministry attending the spectacular event.

"So, you're Aurora Snape?"

"Yes, that's me," she smiled.

"Ah, so you're the one who married Professor Snape," Aurora questioned her statement. "I read the article in the paper several weeks ago. I've occasionally worked with Professor Snape, and honestly, I didn't think he'd get married. He doesn't seem like the type."

"Yes, well…" Aurora sighed. "People can often surprise you."

The woman nodded at that. "I am glad he has settled down. But I was slightly concerned about the article. Did either of you give consent for something like that to be published? Because the picture that was there stated otherwise."

"Ugh, no, we did not." The woman dropped her head into her hands. "Ms. Skeeter had been bombarding me for at least a week before she stayed behind and eavesdropped when Severus and I spoke."

The Ministry woman placed a gentle hand on Aurora's arm. "Don't think anything of it. Ms. Skeeter has a faithful fan base, including some Ministry employees who diligently read her material. I, for one, think her material is nonsense." She smiled encouragingly at Aurora.

"That…means more than you think. It's been a little hard," she pointed to the children across the hall. "Especially when your students won't stop talking about it."

"I bet that can be annoying."

That was the end of their conversation as Minerva stepped through the doors, explaining to Albus that they were ready. The Headmaster gathered the study body and the staff as they eagerly waited for the Champions. From her position beside Albus, Minerva opened the doors, signaling the four couples to enter the Great Hall.

And enter they did. Severus offered Aurora his hand, which she took, and they placed themselves beside Minerva as they watched the Champions enter. From her position, Aurora could see Harry at the back with his date. Even from where she stood, she could tell the boy was nervous. And nervous he should be. The boy lifted his head, and for a moment, they stared at one another. She quickly gave the boy a thumbs up, who nodded as the four couples stepped onto the dance floor.

Filius stood before the musicians, and when the moment appeared, he instructed the performers to begin. Elegant violin music echoed across the hall. The music entered Aurora's ears as she slightly swayed, entranced by the Champions completing the opening dance with their partners. Severus turned toward Aurora, and she could see a slight smirk on his face, most likely because Harry had momentarily forgotten where he was and the moves he was to perform.

This occurred for several moments where, after some time, Albus stepped forward and offered his hand to Minerva, who accepted. They stepped onto the dance floor, followed by several other couples. The music escalated and continued to play. Students also entered the floor, swaying to the swift tempo, and followed the specific dance routine.

Severus suddenly stood before Aurora.

He extended his hand and patiently waited for the woman to offer hers. But he didn't have to wait long, for she instantly grasped his hand. He gave the woman a swift kiss on her hand before guiding her onto the dance floor. The wizard quickly placed his hand on her hip, and just like they had done in the dungeon classroom several weeks prior, the two began their dance.

They moved gracefully. At first, the student body focused solely on the Champions, but the moment the two Professors stepped onto the dance floor, time seemed to stop. They noticed the stares; they could feel the whispers. But neither cared. The couple hadn't been granted many opportunities to dance like this. Other than their wedding, they occasionally danced inside their chambers, but this night was special. It was just mere hours before Christmas, and Severus wanted to celebrate the love he held for his wife.

Severus' hair swayed while they danced, and despite not liking the ribbon in his hair, he was grateful as it held his long locks away from his face. While they danced, the man stared down at the woman in his arms. She was so beautiful, and even after all this time, he could not believe she was with a man like him. He was still in denial that such a woman loved him, that she wanted to remain by his side, going so far as to go against everything she believed to stand by his side, to protect him in a war that hadn't happened yet. Tonight, Severus would cherish his wife to demonstrate how much he loved and cared for her.

Aurora was having similar thoughts in her mind. She couldn't grasp that the man she was dancing with was hers. She loved Severus dearly, knowing deep within her heart that they were soulmates; they were meant to be together. He was always handsome, and despite wearing his typical teaching robes, the man was more attractive than ever. Maybe it was the ribbon in his hair. Perhaps it was how close he held her despite the rumors and gossip that would spread like wildfire the next day. Despite being such a private person, Severus was stepping outside of his comfort zone to treat her the way he believed she should be treated. She wanted to cherish this man. He deserved all the love in the world and would do anything to protect him.

They danced longer than Aurora thought they would. When they sensed a change in the music, they returned to their seats where Severus left to retrieve them something to eat. He returned moments later with goulash and stew, something to warm their bones on this cold night. However, after having danced the way they had, she was not cold. Instead, she was hot. They ate and enjoyed each other's company, listening to the music and watching the students take pleasure in their evening dance. The music gradually changed into something upbeat that changed the rhythm of the music; it kept the students on their toes. From her position, she watched. She secretly followed Hermione, loving how she was laughing and having fun.

Meanwhile, Harry and Ron sat on the sidelines, frowning at the activities surrounding them. Their dates merely sat there looking rather glum. She felt terrible for the young ladies and wished another individual would ask them to dance. She hated that thought, but she was disappointed in Harry and Ron treating their dates in such a way.

The night gradually progressed, the hours trampling each other as it grew close to midnight. The Weird Sisters had stood on the stage and performed, their music pleasant, fast-paced, and had the students on their toes. At one point, a mosh pit grew close to the stage, and the students went wild with the performance. Several staff members had to walk through to ease the students apart, but they just regrouped and formed an even tighter section. Aurora merely shook her head. If they genuinely weren't doing anything inappropriate, she said let them be. Let the students have this night to enjoy the festivities.

Severus felt the same, though he still thought the students were acting a little childish. Aurora grimaced, stating that they were children and deserved some moments in their lives where they could let go and act like the children they were. He seemed to understand the thought. But she could tell he was most upset about Igor Karkaroff wanting to steal a moment to speak.

Her husband had wanted nothing to do with the Durmstrang Headmaster after the incident with Aurora in the storage room just weeks prior. At this point, he cared no less whether the man lived or died; he felt that strongly about what Igor did.

But something was gnawing at Aurora's stomach. With the way Igor had pleaded with Severus, maybe it was something serious. Still, she didn't want to dive too deeply into it. She, too, was also furious with the Headmaster. She planned on having fun and determined that that's what she would do.

The hurt continued to tick by. Right before midnight, Albus stepped onto the stage and gave a brief speech about the importance of unity between the three schools and how the students should continue to thrive in enjoying each other's company. He wished everyone a Merry Christmas just as the clock tower struck midnight. After that, everything seemed to slow. The Weird Sisters cooled their tune to a slow dance, leaving numerous couples to pace back and forth across the dance floor in each other's arms.

Aurora so desperately wanted to drag Severus back to the dance floor, even if it was for one song. But she knew he would refuse; the man would be too embarrassed. And because she loved the man so much, she wanted to respect his wishes.

Seeing as her husband had been gone nearly ten minutes, the witch decided it was time to find him. Wrapping herself in her cloak, she traversed outside toward the carriages. Why there were carriages, she would never understand, considering all students were housed in the castle. Still, as she stepped out into the courtyard, she noticed Severus briskly walk from carriage to carriage, his wand pointed at the door as he examined it. And with each student that stepped out, he reduced many points from their House. Several students passed Aurora as they returned inside the castle, and she, feeling sinister, removed more points for her disappointment. The students were stunned, but all the woman said was, "That's your consequence for doing something you shouldn't have."

Curling into her cloak, Aurora hopped onto a stone ledge and watched her husband move from each carriage. He was a man on a mission, and she had to respect his authority. He was a powerful man, and she had to remind herself that he was all hers.

And, as if she knew, Igor appeared from across the courtyard and stopped Severus in his tracks. From her position, she could hear them.

"It's happening. Like before!" Igor said his first words to Severus. "And soon, neither you nor anyone else will be able to deny it!"

But her husband was quick with his words. "I told you already, Igor; I see no reason to discuss it." He was then briskly walking across the courtyard to a rather rowdy carriage that was swaying, indicating what was happening inside. Muttering a spell, the door opened to reveal two students hastily pulling their clothes back on. "Ten points from Hufflepuff, Faucet, and the same goes for Ravenclaw, Stebbins!" The students quickly walked away, and, just like the previous students, Aurora took away more points as they walked by her, their faces full of embarrassment and slight anger.

Aurora had to consider whether some of Severus' attitude toward students was rubbing off on her. She shrugged, not caring in the slightest.

Just as Severus turned around, Igor was up in his face. "It's a sign, Severus! You know it is!"

"I don't know what you're talking about," Severus replied cooly.

He began to walk off, seemingly ignoring the Headmaster when Igor said, "Really? Then perhaps you wouldn't mind rolling up your sleeve?" Having just checked another carriage, Severus hastily turned around, staring Igor down. He reached for Severus' sleeve, who raised it above his head. "You don't fool me, Severus! You are scared. Admit it!"

"I have nothing to be scared of, Igor. Can you say the same?"

Not knowing how to respond, Igor slowly walked backward until he finally turned and left Severus alone. Aurora, having watched everything, didn't know how to process the scene. Since Severus had been experiencing pain in his Dark Mark, it only made sense that Igor would also.

A sudden movement from the corner of Aurora's eye caught her attention. Hopping off her ledge, she moved through the corridor and rounded the corner, surprised to see black dress robes and extremely fluffy hair.

"Harry?"

The boy stiffened as he slowly turned toward his professor. He scratched the back of his neck and tried to smile. "A-Aurora!"

She eyed him curiously but knew he had seen the interaction between Igor and Severus. "What're you doing out here? Shouldn't you be in the Great Hall with your date?"

"I - no. A Durmstrang student asked her to dance."

"I see. Well, I saw the way you treated her this evening. Harry, I'm disappointed in you. Both you and Ronald."

He bowed his head, clearly embarrassed. "I-I'm sorry."

She crossed her arms. "I don't think I'm the one you should apologize to." Harry initially wanted to speak, but he closed his mouth and nodded. Knowing he understood, she grabbed his shoulder and gently walked him toward the Great Hall. "Even if you're done with the ball, you should go this way. It'll be warmer; trust me."

"Alright, Aurora." He moved to reenter the door he came from but stopped and turned. "You look very pretty. I'm sure you impressed Professor Snape."

Her cheeks instantly burned. "Harry!" She cried, trying not to laugh. The boy merely winked before walking off. The woman shook her head, trying to forget what her student just told her.

Walking back into the courtyard, she found her husband in the center, surveying the carriages around him. Looping her arm through his, Severus glanced down at his wife and smirked. "Why am I not surprised to find you out here?"

She huffed. "I was getting lonely. Someone decided to up and leave me alone to go do their chaperone duties."

The man groaned. "Someone had to."

"So," she glanced at the carriages. "Find anyone shagging?"

He chuckled at her words. "Thankfully, not to that extent. Though I have removed points from each House."

"Then you are rubbing off on me." He eyed her curiously. "I took more points away from every student who walked past me. They were not happy."

In a low voice, Severus bent down to her ear and said, "Good girl."

Trying to ignore his statement, Aurora still could not stop the tremble in her voice. "I-I learned from the best."

"Oh," he smirked. "I'm the best?"

She pinched his arm. "We are so not going down that road."

Chuckling, the male glanced back toward the Great Hall. "What's it like in there? Still crazy?"

"No, it's slowed down. Some couples were dancing, some were still eating, but most have retired to their houses." Tugging his sleeve, she added, "I think we should do the same; it's almost one."

"Is it?"

She nodded. "Besides, I'm getting cold." She traced her finger along Severus' arm.

Instantly understanding the hint, Severus turned toward his wife and cupped her cheek, pulling the woman closer. "You're cold? And the cloak's not helping?"

"Not really. Besides…" She lowered her voice so only he could hear. "Only you can help. I need your warmth." She blinked upward at the man several times.

Her response left the man grinning. "I might just have the remedy for that. But we must return to our chambers. Only there can I give you the best medicine."

She wanted to push him further. "And what medicine would that be?"

He barely placed his lips upon hers. "I cannot say here. But it will make you tremble."

"Tremble? How daring."

"Oh, you'll feel it several times before we even try to sleep."

She returned the lustrous kiss. "Then we better hurry. I'm ready for you to see your present."

His eyebrow rose slightly. "Present?"

She nodded. "It is officially Christmas."

"What a lucky man I am."

Together, they scoured the carriages one last time, and when they found no more students, they traversed back into the Great Hall and ran into Albus. Severus questioned if they were still needed for chaperone duties. Still, the Headmaster merely smiled and wished them a lovely evening, that they were to enjoy their evening and a wonderful Christmas morning. As swiftly as possible, without trying to earn questioning looks, the couple walked hand-in-hand out of the hall toward the entrance to the dungeons. Once beneath the school, Severus scooped his wife into his arms, her giggle entering his ears as her arms wrapped around his neck securely.

They had barely placed their bodies inside their chamber when Severus placed Aurora on the ground and thrust her against the wall. His lips found hers as she rewrapped her arms around his neck, keeping the man in place. Although soft, this wasn't meant to be a ginger kiss. No, this was lustful and demanding. Severus shoved his tongue into her mouth to explore. He wanted a kiss, and he was going to get a kiss.

All the while, Aurora groaned, loving this invasion as this was what she had wanted all night. Severus, being greedy, traced a hand up her clothed thigh, grasping the flesh, and had her wrap her legs around his waist. She did so as he gripped her behind, firmly holding the flesh in his hands.

"Oh, Severus…" Aurora cried out, needing a moment to catch her breath.

Dropping his forehead against hers, he said, "Yes, Aurora?"

"I'm still cold," she mumbled, grinding her lower half against his for emphasis.

"Really? Because, from what I can feel, you're hot down here." He rubbed his hands over the front of her nether regions, but because of her clothing, he couldn't quite find her clit. Dropping her legs to the floor, Severus stared up and down at his wife before quietly asking, "You said I could rip it, right?" She nodded, and the man needed no further consent.

Grasping the fabric across her stomach, Severus quickly tore the fabric; the slight screech of material echoed across the room, but the gasp from the man's lips was louder.

"Aurora, is this…?"

She knew what he was talking about. "You'll have to look at the rest."

So, Severus tore through the rest of her dress. Sections fell upon the ground, revealing more of what lay hidden underneath. Once the entire material was gone, Severus stepped back and gazed at his wife in wonder. Here she was, having worn an elegant gown, only to have covered up the seductress she had hidden.

"Is this…the gift you gave me on that birthday?" He knew which day he was talking about.

"Yes," she breathed heavily, dragging a hand down the front of his frock.

"Bloody hell, Aurora…" With his fingers, Severus dragged them down the length of her body, watching as the digits caught on ribbons and different sections of bright emerald fabric. He thoroughly enjoyed the way it formed her curves and accentuated the beauty she held. Eyes traveling down, he caught the stockings and, after having his wife turn around, noticed she was, once again, where all thong. And, it should have been a given, but everything was lace.

The wizard dropped his head onto her shoulder, gripping her waist tightly. "By god, Aurora, the things you do to me." Lifting his head, he made it as far as her neck, where he suckled the skin, wanting it to darken, to mark this woman. He trailed his lips up her skin and pecked her chin before kissing her temple. His mouth opened to speak when the only sound to be released was a heart groan, his eyes traveling downward to see that his wife had gripped him through his trousers and was softly rubbing his entire length.

"I can take a guess what I do to you," she muttered. Her cheeks were flushed, and that same redness fell along the tops of her shoulders.

Smugly, Severus dripped his fingers low, pushed aside the thin fabric of her thong, and gently placed his fingers between her lips. He closed his eyes for a second to savor the heat she maintained. "If only you knew how wet you were for me."

"I can feel it," she said quietly. "It feels like it's dripping down my thighs."

Dragging a finger through her slit, Severus lifted the same finger and popped it into his mouth, keeping his eyes connected with Aurora as he sucked the digit dry. "As usual, you taste delectable." His words had the woman flush more. She should be used to Severus speaking to her in such a manner, but just the way he said it in that deep voice of his was still enough to cause her to become a puddle of ecstasy. The man instantly noticed this. "Oh, does my voice…do things to you?" She nodded slightly, eyes peering off to the side, suddenly embarrassed to look her husband in the eye.

But Severus wouldn't have it. Gripping her chin gently, he redirected her attention to focus on him and solely on him. "What is it you want, Aurora?" He voiced her name so silky that her knees visibly shook.

"I want you," she muttered.

"Louder. I need to hear it."

She swallowed. "I want you!" Her voice echoed across their chambers, causing the man to smirk.

"That's a good girl." Lifting the woman by her hips, Severus crashed his lips to her and began moving to the bedroom. He didn't want to walk the additional twenty feet, so he stepped toward the couch and sat down, placing the woman on top of him. Caressing her face, Severus brushed loose strands of her away to gaze into her eyes. "I think this is a good spot. Don't you?"

"Yes," she said breathlessly. "But I think you're too overdressed."

She slowly undid his cravat and threw it behind her. With a wave of her hand, she undid the many buttons along his outside cloak and soon tackled the white shirt underneath. With his chest bestowed on her, Aurora bent forward and kissed from his neck downward. Severus had a feeling where this was going, so he merely watched from his position, definitely enjoying the view. Aurora dropped to the ground, hands roaming Severus' skin as she quickly reached his trousers. Staring upward at him, she blinked and undid the zipper, lowering the material until it punched at his knees. Cupping his member, Aurora tested the waters through his boxer briefs until removing him entirely. With eyes on her husband, she lowered her mouth and fully engulfed his member past her lips. A shudder escaped the man's body as he watched from above. He loved the velvet sensation of his life's lips surrounding him. The increased heat and slickness of her tongue were almost his undoing. He tilted his head against the couch cushions and moaned into their chambers, knowing no one could hear them.

He suddenly, as gently as he could, pulled on the back of her head, not wanting to finish in her mouth. "As much as I love you going down on me, I want to finish inside you."

"Do you?" Crawling back into his lap, Aurora cupped her husband's cheeks and kissed him again. "Where do you want me?"

"Right here, on the couch," He answered. "I want to fuck you with you on top."

"I think that can be arranged." She moved to unclasp her bra when Severus stopped her, again finding his fingers tracing the bodice lace. "No, I first want to make love to you in this."

"You do?"

"Oh, yes, I do." Pressing his fingers back into her heat, Severus fingered her, inserting one finger to find she was still extremely tight. Aurora tilted her head backward, moaning into the open air as she felt her husband's thick finger poke and prob her insides. But then, he pushed right up against her g-spot, and she saw stars, crying out into the night as her breathing increased.

"Does that feel good?" He asked; she could only nod. "Good, I want to hear you." He pressed his finger against that specific spot, never relenting, not even when she slightly begged him to. Severus knew she didn't mean it.

"S-Severus," she gasped. Severus' answer was to lean forward and attach his lips to her neck again. Aurora pushed her body further against her husband, craving his touch, wanting his skin against hers. "Right there." Grunting, the woman found herself slightly gliding against his hand, searching for her orgasm, knowing it was within reach.

"Can you finish with my fingers? Will you be a good girl?"

"Y-Yes! I want to be a good girl for you!" Mouth having fallen open, the woman gasped, heavy pants escaping past her lips.

And then she saw stars.

Pressing her chest against Severus, Aurora screamed, her body shuddering and shivering the moment her orgasm released across her skin. Her body grew intensely warm; the pulsing of her womanhood coursed through her veins and pumped her heart to beat erratically. She caught her breath, slowly returning to reality as her vision cleared and she could remember where she was. Smiling down at her husband, she lovingly kissed his cheek; her body trembled as he removed his fingers.

"Thank you," she murmured against his lips.

"You are more than welcome, baby. Anything to make sure you feel the pleasure you deserve." The woman smiled dreamily, still feeling the aftershocks of her core.

"But now it's your turn." Grasping his member with one hand, she stood on her knees and used her other hand to move her thong out of the way. Lowering herself onto his member, Aurora sighed as her husband slowly penetrated her core, his thickness stretching her muscles so she could accommodate his girth.

"That's right, I need to stretch you well for this," Severus whispered, grasping the woman's waist as he watched her core take in his entire length. Despite the number of times they have made love, Aurora still needed a few seconds to accommodate his length so she could fully take him in. But once he was entirely in, she smirked, guiding her hips against his as she bounced her body up and down.

This was the dance they played and had perfected over the last several years. Lips locking as one, Severus bit his wife's lip, demanding entrance, though she quickly gave it to him. Their tongues mingled, moans lost into each other's mouths as they consumed one another. Her bouncing red in ferocity as she squeaked and moaned, taking in the pounding, accepting the thrill of the sex, loving the moment, and searching for her next orgasm. Just like the last, this was coming on quickly, and she knew that it was only a matter of seconds before she would explode.

"Severus!" She cried out as he, out of nowhere, thrust his hips upward to meet hers as she bounced downward. The male grinned, knowing exactly what he had done and loving each second of the delicious torture.

"A-Aurora," the wizard stammered. The itch from his balls was the indicator that he was close. Severus was ready to face his orgasm. He wanted that release; he wanted to fire his semen deep inside his wife. They were still trying to become pregnant, so this was another chance for that to happen. He wished with everything he held that this time, his secretion would hold and attach inside her womb.

Huffing before him, Aurora was a sweaty, beautiful mess. Strands of hair escaped her perfect updo and framed her face. She was out of breath but continued to thrust up and down, nearing her end, and knew her husband was close as well.

Taking the surge, Severus gripped her waist harder and slammed his cock deep into her core, sending the woman up as she fell into a silent scream. She could barely squeak his name as her breath was taken away.

"Baby, I need you so badly!" Severus cried, moving one hand to cup the back of his wife's neck, pulling her down to his lips. They met in the middle, tongues locked as they dominated each other. With one particular thrust, Severus aimed perfectly to hit the east spot Aurora needed to finish, and with a cry, her orgasm exploded, her juices flowing down her thighs as she pulsed and throbbed and ached beautifully.

"You can give me one more," Severus suddenly stated. Lifting her head in confusion, Aurora was barely given a moment's notice to brace for impact as the male dropped his thumb to her pussy, his thumb finding her clit and immediately set on rotting the digit against the spongey flesh.

With barely seconds between this onslaught and her second explosion, Severus elongated her orgasm until she was crying out, wanting more, though enjoying the painful pleasure to stop. But the man was relentless. She tried moving out of the way, but Severus followed, ever relentless in his assault.

Licking his lips, Severus stated, "I'm about to cum. Can you give me a third?"

Aurora nodded numbly, accepting the onslaught of pressure against her clit as she prepared for another orgasm. Breathing heavily, she wrapped her arms around Severus' neck as her head fell to his shoulder. "Come inside me, Severus!" She cried. "Please put a baby inside me!"

That did the trick.

Roaring, Severus increased his pace tenfold, releasing all the tension he held. Mere seconds passed before he halted, giving one last thrust as he pulled Aurora down. The male's body quivered, shivered, trembled, and shuddered - he did it all. His orgasm escalated to the point that he could not speak, could not utter a single sound. And Aurora was behind him. Feeling the male's sperm release into her womanhood had the female scream once more. Her orgasm escaped, increasing her juices as her entire body grew numb with pleasure.

It took several moments to catch their breath, but once they did, the couple stared at each other. Severus' face was flushed, and several beads of sweat trickled down his cheeks. Aurora was in a similar state as her chest heaved up and down. She gently kissed his nose, causing the male to scrunch his face in annoyance, though he secretly loved it. Gingerly, Aurora lifted herself off her husband; the feeling of Sever's cum dripping from her core was instant. However, Severus didn't want to see; he placed a finger against her hole and pushed the thick liquid back inside to stay where it belonged.

"You want a baby, right?" She nodded, excitement coursing through her veins to see this side of her husband. He smirked. "I believe we'll need more practice to ensure we're thorough and precise."

Catching onto his meaning, Aurora grinned. "Oh, yes. Practice makes perfect, no?"

Standing, Severus held his wife and carried her into the bedroom. There, they spent the next several hours enjoying each other, wanting to feel and experience the pleasure they sought, something they deserved, something they held only for the other. Their coupling was quick and fast. By the time four echoed across the clock, Severus had orgasmed three more times while Aurora had lost count, but she knew it was enough to place her in a stupor that would last until morning. Gloriously naked, they lay awake for a little while after their last session, talking and enjoying each other's company. At some point, they fell asleep, curled together in the comforter and wrapped in their partner's limbs.

The morning was soon upon their door as the morning glow slowly entered their bedroom through the window. The Black Lake diluted the light, but it could still be seen that it was morning. Severus was the first to wake. Blinking his eyes, the male glanced at the clock to see it was almost ten, knowing they had missed breakfast in the Great Hall. Glancing downward, he was met with Aurora still asleep, her hair falling out of its style from the night before. Wanting her to wake up, Severus peppered kisses across her face until she groaned and swatted his arm. She blinked and rubbed her eyes, trying to clear them of any remaining sleepiness.

Once she was awake, the couple stared at each other.

"How'd you sleep? Aurora asked, her words still slightly slurred.

"With you by my side? Wonderfully." He kissed her cheek as she smiled. They fell into a comfortable silence.

"Hey, Severus?"

"Hm?"

"Happy Christmas."

He kissed her again, smiling more brightly than he had. "Happy Christmas, my beautiful wife." Looking down, he placed a tender hand across her lower stomach. "Do you…think it happened?"

She placed her hands on top of his. "Probably not, but we can only hope."

His face fell slightly. "This is…going to take some time, isn't it?"

Cupping his cheek, Aurora gave him a gentle smile. "We knew that when we started. Besides, it's only been several weeks. It could happen now or in a few months, but we can't let it deter us from this goal. We both want a baby, yes?"

"More than anything," Severus whispered.

"Then it'll happen." Aurora was certain. Therefore, Severus was certain. It was still disheartening that nothing had happened, but as his wife said, it had only been several weeks. A few months, weeks, or months from now, Severus knew this was what he wanted. He wanted to be the father to their children; he wanted to see Aurora swell with their child.

"I have an idea," she whispered. Severus lifted an eyebrow in questioning. "I say we open our presents, shower, and then eat a hearty lunch. Let's enjoy Christmas."

"That sounds lovely, Aurora."

~ oOo ~

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