Me own just Eva, her family and plot. The rest belongs to

5 A Summer's Escape.

A few days had passed since Eva's visit, and Severus found himself considering the idea of spending time outside of his home with her. The thoughts were unfamiliar and slightly unsettled him. He was debating writing her, to see if there was a chance she was to return to Cokeworth. As he sat at his desk, an owl came in. Severus had never seen this owl before. It was a barn owl, not the type the Ministry would send, and it wasn't from Hogwarts. He reached for the small envelope, opened it, and started to read.

Dear Severus, Sev Snape,

I find that nickname so fun, don't you? I guarantee I could come up with others that would suit you, Potions Master Extraordinaire is just one of many. How have you been? Yes, this is my owl Hestia so don't run for the hills. I hope you are enjoying the book we got you. I was wondering if perhaps you wanted to test out some of the theories?

How does the idea of you coming over to our house for a day sound? Or I can come back up. I noticed there was a park not too far from your house. Whatever you prefer. Tell me what you think. It would be nice to see you again.

Yours,

Eva

Severus stared at the letter for a moment, thinking of the possibilities. It would be nice to get out of Spinner's End; especially with his parents' constant arguments, and his father's ill temper echoing through the house. But in retrospect, he thought he barely knew Eva and felt it as an imposition. The park was a better option, but that's where he went with Lily. All of his childhood memories with Lily were in that park. A thought came into his mind. Eva intrigued him in ways he couldn't fully understand yet, whatever it was it deserved some investigating. She considered him a friend, something Lily no longer did. With that thought, he dipped his quill into the ink and began to write.

Dear Eva,

No, I did not "run for the hills," as you so charmingly put it. I wonder why you would think of such a thing. I am enjoying the book, it is remarkable how much knowledge it contains. It is truly fascinating. I've come across potions and methods that are truly fascinating, some of which I had only heard whispers about.

The choice is yours for the meeting. I am open to either option. I must admit, I was under the impression that you lived in America or at least spent extensive time there, your accent suggested as much. It seems I was mistaken.

Regarding the nickname, I will refrain from comments but will tolerate them, for now.

Severus

He gave the letter back to Hestia. Hestia, he mused. The name was peculiar, yet fitting in a way he couldn't quite articulate. A name associated with the hearth, with home, something that felt distant and unfamiliar to him. Shaking his head, he opened the window and let the bird fly off into the misty afternoon.

Severus waited for Hestia's return. He sent the bird back early in the afternoon. Eva told him about the piano being her 'fun' afternoon plan. He wasn't expecting a reply by the evening but a few hours later, he saw her owl in a distance and waited for it to close his window. Once Hestia landed on his desk, he took the letter which was slightly damp from the light rain.

Dear Sev,

You seemed like the kind of person that would freak out but I'm glad to see you didn't. Told you the book screamed Severus. So, because I share an accent I must live in America? No, my father happens to be English, my mother as you may have noticed is American, and we live near Oxford actually. A lovely house with a garden, and a Potions lab, perfect for experimenting. Would you agree?

I have made the decision then you will be coming to my house all day tomorrow. We will come and get you around eight. Be prepared as we will be Apparating and I know for some it can be uncomfortable. Also, be sure to warn your parents, or at least your mother.

Oh, and you like pumpkin pie? Because that's on the menu tomorrow.

By the way, Kristlan can't wait to meet you.

Yours,

Eva

Severus shrugged at the nickname again, it appears that she was set on using it. Although it was better than Potions Master Extraordinaire. The mention of Apparition made him pause. The last time he had Apparated with his mother felt like a lifetime ago, and the memory of the uncomfortable sensation resurfaced.

His thoughts shifted briefly to his mother, she despised last-minute plans, but the idea of spending a day away from Spinner's End, far from the tension and hostility, was more than appealing. It was worth any comments she would make.

His father was home all day tomorrow, so he was grateful to leave town. He made his way downstairs to the living room. where, for once, both his parents were not fighting.

Clearing his throat softly, Severus approached his mother. "Mother, I have something to tell you."

Eileen looked up, her tired eyes meeting his. "Yes, what it is?"

Before Severus could respond, Tobias lowered his newspaper just enough to glare at him."It's not another one of those freaky magic tricks is it?".

Eileen ignored her husband "Don't listen to him. So, what is it Severus?"

"I've been invited to Eva's house tomorrow, she said they are coming at eight am sharp."

Eileen blinked at the sudden invitation. Tobias on the other hand snorted "Eva? That's a girl's name. What girl would want you around? Probably some kind of joke." he said with a cruel chuckle. "Don't fucking bother. You're better off sticking to your nonsense here. You freak." He said getting up "I'm getting a drink" Tobias muttered, going to the kitchen and slamming the door behind him.

Eileen took a deep breath "As much as I hate last-minute plans, you seem to get along well with her. Her family, do you know much about them?"

Severus hesitated for a moment. "Not much. Eva mentioned they have a Potions lab at home."

Eileen's brow furrowed slightly as she considered this. "A Potions lab at home? And from the way they presented themselves the other day, I could tell they were likely pure-blood and wealthy. Be mindful of their expectations, Severus. Please behave."

Severus stiffened slightly at her words. "I know how to behave, Mother."

Eileen acknowledged his comment, "There's some food left on the table for you," she added, returning her attention to the cloak in her lap. "I noticed you didn't come down for lunch."

Severus nodded and went into the kitchen to eat, carefully avoiding his father's gaze. He ate quickly, the tension in the air heavy as Tobias muttered to himself in the background. Once he finished, he went to his bedroom and went straight to sleep. Eager to escape the oppressive atmosphere of the house.

The next day, Severus woke up early to give himself as much time as possible to prepare. He wasn't one to fuss over his appearance, but today was different. He was about to spend the day with one of the oldest pure-blood families in the country, and he wanted to make a good impression. His mother was up to make him breakfast, his father thank Merlin was still passed out. At precisely eight o'clock, there was a knock at the door. Eileen opened it to reveal a smiling Eva, her eyes full of enthusiasm.

"Hello, Mrs. Snape. Is Severus ready to go?"

Severus appeared from behind his mother. "Yes, I am."

"Great." Eva replied, her smile widening. "We'll be Apparating to my house. Don't worry; my mother will be handling it, so everything is perfectly safe."

Eileen watched as her son walked out towards the girl and her mother. Alexandrina gave Eileen a brief nod. "Good morning, Severus," she greeted him warmly. "I'll be Apparating us directly to our home. I assure you, it will be swift." She then instructed them to head for a quiet alley, free of Muggles and prying eyes.

"Now, Severus," Alexandrina continued, "you'll need to hold onto my arm. I just need to be sure there are no No-Majs around."

Severus raised an eyebrow, unfamiliar with the term but understanding it referred to Muggles.

He reached out and grasped Alexandrina's arm, preparing himself for the brief but uncomfortable sensation that was to come. With a faint pop, the world around them twisted and compressed.

Within moments, they arrived near Oxford.

"Welcome to Easgriff House Severus." Alexandrina said.

Severus took in the sight of Evangeline's home. It was a small manor surrounded by well-kept gardens and high hedges. The main door was being opened by one of the house elves Eva wrote about in her letters. Alexandrina made her way through the door only briefly acknowledging the elf.

"Ah, Miss Eva has returned! Kristlan has waited for her return." the house-elf said, bowing low.

"Hey, Kristlan what's up? This is Severus." Eva said as she introduced Severus.

Kristlan's large eyes widened with excitement. "Pleased so pleased to meet you, Mister Severus. Kristlan has heard all about you. Kristlan is very happy to welcome you into Miss Eva's home." Kristlan gestured for Severus to follow. "Come, please."

As they stepped inside, Severus handed over his jacket, feeling slightly out of place in the unfamiliar surroundings.

"Kristlan is the Easgriff family elf." Eva began "But my mother brought her own elf Danio from the Alisgton family when she married. Kristlan doesn't serve her directly but still has to obey when commanded. It's… a bit complicated," Eva admitted

She gave Severus a tour of her house. It was a decent-sized home, to put it mildly. It contained a large living room, sitting room, and kitchen, with a small bathroom on the main floor. There was a long hallway that brought them to additional rooms, a library, and the potion's lab. The second floor was composed of five bedrooms and two baths with her father's study. When the tour was finished, they went to the kitchen where Kristlan had tea ready for them.

"Ah, Mister Severus! Did you enjoy the tour? Kristlan hopes you did. Kristlan even made tea and treats for Severus and Eva, because Kristlan doesn't know if Mister Severus ate this morning."

"Thanks Kristlan, you can go now."

"Thank you, Miss Eva, Kristlan will go clean now."

Evangeline turned to Severus and motioned to him to sit "I sure hope you like tea. This is all Kristlan will make."

"I think tea is... adequate," Severus responded, taking a seat at the table. He did not share much but enjoyed the calmness of a home without the tension he was accustomed to.

After finishing their tea, Eva led him to the Potions lab, where her father often conducted his experiments. The lab was a spacious, well-equipped room with shelves lined with ingredients, cauldrons of various sizes, and a large workbench in the center.

"This is where my father spends quite a bit of time," Eva explained. "He likes to tinker with potions, experimenting with new combinations. We can try out some of the more complex brews."

Severus only nodded, his eyes roamed the room, with a mix of admiration and anticipation. This was his element and he was eager to delve into it.

Before they knew it, it was time for lunch, they made their way to the dining room, where Eva's mother was seated waiting for them.

"So, Severus are you enjoying yourself?" she asked politely.

"Yes, madam."

"We've been using Father's Potions laboratory and experimenting. We made sure to clean up" Eva added.

"That's good to hear. Your father will be pleased to know his lab has been put to good use. I hope you like chicken Severus. Danio has many fine recipes." Alexandrina said.

Lunch was calm, with only a few words exchanged. Severus again appreciated the tranquillity of this house compared to Spinner's End. When dessert arrived, Eva happily served him a generous piece of pumpkin pie and whipped cream. Severus could only stare back wondering if Evangeline was planning to stuff him like a turkey like the Muggle Americans do.

Once finished, Eva and Severus excused themselves. She grabbed his hand and led him outside, where Kristlan was waiting.

"Eva, what are you doing?" Severus asked.

"You need to have a little fun. Apart from potions, which is very academic, you don't seem to do much," Eva replied, her eyes sparkling with mischief.

"I do plenty." Severus responded a touch defensively.

"Really?" Eva said with a grin. "Then I trust you've had a proper magical water duel before?"

"Pardon?"

"Ah ha, you haven't!" Eva exclaimed, her eyes full of excitement. She was going to introduce Severus to her favorite summer game, the one she always plays in America.

" I have!" Severus insisted though he had no idea what she was referring to.

"Fine, then I challenge you to one."

"You want me to do that? Are you mental?"

"Overreactive, hotheaded, annoying, loud, and fun but no, not mental." Eva shot back, clearly enjoying herself. "Come on, just one duel."

"Just one and you will leave me alone?"

"Yes one, and then we can do something else."

"Fine."

"Excellent."

Kristlan clapped his hands, and a large basin filled with shimmering, enchanted water appeared in the center of the garden. The water seemed to ripple with magical energy, sparkling in the midday sun. Beside the basin, wands were laid out, each with a different colored handle.

"Now remember fair play, Miss Eva and Mister Severus. Kristlan doesn't want any trouble like last time," the house-elf said with a serious tone. "Kristlan would like to see nothing but good, clean play."

Severus looked at the wands, each one designed to conjure and control streams of water rather than casting spells. Eva grabbed a wand with a blue handle and tossed one with a green handle to Severus.

"The rules are simple," she began. "We take turns using these wands to control the water. The first to land three hits on the other wins. And no dodging spells, just your reflexes, and your aim."

Severus nodded, gripping the wand.

Kristlan clapped his hands and the game started. Severus didn't know what to do; he had played the Muggle version once before with Lily on hot summer days but that was it. This was slightly different, more…magical. He couldn't believe Eva was able to push him into this childish game.

He turned for a minute Eva flicked her wand, sending a stream of water spiraling toward him. It hit him squarely in the chest, the cool water soaking through his clothes. He looked up to see Eva laughing, eyes closed. Severus decided that if he was going to be dragged into this duel, he wasn't going to lose. He flicked his wand, sending a jet of water right back at her. It struck her in the stomach, causing her to let out a surprised yelp.

"Well played, Snape!" Eva called

The duel continued, with Severus focusing on every movement, every flick of the wand, treating it like a complex potion. Despite himself, he began to enjoy the challenge, though he would never admit it. He hadn't felt like this since Lily, and it made him feel something he hadn't felt in a long time.

As they exchanged blows, Severus landed another hit, splashing water across Eva's arm. Eva retaliated quickly, catching Severus on the shoulder.

"Two-two," Eva shouted. "This is it, Snape. Last shot."

Severus smirked, he was determined not to lose, with precision he deflected Eva's latest attempt. Then with a swift motion he sent a jet straight at Eva, drenching her.

Evangeline gasped and wiped her eyes. "Well done Severus." She then started to laugh.

"You win."

"Precision over recklessness." Severus said, a smirk gracing his face.

Eva raised an eyebrow, before Severus could say anything else, she waved the wand sending a final splash of water into his face. Caught off guard, Severus blinked, water dripping from his hair. He stared at her for a moment, caught between annoyance and amusement. Finally, he gave a resigned sigh, shaking his head. "Typical," he muttered.

Eva grinned, clearly pleased with herself. "Consider it a lesson, Severus. Always expect the unexpected."

Severus wiped the water from his face, his smirk returning. "Duly noted," he replied.

The two walked back to the house, soaking wet. They headed straight to the bathroom on the first floor, but Severus stayed in the hallway.

"Sev, it's okay" Eva said "I can change in my room, I'm just getting a towel. You can change here. Oh, and use this." She handed him a towel with a smile. "It's a drying towel that mother bewitched. Just pass over your clothes and they will be dry."

Severus nodded. Once all dried up, he came out of the bathroom, and walked down the hallway looking for Eva, not knowing what to do with the towel. She peeked out her room, inviting him in.

"Severus, you can leave the towel there, Kristlan will take care of it."

Severus did as told, and waited for Eva to join him in the hall. They went down to the living room, and Eva went towards the piano, she invited Severus to join her.

"You play?"

"No."

"Would you like to learn?"

"No."

"Well it's almost five o'clock, we should be bringing you home in about an hour or two."

Severus nodded; the day had gone by quickly. To his surprise, he had truly enjoyed spending time with Evangeline. It was different from the days he spent with Lily, where they would relax in the park, lying on the grass and talking for hours. Eva on the other hand pushed him to do different things. He wouldn't say she was better than Lily, but that their way of having fun with him was different.

They settled on a simple game of cards, where Severus beat her at every round, a small smirk of satisfaction playing on his lips with each win. At six o'clock, Eva's father entered the living room.

Evangeline introduced them "Hello Father, this is Severus Snape. Severus this is my father Henry Easgriff."

"Evening, sir."

Henry Easgriff was an imposing figure, tall with a lean build, and carried himself with quiet confidence. His sharp hazel eyes seemed to take in every detail of the room at a glance. His dark hair, speckled with strands of gray, was neatly combed back, and his tailored robes, hinted at old wealth.

"Hello Severus" Henry said with a nod, his voice smooth and authoritative. "I will be taking you home tonight. Line, I presume you'll be joining us?"

"Of course, Father, what are we taking?"

"We'll be using the family carriage. I will not take the chance of being caught." Henry responded, his tone leaving no room for argument.

"Understood Father."

The three of them made their way to the carriage, a beautifully crafted vehicle that shimmered with a faint magical aura, though to Muggle eyes it would appear as an ordinary, if slightly old-fashioned. As Severus sat on the back seat, Kristlan appeared. "Mister Severus, Kristlan wishes to give you some cookies that Kristlan made. They are chocolate flavored sir."

"Umm thank you." Severus replied, taking the package.

The house elf nodded enthusiastically "You are most welcome sir!"

Eva, who had taken a seat beside Severus, grinned. "You'll love them. Kristlan's cookies are the best." Severus turned to her and raised a brow. "We shall see,"

When they arrived at Spinner's End, Eva turned to her father. "I'll walk Severus to the door."

Henry Easgriff nodded. "Very well, I'll take a turn around the block and return shortly."

Severus thanked Eva's father for the ride home, and stepped out of the carriage, followed by Eva. They made their way to the door.

"I hope you had a good time today, Sev." Eva said.

Severus hesitated for a moment before replying. "Surprisingly, I did."

Evangeline smiled "Great, I hope you will enjoy the rest of your vacation. We are going to New York tomorrow to meet up with my mother's parents. I will be back in two weeks. So maybe we'll run into each other in Diagon Alley."

"Indeed." Severus replied, keeping his tone neutral.

The door opened, and Eileen stood there looking at her son, who didn't notice her presence.

"Oh, hello Mrs. Snape." Eva greeted politely.

"Hello, Evangeline." Eileen replied "Did you both have a good time?"

"We did. Thank you for letting him come over. See you, Sev," Eva said with a smile before hurrying back to the carriage, which was just pulling up again.

Severus went back inside the house he had not seen all day. The contrast was stark between Spinner's End and the Easgriff House. He paused in the entryway listening for a sign of life from Tobias. Nothing. His father wasn't home or was passed out somewhere.

He went to his room, and put down the basket of cookies Kristlan made him. He picked up one of them, examining it before taking a bite.

As he finished the cookie, he realized something: today had been different. Better, even. Despite himself, Severus had enjoyed the day, a rarity in his world of dark thoughts and relentless solitude.

With that thought, he leaned back against his pillow, staring up at the ceiling, a small, almost imperceptible smile playing on his lips. For the first time in a while, Severus Snape felt like he had something to look forward to, and for the first time in a very long time, he had a great day.

~~~~~~~~END OF CHAPTER~~~~~~~~

I hoped you liked this chapter, don't forget to review please. Thank you for reading this and following it as well. I hoped you enjoyed Sev's day with Eva.

Again thank you for reading this.

Until next time *takes bean* "Yum pumpkin my favorite."