Archive of Our Own

Chapter Text

XOXO

Dragon hide boots thudded against the cold stone floor as Professor Snape walked down the long spiral staircase to get to the potions classroom in the dungeon. He paused for a moment at the door and took a steadying breath, raking his hand through his shoulder length black hair. He just got out of an especially stressful meeting with the headmistress and was still trying to wrap his head around what she was requesting of him. He pushed the door open to see his apprentice rushing around the desks preparing for the lesson, her bushy hair filling the air behind her with brunette frizz.

“You can thank Minerva for my tardiness,” he drawled as he swept up the aisle between the brewing stations to his desk at the front of the room.

“That’s alright professor, I’m pretty much done,” she smiled over at him, and he noticed she had even started laying out the lesson on the chalk board. He watched for a moment as her handwriting curved across the board from the flying piece of chalk. He pulled out his chair and sat down like a raven descending to a perch, his cloak flowing out around him as he picked up his quill. “How was the meeting?” She asked tentatively, she could sense his mood instantly, even though most people thought he was incessantly grumpy she could see in his eyes when he was truly frustrated and when he was relaxed.

“Long,” he clipped as he began writing a response letter before the students arrived. He peeked up for a moment and saw her still placing cauldrons on the desks near the front. He watched her flit around the room for a moment, a melody playing on her breath that was almost too quiet to hear. He would never tell her, but he enjoyed the way she hummed to herself while she worked, he often wondered if she even realised she did it. He felt the tension slowly leaving his body as he listened, his quill scratching along with the tune. “They asked for me to assist a guest with research, something about an obscure curse,” he groused as he turned back to his letter.

“Curse huh?” she enquired passively, not looking up from making sure everything was set up properly as she pushed a frizzy curl around her ear.

“Curses,” he sat back in his chair and looked over at her, her golden eyes meeting his cautiously as his frustration finally boiled to the surface. Would everyone always only see him as a death eater? He allowed his drawl to be laced with acid, “I’m not sure why they have chosen me to help, it’s not like I specialize in curses.”

“Well, no…” she looked down at the completed set ups on the desks and continued, choosing her words carefully. “But you are renowned for your knowledge of defence against the dark arts and your innate ability to figure out solutions with complicated rituals and potions,” she watched as an almost imperceptible smirk crossed his Slytherin face.

“Is that so,” he said softly, turning back to his letter. He paused in thought for a moment, she would probably be a useful help to him; he knew how much she enjoyed research. “I would like your assistance. I can think of no one better suited for doing lots of research,” he knew she was smiling without looking up.

XOXO

A lovely young-looking blond woman dressed all in pink opened the kitchen window and held tightly as a cold wind tried to push it further open. A large black owl swept down and deposited a letter into her gloved hand. She reached over to the counter, took a piece of sausage, and handed it to the bird, who happily accepted it before turning to fly back to wherever it had come from. She closed the window and went back to cooking an immense amount of food for breakfast. A young man dressed in a striped shirt sat at the table, drooling over what Silver Lady had already made; waiting impatiently for everyone else to come downstairs for breakfast. His black shaggy hair flopped from one side of his shoulders to the other as he whipped around to the sound of footsteps coming down the stairs.

“Good morning Silver, good morning Ruth,” Chise stepped into the kitchen with a large smile and Silver turned to hand her the letter. She looked down at it a moment, the pitch-black fingers of her left hand taking it to get a better look before she saw the seal and realised what it was. “Thank you Silver,” she smiled and turned to go back upstairs to show Elias.

“Are we eating soon?” Ruth called after her hopefully and all he heard was Chise laughing through their mental connection. Chise turned the corner at the top of the stairs and opened up their bedroom door to find the seven-foot man, still laying on his stomach with his head on a pillow. She traced her hand along one of his horns and down his large wolf’s skull to run along his teeth gently and watched as his black sockets slowly flared to life with red eyes.

“Good morning Elias,” she said, holding out the letter to him.

“Chise, good morning,” he turned to sit up in bed and stretch, then reached out his big purple hands. He wrapped them around her waist to pull her onto his lap before he took the letter. “They replied quickly,” his eyes curving into upside down half-moons. He opened it up as Chise leaned into his chest to let him use both hands as he read the scratchy scrawl. “They’ve assigned a teacher to help us, probably don’t trust us in their library on our own,” he huffed as Chise laughed.

“When do we leave?” She asked, looking up at his bony face as he looked down at her.

“When would you like to?” His voice was gentle, almost hesitant.

“Soon,” she smiled. He looked back to the letter, they had been working with the magical college in London for the last few years. Even though they had spent so much time looking into her condition, they hadn’t found anything useful. Well, apart from sacrifices, but he wasn’t about to suggest that again. So even though turning to wizards and witches wasn’t his first choice…or even eighth, he found himself sending them a letter; requesting assistance and use of their massive collection of magical books.

“We can leave Sunday morning if you like,” he said as he read the instructions of how to get to the school. “It seems a bit complicated, I’m not sure why we can’t just teleport there,” he mumbled apprehensively, but knew she would be excited to go somewhere new. “You better start packing then,” he helped her back to the floor before swinging his legs out of bed and standing in his light blue pyjamas.

“Breakfast first,” she said, taking the letter as he offered it to her. “What should I wear?” For the first time her voice sounded a bit anxious. “Don’t wizards and witches wear really fancy clothing?”

“Well, you do have your snowmelt cloak Angelica made, if you would like to wear it,” he suggested and Chise seemed to think about it a moment before nodding her head.

“I think Ruth will kill me if I don’t try to get you to come down soon,” Chise felt Ruth poking insistently at their connection, trying to hurry her up. Elias huffed playfully before going to change into his regular clothes as Chise closed the door and went back downstairs.

XOXO

Severus pushed his toad in the hole around on his plate until it was almost a mass of brown mush during lunch instead of eating it. Hermione looked over covertly and whispered from his side. “Everything alright professor?”

“Peachy,” was his sardonic reply before stabbing a bit of banger and shoving it in his mouth.

From above the owls began to filter into the great hall, delivering their packages and letters; among them was something that looked like a bird with a pointed nose instead of a beak. It was white and its feathers were splayed out and curled as it swam through the air down to the teachers table and stopped in front of Severus. He held out his hand and the bird shuddered violently before its wings reconnected to form a letter. Hermione’s eyes went huge as she watched.

“Can I do that?” She asked, almost to herself before looking at the cloaked amusement on Severus’s face.

“He’s a magus, so his magic is a bit different from ours… but perhaps,” he turned to read the letter. “They will be coming tomorrow; I’ll speak with Hagrid about getting the train to run for them tomorrow morning. We’ll need to go and collect them from the station,” he looked over at her out of the corner of his eyes.

“In Hogsmeade?”

“Obliviously,” he drawled, somewhat annoyed before handing her the letter to read.

“Where are they staying?” she asked as she read, “Elias, Chise, and her familiar Ruth,” she mumbled to herself.

“Good question,” he then turned to the headmistress. “Minerva, where are Professor Ainsworth and Miss Hatori staying during their visit?” She looked over at him with a soft smile that told him he wasn’t going to like her answer.

XOXO

Elias and Chise went into London the next day, Elias donning his blonde glamour, his long fringe bouncing out to the side as they rushed through king’s cross station.

“You know, I’ve been here many times and have never seen a gateway.” They stood in between platform 9 and 10. Chise stood at his side, a bit apprehensive, looking at the solid brick pillar between the two platforms. Ruth, hidden in her shadow, stretched the blackness over to touch the wall.

‘It smells delicious,’ he said in Chise’s mind.

“I think we have the right place,” Chise said, walking over to it as nonchalantly as she could. She turned her back to the pillar and leaning back against it, was engulfed by brick before Elias’s eyes. His hand flinched towards her as he watched her disappear. Within a few moments he joined Chise on the other side of the wall as they both turned to see a nearly empty train platform with the huge red train baring ‘Hogwarts Express’ in golden letters on the side. They boarded the train that only had one or two other occupants, they didn’t know it, but it was much shorter than it would ordinarily be, only having two cars instead of stretching to fit all the students that normally occupied it.

The train hooted loudly as they ducked into a compartment across from the other passengers and Elias pulled the large glass door closed as Chise sat next to the window. Ruth materialized and sat across from her as the train began to chug out of the station. The further north they went, the more snow covered the countryside became. After an hour, the glass door slid open to show an elderly woman pushing a food cart.

“Anything from the trolley dears?” She smiled warmly, but all of her offerings seemed so odd that they weren’t sure what to choose. They declined, instead eating the sandwiches that Silver had packed for them.

“You should make friends with the professor they assigned us,” Chise said, in between bites. Elias looked at her thoughtfully for a moment.

“Should I now?” From the letters they’d received, the professor seemed to be unusually brusque.

Chise looked over at Ruth, who shrugged and turned back to his sandwich. “Well yes… having friends is nice, and it’s sure to go better this time.” He made a hum of disapproval and she touched his leg to regain his attention. “Remember, relating to someone is the best way to make new friends.”

Once they’d finished eating, Elias sat back with his legs crossed and his arms folded over his chest, his head tipped forward as he fell into a short nap. Chise and Ruth looked out the window as they watched the afternoon begin to swallow the sunlight. The ride seemed shorter compared to what they thought it would be, only a few hours before the endless countryside was overlooking a lovely snow-covered town that was bustling with people in tall hats and long cloaks.

“I’m glad I wore my snowmelt cloak,” Chise said, placing her hand on top of Elias’s, he turned his hand over and gave it a small squeeze before the train stopped and they started moving to the exit.

XOXO

Severus grumbled almost the entire way to the train station, he had cast a warming charm so that they wouldn’t freeze walking for the half hour in the snow. Hermione just listened to his grumbling and didn’t think much of it, she was very used to him complaining and she would rather let him grumble then him actual be angry. She laughed to herself as they got closer to the station and Snape began getting grumpier.

“What a waste of time,” Snape muttered, and Hermione looked up at him.

“Is it professor?” She tilted her head in a somewhat mocking fashion and he glowered down at her.

“Yes, we have better things to do than walk in the snow to collect people, this is better suited for Hagrid.”

“We’ll take a carriage back to Hogsmeade,” she said, and his eyes narrowed at her.

“So why did we walk here Miss Granger? Do you find my company so enjoyable that you wished to prolong it?” He asked with a sneer.

“Normally, yes,” she whispered. He almost didn’t hear it; even when he did, he tried to convince himself she was being sarcastic. Still, her retreating form called to him in a way that he couldn’t describe.

“I’m fond of your company as well,” he whispered, almost silently. Then, he folded his arms over his chest and went to join her on the platform as the train pulled in. Hermione was trying not to bounce with excitement.

They watched as a tall man stepped off the train, he had blonde hair that went to his shoulders with two thick pieces of fringe that cascaded in two perfect waves around his face. He wore a long black cloak over a deep blue three-piece suit and a lariat with a blue gem around his neck. He looked around for a moment, carrying what looked to be a Victorian brown leather travelling bag. He stepped to the side and offered his white gloved hand toward the train. It was taken by a young Japanese woman wearing a snow-white cloak that flowed to her ankles. She had short red hair that had been tied up in a loose ponytail with fringe that threatened to take over most of her face, but they could still see her eyes, they were beautiful, one a bright spring green and the other a steely grey.

The man had the smile of Gilderoy Lockhart and the poise of a Malfoy. Severus was used to standing next to such men, their beauty making his features look even worse by close comparison. He watched Hermione out of the corner of his eye, would she find him attractive? How could she not? He watched as her body language stayed the same, not ruffling herself to make a better impression or pressing down her curls to try to make them look smoother.

Her reaction pleased him; he hated that he cared so much.

Hermione stepped forward, she was wearing her usual robes with a pastel blue muggle jumper and denims underneath, hoping to make the two feel a bit more at home. Severus followed her at a bit of a distance without lowering his arms, an impassive expression glued to his features. Chise stepped forward and offered her hand to Hermione with a beaming smile on her face. Chise was so glad she was more used to interacting with people these days, after almost four years of going to the college she had met many people and making friends was getting easier for her.

“It’s nice to meet you,” she said, as Hermione took her hand. “My name is Chise, and this is Elias,” she gesturing to her very tall companion.

“It’s nice to meet you too,” Hermione replied. “My name is Hermione, and this is Professor Snape.” Chise offered her hand to Severus, who simply looked at her before turning to the magus and giving him a nod that was happily returned by Elias. He still didn’t really understand all the touching humans seemed to do.

“Professor,” Hermione turned to Severus with mischief in her eyes and he immediately became wary. “As we’re going into Hogsmeade and not needed back for classes today, would it be alright if we went for some lunch before the long walk back to the castle?” Snape stared down at her with annoyance in his cold black eyes. She simply gave him an unyielding smile.

Severus’s face turned into a wicked sneer as he found a way out, “I wish you would have asked before we left, I would have brought my pocketbook.“

“I brought enough money for all of us to eat,” she smiled, knowing he'd left it behind on purpose.

“What about their luggage?” He spat in challenge, already knowing her likely solution. Just as he’d thought, she pulled out her small, beaded bag. He’d seen this bag far too many times. She opened it and then placed it on the ground before magically lifting the suitcase, shrinking it, and lowering it into the bag. She picked it up off the ground and turned to give him a smug smile. He knew he’d lost but he wasn’t happy about it.

“Are you both hungry?” He ground out through gritted teeth.

“Yes, we had sandwiches but that was hours ago,” Chise answered as she looked between the two. Snape turned on his heel, whipping snow up around him, and motioned over his shoulder that they should follow him.

“Three Broomsticks then?” He called over his shoulder and although Elias was able to use his long legs to keep up—the two shorter ladies had to practically run.

“Sorry,” Hermione apologised to Chise. “I knew he’d find a way out of it if I’d asked before we met up with you, you have to ignore his sour mood.”

“Don’t worry, we all have our moments,” Chise shrugged her shoulders; Elias stopped and looked at Chise as Snape was boarding a carriage.

“Chise,” he said, offering her his hand. “You think I can be sour?” Chise looked at him and smiled.

“Do you disagree?”

Elias retracted his hand dejectedly before he sunk down into her shadow, “you two better catch up with him,” he groused from her shadow. Chise laughed as Ruth and Elias stayed in her shadow. She walked to the front of the carriage to see the creature that would pull them with fascination.

“Thank you for carrying us,” she bowed to the thestral. The winged horse appeared to be made of bone and blackish skin stretched tightly against it. It bowed its head to her, and she then walked to the back to join her hosts.

“You can see them?” Snape questioned her as she sat down.

“Yes, are they fae?” Chise asked. Hermione kept looking down at her shadow—seeing the horned figure with red eyes that was lingering there.

“They are classified as beasts by the ministry, but not everyone can see them,” Severus said thoughtfully. He didn’t want to push any further; the only people that could see them were those that had seen death. Starting a conversation about that wasn’t something he particularly wanted to do. “Where’s the magus?” he asked Chise as Elias’s black form stretched out of her shadow and reformed back into his glamour. He crossed his legs, setting his elbow on his knee he propped up his chin as he looked back towards the train station. Snape raised a quizzical eyebrow at him as the carriage began to move.

A silent ten minutes later, they arrived at the bustling streets of Hogsmeade, and Snape jumped down to get to the pub first. When they got to the Three Broomsticks, Severus had already gotten them a table and they sat, Elias across from Snape and Hermione with Chise next to him. The waitress came over to take their orders a few moments later. He realised as they ordered that he didn’t have any classes that day.

“They have a lovely selection of wine and ale, if that interests anyone,” he nonchalantly looked over his menu as he sat up straight. He gave his food order to the waitress as his eyes flicked to Hermione to see if she’d cottoned on.

“I was thinking of getting everyone butterbeers,” she was looking at her menu with a straight face and he winced at the thought but wouldn’t argue with her. She smiled warmly at the waitress once Elias and Chise had ordered. “Could we have two butterbeers and two glasses of elf-made wine please?” Severus bit back a small smile that she remembered what he preferred as the waitress nodded at them before walking away. Chise prodded at Ruth through their connection; he woke up, suddenly materializing next to Snape in his human form.

“What about me?” He asked as Snape backed away before turning an arched brow to Chise.

“What else do you have in your shadow?” He asked, clearly amused, Chise simply shrugged and smiled.

“That’s it, just these two,” she smiled, turning to Hermione as they began talking about the shops that were in Hogsmeade. Severus saw Chise slip her hand into Elias’s, he simply took it and squeezed it gently, his thumb smoothly gliding back and forth over her knuckles.

“So,” Severus said, pulling his gaze off their hands and turning to Ruth. “You’re a familiar? I don’t understand how you can be a human.”

“I’m not,” Ruth chuckled, looking over at him, his burgundy eyes shining. “At one time I was but I’m a church grim,” he sat up a bit higher when the food arrived, and he happily noticed that Chise had ordered him food as well.

“Church grim,” Severus mumbled, thinking. He couldn’t help glancing down at their hands as she ate with her left hand and he with his right to keep the contact. “Chise is your apprentice, correct?” He asked as his eyes snapped up to Elias, who smiled proudly and nodded.

“She is also my wife,” he replied, patting their joined hands with his free hand.

“Interesting,” he muttered under his breath, glancing over at Hermione, who was animatedly speaking about the candy shop two doors down.

“You have to go to Honeydukes! It’s the best, we’ll run over there before we head back.”

“Granger,” Snape leaned toward her. “The headmistress will be waiting for us to arrive… we can only stay so long.”

“Yes sir,” she replied before taking a sip of butterbeer. “We won’t be long,” he grimaced at this, wanting to get back to the castle and hopefully his solitude. Once they had finished eating, Ruth sank back into Chise’s shadow and the two ladies turned to leave with Ruth, leaving the two men alone. Snape sat back in his chair and folded his arms over his chest, watching the magus. Elias sat back with his wrist on the table, his hand playing with something that Snape couldn’t identify. They simply sat in contemplative silence the entire time the women were gone.

XOXO

Hermione and Chise walked into Honeydukes and Chise couldn’t believe her eyes at all the colourful candies and treats. Hermione went over and picked up a less colourful box that contained small chocolates with different fillings. All the fillings listed on the back were rich and fruity; Chise looked at the box and smiled.

“Are those your favourites?” She asked, picking up a box and looking at it.

“No,” Hermione blushed and looked over at Chise. “They’re Severus’s favourite, don’t tell him I told you… or that I called him Severus. I feel bad for dragging him around today, so I wanted to get him something to say thank you.”

“That’s a good idea,” Chise looked around and found tea flavoured candy drops and picked them up. “I think I’ll get these for Elias,” she smiled at Hermione before they walked around to see what they would like to get for themselves. When they exited Honeydukes a few minutes later, the men were waiting under the eaves of the three broomsticks for them, both stood tall with their arms folded over their chests.

“It doesn’t look like their getting along,” Chise whispered.

“Don’t worry, he’s like that with new people, and people he’s known for years, and people he doesn’t like, and…” she looked over with a small smile. “You get the picture.” Chise walked up to Elias and offered him the open box of candies she bought for him. With a white gloved hand he reached into the small box, picking up a small amber coloured candy. He inspected the little drop before popping it into his mouth.

“Earl grey with milk and sugar,” his eyes widening. “They’re delicious Chise, thank you,” he said smiling down at her. Hermione lifted the small box of chocolates for Snape, who recoiled from the offered box.

“What’s that for?” he hissed, staring down at her.

“For dragging you around today,” she placed them in his hand before striding away. He looked down to see what it was and smiled to himself before looking after her and the other two as they began the long walk back to the castle. He rushed to her and cast a warming charm around the four of them as they trekked through the snow.

Snape lifted his wand and his spectral doe shot out of it, bounding along the snowy path towards the castle to let the headmistress know they were on their way back.

Snow began to fall as Severus opened his small box of chocolates and plucked an orange coloured one, taking a deep smell of it before popping it into his mouth. Enjoying the snap of the cold chocolate as it revealed the smooth slick almost gel of orange filling in the middle. He let it melt on his tongue, slowly enjoying the subtle bergamot flavour that mixed with the orange and ginger as he looked down at Hermione.

“Thank you,” he muttered, so only she could hear him, and she stifled a smile.

“You’re welcome,” she replied, hoping that her blushing cheeks would be attributed to the chilly day.

Chise looked into the distance, the castle loomed high, a sparkling opal of shimmering magic and she felt her heart pick up as they came closer.

Chapter Text

When they stepped into the school, they were greeted by a somewhat perturbed looking Headmistress McGonagall. “Good afternoon Headmistress,” Snape stepped forward before turning and motioning to his companions. “This is Elias Ainsworth and Chise Hatori.”

“Nice to meet the both of you,” she said, turning to Severus and whispering. “Where the hell have you all been? You were supposed to just pick them up.”

“Well Headmistress—” Snape started, but was interrupted by Hermione as she stepped forward.

“I’m sorry Headmistress, that was my fault, they said they were hungry after the long journey on the train, so I wanted to take them to get some food before the long walk back.” Severus looked down at her out of the corner of his eyes and then produced the box of chocolates from his pocket and offered it to Minerva.

“Oh,” she smiled as she took a small blue foil wrapped chocolate before looking down at Hermione. “Well, see that it doesn’t happen again. I’d allotted time to come down and meet them, I can’t rearrange my life for you, young lady,” she said, popping the blueberry chocolate into her mouth and turning to Elias, offering him her hand. He didn’t go to take it and before anyone except Severus noticed this fact, Chise stepped in front of him and shook the proffered hand.

“It’s nice to meet you Headmistress, thank you so much for letting us come and take up your professor’s valuable time, and the use of your extensive library. It is greatly appreciated,” she lowered her hand and smiled up at McGonagall.

“Well, it’s lovely to meet you too dear,” she smiled warmly, reaching a motherly arm around her shoulders and began to walk toward the great hall. Severus noticed how Elias stiffened as Minerva walked off with Chise, following them after taking a deep breath. “It is our pleasure to be of help Miss Hatori, when we heard of your unfortunate condition, we wanted to do everything we could,” they all stopped in front of the great hall and then Minerva motioned back to Severus.

“Professor Snape has graciously offered to share his quarters with Professor Ainsworth, and Miss Hatori, you will be staying in Gryffindor tower, we have a few free beds.” Elias opened his mouth to contest this arrangement but Chise gently shook her head to stop him. “Miss Granger will show you to the dorm room and will stay with you there while Mr. Ainsworth will use Miss Granger’s chambers in the dungeon.”

“Headmistress,” Chise said, turning to look up at her. “Would it be possible for me to stay in the same place as Elias?”

“They are husband and wife, as well as Master and apprentice,” Severus drawled.

“Oh,” she said, looking between the two. “Of course, well…” She stumbled over her words, trying to figure out what to do.

“How about this,” Hermione said, stepping forward. “I can stay in Gryffindor tower with Chise tonight and then tomorrow we can figure out other arrangements. I don’t like being so far away from the dungeons myself,” she added, and Severus couldn’t help but give her a sideways glance at that.

“Very well, does that work for the two of you?”

“Yes,” Chise smiled.

“Dinner will be served in three hours, I’m sure you’ll get a tour of the dungeons while you settle in.” Minerva dipped her head once more before walking through the hall towards her office as Hermione went to Chise and linked arms with her.

“Let’s go to the dungeons, shall we?” She said, and Chise nodded with a soft blush of anxiety at Hermione taking her arm before they made their way toward the stairs.

“I guess it’s just me and you tonight,” Snape groused, before turning to follow the ladies, his cloak billowing out around him. Elias wondered if it was fabric or technique that made it waft in such a dramatic fashion.

XOXO

The dungeons were chillier than Chise was used to, even compared to the frigid Scottish air outside of the castle. She could see her breath once Hermione led her out of their sitting room, and she was glad she was given a knitted jumper with an ‘H’ on it to wrap up in.

The office was a large square with a desk in the centre, the walls were lined with shelves, most containing bottles filled with colourful liquids. But the shelves behind the desk had the most interesting things Chise had ever seen. Jars of different sizes contained the more ‘exotic’ potions ingredients. Some of them were green and floating in water or oil, while others where powdered and in little fat bottles. The most intriguing ones were long and had cork stoppers on them, they contained interesting sprigs, some with white tops and others that had little green sprouts. They weren’t kept in any liquid and seemed to shimmer in the light.

“Stasis charms,” Hermione stepped next to her when she noticed her rapt attention on the shelves.

“Is that why they shimmer like that?” Chise asked, not knowing if only she could see the shimmering or if it was just a by-product of the magic.

“Yes,” she answered, picking up one of the bottles. “He has six-month stasis charms on all of the ones on the bottom shelf and the rest are preserved in other ways.” She set the small bottle down and motioned for Chise to follow her into the lab. Hermione waved her wand over one of the bookshelves and it swung open to reveal a staircase.

Chise stepped down into the space, larger than she would have thought one man would need for brewing. It had two long counters on either side and a third in the centre of the room. Along one shelved wall was nothing but cauldrons of different sizes and different materials. Most were the same, the most useful ones she guessed. She looked to the other side of the room and there were open cabinets that lined the wall, leaving a good space between them and the counter beneath. She noticed that half the counter-tops were much taller, and some would be the perfect height for her to stand in front of and use.

She stepped over to the far counter and looked through the open cabinets. Every ingredient was labelled meticulously and seemed to be already prepared and grouped for the most common potions they would need to brew. Hermione came over and pointed to one of them.

“That’s everything for ‘pepper up’ potion, the infirmary uses them for colds, this one over here,” she pointed to the right of it. “Is for burn cream,” she carried on and Chise watched her point to each of the cabinets and indicated what each one was stocked and prepared for as she did. “We do a lot of potions for the infirmary here at Hogwarts, and Severus does some of the complicated potions for St. Mungo’s as well.” She smiled to herself as she turned to sit on one of the wooden stools that were sporadically placed around the room.

“Do you help him with them?” Chise inquired, looking down at the counter and opening one of the drawers in front of her to see knives of different sizes, all placed in descending order. Cutting boards were on the wall, leaning against the dark green tile back-splash.

“I do mostly,” she pointed to a row of empty vials in one of the cabinets at the back of the room. “We go through a lot of these,” nearly the entire cabinet was full of them from top to bottom and they were all neatly placed in little stands to ensure that all of them were safe and sound. The entire room felt almost clinical in its sterilization and the large sink to the left of the door was damn near sparkling. “Do you have a lab to brew in?” Hermione asked as she sat back down and invited Chise to join her.

“No, we have a greenhouse that we will brew in sometimes, but mostly I brew wherever I’d like to. We only really make things for the people in the village near us, so we don’t need something big like this.” She motioned around the large space. “Do you ever use the whole room?”

“Once we did,” Hermione laughed. “Someone ‘accidentally’ blew up the potions cabinet in the hospital wing. We had cauldrons covering every flat surface,” they had worked late into the night together. “It was pretty fun actually, we found we worked really well together.” She blushed a bit at the memory before quickly moving on. “What kind of things do you and Professor Ainsworth make?”

“’Professor Ainsworth’ just sounds so weird to me,” Chise laughed. “Elias and I usually make sleep aids; I have to be careful, as I tend to make them too strong. We also make tonics for the throat and illnesses. Elias is very patient with me and always has been when it comes to brewing. We also have a small garden that we collect from and a small greenhouse that’s attached to our home.” She loved to garden with Elias, he always had interesting things to add and teach her about plants, or animals they saw.

“What’s it like? Living with him?” Hermione looked at her curiously.

“At first it was interesting,” Chise thought for a moment and realised that Hermione didn’t yet know that Elias wasn’t fully human. “He’s part fae, so it took me a while to learn to speak Eliases, but once we started communicating more, everything has been very pleasant.”

“Eliases?”

“It’s the name I made up for the way he talks about things, he uses physical feelings to describe emotions ones. It’s sort of his own language for things, it’s kind of fun, like playing charades with someone who only mostly understands the rules.” Hermione thought for a bit and then gave Chise an odd look. Chise rubbed her hands together, blowing warm air onto them before pulling down the sleeves of the jumper.

“What kind of fae is he?”

“I’m not sure,” she shrugged. “He doesn’t either,” she thought about what it would be safe to say and decided that Hermione seemed trustworthy enough. “He is able to change his form drastically if the occasion calls for it.”

“Really? That’s pretty cool, we have people that can turn into animals, is it kind of like that?”

“Not really, the form he’s in right now is a glamour,” she smiled when Hermione looked at her curiously. “Normally he looks different, he’s urm… taller and has a skull for a face.”

“A skull?” Hermione imagined a human skull perched on top of a tall body and tried to contain her apprehension. “Is that his natural state?”

“Yes,” Chise put a finger to her chin for a moment. “He has a few different forms, his refined form is his normal form, then his human glamour, he has a form that I like to call his travel form,” she giggled a bit at Hermione’s cocked head. “It’s kind of like a dog… with a fish tail… and vines coming off his pelt, that’s actually feathers… it’s so much easier to actually see it.”

“He said you were his wife...” Hermione looked at her and worried at her lip for a moment. “How do you two… you know.”

“I don’t know yet,” Chise blushed nervously. “I do hope to find out, but I guess he would probably use one of his more human forms.”

“Oh,” Hermione thought for a moment. “How long have you been together?”

“Five years now,” she smiled and took one more look around the room. She noticed a picture waving at her from one of the shelves and walked over to it to pluck the picture from its home.

"How is it moving?" Chise asked, showing the picture to Hermione as she walked over to her.

"What do you mean?" Hermione looked at the mirror that had been on that shelf since the summer.

"The picture, I mean I guess it's a picture," Chise examined it as Hermione looked again at the mirror in her hands.

"What's the picture of?"

"You and Snape," Chise replied, feeling her brow furrow a bit in fascination.

"Do I wave?"

"Yes," Chise watched as Hermione's face turned bright red and she began nibbling at her bottom lip. "Can you not see it?"

"No," Hermione smiled as she lifted the mirror to place it back on the shelf. "He must have enchanted it," she wondered why he'd hidden it. Probably because he doesn't want me to know he has it. That thought had her fighting not to grin.

“I feel like we should head back up to the sitting room.”

“Alright,” Hermione made her way over to the door that led back into the office with Chise closely in tow.

XOXO

Elias and Severus sat reading in the small sitting room, the fireplace flickering happily. Snape was seated on the sofa that separated his and Hermione’s bedrooms. Elias observed Severus, quietly watching him read and then going back to his book. Severus did the same, but somehow they didn’t catch each other either time. The books they read were both research books, depicting symptoms for rare curses.

“How long have you been married to your apprentice?” Severus asked non-nonchalantly, and Elias looked over at him.

“I bought her five years ago, so four years.”

“Bought her…” Snape raised a brow at him, waiting for Elias to elaborate.

“She put herself up for auction,” he ducked his head back to his book sheepishly, he hated blurting out that detail of their coming together. Humans were often very judgmental about that small fact. “I purchased her to be my apprentice as she’s a Surei Bega.”

“Surei Bega,” Severus thought for a moment then forgot he had a book and leaned forward. “I’ve heard it’s exceedingly rare to find one in good condition.”

“Yes, and she has the sight, so she is very valuable,” he paused a moment and thought of the ring that lay under his left glove. “For many reasons.” Elias looked back up and Snape had a hand on his chin in thought. Severus seemed lost for a long while before he looked up at Elias.

“Four years? Isn’t she twenty?”

“Yes.”

“You married a sixteen-year-old?”

“Yes.” Snape looked at him with confusion mixed with horror, Elias didn’t seem to see an issue with this fact.

“How old are you?” Snape asked, maybe he was younger than he looked.

“Well,” Elias thought for a while. “As I remember, three hundred years, but I may well be older than that,” at that Snape’s jaw dropped and he simply stared at him.

“You sleep in the same bed?”

“Yes,” Elias leaned forward and looked at him, knitting his brows in a human look of concern.

“So you fucked a minor?!” Snape spat, and he stood just as Chise and Hermione stepped back into the room, his book falling to the ground with a fump.

“Excuse me?” Elias sat back and gave him an affronted look.

“Professor Snape, Elias has never touched me sexually,” Chise said, walking over to Elias and he looked over at her as she took his hand. Snape’s face was a study between disgust and disbelief.

“You married a three-hundred-year-old man at sixteen!”

“He’s part fae.”

“Why does that matter?”

“Because, when we got ‘married’, he didn’t understand what it meant. He didn’t expect anything from me… only that we would stay together.” He looked between the two for several long moments as he calmed a bit.

“A fae?”

“Yes.”

“Like your church grim?”

“Well, no. Ruth is my familiar, we aren’t bound to each other in the same way...” Chise looked at Elias. “My love, could you show them?” She could easily see the consternation play across his glamour. She leaned over and kissed his cheek, “please Elias.” He looked uncomfortably at Snape, who was still standing with an air of distrust.

“I’ve talked to her about all of this, it’s not as illicit as you think sir,” Hermione whispered as she motioned back to Elias. Elias left his hand in Chise’s as he slowly phased into his refined form. Growing half a foot, his long legs growing longer in front of him, his horns growing out and twisting as his face turned to the face of bone that Chise knew and loved. Once he was in his refined form, she leaned in and kissed his cheekbone, before looking back at Snape.

“Before Elias bought me, I had no one and nothing of my own, he gave me a life, he is my family. True that he bought me so technically in the beginning he owned me, but I chose to stay with him. He only wants what’s best for me, putting everything aside to try to cure the curse,” she said, smiling at Elias as he sat further back in the leather armchair and picked up the red cloth that hung from his horns to drape it over his skull. Snape was still standing abashed as Hermione patted his forearm.

“Please sir, relax,” she encouraged him to sit down again on the small sofa. “I’m sure we’ll figure it out, the library is quite extensive, and I love to research.”

“Walking encyclopedia,” Snape muttered picking his book off the floor before crossing his arms as he sat further back into the sofa.

“Be that as it may,” she continued. “There are still many books I haven’t looked through on obscure curses, so collecting them will be interesting. We have classes tomorrow starting in the morning, but there is a free period of a few hours in which we…” she looked at Snape. “can meet you there for research.”

“Yes,” Severus agreed quietly, contemplating the situation of the two in front of him.

“Well, I think it’s time for dinner, don’t you?” Hermione looked at Chise and smiled. “Would you care to go with me? Elias,” she turned to him and continued, “you can sit at my place at the staff table, and I’ll sit with my house for today, so Chise doesn’t sit alone.”

“Chise,” Elias started, and she squeezed his hand.

“It’s only for meals my love, we’ll be together in the library after,” he wanted to huff but held it back. He knew that she would often run off with school mates when they were at the college and this would be much the same. He’d just gotten used to them being at home together again and wanted her with him.

“Alright,” he said. Rising, Severus watched as he stood to his full seven feet.

“Mr. Ainsworth, could I convince you to put your glamour back on for dinner?” Severus looked at him with a stern face, but his eyes pleaded with the magus, “many of the children aren’t used to seeing such… rare creatures, it may be… distracting.”

“Of course,” Elias phased back into his blond glamour and leaned down to kiss Chise on the cheek before her hand left his and he watched her walk through the door, her arm linked with Hermione. He looked at Severus and motioned for him to go first, Snape looked at him as he passed him and lead the way since the women had already disappeared.

They were both silent as they made their way up the spiral stairs. “I apologise,” Severus said softly as they walked along the cold stone hallway to the great hall.

“Consider it forgiven,” Elias nodded gently. “I realise that you were simply worried for Chise, and I can’t be angry about that, she means everything to me.” Snape nodded, and slowed so they could walk at a reasonable pace, Elias may have been taller than him by a few inches, but Severus was still walking quicker.

“I’m glad to hear that,” Snape looked over at the magus. “My first priority is the children that enter this school.”

“I can tell,” Elias started with a small smile. “Your apprentice is very headstrong, that is a difficult quality in someone you are training, Chise is also very wilful, so I understand the issues. She always seems to run headlong into danger and think after, I have requested multiple times that she stop, but she always seems to find ways to get herself into trouble.”

“Yes,” Severus groused. “I’ve had to look out for Miss Granger since she was a child and she is constantly getting herself into trouble.” He paused for a moment as they walked and then thoughtfully added, “but when it came down to it, she ended up saving my life during the war. She is a very powerful witch and often runs in without thinking about herself, only others.”

“I can relate to the constant stress,” Elias agreed, and Severus looked over at him as they turned the corner to the great hall. Snape walked in front of Elias, up between the long house tables, he went to the teachers table at the front. His robes caught the wind that his steps speed created, blowing them out like bat wings. Elias followed, his robes billowing a bit to emulate the command of a room that Snape seemed to demand without words.

Once they were sitting, Elias looked out over the crowd searching for Chise. Snape knew what he was doing, and pointed to the Gryffindor table where Chise, Hermione and Ruth all sat. Ruth had a fork and knife ready to dig in as soon as the food arrived.

Suddenly food appeared on the tables and Elias waved at Chise, not noticing the group of girls next to her that giggled excitedly at the sight of his glamour. He turned to eat, and Snape smirked despite himself to see someone so devoted and uncaring about attention that wasn’t from the one person that they loved. He had to admit, his glamour was very well done. Well, he liked his nose, it was long and straight enough to use as a ski slope, unlike his own, that had been broken multiple times.

He looked over at Hermione and watched as she put food on her plate, slowly eating as she spoke to those around her. Ruth was shovelling food from the serving plates directly into his mouth, missing his personal plate entirely. Chise was eating slowly, more preoccupied with talking between Hermione and Ginevra Weasley.

Minerva caught their attention as they ate, “Professor Ainsworth, you both came at a lovely time, we are having a Yule party for the older students this coming Friday.”

“A party?” Elias confirmed, looking over at the Headmistress.

“Yes, most of the students like to dress up and look nice, you and Miss Hatori are both more than welcome to join us in the festivities,” she said, smiling over at him.

“Thank you Headmistress, I’m sure that Chise will be very pleased to hear,” he gave a strained smile, then turned back to his meal.

“I trust you haven’t forgotten, Professor Snape,” she added, with a little twinkle in her eyes.

“I haven’t,” he groused, hating that she really was getting more like Dumbledore every year. Was it something in the office that slowly made them that way? Most likely the lemon drops.

“Bringing anyone this year?”

“Probably not,” he hoped his clenched jaw would be enough of a deterrent from continuing down that line of questioning as he picked at his meal with his fork. He covertly caught sight of Hermione as she ate, if I brought anyone it’d be her… sure I bet she’d love that. He looked dejected from his own internal dialogue as he pushed a bit of roast potato in his mouth.

After dinner had disappeared and Snape was drinking his tea with Elias, they watched as the bewitched ceiling showed shooting stars streaking across the winter sky. Everyone started clearing from the great hall and Severus took out his pocket watch. It was silver, and the inside had a bit of green velvet with a velvet button that touched the watch face, on the top, it was etched with the Slytherin house crest.

“That’s a lovely pocket watch,” Elias said as Snape held it so he could see the etched front.

“Thank you, Miss Granger gave it to me as a thank you for taking her on as my apprentice,” he managed to keep the smile from reaching his lips at the memory. “Has your apprentice given you any gifts… I suppose that’s a silly question as she is also your wife.”

“She has,” Elias turned a bit to face him in his chair. “This loop tie, she gave it to me our first Christmas together.”

“I noticed she also wears one.”

“Yes, that was originally mine. I gave it to her in hopes that she would want to look after it, and in turn, herself. She knows how important it is to me; it was the first gift I was ever given.”

“Did it work?” Severus asked, taking a sip of tea.

“Sort of, but it hasn’t been as effective as I would have hoped. She seems to attract trouble,” he lamented, and Snape sat back, setting down his empty teacup.

“That’s a good idea though,” Severus tried to think of something that he wore that was important to him, but didn’t really have anything other than his jacket and that wouldn’t fit. Then his mind wandered to how she would look in said jacket if it were tailored a bit to fit her, she would probably look lovely… He turned back to Elias and as he too set down his teacup. Snape stood, leading the way back through the great hall, passed the two ladies, beckoning them with a hand gesture. Hermione stood to follow, smiling at Chise.

“Let’s go study,” she beamed.

XOXO

They soon found themselves in a deserted library and Chise turned to Elias. “You look tired Elias, please let down the glamour, it takes a lot of effort to stay this way for so long.”

“I know,” he looked around, and not seeing anyone he turned to Severus. “Do you mind if I drop the glamour?”

“I don’t mind,” Snape said, turning and striding off toward the restricted section of the library. Elias shifted into his refined form before lowering his red cloth to cover his face. They followed after Hermione and Snape to one of the far corners of the library. Hermione was flitting around, gathering books that could pertain to rare curses and started laying them out on the table. But once she had ten, Snape sat forward and drawled, “I think that’s enough, Miss Granger. Though I appreciate your enthusiasm, we can’t hope to read this many books in one night.” He then took one of the books and began going through it one page at a time.

Hermione sat down, looking at the shelves as she worried at her bottom lip. Snape peeked over at her with a quirked brow. “Alright, you can get one more,” the sentence wasn’t even fully out before Hermione rushed over to grab one that she had been eyeing. Chise laughed to herself and saw Snape look back to his book with a soft smile that managed to peek out through his curtain of hair.

The hours slowly passed, and Severus looked up to see Chise falling forward in her chair only for Elias to reach out and catch her before lifting her into his lap. She instinctively cuddled into his chest as he had one arm under her knees and the other behind her back, he was so much bigger than her that he could still easily read with her sitting like that. Snape brought out his lovely pocket watch to check the time.

“It’s well after curfew, we should all go to bed,” he looked over at Hermione, who had fallen asleep slumped against the library chair with her head bent forward. Elias chuckled and with a wave of his hand restocked all of the books to where they belonged, leaving Snape with the book he had been reading in his hands. “Should we wake them so they can go to the tower?” He asked Elias, looking at Hermione out of the corner of his eyes.

“I wish to sleep with my wife,” Elias placed his hand on her head tenderly. “I will bring her to the dungeon with us,” he said, waiting to see what Snape would do. “You should be able to carry her without waking her,” he continued, gesturing to Hermione.

“True,” he thought for a moment, A part of him wanted to wake her… but then another part thought of carrying her, his stomach flipping a bit at the thought. He wasn’t going to take her to the tower this late at night, it wouldn’t do to wake the girls in the dorm to him putting her to bed. “I will put her in my bed and sleep on the sofa in the sitting room,” he decided, motioning his hand at the book he had been reading for it to go back to its home on the shelf. He carefully picked up Hermione the same way that Elias carried Chise, and they made their way out of the library and into the hallway.

The castle was so quiet, the stone echoing their soft steps and he couldn’t help but notice how warm she was in comparison to the chilled hall. Elias’s red eye glided down to watch Snape as he looked down at Hermione, he carried her with a tenderness that he didn’t think Snape was capable of based on how he had acted all day.

When her head began to fall back Snape carefully stopped and pulled her closer to him so her head could rest on his shoulder, Elias watched him and waited for him to start walking again. Severus seemed to freeze as soon as her head settled onto his shoulder, her breath ghosted across his neck; a blush crept up his neck and cheeks. Snape then realised that Elias was staring at him and began walking again more briskly this time, trying to get to the dungeons as fast as possible to put an end to this awkwardness. I don’t know why I thought this was a good idea.

Severus was glad he had added Elias and Chise to the wards, so he didn’t need to take them down to gain entrance into the sitting room. Elias walked to the door to the left and looked over at Snape before closing the bedroom door and Snape turned to his room on the right and stepped into it, closing the door behind him.

Elias laid Chise on the bed and noticed that Hermione had placed their bag at the end of the bed. He lifted Chise’s bear out of the bag and sat him on the side table on the right side of the bed before going back to the bag. He got out his pyjamas and hers and as he changed he looked around the small room. There was a shelf over the dresser that had little moving pictures in small frames, the only thing in common with them all was Hermione at different ages. There was one with two boys, one black haired, one red, all waving at him. Another that had her in between an older couple, who he assumed was her parents. They were all smiling, but they all looked like they had been taken years ago as Hermione was much older now.

He walked over to her bed and on the night stand was one more picture that looked more recent. Neither of them were really smiling, maybe smirking would be more apt, it was her and the professor, partway through the movement Hermione would give a little wave. Snape stayed impassive with his hands at his sides and at the end of the picture he turned to walk away, but it quickly started again with him standing there next to her. He turned to Chise and wondered if he should change her into her nightclothes but thought better of it. He then laid down next to her and cuddled up as she rolled away from him so that her back was gently embraced by his front

XOXO

Snape walked over to his bed and placed Hermione carefully onto it, taking off her shoes before he lifted up the duvet and covered her with it. He then went to the loo to brush his teeth and change into his long grey night shirt. He was walking back through his room in thick woollen socks to his closet to grab an extra pillow and blanket when he heard his name.

“Sev… rus…,” he walked over to the end of the bed to see Hermione thrashing around in her sleep, grabbing big handfuls of the duvet as tears began to fall. “Please… stay,” she gathered a pillow into her arms, holding it in an iron grip and started crying into it. He rushed over to her and wasn’t sure what to do, he decided to place his hand on her head and started petting her as if she were a cat.

“Miss Granger,” he whispered, bending down so his face was in front of hers, to see if she was awake as he continued to pet her until her body began to relax again.

“Don’t die…” she whispered in anguish and he felt a cold shock rush down his spine. She must have been dreaming about the shrieking shack, remembering that night made his chest constrict painfully as he looked down at his apprentice. She was dreaming about the night she saved him in that shack, when his blood was covering the floor and she was the only one that stayed with him and tried to keep him alive.

“I’m here, Hermione,” he whispered, and watched her grip loosen on his pillow. “I’m alive because of you my dear... thank you,” he said softly as he watched her tears slow and a small smile twitched at the corner of her lips.

“Love you,” she breathed as her face slackened again and a warmth ran over him, his eyes widening in shock. He felt as though he'd been walking in a blizzard for the last 25 years and was suddenly invited in from the cold. The warmth of her words repeated over and over as his brain tried and failed to talk him into disbelieving her. That small phrase, those two words that seemed to stop his world from spinning. Had anyone ever said those words to him before? Perhaps his mother, when he was very young.

Do I love her? He knew the answer before he asked it. More than anything.

She had insinuated herself into every facet of his life, had she even been trying or was it just something that happened? He marked articles in potions magazines he thought she'd find interesting, he bought books she might like to read and left them in the sitting room. Silently cheering when he found her reading them. He thought of her constantly, the week without her over the summer had felt so long.

He knew her favourite songs and her favourite foods. He wanted to know everything… but then again...

She was asleep, what if she didn't really feel that way?

What if she was talking to someone else in her dream? The only person her age that remained was Longbottom, he wasn't a threat. What about Weasley? They had been together for a time, but he didn't believe most of what the prophet printed about them. If they were engaged, surely he would visit or ask her to visit him. Wouldn't he?

He realised it didn't matter, if this was his only chance to be honest with her, he would take it. He looked around to make sure they were still alone, and no one could hear. Then he put his mouth as close to her ear as he could and whispered so softly that he couldn’t hear himself.

“I love you too,” he kissed her earlobe gently, taking a breath of her hair before turning and leaving the room. He closed the door behind him and leaned against it for a moment, panic suddenly filling him as he thought about what he’d just said. He touched his lips, why did he kiss her? He knew she was only dreaming, it’s not like she meant it, he would be fooling himself if he thought it was really how she felt.

But what if? What does it even feel like to love? He tried to remember what it felt like when he had been in love, but it had been so long ago. Warmth at first, understanding and friendship, his chest would pinch, and his heart would race, but then she found new friends, and everything changed. He remembered constantly being afraid, feeling cold, alone, and suspicious. Never having his mind eased by her feigned attempts to placate him. Was that love? That’s how he felt growing up with his parents, so perhaps it was love. He’d never thought to question it until now.

Then what is this? It’s so… different. He felt the warmth of her friendship and understanding but she made him feel other things that he’d never felt. There was the fluttering he felt in his stomach whenever she would get especially passionate about a subject and the comfort she was able to give him. They could talk about anything, and often they would. Any subject, she could keep up with him like no other, he would challenge her but she in turn would also make him think harder on things, think bigger.

She’s so smart and kind. She didn’t mind being seen talking to him either, even though most people did. He was used to that, to people avoiding him, or stopping conversations when others drew near. Or worse—when they would see him, and the talking would quiet into odd looks or awkward hellos. But Hermione never did that, even when people would give her those odd looks for smiling up at him when they saw each other in the hall, she would ignore them. She didn’t let them affect her, didn’t let their opinions change how she behaved around him, not even her closest friends.

Gods she’s light itself, selfless and kind, perfect and sweet. She deserves the best of everything, so why would she ever want me? The thought of her possibly wanting him, even if it were just a dream and would never be reality, made him feel… happy… almost giddy, and he found himself smiling into the empty room. What if it were true, that somehow that beautiful creature could care for me? But how…

He had been truly cantankerous to her from the moment her hand shot up for the first time and had been terrible to her for years, well to all the students. It kept them safe, he would always justify his actions to himself, whoever gets near me gets hurt. The words, though not very comforting, had always worked, so then why was he feeling like this? He paced the sitting room for several minutes before heat rose to his face when he realised that he hadn’t brought out a pillow or a blanket. He pulled his teaching robes from the peg by the door, pulling them around him, he sat down on the sofa. Casting a warming charm over himself, he fluffed one of the tiny decorative pillows that lived on the sofa since Miss Granger had moved in, before laying on his side, his long legs curling up so he fit. She couldn’t love him, she was his apprentice, it wasn’t appropriate, not to mention his past, she deserved better than him.

Even if she does love me… I don’t deserve her love. His face fell as he looked around the darkened room before forcing his eyes closed.

I don’t deserve happiness…

It was a long time before his busy mind found sleep.

Chapter Text

Hermione stretched as a familiar and wonderful smell met her nose, herbs, leather, and a scent distinctly Severus. She breathed in deeply as she opened her eyes to see she was clutching his pillow to her side, her head popped up when she realised she was sleeping in his bed. She smiled to herself, deep forest green Egyptian cotton sheets and a black duvet with little stars, so small they almost looked like specks. She pulled the pillow tight to her face and took one more long breath before stretching and rolling out of the four poster bed.

She went into the sitting room, Snape was cuddled up in a very awkward position, his neck bent painfully to the side on a pillow that was much too small. She took out her wand and waved it, making the pillow bigger and mould to his head more. He was haphazardly wrapped in his teaching robes, his stocking feet sticking out, along with one of his lanky legs. She took a handkerchief from the table and enlarged it into a blanket that just looked like a huge handkerchief with his initials at one of the corners, in large green calligraphic letters. It was still a few hours till breakfast and a bit before Chise and she would go meet Ginny on the Quidditch pitch. So, she sat down across from Severus and picked up one of the books that littered the coffee table and started reading. It was a massive tome, and she scooted her feet under herself as she laid it across her lap and tried to lose herself in the topic. She couldn’t help looking up at his sleeping form every now and then.

XOXO

Chise woke to a dimly lit room, she looked around and saw the firelight glowing from the hearth and was glad for the warmth as it was quite chilly in this room. She moved a bit and realised that she was laying on her side, wrapped in Elias’s strong plum-coloured arms. She looked over her shoulder to see he was laying on his side, his head propped up on a mountain of pillows to support him without hurting his horns. She smiled to herself and turned in his arms to place a kiss on the end of his snout, his dark sockets showed the first glimmer of red as he slowly woke.

“You don’t have to get up,” she whispered to him, hugging him close before pulling away from him to stand. Once she was out of his arms, he rolled onto his stomach and pushed one pillow under his heavy skull. Chise dressed in her denims and the pink jumper that Silky had made her on her first full day with Elias. She smiled when she saw the tiny hole threatening to make itself bigger in the oxford shirt top that was attached to it. It had been made by a small shimmering fae when she was wearing it on one of their walks through the woods around their English cottage.

She turned to see him asleep again and smiled, watching his body move up and down as he breathed, it was so relaxing watching him sleep. She knew that he loved to sleep in, so she would let him. She quietly stepped out of the small room, into the sitting room and was greeted by the smile of Hermione, who quickly put her finger to her mouth in a silent Shh. She then pointed to the sofa across from her and Chise saw Snape sleeping peacefully.

“What time is it?” Chise whispered, stepping over to Hermione. She cast Tempas wordlessly with her wand and the little glowing numbers 5AM could be seen.

“What time does Elias usually wake up?” Hermione asked softly, standing and setting her book down on the coffee table as silently as possible.

“He usually sleeps in, what about Severus?” Chise asked quietly.

“He’ll be awake in about half an hour,” she looked back down at Snape as he slept and blushed. Chise looked between the two of them with a silent question playing on her face. “I never get to watch him sleep, he’s so handsome while he sleeps,” she shrugged before continuing. “He almost died during the war, I helped him as much as I could at the time and then when they took him to St. Mungo’s to recover, I stayed with him any time I wasn’t at home sleeping myself. I don’t get to see him sleep now a days,” she turned to Chise, who wore a soft smile. Hermione reminded her of Redcurrant when she spoke of Joel and his rose garden and Chise wondered if she knew.

“Do you love him?” Chise asked as quietly as she could, and Hermione looked over at Snape before turning back to Chise with a tiny nod before she pointed to the door. Hermione opened the door and grabbed two robes from a nearby hook before offering one to Chise as they walked out and closed the door behind them to make their way to the upper level.

“We should go meet Ginny, she wanted to teach you to fly remember?”

“Yes!” Chise squealed before covering her mouth. “Sorry, I’m excited, I’ve only flown one time, but it wasn’t on a broom.”

“How did you fly before?”

“Some neighbours helped me, they made me into a giant bird so I could get to Elias, I was staying in Iceland at the time,” she blushed thinking about it. She didn’t need to mention that the bird was as big as a building. “I wanted to tell him how I felt, but I was so exhausted after the flight that I fainted almost immediately.”

“A bird?”

“Yes,” Chise blushed, feeling a bit embarrassed, she hadn’t told anyone about that before, but Hermione seemed very happy to hear any story she could about her magic.

XOXO

Snape had been awake from the moment that Hermione came out and found it difficult to say nothing when she upgraded his bedding. He couldn’t bear the thought of talking to her after the night before. Even if she wouldn’t remember it, he just wanted a little more time, and so he feigned sleeping and since he was so practised at staying expressionless, it was quite easy. He heard the second door open sometime later and then the two women talking. He was surprised that Miss Hatori had called him Severus and that Miss Granger hadn’t corrected her. But when he heard her call him handsome he felt his chest grow pridefully, no one had called him that before. He never thought anyone would at this point, his teeth were crooked, and his nose was long with a little hook at the end and even though he was finally digging his way out of a constant state of depression and self-hate he still didn’t wash his hair as often as he probably should.

When he heard her say she stayed with him at St. Mungo’s he wasn’t sure what to think. He didn’t remember her there, only her cough drops. She must have left once he was awake.

He heard the question, ‘do you love him’ and his ears felt like they would burn, listening so intently for the answer, but it never came. I nstead Hermione seemed to usher them both out of the room. He opened his eyes once they were gone and smirked at what she had made his blanket out of, cute. He stood and immediately felt his back spasm, sending little jolts of tingling pain down his arms. With a wince, he went into his room for a pain potion and tried to shrug off the awkward feeling that was beginning to consume him. He picked out his clothes for the day and went to have a long hot shower and get dressed.

XOXO

The grounds were empty at this time in the morning, apart from the pair that were heading out into the snow covered Quidditch pitch to meet Ginny. Hermione had draped one of her Gryffindor scarves around Chise’s neck to keep her warm as they made their way to the redhead, who was yawning wide as she waved sleepily.

“Hi!” Ginny said, thrusting her hand out toward Chise, who took the red heads hand and shook it happily. “You ready to learn how to fly?” Chise looked at the brooms on the snow-covered ground and nodded. “Well first let’s see if you can,” she walked over to one of the brooms and remembering her first flying lesson, called ‘up’ and her broom shot into her hand. “Just say ‘up’ while holding your hand out and the broom should respond,” Ginny smiled and watched as Chise walked over to hers and put her hand out. Without having to say anything, the broom gently shot up into her hand.

Chise smiled and then looked to Ginny for what to do next, Ginny smiled widely and then mounted her broom and Chise did the same. Soon they were levitating off the ground and then Ginny laughed, “you’re a natural! Come on then, let’s see what you can do!” She shouted as she shot up into the air. Hermione shrugged when Chise looked at her and then she turned her face in Ginny’s direction and took off like a shot. Flying on a broom was a lot easier on her magic then flying with the neighbours. They zoomed around the pitch higher and higher as she chased Ginny, wind flowing through her short hair and a smile on her face. Ginny suddenly turned toward the ground and with speed Chise followed her as they shot directly back to earth.

Chise followed Ginny around the pitch like an expert, until Ginny took an acutely sharp turn and when she tried to follow her she fell off the broom. Ruth materialized and reached out to her, catching her by her wrist just before she hit the ground.

XOXO

Elias had woken with a start; his ring was giving him a silent alert and he rushed out into the sitting room in his blue pyjamas to see Snape looking up from his book with an eyebrow raised.

“Good morning,” Snape said as Elias began to shift into a shadow before his eyes.

“Chise!” Elias shouted from the shadows as he slipped below the door. Snape sat in shock for a moment before he remembered that Hermione was with her; throwing his book down, he rushed to the door.

Snape never ran, he would never do something so undignified, but he would stalk as quickly as he could as he followed the flowing shadow until it climbed up the wall and went over the windowsill. Snape looked out the window as the shadow swept across the snow in the direction of the Quidditch pitch. Severus looked down the hall in both directions, then with a pop he disappeared. He was already walking into the pitch when Elias arrived and was the first to see Chise, laying on the snow-covered ground in the arms of Ruth. Hermione and Ginny were both running to her as Ruth shouted at her about not being careful.

Elias materialized next to him, suddenly in his glamour and fully dressed, he ran over to Chise, who was quietly listening to Ruth.

“What were you thinking!” Ruth shouted as Elias knelt down and lifted Chise up away from her familiar. Ginny looked up at Elias and blushed violently and Snape folded his arms, rolling his eyes at the swoon that was no doubt incoming.

“Are you hurt?” Elias asked Chise, and she nodded before lifting her arm.

“I hurt my wrist, but other than that, Ruth caught me before I was badly hurt.”

“Madam Pomfrey can help with that, I’m sure she has a potion that can—”

“Here,” Hermione interrupted Ginny mid-sentence. Reaching into her beaded bag, she fished out a vial of healing potion and handed it to Chise. Severus was next to her and impressed that she would just carry around healing potions in her bag. Although, after the war it made sense to always have some handy for just in case situations. “Take this and it should help with the pain and swelling,” then looking up at Elias she motioned to her arm. “I’m going to run a quick diagnostic charm to ensure that the potion will be enough or if anything else will be needed.”

Snape looked down at Chise for a moment and then turned and watched as Hermione pulled out her wand and ran a quick diagnostic charm and found no real injuries. Snape felt captivated as he watched her, very impressed that she was so capable and he felt proud that she was his apprentice.

“How did this happen?” Elias asked, looking down at her.

“I was… flying,” she said in a hushed voice, turning away from him. Elias’s mouth gaped open and he looked over at Ruth.

“With a broom Elias, she didn’t do it on her own this time,” Ruth stood and shivered as a chilly breeze swept by them and then melted back into her warm shadow. Now that Elias was there, he could take care of her if she needed help.

“On your own?” Snape inquired to Chise, “you can fly without a broom?”

“Only once,” he said blushing. “I didn’t really mean to, but the neighbours gave me a little more power than I anticipated.”

“It isn’t worth expelling your magic, especially when there is so much research to do,” Elias admonished. Noticing that Chise was shivering, he turned abruptly back to the castle to begin the walk back.

“I can walk,” Chise groused, knowing that he wasn’t going to put her down now that he had her. She understood he worried for her. Snape walked quickly to keep up with the long strides the magus was using to get back out of the cold.

“No,” Elias simply said, and she knew not to argue, she hated putting stress on him and knew that the best thing to do was simply to let him carry her.

“Who’s the dreamboat?” Ginny whispered to Hermione before they started walking after them. Hermione chuckled, thinking about how he looked without his glamour and wondering if Ginny would feel the same if she knew… probably not.

“Chise’s husband,” she said, hoping to dissuade Ginny from thinking about him further.

“Bummer,” she turned towards Hermione with a sly smile on her face, “so, do you know who your date to the party on Friday will be yet?”

“Not… yet,” Hermione replied awkwardly.

“Well, you need to find one soon, they’ll all be taken if you don’t.”

“I’m waiting for someone,” she tried to hide the burn that was searing her cheeks.

“Oh really?” Ginny smiled knowingly. “And who would that be?”

“No one you need to concern yourself with,” she waved a hand as if it would dissolve the conversation, but Ginny wasn’t one for giving up that easily.

“Oh, go on Hermione, who is he? He must be pretty special if you’d wait until the week of the party for him to ask you.”

“I’ll let you know… if he asks,” her eyes inadvertently locked on the back of Snape as he followed Elias up to the castle and it wasn’t disregarded by the woman next to her.

XOXO

Elias walked with her in his arms all the way to the great hall, depositing her at the Gryffindor table, where she had sat the day before. Snape walked passed them and went up to the staff table to take his normal place.

“How are you feeling now?” Elias asked, kneeling behind her and stoking her back.

“Embarrassed,” she said, looking around at the students that were slowly filtering in for breakfast, before turning to Elias. “That potion helped a lot, we should ask her how she made it, I think it might come in handy.”

“Do you now?” He asked with a sad smile, standing and kissing the top of her head, then walking over to the staff table to sit next to Severus. Hermione quickly took the seat across from Chise as Ruth jumped out of her shadow and turned back into his human form to wait for the mass amounts of food that was inbound.

“How did you know?” Severus asked in a hushed voice, once Elias had sat down next to him. Elias leaned forward a bit and removed his left glove to show a lovely whitish blue ring on his ring finger.

“Chise gave me this the day she accepted me, it’s been enchanted to alert the wearer if the other is in danger,” he stated matter-of-factly, tugging his glove back on.

“That’s handy,” Snape muttered, intrigued by the thought. “How did you enchant it?”

“I have a friend that is a magus artificer and she created it for Chise upon request,” Elias replied, dishing out some food that had just arrived on the table.

“Magus artificer, I wonder how she does it,” Snape mumbled, more to himself than to anyone else.

“Her father was an alchemist, but she’s a mage. Angelica had to find her own way around creating items that are useful to mages.” Elias stated, picking up his teacup. “I’m glad Chise’s alright,” he breathed before taking a sip.

“As am I,” Snape replied genuinely, turning to his own tea. “So, she’s flown without a broom before?”

“Yes,” Elias said with a soft smile. “She was magnificent, she turned into a phoenix, she flew all the way back from Iceland to our home in England without stopping. She was quite tired when she got back.” He stilled thoughtfully, trying to decide if he should share a bit more. He looked at Snape out of the corner of his eye and debated. He felt a bit uncomfortable, but he could tell that Snape was trying to be friendly and Chise had been trying to encourage him to make friends for some time. So, he took a deep breath before continuing, “I didn’t realise it at the time, but that’s when I started to know how important she was to me. All I knew at the time, was that everything was cold when she wasn’t at my side.” Snape looked over at him out of the corner of his eyes before flicking them over to Hermione, who caught his eyes and smiled. He froze for a moment until she looked away and he took a deep gulp of his tea.

“How did you catch up with me so fast?” Elias asked, picking up his tea and taking another sip.

“Shh,” he hissed out of the side of his mouth, glancing at Minerva, who was just coming in before whispering. “I’ll tell you later.” Elias settled into eating breakfast and tried to remember to ask him later on.

XOXO

After breakfast, the foursome met outside the great hall and Snape turned to them with his hands clasped behind his back. As relaxed as he could manage.

“I have a class, Miss Granger will be helping me,” he then turned to their guests. “Would you both like to sit in and observe?”

“Yes!” Chise said immediately, looking up at Elias, who nodded and offered his arm to her. “After everything I’ve heard from Hermione, I am to believe you are one of the best potioneers that has ever lived,” Elias looked down at her with a bit of curiosity before turning to Snape.

“It isn’t true… obviously,” he drawled, shrugging one of his shoulders uncomfortably and turning to Hermione. “Come,” He turned on his heel and stalked away from the group. Hiding his smirk at Hermione’s blatant compliment.

“Don’t worry Elias, I’m sure we can only learn from them, but to me you are the best with medicinal medicines,” Elias looked down at her with uncertainty. He followed Snape, feeling intrigued at the thought of Hermione boasting about him.

When they arrived, the classroom was empty, and Hermione was rushing around setting up the desks. Snape waved his wand toward the blackboard and the chalk flew up and began scrawling out the lesson plan.

“Wiggenweld Potion,” Snape told Hermione what they would be brewing today without looking over at her. Elias stepped into the dark room and watched as Hermione rushed around, preparing everything while Severus sat at his desk at the front of the room. He was marking the last few papers so he could return them to the class that was about to start.

“Where should we sit?” Chise asked Hermione, and she stopped moving for a moment.

“Well, this is a third-year potions class, so you could sit with me, but professor Ainsworth may want to sit up by Professor Snape,” she turned to him to confirm. “Is that alright sir?” Snape glanced up at them, having been listening to their conversation. He sat back and motioned to a chair near him.

“Of course… just try not to draw too much attention,” he drawled. Elias looked at Hermione, who smiled knowingly.

“Your glamour is catching the eyes of some of the young ladies,” she said, looking down at the tables. Elias looked at Chise, who shrugged.

“What about this?” He suddenly morphed into a shorter woman with long silver hair and violet eyes. His normal teaching glamour when he was at the college, with an added Hogwarts cloak for good measure. He had hoped to stay in male form to deter the attention of any boys from Chise, but he figured it would only be during this class. Severus had seen him morph into his new glamour and couldn’t help but smirk that he chose to be just a bit taller than the two ladies standing by him. Elias turned, his hair swooshing out around his slim form as he walked up to sit next to Severus.

“Much better,” Snape stood with a smirk before he picked up the essays. He handed Hermione the scrolls to distribute to the desks as he sat back down. It was then that she heard chattering getting louder and louder as the students came in loudly before they saw Snape stand and quietly went to their seats.

Snape stood at the head of the class and all the students faced him in silence before he began his lecture. Chise was surprised to see the difference in which he spoke to them versus how he spoke to Hermione. He seemed to detest any questions or interruptions and only prompted for answers once he had finished with the whys and whereabouts of the potion. He gave and took points from the houses based on the answers, a simple five points this way or the other depending. He explained the potion before giving them a time limit in which to brew. He then went and sat behind his desk again, watching them as they spoke amongst themselves.

“Wiggenweld potion is also known as ‘the sleeping beauty’ potion to some, since it wakes you up from deep sleeps. Some potions masters tried to spread the rumour that it works best when applied to the lips and transferred via a kiss, but that’s rubbish,” Hermione spoke softly with Chise as she added the first ingredient.

Chise looked over the ingredients as Hermione started making the potion. “When do you infuse the brew with magic?” Chise asked as she didn’t see it indicated on the board.

“Infuse with magic?” Hermione asked, sitting down as the first of the ingredients got up to temperature. “The brew is done more mathematically then magically; you have a certain number of stirs that it will take and then the colour it changes to. But we don’t infuse it with magic, the magic naturally is brought out.”

“Hmm,” Chise mused, looking at the brew as it bubbled away. “That’s interesting, Elias usually has me mix together the herbs needed in a glass jar or bowl and then infuse my magic into it to create the potion.”

“Doesn’t your magical signature get imprinted on the brew then?”

“I guess it does, does that matter?” Chise looked up from her inspection of the cauldron’s contents, asking in open curiosity.

“It can in some cases, some herbs don’t like being used with magic and so the potion must be created without any involved to get the desired effect. Although, in some situations even using magic to prepare the ingredient can taint it.”

“That’s very interesting,” Chise watched Hermione add the next ingredient. “Would that mean that in some cases it would be rendered inert?”

“Yes,” Hermione replied, happy that she could talk about these things with another girl, most of them just wanted to talk about boys, which wasn’t all bad, but Chise was a like breath of fresh air. “I doubt that the ones you usually make would be effected. What kinds do you normally make?”

“Well, mainly sleeping or relaxing potions, I have to be careful with those since my magic is very attuned to sleep magic. I also help with remedies for colds and coughs, our friend has issues with his lungs and has coughing fits quiet often.”

“Sleep magic?” Hermione asked, stirring the brew three times clockwise followed by three counter-clockwise stirs. Hermione turned to her, “I’ll be right back, once this is bubbling again, could you turn down the fire?”

“Of course,” Chise answered, stepping in front of the brew.

Chise watched as Hermione walked around, making sure that everyone was on the right step. Near the end of the class Snape caught Chise’s eyeline and waved for her to come forward. She hopped down from the stool she had been on and walked in front of his desk.

“Chise, Elias has been telling me that you excel at sleeping magic, I would very much like to see a demonstration if possible. This potion, if brewed correctly will wake up anyone under a deep sleep spell.” Snape leaned forward as he glanced at Elias. “You can put them to sleep and then we can have Miss Granger show you how to administer it.”

“I would love to show you,” she looked at Elias, a bit nervous. Elias smiled approving back at her, he loved showing off her talent. Snape stood, drawing the attention of the students almost instantly.

“Now we can test this potion, we have a special guest who will place one of you under a deep sleep spell, and once they are in this state we will revive them. Who would like to volunteer for this?” He asked, looking around with disappointment to see that no hands raised. “No one?“ His brow arched high as he looked around the room. “If no one will offer, than one of you will be... chosen,” he glared, but then Hermione raised her hand and stepped forward.

“I would like to do this professor, if that’s alright,” Snape gave her a small nod, stepping back to his desk and sitting down. Chise walked up to Hermione and invited her to sit down on the ground, Ruth materialized from her shadow to small gasps around the room. He wrapped his long twisting tail around her wrist as she pulled her long wand out of her pocket. As it grew, the students marvelled at how lovely the small bird on the end was.

First she struck the ground twice with the end of her wand, a blue sigil blazed into life on the floor around them, a containment rune. Chise took a deep breath and then placed the head of the bird on Hermione’s forehead. She began to sing, softly at first as pink and blue bubbles seemed to fill the space within the rune’s borders. She focused the spell only at Hermione and then, just before Hermione fell, Ruth rushed behind her in human form to slowly lower her to the ground so she wouldn’t hit her head.

“Can I wake her up?” Asked a young boy in a loud voice to the sound of some of the other boys snickering. Severus sneered at him before dipping his finger into the potion in Hermione’s cauldron and knelt down by her face. He then slid his finger across her lips and his breath caught almost imperceptibly as her tongue grazed the pad of his finger before her eyes fluttered back open. She sat up slowly and the students clapped at the show as Hermione sat back up, looking a little dazed but awake none the less.

Snape assigned the next classes essays and placed all the potions in stasis so he could check them at his convenience, “that will be all for today.” Hermione seemed to be a little out of sorts, but she stood up anyway, she wobbled a bit and Snape caught her hand as Chise went to stand by Elias.

“Are you tired?” Elias asked her, taking her hand.

“A little, but more from the excitement of the day instead of doing the spell,” she squeezed his hand lightly.

“Severus,” Elias stood, and he could see concern on Snape’s face as he turned to the magus. “Would it be alright if I took Chise to rest? She’s had quite the day so far.”

“Yes, of course,” Snape replied, helping Hermione to sit down in a chair as Elias morphed into his refined form so he could pick up Chise and take her to the sitting room to relax. Snape looked at Hermione’s glazed expression as she sat back onto the chair. “Are you alright Miss Granger?” He asked, kneeling in front of her and looking at her vacant expression.

“Um.. uh huh,” she mumbled, nodding her head once and sleepily blinking her eyes as she licked the potion from her lips. His eyes flicked down to her moistened petals before he heard her address him somewhat sternly and trained his eyes back onto hers. “Now,” she said, pointing at him and blinking again. “I have a question for you.”

“Yes…” Snape drawled nervously, looking at the half asleep, half-awake witch as she smiled at him.

“Have you ever been in love?” She looked him directly in his eyes and he just looked back at her blankly. “Besides Harry’s mum,” she continued, still staring into his black eyes. He stared back at her, hiding the confusion and anxiety he was feeling.

“Why?” He asked quietly, standing up to his full height, so he could break eye contact and turn away.

“I just wondered,” she said, her head lolling back against the chair as she fell back to sleep. Snape stared at her, his face burning with embarrassment and barely contained rage.

She knew?! She knew the whole time she'd been getting closer to me!

He hadn't known all Potter had to share during the trial. He'd been in a comma for some of it and he'd assumed the boy hadn’t shared too much, since everyone he knew treated him mostly the same.

Did she know when she first... of course she did. What if everything she’s done was because she felt sorry for me?

What if she felt remorseful for not believing in him? Felt pity for the life he'd led that had nothing in any way to do with her. He felt his fist curl angrily as he began to pace like a caged tiger.

She said she loved me.

She was asleep! The voice boomed inside his brain and rattled everything he was.

He came to a stop in front of his desk and gripped the edge as his other hand covered his face. Deep breaths weren't going to help much this time, he didn't know what to make of her. He wanted her gone, pity was the last thing he desired... from anyone, especially her.

He looked over at the sleeping woman, she looked so peaceful and he wanted to leave her there. She was still his apprentice; he'd wake her and send her away. Her question seemed to borrow a hole in his brain. ‘Have you ever been in love?’ In short.. only once, he had loved Lily, although that twisted over time into obsession with her memory and the mistakes he’d made.

Then there was his personality, he scared or irritated most witches, and they didn’t seem to want to get to know him, which he couldn’t really blame them for. He watched her for a moment, she’d been getting more brazen in the last few days, why is she acting like this all of a sudden? Is it Chise’s influence or is it that she is vulnerable for the first time in front of me? He really didn’t want to use the potion again, but maybe he just hadn’t used enough, he thought of the way it was used differently, it was known as ‘the sleeping beauty’ potion after all. But she was his apprentice, and he wasn’t going to kiss her… was he?

This isn’t some bloody fairy tale! His inner voice growled indignantly.

It didn’t matter, it seemed, how upset he was with her. How much he wanted her to leave, if she only wanted to give him pity. He didn’t want it… but he wanted her, and that thought dug into his chest like a cursed blade.

He decided to simply put a bit more on his finger and then he dipped it into her mouth, just enough for the tip to drag along her tongue. He tried very hard to ignore the twisting tension he was feeling in his stomach. I should have asked someone else to do this. Why didn’t I use a dropper? Has my brain completely addled?

Suddenly she was awake, her eyes locked onto his and for several moments they simply looked into each other’s eyes before he realised his finger was still in her mouth and he quickly withdrew it, stepping away. She looked alert and awake, so he turned to sit behind his desk again to mark the next classes papers. He ignored his heartbeat, that was threatening to beat out of his chest, and the heat in his face as he avoided her eyeline.

“Feeling better?” He asked as his quill ran across the parchment.

“Yes,” She answered, licking her lips involuntarily and tasting more of the potion. “Thank you,” she stood up easily, feeling much more together now. They had an hour till their next class, so she started going around the room and putting labels on the vials before bringing them to the front of the class for grading. Snape stood with a quill and went to each, picking them up to test them before marking the label she had placed with a letter grade. Once all the vials were at the front of the classroom and the cauldrons Scorgified, Snape spoke to her without turning around.

“You may take a break Miss Granger; I’ll finish up these. Then come back in half an hour to set up the classroom for the second years.”

“Yes sir,” she replied calmly. She remembered her question and his lack of answer and she had a bad feeling that he was angry with her. Why did I have to mention Lily? Although he wasn’t acting like he normally would when he was upset, there was no acid flying from his tongue or snide remarks, he was… ignoring her. “Professor, are you sure there isn’t anything else I can do?” She walked over to him tentatively, speaking softly—like she was approaching a wild animal that could bolt at any moment.

“I’m sure,” he drawled, still only looking at a vial and she could feel her eyes prickling with oncoming tears. She decided it was best for her to leave before she made things worse. She stepped through the door that Elias had taken Chise and walked through his office to their shared sitting room.

Snape took a deep steadying breath before bringing his hand to the bridge of his nose. She will be my apprentice for another year and a half… what do I do to… to what? What did he want to do? What did he really want? He leaned against the long table covered in vials and thought for a moment. Wartime was over, he no longer had two masters to deal with, and he was finally getting decent sleep… besides the occasional night terror. She is very beautiful, and intelligent far beyond her years... I can’t keep doing this to myself. Someone like her wouldn’t want to be with someone like me. He looked back to the vials and tried as hard as he could to concentrate on marking.

Chapter Text

Elias entered the sitting room, setting Chise down on the sofa before sitting in the armchair to her right. She looked over at him thoughtfully as he picked up a book, “may I sit in your lap?” His red eyes flicked to hers, she didn’t ask for permission any longer, so he held out his arms toward her.

“Of course, Chise,” she slunk off the sofa and stood in front of his chair, his legs uncrossing so she could step between them. He reached forward, wrapping his arms around her, pulling her onto his lap and into his chest happily. Lifting his book again, he started to read aloud. She dozed a bit as she listened to ‘Popular effects of unique herbal teas’, leaning into his warmth. She always loved listening to his strong voice, rumbling through his chest and into her soul. Looking up at him as he read, she enjoyed just being in his arms, so close and warm as his familiar smell comforted her. When she leaned up and kissed his chin, he silenced. Looking down at her, he watched her arms reach up and around his neck; nuzzling her cheek gently as she snuggled as close as she could get.

She felt Elias lean forward to put down the book. Wrapping his arms around her waist, he brought her up a bit to sit on his thigh before he pulled her closer. She had a playful inclination, leaning in, she licked the end of his snout, enjoying the small shiver and chuckle she drew from him. He backed up a bit and licked the tip of her nose as she giggled. His hand came up, gloved fingers brushing against her cheek gently. His hand ran around to the back of her neck and she leaned her head back to look up at him properly.

She opened her mouth and licked at his flat front teeth, silently asking him to open his mouth. Her tongue slid along his teeth for several moments before he opened. H is thick tongue c oming out to gr eet hers. As they met and languidly danced with each other, Chise hummed happily in the back of her throat. Opening her eyes slightly, she saw that Elias’s red eyes had turned into a small line of red and she couldn’t help but smile. Her right arm wrapped around his neck, she pulled him closer and they continued to enjoy and explore each other’s mouths softly and gently.

Then they heard it, a door open ing. They pulled away from each other quickly and looked toward Hermione, who was suddenly standing in the doorway with a wild blush covering her cheeks.

“Sorry,” she looked towards her room and then to Snape’s, but she wasn’t sure where she should go.

“Are you alright Hermione?” Elias asked, Chise slowly getting up to sit on the sofa before speaking.

“What happened?”

“Nothing,” she lied, shrugging as she sat next to Chise.

“What did he do?” Elias asked, standing up, ready to go and talk to the professor, but she held up both hands in a somewhat defensive way.

“He didn’t do anything... I did something I shouldn’t have,” she rubbed her face with her hands. “I asked him a stupid question and then he just… I think I’ve upset him,” she worried at her bottom lip as Elias tilted his head.

“I think that would be an easy task,” Elias sat back down and crossed his legs, observing the young women in front of him.

“What question?” Chise asked calmly, there was no judgment in her voice, only curiosity.

“A personal one,” she turned her body towards Chise with hope in her eyes. “Does the sleep spell do anything to your mind, make you say things you didn’t mean?”

“Not that I know of,” she answered, immediately seeing that wasn’t what she wanted to hear. “It couldn’t have been that bad.”

“I asked him something very personal,” she felt mortified with herself. “Now things will be awkward and I’m not sure how to fix it.”

“I’ll go and talk to him,” Elias offered, standing and leaving the room, ignoring Hermione’s anxious attempts to stop him.

“Why do I have to know all the answers?” She laid her head back on the sofa and closed her eyes. “Things were going so well, we’ve been slowly getting closer, I know not to be blunt with him, to take my time and let him come around.” Her hands curled into fists as she sat forward, “so then I go and ask a question that will probably ruin our… whatever it is we have,” her hands waved as she sat back again. She looked over at Chise, her eyes filled with worry as she watched her outburst. “Sorry, I’m not normally like this, I’d like to think I’m put together, but obviously not.”

“Severus reminds me a lot of Elias when I first met him… he was also very private and hated it when I asked him questions about… anything remotely personal. He was so afraid that me knowing anything about him would scare me away. He was very… well, anxious is probably the best word for it. I was never afraid, he needed to know that; he needed almost constant reminders of it. It didn’t help that others that knew him would ask me if he scared me. He seemed to hate everything about himself and it took him a long time before he accepted the fact that I wasn’t going anywhere.

“He was just so scared that I would treat him like everyone else; we all do bad things, we all hurt people at some point. It took him a long time to get past the thoughts that seemed to haunt him.”

“Severus has been through a lot,” Hermione whispered, her eyes going to the closed office door. “I only know bits and pieces of what he’s seen and done,” her eyes lowered to her hands. She fiddled with her fingers, picking gently at the cuticle of her thumb as she thought. “I can’t imagine how I’d feel in his position, there’s too much to think about. I just don’t want him to think I pity him; it couldn’t be further from the truth.”

Chise sat quietly for a moment as Hermione seemed to lose herself in her own thoughts. She looked up when Chise put her hand on hers.

“Just let him know that you see him for himself, it might take a lot of convincing, but it is worth it in the long run. It can be difficult with…. older mages. They’re stuck in their ways and they think that what they’ve shown the world is the only thing anyone will see. I love Elias but it took us years to get here. Hell, we got married before either of could actually say the words.” She smiled thinking of that day in the woods and gave Hermione’s hand a gentle squeeze. “If he’s worth it, then things will work out.”

“I think he is,” Hermione softly smiled back at her. “Thank you for talking to me, I think that I just wanted to know a bit more about him and I understand why he wouldn’t want that. From what I’ve heard, he’s hidden from the world almost his whole life. I saw some of his memories, but I tried to avoid some that made me a bit uncomfortable,” she readjusted herself on the chair and screwed up her face. “Mainly the death eater stuff, and Lily, I’m not sure why Lily bothers me so much. Maybe because just because you call someone a name when you’re upset it doesn’t mean you mean it. I mean Draco called me that name since we met and now, we’re friends. Knowing Severus, he says a lot of things he doesn’t mean when he’s upset.”

“Was that the full story?” Chise rested her hand on her fist as she watched Hermione. “Who was Lily to him?”

“His friend… sort of,” Hermione looked back down at her hands in thought. “He loved her,” she whispered.

“Was Draco your friend when he called you… that name?” Hermione looked up at Chise, her face was calm and curious, and something twisted in Hermione’s stomach.

“No, but…” her head sunk back on the sofa as she exhaled. “If Harry or Ron called me that name, I know I wouldn’t be happy.” She sighed and dipped her head, “understatement. Just... watching him be tortured and humiliated in front of everyone, I can almost understand why he said it. She started defending him against his tormentors and they made fun of him for it, saying he couldn’t fight his own battles. Watching him beg her forgiveness afterwards, he threatened to sleep outside her door if she wouldn’t talk to him… it was heart-breaking.” Hermione went silent as her stomach twisted at the memory. Chise thought about the dour man in the next room and had trouble imagining him begging anyone to do anything. “That’s what I asked him about,” she peeked over at Chise as she spoke softly. “I thought for sure he was going to scream at me for being inappropriate or something, but he was just... silent. I’ve never seen him like that before, it made me nervous.”

“That makes sense,” Chise rested her elbow on her knee, her chin in her palm. “When Elias gets quiet, I’m never quite sure what he’s thinking.”

“I can’t help how I feel, I guess I thought if I asked when my inhibitions were down he might not hate me for it.” She looked down at her hands as she thought, “I guess I was wrong.”

“I’m sure he doesn’t hate you Hermione, I bet that Elias will calm him,” Hermione looked toward the classroom and then cast a tempas spell to see that it was time to get back and start setting up for the second years class.

“Thank you for talking to me, I need to get back,” she ran her fingers through her hair and gave Chise a small smile, feeling a bit less anxious after their talk, she stood to go back and face the music.

XOXO

Elias crept into the classroom behind Severus, who was mark ing potions at a long table by the back of the classroom. “Severus,” Elias said, so he wouldn’t startle the wizard.

“Elias,” He answered, without turning and Elias stepped up next to him; absently looking at some of the vials that had already been marked.

“I just wanted to see if there was anything I could do to help,” Elias’s red eyes swivelling to watch Snape as he evaluated one of the potion’s colour and consistency before smelling it to ensure it was correct and no ingredients were left out.

“No.”

“Well, perhaps I can simply offer an ear?” Severus looked up at him with cautious confusion on his face.

“You don’t even have ears,” he finally said, turning back to his class’s assignments. Elias’s laugh startled Snape, jumping in surprise when he heard the deep rumble that seemed to erupt like lava from a dormant volcano—rapid, energetic, and unexpected. He looked back up at him and Elias had his arms folded across his chest as his jaw opened in what looked like a smile. Snape eyed the magus wearily for a moment.

“Good point,” Elias said, casting a sideways glance down at him. “But I wanted to talk to you, so I offered first.”

“How polite,” Severus clipped, turning back to his work. “What do you want?”

“I wanted to talk about Hermione,” Elias watched Snape as he continued to outwardly ignore him. “I believe that your apprentice may feel the same for you as Chise does for me. I know the way Chise looks at me, the way she acts around me, Hermione looks at you that way.” Severus met his eyes with cold indignation as he put down the vial and turned to the magus.

“I doesn’t matter if she does or not,” his eyes slowly drew back to the desk as he leaned a hand against it.

“Do you not feel the same?” Elias cocked his head for a moment as Snape stood in silence. “Your eyes betray you; I see the way you look at her, are you lying to me or to yourself?”

“It doesn’t matter,” Severus’s gruff voice had an edge of fear in it that gave Elias pause.

“Why ever not?”

“Because…” he picked up one of the vials and looked down at it, swirling the bottle to see the liquid move and shimmer. “I can’t.”

“Is there something against it here? If there is and you would like to pursue her, why not take her elsewhere?”

“It’s not that,” he whispered, his voice wavering a bit as he closed his eyes. What could he tell this creature that would make him leave well enough alone?

“I believe she wishes you to be happy—“

“That’s the problem,” he looked up at the magus with a scowl that would normally make people cower, but Elias simple watched him unmoving.

“Do you not wish for her to be happy?”

“Of course I do.”

“Then?”

“Happiness isn’t something that’s possible,” Snape put the vial back down and rested both his palms on the workbench before him as he leaned on it.

“I used to feel the same, but Chise has changed so much in my life. Perhaps it would be good for you?”

“Good for me,” he huffed, closing his eyes as his head pitched forward. “I cannot be happy.”

“Why not?” Elias continued to observe the wizard as he took deep breaths, mulling over things in his head.

“I don’t deserve it,” his voice was so low that Elias could only hear him with his preternatural ears.

“What have you done?” His voice was soft, as if speaking to a child, gentle and kind, understanding and open. His arms relaxed and hung by his sides, still leaning on the workbench as he waited patiently.

“I killed my best friend,” he finally said, moving away from the magus and walking over to his desk. “Miss Granger will need to find someone else to aim her… pity at.” He spat the last two words as he sat down.

“I don’t believe she feels pity for you,” Elias stepped forward, pulling out the chair in front of the desk to sit and watch as Severus put his face in his hands. Suddenly Snape realised that Elias skipped over the death of his best friend as if he had said he didn’t return a library book on time and looked up at the magus.

“Elias, I killed my best friend.”

“I heard you,” Elias replied calmly, sitting back in his chair. “How did you do it?” Severus’s eyes went wide as his heart jumped up into his throat. He couldn’t move, every part of him felt cold at the thought of telling a stranger what he’d done. Then a little voice, the one that had hope for love, hope for friendship, spoke softly in his ear. It was the last remnant of his younger self, the last bit that hadn’t been turned black by time and he took a deep breath as he swallowed the lump in his throat. His mouth opened and closed before he was able to coax words to come out, when they did, they were hushed and slightly wobbly.

“There was a prophesy, I took it to the dark lord, and he thought it was about her… he killed her because of me.”

“What did you do when you learned he was going to kill her?”

“I begged him not to… and when that didn’t work I went to Dumbledore. The headmaster at the time, and I asked him for help. I asked him to hide her.”

“And did he?”

“Not as well as he should have,” bitterness was written on his face as he looked down at his desk as if he detested it.

“Well… I don’t think you killed her.”

“What?”

“You tried to protect her?” Snape nodded numbly in response. “It seems that it was Dumbledore who killed her, or the dark lord as you say. Why do you blame yourself for this?” Elias sat forward and rested his elbows on his knees as he spoke. Snape looked at him, frozen in thought and in shame.

“Because if it wasn’t for me taking the prophesy to him, then it wouldn’t have happened.”

“Why did you do it?”

“Because… I wanted to… be noticed among his followers,” he muttered, looking down.

“Who told you it was your fault she died?” Elias watched as anger ripped across his features before grief took its place a moment later.

“Dumbledore,” he whispered, looking down at the desk as he automatically lifted his quill to fiddle with the feathered end.

“You do not deserve to carry this Severus. If you need to talk, I am here.”

“I don’t…” he wasn’t sure what he wanted to say, but knew he wasn’t anywhere near ready to talk about Lily yet. He stood abruptly and walked back to the vials on the workbench.

Elias paused for a moment and looked over at Snape, Chise’s voice ran through his mind ‘ relating to someone is the best way to make new friends’, and so he continued. “Chise finds it easy to speak of past pain. I find it difficult. Chise has helped me a lot over the years. I’m not sure what I would do without her. She has saved my life; I was so alone before her. I had built a wall around myself, to protect the world from me, or maybe…” he paused, putting a thoughtful hand to his chin. “Perhaps I was protecting myself,” at this Snape looked at Elias through the corner of his eyes and listened.

“I was so afraid that I would hurt people, and it’s not like anyone would want me, I’m a monster,” he paused and saw that Snape was turning to say something. “It’s alright, I don’t feel that way as much or as often any more, I feel better. As long as I have Chise I’m… happy.” He finished and when he looked at Severus, his face was softer, thoughtful. He stood and reached out a hand, patting him on the back gently before Snape snapped away from him as if he’d been burnt and went back to looking at the vials, although now he couldn’t quite concentrate on anything.

All he wanted to do was to be alone and think, not have to deal with students or with Hermione… when did she become Hermione?

When you woke up in her arms. A little voice unhelpfully added and he couldn’t stop his memories of her birthday from invading him. Her warm arms holding him, her soft cheek against his lips, the smell of her hair. Each thought carrying the emotion of comfort.

“She said she loves me,” he whispered, Elias stood, simply listening to him.

“That is a very precious thing.”

“I don’t think she means it; who would love me? I’ve been nothing but cruel to her and all of her friends the entire time I’ve known her, she couldn’t possibly,” Elias looked at him as Snape turned around.

“Look at me my friend, my face is one that normal people see in their nightmares. For everyone there is someone to love, you just have to let it happen and not fear it. I spent a long time doing stupid things, now I’m very careful, I don’t want to lose her again.”

“I feel the same,” Snape whispered, too soft for human ears but Elias heard him and watched him lift his hands in defeat. What do I do now?

“If she loves you, she will forgive you, she will accept you for who you are. Chise and I took our time and even after I tried to sacrifice her friend, she still took me back. After that, I thought she would leave me for good, but I just wanted to save her.” Severus looked at him incredulously.

“You wanted to sacrifice her friend?”

“Yes, it is the only way to transfer the curse. But by transferring it to a weaker vessel it would kill them quickly,” Snape adjusted his weight for a moment and thought.

“I know of that magic, it’s dark magic... but I think if we can transfer it we may be able to transfer it to something instead of someone.”

“Really?” Elias held out his hand for the first time since they had met, and Snape looked down at it before taking it and shaking it. “Thank you.”

“I haven’t done it yet,” Severus eyes smiled honestly before they lowered their hands. “We’ll start looking into that this evening when we go to the library,” he pulled out his pocket watch to see that Hermione was supposed to be back already. “I have another class before lunch, but can we talk more at lunch?”

“Alright,” Elias let his jaw drop a bit into a smile of sorts before he turned and opened the door just as Hermione walked through it.

Snape turned back to the vial s to try to finish them before the next class started. “Pepper up potion,” he called to Hermione, letting her know what the next potion would be. B ut this time he turned and gave her the softest of smiles and she blushed brightly as she smiled back.

XOXO

When Elias made it back into the sitting room, Chise was on the sofa, her eyes a bit red.

“I’m glad we started talking about things,” Chise gave him a sleepy smile and he sat in the armchair beside her.

“As am I,” Elias reached out and took her hand, giving it a little squeeze.

“We all are,” Ruth jumped from her shadow, flicking his long tail as he jumped up on the sofa with her. “You’re tired, sleep,” he nudged her with his wet nose, and she pulled him over to sleep next to her.

Elias picked up a random book, settling in to read it while she slept. She was probably more tired than she let on, especially after getting up so early and all the excitement that it brought with it. He started reading, but found himself watching her as her breath slowly came in and out of her partly opened mouth. Her arms seemed so haphazard, her left one above her head and resting on the armrest of the sofa while the other draped across her stomach. Even her legs were in an odd position, her right one hung off the sofa while her left was propped up on the other arm. He wondered how Snape had slept on this little sofa and was still able to stand properly.

He eventually closed the book and just watched her silently, her eyes fluttering softly as she approached deep sleep. She was so beautiful, and he sighed contently as he cradled his skull in his hand and crossed his legs. He didn’t know how long it had been, probably about an hour, simply based on the chatter that was coming from the classroom as the students filed out into the halls. Snape opened the door to the sitting room a few minutes later and was met with Elias holding his finger in front of his bony snout.

Snape looked at Chise, she didn’t look especially comfortable, but somehow he could see the appeal of watching her sleep. She had lovely hair that fell in a pin straight red waterfall over the side of the sofa. She reminded him a bit of Lily and it made his heart feel relaxed, he may have loved Lily, but recently he was remembering her more as his best friend. He had wondered why, but when he thought about it, the answer was very obvious. Hermione followed him a moment later and Chise’s eyes slowly fluttered open and she blushed as she woke to three people watching her sleep.

“Feeling better?” Elias asked, reaching across and pushing her fringe out of the way of her eyes and she smiled at him.

“Much better, thank you,” she replied, stretching and sitting up. “I’m hungry,” she looked over at Hermione, who slid passed Severus, brushing against him just enough that he felt a tingle settle in his stomach. He watched her walk over to Chise and offer her hand, which Chise took easily.

“Then let’s go to lunch,” Hermione said with a smile, pulling Chise off the sofa. Chise pulled the small elastic off her wrist and tied her hair up, her face framing fringe fell instantly around her eyes and ears before she kissed Elias on the cheek and followed Hermione out of the door. Snape sat down on the sofa across from Elias and leaned forward towards him.

“How did you declare your intentions to woo Chise?” He asked as soon as the door was closed, making Elias look at him with a bit of surprise.

“I told her I wanted her to be my bride,” Elias said honestly, and the look on Severus’s face was a bit pained.

“I don’t think I could do that… or if I’m anywhere near ready for that,” he sat back, enjoying the warm sofa in stark contrast to the chilly room. “I’ve only ever asked one girl to go out with me, but I was sixteen at the time… it didn’t go very well.”

“Shall we go to lunch?” Elias offered as he stood, melting into the visage of his blonde glamour.

“Yes,” Snape stood and followed as Elias held the door for him. “Have you ever asked anyone out?” Snape asked quietly as they walked up the stairs together.

“What happened in class?” Elias tried to hide his amusement as Severus looked up and down the corridor to make sure no one could hear him.

“She kept looking over at me,” Snape groused, and seeing the confusion on Elias’s face continued. “She kept catching me looking at her,” he whispered in embarrassment. Elias looked at him out of the corner of his eye and smiled a bit, he could see why Chise liked to have friends, they were amusing.

“I find,” Elias said as they turned a corner. “That being direct has always been the best way to go.”

“Of course you think that,” Snape grumbled. “You asked her to marry you when you wanted to be with her.” He looked over at him, “how long did it take you to know?”

“What do you mean?”

“How long did you wait before you knew that you wanted to marry her?”

“I told her my intentions immediately, I saw no reason not to,” confusion playing on his face. “I knew when I bought her that I wanted to marry her.” Snape stopped dead, his mouth gaping at him and Elias stopped and looked back at him.

“She was fifteen…”

“Chise always says I say this part wrong,” he paused thoughtfully, taking the step back towards Snape to stand in front of him. “I deduced that I would have my apprentice and my wife both live with me, it was much easier if they were both the same person,” Elias watched as Severus’s mouth closed slowly as he tried to understand what Elias was saying. He seemed to be having trouble, so he continued.

“My master told me, that a wife was a person that you live with and you both take care of each other, she told me nothing of love, only that a wife and husband were always together. I didn’t realise that I wanted more than I thought for years. We were pair bonded already, and the warmth I feel with Chise became more than just simply wanting to live with her. I want to be more to her than just a master or a husband as I thought the word denoted. I realised I loved her.” Elias paused to see if he had explained well enough or if Snape would still be confused.

“What kind of creature are you?” Snape asked in a hushed hiss that took Elias by surprise.

“I’m not sure,” he answered honestly, and saw that Severus was still mulling over what he had said. “Shall we eat?” Elias asked, gesturing to the great hall and Snape nodded once before they made their way in.

Chapter Text

“So how did it go when you got back?” Chise asked Hermione as they sat down across from each other in the great hall for lunch.

“Well,” she blushed, looking around and casting a quick Muffiato to make sure no one could hear her. “I kept catching him looking at me,” she smiled, looking down a bit. Chise grinned widely as Ruth materialized beside her, fork and knife in hand. She watched as Severus and Elias walked up the isle and she waved gently at Elias, who winked at her with a soft smile as he strode passed. She heard a girl to her right sigh happily and she turned to see who it was. Ginny was looking after Elias, and Chise tilted her head at her reaction.

“Is she looking at Elias?” She asked, Hermione promptly rolled her eyes and waved a dismissive hand toward the red head.

“Yes, she’s been like this since this morning,” she laughed, looking up at Chise to see a mischievous smile on her face as she looked at Ginny. “What are you thinking?”

“I’m not entirely sure yet,” she said softly, giving another little wave to Elias, who immediately waved back, and she heard Ginny sigh again. Chise couldn’t help but be amused. “She likes his glamour,” she whispered to Hermione, who looked back at her and nodded.

“Certainly, seem to,” she started to cut into her food. “Can you blame her?”

“I don’t know,” Chise thought for a moment and looked at Elias as he talked and ate. “I always thought he looked fake in his glamour, he doesn’t look like himself, he looks too perfect.” Hermione looked over at him and watched the way he ate and picked up his teacup and couldn’t help but agree.

“You’re right, he is too perfect, he’s very handsome like this but it seems like he’s emulating people around him.”

“That’s because that is what he’s doing,” Chise smiled knowingly. “I love watching him drink tea in his normal form, it’s so interesting. Watching him eat is wonderful as well, he cuts everything because he thinks he should, but then basically swallows things whole, it’s so endearing.” Chise cut a small piece of quiche and smiled. Kissing him like that is nice sometimes, there are good things about having lips. She blushed, glancing over at Ruth and happy that he didn’t hear her. “I’m more used to him like this now, but he looks too much like our town priest, which makes me feel odd sometimes.”

“Your priest?”

“Yes, Simon was assigned to watch him by the church almost fifteen years ago,” she glanced up at Hermione, who looked at her questioningly. “I don’t know why, he said that they’ve been watching him for years. Simon is great though, and is more like a friend then a warden,” she laughed.

“Interesting,” she looked over at Elias. “Do you think he needs to be watched?”

“No,” Chise smiled, picking up her teacup. “At least not since we’ve been together, for the most part. He used to be more emotional before he realised he had emotions.”

“How so?” Hermione gave her an odd look as she cut another bit of roast chicken.

“Well, when you don’t acknowledge them it’s a lot more difficult to control them,” Chise smiled wistfully, glancing up at him again and seeing that he was looking over at her.

“True, I can see that, like a teenager who is trying to figure out what to do with their hormones,” she nodded in agreement before taking the last bite of her food.

XOXO

“They keep looking up here,” Severus whispered to Elias. Elias looked over and saw that Chise was glancing in their direction and just watched as he smiled, and she grinned back at him.

“Chise is so beautiful,” Elias breathed as she looked back at Hermione. “Have you ever been intimate with anyone?” Elias asked and Snape choked on a bit of bread before glowering at him.

“This is not the place to discuss this,” he hissed, standing and motioning for Elias to follow him. Elias stood and followed him through the great hall and into the atrium in front of the double staircase. “Could we agree that talking about anything personal like this shouldn’t be spoken of in front of anyone else?”

“Alright,” Elias replied, a bit dejected. Severus folded his arms across his chest and looking down, a bit embarrassed. “I understand, I normally don’t talk about anything personal with anyone, so I don’t mind,” he walked past Snape to go outside. Severus stood watching him leave for a moment before he rolled his eyes and followed after him.

“Wait,” Snape hissed, and Elias stopped, looking at him with a closed expression on his face. “I want to talk to you,” he added quietly. “I don’t normally talk to anyone either, I’m not sure why I am… trusting you.” Elias simply looked at him, his face as impassive as Severus normal kept his own.

“Answer my question,” Elias said softly, knowing that there was more to this than simple propriety and Severus looked at him with shock written on his face as he crossed his arms.

“I,” he looked around to make sure they were alone. Taking a deep breath he tried to steel his emotions, am I really going to tell him this?! “I… no,” he said, his chest tightening awkwardly.

“Why?”

“Why?!”

“I thought humans liked to be physical…”

“They… we… do.” Severus rubbed his hands over his face and sighed.

“Then why have you avoided it?” Elias at least had the sense to keep his voice quiet and gentle, not fully understanding the weight of his own question.

“Avoided it…” Severus huffed out a mirthless sigh. “I wanted… to be… wanted,” he shrugged with one shoulder, his eyes downcast. Feeling like a fool for all that he’d shared.

“How do you know when you are wanted?”

“I…” what a question. Severus stared for several long moments, not really knowing what to say. "How do you feel with Chise?"

"Warm, like coming home." Severus felt his stomach clench painfully, suddenly glad he'd not had much to eat.

"Well... I would assume that's how you know," he whispered, his arms folding over his chest. "Without it, I think it would be... unfulfilling,” he grimaced at his own admission. How soft was he going? For so long he'd kept this to himself, and before Hermione, there was only one woman he'd ever wanted. Ever cared for.

His thoughts constantly turned to Lily. Lily had rejected him, he’d never felt love from anyone, not his parents nor a woman, be it one he cared for or not. Why had no one ever loved him? His mind began to spiral down a drain of self-contempt and Elias watched as his features became more pinched.

Am I really that bad? To look at or in personality, well personality – decidedly so… but in looks? Yes, in looks too.

He knew he wasn’t a catch; he was so involved in his obsessions as a youth, and they had driven away the first woman that he ever loved… would that happen again? Would she see through his thin veil of impassive countenance and see the scared human underneath? Would she run? He hated feeling vulnerable, he wanted so badly to tell Hermione how he felt, he wanted to tell her that she was wonderful and that he loved her.

She will leave me just like Lily. No one will ever love me, I don’t deserve –

“Severus,” Elias said softly, reaching out to clasp him on the shoulder, snapping Snape from his self-destructive reverie. At first Severus stiffened and Elias thought he was going to pull away again. But then he saw sadness in the man’s eyes, and decided that he would do what he always did when Chise was feeling like this and pulled him into his arms. Elias spoke in his ear, not above a rumble, “Do not fret, for each of us there is someone. No matter the secrets that at first hide in our shadows, they will look past them, they will accept them.”

Snape stayed frozen for several moments and then as the words slowly sunk in Snape’s head bent forward and touched Elias’s shoulder. Severus finally felt… understood? Even if it was only for a moment, he felt the unbidden tears filling his eyes.

He didn’t feel that Elias was judging him or pitying him; he felt nothing except support, and suddenly he felt his shoulders shudder as a soft sob filled the air around them. Elias patted his back gently as students were beginning to leave the great hall. He pulled him around a corner into a dark nook. Allowing the dour man to finally release his tensions, then Elias slowly stroked his upper back until Severus lifted his head and stepped back.

“All will be well,” Elias pulled far enough away from him to see his face. Severus looked up at him, and after wiping his eyes, his face became resolute and he nodded at the magus. A small smile tipped up one corner of his lips and reached his eyes, a smile that was approachable. It was then that he knew, he’d finally made a friend. “You can do this,” he smiled back at the wizard and patted his shoulder once more.

“Thank you,” Severus whispered. He looked down and realised for the first time in his life he had cried in front of someone who didn’t immediately laugh in his face, judge him or call him Snivellus. He sighed and looked up at Elias with a soft smile. He felt… relieved. Severus stood up to his full height and felt a bit rough but much more confident, finally having someone on his side. Elias followed him back to the front of the great hall and they both stopped and waited for their apprentices.

“I’m going to ask her to be my date to the party,” Severus said quietly as they waited.

“That sounds like a good first step,” Elias commented.

“I think she’s ready to teach as well, I’m thinking of having her teach this afternoon, first years.”

“Do you really think she’s ready?” Elias asked, looking over at him, knowing that teaching was sometimes difficult and not something he particularly enjoyed due to… a great many reasons.

“If you’ve ever spoken with her, you would know she can lecture anyone on any subject she’s well-versed in. I believe a first-year class should be almost too easy for her. As long as she can control her anxiety that is,” he finished thoughtfully.

XOXO

Chise watched as the two left the great hall, both of them looking distressed. “Oh dear,” she mumbled, and Hermione looked over as they turned the corner together.

“What’s the matter?”

“I’m not sure, but Elias is quite blunt when he wants to know something, he’s far too curious to let things go,” she sighed with a soft smile.

“I wonder what he wanted to know…” Hermione slowly sipped her tea.

“He’s been asking a lot of urm… questions about sex recently,” she smiled awkwardly as her face flushed. “He has asked pretty much everyone he knows, with varying results,” she laughed, thinking about how quiet he was when he came home after talking to Renfred.

“Oh dear,” Hermione blushed a bit and took the last sip of tea before putting it down on the table. “Should we go help them?”

“Give them a minute,” Ruth rolled his eyes. “When you two finally do… do that, let me know so I can block it,” Ruth shuddered. Hermione looked at him and leaned forward.

“Block it?”

“I can feel all of her emotions and feelings, I can also read her thoughts when she projects them,” Ruth quickly explained.

“That’s pretty cool,” Hermione said thoughtfully, and then everyone started filtering out of the great hall and Chise smiled.

“Almost time,” she placed her now empty teacup on the table and turning to Ruth. “You want to walk with us or would you like a ride?”

“I think I’ll walk,” Ruth melted down into his grim form as he started walking toward the door.

“Lovely,” she looked down at him before turning to Hermione. “Shall we?”

“Quite,” Hermione smiled and they walked toward the entrance atrium. The two men were waiting for them, both looked relaxed, and Severus’s face was calm for the first time, his signature sneer melted the moment when he saw Hermione.

“Chise,” Elias stepped forward and offering her his arm. “Shall we?” Chise happily took his arm as he led her towards the dungeons. Hermione made to move in that direction and Severus cleared his throat uncomfortably.

“Miss Granger, could we speak for a moment?” He asked, and she gave him a small nod.

“Of course, sir,” he winced a bit when she called him ‘sir’ but didn’t want to correct her. She’s been calling me that for years, why is it bothering me now? Oh right, it reminds me of what an old man I am to her. He led her into an empty classroom and leaned against one of the desks, trying to seem relaxed.

Severus looked down at his hands, his palm half covered by his frock coat. He gently tugged at the small bit of white shirt sleeve that peeked out of the midnight blue cuff and took a deep breath. “Miss Granger, I was wondering if you would…” he began slowly, not his usual drawled tones but something softer, almost tender. “If you would be interested in…” he paused again as he felt his heart attempting to squeeze through his throat.

“Yes professor?” She said tentatively, hoping to shake him loose a bit so he could continue. He looked up at her with his black eyes and there was a hint of something behind them that she wasn’t sure how to describe because she had never seen it before.

“If you would…” he paused again. What am I doing?! I’m not a bloody schoolboy! Just ask her to be your date to the party! The pause grew as his inner voice turned against him once more. She’ll just reject me any ways. I can just imagine how awkward this is going to make everything. And then he just looked at her, as his consternation won over his confidence and his Occlumency started to take over, closing his features to her once again. “If you would like to entertain Miss Hatori for the evening so that Professor Ainsworth and I can go into Hogsmeade.” She stood still in front of him, she knew, or at least she felt, that that wasn’t what he wanted to ask her.

“Of course, professor,” she forced a constipated smile to her lips and felt her stomach tighten as different ways this conversation could have gone knocked around in her mind. He suddenly swept past her and she felt like all the air had been sucked from the room as he did.

XOXO

Elias and Chise made it back to the sitting and as Elias sat down in the big armchair he pulled Chise with him and immediately captured her mouth with his own. She kissed him back, feeling a little flushed at how forward he was being and wrapped her arms around his neck. As the kiss deepened their tongues languidly sliding against each other, exploring, and making both of them feel little tingles through their bodies. He pulled her closer, so her chest was up against his own as he ran a thumb over her cheek and down her neck. She leaned in, holding him tighter as he sighed happily into her mouth. She sat back and looked at him for a moment.

“Where did that come from?” She asked, a bit breathless.

“I just,” he began, looking back and forth between her eyes. “I’m so glad you love me,” a small smile crossed his lips as he realised how lucky he was. She pulled herself a bit closer and pressed a chaste kiss to his lips.

“I’m glad you love me too,” she smiled against his mouth before kissing him more fully again. His arms were wrapped tightly around her when they heard the door open with a loud bang. They both jumped and looked over at Snape, who looked very out of sorts.

“We’re going to Hogsmeade,” he groused to Elias as he billowed into his room.

“We are?” Elias inquired softly, confusion on his face as Chise shrugged. She leaned in, snuggling into his neck as Severus came back out into the sitting room.

“Sorry.” His hand was on the door frame and he looked down at it to avoid their eyes. “I need to go to Hogsmeade, Elias would you please come with me?”

“Of course,” Elias smiled and Chise looked knowingly between them as Severus went back into his room, snapping the door shut behind him.

“He couldn’t confess to her, could he?” She asked quietly. Elias looked down at her, wondering why he was surprised she knew.

“How?”

“Just look at him,” she motioned to the closed door before looking back at Elias, only to have him lean in and kiss her again. She smiled as her lips parted and he took full advantage. His hands wound around her waist as they continued and then she pulled away. “Hermione will probably be back in a moment.”

“True,” Elias said, and then looked toward Snape’s door. “When do you want to leave?” He called.

“I have class in half an hour... so let’s say, just before dinner?”

“Alright,” Elias called through the door, and then picked up Chise and went to move into the bedroom. Ruth, who was on the sofa, rose and decided now was the perfect time for a walk around the castle.

“Elias,” she giggled. “Shouldn’t someone be here for Hermione?” Elias looked a bit hurt, and she ran her hand along his jaw, “Oh she’ll probably want to get ready for class any ways.” With that he went into the bedroom and pushed the door closed with his foot before laying her down on the bed. He crawled up next to her and caught her in another passionate kiss. Her hands explored up into his blonde hair, then ran down his neck and she sighed happily before pulling away. “Could I kiss you--” he leaned in again before she could finish her sentence and she started laughing against his mouth. “Elias!” She giggled, “could I kiss your real mouth?” She asked, and he looked down at her.

“You really want to?”

“Of course,” she said, looking up at him with a smile. “I love you, remember?” She watched as his glamour blushed and she giggled before pulling him in for one last kiss to his lips. He leaned up, phasing into his refined form and she ran her fingers along his long row of teeth before sitting up and slowly running her tongue along the same path. He shuddered happily as she did and relaxed against her exploratory touch, her fingers running up his skull and then down his sensitive plum coloured neck. She opened her mouth as his tongue begged for her lips to part and as he slowly explored her mouth she began unbuttoning the first button of his white shirt before he pulled away.

“Chise,” he whispered, looking down at her. “There’s something I would like to try, if you’ll let me?” She looked at him questioningly and he reached gently for the bottom of her jumper. Silently tugging it, asking for permission and she gasped before pulling his hand up in her own.

“Only if,” she started, unbuttoning the tiny pearl that held his glove closed. “You do it with your bare hand,” she smiled as she felt a waft of heated air escape his mouth like steam from a whistling kettle. She gently pulled the glove off his left hand and interlaced their fingers for a moment before she directed it back to the hem of her jumper. His breath caught as she pushed it just under the edge, before moving her hands back up around his neck. She smiled and waited as he slowly pushed his hand up her jumper and under her button up shirt, until he reached her cotton bra cup and froze. She leaned up and kissed his front teeth and smiled up at him. “Go on,” she whispered, and he responded by slowly pushing his fingers up over the swell of her breast and grazed against her nipple.

Her breath hitched as he swept his finger across it again and her smile fell into something more serious as he gently massaged her breast. She leaned up and licked against his teeth until he opened his mouth and leaned back down to explore her mouth again. Her breath was ragged as he moved from one breast to the other as their tongues languidly drifted against each other and he sighed happily. Running his fingers along her clavicle and then down in between her two mounds, down over her stomach, which made her giggle softly. He pulled away a little, enjoying the lovely sound of her soft laughter before he moved his fingers more and tickled her soft stomach as she started pushing at him, laughing louder and louder.

She kicked and laughed as he continued, completely distracted from his original intent as he chuckled and tickled her enthusiastically until she ran out of breath.

XOXO

Hermione came into the sitting room and sat down just as Severus came out of his private room and immediately swept through his office and into the classroom. She knew they had class soon so she followed him after a few minutes to start preparing the room. As she left the sitting room she could hear laughter coming from her bedroom and couldn’t help but smile to herself.

She had left the classroom pretty much ready, so it didn’t take her long to quickly clean up the stations in the back that she wasn’t able to get to yet. She could hear the chalk scribbling against the board and turning she saw that her name was at the top of the board.

“Professor?” she asked, pointing at the board as he looked up from the scrolls on his desk and looked at the board.

“You don’t think you can do it?” He drawled, raising a brow at her before looking back at his parchment as he continued to mark the essays.

“I,” she suddenly felt a flush of excitement and she could feel her cheeks blushing horribly. “Thank you professor,” she beamed at him as he glanced over at her while dipping his quill in the ink bottle.

“You’re ready Granger, if you need anything, I’ll be right here,” he said reassuringly, and she stepped forward. She only had a few minutes to prepare, she quickly grabbed her hair tie and pulled her hair into a quick plait at the back of her head and smoothed down her robes.

“What should I teach them?” She asked, looking over at him; knowing that he had full lesson plans for the entirety of the semester.

“Forgetfulness potion,” he smirked, going back to his work, enjoying the flustered and flushed look on her face as she grabbed out her wand and quickly set the chalk to state the potion they would be working on. Then she noticed that he had already laid out the ingredients needed at the front of the class. She turned to the room and pulled herself up to her full height, lifting her head up and bringing her right arm up her body until it was on her chest as she tried to channel her inner Snape. That’s when she heard him chuckling from his desk. “You are your own person Granger, don’t try so hard,” he shook his head with a small, upturned lip and she blushed brightly.

XOXO

The two hours passed quickly, and Hermione couldn’t really remember what she said. Only that she had received laughs at her jokes, respect when she gave and removed points, and knowing looks from Severus as he observed, but never interrupted her. At the end, Severus stood at the front of the class and handed a parchment to Hermione, listing the homework needed before the next lesson. Which she gladly took and recited for everyone before they shuffled out of the room to their next class. Once they were all gone, she turned to Severus, sitting at his desk marking the last of his stack of parchment and finishing up odds and ends.

“Well done Miss Granger,” he said, without looking up. She could see by the set of his shoulders and the extension of his neck that he was proud of her and took it as a direct correlation to his teachings.

“Thank you professor,” she waved her wand to cast a gathering charm that brought all the vials towards her. Quickly flicking her wand to slowly direct them onto the long table for marking. She couldn’t get the smile off her face and was happy that it was their last class of the day.

“You will be marking these Miss Granger,” he drawled, when she turned to him to let him know they were all ready. He held out a bit of parchment and a quill. She reached forward to take them, a little rush running through her as she moved to the table.

“Could you help me mark the first one?” She asked, this was the first time he’d trusted her with this task, and although she knew she could, it was always nice to ensure it was being done correctly. Snape rose smoothly and stepped up behind her as she looked at the first vial.

“Colour,” he stated, pointing at the vial and she lifted it high to see the orange liquid in the light.

“Perfect.”

“Clarity,” he drawled, and she inspected it further.

“Excellent.”

“Ingredients,” he said finally, his hands at his sides as he looked down at her instead of the potion. He watched her as she took the stopper from the vial and picked up a pipette. Taking a dram worth of the potion she carefully spread it on the bottom of a bowl and brought it to her nose. She took a deep breath of it and he leaned in a bit, taking a deep breath of her, hoping she would mistake it for him trying to smell the potion.

He loved her perfume, it always seemed to linger, even after she was gone, but somehow light enough to be unobtrusive when detecting ingredients. He remembered the first time he smelt it, he had to be right next to her, close enough to feel the warmth radiating from her. His eyes closed as he smelled violet, sandalwood, vanilla and a musk of her personal scent that mixed together in a mind addling combination.

She smells like heaven.

“Lethe river water, valerian sprigs, mistletoe berries… and the standard base,” she finished, looking over her shoulder. “Perfection.”

“Agreed,” he was still looking down at her before he quickly turned on his heel and walked back to sit at his desk. “So, what will you grade it?”

“I’m thinking an Outstanding,” she said, a bit of uncertainty in her voice.

“Were you watching them brew it?” He asked, marking the last parchment and placing it onto the pile of completed work before looking over at her.

“Yes,” she thought about the student that brewed this one, he was a bit rowdy, but he was helpful to those around him. Is that a factor? “He was helpful.”

Severus raised a brow, "helpful how?"

"He stopped his neighbour from blowing up their cauldron." A small smirk flitted over his face before he spoke.

“Then an O is appropriate,” he stated, rising again and moving towards his office door. “I’ll leave the rest to you Miss Granger, if you need me, I will be in the office or the sitting room,” he opened the door as he spoke and left.

“Yes sir,” she replied quietly as he closed the door. She turned back to her task and had them all graded within a half an hour.

XOXO

Severus closed the door behind him and leaned against it sombrely. She commanded the room beautifully; she was kind and still gained their attention and respect. She was… a joy to watch. He rubbed his long fingers along the bridge of his nose and tried to pull himself together, then headed into the sitting room. Since she had taught the last class he had marked everything for the next two days and had little left to do now besides brewing for the infirmary, but that could easily wait until tomorrow. When he came back into the sitting room, Chise and Elias were sitting together on the big armchair, he had a book in his hands. Chise was laid back across his lap and held a smaller book up over her head as she rested her head on his plum arm.

Snape’s obsidian eyes flicked up to Elias’s red ones and he gave him a small nod of acknowledgment.

“How did it go?” Elias asked, and Severus sat down on the sofa, pulling his teaching robes around him like a long black blanket.

“She taught very effectively,” he stated, leaning forward and picking up one of the books on curses that had been pulled from his personal collection whilst they were in class.

“When would you like to go to Hogsmeade?” Elias asked, looking up at him with his crimson eyes smiling.

“Whenever you’d like to,” he crossed his legs and rested the massive tome on his top leg.

“What will you do?” Chise asked, looking over at Snape and he looked up from his book.

“Well,” he faltered for a moment, he hadn’t really thought that far ahead. “We could go to the Three Broomsticks and get some dinner?”

“Alright,” Elias folded his book and placed it down on the table. “Should I wear my glamour?”

“Probably, it would draw less attention,” Severus looked up at his wolf skull and felt a certain affinity with it. The unemotional looks that it gave resembled the way he always wanted to stay, distant from the world. “As soon as Miss Granger’s finished marking we can leave, I want to make sure I’m here if she has any questions.” Elias nodded, pulling down the book that Chise was reading to see her smiling up at him. He plucked away her book and laid it down, face up on the table; waving his hand so the page would be held without bending it. He ran his hand along her cheek, and she leaned into the contact happily. Severus was facing his book, but his eyes were looking up at the two, envying their closeness as he watched Chise kiss her hand before reaching it up to Elias’s snout.

“Are you alright Professor?” Chise asked, without looking over but feeling his intense gaze on the two of them. He cleared his throat and sat back, looking up at the two in earnest.

“How did you become so... close?” He asked, a bit sheepishly. He had asked Elias, but he wondered if Chise would say anything new, anything to help.

“It took a long time,” she said, tearing her eyes from Elias’s ruby orbs to look into Snape’s onyx ones. “Nothing happens overnight. If it did, would it really be worth it? Love is bore over time, you may know that you love someone quickly but having the comfortable closeness is something that comes with time and shared experience.”

Severus thought about Hermione, he had known her for so long and they, while seeing very different sides, went through some of the same things. He looked down at his lap, pretending to read as he thought. Chise watched his face remain the same as his eyes changed from thoughtful to flash with agony before he closed the tome with a loud snap and placed it on the table, stepping into his bedroom and closing the door.

“I feel sorry for him,” she whispered up to Elias as he lifted her to sit more upright on his lap.

“I understand him,” he whispered back, and she smiled widely at him before leaning in and placing a kiss on his cheekbone. “Please don’t feel sorry for him Chise, he’s been through a lot.”

“I won’t Elias, I meant that I hope that things get better for him,” she replied, and he turned to her, pressing his warm bony teeth to her lips and she smiled as she pressed more firmly against them.

“I’m going to miss you tonight,” he murmured against her lips and she pulled away smiling.

“At least you won’t be lonely,” she looked deep into his crimson orbs. “Besides, when you get back we can cuddle all night.”

“Mmm,” he wrapped his arms around her and brought her to his chest. “My favourite.”

XOXO

Severus opened his wardrobe and saw that he only had three pieces of clothing that reoccurred over and over—his frock coat, in black and midnight blue, white button up shirts, and black trousers. He took a deep breath and looked down at himself, midnight blue. I wonder if any other colour would suit me? He looked across the room and saw the mirror in the bathroom before walking over to it. He didn’t look… that bad.

He washed his hair that morning, but it seemed to get greasy inordinately fast and still lacked volume even though it was clean. How often do people normally wash their hair? He turned to look at his profile out of the side of his eyes and frowned. Gods I hate my nose. Long and a bit knobby from being broken by the marauders back in his school days. At least the hook isn’t as prominent now that I’ve gained a bit of weight. He silently thanked Hermione for his lack of malnourished gauntness that he’d had for as long as he could remember.

Then there was his neck, he always wore his cravat to cover it, but that didn’t make it disappear. Damn fecking snake . He leaned forward on the basin and took another deep breath. I’m going to have to make some grand gesture to get her attention, I know I can’t woo her based on my looks and charming personality alone. He let out a mirthless laugh and pushed off the basin to go back to his wardrobe to change.

XOXO

Hermione finished marking the vials, and pleased with her work, she left the parchment on his desk. She walked through the office to the sitting room, where she knew she would find them all. She opened the door to the room at almost the same time Severus opened his bedroom door and she looked over at him instantly. He wasn’t wearing his usual garb, and her lips fell apart in surprise as she assessed the new look. He wore a button up shirt, so dark green that it was almost black, with a bit of frill at the cuff that covered half his palms. A black waistcoat was over the top, his cravat happily tucked into the V of its top. She smirked at the long line of buttons covering the front.

He noticed her staring and looked over at her, lifting his brow as if to say ‘yes…?’ She quickly smiled at his tall, thin form, feeling a bit emboldened about being caught.

“You look very dashing professor,” she blushed, nonchalantly going to the sofa to sit down. He watched her reaction with rapt interested before turning to Elias.

“Are you ready magus?” Chise jumped up from Elias’s lap, smiling as she sat down next to Hermione.

“Indeed, I am wizard,” Elias replied, standing and shifting into his blonde glamour. He traded his mage robes for his long black trench coat. He buttoned up the three buttons that cinched it in, creating a perfect tapered waist. He leaned over to Chise and placed a chaste kiss against her soft lips before standing and motioning to the door. Severus looked at Hermione for a moment and she smiled back at him before he quickly turned, plucking his thick grey jacket off a hook, throwing his black and green scarf around his neck, and left through the open door. Elias turned and blew a quick kiss to Chise before closing the door behind him.

Hermione looked over at Chise, “want to go to dinner and then to the library and get some books?”

“Sounds good to me,” she said, standing and stretching.

Chapter Text

The two men had been in the Three Broomsticks for the last half an hour and after the long walk they relished the warm fire that flickered happily in a lonely corner of the establishment. They each had a drink in hand as they sat at the small booth.

“Why couldn't you ask her?" Elias asked, bluntly changing the subject from more effective healing potions and Severus looked a bit affronted by the sudden question. Honestly, he didn't know why he was still surprised by the magus's straightforward attitude.

“I just don't think she's interested," he finally conceded with a small huff. Fiddling with the cuff of his dark green sleeve before putting his left wrist on the table without touching his hand to it as his fingers fidgeted against each other.

“I don't think that's true," Elias said, leaning forward and resting his chin on his fist. "Why do you think that?"

“Because no one has ever been interested in me, why would that suddenly change now?" He chuckled mirthlessly, something between annoyance and sadness in his eyes as he took another sip of his drink.

“Chise says that you may not feel you deserve love; do you feel that to be true?” Elias asked, with an open expression that looked more of curiosity than anything else. Their drinks were half gone at this point and Elias took another deep gulp before he heard Severus’s quiet answer.

“I am an evil man; I have done horrible things to people that didn't deserve it." Snape looked down into his drink, trying to will this conversation to come to an end.

“In 300 years, a man can make a lot of mistakes too. Chise has taught me that you aren't what you've done, but the choices you make now. Do you still do horrible things?”

“No, but that doesn't make the bad things just… go away," a spark of frustration ran through him at the magus's easy dismissal.

“But it sounds like you've learned from them,” Elias looked at him earnestly, his voice laced with comfort.

“You don't understand, the things I've done are unforgivable,” he hissed, putting his chin in his open palm on the table.

“Then why have others forgiven you?”

“I…” Severus froze, thinking for a moment, “I don't know." The pain was clear on Snape’s face as he stopped trying to hide from Elias’s gaze. The turmoil that was bubbling under the surface was a reminder of how much he hated himself, how much of the world he would deprive himself of and Elias felt for him. Kinship. He knew that pain and even before he knew what to call it, he had always felt it. Love would always bring the agony of the past to the forefront of one's mind and he recognised the fear that lay there too, like a crouching beast, ready to drag him away into the fathomless darkness of self-destruction.

“What have you done?" Elias asked, there was no malice in his voice, there was no judgment, he was asking to see if Severus could answer him. If he were able to tell him, then Elias would listen.

“I have tortured and killed people. There is no excuse for what I've done." Severus pushed his head into his hands as if he were hiding from something, some danger he couldn't identify. Shame. It seemed he wanted silence, but Elias leaned forward and in something just above a whisper began to speak.

“I have done inexcusable things as well." Elias spoke evenly as he watched the wizard slowly look up at him with disbelief in his eyes.

“As bad as torture?" He spat out quietly, but the disdain in his voice was directed solely at himself. The shame taking over his every thought.

“I have fed upon people." Elias whispered, staring into his glass, pain written across the face of his glamour. He wished he had his impassable bone instead of the human facade that betrayed his emotions and bared them for all to see.

“What?" Severus incredulously whispered as he stared at the magus, he showed fear for a moment and that's what Elias wanted to avoid.

“I do not speak of it,” Elias took a deep breath before continuing, his voice so low that Snape had to listen intently to hear him. “Ever, in fact. But I think that it bares mentioning, it was a very long time ago and it is easy for me to resist the urge, but that doesn't mean the urge isn't there. Is that not evil?" He then looked up and could see the careful thoughtfulness that flashed before Severus answered.

“I'm not sure.”

“The people that you tortured; do you think about them?" Elias asked, looking at him in the eye, waiting to see what he would say.

“Often.”

“Do you want to hurt other people now?”

“No”

“Then am I not the evil one? Am I not something to be feared?" Elias’s voice was so deep and ragged that the pure pain in his words skidded across Snape’s skin like shards of broken glass. Elias wanted to sink into shadow, being in this situation was difficult now that he knew how humans reacted to things, fear and wariness would be prevalent now. But when he looked up, he saw the same acceptance on Snape's face that he had on his own; not the fear or uncomfortable looks that Lindel had given him the only other time he had uttered those words.

“But the people that I hurt, they were all like Granger, they were all muggles." He blurted out, still trying to convince himself that what he had done was worse.

“And the people that I fed upon were all like Chise... humans."

“I see what you mean." Severus said, barely above a whisper as he thought.

“I hope to never feed again, I am trying every day to be a better person, to be worthy of her love.” ‘Worthy of her love’ stuck in Severus’s mind and wheedled its way down until he could taste it. Is that what he had been trying to do? Is that how he felt about Hermione? He felt himself nod, even though he hadn’t given his body permission to do so. It was almost as if it knew more than he did, felt more than he did. It was forcing him towards the truth and wouldn’t let him just abandon the concept.

“I am as well,” he finally relented, allowing his inner self to admit something that to all others he would hide away.

“Then there is no reason to fear your past. It will always be there, but if you face it and know that it is no longer who you are, then you can accept yourself and move on.” Elias took another deep breath. ‘Moving on’ was something he had tried to do so many times, only in recent years had the notion felt more tangible, as if Chise could pick up the pieces of his broken soul and magically affix them back together. He knew he had hurt people, though he couldn’t remember them. He knew he had disappointed people, though he couldn’t put his finger on who. If he knew, perhaps he could make amends, but as it stood he was alone in his fight.

“You aren't evil,” Severus’s whispered admission gripped Elias from his reverie and he looked up at him, surprise playing on his features.

“What?" He assumed that Severus’s reaction would be very similar to Lindel’s, asking him not to eat him, but to his surprise he saw kindness in his eyes.

“You're not evil, and I'm not afraid of you," Severus repeated resolutely.

“Thank you Severus,” Elias wasn’t sure what else to say, and so they sat in silence as they both slowly sipped their drinks. He realised how busy the pub had become, though he couldn’t hear them at all when he was focused. All at once the noise seemed to invade their space, laughter and cheering from one of the corners, distracted them both. The joviality of the atmosphere seemed to contradict their conversation and Elias wished that he could feel like that… carefree.

“Does Chise know? Did you tell her?”

“She knows, but I didn't tell her," he groused, thinking of the chat they had in the greenhouse when she returned from Lindel. "Meddling old coot told her without asking if I wanted it shared." Severus let out a soft chuckle and Elias’s eyes flicked up to meet his.

“I like your colourful language, I prefer to call them dunderheads myself, but coot is good as well,” he said with a smirk, taking a sip of his wine. At that Elias gave him a sideways smile as Snape continued, "I think we need something a bit stronger than wine, if you would care to join me?"

“I'd like that.”

XOXO

Chise and Hermione went to dinner and grabbed a few large tomes from the library before making their way back to the sitting room. After an hour of fervent reading, they both sat back in their chairs at almost the same time.

“I have a question,” Chise started as she gained Hermione’s attention. “You have little videos playing in your room.”

“Those are wizard pictures,” she smiled.

“Who’s in the pictures with you?” She asked, and Hermione stood, motioning for Chise to follow.

“This one is of my first year at Hogwarts, this is Harry and Ron, my best friends. Well,” she picked up the picture and sighed wistfully. “They went off on their own way, Harry is working to be an Auror, and Ron is playing quidditch for a team in the midlands. I haven’t seen them in a while.” Hermione ran a finger next to the ginger’s face as she spoke and Chise looked up at her.

“Did you love him?”

“In a way,” she sighed.

“Did you two… um,” Chise started, blushing. Elias wasn’t the only one that had questions, and this wasn’t something that she thought Stella would know about and it definitely wasn’t something she was going to talk about with Simon.

“Umm,” Hermione looked at her and could tell what she wanted to ask, it was written all over her red face. “No… not with him anyway,” she said quietly, looking at the picture again before putting it back on the shelf and hoping that Chise didn’t have further questions.

“What’s it like?”

“It was… well,” she thought back to it, the groping in the darkness. The sound of wedding guests clinking glasses and dancing to loud music. He'd taken her with enthusiasm but not much grace. The awkward way they had parted, the sound of screams before she rushed to grab the boys and ran. “It was alright I suppose. Something was missing though, something I didn’t realise I needed until we were… in the middle. I don’t know if it’ll ever be the way I want it to be. Granted, the reason I agreed to be with that person was because I didn’t know what would happen to us all and I really wanted to experience it. Not because anyone told me I should or that it was something you needed to do. Just because I wanted to, for myself,” she shrugged with a half-hearted smile before picking up the next picture. “These are my parents,” she said sadly, and Chise stepped closer to her to look at the picture.

“Are they…” she trailed off, not wanting to ask if they survived the war she had heard about.

“They’re alive,” she said with a sad smile. “I had to wipe their memories of me and then I sent them to Australia. They don’t know they have a daughter, and I don’t know where they are.” She looked up at the ceiling, trying to fight back the tears that were trying to pool in her eyes. “What about your parents?” She said, trying to change the subject and Chise flinched before looking down.

“Well, my father left us with my baby brother when I was very young, and then my mother…” she paused. How do I put this without being blunt? She debated for a moment before looking up at Hermione. “She committed suicide when I was very young.” There was a heavy silence for a long time and Chise took a deep breath, trying to think of some way to change the subject. “It was a long time ago,” she smiled awkwardly, trying to cheer up her new friend but she only received an expression of sadness for her efforts.

“I’m so sorry,” Hermione finally said.

“They were happy... I remember them being happy, but then… I don’t know what changed.” She shrugged and gave her a sad smile. “It was a long time ago,” she repeated as Hermione placed the picture back on the shelf and looked down, not sure what to say that could bring any comfort. “I see this one’s a lot more recent,” Chise passed her to get to the night stand and pointed at the picture of her and Severus.

“Yes,” she said as her cheeks flushed a bit. “I made him stand with me on the first day of my apprenticeship, as you can see, he really didn’t want to,” she laughed, running her fingers over his stiff figure before it turned and walked away.

“How long have you loved him?” Chise asked, Hermione looked up at her and worried at her bottom lip. “Were you quite young?”

“I think it was in fifth year,” she paused, fidgeting with her fingers. “I had always tried to impress him, prove I wasn’t a dunderhead, and he would never let me, or listen. He was tetchy and seemed to be perpetually upset about something. I don’t know, I just started seeing him differently after a while. I wanted to know him, I wanted to know what always vexed him. Instead of trying to impress him for academic reasons only, I started wanting to impress him so he would see me. I know that probably sounds stupid.”

“Not at all. Fifth year, you were what fifteen? Well, that’s the same year I was starting to love Elias. That’s not too young to care for someone.” Hermione shook her head as she worried her bottom lip.

“I was almost seventeen, because in my third year I had a time turner and so I’m actually almost 21 but everyone thinks I’m 19.”

“Time turner?”

“It’s a small device that lets you back up time by a few hours… I attended every class that was offered and also… I studied a lot that year.” Hermione looked down with a sheepish smile, “I also took it from the headmasters office during the battle… to save Severus.”

“How?”

“I waited for the other me to leave the room and then I used a special potion along with flesh knitting spells.”

“What sort of potion?”

“In my fifth year, Ron’s dad was bitten by the same snake, so I went to St. Mungos, the hospital they had taken him, to visit him and talk with his healer. He agreed to give me some. Honestly, you'd think he had an unpublished patent on the damn potion. He'd only give me one vial and wouldn't tell me what it was so I could make more. Anyway, I figured since we didn't know what was going to happen next that having it would be better than not having it. So, I put it under a stasis charm and put it in my bag,” she smiled proudly, happy to finally tell someone what she’d done.

“Smart,” Chise was impressed, wondering if she would be able to do something similar if the need arose. “Does he know?”

“I’m sure he does, though he’s never mentioned it,” she shrugged. “I’d never ask him to; I don’t like the thought of him owing me something. I’d constantly be thinking that’s the reason he took me on as his apprentice.”

“Do you think that’s the reason?”

“I hope not. He’s been through a lot… he’s put us through a lot. I hope he has me around because he wants me here.” Hermione looked around the room and her eyes landed on the teddy bear that currently had a multitude of glittery flowers popping out of its head. “What’s this?”

“That’s my bear,” Chise said with a slight blush, and she put a folded hand in front of her lips. “Elias made that for me the first Christmas we were together. I’m constantly absorbing magical energy so any excess can be made into flowers so that it’s not over burdening my body. That’s what this is for as well,” she said, motioning to the bracelet on her wrist. “It stops me from producing magic so I’m only absorbing it, it makes things a lot easier for me on a daily basis.”

“Wow,” Hermione said, looking at the pretty gold bracelet that had a ribbon running through it and then over at the bear. “You really do have a lot of magic,” she said thoughtfully. “Why doesn’t Elias want you to perform spells?”

“He doesn’t mind, as long as they aren’t taxing ones, some of them are much more difficult than others,” she chuckled, shrugging.

“Can you feel magical energy?”

“Yes,” Chise nodded. “I can also see it, this castle is beautiful, swirling with magic. I can see the wards that are everywhere, each different depending on whoever cast it. The trails left behind by the Neighbors that have rushed through the halls.”

“Neighbors?”

“It’s what we call fae beings, they prefer it to fairy or other names,” she said, and Hermione thought for a moment.

“So, you can see fae beings? I can see some, but I know there are some I can’t see, based on the books I’ve read.”

“Yes,” She looked around the room before standing and motioning towards the empty fireplace. “Can you see him?” Hermione looked at the fireplace and only saw the logs, she looked back at Chise, shaking her head no. “Watch,” she held her hand out to the little fae salamander that rubbed its head on her fingers lovingly. “Please light the fire,” she asked it and the tiny thing breathed fire, lighting the logs in an instant. Hermione jumped up and smiled.

“That’s so cool,” she said, walking over to Chise, who was crouching by the fire now. “So, what does it look like?”

“Well,” she started, looking at the tiny creature. “He’s a shimmery colour, the scales change in the light and his eyes are big and beautiful,” at that the tiny thing swam through the air and rubbed against Chise’s face. She leaned into the contact before bringing her hand up and petting it. “You are though, you don’t have to thank me,” she held her hand out and the creature landed in her palm before Chise got up and plucked a flower from the bear and turned to Hermione. “Watch,” she handed the little flower to the creature, who ate it in small bites as it slowly disappeared. “They like treats and they love my magic, that’s why they help me.”

“Wow,” Hermione said, watching the flower slowly disappear before looking up at Chise with a wide smile.

XOXO

A few hours later, there were turned over shot glasses and two empty wine glasses in front of each of them and they were both laughing as Severus paid and they stumbled out into the snowy night.

“I still have a question,” Elias said as they walked, Severus hitting his shoulder every now and then, trying to stay upright. “How did you catch up with me this morning?”

“That’s a story that you can’t repeat,” Snape whispered, looking around. “I was the headmaster two years ago, and with that I had the authority to teleport in and out of the castle. When I… gave up that role, the castle neglected to refuse that right to me.”

“That’s handy,” Elias said, looking out into the night as the snow fell and saw Severus shiver violently before wrapping his jacket closer around him. “Would you like to know how I would get around?” He asked, smiling as Snape looked over at him questioningly.

“How?” He turned to Elias, folding his arms over his chest.

“I would go through the shadows,” he smiled wide before offering the wizard his hand. “Care to try?” Severus looked at the proffered hand and looked around to make sure no one was watching them before taking it. “Hold on tight,” he turned towards the castle and lifted his right hand, from it grew thorny vines that seemed to extend forever into the abyss and Snape stood, mouth agape at the sight. Then without warning they were moving; Elias had pulled Severus into the shadow that the vines created as he dragged him across the snowy blackness, quickly rematerializing under the eaves of the castle. Snape lifted his head up, the shadow receding around him as his eyes slowly readjusted to the low light that surrounded the castle.

“Merlin’s bloody beard,” he whispered, looking around to get his bearings and noticed he was still holding Elias’s hand; with a smug smirk muttered, “my turn.” With a loud pop the two apparated into the sitting room with a crack. Severus breathed a silent sigh of relief that even in his pissed drunk state he managed not to splinch either of them. Elias looked around and saw that the door to Hermione’s room was closed and Hermione was sleeping on the sofa.

“Impressive,” Elias said, unceremoniously dropped his hand.

“I’m off for a slash, won’t be a jiff,” Severus slalomed his way through the sitting room, only just dodging a small stack of books on the floor and disappeared into his bathroom. Elias was feeling the effects of the fast travel mixing with the alcohol and stumbled into the bedroom to see Chise reading in bed.

“Welcome back,” she greeted him warmly. Elias looked next to her and nodded his head towards the door. Ruth stood and hopped off the bed, his paws hitting the rug softly as he went into the sitting room and jumped up on an armchair.

Elias turned back to Chise, an odd smile on his glamour. He pushed the door closed with his foot and unbuttoned his trench coat, letting it fall to the floor. Before she could say anything, his lips were on her and her whole world became his taste and smell as he pushed her into the soft mattress. He hovered over her and flicked his wrist, dissipating his white glove before reaching it under her night shirt. She yelped and he pulled back. “You smell like a pub,” she giggled as he moved between her legs. “Hey there,” she looked up coyly at his tipsy expression and ran her hand along his jaw.

“Hello, my love, I’m sorry,” he said, pulling back a bit but stumbling forward again. “I missed you so much.”

“I missed you too,” she pulled him close for an all-consuming kiss that made his already addled mind fog exquisitely.

“We were talking about things... that humans do… and I was wondering if I could... try one of them?” He looked down at her with hope flickering in his hazel eyes and she couldn’t help but be a bit curious.

“What is it?” she asked cautiously, and he looked down between them, blushing deeply.

“It’s embarrassing to say,” he slowly ran his fingers down her waist, gently moving to her hip before softly grazing the top of her thigh. “It’s something that I may be better suited for in my refined form,” he said tentatively, looking up at her and she gasped, realising what he was asking to do.

“Are you sure?” she asked, with a bit of concern in her eyes, and he looked at her questioningly. “I only mean, because we’ve never done that, and I don’t want you to do something you’d regret.”

“I would never regret anything I do with you,” he had an endearing look on his face and his words warmed her heart.

“In that case,” she leaned up to kiss him once more. “I think I’d be open to a bit of… exploration,” she punctuated her comment by gently thrusting her hips up to his stomach and watched as he blushed deeper.

“I love you,” he whispered, lowering himself to kiss her neck reverently, slowly peppering kisses down to her clavicle and between her breasts. Placing soft, gentle kisses to each of them over her shirt before moving down to her stomach. He lifted her night shirt up and began kissing her stomach in a line down to her shorts before looking up at her again to make sure he was still welcome. She looked down at him with a look he’d never seen before, but instead of asking her, he decided that he should continue unless he saw the anger or fear that he was so diligently watching for.

He pulled her shorts down a bit and licked along the line where the elastic had been sitting, eliciting a soft sigh from Chise that made his ears prick with anticipation. He pulled down a bit more, until flame curls were peeking out into the open, he continued until her shorts were around her thighs and he looked up at her again. She was sitting up on her elbows so she could watch him, and the look he’d seen at first, new and different, was now a deeper version, intense and watchful of what he was doing. While keeping his eyes glued to hers he lowered his mouth to her, slowly bringing out his tongue and rubbing it in small circles until her breath hitched and he watched as her head lolled back and a moan escaped her.

Elias felt something within him react to that sound, it was new, something he’d never heard before, but it made something inside him excited and as he continued to taste her he tugged her shorts lower until they were around her knees. She looked back up, her face the brightest red he’d ever seen it and he felt her legs move so he sat up a bit, expecting that she was going to push him away, but instead she pushed her shorts off one leg and moved it up around his shoulder.

His eyes flared red, and she gasped as his concentration was moving from keeping his glamour to her and only her. She wondered how much longer he would keep it in place, a mixture of anticipation and excitement rushed through her as he moved back down between her legs. “You taste so good Chise,” he whispered, not bothering to use his human lips to form the words, he licked and sucked on her little bundle of nerves with alacrity as he absorbed himself in her taste and smell.

Her back arched and she moaned loudly as her body trembled around him. He gently took off his other glove and then ran the naked digit along her quim slowly as she looked back down at him. That expression was so strong now, her face slackened as heat pooled within her, causing a soft cry of passion as she began to tremble more violently. He pushed his finger up between her slick flesh; letting out a moan of his own as he felt how warm and wet she was. He’d never felt anything like it, never was anything so soft and slippery, he was engulfed in the feeling of her squeezing his finger tightly as he continued to lavish his affections on her hooded bud.

Suddenly he felt his mouth change, he was unable to suck any more, and it was replaced by a much longer tongue as she shattered around him, crying out his name into the silent room. He continued to lap at her as her orgasm ripped through her, before she fell back on the pillows quivering with the aftershocks of the pleasure she felt. Elias stilled, but didn’t want to stop, “Chise, may I continue?” They were both surprised by how deep and ragged his voice was as he spoke. Chise violently nodded her head yes and he removed his finger to the sound of her protests. Carefully he ran his much larger tongue against her wet opening, and she gasped.

She shuddered as she felt it and looked back down at him to confirm what she had felt, his red orbs were huge and glowed brighter, like in his wild form. She couldn’t help but be overwhelmed with the fact that she had done this to him simply by letting him taste her. He ran his long tongue over her slick flesh several times, tasting the magic that was drizzling out, before he gained enough courage through listening to her sweet mewling to try to push inside of her.

“Elias!” She cried out as his thick tongue entered her, slow and steady. He let out a growling groan, the taste of her was sweet nature dripping with magic and he wanted nothing more than to savour it completely. He moved his hand to her mound and gently massaged her pink pearl with his thumb, making her buck up at him, inadvertently pushing more of his tongue inside her. She was grabbing at her breasts, pulling her shirt up and off her body for more contact. Her eyes shined in the firelight, reflecting the flames as he continued to circle and flick at her bud and as her back arched again he slowly started retracting his tongue before pushing it back in. She moaned loudly as he writhed the muscle inside her; her trembling building again, stronger than before. He watched her as she kept eye contact this time when she tipped over the edge.

Her face flashed so many new expressions, Elias hoped they were all good, before she threw her head back and quivered everywhere, her silken walls clamping down around his tongue. He growled ferally and began pulling out his tongue and pushing it back in as deep as he could, revelling in how tight she was and how wonderful she tasted. “Elias!” she cried as she crumbled a second time under his care. Her magic crackled through the room and her bear sprouted so many crystal flowers that they could no longer be contained on his fluffy head as they sprouted in an arch across the wall behind her and toward the door.

He felt her nectar flow onto his tongue and drank the taste, eagerly enjoying the magic that laced it and overwhelmed his senses as she slowly drifted back to earth. Elias rested his bony head on her thigh as she relaxed again. His tongue lazily ran over her, licking up the last bits of her nectar.

“Sugoi,” she breathed, reaching down to pull him up to her.

“Was that alright?” he asked, a bit embarrassed. “You were wearing a lot of new faces Chise.” She laughed as she cuddled into him.

“That was amazing Elias, where did you get that idea?”

“Severus,” he said with a chuckle as she looked up at him. “He said that it was something that a woman likes, I must say, it was very enjoyable for me as well.” It was her turn to blush as she smiled at him.

XOXO

Severus stumbled back out into the sitting room and looked around, wondering where Elias had gone until he heard soft moans coming from Hermione’s room. “That pervy mage,” he whispered to himself with a smirk as he looked down at Hermione sleeping on the sofa. “Hermione,” he nudged her gently and she opened her eyes.

“Hi,” she stretched, unknowingly showing off her midsection as she did, it took her a moment to realise that he called her by her first name. “Is it morning?”

“No,” he said flatly. “You’re not supposed to be out here, this is where I’m sleeping,” he tried to sit down suavely but stumbled and fell into the armchair across from her with a soft fump. She giggled, watching his drunken state and Ruth lifted his head from the other armchair, giving a small huff.

“Nope,” she propped her head up on her hand as she slowly lifted her legs behind her, one and then the other, her blanket slipping from her legs as she did. “You are too tall to sleep here, I couldn’t let you.” He looked down at her with the best sneer he could manage but she just laughed at him.

“I’m a gentleman,” a small burp escaped him, smoke puffing out of his mouth, easily letting her know what he’d been drinking. His face went red, and she laughed again. “Shut up,” he snipped, narrowing his eyes before going over to her on the sofa as smoothly as he could. “You’re sleeping in the bed where it’s more comfortable,” he reached out, trying to lift her by her hands, but she let her body go to dead weight and he started getting annoyed. “Fine be that way,” he groused, and she thought he was going to give up, but instead he grabbed her around the waist and lifted her up.

She yelped as he lifted her and wrapped her arms around his neck so he wouldn’t drop her. Their faces were mere inches away and she felt her breath catch; her heartbeat speeding up as her amber eyes locked with his obsidian ones. She closed the gap and placed a chaste kiss on the tip of his nose as his eyes widened and bore into her, he drawled, “you are sleeping where it’s comfortable, because you deserve to be comfortable.” She had a soft smile playing on her lips as he blinked unevenly.

Severus carefully walked into the bedroom before going to throw her on the bed and stumbling over at the same time causing him to fall next to her on his stomach. She laughed and pulled him up, so his feet weren’t hanging off the bed and he seemed to have forgotten his former plan. He pushed closer to her, his arm winding tighter around her waist as his left leg came up, so she’d drape her legs over it. He cuddled his face into her neck with a satisfied sigh before he promptly passed out.

She looked around the room and couldn’t help but laugh, the lights were all on, the door was wide open, and he was still wearing his grey jacket. She luckily had her wand in her sleep trousers, so she pulled it out and removed his shoes before turning off the lights, leaving the door open for his own sanity, and laid a blanket over them. She then pushed her wand over towards the night stand and turned back to the sleeping man. She ran her fingers through his soft black hair, and he sighed happily in his sleep, his arm still steadfastly wrapped around her waist. She took a deep breath of him, enjoying the fragrance that tickled her nose—parchment, woodsmoke, leather, firewhisky, and a scent that was distinctly Severus. She smiled and nestled into his embrace happily, hoping that he wouldn’t be too upset with himself in the morning.

“Herm… mione,” he mumbled softly in his sleep, and she leaned closer to him as his grip became a bit tighter.

“Yes Severus,” she blushed violently when she realised what she’d called him. He won’t remember it anyway.

“My… witch,” he muttered, and she smiled looking down at him.

“That’s right Severus, and you are my wizard,” she whispered as she brushed his hair back so she could see him as a wide smile graced his normally troubled face. He took a deep breath and sighed, contently nuzzling his face further into her hair before he gently kissed her neck. His gentle kiss and breath causing goose-flesh to spring up along the entirety of the left side of her body.

“Mmmmmm,” he hummed, and she wondered if he was waking back up, but then a moment later he started snoring softly and she knew he was asleep. She wrapped her arms around his sleeping form and followed him a few minutes later into her first dreamless sleep in over a year.

Chapter Text

Severus roused slowly, his head was pounding painfully, and he was hugging an especially warm pillow that smelled absolutely wonderful. His dry eyes blinked open, seeing nothing but chestnut hair and when he started to sit up, his pillow groaned sleepily before pulling him back into place. His nose was once again buried in her curls, his lips touching her neck, and his arm was still tightly wrapped around her waist.

Oh Merlin, what have I done?

“Miss Granger,” he whispered, since he was so close to her ear. “Miss Granger, it’s time to get up,” he tentatively started pulling away again, but she only held him tighter. He enjoyed her embrace for a moment, letting her lovely smell play on his senses as she held him to her warmth. This isn’t right! “Miss Granger, did I do something… unsavoury last night?” He lifted his head up nervously to see she was smiling at him.

“No, you were a perfect gentleman,” her big brown eyes blinking sleepily. “Now, come here,” she pulled him close again as his head spun. Placing a chaste kiss on his forehead as she shifted in his arms so that his face was practically in her bosom. When he tried to pull away she mewled unhappily.

“Miss Granger, this isn’t appropriate,” he hissed softly. “What did we do?”

“We slept together,” she yawned, then seeing the horrified look on his face, she laughed. “We only slept, we didn’t… sleep together, so don’t worry.” He relaxed and disentangled his arms from her as he got out of bed. He started pacing the room as she laid back on the pillows, patiently watching him. “You’re freaking out aren’t you?” She asked sadly, and he stopped, his face snapping to look at her indignantly.

“No,” he lied, going into the bathroom and closing the door with a slam. Hermione rolled off the bed and headed to the sitting room, casting a tempas with her wand to see the time.

“Just after 6,” her bushy hair bouncing as she turned towards the sound of crystals being wrenched apart, her bedroom door opening. Chise stepped out, closing the door behind her. When she saw the look on Hermione’s face, she plunked herself down on the sofa, a blush slowly rising up her cheeks.

“What happened?”

“Nothing,” Hermione sat back on the sofa with a wistful look in her eye. “What about you?” Chise looked away, settling back on the sofa before finally looking at her.

“Umm…”

“I heard you,” she smiled knowingly. “So, you don’t need to play innocent,” she laughed and Chise seemed to breathe a sigh of relief. Hermione pointed at the door, to the little translucent poppies that sprouting along the door frame and from the ceiling, Chise covered her reddening face, embarrassed.

“Sorry,” she peeked up through her fingers.

“I can teach you to cast a silencing charm, but I’m not sure how to stop that from happening,” Hermione offered. “For next time,” she winked and Chise let out a nervous laugh.

“That’d be really nice actually,” she looked back at the closed door where Elias was sleeping. Hermione noticed that Chise’s left arm was pitch black from her fingertips all the way up her bicep, it looked like flames that licked at her shoulder.

“Chise, what happened to your arm?” Concern etched across her face as she reached out and carefully touched the back of her hand.

“Oh sorry,” Chise waved her hand with practised ease as her hand began to look more normal, the glamour slowly covering her arm. “I forgot about it.”

“What is it?”

“It’s the curse,” Chise flexed her now pale hand, feeling a bit on display. Hermione looked down at her own arm and then back at Chise.

“I have things that I cover in glamours as well,” she went quiet for several moments, looking down at her covered arm and wondering if she should show Chise. Chise looked over at her, placing her hand on top of Hermione’s.

“You don’t have to tell me,” she started, as Hermione looked off across the room at nothing. “But if you’d like to tell me, then I will gladly listen, but I understand either way.”

“I have… scars,” she looked down at her lap, almost embarrassed. “I don’t like them, and it’s difficult to feel pretty when they’re showing. Some are much worse than others. Luckily when I’m dressed you can’t see any of them, but…” she turned to make sure the bathroom door was still firmly closed before whispering. “The thought of someone seeing me naked, is kind of frightening.”

“Do you think he’d care?”

“I don’t know,” she said honestly, shrugging. “Would you like to go get breakfast?” Chise smiled and nodded as Hermione picked up her small pile of clothes from the coffee table to run into the office and quickly change. When she came out a few minute later Chise was standing by the door and they made their way out of the room and up the stairs to the great hall.

As soon as the door was closed, Severus opened his bathroom door a crack and peeked out into the sitting room. He hesitantly walked through the room, going to his office. Digging through his potions box, he grabbed two headache cures, hangover potions, and a pain potion for his back before walking over to the closed door where Elias was sleeping. He knocked softly and heard a grunt from inside the room, so he knocked a second time, a little harder. Elias opened the door after a minute and Severus looked up at the tall magus, handing him the two vials and turning around to walk back into his bedroom without saying a word.

“Thank you,” Elias called after him, taking the potions and instantly feeling a bit better. He scratched his plum coloured neck before stepping out into the sitting room and peering into Snape’s bedroom. The man was rummaging around in his wardrobe angrily, muttering things to himself that Elias only barely heard. “Everything alright?”

“No,” Snape snapped as he went through one of his drawers. He sighed deeply and hunched forward over the dresser before looking over at his new friend. “I think I may have done something inappropriate last night,” he frowned severely, thinking about how he’d woken up that morning. “I think I… forced myself on Miss Granger.”

“That doesn’t sound right,” Elias stepped into the doorway, leaning against it and practically taking up every inch of space as his horn bumped the doorframe as he tilted his head. “How did you wake up?”

“I had her... in my arms,” his fingers ineffectually fiddled with a cravat as he looked into his drawer.

“Were you naked?”

“No.”

“Was she?”

“No.”

“Then?”

“Then what?!” Severus practically shouted at Elias, but the stoic mage just stood there unmovable against the door frame.

“I will give you the advice I wish I could have told myself a long time ago. Talk to her,” Then Elias turned around and walked back into his room, closing the door to go back to sleep. Severus raked his hand through his hair and thought about it, she was dressed, fully dressed. And she not only protested to him letting go of her, but drew him closer. He smiled at the thought of Hermione wanting to hold him. She smelt so good, her body was so soft and inviting. What the hell am I thinking?! He huffed to himself before changing into his frock coat and teaching robes and storming out to go to breakfast.

XOXO

Hermione sat across from Chise and Ruth in the great hall as the students began filtering into the room. Pulling a small book out of her pocket she waved her wand over it, enlarging it into a giant potions tome that she opened and immediately stuck her nose into.

“When’s the first class?” Chise asked, looking down at the book Hermione was reading as she nibbled on a piece of toast.

“We have almost two hours,” she gave her a sideways smile. “Plenty of time for things to continue to get awkward.” She looked up at Chise, who had a bit of concern playing on her lips. “I think we need to look through a few more books, maybe we can go to the library after breakfast?”

“Maybe,” Chise rubbed her temples just thinking about more reading in the dimly lit dungeon. Two Ravenclaw girls walked behind Hermione, talking excitedly about how wonderful their dresses were going to be for the party and how nice their dates were. Chise saw Hermione flinch and a flash of frustrated sadness on her features. “Maybe we could take a walk outside in the sunshine?”

“Even better,” Hermione smiled, feeling eyes on her, she preceded to bury her face back in her book. Chise looked over as Snape stalked up the isle between the tables to the staff table, glancing at Chise with a blank look that only just hid the anxiety in his eyes before taking his normal seat.

“I’ll be right back,” Chise stood up and Hermione watched her make her way to the staff table. Ruth laughed to himself, looking up to see Hermione looking at him with an eyebrow quirked.

“She isn’t doing anything bad,” he assured her as she looked over to see Chise sitting next to Snape and him turning to her as they were the only ones at the table this early.

“Yes, Miss Hatori?”

“Just Chise please,” she pulled out the seat that Elias had been sitting in the last few days and plunked herself down next to him.

“Miss Hatori,” he drawled, turning back to his breakfast. “What can I do for you?”

“Well,” she put a finger to her chin in thought, flicking her eyes over to see Hermione as she stared intently at the book in her lap. “I was wondering if you could be honest with me?”

“Honest?” He asked, feeling a bit affronted at the accusation, “it will depend on the circumstances.”

“No,” she said flatly. “I need to know, so please tell me,” she placed her hand over his and when he flinched at the contact he couldn’t jerk away. “I have more than one curse within me, I don’t want to anger him.”

“Him?” He looked at her and tried to move his hand, but he wasn’t able to move any of his fingers. She had pinned it to the table like glue as her hand was feather light over his.

“One of the curses is a... boy. Is there a way for you to talk to him? If he lets me go, then I’ll die within hours,” her eyes were beseeching as she stared at him and he tried to take a calming breath.

“I can perform a…” he looked around to make sure they were still alone before leaning in a bit. “A spell, to attempt communication.” He paused and tried to move his hand again but found he still couldn’t, “it is dark magic, Chise. If I can help it, I would really rather not, given my delicate situation.”

“I appreciate your honesty,” she moved her hand to her lap but when he tried to move his own, it was still stuck. He couldn’t see the shiny fae that held him captured.

“Release me Chise,” he hissed, the look on his face was quickly turning to irritation and she shook her head no, slowly crossing her arms. “I can try it, I’m not guaranteeing that I can, but I will try,” with that his hand was released and he looked over at her with anger flaring in his eyes.

“I have one more question,” she looked down at her hands, a bit awkwardly.

“What, not going to hold me down for this one,” he spat, picking up his teacup and wondering what sort of magic she’d used.

“Do you like her?” Snape froze at her question and then leaned over to her.

“Who?” His voice was smooth, but he felt like a lump was forming in his throat as his eyes peeked side to side to make sure no one could hear them.

“You know who.”

“Why are you asking me this Miss Hatori?” He whispered, his tone much gentler.

“Because,” she started, looking over at Hermione. “I really like her,” her eyes flicked over to meet Severus’s expression, which was unreadable, but his eyes spoke volumes about his thoughts as he looked at Hermione. “I was like that too,” she said, regaining his attention. “It took me a long time to say the words, but Elias couldn’t say them either. I always found that actions speak louder than words any way.”

“Actions,” he breathed, looking back at Hermione, he noticed the book she was reading and immediately felt relaxed, it was the one he had bought her last Christmas. His lips involuntarily tilting up a bit behind his teacup.

“I’m sorry, I’m not sure where that came from,” Chise was staring down at her hands with sadness in her voice and motioning to his hand. “These past few years have been… intense. I’ve been subject to a lot of… tests and I’m just…”

“It’s quite alright, I would be as well,” he whispered, lowering his head and looking at his hand before looking over at Hermione, who quickly averted her eyes. Chise placed a hand on Snape’s shoulder and squeezed assuredly, happy that he had forgiven her. “Meet me in the sitting room after our first class and I’ll try it. It takes a lot out of me, so I’d like to do it before a first-year class, that way Miss Granger can teach it, if need be.”

“She really likes you; you know?” Snape looked up at her again as she gave his shoulder one final squeeze before walking back to Hermione and sitting back down. Severus watched her and felt a bit of… happiness? But also anxiety buzz through him at their conversation.

“Actions,” he whispered to himself.

XOXO

Hermione waited impatiently for Chise to join her, reading the same sentence three times before Chise’s lithe figure sat back across from her.

“What was that about?” Hermione asked softly, not looking up at her.

“I asked if he could do me a favour, he said he would try,” she looked up at Hermione as she began to cut into her omelet. “Don’t worry,” she smiled at her and Hermione seemed to relax.

After they were all finished eating, Hermione stood and motioned for them to follow. Chise smiled as she followed, Ruth sinking back into her shadow.

The morning seemed to rush by; the sunshine out by the lake was heavenly and then Hermione and she went to the classroom to set up for a seventh year N.E.W.T. level class. Chise assisted with pulling cauldrons out and setting them up; they were iron and a lot heavier than she expected. Hermione made sure everything was set up.

“Where should I sit?” Chise asked as Hermione put the graded papers on each desk.

“Here,” she pointed to a table at the back that didn’t have a paper in front of it. “His name is Draco, he used to be a right prat but since the war he’s been a delight to be around. He’s the head of Slytherin, he’ll be helpful to you. He’s our age, Professor McGonagall’s apprentice, but Severus asked him here as a favour, so you can get the ‘classroom experience’,” she laughed, looking over her shoulder to make sure he hadn’t come in yet. Chise sat down and watched as Hermione stepped over to Snape’s desk.

A part of her desperately wanted to apologise for how they had woken up. To say they could go back to how things were if that’s what he really wanted… even if it wasn’t what she really wanted. She pulled out a piece of parchment, finding an essay to cover it with if he happened upon her. She smiled softly when all she could find in his desk was red ink.

XOXO

Severus had been pacing in the sitting room for the past twenty minutes as Elias sat reading peacefully.

“Did she tell you what she wants me to do?” He suddenly asked the magus, he flicked his red eyes up to meet his black ones.

“What?”

“She wants me to perform a spell to try to speak to her curse,” he softly sat down on the armchair next to Elias.

“You can do that?” He breathed, sitting up straighter.

“I may be able to, it may also hurt her,” he said thoughtfully. “I wanted to make sure you’d be alright with this.” Elias thought for a moment, looking at the table that was covered in books.

“He isn’t a friendly apparition.”

“So she’s said,” Severus felt his stomach clench with worry as he crossed his arms over his chest. “I may be able to deduce the cure easier if I know what it takes to keep him happy,” he looked over at Elias out of the corner of his eyes before sitting forward in the chair. “I would like your permission to perform it.”

“You have it,” Elias stood and walked through the office, into the classroom with Severus right behind him. The classroom was set up and Elias was in front of Chise in an instant, he had knelt down in front of her, and she looked down at him with a smile as she ran her hand along his jaw. Severus watched for a moment and then noticed that Hermione was behind his desk with a quill. He smirked down at the essay she must be marking, each time she huffed and scribbled in red. When she was done, half the page was covered. Perhaps she was going easy on them or maybe their work really had improved since last year.

“What do you think you’re doing?” He muttered to her, placing his hands down on his desk and looking at her directly in the eye.

“Helping,” her cheeks blushed pink as she turned back to her parchment, carefully covering what she’d been writing. He made his way around the desk and leaned over her shoulder to see what she was doing; she was close enough to feel the warmth that radiated off him. “Do you not want me to?” She asked, coquettishly pushing a frizzy curl behind her ear so he could see her neck.

“I never said that,” he drawled, brushing the top parchment aside to see what she was up to and when he saw what looked like a letter he pulled it up. She reached out and grabbed it back just before he managed to read it, but not before he saw his name at the top. “Now, Miss Granger,” he said leaning down over the back of the chair and holding out his hand. “That is clearly for me.”

“No, it’s not,” she stuffed the balled-up paper into her pocket and got up to rush over to the ingredients table. He watched her with confused interest before clearing his throat.

“Potion to induce euphoria,” he said to Hermione. She waved her wand to start the chalk flying across the board, a bit faster than usual as it wrote the name and the ingredients needed. “Did Miss Granger tell you about your partner for this class, Chise?” Severus called to Chise as Elias made his way back up to the chair he occupied the day before. He looked over at Hermione to see how she would react to him calling Chise by her first name and to his surprise she didn’t react at all. He couldn’t see the amused smirk on her face as she faced away from him.

“Yes Severus, thank you for arranging it for me,” she replied from her seat.

“Not a problem,” he turned and descended upon his desk, picking up his quill. “Please call me Professor Snape once the students come in, I don’t want them thinking they can be so casual with me.”

“Yes professor,” Chise laughed as Hermione walked back to Snape and looked down at him with a raised brow, trying not to laugh before she sat down next to Elias. He looked between the two and then at Chise, who shrugged.

“May I remain like this?” Elias motioned to his refined form as he threw his red veil over his face.

“Yes, I think that should be fine, these students have been through the war; they have seen a lot more than the younger ones,” Severus replied, looking back down to the parchment on his desk. Soon they heard the tell-tale sound of students rushing down into the dungeon for class.

Snape stood at the front of the class as the door opened and a handful of students walked into the room. Once they had settled, the professor motioned to Elias, who had been getting odd glances from the students. “This is Professor Ainsworth; he is visiting at this time and has agreed to oversee our class today,” Elias nodded at the students.

“Hello Professor Ainsworth,” they all said in unison as they looked at his horns at nearly the same time.

Chise was startled as a blond man sat down next to her with a little smirk on his face and a nod of his head. With that, Snape began his lecture on the potion. After half an hour, he prompted them to begin the brewing process and the students began to talk amongst themselves as Severus took his seat back at his desk chair.

“Hi,” Draco turned to her with a small smirk crossing his lips. “I’m Draco Malfoy,” he offered his hand, and she shook it.

“Hello,” Chise replied, looking at the list of ingredients and noticing that no magic was required to brew it until the very end.

“So, you’re the visiting magus?” He asked nonchalantly, placing their shared cauldron on the metal stand.

“I’m his apprentice, yes.”

“Well, Professor McGonagall and Professor Snape asked me to help entertain some visitors.” He turned on the fire and began adding the first few ingredients. “I’m assuming that you haven’t brewed before?”

“I brew in a different way. I watched Hermione brew like this yesterday with the third years. Normally I would use some herbs, but mostly infuse the potion with my magic,” she could feel something rub against her leg and looked down to see a small shimmering lizard with wings. She reached down and held out her hand. The long, thin lizard jumped into it so she could lift the little thing up to her face before placing it on the desk. “I don’t think I’ll need your help today,” she spoke softly to the little fellow, before looking over at Draco, who was staring at her as if she were crazy. “Sorry, you can’t see them can you?”

“See what?” she smiled at him before lifting the lizard and placing it on his shoulder, laughing as the small creature twirled itself around his neck like a shimmering necklace and laid down. Well at least I know the fae don’t dislike him, that’s a good sign. Well, they do like blonds.

“There is a little fae creature around your neck right now,” she smirked, turning back to the brew. Draco reached up to his neck and felt nothing. She reached into her pocket and pulled out one of her small translucent flowers before handing it the little fae. Draco watched as the flower hung in the air before little bites were taken out of it little by little until it disappeared.

“Wicked,” he whispered as the last bite disappeared and he smiled at Chise before turning back to the potion and adding the next ingredient.

An hour quickly flew by as a rainbow streaked out of the cauldron, showing that it was finished. Chise looked into the yellow shiny liquid and took a breath, it smelled mostly of peppermint and she wanted to taste it. Once all the potions had been finished, Snape stood to give them their homework before Hermione went to pick up the vials for marking.

“It was nice meeting you,” Chise said to Draco as he started collecting his belongings to leave.

“I’m sure I’ll see you around,” he winked at her before he turned to go. She looked towards Elias and was glad to see he was at the back speaking with Hermione and missed that odd display.

Once all the students had left, Snape turned to Hermione, “Please find the best one, probably yours, and bring it, I will need at least one vial for… after this, just in case,” he pinched the bridge of his nose and moved stiffly into his office.

XOXO

When Hermione came back into the sitting room, Elias was sitting on the armchair, avidly observing the two on the sofa. Severus was facing Chise, who had dropped the glamour on her arm and was holding it up for him to grip as if he were about to do a pull up. Hermione walked around until she was seated in the armchair across from them and watched the pair.

Severus closed his eyes and concentrated on the incantation that he hadn’t said in almost twenty years. His voice was lower than a whisper and no one could hear the words that escaped him. Chise gasped as inky ropes grew from her arm and slowly snaked their way around Snape’s long fingers. His hands were completely covered when his head was involuntarily thrown back and his eyes opened wide to show that the obsidian of his iris was growing to overtake every speck of pearly white with glistening pitch. He breathed in deeply and as he breathed out, black smoke flowed out of his mouth and nose, like a dragon preparing to breathe fire.

His world shifted into darkness as his vision of the sitting room changed.

Severus sat in a wooden chair, the world around him an empty chasm of utter darkness, of void, of nothing. He looked around the vacuum of space and suddenly saw a black figure with white hair that was walking towards him in the nothingness. He looked down to stand, but the emptiness was below as well, and he didn’t know if the only thing that was keeping him safe was that simple wooden chair. And so, he waited.

“Greetings,” said the figure, its childlike voice reverberating around the empty space, bouncing off invisible walls as it stepped closer.

“I have come to—"

“I know why you have come,” the figure spoke evenly as it pushed its pitch black hands into its brown overcoat with an eerie smile on its face, his flesh dark as the void around him. “We have an understanding,” he said, close enough now that Severus could see his sparkling blue eyes, that seemed to bore into him from the blackness that surrounded.

“An understanding?”

“Yes,” he stated calmly. “I have no qualms with allowing you to relieve her of the other curse, but I will remain. I will not be removed,” there was almost no emotion in his voice, only a calm statement of fact.

“Who are you?” Snape asked in wonder as the figure grew closer and bent to whisper in his ear.

“Cartaphilus,” he whispered, so low it was almost inaudible. Suddenly Severus felt his throat close, and he couldn’t breathe. “I will remain, I will not be removed,” he continued to speak as Severus reached for his throat as if trying to push off hands that were choking him, but nothing was there. “Here is what you need to know.”

Severus was overcome with images, of feelings. An auction house full of people wearing masks, a small black thing locked in a cage, barely big enough to contain him. He felt fear, sadness so potent he felt tears running down his face as dread overwhelmed him completely. He fell to his knees as the void became too much and he was using all of his energy to gasp, as if the air around him was sucked out of the vacuum of the space. He shook his head yes fervently to the figure and suddenly he felt like he was falling through the nothing. His eyes flew open wide as he awoke on the floor of the sitting room.

“Cartaphilus,” he whispered, black smoke escaping from his lungs as ash filled his mouth. He blinked his black eyes deeply, tears flowing down his cheeks, to see that the three others were all looking at him with concern.

“I’m sorry you had to meet him,” Chise whispered softly, placing a hand on the wizard’s shoulder as Hermione pushed a potion into his hand. Severus took the potion, uncorked it, and drank it down in one gulp, letting the effects wash over his terror and sorrow. To calm him into a happy stupor from which he could think more clearly. He was told a list of ingredients as a trace of the wandering Jew echoed in his head. He sat up against the sofa, coughing up ash, black and dry as bone.

“Auncyen wiggling Ta, Flowing crimson blōd of the clipped winged babe,” He croaked and Hermione wrote them down as fast as she could. “Hermione,” he whispered, and she leaned in closer. “Please,” he looked up at her and lost himself in her amber eyes. The sensation of falling surrounded him again, but this time he wasn’t afraid. The little flecks of glittering gold bounced off her irises so beautifully that he wondered if it was an effect of the potion or if he was just really seeing her for the first time.

“Yes professor?” She asked as she leaned in further.

“Please teach the first years, I don’t believe I can at this time,” he tried to stand, using the table in front of him to pull himself up straight. Hermione went to his side and he wrapped his arm around her shoulders. She nodded her head and looked over at Chise, who was watching him very closely with sadness in her eyes.

“Of course, I will, now let’s get you lying down to rest,” he allowed her to lead him into his room and sat him down on the bed. She looked into his eyes as the black slowly receded back to normal. Dark magic seemed to be pulsing around him and he looked exhausted. “How are you feeling?” She asked tentatively as she watched him.

He thought for a moment, he had felt as if his life would end a moment ago and now he was feeling content. He knew it was just the potion, but it was comforting none the less. He reached up and cupped his cravat covered throat, thankful that breathing was easy now and looked up at her, “I feel better than I did, thank you Hermione…” His eyes widened when he realised what he’d called her; she put a finger over her mouth to stop him from correcting himself.

“I like it how you say my name,” she stepped closer to him and wrapped her arms around his neck, running her hands down his back in a comforting motion. For a moment he was frozen, for a moment he was tense, but then it all seemed to fade at once and he reached up and held her tightly around her waist. She sighed happily before reluctantly pulling away enough to see his face. “Now then, I have a class to teach,” she smiled down at him. “Will you be alright if I leave you?”

“I hope so,” he mumbled, and she leaned down, with the intent to leave a kiss on his forehead, but he looked up and their lips met. Their eyes opened widely as they looked at each other, but neither pulled away. He watched as her eyes fluttered closed softly as she re-angled her head to deepen the kiss and he moaned as their tongues met. It was soft, comforting and loving and it made him feel different. His hands pulled her closer and she found herself between his spread legs as he sat on the bed, her fingers gliding through his hair as they slowly parted.

She looked down at him for a moment, waiting to see if he would be angry or upset, but he just looked up at her with twinkling eyes. It could just be the potion; would he have done this if his mind were clear? She watched for any regret and after a moment of it not coming she smiled at him. His lips slightly upturning at the corners as his cheeks flushed and she laughed softly.

“I should give you that potion more often,” she joked, pushing a bit of hair away from his eyes and he chuckled. “I’ll be back after class to check on you,” she leaned down for one last chaste kiss on his lips before she left the room.

Severus fell back onto the bed and stared up at the canopy of his four-poster with a soft smile on his face. Her lips were soft and warm, they felt like coming home, comforting, and wonderful. He sighed contently as his eyes slowly closed and he fell into a dreamless sleep.

XOXO

“Chise,” Elias stood from the armchair he was sitting in and pulled her up from the sofa. He tugged her shirt collar aside to see that the black flames were now licking up the flesh between her neck and shoulder. “My love, it’s spreading,” he said concerned, and when she looked up at him he saw hands, black and small around her throat before they slowly absorbed into her skin. We need to transfer this soon.

“Do you think the curse is angry?” she asked him, fear twitching through her.

“Possibly, I didn’t know that Cartaphilus would try to hurt you.”

“He said he would keep the curse in check until it would kill me,” he lifted her chin and pressed his bony snout to her soft lips.

“We’ll figure it out before it comes to that,” Elias pulled her close and ran his hand down her back reassuringly.

“Thank you Elias,” she whispered into his chest as she wrapped her arms around him. She held him tightly and listened to his heart beating steadily, calming her and grounding her back to the moment.

“Could you keep an eye on him?” Hermione asked as she came back in from Snape’s bedroom.

“Of course,” Elias answered as he continued to slowly run his hand down Chise’s back.

“Is everything ok?” Hermione asked, trepidation playing in her words as she looked at Chise and then up to Elias.

“It will be, go to your students,” Elias answered, and Hermione, as if just remembering them, rushed through the office to get to the classroom. Luckily it was double potions with Ravenclaw and Hufflepuff so it was sure to not be as difficult as the last class with Slytherin and Gryffindor.

Chapter Text

By the time Severus had regained his energy, Elias had Chise curled up in his lap taking a nap and his hands were idly running through her flame locks. Snape slowly made his way across from them to the sofa and sat down, looking over at Elias.

“What did you see?” Elias asked softly.

“I met,” he started, and then reached for his neck, remembering the pain of their encounter. “I met a boy, he said that he had an understanding with the curse but that he would help me.” He sat forward and put his elbows on his knees. “He told me what we need to isolate it, but we will need a very strong item to transfer it to, and even, then we’ll need to make sure that no one ever touches it. It could be very dangerous, all consuming, and torturous.” He watched Elias for a reaction, and he sat back, looking at the wizard with his impassive skull and flaming red eyes.

“I will do whatever is needed, what kind of item?”

“An object that is magically already powerful, so it can contain it, strong enough to hold horrible things,” he felt uneasy as Elias’s eyes seemed to flare.

“What does it need to be? How do we obtain one?”

“It is usually good to use something that is important to the person, something that has absorbed some of their magic,” he sighed, thinking.

“I have an adder stone,” Elias started, looking over at Chise. “My puppy’s bell was no longer needed once we had our rings, so it has sat useless since.”

“Bell?”

“Yes, I placed a tracking spell on the item and then gave it to Chise to always wear, so I would be able to find her if a fae tried to take her. They know she is mine, but they will always try to lure her away. Luckily, she no longer listens to their flowered words and pretty promises.” Severus tried not to think about the fact that he put a tracking device on a young woman and moved on.

“Why would they take her?” He asked, looking at Chise.

“Her blood,” Elias looked back at Severus, whose eyes snapped to his instantly. “That is one reason it’s so difficult to find a Sleigh Bega in good condition, fae like to feed on her blood because of her magic. When I first bought her, ariels attempted to take her from me, luckily she chose to stay with me. As soon as she did, I was at her side to bring her home.” There was almost a smile in his eyes.

“It may be a good thing that it’s trackable,” Snape mused, his hand on his chin. “Then it can’t get ‘lost’,” he said, sitting back onto the sofa. “Where is this adder stone?”

“It is at our home; I will most likely need to go back and collect it; it will be much faster than asking Silky to send it.”

“Silky? You own a Silky?” he asked, with rapt interest.

“Well, no,” Elias chuckled. “I see her as more of a landlady than a servant, Silver lady tends to our home and makes Chise’s clothing, for the most part.”

“I’ve never met one,” Severus said thoughtfully. “I wonder if I could come with you when you go? I’m no longer a head of house so I won’t have to deal with students other than classes. I can ask Minerva if I can leave during office hours if I direct them to her,” he spoke to himself more than to Elias. “May I come with you?” He asked, finally looking back up.

“Of course, should we all go? We could go into London if you wish; if we need to take the train back.”

“We could apparate if I knew where your home was and then we wouldn’t need to,” he leaned forward, thinking of the logistics of travel.

“I can teleport us if that is acceptable,” Elias looked down at Chise as her eyes slowly opened. “Chise, how are you feeling?”

“I’m alright,” she sat up a bit and Severus saw the blackness that was working its way up further.

“Did that happen because of me?” He asked, pointing to her shoulder.

“No, of course not,” Chise quickly answered with a smile.

“We will be going home for a bit Chise, would you like to come with us?”

“What? Why?” She asked, looking up at him with confusion.

“We will need to collect your adder stone,” Elias pushed her red hair back around her ear, only for it to fall forward again a moment later.

“We’re going to try to transfer the curse to it,” Severus offered quickly as they heard a noise coming from the office and he checked the time on his pocket watch. “Miss Granger, are you finished?”

“Yes professor, I have a few more vials to mark, but everyone has left after cleaning their stations,” Severus smirked and leaned back to see into the office.

“Would you like to come with us to visit Professor Ainsworth’s home?” Her head popped into the room and she smiled wide.

“Yes,” she nodded happily. “When do we leave?”

“I’m just going to go speak with Minerva, and if it’s agreeable we can leave when I come back,” he stood and then looked at Elias. “We should be back tonight, right? Or shall I ensure we are alright to stay until the morning?”

“If I teleport us there and you apparate us back, then we should be able to come back this evening.”

“Excellent,” he said, heading for the door.

“Will I have time to give Joseph more water?” Chise asked Elias.

“I suppose, but I would encourage you to do it quickly.”

“Is Joseph a pet?” Hermione asked.

“No, he’s… well he’s a… friend of sorts,” she looked over at Snape, who had an eyebrow raised in question. “He’s why I’m alive today,” she said honestly.

“He’s also the reason you almost died,” Elias chided her.

“Well, the curse would have killed me by now and you can’t deny that,” she struggled up off Elias’s lap.

“Well, no, but you must admit that if you hadn’t gone with him I may have been able to—” he suddenly stopped speaking when he saw that Chise was standing with her arms crossed. Severus and Hermione stood frozen, not knowing what to do and looking between the two.

“You still don’t see anything wrong with it, do you?”

“No,” he answered flatly. “But Chise, you know that I’ll never do it again, I promised you we would find another way and I believe we have.”

“True,” she said, lowering her arms and taking a deep breath. “But please don’t speak ill of Joseph, after all, you kidnapped him in the first place.”

“You know that wasn’t my intention.”

“Let’s not talk about your intention…” She looked up and saw that the other two were standing, still watching them, and her cheeks suddenly reddened horribly. She closed her eyes, turned and went into Hermione’s room, closing the door.

“Why did you have to bring that up?” Ruth asked as he rose from black mist into his human form.

“Well, because she needs to be truthful about the situation,” he folded his arms petulantly over his chest.

“Elias, I know, I feel the same really, but we need to remember to be sensitive to her feelings. She’s quite upset at the moment; I can’t tell if she’s upset at you or because she feels embarrassed.” Ruth settled on the sofa and sat back thoughtfully. “But I think you should go to her in a moment.”

“Thank you Ruth,” Elias took a breath before standing and walking to the bedroom after her. “Chise, may I come in?”

Ruth looked up and saw Severus and Hermione looking very uncomfortable. “Joseph is Cartaphilus,” he said, in answer to the question that Severus had yet to ask. “Don’t call him that though, he becomes… difficult if you do.”

“He’s Cartaphilus?” Severus voice felt strained as he stepped forward and put his hands on the back of one of the armchairs.

“Well yes, and before you ask, you don’t want to meet him,” he looked at Severus with a firm shake of his head, his shaggy hair flopping back and forth.

“Why not?”

“Because if you thought who you met in her head was bad, you don’t want to see the real thing.” He thought of when Joseph was threatening to make him into a chimera and shuddered into his grim form. “Joseph is like a hurricane, luckily Chise has calmed him. He’d never had anyone who wanted to help him,” he sniffed at the coffee table before getting on the floor and wagging his tail.

“Well, I’m going to see Minerva, I’ll be back in a few minutes,” Severus said, once he could shake himself from thinking of Cartaphilus in the flesh. He was confident he could deal with him though, after the dark lord there wasn’t much he couldn’t deal with. Once the door was shut Hermione turned to Ruth and sat in the armchair across from him.

“What happened?” Hermione asked softly, leaning toward the grim and stroking his head slowly before scratching behind his ear.

“Well, I really should let Chise tell you if she sees fit, it’s not my place to say,” he was happily leaning into her fingers.

“Oh, come on Ruth, please,” she smiled, scratching harder, and his tail began to wag faster.

“Hermione, Chise likes you and I don’t want to say something that may upset her, so you’ll have to ask her I’m afraid,” he tentatively stepped up on the armchair and curling himself onto her lap. She laughed as he settled down and she continued to stroke his soft fur.

“Fine,” she groused playfully. “Wait, I have more potions to mark,” she looked back toward the classroom. “You can come with me if you want.”

“ok,” Ruth was already jumping down and leading her back into the classroom.

XOXO

“Chise, may I come in?” Elias slowly pushed the door open and Chise waved her hand for him to enter, still sitting on the bed.

“I’m so embarrassed,” she pulled her knees up to her chest and wrapped her arms around them as she looked up at him. “They probably think I’m crazy now.”

“I doubt that my love,” he sat down on the bed, reaching over to her before pulling her into his lap. “Don’t worry, all will be well. We’ll go home for a few hours and then we’ll come back to work on extracting the curse.”

“Then what? ” She asked, looking up at him.

“Well, then we’ll go home.”

“Do we have to?”

“What do you mean?”

“I kind of like it here, I want to see what happens,” Elias thought about this for a moment and then looked down at her.

“Well, we could hold off on the attempt until after the party.”

“Wait, what party?” She suddenly sat up straight, her eyes flashing with excitement.

“They are having a Yule party this Friday; we were invited, of course.”

“I’d love to go,” she leaned into him as he wrapped his arms around her.

“Alright,” he answered, nuzzling her cheek. He held her tightly and took a deep breath, “I’m sorry about what I said. Joseph has been benign since that day, and you’re right, you would be dead without his eye.”

“Thank you Elias,” she looked up at him, pressing a kiss to his jaw; he sighed as his body relaxed around her.

XOXO

Hermione was on the last vial when the door swung open; she jumped at the bang it made. Turning, she saw Severus sweeping up the isle between the desks, making his way to her at a brisk speed.

“She said we can leave on Saturday; she needs me to remain in the castle until then.”

“What, why?”

“She didn’t say,” he groused as he stopped in front of the long table in front of her. “She’s getting more like Dumbledore every day,” he chuckled under his breath. “Finished?”

“Yes, this is the last one,” she lifted the last vial with a sideways smile, she cherished every chortle he allowed her to hear. “How are you feeling?”

“Better,” he picked up the parchment she was using to mark and nodded approvingly as he looked them over.

“Still feeling any effects of the potion?”

“You mean… am I still happy?” He asked over his shoulder as he turned to his desk.

“Well, yes,” she replied, a bit nervous of his answer as she turned back to her work. Suddenly she felt him behind her, but she hadn’t heard him walk up; Ruth was in her shadow, so she knew it wasn’t him. She looked up, he was looking down at her and she smiled. “Are you alright with what happened?”

“Are you?” He raised a brow questioningly.

“Very much so,” she looked from his eyes to his lips before her tongue involuntarily moistened her own as she thought about their brief kiss.

“Interesting,” his tone flat as a dried lakebed. Hermione looked up at his eyes again as he turned away and walked into his office. She worried her bottom lip and put down the last vial as she made up her mind to follow him. Ruth jumped out of her shadow to rush through the office before her to get to the sitting room, closing the door behind him. Hermione found Severus sitting behind his massive wooden desk, looking at notes intently and she took a deep breath to steady herself before she spoke.

“Please talk to me,” she desperately tried not to sound pleading.

“About?” He drawled, slowly looking up at her expectant expression. He sat back in his chair and observed her for a moment, her cheeks were stained pink, and her bottom lip was turning to shreds under her teeth. “Miss Granger – “

“Hermione,” she corrected him. “After this afternoon, I would very much like you to call me by my given name,” she forced herself to keep contact with the black oblivion of his eyes. He narrowed them at her, no doubt to intimidate, but she refused to look away and she slanted an eyebrow up in challenge.

“This is what I was afraid of,” he sighed deeply, looking down at his desk. What am I supposed to do now?

“What? That I would want to be… closer to you?”

“Well – “

“Because I do,” she interrupted, and his eyes flicked back up to hers. His mouth opened and closed but nothing seemed to want to come out. “Do you?” She asked, and then waited as patiently as she could. No amount of study could help her now, she’d put herself out bare to a storm, praying that it wouldn’t engulf her.

“I don’t think we should,” he sat back as his shoulders slumped, sadness filling his eyes. That’s not what I want…

“I know I’m not…” she looked down at herself and she could feel her eyes starting to sting with unshed tears. “Very much to look at,” she finished, and her head fell defeatedly.

“What?” His voice was nothing more than a whisper as he looked at her with wide eyes. “What do you mean?” She took another steadying breath before bustling back into the classroom, he sat for a moment and then jumped up to follow her.

“You think this is because of how you look?” He asked unbelievingly from the doorway as she picked up the parchment again and went back to the last vial to hide herself from him. “That’s not why…”

“Then why?” She asked coldly over her shoulder, stifling the tears as best she could. “Am I not smart enough, or clever enough? Maybe I’m not witty enough or—“ She was interrupted by him turning her around, grasping both of her shoulders as she looked up at him, her eyes wide in surprise.

“The fault doesn’t lie with you… Hermione,” he whispered, as if he were divulging a secret no one else was meant to hear.

“Then why?” She breathed, looking up into his obsidian pools, as if they would tell her more than his words would.

“Because…” he started, feeling his throat close up a bit and he swallowed audibly. “You deserve better, I am not a good person.”

“I told you I don’t think of you like that. Whatever you’ve done, I don’t care,” she spoke quietly, and his eyes closed firmly. His fingers gripped and released her shoulders several times.

“You would if you knew,” he whispered, finally gaining the strength to back away from her. “No one could overlook what I’ve done…”

“Lily?” The name seemed to slap at him as he backed away with a grimace. “She didn’t deserve you,” his eyes snapped to hers and he froze. Disbelief ran across his face followed by regret and grief.

She couldn’t know, she doesn’t understand how I was with Lily.

“But I was… possessive and—“

“You cared,” she held out her hand, palm up for him to take and he looked down at it. “The question is, do you care for me?” He felt himself tighten, every inch of him was trying not to shake as he looked down at her hand. Lightly calloused, with tiny nicks from cutting ingredients in a hurry. A perfect offering he felt unworthy of, but one he dearly wished to take. The pause drew out as she stood still, waiting for him to move or blink, he seemed to be completely frozen in thought, his eyes never leaving her small hand.

What is the risk? What would be the reward? Is anything worth more than this feeling?

He looked up into her golden eyes, so open and for the first time he felt that his feelings could be returned, that he could have someone to love, someone to love him. ‘Do you care for me?’ It seemed like such a silly question when he thought about it, the answer was easy, the only thing standing in his way was himself.

“Yes,” he breathed.

“I do too,” Hermione took a step towards him, standing a bit taller to gather her courage. “I would say I more than care,” she continued, and he didn’t know what to do as she tentatively reached out and took his hand. She took another step, until she was directly in front of him before she pulled him towards her into a tight embrace. She gently ran her hand up and down his back as the muscles slowly relaxed under her fingers.

They stood still, his arms hanging limply by his sides as she waited patiently for him. “My wizard,” she hummed softly. When she spoke, it was as if a dam broke around his heart; he was shattering and healing in those two words. Severus’s arms wrapped around her as his head came to rest on top of hers. “You are my wizard,” she repeated, and she felt his body tremble as he held her closer.

A myriad of emotions rushed through him, a happiness that he’d never felt gripped his chest and clasped so tightly he almost couldn’t breathe. He kissed the top of her head and then rested his cheek against her, I want this, I want her, more than I’ve ever wanted anything in my life. She offered her love, her understanding. He couldn’t turn away from her, he couldn’t pretend any more. Pretending not to care for her was eating him inside and a part of him started to believe she really did want him. She had claimed him, and he knew how he felt, how he would always feel.

“My witch,” he whispered, slowly running his hand down her back. She gently pulled back enough to see his face; his lips were twitched up at the corners as he held his mouth tightly closed.

“Do you mean it?” She asked, and couldn’t help but beam up at him.

“Do you?” He drawled as his eyebrow shot up. Her smile added yet another thing to dizzy his mind as he basked in the rays of a smile that was only for him. She pushed up onto the balls of her feet and softly kissed him.

“Does that answer your question?” She asked against his lips before he descended on her. Their lips moving together was intoxicating and he was quickly losing himself in her passionate embrace. He held her so tightly she felt like the breath was being squeezed out of her. She smiled against his lips before he realised what he was doing and backed up enough to make sure he wasn’t crushing her.

“It’s ok,” she brought her hand to his cheek and smiled up at him. “I feel the same, like I never want you to leave me.”

“Really?” He whispered in disbelief as he pushed an errant frizzy curl around her ear and leaned in to kiss her cheek.

“Really,” she replied as she smiled, pulling him tightly against her as their lips met again. He felt like he was floating, she was soft and warm; her smell surrounding him in happiness. Her lips slowly kissed their way across his cheek before she buried her face in his neck.

“You know I am not an easy person to – “ he started, all his old doubts clambering to the surface once again.

“Shh,” she whispered into his ear, then backing up she kissed his cheek. “Relax,” her smile was kind and immediately placated him. “We’ll take things slow, and I’ll let you know if I think you’re getting too possessive or if you ever make me uncomfortable, and you do the same. I know I can be hard-headed as well, so we’ll talk things over, ok?” He looked down at her, her eyes were so honest, and her words went straight to his heart. He slowly nodded his head before pressing his lips to hers in a gentle buss; he insinuated his fingers into her hair and pulled her closer as her lips parted invitingly.

She moaned into his mouth as their tongues met, gently sweeping across each other as their lips locked and his other hand went to the small of her back, pressing her tightly against him. One of her hands ran up his back, over his shoulder, and wound around his neck as he sighed happily.

“Lunch?” She breathed and opened her eyes to see his were so much softer than usual. Severus nodded gently as he flicked her nose with his own and she laughed softly.

“And then research,” he whispered, leaning in close to her ear. “I know how much you love looking into things, my little bookworm,” she shivered as his silky voice drifted into her ear and he chuckled softly at her reaction. He gently kissed below her ear, she closed her eyes and enjoyed the feeling of his soft lips leaving a gentle trail of kisses down her neck to her collarbone. He then stood straight up and held her close, looking down at her, his eyes glistening with happiness, and she couldn’t help but smile. His lips separated and his crooked teeth showed as he smiled properly at her for the first time.

XOXO

Elias sat in one of the brown armchairs in the sitting room as he waited for Chise to finish her bath. Severus and Hermione stepped into the room, holding hands before she parted from him to take a seat on the sofa, and he sat on the armchair next to Elias.

“Stop smiling,” Severus teased Elias as he looked up at his wolf skull face with a small smirk.

“You first,” Elias chuckled as he turned the page of his book. Hermione picked up a book and stuck her nose in it, trying to hide the blush that had risen to her cheeks as Chise stepped out of the room with hair dripping wet. “Chise, come here,” Elias said, lifting his hand as she approached. “Nettle in the shadow, false holly in a ring,” fire fae spun around her head, drying her hair to its normal pin straight bob.

“Thanks Elias,” she began pulling it back into a ponytail as her fringe fell forward, covering her face. She smiled at him before turning to Hermione, “is it lunch time yet?” Hermione put the book back on the table and got up to stand next to Chise.

“Ready?” She asked, offering her arm and Chise took it with a smile. “See you out there,” Hermione looked at Severus, who smirked back at her as the two left to make their way to the great hall.

XOXO

Lunch had been a meal of stolen glances, covered smiles, and Hermione laughing happily whenever she spoke to Chise as they ate. Severus drank his tea slowly as he watched Hermione. Elias couldn’t hide a satisfied smirk of his own.

“How did it go?” Elias asked knowingly as he took a sip of his own tea.

“Well,” Severus answered, sitting back in his chair. Elias noticed that his whole demeanour seemed to change, he was sitting up a bit straighter and his head was held a bit higher, but at the same time there was a relaxed way about every move he made.

XOXO

“Are you invited to the party?” Hermione suddenly realised if they weren’t it would be awkward.

“Yes,” Chise smiled brightly. “Elias let me know about it earlier, I’m not sure what I should wear, what do witches usually wear to parties like this?”

“Well, I usually wear muggle dresses. Did you bring a dress or dress robes?” Hermione asked as the food disappeared.

“I have the robes I wore here, but other than that I mainly wear things like this,” she motioned down to her Oxford button up shirt and denims.

“I may have something you can borrow, we’re about the same size. I kind of wish we could go shopping for something new, I want to look my best,” a faint blush stained her cheeks as she glanced up at the staff table and noticed that Severus was staring at her.

“I think he’ll be happy no matter what you’re wearing,” Chise laughed, but then thought about shopping. “I haven’t been dress shopping… well, ever really. My friend Stella gave me a dress for my birthday a few years ago, but I don’t go into London very often to go shopping for clothes.”

“I wonder if the headmistress will let us take a trip to Hogsmeade this afternoon to go shopping,” she glanced up at McGonagall and the older woman smiled at her with a twinkle in her eye. She is getting more like Dumbledore… “I’ll go and ask her,” she said, standing and heading up to the head table.

“Hello, my dear,” Minerva said with a knowing smile. “What can I help you with?”

“I was wondering, if Miss Hatori and I could go into Hogsmeade for a while this afternoon to go shopping for the party on Friday?” She asked, worrying at her bottom lip as she waited for the rejection that was sure to follow. Instead, the headmistress looked over at Snape.

“Severus, do you require Miss Granger or Miss Hatori this afternoon?”

“I think I can survive the afternoon classes without her if they would like to go,” he said, looking at her warmly and she smiled widely back at him.

“Well, then in that case,” Minerva turned to Hermione with a smile as she folded her hands one over the other. “You ladies can go to collect what you need for the party on Friday,” she nodded happily. “Oh, and if I may ask, could you bring me some of those lovely chocolates?”

“Of course,” Hermione smiled, nodding gently. “Thank you so much, we’ll be back before it gets too late,” she then turned and tried not to run back to Chise.

“Headmistress,” Elias started, leaning in to see her past Snape. “How will Chise pay for the items? I only have English currency.”

“Severus, will you lend him some? You are usually abreast with the exchange rates,” she smiled, and Snape gave her a curt nod.

“Of course, shall we take care of this in my office?” He asked, and Elias nodded as they made their way to the ladies. Elias held his hand out for Chise’s, settling it in the crook of his elbow as they made their way out of the great hall. As they turned and started walking down the stairs to the dungeon, Hermione sneaked her hand into Severus’s. He looked down at her, a bit surprised and then stood up a little taller with a small smile on his face.

She touched him so easily and after so long an absence of anything gentle he felt elated in a way he couldn’t quiet describe.

XOXO

Elias exchanged a check for Severus’s galleons and passed them along to Chise. Severus then slipped a few galleons into Hermione’s hand and she shook her head fervently before he said, “It’s to pay you back for lunch.” He watched her for a moment while she looked at how many he’d given her. She lifted her brow in an adorable impression of his own look which he then mirrored, and she couldn’t help but smile.

“I can’t take your money sir.”

“Severus,” he leaned in. “Remember?”

“Sorry Severus,” she blushed as she put all but one back into his hand. “I can take back what you spent on wine though,” she winked before he gave her a chaste kiss and stood up straight again, looking over at the other two people in the room.

“Ready?” Hermione said loudly, feeling a bit embarrassed and Chise nodded before looking up at Elias.

“I’ll miss you,” she slid her hand along his glamoured face and he leaned down, wrapping his arms around her and lifting her up into his arms. She smiled as he placed her in the crook of his right arm, and she was suddenly taller than him. Elias looked up at her and leaned in to kiss her, her hands running through his blond hair as he did, and he hugged her tightly.

“I’ll miss you too Chise, if you need me – “

“I know, I’ll send Ruth, or you’ll know,” she lifted her left hand so he could see her ring. He gave her one more soft kiss before putting her back down.

“I love you Chise.”

“I love you too Elias,” she gave his hand a squeeze before Hermione held out a cloak for her to borrow. “I’ll see you later, oh, do you have any preference on colour?”

“You look beautiful in any colour,” he replied after a moment of thought, and she blushed brightly as she took the cloak and wrapped it around herself. Hermione opened the door and let Chise lead the way before she turned and blew a kiss to Snape, who found his heart beat a bit harder as he smiled at her. He fell onto the sofa with a soft fump as the door closed, leaning back and putting his hands behind his head as he thought.

“So, you asked her to be your date?” Elias asked, picking up a book before sitting in one of the adjacent armchairs.

“Actually… I haven’t,” he replied, leaning forward for a moment, a worried expression taking over his features. Elias looked at his troubled expression and tilted his head in thought.

“Was that not her intention in going to purchase a dress?” Elias observed as Snape’s demeanour changed slowly to one of relief before he picked up a book to read through.

“You’re right,” he said, trying to hide a smirk. “She’s had no interest until now.”

XOXO

The walk to Hogsmeade went by quickly with Hermione’s warming charm keeping them comfortable. Ruth was running about, chasing squirrels and rabbits as he saw them, much to the joy of the two ladies that found his antics quite amusing. The three of them went directly to Gladrags Wizardwear to see what they could find to wear to a party that included staff and students. There were racks and racks of long dress robes and Hermione went through them quickly, looking for something decidedly more muggle.

“What about this one?” Chise pulled out lovely long forest green dress robes and Hermione shook her head at it.

“It’s very pretty, but I really would love to look more…”

“Enticing?” Chise offered quietly as she gave her a knowing smirk.

“Well,” she started feeling her cheeks heating as she looked around to make sure no one could hear them. “Yes!” Chise laughed before putting the robe back on the rack.

“Well, where do we get something like that?”

“I’m not quite sure,” she replied, looking at the back of the shop as one of the shopkeepers popped out of nowhere.

“Can I help you find anything,” she said, with a sickly wide smile that made Chise feel like she was prey instead of a customer.

“Yes, I’m looking for something a bit more… form fitting,” Hermione said as she absently fingered a nearby dress rack.

“Well, we have a few of those upstairs,” she offered, and Hermione perked up instantly.

“Perfect! Thank you,” she turned towards the stairs and practically dragged Chise up them. The dresses upstairs were a lot more grown up, and both the ladies couldn’t help but blush when they saw them. Some were very short, and others were so low cut that neither of them thought they had the necessary assets to keep them on. They both picked out a handful of dresses and went into the changing room together.

“Ruth, get out,” Chise laughed at her shadow before either of them started taking off anything.

“Huh? Oh, yeah ok,” he muttered as she watched his shadow drift away from hers under the door.

“Boys,” Hermione rolled her eyes as she took off her shirt before pulling on the first dress. Chise had removed her clothes and squeezed into her first choice as well. The two looked at themselves in the mirror and then at each other.

“Do you think the blue suits me?” Chise asked, looking down at the sequinned dress.

“I think that you’d look better in green, it would bring out your eyes, plus your red hair would look good with green I think.”

“I’m trying to find a blue one,” she said sheepishly. “Elias always wears blue and I kind of wanted to match him,” she wrung her hands together, a bit nervously.

“In that case, what about a silvery blue? Then it will bring out your other eye and might go with your hair better.”

“Like this one?” Chise pulled a long gown out of her small pile and Hermione nodded approvingly. “Thank you,” Chise said as she shimmied her way back out of the tight dress.

“What about me?” Hermione asked, worrying her bottom lip. “Do you think Severus will like me in something like this?” She looked in the mirror and Chise put her hand on her shoulder.

“I think he’ll like you in anything, but yes the midnight blue suits you,” they smiled at each other in the mirror and then Chise pulled on the long gown that draped like water against her curves, falling past her feet.

“I think this is too long,” she giggled as she tried to lift it up off the ground.

“You look gorgeous!” Hermione gushed, “don’t worry about the length, there’s a spell for that so we can do that when we get back.”

“Really? That’s excellent,” she turned in a small circle; loving the silky fabric against her skin.

Ruth sat in one of the waiting chairs for what felt like ages until finally the two women stepped out of the changing room with dresses draped over one arm and a single one on their other arm. They threw the dresses they’d picked over to Ruth to carry so they could give the piles back to the shopkeeper before they purchased their dresses and stepped out into the snow. Ruth shivered as his black mist swirled down back into her shadow.

“Candy?” Hermione asked, remembering that she had to buy some for Minerva. Chise nodded and they stepped into the shop to purchase their promised confection. Chise asked what the most unique candy was, and Hermione handed her a chocolate frog, which she added to her little pile of goodies for Stella. Ruth brought over a pack of sugar quills and Chise nodded, more than happy to get them.

XOXO

“So, what’s this one for?” Elias asked, lifting a small vile of purple potion.

“Sleep, but it’s very powerful,” he added, looking up from his line of cauldrons as he brewed pepper-up potions for the infirmary. “It’s also highly addictive,” he said, moving from one cauldron to the next, adding the same ingredient to each at just the right time.

They were in his private labs that were only accessible through his office. He didn’t have a long list of potions he needed to make but it was enough that he was looking forward to getting them done. I wonder how our sleeping arrangements will be tonight? What am I thinking? I’ll sleep on the sofa and she’ll have my bed… but what if she doesn’t want to now? He froze for a moment in thought . I wonder if I should let her sleep on the sofa… His nerves started bubbling as slowly as the potions in front of him as he thought. Maybe I should ask her to sleep in Gryffindor tower… but I want her here with me.

“What about this?” Elias asked, picking up a jar of green powder, but when he looked over at him Elias could tell he was going down a bad road. “Severus, are you alright?” Snape looked up and nodded before going to the next cauldron. “Do you miss her?” He asked, putting down the floo powder and walking to the other side of the long counter.

“Miss her?” Severus asked, putting the ingredient into the last cauldron and looking up at Elias, “she only left a few hours ago.” He walked back to the first cauldron and lifted a stirring rod, Elias followed him, his red eyes watching him over the bubbling potion.

“How do you feel?” Elias watched Snape give the first cauldron a stir before moving on to the next. Severus felt a bit perturbed; he didn’t understand why the magus was always asking him about his bloody feelings.

“I don’t know,” he said curtly as he continued down the line.

“I had issues with deciphering emotion for a long time as well, luckily I have a very good human teacher,” Severus looked up from his work as he thought about Chise teaching this ancient fae what emotion were.

“Human teacher?”

“Yes, Chise, she is my teacher of human things,” he stated the fact easily, as if it was completely normal. Perhaps for him it was. “Honestly I didn’t think I could feel,” he started as he leaned back on an adjacent counter. “I felt things like heat, cold, pain, but I never felt things like loneliness, sadness, happiness, or… jealousy… before Chise. When she is away I always feel cold, even now, after all this time, and even in the company of a friend, I still feel cold.”

“Friend?” Severus looked up at him and whispered the word as if it were in a foreign language. Have I ever had a friend besides Lily? The Malfoys I suppose, but then again, I wouldn’t count them as friends now.

“There are very few that I would call friend, but I believe that I would call you my friend, if that is agreeable to you.” Elias watched the emotions flitting across Severus’s face so fast he couldn’t tell what they were.

“I’m your friend?”

“Yes,” he tilted his head in a show of confusion. Severus ducked his head again and continued down the line of potions.

“I would consider you a friend as well,” he whispered, looking up at Elias, who appeared impassive, but his red eyes were shining kindly at him. “I can’t say I miss Granger… Hermione,” he said with a soft smile. “I would feel pathetic to miss her after this short of time,” Elias laughed loudly, his rumbling deep chuckle made Severus jump before he couldn’t hide a smile.

“I miss Chise when she’s sleeping, I love talking with her and discovering new things about her,” he looked behind him and found an empty cauldron, then filled it with water. He brought it over, stood next to Severus, and waved his hand over the cauldron. Blue light glowed from within, little specks of glittering magic floated above it slowly and then he heard it, Hermione’s voice. Severus peered down into the cauldron and saw a roof, but could hear her voice echo as if it were under water itself.

“I hope he likes the dress.”

“I’m sure he will, you looked lovely Hermione,” Chise’s voice sounded.

“I know it’s new, but I have loved him for so long, I just don’t want to mess things up.”

Elias waved his hand over the cauldron and the light disappeared; the voices faded. Severus looked up at him, his cheeks flushed a bit, his eyes wide.

“What was that?” He asked, looking back at the cauldron of plain water.

“It’s a water mirror, normally for it to work you need both people to be channelling the spell to open the connection. But Chise’s magic is so great that whenever she is truly happy I’m able to connect to her.” He looked at the cauldron fondly before taking it over to the sink and dumping out the water.

“That’s amazing,” Severus muttered, more in regard to what he heard than of the spell itself. “Thank you Elias.”

“Of course,” Elias gently bowed his head. “I used to spy on Chise a lot,” he said sheepishly. “I have in recent years tried to stop. She doesn’t like it, so I try to keep it brief if I do it, I just love her and when I miss her, it’s hard to restrain my curiosity. Especially when it’s so easy to connect to her… or cast a charm to follow her around.” He looked down a bit embarrassed, “please don’t say anything to her about that, I don’t want her to be angry with me.”

“Of course,” Severus nodded as his heart felt like it was trying to beat out of his chest. “I don’t want Hermione angry with me either,” he shrugged nonchalantly but couldn’t hide the soft curl of his lips he couldn’t seem to control.

She loves me. She doesn’t want to mess things up. She can sleep anywhere she damn well wants, and I will do nothing but listen to her.

XOXO

They stayed in the labs until it was quite late, Elias making tea so Severus could finish the last of the potions needed.

“I was promised research,” Hermione said from the door, and Severus looked over at her with a soft smile on his face. Her breath caught when she saw it, she’d never seen him smile so much… well, ever really. Chise was behind her and as soon as Hermione had moved from the door she ran into the room and jumped into Elias’s arms.

“Chise! Did you have fun?” He happily reach out and scooped her up into his arms.

“Yes we did, I brought you something,” she beamed up at him before pulling something out of her pocket.

“A quill?”

“It’s a self refilling quill,” she explained. “Now you can write as many letters as you like and don’t have to worry about ink.”

“Really?” He looked down at the little white quill and opened his jaw into a smile, “thank you Chise, that was very kind of you.”

“Oh wait,” she looked at it with worry suddenly on her face. “Oh, I should have saved it for Christmas,” she buried her face into Elias’s shoulder to hide her burning face.

“We can call it a Christmas gift, thank you Chise,” he urged her back so he could nuzzle her cheek. “Could I see the dress you purchased?” He asked, seeing that Hermione was still standing by the door.

“Yes, of course,” she smiled as Elias set her down and took her hand.

Hermione walked over to Severus and put her hands on the counter next to him. She glanced up at him as his left hand moved to cover her right before he gave her a little squeeze. His eyes flicked down to hers; she felt her cheeks warm with her blush and she used as much control as she could not to hug him. Severus surprised her by lifting his hand and then wrapping his arm around her, bringing her in close. She wound her arm around his waist, and he leaned down to kiss her head. Sighing happily she looked up at him and rose up to gently kiss his cheek, loving the little blush that coloured them. Severus cleared his throat and looked down at her.

“I believe you wanted research,” he drawled softly.

“What did you have in mind?” She purred up at him and all he wanted to do was kiss her.

This angel loves me?

“Um, well we need a potion that will make it easier to extract the dragon curse, and only the dragon curse from Chise’s body,” he removed his arm from around her as he tried to gain some semblance of control over himself. “Luckily, we have the important ingredients, but we will need to make a base that won’t obstruct it once we find the more… rare items.” He picked up his notes and looked at them again with a sigh, “it feels more like a riddle than a shopping list.”

He looked over to see her far away expression as she lost herself in thought. Her lip instinctively caught between her teeth as she re-read the riddle.

“There must be some kind of binding...” she mumbled to herself as she thought through a number of different research papers and books she’d read, trying to see if she already had the answer. Her eyes flicked back and forth as if she were reading them now and he couldn’t help but chuckle; she looked up at him confused.

“You’re so beautiful when you’re concentrating,” he spoke softly, and she wrapped her arms around his neck, pulling him down to her. He paused just before their lips met and she opened her eyes to see him staring at her, “you’re always so beautiful,” he whispered just before she closed the space between them. His arms enveloped her waist and pulled her as close as he could. Then she felt it, his arousal was pressed against her lower stomach and she gasped. He’d been so careful to keep it away from her to not scare her off or make her think he just wanted her body, but now, now that he knew that she loved him, he couldn’t hold back any longer.

She looked up into his eyes, seeing excitement and desire behind them. Finally! Hermione leaned in and kissed him eagerly as he ran one of his hands up her back and into her frizzy curls to tilt her head back a bit more. Her lips parted and as they did their tongues met, sending little tingling shocks through her body. She curved her back to press more fully against him, suddenly she was being lifted onto an empty counter behind them and he was pressing himself to her. Her legs were spread, and he was between them, her denims had never felt so constricting.

Both of his hands ran back up into her hair as they continued to explore and enjoy each other’s mouths as a little moan drifted out of her. She scooted forward on the counter until she was practically on the edge as she pulled him closer, her legs coming up and wrapping around his waist as her arms circled his neck and brought him flush up against her. He groaned before pulling back a little and taking his hands from her hair to place them on the counter on either side of her.

“I don’t want to rush this,” Severus whispered, and she nodded, a lovely blush on her cheeks as he looked into her eyes. Her lips were so pink, and he lifted his hand to run the pad of his thumb over her bottom lip. “You’re so lovely,” he leaned in and pressed a little kiss to her perfect nose and she smiled.

“You’re so handsome,” she replied, and he narrowed his eyes at her.

“Love really is blind,” he chuckled, and she froze. His brain slowly catching up to his mouth as he realised what he’d said, “I didn’t mean…” He suddenly wished her legs weren’t around him, but at the same time he didn’t want to leave. Maybe if I just kissed her I can distract her from my slip. He leaned in and moved his hand to cup her cheek, but before their lips met she pulled back a little and he looked up at her.

And she was afraid she’d mess things up.

“I do, you know,” she whispered, holding him tightly, like she thought he’d run away. He stared at her, he knew it was true, he also knew he felt the same. He pulled her close, pressed his lips to her ear and whispering so softly that only she could barely hear him.

“I do too,” he said, holding her close. Something he never thought he would have, now how to keep it without doing something stupid.

“My wizard,” she hugged him, snuggling against his neck.

“My witch,” he smiled and kissed her ear.

So, this is what it feels like to be loved.

Chapter Text

“What do you think?” Chise lifted the shimmering dress and as she did a little twirl, the silky fabric cascading down like a silvery waterfall.

“You look wonderful,” Elias sat down on the end of the bed and watched the steely blue fabric cling to her curves before noticing it flowed past her feet. “Beautiful,” he whispered, and she blushed when she saw a fire flare in his eyes.

“It’s a little long,” Chise bit her lip nervously as he looked down and nodded.

“What should we do to fix that?”

“Hermione said she knows a charm to shorten it. Elias, I like their magic, I wonder if I could do it too if they could teach me.” She stood still in front of him, looking into his eyes, she wasn’t sure what she was asking for, but he looked very much the same as when she decided to go to the college.

“It is very different from ours; I wonder if you would be able to,” Elias looked down in thought. “Would that mean you would need to remain here?” He looked up at her and she saw sadness in his eyes, so she stepped forward and wrapped her arms around his neck.

“I wouldn’t do that Elias. It would be difficult for me to learn in these classes anyway; because I’m too old.”

“You’re not too old Chise,” Elias held back a laugh as he looked down at her before pulling her close. “I wonder if Hermione and Severus would teach you?”

“I was thinking of asking them, but I don’t know how much I can learn while we’re here, especially if they are able to draw out the curse quickly.” She looked down at her shoulder and could only see black against the silver strap of her dress. It was slowly moving up closer to her neck, she had tried to use her glamour as she normally would, but it was no longer working, the dragon curse was fighting being hidden.

“Well, we are friends are we not?” Elias lifted her up and placed her in his lap. “We can ask if they would like to come and stay with us for the holiday?”

“That would be wonderful! Oh Elias, you’re the best,” Chise said smiling wide, she always wanted to have a big family Christmas. “Where would they stay though?” She asked, thinking about her old room and how small it was.

“We can rearrange your old room if it’s not enough space,” he said, running the back of his hand on her cheek and she sighed happily.

“Let’s ask them,” she beamed up at him and he nodded. “When does their break start?”

“I believe after the party on Friday,” he replied, and she cuddled into him.

“In that case, I’ll get changed and we can ask them tonight?”

“That sounds agreeable,” he replied, picking her up and placing her back on the floor before nuzzling her cheek and leaving to wait on one of the large armchairs. Elias closed the door and stepped into the sitting room, to see Hermione sitting on the sofa with a giant potions tome laid across her lap and her feet tucked up under her as she read fervently. Flicking through pages, trying to find what she was looking for. She was so distracted that she didn’t notice that Elias had sat down across from her until he reached forward to pick up a book from the coffee table and she jumped, looking up and then smiling warmly.

“Hi Elias,” she said. “Did you two have fun brewing together?” Elias let out a soft chuckle, ‘fun’. He remembered Severus working to finish as many potions at one time as he could. Giving Elias herbs to chop, but telling him to cut them differently to how he normally would.

“He is very specific about ingredients, it was interesting to see how he uses them. It has been nice to spend time with another potioneer, I don’t believe I know any others really. Most people enjoy using magic but not the act of creating medicine, it is so useful and needed,” he crossed his legs and perched the rather big book on his thigh.

“I agree, even in the wizarding world, there aren’t very many and even less that take it as seriously as Professor Snape. I was so grateful to get to be his apprentice, I’ve learned so much from him over my years as a student and now that we are working so closely, I’ve learned so many little tips and tricks that you can’t learn from books. I’m very fortunate.”

“I agree,” Elias thought for a moment before take a breath for confidence. “I have a question,” he started, looking over at Hermione, who peeked up at him and nodded for him to continue. “Would it be possible for you to teach Chise some of the charms that you use? I must admit, I don’t know them, I was never taught them by any of my acquaintances.”

“I would love to,” Hermione sat up straighter and smiled brightly, she loved sharing her knowledge. “Any in particular?”

“No, just whatever you think would be useful. Also, do you think that you and Severus would be interested in coming to stay with us for a bit over the Yule break?” He asked, watching her closely, seeing her thinking over his proposition as she nibbled her bottom lip.

“I would have to ask… Severus, but I don’t see why we wouldn’t be able to,” she said finally, and smiled as the office door opened and Snape entered the room. He walked sleepily over to the armchair next to Elias and sunk down into it bonelessly, breathing a sigh of relief.

“Were you able to finish them all?” Elias asked, looking over at Snape, who seemed like he could fall asleep where he sat. He rested his head against his hand as he leaned into the arm of the chair and Elias mirrored him.

“Yes, finally,” he sighed, looking over at him. “Easy potions, but the quantities meant running back and forth brewing so many at once,” he groaned as he stretched and sank back into the chair. He couldn’t believe how relaxed he felt around them, normally he wouldn’t feel like this until he was alone. Even then, his anxieties would encroach on any happy thoughts he had, driving them away to make him a melancholy mess. He couldn’t help but softly smile at the thought that he was genuinely relaxed for the first time in years.

“I’m sorry I wasn’t here to help sir,” she said and then winced a bit. “Severus,” she corrected herself and he gave a smirk at her quick correction.

“It’s alright Hermione,” he drawled. “I’m glad you were able to find something suitable for Friday,” he gave her little wink and she smiled before looking over at the door as Chise stepped into the sitting room.

Severus pulled out his pocket watch to see it was nearly midnight, “we should all head to bed.” He snapped it shut and then looked up at Hermione and wondered what she would like the sleeping arrangements to be.

“Oh wait,” Chise smiled nervously. “Would you two like to join us over the Yule break?” She looked between them and seeing the uncertainty she quickly added, “you don’t need to answer now, and if you have other plans we understand, but we would love to have you over if you would like to.” She wrung her hands together before holding one out for Elias, who put down his book, taking it and standing up.

“Good night,” Elias said as they went back into the room and closed the door. Elias clicked the door closed behind them as Chise walked into the bathroom to brush her teeth. He went to their dresser and pulled out his pyjamas before changing into them.

“Thank you Elias,” Chise called from the bathroom sink.

“For what?” Elias stepped into the bathroom behind her so he could watch her in the mirror.

“For today, I got to go shopping and have girl talk,” she smiled happily. “I really appreciate it,” turning, she kissed his cheekbone and he wrapped his arms around her. She led him back into the bedroom and he happily climbed into the bed with her. He laid down beside her, reaching for her and pulling her close.

“I’d do anything to make you happy Chise,” Elias nuzzled her cheek before pulling her against him, her back to his front so he could snuggle closely to her.

“I know Elias,” she whispered. “You always do.” He looked down at the smiling woman in his arms and felt the need to be closer. He wondered if she would like the same as his large red eyes looked back and forth between hers, as if assessing her before he finally spoke so quietly she could have missed it.

“Chise.. may I taste you again?” Her smile bloomed slowly as her hand came up to trail slowly down his cheekbone. As he began pulling back she leaned up and licked the end of his snout.

“I’d like to taste you as well Elias,” she was sure if he could blush, he would certainly be doing so now.

“I… Chise I don’t know… you don’t have to—“ he faltered and she laid back down against her pillow, she calmed him by laying her hands on either of his shoulders, her large eyes looking at him warily. “Please Chise, you taste of the sweetest mana, of perfect magic, I need to taste it again. The sounds and faces you make, in every quiet moment, I have thought of little else.” She watched as his eyes burned brighter and he opened his mouth to allow his tongue freedom to trail along her neck. She blushed brightly and whimpered her answer as she leaned her head back to give him more access.

“Please Elias,” she felt heated and moments later he was braced above her on one arm, slowly unbuttoning her sleep top and pushing it open enough to see her creamy flesh beneath. His tongue carefully crept down her chest, licking a trail down to her belly button. He swirled the tip around it playfully before his fingers hooked onto her sleep pants and pulled them down and out of the way.

“Mmmm,” his first whiff of her was strong and now that he knew the smell, it had become a part of his addiction—her smell, her sounds, her flavour. His tongue continued its journey down through her flame curls, over her mound, and flicked against her little bundle of nerves. He looked up at her as she whimpered, biting her lip and making him want to taste and feel every part of her. His hands hooked under her knees and he pushed her legs up, spreading her before him as he took deep breaths of her musky sweetness. His tongue made little circles on her swollen bud before dipping down her silken flesh into her slick heat. He carefully pushed just the tip within, gauging her reactions as he did and watching her as he put pressure on her back wall as he slowly pulled it out again before dipping back in. He took his time, slowly pushing more in each time. Losing himself in the taste of her and the little sounds she made.

She was panting as she reached out and took hold of one of his horns firmly. As his tongue began to move out again, he put extra pressure against her front wall and she stopped breathing for a moment, the sensation new and intense. She tried to understand it, but he gave her no time. He had seen the look on her face and decided that the spot deserved extra attention. He pushed back in and as he did, flicked his tongue in little circles over that spot, jump starting her breathing as she fell back on the pillows overwhelmed. He pushed in further, nearly half his massive tongue was encased in her when he heard her take a sharp breath and he paused. The hand that wasn’t bolted to his horn had gathered a fistful of duvet as her fingers went white from the strain.

“Chise?” He froze, she wasn’t breathing and when she looked down at him he saw pain in her eyes. “Have I hurt you?” He began pulling out the muscle when her hand released the blanket and shot into the space between them to halt him.

“Don’t move,” she was slowly getting used to the feel of something so massive stretching her in ways she’d never felt and she hoped the pain would pass. He tasted a metallic twinge and fear filled him.

“Chise, you’re bleeding!” He again tried to move and she held tight to his horn to keep him in place.

“Please Elias, don’t move,” he froze and did as she asked, waiting for what felt like eternity before her face slowly started relaxing. She was almost grateful that it was his tongue, his saliva healing her quicker than anything else would have. She took a deep breath and moved her hips slowly, until she felt the ache drain away and the pleasure return.

“Chise, are you alright?” He stayed within her, the taste of her blood mixing into the other flavours. “I’m sorry.” She looked at him and a smile spread across her face.

“Please don’t be, I have a feeling things will be easier now,” he slowly started pulling his tongue out and to test, put pressure on her front wall again, swirling over her special spot. “Uuunnh,” her head fell back as her thigh muscles tightened in his hands. He pushed back inside, each inch of his pebbled tongue now rippling pleasure through her. Swirling the tip of his tongue along her spot as he did, pressing as far as he could within her and as the tip flicked against her walls he felt the end of her channel and gasped. He suddenly wanted to fill it with something else, but knew this wasn’t the time. He flicked against the small door that separated him from her womb and watched as her mouth fell open before he pulled his writhing muscle from her; putting extra pressure along her spot as he did. It felt larger, swollen and he moved back and forth over it harder, her fingers clenching onto the duvet beneath her as if she would fly away if she let go.

“Uunnh!” He head fell back as she cried out, that spot feeling so full it almost sloshed. She felt like she needed the loo but didn’t want the mind numbing feeling to go away by interrupting him. She gritted her teeth and tried to hold it in as he continued to swirl and flick at the spot until her body was covered in a sheen of sweat and her jaw was hurting from the strain. Her body trembled and her breath came in little gasps, sprinkled with enthusiastic ‘yes’s. Then suddenly, his thumb flicked against her clit and her mouth dropped open, her eyes glazing and he felt a squirt of liquid spray into his open mouth. He rubbed his thumb harder against her as her head fell back, completely engulfed in ecstasy. “Unn… uuuunnnnnnhhhhh!”

A shock wave of magic exploded from her in bright shimmering light that engulfed the room before it fell away like a firework popping, bits of shimmery crystals rained softly around them and the bed.

He pulled his tongue from her and as he did it was as though he pulled a plug from a tap and he opened his mouth wide to catch every drop of her musky release. The taste filled his senses as her body lay boneless on the bed before him, he swallowed and ran his tongue along his teeth. Feeling drips falling from his jaw and looked down at the bed beneath her, it was soaked and he wanted all of it to himself as he licked the bedspread and up along her swollen quim, making her twitch. Her chest rose and fell quickly as she tried to regain control of her breaths but she felt helpless and free, like when she wrapped herself in the magic pelt that changed her into a fox. She felt free and relaxed, completely lost as if she were floating above them.

“Chise… that was amazing,” he licked up the inside of her thighs, determined to get every last drop from any surface he found it. She heard him speaking but couldn’t respond as her lips twitched a bit in a kind of sedated smile. He pulled himself up next to her and looked down into her face, “you are the most wonderful thing I have ever tasted, in all my years on earth, you are the only flavour I will ever crave.” She reached up and ran her hand along his jaw, encouraging him to lower and cuddle against her. Her eyes drooped as his warm arms enveloped her and she gently slipped off to sleep.

XOXO

Severus and Hermione were left alone in the sitting room, looking over at each other and wondering who would bring up the question first. The look on Hermione’s face suddenly changed, a flash of mischief and Snape lifted an eyebrow in response to it before she spoke.

“Well, I’m off to bed,” she stood and placed her book on the table before turning into his room and closing the door. He looked over at Ruth, who had curled up on the armchair that Elias had vacated a minute before. Then he stared at the closed door and took a soft breath of disappointment before it cracked open and she popped her head out. “Well, come on then,” she smiled brightly, and he quickly stood and followed her into his room.

She closed the door behind him as he stepped into the middle of the room and put his hands at his sides. He looked around with a nervous tension that Hermione could almost physically feel through his magic. She walked over to him and reached up to place a gentle kiss on his lips and he froze.

“Are you sure you’d like me in here... with you?” He asked against her lips and she smiled.

“I wouldn’t have invited you in if I didn’t Severus,” she replied, and he reached up to wrap his arms around her waist.

“Well then, I guess I’ll get changed,” he pressed a chaste kiss to her soft lips before releasing her and walking over to his dresser. She walked over to the bed and took off her denims, leaving on her top and black cotton knickers. She got into the bed and pulled up the duvet, before watching Severus as he slowly loosed each button on the front of his frock coat. Each slipping from their homes as he glanced up at her with a kind of excited apprehension. He moved to the sleeves once the front was open and began pushing the buttons loose that ran up to his elbow. She pulled her knees up and wrapped her arms around them as she watched him slowly take off the coat and hang it up in the wardrobe. Then he began to unbutton his white shirt and as he did, he turned and saw her watching him intently and froze.

“Don’t let me stop you,” she raised her brow lasciviously as a smirk lifted her lips and he felt his cheeks burn at the implication.

“This feels wrong,” he muttered to himself, lowering his arms. She stood and walked over to him and his breath hitched when he saw her toned bare legs.

“Here,” she started, gliding her hands up to his shirt collar. “I can help you,” she said, unbuttoning the long row of white pearlescent buttons, carefully slipping each from their little holes and then when she was done, she placed a hand to his covered chest. “I know that you’re scarred, so am I.” She ran her hand down his left arm and pressed it gently to his dark mark through his shirt and he couldn’t take his eyes off her. “We both have things on our bodies we wish we didn’t have, but they are forever there, forever a part of us,” she looked up and gave him a watery smile.

“I’m so sorry Hermione,” Snape whispered as he ran his hand down her left arm, knowing the work of the cursed blade would make it so it would never fade, it would always be red and angry. “I wish I could have stopped her.” The emotion in his voice made her pause, she didn’t know he’d heard of her time in Malfoy manor.

“It’s ok, things happen that we wish didn’t, but they make us who we are, they make us stronger.” She looked down, knowing that she’d never shown anyone the scars, except her healer.

“But I chose to take mine,” he whispered regretfully.

“I know, but it doesn’t change that we have regrets,” she leaned up and kissed him gently.

“True,” he pulled her to him and she rested her face where his shirt parted, pressing her face to his clavicle and nuzzling her nose into the wispy hair that resided there. She laughed softly and he looked down at her.

“Tickles,” she crinkled her nose and smiled up at him as her hands ran up to his collar. “May I?” Severus stared at her, his eyes boring into her but she didn’t feel him trying to invade her mind, even though she could only guess how tempted he may be. He gently nodded and she drew back the placket to reveal his pale form. She could feel his heart beating quickly as her fingers drifted slowly along his chest and down to his stomach. She was so happy he’d put on some weight, his ribs were still very visible but he looked much healthier.

She moved aside the collar to show his scar from Nagini, the scar that was a testament to how much she loved him, how hard she would fight for him. She pushed up onto the balls of her feet and pressed a tender kiss to the sensitive skin of his scar and his breath caught as she did. Every small touch, every tiny tickle felt intense in a way he couldn’t describe. His skin was singing under her fingers, the feeling almost too much but he wanted her to never stop.

She moved down and pressed gentle kisses from his collarbone to his clavicle, then peppering kisses along a line down his stomach she nuzzled his belly button, he sniggered as she gently ran her fingers up the side of his body and she looked up at him.

“Tickles,” he said, looking down at her with a soft smile. She pulled the other side of the shirt away from his chest and kissed her way back up before stepping back and looking up at him with a smile. Then she reached up to his collar and gently coaxed it off his right shoulder, each new area revealed showing the pain he’d gone through, showing the pain he bore for them. Once she had freed his right arm, she looked up at him and leaned up to kiss him gently as she pushed his shirt onto the floor without looking away from his eyes. His arms wrapped around her, he didn’t want her to see but he knew she would.

She stood still, letting his heart-rate slowly grow more steady and relaxed before she stepped back and ran her hands down both of his arms. Her soft lips kissed across his skin, sending shivers along it and raising goosebumps. She caressed old scars as if they were beautiful, as if they were perfect, as if he were perfect. He'd never felt so cared for, so loved.

She kept surprising him, the moment he thought he knew what was coming, she knelt down and left scorching trails across his flesh. Blood running south, making everything in his body tighten and anxiety rush through his veins.

"It's alright Severus, we'll take things slow, no rushing," she breathed across his chest and he felt his own breath catch.

She pressed languid kisses down the length of his right arm, starting at his shoulder and nuzzling her nose in the divot of his elbow. He watched her intently, she was accepting him, one small touch at a time. She stood back up and turned to his left shoulder and very gradually trailed kisses down his bicep, over his scars and licking his inner elbow, making him shudder, before she pressed a kiss to the silvery scar of his dark mark, softly from the top to the bottom. Hermione trailed kisses down to his wrist and pressed a kiss to his palm before taking that hand and placing it on the collar of her shirt.

He froze for a moment and she watched as his Adams apple bobbed in his throat nervously, tentatively he lifted his other hand and held the other side of her collar loosely. Hermione lowered her hands and looked up at him with a smile to encourage him. His thin fingers took hold of her first button and slipped it from its home as he watched for her reaction. When she simply continued smiling up at him he continued to slowly loose them, one at a time, until he could see a long column of her flesh, interrupted by her black bra.

He could already see the scar across her chest from her 5 ^th year and his eyes flicked up to hers before he slowly moved the placket to the side, revealing her long silvery scar. He softly ran his fingers along it and brushed the other side of the shirt open to touch along its full length. He leaned down and pressed his lips to it softly, from one side of it on her shoulder, down between her breasts, to just below her belly button.

He admired that scar, it made her look like a warrior. His warrior princess, marked by her achievements, whereas he was marked by his mistakes. He tried desperately to keep himself in check, to make sure this was about giving her the same acceptance that she’d given him. He was on his knees and when he looked up, he couldn’t think of anything more beautiful than her looking down at him. Her bushy hair curling out around her like a halo with the candlelight behind her.

He knew where the scar she was most worried about was, he had spoken to Draco after everything was over. After the dark lord was buried deep beneath the earth and the poor boy needed someone to confide in. The horror story of what happened to her that night had made her stronger to him, her bravery a beacon of hope. Yet here she was, her lip caught between her teeth with nervous tension as he slowly explored her.

Severus stood, gently brushing his fingers up from her stomach and up her sides, avoiding the supple swell of her breasts as he did. He ran his fingers under the shoulders of her shirt and gently pushed the right side off before lightly pulling the shirt off her left arm.

Severus kept eye contact with Hermione as her scar was revealed and she softly nodded before he looked down at it. That word. That fucking word. The word that had ruined so much and hurt so many, always engraved on her arm. He closed his eyes as hate ran through him, if Bellatrix were still alive he would hunt her down and kill her himself. He pulled Hermione close and kissed the top of her head, partly to comfort her, and partly to hide the effect that word was having on him. The word that ultimately ruined his first chance at happiness now forever etched on her silken skin, a constant reminder of what some would call her.

Hermione sighed as he held her, and he couldn’t tell if it was a sad or content sound. He pulled back from her enough to see her face before leaning in and softly kissing her. He could see the tears filling her eyes and wished there were something he could do to help. He lifted her left arm and gently kissed the word and as he did, silent tears tracked their way down her velvet cheek.

“I’m so sorry,” Severus whispered as he held her tightly. “No one will ever touch you again, I’ll keep you safe,” he rocked her slowly, fingers insinuating themselves into her frizzy tresses as he gently massaged her scalp and hoped it would be enough.

“I believe you,” she sniffled and Severus held her tighter as he felt his heart ache with both pain and joy. The thought of someone who trusted him, who would depend on him, was overwhelming and addictive. “Could you hold me, like you did last night?” Her voice was muffled against his chest and he nodded before backing away from her and turning back to his dresser.

He stood still as a statue, his hands on top of the drawer toggles as he took several deep breaths. His fingers deftly pulling them to open the drawer as he looked at the only option he had.

He held up the long grey nightshirt, looking away as she removed her bra and placed it on top of his dresser. She lifted the bottom and slipped into the large dress like shirt. When her head poked out of the top, his hand flew to his mouth as a genuine smile curved his lips. She looked like she was wearing a potato sack that pooled on the floor at her feet, her hands were completely hidden in the sleeves and she gave him a little pout. Her bottom lip jutting out comically as he tried to regain control of his face.

“You better have a hat to go with this,” she teased and then her smile grew as he pulled out a pointed nightcap and placed it atop her curly head. He stood back and looked at her as she turned on the spot. “How do I look?” He tried to hold back his laughter but when he saw her holding back her own he allowed it to bubble out of him in a way it hadn’t in a long time.

“You look… like a sweet little house elf,” he reached out and brought her closer, smiling down at her, he kissed her forehead.

“Well then, I better fix this before you start telling me how you like your tea,” she laughed.

“You already know that,” he leaned down and kissed her gently, because he could, because he needed to. Her arms came up and wrapped around his neck and he laughed against her lips at all the extra fabric that was hanging by his face.

“Ok,” she backed up and pushed her sleeves up so she could see her wrists as she held out her hand. An Accio later and her wand came flying over to her and she waved it at the baggy nightshirt. It began to shrink, but not just shrink, it shortened to her mid-calf but the middle came in to hug her curves, making a once drab garment look somehow stylish. When she looked up at him again, the mirth was gone from his eyes, replaced with something else.

Adorable.

A word he loathed, but it fit, perfectly. She was absolutely adorable. He watched her as she spun on the spot for a second time, this time having a very different effect. His heart began to race as he watched her and as if finally realising that he was about to sleep next her, he started getting a bit anxious. He turned away from her, trying to control his breathing as he plucked out a second nightshirt for himself. He turned back to her, taking in her features, still not believing that she was here with him, that she truly wanted to be.

“You’re so beautiful,” he murmured, and she blushed, looking down with a smile before she turned to the bed and went to lie down. “I’ll just be a moment,” he said, moving toward the loo to change but when she sighed, he stopped to look over at her.

“Sorry,” she covered her face. “I just... I,” she stammered.

“What is it?”

“Nothing,” she curled back against the headboard and played with her hands. He waited until she finally spoke. “I don’t get to see your legs,” she blushed and he looked down at his clothes.

Severus turned to the chair in the corner before taking a seat upon it, leaning over to unbutton the bottom of his trousers. After the four buttons were undone and his shoes were slipped off, he surreptitiously pushed up his trouser legs. He unbuckled his sock bracers before slipping them down with his socks to push them into his shoes, kicking them smartly under the chair and hoping that she didn’t notice.

He stood again and undid his belt buckle before unbuttoning the three-button placket. After taking a deep breath, he let his trousers fall to the ground, leaving him in nothing but his pants. She sat up and looked over at him approvingly; he felt his hands tremble a bit under her scrutiny.

“Come on then,” she patted the space next to her with a smile, moving over a bit so he could join her on the bed. He picked up his wand and then climbed under the duvet with her before waving it once, extinguishing all the candles in the room.

Hermione’s hair tickled his neck as she cuddled into him and he happily pulled her close, pushing his nose into her hair and taking a deep breath of her. “You smell so good,” he murmured into her riotous curls.

“So do you,” she whispered, wrapping one of her legs around his and as she slowly pulled it up he could feel a twitch as heat flooded into his pelvis. He’d been happy he could control himself when they were standing, but now that there was nothing else to take up his thoughts except her caress, he was starting to lose the fight against his libido.

“Um… Hermione.”

“Yes.”

“If you just want to sleep… you’re going to have to stop rubbing my leg like that,” he gulped, a bit embarrassed.

“Oh… sorry,” she sighed as her leg stilled. His eyes were open as he stared up at the canopy above him, trying to calm himself. “Good night Severus.”

“Good night,” he kissed the top of her head and felt her body slowly relax against him. He listened to her breathing for a long time, simply enjoying the sound and the soft tickle of her breath that skidded across his chest, ruffling his sparse hairs. As her breathing evened out he closed his eyes, his heart singing as he finally shared his bed. Even if she only ever wanted to sleep, the fact that she wanted to sleep with him would always be enough.

She fits so perfectly against me, so warm, so soft.

Chapter Text

Chise woke to the gentle purring snore of Elias in her ear and she turned her head to see him fast asleep, curled up tightly against her. She pushed herself flush against him, enjoying the warmth of his large plum coloured arms. She ran her fingers over his long-sleeved night shirt, pulling it up a bit so she could reveal the tiny scales that covered his arms. She loved looking at them, they glittered a bit in the dying light of the fireplace as she debated getting up to see what the day would bring.

“Good morning,” Elias mumbled as he nuzzled her cheek.

“Sorry Elias, I didn’t mean to wake you,” she turned her head to gaze up at him. Elias stretched as his jaw opened wide in a yawn and Chise giggled because he looked a bit like a dog first waking up.

“What’s so funny?” He asked, leaning on his elbow and scratching his neck with the other arm.

“You’re just, really cute in the morning,” twisting her body, she wound her arms around his neck.

“Cute?” He asked, a tone between affronted and incredulous.

“Yes,” Chise answered, placing little kisses along his jaw and his eyes turned into little red lines as he leaned into her.

“I doubt many would agree with you,” he chuckled as she began to sit up so she could pepper kisses over the other side of his jaw and up his cheekbone.

“Good,” she whispered. “More for me.”

“Mmm,” he hummed as he wrapped his arms around her waist, and she moved up on her knees so she could kiss the top of his head, down the long slope of his nose to the tip of his snout. “All for you,” he whispered, and she sat back to look at him for a moment, running her fingers down both sides of his jaw parallel to each other.

“All?” She questioned teasingly as her hands worked their way back and then down his neck slowly. Her fingers trembled as she gathered her courage and worked at the first button of his night shirt. His eyes locked onto her curiously as she worked the second button loose and she encouraged him to sit back against the headboard. Chise followed him, straddling him as she worked the next button open; his large aubergine chest was slowly being revealed. He gently took her wrists and she pulled her gaze from the flesh between the placket to meet his eyes.

“Chise?” He whispered as he looked at her.

“May I?” She asked, and he could see the blush rising slowly in her face. That same look that he had ignited it in her the other night took residence on her countenance and he released her so she could continue. He gave her a small nod and watched as she worked the remaining buttons open before pulling the shirt apart to look at him properly. Her fingers drifted down his chest as she felt the soft flesh, interspersed with small shiny scales that glittered beautifully in the gentle light. She ran them back up and was surprised that the scales didn’t catch, they were like little patches of silk along the already smooth skin.

“You’re beautiful,” she whispered, working her hands lower, over his muscled pecks to his chiselled abdomen. His chest looks just like he did in his naga form, but without the feathers. She smiled to herself as she wondered how much more he would let her see and thought that he’d seen quite a lot of her. Her eyes flicked up to his, he was still looking at her in curiosity but there was something else, his eyes were almost glowing; a shiver ran its way up her spine in response. She scooted back on his thighs and gently ran her fingertips along the band of his pyjama bottoms while watching his face intently.

Chise took a deep breath and held it as her fingers wandered down over the front of his trousers and he gasped. She felt something big, something she had missed, or had he just gotten really good at hiding it? She placed her hand flat on the bulge and slowly drifted from the top to the bottom and back again. His jaw opened marginally as he watched her, frozen, waiting patiently for what might happen next.

“Elias?”

“Yes?”

“Can I try something?” She felt a mix of anticipation and nervous energy running through her stomach; she worried her bottom lip as she waited for his answer. He knew what she was asking, he had to know.

“I’m open to a little exploration,” he purred her words back to her, and she felt her face heating as she smiled shyly at him. She’d never seen one before, apart from in medical books, a part of her was a little worried. So, she took a deep breath before unbuttoning the little blue button and pushing aside the placket to reach inside. Silk. The smoothest skin she had ever felt—long, hard, and silk. Her fingers drifted over him slowly as he watched her intently, every muscle had tightened as her hand slowly wrapped around him.

She wasn’t quite sure what to do, but had the basic gist from what she’d read; alone, hidden away in his study. She looked down at it as she pulled it through the hole in his trousers and her mouth opened just a bit in surprise. He was much bigger than she had anticipated, though really everything about him was huge so it really shouldn’t have surprised her as much as it did. She carefully gripped him and slowly worked her fist up and down, looking up at him to gauge his reactions.

He had hunched forward a bit and his breathing was laboured to the point of near hyperventilation. Puffs of steamy breath floated out of his open jaw and his eyes were blazing. She smirked to herself, I must be doing something right. She moved her other hand to cover the deep purple tip of him and used her palm to rub the underside as she continued to pump up and down with her hand. A purring growl filled the room as his hands grabbed fistfuls of duvet. She lifted her palm from him and licked it before replacing it, she could feel him slipping along it and he looked up at the ceiling as his jaw opened.

“Chise!” His voice was so deep and gravelly, she looked up at him as she continued.

“Is this good?” She asked nervously as his body tensed further.

“Yes!” Suddenly he bent forward and with a guttural growl released, spurting pearlescent streaks into the air. Chise gasped as it flung onto his bedclothes and her hand. He looked down at her before crashing back against the headboard. Watching him try to catch his breath made her feel a level of accomplishment she’d never felt, pride almost, in her achievement.

“Was that how it normally feels?” She asked curiously, watching him as she brought her hand up for inspection. His eyes flicked down to her hand just as her pink tongue peeked out of her mouth and tentatively licked at the creamy streak that splayed across her fingers. The taste wasn’t like anything she’d ever tasted before, musky but also sweet, like his tea. He felt his heart picking up and looked up to meet her eyes as her tongue came out further to glide across her digits, collecting a line of his release.

“I don’t know,” he answered hoarsely, and she looked up at him, confused. “That was the first time,” he confessed before reaching his hand out to her. She nabbed a tissue off the side table before taking his proffered hand.

“Really?” She asked, falling into his arms and gently kissing his neck. “Did you think it would be a bad thing to try?”

“I think my mind has been changed on the matter.” He said as his jaw fell open in a smile. “Thank you Chise, that was wonderful,” he pulled her tightly to him and she laughed when she felt his cooling release touching her leg.

“You’re welcome,” she smiled up at him, kissing his neck again; she wrapped her arms around him as she felt him slowly falling back to sleep.

XOXO

Severus woke to something moving gently against him. Forcing his eyes open to see Hermione cuddled up to his side, still asleep. He peered down at her mass of curls and pushed his nose into them, taking a deep breath of her soothing scent. He realised he’d slept through the night, no dreams, good or bad, had come to him. Just relaxing rest. Real rest, and for the first time in so long he couldn’t quite remember, he felt refreshed in the morning. Picking up his wand, he lit a few candles around the room so he could see her face a bit better, but the light caused her to stir.

“Good morning,” she yawned, stretching her body against him, and pressing her breasts against his side. He closed his eyes for a moment, enjoying the feel of her body pressing so effortlessly against him.

“That it is,” he replied, running his thumb over the velvet of her cheek softly as her eyes smoothly roamed his body before meeting his eyes. He leaned down and kissed her, revelling in the feeling of her warmth against him. Her arms wrapped around his neck as she shifted, moving her leg over his hips she found herself almost on top of him, her nightshirt rucked up around her hips. With both of his arms free, he allowed his hands to glide down her body from her shoulders, down over her waist until he reached her hips. When he gripped them, he felt her rock against him and groaned in response.

She ran her fingers up through his hair as their kiss became more frantic and one of his hands wandered down slowly over the globes of her bum. He pressed his fingers around one of them like an ocean wave before gripping it gently and she pushed back a bit to give him a face of mock shock.

“My goodness!” She laughed, “well I never!”

“Maybe you should,” his brow rose, and she felt like she was melting against his firm body. Her rocking became more rhythmic and he was starting to lose himself in the feel of her. She sat back to straddle him properly as her hands slowly worked their way up his stomach and chest. He could feel her roaming fingers bringing up goose flesh and knew if they didn’t stop soon he wouldn’t be able to stop at all. He sat up and kissed her, bringing up his hands to cup her neck while running his thumbs over her jawline.

“Time for breakfast my dear,” he purred, and she laughed at his badly veiled attempt to stop them from going further. Looking into his eyes she could see he didn’t want to stop and that gave her enough confidence in them continuing later that she could pull away.

“Alright Severus,” she said coyly as she shuffled her hips forward to reconnect with him and he let a ragged breath escape him. He was about to break, to just roll her over and see where things went, when she looked up at him with a soft smile and said, “breakfast then.” Then she was slipping off his lap and into the bathroom.

He fell back onto the bed and took a few deep breaths before closing his eyes again as he slowly regained his sanity.

XOXO

Hermione entered the sitting room to find Chise flipping through a potions periodical with rapt interest.

“Good morning,” Hermione greeted and Chise’s head popped up with a smile.

“Good morning,” Chise put down the magazine and stood. “Breakfast?”

“Not quite yet, on Wednesdays I go collect herbs from our Herbologist, would you like to come with me?” Hermione slung a large leather bag over her shoulder and offered her arm like some kind of gentleman asking for a dance. Chise laughed and gladly stepped over to take it before they slung cloaks around their shoulders and left.

“Do you ever get tired of all these stairs?” Chise asked as her legs ached after days of climbing and descending them.

“At first yes, but this whole castle is so full of stairs, you kind of get used to it after a while,” she shrugged. They walked out into the early morning fog to walk to the Herbology greenhouses. There was a young man bent over in one of them, Chise could just make out his sandy brown hair as he was set to pulling weeds in the covered area. “Good morning Neville!” Hermione called as they came closer and he stood up.

“Morning Hermione, are you wanting your usual herbs or anything else?” He asked with a wide toothy smile, and then he saw Chise. “Hi, I’m Neville Longbottom, nice to meet you,” he said, extending his hand to her, which she took and shook.

“Hi, I’m Chise,” he smiled at her faint accent.

He bent forward, retrieving his hand and in a very bad Japanese accent said ‘Yoroshiku onegaishimasu’ and Chise smiled wide and happily returned the sentiment with a polite bow forward. Hermione looked at Neville oddly and he looked over at her sheepishly, “I’m learning Japanese, it means ‘it’s nice to meet you’,” he said, feeling a bit embarrassed now.

“It also means, ‘let’s be friends’,” she said, smiling at Neville. “It’s been a long time since anyone has spoken to me in Japanese, thank you.”

“Of course, like I said I’m only just learning, so I’m not great at it. How long are you here?” He asked her, completely forgetting about the herbs.

“I’m here till Saturday,” she turned to Hermione with a smile.

“Do you think you could teach me some while you’re here?” He asked, and Chise nodded.

“I should gather the herbs,” Hermione laughed as she stepped passed them.

“I’ll help,” Chise rushed to follow, very interested in seeing a new layout for a garden. “Elias and I love working in the garden, I find it very relaxing,” she headed in the direction that Hermione had pointed to.

Neville touched Hermione’s shoulder to stop her and whispered, “does she have anyone to go to the dance with?”

“She has a husband, Neville,” she answered, shrugging with an apologetic smile.

“Oh,” he shrugged and smiled. “Oh well,” he set off in the direction of Chise and Hermione laughed at how they both chatted endlessly about gardening habits as they collected herbs together. She was teaching him how to say some simple words correctly when Hermione finally had everything she needed.

“Time for breakfast,” Hermione smiled.

“Can I join you both?” Neville asked, looking at Hermione hopefully.

“Of course, do you need to do anything before we go?”

“Nope, I can finish up after breakfast,” he answered happily as they walked to the great hall together. The hall was already full of students when they made their way to the long table, finding a spot big enough for all of them. Ruth materialized next to Neville, making him jump and he looked across the table at the two ladies before looking back at the grim.

“Where’d you come from?”

“He’s my familiar,” Chise smiled as she dished herself some eggs. Ruth smiled at Neville before turning to the large platter of food as he ate like he’d been dying of starvation.

Neville laughed as he watched him, “he reminds me of Ron.” Hermione laughed at the comparison as she looked at Ruth shovelling in food.

“He does.”

“Ron?” Chise looked puzzled for a moment, “that’s the red head right?”

“Yes,” Hermione answered, still chuckling as she watched Ruth eat. “And yes, he really does eat like that.”

“Like wha?” Ruth asked, through chipmunk cheeks full of food, an affronted look on his face.

“Like he’s never seen food before,” Neville smiled widely at him. Ruth got a wonderful warm feeling as he did and wasn’t sure if it was Chise’s feelings or his own as he slowed down his frantic masticating to a more ‘human’ rate. “I didn’t mean to offend,” Neville continued. “I just thought it was funny,” his smile softened his words and Ruth smiled back at him.

XOXO

“Who’s that?” Elias asked Snape as they passed the Gryffindor table. Severus spared a moment to survey and saw who was currently making the ladies around him laugh.

“Longbottom,” Severus shuddered as they continued to their seats at the teacher’s table. “Never has one student destroyed so many cauldrons,” he noticed that Elias hadn’t taken his eyes off the group as he leaned over towards him.

“I didn’t see him in your class, is he not taking it?”

“He’s no longer a student. He’s apprenticing with our Herbology professor,” Snape sneered at the boy. “He is a hazard to himself and those around him when it comes to potions,” he dished himself some food from the trays in front of him before slowly picking at it with his fork.

“What are his interests?” Elias asked, and Snape looked critically at the magus as he thought about why he was asking so many questions.

“Thinking of asking him to the dance?” He quipped, hoping Elias would take the bait.

“What?” Elias’s eyes finally left Longbottom and looked at him.

“He’s no threat. He’s also terrified of me,” he said with a smirk, and Elias looked over at the group again.

“Could you?”

“Could I what?” Severus asked, a closed expression on his face.

“Could you scare him away from Chise?” He asked, and Snape couldn’t deny that he understood the jealousy that he was feeling. He looked at the group and saw that Neville was still making all of them laugh. Hermione would probably be mad if I did something to spook him.

“I’ve tried to keep my distance from him because it doesn’t take much to set him off,” he looked back down at his plate. Elias silently stood and walked over to the group.

He reached them and stood behind Chise protectively. “Chise, who’s your friend?” His voice to anyone else would seem even and curious, but she could hear the underlying tone of fear laced in it and she looked up at him with a concerned smile.

“This is my new friend Neville, he’s a Herbologist and is learning Japanese,” Neville smiled toothily and stood, reaching his hand out to the magus, who looked down at it. “He doesn’t shake hands Nevi—” Chise silenced when Elias reached across the table with his long arm and took Neville’s hand to shake. Chise sat still for a moment and then looked up at Elias. “Could I speak to you for a moment?” He looked down at her and immediately felt a strange twisting in his stomach.

“Yes, of course,” he offered her his hand, which she took and led him out of the hall. Hermione looked up to Snape, who was watching the pair walking into the atrium. Chise had pulled him far enough away so no one could hear them and encouraged him to get on one knee so she could talk to him face to face.

“My love,” Chise soothingly patted his arms as he lowered, and she looked down at him, running her hand along his glamoured face. “Are you alright?”

“I feel...” he started, and then didn’t know how to describe it. His hands latched onto her and pulled her close but she placed her hands on his shoulders to make sure he stayed far enough away so she could see his face.

“Like Stella in the beginning?” She offered, and he thought for several minutes, in which time she simple waited for an answer, gently running her fingers through his hair. She knew how he could get, but soothing his insecurities was something she had gotten better at.

“Yes,” he finally whispered, and she put her hands under his chin to lift his face to look up at her.

“And did you have anything to worry about?” She asked, placing a chaste kiss on his forehead.

“You just... you laughed so much with him,” he suddenly wanted to disappear, his voice soft and insecure.

“Yes, he’s very funny, I think you’d like him.” She put her cheek to his forehead and stroked the back of his head slowly. He leaned into her chest and took a calming breath of her, his arms wrapping tightly around her. “Would you like to, maybe spend a little time with him?”

“Are you sure that’s alright?” He asked, looking up at her with a mix of embarrassment and need in his eyes.

“Of course, I don’t want you to feel awkward,” she watched him closely, knowing that it was easy for him to run and sulk. “I love you, remember?”

“Yes,” he answered, standing up with a nod, retreating from her arms. He stood, looking down at her for a moment and then offered his hand to her, she took it and gave it a squeeze. “I think I’ll go sit up with Severus.”

“Alright, but if you change your mind, please come and sit with us,” she said as she wrapped her arms around him tightly. Reaffirming their connection before they walked her back to their seats.

XOXO

Snape looked down as Elias made his way back to the high table, he didn’t mean to stare at their intimate moment, but he couldn’t seem to drag his eyes away. She had placated him so well that it was mesmerizing. Elias looked at his now cold breakfast and waved his hand over it to warm it again before picking at it with his cutlery. His eyes kept flicking up to the group, but at least he felt reassured.

“Are you alright?” Severus asked quietly, surprised by the genuine concern in his own voice.

“I don’t know,” he lifted his cup of tea and took a sip. Snape didn’t push it, he knew by this point that if Elias wanted to talk about something, no matter how inappropriate, he would just do it.

The rest of breakfast was quiet, apart from the laughter that erupted every now and then from the small group.

“Class is soon, let’s be on our way,” Severus said after he’d taken his last sip of tea. He waited a moment for Elias, and then they made their way down the aisle of tables.

XOXO

Ruth pointed to the pair as they left the great hall and Hermione looked around at them leaving. “What’s the time?” She asked, and Neville pulled out a pocket watch.

“Ten till nine,” he replied, and Hermione instantly felt flustered.

“Oh no,” she quickly stood and picked up the bag that was stuffed with herbs. “Class starts soon; I haven’t set up the classroom yet,” Chise stood to join her and Ruth looked over at Neville.

“Nice to meet you,” he said before jumping back into Chise’s shadow.

“Nice to meet you too,” Neville smiled with a nod of farewell. “Have a good day ladies, maybe I’ll see you in the afternoon?”

“Sure Neville, sounds good,” Hermione said, rushing off in the direction of the dungeons with Chise in tow. When they were out of the great hall Hermione leaned over to her. “So, what was that about earlier? With Elias?”

“Oh,” Chise blushed brightly. “He urm… I’m not sure how to say it.”

“Does he get jealous?”

“You could call it that,” she said as they started the decent back down to the dungeons. “I think he gets sad that he can’t make me laugh like that, or if I’m different with someone, I guess. I think he just wants to have me all to himself sometimes, like he wants to be everything to me.” She stopped for a moment in thought and Hermione paused outside the classroom door, “he doesn’t realise, he already is.”

Chapter Text

Everything felt… cold.

Elias watched as Chise laughed, as she smiled. Smiles that he couldn’t give her, laughter he wanted to bottle and keep all for himself. He sat silent as he roved over the feelings that had gripped his chest so tightly he wasn’t sure what to do. He had decided to stay in the sitting room, instead of joining the others in the classroom as they prepared and went about their class. His legs were crossed in one of the green armchairs as he thought. He had a book in his lap, an easy excuse for what he was doing alone, one that people would understand and not question.

Cold.

He hated feeling like this.

Cold.

He wanted to run away, but would she follow again? He couldn’t leave, he didn’t know where he would even go if he did. If he left, he would be truly alone.

He hated feeling like this.

He could hear the class starting through the open office door. There was something soothing about the drawling baritone of Severus’s voice. Something comforting. He listened and thought. Perhaps she was right, perhaps the boy would be funny, perhaps I should get to know him. But is this about the boy or simply the feelings that he brought to the surface? Severus made him uncomfortable when they had first met, but now? Now he felt at ease around him, he had taken off his cloak many times in his presents without feeling vulnerable.

Elias sat with his head resting on his fist. She speaks to me, she tells me how she feels, she tells me her hopes and dreams. Perhaps Snape is correct in saying he isn’t a threat. The student’s questions rang out and were quickly answered, almost automatically with self-assured finality. He wanted to feel like that, confident. He had spent so much time alone, so much time isolated from everyone and everything. He had confided in Lindel, perhaps he should ask his advice? No. The old coot will only poke at me as he always does.

Renfred? No. He tried that, he always ended up offending him in some way, even if he was correct about him and Alice in the end, he still felt ill at ease around the man. He realised that Simon was the only one that he could speak freely to, how funny that the one that was meant to be his warden was now his friend of sorts. He would never tell him that though, foolish man would want physical contact and he was not willing to shake his hand.

Then why did I shake Neville’s hand? That was a curious thing, was it simply because I felt threatened? If so, wasn’t there another way to show that I wasn’t scared, wasn’t … wasn’t what? He didn’t know what made someone attractive or unattractive and he didn’t know if Chise found him so… what if she didn’t? Would it matter? Perhaps his glamour could use an update? No. It would be obvious if I updated it to look like that boy. But would Chise like it more?

He had often wondered if she would prefer to be with another human, perhaps someone her own age. Every story he’d read about a girl who loved a monster ended the same; either the monster would die, allowing the human to find one of her own kind. Or the monster would become human so they could stay together. Would she prefer to be with a human?

He shook his head and looked down at the book he’d picked up, something about potions, that’s all that littered the room. He heard someone walking through the office and then they were in the doorway of the sitting room, looking at his veiled face with a friendly expression. Snape wasn’t smiling, but his eyes were, and that was enough for Elias to know that he had a friend right here, and he wondered if he could confide in the man.

“Are you alright, Elias?” Severus stepped tentatively into the room and settled on the armchair next to him.

“I don’t believe I am,” he replied honestly. Snape waited patiently for the magus to continue. “Do you think that Chise would love me more if I were human?” He asked the question, a question he had often felt but couldn’t bring himself to ask anyone. Severus looked at him a moment, not quite sure how to answer.

He thought about the things that Chise had said, about her lack of enthusiasm for him wearing a glamour. The contented look on her face when she spoke about him. He knew the answer and gave Elias a sideways smirk.

“No,” he shook his head slowly as Elias looked down and thought for another moment before peeking back up at him.

“There are moments, that I believe she would be happier without me,” he whispered, but the sentiment felt overwhelmingly familiar. Severus sat back and took a deep breath as he thought of how to answer, or if it was a question at all for him to answer.

Severus extended his arm and rested his wrist on the chair, his fingers shuffled against each other as though he were twirling an imaginary coin and he took a deep breath before he spoke. “When Miss Granger first came to me, asking to be my apprentice, I was... apprehensive. I thought it prudent for me to deny her but there were things working against me. The headmistress wouldn’t let me say no to her and Hermione was the one that saved my life.” He looked over at Elias and his voice became more hushed as he continued, “without her potions and healing spells, I wouldn’t be alive today.” He looked off into nowhere in particular and thought for a moment. “I was dreadful to her for years, it wasn’t until she came back to complete her N.E.W.T.s that I was finally able to be more myself. But by then, who was I any more. I had been listening to two very strong voices, working for two distinct causes and in the process I lost many who I would call friends… on both sides.

“I love the dark arts, I have always and most likely will always. It has destroyed so many facets of my life and even so, I find the study of it intoxicating. The headmistress wouldn’t allow me to come back as the defense against the dark arts professor and so I picked up the post that I am best at, the one I am familiar with. Potions have always been a natural talent of mine and I do enjoy the research aspect. But I must admit... I am always afraid of falling back into the dark side of things, and… Hermione, deserves so much better than that, so much more. I’m not saying that I would ever turn to them in a harmful way, but the urge will always be there.

“I am a sullen man, I am not kind, I do not pretend to be, I am only who I am. I am not liked by many and that suits me for the most part as I enjoy solitude, but then Hermione began her apprenticeship and I… felt differently. She is so very clever, we could carry on conversations for hours, arguments at times, but we always conceded to the victor with no ill will. It was the first time in my adult life I had ever had to admit I was wrong, and then it became more frequent.” He allowed a mirthless laugh to escape him, “at first I found it difficult, but then it started making me more mindful of the things that I said aloud.” He took a moment and another deep breath, “I too think she would be happier without me. For all I have done to her that she could see, she deserves more. But for everything I did for her that she didn’t see, that seems to be my only saving grace.“

After a long moment had passed Severus thought of Chise, of how she showed her love to Elias. “I believe that Chise trusts you, that she loves you, that you are her family,” Snape looked at the magus’s face, his posture downcast as he mulled over everything he had said. “Would you be happier without her?” Elias’s gaze shot up to meet Snape's as his eyes flared bright red even through the veil.

“No,” he answered honestly. “She is everything to me.”

“Does it not make sense that she feels the same?” Snape waited patiently for him to think and he noticed something in Elias’s hand, it was the same thing he had been fiddling with at the Three Broomsticks when they first met. It glinted in the light and he knew now what it was. “Are you going to ask her?”

“She is my wife, but I want her to be my wife in the eyes of humans, not just fae,” he lifted the delicate ring. It was gold and had a shimmering light that flowed from an opal gemstone. “This has been enchanted for protection, It automatically creates a shield if one is needed. It feeds off the magic of the user, that is why it is shining so brightly in my hand, it is using my magic.” Severus sat forward to look at the opal a bit closer.

“May I see it?” he asked, and Elias handed it to him. The colour it glistened with changed from a blue transparent hue to a dark green, almost black. “Even my magic is Slytherin,” he chuckled, handing it back to Elias, and he couldn’t help but laugh with the wizard as he took it back and put it in his waistcoat pocket. “You should ask her,” Severus said softly.

“Thank you,” Elias whispered as he sat back in the chair again. “It’s nice to no longer be alone.” Severus looked at him out of the corner of his eye and smiled.

“I agree.”

XOXO

Classes passed by and it was soon lunchtime. Elias had decided to take Chise’s advice and meet with the young man. With Severus, he had gone to the kitchens. The elves insisted on helping them make lunch. An amount of sandwiches that would have made Silky proud and dwarfed the tiny elf that helped them. Doyal enthusiastically helped get them all through the floo without spoiling them. The meal covered the coffee table completely with tiny sandwiches and little cakes.

Just after the house elf vanished back through the floo, there was a timid knock at the door. Snape put up a finger to his mouth to ask Elias and Ruth to be silent.

“Enter,” he boomed, and there was an obvious pause on the other side of the door before the knob was timidly turned.

“Hello sir,” Neville looked at the floor awkwardly as he stepped into the room.

“What do you want Longbottom?” Snape said, standing up to his full height from the armchair closest to the door.

“I.. I was… I was invited,” he tried to stand up a bit taller. He was only an inch or two shorter than Severus, but he felt so small next to the dour man.

“Oh yes, so you were,” Severus moved his arm in a welcoming motion to direct him to the sofa. “Please do come in Mr. Longbottom,” Neville’s face relaxed a bit before he saw the veiled figure that inhabited the chair next to Snape. “You met Professor Ainsworth earlier, he is a magus so what you met was his glamour,” he explained. “Please, take a seat.”

“Oh, yes of course,” Neville said with a sideways nervous smile. “Chise was saying that it wasn’t how you normally look, it’s good to meet you again,” he bowed his head before taking a seat on the sofa next to Ruth. Elias nodded politely as the ladies came out of the office and Hermione went to sit on the other side of the sofa. Ruth stood to let Chise sit in the middle and sat on the floor by the table. Elias’s watchful gaze followed Chise to her seat next to the boy.

“What’s for lunch?” Chise asked, leaning forward and looking over the huge pile of sandwiches.

“Whatever it is, I don’t know if there’ll be enough with this one around,” Neville said, playfully jabbing Ruth in the shoulder, who gave him a sour look.

“That’s why we made so many sandwiches,” Severus chuckle softly behind his teacup and Neville froze. He’d never seen Snape so relaxed and it made him nervous. “So, Mr. Longbottom, how is your apprenticeship going with Professor Sprout?”

“It’s going very well sir,” he answered, leaning forward just a bit. “I’m currently working to transform one of our greenhouses into a space to grow magic resistant, nocturnal herbs.”

“That is very needed, are you finding much trouble with it?” Severus asked, offering him a cup of tea which he eagerly took.

“It has it’s challenges, mostly because I’m not able to use magic in the area and blacking out the space has to be done manually, I’m not very apt for manual labour,” he said sheepishly, looking down at his tea.

“You should ask the quidditch team to assist, the beaters especially this year look very brawny,” Severus offered as he passed out tea before leaning back in the armchair and taking a deep drink of his own.

“That’s a good idea sir, I’ll have to ask them,” Neville sat back rather uncomfortably on the sofa.

“Perhaps I can be of assistance,” Elias said suddenly, and everyone looked at him. “With the green house, I can encourage vines to grow and block out the sun.”

“Encourage?” Neville looked up at him, intrigued.

“I am a thorn mage,” Elias continued, leaning forward a bit and placing his hand over one of the small side tables. A small blue light emitted in a ring under his hand, “nettle in the shadow,” he said softly as tiny thorny vines began to sprout up in a ring pattern from the wood before they twisted around themselves and settled into a spherical pillar with space in the middle. Once the light ceased, Elias sat back so Neville could inspect the small bundle with his wand.

“That’s amazing, it is truly just vines, I can’t detect any magic from it,” he looked up at Elias with a huge smile on his face. “I would be incredibly grateful if you could do this to the greenhouse, perhaps on the inside to make sure the vines don’t wilt in the cold.”

“I would be happy to,” he picked up his tea and moved his veil to the side so he could drink from the small cup. Elias was glad to see that Neville became as animated as he had been in the great hall. He truly loved plants and Elias could relate to that as he greatly enjoyed his garden as well.

He watched them all speaking at length until Severus pulled out his pocket watch and declared that it was time to get the classroom ready. Chise and Hermione ran off to prepare it as Elias sat with Neville.

“After this there is a free period, Miss Granger and I will be in the lab if you and Miss Hatori would like to join us,” Snape gave Elias a sideways smile as he stood in the doorway of the office.

“Thank you Severus, I would like that,” Elias replied as he turned back to Neville. “In the meantime, would now be a good time to help you with the greenhouse?” Neville’s face lit up brightly as he stood and nodded enthusiastically.

“Now works perfectly for me, the next Herbology class isn’t until this afternoon,” he grabbed his cloak and wrapping it around himself. Elias stood and adopted his glamour before the two headed out of the dungeons and into the snowy day.

XOXO

“Is he always so quiet?” Hermione asked as they put out the clean cauldrons for the next class.

“You remember the Three Broomsticks,” Chise shrugged. “He observes first, it’s endearing really. I remember the first time he ate with a bunch of my classmates at the college, he barely said anything the whole time, but then again they did talk an awful lot,” she laughed to herself. Neither of them noticed when Snape came in and sat at his desk, he was quiet as a shadow as they continued to speak.

“That makes sense I suppose, I’m not especially good with new people either,” Hermione shrugged and Chise laughed loudly.

“You? You’re very outgoing,” she waved her hand at her teasingly.

“Well, I try to get to know people, but honestly most of my friends say I annoy them.”

“What, why?” Chise’s head was bent, busy cleaning one of the heat sources.

“Because I like to study,” she rolled her eyes. “I suppose being intelligent is a bad thing,” she huffed.

“I believe that intelligence is simply intimidating,” Severus drawled, startling the two women, but he never looked up from the parchment in front of him. “I received the same treatment when I was in school.”

“Guess there’s something to be said for being a know-it-all,” Hermione tried to sound teasing but Severus heard the underlying pain that moniker still carried. Snape looked over at her as he sat back in his chair.

“I suppose there is,” he spoke softly, knowing that her friends called her that often but the time he said it, his ire had made her cry. Stupid werewolf. He winced at the memory but tried to hide his face again in his work. Snape’s eyes closed as he thought back to that class and he took a breath and cleared his throat. “I feel terrible about that by the way,” he shuffled the papers in front of him, feigning looking for one in particular. Hermione wasn’t sure what to say and traded glances with Chise before she walked up to his desk.

“I understand why that class was so terrible. I know that you were frustrated... trying to get someone to... see what Lupin was.”

“And you figured it out,” he replied, without looking up. “But that was no excuse for speaking to you the way I did.”

“I was used to it,” she huffed out a puff of laughter and when his eyes met hers she felt bad for saying it.

“Chise, could you excuse us for a moment? I’ll call you back before the class starts,” Chise practically ran to the door before closing it silently.

“I’m sorry,” Hermione started but Severus stood and walked in front of her.

“No, I’m sorry,” he took her hands in his. “You shouldn’t have been bullied, especially by a teacher,” his eyes were closed tightly as he thought of all the terrible things he’d said to her over the years. Then they opened, borrowing into hers with a sadness behind them that gave her pause. “Even if it takes my whole life... I will make it up to you.”

"Your whole life?" She whispered, the insinuation making her heart race. “I forgive you,” she gave him a watery smile as she looked up at him. “I may not have understood it when I was younger, but after a while I saw why you were so angry all the time. You had no one to talk to... I would be angry too." She looked down, her eyes intent on his hands as she held them tightly. "Everyone around you had friends to confide in, but if you opened up with anyone, your motives would be brought into question, or you might have been found out. I noticed that you often spoke in anger, without thinking things through, I could sometimes see regret in your eyes after you’d done something especially nasty. I don’t think anyone else saw it, but I did.”

One hand rose from her grasp and gently lifted her chin so he could look into her eyes. He felt his chest clench painfully at the way she looked back at him. She saw him... truly saw him, and she understood.

“You are far more intelligent than anyone gives you credit for,” a sad smile crossed his face as his fingers smoothed back and forth across her knuckles. She pushed herself up and met his lips, successfully distracting him from the harmful things swimming in his mind as he pulled her close and glided one of his hands into her chestnut nest of curls. He slowly kissed along her cheek to her ear and whispered, “I like how smart you are, I find it very sexy that you’re so hungry for knowledge.”

“That’s not all I’m hungry for,” she whispered coyly, and he looked down at her, raising a brow when he felt where her hand had wandered. He reached into his pocket to pull out his watch and tutted when he saw the time.

“We have class in five minutes, and if you keep touching me like that, you’ll have to do the lecture portion,” he teased, giving her one more chaste kiss before pulling away with a smirk.

XOXO

Chise stood in Hermione’s bathroom looking in the mirror. Pulling her shirt off, she looked at how much the black had spread, it was now under her arm and working its way slowly towards her chest. It didn’t hurt, it was just like it always felt, but it kept moving and it was unnerving. She thought about the two things that Severus had said when he woke.

‘Auncyen wiggling Ta’… an ancient? Ta was a very old way of saying toe… She wondered if it was an actual toe or a metaphor, if it was a toe there had to be someone that they could ask, maybe Rahab? But she didn’t know how to get to her.

“What was the other one?” She asked herself.

“blōd of the clipped winged babe,” Ruth said from her knees. She looked down at the grim, who was staring at her cursed skin. “I know the spreading bothers you, you need to tell Elias.”

“I will, but it’s not like I can rush the process, and besides, we leave in two days anyway,” she pulled her shirt back on, feeling a bit vulnerable. “Blood of the babe, what could that mean?”

“Child?” Ruth thought for a long while and neither of them could think of what it could mean.

“Am I the child?” Chise asked, pointing at herself.

“I doubt it, why would you need to put your own blood in it if you’re the one to drink it?”

“I don’t know, I’ve never made potions like this before,” she lowered herself onto the cold tile next to him. “I’ll ask the others when we’re in the lab later, maybe they’ll know.”

“Do you think they will?”

“Joseph would,” she said matter-of-factly, and he just looked at her.

“No Chise, we’re not asking Joseph for help.”

“Why not?” She asked, affronted. “I think he would help me, he wanted to help before, I’m sure he would help if we asked him.” She thought for a moment and then said, “I wonder if Joseph counts as an ancient.” Ruth stood abruptly and left the room toward the classroom.

‘They’re waiting for you. And remember, Joseph’s toes are not his own,’ he said through their connection and she stood, sparing one more moment to look in the mirror; glad that the black was working it’s way down and not further up her neck.

“Honestly, it hasn’t moved that much,” she justified to herself before going back to the classroom.

XOXO

Vines slowly grew, reaching, and twisting. They curled around each other as they entwined to seek out the ceiling of the large greenhouse number 7. Neville watched in awe as Elias stood in the middle of the room in his refined form, lifting his hands and wand as blue light filled the area with little white and blue globes of twinkling starlight. As the fronds reached the glass ceiling they knitted themselves tightly together, blocking out all light except the blue, that seemed so much brighter now as the last little bits of sunlight were completely blocked out. Once Elias was happy with it, the light faded softly away and they were left in pitch darkness.

“That’s amazing,” Neville whispered, lifting his wand to do a quick magic trace spell and found that they were now simply vines. “Thank you so much Professor Ainsworth.”

“Of course,” Elias turned to the young man, his horns tilting with his large head. “You may call me Elias, I am not your professor,” he motioned to the door and they made their way outside; squinting in the bright light of day. Once they were both in the snow Neville turned around to see he had once again adopted his blond glamour, he looked like an Edwardian gentleman, using his wand as a cane.

“Well then, thank you Elias, this was more help than you could imagine,” he smiled, motioning back to the greenhouse.

“You are a friend of Chise, so, if there is something I can give, I shall try,” he said, smiling down at the boy. He then looked towards the castle and waved his hand to ask that Neville continue to walk. “Shall we go back inside? You must be cold, I know that humans have trouble with temperatures.”

“I’m alright, I’ve gotten pretty good at warming charms, it’s too cold here most of the year to not have them,” he laughed.

“Warming charms?” Elias looked down at Neville, his blond fringe bouncing lightly as he thought. “Could you teach me?”

“Um sure,” he stopped and brought out his wand. Elias lifted his wand and watched Neville, attempting the wand movement. He found it was much trickier with his cane, but the incantation seemed to work as he felt a warmth seem to heat him from the inside and he looked down at the snow around his feet as it melted. “Wow, you may want to practice it more before using it on… a human,” Neville said with a chuckle.

“Yes, good idea,” Elias lifted his golden cane with the curved handle before taking it in both hands lengthwise and drawing his hands together to collapse it into nothing. “Neville, may I ask you a question?” Elias looked up at the young man, who nodded his head with a smile. “If you wanted to ask someone to marry you, how would you do it?” Neville stared at him for a long moment and then seemed to snap out of a daydream.

“I’m not entirely sure, it would depend on what the girl liked, what she was interested in, I would use that,” he shrugged.

“Chise enjoys gardening and making potions, she spends much of her free time outside with plants and flowers... perhaps I should ask her in a garden?” He looked at Neville, who stared back at him, “does that mean I should wait until spring when the flowers are finally as beautiful as she is?”

“I think I have a solution for you,” Neville put his hand on his chin in thought. “I have a greenhouse that’s full of flora, most of it’s used for potions but there are a few that are simple herbs. It looks lovely in the morning. Would that work?”

“Yes,” Elias said thoughtfully as his glamour erupted into a wide smile. “Could you show me this place?”

“Of course,” Neville nodded as he led him through the snow to a greenhouse that was near the forbidden forest. He opened the large glass doors and led Elias into the room, it was large and the light from the sun filtered through the glass roof. Soft green tendrils of vines clung to the ceiling like a child to its mother. There was a pool in the middle, long and thin, that was filled with little water lilies on their green pads. The walls were lined with splashes on colour, bright orange, red, and yellow popped against the different shades of green that made the undergrowth and Elias looked at the room in awe.

“This is pretty,” he muttered as he continued to look around the space.

“I think it’d be perfect,” Neville walked over and nonchalantly looked up at the magus. “I thought you were already married?”

“We are in the eyes of the Fae, but I wish to be married to her in the eyes of humans,” he looked at the young man out of the corner of his eyes. Neville said nothing but smiled widely as Elias continued to walk around the lush garden, a hidden gem in the snow. They remained in the space as he observed it for several minutes before deciding that it would be perfect for his needs.

“May I ask you a question?” Neville asked as he closed the large glass doors again.

“Alright,” Elias looked at him out of the corner of his eyes as they started to walk back to the castle.

“What kind of creature are you?” Elias took a deep breath as this question always came up.

“I am an ill conceived thing, neither human, spirit, nor fae,” he spoke slowly as they stepped under the shelter of the outer walkways. “Does that answer your question?”

“So you don’t know then?” Neville smiled, glad that Elias, even though very tall, walked quite slowly. He must be used to walking next to Chise and not outrunning her. “I’m sorry if my question was rude, I’ve just never seen anything like you.”

“No one has,” Elias frowned as they reached the door. “Don’t worry, you weren’t rude, I am asked far too often of my origin, unfortunately I am unaware of it,” he huffed.

“Well you’re amazing,” Elias looked down at him, his blond fringe bouncing as he stopped. “Thank you again for helping me today,” Neville smiled and offered his hand to shake. Elias looked down at it and nodded at it while keeping his hands firmly at his sides.

“I’m going to go back to the dungeons now, the class should be finishing up.”

“Of course, well see you later than,” he watched as Elias slowly melted into shadow. Neville looked down at the long horned red eyed shadow as it slipped down the halls and disappeared down the steps to the dungeon. “Wicked.”

XOXO

Elias slid under the door and into the full classroom, until he was behind Snape’s desk. “Severus, may I join you?” Snape flinched and looked down at the shadowy pool of Elias that was on the ground before he looked at the students.

“Yes, they are busy brewing, you should be able to materialize without many questions,” he answered, looking down at one of the papers that the class had turned in. Elias rose up into his blond glamour and took a seat in the stool that he had used before.

Elias looked over at Hermione and Chise, who sat brewing at the front of the class, Hermione was teaching Chise to cut and prepare the herbs properly and Elias smiled at them both. “Your apprentice is very good at this,” Elias whispered to Severus.

“Yes, she is,” he said, stifling a smile, but Elias saw the corner of his lip twitch as he watched her teaching Chise when to add the ingredients. “She will be a very accomplished potions mistress when she strikes out on her own.”

“You think she will leave you?” Elias whispered, and Snape looked over at him before standing to direct them into the small ingredient storage cupboard. Once the door was closed he looked at the magus with a sad smile.

“She is only my apprentice. As you know, they leave you when they are finished learning.”

“Yes, that is why Chise is also my bride,” he replied with a knowing nod.

“Yes, well,” he muttered as he pretended to look around, inventorying items as he shrugged.

“Chise has told me that being married still doesn’t mean that they will never leave,” he looked around at some of the odd-looking jars.

“Yes, that’s true, more for muggles, but still it does happen.”

“Does that mean that wizards are less likely to leave each other?”

“Well, there is more pressure for the witch to remain with the wizard, I think that the muggle way may be a bit better for woman,” he shrugged, and Elias looked at him thoughtfully.

“So that the wife may leave her husband? Why would she want to do that?”

“Many reasons,” Severus started, raking his hand through his long, black hair. “When I was growing up my father was… not a nice man. He would… treat my mother very badly.” He took a deep breath and looked up at the magus, “he was a muggle, but my mother still didn’t leave him, even though I really wished she had.”

“What did he do?” Elias asked, his quiet voice calm and patient. He wondered what could be so bad that someone would want to leave.

“He would drink, and he would…” Severus grimaced as he tapped his fingers on the shelf in front of him. “abuse her,” he whispered after several quiet moments. “I couldn’t defend her,” he sighed sadly. “If a wizard treats a witch like that, he doesn’t deserve her,” he gave a pointed look to Elias, who nodded firmly.

“I agree,” he replied, Snape looked down at his hands before taking a deep breath.

“Good,” he whispered, lifting his head and grabbing a jar of dried Billywig stings, then opening the door he headed back to his desk. They stepped back into the classroom as the fourth years were cleaning their stations and leaving. “Miss Granger,” he turned to her as the last students made their way out. “You know how this potion is meant to look, please grade them and meet Elias and myself in the private labs when you’ve finished.”

“Of course, professor,” she nodded as he turned and walked through the office, down into their private labs. Elias quickly followed him down the stairs and found him placing the Billywig stings down before going to get a cauldron.

“We have the first two ingredients, the key ones, we need to create a base that will be best suited to accommodate their magical properties without taking away their benefits.” Severus worked quickly to set up a station and waited for the ladies to join them. Setting out many potions books to look up different bases with antidotal properties, the potion would essentially need to be made from scratch.

XOXO

“Alright,” Hermione turned to Chise after she cast a Scourgify to the cauldrons. “Are you ready to go?” She asked and Chise nodded, jumping down from the stool she had been occupying. They made their way through the office and down into the private labs.

“Flowing crimson blōd of the clipped winged babe,” Elias said, his skull remained uncovered from the red veil as he spoke with Severus. Chise noticed that he had removed his cloak and jacket and was now standing comfortably with his white shirt sleeves rolled up to his elbow. He still wore his gloves, but Chise couldn’t help but smile at how comfortable he appeared, almost like when they were at home together.

“It could be a great many things,” Severus started as he flipped through a potions book. “It could be in reference to a plant’s leaf juice or it could literal be blood.” He looked up and saw the women join them, “Hermione, can you think of a plant that has red secretion?” Hermione stopped to think for a moment when Chise looked over at Severus.

“Could it not be the dragon?” She asked, looking between Severus and Elias as they looked at her. “The dragon that I removed the magic from was no more than a baby,” she remembered sadly, the poor thing was so scared and alone.

“That would make sense,” Elias held out his hand to her, which she gladly took and joined him by the bench.

“Yes, it would,” Severus looked up at her. “Is the dragon still alive?”

“Yes, we returned him to master Lindel,” she said as Elias pulled her up to sit on the workbench beside him. “We would need to talk to him to ensure he would allow us to have some of the blood, but I don’t think he’d say no.”

“He will not say no,” Elias answered her sternly. “If that old coot wishes to see his granddaughter ever again he will not deny you anything Chise,” he gently pushed some hair away from her face to tuck behind her ear.

“Granddaughter?” Severus asked with a raised brow.

“Well, he looks at Elias like a son,” Chise laughed. “Ruth?” She looked down at her shadow and the grim materialized in front of her.

“Yes, Chise?”

“Could you go and get my bag? I believe I have a mirror in it,” Ruth quickly left the room.

“So then, ‘toe of an ancient’,” Severus began. “There are ancient plants but I’m not sure which one it could be referencing.”

“I believe I know,” Chise looked up at Elias and sighed. “If Cartaphilus is asking us to get it, then I would think that he literally means an ancient’s toe,” she shuddered a bit and then continued. “There is an ancient that he knows personally.”

“Chise, no,” Elias turned to her. “We are not going to work with that creature,” he spoke sternly.

“I know Elias, I don’t want to either, hopefully we can find another way.”

“We will have to,” Elias looked down at her with concern in his scarlet eyes. “He has done nothing but cause trouble—kidnapping you, then myself, then working to almost kill you. If I can help it, I would like to never see him again.”

“I know Elias, I believe he’s bored,” she said, raising a hand and running it along his jaw. Elias thought for a long while as Severus continued to look through his books for a good base.

“Am I not an ancient?” Elias asked, looking at her.

“You are possibly 300, he is thousands of years old, you’re a baby compared to him,” he huffed indignantly at her as she continued. “Though you act much older than that trickster,” she added to placate him. Elias stood still as Ruth brought in Chise’s bag and she hopped down from the counter to rifle through its contents. She pulled out a large jagged mirror and balanced it on a counter against the wall.

She closed her eyes as green light began pulsing around her, little leafy tendrils surrounded the mirror, and then they heard a voice muttering something about reindeers.

“Master Lindel!”

“Chise! How are you my dear?” He answered happily as he moved the mirror to place it somewhere so they could clearly see where he was. Lindel stood outside in his robes, the beautiful site of the water gully made Chise smile as he spoke to her.

“I’m well master Lindel, I was wondering if I could ask you a favour?”

“For you, my dear, of course,” he smiled at her as a small dragon came up and cuddled under his arm.

“The dragon that I contracted the curse from, is he still with you?” Lindel’s face fell as he looked at her.

“Yes Chise, but why do you ask?”

“I was wondering if we could come and collect a small amount of his blood, we are trying to create a potion that will remove the curse,” his face lit up into a bright smile.

“Really?” He asked happily and Chise moved aside so he could see the small lab and the people within it. Severus and Hermione waved weakly at him and he laughed as he waved back. “In that case, of course, and wonderful to see you have others that can help you,” his face became one big smile as his blond hair blew gently in the snowy wind.

“We will do everything we can,” Hermione assured the smiling man.

“You’re a witch, yes?” Lindel asked, leaning closer to the mirror.

“Yes.”

“Wonderful, I was so sad when Chise said that the college was unable to help rid her of the curse, I am very thankful you can help her.” Lindel then looked at Chise, “Chise, when would you like to come and collect the blood?” She looked around at the others and thought for a moment.

“We are coming home on Saturday, could we come and see you Sunday morning?”

“Of course,” he turned to look at something and then brought his attention back to the group. “I’ll send Gui for you, she will be eager to see you again.”

“Thank you so much, I look forward to seeing her again,” Chise smiled.

“Well then I will see you on Sunday, tell that child of yours I said hello,” he chuckled and then Elias stepped closer so he could see him.

“Hello old man,” Elias sounded amused as he looked down at the mirror. “Thank you for collecting us.”

“Of course, I’ll see you all on Sunday,” he smiled, and then the vision on the mirror slowly wobbled and disappeared.

Chapter Text

Bottles clinked together gently as Hermione’s hand reached for one on an upper shelf, the ingredients list for the bases they decided to try was clutched in her left hand. Her nimble fingers pushed aside a bottle in the front to see an older bottle behind it filled with shimmering liquid, the label was very old and fraying at the edges. She held it up to the light and after confirming it was the Nux Myristca she was looking for, it was added to the small basket she had slung around her elbow.

She was midway up the ladder in the small ingredients cupboard when Severus found himself frozen at the door; his lips parted around his suddenly dry mouth, taking in the gorgeous sight. Her robes were piled on one of the shelves and her muggle skirt was flowy and butter coloured. As she bent forward, the ladder adjusted with a harsh creak and he instinctively went to steady it, only to find himself eye level with her bum.

“Thanks,” she grabbed a jar of goosegrass and looked down to see who had caught her. Their eyes met and she smiled down at him as she stepped down the ladder slowly. Pressing herself against him as she descended, facing the ladder. She relished in the fact that he never let go until she was on the bottom step, “like my skirt?” she whispered flirtatiously as she set down her basket, looking over her shoulder and he cleared his throat anxiously as he stepped away from her.

His heart was thundering in his ears as she lifted her flouncy skirt just a bit, bringing attention to it, showing the soft curve of the back of her knee. The fabric cascaded like a waterfall over her lovely bum, falling gently in the cleft between the globes, and making his Adam’s apple bob nervously as he swallowed.

“I’m not looking forward to riding on a dragon,” Hermione let her skirt fall and brought his attention back to her, his eyes flicking up to meet hers before she continued, “I’ve never enjoyed of flying.” He knew she’d ridden a dragon before, thestrals and brooms, but it seemed she wanted to play the damsel in distress. He found himself leaning forward and wrapping his arm firmly around her waist, as if to steady her, his lips meeting the shell of her ear. He involuntarily licked his lips, his tongue skimming against her ear as he did

“What if I hold you tightly so you can’t fall?” His velvety baritone voice seemed to wrap around her insides, and she smiled as her stomach fluttered. She reached up and held onto his arms as she leant her head back onto his strong shoulder. His breath caught as he looked down to see the top of her breasts peeking through the loose neckline of the pale blue shirt.

“Then I might feel a little bit safer,” she breathed, looking over her shoulder and placing a gentle kiss on Severus’s chin.

“And if we fall, I can fly without a broom, so you have nothing to worry about,” he smiled salaciously down at her as she pressed herself more fully against him. Happily he pushed his nose into her curly locks, breathing in the heavenly scent of violet, vanilla musk, and Hermione before his lips fell to the soft flesh between silken neck and shoulder, leaving little kisses up to just behind her ear. She pushed away just enough to turn in his arms and face him. Hermione ran her fingers along his cheeks and pushed the raven hair out of his face before gently kissing the end of his nose.

“Well in that case… I’ll feel a lot safer,” he leant in and kissed her reverently; their arms wrapped around each other, gently stroking down her back as she ran her fingers through his hair. Her kisses suddenly left his lips as they trailed over his cheek and down his chin, until they reached the delicate surface of his scar and he gasped as she gently suckled the sensitive flesh. His arms became tighter as he felt her pushing the first button of his frock coat out of its hole. His left hand dislodging itself from around her lovely waist to run itself gently up her knee and around her thigh, slowly lifting it until it was pinned to his hip.

Groaning, he rocked forward against her and she pushed back to smile at him; eyes shining as she gently bit her bottom lip and giggled. Her sweet laugh was like a tinkling song around them and he stopped moving to look into her tawny eyes as she wrapped her arms around his neck.

“I’m sorry,” he breathed. “I seem to be having trouble with control around you,” she smiled wide as he whispered to her and he couldn’t help but smile back. Suddenly her other leg was wrapped around him and she was balancing precariously on the ladder.

“Agreed,” she whispered into his ear as she pulled him flush against her and nibbled on his lobe. “But I trust you,” he felt invigorated as he buried his face in her neck and felt her hips undulate against his ever-increasing interest. Forgetting where they were—or simply no longer caring—he ran his hands up her thighs, lifting her skirt up to her hips and taking hold of her round bottom as his lips met hers once more. Her nimble fingers had already undone all of the buttons of his frock coat and before he’d realised it, she was halfway through unfastening his shirt. Her hands rushed over his newly exposed skin, leaving goose flesh in their wake and she moaned into his mouth as he rocked against her more urgently.

He heard a door slam, followed by a bolt lock and jumped as he looked up and saw her; wand pointed at the door. “Such a clever witch,” he whispered before she began tugging at his belt buckle, quickly pulling it free and setting it on a low shelf. This was happening, right here and now, and he wasn’t sure if he was terrified or so excited he felt lost.

“They say,” she said between kisses. “That I’m… the smartest witch… of my age.”

“Who’re they? The wizards?” His nervous chuckle was quickly silenced as she ran her fingers over his clothed length.

“That was a bad joke,” she smiled, a bit surprised by his apparent nervousness. “But I’ll let it slide,” She lowered herself from the ladder to take down his trousers slowly. She peaked up at him just before pulling them and his pants down, his breath was held, his eyes firmly shut. He fought to keep his hands from shaking as she knelt at his feet and he tried to gather the courage to look at her.

She was silent, waiting for him to relax for so long that he hoped she wasn't having second thoughts. But when he finally opened his eyes, he saw unbridled lust darkening hers. She looked at him for a long moment before her tongue reached out and her lips wrapped around his touch starved flesh.

His breath stuttered as her pebbled tongue worked his frenulum like they were lost lovers finally reunited. He forced his eyes to stay open as she ran her fingers over every inch of his rigid length, working more into her warmth. The sight alone was enough to fuel his fantasies for a lifetime, but the feel of her had him begging he could make it last.

Her head started slowly bobbing and his mouth fell open to take a ragged breath as her hands began to move in sync. Her movements were so sure and confident that for a moment he wondered how many times she’d done this before. His fingers tickled into her hair, rubbing her scalp in what he hoped was an encouraging way. His eyes finally gave in and closed; all his focus was on the area connected to her as quiet expletives tumbled from his lips.

She looked up at him, eyes closed, mouth open, his breathing getting more erratic, and she marvelled at the effect she was having on him. One of his hands abandoned their tingly massage in favour of holding tight to the closest shelf.

A few moments later, he could feel the heat wrapping around his hips, screaming his need for release. All he could think about was how much her wanted to know her face as she surrendered to pleasure, to hear her in the throes of passion, he wanted it more than he wanted his next breath.

"Wait... please," he managed to rasp as he tugged at her shoulders to bring her back to standing. She looked up with wide, confused eyes.

“Is everything ok?”

“Yes,” he kissed her soundly, resting his forehead against hers as he whispered. “So much more than ok.” He’d only heard of one sure way to bring a woman pleasure and although he’d not had the experience he’d watched and read his fair share of... educational material. "Please let me taste you."

“You don’t have to,” she peeped and he looked down at her as her hands fiddled with each other nervously. “No one has – I don’t expect – ” his lips met hers as his hands skimmed down her body and undid her skirt to let it fall in a fluttering mass to the floor. Knowing that this first would be his to give, gave him a rush of confidence.

His fingers slipped into the sides of her knickers and as he tugged them down to join her skirt, the smell of her arousal met his senses. That smell that mixed so well with her perfume, one he had smelt so many times in her presence, made his heart leap as it confirmed her desire for him. She squealed as he lifted her back onto the ladder and lowered to his knees before her.

His hands slid along her thighs, encouraging them to open for him. His lips met the inside of her knee and he suddenly felt anxiety twist his stomach. It was a very a different thing to read or watch a souffle being made and making one yourself. His eyes looked up to see her as she shivered.

"Are you cold?" It was cold in their little niche, but she replied by capturing her bottom lip between her teeth and shaking her head. His feelings were bolstered further by her soft sighs as he gently nipped along her thigh. His tongue skating up until her breath hitched. The aroma of her need wafted to his sensitive nose, alighting something within him that had never been aroused.

Hermione looked down at him, self conscious of her most private place as he seemed to examine it at length. Then he tentatively kissed against the moist flesh before opening his mouth. The groan he emitted as his tongue dipped into the soft petals of her labia reassured her of his ardour.

She tasted of nothing he'd ever experienced—sweet and musky, tangy and perfect. His fingers moved along her smooth thighs as if they had a mind of their own, enjoying every inch of her as hastily as they could.

Her tight whimpers filled his ears as his hooked nose ticked back and forth against her clit and his tongue swept languorously through her silky flesh. He savoured her, drinking her in like a fine wine, enjoying every drop of lust that met his tongue. Hermione was breathing raggedly above him, and he let loose a needy moan to reverberate through her core. He would happily feast on her ambrosia until the end of time.

"Please, Severus... I need you," she panted, and he backed away for a moment to lick a long finger before watching it be slowly devoured by her sodden snatch. For a moment he was frozen, her warmth so distracting that he didn’t notice her watching him. He moved closer, his tongue moving up to stroke her swollen nub as his finger slipped deeper into her. Her hands leapt up and clung to the ladder as if her life depended on it. His finger slowly filled her quim, fumbling a bit for the spongy mass of nerves within; finding something that felt slightly bumpy and stroking hard against it. She couldn't breathe, overwhelmed by sensation as he continued at a faster pace.

Then he heard it. His name was falling from her lips like a gentle rain. Over and over, she repeated it, like a quiet song, like a promise. It swept over him, cleansing him, washing him clean. Breaking him down and rebuilding him in a way he couldn't understand. No one had ever said his name like that, like it was a cherished word, special and loved, and for once in his life he felt wanted, truly loved and accepted.

He watched her, every breath, every shudder, he absorbed them all in, appreciating each and revelling in them thoroughly. She was the most gorgeous thing he'd ever seen and as she blushed and trembled, his name still floating in the air around them, she became more than that, she became everything to him.

"Please don’t hold back Hermione," he muttered as clearly as he could before his lips closed around her clit to suckle hard on the pulsing nub. Their eyes locked a moment before her head fell back against the ladder and her hands dug almost painfully into his hair.

"Severus... unnhh!" He felt a trickle of warm liquid splash against his chin; smiling, he licked her clean as she screamed breathlessly. "Too much," she was pushing against his head, overwhelmingly sensitive and he rose, wiping his chin on his shirtsleeve. She barely saw the satisfied smirk on his face before their lips met. He kissed her hungrily, sharing the rich flavour he'd found, and her arms wrapped around him as her head fogged.

"You taste sublime," he whispered against her lips as he lifted her legs up and pinned them around his hips. His cock brushing her wet heat had him stifling a moan as he slowly edged the head within her, leaning back so he could see her face.

He suddenly paused, he wanted to ask if she was sure, if she really wanted their first time together to be in a glorified broom closet. But by the time the words found him, they disappeared as she dragged him forward with her feet hooked behind him. They both gasped as she gently pulled him until he was completely ensconced within her and he grabbed a hold of the ladder to regain some semblance of equilibrium. His eyes glazed and for once there were no thoughts bouncing around in his head. Everything was overcome by the feeling of being inside this tight, beautiful woman. His beautiful woman.

Severus’s right hand met her hip and gripped it tightly as he began to move within her slowly. Feeling the slow drag as he pulled back, his mouth falling open in rapture. He watched her face contort into the sweet expression of pleasure and her moans filled his ears, making him dizzy and focused at the same time. Something primal seemed to take over, he couldn't imagine anything feeling so overwhelmingly wonderful.

“You feel so good,” he groaned as his eyes tried to close, but he forced them open to see her pressing her breasts against him as she arched back against the ladder. His hand came up tentatively to unbutton her shirt, starting at her collar and then his other hand followed, he needed to see her, to feel every inch of her. She smiled and leant forward to unhook her bra from behind before she dropped her shirt and lacy bra to the ground. Hermione bit her lip as she looked up at him, nervously reaching up to glide her hands up his arms.

“Gorgeous,” he whispered reverently, and she immediately relaxed. Severus gripped her hips as he looked down to where their bodies connected. He moaned as he pulled out and thrust back into her. He hoped the ladder would continue to hold them as he set a slow rhythm. His hand slid up her soft body until it caressed over the swell of her breast; one long finger at a time he ran them across her nipple, and she gasped as he gently pinched the stiff nub between fore and middle finger.

She leant forward, running her fingers through his raven hair and bringing him in for a searing kiss that quickly devastated them both. One of his arms wrapped around her waist as the other held her thigh, pulling her knee higher under his arm. The feel of her soft breasts pressed against him was nearly overwhelming.

Her heart was hammering in her chest like it was trying to escape as rolling waves of electricity washed over her heated flesh. As he sped up, Hermione shuddered at the pleasure of his fervent pace and her legs began to tremble uncontrollably around his waist. His kisses moved from her lips down her neck as he laved and sucked on her tender skin.

“So good… so good… yes.. yes… yes…” she chanted as her hands desperately held onto his back. His teeth gently bit down and he growled a moment before her world shattered like glass exploding into shimmering stars.

“Severus!” She breathlessly cried out and her head fell back as she crumbled apart. He thrust as fast as he could to prolong her decent as his groans mixed with hers in the tiny space. His hands gripped her bum roughly as warmth overwhelmed his senses and her quim gripped him tighter than anything ever had. As Hermione's orgasm heightened, the soft, silky strangle of her pussy was too much. Severus felt a bolt of fire race down his spine, flooding his pelvis with heat. Her lips found his again and the feel of her holding him close and squeezing him exquisitely was enough for him to completely lose himself.

"Hermione," he moaned, nipping at her bottom lip. "Aaah… Fuck… Mine," Severus growled the final word against her mouth, fingers clawing at her hips, pushing in as deeply as he could as he released into her eager, trembling body. He stayed within her as they held each other, their panted breathes mingling between their touching faces.

“Wow,” she gasped breathlessly as her nose stroked along his cheek before she sat back to look at his face. He gazed into her sated amber eyes, her hair frizzier than normal, and her lips so pink and full from his kisses. His hand caressed along her cheek as she pushed herself forward. Holding him close as their lips touched in a tender buss. “I love you,” she whispered against his lips and he leant forward, touching his forehead to hers as he took her hands in his.

“And I you,” he breathed, so low she could barely hear him before his lips were on her once again. Her legs stayed tight around him, keeping him close.

To be touched, to be held, to be truly wanted, was more than he could have hoped for.

XOXO

Chise sat in Elias’s lap in one of Snape’s large armchairs, as he read to her. She sat up on his knee, leaning against him and peering down into her cup of tea as his voice rumbled through her chest. She couldn’t remember what he was saying as she continued to think about her cursed arm and was lost until he spoke to her directly, lifting her chin to look at him.

“Chise, are you alright?” She gulped suddenly, before taking a drink of her tea and nodding. “Are you sure, you were wearing a worried expression, is anything bothering you?” He turned his full attention to her as he closed the book and set it on a small table next to the armchair.

“No,” she said, taking another sip of her tepid tea. “I’m fine.”

“Chise, you know you can talk to me about anything?” He brushed the back of his fingers along her cheek, and she set down her tea on the coffee table.

“I’m sorry Elias, I guess I’m just…” she didn’t quite know how to put it. She thought for a moment, leaving them in an awkward silence for several minutes. “I’m worried,” she said finally.

“About what?”

“It doesn’t matter,” she forced a smile. “I’m fine, really,” she stood suddenly and walked into the bedroom. He quickly followed her, and as she tried to shut the bathroom door, he stopped her.

“Chise, it does matter,” he said as she backed away from the door to let him come in. There was a large bathtub behind her, and he walked past her to begin filling it with warm water. “Here, perhaps a bath will relax you,” he said, pouring in a small vial of something orange that stained the water a light sunny colour. Chise stood in front of the sink and watched him, debated whether to tell him as he turned to face her. “You can always talk to me Chise, but if you need time I understand,” he said honestly, and she reached out as he bent down to hug her.

“Thank you Elias, I appreciate you giving me time to collect my thoughts,” she smiled softly as he nuzzled her cheek gently. They stood still for a while as the sound of the tub filling became a lower pitch and Elias walked over to shut off the water. Chise pulled off her shirt and he stood back up, looking down at her. She gave him a relaxed smile as his hand slid over her cheek, then turned to look down at the bath. “Would you like to join me?” She asked, looking down into the water and gently worrying at her bottom lip, wondering what he would do.

“Would you like me to?” He asked, watching her closely. She nodded her head and turned to him as her hands came up and started unbuttoning his waistcoat. “Alright,” he helped by shrugging it off and draped it over the sink, it was quickly followed by his shirt and trousers as she removed her denims. He stepped into the bath and sat down, holding out his hand to help her in. She stepped in and sat on the opposite end with her knees pulled tightly to her as she adjusted to this new experience. They sat in silence for several minutes as she continued to worry at her lip, until he reached out and took her ankles, pulling them gently to his hips and she seemed to relax all at once.

“Thank you,” she puffed out an awkward laugh. “I wasn’t sure what to do,” she smiled at him as he ran his fingers over her feet, and she giggled when he met with her arch. The longer they relaxed, the happier she felt. Then she was playfully running her hand up and down his calf. The water was slowly cooling, and he waved his hands over it to rewarm it before reaching over to her and pulling her to sit between his legs. She tensed for a long moment before she started relaxing against him, his arms wrapped around her waist, cuddling her closer.

“Are you feeling better?” He asked softly, nuzzling his jaw against her cheek and she giggled, reaching up and running her hand along his row of teeth as she looked up and kissed his chin.

“Much better, thank you Elias.”

“Would you like to talk about what was bothering you?” He slowly ran his fingers up and down her arms in a comforting way. She took a deep breath, trying to contain a bit of laughter but failing horribly.

“I’m just worried about this,” she lifted her left arm up to show him that the black had crept another few centimetres across her chest. “It doesn’t hurt or anything, but I just don’t know what it’ll do if it keeps spreading,” she looked up at him over her shoulder. “I didn’t want to worry you, I know you’re probably more scared than I am about all of this,” she smiled as his hands gripped her biceps gently before resuming their travels up and down her arms.

“I do worry Chise, I worry about you all the time.”

“That’s what happens when you love someone, like if something were to happen to them then the whole world could end and you wouldn’t really care,” she laughed again and pushed herself back against him as she relaxed. “That’s how I feel about you,” she lifted her hand and made lazy circles on his thigh as his strokes became slower and his thumbs started copying her actions on her forearms.

“That’s exactly it,” he whispered, leaning down and licking her shoulder up the column of her neck to her ear and she giggled as she jumped happily.

“Elias?”

“Yes Chise?”

“What did you put in the bath?” She smiled up at him, knowing full well what he’d poured in.

“The happiness potion from yesterday,” he said sheepishly. “I was hoping it would relax you,” he nudged her ear as he spoke, and she shivered in the warm bath. “Are you cold?”

“No,” she lifted her hand to run it up his shoulder to his neck as she encouraged him to lower his face to hers. She licked up his row of teeth and he shuddered against her. “I thought so,” she giggled before turning in the bath to face him, still sitting in between his legs, she sat sideways to look up at him.

“Are you angry?”

“I literally can’t be,” she laughed brightly as her body shook from her mirth and he watched her, feeling a light bubbling feeling in his chest that seemed to tickle his lungs. His laughter mixed with hers, both reverberating off the tiled walls as they shook happily and he wrapped his arms around her to pull her close.

“I love you Chise, I’m glad you’re feeling better,” he chuckled as he licked her collarbone, down to her clavicle and then slowly he drug it up her neck until it was at her chin, but instead of jumping, she moaned. He leant back and looked down at her, intrigued. He decided to test it again and started a little lower at the top of her breast before dragging the wet muscle up over her shoulder and then along the side of her neck, her face scrunched, and she groaned louder as his tongue traced the shell of her ear. “Do you like that?” He whispered softly.

“Yes,” she giggled as her face went back to a beaming smile and she pushed his shoulder playfully. “Can’t you tell?” She laughed before leaning into him as he chuckled.

“I liked it too,” he said, softly running his left hand up from her elbow to her shoulder gently, and she sighed sweetly as she curled up into his chest. It didn’t take long for her to start softly snoring against him and his eyes upturned into little half-moons as he held her.

XOXO

Severus poked his head out of the storage closet first, his cravat was haphazardly tied around his neck and the bottom few buttons were still undone on his frock coat as he peeked around to see if anyone was in the classroom. When he determined that no one was around, he left, to be followed a few minutes later by a rather dishevelled but presentable Hermione, who couldn’t seem to stop blushing. Her arms were full of the ingredients they decided to bring as she turned the corner to walk back through the office into the sitting room.

XOXO

Elias was sitting in an armchair with a book when Severus came into the room. He sat down on the armchair next to him with the grace of a puma and a soft smile on his face. He noticed the unbuttoned bottom of his frock coat and began to rectify it as Elias looked over at him with a chuckle. Snape looked up at him sheepishly as Hermione walked passed them into Severus’s room to change for dinner, closing the door gingerly behind her.

“I feel the need to confirm my statement from the other day,” he spoke quietly as he looked at the now closed door. “When you’re… intimate… with someone that means something to you, it’s very fulfilling,” he smiled to himself and Elias outright barked with laughter at his comment. Severus looked over a bit affronted at the magus who seemed to be having trouble not laughing, “Are you alright?”

“Yes,” he chuckled. “I used some of the happiness potion you made yesterday, and it seems to be effecting me more than I thought it would.”

“I see,” Severus chuckled. “Where’s Chise?” Snape gave him an amused look as the magus continued to chuckle.

“Asleep, we had a bath with the potion, so she had a fit of giggles and then fell asleep,” he cleared his throat to try to reign himself in. Severus pulled out his pocket watch to check the time.

“We have about half an hour till dinner so we should probably wake her in a bit,” he said, and Elias nodded.

“Severus, could you help me with something?” He asked quietly. “I want to ask Chise tomorrow morning. I spoke with Neville and he showed me a greenhouse I can use, but I would like to be there when she arrives.”

“Would you like Hermione and me to bring her there?” Severus whispered, leaning forward conspiratorially.

“That would be preferable,” Elias nodded.

“Of course, we can help,” he smirked, clearly pleased to finally be trusted with a happy task. “I’ll tell her after dinner. Oh, speaking of, please don’t tell anyone about our… involvement, it may not be taken well by some,” he looked over at the magus sheepishly.

“Of course, I know that feeling,” Elias stood and walked over to open the bedroom door. Finding Chise giggling in her sleep. He nuzzled against one cheek and gliding his left hand over her other as her eyes opened, focusing on him with a smile.

“Elias,” she sighed, reaching around his neck and pulling him close.

“It’s time for dinner Chise,” he said softly in her ear. She nodded and then his fingers ran up the sides of her body, forcing a ticklish fit of laughter that filled the room and sitting room with her joyful sounds.

“I’m getting up!” She shouted through her happy tears as she tried in vain to push him away from her stomach, “Elias!” She continued laughing louder as he tickled her until she could hardly breath.

“Hey you two!” Hermione was at the door and then ran in and starting tickling Elias on his sides. He jumped away as fast as he could with such a booming chuckle that at first she was startled. Then noticing that Chise was regaining her composure and in silent agreement as they both jumped at him. Chise pulled him onto the bed and pinned him down as she and Hermione tickled him relentlessly. Severus stood in the doorway and watched this seven-foot fae creature being overpowered by two small women and couldn’t help but laugh with them all.

It was not long before the three on the bed were laughing so hard none of them could breathe properly and Snape leant against the door frame; tutting at them with a smile. He reached out and took Hermione’s hand, pulling her up and wrapping his arms around her as she giggled happily.

“Oh!” Chise sat up and looked at the two, casually embracing in front of Hermione’s wardrobe. “You never answered, are you able to, or… would you like to spend Christmas with us?” Severus looked down at Hermione as she smiled excitedly; he turned to Chise and nodded before resting his head on Hermione’s. He felt so free, so content, just holding the woman that made him so happy in the room with two people that he felt so at ease with; planning spending a holiday with them. It was such a stark difference to the year before that he couldn’t help but fear what might take it all away. He quickly tried to push that thought away before it wormed in too deep.

“Wonderful,” Chise stood as Elias sat up and phased into his human glamour.

“Dinner?” He asked Chise and she nodded, smiling at him. Hermione gave Snape a squeeze before pulling away from him and holding her arm out for Chise, who linked hers with it as the ladies left the room. Severus looked after them long after the door had closed until Elias stood and opened the door for them to follow.

XOXO

As soon as the door was closed Hermione hugged Chise with a huge smile on her face. Chise giggled and hugged her back before they started making their way up the stairs out of the dungeon.

“You and Severus seem cosy together,” Chise grinned.

“We um…” Hermione started, but Chise could tell what had happened by the blush as she covered her mouth to stifle her smile. “It was so different than last time,” she quickly looked around, making sure they were alone.

“How so?” Chise whispered conspiratorially as she looked around too.

“Well… um…” she tried to think how to say it. “It felt… wonderful,” Hermione sighed.

“How did it feel last time?”

“Urm… well,” she pulled out her wand and cast a Muffiato around them as they walked. “Awkward, a bit painful,” she peeked over at Chise as she spoke.

“It was painful last night,” Hermione’s eyebrows shot up at this confession.

“What happened?”

“Well…” Chise’s cheeks had gone almost as red as her hair as she took a deep breath. “His tongue is… bigger than I expected.”

“His tongue?!” Hermione hissed, her eyes as big as saucers before a curious smile lit her face. “Tell me everything.”

XOXO

Severus couldn’t seem to completely wipe the smirk from his face as he and Elias made their way to the great hall for dinner.

“You look relaxed uncle,” came a voice from behind them and Snape turned to see Draco walking briskly to catch them.

“Draco,” Snape snapped at his comment, knowing full well that the smirk on the young blond’s face was a teasing one. “What do you want?” Folding his arms over his chest he rose to his full height in front of his godson.

“No need to be hostile uncle, I only noticed that you’re a bit more happy than usual,” Malfoy winked at him before Severus turned away to continue down the hall. “You must be the magus,” Draco shuffled forward and held out his hand to Elias.

“I am,” Elias replied, making no move to shake his hand as he followed Severus down the hall. Draco gave a huff of laughter before walking in between the two tall men.

“Well, it’s nice to meet you too,” he tried not to sound put off by his behaviour. “Just so you know,” he whispered to Snape. “I went to your classroom earlier… don’t worry I won’t say anything,” he added as Severus stopped abruptly and turned towards him. “I just wanted to say that I’m happy for you,” he genuinely smiled at his godfather. “Even if it is Granger,” laughing, he continued up the hall ahead of the pair and vanished around a corner.

“Severus,” Elias put his hand on Snape’s shoulder, quickly gaining his attention. “If you would like, I can remove his memory of those details,” he whispered, and Severus looked questioningly at him. “I am very gifted with memory removal; I can remove only what he witnessed in your classroom and leave everything else intact.” Snape raised a brow at him and wondered if he had any talent in memory retrieval, then looked down the hall at the corner the head of Slytherin had just disappeared around.

“I don’t think he will share it with anyone,” he breathed, and Elias’s hand lowered back to his side. “He is my godson, I believe that I can hold him to his word,” he gave a half smile to Elias and then they made their way to the great hall. “Either way… I’ll let the headmistress know, just in case he can’t keep it to himself.”

Chapter Text

Dinner felt a bit awkward as Severus tried to wait for a good time to bring up his ‘relationship’ change and couldn’t bring himself to say anything until the food had disappeared. Not that he had eaten very much of it due to his flipping stomach. He kept glancing up at Hermione and whenever he did it was as if she could feel him because she kept looking back at him. His mind drifting back to the ingredients cupboard. He had to tell the headmistress before they carried on, anyone could have walked into his office or classroom and heard something. Wards… wards will need to be used in advance. It’s not like it was planned, he could feel his cheeks heating and hoped that he could get the conversation over as quickly as possible.

“Minerva,” Severus anxiously looked away from Hermione and over at the headmistress. “May I speak with you about something?”

“Yes, of course,” teacup in hand, she waited expectantly for him to continue.

“It’s of a… private nature. Would it be possible to speak to you… alone?”

“How about my office?” Minerva’s smile was borderline gleeful, and Snape was a bit discomforted, but nodded curtly as he stood. “Oh, now?” She placed her teacup down and stood. Elias watched them leave and looked back toward Chise, who was watching as Ginny enthusiastically regaled a story.

Severus followed McGonagall into the hall and stayed beside her as they approached her office but said nothing; she gave the password, and they scaled the elevating stairs. In fact, he said nothing until he was sat nervously in front of his old friend’s fireplace. She had been giving him a knowing look that made him uncomfortable and he wasn’t sure what she was expecting him to say.

“Well?” She started, sitting back in her chair and pulling a tartan throw over her lap, “what can I help you with Severus?”

“It’s about Miss Granger—”

“Is she alright?” Concern quickly draining the happiness from her face.

“Yes, yes, she’s alright, it’s nothing like that,” he waved at her dismissively. “It’s… a personal change, between Miss Granger and I that I feel you need to be aware of… especially with the Yule party being in a few days.” He warily looked up at her and she had once again adopted the knowing smirk from earlier. “You will see us dancing... and before any rumours come up, I wanted to make sure that you were aware.”

“Dancing isn’t anything odd Severus, I myself have danced with many people without any rumours popping up. It’s not as if that dreadful Skeeter woman has been invited.” They both shuddered at the thought and Severus’s fingers fidgeted, getting frustrated that he couldn’t simply allude to their relationship, but this was Minerva, she would wheedle it out of him even if he tried to veil it.

“We are… a couple now,” his eyes flicked to hers to gauge her reaction. To his surprise there was warmth there instead of the anger he had been anticipating.

“That’s nice Severus,” she leant forward and opened the small chocolate box that Hermione bought for her in Hogsmeade and offered one to him. “Is it serious?”

“I should say so,” his eyebrow rose, a bit affronted as he took a raspberry chocolate wrapped in foil and pushed it into his pocket.

“How serious?”

“Very,” he drawled, looking her in the eye and sitting up a bit straighter, feigning confidence in this uncharted situation.

“And… she feels the same?”

“Yes.”

“Well, in that case, I’m very happy for you,” a warm smile lighting her countenance. “It’s been a long time since anyone has made you happy, and I’m not the only one that thinks the two of you will do each other good.”

“You’re... not?” This was all too much; he gave an incredulous look, that to her meant he didn’t believe she thought he deserved to be happy.

“Of course not! In fact,” she leant in conspiratorially, “a few of us were betting how long it would take you to get together.” His jaw dropped and he stared at the amusement that was playing across her face. “So, how long?”

“What?”

“When did you get together?”

“This week,” she huffed at his words and looked into the fire.

“Longbottom won the pot,” her arms crossed indignantly, and he let out a soft chuckle at her annoyed look.

“Sorry to disappoint… what were you betting on?”

“Two weeks ago,” she dismissively waved her hand. “No matter.”

“Oh... well…” he pensively tapped a long finger to his chin. “Now that I think about it, we have been together for two weeks,” he smirked as she tittered happily.

“Such a Slytherin.”

“To be sure,” he rose and bowed his head. “Well, I’m going to go back and join the others,” he then turned and started towards the door.

“Say hello to your girlfriend for me,” she snickered when he froze mid-step; his head turned back to give her a look between embarrassed and insulted. Then, in a flurry of his teaching robes he billowed from the room without another word on the matter.

Chest a bit lighter, he made his way back to his friends and for lack of a better word… his girlfriend. The word made him uncomfortable, and he hoped she had a better name for them, because the thought of being her ‘boyfriend’ like some insipid boy, made him cringe.

XOXO

When he re-entered the great hall, Elias was standing and speaking with Neville at the head table. Severus walked passed him and down to the Gryffindor table to stand behind Hermione. Chise grinned up at him as she nodded towards him, so Hermione would turn around. “May I speak with you a moment?” He drawled nonchalantly, and then without waiting for her reply he turned and walked out of the great hall into the atrium by the stairs. Chise laughed at the huge smile Hermione gave her before she followed him out of the room.

Chise watched Elias talking with Neville, deep in conversation. From the look on his face, it was something vaguely serious and she tried to speculate what it could be. There was almost no one left in the hall, so she made her way over to the pair, only to hear Neville shush Elias before she could hear anything that the two were saying.

Ruth watched as she made her way over to them and wondered if he should try to find somewhere else to be once they went back to the dungeons. Perhaps back to the library? He had enjoyed looking through their massive collection of books. He quickly made his way to join them.

Elias tried to appear impassive, but his eyes always gave him away, especially in his glamour, but the look on Neville’s face had her wondering what was going on. He looked a bit nervous but excited at the same time.

“Chise,” Elias said warmly to her as she stood next to them. “Finished eating dinner?” She looked up at him as she cocked her head a bit, as if trying to find the answers to the universe in his eyes. She could tell he was getting nervous as he placed his hand on her shoulder.

“Yes, I just finished,” the three stood in silence for what felt like ages. Neville looked a bit like he would burst, his cheeks were very red, and his lips were tight trying not to smile. “Are you alright?”

“Yes… fine,” he managed before he nodded to Elias. “Well, I’ll be off to the library, always plants to study. See you all later.” He gave Elias one last look before he smiled down at Chise and quickly made his way out of the hall.

“Could I join you?” Ruth asked and Neville smiled with a nod.

“Yes, of course,” Ruth followed with a wave to Chise before rushing to keep up with Neville’s long legs as he closed the connection to her. No intention of finding out what they got up to, but happy that they might finally get on with it.

“What was that about?” She stepped in front of him and held the hand he offered her.

“What do you mean?” Elias looked down at her with an expression he hoped looked innocent, but Chise wasn’t convinced.

“Elias,” she began but he leant down and placed a finger against her lips.

“I promise to tell you tomorrow,” he whispered, and she smiled as he removed his gloved hand from her mouth to gently rub her cheek. “Will that suffice?”

“Yes, I can live with that.”

“Good, shall we go to the sitting room then?” He held out his arm for her to take and she wound her hand into his elbow crease.

“Excellent idea.”

XOXO

Hermione walked into the atrium to find Snape waiting for her, sitting on one of the steps that led to the upper floors. He looked up at her with a somewhat pained expression and she folded her hands in front of her, a bit defensively as she walked over to him. He patted the step next to him and she sat, waiting patiently for him to speak.

“What would you call me?” His question confused her, and she looked up at him silently to see if he would continue. When he didn’t, she worried at her bottom lip before giving an answer.

“Well, I would call you Severus… Professor Snape, or sir… sir,” she looked over at him to see if that was the answer he was looking for and he ran his hand through his hair.

“That’s not what I meant…” he pushed his hair out of his face and looked over at her with a small smile tugging at his lips. “I mean… you wouldn’t call me your boyfriend, would you?” Her nose crinkled as she smiled, trying to stifle a laugh.

“Boyfriend? In case you didn’t realise this… you’re not a boy, Severus,” she thought for a moment and then shrugged. “I haven’t really thought about it before... I’m just happy you feel the same way I do.” At that he wrapped his arm around her and pulled her closer, happy that the students were either already in their dorms or eating pudding. “What would you call me?”

“I’m honestly not sure,” He kept an eye on the great hall door, watching for students. “Minerva called you my girlfriend... but that just sounds weird to me.”

“You told McGonagall?”

“Well… yes. She will see us together at the party,” he looked down at her. “I’m going to dance with you, I’m going to be near you... I don’t want to hide how I feel for you—” her lips urgently met his and he froze in shock at her sudden assault. He kissed her back for a moment before pulling away, “Hermione, I’m a teacher.” He chuckled, looking around to make sure no one could see them. He stood and held out his hand for her before leading her towards a portrait that he quickly pulled aside, revealing a secret corridor. He ushered her in quickly when he saw Neville and Ruth leaving the hall. Before the portrait had fully closed, his lips were on hers again as he pulled her towards him, pressing her against the wall.

She pushed off the wall behind her, pushing him against the adjacent wall and flicked out her wand as she fell to her knees. A quick sticking charm for the portrait and a Muffiato for sound, and then she suddenly felt the ground go soft under her knees. She looked up and Snape was watching her intently, his wand pointed beneath her. “Thank you,” she blushed with a shy smile as she pulled his belt open and started working at the buttons. She pulled him out into her hand within moments and he felt everything in him tense as she slowly held him. Her lip was sucked into her mouth in an almost innocent way as she stroked him to iron.

His head fell back as her tongue connected with his length and he wasn’t sure what to do with his hands as they attempted to grasp at the stone wall behind him. She let out a soft sigh and he looked down to find his gaze meeting hers, she seemed inordinately pleased that he was watching her. Oh… my god… The way she looked at him was sinful, decadent, her eyes seemed hazed with lust and it made his heart race.

She pressed her tongue flat to the underside of his cock and firmly slid him along it until he felt the back of her throat and back up again, swirling around his tip at the top of each stroke. Her lips softly enveloping him in warmth as her hand pumped in time with her mouth, making him moan. His hands reached for her, softly he insinuated his fingers into her curly mane and gently rubbed her ear with one hand while the other lightly slid down her neck as his thumb stroked her blush-stained cheek. His affectionate touches sent little tingles over her scalp and down her back as she hummed. Gradually she sped up until he was hunching over, trying to keep standing, his legs trembling beneath him.

She was gorgeous and completely enraptured his entire attention, his Hermione, his everything. Her other hand came up to fondle his balls and entirely too soon he could feel the warmth around his pelvis reaching the point of boiling. He tried to nudge her back, but she batted his hand away and continued at a more feverish pace, watching him keenly.

“Fuck… Hermione… ahhh… yes,” his soft growl sent chills down her spine as she watched his face contort in passion a moment before she felt his essence burst onto her tongue. She kept eye contact with him as she swallowed the thick, creamy ropes inelegantly, and his eyes widened as she did. Severus pulled her up to him and kissed her reverently, worshipping her tingling lips with a tenderness he showed no one. “You are the most wonderful thing that’s ever happened to me,” his ardent whisper made her smile as she held him close. She grinned when he reached down to conceal himself again as he righted his clothing.

“I feel the same,” she whispered. She adored how gentle he was with her, so different from past experiences that could be easily forgotten now that his face covered in the expression of ecstasy was etched in her mind. She held him tighter and beamed as his hands gently ran up and down her back. She knew then that she wanted to do everything with this man, she wanted to be herself and try all the things she’d read about. She wanted to give him every part of herself.

“Oh,” he leant back so he could see her; his face was suddenly serious. “If anyone asks... we’ve been together for the last two weeks.”

“Ok… why?” He looked a bit embarrassed at the question.

“Because if you don’t, then Longbottom will win the pot…” he felt his cheeks heat a bit. “They were betting how long it would take for us to… get... together.”

“Seriously?”

“Yes…” He was afraid she’d be angry and watched her expression; she laughed softly at first but then she doubled over laughing harder.

“Really?! Well at least we know they don’t mind us being together,” she grabbed his hand and then waved her wand, releasing the spells she had set up so they could walk back out into the hall.

XOXO

“Would you like to explore a little?” Chise asked, peeking up at Elias through her eyelashes. He looked down at her with a sideways smile and stopped walking.

“Which way my love?” She looked the way they would normally go and then pointed down another hallway. They made their way at an easy pace down the hall, the lanterns seemed to light for them as they made their way and ceased when they were no longer needed.

“The magic here is wondrous.”

“It is,” Elias agreed as they met another T junction and he looked down at Chise, who was debating slowly before pointing to the left and they made their way again. They entered a room that was full of staircases and chose to go up, but as they stepped on the stairs they began to shift under them and turned to lead them to another door. Elias looked down at her with some trepidation, but when he saw the awe that was on her face, he relaxed.

After the next set of hallways, neither of them knew where they were any more, but then Chise saw a dark alcove and tugged Elias into it.

“What are you doing?”

“Trust me,” her smile was bright, and he followed her willingly. “Hermione told me a story earlier, about what the teens here get up to in the shadows of the castle,” once they were in the small space she urged him to lower to one knee, to close the foot and a half height difference. As soon as he was within reach she leant in, wrapping her arms around his neck and locking his lips with hers. His surprise was quickly transformed to delight as he kissed her back, shuffling forward, he pinned her against the wall.

“What kind of things Chise?” His whispers were husky as he stayed only a hairsbreadth away from her lips. Their eyes met and she bit her lip coyly before looking into the lit hallway to make sure no one was there before she lifted her right leg and swung it over his bent knee. He looked down as his eyebrows lifted and a smile quirked his lips up salaciously. “I see,” she found her world consumed by his lips as he pushed himself firmly against her. She moaned softly as she ground herself against his thigh, the thrill of being in the open adding to the already exciting situation.

She undulated against him again as his hands moved from around her waist down over her curvy hips until they were resting on her firm bottom. She whimpered, her hot breath coasting across his cheek. He found himself growing obsessed with that sound, he wanted to hear it again. He pulled her forward on his thigh, imitating the movement she was doing before, and was rewarded for his efforts with a soft moan against his lips. Their kisses became more fervent, more urgent as his hands moved her forward and back at a steady pace, making both of them breathe harshly.

Chise felt herself flush and she wanted to be nearer to him, her hands unbuttoning his waistcoat before starting on his shirt. As soon as she had the first few buttons open she dove down to lavish his flesh with attention. Her fingers joined once his shirt was open and rushed over his muscled torso as her tongue ran down his neck toward his clavicle, taking time to lave the divot before moving down to his pecks, she was glad he had nipples in his human glamour. She latched onto one and heard his breath catch before he pulled her forward until her thigh was touching against his solid hardness, making them both gasp and she sat back to look in his eyes.

They were glowing through his human facade and she smiled, loving seeing this increasingly familiar sight. It made her heart race, and a tingling throb ran through her to her core as his eyes burrowed into hers. His eyes slowly fluttered closed as he smelt her intoxicating scent drift up to him, his hand urged her button open and dove into her denims, past her knickers as his fingers dipped to flick and stroke her swollen bud before diving down until he could push one up into her wet heat. She whimpered and bit her lip to keep quiet as Elias thrust in and out of her deeply until her head fell back against the wall. He groaned before pulling it out and lifting it to his mouth to lave his finger with his small pink tongue. His eyes opened, his irises red and bright as they met hers and the heat in the air around them turned to a blaze.

His jaw was slack, and he looked desperate before he dove in to capture her mouth. Running his tongue along hers as her fingers slid down his chest and plucked playfully at his nipples. “Chise!” he growled, not bothering to form the words with his mouth so he wouldn’t have to part with her soft lips. She moaned louder than intended as one of his hands glided under her shirt to cup her breast.

“You two are going to be in sooooo much trouble,” Chise’s eyes shot down to see a large cat with huge golden eyes licking her whiskers teasingly. Elias took the opportunity to run his tongue from the bottom of her throat to her chin.

“Who are you?” Chise hissed anxiously.

“Mrs. Norris, and my daddy is going to get you,” she tittered as Elias looked down at her and bared his long sharp teeth. Her tale swished back and forth tauntingly.

“Go away,” Elias growled, then they heard footsteps coming up the hallway.

“Who’s down there?” They heard the voice and Elias waved his hand over her denims to re-button them. He kissed her once more before sinking down into her shadow. She felt flustered and tried to pull her hair back up into her ponytail, not having realised that he had pulled it free. She stepped out of the alcove and saw a tall balding man that looked grumpy.

“Hi, I’m lost,” she ventured, hoping he would believe her. “I’m the visiting magus and I was trying to get to the dungeons, but I think I took a wrong turn.” Filch laughed mirthlessly and stepped closer to her, clearly seeing how red her cheeks were.

“I heard something that doesn’t happen alone miss…”

“Hatori.”

“Where’s your friend?” He shined his lantern into the alcove she had stepped out of with a ‘hah!’ and was disappointed that no one was there.

“My friend?” She looked up at him innocently, putting her hands in her denim pockets, “there wasn’t anyone with me.”

“Yes, there was,” Mrs. Norris hissed, Chise’s eyes whipped over to hers and she shook her head at the cat as she stepped toward Chise. A paw began batting ineffectually at her shadow, but the man seemed not to notice.

“Right, well,” disappointment covered his features, turning his sneer into a grimace of irritation. “The dungeons are nowhere near here.”

“I can take her there Filch,” came a voice from behind her and she turned to see the welcome face of the blond wizard. “I was just heading there myself, Chise,” he turned to her and offered his arm. “Shall we?” She took his arm and smiled at the older man that now looked like she’d shoved an Umeboshi into his mouth.

“Stupid kids… can’t even send them to detention…” He stalked past them muttering to himself.

Chise waited until Filch had turned the corner before looking up at Draco, “thank you, I wasn’t sure what he was going to do.” Then looking down at her shadow she released Draco’s arm, “Elias, I think it’s safe now.” Elias materialized into his refined form behind Draco, who looked up at him with a smile.

“We meet again,” he chuckled.

“Thank you, my name is Elias.”

“Pleasure to officially meet you, I’m Draco Malfoy.” Elias pushed his red veil over his skull and nodded at him. “Shall we?” Draco motioned in the direction they needed to go and offered his arm as Elias went to Chise’s other side and also offered his arm for her. She blushed and took Elias’s, laughing in her head about not wanting to look like Dorothy, skipping down the yellow brick road in Oz as they walked down the hall. “Fair enough,” Draco bowed his head and then they began walking in the direction indicated. “You two are far away from the dungeons, how did you get all the way up here?”

“Well…” Chise’s blush grew redder as she thought of an excuse.

“We were exploring a bit, a stroll before bed,” Elias offered, and Chise nodded in agreement.

“Lovely night for it,” Draco said, trying not to laugh. “I don’t actually need to go down there, my rooms are near the headmistress’s as I’m her apprentice, but I’ll take you close enough to get there,” they turned the corner back into the room with the moving stair cases. He looked at the stairs as they shifted randomly and he pointed to one, “you’ll need to take this one, it’ll swing around in a moment.” They waited for the one that currently was in front of them to swing away before the indicated flight swung into place. “Take this one down, and then follow the hall to your right, you’ll see the spiral stairs I’m sure you’re both familiar with now.”

“Thank you Draco,” Chise smiled as she urged Elias down the stairs.

“Of course, if you need anything, just let me know. I’m sure Snape can point you in my direction,” his smile was wide as he bid them goodnight before disappearing back through the door.

Once they were in the familiar hallway Chise looked up at Elias sheepishly, “I’m sorry.” He looked down at her quizzically.

“For what Chise?” His confusion was endearing, and she smiled up at him.

“We almost got caught,” she muttered, looking around to make sure they were alone and then Elias stopped and bent over until his snout was next to her ear.

“I told you, I’ll never regret anything I do with you, my love,” he punctuated his comment by giving her a soft nuzzle on her cheek, which she happily leant into.

“It was fun,” she breathed, and he nodded before licking the end of her nose playfully. Her arms wrapped around his strong shoulders and he picked her up so her face was just next to his. She leant in, throwing his veil back over his horns and kissed his cheekbone up and down the ridge of his long nose.

They made their way down the spiral stone steps down into the dungeon as she continued to plant increasingly wet kisses along his warm bone until they were in front of the door. He leant down and turned the handle, happy that the wards allowed them entrance into the small sitting room.

Snape smirked up at them from the sofa as they came in, he sat next to Hermione, their hands between them. Their pinkie fingers linked them innocently as they read separate books. Elias sat down in the armchair and perched Chise on his knee, pulling her into his chest.

“What were you two up to?” Severus asked, trying to sound nonchalant but smirking a little too much to not give him away.

“Oh, just exploring,” Elias supplied as his fingers made small circles on Chise’s thigh. “Doing what the students do,” as he said it, Chise’s face flushed a bright red and Snape chuckled. Draco had flooed him from the library fireplace, letting him know how he found them.

“Elias, I wanted to give you something, could you come with me to the labs?” He set down his book and stood.

“Of course,” Elias picked up Chise and set her down on the armchair. Hermione waited until the pair had closed the door to the office before she smiled knowing at Chise.

“What students do?”

“Well… our conversation gave me ideas,” she blushed as she picked up a random book and pretended it had her attention as she suppressed a smile.

XOXO

Elias followed Severus into the lab as he rushed to the other side of the room to pick up a vial of purple liquid and walked back to him with a stifled smile. “If you’re going to do what the kids do, you should probably have her take this,” he handed the vial to Elias, who held it up to the light and looked at it softly swirl.

“What is it?”

“It’s a contraception potion.”

“I don’t even know if I can…” Elias stopped talking, he’d not thought of this subject before and didn’t like the squirming feeling in his chest. He raised his hand to try to placate the feeling, but it seemed to only get worse.

“Are you ready to find out?” Severus could see the fear in the magus’s eyes and tried to think what to say. “Oh!” He suddenly thought of the hospital wing. “We can ask Madam Pomfrey to run a diagnostic on you, she’ll be able to tell you if it’s possible,” the friendly smile on his face was reflected in Elias’s eyes.

“That would be a good thing to know,” Elias’s voice was soft but laced with a bit of trepidation at the thought of whether or not he could give Chise a child… If she even wants one with me.

“We can ask her tomorrow afternoon, I’ll go with you if you like,” Snape offered, seeing his downcast look.

“Thank you Severus, you’re a good friend,” he placed his hand on Snape’s shoulder and patted twice.

“Of course,” he replied, he couldn’t even remember the last time someone called him a friend, let alone a ‘good friend’ and he was having trouble hiding the joy that sentiment brought him. “So, the way these work she will need to take them every seven days, but I recommend every six so she’s protected on the day the potion is at its least potent.” He motioned to the vial before he froze, eyes wide, his mouth suddenly felt very dry as he thought.

“What is it?”

“I… I need to speak with Hermione,” he suddenly turned and practically ran from the lab back up to the sitting room.

XOXO

“You spoke to Mrs Norris?” Hermione’s mouth gaped and Chise shrugged.

“The ones I have spoken to before acted like all magic users could.”

“Maybe it’s a mage thing,” her brow furrowed in thought as she tried to understand why mages could but witches and wizards couldn’t. “What did you say to her?”

“She said she would get us in trouble with her ‘daddy’ and the grumpiest man I’ve ever seen followed her. Elias jumped into my shadow and luckily, Draco came to the rescue,” Hermione leant forward and smiled as the door to the office opened quite quickly, startling the two woman.

“Severus, you scared us,” Hermione froze when she saw how pale his already pallid face was. “Are you alright?” He walked over to her and barely lifting his arm, pointed to the bedroom.

“Could I speak with you a moment?” He looked over at Chise, who was eyeing them confused. Hermione stood up and walked with Snape into the bedroom. As the door closed, Elias came back into the sitting room and lifted Chise back into his lap as he sat and cuddled her close to him.

XOXO

“Is everything alright?” Hermione gave Snape a slightly alarmed look as he began pacing around the room.

“Hopefully,” he stopped and placed his hands on her shoulders. “Hermione, did you possibly take a contraception potion before we… you know?” She immediately sighed, a small relieved smile lifting her features.

“Of course, I’m your apprentice, I’ve been taking them weekly since I moved into the room next to you,” she winked and he pulled her to him, holding her tightly as he took a deep breath.

“Good,” he kissed her forehead and then leant back. “Really? Since you moved in here?” She looked up to see his cheeks were tinted with pink and wasn’t sure if he was getting his colour back or if he was blushing.

“Of course, a girl can be hopeful,” she pushed up on her toes and kissing him softly before he leant down and kissed her back.

“Such a naughty witch,” he whispered, and she grinned wickedly before pressing her mouth to his ear.

“Does that mean I get a punishment?” His head snapped away from her and the look she gave him made all the blood rush southward.

“Gods yes,” he growled, pulling her flush against him and ravishing her mouth.

XOXO

“I don’t think they’re coming back out,” Chise laughed as she heard rustling from the other side of the door. “Shall we… go to bed?” She looked up at Elias and winked. It took all of three seconds for him to lift her up and throw her on the bed as he closed the door. He moved forward, their eyes locked as he melted back into his glamour and she gave a pout.

“I’m sorry Chise, but I love kissing you,” he unbuttoned his waistcoat and threw it to the ground before unfastening his shirt and pulling it off, letting it land next to his waistcoat.

“Well okay,” she huffed as he crawled on top of her. Before his lips met hers, she leant up and whispered. “Your kisses are nice… but I love your tongue.” She loved the blush that swept over his features and the red tinge to his hazel eyes.

“Well before that…” he moved to straddle her thighs, working quickly to tug open her denims before dragging them down to join the other clothes on the floor. “I believe we were interrupted,” his voice was gravelly and his smile was more roguish than she’d ever seen. She gasped before he threw one of her legs over his hip and she squeezed his offered thigh between hers.

Her fingers rushed over his strong chest and she bit her lip. His left hand reaching down to take hold of her bum, moving it like they had in the alcove. He was leaning on his right elbow to not crush her and was getting frustrated that she was still wearing her top, in an act of brazen hope, he allowed a vine without thorns to escape his skin and push its way up under her shirt. She moaned as it smoothly ran around and massaged her breast. Closing his eyes for a moment, he felt through the vine; feeling the pliable flesh move easily against it as his hand gently urged her to rock her hips. He needed to touch more of her, he opened his eyes and released another vine to run up around her torso before snaking its way around her other breast. Her hips were rocking on their own now as she moaned loudly.

“Elias!” she cried out as he moved his hand from her hip to the front of her mound. She gave him a pleading look and he froze, trying to figure out what she was asking for. “Please don’t stop,” she huffed, pulling his shoulders down to her so she could kiss him. His fingers moved to play at the front of her knickers, he needed them off her now, another vine crept out and hooking around one side, snicked it free from the other. He ripped them away and reached down to feel how wet she was.

His eyes were glowing bright red, and his teeth were getting sharper by the minute as he felt her writhing below him.

“Chise, I need to know you want this,” his voice was deep and rasped as he tried to hold himself back. She looked up at him, her eyes glassy with need as she nodded her head yes. He groaned as a vine slithered over the edge of the bed until it found his crumpled pile of clothes to pluck the vial out of his waistcoat pocket and bring it to him. He took it from the frond and looked down at her, trying to steady his voice. “You need to drink this,” she looked up at him in confusion and he hoped that he hadn’t spoilt the mood, but to his surprise, she blushed brightly.

“Is that a contraception potion?”

“Yes.”

“I kind of… already took one,” her smile was gorgeous, and he threw the vial at the pillows before leaning down and kissing her eagerly. Passionately they explored each other’s mouths, his fingers diving into her hair to tug it free from its band. His body reared back unexpectedly and transformed; no longer able to keep the glamour and she cheered at the change. He ran his now much longer tongue over her neck and pulled at her shirt to get it off her. Chise arched into his vines as they encircled and massaged her breasts and she felt more wrapping around her thighs.

Her shirt was removed and then he could see the intoxicating sight of his vines squeezing her flesh through her cotton bra. He loosened their hold on her globes as he tentatively tugged at the fabric, she smiled and sat up a bit; unhooking her bra, she threw it above her, off the side of the bed. His vines excitedly swept their way back to her and he desperately wished he had lips so he could suck on the little pink buds. Next time…

He shifted down until his face was in front of his goal. The smell of her wound around his brain as he leant forward and lapped greedily at her nectar, his large hands holding her thighs up so he could enjoy her completely.

“Elias,” she whimpered and he opened his eyes to see her leaning up and staring at him, a bright blush colouring her cheeks. She held her hands out to him and he lifted up to drag his tongue along her stomach then laved his way deliberately up between her breasts before gliding across her nipples, one and then the other. She moaned and her head lolled back, her hands searching for any part of him she could touch. He dissipated his trousers into blue wisps as he rubbed his naked length along her for the first time and both of them looked down intently at the place they would connect.

“I’m nervous,” Elias whispered. “I don’t want to hurt you,” he looked at her tiny body and she got an idea. She hooked her leg around his hip and urged him to roll onto his back. He followed her lead easily and laid back against the bed, letting his horns hang over the edge as she straddled him.

“Please don’t move,” she smiled down at him, a bit nervous herself, but knowing that she wanted him, had wanted him, for a long time. Finally, she was there, his vines undulating against her soft skin, making every move she made feel more salacious. She felt wanton for the first time in her life, and as she slowly sunk onto him she watched as his eyes blazed brighter than ever.

She felt his fingers, gently nudging hers from his chest. As he lifted them, he laced her fingers with his; his elbows met the bed and she leant onto them for balance. An act of support and patience; giving her courage to try moving.

His vines caressed more of her, reaching up her back and over her shoulders, massaging against her throat and moving through her hair. Her eyes closed as his cock found its way into her, but the pain she was expecting to rip through her never came. She was incredibly grateful for his healing tongue as she took in more of him; she paused until she found she was getting used to him. Once she was ready, she continued slowly. His breathing was so ragged, he sounded like he would hyperventilate, feeling every bit of her ensconcing him as he surrounded her delicate form with his gentle tendrils.

“You’re so big,” she gasped as she bobbed up for a moment and then back down a little further. Each time she lifted, she was able to take a little bit more, he felt endless. The stretch was almost overwhelming. She was shocked when he reached the end of her channel the same time she met his pelvis and she sighed in relief, she’d done it. She gave herself a moment of internal celebration before she lifted up and sank back down. His vines against her skin were practically vibrating, sending lovely tingles through every part of her.

“You’re like a vice,” he groaned, using every ounce of willpower he had not to thrust up into her and let her set her languid rhythm. After a few long moments she started moving a bit faster and Elias was losing himself in the feel of her. He leant up and watched her rise and fall, his cock disappearing completely before reappearing, slicker and dark. He made a sound that could have been a whine that turned into a moan. The sight and feel of her taking him, the smell of her arousal, and the sounds that filled the air made his body feel electric. He leant forward to run his tongue over her stomach, skidding over his vines and up over her breast, laving it with attention gently as her head lolled back and she moaned louder.

“You feel so good Elias,” she whimpered, her hands blindly searching over his chest, lost in her own world of sensation. Her rhythm grew steadily faster until she gasped, and he felt her somehow grow tighter around him.

“Chise!” he landed back on the bed as heated breath escaped his mouth, followed closely by a growl that seemed to wrap around the room, making her feel more consumed by the moment. His need to take her was overwhelming and he tested by tilting his pelvis and she willingly tipped towards him to let him roll her onto her back. Her legs started to shake, and she reached down to rub circles into her hooded bundle of nerves, but when he felt it he reached down to push her hand away and do it himself.

“Elias… sugoi… sugoi… sugoi!” her voice grew and then every bit of her quaked and without her knowledge she was screaming as her eyes opened wide but saw nothing. Her orgasm rushed through and over her in a spiralling wave that corkscrewed up through her head and seemed to dull everything but the immense pleasure she was feeling. She couldn’t see or hear, all she could do was feel, the vines, his hands, his cock burying deeply in her over and over. Suddenly she was pressed into the bed roughly as Elias thrust into her with animalistic vigour, finally unable to suppress his instincts as he urged her orgasm to continue.

Magic expanded around them, glossy bubbles of blue and pink bathing them in a bright ethereal glow. As she drifted back to earth, she heard it, a roar unlike anything she’d ever heard as Elias shuddered over her and she felt him filling her. He held himself still within her, every inch of him still being squeezed by her intimate walls and balanced on his elbows as he gently licked the sweat from her brow and cheeks.

“Chise…”

“That was wonderful,” she sighed, her arms were spread lazily above her head as she allowed the remaining pleasure to loll her into a relaxed world. He nodded and nuzzled against her cheek. As he pulled slowly from her body, a rush of their combined pleasure poured from her and her eyes widened at the feeling. His vines languidly retracted back to once again be a part of him.

Elias took in her flushed face and their sweat covered bodies as they caught their breath. “I think a bath may be in order,” he chuckled, and she nodded with a smile.

“With a different potion this time,” he lifted her giggling body off the bed and carried her into the bathroom to run the bath. She reached over to the sink and poured a red liquid into the bath, giving it a pink hue and a lovely smell.

They stepped into the tub and allowed the hot water to dissolve any tension that was left. As they lounged, they cuddled each other, enjoying the new intimacy they found. “I feel bad for making so much noise,” Elias muttered offhandedly.

“Don’t, Hermione helped me ward the room with silencing charms,” she looked up at him and his jaw fell open.

“Chise, did you plan all of this?” She brought her fingers to her mouth and made a zipping motion before locking and throwing away the key. His chuckle wrapped around her; warming her heart as she cuddled closer and smiled serenely.

XOXO

How did I get myself into this? Severus felt a tingle as her fingers slowly crept up his sock covered ankle, over the sock bracers she’d insisted on leaving on. Up over his knee, and through the black hairs of his thigh, until she reached his hips, and he bit his lip. Oh, I remember, she’s gorgeous and I can’t say no to her. His world was darkness and his hands held onto the side of the bed as her fingers roamed over his sensitive body. He had worried at first, but she was true to her word and everything she had done had been a sensual treat. What felt like rabbits’ fur had been slowly brushed against every sensitive area, followed by the tickle of a feather quill. Now that delicious hand was slowly tickling its way over his sensitized flesh.

“I thought this was supposed to be your punishment,” he moaned as she grazed over his aching cock for the first time since they’d started before running her fingers over his stomach. She licked her lips as she looked over him, spread before her like a snack and yearning for her touch in a way that made her feel electric.

“Oh, but it is Severus,” he could hear the playful smile in Hermione’s voice. “I’m missing out on your sweet caresses,” goosebumps sprung up on his neck as her hot breath met his ear. She had spent the last half hour teasing him softly until there was a large puddle of pre-cum on his flat stomach and a light sheen of sweat covering everything else. He felt the bed dip as she climbed up next to him, “would you like a treat for being such a good sport?”

“Yes,” he croaked, he didn’t know what it would be, but he nodded enthusiastically for it. He felt pressure on his left shoulder and then before the pressure landed on his other shoulder the scent of her arousal hit his olfactories like a freight train; his mouth immediately began to water hungrily. He pushed his head up and his nose was the first to meet her neatly trimmed brunette thicket, lightly moving tiny circles with it. He moaned as his mouth opened and tasted the honey she had been making just for him. His tongue swept through her slick flesh and found her swollen bud, putting gentle pressure before suckling tenderly.

Above him she was smiling; he had been so patient but she wanted to try one more thing and she wasn't sure if he was going to be comfortable with it. She forced the smile from her face before she softly whispered, "I'll trade one for another."

One for another? What the hell’s she on about? His tongue was still eagerly lapping at her, waiting for her to elucidate before he commented.

"I'll let you see... if you let me bind your hands." He froze and she no longer felt him breathing. Up until now, he had been simply holding them out of the way, but the thought of having them bound was slightly terrifying.

If something happens, I won't be able to defend myself.

She said she wouldn't hurt you.

...But then, why would she need to tie me up?

She watched him avidly as his expression turned fearful and she moved down so she could glide her nose along his cheek. She allowed enough weight on his chest for him to know she was there as she nuzzled his nose. "I promise if you don't like it, I'll untie you. I understand if you don't want to, but I wanted to try something I think you'll enjoy." She whispered softly, her warm breath skimming along his cheek as she spoke, "I tried something similar once, it made me so wet, I just wanted to try something special for you. I don't mind waiting if that's what you need, we have all the time in the world, I'm not going anywhere." A soft kiss was pressed to his cheek and his respiratory system finally started again.

Something special? "Will it hurt?"

She thought about that for a minute before answering, "I won't lie, it will ache, but it shouldn't hurt. I want to give you pleasure, not pain; you've had enough of that to last you a lifetime." He let out a shaky laugh and tried to breath normally as he thought of all the reasons he shouldn’t let her, and the one reason he should.

"I want to see you," he whispered tentatively. She smiled down at him and slid her fingers over his jaw.

She moved forward to straddle his face again and braced herself on the headboard. His mouth opened, wrapping his lips around her glistening petals as her head lolled back and a moan escaped her throat. Her breathing sped up as his tongue laved and swirled through her tender heat, pushing up inside her and then sweeping up to suck on her delicate bud. Looking down at his blindfolded face, she reached down and pulled the cravat up onto his forehead so he could see her over him; at the same time her wand pointed to his hands.

Leather cuffs, lined in the softest rabbit fur, wound their way around his wrists. Then silk scarves attached them to the headboard. He tested the cuffs; they were sturdy but not too tight.

The candlelight felt bright as his eyes slowly adjusted to the room and his gaze flicked up to see the goddess that was straddling his face with her green silky knickers pushed to the side. He sucked harder, just to see her face contort as their eyes locked. He knew he’d made the right decision as her legs began trembling uncontrollably and she used her hands on the headboard to keep her upright. He sped up, seeing her getting so close, alternating between plunging and sliding swiftly through her soaking quim and sucking hard on her clit.

Her back bowed and she found her head pressed against the headboard as her jaw slackened just before the sensation exploded through her, rocking her hips forward onto his nose repeatedly for extra friction as she cried out. Her grip on the back of the bed became so tight her knuckles were white with strain as she fought to hold herself upright. Hermione slowly came back to her senses and fell to the side so she wouldn’t crush him; he leant up as much as he could to try to reach her. She took a moment to collect herself before she pulled her sodden knickers off and sat up, pushing them into his open mouth.

“Here,” she winked. “Keep these safe for me, would you?” He groaned and dutifully closed his jaw tightly around them. She picked up a pillow and pushed it under his head so he could watch her without straining his neck before she moved down to between his splayed legs. Hermione picked up her wand, looking up at him she flicked it and a small cat’s bell appeared in his hand. He looked at it and she smiled, “drop it if you need me to stop.” His fingers curled around it as his gaze went back to avidly watching her.

She pointed the wand at her palm and cast a wordless spell; her hand was suddenly dripping with some kind of lubricant before she spread it onto both her hands and shuffled closer to the place he most needed attention. She slicked her hands together seductively looking into his wide eyes, “would you like me to touch you, dear?”

Severus nodded fervently, making his cravat bob and threaten to fall off his forehead to cover his eyes. She smiled at the way it made his hair bunch up and stick out at odd angles. She slowly brought her fingers over his shaft before rubbing the mucilaginous substance around and gently pulling back the foreskin to see the sensitive line of flesh that was hidden. “Are you ready?” He nodded again and the smirk on her face made him slightly nervous, given his vulnerable state. She brought down one hand in a fist and pushed him into it agonisingly slowly; tightly working it down before lining up her other hand and doing the same. Only pushing down, giving the feeling of entering over and over and over. His head fell back against the pillow as his right leg twitched erratically and she cooed sweetly as she continued.

His breathing changed as his nostrils flared, bringing in as much air as they could before he lifted his head and she saw his eyes glaze over with lust. Then she worked one fist down to the base and pumped up fully once, causing his body to convulse dramatically; the gasp he took was so loud she thought he might choke on his makeshift gag.

She went back to pushing down again and he began calming back into the sensation. He didn’t know how long, it felt like hours, like days, he felt like desire was being wrenched from his very soul. Severus needed her to stroke back up; if she didn’t he felt like he’d die. With his mouth full, all he could do was whimper, his eyes pleading with her. She watched him carefully and when he looked like he was near the point of pain, she stroked all the way down and then back up once, making his eyes roll back as they closed with a sharp intake of breath.

Oh fuck.. she’s going to kill me

She went back to the slow aching downward movements, watching him as his legs trembled and his breathing became more strained. His cheeks had hair sticking to them from his thrashing and the blindfold was so far up his head it was barely on any more. Severus heaved in breath and she watched him closely until he was whimpering again.

Witnessing this strong man turn to putty in her hands was the sexiest thing Hermione had ever seen and she wanted to draw out the decadent sight. She observed him as she continued, waiting until she was sure that he was completely lost on the edge but not able to fall over because she was denying him the one thing he wanted most.

Her hands, still impossibly slick, squeezed down faster, following each other quickly as he tried to sit up but his hands were still bound and he pulled against them for a moment before falling back on the pillows. Severus’s body was on fire and he didn’t know what to do with himself. He thrust his hips up, trying to force an upstroke and she removed her hands completely as his head shot up and she watched his eyes go wide.

no No NO NO!

“Are you done?” Hermione raised an eyebrow at him, and he nodded pleadingly. “Good,” her hands went back to work and as they did his head fell back weakly as he moaned around her knickers. She sped back up; her hands dancing with each other to down stroke one after the other until his breathing was ragged, his chest was red, and his cock was almost purple. Severus was so close, his stomach felt heat coiling on the cusp between pain and pleasure. She knew it wouldn’t take much and as she continued; she pushed herself up on her knees before swinging them over his thighs and moving forward. His head lifted languorously, and his eyes drew to her as she got close enough to rub herself on his throbbing tip and he moaned deeply at the contact.

“Severus,” he tried to focus on her, but she was fuzzy around the edges and he nodded slowly. “Just let go.”

Suddenly he was enveloped by her heat as she sunk down onto him and he came off the pillow as his back bowed and his toes curled. He gasped harshly at the sensation, she was almost unbearably tight and slippery.

She set a feverish pace; the feeling made so much more intense by being at the edge for so long. His body trembled beneath her, his glazed eyes watching her bounce up and down. She leant forward enough to run her fingers over his nipples in little circles and he felt the heat that had been gathering for what felt like years bubble in his stomach. He wanted to hold off, he wanted to hold her, to see her come again, to hear her screaming, but she had taken him to the edge and kept him there for so long his body couldn't hold back even though he wanted to.

Her long moan rang in his ears as her breasts bounced in his face and the world become nothing but fuzz and feelings. Her quim so tight and wet, her voice hoarse and breathless, her hair tickling his chest as her fingers continued to torture his nipples. The world was lost, he was floating on heat and his release was ripped from him violently, his legs quaking.

The cry that erupted from him was such a visceral sound it could have been a shout of pain. His face frozen between shock and ecstasy, lost in the vision of the goddess above him, her face framed in a halo by her frizzy hair and the candles in the room. His body felt limp as he landed back on the bed. He tried to remember how to breathe and all he could hear was his heart beating hard in his ears. She leant forward; a look full of love in her eyes as she kissed his nose before gently tugging her knickers out of his gasping mouth.

“You’re the sexiest thing I’ve ever seen,” she whispered, and he looked at her as if he’d never seen her before. She released the charm holding his wrists and pulled the cravat from the top of his head. His arms were wrapping around her instantly as they ran over her bare back and his fingers drifted into her curly hair.

“That,” he rasped, “would be you.” She giggled happily as they rolled to the side, facing each other. Her hands ran through his raven hair, pushing it out of his face so she could look into his glistening black eyes. “I’ve never…” his eyes were staring glassily into her golden depths. “That was the most intense…” She leant forward and kissed him gently before holding her arms out for him and he gratefully pushed himself into her loving embrace.

How she could constantly bring him so much comfort he didn’t know, but he was so glad for it.

Chapter Text

Severus felt a chill on his back and opened his eyes to find that they had fallen asleep without pulling up the duvet. His right arm was under her neck, acting as her pillow and his other arm was resting on her stomach as his hand laid contently on her breast. He looked down to see his legs were tucked up to her bum and hers were over them, pulling him as closely to her as possible.

He gave the breast in his hand a soft squeeze, loving the feel of them as his fingers slid along the silky flesh, plucking her nipple gently. She made a mewl and her head turned towards him, still asleep she looked so relaxed, so content to be in his arms. It made his heart swell seeing that someone could feel this happy in his presence, it was new, no one had ever been at ease with him and he couldn’t quite explain how it made him feel. Like everything in him was expanding all at once, like something would snap and he’d explode.

His mind wandered to the night before. The intense look on her face was completely captivating. He had her complete and undivided attention. No one had ever concentrated on him fully for anything pleasurable. He found her attention new in so many ways, but how she spoke to him, softly, slowly, but sternly. It made him shiver at the thought and he wondered what else was in store for him.

His hand lifted up and he rubbed her cheek as she smiled in her sleep. Leaning in, he kissed her curved mouth and to his surprise, she kissed him back.

“Good morning,” she yawned, pulling away from him and stretching, her legs pushing up and then twining with his again.

“Mmm, it is, isn’t it,” he pulled her close again, pushing his nose into her mass amount of Hermione scented curls. He pulled back and looked into her eyes, running his fingers over her cheek again, still in disbelief that she was here, that she had given him so many things he’d never had before. “I love you,” he whispered, and she smiled.

“I love you too,” She was staring into his obsidian pools, losing herself in the burning coal she saw there when suddenly her eyes went wide. “Severus, we need to get up and distract Chise so Elias can propose!” She jumped up and he found himself completely alone on the cold bed as she rushed around, pulling open one of his drawers and pulling out her clothes.

“When did you do that?” He sat up, pointing to his dresser, “I had things in there.”

“Only socks,” she shrugged and then looked over her shoulder at him. “Do you mind?” He rolled out of bed and stood behind her.

“Where are my socks then?” His voice was sour and she bit her lip nervously.

“Here,” she pointed to a drawer and he got up to open it. His socks had been paired next to his now folded boxers.

“Have you changed anything else?” His brow rose as he looked down his hooked nose at her. She tentatively pointed to his wardrobe and he opened the door to find that there were now dress robes that didn’t belong to him within. “Hermione…”

“Wait, you haven’t seen the best part,” she flicked her wand and the clothes shifted as if on a carousel and cycled through their clothes, first showing all of his and then all of hers. It stopped again in the middle so there were some of hers on one side and his frock coats on the other. He couldn’t help but be a little impressed. “Is it okay?” Her question was said with so much apprehension that instead of saying anything he leant down and kissed her forehead as he wrapped his arms around her.

“Well, I suppose I’ll need to get used to your things in here at some point…” He let his comment hang in the air for a moment before he continued, “Let’s shower, I know I need one after last night.” He wanted to ask how she knew how to do that, but he found he was too afraid of what the answer might be. Even if she tried it out on Weasley first, does it really matter? He had an inward shudder at the picture it conjured. Apparently it does.

“I read about that a while back and had wanted to try it for a long time… I was waiting to find someone I really cared about.” She cautiously looked up at him and found the smug smirk staring back at her relieving and quite funny. “Don’t let it go to your head,” she laughed, playfully pushing his shoulder.

“Perish the thought my dear,” he intoned in a sing-song voice as he gathered some clothes and sauntered into the bathroom. She rolled her eyes, but couldn’t contain the giant smile on her face as she gathered some clothes and followed him.

XOXO

Chise slowly roused and as she slipped out of Elias’s arms to get up, she found she was very sore in a very new place; she almost stopped dead as she recalled the night before. A little thrill ran through her at the thought, how wonderful it felt, and how patient he was so he wouldn’t hurt her. She smiled at his relaxed posture, sleeping on his stomach, his head resting on a pillow. She silently moved about the room, pulling on some clothes and carefully opening and closing the door behind her. As soon as the latch caught the door, his black socket flared red.

XOXO

Snape sat on the sofa, indifferently flipping through a potions monthly without really reading anything, waiting nonchalantly for Chise to come out. When the door opened, he pretended to not notice as he casually flipped the page.

“Good morning,” Chise took a seat in one of the armchairs across from him.

“Good morning,” he gave her a small smile and it kind of surprised her, but when Hermione came out beaming, she suddenly found it wasn’t that odd at all. He looked between the two ladies as he closed his magazine. “What do you normally do at this time? It’s the last day of term so there isn’t much I need to do this morning.”

“I was thinking we could take a walk, Neville was telling me about the greenhouse that Elias helped him with yesterday.” She looked like she was hiding something and Chise wasn’t sure if it was from her or Snape. “What do you think?” She turned to Chise, who nodded in reply, looking between them suspiciously.

“Alright, but I’m really hungry this morning, so could we get a little something before we walk?” Hermione and Snape nodded.

“We can stop off at the kitchens first and grab a little something, I’m sure.” They collected their walking cloaks and made their way out of the sitting room and up the spiral stone steps to the basement. Hermione led them over to a portrait of a large fruit bowl, pointing at the pear she turned to Chise. “Tickle it.”

“Tickle it?” Chise looked between her and the portrait before stepping forward and running her fingers over the pear in the portrait. It giggled before the portrait swung open and Hermione smiled at her, motioning for her to walk in first. The house elves were rushing around, preparing for breakfast, even though they had another two hours before it was going to be served. One ran over to the group and bowed.

“Good morning Professor, what can Winky do this morning?” The little elf stood up strait as she address Snape and he motioned to Hermione.

“We’d like a little something to snack on, if you have anything we could take on a walk?”

“Bacon sandwiches,” she snapped her fingers and handed the small bundle over to Hermione with a smile. “Is there anything else Winking can get?”

“No, thank you very much,” she bowed once more and turned to join the others around the long counters full of food.

“Wow,” Chise gaped as she looked at everyone rushing around.

“Shall we?” Severus motioned towards the door again. Once they were out on the snow-covered grounds and he was sure no one could see them, he offered Hermione his right arm, which she happily took. Chise was tucking into her bacon sandwich with gusto.

“Got up to much last night?” Hermione leant over to whisper to her with a knowing smile. Chise blushed and nodded quietly as she poked at her connection with Ruth.

‘Library Chise, did you need me?’ She heard in her mind and laughed out loud.

“Find anything interesting,” she said out loud but he could hear her. Her cohorts stopped for a moment as she spoke.

‘Some things, yes, mostly just wanted to get away… can you blame me?’

“No,” she said blushing all over again. “We have bacon sandwiches, if you wanted to meet us outside… you’d better hurry if you want one,” Hermione and Severus looked at each other and realised she was speaking to Ruth.

‘Okay, on my way.’

“Could we wait here a minute?” Chise asked, looking up at the pair, “Ruth’s on his way.”

“Of course,” Hermione pulled a sandwich out of the small package and started munching, know that she probably wouldn’t get too much once Ruth joined them. Severus watched the ladies as he thought about Elias and hoped that he wasn’t getting too worried about what he wanted to do.

XOXO

Pressure, all he felt was pressure. Deeply rooted down in his soul and it felt like there was no way to rid himself of it. It was grasping onto his throat and suffocating him. He wanted to run, but there was nowhere to go. Nothing would fortify him for what was to come. It wasn’t something that he could have avoided without holding himself back to the point of pain. He wandered around the space with no end in sight, nothing he could say or do, nothing that could make his consternation dissipate.

Elias stood in the greenhouse surrounded by beautiful foliage and all he could do was stress. What if she says no? What would he do with himself? Would it be easier to simply leave things the way they are? Could he really do that? He knew he couldn’t, he needed this, he hoped that she needed him too.

And so, he waited, as the early morning sunlight drifted through the delicate tendrils of the vines that surrounded the glass ceiling and walls. He wondered whether he should be hiding or if he should be the first thing she saw when she comes in? Maybe he should hide, down on the ground under something, like a rock… maybe he should just hide under a rock… he knew if he did that, he would probably just want to stay there. What was he going to say to her? She would come in and be confused most likely, how quickly would that emotion turn into something else? He hoped it would turn to joy, but what if it didn’t? He knew he wasn’t easy to live with, but she had accepted him for who he was, was that enough?

Then he froze from his pondering paces and suddenly thought, what on earth am I going to say? Should I just thrust the ring forward and see if she takes it? He ran his gloved hand over his plum neck and scratched at it lightly as he thought. Nothing I say will be as good as what she said in the forest, perhaps I should repeat her words back to her? Why didn’t I think about this before? Normally I would plan for weeks and then still not do anything to further the pace of things, so why am I rushing forward now?

Then he saw them, out in the early morning chill. Chise, Ruth, Severus and Hermione walked together towards the black lake. Then Severus pointed towards the greenhouse Elias was currently in and he suddenly felt a shrill stinging in his spine. He wanted to hide more than he ever wanted to do anything before, but he felt like something was rooting his feet to the floor. He had only recently learned of fear, before he would simply act on things, move without really planning things out, and go by instinct, but Chise made him feel fear. Disappointing her, making her feel scared or angry, that seemed to be the only thing that could make him feel fear. Like little thorns of frost, he was frozen, watching as they slowly approached the greenhouse. He tore his eyes away from the group and looked around for the perfect place to hide, or rather pop out from at the right time. Should they be here for it? Should I wait for them to leave?

He felt like running again, his feet could move now that he wasn’t watching them get closer and he took a step towards the pool in the middle of the room. I should just pretend that it’s not the reason I’m here, she’s sure to see me if they get much closer, she always sees my shadow, no matter how much I try to hide from her, she’s good at spotting me. His hand found his waist and he considered the advantages of fleeing versus the reward; if the reward was something he could even ponder.

She already calls me her husband; it would only be for the humans. He looked over his shoulder, back at the group that was almost upon him. Taking a deep breath, he got down on one knee as Severus opened the door. Chise saw him and smiled widely.

“Elias! I thought you were still asleep,” she ran forward and jumped into his arms. It was then that he knew, he wasn’t afraid any more, he could do this. Placing his hands on her shoulders he held her tight and then pushed her back to look into her eyes.

“Chise, I have a question for you,” her face looked confused, but she continued to wait for him as the pause he left in the air grew tighter. “When we first met, I didn’t know what it was like to feel… anything. I knew of emotion, but it was so foreign to me. Until I bought you I was alone, I confided in no one, I needed no one. That has changed, now all I can do is need you. I am hoping that you feel the same way,” he paused again, and she nodded, her smile was kind and her eyes seemed to sparkle with unshed tears. “You accept me for who I am, and love me even when I make mistakes, you are a comfort to me when the world feels cold. You make me feel alive.” He looked down and took her hands, taking off her gloves and grasping lightly, he brought them up to nuzzle with his front teeth and took another deep breath, “I wanted to know if, as I move forward in life, may I do so by your side?”

She stifled an excited giggle and she took her hands back only to wrap them around his large neck and whisper where an ear would be. “Of course, I am your bride, am I not?” He chuckled and wrapped his arms around her waist, holding her close as his head dropped possessively over her shoulder to bring her in as close as possible.

“My bride,” his breathing was becoming faster as she pressed herself flush against his chest and peppered kissed over his cheekbone and up to the base of his horn. He leant back a bit and pulled the ring out of his pocket, offering it to her. He watched as her smile bloomed happily in joy as she took it and slid it onto her finger beside the bands they already wore, the small opal changed from blue to pink and fluctuated back and forth fluidly between the two colours. “Your magic is beautiful Chise,” blushing, she threw her arms around him again and he easily stood.

Hermione ran forward and hugged her as she beamed from ear to ear.

“I sent Simon a letter this morning, asking for a good date for us to hold the wedding in his church, unless you would like to wed elsewhere?”

“That sounds lovely Elias,” she reached up and he pulled her into his arms tightly.

“Breakfast?” Elias asked, nuzzling her cheek.

“Only if you sit with me,” she glanced at Hermione as Elias carried her out of the greenhouse. She was smiling up at the pair and covertly wrapping her hand around Severus’s.

“I wonder if they have champagne?”

“For breakfast?”

“I think it’s called a mimosa,” Ruth morphed into his human form beside them with a beaming smile on his face. He leant in and hugged Chise’s legs, since that was all he could reach. “Congratulations!”

Snape watched as they walked towards the castle and then over at Hermione, who was giving him a funny look. “Everything alright?”

XOXO

Neville was waiting just inside the courtyard entrance and as soon as they walked through it, they heard a loud bang as he uncorked a bottle of bubbly. He gave the couple a huge smile when he saw the ring shining on her hand.

“Congratulations are in order!” Neville began pouring the champagne into four flute glasses and set them next to a tray of food he’d pilfered from the kitchens. Chise smiled happily as Elias set her down and Neville laid a blanket on the snowy ground, waving his wand over it to warm it for them all. He placed the plates of food on the blanket in front of them: eggs, bacon, pancakes, and sausages were the main foods and there were also strawberries that he had asked to be dipped in chocolate. The house elves were happy to oblige the request and had also added other things covered in chocolate that they thought would taste nice. Although cheese covered in chocolate didn’t particularly sound good, it was surprisingly delicious.

Elias sat on the blanket with his legs crossed and Chise sat herself in the space between them as she often did, reaching forward and lifting her glass as Neville raised his in a toast.

“To the happy couple,” he beamed, and Elias leant forward to nuzzle Chise’s cheek as she leant into the contact.

“Thank you for all your help Neville,” Elias said, sitting back, resting on his hands. As he looked down at his bride, he felt a stirring within him that he now recognised as desire and tilted his head as he thought of how often he had felt it before without knowing what to call it. So new was the emotion and the more he acknowledged it, the stronger it seemed to become. “I’m so happy Chise,” he whispered to her as their glasses clinked.

“So am I Elias,” she reached forward and picked up a strawberry, twisting to offer it to him and he parted his teeth to take it from her as she placed it on his tongue. He allowed the flavour to envelope him as he squashed the fruit against the roof of his mouth before swallowing it. “Is it good?” She asked with a playful smile, and he leant forward to pick one up for her.

“You tell me,” he offered it to her and as her lips closed around his fingers she made a satisfied hum in the back of her throat that made Elias’s eyes flare; Neville threw back the whole glass of champagne at once and looked over at Ruth.

“Would you like to help me gather some plants from the forest?” Ruth quickly looked over at him, nodding fervently, very glad to have an excuse to leave.

“I’ll be in the forest,” he told her as they both stood and walked away, leaving the couple shrugging to each other. Ruth blocked out the connection as they strode away together.

Elias melted into his human form and pulled Chise closer to him, “Chise, I feel a need to be closer to you.” Her cheeks burned as she turned in his lap to look up at him. He cupped her face, gliding his thumbs along her cheeks before leaning in and kissing her. Softly at first, tenderly, as she turned further and lifted her arms around his neck to pull him closer to her. As their kiss became more heated Chise pulled away, looking into his hazel eyes outlined in bright red, she twirled her fingers around the hair at the base of his neck and smiled.

“We should probably go somewhere more private,” as she spoke, his eyes flared brighter. He pulled her closer before waving a hand over the feast before them and drawing them down to sink into shadow, leaving the world behind in a purple haze. He was still in his human glamour, but they were surrounded by purple vines as they sat in the shadowy niche together. He picked up a strawberry, offering it to her and as she took it, he leant forward, wrapping his lips around the other half and biting the bit that wasn’t in her mouth, eliciting a giggle from Chise before she moaned as they began to kiss around the lovely flavours.

His gloves dissipated into thin air as he reached around her waist, drawing her shirt up over her head before sitting back and looking at her. This time he wanted to hold onto his glamour at least long enough to devour her lovely breasts. He reached behind her and attempted to unhook her bra, she smiled and reached behind to unhook it for him.

“You’re going to have to show me how to do that,” he smiled as her bra fell to the ground beside them. He laid her back onto the blanket and climbed over her as he kissed her neck and slowly made his way down to one of her pert nipples. He laved his tongue over the little peek, sighing happily and covering the bud with his lips before sucking lightly on it. She arched into his mouth as her hands made their way up his neck and her fingers insinuated themselves into his blond hair.

She tasted of lovely green things and magic, mixed with her personal musk and he was already addicted to the soothing flavour as he lifted his left hand to twist and fondle her other breast. He leant back onto his knees and unzipped her denims, tugging insistently on them until they were around her ankles. She kicked them the rest of the way off as his body covered hers a moment before his clothing dissolved into blue wisps, reshaping in an untidy heap next to them. His lips met hers a moment before she felt him against her already sodden quim and as he pushed into her he reared back and reverted to his refined form.

“I love you Elias,” she whispered as he slowly filled her, and his eyes smiled down at her as his thumb bussed across her chin softly.

“I love you too, Chise,” he dipped his bony head down by her shoulder, remembering the last time they were in a shadow together and bit down on it gently enough to not hurt. Chise gasped and moaned as she remembered how unsure of his feelings he was the last time he had clamped down on her shoulder and how different their lives had become. Now she knew, he loved her, and he would never stop loving her. Even if they both lived forever, he would never lose interest in his little human and she wrapped her arms around his shoulders to bring him closer to her as he released his soft bite and nuzzled against her neck. His jaw opened and his tongue ran along her neck, up to her ear as he began to move within her.

Her legs lifted to wrap around his large frame as he pushed everything he had into her gently and slowly. His arms wrapped around her waist, pulling her as close to his body as he could get her. His feral groan rose as she tightened around him and he sped up his languid pace to something more passionate. Everything inside him calling to her and her body responding with sweet whimpers and muffled cries, which she hid in his shoulder. He could feel the magic emanated from her as he continued and as her back arched, she breathlessly cried out his name, squeezing him intimately and causing him to follow her.

They lay in the viny hollow together, legs and arms wrapped around each other as she stroked his skull and he rested against her. She reached over to pick up her glass of champagne and smiled at him before leaning into him and kissing the long ridge of his nose.

“It’s so nice and warm in here,” she sighed as she took a drink and laid back down into his embrace.

“You will always keep me warm Chise,” he leant in to nuzzle her cheek once more before he started to fall asleep. All the planning and the worry he had felt finally melting away into the fuzzy feeling of love.

XOXO

Severus Snape didn’t strut; he’d never done so and never would. But there was a certain swagger in the way he was walking to the classroom from breakfast that definitely resembled a strut. Hands in his pockets as he sauntered down the hall, glad that the students were avoiding him like the plague. He didn’t realise the smirk that was plastered on his face was so close to a genuine smile that it scared them. They all thought he looked… up to something.

He couldn’t help it, after Elias and Chise had left to enjoy their new engagement Hermione had dragged him into the forest and pushed him up against a tree. She seemed intent on having his cock in her mouth and he was loath to deny her, especially since it was an altogether new feeling—being craved. Because of this, he was more relaxed than usual, not fully paying attention to the world around him. He missed the couple snogging behind a statue and to their glee, they didn’t lose any house points as he walked passed them. He didn’t throw open the door to his classroom with a bang and instead entered like anyone else would.

He looked around when he noticed the students were still chatting actively. So, he began his lecture with no preamble at the front of the class and upon realising he’d entered the room, the normal hush set in. “This will be your last potions lesson this term, you will bring back 12 inches of parchment of the best uses of flobberworms by our next lesson. Now for your work, it is a light sleep aid potion and should be a soft peach colour when completed. Begin,” with the last word he turned to his desk and lowered to his chair gently as he watched for a moment, all the students clambering to start their cauldron heat sources.

Hermione was sitting in her normal place at the front of the class, brewing the potion herself. His eyes flicked over to her, after ensuring that none of the fourth years were looking, and watched as she carefully chopped and meticulously separated ingredients. He loved watching her work, her bottom lip caught between her teeth. Although, now the look of her soft lip sucked into her mouth made him want to coax it free and pull it into his own. She released it a moment later and ran her tongue over the reddened petal, causing him to softly groan, which he quickly tried to make sound like a cough. He had a little bowl on his desk of cough drops and as the students looked up at him, he popped one into his mouth.

Perfect cover…

The flavour of the little drop reminded him of how much she loved him, reaffirmed it. They were her creation, made especially for him, to help his throat after that blasted snake tried to kill him. Her little bribes for him to consider her to be his apprentice. His voice was almost back to normal now because of her. She was so full of love, such a perfect heart and...

That tongue… his mind was quickly starting to contemplate the things she could do with it as he watched her. He tried to remember there were other people in the room but most of the blood had left his brain at this point. He pretended to be working on something, picking up his quill, but he couldn’t get himself to focus on anything but the thought of her under his desk … I wonder if she’d do that? He was unbearably hard now and knew he was stuck there until everyone else had left. He chided himself for how unprofessional he was being but Merlin she is so good with her… everything.

He glanced up at her and she was looking over at him, her eyes darted over the children’s heads before she winked salaciously at him and he wanted to drag her out of the room . I wonder how long would be too long to keep her in my office? His musings were interrupted by a small explosion and Hermione jumped up and ran over to the child as she waved her wand to contain the fumes.

“How did you manage that?” She tried not to laugh at the boy when he shrugged. “3 points from Hufflepuff,” she vanished the contents of his cauldron so he could start over again and he huffed. Obviously hoping that it would mean he could leave early, not start over.

“But Miss Granger, it’s the last class, can’t I just go?”

“No one will leave their seats until everyone’s potions have been completed,” she looked down at the boy as his shoulders slumped. “Well hop to it Mr. Creager, I’m sure the class won’t think kindly if you make them stay late,” the boy suddenly jumped and ran to grab more ingredients.

She walked slowly around the classroom, making sure that everyone else was doing it properly and Snape watched her with rapt interest. She’s so sexy when she takes charge… he turned back to his fake letter and wrote random potion’s ingredients until the end of class.

“Be safe this holiday everyone,” Hermione smiled as everyone started packing up. One more class this afternoon and then they’d have none for two whole weeks. Once all the students had stepped out, she started going around, collecting the vials they had decanted their potions into.

“Miss Granger,” his silky voice made her pause for a moment before she smirked at him.

“Yes, Professor?”

“Could I see you a minute…” he didn’t look up at her, employing his former demeanour perfectly. She practically pranced over to his desk, putting the vials on it and leaning over far more than was needed. He glanced up and breathed a heady sigh as he saw her gorgeous breasts through the loose top of her shirt. “There seems to be something under this desk that needs your very skilled attention,” he succeeded at keeping his features impassive and she gave him a look of mock alarm.

“Oh no, what is it Professor?” She seductively slid onto the desk and swung her legs towards him before stepping off on his side. The look of surprise on his face was worth the quill that had stabbed her thigh. She knelt down playfully, putting her hand on his upper thigh before looking under the desk. “I don’t see anything professor… should I look closer?” He nodded at her; his eyes boring into hers as he watched her intently.

She shifted until she was under the desk and pushed her hands on either side of his splayed legs before drawing them to the centre. With an over exaggerated gasp her hands met his very hard cock and he groaned as he felt her pulling at his belt and then his buttons.

“I don’t know what I did to get you but by gods I’m going to keep you,” he sighed.

“You’d better,” she laughed friskily as his last button was unfastened. He looked down at her and sat back as she pulled him free and immediately sank her warm mouth around him. His hands moved from the desk to her face and hair, gently running through her frizzy curls and lovingly caressing her cheek as she bobbed happily. She forcefully swirled her tongue around him, eliciting a groan from deep in his stomach that was so loud neither of them heard the door open.

A cough quickly brought him back to reality as his eyes flew open and looked over to see his godson at the door, a teasing smile on his face. “Should I come back later?” He laughed as Snape pushed his chair towards the desk.

“No, no, why wouldn’t I want you here,” he snarled, leaning forward to cover himself and Hermione by pulling his teaching robes up over his lap.

“That’s what I thought,” he sauntered down between the desks until he was at the front. “I wanted to see what you were doing for Christmas.” Snape’s mouth was twisted in utter rage at this point.

“Get. Out.” He ground out as Draco leant over his desk, trying to catch a glimpse of… well anything really.

“Uncle, please calm down, I was just going to invite you over. Also have you seen Ruth?”

“Ruth?” Severus looked up at him confused, “why are you looking for him?”

“I was in the library last night and we got to talking, anyway I just wanted to see if he was around.”

“I think he’s in our sitting room, he’ll let you in… now… go.”

“Bye Granger,” the boy turned and left, closing the door with a smirk.

“Bye Malfoy,” Hermione replied sheepishly as Severus aimed his wand at the door, locking and warding it the instant it clicked closed. “The one time we forget…” she huffed and then he felt her stroking him again. He looked down at her, a bit surprised but as she engulfed him again with her warm mouth; his angry mood quickly dissolved.

“I can’t believe you still want to,” he groaned, leaning back in the chair again and looking down at her as she switched to her hand for a moment.

“Well this isn’t going to take care of itself,” Hermione’s smile was endearing and as she swiped her tongue up his length again he felt elated at how lucky he was. “I have to ask…” the glint in her eye made him worried.

“Yes…?”

“How long have you wanted me to do this?” He looked down at her and contemplated an answer that was appropriate, but perhaps she expected that it wouldn’t be.

“Since the book-store in Hogsmeade,” he rasped as he pushed away and pulled her up before sitting her on top of his desk. “Your perfume is… intoxicating,” she watched his nostrils flared infinitesimally as he spoke; his eyes closing as he took in her wonderful smell. “The thought that you might have worn it for me,” obsidian eyes opened and locked onto hers. “Made me think about you… in inappropriate ways.”

“I was wearing it for you,” she replied breathlessly and then his lips crashed into hers with a possessive vigour that made her gasp. His hands found their way under her skirt and coaxed her legs apart to find that she was sans knickers. He pulled back and looked down with one of his eyebrows arching elegantly and a satisfied smirk taking residence on his face.

“The real question is…” leaning in he whispered in Hermione’s ear. “How long have you?” She whimpered as she drew him to her and balanced herself with one hand on the edge of the desk behind her. She locked her legs around him and pulled him until she felt him press against her sensitive flesh as his lips met hers again. Severus pushed into her as he leant her back, his strong hand wrapped itself around the back of her neck for support, her face blushing beautifully as she panted into the empty room.

He reached down and hooked his elbow around her knee to bring it up further as he pushed deeper, closing his eyes at the feeling of her tight wet heat encasing him. He was fighting with himself, he wanted to be gentle and stay within her as long as possible, but the feeling of her and the sounds she made encouraged him to consume her entirely. He decided to let her choose. He pulled her as he fell back into the chair with her straddling him, Hermione smiled as she began to move, using the ground for leverage as she pushed up and sank down on him slowly at first. Then he pulled her closer, kissing her as she sped up, rocking her hips deliciously as their tongues danced together like leaves being gently blown in a breeze.

His hand moved between them and found her bundle of nerves; flicking it roguishly before rubbing circles as she moaned into his mouth. Her fingers moved to the back of the chair to help her move faster as her head lolled back. He watched her avidly, revelling in the gorgeous expression on her face as she rose and fell. Mouth slightly parted as she bit her lip, her eyes closed; focused on nothing but the feel of him within her.

Severus's fingers curled around her skirt, bringing it up as he wrapped his hands around her hips. His mouth falling open; hypnotized by the sight of her riding him. Her silken tight body swallowing his thick length. Engulfing him in her wet warmth before rising, the bulbous tip of his glistening cock the only thing remaining in her at the top of each stroke before plunging back down again. Ripping an involuntary groan from deep within him.

He couldn't keep his hands off her, long fingers smoothed their way over her breasts, down her sides, around her back, and back around to tweak and pluck her pink nipples. He planted both feet firmly on the ground, feeling his stomach heat and began thrusting up to meet her as she cried out. Babbling her thanks to deities before his name dripped from her lips like honey, warm and rich. She clamped down decadently around his cock and he lost himself in her radiance.

Severus picked her up and pinned her onto the desk, not caring when one of the vials rolled to the floor and smashed, he needed to take her completely, thrusting roughly as he kissed her possessively.

My Hermione. My Witch. Mine.

That word kept repeating in his head like a benediction and the thought that it was true pushed him over the edge. He continued raggedly, groaning loudly as his kisses softened to something much more tender. She hugged him close, both of them heaving breaths as they floated back to earth. He kissed her forehead and left a trail of them to her ear.

“You haven’t answered me, my dear,” he whispered breathlessly.

“Answered you?”

“How long?”

“Longer than you think,” she tried to say it coyly, but his quizzical look made her nerves start to get the better of her. “It’s longer than I’m willing to say,” she pulled him down for a kiss, but he pushed back a bit to look her in the eye.

“Hermione…”

“Yes… Severus?” She gave him as innocent a look as she could and then looked down with a blush as she ran her hand along the buttons of his frock coat. “4 years,” she mumbled as quietly as she could.

“Really?” he couldn’t hide the shock in his voice, “but I was so…”

“Don’t,” a finger covered his mouth and her eyes met his once more. “I tried not to, really I did, it’s just that…” she pushed back on the desk and closed her legs as he sat down on the chair and righted his clothing. “I couldn’t… I even dated, but none of them could…” she felt the blush burning her and hopped off the desk to leave as he grabbed her and pulled her into his lap.

“I never knew…”

“You weren’t supposed to,” she whispered, fiddling with her hands. “I tried to move on, hoping I’d get over you... but then, when I thought you were going to die I realised, that wasn’t ever going to happen. So, I stopped trying,” she shrugged awkwardly as he pulled her close.

“I’m glad you didn’t say anything,” he chuckled, and she looked at him with a sideways smile.

“I’d never put you in that kind of situation. Besides, a sixteen year old coming up and saying, ‘I like you, will you talk to me and maybe not yell at me, because I like your voice and think you’re really smart’, probably wouldn’t have gone down too well.” He kissed her cheek and she sighed. “I would have been too embarrassed anyway.”

“I don’t blame you. Frankly, I’m surprised you felt anything but hate for me.”

“There were times I did… in first year,” she became a bit wistful. “But then I noticed something… in your eyes.”

“My eyes?”

“Yes, there was a spark there, a spark of pain, or empathy… you never showed it in your tone of voice or the way you carried yourself, but your eyes gave you away. To me anyway,” Hermione looked down and gave a soft sigh as Severus watched her intently, surprise was an understatement for the way he felt. As if she could see something that no one else could, no one else took the time to see, or even cared to. “There was more though, I saw you working for the order, trying to get Harry to study," she laughed. "I kept trying to do that too. The way you treated Umbridge, giving her fake Veritaserum, and not letting her push you around when we all wanted to kill her…”

“You almost did, you know,” he gave her a proud smirk and she worried her bottom lip.

“I know… would it be bad if I said I didn’t regret it?” His laugh was deep and rumbled happily through her chest as his head rested back on the chair.

“I’d think it’d be bad if you did,” he sighed. “What a rotten piece of work.”

“Agreed.”

“So,” he leant in and pushed her curls over her shoulder to kiss her ear. “I wanted you to know that… I like you. I like to talk to you and not yell at you, and I think you’re really smart.” She laughed softly as she felt his soft lips kissing their way down her neck.

“I’m glad you said yes and let me apprentice with you,” she took a deep breath as her self-doubt bubbled to the surface. “And I’m glad you wanted to be with me, even if you do end up coming to your senses,” her mirthless laughter shot straight to his heart.

“What?” He breathed, trepidation starting to overwhelm him as he watched her face turn sad, “Come to my senses?”

“Well, let’s be honest, you’re a grown wizard, how long are you going to want to be with someone as young as me,” she looked over at him and he didn’t know what to say.

“I thought… Hermione… will you…” he paused; he knew the next two words shouldn’t come out of his mouth. He knew that he should let her think that, let her find someone more suitable but… he didn’t want to. “Will you be my witch?”

“You have me as long as you want me,” she gave him a sad smile and kissed the corner of his mouth.

“What if I won’t ever stop wanting you?” His voice was so low as he nuzzled into her and she felt a surge of joy run through her as she sat back to look at him.

“Then you’ll have me…” she gazed pointedly into his eyes, a gentle smile tugging at her mouth, “always.” His dark eyes widened and slowly turned glassy as a genuine smile lifted his lips and his heart began to swell with more happiness than he thought he deserved.

“Really?”

“Really,” she leant forward and wrapped her arms around his neck as she kissed him soundly.

“Mine,” he whispered against her lips before pulling her closer still. His world became her; her smell, her taste, her love that surrounded him with a warmth that he would never give up.

Chapter Text

“Chise,” They were standing in the bathroom, brushing their teeth after eating in the courtyard and lounging for a long time in the morning sun.

“Yesh Eliash?” She looked up to try not to spit toothpaste on the mirror.

“Where would you like to go for our honeymoon?” She rinsed her mouth and looked up at him.

“I hadn’t thought about it,” she smiled in thought for a moment. “Didn’t we already have a honeymoon?” She moved aside so he could rinse his mouth and then he avoided her eyes sheepishly.

“But that was before I knew what one was,” he looked over at her and his eyes flared for a moment, making her smile. She reached out, taking his hand to lead him into the sitting room.

“I’d love to go on one,” she sat beside his chair on the floor and looked over the magazines on the table before her. “I don’t know where I’d like to go though, how about you? Is there anywhere you’ve wanted to visit?” She peeked up at him and he looked thoughtful as he cradled his head in his hand.

“I’m not sure, I’ve never travelled outside of Europe.”

“There is one place that might be fun,” her head tilted as she blushed brightly. “Have you ever wanted to visit Japan?” He regarded her for a moment and nodded.

“I think that’s a wonderful idea, you could show me anywhere you want.”

“And there’s so much food that you can only eat there. I didn’t have much money when I lived there, so now we can enjoy them together,” she beamed up at him. “I think we should go during late spring, there are lots of festivals we can go to and it could be fun.”

“I’d love to,” Elias reached over and easily lifted her into his lap, wrapping an arm around her back as he nuzzled her cheek. “Chise, I’ll follow you anywhere.” Chise’s mind raced with what they could do while they were there.

“We can go to a festival, the food the street vendors have always smelt amazing. We could go to Osaka, I’ve never been, and I hear the food is wonderful—”

“Chise…”

“Yes?”

“Do you just want to eat food while we’re there?” His chuckle rumbled through her, and she couldn’t help but smile wide.

“Maybe… and also… we could go to a love hotel,” she looked up at him coyly.

“Love hotel?”

“Yes, it’s a hotel that’s only purpose is to have a private room to… um… love each other in,” she watched as his eyes looked confused before they suddenly flared; she knew he understood.

“That sounds fun,” he purred, pulling her closer and she laughed.

“Some are themed, I’ve never been to one, but I have looked into them a bit… for research,” she blushed as he regarded her.

“Research,” the twinkle in his ruby eye made her smile.

“Are you looking forward to the party tomorrow evening?” Chise changed the subject, hoping her face would stop being the same colour as her hair.

“Somewhat, I wonder what they do at parties?”

“I’m not sure, I’ve never been to one.”

“Neither have I, did Hermione say anything about what to expect?”

“Food,” she giggled. “Drinks and... mistletoe.” That twinkle came back with more vigour and he pulled her closer.

“I like mistletoe,” he nuzzled her cheek and she grinned. “They will always remind me of you.”

“Our first kiss,” she rested her head on his shoulder and closed her eyes, remembering how innocent they both were back then. A timid knock came from the door and Chise’s head popped up at the sound. Elias lifted her and set her on the floor so she could pad over and open it.

She opened it a crack, just enough to see the person on the other side, before opening it fully upon seeing his face. “Draco! What brings you here?” She stepped back and motioned for him to come in, which he did, albeit hesitantly.

“Hi Chise,” he smiled softly as he looked around the room. “Magus,” he nodded at Elias before looking back at Chise. “How are things?” She looked up at him, awkward and confused for a moment before looking over at Elias, who shrugged uncomfortably.

“Things are well... how are you?”

“I’m well,” he replied, wringing his hands

“We got engaged!” Chise smiled, holding out her hand for Draco to see.

“Congratulation,” Draco smiled before he took a deep breath, speaking very quickly. “I was wondering if Ruth was around?”

“He’s walking with Neville.”

“Neville?” He looked down in thought for a moment and Chise gave him a look of concern.

“I could call him, is everything alright?”

“No, that’s alright, everything’s fine,” he held up his hand nonchalantly and tried to give her a friendly smile. “I was just talking to him yesterday and wanted to see if he was available for lunch?”

“He’ll definitely be in the great hall for lunch,” Chise beamed up at him as Draco bowed his head politely.

“Well, then, I’ll see him then… then,” he nodded once more to Elias before he turned and left out of the still open door to head up the long staircase.

“Well, that was odd,” Chise whispered as the door closed with a quiet snap.

“Do you feel anything from Ruth?” Elias reached his hand out, lacing his fingers with hers as she pushed on her connection with Ruth.

“No,” she giggled softly. “He must still be blocking me.” She closed her eyes and concentrated for a moment, ‘Lunch in half an hour!’

‘Thank you!’ Was her only reply and she opened her eyes to laugh.

“We’ll talk at lunch,” she smiled as Elias pulled her back into his lap.

A while later, the door to the office opened and Hermione walked into the sitting room, followed by Severus. Hermione looked quite flushed as she on the sofa with a soft smile.

Severus clasped his hands together, turning to face Elias, “Elias, would you like to help me bring the potions I made to the hospital wing after lunch?” Elias looked up at him for a moment before realising what he was eluding to and nodded.

“Yes, I would like to see it,” he rose, offering his arm to Chise as he melted into his glamour for the walk to the great hall. Severus gladly held Hermione’s hand until they made it to the top of the stairs and then she walked forward and grabbed Chise. The two ladies rushed off ahead and Severus easily caught up with Elias. “Thank you.”

“Of course,” Severus replied quietly. They made their way up to the head table. As they swept between the tables, both Snape’s and Elias’s cloaks were swirling behind them impressively and attracted more attention then either of them realised. Elias smiled at Chise as he walked passed her, and she laughed at the scene as they both made it to the table and sat elegantly down beside each other.

“Show-offs,” Chise laughed, and when she looked over at Hermione she had a hand over her mouth to stifle her laughter. She looked at the somewhat shocked faces around the room and then back at Hermione. “What’s wrong with everyone?”

“Well… to them, there’s two ‘Snape’s now,” she smiled happily. “I’m sure that thought is very scary for everyone.” Chise watched as everyone spoke in hushed whispers to each other before the hall erupted in chatter once again. She looked across the hall and saw Malfoy watching them keenly, and when he saw her, he smiled with a small wave. Chise poked at their connection and suddenly Ruth walked into the hall, rushing over to sit next to her. “What’ve you been up to?” He looked at her with a sheepish expression.

“I was in the forest helping Neville find some winter herbs,” he shrugged. “It took longer than I expected,” he then began dishing food onto his plate and dug in.

“Draco came looking for you,” Chise said, Ruth pausing his assault on his mountain of food and suddenly blushed. “Should I ask?” Chise raised a brow and smiled over at Hermione.

“Ruth, why was Draco looking for you?” Hermione asked, leaning forward as Chise looked over her shoulder to see Draco smiling at Ruth.

“He said he spoke to you yesterday; did you want to go eat with him?” Chise asked. Ruth, pulling his eyes away from the blond wizard, looked awkwardly at Chise, who placed an arm over his shoulder. “I don’t mind if you want to.” Ruth huffed and then rested his head on top of hers. ‘Do you like him?’ She said through their connection so no one would hear.

‘I do,’ he replied, and she smiled.

‘Well that’s wonderful,’ she pulled away and then nudged him. “Go on then,” he looked over at her as his cheeks grew pink before he collected his plate and awkwardly walked to the long table behind the head table to join Draco. He sat in the chair Draco had intentionally left empty and instantly felt a warmth in his stomach as the blond smiled at him.

XOXO

“What kind of things do people do at a party?” Elias nudged a bit of roast beef on his plate as he spoke softly to his friend.

“Well,” Snape thought for a moment as he buttered some bread. “Normally drinking is involved, food is normally fairly decent, and... dancing.”

“Dancing?” Elias peeked over at him out of the corner of his eyes before looking back down at his plate.

“Yes, usually,” he took a sip of his drink and looked over at the magus, who seemed to have stiffened at the last comment. “Do you… know how to?” Elias shook his head and picked up his drink, suddenly wishing it were wine instead of juice.

“I’ve never had a need to learn,” he shrugged uncomfortably and looked over at Chise. “Do you think she’ll want to dance?”

“I hear they normally do,” he made quick work of cutting up his roast vegetables as he thought. “We could teach you if you like?”

“We?” Elias asked sheepishly.

“Well yes, you’ll need a female partner so I can teach Chise and Hermione can teach you.”

“I don’t like that idea,” or the idea of anyone touching Chise. It wasn’t that he didn’t trust him, it just made him uncomfortable to have someone else teach her something that could be so intimate. “Could you teach me and then I’ll teach her?” Snape had his fork halfway to his mouth when he froze.

“What?” His tone was flat and he really hoped no one was listening to their conversation.

“I can wear my female glamour if it would make you more comfortable, but I would like to teach Chise. It’s been a while since I’ve been able to teach her anything new. She takes so easily to magic and to everything in the human world as well. It would be nice to be able to impress her.” Severus took his bite and mulled it over for a moment.

“It may be awkward,” he stated plainly as he cut a bit of meat. “You would need a woman to lead, otherwise it’s you leading me and…” he glanced over at him and Elias was looking at him hopefully.

“What? Is that bad?”

“It’s not bad... just odd... don’t you think?” Snape gulped down his bite in one swallow and wished he didn’t when it choked him a bit going down.

“It would be the first human thing that I’ve let anyone else teach me since Chise has been with me. She is my only human teacher, it would be nice to teach her something human,” he shrugged as he went back to his food. Snape had managed to avoid teaching his snakes back during the tri-wizard tournament only to have to teach a man that was 300 years his elder? A part of him wanted to say no, but if he wanted to impress Hermione, he would do a lot to achieve it, he knew Elias was the same. He stifled an eye roll as he leant over towards him and whispered.

“Fine, meet me in the classroom after my last class and I’ll try to teach you.”

“Thank you my friend,” Elias smiled at him before turning back to his food.

What am I getting myself into?

XOXO

Once lunch was over, Severus stood and led Elias out of the great hall towards the hospital wing. They silently walked through the halls as students avoided Snape and the taller, blonder Snape. Severus smirked smugly when he noticed that Elias’s cloak was billowing behind him as they both walked quickly down the corridor. Once they arrived, Snape led Elias over to Madam Pomfrey and reached into his pocket. Pulling out a small case that was only as big as his hand, he unfolded it repeatedly until it was the size of a large suitcase and he placed the container on her desk.

“Madam Pomfrey, this is Elias Ainsworth,” Elias bowed his head and she stood.

“Nice to meet you, Severus told me what you’d like to do,” Poppy bustled her way over to the back of the wing and indicated that he sit on a bed. Elias stood beside it warily as Snape sat on a chair beside the bed and pulled a book from his cloak. Using his wand to expand it to its proper size, he began reading in hopes of making things less awkward. Madam Pomfrey came back and motioned for him to sit on the bed and Elias obliged, albeit begrudgingly.

“Right, so you’re here to see if you’re able to conceive, correct?” She verified as she pulled out her wand and stepped next to the bed on the opposite side Snape was sitting.

“Yes,” Elias said as he held up a hand for a moment. He felt a whirling in his stomach as reproductive organs were forming themselves within him. “Sorry, I forgot to create them before I arrived,” he gave a lopsided apologetic smile to the medi-witch, who looked down at him with a quizzical expression. He felt the organs finish knitting themselves into his body and then lowered his hand. “Alright, they are ready to be tested now.”

Madam Pomfrey looked over at Snape, who was doing his best to ignore the two of them. Then turning her attention back to the magus, she lifted her wand over his lower abdomen. She began running tests with little flicks of her wand and then looked up at Elias with so many questions she didn’t know where to begin.

“You’re not human,” she stated, and he nodded in reply. “What are you?”

“I’m not sure,” he answered honestly, and the medi-witch cocked her head as she thought for a moment before continuing to run diagnostics on him.

“I’ve never seen anything like you,” she whispered, more to herself as her wand continued to flick to and fro. “That’s incredible,” she paused a moment and then stood up straight to determine the results. “Your organs… are connected oddly,” she looked down at the magus and he tilted his head.

“I didn’t get it right?” At that Snape finally looked up; him and Poppy exchanging confused glances.

“Did you… create your organs?”

“Yes.”

“Why?”

“I am shadow and thorn, to have a physical body, I needed to create it. In order to eat and drink I needed organs.” He spoke as if this was obvious and knitted his brows together in concern when he saw them exchanging more glances. “What did I do wrong, and I can fix it. I have read many human anatomy books and have to the best of my ability emulated what I have read.”

“Well, the good news is that you are possibly the most fertile thing I’ve ever tested. My question is, if you can simply not create the organs to create sperm, does that mean you can decide when you would be able to conceive and when you wouldn’t?” Elias thought about her question for a long time before he began dissolving the organs he had just manufactured.

“I’m not sure, I’ve just gotten rid of them, could you tell me?” He waited patiently while the medi-witch flicked her wand over him again and smiled as if she just discovered the most amazing thing of her life.

“You can,” she nodded as she stood up straight again. “If you don’t want to then you won’t, but if you do want to then you can. That’s quite handy, but I wonder what would be the product of such a coming together,” her thoughtful expression worried Elias and he suddenly wanted to leave.

“Well, we’ll only find out with time,” Snape snapped his book shut before he motioned for them to leave. “Come Elias, I have class in a moment and Chise will be waiting for you. Thank you Poppy for your assistance today.”

“Wait, Severus, if I may,” she reached out to him to stop him, but he pulled his arm away from her with a sneer.

“Madam, I will not allow any further diagnostic upon my friend,” Snape drawled, and the medi-witch pulled her hand back to her side and nodded. “Elias, let’s be going,” he threw over his shoulder as Elias rose from the bed and followed him out of the hospital wing.

They walked in silence until they reached the spiral stairs that led back down into the dungeon. “I suppose I won’t be needing to learn to create contraceptive potions,” Elias said offhandedly.

“I suppose that’s true,” Snape chuckled before he heard the classroom full of students. “Fifth years… want to scare them?” Severus smirked at Elias, who looked stunned at the question.

“What do you mean?”

“Earlier, I heard some of the students saying that you were a ‘second Snape’,” he smirked at Elias’s confused expression. “So, turn yourself into me and do as I do,” a smile spread across the magus’s face when he realised what they were doing. “None of that now, if people see me smiling it’ll be my whole reputation destroyed,” he waved a hand at him as if to dispel the expression before he pushed open the door with a bang. He walked to the front as the door slammed shut again and said nothing as he glowered around the potions class.

He noticed that Hermione was yet to come in, it would be just as much of a shock to her. He tried not to chuckle as his doppelgänger threw open the door for a second time, drawing all the student’s attention and walking swiftly up the aisle, stopping on the other side, not ten feet from Snape. The children’s eyes flicked back and forth as they all paled.

“Well, get to work before I take twice as many points as usual,” Snape drawled as he flicked his wand to the board. The piece of chalk quickly sprang up and began writing out the potion they would create. For several moments, all they could hear was the sound of chopping and mincing. He had started them five minutes early and as a Ravenclaw fifth year quickly came in, they blanched white as a ghost before quickly finding their partner and starting.

The two Snapes stalked around the room, looking at the children chopping with their arms folded over their chests. Hermione stepped into the room from the office and covered her mouth before she quickly turned and disappeared back inside the office. Snape had to suppress a smile and scowled so forcefully that he probably traumatized the Hufflepuff in front of him. A few minutes later, Severus assumed Hermione was trying to get control of her laughing fits first, Hermione and Chise stepped into the room and walked around to her normal area.

The two women looked at the two Snapes and tried to suppress their amusement as Hermione began the potion on the board. The only people that were taking the class seriously were the students, which Chise and Hermione found quite funny. The time went by quickly as whenever one of them couldn’t hold in their laughter any more, they would go into the office for something and let it all out. Snape even had to once and to his surprise he was actually having fun messing with them. Elias did an excellent job of schooling his expression into one that Snape himself would wear and the looks on the children’s faces was almost too much. There was always a Snape looking at them, so they were on edge and everyone finished their potions in record time so they could leave.

Just as everyone began packing up, Headmistress McGonagall opened the door and instantly froze at the sight of the two Snapes, both with their arms crossed at the front of the classroom. She walked over to them and looked between the two as the children finished packing and practically fled the room.

“I came to let the classes go early, but apparently they wanted to get away from you both,” she looked back and forth between them for a moment, trying to figure out which was which. Elias mirrored Severus’s movements perfectly as a brow slowly rose and then a smug smirk lit up their faces. “Which one of you am I paying?” Elias laughed at that, instantly giving himself away as a happy smile lifted his face. McGonagall stared, open mouthed at the sight for a moment before turning to the real Snape. “Well, now I know,” she turned to leave but turned back at the door for one last look of the rare view of a smiling Snape before she shook her head with a chuckle and left.

“That was the fastest class I’ve ever taught,” Severus chuckled under his breath before looking over at Elias as he grew and changed back into his refined form.

“I’d say you had fun,” Hermione said, coming up to him and wrapping an arm around his waist. He looked down his nose at her and she laughed as his lips twitched up at the sides.

“Perhaps…”

“Well, I thought it was a great way to end the school term,” Chise smiled brightly as she stepped around the desk and leant against it. “What do we do now? Dinner isn’t for several hours still.”

“We could walk to the lake, have you seen the giant squid yet?”

“Giant Squid?” Chise blinked a few times in surprise, “in a lake?” Hermione nodded happily as she gave Severus a little squeeze before kissing him on the cheek and walking over to Chise.

“It’ll be fun,” she offered her hand and Chise took it.

“Alright,” she smiled back as Elias leant in to kiss her before the two ladies left through the office to gather their walking gear. Chise slung her shoulder bag onto her back and they walked up the stairs back up and out into the cold day.

XOXO

Snow was slowly falling as they laid out a blanket, waving at Hagrid as he walked from the forbidden forest with the largest tree he could drag. They sat next to the lake and watched the giant squid as its tentacles lazily lifted out of the water and dipped back in. After a while, Hermione pulled out a letter and worried at the edges until Chise looked over at her.

“Is everything alright?”

“I hope so,” she sat back under the leafless tree, glad there was a blanket between her and the snow. “My friends are coming to visit tomorrow, for the Quidditch match and for the party.”

“Well, that’s wonderful,” Chise’s face lit up as she spoke, but upon seeing Hermione’s refrained expression looked at her quizzically. “Isn’t it?”

“It may not be,” she looked down at the letter before stuffing it into her cloak pocket. “Severus doesn’t like my friends.”

“Oh no,” Chise leant forward as her knees came up and she rested her chin against them. “Elias didn’t like one of my friends, I’m still not completely convinced that he does now, but at least he’s gotten better around her.” She looked over at Hermione and gave her a small smile. “It takes time, in the beginning, Elias would have complained about how much time I’m spending with you, or anyone that makes me laugh in a way he can’t,” she shrugged, realising she was rambling, and looked toward the lake. “Why doesn’t he like them?”

Hermione took a deep breath and looked up at the frosty sky above them. “Well, one of them because… well, he looks like someone that ruined his school life completely.”

“A bully?” Chise looked over at her with concern on her face; her eyebrows meeting in the middle.

“Yes.”

“Poor Snape,” she sighed, thinking back to her school days and how much people had bullied her until the point that she contemplated no longer staying among the living. “I can’t blame him for not wanting to be around them.”

“Me neither, but he worked so hard to protect him over the years, I just hope they can move on,” Hermione watched the squid again with it’s languid movements in the chilly lake. “I love them both very much, Harry is like my brother, I don’t know if I’d be able to live without him in my life in some way.”

“I feel like that about Ruth,” she looked over at her as she laid her cheek against her knees. “What about the other friend?”

“Well… I think he believes that I was in love with him.”

“Ronald?”

“Yeah,” Hermione puffed out a mirthless laugh as she smiled wanly toward the lake. “We kissed once… it was during the final battle… it was like kissing my brother. He showed compassion for a group of creatures that I had been fighting to get rights for and I kissed him. He’d done nothing but make fun of me and the cause the entire time I was working on it. I got overwhelmed in the moment.” She huffed out a sigh and watched the water move, reflecting the grey winter day. “Afterwards he called me his girlfriend and I knew I’d made a mistake. And then… I saw Severus…” her eyes looked haunted as she thought back to that day. “He was lying there... so much blood,” a tear broke through her hold and rolled down her face. “He almost died. I knew I couldn’t be with anyone else, if Severus lived, if I was able to save him, I would do whatever it took to get him to see me.”

“Does Severus know that?”

“Well…” Hermione thought for a moment. She shook her head, “he knows we didn’t stay together; I let him know that it was because I loved him at the time, which I did. I guess the awkward brother kisses should have been mentioned, but it makes me feel squiggly thinking of having that conversation.”

Chise laughed as she regarded her friend, “squiggly?”

“Like something moving around in your stomach, it makes me uncomfortable,” she smiled wryly at Chise, who smiled back at her. “I just hope tomorrow goes well, it’s been a while since I’ve seen them,” she thought for a moment and realised it had been over four months.

“I’m sure all will be well, and if there’s anything I can do, just let me know.”

“Thank you Chise.”

They stayed by the shore watching the squid until the sun began to set and the wind picked up, urging them to go back inside.

XOXO

Severus walked around the empty classroom and with a wave of his wand moved all the tables and chairs to the edges of the room. He had shrunk his gramophone and took it out of his pocket to set on his desk. He expanded it back to its original size and it took up almost his whole desk. He raked his hand through his hair and took a deep breath. Elias walked in and closed the door behind him as Snape motioned that he should stand in the centre of the room.

“First,” Severus put the needle on the record, and it began to play a slow tune. “We’ll start with me leading and you following.”

“I’ve thought about how to make this less awkward,” he melted into a glamour that had Hermione’s face but with straight white hair and Severus cringed.

“I don’t think that’s going to achieve that goal,” he stepped in front of him and showed him where to put his hands. He had to admit that Hermione looked cute with white hair and quickly shook off that line of thinking as he spun the magus out and back in, making sure to keep a good distance between them.

“The spinning, is it necessary?” Elias’s voice was the same, and it was oddly unsettling coming out of Hermione’s mouth.

“Quite,” Severus cleared his throat as they continued around the room. Elias stared down at his feet, making sure he was following correctly. The song ended after a few minutes and Snape went over to replay it. “Now then, you lead,” he walked over to him and Elias remained in the same glamour but changed the height; they were now eye to eye. Snape gulped and took Elias’s hand in one hand and placed the other on the magus’s shoulder as Elias held his waist. “Do you remember the steps?”

“I think so,” Elias looked down once more but didn’t seem to move.

“You have to lead now,” Severus was beginning to grow too embarrassed to continue when Elias finally started dancing around the room, albeit slowly and not with the tune. It was a start and Snape would take it as progress. “You’re doing well,” he grimaced as Elias stepped on his foot.

“Sorry,” he stopped to collect himself before they set off again. It took two more songs until the magus was making real improvement, he could now do a basic dance and almost keep time.

Hermione and Chise stepped into the room and saw a six-foot two Hermione dancing with Severus and tried not to laugh as they went behind the desk. Hermione pulled out her wand; directing it at the gramophone, the music changed to something faster. Elias tried to keep up but then stepped on Snape’s foot again. Severus stepped away from him with a huff, pointing his wand at the gramophone, and it changed back to the slower speed, and he held out his hands again for them to continue.

“You two really do make a cute couple,” Hermione laughed and they both froze. Severus looked over and with a constipated smile, stepped away from his friend.

“Chise,” Elias called unabashedly, “Severus taught me to dance, so now I can teach you.” He reached his hand out to her and the smile on his face was beaming, but the fact that he looked like Hermione was weird and she couldn’t stop the laughter that was bubbling up.

“Sorry Elias, but could you change please,” she motioned to his current form and he looked down for a moment before his form shifted, going black for a moment and reforming back into his normal blond glamour.

“Now will you dance with me?” He held out his gloved hand and she went to him happily. Hermione saw the uncomfortable look on Severus’s face and went over to him, pulling him in for a hug.

“You’re a sweetheart,” she cooed, and he looked down his nose at her as his elegant eyebrow lifted sardonically. “I mean it,” she winked at him before stepping back and holding her hand out for him to join her.

“We must never speak of this,” he insisted, and she nodded gravely, trying to hide her smile. “You’re a lot prettier than the imitation,” he whispered, looking over his shoulder and she smiled as the two pairs danced around the classroom until the record was finished an hour later.

Chapter Text

“Severus?”

“Yes Hermione?” Snape looked up from putting away the gramophone to see Hermione clasping her hands in front of her with a look of consternation marring her features. “Is everything alright?” Suddenly he found himself standing in a defensive position, arms crossing firmly over his chest and his face leaning forward a bit so his hair would fall down to cover some of it.

“There’s something I need to tell you…” this sentence didn’t help with his anxiety, but he tried to force his arms apart as he attempted to nonchalantly lean against his desk.

“What is it?” His words came out flat and she could tell he was starting to Occlude. She looked up at him as she walked forward, lifting her hands and taking his.

“It’s nothing… bad… I hope,” she glanced up at him and he looked down his nose at her with nervous tension playing in his obsidian eyes.

“Out with it witch,” he muttered frustratedly.

“My friends are coming for the Quidditch tomorrow, and for the party.” Silence permeated the air around them like a fog as Severus tried to think of what the appropriate thing to say would be. He hadn’t had to see them for six glorious months, should he be happy for her?

“Ok…”

“It’ll be really nice to see them again,” she beamed up at him and his heart clenched. Ok… so I need to be happy for her.

“Yes… lovely,” his voice was forced, and he attempted to smile, but it was more of a grimace. She pulled him towards her as she wrapped her arms around him.

“I know they aren’t your favourite people in the world.”

“Understatement,” he groused quietly as he turned his head away but continued to hold her. “But true, there are worse evils than Potter and Weasley.” Ron’s name may have carried a bit more venom than was intended, but Hermione took it as a good thing that he wasn’t upset.

“It’ll be alright,” her hand ran up and down his back soothingly and he felt like pushing her away.

“Do they know…” her ministrations halted for a moment before starting back up again.

“I mean, I haven’t really told anyone yet,” she peeked up at him and he was still looking away.

“I’m guessing it will make things difficult for you if they suddenly find out,” he drawled and pulled up taller as his arms fell to his sides.

“Not if they know what’s good for them,” she firmly stated as she ran her hand up and pulled his face towards her. “I’ll tell them when they get here.”

“You don’t have to,” his voice was a whisper of frigid balled up anxiety. “I understand if you’d rather spend time with them.” He suddenly questioned if the dress she bought wasn’t for one of them and she leant back to look up at him properly.

“Severus, I’m telling you, so you’re not surprised when you see them. To be honest, I’ve been distracted and forgotten they were coming. Harry sent an owl this afternoon reminding me, so I wanted to tell you, I just wasn’t sure how to bring up the subject.” Her head tilted as she observed him, “They’ll know by tomorrow evening any ways. Remember, I’m your date to the party. I want to dance with you and even though they’ll be here as well, I want to spend time with you. If that’s alright?” Her question caught him off guard and he found himself nodding without thinking.

“Well… if you’re sure,” his voice dropped from the cold tones he was using a moment ago, but his words were still detached.

“Of course I’m sure!” She smiled and leant up to kiss him, his arms instinctively came up to hold her closer to him. “Now… what do I call you,” she grinned against his mouth and he let out a puff of laughter as his lips curled.

“Back to this again,” he leant back and looked down at her. “What would you like to call me?”

“My wizard,” she whispered. His chest swelled as he flashed an almost boyish smirk.

“Alright,” his face came down to hers again. “I’ll be waiting to be re-introduced to them as such,” he smiled against her lips before pulling her closer and deepening the kiss.

XOXO

Elias watched as Chise prepared a cup of tea from the tray on the coffee table with mild amusement. She was sitting on the floor and had placed a few earl grey tea sashays into the piping hot water of the large pot. Turning her attention to the smaller containers, she lifted the two teacups with a smooth grace that only came from preparing the treat repeatedly. A cube of sugar for each of them, along with a small amount of milk were added before she lifted the teapot’s lid and checked to ensure it had steeped for long enough. Elias had all but given up on making sure the tea went in before the milk, but as long as the teabag never touched the white liquid he wouldn’t complain.

Chise lifted a spoon and dipped it into the large pot, stirring it gently to infuse the water further with the rich flavour before replacing the lid and slowly pouring the steamy brew into the two waiting cups. She lifted a small serving tray cover to find assorted cake pieces and biscuits.

“We should wait until after dinner for those,” she muttered to herself as she replaced the cover and lifted Elias’s teacup to him and took a seat on the sofa across from him. Her legs came up and crossed somewhat underneath her as she made herself comfortable. With a contented smile she lifted her cup to take a long sip of the steaming tea before lowering it again to the small plate on which it sat.

“Chise…” Elias had lifted his teacup but then lowered it again without taking a sip as he peered down at the lovely, misty drink.

“Yes?” He looked up to find her gazing at him quizzically and he placed his teacup on the saucer before sitting back in the chair, crossing his long legs.

“Have you ever thought about… children?” Chise stared at him for an uncomfortable amount of time. If he hadn’t been so interested in her answer he would have let her disregard it entirely. He peeked up at her and her face had flushed a bright red. Cocking his head to the side, he observed her for a moment, which seemed to knock her out of the thoughts she was lost in.

“Why do you ask?” The cup was up at her face again as she stared deeply into it.

“I was curious…”

“Have you?” Her eyes flicked up to his and locked with his large red orbs as she took another sip.

“Yes…”

“I thought you hated children?” It was one of the first things she remembered about him.

“I… used to,” he replied in a stiff, non-committal fashion and she quirked a brow at him before taking another sip of tea and replacing the cup to its saucer.

“What changed?” Elias’s gaze moved slowly from her eyes to his cup as he thought about that question. What had changed? Her… it was the only thing he could think.

“I fell in love…” his eyes sheepishly darted up to meet hers as she smiled warmly back at him.

“I really hadn’t given it a lot of thought, mainly because I didn’t know if I’d be able to have any. With the curse that is.”

“But, once it’s removed?” He was watching her keenly and she sat back as she looked up to the ceiling for a moment, noticing there were a few of her crystal flowers still hanging benignly from it.

“My mother… left me, when I was very young.”

“I know, but I will never leave you Chise,” her eyes met his and again she couldn’t help but smile sadly at him.

“I know,” she whispered as she raised her cup for another sip of the soothing liquid. “I know you’d never leave me, even if you did I’d still have Ruth, I’d never be alone.”

“I don’t intend for you to ever be alone again,” his eyes were staring at her with an intensity that made her stomach flip and she puffed out a soft nervous laugh before her face fell.

“What if I... left you?” Her eyes were looking into her cup again and suddenly she saw his hand reach out and touch hers. His gloved fingers gently caressed the back of her hand as a tear slowly slid down her cheek.

“I don’t think you would ever do such a thing, my love,” he waited patiently for her to reply.

“But what if…” she looked up at him and he placed a finger over her lips as he knelt before her on one knee.

“You are not your parents,” his finger slowly glided from her lips, over her cheek, taking a tear with them, and insinuated themselves into her short red hair. “You are your own person; you will not repeat their mistakes, because you see them as mistakes.” Chise slumped forward for a moment and rested her forehead against the smooth bone of his nose.

“Thank you Elias,” her hands were trembling as she set her teacup on the table then reached them up and around his large aubergine neck. Elias pulled her close to his chest and held her as her tears slowly slid their way down onto his shoulder. His hands rubbed soothing circles into her back and neck as she cried softly, thinking of her life before Elias.

“I love you Chise, I will never leave you, you don’t have to worry,” his whispered words were met with insistent nodding against his neck. After a long while, she sat back again and rubbed her face with a cloth as she regained her composure.

“So, children?” She smiled wanly at him and he nodded as he slunk back into the armchair and lifted his cold tea. With a gentle wave of his hand it began to steam again, and he took a long drink from the fragile cup. “How long have you thought about it?”

“For a while,” he watched as she lifted her cup and performed the same spell to reheat her drink. “For the last year, I have thought of what it would be like. I will admit, I was nervous about the action that was needed to produce the effect. But now I am no longer… nervous,” she blushed brightly as she looked up with a shy smile playing on her lips.

“Neither am I… although, I wonder what we would… produce,” she let out a soft laugh before taking another sip. “Or even if we can…”

“We can,” he confirmed, and she looked up at him curiously. “Severus took me to the hospital wing to be… tested.”

“Tested?”

“Yes, she found me to be the most fertile thing she has ever tested,” he chuckled, and she gulped at the implication. “Although, because I produce my organs at will, you won’t need to worry about that until we are both ready for me to… acquire the correct devices.”

“And if I am unable to?” Elias lowered his cup and tilted his head in thought, he hadn’t even considered that as a possibility.

“Then, we will cross that bridge when we come to it,” he lifted his cup for the last sip of tea before leaning forward and placing it and its saucer on the small table. Chise thought for a moment about the phrase he used, it was somewhat unfamiliar. “We will deal with it if or when it happens,” he added and she nodded, thankful that he still explained English sayings to her when he sensed she needed it. He always seemed to sense what she needed now a days.

“You will be a very good father,” she looked up at him and his body stiffened a bit before relaxing again.

“Thank you Chise, I would only want to be the father of your children,” he added nervously.

“Good,” she replied, taking her last sip before placing the cup next to his on the table. “Perhaps we should go to dinner?” He nodded and shrunk into his glamour.

“Should we gather our friends?” Elias looked down at her and she smiled up at him happily, “what?”

“Our friends,” she beamed and wrapped her arms around his waist. “I’m glad we have friends we both like.”

“As am I,” his voice was a soothing rumble as he gave her a grin, leaning down and gently kissing her lips. His hands swiftly came up and cupped her cheeks, his long thumbs rubbed gently on them as he kissed her more ardently. Her arms came up and wrapped around his neck to pull him closer and she was tempted to jump up on the coffee table to close the gap when the office door opened and Snape stood in the doorway. Elias pulled back from her before placing one last kiss on her nose and turning to Severus. “Dinner?” Snape nodded as he stepped aside, and Hermione came through the door.

The women left the room quickly, leaving the men standing, looking after them for a moment before following.

“Were you able to tell him?” Chise asked Hermione as they made their way up the stairs.

“Yes,” she peeked behind them to make sure she didn’t see him and whispered. “He took it better than I thought he would.”

“Well that’s good,” Chise smiled as they made their way towards the great hall.

“Hermione!” Ginny came rushing towards the pair with a beaming smile on her face before settling into step with them. “Harry’s coming tomorrow! I’m so excited,” she beamed happily.

“I know, it’ll be fun!” Hermione grinned as they all turned a corner. “Ron’s coming too right?”

“Yes,” she replied, looking over at her with a sly smile. “If you still need a date for the party he’d be very happy to take you.”

“No thank you, I have a date,” she smiled as she looked straight ahead.

“Oh? The mystery man asked you, did he?” Ginny nudged her in the ribs as Chise looked over at them but walked in silence.

“Yes, he did.”

“So, are you going to tell me who he is now?”

“Maybe it should be a surprise?” Hermione felt a bit awkward at the thought of telling Ginny.

“I know who it is,” she laughed quietly, and Hermione’s jaw dropped before she snapped it shut again and tried to regain herself.

“Oh, you do, do you? Go on then, enlighten me, who’s my date?” She pressed, secretly hoping she would get it right, it would be a lot easier if she had at least one of her friends on her side.

“Snape,” she grinned, and Hermione laughed.

“How…?”

“Are you kidding?”

“What do you mean?”

“The way you look at him… the way he looks at you,” she fluttered her eyelashes at Hermione, who was now blushing violently.

“Oh,” Hermione looked over at her friend sheepishly and then shrugged. “Yes, you’re correct, and I plan on dancing the night away with him.”

“I didn’t know he could dance,” Ginny teased and Chise laughed at the pair.

“He taught us earlier,” Chise supplied and Ginny’s grin grew wider.

“This should be an interesting party,” Ginny laughed as they entered the great hall and she scurried off to sit with her Quidditch friends.

“Was it that obvious?” Hermione turned to Chise, who smiled up at her and nodded.

“Yes, I wasn’t even here an hour and I could tell how you felt, and how he felt… even though he was trying with all his might to hide it.” They sat down next to Neville, who was already gathering food to eat for dinner.

XOXO

“Is everything alright?” Elias asked from next to Snape as they ate dinner at the head table.

“Hmm?” Severus looked over at Elias with a vacant expression, but his forehead was a bit scrunched in thought.

“Is everything alright?” Elias repeated his question and Snape nodded slowly, uncertainly. “Are you sure? You’ve been very quiet.”

“I’m always quiet,” Snape clipped as he looked over at the Gryffindor table.

“Are you?”

“Well… I usually am anyway,” he thought for a long while as he pushed food around with his fork. “Her friends are coming tomorrow for the Quidditch and the party,” he finally said and as he looked over at Elias he was looking back at him, mirroring his awkward nervousness.

“You don’t like them,” it wasn’t a question and Elias could relate. “There are friends of Chise’s that it took me a long time to get used to…”

“It’s not that I’m not used to them, it’s just… we have a history…” he peered back down at his pile of food and huffed at it. “It’s complicated.”

“You don’t have to tell me,” Elias lifted his hand and placed it on Snape’s shoulder. “I’m here if you need me.”

“Thank you Elias,” Severus didn’t feel confident that the next day would go well and was now dreading it horribly.

XOXO

That night Severus made love to Hermione slowly, enjoying every last exquisite inch of her body as if he’d never see it again, as if she would suddenly disappear and he would be left alone again. He worshipped her for ages and ardently hoped that his fears were simply that and wouldn’t become a reality that would utterly crush him.

XOXO

Hermione was surprised that Severus allowed her to take his arm on their way to the Quidditch pitch the next day, when there were so many people around. It made her heart flutter, knowing that he wasn’t embarrassed about showing they were together. As they crested the small hill, Elias came into view. Then she heard her name and whipped her head around in excitement.

“Hermione!!” She turned to see the familiar shaggy black hair of her best friend running towards her.

“Harry!” She belted towards Harry, frosty air stung her chest as she rushed across the snowy ground, and they leapt into each other’s arms as if they’d not seen each other for a decade. “It’s so good to see you,” she beamed as they stepped back.

“You too Hermione! How are things?” He asked as the short-haired ginger man stepped into view, obviously waiting until Harry and her had reunited, knowing that it would be a warmer moment then what he would get.

“Things are really great Harry.”

“How’s Snape?” He asked, letting her hands drop from his as he peered over her shoulder at the dour man standing menacingly before turning to speak to a tall blond man.

“He’s wonderful,” she smiled.

“Wonderful?” Ron had finally joined the pair, just in time to hear her declaration. “What’s so wonderful about him?” He asked playfully as he reached out and wrapped his arm around her for a moment, giving her a little squeeze when he felt her arms return the gesture. They stepped back and looked at each other awkwardly for a moment until she remembered that she had simply left Severus behind. When she turned to apologise, he was heading to the stands with Elias, they appeared to be talking but no words could be heard over the roar of the crowd that was gathering for the match.

“Hermione, would you like to sit together?” Harry took her hand as they started walking, “Luna said she’d save us a seat with her.”

“I think I’m just going talk to… urm… professor Snape really quick,” she dropped Harry’s hand and set off for the teacher’s box, hoping that’s where he would have gone.

“Wonderful eh,” Ron mocked as he crossed his arms and watched Hermione disappear into the shrouded staircase.

“Don’t be like that Ron,” Harry nudged him in the ribs as he tried to laugh it off. “She seemed really happy,” he didn’t mention that he noticed her holding Snape’s hand before he called to her.

“True, I haven’t seen her smile so big in ages,” Ron mumbled as they made their way towards the pitch.

XOXO

“Hermione!” Severus heard her name being called and knew who it was. Within an instant her hand felt ripped from him. He watched as she ran to Harry and his heart seemed to ache. He knew it was stupid to feel this way… but he couldn’t help it. It was always a Potter.

“Severus, is everything alright?” He felt the hand on his shoulder, and he turned to see Elias, his eyebrows knitted together in concern as he looked between his new friend and Hermione hugging another man. Elias’s eyes were full of worry and Snape wasn’t sure what to say.

“Potter,” he spat as he turned away from them, he tasted the bile in his mouth and felt troubled. He didn’t want to feel like this, but the thought of her with him hurt. He’d seen it a million times, she was always running to them, always with them. He knew they were friends, best friends, so why did it hurt him now? It wasn’t Harry’s fault that he looked like James. It wasn’t Harry’s fault that he had to watch over him for so long, it wasn’t his fault that he was an easy lightning rod for the pain of his past. “Let’s go,” he managed to say, and Elias nodded as he followed.

“Where is Chise?”

“She met with Miss Lovegood earlier, they should already be there, she said she’d save a seat for you if you like,” he looked over at the magus. “Or you can join me in the teacher’s box, it looks like I’ll be alone otherwise,” the final words were said softly as he tried to pull himself together. He wanted to look behind him, he wanted to see if they were still holding each other, but the thought made his stomach roll.

“I’ll sit with you,” Elias stated resolutely, and Snape gave him a small smile as they began climbing the steps to get to the box. They had just reached it when he felt a hand grab his and he turned to see Hermione smiling up at him.

“You left.”

“I did,” he drawled and gently pulled his hand from hers.

“Severus, can I talk to you a moment?” He glanced at Elias before giving her a curt nod and following her back to the privacy of the covered stairs. “Are you alright?”

“Yes.”

“I don’t believe you,” she tilted her head and her smile faded as she reached for his hand again. “I’m sorry I ran off.” He wasn’t looking at her any more, his attention was on something to his left, a thread protruding from one of the seams of colourful fabric that surrounded the stairs.

“I understand,” it was an emotionless statement that made her stomach clench.

“Severus,” she took his hand and pulled him closer to her. “Please talk to me,” he finally looked down at her and she saw a sadness in his eyes.

“Why?”

“Because… I’m not sure what I did wrong.”

“You’ve done nothing wrong,” he huffed, but didn’t pull away. She took another step towards him and wrapped her arms around his waist as her head rested on his shoulder.

“Then why are you upset?”

“Upset?” He whispered as his eyes closed tightly, “you should go be with your friends.”

“I’ll go if you kiss me,” she looked up at him and he opened his eyes.

“Hermione, we’re in public.”

“That’s not a good excuse,” she whispered as she kissed his scarf covered neck. His arms wrapped around her and pulled her closer, resting his cheek on her forehead. “Would you like to join us?” She felt his body tense and she gently ran her hands down the back of his thick grey coat. “You don’t have to, but you do have to kiss me.”

He leant in and gave her a chaste kiss and as he pulled away she rushed up and kissed him properly. His hand instinctively came up and his fingers bussed along her chin before insinuating themselves into her hair as he deepened the kiss. For a moment it was as if they were the only two people in the world and he gave himself over to the feeling. Her arm ran up around his neck and pulled him closer still. A loud voice boomed through the crowd, announcing they would be starting soon, and Severus pulled his lips from hers. His dark tunnels burrowing into her eyes as she spoke.

“Just remember, you’re the only one that gets those,” he nodded as he stepped back from her and turned quickly back to the teacher’s box to join Elias. He stepped back out into the chilly day; the air felt crisper somehow. Severus made his way to the seat next to Elias, who immediately pointed to the place where Chise was now sitting with Luna, Harry, and Ron.

Madam Hooch hoved into view as her broom lifted skyward. The third year Ravenclaw girl announced the teams as they erupted onto the field from their respective burrows. Soon he saw Hermione join the group to sit between Chise and Harry. Taking a deep breath of the frigid air, he tried to turn his attention to the game.

XOXO

“Have you seen a game before?” Luna asked Chise in her usual ethereal voice. She wore a big fabric lion’s head as a cowl and smiled when Chise shook her head. “It’s kind of exciting, but really I come for the atmosphere more than the game itself.” Chise looked around at the students, some waving around little house flags and others with large banners that hung and shimmered. She finally saw Elias step into the teacher’s box, and she stood and waved enthusiastically at him until he saw her and smiled over at her. “Who’s that?” Luna asked as Chise sat back down.

“My husband,” Chise smiled and Luna looked over at him.

“He isn’t what he appears, is he?” Her lilting voice was calm and the smile on her face was wistful. “He is quite beautiful in his true form I would suspect.”

“He is,” Chise thought back to the day in the graveyard when he could no longer contain his ire. “I haven’t seen him like that in a long time.”

“You will,” Luna nodded knowingly. “You will very soon, I only wish I could be there. The magic surrounding him is lovely.”

“You can see his magic?”

“Yes,” she smiled as the announcer boomed over the crowd. “Oh, this is my favourite part,” she turned towards the field as the players moved into position and Chise looked out at all the smiling faces. Her heart felt light and airy, like someone was pulling it up into the sky as the players readied themselves.

Hermione plopped down next to her as the referee blew a loud whistle and threw a ball up between six players and then a whirl of movement gushed through the stadium as the ball began to hop between the players. Two other balls were knocked between four others as they shot around, trying to keep them from their team. Chise’s eyes were glued to the action as everyone whooshed around quickly and then she saw something small and gold, it was far away but then it was suddenly right in front of her and she watched it as it seemed to look at her.

The tiny wings looked fragile and it flapped them like a hummingbird as it twitched in front of her. She could have reached out and touched it but then it was gone. Two players swooped low; she was knocked back into Ruth’s arms and he pushed her forward again once they had flown away.

A cheer came from everyone around her and she felt suddenly overwhelmed with the noise. She felt hands cover her ears and laughed as the noise hushed and her hands came up to cover his. ‘Thank you Ruth,’ she sent through their connection.

‘You’re welcome Chise,’ came his soft reply.

The feeling of the crowd was electric as the sound changed; oohing and awing in time with the flight of the two players that chased the tiny golden ball. She looked up as a sound like a gong rang out, signalling a point for Slytherin. She looked to the green stands and they were all standing up, cheering and whooping. She saw Draco and waved as she caught his eye and he waved back with a beaming smile. He threw one of the tails of his green and silver scarf around his neck and looked back to the game. Chise leant forward, out of Ruth’s arms and looked down at the field as the players hovered close to the ground. She couldn’t stop trying to find that little golden ball and when she spotted it again, she gasped.

They were so close to it, both of the players reaching for it, when it suddenly rushed straight up towards the sun and they lost its direction momentarily as another gong sounded, this time for Gryffindor. Everyone around her got to their feet as they cheered, and she found herself standing with them, up against the railing. She looked down, it was far higher than she had expected and with a gulp she nudged herself back a bit when she felt Ruth’s hands on her shoulders, holding her securely so she could relax again.

“The seekers almost had it,” Luna sighed and Chise looked over to see that she was next to her at the railing.

“Seeker?”

“The ones chasing the golden snitch,” she nodded and Chise looked back down at the field as the two seekers shot up in front of her, causing everyone to scoot back from the side and fall back into their seats with riotous laughter. She heard a third gong and looked up to see that Slytherin had scored again before scouring the field for the tiny golden ball. Then she saw it, up near the teacher’s box, it flew by Elias and he flinched as the two seekers followed it. Chise’s hand covered her mouth as she laughed and then a loud whistle blew, and all the players converged on the field again.

“What happened?” She said, looking over at Luna, who had a soft smile on her face.

“Slytherin won.” Chise looked across to see Draco with a giant grin on his features as he turned to those around him, giving high fives and the crowd cheered on their side and groaned on her side. She looked around to see all the Gryffindors looking crestfallen, but she couldn’t get the smile to leave her face. It was one of the most exciting things she’d been to and she sat down next to Luna, who was smiling happily back at her. “Shall we head back to the castle?” She offered.

“I’m going to go meet with Elias,” Chise jumped back up and looked over at Hermione, who was talking enthusiastically with Harry as Ron leant over from beside Ruth. She looked back and Luna, “would you like to come meet him?”

“I’d like that,” she nodded and Chise looked over at Ruth, who was looking almost longingly across the field before meeting her eyes and nodding as he stood next to her. “How long have you been married?” Luna asked as they made their way down the steps back into the snow.

“Four years.”

“He’s lucky he found you,” she turned to her and put her hands on Chise’s shoulders. “I’m glad he found you, I’m glad you’re here,” the way she said it eluded to knowing things that had never been said and Chise felt herself pause in confusion.

“How do you—?”

“I had a feeling, that sort of thing has a way of following us around,” the smile she gave was comforting and Chise leant forward and hugged her tightly.

“How?”

“It’s nothing that you say or do, it’s more just there, I’m glad you don’t feel like that any more.”

“So am I,” she felt instantly connected, she held her close. She was like Nevin, a soul that could see, someone that would think about the lives of those around her, wisdom beyond her years. “Thank you.”

“You don’t need to thank me Chise,” Luna stepped back, a wistful smile still playing on her features. “But if you ever need to talk, there are those close by that are here for you.” Chise stepped back and bowed to her and when she rose, she saw that Elias was standing behind her. “Hello Elias,” Luna said as she turned and peered up at his blond glamour.

“Hello,” he looked down at the woman wearing the giant lion head as a hat and then at Chise.

“This is Luna,” Chise put her hand on Luna’s shoulder and smiled wide as Elias looked back to Luna and held out his hand.

“It’s lovely to meet you,” she smiled, and he shook her hand. There was something about her, she reminded him of someone, the calm lilting way she spoke was relaxing and he felt soothed by her.

“It’s a pleasure to meet you as well Luna,” he replied with a smile. Then he looked back to Chise and held out his elbow, “shall we?”

“Yes,” she smiled at Ruth as he held out his elbow to Luna, she took it as Chise linked arms with Elias. Severus walked close behind them and smiled to himself when he saw how easily Miss Lovegood was welcomed into the group. He could understand why, she was a fascinating young woman, very insightful and kind. He wondered idly if she was still dating Mr. Longbottom, then shrugged as he realised he really didn’t care.

He heard the snow crunching behind him and looked over his shoulder to see the trio walking together, talking animatedly about the game. He wanted to pull her out of the group and to him, but then he wouldn’t know what to do if she resisted. Instead he simply stood still and waited to see what she would do. He would know how she really felt about him then.

Is this the smartest thing to do? What if she carries on as if I’m not here? By all rights that’s what she should do. Perhaps I should just keep moving, I could easily out-walk them. He had every intention of walking away, but then Hermione reached out and grabbed his hand; he froze.

“Professor, won’t you walk with us?” Harry offered and Severus nodded curtly as he started walking back with them. Severus had forgotten how ‘polite’ the Potter boy had become after he came back to school. He knew it was all to do with what the boy had seen in his memories. At least addressing him with an honorific made him feel a bit more in control of the situation.

“Mr. Potter, Mr. Weasley,” he nodded to them and then gave a small smile to Hermione, who was still covertly holding his hand.

“Did you enjoy the game,” Ron groused, sarcasm dripping from his words like venom. Then he noticed how closely Hermione was walking next to Snape. To Severus’s pleasure, he saw the young man flinch.

“Very much… and yourselves,” his smirk was knowing as Ron quickly began to complain about one of the plays.

“I don’t think that was a foul,” Harry insisted as Ron threw up his hands. They continued to ague, but Severus paid them little mind as she gave his hand a squeeze. Perhaps having her friends around wouldn’t be as bad as he had thought.

Chapter Text

He was wrong. So very, very wrong. They sat at the Gryffindor table in the great hall together as they ate lunch. Well, most of them ate lunch; Weasley and Ruth seemed to be shovelling it into a black hole that was concealed inside their mouths. He swore he never saw either of them swallow. Ruth was a dog… what was Weasley’s excuse?

He watched them intently. If Potter brushed one more crumb from Hermione’s cheek, he was going to hex him into next week.

“Severus, are you alright?” Elias’s calm voice came from beside him and jerked him from his thoughts. He realised then that his jaw was very firmly clenched, and he was holding his fork so tightly his knuckles were white.

“I’m fine,” he muttered, trying to relax and drag his eyes away from Potter wiping something off Hermione’s face with a napkin.

“I know I wouldn’t be,” Elias huffed, looking at Chise with a longing that was almost tangible, and her eyes darted up to meet his gaze with a smile. “You are a much stronger man than I,” he pushed his fork into his quiche and took a bite, overwhelmingly happy that the boys weren’t touching Chise.

“What would you do?” Severus asked quietly as he watched the trio speaking enthusiastically about what he could only assume was the game they had just watched.

“In the past… I have simply left, I’m not good in these situations. If they were touching her, I would go and let her know that it bothered me. As I did with Neville, I would go to her,” he looked down at his food and took a breath before looking over at the wizard. “Chise is very good at calming me, she is the only one that can.”

“No one has ever tried to calm me,” he whispered as he finally gathered a bit of mashed lunch onto his fork and took a bite.

“Have you given anyone the chance? Speak with her, let her know—”

“That I don’t like her friends?” He hissed back to the magus and Elias tilted his head as if his question were silly.

“Of course. I often let Chise know if I don’t like her friends,” he continued to watch the wizard as he mulled over this concept. “At least then, she knows how I feel,” Snape looked over at his friend and shrugged before his visage took on an altogether impassive countenance.

“I see no good coming from me voicing my thoughts on the matter. They’re her friends and always have been.”

“I’m not saying that you should attempt to break her of them,” Elias lifted a bite of food and as he chewed, he thought of how to word what he wanted to say correctly. “If you know them, perhaps they will become your friends as well? Although that hasn’t really worked for me… Chise’s friends are impressed by my magic but they never seem to want anything more than me to instruct them. I’m glad to no longer be teaching at the college, I only enjoyed it when Chise was around.” Elias’s shoulders slumped as he thought of Chise running off with her friends, which begged the question… why didn’t Hermione bother him?

He looked up at her as she waved her hands animatedly and realised that the only time Hermione had bothered him was the first day, before he started talking to Severus. He looked over at Snape and gave him a half smile, perhaps having friends allows you to be more relaxed. I know that he’s feeling how I would feel, understanding is a wonderful thing.

“Fine,” Severus huffed, and Elias looked over at him strangely. “I’m going to go and… talk to her,” he cringed a bit before he stood nervously. “Wish me luck,” he whispered as he walked around the table to step down towards the Gryffindor table. Elias watched his tall form glide down to where they were seated and then stop behind Hermione.

“Miss Granger,” he spoke clearly, with more confidence lacing his words than he felt. She turned to look up at him with a wide smile that made him instantly feel warmth blooming in his chest.

“Yes, professor?” She tilted her head as concern flitted across her face before turning to her friends, “I’ll be right back.” She stood and motioned for him to lead the way out of the hall. Once in the atrium Severus wrapped his arms around her and brought her close as he moved them out of view of the doors. “Are you alright Severus?”

“I am now,” he whispered before looking down at her. His hand came up and his long fingers smoothed their way across her cheek as it tinged with crimson.

“I’m sorry if—“

“You have nothing to be sorry for,” he said before his forehead met hers. “They keep… touching you,” he eyed her anxiously for a moment before Hermione closed the gap between them; kissing him gently, her hands wound their way up around his neck to pull him closer.

“I love you,” she whispered, and he gazed down at her. “I could tell them now if you’d like, we could re-introduce you,” her grin was all cheeks and dimples, like a bunny smiling.

“No, it’s alright,” he kissed her once more before backing away and releasing her from his embrace. “Go and enjoy yourself, I’m sorry—“

“You,” she lifted a hand and placed a finger on his chest. “Have nothing to be sorry for either. I want you to talk to me, no matter if it’s good or bad, remember?” He smirked at her and lifted the hand from his chest to place a chaste kiss on the back before turning abruptly and sweeping back into the hall towards the high table once again. The smirk was fixed on his face as he made his way passed the students and around to seat himself next to Elias again.

“How did it go?” Elias asked quietly, after several moments of silence.

“You were right, it does help. Now how to pass the next few hours till the party,” he turned back to his mushed food, that was now stone cold. Elias waved a hand towards it and steam began to rise from it once more, Snape chuckled before getting a bit on his fork to try to eat, now that his stomach was less upset.

XOXO

“What did he want?” Ron asked, slowing down his eating to speak to Hermione as she sat back down, a soft smile lighting her features that made him uncomfortable.

“Just wanted to ask me a question about one of the potions we’re working on.”

“Greasy git can’t even let you get through a meal without pestering you,” he huffed and Chise froze, thinking if someone said that about Elias she’d want to hurt them. She looked at Hermione, who bristled at the comment.

“He’s not really greasy any more though, really?” Harry offered as he saw the tension that suddenly was on Hermione’s face. “He seems more relaxed too,” he shrugged, and Hermione smiled appreciatively at her friend.

“Harry’s right Ronald, he has become a lot more relaxed these days, it makes me wonder if it was all the stress he was under before that was weighing on him—“

“I was in his class after the war and he was just as much a git as always,” Ron affirmed, but was met with unhappy faces all around him.

“Well, oh well,” Harry patted Ron’s shoulder and tried to laugh. “At least he’s better now, maybe Hermione’s having a good effect on him,” he watched as she blushed.

“He’s been nice the whole time we’ve been here,” Chise interjected, trying to take some of the focus off Hermione.

“Well yeah, you didn’t have to be his student,” Ron huffed again as he looked up at the high table. Snape and Elias were talking and slowly eating. “Who’s that man he’s with? Is he a new teacher?”

“He’s my husband,” Chise watched intently for his reaction. Ron’s mouth dropped open and he looked back and forth between them.

“He’s got to be at least forty.”

“Actually, he’s closer to three hundred,” she laughed, and Ron looked at her incredulously. “He’s a magus,” she shrugged, and the two women went back to their food. “Age doesn’t really matter anyway, in the grand scheme of life, I’ll probably live that long, or longer.”

“How did he do it?”

“Do what?”

“How is he living for so long?” Chise looked over at Hermione, who turned in her seat towards her.

“The only wizard that’s lived that long was Nicholas Flamel, but he had to have a philosopher’s stone to achieve it,” then she turned to Ron. “As for your question, we don’t know, he’s a mage and part fae, not a wizard. They do live longer than us, in fact we’re going to see another mage in a few days that’s… how old?”

“Over four hundred,” Chise suddenly wanted to get out of the situation, feeling a bit on the spot and embarrassed for bringing it up in the first place.

“Blimey…”

“Why’s that Hermione?” Harry asked.

“That’s personal,” Chise mumbled and Hermione nodded.

“Sorry Harry,” she shrugged.

“Anyway, what are you all doing for Christmas this year?” Ron blurted out as he and Ruth sat back from their plates with full stomachs. “You should come to the Burrow Hermione, it’ll be fun,” he grinned, and she glanced over at Chise with a smile.

“Actually, this year I’m going to spend it with Chise and Elias.”

“Oh, that’s too bad,” his shoulders slumped a bit.

“That’s alright Hermione,” Harry smiled. “We’ll have to get your presents to you then, what if we get together sometime between Christmas and new year’s?”

“That might work,” she smiled, thankful that Harry was being sensible about the whole thing.

“What should we do now that lunch’s over,” Harry looked at his watch, they had several hours to kill before they needed to get ready.

“Well, I don’t know about you, but I’ll be in the tower trying to tame this mess,” Ginny was suddenly behind Hermione, poking at her riotous curls with a laugh.

“Oh right,” Ron looked over at Hermione with a bit of a frown. “It looks like I’m the only one without a date… unless you don’t have one Hermione? We could go toge—”

“She has a date Ronald,” Ginny quickly said, and Harry looked from Ginny to Hermione with an oddly knowing smile. “We should start getting ready, not sure if a few hours is enough time to get this into something that could pass for hair,” she giggled before leaning over the table and kissing Harry’s cheek. He blushed crimson as people started looking over at him and smiled awkwardly up at Ginny. The ladies rose from the table and Ruth tried to go with them, but Ginny laughed and put up her hand. “No boys allowed.”

Ruth looked to Chise, who shrugged apologetically. ‘What if I hide in your shadow?’ he asked through their connection and Chise looked over at Ginny.

‘I think not, sorry Ruth. Could you tell Elias that we’ll be in the tower, I didn’t know we were going until just now.’

‘Sure,’ Ruth slumped his shoulders before the man in question stood and made his way over to them with Snape in tow.

“Chise?” He held out his hand to her and she took it for a moment.

“Sorry Elias, I’m going with them up to the tower to get ready for the party tonight,” Elias’s eyes widened as he looked down at his pocket watch.

“But Chise, do you really need hours to prepare?”

“Yes, we do,” Ginny laughed, pushing Hermione towards the doors, followed closely by Snape.

“Chise,” he looked down at her with pleading eyes. “What will I do in the meantime?”

“You can get to know her friends,” she motioned to Harry and Ron, who smiled awkwardly at him. Elias gave a huff of indignation before leaning down to kiss Chise on the forehead.

“It seems I have no choice in this matter,” he groused as Chise nodded sweetly up at him.

“I’ll meet you by the doors tonight,” she squeezed his hand before turning to go to the atrium and catch up with the other two.

“I couldn’t join her either,” Ruth crossed his arms agitatedly. Elias turned to the grim and smiled, at least he wasn’t alone in his annoyance. Then he looked over at the two young men and nodded.

“Would you like to join us?” He offered and Harry stood quickly with a smile on his face, Ron was a bit slower but followed Harry.

“What should we do while they get ready?”

“We could go into Hogsmeade,” Severus rejoined the group and looked over at the pair that was joining them. “We could acquire flowers for our robes and… for our dates,” he glanced at Elias, who nodded as his smile grew. Harry smiled and motioned for them to make their way. “I don’t need to be back until it starts, not being a head of house does have its perks,” he smirked as they made their way out into the snow. Severus shrugged on his warm grey jacket over his frock coat and Elias was suddenly in his long blue coat.

Ruth melted into his grim form and ran out ahead of them to the shock of Ron and Harry. “Animagus?” Harry asked Elias, who shook his head no.

“He’s a fae, a grim.”

“Don’t let Trelawney see him, she’ll have a bloody field day,” Harry laughed.

Ron hunched a bit, curling his jacket up like a shawl and adjusted his imaginary glasses. “Your time is coming soon!” he cried breathlessly, “watch out for your doom could be around any corner!” He was surprised when he heard the smooth baritone rumble of a chuckle from behind him. As he turned, he saw Snape with a slight curl to the edge of his mouth and the sight stunned him more than the grim did.

“It’s as if she’s here,” Snape quipped as he brushed passed the frozen ginger.

“I suppose he has relaxed a bit,” Ron whispered to Harry, who was watching Elias and Snape as they walked several paces ahead of them. It took no time at all to get to Hogsmeade and the five found themselves in a dress robes shop that had a rather large flower section in the back.

Harry sidled up next to Snape as he looked over some roses, he picked one up and smelt it as he appraised it carefully. He lifted the small bouquet and smiled softly down at them.

“So, who’s the lucky girl?” Harry asked as Snape’s smile dissipated. “Someone who was a friend… and now is more?” Harry asked, looking at the red tipped yellow roses with a smile.

“Perhaps,” Severus looked down at the boy with a soft sneer lifting his lips. “Why would it matter to you?”

“Well, I may be able to help is all,” Harry lifted a small bouquet of violets, strung together with thick green ribbons and looked up at Snape. “Like, if it were for Hermione, I’d get her this one, it’s her favourite flower, but you probably already know that. She’s been wearing that perfume since you’ve come back to teach,” Harry attempted to say nonchalantly. Snape watched him carefully for a moment, putting back the roses and lifting the delicate flowers from Harry’s hands. “Hmm… now what to get for Ginny,” Harry tapped his chin in contemplation and continued on as if nothing had happened. Snape couldn’t stop the small smile from twitching at his lips.

“Thank you Potter,” he said softly as he took a smell of the lithe bunch in his hand and felt his anxiety drifting away.

“Maybe she’d like these?” He lifted an assortment of poinsettias and white roses, “what do you think sir?” Snape looked at the lovely bunch and nodded approvingly.

“I believe Miss Weasley will enjoy those… very festive,” he added, and Harry gave him a beaming smile. Snape lifted a boutonnière with several little violets strung together with a green backing before suddenly turning and walking away towards Elias. Harry looked down at the lovely red and white flowers in his hands with a warm smile.

XOXO

“What do you think they’ll talk about?” Ginny asked as she smoothly added another handful of sleekeazy to tame Hermione’s hair.

“Politics and religion,” Hermione chuckled. “Because it would be less awkward than them talking about who their dates are going to be tonight…” Ginny gave her an odd look before scooping up her mass of now tamed tresses and bundling them up on top of her head in a loose bun. Chise watched as her head tilted from side to side before she looked back down at the hairstyle magazine Ginny had given her to peruse.

“What about this one?” Chise stood and walked over to the two as she pointed at an up-do for short hair and Ginny nodded.

“That could work,” she looked at Chise’s bright red hair with a smile. “I love your hair colour.”

“Yours is red as well,” Chise could feel her cheeks heating as she absently patted her hair.

“Yes, but yours is so, so red,” she waved her wand to secure the last tendril she wanted to include in Hermione’s bun. She had been right, it had taken over an hour just to tame her hair and they hadn’t even started to dress yet. “Mine’s red but it’s… well it’s not like yours, yours is like wild red, like a rose.” Ginny looked closer at her for a moment as she turned towards her. “Your eyes aren’t the same colour, that’s really cool.”

“One of them… urm…”

“What?”

“Well, it’s not mine,” she flinched with instant regret.

“What do you mean?” Ginny’s eyes had grown as she looked deeper into Chise’s eyes. It was unnerving and Chise gulped down a bit of anxiety at her proximity.

“Well, it was given to me, it really doesn’t matter,” she tried to wave a hand dismissively, but Ginny just looked at her with a tilted head.

“Is it magical?”

“Yes.”

“What does it do?”

“Urm…” Chise didn’t want to say that it held her curse from Cartaphilus, it seemed an odd thing to say and she really wished she hadn’t brought it to her attention. “Nothing special.”

“A magic eye that doesn’t do anything… ok, if you don’t want to tell me,” she laughed as she opened her wardrobe to bring out her dress for the evening. It was a lovely green and was full length. “Where are your dresses?”

“In the dungeons,” Chise replied, glad that the subject was already moving on.

“Wink—”

“Don’t you dare Ginny Weasley,” Hermione chastised. “Those poor house elves have enough to do without you calling them to do mundane fetch quests!”

“Ok, ok, sorry!”

“I can get them,” Chise was happy to get away for a few minutes. “Yours is in Snape’s wardrobe right?”

“Yes,” Hermione replied, a blush staining her cheeks, and Ginny smiled brightly.

“Are you sure you don’t mind?”

“Not at all,” Chise was already opening the door to the girl’s dorms before making her way through the common room.

“Wait!” Hermione chased after her, catching her halfway down the hall. “I’d like to go with you.”

XOXO

“So, how’s Hermione’s apprenticeship going?” Harry asked as he lifted his ale to take a long drink.

“It’s going… satisfactorily,” Snape replied as he sipped his elf-made wine along with Elias.

“That’s great to hear,” Harry peeked over at Ron, who was taking small sips of his drink and watching Ruth. He took a final gulp before turning to Elias and asking for a third cup of Butterbeer. Elias shook his head no and Ruth slumped down in his chair. Snape took one last long drink from his wine and pulled out his pocket watch to check the time.

“Well, we should start to head back, by the time we’ve dressed and readied ourselves the party will be starting.” He snapped the little watch closed and looked up to see Harry and Ron both chugging what was left of their drinks, his eye twitched as he suppressed an eye roll.

“Thank you for the drink professor,” Harry set his empty mug down in front of him and Snape smirked at the young man. Elias had been finished with his drink for a little while so stood and led the way to the door. The walk back to the castle took very little time and the men walked in silence except for Ruth, who had resumed his grim form and was tipsily bounding about with his tongue lolling out of his mouth.

‘’Has he ever had alcohol before?” Severus asked Elias as they watched the grim bouncing this way and that. Suddenly a flash of movement alerted Ruth of a squirrel and he took off after it as fast as his somewhat wobbly legs would take him.

“I don’t believe he has…” Elias watched Ruth barking up the tree at the squirrel and he started walking towards him. “Ruth,” he said sternly, and Snape chuckled to himself as he watched the scene. Elias pointed next to him and said in a firm voice, “Ruth come here.” The grim stopped barking and trotted over to Elias. “Let’s go inside, Chise will be waiting.”

“She feels very happy right now,” Ruth walked in stride with the magus and Elias looked down at him.

“Do you know what she’s doing?”

“No, just feel that she’s excited, it’s making me excited,” he chuckled, and Harry quirked a brow at the grim.

“You can feel her?”

“He is her familiar,” Elias clarified, and the two friends looked at each other before looking back at the grim.

“What’s it like?” Ron asked and Snape rolled his eyes as they all continued to walk towards the castle.

“Most of the time it’s really nice, I can feed off her magic and in turn I provide my own to her to use whenever she needs me. Although sometimes I’m glad I can block out her emotions,” he looked up at Elias, who gave him a somewhat sheepish look before looking over at Snape. The two boys laughed between each other and Snape was happy when the castle came into view.

“I don’t have anything to wear,” Elias whispered to Snape and he stopped dead.

“I might have something that we can… magically alter to fit you.” He looked up at the magus and noticed for the first time how broad his shoulders were and how slim his waist was. They were sort of similar apart from a few inches in height. “I think I have something you can borrow.”

“Thank you Severus,” Elias nodded, and they continued up to the castle.

They could hear music from the entrance door and followed it passed the great hall, where they parted ways with Harry and Ron, who went to Gryffindor tower to change into their dress robes.

XOXO

“Snape’s really changed; don’t you think?” Harry adjusted the collar of his dress robes as he looked over at Ron.

“I don’t know…”

“We just had a perfectly civil time with him… he bought us drinks…” Run shrugged non-committally and bent forward to look in the mirror. “You don’t think he’s acting differently?”

“I think it’s a farce… any minute now he’s going to turn around and try to give me detention.”

“You’re being ridiculous Ron,” Harry rolled his eyes as he leant against the bathroom sink next to Ron.

“No, I’m not, you’re just too trusting,” Ron was trying to tie a bow-tie around his neck and having a rough go of it.

“Ron… what is it? I’m not too trusting, and you know it,” he raised his brows and gave him a boyish half smile while he waited, but Ron didn’t speak, just huffed and undid the tie to try to do it over. “What don’t you like about him now?”

“What don’t I—Gah! Harry, are you kidding me? He hasn’t changed a bit, he’s just Occluding or whatever,” the huff was gruffer as he undid his tie for a second time.

“That’s not how Occluding works Ron.”

“How would you know, you can’t even do it,” he muttered as he gave him a sideways glance before turning his attention back to the blasted tie.

“That’s not fair, I had trouble with—“

“And why do you think that is?”

“Well, I didn’t stu—“

“No Harry. No. He didn’t want to teach you properly, so you didn’t learn what you needed to know.” Harry looked away for a moment, knowing that wasn’t the reason he stopped training him. He’d never shared that story, it was difficult enough knowing what happened.

“He was under a lot of pressure.”

“And that makes the way he treated us ok, does it?” The question hung in the silence for a long time and was only pricked by occasional huffs as the tie came undone again and was thrown as far as Ron could. It landed about three feet away in a tiny heap.

“Ron, things are different now.”

“How Harry? How are they different?”

“Well, he’s changed. Do you not see that? He’s more relaxed, he laughed at your joke for Merlin’s sake!”

“Oh yes, his jolly demeanour has been noted,” Ron replied severely as he unbuttoned the top button of his dress shirt to see how it would look without the stupid tie.

“What does that mean?” Harry gave him a worried look and Ron just kept his eyes on his button in the mirror.

“Why do you think he’s so happy Harry?” His voice was too soft and calculative for Harry’s liking.

“Well the war’s over now, he doesn’t have to worry about spying—“

“And he has Hermione…” A penetrative silence followed as Harry observed his friend. He had a feeling he was still upset about Hermione leaving him. He didn’t really think that after a year and half he would still get jealous over her possibly being with someone else.

“As his apprentice…”

“Yes… as his apprentice.” Ron drawled sardonically as he re-buttoned his top button and went over to pick the tie off the ground, casting a quick Tergeo to clean it.

“And what if there was something… going on between them.”

“There obviously is! He took us to buy flowers. Flowers Harry!”

“But wouldn’t that be between them and not us?”

“The way he came over during lunch… can’t let us have a moment with her without wanting to get his hooks into her.”

“That’s not really fair—“

“And her not getting to spend any time with us over the summer was?” Ron looked over at him, his brows raising as his face flushed with anger. “She spent one week. One week! That’s it, and what did she do the whole time she was with us? Talk about him!” He stepped back from the sink and put his face in his hands before talking in a mocking falsetto in a bad impression of a girl. “He’s so smart. We talk for hours about potions. He’s so clever and has all these brilliant ideas. Blah, Blah, Blah,” he finished with a gruff huff before his voice sank lower. “She never talked about me like that, she’s always defended him. He doesn’t deserve her.”

“And you do?”

“I didn’t say that,” Ron pointed at Harry with the tie before putting it around his neck. “She just deserves someone who will make her happy and maybe isn’t a million years old.”

“He’s hardly a million years old,” Harry laughed awkwardly and tried to feel for his friend, but was getting rather uncomfortable.

“You know what I mean,” he groused as he undid the tie again. “How do you even do this!?!” He shouted as he pulled at either side of the tie and Harry stepped over to him to help.

“You calmly loop this bit around here,” he took the tie and began to make the bow for him, and Ron’s eyes closed as he took in a few deep breaths to calm himself down.

“What if they are?” His eyes opened and he looked down at Harry, who was stepping back and admiring his work.

“What if they are?” Harry shrugged. “If he makes her happy, then is he so bad?”

“Yes Harry, he is,” his hands were in front of him, palms up, pleading with his friend.

“I just think you should give him a chance. Besides, neither of us would be tipsy right now if he hadn’t bought us drinks…”

“I guess that’s true,” Ron conceded with a small smile. “I should’ve gotten whisky.”

“Bah! You think he would have bought you whisky?” Harry laughed and Ron couldn’t help but join in.

XOXO

“Oh, it’s beautiful!” Ginny gushed as they stepped into the great hall. It had been transformed into a winter wonderland for the party. The music wasn’t loud enough that they couldn’t talk over it easily and there was a large dance area in the middle of the room. Ginny rushed in to find Harry, who was waiting for her by the large doors that led outside.

“Do you think they’re here yet?” Chise looked around the room and stood up on tip toes to see over the crowd as she looked for them. She had glamoured her normal arm black with the similar flame-like edges so her cursed arm wouldn’t stand out in the strappy dress.

“Chise,” she heard the familiar voice of her lover and turned to beam up at him. He wore long blue velvet robes that paired elegantly with Chise’s silver gown. “You look beautiful,” he sighed as his hand came up to glide along her chin. Her hair was pinned up with magic and there were a multitude of tiny flowers amongst it. “I purchased you flowers but Severus thought it would be better to give them to you once we go back to the dungeons, that way you’re not walking around with them all night.” Chise smiled up at him and as a new song started, he offered her his arm. She looked over at Hermione to make sure she’d be alright on her own.

“Go on, I’m sure Severus will be along soon,” she smiled as the pair headed off to the dance floor. She felt a hand wind around her waist and turned to see someone unexpected.

XOXO

Severus had been adjusting his cravat obsessively for the last twenty minutes. It was a deep blue that he’d found on his bed, a small note tucked under it asking him to wear it. He knew it looked fine, it always looked fine. So why couldn’t he convince himself? His nerves felt jumpy. It was the first time he’d ever been to a dance and had a date. What a stupid thing to be nervous about. What did he think? That she’d run when she saw him? He wore the same thing every day, if she wanted to run, she would have run before she confessed her feelings.

Elias had left ages ago and he could practically hear the merriment from his chambers. He looked into the mirror one more time, he had pulled back his hair. My full face on view… is that really the best choice? He scrutinized himself again, he’d been doing it more and more since he’d started feeling more than friendly towards Hermione. He attached his boutonnière and gave it a little sniff for luck then took a deep breath and pushed away from the sink before he lost his nerve, and headed out of the dungeons.

His black dress robes were long and had a row of buttons in the front that stopped just where his frock coat buttons usually ended. They were made of heavy deep black silk and slid effortlessly against the wool of his trousers. He looked forward to seeing Hermione’s reaction when she felt the decadent fabric. He took another deep breath before rounding the last turn and then there she was. He stopped for a moment just to take her in. Her hair was mostly up on the top of her head in a loose bun with lots of sweet tendrils curling around her face and neck. Her dress was empire waisted and regency styled, she looked as if she’d stepped out of a Jane Austin novel. He looked down at his frock coat style robe and smiled to himself, she’s matching me in fashion and colour.

The dark blue of the dress had an outer layer of sheer fabric that parted at the base of her lovely breasts; It shimmered as she moved as if the stars themselves had been woven into the fabric. A scene of the night sky on the deep blue threads. The little puffy cap sleeves dipped into a low swooping neckline that showed off her cleavage in a way that made him want to keep her close. She wore a strap of black leather around her neck, a small silver bobble was pressed to the notch of her clavicle, but he couldn’t make out what it was.

He started walking towards her, but then realised she was talking to someone when a large brown robed arm wound its way around her waist and he suddenly felt his chest constrict. He wanted to wrench the arm off, but felt frozen to the spot. So, he glared at the couple as contempt built inside him to the point of bursting.

XOXO

“Come on, just one dance?” Ron absent mindedly grabbed a handful of food from a passing house elf.

“Ron I really can’t, I’m sorry.” She couldn’t imagine how Severus would feel after a day of tolerating their antics to then find them dancing. Scanning the room, she still didn’t see him and tried to take a deep breath. Elias and Chise had been in the hall for quite a while and she was beginning to wonder what he was busying himself with.

“Common ‘mione,” bits of prawn toast sputtered from his mouth as he spoke. “Fphor old timesh shake?”

“Honestly Ronald,” she rolled her eyes, was he already drunk? “Please don’t talk with your mouth full, it’s disgusting.” Hermione turned to go find Chise and found an invisible wall instead. She looked up and saw a little sprig of mistletoe and then back at Ron, who was looking much too cheeky about the situation. “What’s that?”

“Weasley Wizarding Wheezes new mistletoe,” a gleeful grin spread on his face. “It won’t let you go unless you kiss the one you’re stuck with, isn’t it clever!”

“What?” She folded her arms defensively. “I don’t think it’s clever Ronald, is there any other way for it to let me go?”

“Nope,” his brawny arm wrapped around her and pulled her closer. “Only way out is to kiss me.”

“Well I’m sorry Ron but I don’t want to,” her hands flew to his chest to make sure she kept some distance between them.

“Really?” His face fell as he stepped back. “I thought we were friends Hermione, am I that disgusting?”

“No, of course not, it’s just that…”

“What?”

“Well, I have someone now and it would be weird,” he looked sideways at her with a sad smile.

“Lucky guy, well then just a peck than, you can kiss my cheek if you like, it should work,” leaning forward he offered his cheek to her.

“Thank you Ron,” she leant in and gently kissed his cheek before pulling away and was able to step back. “Well, see you later,” she awkwardly moved to leave, but then saw the look on his face.

“Blimey, I’m so glad I’m not his student any more, that face is terrifying,” Hermione froze and slowly turned to see Severus glowering at them with his arms crossed bitterly before he turned and stalked off down the hall, his silk dress robes billowing behind him.

“Wait!” She called before running after him. Ron’s mouth fell open and he blinked a few times to confirm what he’d just seen.

“I knew it!” Huffing, he watched her disappear around the corner.

XOXO

“Wait Severus, please,” her heels clicked on the stone floor and made the task of catching up all the more difficult. “Severus Snape you stop right now,” she called in an authoritative tone and he stopped for a moment before deciding to continue.

“Don’t temp me witch,” she heard the pain that laced his words as he hissed them over his shoulder.

“Talk to me.”

“No,” he spat stubbornly and was about to round another corner when she pulled her wand out of her bag. She swished it through the air, wordlessly casting Levicorpus.

Severus suddenly felt all the blood rush to his head as he was suspended by one foot in mid-air. She finally caught up and walked in front of him, trying to catch her breath. He had his feet flat and his arms folded over his chest, his posture was such that she would have believed he was standing on the ground if it weren’t for the bottom of his dress robes puddling on the floor below his head.

“Happy?” He grumbled, glaring up at her as she knelt on her knees to face him.

“Tell me how you feel, then maybe I’ll be happy,” she waited patiently as a deep breath escaped him and his eyes narrowed.

“Go back to playing with your weasel Miss Granger and leave. me. alone,” he turned to look at an interesting stone on the wall and missed the small smile on her face.

“You know he’s just my friend, right?”

“You two looked awfully cosy together,” he whispered bitterly. “Can I come down now?”

“Only if we can talk about this,” she received a curt nod, signalling his acquiescence. She took his hand and released the spell, letting him softly fall onto a cushioning charm.

“Come on then,” he opened the nearest classroom and ushered her inside. Walking in and leaning against a desk, she watched him close the door. He didn’t want to turn around, he didn’t know what to say, only that everything in him was screaming. “Talk then,” he growled over his shoulder and she took a deep breath.

“What’s the matter?”

“You kissed him,” he snipped as his index finger traced a particularly deep groove in the door in front of him.

“Yes, I did,” his head snapped around to look at her, a mixture of surprise and anger on his face.

“Why?” He walked towards the front of classroom, hoping that standing in the place of authority would bring him comfort.

Her arms crossed protectively across her chest as she huffed, “stupid magic mistletoe that his immature brothers made.”

“He still likes you then?”

“Of course he does, he’s one of my best friends—”

“No Hermione, he fancies you, he’s interested in being with you,” he felt rage and jealously waging a winning war against his judgment as his voice rose.

“Does it matter?”

“Yes,” he growled as he turned back to her. “If he fancies you, he will pursue you, you shouldn’t trust him,” his blood felt like it would boil at the thought of the ginger’s hands on his Hermione. “You’re not to see him any more, I won’t let you—“

“Won’t let me?” Hermione stood still as her eyebrows tried to disappear into her hairline, “Let me?!”

Severus blanched as the déjà vu in her words hit him like a hex to the chest. Oh bullocks, that’s the same sodding thing I said to Lily.

Her hands were pinned to her hips in challenge. “And what, pray tell, will you do to stop me?” With a wave of her wand an armchair burst out of the connected office and came careening down the aisle between the desks. It connected with the back of his knees, causing them to buckle and he fell back into it with a soft thud.

“Hermione I’m...” She waved her wand again and his arms sprung up and stuck to the chair’s arms, he looked up at her with pleading eyes. “Hermione please I...” He thought she would leave him like that, he watched intently for her to turn away, but instead she stepped in front of his chair.

“You just don’t know when to shut up, do you?” His mouth opened and quickly closed again as her wand flicked towards the door and the bolt clicked.

“I didn’t mean—” She put her finger over his lips before she removed her knickers from under her long skirt. His eyes widened as she straightened back up before stuffing them in his mouth. The moist gusset met his tongue and his eyes fluttered closed as he groaned loudly around the fabric. She used a spell to keep them in place and then put her hands back on her hips.

“Go ahead and apologize,” his eyes open and flicked up to lock with hers.

“Emm thawy,” he managed around the lace and she smiled.

“That’s better.” She leant over him and he instinctively looked down. “Do you have the right to dictate my actions?” She asked as she watched him shake his head slowly no. “Do you think you’ve paid for your mistake?”

The implication had blood rushing to his cock and he sheepishly shook his head again as she leant in and kissed first his top lip and then bottom.

“In that case, maybe it’s my turn to dick-tate your actions,” she teased as she looked into his eyes. They were so filled with relief that it caught her off guard as she realised what he was thinking.

“Did you think I would leave you?” He slowly nodded and tried to look away, but she tilted his head back to make sure he couldn’t. “I told you, you’re my wizard, I’m not going anywhere, I don’t take those words lightly. But you need to try as well, I know you say things you don’t mean, so apologise and I’ll forgive you, talk to me and we’ll get through it together,” she punctuated her remark by leaning in and swinging her leg over his lap, settling down to straddle his thighs. He tried to reach for her, but the sticking charm was greater than his concentration and they remained firmly on the arm of the chair.

“Now then,” she whispered, fiddling with the first button of his robes but not working it out of its hole. “Would you like to come and dance with me?” Not understanding his mumbling through the fabric, she released the charm and giggled as the lace fabric fell onto their laps. He took a moment, roving his tongue around his mouth, enjoying the residual flavour.

“How can you ask me to dance right now?” Thrusting his hips forward, she easily felt what she was doing to him.

“Say you trust me,” Hermione whispered, and he looked deep into her eyes as he thought.

Trust . A thing that he was always fighting for but never truly had, something he never gave easily… Do I trust her? He wanted to, but he hadn’t acted like he did when he saw her… but was that her or the redhead that had gotten under his skin? The thought of her leaving him had scared him, but for once it wasn’t the fear of being trapped that had scared him. It was the thought of losing her.

She was watching him closely and he sighed, the truth was, yes. He trusted her with his life, her and only her. She saved him, because she wanted him to live, not because she wanted to use him. She’d only asked for his love once she thought it was possible, once she felt confident that her crush was something real.

“I am a jealous man, and while I may not trust the men around you… I do trust you,” he conceded, and she smiled as she motioned to his current situation.

“Just know that I’m pretty good at taking care of myself.”

A wry smile met his lips, “True.” Leaning in he brushed her lips with his gently, and whispered, “I’m sorry.”

“You’re forgiven, now come back to the party?”

“I kind of like it here,” he whispered.

“Do you now?" She watched him for a moment before shuffling back and off his lap as she looked at him. Slowly she slipped off her heels, placing them on the closest desk. She lifted her dress enough to raise her left leg, settling her foot by his thigh. Desire burned brightly in his obsidian eyes and she leant in to kiss him softly on the cheek before bussing her lips gently to whisper in his ear. "Then you'll have to get me ready." She took hold of the chair back and brought her right foot to join her hand by his head.

He turned to kiss her calf, using his nose to gently encourage her dress up. Hermione smiled down at him and tugged slowly, letting the hem of her dress rise up over her calf, the silky fabric gliding along her stockings up over her knee. She adjusted until her knee was resting by his face and he gazed up at her as she slowly revealed her quim, surrounded by her garter belt; he was so glad she wore her knickers on the outside of them. His cock jumped at the lovely view and he leant forward until his searching mouth met her soft pussy, her taste taking over his senses as he lapped at her sweet nectar. His tongue laved through her silken flesh until her breath was coming in jagged bursts, her fingers tightening on the chair back as her eyes closed, a moan escaping her.

Her left leg was shaking as he continued to ply her core, swirling his tongue at her entrance, sluicing his way to her clit and suckling hard on the little nub. She gasped as her knuckles went white against the chair and he growled his appreciation into her slick heat.

“I need you,” she whispered frantically, and he tried to move his arms again as his hands flexed. Severus watched as she pushed away from him, surprising himself by the needy whine that was pulled from him as she did. She was straddling him in an instant and then her lips met his, her hands working their way into his raven locks as she rubbed his scalp. The bit of leather that had been holding back his hair falling, forgotten. His lips parted as he groaned and she dove in; their tongues entwining, his heart picking up as his breathing became laboured, his nose flaring to bring in as much air as he could. Her smell was overwhelming and it mixed with her perfume in a way that fogged his brain.

He gasped as her nimble fingers fiddled with his belt, which she quickly unbuckled and pulled free before working the first of the three buttons that separated her from her prize. Once they were unbuttoned, she pushed his trousers out of the way and reached in gently to free him from his woollen confines. He groaned as her hand ran up and down his length before she pulled her dress around her hips. She lifted her eyes to his as she slowly sunk down onto him.

Her eyes stayed locked with his as she took in the first few inches, tilting her hips, making circles, stirring herself up before lifted and lowering further to take in more of him. His eyes were like coal fire burning into her as inch by inch she filled herself up with him.

Severus watched with hooded eyes at her lovely body sinking lower. He wanted to touch her, to caress and stroke her, but he couldn’t move and he growled with frustration as his hands fervently tried to reach for her. She smirked when she saw him struggling and started a smooth slow rhythm, drawing out each rise and fall, agonisingly slow.

“Fuck,” he sighed as he focused on how wonderful she felt slowly rising and falling on him. Smiling wickedly, she picked up her knickers to stuff them back in his mouth.

“Such filthy language professor,” Hermione chided as she held her hand over his mouth to keep them in place. The taste of her on his tongue and the feel of her around him created a haze of intoxication that pushed all thought from his addled mind. When she put her hand on his shoulder for grip and sped up, his head fell back onto the chair as he gave in to the pleasure she offered.

Hermione revelled in having this much of an effect on him, he couldn’t move, Severus was hers and he wasn’t getting away. Building up speed sent jolts of pleasure rippling through her as she rose and sank, rocking when he finally bottomed out in her. Her hand fell from his mouth to lift her dress, first to soothe and then punish the bundle of nerves that was pulsing divinely, her hips rocking faster as she lost herself.

His eyes shot down when he saw her fingers moving feverishly in little circles and he whimpered wantonly as his jaw clenched around the lace. He wanted to feel her come apart and lifted his hips as much as he was able to, to help her get to the edge before she pushed herself over it, throwing her head back and clamping down tightly around him. As she came back down, his hips lifted, frantically begging for her to continue as her focus began to wane. Finally, she released the charm, his hands instantly rising to her waist as he pushed himself down the chair. Lifting her lithe body, he thrust up into her ardently, bathing in the chorus of moans and mewls that were flooding from her.

He pushed her dress up and held her still as he gave her all the frustration that had built up while he was stuck unmovable and she looked down at him, first with surprise and then as her face crumpled into something between pleasure and pain.

“Oh gods Severus! Yes!” her eyes closed as her mouth fell open, he felt the heat wrapping around his pelvis, burning him alive and pushing him to piston faster. Her breathing quickened again as she felt another wave preparing to engulf her, her fingers digging into the arms of the chair so she would stay upright. “UUunnnnnhh!!” Her eyes closed, pleasure overwhelming her senses as she gasped. A pulsing haze of desire and need covered her world until the sensation was so intense she could do nothing but scream. She cried out his name along with a litany of colourful expletives before the sounds of her undoing echoed around them and her quim embracing every inch of him firmly.

“Oh yes!” Severus growled as her knickers tumbled out of his mouth and he felt warmth completely engulf him an instant before everything he had poured from his body and into hers. “Aaahhh…” His mouth fell open as his eyes misted, his release took over every bit of his brain as he stared at the wonderful creature looking down at him, her eyes locking with his, causing him to spiral further. “Hermione,” he whispered, allowing himself to completely lose his sanity in her eyes. She fell forward onto him and he pulled her tightly to his chest. They held each other as they caught their breath, “you’re incredible Hermione,” he whispered as he gently kissed her forehead and pushed an errant curl off her damp face.

“So are you,” wrapping her arms around him tighter, she smiled into his silk covered pectoral as their breathing slowly returned to normal. She playfully flicked his boutonnière as his arms kept her pinned safely to his chest.

“I’m sorry,” he whispered, and she looked up at him. “You aren’t someone to be controlled, you’re someone to be cherished.”

“I’m sorry to make you doubt—”

“No, Hermione, please don’t apologise,” he closed his eyes before he felt her hand on his cheek.

“I’d never hurt you on purpose,” she frowned as her head turned to rest back on his chest.

“I know,” he took long deep breaths, still holding her securely. “I’ll try not to jump to conclusions.”

“That’s all I ask, remember, I love you,” she whispered and he nodded against the top of her head. His hands slowly rubbed circles into her back.

“Should we… go back to the party,” he asked, after several long moments of silence, running his thumb over her cheek as he cupped her chin to bring her eyes up to look at him.

“Yes, I’d like that,” her smile was so relaxed, he sighed before leaning in to softly kiss her.

Chapter Text

The great hall was transformed, the bewitched ceiling was twinkling with stars and snow was falling to halfway down the room. Blue and white sheer fabric was hung around the walls, making a somewhat cold feeling that was made warmer by the greenery that was interspersed around the fabric, hanging above it to create little alcoves around the edges of the room. The tables had all been moved out of the room, save one that was up where the teachers table usually stood. It was festooned in greenery with pops of bright red berries. It held a giant punch bowl and Christmassy foods with napkins and plates to carry them on.

House elves roamed around the room with champagne and treats of assorted sizes. Chise had her first pumpkin pasty and found that it was pretty good. She was getting ready to grab another one when a familiar face came up next to her.

“Hi Chise,” the blond said with a smile as he picked up a glass of punch.

“Hi Draco,” she replied, picking up her desired treat and putting it on a napkin. She turned to see where Elias had gotten to and found that he was deep in conversation with Neville.

“Would you like to dance?” He asked, and she looked over at him uncertainly.

“I’m not very good, I don’t want to step on your feet,” she shrugged awkwardly, trying to think if Elias would mind if she did.

“I don’t mind, that’s why I wear dragonhide boots like Snape,” he offered his arm to her with a gleaming smile, and she looked up once more before she nodded and took it. He whisked her out onto the dance floor and brought her around into his arms.

“The music’s a bit… odd,” Chise commented on the wizarding Christmas music that was blaring out of an old gramophone.

“Yeah, the wizarding world has different taste in music than muggles,” he nodded and looked over her shoulder and then back at her. “I was wondering what your plans for Christmas were?”

“Why’s that?” She asked, worrying her bottom lip as he spun her.

“Well, I just wanted to see if you and your family would like to join me for Christmas. My mother and father aren’t living at the manor any more... it’ll be lonely this time of year when I go home for the break,” he finished with a bit of a sad smile and then dipped her. As she came back up she caught sight of Elias, he was currently staring intently at the pair and she smiled at him.

“Well what if you came to ours for Christmas? Hermione and Severus will be staying with us and we’ll probably have a few friends over on the day. You’re more than welcome to join us,” she said, stepping back from him and bowing, which caught him off guard until he felt the hand on his shoulder. “Elias,” she reached out for him as he removed his hand from the nervous looking young man.

“Mr. Ainsworth, it’s nice to see you again, I was just inviting Chise to my manor for Christmas, but she said that you are having a party at your house and asked me to join you, is that alright?”

“A party?” Elias looked at Chise, knitting his brows together in concern and she smiled up at him.

“Well not a party as such,” she wrapped her arm around his waist as she looked up at him. His hand came up and carefully cupped her hair as she spoke. “Draco said he would be all alone, he won’t be able to spend the holiday with his parents. Is it alright that I invited him?” Elias looked over at Malfoy and thought for a moment.

“May I speak with you a moment?” Elias asked Draco, who nodded; he disentangled himself from Chise and led the young man to one of the fabric made alcoves. “You were inviting Chise to your manor?” Draco was surprised not to hear venom dripping from the words, they were more trying to clarify the situation and he obliged as quickly as possible.

“Yes, I asked if Chise, you, and Ruth would like to spend the holiday at my home,” Elias relaxed a bit when he heard he was invited as well. “I’ll be honest,” he looked a bit anxious, and Elias tilted his head as he watched him with rapt attention. “I would like to spend some more time with Ruth,” their eyes met, and Elias looked at him oddly, not sure what to say.

“Ruth?”

“Yes,” his hands were wringing together, and he looked around the room before looking back up at the magus. “I spoke with him in the library the other day and we talked for hours, but I haven’t gotten to spend much time with him since, and I know you’re all leaving tomorrow.”

“You like Ruth?” He was still very confused but watched as Draco nodded. “He’s in Chise’s shadow,” he smiled as he darted his gaze over to Chise and waved her over. “Chise, is Ruth awake?”

“Ruth?” She looked up at his giant smile and nudged their connection to find out. Her face must have looked odd because Draco cocked his head as he watched her. Suddenly the scruffy black-haired man materialized next to her, he was wearing his usual clothes and Elias tsked at him.

“I can’t show up in whatever I like,” he laughed, raising a hand dismissively and then looked up at Malfoy, who was wearing a soft smile as he looked down at the grim. He pulled out his wand and pointed it at Ruth; his normal attire was transformed into black and white striped wizarding dress robes. Ruth looked down at them, surprised, and Draco smiled wider.

Elias took Chise’s arm and led her away as the two started chatting and brought her round into his arms on the dance floor.

“They’re so cute together,” she was glad he still couldn’t wipe the smile from his face.

“Yes, it’s fine if he comes over for Christmas,” he gave her a soft look and leant down to kiss her gently before spinning her out and back into his chest.

XOXO

Severus and Hermione were walking back towards the great hall when they saw Ron waiting for them outside the door. Hermione had her hand in the crook of Severus’s arm and his other hand was in his silk coat pocket; as they made to walk passed Ron, he reached out and took her arm. Severus looked down at the ginger’s hand, that was now grasping Hermione’s forearm.

“Mr. Weasley,” he began in a gruff drawl that brought Ron’s attention to him in an instant. “Remove your hands from her,” A sneer graced his face as Ron’s hand opened and his complexion paled.

“Can I talk to you Hermione?” Ron had his hands at his sides as he glanced up at Snape.

“What is it Ronald?” The firmness in her tone and the way she held her head high while squeezing Snape’s arm wasn’t lost on either of them.

“I want to talk to you about…” he motioning between the two of them, ”this.”

“Anything you have to say, you can say in front of Severus.”

“Severus?!” he was starting to turn red as he continued. “He’s horrible, how can you want him?”

“I love him Ronald, for many reasons that I don’t have to justify to you,” her hair was beginning to fizzle around the edges with magic.

“You can’t Hermione,” he whispered loudly to her and tried to pull her away again. “I can’t let you do this.”

“Let me?!” Hermione was fuming now, “Who are you to ‘let me’ do things?!”

“Hermione?” Severus was trying to hide his wince at how deeply the ginger had put his foot in it.

“Yes, Severus?” She wrestled her arm free from Ron’s grasp and looked up at him.

“Shall I leave this situation in your very capable hands?” He asked, and she gave him a warm smile before releasing his arm. He took a step towards Ron and said in a low drawl, “Mr. Weasley, may I suggest you tread wisely. I doubt that your conversation will end… the same way ours did.” He looked back at Hermione, who blushed at the realization that dawned on Ron’s face.

Severus turned around and leant towards her to whisper. “Would you like a drink?”

“Yes please,” she leant in and kissed his cheek. “Thank you for this.”

“Of course, my dear,” he backed away, a faint blush staining his cheeks. He hadn’t expected her to so openly kiss him in front of her friend. He locked eyes with her for a moment then turned towards the great hall door and stepped through it to wait inside.

Severus heard the music playing loudly as he made his way to one of the snack tables and turned to surreptitiously watch the pair in the atrium. He took little notice of the decorations around him as his eyes scanned the crowd to see if Elias and Chise had made it into the hall yet. Chise was dancing with Draco and he found Elias speaking with Neville by where the staff tables normally stood. His eyes had turned back to the couple standing outside the door when he heard a chuckle from his left and looked over to see Potter stepping towards him.

“Mr. Potter.”

“Professor.”

They stood near each other by the buffet. Severus picked up a small cup of cockroach clusters and started popping them into his mouth, one at a time as he observed the young man from the corner of his eyes.

“You know she isn’t going to leave you right?”

That came out of nowhere…

“Who?”

“Hermione,” Harry looked at him sardonically as he raised a brow and shook his head lightly. “She’s not going to leave you.”

“How do you know?” Snape drawled, feeling a bit defensive as he stood taller and peered down his nose at him. Did this boy really think he could… what? Make him feel better? Bring him comfort? What would be the point?

“Because sir, she has a tendency to… fixate on things,” he turned back to the busy hall full of people dancing. “She didn’t leave the house elves alone until they begged her to. When we were on the run, she never gave up, went a little barmy... but that was expected under the circumstances. She doesn’t give up on things easily.”

“So, what of Mr. Weasley?” He popped another cluster and peeked over at the young wizard talking to Hermione. He had to ask, even if he really didn’t want to know the answer, or at least that’s what he told himself.

Harry laughed as he looked up at his old professor with mirth shining in his green eyes.

“Ron?” Severus stood stock still, watching him laugh was unnerving, was he laughing at him? “That door is closed sir, she told me she felt bad about it, but he’s not getting anything more than friendship from her,” he calmed a bit and looked up at him honestly. “Were you really worried about Ron?”

“A bit…” Severus ate another cluster and looked out at the dance floor.

“May I tell you something…” Harry watched as Snape thought for a moment, he seemed a bit put off by the question but was contemplating its merit.

“Go on…” he whispered conspiratorially as his eyes flicked over to the boy’s.

“Hermione has had a crush on you for a long time… before Ron. If anything, she left him because she was too fixated… on you.” Harry looked away from Snape, letting his words sink in a bit. “I remember the first time I noticed her feelings,” Harry chuckled. “You had just knocked that oaf Lockhart on his arse, and I heard her behind me whisper ‘he’s brilliant’,” he put on a breathy voice before continuing normally, “I had to look over to see who she was talking about and she was staring at you. I laughed it off at the time, but you can only ignore so much,” Harry surreptitiously peeked at the professor, gauging his reaction or if he’d said too much. Severus’s chest puffed up infinitesimally, enough that Harry noticed but not enough that the casual observer would find anything different.

“Why are you telling me this?”

“Because she loves you,” Harry smiled. “She may not tell me everything, but I can tell she loves you, very deeply. But then, she always has.”

“Always,” Severus whispered to himself as he looked down at his empty cup and Harry smiled to himself before putting his hand on Snape’s shoulder.

“Don’t worry, she’s my sister sir, I know her better than most and I know when she’s happy, and I’ve not seen her happier in a very long time.”

“Severus.”

“What?”

“Call me Severus,” Snape looked at him and the corners of his mouth twitched up when he saw the look on Harry’s face. His hand dropped but a smile reached his eyes as he looked at his old professor.

“Then call me Harry,” his expression quickly went serious. “Take good care of her.”

“I intend to.”

“I know, you’re just as fixated as her when it comes to things like this… if not more,” his smile was knowing, and Severus wished for a moment that he hadn’t seen his memories.

“Do you feel oddly about… everything that happened?” Harry thought for what felt like a long time and Snape began fiddling idly with the cup still in his hand before he heard the answer.

“No,” Harry shrugged and picked up a small plate. “I appreciate everything you did, even though I fought you most of the time,” there was a half-smile playing on his face as he begun to fill the small plate with different appetizers.

“True,” Severus chuckled. “You didn’t make it easy.”

“Neither did you,” he admonished, and Snape looked over at him as their eyes locked.

“True,” he paused as he thought back to the way he had treated the boy for his entire school career. “I’m sorry for being… difficult.”

“So am I,” Harry lifted a napkin and tucked it under his plate before turning to him. “You’re still the bravest man I’ve ever known, and I know that you would do anything for her. As her brother, I approve,” he nodded, and Severus gave a curt nod in return. “I’ll see you later Severus.”

“Yes… Harry,” he tucked his head and turned away from the young man as he saw Hermione heading towards the hall and met her.

XOXO

Hermione watched Severus walk into the great hall before turning back to her friend.

“Now then,” she looked up at Ron with a stern expression. “Could we talk things out as adults?”

"He must have done something to you,” he hissed at her.

“He has done nothing but love me Ron.”

"Love? Snape can’t love,” his hand pointed towards Severus’s direction shakily.

"He has the greatest capacity to love of anyone I’ve ever met."

"But not for you," he muttered, watching her expression change. Her hair sparked as the loose strands lifted away from her neck.

"How... How dare you?" She whispered angrily, tears brimming her eyes. She hated the way he could always spot her greatest insecurity and dig his heels into it with no compunction for her feelings. "How could you say that to me?" All her uncertainties seemed to bubble to the surface at once and she wanted to run and hide, or punch him right in his pale, freckled face. He felt instant regret and lowered his head as he thought of how to pull his foot out of his always eager to eat mouth.

"I'm sorry," he whispered as she tried to stop the tears that were now steadily rolling down her cheek.

"I know he loved Lily, I'm not stupid," she bit back her sniffle before continuing. "But he loves me, he treats me well. And you're an arse for making me cry Ronald Weasley." She crossed her arms as her voice rose shrilly.

"I know," he put his face in his hands, wondering how everything had gone so wrong so fast. "Ok Hermione,” his shoulders shifted uncomfortably. “May I ask a question?”

"Is it as insensitive as your last one?"

"No," he had an odd expression on his face, and she almost missed the red that was staining every bit of his face in anger starting to recede. He looked at her with pleading eyes and she wiped a tear away before she spoke.

“Go on then,” she waved a hand in acquiescence.

“What do you see in him?” To her surprise, his voice had far less acid in it and he tilted his head in a curious way that made her face soften.

“Well, I see my future in him. And I don’t mean that in an ‘oh isn’t he wonderful’ hero worship kind of way,” she rolled her eyes at the very thought as she wiped her face. “I haven’t forgotten everything he’s done over the years, that would be insane and rather difficult really. I wanted to be his apprentice so I could get to know him better, not as just some Gryffindor, but as a person. He listens to my opinions on things, it went from me always asking questions to him asking me things.” She looked up to gauge his reaction and when he wasn’t turning red, she continued in a softer voice. “He’s quite sweet when he’s feeling secure, I understand that… I’m like that too.”

“Sweet?” Ron’s eyebrows rose in surprise and she smirked despite herself. “Did you like the flowers he bought you?”

“What? I didn’t know he bought me flowers,” she couldn’t stop the blush from rising in her cheeks. He chuckled and she looked up at him.

“Does he really make you happy?” He watched her intently, the gentleness in his eyes made her glad, he was like a brother to her, and he was finally acting like one.

“He really does. You’d probably like him if you gave him a chance,” he shrugged uncomfortably.

“He took us out for drinks earlier… he even laughed at one of my jokes. It was all very weird, but if you really think he can make you happy... then I’ll support you… unless he does something out of line and then I’ll take him out.” The last bit was met by an incredulous chuckle, the thought of Ron going after the dark wizard was laughable.

“Ron, we both know I can take care of myself.”

“True,” he smiled down at her as he opened his arms. “I missed you Hermione, you’re my best friend. I’m sorry we tried to do something to ruin that, but I miss talking to you.” She stepped forward and gave him the first genuine hug they’d shared in ages.

“I’ve missed you too Ron,” she rested her head on his shoulder and felt herself tearing up for a different reason.

“Don’t start crying again, luv, we’ll be alright,” she heard a sniffle from above her and looked up to see his eyes welling with tears as well.

“Don’t you cry either then,” she stepped back and took out a handkerchief, handing it over and he laughed when he saw the little green SS on the corner.

“Let’s enjoy tonight, ok? And maybe we can visit together, all of us, after Christmas?”

“I’d like that, I’m sorry for everything that happened between us,” she whispered sadly, and he gave her a sideways smile.

“Don’t worry, I understand. I mean, I didn’t... but I do now,” he shrugged. “Go on, get in there, I’ll be along in a bit.” She nodded before turning and walking into the great hall.

As soon as she was in the room she felt strong arms drawing around her, pulling her in and making her feel safe. Severus saw her face streaked with tears and leaning down he wiped the tears from her eyes, doing a quick wandless spell to make her eyes less red. He whispered in her ear, “Are you alright?”

"I'm fine," she brushed away the last of her tears and tried to smile at him, but the comment about Lily still bounced in her head as she looked up at him.

"Did Weasley say something?" The 'to upset you' was implied as he looked at her. She bit her lip in thought, looking up at him before taking a deep breath.

"It's fine, it doesn't matter," she waved a hand trying to laugh it off.

"Then, why are you crying?" His words were softer than she'd ever heard him, he looked worried.

“You should see Ron,” she tried to smile. Severus rubbed her cheek gently with his thumb before reaching down, taking her hand. He finally looked down at her necklace and saw it was a little silver cauldron.

“Come with me.” Turning, he led her outside into the snow-covered rose garden. The night was still and dark, every star could be seen in the cloudless sky as she took in the beauty of the garden. She heard a bang and was suddenly showered in rose petals as he pointed his wand at one of the bushes and blasted it up into shreds. Hermione jumped before she saw the playful look in his eyes and couldn’t stop the peel of laughter that erupted from her.

“What are you doing?”

“It’ll make you feel better,” he smiled before leaning over and whispering conspiratorially into her ear. “You know, as an apprentice you’re allowed to dock points if you find people snogging in them,” she smiled at the hypocrisy as he winked at her. Pulling out her wand, she pointing it at one of the bushes, blowing it apart, sending petals and leaves raining down everywhere.

“You’re right,” she smiled up at him. “It does,” rose buds and leaves erupted into the air from a third bush as he stepped forward and wrapped his arms around her waist protectively before leaning down and kissing her neck.

XOXO

As they danced, Elias spotted Severus and Hermione outside as roses exploded, and he laughed. “Want to join them?” He pointed towards the side door and Chise looked over and quickly nodded.

They shuffled their way passed dancing couples as they made their way to the huge door that led to an outside area. The night air was frigid but as soon as they stepped out Chise’s bare arms were suddenly covered in Elias’s thick black mage robes, shorter so she wouldn’t trip. “Thank you Elias,” she beamed as she rushed off towards their friends. She ran up to Hermione and stopped just short of her as she raised her wand again and pointed it at a rose bush, making buds and petals rain down around them.

Elias stood by Severus and could instantly tell something was upsetting him, but couldn’t tell what it was. Snape looked over at the magus and answered the question he saw burning in his hazel eyes. "Weasley said something to her."

"How do you know?" Elias asked, neither of them faced each other and spoke in low voices.

"She's acting differently," Snape felt a pang of embarrassment fill him.

"Will she not tell you?"

"She said she's fine, that's how I know she's not," he snapped as he looked over at the magus.

"Chise does this to me often. I find that with time she comes to me on her own."

"And if she doesn't?"

"I don't know, I've been told I pry too much," he shrugged begrudgingly as Snape led the way further into the rose garden.

Severus and Elias had found three couples hiding in various bushes with the help of the ladies and had taken some points, but not as many as he would have the year before. They went back inside and immediately noticed the music had changed, no longer coming from a gramophone, a loud wizarding band was up on a stage, surrounded by sixth and seventh years. The group jumped and writhed with the beat and Snape edged around the walls of the room to stay away from the crowd.

Elias felt a gentle tug on his sleeve and looked down at Chise, who was looking between him and the crowd of adolescents with an apprehensive curiosity. He leant down to her, “if you would like to join them you may, but I don’t think I will.” She looked up at him and tilted her head thoughtfully for a moment before looking to Hermione, who seemed to be having a similar conversation with Severus. Chise walked over to them and tapped her arm to get her attention.

“Would you like to dance?” she called out over the music and Hermione beamed at her as she nodded happily. Elias caught them as they were walking away but once he saw how happy she looked just smiled and gave her a little push in the direction of the crowd.

The two men watched from the sidelines as their women disappeared into the mob of teens before taking a seat at a table and surveying the room.

The students danced and the teachers congregated around the food tables, talking about holiday plans and students they were glad to get a break from. There was a walk-in box in one of the corners and students were going into it in pairs and larger groups, drawing the curtain as bright flashes shone from around the edges. Elias watched for several minutes before commenting.

“Severus, what is that?” He pointed to the box as six students practically tumbled out of it.

“It’s a muggle invention with a wizarding twist. We set the box to expand depending on how many people want to go in together, it takes pictures of them and prints them.” Snape shrugged and sat back in his chair, “never used it but they seem to be having… fun,” he sneered at the word, wondering what they could be doing in there that would be entertaining.

“I wonder if Chise would like to?” Elias looked towards the group of dancing students and quickly found Chise in the large group, smile beaming on her face as her and Hermione danced together.

“Hmm… maybe,” Severus looked around and noticed that they weren't the only ones watching the two women. Ron had his eyes pinned to Hermione and Snape tried to take a deep breath, pushing the air out forcefully from his prodigious nose. He glanced over at the snack table to see a few sixth years hovering by it. He stood and walked away in silence, Elias's eyes following the taciturn professor.

Snape turned, standing behind the snack table, the sixth years that had been near it properly cowed into going away. Elias watched Ron as he continued to watch the bushy-haired girl dancing with Chise. He stood, carefully walking around the room with a watchful eye.

XOXO

Ruth laughed and turned to the dance floor to find Chise all smiles. “What do you think of Snape and Granger?” Draco asked him, handing him a cup of punch.

“They remind me of Elias and Chise in the beginning, I’m glad they started talking to each other,” he took the glass with a smile and sipped it.

“They weren’t talking to each other?”

“Not about things that really mattered. Chise would do the same, she loved Elias since before I became her familiar, but she didn’t seem to want to see it. She cared about him very deeply and constantly worried for his safety when he wasn’t around.”

“She worried for his safety?” Draco looked at the blond glamoured mage, knowing what he really looked like.

“Silly right?” Ruth chuckled, feeling a wealth of Chise’s happiness flowing into him.

“What’s it like? Being a familiar to another person?” He watched Ruth; his lips slightly parted as he thought about how to answer.

“It was odd at first, I can feel if she’s cold, tired, happy, or hurt. Once she was very badly hurt, I didn’t… ignore it, but I felt responsible for her safety when it happened.” Ruth looked down at his drink as a long-fingered hand pressed against his. Draco leant closer, his heart beating in his ears as he tried to think of something suave to say.

“Don’t blame yourself, things happen to people we care about, sometimes there’s nothing we could do,” Draco gently tugged Ruth’s hand as he took a few steps back to hide inside a wall of long sheer-ish fabric. “She looks very happy now,” his hand raised up and gently stroked Ruth’s cheek. His deep red eyes looked up at Draco’s steel grey as his face slowly leant in. His lips met Ruth’s in a soft press as his hand wound into his shaggy black hair. Ruth’s stomach flipped as the blond’s lips moved against his for the first time. A warmth enveloped him before the paper cup fell to the floor so both his hands could wrap round Draco’s shoulders to pull him closer.

Draco chuckled against his lips and wrapped his arm around Ruth’s waist, slowly stepping back and bringing Ruth with him deeper into the fabric alcove.

XOXO

"You should go talk to Severus." Elias had finally made his way around the room and got the ladies attention.

"Is he alright?" Hermione looked around the room until she saw Snape glowering by the punch bowl. Obviously trying to catch any miscreants from spiking the punch. “Ill meet you at the photo booth,” She said before she made her way to him slowly. Creeping next to him, but he knew she was there. "I thought you were going to dance with me." Severus looked over at her, his arms crossed but his face somewhat embarrassed.

"Not to... this," he waved his hand towards the writhing mass of teens in front of the stage.

“That's fair," Hermione looked down, her fingers tentatively tugging at his dress robes until one of his hands came down to join it. Their fingers laced together, and he seemed to relax. "We don't have to dance," she gave his hand a reassuring squeeze as she spoke. "Would you like to do something else?"

"Like what?" He peeked over at her and saw a mischievous smile playing on her lips.

"When's the last time you played in a photo booth?"

"Who do you think you're talking to?” His brow rose, and she couldn't stop herself from laughing.

"Well, would you like to?" She tilted her head shyly and the corner of his mouth curled at the edge.

"You want another picture with me?”

"My night stand could always use another picture of us," she grinned as she gently tugged his hand until he willingly followed her towards Elias and Chise on the other side of the room. Elias took Chise's hand and waved at Severus and Hermione to follow as he walked to the picture booth

They all piled in and Snape gave Elias an awkward smile as he arranged the women in the middle of them. The first flash lit the tiny room to the point of daylight, and they looked dazed at the lens as spots danced across their vision.

“Everyone smile!” Hermione directed and she tugged Snape’s arm around her to bring him closer to the group as she huddled next to Chise. He looked over at Elias, who’s beaming smile would put an angels to shame. Hermione turned suddenly and kissed him before looking at the camera lens. He felt his lips involuntarily pulling up as the second flash filled the space.

“Suspicious faces!” Hermione laughed as her and Chise pushed their shoulders together and looked over at each other with raised brows, Elias looked at Snape and shrugged as the third flash went off.

“Silly faces!” Hermione looked up at Severus and leant up to kiss his nose as he glared down at her, Chise stuck out her tongue and Elias allowed his horns to blink into existence as the final flash blinded them. Snape looked down at the woman in his arms and kissed her properly before pulling away again and tugging them out of the small box. Harry was standing on the other side and his eyes went wide as he met a smiling Snape stepping out hand in hand with Hermione.

Snape stood up a little taller and Hermione laughed as she leant forward to close Harry's open mouth. Severus looked down at her before setting his black gaze on the young man in front of him. Harry laughed and gave him a friendly pat on the shoulder before dragging Ginny, Ron, and Luna into the booth. Ron gave a lopsided smile as he passed them as if finally seeing something he had been looking for.

Chise grabbed the pictures and rushed over to Hermione so they could both look at them. “I’ll make copies later,” she smiled as she took the pictures and put them into her small purse.

“Would you like something to drink Chise?” Elias held out his hand towards her and she happily took it. He saw sweat on her brow as he took in her flushed face, she was smiling so wide it made his heart swell. Hermione grabbed Severus’s hand and pulled him onto the dance floor as Chise and Elias walked over to one of the tables. She plopped down and laughed as she watched the pair dancing again, the song was slower, a muggle Christmas song and they were able to dance closer. Elias appeared in the chair beside her with drinks in his hand.

“I’m really glad we came,” she turned to him as he lifted his arm and draped it over the back of her chair.

“As am I,” he leant back in his chair and crossed his long legs as she leant forward to pick up her drink. He looked up at the bewitched ceiling and smiled as stars shot across it behind the falling ‘snow’. “I wonder how they did that.”

“Hermione said they bewitch it, Snape may know the spell, apparently he was the headmaster a few years ago.”

“Yes, he told me about that,” Chise looked over at him and tilted her head as she sipped her punch.

“What did he say about it?”

“Not much, only that it was a very difficult time, I’m grateful we were left out of the war.”

“Mmm,” she nodded, her hands, still holding the cup, landed in her lap as she leant over to rest her head on his shoulder. “Everything here seems to revolve around that war.”

“Humans do that Chise. When it’s something traumatic,” his arm lowered from the chair to around her shoulders as he pulled her closer.

“I wonder what it would be like, to have something traumatic shared with so many people. Would it mean you would have people to talk to about things? Or would it just be an understanding to no longer speak of it?”

“I’m not sure,” Elias looked down at her and sighed. “I have always been on the outside of things like that. I was no more effected by plague as I was by war. I have seen many things, humans seem to ban together in times of trouble, they help each other.”

“I’m glad I get to share things with you Elias,” she pulled her chair closer to him and cuddled into his side.

“I am too,” he leant over to kiss her on the top of her head. “You are the only human I have shared so much with. You have seen me at my worst and still you stay.”

“I told you I wouldn’t leave you,” she looked up at him with a soft smile. Her hand lifted to his cheek, “I’ll remain forever if I’m able.” His hand covered hers gently, his large fingers stroking her soft hand.

“I’m glad you came back,” his eyes were staring into her intently, the hazel softly going red around the pupil as he spoke. “I don’t know what I would have done without you.” There was a soft hitch to her breath as he spoke, the room seemed to fade away around them, leaving them in a little bubble.

“I love you Elias,” she pushed up and kissed him, her arms wrapped around his neck as he pulled her towards him. He cupped her cheek as he gently deepened the kiss. Slowly exploring her mouth, flicking his tongue against hers as he pulled her flush against him. Her soft moan ripped through him like a live-wire and her legs swung over into his lap as she pulled him impossibly closer.

Reluctantly, he pulled away, remembering they weren’t alone. Chise sat back with a pout as the sound suddenly rushed back into her conscience.

“Would you like to dance?” He asked almost breathlessly.

“Yes,” Chise smiled as he stood and held out his hand for her. When they reached the dance floor, Harry and Ron had joined Hermione and Severus, the younger men copying the awkward dancing that Snape was attempting. Severus wasn’t sure if they were making fun of him or not but when he saw how much Hermione was smiling he realised that for once, it didn’t matter. He would make her happy.

A few hours later, the group stumbled back down into the dungeons, tired and tipsy, they collapsed in the sitting room to have some tea and figure out their plans for the morning. Snape gave her the small bouquet of violets and she cuddled against him on the sofa as they relaxed.

Chapter Text

"Do as I do," Hermione, with a handful of green powder, stepped up to the crackling flames in the hearth. She tossed in the powder, changing it from red and yellow, engulfing the fire in bright green light. She stepped into the flames and said loudly, "Diagon alley." Then she was gone, the flames whipped around as she disappeared, allowing the fire to return to its former cheerful crackle as if nothing had happened. Chise looked over at Elias, who shrugged and Severus offered her the jar full of floo powder.

"What happens when I arrive?"

"Hermione will be waiting for you," Severus assured her with a slight nod.

Ruth melted into her shadow with their bag in his arms, ‘ready.’

She pushed her hand into the sooty substance and after giving Elias a nervous smile, stepped up to the fire. She took a deep breath and threw her handful into the flames before stepping into the green and calling out the same destination. The flames swirled around her face and she was gone.

"Elias, if you go next I can set the floo to shut off once I use it."

"Alright," Elias shrunk half a foot as he morphed into his human glamour. His big gloved hand reached into the jar and extricated a bit of the fine sand before stepping into the green flames after his bride.

Once the magus had disappeared, Snape double checked his jacket pocket to ensure the shrunken case with their clothes for the next week was safely stored. He took a quick last look around the room, taking a deep breath and remembering how his life had been barely a year before. So much had changed in that time, mostly because of Hermione and he allowed himself a small smile at that realisation before he dug into the jar himself and followed his new friends and... his girlfriend.

XOXO

Chise stepped out of the fireplace in Diagon Alley, Hermione quickly taking her hand as she fell forward. She smiled as she looked up, there were several fireplaces all in a row at the end of a lane that led to a bustling street beyond. Hermione smiled as she pulled her forward and waited for Elias and Severus to join them.

The women walked apart from their paramours, leaving a large gap to not draw attention as they walked towards the street full of busy witches and wizards purchasing their Christmas gifts. Everyone chatted animatedly as they shopped, smiling and laughing to each other. Chise was completely entranced, she’d never seen so many people dressed in ‘witchy’ wear and so many unique things being sold.

She pulled Hermione into a Quidditch supply store and rushed to the brooms, wondering if she could control them as easily and loving the idea of flying around. Elias watched her from the window, secretly nervous, but happy to see the wide smile on her face as she flitted from one broom to another. Ruth resolutely dragged her back out of the shop before Hermione could help her pick one. As they went into a sweet shop across the lane Elias was still looking at the brooms, wondering if it would be a good gift for her. He decided to keep moving, perhaps there would be something… less dangerous, that he could get for her.

The women walked into Weasley Wizarding Wheezes, smiling as two red haired twins showed them some of their wares. Elias didn’t appreciate how close they were to Chise, putting an arm around her shoulders to direct her to a row of special sweets. He heard Severus huff from his side and felt a bit more relaxed knowing he didn’t approve either.

“Here for gifts?”

“Or here for yourself?” George smiled wide as he pointed to a row of potions and tonics.

“Perhaps both?” Fred grinned cheekily as he handed Hermione a bag of bath salts in a fragrance she could only describe as sweet sulphur. “I know you probably need to relax,” he laughed at her expression.

“Being an apprentice is difficult-”

“But we bet being his is torture.”

“Did Ron tell you to say that?” Hermione laughed as she pushed the heavy bag back into Fred’s hand.

“Why would Ron tell us that?”

“It’s not like he sent us a letter or anything,” George winked and she rolled her eyes.

“What’s the craziest thing you sell?” Chise asked, feeling her cheeks heat but wanting to take the focus off Hermione.

“Don’t ask them that,” she immediately said and the twins gave her identical fake pouts.

“We can show you a great many things-”

“Do you like funny or fancy-”

“Nice or nauseating-”

“Sweet or spicy-”

“Caring or constipating-”

“Merlin, you two,” Hermione interrupted with a huff as she grabbed Chise’s arm and led her to the joke area so she could get something for Stella and Alice.

“Come back any time,” they said in unison as the ladies left their shop to continue walking up the lane. They still needed to stop by the apothecary and pick up a few ingredients that couldn’t be collected because of the time of year. A mandrake plant in particular was something Elias was looking forward to purchasing.

“Why can’t we walk with them, again?” Chise asked Hermione.

“Because of ‘the Prophet’,” Hermione whispered as she looked over her shoulder at Elias and Severus, walking and talking a few yards behind them.

“The newspaper right?”

“Yes,” Hermione tucked her chin against the chill as her long robes were drawn closer around her.

“That’s what Snape said, but he didn’t say why.”

“Well,” she pulled up her scarf a bit and thought about how to explain. “We were very… important in the war. So, even though it’s been over a year, we would end up in the papers if we were seen walking together.” She gave an annoyed huff and looked at Chise, “It’s stupid, but most people don’t even know I’m his apprentice for that reason.”

“Would they mind because of the age difference?” Chise titled her head to the side as they walked into Flourish & Blotts, a book store across from the apothecary.

“To start with,” Hermione looked around and ushered Chise to near the back of the building so they could be alone and hushed her voice to a hissed whisper. “He used to be a spy, everyone thought he was on the wrong side, so he still gets called a Death Eater sometimes.” She looked down, her eyes sad, “I wish they didn’t. Yes, he did some bad things, but you do what you have to sometimes.”

“That’s a shame,” Chise looked over at the racks of books and realised that all of them were about magic in some way. “At least his friends know he isn’t bad,” she reached out and took a book on Charms off the shelf and flipped through it.

“Yes, I wish he had more, from what I’ve seen, it’s just been me and Draco, his godson.”

“Well now he has Elias,” Chise smiled up at her and Hermione smiled back before turning to the shelves and looking through the titles for a good beginners book on Charms.

XOXO

A white gloved hand drifted across the closest shelf as Elias led the way into the apothecary.

"Good morning professor," the man behind the counter greeted. "Looking for anything specific today?" Severus walked over to the shop assistant as Elias explored the small establishment. Misaligned shelves lined with bottles of varying sizes on one wall and long rows of dried herbs along another. Half of the herbs Elias knew well, but others were new to him and he took his time slowly learning them. He idly heard the door opening again as the little bell rang.

Elias was half way down the aisle when he heard a shout followed swiftly by a crash. He rushed to the front of the shop where he saw a man holding his wand to Severus's throat and screaming incoherently at him. Elias watched intently, the man obviously meant to bring his friend harm and he felt his tightly reined temper rising. His form changing slowly as he rose in height, his voice growing deep and menacing as his eyes flared red.

"Lower your wand," he commanded, and the man turned his head to see Elias behind him, still in the shape of a man but growing taller still.

"This doesn't concern you," the man spat over his shoulder as he dug his wand into Snape's throat.

"There you are wrong," as Elias spoke, a shadowy tendril crept along the floor and latched onto the shadow of the man's wand, flinging it from his hand. Severus watched the man's expression change from rage to confusion. Snape struggled against the body bind the man had sprung on him.

Elias's shadowy vines wrapped around the man’s shadow in his own version of a body bind. The man looked down in shock, no magic, no ropes, it looked like he was being held by nothing. Elias slowly lifted the man from the ground and as his toes brushed the floor Elias brought the man towards him.

"Put me down demon!"

"Demon?” A low growling hum filled the air as his cloak absorbed a curse flung at his back. Elias’s head turned towards a second man, hot steam floating from his still human looking throat as his tendrils made quick work of encasing the second wizard tightly.

XOXO

Chise dropped the books she had and ran full tilt out of the bookshop and across the street, leaving a confused Hermione behind. When she flung open the apothecary door she quickly took in the scene. Elias's head was brushing the ceiling he was so tall, his teeth sharp as razors still behind his human lips. Chise ran forward and rushed before the man as he slowly drifted towards the giant mage. The man looked on in shock as the tiny woman reached up and wrapped herself around the giant’s thighs.

"Elias!" He turned his red eyes on the girl and instantly froze, the men hovering in the air. "Please stop my love," he nodded, slowly and gradually he shrunk in stature as he wrapped his arms around his little human.

"Yes Chise," he slowly lowered until he was a more normal height. Severus was glad his jaw was forced shut, he may have laughed at how cowed the mage suddenly was. A moment later he felt his body relax as the body bind was released and then he felt arms wrapping around his waist as bushy hair flung in his face.

"Are you alright?" She was barely holding back her tears. The smell of violets calming him as he looked closer at her cloche hat for the first time, she had covered it in the bouquet he’d bought her and charmed them not to wilt in the cold.

"Yes, I'm alright." He replied as Hermione looked over to see Chise running her hand over Elias's face.

"That was quick thinking," Chise smiled up at him as his arms lifted her small frame. The captive man began to struggle against his invisible bonds again.

"The Auras are on their way," a woman called from the doorway.

"Thank you," Hermione held onto Severus and the woman looked between them with curiosity as Snape's hand came up onto Hermione's shoulder. He raised a brow in challenge and the woman backed out into the street again.

"This isn't over traitor," the first man spat out as he continued to struggle.

"What do you want with me?" Severus stepped away from Hermione, walking around to face the man.

"We want you gone, you're a fool if you think we’re the only ones!" He sputtered the words out as he felt the bonds tighten slowly. “Ahh… stop please!”

Three men on brooms descended to the street outside and walked in. "Good morning professor," said the eldest of the three as he stepped forward. "Is this the man that attacked you?"

"Men," Severus stepped away from him and pointed to the second man behind Elias as the Aura pointed his wand at the first assailant.

"You can release the binding spell," he said after a moment of trying to move the man. Elias drew back the shadow vines and the man fell slack before a flick of the Aura’s wand had him in body bind. The two younger Auras stepped forward and Hermione was glad as Harry walked towards them.

"Right," he took out a notepad and pencil and looked at the pair seriously, "what happened?"

XOXO

“Now who’s the reckless one,” Chise chided as Elias sat next to her on a bench; Elias had used his newfound warming charm to melt all the snow around it. They had been standing around with the Aurors, waiting for everything to be sorted, and were now simply waiting for them to be finished with Hermione and Severus. Ruth sat on the ground in front of the pair, leaning back with Chise’s legs hanging over his shoulders, his hands resting on her calves.

“I believe it’s still you my love,” his tone held little amusement. “How did you know to come to me?”

“The ring,” she lifted her left hand and showed him that she had both her engagement ring and their linked rings on her finger.

“By far the most useful gift I have ever received,” he looked down at his own gloved hand, beyond glad that he wore it every day. His arm draped around her shoulders and he leant over to kiss the top of her head as she leant into him. “Should we invite Hermione’s friend to our party?” She looked up at him and laughed at the thought that they were really going to host their first party together.

“Would you like to?”

“He seems nice, and Hermione says he’s like her brother,” Elias looked over at Chise and cocked his head a bit. “I wish you had that,” he said before Ruth looked up at the pair.

“She has a brother,” he huffed as he held onto her legs a bit tighter.

“Yes, I do,” Chise patted Ruth’s head and he happily let her continue to run her fingers through his soft hair. “I know what you mean Elias,” she sighed. “I had a brother once Ruth, I doubt I’ll ever see him again.” Ruth rubbed his face on her knee as she carried on petting him.

“Chise,” Elias prompted, lifting her chin to look at him. “Would you like to invite her friends? If you do not wish to, I’ll not push it.”

“No, Elias, I think it’s a very good idea. Should we have people over for Christmas eve?” She smiled up at him and he leant down to give her a tender kiss. Ruth cleared his throat and the two looked up to see Harry walking over to them. “We were just talking about you.”

“Oh,” he looked down at Ruth for a moment and gave him a sideways smile before looking back at Chise. “All good things I hope.”

“We were wondering if you would like to come to our home for Christmas eve?” Elias asked and Harry looked between them for a moment and smiled.

“I’d love to, as long as I can get to the borrow before midnight, then Ginny shouldn’t mind too much. Can she join me?”

“Of course,” Elias sat back on the bench, his arm hovering behind Chise.

“Well, sounds good then, I’ll need your address. Oh, I wanted to ask,” he stepped a bit closer to Elias as he spoke. “How did you bind those two men without a spell?”

“I used my vines,” he stated as if it were completely normal. To demonstrate, he allowed a shadow to extend and poke Harry on his shadows arm. Harry looked down to his arm and then the ground to see the shadow vines.

“Wicked,” he smiled as the head of his group called to him. “Well, I have to go now, I look forward to seeing you at your party,” he gave one last parting smile before rushing over and jumping on his broom. A few moments later Severus and Hermione left the shop, her arm around his as they walked and Ruth melted back into Chise’s shadow, knowing they’d be leaving soon.

“Were you able to get the ingredients you needed?” Elias asked when they were close.

“I was,” Severus looked around nervously for a moment as eyes seemed to be following him.

“Is it normally dangerous for you to venture away from the castle?” Elias tilted his head and his curled fringe bounced as he did.

“Well… I think it’s still too soon. Everyone remembers me for who I was,” he tried to stand taller. To bring up his shields more, to not care about the judgment he felt coming off everyone who passed him in waves.

“Shall we go to London?” Elias offered his hand to Chise, who took it and he motioned for Snape to lead the way out of Diagon alley.

“Yes, let’s,” Hermione nodded, then remembered that they hadn’t bought any of the books they had picked up. “I just need to run in and get those books,” she looked up at Severus as she bit her lip. “Do you think you’ll be alright if I leave you?” He huffed and dropped his arm before bringing it up to cross in front of his chest. “I’ll be right back,” she reached out for Chise to follow her and the two ran into the shop. Elias sat back down on the bench and gestured for Snape to join him.

“I’m truly sorry about that,” Elias muttered. “It is difficult to move on when you are not allowed to,” He continued as he looked towards the bookshop to see them through the frosted window collecting books.

“Unfortunately... I’m used to it,” he sat down next to his friend and shot his eyes around the streets, looking for anyone he recognised.

“Will it be safer in London?”

“Usually, muggles don’t know me, it’s easier to blend in,” he looked down at his frock coat and grey wool coat that hung over it. “What would you like to do in London?”

“I have yet to purchase a Christmas gift for Chise, I would like to rectify that.” Snape nodded and realised that what he had gotten Hermione was now a bit impersonal.

“I think I’d like to get something for Hermione as well.” They sat on the bench for a little while, seeing Hermione leading Chise around the shop with Ruth in tow, holding a pile of books in his arms. “I have a feeling they’re buying the whole shop,” Severus chuckled before the pair fell into silence for several more minutes.

"How often is normal?"

'What do you mean?" Severus looked over at his friend with a raised brow.

"I want her all the time, I can't stop thinking about her, the sounds she makes, the way she tastes. It's clouding everything I do. Is this normal?" Elias's face turned to Snape and he could see the worry that lie there.

"I'm not sure." He sat back in thought and crossed his arms as he noticed people still looking at him. "This is my first... relationship," he mumbled and Elias nodded in understanding.

"Then we are both in the same place," Elias laced his fingers in his lap and watched Chise and Hermione through the frosted window of the bookshop. "Is this how you feel? Like you can't get enough of her? Like you'd never get enough of her?" Severus thought for a moment before he looked over at the magus.

"Yes," Elias smiled, happy that he now knew he wasn't alone.

"What is a good gift for someone you feel this way about?" Elias was peering through the window again as he tilted his head. Severus tried to think of an answer for that, he wasn't sure himself, and he certainly didn't know well enough to give advice. Luckily it was then that Hermione and Chise stepped back out into the snowy alley, Ruth carrying a large bag.

“We’ll find out together,” he whispered so only Elias could hear him before he stood and walked towards the group, the magus close in tow. “Did you purchase every book they had?”

“No duplicates,” Hermione laughed, she wrapped her arm around his waist and he flinched as his eyes shot around to the others in the street before he looked down at the witch holding him. At his witch, she was smiling up at him as she often did. She didn’t care about the other people passing or what they thought or said, their insults didn’t seem to penetrate her thoughts and she just looked up at him, adoration in her eyes. He felt his heart warm and suddenly didn’t really care about the eyes that were on them either. He only cared about her warmth next to him as he wrapped his arm around her shoulders.

“So… where to now?” He faced the group and it was as if only the five of them were there any more, not the people passing with their whispered insults. ‘Too young’ ‘Her teacher’ ‘Disgusting’. Elias looked at them with narrowed eyes, who were they to judge? He wanted to get them out of this place.

“Let’s get lunch in London,” Elias offered and the others agreed instantly. Severus surreptitiously waving his hand over his frock coat to turn it into a muggle suit jacket.

They walked up the dingy street, avoiding looks until they met a big brick wall. Severus waved his wand over it and it folded in on itself to allow them to pass unimpeded. Snape nodded hello at Tom behind the bar and led the small group out into the street of muggle London. Chise’s bum-bag buzzed as an alert sound dinged and she reached in to pull out her cell phone. Apparently she was able to use her phone again, she flipped it open and laughed, “I have a lot of missed texts.” She flicked through them all and then looked up at Elias.

“Stella?” She nodded back at him and then looked over at Hermione.

“My friend would like to go shopping, she lives in London, would you like to meet her?” Hermione looked up at Severus and then back at Chise.

“I think that’s a great idea, would it be alright if I invite Ginny?”

“Of course,” Chise smiled wide as Hermione ran back into the Leaky Cauldron to Floo call her friend. She turned and called Stella, instantly getting through and inviting her to meet up with them.

Hermione came barrelling out of the Leaky Cauldron with Ginny in tow, all smiles and ready to start shopping. She ran into Snape’s arms and this time he didn’t hesitate to wrap his arm around her and kiss her head.

“Okay, Stella’s on her way, she’s taking a bus and will meet us around the corner.”

“Chise, should we separate during this time?” Elias suggested and Chise looked up at him a bit shocked.

“You want to go your own way?”

“Well, I thought I could introduce Severus to Angelica, and…” he wrapped his arm around her. “I have a present to buy you for Yule.”

XOXO

“I’d like to introduce you to my friend since we’re shopping,” Elias smiled over at Severus, who raised a quizzical brow and nodded. “She’s the magus crafts artificer I spoke of before.”

“Oh,” Snape found himself actually feeling a bit excited, he loved discovering new forms of magic. “I’d like to meet them,” Elias nodded approvingly as they turned down a side street and stopped in front of a rundown book-store.

“Well this is it, be careful around her, she isn’t one to hide her displeasure.” Elias opened the door and led Severus in. The shop was dark, and the books looked like they were rarely touched though showed no signs of dust or dirt. “Angelica!” Elias called as he wound his way to the back of the store.

“Ainsworth! How are you? How’s Chise! I haven’t seen her for ages, when will you let her free so we can go to lunch?” Severus heard a woman’s voice and hurried to catch up with his friend. The back room looked somewhat hidden as he turned the corner, he heard Elias’s voice again.

“Angie, I don’t have her locked in a tower, you can simply call her to arrange something. Anyway, I’d like you to meet my friend, Severus,” he held out his hand towards the wizard and Snape stepped forward into the doorway. The woman was tall with long brown hair tied in a long braid. She looked a bit like a mechanic in her green coveralls, she pushed a handkerchief into her breast pocket and held out her hand to him.

“Always nice to meet friends of Ainsworth,” she smiled, and he shook her hand. “I think this is the… second one he’s brought by. Including Chise,” she nudged the magus in the stomach with her elbow and he groaned an oof at her not so gentle prod.

“That’s not really fair Angie, I could have friends… if I wanted to,” Elias huffed, and Severus found himself stifling a smile at the pair. It was obvious they’d been friends for a long time, and he felt comfortable as he looked around the room. It wasn’t small but neither was it large, there was a table to his left with chairs and another to his right that was covered in slotted dividers that housed gemstones.

“What’ll it be fellas?” She turned towards a kettle before she placed it on a hob. “I’m assuming you’re not just here to say hello?”

“Do you have the order I enquired about last time?” Elias sat at the small table on the left.

“Ains, you know it’s not easy to find that. I’ve got feelers out for it though, have you checked the auctions lately?” Elias nodded and crossed his long legs as he leant against the stool. “Tea?” She asked Severus, who nodded gratefully. “So, tell me, how long have you known Ains?”

“Almost a week,” Severus replied, taking a seat across from Elias, and leant on the table before him. She grabbed a packet of biscuits and shuffled them out of their package onto a small plate as the kettle began to hiss.

“Are you a mage as well?”

“No, I’m a wizard,” he tried to say it as casually as possible, but she turned around and eyed him for a moment before turning back to making tea.

“Elias has always been one for collecting odd friends.”

“Angie,” Elias admonished. “I have been acquainted with wizards before, you know there are quite a few at the college.

“Yes, and what did you say about them all?”

“Well…” Elias looked sheepishly at Severus before looking back at Angelica with a sideways smile. “Severus is different,” Snape couldn’t help the smirk that turned up his lips.

“I don’t get many wizards in here,” she laughed as she set down their tea and brought over the biscuits. “Is there anything you’re looking for?”

“Not that I know of, but I am very interested in your process, I’ve never met a magus crafts artificer before. Do you enchant the items, or do you create them?”

“Both can be done,” she smiled and turned to Elias. “You showed him Chise’s ring, didn’t you?” He nodded and she gave him a playful punch on the arm, “I made that one, those kinds of items are interesting and fun to make.” She turned back to Severus and leant forward over her mug. “Are you looking to purchase a ring then?” Severus blanched at the implication and looked down at his tea for a moment thoughtfully and after several moments looked back up at her.

“The rings that Chise and Elias wear, the ones that tell if the other is in danger… are those… difficult to make?”

“Well, let’s see,” she leant back a bit and thought about what she had on her plate at the moment. “I can actually make those fairly quickly; I have the materials this time as Chise is the only person so far to request something like that. I would need a trace amount of your magic and the magic of the other person to complete it though. The rings can be made first if you can bring back the trace magic later on.”

“How do I obtain the trace magic that you need?” He looked at her openly as he waited for her answer and she hopped off her stool and turned to grab a small blue stone.

“Here, have the person you wish to be bound to, hold this and perform a spell, any spell will do, something small, as long as it’s close to them when it’s performed. It will draw a tiny amount of their magic and hold it for me to use.” Severus picked up the stone and looked at it for a moment.

“What if I perform a spell before I see her?”

“Once I have yours it will be easy to disregard it,” she turned back to her tea, and he was pleased to see she had so much confidence in her craft.

“How much will it cost?” Severus was bringing out his wallet and as he opened it Angelica began to laugh.

“It won’t be cheap,” she leant forward again. “Chise got a discount because I like this guy,” she pointed at Elias with her thumb. “If you’re really a friend of his, then I can give you the same discount. I can give you them both for £10,000.” Severus’s mouth gaped open and Elias brought out his chequebook.

“Don’t worry,” he said calmly as he wrote out the amount and ripped it from the booklet. Angie took it and pushed it into her pocket before Snape could come back to his senses.

“I don’t want you to do that,” he began but Elias held up his hand and smiled.

“I have multiple lifetimes worth of money and spend it on almost nothing, please let me do this for you. It has changed my life and brought me a lot of comfort to know that she’s safe, it will bring you comfort as well.” The magus smiled at his friend and Severus was gobsmacked at the overly generous gesture.

“Elias, that’s a lot of money,” he hissed as Angie left the room.

“I’ve spent a lot more on other things,” he chuckled deeply as he sipped his tea. “Like Chise,” he looked up and Snape was looking back at him. “I paid five million for her, she was worth every penny.”

“Five… million…” Severus froze, and Elias allowed him time to relax again. “Wait, Chise bought the rings didn’t she?”

“Yes, the auction gave her half of what I paid for her,” Angie came back out and Severus turned to her as she laid out a large box of different rings.

“These can all be enchanted, they are bases, so they won’t look like this when you collect them. Try some on and see which one fits,” she pushed the box towards him, and he smirked as he picked up one that was far too large. He then brought out his wand and magically resized the ring to fit perfectly. Angelica reached forward and picked up the stone she had handed him as it turned from a clear blue to a misty green, almost black. “Thank you,” she laughed as she took away the stone and brought him another one.

“I can resize any of them,” he looked down at the box again. “I like the silver ones…”

“Werewolves?” Angie offered and Snape snapped his head round to look at her before nodding tersely. “We have them too, I’m not a huge fan of them, but I heard there is a remedy that someone was working on.”

“Yes… me,” Severus took the ring off his finger and replaced it in the box before him. Angelica’s eyebrows rose hi as she looked over at Elias, who was smiling back at her.

“I told you, he is different,” he took a sip of his tea before he continued. “He has been working this week to create a potion to assist Chise with the dragon curse.” Angie’s face lit up at the thought that someone was finally able to help Chise.

“Mum! Are you down there?” A voice preceded rushed footfalls as Angelica’s daughter sprinted down the hallway. “Mum, I wanted to talk about…” She trailed off when she saw the people at the table. “Mr. Ainsworth! it’s so nice to see you again,” her face spread into a wide smile as she grabbed some paper. She raised it into the air and it suddenly cut itself and seemed to curl up, wings sprouted as it lifted from her hand and flew to Elias, where it landed and turned back into a piece of paper.

“You’re getting so much better at that Althea,” Elias smiled as he touched the page, turning it back into a bird that then flew around the room happily before landing back into her waiting hands. “You are becoming a powerful mage, I’m sure you’ll rival my power in the coming years.”

“You’re too kind Mr. Ainsworth,” she beamed up at the magus before turning to her mother. “Mum, can we talk about divining rods later on?”

“If we must Althea,” she laughed, and the girl crossed her arms with a pout.

“Mum, I like learning about this stuff,” she huffed, and Angelica patted her on the head.

“I know, but I do wish you’d do the studying your school assigned you,” she laughed, and Althea rolled her eyes before she noticed Severus sitting on the other side of the table.

“Hi,” she held out her hand and Snape took it and shook it gently. “It’s nice to meet you, I’m Althea Varley.”

“My name is Severus Snape,” he replied. She nodded, turning back to Angelica and pointed to the corner away from her mother’s face. As Angie turned to see what she was pointing at, the girl grabbed a biscuit from the plate on the table and rushed out of the room, back down the hall. Angelica looked back to the table and huffed with a smile.

“Your daughter seems to be developing a good deal of magic, she doesn’t even need a wand to focus it,” he looked at Angelica with admiration.

“Yes, she’s not the most well-behaved chit but she is incredibly kind and loves to learn,” she shrugged and took a sip of her tea.

“How old is she?”

“She turns eleven in a month,” she replied, and Snape sat back a bit.

“Have you thought of sending her to a magical school?”

“What do you mean?” Angelica was now eyeing Snape oddly.

“Well, I work at a school that teaches magic, if it’s what she enjoys, I can try to get her in. I realise that magus powers are different from witches and wizards, but I think she would learn a great deal there,” he waited to see how she would react. She looked down at her tea for a long time and then looked up at Snape.

“What kind of jobs are waiting for people that go to that kind of school?”

“Well… that depends on the things she enjoys doing and excels in. There is a wizarding world that would open their arms wide for talented witches, and mages. There is a ministry of magic that is full of departments devoted to various things, she could teach at the school once she graduates, or she could open up a shop in one of the wizarding parts of England. Other things include working out of the home or Diagon alley is only just up the street from here and caters to all sorts of magical needs. She could be a magus crafts artificer such as yourself and sell her wares there if she so wishes.”

“You make it sound as though there are lots of options for her to pick up a magical career… I’ve been nervous about that for a long time, most of my clientele are disappearing. The college students still come around from time to time, but the popularity of the crafts seem to be lessoning as less magus are trained.”

“You may do well if you open another shop in Diagon alley,” Severus mused for a moment. “I can’t think of a shop that specializes in the types of items that you can craft; I think they would be very popular… You would need a wand to enter the area, but that’s easy enough, I could assist with your entrance the first time.” Severus watched as Angelica began thinking over the offer and he held up his hand. “This is all conjecture though, you can think about it and if you’d like my help, just let Elias know and he can contact me,” he gave her a friendly smile, she was a nice woman and he could feel how she cared for her daughter.

“Thank you, I’ll think about it,” she smiled back at him before turning to Elias. “You’re right, he is different,” she patted Elias on the shoulder, and he smiled warmly at her before standing.

“We have more shopping to do, I need to find a present for Chise.”

“Doesn’t want another bear?” She teased and Elias huffed, affronted.

“Angelica, I gave her that only her first year with me. You were the one that said they were a good gift.”

“Yes,” she laughed. “When I was six,” she stood and took their empty mugs to the small sink. “Well, enjoy your shopping,” she smiled and gave them a small wave as Elias led the way back out into the book-store portion of the small shop.

“That was kind of you Severus, thank you,” Elias turned to walk up the street and Snape followed him, enjoying the feeling of being relaxed and helpful.

“Do you have a fireplace at your home?”

“Yes, why?”

“We should get it connected to the Floo system.”

XOXO

Elias stared down at the loo, Severus had told him to stand in the bowl and flush. He was still trying to decide whether or not it was some very odd prank. The door opened and bumped into his back as Snape tried to enter.

"You haven't taken it yet?" Severus hissed as he budged into the tiny cubicle next to him. “I’ll go first,” Severus stepped into the bowl, then reached up and grabbed onto the flush pull. Suddenly he began to swirl, he felt a pull at his navel before he was standing in the lobby apparition point. He turned to wait for his friend when Elias reformed into his glamour from Snape's shadow.

"Thank you," Elias gave a shameless smile to Snape's teasing scowl.

"I thought you could only do that with Chise."

"I can use anyone or anything's shadow," he smirked as Severus rolled his eyes before turning and waving his hand for Elias to follow him. They followed a crowd of people through the atrium, witches and wizards zipped about, getting where they needed to go.

The form to connect the fireplace was unnecessarily long for the purpose in both of their opinions. The office they’d been directed to was stuffy and after almost an hour they were finally able to leave with the permission to connect it to Hogwarts.

“Where would you like to go to find a present?” Severus asked as they turned into the main atrium and he caught sight of a certain blond in the middle of the throng of people. “Draco?”

Draco lifted a hand and waved at his godfather, smiling happily when they came together. “Hello Uncle, Elias,” he nodded to them both and Snape smirked. “What are you two up to today?”

“We’re trying to find a gift for Chise,” Elias offered.

“And Hermione,” Snape muttered but Draco gave him a knowing smile before pressing a finger to his chin, apparently in feigned deep thought.

“I have a wonderful idea,” his index finger shot into the air next to his face and there was a glint in his eyes that made Severus and Elias look at each other nervously.

Chapter Text

Alice waved as Chise crossed the street with Hermione in tow. Alice hugged Chise when she got to the other side of the street, her long blond hair falling over the shorter woman, then she stepped back and held out her hand to Hermione.

“Hi, I’m Hermione Granger.”

“Hi, I’m Alice,” she smiled before she looked around. “I thought you said you were with bonehead today.”

“He’s shopping,” she laughed off Alice’s pet name for Elias with a wave of her hand.

“Are we buying presents or did you want to do something first?” Chise looked up at the tall woman and tilted her head in thought.

“What did you have in mind?”

“I was thinking we could get Christmas pedicures,” she looked over at Hermione to see if she was interested. “Could be fun… I’ve never done it before and I thought since there was so many of us girls we could… I don’t know, try something girly?”

“I’ve never done that either,” Chise looked up the road to see if they could see Stella yet.

“It’s been ages, but I don’t think Ginny has ever done it,” Hermione added, stuffing her hands into her coat pockets as a cold breeze whipped through the area.

“Of course I’ve had a pedicure,” Ginny huffed. “Sounds fun,” she smiled, offering her hand to Alice.

“Chise!” Stella called from behind them as she rushed through the crowd to join the group. They all made introductions before they started to figure out where they would go.

“I know a place around the corner,” Stella offered with a grin as she linked arms with Chise and they were off. Snow was falling gently as they walked to the salon with its bright neon sign. The door jingled as they opened it and they were instantly greeted into the busy store-front.

Ginny poked the little bottles of polish with interest when they did nothing but sit there on the shelf. “How does this work?” She asked Hermione in a confused whisper. Hermione had picked out a cherry red for her toes and fingernails.

“You pick what colour you’d like and then they apply it for us,” she looked around to see the other ladies hand off their selections to the nail techs. They were waved over to join them in a corner with chairs facing each other so they could all talk while they were pampered.

“Champagne or wine?” A tall woman in high heels asked, her hands were perfectly manicured and her hair was up in a strict up do that looked almost crunchy from all the hairspray. She wore a skirt suit and her cherry lips smiled invitingly as she motioned for them to take their seats before the others descended on them.

Alice pulled off her red jacket to put it over her lap as a woman took her hand to start working. Her other hand was filled with a glass of white wine as they got into the large massage chairs. The first part of the pedicure was relaxing, soaking in the warm water. Until the nail tech lifted one of their feet from their lavender bath and started to get to work.

Chise bit her lips as she held back a laugh. Her hand was gripping her wine glass with almost enough force to brake it. She peeked one eye open and noticed that she wasn't the only one that was struggling with the pedicure. Alice was next to her, her face going red, her lips twisted in suppressed laughter.
"Is anyone else really ticklish?" Ginny asked, a bit louder than intended as she held back a shriek. Apparently opening her mouth made it harder to hold anything back.

"Ye-ehs," Hermione puffed out and Stella was giggling for a completely different reason.

"You get used to it," Stella smiled at her friends and Chise wondered if Stella’s lack of wine was helping her. The pumice stone on the ball of her foot was making it harder to breathe. Then finally the nail stylist took pity on her by releasing her foot to lay back in the warm water and she breathed a long sigh of relief.

"So, what did you get bonehead for Christmas?" Alice gave a curling smile as Chise rolled her eyes at the description of her mate.

"He's always hard to shop for," Chise bit her cheek in thought. She’d gotten him something she knew he wouldn’t get for himself and she hoped he’d approve.

"Knowing Elias he'll probably get you something inappropriate anyway, so you probably don't need to worry much."

XOXO

“What is the purpose of them?” Elias held up the tiny bit of fabric and his human eyebrows came together to scrutinize the bit of material.

“What do you mean?”

“I don’t want her to wear any, so why buy her some?” He raised a questioning brow in a way that had Severus smirking at him.

“Imagine… you woke up on Christmas and none of your gifts had wrapping, would you be sad that you didn’t get to unwrap them?”

“No,” Elias shrugged, and Snape looked at Draco to see if he could better explain it.

“Beef Wellington without the pastry... don’t get me wrong, steak on its own is nice too,” he gently fingered his way down a rack of lacy knickers, pulling one out and holding it up. “but having the pastry wrapped tightly around it keeps the succulent and steamy… tenderloin… nice and warm.” He drawled his words, letting them drip from his tongue as he replaced the lacy under-things and picked up a tiny faux leather garter belt. “Swaddling the juicy morsels and bathing them in their own wonderful aroma, making it more potent, more… flavourful.” Both the older men looked at Draco with slightly flushed faces as they contemplated the euphemism that he had so eloquently spun.

Elias glanced at Snape and then put back the plane knickers he was holding as he stepped over to Draco and relieved him of the faux leather garter belt. “Could the pastry match this?” He looked down at Draco, who was smirking, quite pleased with himself for getting through to the stoic mage.

“Whatever you’re into big guy,” he laughed, and Elias lifted the garter belt to take a whiff of it.

“It doesn’t smell very good.”

“I think they have real leather in the back, if you want something, softer, and warmer.” Draco whispered conspiratorially, winking up at the magus. Elias placed the belt back on the rack without looking and nodded at the boy.

“Lead the way,” Draco turned and led Elias to the back of the store as Severus was still frozen, thinking of how wonderful Hermione smelt and wishing that she weren’t having a ‘girl’s day’ as she’d called it. He snapped awake when a saleslady suddenly appeared before him.

“Could I help you find something?”

He said nothing but glared at her as he stepped around her towards the back to find the pair as they riffled through racks of more racy garments. Snape saw accessories on the wall and tilted his head as he thought of their possible uses.

“Uncle, I didn’t know you were into that sort of thing,” Draco startled him as he was unknowingly twiddling a stuffed leather blindfold in his hands.

“Um… I didn’t either,” he flushed pink as Draco swaggered back over to Elias, who was reaching around a manikin, trying to undo the clasp of the bra it was wearing. Severus stifled a laugh as he watched the magus’s face screw up with concentration as he fiddled with it one handed until finally it came off and he held it up triumphantly.

“You should do it a few times,” Draco laughed as he re-clasped the bra and Snape stepped over to him.

“How do you know so much about muggle lingerie?” Snape, still holding the blindfold in one hand, looked down his hooked nose at his godson.

“Well, I like to give… exotic gifts, and to a pureblood witch who lives in corsets, this is about as good as it gets,” he gave an innocent smile.

“I thought you liked Ruth,” he whispered, and Draco shrugged.

“I do… I’ve also liked witches,” he replied. Severus regarded him for a moment then watched Elias unclasp the bra again. Draco went forward to put it back on the manikin before stepping back next to Snape and crossing his arms.

Severus chuckled, “you’re a nice boy.”

“Nice?!” Draco spat the word and then smiled as Elias got the bra off with much less effort and a much less scrunched expression.

“Do I need to get this one or are they all the same?” Elias asked, holding up the hot pink bra by one of its frilly cups. “I’d rather get something less…”

“Garish?” Snape offered and Elias nodded. Draco had already grabbed a leather bra off a rack and hooked it around the manikin.

“That was level one,” he laughed at their expressions. “Leather ones are a bit more difficult to clasp and unclasp most of the time.” He motioned to the manikin and Elias handed him the lace bra as he stepped over to it again. Severus made his way back over to the leather toys, thinking he would put back the blindfold, but then he saw a paddle that said ‘naughty’ on one side and ‘nice’ on the other. He picked up the paddle and slapped it against his left palm, it was a slightly thuddy sensation that made him pause.

It feels nice… but pain isn’t nice… is it?

He had been under the cruciatus curse more times than he could count, but that was torture, full body agony that felt like it would never end. He was beaten by his father more times than he could remember, but that was undeniably fear mixed with hatred, always on tenterhooks, never knowing when it would happen again. At least when the dark lord wanted to torture you he would summon you, you had a bit of heads up… as it were.

But this… this was different. How would it be if he handed this to her? He picked up a thin wooden cane with red and white stripes swirling up it like a candy cane. He flicked it on his palm, groaning quietly, enjoying the sharp sting that slowly radiated heat to the rest of his hand as the point of impact tingled pleasantly.

What if she saw fit to… punish me?

Would her brand of tender torture be a balm on his blackened soul or would it simply open old wounds? He never thought about doing anything like this before but being tied up and kept at the edge for what felt like a blissful eternity before having the most intense orgasm of his life made him ponder. He thought about the Yule party and her sticking him to that armchair, her knickers in his mouth, he could almost taste them and had to remind himself he was in a public place.

He wasn’t sure he didn’t want to give it a go… maybe she’d be up for it, and if she wasn’t, then no harm done really. Although, based on the evidence of what they’d done so far… he didn’t think she wouldn’t be up for it. He appraised the items before him, hanging nonchalantly from their hooks, with a grin that rivalled the Grinch planning to steal Christmas.

Maybe I’ll just get one or two things…

No gags… never gags…

XOXO

“I don’t know...” Ginny was holding up a long sage dress and scrutinizing it thoroughly. Ruth had disappeared into Chise’s shadow ages ago and was sleeping soundly as the women shopped. They had piled their bags of presents off to the side as they picked through the dresses at the boutique.

“He likes this style,” Hermione was pushing aside anything that wasn’t empire waisted. “You should have seen the way he looked at me at the Yule party, he didn’t want me out of his sight the whole night,” she smiled to herself as she continued her perusal.

“What about this?” Chise was holding up a dark green Spencer jacket and Hermione beamed at it as Chise handed it to her. She stepped up to a mirror and grabbed the dress that Ginny was still looking at with borderline contempt. She put them in front of herself, layering them as if she were wearing them.

“What about this?” Stella suddenly popped out from behind a rack with a bonnet on her head, it had a large blue bow and false flowers pinned to it.

“Wrong colour,” Chise tilted her head appraisingly.

“Easy fix,” Hermione draped the dress over her arm and grabbed a yellow one that she’d been eyeing. “I don’t want to get too much… in case he doesn’t like them.” Chise stepped over to her and laughed as she nudged her into a dressing room.

“Just get changed, have you seen him? He’ll like it, and if not then… we’ll just bring it all back,” she shrugged as Hermione closed the door to the dressing room.

“Why are you dressing for him, again?” Ginny asked as she plucked another jacket free from a rack.

“Because, I love him,” Hermione laughed, and then stepped out of the dressing room in the dress and jacket. Chise was slightly jealous, only magic could have done up all those buttons on the dress that fast. “Besides, now he’ll have a mass of buttons to undo to get to me,” she giggled.

“You do really look pretty in that Hermione,” Ginny smiled for the first time since they came into the shop.

“Thank you,” she smoothed out the fabric on her lap and smiled at her friends. “What do I wear under this?”

“Petticoat, stays, chemise,” Stella walked over with another dress over her arm. “If you want to be authentic, they didn’t have bloomers yet,” she laughed at the shocked looks on the other ladies faces.

“Easy access,” Ginny crooned as she looked over at Hermione.

“Or wear whatever you like, it’s your dress,” Stella smiled and walked over to Chise. “You should try this one on,” she handed it to her and pushed her towards a dressing room.

“I don’t know about this,” Chise twitched at the fabric dressing room door and Stella went over and poked her head through the drape. “Could you help me?” Chise asked, once she’d pulled on the dress. Stella stepped in and helped her do up the buttons and looked her over for a moment with a smile.

“You look fine,” she pushed the drapery to the side so the others could see it and they all gasped in unison, proclaiming their approval. It was a long dress, the colour of spring grass and matched her green eye perfectly. She twirled and as she did it flew out from her waist where it cinched for the empire waistline.

“You have to get that,” Ginny nodded as she turned back to the dress racks, maybe they weren’t as ugly as she’d originally thought. “I wonder what Harry would think of this style?”

“Here,” Stella handed her a white dress with embroidered flowers covering the overlay of lace that hung from the gather under the waistline.

“I don’t want to give the wrong idea…”

“Change the colour then,” Alice offered as she watched Chise turn in the mirror once more before nodding her approval.

“Stella, you’re really good at this,” Chise smiled, and Stella walked over to her.

“Of course I am,” she laughed as she plucked out another gem from the rack. “We should all get a dress and wear them to your Christmas party Chise,” she nudged her and Chise smiled at the thought.

“We’re doing fancy dress?” Alice smiled as she picked out a long red dress with little white doves around the waistline.

“That actually sounds fun,” Chise looked down at her hands. “But what about everyone else? There really isn’t time to tell Neville, Luna, and Draco to wear fancy dress.”

“I’ll owl them all,” Ginny dismissed her fear instantly and Chise turned to Stella.

“And I’ll tell the people you invited from the college,” Alice smiled.

“We need to find one for you too then,” the pair carried on looking through racks.

Jewellery was assessed and some was purchased, accessories were scrutinized and once they each had a full outfit, they left the store. Stepping into an alley, they shrunk their bags and put them in their purses. All but Stella, who couldn’t put them back to the proper size like everyone else. She loved watching them do magic, it was always so beautiful when Chise did it, and these women could do so much with a simple wave of their wands.

“Will there be many other’s that can do magic at the party?” Stella asked Chise as they made their way up the street to the café they were meeting the guys at.

“Yes, all of them so far,” she looked over at Stella and tilted her head quizzically. “Is that ok?”

“Yes,” Stella smiled and wrapped her arm around Chise. “I’m looking forward to it, my parents say I need to have someone bring me home,” she leaned in and whispered. “Maybe you can get a cute wizard to take me home?”

“Stella!” Chise laughed when she saw the blush rising on her face. “Actually… there is one that is very nice, he’s 19, so maybe don’t introduce him to your parents.”

“Is he cute?”

“Umm… he is attractive, but don’t tell Elias I said that. Actually,” she turned to the others. “Do you think Neville’s cute?”

“Neville?” Ginny smiled and looked at Stella, who was listening closely. “He is, he wasn’t when he was younger, but man he grew into his looks. So yes… he’s cute… don’t tell Harry I said that.” Stella laughed as she gave Chise one last squeeze before releasing her.

“Well, then in that case I’d love for him to walk me home,” she smiled, not seeing Hermione and Ginny grinning at each other.

“He likes blondes,” Ginny added. “How old are you?”

“I turn seventeen in a couple months,” Stella looked over with a bit of apprehension in her eyes. “Do you think he won’t like that?”

“Well… you never know. I think he’s more about the person that you are instead of the age you are. But he may be hesitant to do much more than simply walk you home.”

“That’s alright, I’m just looking forward to talking to someone that’s smarter than the boys I usually deal with.”

“I think we can all relate to that,” Hermione chuckled as they turned the corner and she saw Draco in the window of the café.

XOXO

By the time the men left, both of them had large bags of assorted items, some were leathery, and some were lacy and all of them would be perfect pastry to cover the warm bodies of the ones they loved. Snape checked his pocket watch and sighed when he saw how much time they had left.

“We should head to the meeting place.” They walked up the street until they found themselves in front of a café.

“Coffee?” Draco offered, and they went in to find seats before he brought over coffee, tea, and biscuits covered in chocolate. The windows were decorated with a snow spray around the tops, bottoms, and sides. Behind the bar was garland festooned with little red berries that also had a healthy spray of the fake snow. Christmas music poured out of the sound system, creating the perfect cheery atmosphere. The men sat peacefully and drank their hot beverages, dipping in the biscuits occasionally to soften the delicate deserts.

“So, they’ll meet us here?” Draco asked, looking out of the window as if they would turn the corner any minute.

“Yes,” Elias plucked out his pocket watch before taking another sip of his tea. He wished he’d had Ruth come with them, then he would know if they were on their way or not. Severus watched Draco thoughtfully, he seemed anxious and he didn’t understand why until a wide smile broke across his face. He turned his attention to the window as the ladies walked towards the shop.

Draco stood as the door opened and the little bell above it jingled to announce their arrival. He waved at the group and walked over to them to offer drinks, which he then dutifully purchased and brought back to the tables they were pulling together.

“Chise, how was your time?” Elias pulled out her chair for her, and as she sat he settled into the one next to her, his long arm draping across the back of hers protectively. Snape was sure she started talking, but he suddenly felt like he had been stunned as Hermione slipped off her long overcoat and cloche hat.

Severus’s lips parted as his mouth wet dry, his eyes slowly raking up Hermione’s body as he took in her clothing choices. She wore a tight green embroidered Spencer jacket and a long flowing light sage dress that threatened to brush the floor. After a moment of taking her in, he stood swiftly and pulled out her chair for her.

“What do you think Severus?” She asked as he pushed it in behind her and bent his mouth to brush against her ear.

“You look lovely Hermione,” he placed a kiss to her temple, and she smiled as she leaned into his touch.

“Thank you,” she leaned forward and began speaking animatedly with her friends, but he couldn’t seem to take in anything she said. How can something that covers every part of her up make me feel like this? He looked down at her shoes and saw they were black flats with little bows on the top. He tried to pull his attention away from her and found Draco giving him a funny look. He arched a brow at him, but only received a brow waggle in response. Elias was talking to Chise and looked completely absorbed in everything she said with a bright smile on his face.

“Chise,” Snape leaned towards her and whispered to get her attention.

“Yes?” She turned away from Elias, who looked over to see what was happening.

“Where’s Ruth?” She smiled brightly before nudging their connection to wake the grim up before looking around for a place where he could suddenly appear. He stepped forward and saw Draco, who smiled back with a soft tinge of pink to his cheeks. Snape looked at Draco with a knowing smirk and he simply rolled his eyes in return. Ruth walked around the table and sat next to the blond without looking over at him but both of them had small smiles on their faces.

“I’m off to the ladies,” Hermione said, scooching out her chair and then leaning in to whisper in Snape’s ear. “Maybe I’ll see you there in a minute or two,” leaving a somewhat surprised Snape behind. His eyes darted over to the other ladies at the table, but they seemed to be perfectly happy to chat amongst themselves. When he determined that everyone was sufficiently distracted, he stood and strode in the direction of the restrooms.

He stood in the small area for a moment before knocking lightly on one of the two doors, it opened, and she smiled as she reached out to grab the front of his shirt, dragging him into the room. She locked the door and practically attacked him.

“Silencing charm?” He asked against her lips as she began unbuttoning his suit jacket, it took a matter of seconds compared to his frock coat and her fingers were soon rubbing over his shirt covered chest as he kissed her.

“Already done,” she gasped as she took a breath and dove back at him. “I want you,” she moaned, and he turned her around suddenly. Pushing her up against the sink before squatting down to lift her long skirt, slowly revealing her white knee socks and shapely thighs until he found what he was desperately hoping was waiting for him.

“I admire your devotion to historically authenticity,” he purred in her ear and she pushed her naked bum against his clothed arousal.

“I did try.”

“Where’s your bonnet Miss Granger?” He growled, and the look in his heated gaze ignited her flesh like a struck match before he kissed his way down her neck to the top of the jacket; his hands kneading at her hips, pulling her closer to him.

“One never wears a hat indoors Professor, it would be most uncouth,” she smiled as she watched his hands deftly dealing with his belt and button fly behind her. He looked at her in the mirror and raised a brow as their eyes met.

“You have bewitched me, body and soul,” he murmured, stepping against her and pressing a kiss to her cheek before bending her forward enough for access as his fingers found their way to her quim. He groaned when he found the evidence of her desire on the inside of her thighs, “I love you,” he whispered leaning forward to brush her ear with his lips, ”most ardently.”

“I always preferred Colonel Brandon to Darcy,” she leaned into his kiss as she whispered and he smirked.

“Really?” His voice low and seductive as he pushed a finger deeply into her; her head lolled forward as she moaned. “You like men that are old and sad?” He asked quietly, looking at her reflection as she frowned.

“No, I love men that give everything for the women they love. Their time, their devotion, even if it isn’t returned. For her reputation he would sacrifice all of his own,” she looked over her shoulder at him. “You are the very best of men, and I would be so lucky to call you my own.”

There was a moment when he simply looked at her then his arms drew around her and pulled her closer. Kissing her temple he smiled and closed his eyes. "Then you will be my Marianne and I will do anything for you."

“Hurry then, we don’t have much time,” Hermione giggled, and he quickly replaced his finger with his very eager cock. He watched her, gripping the sink tightly as her mouth fell open and her eyes fluttered closed. He reached forward and lifted her left thigh as he began to pump in and out of her at a slow, steady pace. He lifted it further and nudged her knee onto the edge of the sink, allowing him to thrust more deeply into her silken clutch. She turned her head and lifted her hand as she pulled him forward to kiss him, one of his eyes shot open and to the mirror to see her, and he groaned at how sexy a sight she was.

His hand snaked its way around her hip, under her skirt until he found her swollen nub and began massaging circles as his efforts hastened. He broke the kiss and used his other hand on the back of her head to face her towards the mirror before his strong hand rested on her shoulder. He kissed her cheek down to her neck, laving his tongue back up to her ear.

“Watch yourself,” he instructed breathlessly as his ardour took over his senses and he was fucking her as fast as he could manage while standing. “You are absolutely breathtaking,” Severus purred, his fingers strumming in time with his thrusts and she watched her reflection’s eyes go half lidded. Pleasure ran through her body rapidly and she moaned as her head fell back against his strong shoulder. “Yes, my dear… let me hear you,” his full attention was on her and his eyes looked in the mirror just as her body began to tremble uncontrollably. He brought his hand down from her shoulder to wrap around her waist and held her tightly to keep her standing as he spread his legs further so he could speed up just that little bit more to push her completely over the edge.

“Severus… yes!” Her eyes suddenly opened fully, mouth dropping open as she cried out his name and he watched her fall apart; warmth pooling deliciously in his stomach.

“Look how beautiful you are my darling,” watching Hermione grip the sink hard as she mewled, he felt himself getting closer as she squeezed him deliriously. “F-fuuuuck,” he groaned as he gave himself over to the warmth that ran through him, filling her as his head fell forward onto her shoulder; her fingers came up and ran through his hair. Severus placed gentle kisses along her throat as he braced himself against the sink before slowly pulling himself from her body. She twisted instantly and pulled him down to kiss her again before she looked into his dazed expression.

“I’m glad you liked my outfit,” she smiled, and Snape gave her a boyish smirk in response. She cast a cleansing charm for them both and kissed him once more before leaving him in the room alone. He pulled out the crystal stone that Angelica had given him. Admiring the colour of her magic, a bright gold that shimmered like a diamond.

He looked up at himself in the mirror and leaned forward under the harsh light, his nose casting a shadow the closer he got to the glass. How the hell did I get so lucky? He pushed away from the sink and left the room, less dramatic in a muggle suit but the gravitas still seemed to wrap around him no matter what he wore. He heard laughter before he made it back and stepped over to Draco, surreptitiously letting the crystal fall into his waiting hand and grateful that he would take it back to Angelica.

“Cast no spells until you’ve given it to her,” Draco gave him a curt nod and pushed the stone into his pocket.

“Would you like to take a walk with me?” He leaned over to Ruth, who smiled as he nodded at the sly look on the blond’s face. He stood suddenly and turned to Chise, “Chise, may I borrow your familiar for a little while?” Chise looked at Ruth and saw the tinge of pink on his cheeks and smiled wide.

“Of course, you may keep him as long as you like,” Draco bowed his head to her and motioned for Ruth to make his way to the door.

‘I love you Chise,’ Ruth pushed through their connection.

‘Enjoy yourself,’ she replied with a knowing smile that made him blush further.

XOXO

They decided to eat at a pub around the corner, scampi and chips calling Chise’s name, it was then that Draco and Ruth had rejoined the group and once they had all eaten he leaned over to Severus.

"Uncle, there's one more place I'd like to take you before you head back." Snape looked at the busy table then back at his godson.

"Is it nearby?"

"Just around the corner," he gave a gleaming smile and Severus looked to Hermione.

"I’m going somewhere with Draco, I'll be back shortly," she nodded and turned back to the other ladies.

"So," Draco started, once they were out on the street. "How often do you wash your hair?" Snape stopped dead and narrowed his eyes at his godson.

"Have you separated me from everyone to tell me off for my hygiene?" His stern face that normally made third years quail, had Draco smiling wider.

"I would never, please just answer the question."

"Once a week," Severus folded his arms over his chest with a huff.

"Ok, that's alright then," Draco reached up and rested his hand on Snape's shoulder as he turned him towards a row of shops. "Do you ever wish it was... less... urm... shiny?"

"Yes," Severus groused, allowing himself to be led into a shop that smelled entirely too strongly of florals for comfort.

Draco waved a hand at a young brunette, her heels sharply clicking on the clean white floor. She smiled, her deep red lips making her teeth look blindingly white.

"Dena, this is my godfather," he motioned to Snape, his arms still stiffly folded over his chest. "I'm hoping you can suggest some hair products," Dena's smile faltered a fraction as she looked at the greasy curtains of hair around the man's angular face. Then, as if she saw pound signs in his glossy hair she smiled wider.

"Of course Draco! I'd love to help," she stepped to the side and led them to an isle with lots of bottles, some big, some unbelievably small. Half an hour later they were leaving the shop, Severus grumbling about how expensive everything was and what a waste of money and time. Draco's smile never faded, he was used to his acerbic behaviour. He knew he'd thank him later.

_

They stopped at a small off-license where Chise bought some wine and a bit of food for dinner before they started their long trek back to the house. It was dark by the time they finally started making their way home, taking the train and bus routes felt odd to Severus after so many years of Apparating, but he took in the simple pleasure of watching snow falling outside the windows, Hermione’s warm hand encircling his own. When they were dropped off at the bus stop in a small town, he was a bit less enthused about the walk in the cold, but Hermione had burrowed under his arm and was holding him tightly for warmth. He had forgotten to cast a warming charm, but honestly he didn’t want to if it meant she was so close.

The small walking trail to the house wasn’t far from the bus stop, but it went on for a long while. Ruth bounded back and forth across the trail excitedly in the snowdrifts. The powdery piles bursting like glitter bombs as he launched into them. They walked passed fields of farmland, grazing pastures covered in snow, and little houses until the path led through a wood. The moon light that drifted through the spindly branches above them was reflected by the snow to create an odd opalescent haze. After what felt like a frigid lifetime, they came to a field where they saw a house.

Elias swung open the gate as he strode forward into the front garden, it seemed to be divided into quadrants and Severus wondered if it had been done for a reason. Finally, they reached the door and shivering they stepped inside. The house was warm compared to the snowy outside and Chise shivered as she kicked off her shoes and slipped on her slippers. She then turned towards the kitchen and braced herself with one foot behind the other, her arms held wide as a pink flash bolted into them.

“Silver!” Chise smiled as she held onto the Silky tightly. “We’ve brought guests,” she laughed and Silver looked over Chise’s shoulder to see the two standing just inside the door, their faces covered in surprise and bits of ice. “Do we have some slippers for them?”

Silky nodded happily and released Chise to finish taking off her jacket as she went to a hall closet to grab two pairs of slippers, presenting them to the couple. Severus looked down at them and over to see that Elias had already changed into his. As Chise waited patiently, he reluctantly took them.

Snape bent down and took off his boots, wishing he didn’t have a hole by his pinky toe as he quickly hid it within the warm slipper. Elias was in the living room, already stoking a fire to life and Snape joined him, sitting down on the sofa and shuffling his feet under the coffee table to get them closer to the fire.

Hermione followed Chise into the kitchen to prepare tea with Silver. She held out her hand to the cotton candy coloured clad beauty and Silky looked down at her with a small smile. Her gloved hand easily slid into Hermione’s small hand and she smiled up at the tall blond.

“It’s wonderful to meet you,” Hermione let go of her hand and when Silver Lady didn’t reply she looked at Chise.

“She doesn’t really speak much,” Chise handed Silky a silver tray for the tea and she bustled around the kitchen, getting together a pot of milk and boiling the water. Once everything was loaded onto the tray, they made their way into the living room and Chise sat by the fire to defrost her frozen feet. Silky set the tray down on the coffee table, gently handing each person a cup of tea.

“Thank you Silver Lady,” Elias said as she set his cup down in front of him. “Severus and Hermione will be staying with us until Yule,” he motioned to the pair sitting on the sofa with his big, gloved hand. Silver nodded to them both with a soft smile, her bonnet dipping down with each nod, making the bow that tied it to her head bob. “Please help me to make them comfortable.”

Silver hummed approvingly and turned from the room, she wasn’t gone for very long before bustling back in and bringing with her dressing gowns for them to wear during their stay. Severus balked silently that his was red. Although, when he took off his suit coat and pulled on the robe, he instantly felt warmer, the robe brushed the floor when he stood still; creating a barrier from the cold that was extremely appreciated.

It was still fairly early in the evening and after their long walk, the food they had earlier seemed like hours ago.

XOXO

After dinner, Elias and Chise went into the front garden and laid out a warm blanket on the ground with a warming charm, while Severus and Hermione made themselves comfortable in the sitting room. They were sitting under the stars, Elias leaning back in Chise’s lap, his horns touching the ground gently as she pillowed his head. He could smell her, had begun to smell her more strongly for ages and he knew he wanted her. She was lazily running her fingertips over the smooth bone of his face, from the tip of his snout up to the bulge that lifted over his eyes and back down again. He loved the feeling of her fingers on him and wanted her to touch him everywhere.

Elias reached an arm up over his head and ran it along the side of her body, from her slim waist to the curve of her hips and then he felt it, or rather, he didn’t feel it. There was no indent of fabric or pinch or catch and he realised she wore nothing to cover the wonderful smell that was currently wafting around him, creating a lovely fog of his mind. She felt him pause as he found it and she giggled as she leaned down to kiss the long bridge of his nose.

“Easy access,” Chise whispered, and she smiled seductively when she saw his eyes flare red. Without a word he sat up and rose, she watched him as he turned and easily scooped her off the ground and walked into the house. He carried her like his bride, passed the living room where Hermione and Severus were reading and up the stairs to their bedroom. Chise had already set the sound charms, she felt proud that she was getting rather good at doing them on her own with very little effort. He set her down as he kicked the door closed and melted into his human glamour, gaining a pout from the lovely woman in front of him.

“I need lips Chise,” he asserted as he pulled off her dress and reached around to expertly flick her bra closure apart. With a triumphant smile he let it fall and gazed down at her pert breasts tipped with enticingly pink nipples. His mouth dropped to them and he ran his tongue over them completely and slowly as she sighed. He captured a nipple, slowly covering it as his tongue pressed, his lips closing, and the suction caused them both to moan. Her fingers were in his blond hair as she held him close and his hands wandered, one down her stomach and the other to her other, lonely breast. His fingers curled around the trimmed flame before brushing it aside and dipping into her. He groaned at how wet she was as his tongue lapped and laved at her breast.

They moved together to the bed as his clothes disappeared in wisps of blue and black to reform on the dresser. His finesse was subtle but ultimately unneeded, it would come in time, for now he followed what made her tremble and sigh. He would follow it all as far as he could. As he pressed two long fingers inside her, her head fell back against the pillow. He could feel his teeth grow sharper and carefully suckled for as long as he could before his lips were suddenly gone and his form changed and grew. He didn’t realise how much until far later. He shifted down, running his now large tongue over her stomach and down past her crimson thicket as he dipped within her. His burning eyes glued to her face as her head shot off the pillow, her eyes widening to lock with his. Her eyebrows furrowing in pleasure as her fingers gripped the duvet.

His muscle roving and slowly filling her as his hands pushed her legs up until they touched the bed. His tongue writhed within her as she shuddered under his care and he watched as her expression changed. The look on her face, contorted and strained and then open and in awe. Release, a release of emotion, of physical being. Need seemed to bubble up from the very depths of his soul and he didn’t know what to do with himself. He needed to touch her, to feel her every inch and feel her touching him. His vines reached out, daring and assertive, trying to feel everything at once and not crush her under his ardour. He strained against the feeling that threatened to consume him, he revelled in it. He was lost in it. A feeling that made everything hazy and sharp all at once and made his body react on its own with no thought, nothing but the desire to feel everything he could.

The magic that covered his tongue ran through him, it washed over him, a warmth that burned like fire. His senses consumed by it, his mind addled by it, his body seemed to move of its own volition as instinct gripped him. An instinct that he hadn’t been knowingly suppressing and had only felt for her. He rose and aligned himself to her as she bit her lip seductively. He felt powerful and weak as he filled her challis. Her walls tight around him, gripping him and forcing sounds from his body he didn’t realise he could make. Every inch felt alight with electricity, he felt his spine tingling with energy and he followed the need to be rougher, to take more. To consume all and yet to give everything to this lovely human beneath him.

Chise’s head whipped to and fro and he watched in pure joy at her abandon of decorum as she cried out. Her fingernails scratching their way down his aubergine back as he continued. Her legs lifting higher and squeezing tighter as her quim begged for him to push further. Elias was gone, he felt like everything in him was being poured into her, draining him of his energy, of his power, of his magic. Mixing with hers as he thrust more forcefully and her back bowed beautifully as she clutched at him with arms, legs, and sweet silken cunt.

His feathers fell around them as his efforts knocked the loose ones free and vines crawled to circle her breasts, undulating and flicking at her swollen nubs effortlessly. Every part of him was melting into her and he wanted to never reform. His tail bumped the dresser, making it nudge further along the wall in a creaking scuff, knocking trinkets onto the threadbare rug below. And then her face relaxed as she looked up at him, his massive size didn’t frighten her, it seemed to excite her more. He swept his tongue along her torso, licking up her sweet sweat as it made its way up to her neck as she moaned, her eyes blazing up at him.

His long arms held him up off her body, he wanted to be closer, but the thought of crushing her weighed on him and he refused as a few more vines sprung from his scaled flesh. They gently wrapped around her legs and pulled her closer to him, pulled her into every thrust. Her head fell back as she screamed her pleasure into the night air and he was lost in the beautiful sound of his name being repeated like a prayer as the room filled with her magic. It surrounded them in bubbles of bliss, it encased them in a haze of desire just as her smell permeated the air around them in the scent of sweet green things and musk.

He watched her avidly, his eyes blazing as his body heated and she grew tighter still until he could no longer hold back. He released within her with a feral roar to the heavens. She yelped as he filled her, it sputtered out around his cock as he plunged into her repeatedly, drawing out the end as long as he could before he slumped and stilled above her.

Her hand came up and cupped the ridge of his second set of horns, following their curve down to his snout as her other hand stroked down his long nose. “I love you Elias,” her head fell back as she caught her breath, enjoying his weight still over her. Elias lifted himself up and looked down to see that his form had changed to something he would have thought was nightmarish, but she continued to stroke and pet his face and chest until he calmed down.

“Chise, you’re not afraid?”

“Never,” she smiled sleepily and as he slowly pulled himself free from her body, she cried out at the void left behind. He slumped down next to her and concentrated to change back to the normal form he used but she held tightly to him, assuring him that his form didn’t bother her one jot. She wrapped herself around his giant body and petted his feathers down to his muscular stomach. “Just sleep Elias,” she whispered.

“But Chise…”

“Sshhi,” she hugged him closely, and he wrapped his long arms around her, cradling her next to him as she dozed happily to sleep.

He watched her sleeping so peacefully in his long arms. Marvelling at how much she loved him, for who he was, for whatever he was. He gently caressed a long clawed hand over her cheek and she smiled. "You make me so happy Chise," he softly nuzzled her cheek with his snout before he allowed himself to lay next to her. Elias watched her for a long while before he finally succumbed to sleep himself.

Chapter Text

Ruth trotted through the snowy wood. He'd left them to it the night before, and only started heading back when Chise reached through their connection to let him know breakfast was ready. The snow crunched softly beneath his paws as the house came into view. Hogwarts had been a nice place to explore, going to the library that night had been more than delightful.

"Professor Snape's sitting room," a voice had come from in front of the fireplace. "Uncle, I found your guests caught snogging in an alcove like two sixth years," he laughed brightly as Ruth made his way around a long bookshelf to see who it was.

Draco stepped back from the fireplace as it turned back to a golden orange with a huge smile on his face and soot in his platinum blond hair. The lanky black haired fae was frozen as Draco sloughed off a layer of soot and stood, turning in his direction.

"Oh," the blond looked up and then at his watch. "What are you doing here? It's after curfew," Draco walked towards him, realising he didn't know who he was. "What house are you in?"

Ruth laughed, "I'm not in a house, I'm Chise's familiar, I saw you in Snape's class."

"You're a fae?"

"Yes," Ruth paused awkwardly as a warm feeling enveloped him at the sight of the blond smiling at him.

They ended up talking for hours in the library and then he walked with him whilst he did his rounds. He excitedly wondered when the next time he'd see him would be.

Silky was rushing about in the kitchen packing lunches for the group while she flipped pancakes on the stove. Chise and Hermione were upstairs and Snape and Elias were in the greenhouse preparing something or other. Ruth rose into his human form as he reached out for the door handle to get into the kitchen.

XOXO

"Chise," Hermione pulled a box out from under the bed. "Why do you have a box of notebooks under the bed?"

Chise dove over to her and pushed it back under the bed. "Don't bring it out," she hissed as she re-hid the box under a blanket. Hermione gave her a searching look and Chise blushed brightly. "I'm not supposed to have them."

"What's written in them?" She fought back the urge to laugh.

"Notes from school," Chise looked over her shoulder into the empty hallway. "If Elias knows I have them, he'll throw them away."

"What?! Why?" Hermione looked aghast as she thought of someone throwing away her notebooks.

"Because he thinks once you learn something, you should commit it to memory and then you don't need the notes any more."

"That's just silly," she huffed, looking under the bed at the very full box. "How on earth do you keep them hidden?"

"Well, they aren't just there," Chise stood and went to the dresser, bending over she opened the bottom drawer. It practically sloshed full of notepads and Hermione covered her mouth to silence her laughter.

"Doesn't he realise that notes are important?" Chise bit her lip and shook her head.

"Some things he just doesn't understand. I don't hold it against him, but I also don't want him incinerating them the moment he thinks I'm 'done' with one."

"That makes sense, I guess," she looked into the drawer again and lifted out a small box. She opened it and gently pulled out a blue stone that looked to be made of the same thing as Chise’s flowers.

"What's this?" She held it up as she inspected it and Chise smiled.

"That's a gem that you can store magic within. It’s also used to test magical ability in mages."

"What's different between mages and witches? I've been curious because your magic doesn't seem to affect muggle technology."

“I'm not entirely sure, I know that I don't need a wand to perform magic." She reached into the box and extricated a second crystal stone. A knock on the window alerting them to the little green ariel trying to get in. Chise opened the window and she flew in and around the two. Hermione smiled wide when she saw the little fairy, finally one she could see!

“Robin!!” The ariel clung to Chise’s shirt, hugging her in her own way. “You’re home again! We missed you!”

“Hello Ariel,” Chise laughed, gently patting her back.

“Robin?”

“She’s our robin,” the ariel smiled as she flew in front of Hermione’s face, “Who are you?” She tilted her little head, her tiny antenna moving with her green hair.

“I’m Hermione, I’m a friend,” she smiled as the little ariel darted around her, landing on her shoulder with her small clawed feet.

“I was about to show her how we use the magic crystals,” Chise held up the blue gem before she sat back down on the floor.

“Want help?” She asked, leaning forward on her knees on Hermione’s shoulder.

“No! Thank you,” Chise added, smiling kindly at the offer, but she was trying not to have a repeat of the gem poppy field she'd caused the first time Angelica had shone her how to use one. Chise took a deep breath, closing her eyes and reaching out with controlled magic and the gem stretched. Hermione watched as it got longer, and a blossom bloomed as if in a time-laps from a muggle nature documentary. When Chise's eyes fluttered back open, she took a deep breath of relief before looking over at Hermione's face.

"Can I do that?" She whispered, staring at the crystal in her hand, but nothing happened.

“I’ll help,” the ariel smiled, and Hermione felt something tugging gently on her magic.

"Close your eyes," Chise watched as Hermione obeyed. She could tell the witch was eager to learn this new form of magic. "Think about a garden, somewhere that makes you relaxed and happy.” Hermione nodded and squished her eyes closed tighter, trying to remember every detail of her small flower garden from when she still lived with her family. Without her realising it, the gem very slowly began to shift its shape and Chise smiled at how quickly someone that had used a wand for so long was able to reach out with her magic.

Hermione saw her flowers, daisies, snapdragons, and her favourite, her violets. She had made her perfume from those flowers years ago and hoped some day she would have the strength to go back to that house. Even though the house was empty and probably always would be, she couldn't bring herself to sell her childhood home.

"Concentrate on the flower," Chise whispered, the gem had begun to vibrate unstably, and Hermione gave herself a mental shake to lift one of the tiny violets in her mind. "Good," Chise breathed in relief as the gem began to stretch and shimmer again as it should have. Hermione pushed all thought into exactly how the flower looked, how it smelt, the softness of the petals. She felt something touch her hand and her eyes snapped open. Chise was smiling at her and the crystal in her hand had changed into a delicate violet.

“You’re a natural,” the ariel laughed.

"I did it!” Hermione beamed as she looked at the small flower.

“You did! Is this your first use of wandless magic?" Chise reached out and took the flower from her hand to inspect it.

"What can it be used for?"

"What do you mean?"

"It's very pretty, can it be enchanted or charmed?"

"I don't know actually,” she handed back the flower as she thought. "I'm sure we can give it a try.” Chise fiddled with her hands anxiously for a moment before taking a deep breath. “Ariel, could you go check on Elias?”

“What?” The ariel turned to her, flying over and putting her hands on her hips. “What could Thorn possibly need me for?”

“I need to talk to Hermione about… something. It’s personal,” she shrugged and the ariel frowned.

“I can talk to you about personal things!” Her tiny cheeks puffed out with irritation. Chise leant closer and whispered to the tiny ariel.

“It’s about Elias and me… doing things together, as husband and wife.” The ariel’s eyes went wide and she flew to the door.

“Thorn’s downstairs, I’ll just go now!” She scratched at the doorknob and Chise opened the door for her.

“Thank you,” she turned to Hermione, closing the door and wringing her hands. Then she took a deep breath and asked a question that had been on her mind for several days. "Urm... Hermione, I have a question about... sex," Chise didn't think her face could get any hotter.

"What is it?" Hermione turned back to her bag and unpacked some clothes to put in an upper drawer in the dresser.

"I did something weird... but I think Elias wants me to do it again."

"What'd you do?" Hermione looked up from her tidying to see Chise's red face.

"I umm..." She could feel her cheeks burning and looked over cautiously at Hermione. “I think I squirted, but I’m not sure. I’ve only read about it.”

"Were you orgasming?"

"Yes, and it was... very intense."

"You squirted," she confirmed, then looked over her shoulder to make sure the door was closed.

“Is it weird that Elias might want me to do it again?”

“I don’t think so… what’s it like?” Hermione bit her lip nervously as she watched Chise’s cheeks burn brightly before she gave a resolute nod, as if she had finally found the right words to describe it.

“Like every part of you is about to explode and my legs felt like they were going to vibrate off my body.”

"Lucky girl," Hermione muttered as she nudged her playfully and Chise covered her mouth as she burst out laughing.

XOXO

Ruth rushed around the house, collecting everyone for breakfast. Since Silver lady kept batting away his hands when he reached for the food without anyone else there. They were halfway through their pancakes when they heard a scraping on the window in the living room and Chise rushed to open it. A large sea foam green dragon head came through as soon as it was opened. Menituli, Lindel’s silky familiar, slid down Gui’s neck like a slide into the sitting room, immediately tackling Chise.

“Hi Menituli,” Chise laughed, the silky giggling on her perch of Chise’s stomach. "Hello Gui!" Chise beamed at the scaly dragon as she laughed.

"Hello! It's been a while," the dragons eyes smiled down at her.

"We'll be out in just a minute," Chise ran back to the kitchen and everyone donned their cloaks for the journey with Elias and Ruth jumping into her shadow after they helped her get onto the large dragon. Hermione sat behind her, between Snape’s black wool covered legs. Chise watched as Gui kicked off the ground and waved to Silver as she became smaller and smaller. Lindel’s familiar was already casting the glamour to hide them when Chise looked up at the grey clouds.

The air was positively frigid, the glamour hid them from the people below but it didn't change the absolutely freezing wind from rushing over them. Severus held Hermione from behind, her long hair slapping him in the face. There wasn't anything he could do about it and at least the freezing air he was huffing in was Hermione scented.

Chise felt like her eyes were frozen open and no amount of blinking could make them close all the way. She shivered violently as the dragon rose above the clouds

"Elias," she shouted to her shadow. "I don't want to fly back, can we please take a portal?" She heard the rumbling chuckle from her shadow and she gave what she hoped was an annoyed face.

"Of course Chise," the ride felt like it took forever and she was very grateful when she felt Severus cast a warming charm around the three of them. She felt a flurry of snow flit across her face as the clouds seemed to rush up to them. The dragon dove down further as it swam through the air towards the meeting place.

As they descended to earth again Chise caught sight of Lindel and his sleigh and waved down to him. They zoomed towards the earth and she ducked down as much as possible to hide from the frigid wind. The dragon touched down and Elias instantly rose from her shadow to lift her into his warm arms.

"Thank you Elias," she said through chattering teeth, just before she sneezed.

XOXO

Lindel watched the cliffs as the sun bled down them, staining them in pinks and purples. He leant against the sleigh, his robes fluttering around him as the cold wind blew. Suddenly Gui popped out of the clouds, the glamour slowly fading away in the morning light to reveal Chise sitting behind Merituuli, her shoulders were hunched and her lips looked slightly blue. They touched the ground and she was quickly lifted from the back of the dragon by Thorn. A smirk flitted over Lindel’s face as he watched him care for her, he wouldn’t tell him, but he was proud of the way he looked after her. She was eminently important to Elias and it was noticeable in everything he did.

"Chise!" Lindel drew near with a beaming smile across his face, waving jovially at the group. Elias huddled her close as Severus and Hermione got down from the dragon and made their way forward. “Hello Thorn,” Lindel waved, lifting his white cloak as he raised his arm. The long blue robes that were underneath moved in the breeze and sent a shiver through him.

“Lindel,” Elias replied as he stepped forward to allow Severus and Hermione room to dismount the dragon and follow. Snape took her hand as her feet touched the snow and he held her close as they walked towards the tall blond stranger. Lindel’s hair was set in two long tails, tied together at the ends by blue straps, his eyes were icy blue with slitted pupils like a cat. He had a friendly face but Severus still felt a bit ill at ease.

“Be careful,” Elias said over his shoulder. “He’s a mischievous relic, and may say things about me that are—”

“I understand,” Severus interrupted as they grew close to the sleigh. “I too knew someone like that.” Hermione looked over her shoulder to give him an odd look but his impassive glance down to her gave nothing away.

“Welcome,” Lindel smiled brightly and held out his hand to Chise as Elias set her down. “Ainsworth,” Lindel looked between him and the two new visitors. “Introduce me to your acquaintances.”

“These are my friends,” Elias waved a gloved hand in their direction and Hermione waved. “Hermione and Severus, they have come to assist with the potion and ritual for Chise.”

“Have I said how pleased I am that someone is finally helping?” He turned to Chise and patted her on the shoulder. “You are most welcome, please, let us go to the aviary.” Chise went to the front of the sleigh and bowed to the reindeer that were going to pull it.

“Thank you for carrying us,” she said to them before walking and getting into the back of the sleigh. Elias sat in the front with Lindel and Merituuli while Severus and Hermione boarded the back, next to Chise.

“Has Thorn told you of this place?” Lindel asked over his shoulder as the sleigh began to flow through the snow as if unobstructed.

“Some, he told us of the dragons,” Hermione supplied.

“This is a nursery for dragons, all of the dragons were brought here to protect them and I am their caretaker.”

Well, not all the dragons, Hermione thought.

“He much prefers the company of dragons to those of humans,” Elias added, gaining a glare from the blond mage.

“I prefer creatures that are grateful and kind,” his hands flicked against the reins to encourage the reindeer to gallop. “Other than Chise, there are very few humans of that sort,” he muttered to himself. Elias looked down at him, his veil pushed forward over his bony face.

“I have met a few, Rahab for one,” Elias goaded the mage but Lindel didn’t take the bait. He simply watched the cliff disappear before they descented into the gully.

“I’m impressed Thorn,” Lindel looked over at him. “Finding humans you would count as friends.” Elias’s face jerked to look down at him from the road ahead but Lindel continued to look forward and ignored him.

“Does Elias not have many friends?” Hermione whispered to Chise, who was all but cringing in the back behind Lindel. Why they had to goad each other so much was a mystery but she supposed after knowing someone for 300 years it made sense. Chise thought about the question for a moment before looking over at the brunette.

“No, he has me, and now you and Severus. We have some people from the college that we would count as… somewhat close, but Alice is really the only one I keep in touch with now that I’m back at home. Renfred could be kind of a friend—”

“I don’t see him that way,” Elias said over his shoulder. “He’s helped me with one or two human situations but mostly he confuses me more than he helps. Friends help,” he added and Lindel looked over at him. “That’s why Lindel is an acquaintance.”

“I’ve done more for you than you know Thorn,” Lindel grumbled and looked forward to flick the reins again. Elias was silent, even though he heard him clearly, and luckily they arrived shortly after. Once they were all walking towards the small camp area Lindel lived in, Chise tugged at Lindel’s robes to get his attention.

"Master Lindel, I was wondering, your healing hands, can they heal scars?" He thought for a moment, looking over at the two new people talking with Elias.

"I've never tried, do you have a scar?"

"No, not me," she looked towards Hermione. "She has one, one she covers with a glamour, could you try to heal it for her?"

"Did she ask you for this?"

"No, but—"

"Then how do you know she doesn't wish to keep it?" He looked down at her thoughtfully and his words—though somewhat harsh—weren't said unkindly.

"I don't know, she said she doesn’t like it but..." Chise bit at the inside of her cheek as she watched Hermione running away from a baby dragon, a wide smile on her face. "Maybe I should ask first."

"Some people like their scars, depending on how they came to get them. They can remind us of our strength, but others our weaknesses. If she wishes I would be more than happy to try."

"Thank you Lindel, I'll ask her," she watched as the dragons chased Hermione into the freezing water, her head popping up with a screech. Chise laughed and pulled her pelt from her pouch, wrapping it around her as she rushed to the waters edge and jumped up as the pelt changed her form into a seal. She drove beneath the water and came up next to a very shocked Hermione.

Chise waved her flipper for Hermione to follow before she dove under the water. She waited a moment on the surface before taking a deep breath and holding it to dive under the water after her.

The water was crystal clear and she easily watched Chise as she swam deeper, a large water serpent came up from the depths and Chise swam around it, dancing around the long creature before rushing over and pulling Hermione up to the surface. They broke the water; Chise laughing and tugging at the pelt resting on her shoulders as they swam back to the shore.

“How did you… do that?” Hermione panted, trying to catch her breath as she trudged onto the shore, weighed down by her cloths and pea-coat.

“I was given this pelt,” Chise looked down at it and flung it out to spray water droplets on the ground. She flicked it a few more times, till the water had run off it before she stuffed it back into her pack. Hermione sat to collect herself on the snowy bank as she began to shiver. Elias was behind them in a matter of moments and spoke softly as little fire fae flew through the air around them. They were both suddenly surrounded by flame bands that steamed away the water instantly. “Thank you Elias,” Chise beamed up at him before he turned and walked back to Severus and Lindel. Ruth was still swimming and finally came to shore before shaking violently to dry himself.

Hermione stood and began brushing off the snow that clung to her clothing and Chise followed her to do the same. “What was that down there?” Chise smiled at Hermione before she looked out into the clear water.

“Some sort of water dragon, I’ve seen it a few times, it’s so beautiful.”

“It is,” Hermione agreed, looking into the water to see if she could see it from the shore.

“Hermione?”

“Yes?”

“I wanted to ask you about your scar,” Chise stood watchful as Hermione slowly looked towards her with anxiety on her features.

“Why?”

“Lindel has healing hands,” Chise begun. “I wanted to see if you would like him to try to heal the scar?”

“He can do that?” Hermione’s eyebrows rose in curious surprise as she looked over at the three men as they spoke.

“He said he could try, he normally is able to heal anything that isn’t fatal but wasn’t sure if scars fell under that category.” Hermione thought for several moments and looked down at her coat covered left arm.

“What about damage that’s been done? Do you think he could heal old wounds?” Chise tilted her head and shrugged.

“I don’t know, but he is open to trying, do you have damage of some sort?” Chise looked her up and down for a moment as if something would suddenly stand out to her.

“No, Severus does. He doesn’t like to talk about it but I know he does. His hands,” she looked down at her own as she spoke. “When he’s cutting ingredients or writing for a while I can tell it hurts him. I think it’s from the venom,” she peeked up and Chise was looking over at Snape with concern. “He was bitten,” she raised her hand to her neck and Chise looked back at her. “I’ve done research and nerve damage is one of the things that venom can cause. I think his hands tingle or hurt, but I haven’t asked him because… I don’t want to be a bother if there’s nothing I can do.”

Chise gave her an understanding smile and stepped forward to pat her on the arm. “I was the same way with Elias for the longest time.”

“Still are sometimes,” Ruth helpfully added, much to Chise’s dismay. Hermione let out a soft chuckle and then looked over her shoulder.

“If he could heal his scar or the nerve damage, I think Severus would be grateful,” she thought for a moment about how to convince Snape to talk to her about it.

“I can ask him,” Chise offered, and Hermione shook her head gently.

“No, I think I’d like to,” she gave Chise a smile and turned towards the group. The men seemed to be having some sort of disagreement as they got closer.

“No thank you,” Lindel said, crossing his arms as he looked up at Elias. “I’d like it to taste good.”

“I’ve made meals since then, Chise has taught me to cook and bake,” Elias shot back grumpily.

“I taught you how to cook stew before and it was still the most disgusting thing I’ve ever eaten.”

“But I can cook now,” Elias saw them coming closer and turned to Chise. “Chise, tell him I’ve cooked.”

“He has,” she nodded. “He’s made sandwiches and salads,” Elias’s shoulder slumped as he turned to Lindel, who was now smirking evilly.

“Fine,” Elias folded his arms with a huff and sat on the blanket by the fire. “I won’t help.” Snape looked amused and was glad when he felt Hermione slip her hand into his. They reminded him of Lucius and himself when they were younger.

“Severus, could I speak with you?” Snape looked down at her and nodded.

“There was something I wanted to speak to you about as well,” he held out his elbow to her. “Shall we walk?” Hermione nodded with an uneasy smile, wondering how she would bring up something so personal. Once they were far enough away that the baby dragons were no longer following them, he looked down at her. “What is it Hermione?”

“I was talking with Chise about Lindel, he has ‘healing hands’ and she spoke to him about trying to heal my scar,” she looked up at him and his eyebrows lifted a bit as he nodded for her to continue.

“Well, what did you say?” He asked quietly, with a tinge of something she could only think of as hope.

“I asked if he can heal nerve damage,” she stood still and waited for what she was trying to say to become clear to him.

“You have nerve damage?” He voice was full of concern that made a warm pool form in her stomach.

“What would you do if I did?” She smiled sadly as he quickly answered, of course he’d know off the top of his head after most likely investigating anything that could be helpful.

“There are some potions that have been created to help but… they aren’t very effective. For all types of damage anyway,” he amended, but it was enough. She saw the anxiety in his eyes, even if it was only there for a moment.

“I asked her if he could heal your bite marks,” she lifted her hand to his chest and stepped closer. “Would that be something you’d like to try?” He looked down at her first with self-consciousness and then with sadness. “I don’t care about them,” she quickly added, stepping closer to fill the gap he’d tried to make by stepped away. “I’ve read about it... venom can cause lasting pain, I don’t want you to be in pain.”

Severus was taken aback for a moment, looking into her eyes and seeing no deception there. “How did you know?” His whispered question made her smile.

“I watch you, is it your arms and hands?” He nodded as he looked down at them, squeezing his fingers into a fist and releasing them again. “You hide it well, but I’ve seen you rubbing them with balm.” He nodded apprehensively and looked back towards the group as Lindel went into a cave to begin the stew.

“We can ask him,” he paused, turning and looking back to her. “I didn’t think anyone noticed.”

“I notice everything about you,” she smiled as she pushed up on the balls of her feet to kiss him. “Even when I tied you up, I made sure you were comfortable.” He smirked rakishly down at her, caressing his hand along her cheek.

“That reminds me,” he kissed her gently before guiding her over to a large bolder and brushing off the snow to encourage her to sit. “I wanted to talk about what we've been doing," he paused for a moment in thought. It wasn't as if he hadn't thought about what he would say all morning and most of last night, but now he felt a bit tongue tied. "I think we should talk."

"About what Severus?" She looked up at him and for a moment fear ran through her. What if he’s changed his mind?

"I don’t know much about it, but I just want to talk about it."

"Do you... not enjoy what we've been doing?" Her anxiety took hold as she rushed to continue. "I understand if you want things to slow down…” What if Ron was right? She couldn’t breathe right as she blinked a few times, hoping to push back her burgeoning tears. Suddenly she was enveloped by his arms as he spoke softly into her hair.

"Hermione, what do you think I'm talking about?"

"Our relationship," her voice sounded defeated and he realised she was just as scared as himself.

"No," he leant back and lifted her chin. "I'm talking about the delightfully depraved things you've been doing to me in bed," his smirk instantly calmed her and she laughed at how relieved she was.

"Oh." She took a breath and let relief run through her with a small smile.

"Indeed," he held her tightly. "I just wanted to talk about it because I wanted to know what else you'd like to do, what else you'd like... me to do."

"I'm not entirely sure," that wasn't completely true. She'd started a notebook, and whenever she read something that caught her fancy she'd add it; she was currently on her second one. "I have ideas, but I like going with the flow when it comes to some things." He snorted a laugh into her hair and she pushed back.

"Sorry, thinking of you going with the flow," his lips curled and she gave a long suffering sigh.

"Alright, I do have some things I plan before hand." She tutted at him and crossed her arms. "Is that so bad?"

"No, not at all. I think I'd be more nervous if you were just going in half cocked." He brought his hands up to cup her cheeks. "So, you like being in charge?"

"Sometimes," she smiled and turned her face to kiss his palm. "Do you like me being in charge?" She whispered her question before looking up at him. His black eyes seemed to burn from the inside, a coal fire just for her.

"Sometimes," he smirked and she gave him a shy smile.

"I know you like being in charge of the classroom," her hands came up and smoothed their way up his chest.

"True," he pushed his fingers into her hair, tickling along her scalp. "I do it all day, it was nice to just... let go a little." She bit her lip as her hands came up to his neck, gently running them around his back.

"And if I want to 'let go' sometime?"

"That… could be arranged," his voice was dark and silky as he leant down and kissed her.

"If there's anything you don't want to do, just tell me." They sat for a long moment before she continued, “you should pick a stop word.

"Polyjuice," there was a teasing note to his voice that made her blush, thinking of her second year. "Seems appropriate," she smiled sheepishly as he pulled her closer. She nodded and tugged him down to kiss her again.

XOXO

Lindel set fire to a standing log and placed the stew pot on top, letting the mixture slowly meld together to create a lovely smell. Lindel put the lid securely on top of the large pot and then stood to motion towards the other side of the gully.

“He will be getting sleepy soon, we can try to approach him,” Lindel spoke to Chise and she nodded in agreement before standing and calling for Ruth. They walked to the other side together, slowly circling the giant black dragon, trying not to spook him. The dragon’s eyes watched anxiously as the group came closer, his head rising up from where it had been resting on his tail.

"It's alright," Lindel soothed, holding out his hand to the baby dragon. "You know we won't hurt you," the dragon whipped it's head round and stared into Chise's eyes as she approached.

"Everyone stop," Chise whispered, motioning for them to still. "He's scared."

She lifted her hand towards him. Chise tapped the ground, creating a huge rune beneath the dragon before beginning to sing softly as Ruth stepped forward in his grim form, his tail winding round her wrist to lend her his magic. The dragon's eyes went a bit blurry as she continued. As her hand reached out, close enough to finally touch, she gently pressed it to his head. Her song became a whisper and the dragon slowly laid down as his eyes blinked languidly.

She wrapped her arms around his neck as his head gently folded down and soon he was drifting into a dream. He snored softly as she petted his head and finished singing. She continued to stroke his scaled head as the others stepped closer to him. The containment rune finally falling away so she could hear those around her again.

"Is he sleeping?" Elias asked from several yards away.

"Yes," she laid her head atop the dragons and hummed gently to keep him sleeping and calm. Hermione stepped forward cautiously and made a small snick in his leg, which she extracted a few vials of blood from before Lindel stepped forward and closed the cut back up. Severus walked around the group to stand beside Elias as he watched Chise slowly petting the dragon’s great scaly head.

"She's very powerful," Severus whispered to Elias.

"She has no need for wands or familiars, she could do a great many things simply because she wishes it. Her nature is to protect," Elias thought for a moment as he looked down at Snape.

"Are all Surei Bega as powerful as her?"

"I'm not sure, the college did extensive studies on her, but she is one of the rare living ones. Most die before they reach seventeen." Severus looked up at Elias with understanding running across his face.

“I’m glad she doesn’t have to go through more tests,” Snape whispered, and Elias nodded his agreement as Chise stood back up and walked over to them.

“He’ll stay asleep for a few hours,” Chise said, taking Elias’s hand. She felt only vaguely light-headed after the magic she’d exhausted.

“I remember,” Elias watched Hermione as she marked the vials with labels before dropping them into her beaded bag. “That bag, is quite the wonder.”

“Yes, she bewitched it herself with extension charms,” Severus replied offhandedly.

“Can you extend anything?”

“Rooms, tents, bags… why?”

“Our sitting room isn’t all that large and I was just thinking about the party,” Elias tilted his large wolf skull and Snape flashed an amused smirk.

“I’ll ask her, she’s very good at them.”

“Thank you.”

XOXO

The sun began to set by the time they all made their way to sit around the fire and eat. Hermione transfigured additional bowls and Lindel dished out a portion of the stew for each of them. They were halfway through eating when Hermione nudged Severus and motioned to her neck. Severus looked over at the blond mage and then his eyes flicked to Hermione, who nodded to Lindel with a soft smile of encouragement.

“Lindel?” His voice sounded weak to his ears as if he finally realised how nervous he was to ask for this man’s help. Snape cleared his throat to try again. “I was speaking with… Hermione, and she said that you can heal non-fatal injuries?”

“I can, yes,” Lindel set down his bowl beside him and gave Severus his full attention.

“I was bitten nearly two years ago, and have issues related to the venom that still plague me.” He looked back at Hermione and then down at his lap, asking someone for help wasn’t something he was used to doing, or something he ever liked to do. But to regain proper feeling in his fingers would be a great help to him. “Would it be possible to… gain your assistance with it? I’d like to pay you somehow, I don’t ask for it simply as a favour,” he quickly added, not knowing what the man would ask in return.

Lindel nodded with a soft smile, “of course. I can try, and you owe me nothing,” he motioned to the teepee and Severus slowly stepped over to it. He tried to ignore the looks that everyone gave him as he pulled the flap aside. He took a deep breath and unbuttoned his coat, then smartly undid his cravat before laying down flat on one of the bedrolls and looking up as Lindel stepped over to him, crouching by his side.

Lindel inspected the area, the puncture wounds looked puckered but not in bad condition, but he saw small blue lines around the area and wondered how deeply they dug into his nervous system. He lay one hand upon the scar and closed his eyes, pushing his magic towards the scar and feeling his way through the damage. Severus closed his eyes and took a long breath to relax as he waited for the man above him to speak. His blue eyes unnerving him each time he looked up, the slitted pupils making him look more fae than human.

After several moments of silence Lindel sighed and sank down lower, closing his eyes, his expression going from relaxed to searching, his brow furrowing in concentration. Severus felt his throat growing warmer, it wasn’t hot, but was beginning to become uncomfortable when Lindel finally opened his eyes again and met the black irises of the man before him.

“You should feel better soon,” he whispered, picking up Snape’s hand and feeling his fingers on one hand and then the other. “Do they go numb sporadically?”

“Yes, and tingle for no reason.” Severus replied softly, hoping that no one else would hear him.

“That should go away in a day or so,” Lindel patted his hand once more before rising and turning to everyone waiting by the fire. Lindel simply gave a soft smile and walked back to his seat, sitting down and lifted his stew to continue his meal. Snape sat up and took a moment to redo his clothing. He felt odd sensations running down his arms and wasn’t sure how to describe it. Like heat but not painful, as though he’d been sitting in a bath and everything felt relaxed for a change. He curled and opened his fists several times as if seeing if anything had changed yet. He pulled back the tent flap and looked at the others, no one seemed to know what to say and Severus hurriedly buttoned back up his coat and joined them.

XOXO

Once the stew was put away, Elias and Severus sat on warmed blankets by the fire as Lindel walked closer to the lake with the women. Chise leant against Nevin’s tree, her hand almost feeling the warmth that the dragon once showed her as she gave it a gentle pat before turning to watch Lindel open his arms, reaching them up as if to a friend. His white robes fluttered in the chilled air as he began to sing, his beautiful slow song. It filled the air with magic, the flowers blooming even as the snow was thick on the ground. The elves danced across the lake, Chise and Hermione watched, and when they came close took their hands in a dance that not only relaxed their minds but their souls.

Elias watched the flowers and lifted his hand to catch a few that flitted through the breeze.

“She sent me these once, through the water mirror,” He looked down at the tiny blossoms and his eyes seemed to smile at the memory. Snape was enraptured watching Hermione dance, she was like an angel to his eyes and he couldn’t stop looking at her. Eminently lovely. His beautiful wood nymph.

That night when they all huddled into Lindel’s round tent they snuggled together on their bedrolls for warmth, Severus and Hermione, Elias and Chise. Ruth wrapped himself around Chise’s front as Lindel pulled the thick pelts he always slept with around him. The dreams they had were calming, like snow falling on a glacier, like the peaceful lake that was only just outside.

Chapter Text

The sun peaked through the top of Lindel's teepee, casting a shining light over one side. As the sun began to rise higher, it alighted the area and bathed the sleeping group in sunshine. Severus was the first to awaken but instead of rising, he simply lay with Hermione snuggled into his arms.

He lifted his head and looked at the others, Lindel slept on his back, an arm slung over his eyes. Elias was on his stomach, his horns curling upwards into the air, his right arm holding to Chise. Chise looked the warmest, huddled between Elias and Ruth she slept on her side, her red hair tousled and gleaming in the early light. Snape's head lowered to rest again with his nose buried in Hermione's curly locks.

"Morning," she whispered sleepily as her arm wound around his neck to bring him closer.

"Morning," he kissed her cheek then her nose then her lips as he shuffled closer to her. "Should we get up?" Hermione looked at the others, Lindel was softly snoring and she closed her eyes.

"We can if you like," her hand came up to sweep through his black hair. Her fleece sleeve fell a bit slack around her forearm and he turned his face to kiss the inside of her wrist.

"We could go for a walk, or we could go back to sleep," he leant forward and nuzzled his nose along hers as she sighed contentedly.

"Or you can both keep whispering until we're all awake," Elias grumbled, a dark red eye softly flaring to life to glare at them.

"Sorry," Hermione turned in Severus's arms and buried her grinning face into his flannel covered shoulder. Severus chuckled as Chise reached up half asleep and patted Elias's arm.

"Shi Elias, or I'll sing you to sleep," she mumbled without opening her eyes. Lindel laughed at her threat and Elias huffed as he lifted his great head from his pillow.

"I guess we're getting up then?" Ruth added as he stood and shook himself before his big pink tongue cleant his whiskers. Chise reached out and pulled Ruth back down, “Eep!”

"Sleep," she whispered but Elias was already pushing up to sit behind her.

"Come Chise, let's eat breakfast," he reached forward and ruffled her red hair lovingly and she stretched like a cat before opening her eyes.

Lindel stretched as he sat up and wrapped his white cloak around his blue robes, pulling the hood up over his head before he swept the tent flap aside and stepped out into the beautiful morning.

The group took their time preparing breakfast and watching the dragons run about in the fresh snow. Lindel went to thaw the lake, using magic so the little ones could continue to swim and play in the water. The sun peeked higher, shining down and making the snow look like powdery glitter on the ground.

“We should get back soon,” Chise said as she rose from the small area that Lindel had carved out for the fire and thick blankets to sit upon.

“I understand,” Lindel smiled and reached out to hug Chise before she walked to Elias and took his hand. “Travel safely. If there is anything I can do to help with relieving the curse, let me know.” His smile was soft and friendly as he walked them to a clear area to summon a portal.

Elias moved to under Nevin’s tree and from his back pulled his wand, which he extended with the flair of a magician to extend to its full height of a cane before he tapped it on the ground.

“Everyone stand close to me,” he encouraged and Chise pushed her face into his waist, knowing the draining feeling well and wondering if Elias would take some from everyone. Hermione looked up at him with questioning eyes and Elias drew her in closer with Chise as Snape took hold of Elias’s arm. Another tap of his cane placed a huge blue circle of magic beneath them that seemed to glow as vines covered in thorns wound their way around the group. Severus stepped in further, bobbing his head under Elias’s arm to stay within the thorned barrier.

Snape felt like someone was gently tugging on his magic and realised that Elias must be taking some from everyone to make the jump. Lindel stood by and waved at them just before the vines rose and covered out the sight before they seemed to explode from around them in shimmering bursts. Elias turned and saw they were just where he wanted to be, halfway between home and town and stepped back from the humans around him to melt into his human glamour.

“I thought we could go grocery shopping for the week,” he motioned with his hand down the lane, indicating the way to town.

XOXO

Snape sneered into the little trolley Hermione had been pushing around and lifted a box with a mug full of marshmallows on the front.

“What is this?” He turned to her with the offending item and she stifled a laugh.

“Hot chocolate Severus, have you had it?” He narrowed his eyes at the box and placed it on the closest shelf.

“I’ve had proper hot chocolate, yes,” he turned and walked further down the baking aisle as she smiled and grabbed the box to put it back where she got it from. She caught up with him as she weaved around other trolleys and shoppers; he was looking intently at bags of dark chocolate. He had a bag of mini marshmallows tucked under his arm, which he promptly dropped into the cart once she was close enough. “Ah ha,” he stood up as he scooped up a good-looking bag of dark chocolate chunks and with a smirk dropped it into the cart next to the bag of little white fluffs of sugar.

“Proper hot chocolate?” She lifted the bag and he reached out to place it back in the trolley.

“Just trust me,” he said, she laughed as she wheeled herself down the aisle.

“Always Severus,” she said over her shoulder as he stepped next to her when she stopped to look at cake decorations. He looked around and noticed that everyone around them were muggle and probably didn’t know who they were. He bent down and kissed her lips gently and as he pulled away she looked up at him in shock. He shrugged with a small smile and walked ahead of her as she stood frozen for a moment, a lovely blush rising on her cheeks as she looked around. No one was giving them looks, no one cared, and she rushed to catch up with him.

He waited for her at the end of the aisle and she saw Elias, Chise, and Ruth join him. “Have everything we need?” Hermione walked up and wrapped her arm around Snape’s waist as she spoke, and he lifted his arm to drape over her shoulder. Chise looked into the trolley she’d been pushing around, and they’d gotten all the veggies and meats for the party while Hermione had picked up all the snacks, drinks, and sweets.

“I hope so,” Chise looked up at Elias, who only motioned towards the check outs, they were glad they were only in town and not a bigger city. This close to Christmas the shop was full of people bustling about getting last minute goods. After waiting in the queue for what felt like forever they were heading back out into the snowy chill of mid-morning.

The walk back to the Ainsworth cottage was cold but beautiful, snow was fresh on the ground and covered the hills and farmland in powdery glitter. They had walked nearly the whole way when Elias turned to Chise and took her hand.

"So pretty," he motioned to the scene and Chise smiled up at him.

"So pretty," she agreed, giving his hand a squeeze.

Little neighbours began to pop out of the woods as they got closer to the house and then the Yule twins circled above them as they held hands. Each had the opposite wing as they landed softly with their claw like feet.

“Are you preparing for Yule?” Elias looked down at Chise as she bowed her head to them.

“Yes, we’re beginning our preparations right now,” she smiled, and the little twins hummed together before zooming off back into the sky as they dropped a sprig of mistletoe that landed gently in Chise’s waiting hands.

“Thank you,” she waved at the twins as they disappeared into the beautiful sunshiny day. By the time they’d made it back to the house it was nearly lunch time and Elias swung open the gate to find Silver lady opening the door for them to come in out of the cold.

XOXO

Misty vapours rose from the pot of milk that Severus had heating on the hob. The delicate crunch of his knife going through the chocolate he'd selected was a pleasant respite to the full morning they'd had. His favourite part by far was after Elias and Chise had come back from gathering mistletoe and the magus had covered every inch of his head in the little sprigs. The red berries going very well with his veil and Snape had wondered if he was wearing the colour to be festive.

Hermione and Chise had been combing through her old notebook up in their room to see if they could find some way to use wizard magic and not short circuit their electricity. He found it amusing that Elias didn't know she kept her notebooks. Hermione, on the other hand, had found it appalling and after a half hour of chastisement, the magus had relented with an exasperated huff.

"Humans can be very frustrating," Elias muttered to himself from the Kitchen table and Severus bit back a smile. He'd never been prone to smiling, his life thus far hadn't really promoted it in any way. But here, in this house so full of Christmas cheer he found himself stifling a smile almost constantly.

"We can be," Snape smirked as he began dropping chocolate shavings into the bubbling pot of milk. Elias huffed at him as he sat back and crossed his long arms over his chest.

“Do you keep notebooks," he asked softy as Severus lifted a wooden spoon to stir the soon to be amalgamated hot chocolate.

"Yes, I do. I have one I’m almost constantly writing in any time I'm experimentally brewing." He looked over his shoulder at the magus, an eyebrow rising high on his forehead, his hand never faltering in its task.

“Can you not simply remember?"

"Do you remember everything you've ever done?"

"Yes, every spell I have learned and every human I have met."

"How?” Severus took the pot off the hob and began dividing it into the six cups he'd set aside.

"I just do," Elias shrugged and set his elbows on the table so he could steep his hands in front of his bony face.

"Imagine that you couldn't, the loss of something so basic for you would probably be difficult." He walked over to the magus and set a cup of steamy chocolate next to his elbow. "Imagine that conversations have been lost, how would that make you feel, if you lost chunks of your life." Snape waited as Elias's red eye swirled up to look at him.

"I would feel... afraid."

“That's why humans keep notebooks. It is the only sure way to remember the less used information that our brains see as unimportant."

"So, when I destroyed Chise's notes... I made her scared?"

"Probably," Severus raised his cup to his lips just as Elias suddenly stood and rushed up the steps. This time Severus didn't hold back his smile, hiding it successfully behind his cup. Chise was half way down the stairs when Elias swept her up into his arms.

"I'm so sorry Chise," Elias held her close as Hermione stepped around them to get to the kitchen, a smirk on her face.

"Elias, what for?"

"If I knew it would make you afraid, I would never have taken them." The magus pulled his bride tight to his chest. "You can keep whatever notes you need, you can keep them in any part of the house."

"Thank you," she whispered, wrapping her arms around his big purple neck.

Hermione stepped into the kitchen just as Severus remembered the mini marshmallows. He gave a generous handful to his own cup as he turned to find his witch smiling at him and his tower of fluffy sugar.

"Did you find what you were looking for?" He asked, hoping to distract her from the heat rising in his cheeks. She decided to play along as she picked one of the mugs up from the counted and threw in a few little marshmallows to float and bob happily on the chocolatey surface. She sat next to Severus, his eyes tracking her the whole way.

"I think you deserve a treat," she purred in a seductive tone meant only for his ears. He glanced over at her, attempting to appear unaffected by her statement when in reality his heart was skipping over itself in anticipation.

“Do I?" He whispered back, their eyes met for a moment and she looked like she wanted to eat him whole. A little smirk tipped up her mouth before she leant in to whisper in his ear.

"You want to please me, don't you?" Her breath was so warm as it ghosted over his already sensitive neck. He nodded, not daring to speak because he wasn't entirely sure he could. “That makes me very happy," she breathed as he felt an ache throb almost painfully toward his growing erection. He cleared his throat and sat back, away from her infernal mouth.

"Easy woman, it's the middle of the day," he growled softly, not at all comfortable with his situation.

"Sorry," she smiled innocently up at him before leaning in to kissing him gently on the cheek.

"I'm going to the library," he stood, pulling his frock coat around his front as much as possible to hide his... condition. Hermione stood to follow him as the couple on the stairs reached the bottom.

"Ready?" Chise asked, she was blushing brightly as she met her friends eyes. Hermione nodded and plucked her pea coat off the hallway peg as Chise grabbed her green jacket. After a few long hours pouring through countless notes, they decided to start on the outside, since there weren't any plugs on the outside facing wall.

They stepped out into the frigid afternoon, the air sending little puffs of white air as they breathed. Hermione pulled her wand from her inside pocket and Chise pulled hers from mid-air, summoning the walking stick the way Elias always did. They worked together to pull the wall several feet forward, avoiding as much witch magic as they could from touching the inside.

When they were finished, the room was six feet wider and both the ladies went back in to drink their hot chocolate. Hermione made a mental note to thank Severus for putting them in stasis for them. Now that Chise had gotten the hang of the charm, they took their drinks into the conservatory to test a lamp. She held up her wand and waved it in front of the lamp to enlarger the shade, Ruth grabbed it and brought it back in the house, once it had been successfully tested she enlarged the fireplace to be tall enough for a person to stand comfortably.

Once the little twinkle lights were hung around the room and tinsel covered the large tree they had erected in the corner, Chise decided it was time for her to talk to Joseph. She was in the hall when Elias caught her putting on her jacket.

“Chise, where are you going?” He leant against the door frame in a way that looked relaxed but the way he crossed his arms over his chest let Chise know he was anything but.

“I need to go and speak with Joseph,” she finished her last button and lifted a pitcher of water. “He also needs more water; the last time I took him some was over a week ago.”

“He can survive for much longer on less,” he muttered, and she gave him an incredulous look.

“Even if that’s true, he needs to talk to someone every now and then. Imagine if no one was around and you had only yourself to talk to.”

“The best way of getting intelligent conversation,” Snape commented as he walked down the hall with his nose in a book.

“Severus,” Elias reached out and startled the wizard by grasping his shoulder. “You should go with Chise.”

“What? Where?” Snape looked to Chise, who gave him an apologetic smile.

“I’m going to speak with Joseph Severus, would you like to go with me?” He looked between her and Elias for a moment and put his book down on a side table by the door.

“Yes, of course,” he nodded as he went to collect his grey jacket.

“That’s how you ask someone Elias,” she admonished but nothing in his demeanour changed. “Will that make you feel more at ease?”

“Somewhat,” he muttered, glancing over as Snape walked out of the kitchen and back into the hall, wrapped up warm in his jacket and scarf.

“Shall we?” He motioned to the door and Chise walked passed him to open it. “Elias, will you check on Hermione in a bit? She’s working with a mandrake, I’m sure you know how those things can be.” Elias shrugged and nodded his big head as they stepped out into the snow, leaving him alone in the hall.

XOXO

“Why do you wear so many buttons? It just seems... like it takes a while to get ready for anything.” Chise asked once they were a fair way away from the house. The peace of the day was nice, but she didn’t know the next time it would be just them and she wanted to know. “It reminds me of a period drama.”

“I've worn a coat like this since I left school. I guess I first started wearing it because I could cover myself.” He motioned towards his left arm and she nodded. No one was ever interested in seeing me anyway. He shrugged sadly and looked down as they walked. “Then when I became a spy it sort of helped me... get into character. Each button was one more latch of my disguise, one more wall between me and the world.” My sleeves got longer, I guess I wanted to cover myself up completely. “Doing up the buttons became a sort of meditation. Focusing me, relaxing me, preparing me for what I needed to do that day. I'm not sure how anyone would react if I wore something else. I wear muggle clothes when I go out to muggle areas most of the time. I still feel most comfortable in my coat though." He looked away at that, his voice getting softer.

“Elias covers himself as well. His veil is always pulled forward when we have company. I wish he didn't, I love his face, his real face. I think he's afraid of people judging him, fearing him. But in our home I just want him to be comfortable. You're allowed to be comfortable too." She reached over and touched his arm and he stopped walking.

“Chise, what has Elias told you about me?”

“That he trusts you, that I'm safe with you.”

He was speechless. He felt his eyes prickling painfully as relief flooded over him. "You can trust me.”

“I know. Elias is incredibly cautious; he wouldn't let me out of his sight with someone he didn't trust." She started walking again as the well came into view and he followed close behind, taking in the large glass structure that shielded the well from the elements.

XOXO

The shrill cry was long and loud, Elias was glad that Hermione had warned him to wear some kind of ear protection as the shrieking could be heard all throughout the house. Hermione was in the greenhouse and had only just finished extracting the mandrake from its soft dirt bed. She had everything laid out so she could easily snick some of it and was holding up the plant by its green top as she fiddled with the scalpel.

Silky fluidly strode into the greenhouse with a bored look on her face. She held out her hand to Hermione, who looked up at her before holding out the shrieking mandrake. Silky took the screaming plant and brought it up to eye level, bringing a gloved finger up to her lips and shushed the thing. The mandrakes eyes went wide as its mouth closed, a small root like hand coming up to cover its mouth.

Silky nodded in approval before handing it back to Hermione, smiling serenely at the shocked look on her face. Hermione took the plant as it watched silky leave the greenhouse, pink dress fluttering around her as she smoothly went back into the main house.

“Silkies are powerful creatures if she can shush you,” she crooned to the little plant as she laid it down on a towel before snicking just the bit of its foot that she needed before digging around in the pot and replacing it back into its home. It was carefully placed in a bottle for safe keeping until they needed it.

XOXO

Severus followed Chise down into the giant well that was Joseph’s room, and stopped when he saw the boy. His hair was a silvery white that would have made a Malfoy jealous and he looked to be about twelve years old.

“Been a while,” Joseph mumbled from his soft bed of white blankets. Chise didn’t pause as she stepped down the stairs that jutted out from the wall and lifted his old pitcher before replacing it with a full one.

“Sorry Joseph, we’ve been gone.”

“And you didn’t think to have anyone come check on me?” He was still facing the other way, but she could tell he was goading her.

“Well, I’m glad you didn’t die of thirst,” she smirked as the boy lifted himself onto his elbow and turned to her. His long white hair fell across his face as his silvery grey eye fixed on her.

“That’s not funny, what if something actually happened to me?”

“Nothing would happen to you,” she let go a puff of laughter before crossing her arms.

“You don’t know that,” he fell defeatedly back onto his soft bed.

“I was wondering…”

“Hmm?”

“Well, I had a question,” Chise looked up and saw Severus tentatively stepping down into the round room.

“What else is new?” His face was mostly in his pillow, muffling his voice.

“It’s about my dragon curse…” His head popped up suddenly and he darted his eye to her before he noticed the black figure descending into his domain. He pushed himself back onto his knees and appraised the man.

“Who are you?” Joseph stretched, and with a yawn said, “never mind, I don’t care.”

“My name is Severus Snape,” he looked between Chise and the boy that was now slowly standing and walking towards the pitcher she had just set out. He filled a glass with water and turned to them.

“I said, I don’t care, it doesn’t matter. You’re only a wizard,” he made a show of yawning again. “You’ll be dead in a matter of a hundred years and then I won’t have to deal with you any longer.” Snape’s jaw clinched as his hands curled into fists.

“That’s not very nice Joseph,” Chise admonished, but the boy only laughed as he looked up at the man with one eye and a black, open, empty socket.

“You don’t keep me around because I’m nice,” his smile faded instantly, and he walked closer to the pair. “I’m too tired for this,” he set the glass down and fell dramatically back into the bed.

“Joseph, I was wondering if you could help with a riddle that Cartaphilus gave to Snape,” Chise felt awkward and one of her arms crossed to take hold of the elbow of her cursed arm. Joseph opened his eye again before fixing it on the man.

“How did you speak to him?” Joseph looked interested, but one could hardly tell by the rest of his body language.

“I entered her curse,” Snape was beginning to grow tired of the boy’s attitude, but tried to keep a steady voice. Joseph sat up again as he bent his knees to bend further forward and evaluate the wizard.

“You must be stronger than I thought, Cartaphilus doesn’t like to… play games,” he pulled a pillow behind him and used it prop himself up just a bit as he put both his hands behind his head, feigning indifference. “Out with it then, what is the riddle?”

“Auncyen wiggling Ta, Flowing crimson blōd of the clipped winged babe,” Chise watched Joseph as he went over it in his mind for a few moments.

“The blōd…”

“We have taken blood from the dragon that gave me the curse,” Chise interrupted and a smirk came to Joseph’s face.

“So, what do you need me for if you already know everything?” He absent mindedly checked his nails as one leg crossed the other.

“The auncyen ta, we don’t know what plant he’s talking about. We have a few that it may be,” Severus took another step down and continued. “The potion could turn very dangerous if we gather the wrong one.” The boy laughed again; it was a bitter laugh that held no mirth as he looked up at the pair.

“It’s not a plant, these kind of things need a sacrifice. Be grateful it’s only a toe you need,” Joseph looked down sombrely.

“How ancient?” Severus asked and Joseph’s eye flicked up to his.

“The shadow isn’t old enough… you need someone… older,” he looked to Chise. “My feet aren’t old enough,” he tauntingly wiggled his toes. “The girl I took them from was only twelve,” he tapped his chin in thought. “But that was only seventy years ago, I can already feel them rotting.” His smile turned evil as he lifted himself to standing.

“Who would be old enough?” Chise stepped towards him into the bowl of a room.

“You can look to the mages… but I wouldn’t recommend it,” he stepped over to Chise and tapped her in the head. “Who do you think?” Chise’s face was thoughtful and Joseph crossed his arms as if he had an urgent appointment he was missing for this. Suddenly her eyes came up to meet his and his wicked smile returned.

“How would we even contact him?”

“I can do that. You just have to think about what you’re willing to give for it,” Joseph flicked his eye to Severus, his face still mostly covered by his white hair. “Maybe him?”

“No,” Chise said firmly and Joseph shrugged.

“Well then, it’s between you and him. Would you like me to contact him?” His eye danced with excitement and Chise held her breath for a moment.

“I think we should talk to Elias first.” Snape stepped down to stand behind Chise and Joseph looked up at him like a spoilt child getting his toy taken away.

“I think you’re right,” Chise agreed, looking over her shoulder at him.

“Fine, have it your way, but I won’t keep my offer open for long…” He waved a dismissive hand at the two and turned to go back to bed. “Oh, Chise, what do you plan on doing with the curse?” Chise felt the small hairs on the back of her neck prickle as her memory swirled around that day in his lab and she took a deep breath.

“Why do you want to know?” Severus stood a bit taller as he glared down at the back of the boy’s head.

“Because, she said I could have it,” he turned, and his steel grey eye locked with the dark gaze of Snape without wavering. This boy was used to not feeling intimidated, he was used to being the one doing the intimidating.

“Have it?” Snape looked down at Chise, who seemed to be deep in thought.

“Yes, by rights, if you take it out of her, she owes it to me—“

“That was before things changed Joseph.”

“How? How have they changed,” he turned his gaze to her, and she felt the old ominous presence of him, cold and unfeeling in the face of those in need.

“You don’t need it any more.”

“Yes I do, who are you to decide that,” he was walking towards her now and Snape took a step to try to get around her, to block her from the boy, but Chise stepped right in front of him without fear.

“You have to promise, that you won’t use it. That you will take it into yourself and not plague others with it. Otherwise, I won’t consider it.”

“You promised, it’s not nice to promise things and then not keep your word. I kept mine, you won’t die unless the dragon decides to let you go.”

“Promise me Joseph,” the boy glared at her with a hate filled gleam in his eye that made Snape feel nervous.

“I promise,” he finally said, dangerously smooth, and Chise reached out to pat him on the arm before he pushed her away.

“Remember what happened last time you touched me,” he spat as he backed up.

“Yes, I do. And now you’re here.”

“Leave me alone,” he turned away and fell onto the bed on his knees. “I’m tired.” Chise motioned for Snape to go back up the steps and she closely followed him. Once they were walking back to the house Severus looked over at her.

“Who was he talking about?”

“Someone Elias won’t be very happy about contacting,” she chewed the inside of her cheek as she thought about their other run ins with the creature and shuddered at what he would want for a toe…

XOXO

“Absolutely not,” Elias set down his teacup and stood. Chise sat and looked over at Snape, who was leaning against the wall.

“Who is it?” Severus asked as he lifted his teacup to his lips.

“Someone who’s tried to kidnap Chise, and trick her,” he looked over at Chise, his red eyes clearly unhappy. “Isn’t there someone else?”

“Joseph said that he would be our best chance. I’m not happy about it either,” she added, and he stepped over to her to place his hand on her shoulder.

“I don’t want you in danger again, I know he’s a trickster, but Ashen Eye isn’t someone I trust,” Elias sat, and Snape sputtered in his tea at the name.

“That’s who you’re talking about?” Snape’s face had gone, if possible, paler. His eyes flicked over to Hermione, who was leaning against the kitchen counter, her teacup held aloft as she watched them all speaking until that name was mentioned.

“He’s real then?” She asked, putting her teacup down on the counter behind her.

“Yes,” Chise gave the pair an odd look before looking back at Elias. “Joseph said he could call him for us if we wanted.”

“I do not want,” Elias huffed, stepping over to the window as his hands rested on the sill and his head dipped down in thought. “Is there no one else we can call?” He asked, after a few quiet minutes. “There must be someone else.”

“Joseph said he was the one ‘old enough’ to ask.” Elias turned to her and leant against the wall, one of his knees bent and his arms folded over his chest.

“How do we know that Joseph is telling the truth?” His head tilted in a questioning way and Chise understood why he wouldn’t be too keen on listening to the boy, but she also understood that to get what they both wanted, they would need to trust him, at least a little.

“When has he ever lied to us?” She stood and walked over to him, curling her fingers around his large arms to unfold them. She took his hands and looked up at him. “Even when he was trying to kill us, he still didn’t lie.”

“What about the cats?” He admonished sharply, and she winced a bit.

“He didn’t lie to us…” his hands gripped hers tightly and she looked up at him. “Sorry Elias, I just…” Severus leant over and took Hermione’s hand before leading her out of the room and upstairs.

“I understand, I want this to work as well, I just don’t trust him.”

“I understand why you wouldn’t,” she looked down at his gloved hands and ran her smaller hands up his wrists and forearms. “I’m not asking you to trust him,” she whispered, and he dipped his head down a bit to try to see her face. “I’m asking you to trust me, Elias,” she looked up and felt his huff of warm air rustle her hair.

“I do trust you,” his head tipped up as he looked into the sitting room, “it isn’t you I worry about lying to me.” He looked down at her and leant down to nuzzle her cheek before he scooped her up in his arms, walking her into the sitting room, he sat with her in his favourite chair. Ruth lifted his head from where he was sleeping on the sofa. After running around decorating all day, he’d warn himself out.

“I’m not happy about it either,” she leant onto his shoulder. “Can you think of anyone older?” Elias was quiet for several minutes until he huffed.

“No,” his arm came up and wrapped around her, pulling her closer.

“What other choice do we have?” She asked, honestly hoping he could think of something else.

“I’ll go and talk to Joseph,” he whispered.

“Thank you Elias,” she wrapped her arms around him and kissed his neck. They sat this way for several long minutes until Ruth could feel her mood shifting and decided he didn’t want to stay in the room with them. Elias watched as his tail disappeared out of the door as the grim went for a walk through the forest.

"You know I am only worried for your safety?"

"I know," she cuddled closer to him as he lay his head possessively over her shoulder. "I love you Elias, I'd never do anything that I think will harm me."

"What about things I think will harm you?" Chise backed up and looked up at him.

"That's a lot of things," she sighed, and he pulled her close again.

“Ok, well then it's a place to start," he settled his head on top of hers, his breath waffling through her hair. They heard a noise coming from Chise's old room and they looked at each other. She sputtered a laugh as they heard thumping and she buried her blushing face in Elias's shoulder. The sound stopped and Elias nuzzled her hair.

"Can you hear what they're doing?" Her face flush brighter crimson as she asked, but she was curious. He looked up toward her old room and gave a small hum of confusion.

"I'm not entirely sure. She's saying some very strange things." Elias looked down at his little wife, amusement dancing in her eyes.

"Are they things that... you might like me to say to you?" Her little fingers were beginning to unhook the buttons on his waistcoat and his red orbs flicked down to her nimble fingers. Once she was done, she slowly walked them up the front of his crisp white lawn shirt before giving a little flick to free the first pearl button.

"I can't imagine you speaking to me that way, but I... might be persuaded." His hands slid from her shoulders, down to the jut of her hips and she moved her legs to straddle him as he drew her closer. She had already gotten to the bottom of his shirt when his jaw opened, his large tongue gliding forward until it made contact with her creamy flesh. She whimpered as it languidly laved its way up from her clavicle, over the divot in the middle and up her neck until it teased at her pink lips.

The thumping sound started up again, faster than before, but this time instead of laughter it caused a different emotion to flit across Chise's face. She opened her mouth fully, moaning as his tongue explored her to his heart’s content. When her lips closed around it, sucking and nibbling, he couldn't stop the deep growl that covered her like melted chocolate. Her fingers pushed his shirt placket aside, lightly skimming a path from his stomach to his chest. Her digits bumped along his muscles on their way to wind around his large neck.

“Should we… go somewhere private?” She whispered and he hummed his response down to her as he plunged them into shadow.

"Chise," his large hand wrapped around her neck as he pulled her slightly forward. His voice broke as he licked at her lips, enticing hers to come out and play, she whimpered as he gently nibbled at her lips. His fingers wound into her hair, then pulled just a bit, drawing her face from his. His red orbs took in her flushed face with pleasure.

"You know how I feel," he whispered, feeling vulnerable for the first time in years. The feeling was familiar, like when Stella had first visited and Chise had followed him into a shadow. "I need you," his other hand came up, cupping her face. "Do you-"

"Yes," she said, pulling forward and he released her hair. "I can't imagine my life without you, you know that, don't you?" His hands wrapped around her, pulling her closer as he leant down. Opening his mouth, he took her shoulder and gently held her in his jaw.

"Did I scare you?" He was so still and so was she. "The first time I did this?" He remembered that night, his arms held her tighter as she took a few breaths to steady herself.

"No, I was worried you'd do something you'd regret. I was more angry than scared." His rich laugh wafted over her shoulder as his tongue trailed along her captured flesh.

"Does it scare you now?"

"No," she answered, looking up at him and smiling gently at his blazing eye. "Does it scare you?"

"Perhaps," he sighed gently, releasing her shoulder and she immediately wrapped her arms around him. She held him close for several moments before her hands slowly drifted down his body. "Because the things I feel for you are... too much." She nodded in understanding.

"You feel hunger for me?" She stared at him as he thought, and finally gave her a small nod. "I hunger for you too.” She kissed along his neck as she spoke, “hunger isn't always about eating, it's also about... feeding the soul."

"What do souls eat, Chise?"

"Love," she leant forwards, peppering his jaw in her kisses. His hands wrapped round her hips and pulled her against him as his clothes melted into blue wisps, leaving him naked before her. Her fingers quickly moved over his soft flesh, skidding over the tiny scales with reverence as he began unbuttoning her shirt. He leant down as her skin was revealed and licked up from her pitch black shoulder to just below her ear, her breath growing faster as he did.

She reached down, circling his manhood and distracted him by pumping slowly, a purr filling the air around them. His head lifted, his jaw parting as his hands rushed over her, pulling her top and causing the buttons to fly in all directions. She gasped as his hands cupped her breasts, steamy air billowing out of his open jaw before he looked down at her, his eyes glowing brightly.

“My soul is hungry,” he pushed her back and crawled over her and she smiled, her cheeks stained so pink as his tongue explored her. Slowly drawing a slalom line down her stomach as his fingers opened her trousers and pulled them down hurriedly. He lifted her legs, his hands cupping her bum to bring her up. His teeth parted as his tongue slowly caressed up her thigh, her muscles jumping as she looked up at him, holding her off the ground. Her fingers fisted her shirt sleeves as his tongue found the soft petals of her labia, gently stroking against them before ever so slowly pushing within her.

She didn’t know where his relaxed pace had come from, her lip captured between her teeth as she fought not to beg him. Her eyes opened when he growled, his teeth gently landed on her soft stomach as his tongue delved into her and her back arched. She cried out, keeping still as he moved the writhing muscle inside her, like he had done before, working over the spot that made her world fog.

“Elias! Please…” she whimpered as he rubbed against it. “Don’t you think… it’s weird?” She panted and looked up at him.

“Please Chise,” he purred as his tongue continued moving within her. “I hunger for it, the taste is a perfect blend of everything good in the world.” She blushed brighter as she nodded and he held her bum tighter as she wriggled. Then her body stiffened as he concentrated his efforts on just that spot inside of her.

“Uuunn!” Her eyes fluttered closed and she let go, feeling the sloshing get stronger and relaxed her body, letting the feeling take over everything. Her legs trembled in his hands and he could tell she was close, he moved his snout, his bony front teeth landing on her clit to nuzzle against it as her legs stiffened, her toes stretching and curling in waves. A spark that lit a fire inside her as she felt weightless and didn’t know if it was him holding her or if she was lost in space. Floating away as magic exploded around her in a shot of light before it turned his magic into tiny crystals that landed like gentle rain upon her skin.

He lapped up every drop he could, enjoying the taste of Chise, green things and musky magic. Then he moved her down, seeing her face a bright red as her arms reached out to him. He laid beside her for several long minutes as she calmed. Once her breath had returned to normal he thought she may have fallen to sleep, but she rose on her knees and pushed him until he was on his back.

She took his hand, lacing her fingers with his as she climbed into his lap, her other hand moving over his stiff length as he summoned shadowy tentacles to push him up to sitting. They pillowed his body as she slowly lowered herself onto him. His hand moved her fringe as she slowly bounced and his fingers slowly curled around her tresses as she sped up.

Her eyes fluttered closed as she lost herself in her movements, his heated breath bathing her in warmth a moment before his mouth closed around her shoulder again. She gasped and opened her eyes to see he was very carefully holding her there. Her hand rose and slowly it glided up his snout, over his open jaw. She stopped bouncing, circling her hips instead, so she wouldn’t dislodge his mouth until he released her and panted over her shoulder.

“Chise!” He cried out into the shadowy space as he felt her pulling him over the edge. She fell forward onto his chest, panting wildly as he held her close. His fingers sifted through her red hair as her breathing calmed and he was sure she was exhausted. He moved them through shadow, up to their room and helped her slowly lay down on the bed. He watched her for a long while as she slowly breathed, sleeping soundly as his mind began to worry about having to talk to the boy in the well.

Chapter Text

Once the bedroom door snapped closed, Hermione turned to Severus with a calculating smile. "I think it’s time for your treat."

His new favourite sentence. He tried to keep the glee off his face, but she could see his eyes sparkling as he looked at her.

"Oh yes?" He lifted his chin somewhat defiantly, he liked it when she forced him a bit.

"Indeed," she smirked and that look on her face made his heart pick up pace. She smoothly walked into the middle of the room and pointed to the ground beside the bottom bedpost. "Could I have you over here?" Her smile disappeared are her eyebrow rose and he walked to stand in the place she pointed to.

"What now... Miss?" He purred down at her; if she wanted to act like that it may encourage her to be... extra respectful.

"Ooh, I like that," the smirk was back, but it was so much more devilish as she began to quickly loose his buttons and he wondered how on earth she was so fast with them. "Take off your trousers, then sit on the floor... pet." He was suddenly very happy he'd bought her those special gifts.

Severus slowly unbuckled his belt before pulling it free and laying it on the bed behind them, then his hands went to his button placket and he gave her a little growl as his trousers dropped in a pile to the floor. She hooked her index finger into the elastic of his pants and let them snap back playfully. "These too." As they fell, she pulled away his cravat and tossed it onto the bed.

Her eyes locked with his as her hands wandered down, cupping his balls before circling his shaft. Hermione tugged gently up and down; he couldn't stifle the groan at the feel of her and the look on her face. "Sit."

He sank to the ground as fluid as water, pooling himself at her feet as he waited for her next direction. To his displeasure she walked away to her beaded bag. She pulled a long length of fabric from the bag then she walked behind him and started changing. He went to turn towards her, but she was suddenly leaning in to whisper in his ear.

"Sit still or you'll spoil my surprise. You wouldn't want to do that, now would you?"

"What happens if I spoil it?" Severus stayed still as he waited for her reply.

"Well then, I'll have to start things differently... and you may not like it," she backed away and let him relax, looking away from her at the wall before she started changing again. Once her cloths were off she slipped into her surprise and picked up her wand.

She flicked it and his wrists were encased in fur lined cuffs; bound around the bedpost behind his back. He looked up when she stepped in front of him and his mouth dropped open at the sight. Hermione wore a tight black catsuit made of lace with bits of leather covering most intriguing assets. She leant down and he saw cat ears hidden amongst her bushy curls, she smiled and squatted in front of him. Spreading her legs, she pushed his apart into a V and ran her fingers slowly up through the black hair on his thighs till she reached his hard length. It bobbed towards her as she approached, and she smiled at the gesture.

“What do you want dear?” She looked at him, her expression was like the cat that got the cream, and he would have smirked at the situation if he wasn’t so excited.

“Whatever you want,” Severus whispered, their eyes locked and she moved forward. Her mouth was a mere breath from his ear when she replied.

“Good answer,” her hands smoothly gliding down his chest, tweaking his nipples during her decent. He gasped as she gently tugged them before releasing them, the little nubs growing hard and crinkled. He saw that her feet were bare, and as she sat back on her bum she lifted them both up to run her toes over his length. He looked down at her, her quim would have been on perfect display if she wasn’t wearing that outfit and he wanted very badly to rip it off her.

Her toes were adorable, freshly painted not two days ago, Christmas themed, red with little trees and snowflakes. Her soft feet pulled his silky flesh up and down as she lifted her legs and lowered them again. It wasn’t enough to get him anywhere, but it was sexy watching her pant softly as she continued. Hermione suddenly wrapped them around his cock until her toes touched on one side and her heels on the other. When she started stroking him this time it was much more intense, and his jaw opened as he let out a ragged breath.

“I haven’t even started,” his eyes opened and flew back to hers as a wicked smile crossed her face. She kept up that tempo until he was breathing raggedly and a steady stream of pre-come was dribbling from his swollen tip. She withdrew her feet and he all but scowled at her. “Enjoying that were you?”

“Yes,” he panted, letting his head drop forward in frustration as he waited for her next method of torture.

“Still want me to do whatever I want?” She was next to his ear again, even though he didn’t realise she had moved, and he pulled away a fraction in surprise. She backed up enough to turn her head and catch his eye.

“Don’t stop,” he muttered, and she smirked before she stood. Severus looked up at her as she reached down to below her belly button and took hold of a zip that was hidden before by magic. She dragged it down and lifted her right leg onto the bed as her pussy came into view. The first whiff of her arousal hit him, and his mouth began to water as she leant closer and he leant forward to meet her. His tongue swirled around her clit the moment it was close enough and he fed eagerly at her fount as she moaned her pleasure into the air around them.

Her fingers twined into his ebony hair and she pulled him closer, pushing his nose into her as she rode his face. He groaned as she took over and he made his tongue stiff so she could take what she wanted from him. All his senses were fixed on the one place that demanded his complete attention. Hermione's head fell forward, his eyes trying to look up at her as she practically suffocated him in her velvet heat. She backed away for a moment and even though he was gasping for breath his head leant forward to offer his tongue again.

“You like being drowned in my snatch, don’t you Severus?”

“Ahuh,” his agreement was barely audible as he took the opportunity to swirl his tongue through her slippery flesh.

“Ah! Yes!” Her head fell back as her hips curled forward and back rhythmically. “Tongue out,” she hissed, and he pushed it out as far as he could so she could ride it. “Good boy,” her head fell back again, and his eyes went wide at the moniker. She reached for the bedpost behind him and held the back of his head a bit harder as she let herself crumble. He growled as he felt her sweetness hit his tongue. Pulling his tongue through her cunny, he collected as much as he could, swallowing in between explorations until she stepped back from him.

She looked down at his cock, it was red and looked almost angry as she straddled his lap before squatting down again to whisper in his ear. “Ready for what’s next?”

“I’m ready for whatever you want… Miss.” She kissed his cheek and practically purred in his ear.

“Do you like being my good boy?” She heard a little huff and smiled, “is that a no?” He was silent as he looked away, trying to hide the smile that was tugging at his lips. Severus found it endearing and very amusing that she wanted to call him that of all things.

“I’ll be whatever you want,” he whispered back to her and she licked his ear to stop from laughing out loud. She pressed her sopping core against him and he let out an almost whiny sound that had her smiling devilishly. She took her time, moving her hips in slow circles as she took the tip of him into her warmth. His eyes fluttered closed as his head fell back against the bed. He wanted to thrust up into her, but vividly remembered what happened last time he did that while she was ‘playing’ with him and didn’t want her happy mood to be spoilt.

She finally took half of him into her and his frustration was on the edge of getting the better of him. Hermione must have noticed because suddenly she pushed herself completely down to ensconce the last few inches.

“Fuck!” he hissed as he got used to the tight feeling of her.

“Such language will get you gagged,” she raised her brow in challenge, and he fought not to smile.

“My dick feels so fucking good in your quim,” he whispered quickly as her expression took on an amused glint before she reached behind him and lifted the knickers she’d been wearing since the day before. He could smell them instantly and bit back a grin. He leant forward, his nose pushing aside a curl as he made his way to her ear to whisper to her. “Fuck… fuckidy… fuck…” She leant back and turned her knickers inside out, gusset first she stuffed them into his mouth, and he groaned happily at their musky flavour. His jaw clenched around them, the cotton was thicker than her usual lace, and she left a bit hanging from his mouth to not choke him.

“Bad boys get gagged,” she whispered as she ran her fingers through his hair and forcibly tugged his ear towards her. “They also get tortured,” as she spoke, Severus felt her clench her pelvic floor, squeezing his cock tightly before releasing it again. She heard his breathing change as she did it again, holding for several seconds before releasing. It would be tiring but it would be worth it. After four more long squeezes she circled her hips, feeling him shifting around and his nose flared at the different sensation.

Then she went back to the infuriating holds, taking her time, watching him avidly as he slowly became more frustrated. “You want to fuck me, don’t you?” Hermione's tone was teasing, and she swore she heard ‘fuck yes’ muffled by his makeshift gag. “How badly? How badly do you want to drive into my pussy, over and over until you come deep inside me?” His head fell back with exasperated huffing as he fought to control himself. “I’ll give you fifteen seconds,” she pushed up on the balls of her feet and his eyes shot to her to make sure he heard her properly. “Severus, fuck me.”

He wasted no time lifting his legs to plant his feet on the ground, leaning his bound hands on the floor under the bed and drove into her, a breathless moan escaping him as she counted down.

“Fifteen, fourteen, thirteen, twelve,” he began to wonder what would happen at the end of her counting. Would she let him go? “Nine, eight, seven, six,” he fucked her faster, putting all his power into each thrust and was surprised by her poise as she kept counting down. “Three, two, one,” she sat back down to make him stop and his wide eyes met hers in panic. “Well, you tried,” she teased as he felt her walls tightening around him.

He let out a frustrated growl and she felt his attempt to thrust; she placed both hands on his face, forcing him to look at her. “Don’t make me put a sticking charm on your arse… again,” her expression left no room for argument and he nodded, then winced as she squeezed him again. Hermione stuck to rhythm of a few seconds of squeezing and a few seconds of rest. Once he figured that out she seemed to change it up and wait longer between holds instead. He wasn’t sure if she was getting tired or just trying to throw him off. Her cheeks were flushed and after a few minutes he was ready to start fighting her again.

She smirked as she circled her hips, sending jolts of pleasure through him. “You want to come don’t you.” It wasn’t a question, she could tell, his forehead had broken out in a sweat from trying to hold himself in check and his nose was flaring along with her pulsing pussy. “You want to fill me up,” she leant forward, and he whimpered at the new sensation the angle provided. “You want to fuck me don’t you?” she ran her fingers through his hair and laved her tongue from the bottom of his neck to his ear before getting up on the balls of her feet again. “Fuck me,” Hermione whispered, and he didn’t wait for any confirmation this time, he needed her.

“Fifteen, fourteen,” she started counting again and his eyes widened as a pleading sound left him unbidden. He was putting everything he had into it, hoping to trip her up, make her say a number again, anything to make it last. She felt so slippery and tight and he wanted to fill her to the brim. “Nine, eight,” she watched him, her clit pulsing as she lowered her hand to it and started rubbing. Severus doubled his efforts, driving into her as if his life depended on it. “Seven... five,” her words became breathy as she gasped and missed a number, he was huffing with exertion and so close he could almost taste it. Heat wrapped around him and he groaned, but just before he could come she got to one and pushed herself back down onto him.

He didn’t know he could sound like that, like an animal suddenly clamped in a bear trap, the whine was undignified, and he hated it. She ran her fingers through his hair and smiled at the sound. “You are so sexy, and got so close that time… but not close enough,” he felt her squeeze down on him again and his head slammed back onto the bed in borderline anger.

“Peeth,” he ground out around her knickers and she gently tugged at them until they fell free.

“What was that?”

“Please,” he repeated and looked down at her, he looked almost deranged and she tapped his aquiline nose affectionately.

“Please… what?” She leant forward and kissed his cheek. “Do you want to come?” He nodded and she shook her head, “Uh uh uh, use your words.” His expression was thunderous, for a moment her stomach clenched, and she felt like she was back in his classroom. But then she realised that’s what he was trying to do and she sat back and squeezed her pussy around him again, her tone becoming firm. “I said, use your words.”

“Please,” his jaw was clenched but he was too far gone to care any more. “Please may I come… Miss,” he tacked on the epithet at the end for good measure and she smiled.

“I’ll give you another fifteen seconds,” Hermione rose onto the balls of her feet and held his face in her hands, he could smell her pussy on her fingers, and he turned his head to take one of the digits into his mouth. “Starting… now,” his feet were already in position and he fucked her with a hopeless abandon that took her breath away before the first number tumbled from her lips. “Fifteen, fourteen,” he already felt heat curling around him as her sodden snatch engulfed him over and over. “Ten, nine,” his mouth fell open as he breathed faster, fucking her so hard she almost lost her balance if it wasn’t for the bedpost behind him. “Five, four,” then he felt it, fire surging from his balls to fill her.

The cry that was ripped from him sounded twisted between pain and all-encompassing pleasure and his eyes closed tight as his cock continued to spurt into her for so much longer than normal.

“Holy fuck,” he whispered as his head fell back onto the edge of the bed. Moments later he felt her fingers pushing the hair that was stuck to his face to tuck around his ears. She leant in and kissed his neck then slowly kissed her way up to his ear.

“You are the sexiest thing that ever lived,” her tongue swirled around the shell of his ear and then she heard him laugh. She dissipated his bonds and he reached around her tightly.

“And you are the biggest tease of all time,” his words held much less venom now that he was sated. His legs unclenched, unfolding back into a relaxed V as he reached back and playfully slapped her bum. Her face came up, clearly surprised, and when he did it a second time she started laughing.

“You loved it,” he couldn’t deny it, but he didn’t want to agree, so he pulled her forward for a devouring kiss. She leant back a few moments later and looked into his eyes. “You still love me right?” His hand came up and gently caressed the side of her face as he shook his head.

“Why on earth would you giving me your absolute attention make me not love you any more?” She shrugged and blushed as she buried her face in his neck.

“You looked mad,” she gave gentle kisses from his neck to his shoulder as he thought about his reply.

“Not mad… per se. I was… frustrated.” Her head popped up and she got up on her knees to pull him forward, his head pillowed by her leather covered breasts.

“Good, that’s what I was trying to do,” she kissed the top of his head and heard him chuckle.

“Mission accomplished,” Severus pushed up to stand, grabbing her bum as he did. She instinctively wrapped her legs around him as he went to the door, opening it, he peeked out into the hall.

“What are you doing?” Hermione hissed as she pressed herself closer to him.

“Shower,” he heard nothing from downstairs, so he quickly nipped down the hall to the bathroom and snapped the door closed.

XOXO

Elias deftly walked through the woods, the evening light drifting through the tree branches, casting shadows on the crisp snow. His inner thoughts conflicting each other as he got closer to the well. A large part of him wanted to find some other way, someone else to help. The only person he could think of that was older than Lindel was Rahab, and he hadn’t seen her since he left her cottage over a hundred years ago. He had no way of finding her. Chise had said she’d found her, had been to her cottage and spoke to her about him.

He didn’t like that all the humans that had known him so easily shared stories of his… youth? Whatever you wanted to call it. The time that he remembered, the time after the world was only red. His steps became shorter, more hesitant as he approached the well that Joseph used as a dwelling. The glass top seemed inadequate to shield against the harsh winter, but then he saw a blue sigil embossed onto the glass. One of Chise’s containment charms.

He wondered absently if she had to maintain it or if it simply remained around the large opening. He looked down into the well, he had only been down in the hidey-hole one other time. The day before they’d left for Hogwarts he’d gone to Joseph to ask about Cartaphilus’s curse. He’d refused to help him, but Elias truly didn’t expect anything else. Now here he was, a second time in a week, to ask for his help. Although, this time he was only asking him to do what he had offered to Chise.

His leather shoes were bristly tapped on the side to dislodge the snow that had stuck to them before he began to step down into Joseph’s realm. He summoned a vine, long and thornless to wind itself along the wall, creating a handrail. He noticed how the further down he stepped, the warmer the area became. Once he was close enough to see the boy, he spoke, his tone broached for no reply and Joseph watched him as he slowly stepped down into his domain.

“Call him.”

“Who would that be?” Joseph was lounging, his ankle resting on his knee as he sat back against his pile of pillows.

“You know who,” Elias replied in a little less than a growl.

“Ask me nicely,” he replied as he absently looked at his nails. Elias could tell he was trying to upset him. He wasn’t going to let him.

“If something happens to Chise, I will not be happy.”

“I well remember how cross you get about your puppy,” he laughed at the memory and Elias felt his skin begin to bristle with anger.

“Just call him,” Elias stopped and looked back up towards the top, where the sun was only just starting to think of setting.

“You still haven’t asked me nicely,” he snipped, venom beginning to suffuse his tone.

“Please.” Elias stood still and looked at him, burning red eyes meeting his one grey orb with a cold emotionless edge that made goose-flesh rise on Joseph’s skin. He’d never admit it to the shadow, but when he wanted to be, he could be intimidating.

“I’ll call him,” he replied before flicking his hand as if shooing a fly away to dismiss the magus. Elias took the gesture and his words with a nod before he ascended back up through the top of the hole.

XOXO

Chise leant against the window in the sitting room, watching the sun slowly setting and waiting for Elias’s form to come back into view. She knew he could just flow as a shadow, but he always seemed to prefer to walk if he had the choice. She had wanted to go with him, but Elias had made it clear he wanted to do the task on his own. She wouldn’t argue with him, not about something that made him so uncomfortable.

He’d never liked the boy, man, immortal, whatever he was. A disaster no one could prepare for, a hurricane bringing chaos into everything he did. Joseph liked to experiment, and the things he did—the things he may well still want to do—were the things of nightmares. She couldn’t blame Elias for being afraid of him, or at least being weary of him. She also couldn’t help that she related to him on some level. She too at one time simply wanted to die, to no longer be passed around and despised. The one thing she would never do though is hurt others. Perhaps he was like her in the beginning, perhaps he too wanted to only help people.

That’s how he got into the mess with the curse in the first place, inviting Cartaphilus into himself to help the poor thing. Her eyes glazed on the scene before her as she wondered what she would have done in his situation and hoped desperately that she would never turn to hurting people. Yes, she’d done things in anger, but she found over time that the only way to make things right was to not repeat the same mistake.

The snow seemed to turn orange and blue in the lowering light and then she saw him rushing from the woods. He ran on four legs, thorny vines twisted around his large pelt, his fish tail flicking out behind him, and his veil was draped over his face to hide his skull. She smiled as he stood at the gate, slowly changing into shadow and reforming into the bipedal form he used most. She watched him walk to the door, but instead of rushing to greet him, she waited for a moment to gauge how he was.

“It’s done,” he said simply before going to his favourite armchair and sitting silently. She tentatively stepped closer; the chair seemed so far away since the extension charms had expanded the space.

“Thank you Elias,” she laid her hand on his forearm and he tipped his head up at her.

“You know he won’t simply want a flower this time.”

“Yes, I know,” she stepped closer still and lifted his veil so she could see his eyes. “What do you think he’ll ask for?” Elias lowered his head again as he rested it on his fist.

“Whatever it will be, we won’t want to give it. He’s only trying to amuse himself, whatever he does will most likely be to trick us.” Chise sighed as she patted his shoulder. They were silent for several moments until Ruth looked around the corner and smiled regally in his grim form.

“Silver lady’s almost done with dinner,” he stepped into the room. He’d felt Chise’s nervous energy and come back to make sure she was alright.

“Elias has asked Joseph to call him,” Chise said, stroking Elias’s shoulder slowly.

“When will he come?” Ruth looked to Elias, who simply shrugged unknowingly.

“He didn’t say, I suppose he will come to us when the time comes,” Elias stood and strode into the kitchen to join Silky. Chise gave a worried smile to Ruth before they both followed to sit at the table.

Silver Lady was serving dinner when Hermione and Severus descended the stairs to join Elias and Chise at the kitchen table. The remainder of the day was spent in the study, reading through books, trying to find anyone older than Ashen Eye that might be more… cooperative.

Chapter Text

“Severus?” Hermione peeked her head into the living room to see Snape sitting with a book in his lap. He looked up at her when she called his name, his face soft but emotionless.

“Yes?”

“Are you coming?” Hermione smiled as his lip twitched.

You haven’t even touched me yet…

“Where?” He placed a slip of paper into his book to mark it and snapped it closed as he looked her over. She had her hair tied back in a loose ponytail, her long curls falling down her back and some slipping out to frame her face. There was a long white streak on her cheek and he tilted his head as he tried to figure out what it was.

“We’re baking! Come help us,” she disappeared from the doorway to walk back across into the kitchen. He leant back on the sofa to see Elias standing with his arms crossed, his white shirt rolled up to show his purple forearms. His head was tilted to the side as he watched Chise and Silky at the table.

Intrigued, Snape placed his book on the coffee table and walked into the kitchen to lean against the door frame, watching them all hustle about. Silky had placed several bowls on the kitchen table and there was flour, sugar, ginger, and molasses in the middle, along with an assortment of measuring cups. Hermione was putting on an apron, pulling the strings around to the front and tying it snugly around her waist, showing off her curves in an alluring way.

“Come to join us?” Elias had a teacup in one hand and a saucer in the other. He had what looked like tinsel hanging from his horns, that shimmered down to the cloth he used to cover his face. Severus watched as the magus sipped from the teacup, it was an interesting thing to watch as he tipped his head back to drink a bit more before placing his cup and saucer back onto the counter next to him. Ruth was sitting next to Chise in his grim form, sniffing at what she was working on with great interest.

“Perhaps,” Snape stepped into the kitchen and crossed his arms as he looked over the ingredients. “Why does everyone need to help, I’m much better at supervising.”

“Because it’s Christmas, Severus,” Hermione pulled at one of his hands to bring it away from his chest. She stood and unbuttoned his frock coat, he was constantly astonished at how quickly she could unbutton them all. She hung the coat on the peg by the door and motioned for him to roll up his white shirt sleeves. He obstinately only rolled up the cuff to reveal the bone of his wrist.

“Well… I suppose if I must,” Snape sat gracefully down next to Chise, across from Hermione. Silver placed one of the bowls in front of him and nodded with a soft smile at it. He leant forward and picked up a measuring cup in one hand and a whisk in the other. “May I… experiment?” His lips twisted up at the corners in an expression between excitement and smugness.

“I suppose,” Hermione smirked at his affronted huff as she picked up the bag of flour to dish some out. Elias sat down across from Chise and his long wolf snout peered closer to sniff at the white powder before he turned to sneeze loudly. Chise laughed at the huge sound and Elias chuckled as he pulled out a handkerchief and gently swiped it across his nose.

Severus watched Hermione use the side of the bag to measure out her flour and scoffed at her. When she was finished, he pulled the bag towards him and pushed his measuring cup into the flour, bringing it up, the flour in a loose pile in the cup. He used a knife to flatten the top by pushing off any excess. When he looked up everyone was watching him curiously.

“This is how you measure flour…” he finished and pushed the bag towards Chise, who thought for a moment and tried to copy his technique. Snape smirked at Hermione, who rolled her eyes but couldn’t hide her smile. They passed around the other ingredients and Snape stood to retrieve a small bottle from his jacket and brought it over, pouring a healthy teaspoon into his bowl and mixing it in. Hermione tried to pick up the bottle but Severus snatched it up and stuffed it into his pocket before she could see what it was. “Experimenting dear,” he winked at her and her face quickly softened in amusement.

By the time they had finished mixing and rolling out their dough, most of them had little specs of ingredients on their shirts and Silver was walking around with a flannel to spot clean them.

The lovely little gingerbread men came out of the oven one batch at a time, Severus’s biscuits were fluffier than the others and he carefully shuffled them onto a cooling rack. He picked up one after a few minutes and was pleased to find them soft but firm instead of unbearably crispy. Chise looked over all the gingerbread and smiled as she opened a cabinet, pulling out a large plate.

“I’d like to take some to Simon, Elias. How many do you think he’d like?”

“I’m not sure,” he tried to remember if his vampiric nun was still working with him over Christmas. “I believe we should take enough that he can share them if he wishes.” He picked up an extra three and placed them on the plate with a nod of his head. They had placed the last batch in the oven when there was a knock at the front door. Silver rushed passed them and opened it as she stepped to the side to appraise the person she’d never seen before.

“Hello, I’m looking for my godfather,” Draco’s voice drifted into the kitchen and Ruth was already heading to the door when Severus stood up. Ruth’s form changed from being a shaggy black dog to his shaggy black haired young man. Severus came into the foyer and gave a little smirk when he saw the huge smiles that the two men were giving each other.

“Draco,” he intoned smoothly. “Good afternoon, I trust you had no trouble finding the place?”

“Not at all... um I was wondering if I could have a word with you?” Severus motioned for him to come in and go into the living room, but Ruth stopped him once he was inside, handing him a pair of slippers. Draco gave Snape an odd look but when Severus pointed to his own slippered feet the blond quickly changed. Silver lady nodded approvingly before stepped aside so he could come in before shutting the door and bustling back into the kitchen.

“They’re finished,” Draco whispered as Severus stepped next to the fireplace. Ruth had followed them at a distance, not sure if he was welcome in their conversation until Snape beckoned him over with a curling finger.

“What do you think?” Severus tumbled the rings out of the little bag and looked at them, the young men crowding him to get a look at the shining rings.

“Wow,” Ruth looked up at Snape and smiled. “You really love her, don’t you?”

“Was there ever any doubt?” His face was suddenly stern and Ruth shook his head, unfazed by his response.

“She’s going to love them,” Ruth gently poked Draco in the trouser leg to get his attention and smiled up at him when he felt the blond take his hand. Severus curled his hand around the rings before gently placing them back into the velvet bag Angelica had placed them in.

“We’re getting ready to go see the local priest,” Snape said offhandedly.

“I don’t like him,” Ruth muttered before peeking up at Draco.

“Well, I was thinking about exploring this small town,” he looked down at Ruth and smiled. “Do you happen to know any good restaurants around here?” Snape took that as his cue to leave and patted Draco’s shoulder before excusing himself and rushing up the stairs to find an appropriate hiding place for her Christmas gift. When he returned to the kitchen, everyone was pulling on their coats and Elias had donned his human facade once again.

They all walked into town together, the big plate of gingerbread men was carried safely in Chise’s arms, covered in a tea towel to protect them from collecting foliage detritus. Draco and Ruth broke off once they reached the town and walked hand in hand to find somewhere to eat.

The air was crisp as the foursome walked through town, waving at anyone brave enough to face the chilly day. They reached the church just after two and with a beaming smile, Chise knocked on the building behind it.

Simon was alone in the sitting room when they knocked and came to the door in his usual long vestments with a jacket thrown over the top.

"Merry Christmas!" Chise lifted the plate of gingerbread men and Simon smiled down at the offering. "We would have invited you to bake with us but Elias wouldn't let us." Simon gave the magus a grateful smile.

"He knows the bad luck I have with baking," he said sadly as he motioned for them to come in.

"You didn’t miss much," Elias muttered as he nodded to the priest.

"That's not very nice Elias," Chise admonished and Simon couldn't help but chuckle at the pair as he put the plate down on the coffee table and invited them all to sit down. “Could I give Hermione a tour?” Simon nodded as Chise took Hermione by the arm and led her into the main church through the connecting door. “You said you could play the piano?”

“Yes,” Hermione walked through the smallish space, the stained glass casting misty colours on the pews and matted carpeted floor. The room smelled old, the church itself a relic of sorts, large stone bricks made up the walls and it was quite draughty. Chise smiled as she pointed to the piano next to where Simon would stand during his sermons. "Do you think he'd be upset if I played something?" She pointed at the piano and Chise shook her head.

"Probably not, there isn't much that makes him upset," she sat at a pew directly in front of the piano as Hermione set her jacket down on the bench and took a seat.

Her fingers hovered for a moment as she decided what to play and then, as her digits touched down a slow tune began. The music slowly filled the air with the relaxing melody as her fingers danced across the keys. Chise sat, listening as the soothing tune seemed to sink into her bones, causing a sluggish effect.

Clair de Lune, played slowly and gently filled the stone structure, bringing it to life and calming it all at once.

Severus heard the song and stepped away to look into the church. Simon and Elias didn’t notice; they were deep in conversation as Elias handed him a white bag. Hermione sat happily playing the song he knew was her favourite, the song that was now his favourite too. He stepped into the room and sat behind Chise to listen to the melody as every part of him relaxed into the seat and everything but Hermione seemed to fade away into the background. Simon and Elias stepped to the doorway and each leant just inside the church as they listened.

“I saw the ring,” Simon muttered.

“She said yes,” Elias whispered back, Simon smiled over at Chise.

“I told you she would.”

“Yes, but it meant more coming from her,” Simon chuckled under his breath so as to not break the spell her music had put over the room.

“I believe you,” he looked up at the magus, Simon had his long blond hair tied back in a bit of leather and a big smile on his face. “Have you spoken about when you’d like to be married?”

“We haven’t discussed the details, I am just very happy she agreed to become my wife.”

“Congratulations my friend,” Simon patted Elias on the forearm and Elias looked down at it as Simon withdrew, folding his arms casually and continued to listen to the music. As the last note fell, Chise clapped as she stood, and it was quickly followed by clapping from the other people listening. Hermione turned to the room and blushed brightly when she realised that everyone had come out into the church to listen to her playing.

Severus stepped out into the aisle, holding out his arm towards her and she walked over to him smiling. He pulled her close and kissed her to the surprise of everyone, including her.

“You’re wonderful,” he hummed as he kissed her once more on her forehead. He felt her face heating further under his lips as she laughed nervously and wrapped her arms around him tightly.

Simon looked over at Elias with a raised brow and Elias smiled happily in return.

“My friends, Severus and Hermione.” Simon nodded approvingly as he looked at the happy couple before him with a sad smile.

“I miss that feeling,” he whispered, so low that only Elias could hear him. He felt the magus put his gloved hand on his shoulder and looked over at him with glassy eyes.

“Perhaps someday you will again,” his hand fell back to his side and Simon nodded.

“Perhaps.”

They slowly made their way back into Simon’s sitting room and ate the gingerbread men with some tea that Chise carefully prepared in the kitchen before bringing it out and serving it. She sat on the floor in front of the coffee table and prepared each cup before passing them to everyone. She sat cross legged on the floor and ate her biscuit as Elias and she regaled Simon of the things they had gotten up to during their stay at the castle and their plan for her cursed arm.

Once the sun was beginning to set, they pulled on their jackets again and made their way back out into the chilly air. They hadn’t gotten very far before Chise saw something move out of the corner of her eyes. They were passing the cemetery and Chise stopped to look around for the movement. It took everyone else a moment to stop to notice and turn to her.

“Chise…” she heard a lilting voice calling from the chilly place. “Chise… come here…” Chise reached out her hand towards Elias and he was next to her almost instantly.

“Chise, don’t listen to it,” Elias reached out, taking her hand and holding it tightly.

“What do you want?” She called out towards the drifting voice.

“He wants to see you… the ancient boy called to him… he wants to see you…”

“Ashen eye,” Elias muttered as Severus and Hermione stepped up next to them with worried looks on their faces.

“I’ll take you to him… for a price,” the voice was joined by a black misty shadowed face that crept around one of the gravestones.

“What do you want?” Chise called to it, showing no fear.

“Robin blood…” it crept out from behind its hiding place and slithered towards her. Hermione gasped as she saw the fae creeping forward.

“Be specific,” Elias gave her hand a squeeze before Chise stepped towards the one eyed shadow creature and held out her hand, lifting up her sleeve to show her forearm.

“No more than half a teacup,” her stern tone broached no room for argument.

“Yes Robin…” the giant head came up and two spindly hands gripped her arm, one at the wrist and the other at the elbow as its massive mouth opened to reveal two rows of jaggedly sharp teeth. Chise took a deep breath as the fae bit down and drank her blood.

Severus stood stunned as he watched her fearlessly offer her arm to the monster and wasn’t sure what to do as he looked over at Elias’s anxious face. The fae unlatched itself from Chise’s arm and a massive tongue came out to lick up every drop from its dribbling chin as Elias walked over to Chise.

“Chise, give it to me,” he took her arm in his hands and leant down, his face contorting to turn back into its wolf skull shape as his long tongue whipped out and wrapped around her dripping wound. The blood stopped dribbling down her arm and her skin began to heal before their eyes. Elias lowered his face cloth and turned to the fae. “Lead us then,” his voice held no warmth in it and it was the second time that Snape heard the magus truly angry.

“This way Robin…” the little fae fell back to the ground and waved a hand over its shoulder for them to follow it through the graveyard. Hermione held onto Severus’s arm tightly as they followed the creature. A fog slowly filled the space more and more until it was as if there was nothing around them but the four of them.

“You need me,” A cackling voice hummed from behind them. “What do you have for me?”

“What is it you desire?” Elias’s voice was brittly cold, as if he would rather kill the being before giving it something.

“You know what I desire,” the air before them cleared to reveal they had walked into a completely different area, surrounded on all sides by tall bushes as they stood in a courtyard of what looked like an old maze. “I enjoy seeing humans grow.”

The creature landed before them in a whirl of brown robes, a long staff was held in a grey hand and he pointed it towards Chise first as a hole opened in the earth below her. For a moment she seemed to hang in the air before falling backwards down into a bottomless pit.

“Chise!” Elias lunged forward but as his body fell to the ground, the hole closed as he landed. Severus rushed forward to help Elias pull back snow when he heard a scream from behind him and turned to see Hermione falling.

“No!” Snape rushed over to where she was and landed on his knees, his fists curled snow and he turned to the creature as his wand came out of his sleeve, pointing towards it. It was then that he heard movement and looked towards his friend.

Elias’s shoulders popped and groaned as they expanded, ridges ran up his spine and his cloak dissipated into a wisp of smoke, quickly replaced by a thick layer of fur. His legs grew, the knees popping back like a dogs in the process as he hunched over. Vines seemed to grow from his skin at random places, they were covered in thorns and fur. Another set of legs appeared at his expanded abdomen that were tipped in hooves as his ribs emerged to the outside and his eyes flared the brightest red that Snape had ever seen. They glowed from the inside and left trails of red as he moved his massive head that was now almost twice the size and adorned with a long mane of blond hair that pooled around his shoulders and an additional set of horns that curved down around his wolf skull face. He opened his mouth and heat radiated from it, causing steam like wisps in the cool air. He stood, towering over Snape, who stood frozen, gaping at the magus with widening eyes.

“Chise!” Elias shouted in a voice so deep and visceral that it would strike fear into the strongest of wills.

“She may or may not be there when you find her Thorn,” the ancient trickster laughed in a raspy voice as he floated up into the air away from the magus. Severus sent several hexes that were all easily ignored by whatever this creature was.

“Where?” Vines shot into the air and grasped onto one of Ashen Eye’s feet, holding him still until he would answer.

“Children please,” he chuckled, moving his staff to cut the vines easily. “You will find what you seek at the middle of the maze, you have one hour to find them.”

"I'm tired of you trying to snatch her away from me." Ashen eye did nothing but laugh cruelly before dissipating into black mist. “We must find them,” Elias turned to Severus, who nodded as he was regaining his composure and lifting his wand, ready. Elias dropped to six legs, four large and claw like and two hoofed, he ran down one of the directions in the maze, his scaled fish tail whipped out behind him for balance as he bounded away.

Snape turned and his cloak surrounded him entirely, leaving him a cloaked shadow as he flew as high as he could. But the maze walls were capped with an invisible layer at the top as he shot down a different direction than the magus.

Severus flew with speed and purpose as he searched for the two women. Stopping suddenly, hovering in mid-air he pointed his wand at one of the walls, casting a fire charm to see if he could burn his way through. The hedges seemed to be warded, so he re-holstered his wand and continued to fly quickly around corners, taking notice of the way he was going, in case that thing made them find their own way out.

Frantic didn't fully describe it, fervent was still an understatement. He was so completely barmy as he soared through the maze. He was overwhelmed by feelings he hadn't had in over 20 years. The need to protect being at the top of the list, but not to protect someone for someone else, simply to protect the one he wanted, the one he loved. He realised that he needed her, needed her almost desperately.

She'd given him things no one ever had—trust, love, and care. Oh how she cared for him, and he would worship her gladly for eternity for the forgiveness and understanding she'd shown him.

The black swaths of fabric that fluttered amongst the mist of flight drifted into swirls as he slowly lowered to the ground in a courtyard of gravel. There were no statues or fountains, no ornately pruned trees or sculpted topiaries. There were two ways in and two ways out and in a moment of silence he began to stalk towards one of the exits when he heard it. Gravel crunching under a great weight. He turned and saw Elias at the second entrance and nodded for him to follow, but his large form simple stood and breathed.

“Which way should we go?” Snape moved to join him when the magus stood up on two legs and lifted his claws menacingly towards him. Severus froze, watching the magus stalk towards him without saying a word. He had to be misreading his body language and made to step towards him when suddenly a vine whipped out and wound around his leg, dragging him to the ground. He aimed down, destroying the vine quickly and standing back up to watch Elias cautiously.

Thorny vines sprung from all around him, caging him in and as he banished them with a fire charm, he called out to the magus, “Elias! What are you doing? I’m on your side!” The thorn mage stalked towards him, teeth parting with obvious intent as his eyes glowed brightly. Severus pointed his wand and cast Legilimens, as he fell through the dark mist that was Elias’s mind he was surrounded and overwhelmed by one thing. Red… everywhere… covering everything, it bubbled and gooped around him, like coagulating blood as he swam through it. He attempted to delve deeper, if he found Chise he could bring him back, he knew he could.

This isn’t right, where is Chise? Where is his home? His life?

He was thrown out of the magus’s mind as he fell onto the ground covered in more vines. He tore through them and stood as he cast disillusionment on himself, feeling the cold glob of magic running down his spine he stepped softly and watched his friend carefully. The mage sniffed the air and then without warning his face turned and his eyes locked with the wizard’s, sending an altogether different icy feeling down his spine. Another vine shot out and whipped round his leg as the spell was cancelled.

Severus cast every counter curse to mind controlling magic he could think of, there had to be something he could do. His huge jaw opened as wafts of thick fog crept from it like a living thing. The sound he made, a low growl, was so guttural and visceral that Severus wanted to run. Snape turned rapidly and was again engulfed by his cloak as he rose into the air, trying to leave the small space by picking a random direction.

Vines jumped up into the air and wrapped around Snape’s flying body as they wrestled him to the ground. “Stop Elias!” He shouted, but the magus moved closer to the immobilized wizard on the ground. Severus didn’t want to hurt the magus, he had to be under some kind of cunfundus or imperious spell and the thought of hurting his friend was too much. He held his wand firmly in his hand and used setusempra to slice away all the vines and then threw up a shield around himself as he tried again to plead with him.

“Why are you fighting me?” The magus didn’t speak as he continued to get closer. He was again towering over the wizard, he reached out and took his left arm in his hand, raising Snape off the ground. “Elias! I won’t do this again!” Severus shrieked, emotion rising to a height he hated as he looked into the foreign eyes of his friend and pointed his wand at him.

I can’t do this. I won’t kill another friend. I can’t go through this again.

He tried stunning spells, but even at point blank the magus’s cloak swept out and like a living shield absorbed everything the wizard threw. “Crucio!” Severus cried, anguish lacing his voice, but the magus showed no sign of being affected by the painful spell. He wasn’t sure if it was because he had absorbed it or because the spell itself knew he didn’t want to do it. The intent would need to be there, the intent to harm, the intent for torture. He didn’t have it in him. Not any longer.

The magus’s jaw opened wide and tilted so that most of Snape’s torso was engulfed in teeth, he felt them piercing through his cloak and stabbing into his frock coat before they embedded into his chest and stomach. His eyes stung with tears as he heard bone breaking under its jaws, the wind being knocked from him as his ribs folded easily under the strength. He wanted to live, he wanted to see Hermione again, he wanted so badly for Elias to stop but his jaws only became tighter and wincing through the pain he bellowed, “Elias! Please!”

"Kill it ," the voice rattled around in his head, familiar and special. " Severus... please." His heart clinched tighter, hurting more than his broken ribs as his face crumpled. His words of denial morphing into hate as he dredged up ever ounce of pain he'd ever felt, every bit of his life he despised. He would not leave Hermione, he wouldn't let her feel the same way he felt on that stormy night in October; he raised his wand. Using the remainder of his energy he cried out the killing curse; green light filling the area a moment before they both fell backwards onto the stony and muddy ground.

Severus curled into the giant wolf skull as a keening wail escaped him, pain shrieking through his body and an emotional agony he’d not felt in so long engulfed him when he saw the magus’s eyes, lifeless in front of him.

XOXO

Chise woke suddenly, the space was completely dark and she rubbed her eyes, trying to see clearly in the misty darkness. She felt her ring alerting her and looked down at it with worry. “Elias,” she tried to stand but hit an invisible ceiling and looked around. She was under water and once she could see a bit more she saw that Hermione was unconscious across from her in a heap. Her ring was vibrating intensely and she lifted her hands, trying to move from the tiny space but no matter how hard she fought she couldn’t seem to escape.

She shuffled over to Hermione and nudged her, “Hermione, are you okay?” She nudged her again and lifted her head to make sure she was breathing. As she did, the vibrating ring buzzed against her cheek, making her mumble as she slowly woke.

“What is that?” She mumbled as she slowly opened her eyes.

“What?”

“The buzzing?”

“It’s my ring,” she looked down at it, consternation evident in her eyes but the light was so low that Hermione could only barely see it. “It lets me know when Elias is in danger, it’s been buzzing for a little while now.” Chise looked up and tried again to push against the ceiling, but no matter how much physical or magical force she used it wouldn’t budge. “I have to get out of here, I have to help him.”

Hermione stood and tried to push with her, then reached for her wand but it was missing. It felt like cold water had been dowsed over her as she looked through every pocket she had and into her small beaded bag but it was nowhere to be found.

Then the buzzing stopped, Chise looked down at the ring but it was no longer alerting her to him being in danger and she breathed a sigh of relief.

XOXO

Claws.

Monstrous claws, long and black, took hold of the magus’s jaw and gripping tight, pulled steadfastly until Severus was released. Vines swept around the magus, quickly covering every inch of him as they squeezed. Snape opened his eyes and Elias was standing over the body of the magus. The imposter lay dead before him.

“Severus,” the voice boomed loud in his ears. His wand was taken from his hand and he looked up to see Elias standing over him, worry in his glowing eyes. “I’m so glad you’re alright,” he stepped back and showed the body on the ground, was still laid dead. Severus pushed up and reached out for the giant body of Elias, who helped him to his feet. “We will stay together from here.”

“Yes,” Severus backed up, almost falling as he looked around the space that now seemed to be full of vines. He saw another body on the other side of the courtyard, long, lean, all in black, and covered in tight vines from head to toe. “He made us fight each other?” Snape winced in pain as he went from being sorrowful to being enraged in the matter of a few seconds, “what the hell is that thing playing at?” He sputtered a cough of blood as his ribs ached horribly.

“When you wouldn’t respond to me, I thought it may have been the case,” He watched as Severus stumbled forward before hunching over with a painful wheeze. “Are you alright?” His giant clawed hand reaching out and held the wizard up to steady him.

“Your teeth,” a puff of mirthless laughter filled the air around him as he gestured to his bleeding torso.

“Severus, show me,” Elias carefully lifted Snape’s cloak off and waited as he unbuttoned his frock coat. As it slipped around his forearms he saw that the white shirt underneath was covered in blood. In a panic Elias used a claw to rip open the shirt to see the deep punctures. “Trust me,” he stated and Severus looked up, his face now covered in sweat as the injuries began to overwhelm him. He gave Elias a curt nod and the magus knelt down and opened his mouth, Snape stood perfectly still and waited to see what would happen. The magus’s tongue shot out of the opening jaws and swiped along the deep punctures. Snape winced at the contact but as his tongue snaked around to cover each divot, the skin began to heal over, stopping the bleeding.

“Thank you,” Snape whispered as he nudged his coat back on with a shiver. Suddenly Elias was carefully kneeling down in front of him and lifting him onto his back. “Could I have my wand?” Elias handed him the small piece of ebony wood and Severus pointed it in a random direction and thought of the happiest thing he could before casting ‘Expeto Patronum’. An animal sprung from the wand and Snape pointed at it. “Go to Hermione,” he instructed the creator, he tried not to be surprised by what the animal was, no longer the doe that he had been so used to for so long. “Elias, hurry, it’ll fly out of site looking for them.”

“Thank you my friend,” Elias made sure he had a good hold and as Snape went limp on his back he shot off in the direction the bluish swan had flown in. He followed it through the maze as fast as he could, grateful that it left a small spectral blue trail in its wake as it rushed around corners. Elias looked up as he stood to his full height again, looking in the direction the animal had disappeared into, smelling the air. “I think we’re getting close; I can smell Chise.”

He received no response from Severus and desperately hoped that he was still alive, he sprinted around the corner and saw the pond. Gently he set the wizard down on the soft grass and lowered himself to his six legs before wading out into the water, his tale flicking back and forth for momentum. He dove under and saw them struggling, as soon as they caught sight of each other, the invisible wall disappeared and they were able to swim up. Elias reached out a long fingered claw towards them and pulled Chise to his chest when their hands met.

“Get on my back,” Elias instructed as their heads broke the surface and they clambered up onto him, as he swam back to the shore where Severus waited for them unconscious.

Hermione jumped off his back and swam as fast as she could to get to Severus, she didn’t want to be here again, he was covered in blood, but luckily it wasn’t pooling around him. She reached the shore, tugging up her heavy skirt as she trod through the silt until she reached him, collapsing on the grass. “Severus!” she cried, feeling in her pocket to finally find her wand and holding it over him, her face full of consentration as she ran diagnostic spells to determine his injuries.

“Hermione,” Elias reached the pair, setting Chise down beside her. “Ashen eye created an illusion of myself to fight him, I have healed the teeth punctures, but I believe there are internal injuries.”

“There are, how long has he been out?” she was rummaging around in her bag for a blood replenishing potion before continuing the diagnostic.

“A few minutes before I found the lake.”

“He’s got several broken bones; I’m going to try to stop the internal bleeding.” She knelt over him and held up her wand, taking a steadying breath before she pushed forward her magic and suddenly felt a hand on her neck; a surge of power filling her.

“Vulnera Sanentur… Vulnera Sanentur… Vulnera Sanentur,” she repeated over and over as she felt the magic coursing through her until it began to subside. Severus’s eyes shot open with a gasp as the magic surrounded them all and a soft thud next to them made her turn to see Chise laying prone on the ground.

Elias melted down into his refined form and picked her up, carrying her like his bride as Snape tried to sit up, but Hermione pushed him back down. “Hold on, I’m not done,” she groused, running another diagnostic spell before realising that everything had been repaired. She turned to Elias, who was looking down at his wife. “Elias, is she alright?”

“She will be,” his whisper was so low compared to the sound of his gruff voice from before that it commanded everyone’s attention.

Severus stood, suddenly feeling better than he had in years and helped Hermione off the cold ground. Elias began chanting the drying spell and fire whirled around the group as he did, arching wide until they were all dry. “We need to find that bastard,” Elias huffed as a cackle sounded in the large space, bouncing off the pond and resonating through their bodies with a wobble. “Show yourself!”

“Calm down child,” Ashen Eye materialized in front of them, his staff held out before him. “You found them,” he sounded more amused than upset and then lifted his foot onto a bolder. Hermione walked over to him, kneeling by the rock as she took out a handkerchief and looked down at the gnarled foot; it looked as if the skin was stretched on the bone with nothing else supporting it. The nails were long, black, and ridged; she held back a gag as she leant over the appendage. She held large pruning shears and after coxing the handkerchief under his foot, cut off his middle toe. The toe almost immediately turned to sand and she quickly wrapped it up in the cloth before it could blow away. “Now that you have what you want… you can leave,” he intoned, a certain amount of mockery filling the words.

“You’re lucky we didn’t take your whole foot after what you’ve done,” Severus growled as a thick fog surrounded them. Snape reached out and snatched Hermione’s hand just before they couldn’t see in front of their noses. When the fog cleared, they found themselves just outside the wards of Elias’s home. They heard Draco’s voice, worried and loud as he asked Silver lady where everyone was. As Silky pointed over his shoulder he turned to see the group. Chise was unconscious in Elias’s arms and Draco ran towards them; the smaller man clutched in his grip.

“Is Chise alright?” Draco panted out as he reached them and Ruth’s eyes sleepily opened as he turned to see her.

“Ruth, get back in her shadow,” Elias took a step forward so the grim could reach out and as his fingers touched the sleeping form of his human they turned to black wisps followed by the rest of his body as he turned to shadow. Draco tried to hide his anxiety but his composure was quickly cracking.

The magus turned suddenly and strode off into the woods. “Where are you going?” Snape rushed to keep up with him as he did.

“The last time she expelled this much magic she was asleep for over a fortnight. I refuse to leave her in the snow and she will take even longer to recover away from nature. I am not as patient as I once was when it comes to her sleeping, especially when I know how to wake her.”

“Wake her?” Severus looked over at Chise as she lay limply in Elias’s large arms. Severus turned to Hermione and cupped her face in his hands, “please stay with Draco, I’m going to go with Elias.”

“Why?” She felt fear run through her as her hands grasped his wrists tightly. She’d almost lost him and now he wanted to just run off again?

“Because I would want him with me if I were in his shoes,” he leant down and kissed her soundly before turning on his heel in a flurry of snow to stalk after the pair. Hermione saw the worry marring Draco’s normally calm face and reached out to take his hand before leading him towards the house.

Snape caught up to the pair quickly and looked at Chise, her arm dangled from her body, swinging like a pendulum as Elias walked. Snape kept stride with him as they disappeared into the forest. Severus looked up at the magus, he had his veil over the back of his head, not daring to take his hands off Chise.

“Will she be alright?”

“I’m taking her to the fairy king, he loves her, he will be able to replenish her magic.”

“Will you be alright?” Snape watched him avidly as they continued to take huge steps into the forest.

Elias looked down at her in thought for a moment before returning his attention to the trail. “She is here... though she isn't with me, I miss her even now. I have lived a long, long time and have seen so many drift away, yet their bodies remain. But she was the first I cared for, the first I missed, even while she's sleeping. Without her laugh or her smile, life is dull and grey, she brings colour into the world. Her smiles are uniquely mine, her laugh, her kiss, her touch. I would do anything for her, anything for her to smile at me again. As long as she lives... I will be content.”

After a long while they started seeing little flickers of light and neighbours flying around.

“Mage! What have you done with our robin?!” The tiny green ariel swooped down and paused in front of Elias’s face.

“She needs Oberon.”

“We knew you couldn’t keep her safe!” She pointed an accusatory finger as her wings flapped to stay ahead of him, he opened his jaw to nip at her and she flew up back into the trees.

“The failure has let our robin get hurt!”

“Doesn’t deserve her!”

“Filthy halfling!” The little creatures chanted over and over as they walked further into the woods.

“The fairy king will be unhappy!” She tugged at his horn as she said this, and Elias snapped at her with a vine.

“Let him be unhappy, let him know she needs him,” his tone was firm but not unkind and Severus could feel the rage building in his own chest for the way they treated his friend.

“Mage! Give her to us, we can take care of her!” He ignored them and then when a group swept down, the little neighbours all chanted the same.

“Bring him!” Elias’s deep rumbling roar stunned the little fairies, they stuttered and then the gathering was dispersed.

“Wait here mage!” Said the little green ariel, crossing her arms indignantly a few inches front of his face. She disappeared and he stood still in the wood as he waited impatiently for the king to show himself. He would not push him, he knew how powerful he was, but he also knew that he was the only one that could help, that he would help. Luckily after a few minutes he felt his presence and looked up.

“Looking for me?” The satyr’s voice was like a happy song as he fell in front of Elias from a tree branch.

“King Oberon, Chise has spent all of her magic, please help her,” Oberon shook his head disapprovingly but the smile on his face was very kind.

“The fairy folk came to me quite cross,” his hands were on his hips, but they seemed relaxed as he laughed. “Elias, you have not hurt our robin, have you?” He turned to Severus, looking him in the eye, his dark green hair fell past his shoulders and the horns that sprung from his head were long and threatening looking.

“I am most sorry king of fairies,” Severus bowed his head. “I am the reason Chise has used up her magic.”

Oberon nodded happily, walking to Elias and motioning for him to lower Chise to the ground. His hooves stomped on the snow as he walked around the small Surei Bega and knelt before her. “Let’s wake our little sleepyhead up then, shall we?” He rubbed his three fingered hands together, joy seemed to exude from him, and he never stopped smiling.

He pressed his hands to Chise’s chest and suddenly green light surrounded them in shoots of light that seemed to come down from the sky itself. Green fronds covered in tiny leaves swept around them in soft coils, melting the snow beneath her. Chise’s eyes opened slowly and Oberon laughed, looking down at her.

“Hello there, girl that bears the name of birds. Tell me about your dreams, were they pretty?” He gave her a cheeky smile and when he took her hand she shot up and hugged him tightly.

“Oberon!” Oberon looked up at Elias to see the jealousy flare in his eyes and smiled even wider.

“That’s what I wanted last time child,” he pulled away and then gently kissed her forehead.

“That’s enough,” Elias ground out before reaching his hand out to Chise.

“Jealous are we?” He laughed mockingly, knowing full well how he felt about anyone touching his wife. Oberon let out a friendly laugh that seemed to embody joy itself.

“Don’t tease the children,” Titania chided from behind him. Severus looked up at Elias as the small woman walked up to them, she was shorter than Chise and had long hair that brushed the ground.

“Titania,” Elias bowed his head appreciatively. “Thank you for allowing us to borrow your husband.”

“Of course, dear Thorn, I heard our robin was in trouble,” she walked up to Elias and glanced at his companion. “A wizard?” She tilted her head quizzically at the stranger.

“Your highness,” Severus gave a deep bow from his waist. “I have simply come to accompany my friend.”

“Friend?” Titania looked back at Elias, who nodded. She smiled widely and lifted her hand to Severus’s head as she ran her fingers through his inky hair. “Friend,” she repeated warmly, encouraging him to lift his head. She looked into his black eyes and smiled, her eyes were penetrating, and Snape felt as though she was looking deeply into his soul before she tilted her head and nodded approvingly. She stepped back to stand beside her husband as her smile grew.

“Are we invited to the wedding?” Oberon asked cheekily as he looked at Chise’s hand, “does this mean we’ll finally get some grandchildren from you two?”

“Perhaps,” Elias said evasively and then heard Chise laugh. As he looked down she ran her hand over his jaw.

“Yes, to both,” she turned back to the king and queen and they smiled at her.

“In that case, send us the invitation and we shall attend,” they both smiled before they turned and walked off deeper into the wood. The group turned and Elias picked up Chise as she sighed.

“Elias, I can walk.”

“No,” his tone was calm but firm. “Why did you do that?”

“He could have died my love.”

“And what of me? What would I have done?” He looked down at her and she blushed sheepishly.

“I won’t die Elias, I won’t leave you, remember?” She ran her fingers over his chin and pulled herself up to hold onto his neck. “Please don’t be upset.” He huffed at her as they continued at a much slower pace than before.

Ruth materialised beside them as they walked, his head was down and an aura of self hate seemed to hang around him.

“It wasn’t your fault Ruth,” Elias looked down at the grim.

“But I—”

“No, this was Chise’s doing, she will be the one who is scolded.” Chise huffed and crossed her arms as they all walked back through the snow.

Chapter Text

Draco anxiously tapped his thumb on the teacup in front of him. Hermione normally wouldn’t have minded, but his ring hit it each time with a ting that was slowly driving her insane.

“He’ll be alright,” she put her hand on top of his and he looked up at her.

“I know,” he replied, snatching his hand away. Hermione took a deep breath. At least he’s stopped tapping. “Do you like him?” Draco was looking at her oddly as he waited for her answer and she cocked an eyebrow in a scary impersonation of Snape.

“Ruth?”

“No nitwit,” Draco rolled his eyes as if the who were obvious. “Snape.”

“Yes, of course I do,” she sat back at the kitchen table, feeling a bit affronted under his calculating gaze.

“Good, because he’s been through a lot.”

“I know that,” Hermione reached up and fluffed her bushy hair before absently curling a tendril around her finger. “I happen to love him,” she spoke just above a whisper and Draco smiled at her.

“Good,” his hand lifted back to his teacup and he took a deep drink before replacing it to the table.

Ting

Ting

Ting

“Would you like a tour of the house?” Hermione asked as she stood, she was afraid she’d kill him if she had to endure that sound much longer.

“Um… it’s not your house,” he pointed out as if she were daft.

“I know, but I can show you the downstairs… and the conservatory,” she motioned for him to follow her and he reluctantly finished his last bit of tea before standing. She stepped into the sitting room and he looked around as if it was all very interesting, tapping his thumb against his other hand.

“Lots of mistletoe in this house,” he absently commented.

“It’s for the party,” she offered, before walking passed him. “The library’s over here,” he followed her a moment later and stepped into the large room full of books with Elias’s big oak desk by the window. He sauntered over to it and sat, lifting his feet to put them on the desk. “I don’t know if Elias would like that,” she admonished as she plopped down in one of the plush armchairs.

“He’s an intriguing creature, isn’t he?” He pushed the chair back a bit and folded his hands behind his head before looking over at her. “Has Snape given you your Christmas gift yet?”

“No, it isn’t Christmas for another few days,” she looked over at him and his smile was very telling. “You can stop leering at me,” her eyes narrowed on him as he worked to make his face impassive again.

“I’m not leering, I’m just curious whether you’ll like your presents or not,” he waited for her to comment, he didn’t have to wait very long.

“You know what he got for me?”

“I was there,” one of his hands came forward and he became very interested in his fingernails, letting her hang there for a few minutes of silence.

“Do you think I’ll like it?” Draco shrugged; happy he was able to distract himself from Ruth’s absence.

“Most women do…” She sat back and started worrying her bottom lip at that comment, wanting to ask what he meant but knowing that she should wait. That it would be good to wait.

“So, it’s something that a man would normally get for a woman?”

Oh, this is how she wants to play. “Sometimes,” was his infuriating reply.

“Hopefully it’ll be something I can use,” Draco sputtered out a laugh before he took a breath. A cane and a paddle were things he could see her chasing after Potty and the Weasel with.

“If you are so inclined,” he really wasn’t giving anything away and now she was interested. Her hand lifted and she began nipping at her nail.

Something I can use. Something woman like and men normally get them.

“Perfume?” she shrugged, trying to act as though she were talking to herself. “Surly he wouldn’t get me jewellery,” she peeked over at him and saw a look that said ‘oh wouldn’t he?’.

Really? Jewellery? He doesn’t seem the type, but I suppose I’ve never seen how he is with a woman before.

Draco was watching her avidly as her expressions went from thoughtful to worrying to hopeful back to thoughtful. “Don’t hurt yourself,” he laughed as her head whipped round to look at him.

“What?”

“Don’t hurt your head trying to figure it out, I’m sure he’ll show you soon.” That only seemed to make her more harried as she went back to worrying her bottom lip. He was glad it was so easy to get under her skin but knew that if Snape came back with her stressed he may not be too happy about it. “Granger,” she looked over at him again, her poor lip looked chapped and he sighed. “You’ll like it, don’t be scared.”

“I’m not scared,” she snapped. He waited a few long moments but instead of speaking she looked into a corner of the room with a vacant expression so he stood up from the chair and walked around to in front of her. He leant down and snapped his finger in front of her face. Her eyes went from glazed to suddenly clear and borderline angry. “I’m not.”

“Don’t care any more,” he muttered as he stepped out of the room and went back into the sitting room to look out the front window. Hermione huffed before she stood and saw a book on the shelf in front of her. It looked old and the sides were peeling around the ruffled edges. On the mantel of the small fireplace was a box of cloth gloves and she wondered if the magus wore them to ensure not to damage his precious tomes.

She stepped back into the hall and then saw him staring out the front window. “Sorry,” she whispered as she stepped next to him. “I just don’t think anything I could give him would be worthy of jewellery,” she shifted uncomfortably, and he chuckled softly.

“I’ve known Snape since I was a child, I may not be an expert on his happiness, but I’ve never seen him smile before. Not a smirk or a sneer, a real smile. You’ve given him more than you know,” he looked at her in the reflection on the window in front of him and saw her worrying her lip again. “Granger, stop that.”

“Stop what?”

“Biting your lip, I feel like we’re in class again. You’re a grown woman,” he sighed and she smiled.

“I am, aren’t I?” She smiled a bit wider before it faded away with worry, “I sometimes fear he still sees me as a schoolgirl.”

“Ha, he doesn’t look at you like that,” his hands clasped behind his back as he turned his attention back to the front garden. “You have nothing to worry about with him, once he’s made up his mind he becomes pretty immovable. When it’s for the good it’s very good, but sometimes, he can be stubborn.”

“Talking like I don’t know,” she laughed, and he smirked at her reflection.

“I suppose you’d know better than most.” They stood silently for several minutes and Hermione remembered that the faculty were all supportive of their relationship.

“Did you know about the bet?” Draco smirked at her question, leaning over as he looked at her, before whispering his answer conspiratorially.

“Who do you think started it?”

“You!” She slapped his arm and laughed. “Why?”

“I’m not blind,” Draco looked back at the window.

“What do you mean?”

“It was painfully obvious that he liked you and that you were doing everything you could to get his attention. I wagered you would have gotten together six months ago but like I said… he’s a stubborn wizard.” She folded her arms across her chest and smiled.

“Yes, but he’s my stubborn wizard,” Draco smirked at her far away expression.

“I’m happy for you both,” he lifted his right arm and leant against the window frame as he continued to look out at the slowly darkening front garden. “So, when do you become my fairy godmother?” Hermione rolled her eyes but said nothing and smiled. It was nice to talk about it with someone who saw Severus as someone who deserved to be loved, to be happy.

Around twenty minutes later they saw their companions coming out of the woods and Hermione rushed to the door to open it for them. Silver lady started boiling water to make tea as Draco aimed his wand at the hearth to light a fire. He leant against the door frame to the sitting room and waited as everyone changed their shoes and took off their outerwear. Ruth appeared from Chise’s shadow and instantly grabbed Draco’s hand to lead him back into the sitting room.

“Is everything alright? Are you alright?” Draco asked as Ruth ushered him into the corner.

“I’m alright, Chise expended all her magic and collapsed. Our connection was being blocked by a very old fae being. She’s alright now, Oberon helped her,” Ruth looked down a bit embarrassed that he couldn’t keep his human safe.

“Oberon?” Draco’s eyebrows rose at the name. “The king of the fae? Helped Chise?”

“Yes,” Ruth looked up at Draco’s surprised expression. “He’s helped her many times before, Elias and Titania are friends, or acquaintance. She sees him as one of her own.”

“Huh, interesting,” his hand came up to Ruth’s shoulder and he gave it a squeeze. “Well, I’m glad you’re alright.” He smiled at Draco and looked up to where he’d led the blond. Draco looked up and saw the big sprig of mistletoe and smiled down at Ruth. “Oh I see,” he pulled him closer, his hands threading through Ruth’s shaggy black hair as Draco tilted his head up. “You want a kiss, hmm?”

“I want to continue what we started earlier…” Draco smiled down at him and quickly looked over his shoulder to make sure they were alone.

“Not right now,” Draco leant down and feathered his lips along the grim’s before Ruth pulled him closer by wrapping his arms around Draco’s neck. Draco’s arms skidded down and curled around Ruth’s waist before he lifted his head to look down at him. “You really scared me, you know,” he pulled him close and Ruth tucked under his chin, burying himself in Draco’s strong chest.

“Sorry,” he whispered and Draco stroked down his back slowly.

“You will be,” he teased and Ruth tried to step back but Draco held him tighter. “Don’t worry so much.”

“That’s hard to do,” Ruth snuggled his face into Draco’s shirt and sighed. “I’m responsible for her, but because I was blocked I didn’t know she needed help. I might have been able to protect her.”

“You don’t know that, I know you’re bound, but I also know she wants you to be happy.” Draco backed away and cupped Ruth’s cheek, “Please, with me, try to relax.” Ruth answered Draco’s smile with a sheepish grin of his own.

XOXO

Elias finally set Chise down once they were in their home and she grabbed his arm to steady herself as she quickly changed her shoes. Hermione grabbed onto Severus the moment he was close enough hadn’t released him yet, Snape looked down at her and was surprised to find worry in her eyes. Her poor lip looked shredded and he wrapped his arm around her before nodding to Elias and Chise, who were settling into the kitchen for tea as he steered Hermione down the hall.

“Everything alright?” He pushed open the door to the conservatory and let her walk in before him.

“I don’t know,” she muttered, walking over to the makeshift workstation they’d created. She sat on one of the high stools and swivelled it to lean against the table in the corner of the darkened room.

“Did Draco do something?” There was a hint of anger in his voice as he waited for her to reply. She turned her head around and looked up at him before reaching out to him and pulling him closer. He sat on the stool next to her and she held his hands as they both leant over the table.

“No, well… no,” he watched her carefully, wondering what Draco may have said. “He was very nice to me while we were alone, he didn’t say anything to upset me. You upset me,” she sighed, and he stiffened.

“Because I left?” She shook her head and took her right hand away so she could rest her cheek against it.

“I was… scared.” She glanced up at him and he looked down at the tabletop.

“I’m sorry I couldn’t protect you,” he whispered, he suddenly felt deflated and impotent, the one person he wanted to protect he was unable to when the moment came. He hated feeling like this, and his shoulders sagged at the thought that he couldn’t rescue her. That he’d already broken his promise to her.

“I can protect myself Severus,” she watched as his head snapped up to look at her. “I was scared when I got to the shore and saw you…” her right hand waved in front of her body as she spoke. “covered in blood and…” she felt her throat close as she choked back a sob and he instantly stood and pulled her into a hug as she began to cry. “You can’t do that to me again!” She pulled him as closely as she could, and he looked down at the woman currently rearranging his organs.

He’d never had someone that cared so much about him in his whole life. The fact that the thought of losing him was so scary for her made his stomach feel strange, and not just because it was trying to push its way up his throat. He kissed the top of her head and stroked her back as she wept. It felt bizarre to hold someone as they cried. No one he’d ever cared for had trusted him enough to come to him for comfort. She was so vulnerable and he would prove she could depend on him.

“I’m so sorry my love,” he whispered to her and she sniffled softly. She lifted her face and he reached in his pocket to pull out a handkerchief before handing it to her. “I’ll be more careful,” he looked down at the ground as she blew her nose and wiped her eyes. He never thought that protecting someone else would involve protecting himself.

“That’s all I ask,” she tugged his neck until he came down and kissed her. “I only just got you, I don’t want to lose you,” his eyes widened at her words and he felt his own throat try to close. He couldn’t speak, he didn’t trust his voice, and so he nodded in agreement and brought his hands up to her cheeks before his lips met hers again.

XOXO

“Elias?” Chise tentatively set a teacup in front of him as Severus tugged Hermione from the room. Elias didn’t answer, he had his head resting on his fist as he thought. She nudged the cream towards him and he grunted down at it. “Elias, you knew I’d be alright, please don’t torture me for this,” she spoke more forcefully than she’d intended and it gained a glare from her magus.

She looked down at her tea and used the tiny spoon to collect a bit of sugar, mixing it in without looking up. She knew he wanted to scold her but she’d made it clear a few years ago that he couldn’t do that any more. She peeked up at him and saw sadness in his light red eyes.

“I’m sorry Elias,” she whispered. He acted as if he didn’t hear her, even though she knew he could probably hear everything that was going on in the house right now. “Is everyone else apologising?” He nodded and lifted his teacup up to his bony face before tipping it back and drinking it. “I love watching you drink,” he finally looked at her at that confession.

“Why?”

“Because no one does it like you,” she stood and walked to his side of the table before encouraging him to move his chair back. She sat down on his thigh and cuddled up to him as he tentatively wrapped his arm around her. “I love you Elias, do you forgive me?”

“I don’t know,” he replied, lifting up his teacup for another drink.

“That’s fair,” she mumbled, resting her head on his shoulder. “Is there anything I can do… to make it up to you?” His red eyes drifted slowly to her as his head tilted away in thought.

“If it were me, what would you ask of me?” She thought for a few moments as she looked down at his teacup. He watched as an odd look crossed her face and then she looked up at him. Her hands rose to his bony face as she slowly caressed from the base of his horns down to his snout.

“I would only ask you to hold me,” she ventured and he looked down at her with a huff.

“Chise, we both know that’s not true,” she slipped off his lap and held out her hand to him. He looked down at it for several moments but she continued to simply wait for him to choose to follow her. His gloved hand smoothly slid its way into hers and she tugged him gently to stand. She turned and led him up the stairs, down the hall, and into their room. The door snapping shut quietly behind them. She encouraged him to sit on the bed and he did with some reluctance.

His arms crossed as he watched her and he wondered how she would try to placate him. He watched as she sunk down to her knees before him and his arms separated so he could look down at her.

“Chise?” She ran her hands up from his knees, up his thighs and she nudged him backwards. Once he was on his back she knelt over him and unbuckled his belt but he stilled her hands and pulled her up until she was straddling his stomach. “Chise, I only want to do this when we are both happy, when we both want each other. Not when one of us feels guilty,” she was surprised, to say the least. She nodded and leant forward, resting her head on his chest.

“Please don’t be mad at me Elias, I… I don’t like it,” she made little circles on his chest and his arms came up to stroke through her hair.

“You just scared me, I understand that the curse will keep you alive, but that doesn’t mean you don’t worry me when you are reckless.”

“I know,” she answered in a small voice. “I didn’t expect my magic to rush out that fast, his injuries must have been really bad.”

“They were,” he continued to sift his fingers through her hair as he thought. “When he collapsed on my shoulders, I thought he was going to die.”

“Didn’t you want to save him?”

“Yes,” Elias answered but then looked down at her. “That doesn’t mean I want to exchange his life for yours.”

“What would you have done? Had I not been there?”

“Hermione was going to heal him,” his head fell back and he was glad he was taller than his bed when his horns easily went over the side.

“Yes, but... she couldn’t have done it without me,” Chise lifted her head and looked down at him. “I won’t say that I won’t ever do it again. Just like you don’t see anything wrong with sacrificing others for me, I see nothing wrong with giving of myself for others.”

“That’s very different,” he admonished.

“Because in one scenario the person is guaranteed to die and in the other I pass out from over exertion?” They stared at each other for a long time, not the comfortable quiet she was used to, but something more worrying. She started feeling anxious until Elias finally spoke.

“I saved Lindel once, did he tell you?”

“Yes,” her head cuddled back down on his chest.

“When he fell asleep I was alarmed. I tended to his wounds and I made food. But Chise, I didn’t feel anything like what I felt today. I worked and I ensured his safety because he was my travelling companion. I can’t say I didn’t care if he died, but with you things are different. I wouldn’t know what to do if you left me.” Chise groaned into his chest, guilt was something he was getting far too good at wielding.

“Please Elias, I am not Lindel, I told you I wouldn’t leave you,” she pushed up again and looked down at him. “I know what you mean though,” her voice was much lower now. “I don’t know what I’d do without you either.” His hand came up to cup her cheek and she smiled shyly at him. “Do you forgive me now?”

He looked at her for a long moment and then nodded his head. “For now.”

“I love you Elias, and if I can help it, I’ll never leave you,” she whispered before she snuggled closer to him as his fingers played with her red locks until they both fell asleep.

Chapter Text

Chise had been quiet while Elias filled the bathtub, he sprinkled in some herbs for scent and as the hot water rose she slowly shucked off her clothing and trudged forward. He stood and stepped away from the bath but she stopped him, standing in front of him and unbuttoning his waistcoat. Her hands ran up to push the fabric from his large purple shoulders and then her fingers rested on the buttons of his shirt as the waistcoat hit the cold tile floor. His eye flared red as he looked down at her, her small fingers loosing each closure until she tugged at the shirt to extract it from his trousers.

“Would you like me to join you?” His response was a small nod from Chise as she stared at her task, an anxious look in her eyes. He knew she wasn’t nervous about him, so he watched her closely, waiting for her to want to tell him. He helped her tug the shirt free and pulled it off to join the waistcoat on the floor. She unbuckled his belt and released his trouser closure below it so they would join the growing pile of fabric. She stepped back, one of her arms going behind her body to clutch onto her other elbow as she waited for him to step into the tub. He slipped in and turned to sit before offering her his hand to help her in as well. She stepped into the hot water, the temperature drastically different from the cold floor, making goose flesh spring up along her legs.

She stood for a moment to adjust before lowering herself down in between his legs and leaning back on his stomach. "Elias... I'm scared." She whispered, he leant forward, holding her tight in his arms.

"So am I." They were silent for several minutes, both lost in their own thoughts of what the day would bring and how things might change. "We don't have to go through with it Chise," his voice was so soft. Her hands came up to thread themselves into his, their fingers lacing together effortlessly.

"I know, but I want to stay with you, who’s to say the dragon won't decide to take me next year?" She felt his grip tighten around her, anxiety filling his quiet words.

"I don't want that Chise."

"Me neither... I wonder if we could leave in just a little of the curse," she twisted in his arms so she could look up at his face. "I don't like the thought of being alive forever. I hate watching Joseph's apathy grow as he wastes slowly away."

"I don't want that for you either, I wonder how much would be enough for you to stay with me until I can no longer live…” his fingers brushed her cheek on their way to her hair, his voice was almost pleading when he continued. “Is that selfish Chise? I don't think I can face life without you." Her hands came up and gently cupped the bony sides of his face.

"I know,” she sighed sadly as she mulled it over. “it's a little selfish, but I can't help feeling the same. You make me happy and the thought of you no longer being with me is... unbearable." She gave him a watery smile and let her fingers slowly caress his cheekbones. "I wonder if there's a way to bind my life to yours?"

“You would want that?” The surprise was heavy in his soft voice.

“If it isn’t what you want,” her smile slowly faded and he lifted her face to look into her eyes.

"I'll find a way. I can ask the college or ask Severus if he knows of a way, if you're sure that's what you want." His large hand covered hers and she smiled more brightly.

"Please ask him, if nothing else then it’s another option." He hugged her closely before reaching for the flannel he’d left on the side and plucked the soap from its dish. Slowly he sluiced it through the water before lathering it onto the flannel, he took his time laving the cloth over her shoulders and down her back before bringing it to her front and thoroughly cleansing her as she laid back against his chest.

“What would you like to do today?” He wanted to go back to bed, wrap her in his arms and never leave, but at the same time, he was looking forward to the curse being removed. She shrugged and looked up at him, he was watching her, taking such care with slowly cleaning her. She sat up on her knees, and he held out his arm for a moment, thinking she would get out, but instead she came forward; coaxing his hips forward away from the back of the tub. He allowed her to scooch him forward before she leant into him and wrapped her legs around his back.

She felt the twitch under her and reached down to bring his length between them. She ground herself against it, feeling it slowly grow harder as her hands reached up to bring his bony face down to hers. She licked along his row of front teeth, a dark purr blew across her face and she smiled as she held onto his shoulders to bring herself up. She tipped her hips forward until he was at her entrance and then she slowly lowered herself onto him. She held herself to him tightly, her head resting on his shoulder as she ensconced him completely, in every way she could.

His arms wrapped around her and held her closely to him. They sat together in the warm water, holding each other for so long he began to go soft within her, and then she brushed her hand up from his shoulder to his neck. Tickling her way on the soft flesh under his chin, she lifted her head and kissed his clavicle. Her hips moved in small circles at first, tipping forward and back slowly as she felt him growing again. Using her thighs, she moved her hips forward and back, rocking with him languidly, his arms still wrapped tightly around her.

“I love you Chise,” he whispered, his fingers running up and weaving their way into her red hair. The water sloshed gently around them as she continued, allowing her body to feel every part of him she could. Her kisses rained down on his chest and shoulders and after several minutes of slowly rocking she felt his hand reach down to grip her bum. This only encouraged her, and she rocked forward a little faster, her hands gripping his shoulders tighter as she used her stomach to curl in further and push out further.

Her skin became warmer as little rushes of electricity skidded over her nerves. He held himself still, allowing her to take what she wanted from him. Her slow rocking felt like not enough and too much all at once, his hand gliding from her slick hair to her neck before sliding down the curve of her back to wrap around her hip. He gently nuzzled against her face as she continued to kiss him, her breath becoming more and more ragged, her face more and more flushed. Every part of her was being offered and his head knelt down as his jaw opened and he fit her left shoulder into his mouth before clamping down, not enough to hurt, just enough to feel.

She gasped at the pressure and couldn’t help but speed up further, the water turning to tumultuous waves around them. “I love you Elias,” she breathed as her head fell back to look into his eyes as she softly tumbled down over the cliff, her climax gently building into a tower of breath and need. Her breath caught, her hands impossibly tight on his shoulder to help her keep up pace, her mind fuzzing wonderfully as she became light-headed.

Elias felt himself cresting his own cliff, her sweet scent and taste filling his mouth. Everything was focused on her as she undulated against him, the slowness not taking away from the intensity as it built. He gripped her tightly as he allowed her to drag him down with her.

“Chise,” he groaned into her ear. She snuggled into him when she felt him release.

“Elias,” she sleepily said, allowing herself to rest against him and around him. The cooling water the perfect contrast to the heat they had built and they both relished the temperature. He slid down a bit in the tub, leaning back against the back so she could lean forward further.

They didn’t know how long they were cradled together, enjoying simply being with each other, and knowing they both wanted it to forever be that way.

‘Chise,’ she heard Ruth through their connection and her head came up off Elias’s shoulder for a moment.

‘Yes?’

‘There’s a line for the restroom,’ he laughed, and she giggled as she curled back into Elias.

“We should get out.”

“Why?”

“People are waiting for the room,” she grinned as she held him tighter.

“Alright,” he nuzzled against her once more before he leant forward and rose, her still wrapped round him like his vines normally wrapped around her. He stepped out of the water and with a wave of his hand the tub began to drain, his cloths disappeared from the floor, and his long black cloak wrapped itself around them, covering them both before he opened the door to find Hermione walking up the stairs with a knowing smile. “All yours,” he stepped aside and walked them back into their bedroom as he heard the bathroom door close quickly.

Once they were back in their bedroom he sat down on the bed, her still holding onto him as he cast the drying spell for them and lifted up the duvet to cover her as her legs pulled from behind him and settled on either side of his. He sat back against a pile of pillows, his horns barely scraping the wall as he leant back as far as possible. Her small form breathing against him evenly as she drifted into a dream of comfort, surrounded by safety.

His hands coasted down her back to rest on the curve on her spine as he breathed in time with her. He let her sleep, her body would be dealing with a lot and rest would be the most important thing. So he pushed aside his need for breakfast and relaxed with her as she slept.

XOXO

Severus had splurged... spent far more than he ever thought possible for hair care. Clarifying shampoo and moisturising conditioner that didn't come from pound land. He read the instructions, but it all seemed the same as his normal shampoo. He'd used the same brand since he was a boy, but for the first time, it bothered him that his hair looked so limp and greasy. He wasn't going to over examine why that was the case, he just knew Draco had given him a push in a direction he wasn't against trying.

His excursion with Draco in the muggle shop had been stressful and he had a feeling they took him for a bit of a ride. "Tea tree Clarifying shampoo once a month," the shop lady said, handing him another bottle. "This is a healing shampoo to help with split ends." He didn't know what the hell split ends were, but she'd been adamant that he didn't want them.

Everything smelled vaguely good, like a summer’s day, kind of grassy, must be the vetiver. It was far better than the overly perfumed stuff the shop girl had first suggested. He hoped the scent could blend in with his usual smell of potions ingredients. He took his new bottles and put them by the shower before taking one last look in the mirror.

Is it really that bad? His limp greasy locks were so black, and he was used to the curtains they created. Were these new products going to change him too much?

Fuck it. He pulled off his clothes and hopped into the shower. Twenty minutes later he was casting the drying spell and looking at his hair. It was black, but there were highlights he'd never seen before; they were kind of blue that sheened across his black hair, like raven feathers. He moved it a bit and it fluffed up, loose curls formed, and he realised how thick it was. Frankly he was shocked, his head felt lighter, like he'd taken off a hat.

He stood back and just looked at his hair for a long time, astonished and slightly mortified. He looked so... different.

Would she think it's for her?

Who the hell else would it be for?

He huffed at his reflection and ran his fingers through his now silky hair with a little smirk. Well, what if she likes it?

He went into the bedroom to dress, so as he tied his cravat, he gave it a last look over. He left the room just before his anxiety prompted him to dump a bunch of coconut oil on his head so he’d go back to his normal self.

He walked down the steps and went into the conservatory at the end of the hall, opening his notebook, he sat next to the only table and waited. She came in, bustling about, setting up as she extricated her needed ingredients. Once she was ready, she bent over and lit her heat conduit.

"Good morning Severus" she started as she lifted a plate of teacakes. "I brought you some of Silver’s... teacakes..." She froze, awkwardly hovering the plate in the air when she saw him. He reached out his hand and held back a smile as he watched her flounder.

"Let me know when your senses return," he lowered his head back to his notebook and smirked at the page.

"Severus?" She stepped forward and set the tiny treats on the table next to him. "Your hair," she stepped around him, pulling out the chair next to him and sat, her eyes never leaving his hair.

"Yes," an eyebrow lifted high on his forehead as he looked over at her. "I thought I'd try something new."

"Well," she was blushing brightly as her lips pulled into a smile. "It really suits you," then she whispered, "I want to touch it."

"What?" His eyes met hers as she looked down from his hair.

"May I touch it?" She leant forward, one of her hands lifting to allow her fingertips to stroke through the soft strands.

"Do you like it?" He asked quietly, a little apprehensive.

"I like you," her eyes met his as she smiled warmly at him. "If it's at all possible you look even more handsome," she pushed her nose into his hair and he watched her leaning in. "Amortentia," she muttered, and he flinched. "Now you smell just like it," she whispered, giving him a kiss on the cheek.

"So do you," he leant into her as she held him. "We should probably start," he enjoyed the small noise of disappointment that came from her at the thought of pulling away from him.

"You're right," she stood and began the potion base, he continued making notes as she introduced new ingredients. No matter how much time passed, he seemed to not be able to remove the smirk from his face and for the first time, he didn't mind her seeing.

XOXO

Severus and Elias had spent the last hour painstakingly drawing out the intricate runes with Chise’s blood around the circle where she would sit.

"Severus, have you ever heard of a way to connect two lives?" Snape looked up from his work and raised a brow.

"How do you mean?"

"Chise would like her life bound to mine, so that when I die she does as well." His bony face gave nothing away as he dipped his purple fingers into the blood they were using to write the sigils on the wooden floor. Severus thought as he mirrored Elias's actions.

"Well, perhaps a soul bonding?"

"What would that entail?"

"Soul magic will bind you together, although I'm not entirely sure how it works. I can do some research and let you know what I find."

"That sounds acceptable," he nodded as he marked another symbol on the floor.

Elias lit candles, placing them around the circle and looked down at the circle, it was missing something that neither of them could think of.

Elias looked up as a loud knock rang out in the quiet house. Chise was in the living room with Hermione as they walked through how they were going to perform the ritual for the third time that morning. The knock came again and Chise rose from her seat as she saw Silky staying in the kitchen, away from the door. Chise looked over at her for a moment before she realised why Silver would be acting that way. She took a deep breath before she turned the handle to open the door. As she opened it she saw the tired looking boy standing there with a grumpy look on his face.

“You weren’t seriously going to do this without me, were you?” He pulled at the lapel of his nightshirt, waiting for Chise to invite him in. She stepped back and motioned for him to join them, his bare feet were covered in grime and Chise knelt down to put some slippers in front of him before he could track it everywhere. Hermione followed the pair up the stairs, watching closely to the boy she had heard so much about, none of it good.

They opened the door to the upstairs study and Snape looked up first to see the white-haired boy stepping in, looking to all the world like he’d just rolled out of bed.

“Joseph,” he nodded with a raise of his brow towards Elias. Elias looked towards the door and Chise was standing just inside the darkened room with her hands behind her back.

“Elias, is this alright?” Elias turned his dark pink eyes from Chise to Joseph and stepped forward with his arms crossed over his massive chest.

“Cartaphilus,” he began, and Joseph’s hair visibly bristled. “You are not to share this curse with others, this will only be your burden.”

“I already have a burden child,” he sneered. “I asked you not to call me by that name,” his tone was measured but his grey eye had turned icy.

“Joseph,” Elias muttered, and the boy relaxed somewhat. “You must promise.”

“I promise,” he gave the magus a smile that looked entirely too ambiguous.

“Is there a way to prevent him from lying,” Elias whispered towards Severus.

“He could make an unbreakable vow,” he stepped next to Elias, mirroring his pose.

“What’s that?” Joseph looked between the two, his smile faltering just a bit.

“It would mean that if you attempted to share the curse with anyone, that your body… would kill itself,” Snape looked towards Chise, then back at the boy as if to gauge their reactions.

“Ha! Fine, do it,” the boy stepped forward with entirely too much confidence.

“Magic would ensure that it would happen, the vow cannot be backed out of,” Snape looked down his hooked nose at the boy, using the tone he would use in his classroom.

“Really?” He whispered and Chise walked up to him.

“Don’t test it Joseph,” she knew the boy wanted to die so badly he would do pretty much anything to move on.

“Oh course,” he hissed over his shoulder as he stepped in front of the magus, looking up at his bony face. “How do I take the vow.

“Hold each other’s wrists,” Severus drew his wand, and waited patiently. As their hands clasped the others wrist he began the intricate wand movements necessary to bind the vow. Everything they were doing today was dark, what was one more old spell? “Do you vow to keep the curse to only yourself?”

“I do.”

“Do you vow to never try to remove it from within you, on your own or with assistance in any fashion or form?”

“I do.”

“Do you vow to never bind it to another in any way?”

“I do.” Joseph watched as vine-like red tendrils circled the air around their wrists before they gripped tightly until they embedded themselves in their skin, dissolving into them.

“Done,” Snape stowed away his wand and stepped back from them. He motioned first for Hermione and Ruth to move forward. “Everyone form a circle around them. Chise, Joseph, get in the middle.” Once the four of them were in position, Severus handed Chise the vial.

“Take this once you’re ready,” she nodded and he stepped to one side of the small circle and motioned for the others to hold hands. Severus stood across from Elias and Hermione across from Ruth as they watched Chise and Joseph move forward.

As they both stepped into the runic circle Chise felt a tingle down her left arm and as she lifted it, she felt a pulling sensation that caused it to unfurl like a giant ebony wing. Joseph smiled at her as he held out his left arm to her as it grew to a giant club like arm. They stepped closer together and sat in the circle as they had once done when she sang him to sleep. Their hands holding tightly together this time, and their right arms were resting on the other’s shoulder.

“Ready?” Joseph asked, with a wicked smile. Chise looked up at Elias as the remaining four held hands and loomed over them in a circle around them.

“You don’t have to do this Chise,” he whispered to her and Joseph whipped his head round to look up at the magus with a grimace.

“You promised,” he spat and Chise cuffed him on the shoulder to get his attention.

“I’m ready,” she said loudly and picked up the vial sitting by her leg. She pulled out the cork with her teeth and dropped it on the ground as she tipped the blood red, viscus substance back into her mouth. It was so bitter she cringed as she drank it all down, the tinge of metal scorched her taste buds as she swallowed. Once the vial was empty, she set it down and lifted her hand again to place it on his shoulder.

Severus began to chant something she couldn’t quite make out, the world misted a bit as she looked into Joseph’s grey eye. The others began to chant the same phrase with him, over and over and suddenly a pulling sensation was so intense she had to grit her teeth to keep from screaming. Then she felt it, as if her spine was being pulled from her body, magic being syphoned from her at an alarming rate.

She cried out as the foggy tendrils of black magic were wrenched from her earthly shell. Cutting through her resolve like tissue paper, forcing her back to bow in a surreal agony. She looked up as her vision tunnelled and saw Joseph's grey eye staring into her as if she were a bug under a microscope. All of her attention being forcefully jolted to the present, to his expression as it slowly changed from calm to concern as the magic wound itself towards him. Barring down on him like a tsunami preparing to strike before it shifted and engulfed his world in shimmering mist.

Chise cried out again and Elias wanted to stop, but when he looked up at to see Severus’s eyes open but completely black, he knew that it had to be completed. Snape began chanting louder and louder until all anyone could hear was his voice, as if magnified.

When Joseph screamed, she jumped, the pain slowly draining away and with it all of her energy, every bit of fear or anxiousness that she had been carrying, knowingly or unknowingly. He cried out a second time as his grip became iron around her hand, his claw like fingers holding her trapped as the pain that was leaving her overwhelmed him completely.

Then with one last long yelp of pain the blackness in the circle cleared enough for them to see the two that sat within it. Severus stumbled back and Hermione went to catch him as he hit the wall behind him and fell to the floor.

Chise fell forward onto Joseph and he looked up at Elias with a mocking smile before he pushed against her shoulder to throw her off him. Elias went forward and caught her easily.

Joseph looked down at his hands, one pitch black with the curse, as if he'd never seen them before. His eye was welling with tears as he looked up at Elias.

"I can't feel it," his smile was watery but genuinely warm. "The rotting feeling, it's the first time in two thousand years that I feel nothing." His hands made fists as he laughed almost maniacally.

"Will you remain in your well?" Elias asked, looking up from Chise.

"I don't believe I will, who knows, maybe the curse will take me tomorrow," his smile became wider at the thought and he gave the magus one stiff nod before turning to the door. His hands turned the nob but then he turned back to them. "Do you have anything I can wear?"

"Your clothing is in the hall closet."

"You kept them?" Joseph almost whispered the question in shock.

"Of course, I knew at some point you might need them."

"Thank you Thorn," he gave him a sideways smile. "No... Elias."

"You're welcome... Joseph." Elias nodded at him as he rose from the floor with Chise in his arms.

"Please thank her when she wakes," the boy said before he turned his back to them. "I wouldn't want her to come after me because I was ungrateful."

"I'll let her know," Elias carried her to their room and laid her down on the bed to rest.

“Tea?” Hermione whispered to Snape, who nodded lightly at her before she made her way down the stairs. When Elias turned, he saw Severus standing at the door, anxiety and sleepiness clear on his face as he looked at the young woman.

"Do you think she's alright?" Elias looked back down at her and then at Ruth, who had followed him into the room.

"She's tired but she seems to be alright," the grim's voice was heavy with tiredness. "I need to lie down," he muttered before curling up at her feet and almost instantly falling to sleep.

"Cup of tea?" Snape offered quietly as Elias stared at his bride unmoving. “She will need to sleep, come downstairs,” Elias nodded as he turned to follow him. In the hall they passed the half-dressed alchemist.

"Where's my jacket?" He asked, shifting aside a few other bits of clothes in the closet.

"Downstairs, come with us,” Elias motioned with his hand that he should follow them. Silver met them at the bottom of the stairs, anxiety plain on her face. “She’s resting, but it was successful,” Elias said in a soft voice as he patted Silky on the shoulder. Hermione was in the kitchen, placing teacups on the table when they came in. Silver Lady bustled passed her and took the kettle off the hob to pour it into the waiting teacups.

“Have a seat,” Elias said to the boy as he gestured to the table and Joseph looked down at the plain wooden seat with a slightly upturned nose.

“That’s alright, I’ll stand,” he looked around the room, happy to be in his own clothes again. He tugged idly at his grey striped shirt before straitening his dark grey double-breasted waistcoat. He was a bit miffed that he only had his grey shorts to go with them, but normally the cold didn’t really bother him. His long socks stopped just before his knees and his brown shoes were so ready to hit the pavement. He fiddled with his blue loose bow tie as he waited impatiently for the magus to come back with his long burgundy jacket.

He looked around the room and saw his hair out of the corner of his eye before he grabbed at it and brought it forward. It wasn’t the purest white as it had once been, but it had become more blond, like it was so long ago he barely remembered. He couldn't remember a time before Cartaphilus, but he felt distinctly less. Less pain, less sadness, just less. Sometimes less really was so much more.

“It suites you,” Hermione had been watching his attention to his hair and he turned his grey eye towards her as it narrowed.

“It doesn’t,” he flipped it back over his shoulder with a huff and reached up to touch his empty socket. “I’ll need an eye if I’m hoping to not scare people,” he muttered more to himself.

“You could always wear an eyepatch,” Severus offered as he lifted the teacup to his thin lips. “Would be easier than getting an eye.”

“It depends on how you get it,” Snape didn’t like the smile that broke out on Joseph’s face.

“No, Joseph,” Elias was suddenly standing behind him, holding his jacket a bit tighter than necessary. “Chise didn’t save you just so you could continue with your old ways. If you intend to go back to the way you were, then I’ll not let you leave,” his tone left no room for argument, but Joseph turned and looked up at him as his hands went up to his hips.

“And who’s going to stop me? You?” Joseph narrowed his eye at Elias, who in turn held his jacket up out of his reach. The boy growled as his left arm whipped out, extending and catching the jacket before giving it a gentle tug, hoping not to rip it.

“Joseph, you must be better than you were. You must no longer be Cartaphilus,” the boys lips curled at the name.

“You are so rude, I’m your elder, mage, you can’t tell me what to do,” he tugged again at the jacket. “Let it go,” he sneered.

“Joseph, promise me.”

“I’ve already promised I’d keep the curse to myself, isn’t that enough? I’m going to die now, I just want an eye so I can see.” He shrugged and let go of his jacket so he could fold his arms over his chest as if this was a completely normal thing to want. “What if I take it from an older person… or someone about to die?”

“That may work…”

“As long as you’re not the reason they’re about to die,” Severus sneered at the boy, drawing his attention for the first time.

“You…” Joseph stepped over towards the table. “You helped me, so I thank you, but I’ll take what I need.”

“No you won’t,” Chise had staggered down the steps and was suddenly behind him.

“Chise?” His expression went soft. “I just want to see, what’s wrong with that? I gave you my eye, and then you took back your own, how is that fair?”

“Joseph,” she gave a small shuffle as she reached out for Elias, who held out his hand to catch her. “Please, don’t make me find you,” she gave a small teasing smile and Joseph rolled his eye before huffing out.

“Fine,” he laughed. “Thank you Chise,” he held out his arms to her and pulled her close in a hug before he pushed away from her and easily grabbed the jacket from Elias’s grip. “I’ll be leaving now,” his jacket whooshed out around him as he put it on, before he turned to the door and without another word, left the house.

“I wonder if we’ll ever see him again?” Chise looked up at Elias as he helped her over to the table.

“If he continues down the path he used to, then we’ll have little choice.”

“True,” she gave a weak smile as she sat down and reached out for the teacup that Silver had just set in front of her.

“Are you hungry?” Hermione stood and opened the fridge to see what they could make. “Would you like a sandwich?” Silver nudged Hermione out of the way and she started taking out fish cutlets and potatoes.

“Thank you Silver,” Chise sighed as she leant over to Elias’s chair to cuddled into his chest.

“How are you feeling Chise?”

“I feel strange,” she rubbed her eye as she nuzzled into his arms. “I feel like if you’re not beside me, I could break.” He leant down and carefully rested his chin on the top of her head.

“I’ll stay with you,” he whispered, pulling her chair closer. Severus watched the pair with interest, Chise looked like she’d just played three games of Quidditch in a row and was in desperate need of a rest and Elias looked almost… scared.

Silver Lady quickly fried up some fish and chips and set up the table as she nudged the food in front of them all. She leant down and began to cut up Chise’s into small pieces as she watched.

“Thank you Silver,” she yawned, sitting up she took hold of her fork in a shaky hand. Once she had eaten half her food, Elias pulled her close and stroked her hair as she slowly fell to sleep. Hermione sat down and reached over to rest her hand on Severus’s leg, gently petting it in a soothing motion.

“I think I’ll take her to bed,” Elias murmured as he looked over at the time. “Silver, I’ll go to rest with her,” Silky nodded at him and walked over to take the plates. He easily hoisted her up in his arms before turning to their guests. “I’ll see you both in the morning,” his steps were heavy on the stairs as he creaked his way up to their bedroom and closed the door. He spent the next few hours simply watching her, her every intake of breath and every rise and fall of her chest as she slept.

XOXO

Severus and Hermione sat on the sofa for a while, curled up together, drinking their tea. “Do you think she’ll be alright?” Hermione asked as she apprehensively peeked over at him.

“I’m not sure, I’ve never done a ritual quite like that,” he whispered, looking down at his cup, a sad look in his eyes.

“Thank you for helping them,” she whispered back to him, her hand resting lightly on his arm as she moved closer. His arm lifted for her to shuffle even closer, he held her gently and took a deep breath.

“I just hope I helped,” he finally said, resting his cheek against her forehead. She set her cup on the table next to the sofa and wrapped her arms around him.

“Hopefully things will be better in the morning,” she felt him huff softly as his breath fluttered over her hair. “If not, we’re still here and we can figure something out,” she said, and he gave her a squeeze at that, kissing her forehead.

"What do you know about binding one life to another?"

"Like soul binding?" Hermione looked up at him with raised brows.

"Chise wants to bind herself to Elias," he was looking at the fireplace as he spoke, the flames glimmering in his black eyes, "The curse that remains will keep her alive forever. She wants to make sure she won't keep living once Elias dies." Her gasp made him look over at her, she was staring at nothing, her mind clearly whirling around at the implications.

"She wants her life force bound." She spoke softly but confidentially, she'd obviously read something at some point about it. "Isn't that really dark magic?"

"How do you know about binding life force?" She peeked over at him, a bright blush on her face.

"Well... after the war, Draco felt sorry for everything that happened to me. So... he's been loaning me books from the Malfoy library." She watched as his jaw dropped.

"Draco's been loaning you some of the rarest books on magic in existence?" She bit her bottom lip and nodded. Severus was shocked, Lucius hadn't wanted to let him borrow books. He wondered how he would feel if he knew his son was lending them to a muggle-born. A part of him really wanted to be there if he ever found out.

A chuckle rose unbidden and he couldn't seem to tamp it down. Then a thought came to him and his laugh died in his throat as he locked eyes with her.

"Hermione..." did he really want to ask? He didn't really want to know, but it made sense. "Did you ever... do things to thank him?" Her brows pinched in confusion before she shoved his shoulder.

"Severus, you're joking right?”

He silently looked down at their hands. Am I being crazy?

"Severus, look at me," she waited until he finally acquiesced. "I have never done anything with Draco besides talk. We aren't even really friends. Besides, when would I have found the time, since I spent the last year trying to get you to notice me? I feel like putting the moves on your godson would have the opposite effect," she laughed with a small smile. Snape gave her a small smirk as he lifted their hands to kiss hers.

"Sorry, I just—"

"Don't be. I understand. I'd rather you ask than assume something that isn't true." she gave his hand a little squeeze and he leant over to kiss her.

“I think I’ll go to bed, would you like to join me?”

“Elias said I was welcome to his library, I think I’m going to read for a bit, I’ll be up soon,” he nodded before setting down his cup and lifting her chin up to look into her eyes. He leant in, giving her a gentle kiss before standing and walking up the steps.

XOXO

Darkness.

A disjointed woman's voice floated through the air, "don't come out, no matter what you hear." He could hear the pain that dripped from the words as he curled in on himself in the dark. A door slammed from somewhere distant yet too close for comfort and he heard springs shift above him. His eyes lifted as a door opened and he could make out the wooden slats above him that separated him from the mattress. The door closed again and the sound of muffled words drifted through the air.

"I saw—"

"It was me."

"You know better."

A thud rang out in the darkness, someone fell to the ground and then the door slowly opened. The creak was exaggerated by fear as light poured in from the adjacent room. The wood floor groaned as heavy boots staggered towards the bed.

"I know you're in here boy," the voice was measured but slurred as the footsteps got closer. His breathing sounded laboured, like every breath was a struggle.

The shadow stretched across the floor like a dementor, he felt cold and helpless, his tiny hands pulling his knees to his chest as he tried to pretend it wasn't happening. The bedsprings twanged above him as weight was applied to them before Sev saw a knee hit the floor as the man leant forward. A hooked nose came into view just before the man’s eyes, rage swimming in those bloodshot eyes as they met the boy's wide black gaze. He tried to push further away but the man's arm snapped out, taking hold of the boy’s wrist; with no restraint he dragged him out from under his hiding place.

"I'll teach you to use magic in this house."

Severus's eyes flew open as he gulped in frigid air in the dark room. Wrenching his mind from the wretched dream he stumbled into the chair by the bed and stuffed half a gingerbread man in his mouth. Coaxing his brain to re-solidify from the mass of grey goo it had been only a moment before with its favourite thing... sugar. The dream had been just as bad as usual and now that his mind was becoming more alert, he took note of how he was currently covered in sweat. His heart was also slowing down a bit and the room was uncharacteristically bright. He blinked deeply and took a look around, noticing now that it wasn't his.

Dream? I haven't had a dream like that in nearly a week...

He checked the bed and noticed he had woken alone, and for the first time in his life, that was an odd thing. He stuffed the rest of the biscuit in his mouth and tested his legs, they were wobbly but they would carry him, it seemed. Although, the way he reached and wrapped himself in his quilted burgundy dressing gown looked decidedly drunken.

The door creaked horribly as he slowly pushed it open, padding out into the hall, trying not to wake anyone in the time that late night became early morning. The hall was chilly and he was grateful for Chise’s slippers. Her insistence on everyone wearing slippers amused him at first, but he found it quite civilized.

From the top of the steps he could make out a light coming from perhaps the kitchen and made his way down, trying desperately to do so quietly.

Creak. Squeak. Groan. Shhhhh!

He covered his mouth when he realised he was shushing wooden floorboards and continued, happy to finally make it to the landing. He breathed a sigh of relief and then looked around for signs of life. He now saw the small light was coming from Elias's library and gently nudged the door open to find Hermione in one of the giant armchairs with a tome that was so old she wore gloves to handle it. Her head was lent back on the chair and her mouth seemed to be catching flies as she softly snored.

He picked up a pair of white gloves from the mantel and after pulling them on, carefully guided the book out of her hands and onto the end table. Then he plucked her up in one smooth movement and carried her to the bottom of the stairs, where he froze, thinking of all the noise he had made coming down them.

With an annoyed sigh he turned to the living room and figured the sofa was at least long enough and hopefully wide enough for them both to sleep on. Albeit not very comfortably. He sat down with her on his lap and then inelegantly fell over so he was on the inside with her on the outside. He realised he had trapped his arm too late and as he lay there looking at her dead to the world expression, his arm began to tingle.

As smoothly as he could, he rose it up to the crook of her neck and finally felt the much-needed rush of blood. His other arm brought her closer to his chest so she wouldn't fall, and he snuggled into her lovely mass of curls.

“Mmm… Sev…rus,” she curled into him, turning her face into his neck and taking a deep breath. “Love… you.”

His heart swelled as he closed his eyes, suddenly feeling light and relaxed he fell back to sleep almost instantly.

XOXO

Severus heard a thump followed by a loud scraping sound and covertly opened one eye to not startle whoever the noise maker was. The living room was in chaos, the coffee table had been moved to the side of the room, the rug was gone and then he saw Silky. She was bustling around, mopping the wooden floor and paying the pair on the sofa no mind whatsoever. He hoped this day would be better for Chise.

Chapter Text

Everything felt so damn... heavy. Elias had brought her down the stairs in his arms for breakfast and they were both surprised to find their guests sleeping on the sofa as Silky rushed about, cleaning the living room. Chise was placed at the table, a small plate of food set before her but her fork felt too heavy each time she put anything onto it.

Silky had made her tea, but she was unable to lift the cup and she sat back in her chair, pretending not to be frustrated and sad that eating was proving to be too much for her. Luckily, when Elias was about to ask why she wasn’t eating, Severus and Hermione came into the kitchen to join them.

"Is everything alright with the bed?" Chise asked, absently as she fiddled with a bit of bacon.

"Yes, fine," Snape replied stiffly as he sat across from Chise, instantly seeing her full plate, the subtle tremors in her overly tired hands. Rising again, he open a cupboard and found a smaller cup. Sitting, he carefully lifted her teacup and poured a few ounces of hot tea into it before handing it to her. She gave a weak smile in return as she took it and gratefully took a deep drink, draining the glass and handing it back to him.

Hermione and Elias watched the two as Snape poured a bit more into the cup before handing it to her again.

"I have nightmares," he mentioned idly as he sat back.

"I used to as well," Chise mused for a moment then turned to Elias. "Do we have any more woolly bug pillows?" Elias was resting his head on his hand and slightly raised it in thought.

"I believe we do," he looked over at Severus, who was again refilling her small glass, emptying her teacup. "I'll go get one," he stood.

"Woolly bug?" Severus leant forward and tugged her plate towards the middle of the table. He lifted his cutlery and buttered then cut her toast into six small bits. Then he lifted small fluffy globs of scrambled egg onto each piece. Her plate looked like they should be served as appetisers at a breakfast party.

Chise easily lifted one of the tiny bites and gave Snape a sleepy smile as thanks. "They help to give you the kind of dreams you want to have, I have found them very helpful." Her voice was quiet and slow as if she were half asleep. "Thank you Elias," he brought in a pillow and she gently flicked her finger in Severus's direction. Elias handed over the pillow and Snape looked at it for a moment before pushing back his chair.

"Thank you," he muttered as he stood to take his new pillow upstairs. Once he was in the room he sat down on the bed for a moment. He'd taken care of her without her having to ask, he knew what she needed, and it made his heart ache when he realised that tending to a woman like that came so easily but taking care of a crying woman was such a foreign concept.

He remembered days when his mother would be so weak that he would help her with everything she needed, eventually she no longer needed to ask, he knew what was expected of him. He knew how he needed to help her. She was so fragile the last time he saw her, like a delicate porcelain sculpture, her black eyes such a striking contrast to her translucent skin.

His back bowed forward as he thought of the letter, that fucking letter. So detached, as if she didn't matter. "Your mother has passed on, see if you can come home for the funeral."

He'd ignored it, threw it into the common room fire and pretended it was never sent, if she was gone he had no desire to see the one that slowly wore her down like a pebble under rapids. But he cried, he'd invented a spell to hide the sounds, to hide from the world. He became more distant from everyone; he'd said things he didn't mean and wasn't able to explain to anyone why or gain forgiveness.

So, he gave up, he'd lost all the women he'd cared for in the space of a few weeks and all the damage was done.

He felt tears tracking down his face as he tried to retreat back into his shell, occluding was his blanket and he wanted nothing more than to pull it over him and hide his feelings, there was no other way to—

"Severus, are you alright?" Hermione stood at the door, for how long, he didn't know. He quickly wiped away his tears and tried to push everything from his mind. "Severus," her gentle hand touched his cheek and he found himself frozen at her comforting touch. "You don't have to tell me... but you do need to eat," her fingers coaster over his soft skin. He let out a puff of mirthless laughter, remembering their first meal together at the Three Broomsticks as she sat down next to him.

"You're allowed to feel, Severus, don't ever listen to anyone that says otherwise," her voice was so warm as she wound her arm around him and gave him a tender hug. He felt his eyes prickling, no one had ever given him permission to feel. His father stopped it, useless emotions that changed nothing. Albus had asked him to keep protecting the boy no matter how much it hurt, rage was a feeling, resentment too, but neither healthy. The dark lord had only ever let him feel pain, physical and emotional. He’d encouraged him to hurt others, never truly healing from the past.

He looked over at her as she tipped her chin up to look into his eyes. "I love you," she murmured, leaning forward and placing a gentle kiss on his neck.

"I took care... of my mother," he whispered, so low she could have pretended not to hear it. She held him a bit tighter as he felt his body give over to grief. Finally allowing that pain to take control of him for the first time in so long.

She simply held him, not pushing him away when he knew he must be holding her too tightly. Her love was a balm to his battered soul. He was suddenly overwhelmingly grateful to Elias for helping him see what his heart already knew. After several minutes, he gathered himself with a deep breath.

He looked down at their hands as hers weaved into his. Curling his fingers around her soft hand, he leant over to kiss the top of her head. Her hand caressed his back, up and down slowly, soothing his emotions and grounding him back to earth.

“Thank you,” he whispered as he rested his cheek against her forehead.

“You deserve it,” she replied, looking at their entwined fingers with a soft smile. “You deserve so much more,” she kissed his chin, and he felt his lips curve just a bit at the edges. They stayed there for several more minutes, her rubbing his back and him getting himself back together until she thought he’d recovered. She sat back, giving a small smile, tender and understanding, before leaning in, placing a gentle kiss on his lips. He kissed her back, his hand coming up to caress along her chin. When she backed away, he saw his handkerchief in her hand and gave her a watery smile as he took it.

“I wish I could talk to her…”

“What would you say?”

“That I’m finally alright, that I’m no longer surrounded by darkness,” he looked down at her, cupping her cheek as he stared into her eyes, his black ones shining and intense. “That I finally have someone that returns my affections.” She felt her heart stutter as she blinked back her own tears before she cuddled into his arms. She held him for a long time, until finally his grip around her loosened and she felt him take a deep breath.

"Shall we go have some breakfast?" She asked, feeling a stiff nod against her head, and sat back to look at him. The only time she'd seen him cry was in his memories. She wondered if any one had ever comforted him, a wave of protectiveness filled her as she came to the conclusion that he had probably been alone his whole life. She made a silent promise to take care of him, to love him how he deserved to be loved.

She watched him wipe away all evidence of his emotions, casting the same wandless spell he'd used on her to lessen his red eyes.

He truly was everything she was hoping and so, so much more. She pulled him closer, and he wrapped his arms around her, burying his nose in her curly hair. He was strong in so many ways, she was glad that emotional strength was there as well. She finally reached down and took his hand as she stood, timidly tugging at his hand and he followed her, letting her lead him back down the stairs.

When they made their way to the landing, Elias had moved Chise to the sitting room and she was dozing on the sofa, cuddled up with Ruth. His long black tail coiled around her for warmth without putting too much pressure on her. When Elias saw Severus, he stood and made his way to the kitchen.

“Is there anything we can do for her, to strengthen her? I didn’t realise how weak she would be without the curse,” he sighed, and Snape thought for a moment as Hermione stepped into the sitting room and sat on the other side of Ruth. Careful not to wake Chise as she picked up a book from the coffee table.

Severus thought back to when he had felt weak after hours of torture. He hadn’t had to brew that finicky potion for over a year.

“Hmm,” he whispered softly as he led the way back into the kitchen. He sat once he had a few pieces of toast and began spreading marmalade. “I have an idea,” he glanced into the sitting room before he continued. “A stamina potion wouldn’t do her harm, there are some other rejuvenating potions that work over time so she would feel their effects tomorrow.” He took a bite as crumbs cascaded down onto his waiting plate. He brushed a bit from his wrist as he thought. “I created a potion to combat spell weakness. Its a tricky brew but I may have most of the ingredients at my home, we can go there to collect them if you’d like to come with me,” he looked up and Elias nodded.

“We can leave once you’ve eaten,” he nodded towards his plate and Snape took another big bite of toast. Once he’d washed his plate he went into the sitting room and motioned for Hermione to join him in the hall. “We’re going to Spinner’s end,” he began, in a soft voice to not wake Chise. “I have some potions in my personal collection that should help her,” she nodded and looked back at Chise.

“I’ll stay here with Chise,” she gave a soft smile before she hugged him. Severus looked down at her for a moment before his hands came up to hug her tightly.

“We’ll be back in an hour or so,” he assured her, and she went back to sit with Chise on the sofa as her eyes opened heavily.

“Chise,” Elias spoke from her side and she turned her head towards him for a moment. “Severus and I are going to his home, we’ll be back soon, please rest. Hermione and Ruth will stay here to help you if you need anything.” Her first reaction was to try to sit up, but he easily pressed her back onto the sofa. “Please rest my love,” she nodded softly and yawned.

Elias joined Snape in the hall as they pulled on their winter jackets, before he opened the door and followed Severus out into the garden.

“I’m sure they won’t be gone too long,” Hermione smiled as she tilted her head to look out the window behind them. A moment later a soft crack sounded as the two disappeared. “Do you need anything?”

“Could we watch something?” Chise’s head rested back on the sofa as Hermione smiled and went over to the collection of films and anime that were stored under the modest telivision in the corner.

XOXO

The soft pop by the river went unnoticed, save for a few birds that flew away at the new additions to the terrain. Severus wrapped his scarf tighter around himself as a wind whipped by. Elias took in his surroundings as they approached the road. The houses looked destitute, some of them crumbling and all of them worn.

His leather shoes splashed through a cold puddle, muddy water staining the bottom of his dark blue trousers as he followed Snape up a hill. A large derelict mill hoved into view, it seemed to loom over the town like a ghost, showing what this place might have been at one time. They reached another row of dilapidating houses, and Severus stopped in front of one, before looking around and lifting his wand. Elias felt the ripple of magic as Severus stepped through his wards and motioned for him to follow. The door had a large, frosted window in the top half and once it swung open, the mist of dust was almost overbearing.

"Sorry, haven't been here in almost a year," he shrugged apologetically at the sorry state of his home and closed the door behind the magus. He led him through a room lined in bookshelves.

"Has Hermione been here?" Severus shook his head, a bit worried about her visiting with it in this condition so he was surprised at Elias's next comment. "I think she'll like it; she seems to love books."

Severus chuckled as he looked around the room, books shimmering in stasis charms lined floor to ceiling, save a fireplace in the corner. He had two nice chairs that he'd not had a chance to cover in drop cloths before his long absence.

"That she does... perhaps she will." He flicked his wand, casting a cleaning spell that lifted a duster into the air to begin wiping down the floors and bookshelves. Another flick and a bookshelf swung out of the way to reveal a staircase leading down. Through the only other door, was the kitchen and he motioned towards the stairs, feeling the duster gently tugging his magic as they made their way down into his lab.

At the bottom of the steps was a large box with a blanket tucked into it. He kicked it aside and stepped into the cramped space. Elias saw the counters that lined the room but other than them and the cabinets that hung above them, the room was cluttered.

"Why have you not magically expanded this space?" Elias asked, stepping over a pile of used rags to where Severus was searching through one of the cabinets for the ingredients he needed. Elias went to open another cabinet and his fingers were zapped.

"I... uh, had someone living down here... I didn't like them," he gave Elias a sheepish smile when the magus chuckled. "That and it's more difficult to use some charms in muggle areas. Your home is far enough from the beaten path that we didn't need to obtain the permissions." Elias nodded and looked around the room, moving slowly to see his more precious ingredients, all tucked behind stasis charms.

Elias lifted a small bottle and blew the dust from it as he inspected it, it swirled gold that seemed to glitter. “What’s this?” Severus looked up from his perusal and huffed a sigh at the sight.

“I forgot I had that,” his eyes rolled closed and he cursed under his breath. “It’s Felix Felicis, a luck potion.” He walked over to him and held out his hand for Elias to give him the bottle. Snape held it up to the light and let the potion swirl, “it appears to still be usable… how lucky,” he commented with amusement.

“Does it give you luck in anything you do?”

“Not exactly, it more draws you towards the best option if you only listen to it,” he set the bottle back down and waved a hand over it as the glitter seemed to freeze in place under stasis. “If I would have remembered it was down here, I would have gotten it for yesterday,” he sighed again and went back to the cabinet he was originally looking through.

“May I have it?” Severus looked over at Elias as his white gloved hand held up the small bottle and Snape debated for a moment before nodding his head.

“I can brew more, if you think you can make good use of it then you may have it,” he ducked his head again, shuffling aside various bottles until he found what he had been looking for. “Right, we can go if you like, there’s not much more to my home than this,” he motioned for Elias to lead the way from the basement and he turned once at the door to put up additional wards, protecting his treasures.

He then walked over to the fireplace and cancelled the cleaning charms; it was as good as he could make it in the short time they were there. He lifted the lid to a jar on the mantel, taking a large handful of the green powder that Elias immediately recognised.

“Time to go back,” he handed Elias the powder, who stepped into the fireplace but paused as he looked up at Snape. “Ainsworth Cottage,” Severus said, answering his silent question. Elias repeated it as he tossed down the green powder and disappeared in green flame. Severus turned and lifted his wand, resetting the wards for the house and setting the Floo to only allow him to return once he’d gone through it. Then Severus stepped into the fireplace and smirked as he called out ‘Ainsworth cottage’; disappearing in a puff of green.

The scene that met him on the other side shocked him for a moment as he looked at the magus on his knees before Chise and Hermione, who were both crying softly and holding each other’s hands.

“What’s the matter?” He stepped forward and Hermione dodged her head so she could look at something in the corner, Severus turned to see they were watching something. Three girls stood on a stage, speaking in Japanese with subtitles along the bottom of the screen.

“No one came to their concert,” Chise choked back a sob and Elias stood as he looked over at the telly, Snape stepped to the side so the women could see, and their breath caught as a girl ran around the corner into the theatre. Elias stood in a huff and walked behind the sofa to the kitchen.

“You’re supposed to be relaxing, not making yourself sad,” he chided as he left the room. Severus followed his path to the kitchen in confusion as they laughed through their tears at the show. Snape found Elias in the kitchen, pulling down the tea set and starting the water boiling.

“What are they watching?”

“Love live,” Elias shrugged. “Chise always watches it when she’s ill, but it doesn’t make sense to watch something that makes you sad when you’re trying to heal.”

“It sort of makes sense,” Severus started softly, looking up at Elias as he placed his hands on either side of the stove and literally watched for the water to boil. “Humans find comfort in things like that, even if it doesn’t really make sense.” Elias turned his hazel eyes to him, and Snape tried to think of the best way to explain it. “It’s cathartic.”

“From what does it liberate?” Elias tilted his head, his blond facade still in place, his human features pinched in confusion.

“Well… it depends,” Severus took the kettle when Elias offered it and filled his own cup with the steamy water. “It can liberate you from feelings that you can’t get out any other way,” his head was dipped, and his voice was quiet as he dunked a teabag into the water to let it brew. “She’s been looking forward to this day for… how long?”

“Over four years,” Elias replied, using a spoon to further infuse his tea-leaves with the water.

“Then it makes sense that having it finally over, after such a long time, would cause certain feelings to come up. People take change in different ways. How does she normally handle it?”

“Well,” Elias thought about when she first arrived. She seemed to take to change like a fish in water and he couldn’t think of a time that she had struggled with adapting to things. “She normally accepts them quickly and without much trouble,” he peeked over at Snape, who looked at his steeping tea thoughtfully.

“I wonder how long she’s had to be that way. Why a girl so young would be so adaptable.”

“She lived with different relatives after her mother died. She said she never stayed with one more than a few months before they wanted someone else to take her. Perhaps the lack of stability forced her to be alright with whatever happened?” Severus nodded in agreement and picked up a spoon to stir in a little sugar and rile up the leaves to further colour his cup.

“Being moved around a lot sounds very difficult,” Severus looked up at Elias. “For a human anyway,” he amended before lifting his teabag from the cup and splashing in a bit of milk. “I wasn’t moved around, but my upbringing was no less unstable.” He lifted his tea and flared his not unsubstantial nostrils to inhale the lovely aroma. “My father hated me, I can’t imagine if he sent me away, even if I didn’t want to be there any more.”

“I don’t understand how one can hate someone so young, it is our duty to guide the young, not our burden,” Elias took a sip of the steamy brew and sighed.

“Perhaps,” Severus thought of his teaching style and suddenly felt ashamed. “It is hard… for some people… including myself… to make that thought a reality. Humans are not always kind Elias.”

“Yes, I know. I was hunted by humans in the past. Humans lie and can be very cruel. Nevertheless, I will never hate them, because humans have an uncanny need to grow, to become more. They stretch themselves wide to take in everything around them and work to better themselves. Their capacity to change and grow emotionally and physically is something that I truly find fascinating.” They stood in silence as Severus thought about what he’d said.

“Hmm… I must agree,” Snape lifted his tea and took a healthy sip. “I think a cathartic act assists with that need to grow. You find ways to elicit emotions in yourself that you couldn’t do unaided. It’s a healthy thing, even though it appears to harm more than help in the moment,” he looked up at Elias as the magus nodded slowly.

“I think I understand, thank you,” he smiled down at the wizard before preparing two more cups of tea for Chise and Hermione. Severus watched him as he made them each differently to their different tastes. As he finished and lifted the two teacups Severus stopped him with a soft touch to his forearm.

“Wait Elias,” Severus drew his wand and pointed it at Chise’s cup before muttering a featherlight charm. Elias looked at the tiny cup as it suddenly went weightless. He smiled approvingly before turning back to the sitting room. He dropped off the tea, making sure Chise could drink it unaided. He met Severus back in the hall to make their way to the conservatory.

The brew would take several hours to complete. They were both hopeful that it would help Chise feel more herself.

XOXO

A few hours later found Chise still in the sitting room, Hermione had gone up to take a shower, leaving her on the sofa in front of the fire. She sat, pretending to read a small book, that Hermione had charmed with featherlight , on her lap. Even the soft blanket Silver had covered her with felt heavy and she hoped that this feeling wouldn’t last the rest of her life. The book barely held her attention as she looked over at their expanded fireplace. If she did feel this way forever, she wondered what life would be like. Would Elias have to take care of her every need?

“I’d take care of you,” she heard from her side and looked down to see Ruth stepping up onto the sofa. His grim form curling up at her feet. “I can feel how weak you are.”

“Shhi,” she hissed at him, looking over the back of the sofa for Elias.

“He can see it, Chise,” Ruth blinked his big red eyes and flicked his tail. “He loves you, we’ll both take care of you, no matter what happens.”

“Thank you Ruth,” she muttered, looking back down at her book, and attempting to comprehend the same paragraph she’d read for the fourth time.

“Chise, are you hungry?” Elias asked from the door, he held a plate of something in his hand. The steamy vapours curling up from the plate carried with them the smell of fresh cooked meat. Chise’s stomach growled against her will and she gave him a sheepish smile.

“A bit, yes,” he stepped forward and sat on the small coffee table. Taking her book, he set it next to him and lifted the plate before taking a bit of what she now saw was shredded chicken and brought it to her mouth. She carefully took it from his gloved fingers and smiled. “Thank you,” he lifted a second bit, this time dipping it in gravy first before bringing the mouthwatering bite to her mouth. Ruth watched them and huffed out an awkward laugh, gaining both of their attentions.

“Ruth?” Elias leant on his hand as he set the plate on his lap. “Is everything all right?”

“Yes,” he huffed softly as he laid down his head and closed his eyes. “Hungry.” Elias tilted his head, looking down at the grim before holding out a bit of chicken, which made his eyes snap open, and he happily took the large chunk from his hand.

“Silver Lady roasted a few chickens; would you go help her make them into sandwiches?” Ruth chewed and nodded his large doggy head before slinking off the sofa towards the kitchen. “Chise, how are you feeling?” Chise shrugged and looked down at her hands, but he reached up and lifted her chin to see her glassy eyes. He leant forward and gently wrapped his arms around her frail body as she softly cried into his shoulder.

“Elias, what if this is how I am now?” Her hand came up and wrapped around his shoulder, but it felt so weak.

“You won’t be,” he stated confidently, and she sniffled louder.

“But what if I am?”

“Then we’ll take care of you, no matter how long it takes.” He sat back a bit to see her face and she didn’t look happy about his plan. “Even if I have to carry you everywhere you wish to go, even if you need help bathing or eating, anything, I’ll be here and I’ll help you.” She blushed a bit and looked down at her lap sadly.

“I don’t want to take advantage of you, to be a burden for you,” she whispered.

“Never,” his other hand came up to softly cup her cheek and bring her eyes back up to meet his deep red ones. “No matter what you need from me, I will never see it that way,” his thumb slid gently over her cheek, collecting a tear as it did.

“Thank you Elias,” her face crumpling in both sadness and relief as she fell against his chest. After several minutes he pulled back a bit and picked back up the plate.

“You need to eat, Chise, lunch will be a while, but I thought you’d like a before lunch snack,” he lifted another bit of chicken to her lips and she took it, chewing slowly as she sniffled. Elias took out a handkerchief and handed it to her, “we’ll get through this, and anything else that happens. You never have to worry about me not taking care of you, remember, you’re my puppy. People that don’t take care of their puppies aren’t good people.” She sputtered out a laugh and looked up at him, he only ever called her his puppy if she was ill or he wanted to take care of her.

Her hand lifted up and she stroked his long jaw with a watery smile before she fell back against his chest, her hand winding its way up his chest and around his neck to draw him closer. His hand came up and gently scritched his fingers over her scalp. Her head burrowed into his neck and she succumbed to the exhaustion she felt by falling asleep. Elias heard her snoring softly, looking at his awkward position, he sighed, he couldn’t move now and so plucked the last bit of chicken from the plate before throwing it into his mouth.

He heard Severus come down the stairs and step into the doorway to look at the two. Elias shrugged the shoulder Chise wasn’t sleeping against and he nodded towards the kitchen.

“Silver Lady’s making sandwiches for lunch,” Elias was absently stroking her head, ruffling her red hair. Severus watched them for a few moments. Elias was such an interesting creature, so loving and misunderstood. He turned to the kitchen where Ruth was ‘helping’ Silky prepare lunch by standing at her feet with his tail wagging excitedly. Perhaps he was hoping that his grim form would lend to him looking cuter and thus getting scraps before lunch was ready, but Silver seemed to not really notice his attempts.

Elias waited patiently, letting Chise sleep as much as she needed as he sat back a bit on the table to make himself more comfortable, but one could only be so comfortable for so long without back support. He looked down at his little human and wrapped his other arm around her back to bring her closer without putting too much strain on her.

XOXO

Hermione stood in Chise’s old room in nothing but her under-things, towel drying her hair to keep it from getting too bushy as she looked at a small mirror on the dresser. She felt like she’d been on a roller-coaster for the past two weeks, everything happening quickly and changing in every way she could think of. Not that it was bad changes, but she was tired now, she worried for Chise and was drained from their morning together. She was constantly trying to think of ways to help her and when Chise had suggested she take a shower Hermione was very grateful to have a moment to try to sort out her thoughts.

Most of the biggest things had happened within the week, well the biggest thing. Severus. She smiled just thinking about him, downstairs right now brewing with Elias. When she woke up that morning on the sofa, his strong arms bracing her so she wouldn’t tumble from it, she felt safe. She’d known he went upstairs to sleep so she must have fallen asleep reading. She often did that, it happened most in her last year of school. NEWTS were straining and demanded every ounce of attention you could possibly give to them. Although she probably put forth more effort than the rest of her class, she was bloody proud of her O’s and wouldn’t change anything she did.

As an apprentice, life was a bit easier, even with experimenting with new concoctions. She found the work soothing, and the company even more so. Brewing with Severus was a wonderful thing and she wondered absently if anything would change about their dynamic now that they were intimate. The headmistress didn’t seem to mind, neither did any of the staff for that matter. She balked as she thought about the bet.

I would have taken part in it if I could have.

She rummaged through her beaded bag to lift out some home-made vanilla and sandalwood de-frizz serum and fingering through her curls as she attempted to tame her locks. She was happy Severus didn’t seem to mind her bushy hair, in fact he seemed to love it. She spritzed a bit of violet perfume as she flipped her hair to collect it and smiled again. She pulled out some denims and a warm jumper before tugging them on, along with some wool socks and slippers, and heading back down the stairs. She found Chise in the sitting room, her head tucked under her arm as she laid out on the sofa, sleeping peacefully.

Heading into the kitchen she was met with Silver Lady picking apart some chickens and making sandwiches with every scrap she could pilfer from the carcasses. Snape stood by the front window, overlooking the snow-covered front garden. She came up next to him and he lifted his arm around her to draw her in close as he kissed her head, taking a deep smell of her freshly cleaned tresses.

“You smell lovely,” he whispered, turning his attention back to the garden as if waiting for something to happen. He took a relieved breath and she looked out to see Ruth coming up to the gate. He shifted into his human form and opened the gate with a twig of something in his hands.

“Excellent,” Severus kissed her head once more before he turned and went to the door to open it for him. “Thank you Ruth,” he reached out and took the twig, inspecting it shrewdly before turning on his heel and heading for the conservatory. Ruth stepped into the sitting room to check on Chise as she slept so Hermione followed Severus through the hall. “He found one,” Severus said to Elias as the magus bent over a cauldron and turned his wolf skull head towards him, inspecting the twig.

Snape took the twig to the work bench and grabbed a scalpel to carefully peel back the delicate outer skin, stripping the paper-thin crust from the smooth wood underneath. He sprinkled the bits into a mortar and began turning it to powder with his pestle. He turned back to Elias and crouched to the ground where the cauldron was softly bubbling. He emptied the contents into the cauldron as Elias stirred the brew.

“37 clockwise, 42 counter-clockwise, no more,” Severus instructed, his teaching voice and manner instantly taking the place of his resent casualness. It contradicted with the sight of his frock coat lain over the back of a chair as his sleeves were rolled up, showing his forearm and the silvery remains of the dark mark. Snape looked up and saw Hermione standing in the doorway. “Make yourself useful,” he pointed to the small berries on the workbench and Hermione bit her bottom lip as she rushed over and looked over the ingredients they had, instantly realising what they were making and began preparing the berries with little slices from the scalpel. Snape stood and took the two small steps to the workbench and nodded approvingly as he noticed she was snicking them into perfectly symmetrical slices.

“Good, at least we know your apprenticeship wasn’t just a ruse to get in my pants,” he whispered to her and she looked up at him, scandalized. A deep blush rising before she saw the grin on his face that seemed to take her breath away. She huffed out a laugh and turned back to her task.

“You can learn a lot from books,” she teased, and he made sure Elias wasn’t looking before playfully tapping her on the bum with his hand. She peeked up at him with a grin of her own, his mouth was tempted to sneer at her comment on his teaching.

“Cheeky witch,” he muttered, turning to crouch back next to Elias. “The colour should change in the next few minutes,” he pulled out his pocket watch and after two minutes had passed the brew changed from purple to amber. “Right, we add the berries and then let it simmer,” he held out his hand without looking and Hermione handed him the appropriate amount for the size cauldron they were using. He dropped the tiny berries into it and stood, brushing his hands together before turning to Hermione. “If you could keep an eye on it while Elias and I make some tea?”

“Of course,” she smiled, and he turned to go back into the house, Elias closely in tow. Though instead of turning into the kitchen with Severus he turned into the sitting room to find Chise still asleep with Ruth’s tail wound around her frail looking body.

“How is she?” He whispered and Ruth lifted his head from beside her thigh.

“Her sleep doesn’t feel peaceful,” Elias stroked his hand through her hair as Ruth spoke, and she shifted. Elias bent to one knee to look at her closer before he leant forward and nuzzled against her cheek.

“Elias,” she sighed in her sleep and Ruth opened his snout in a smile. Elias stroked his gloved hand over her cheek and her lips curved a bit into a soft smile before her features went slack again. He stood and went into the kitchen. Silver Lady was setting the big platter of sandwiches on the table and gave him a worried look as she nodded towards the sitting room.

“She’s sleeping, lunch will be postponed until she naturally wakes,” Silver nodded and hefted the platter towards the fridge, using her foot to open it until Severus reached over and opened it for her. She shoved the sandwiches into it before smiling at Snape. She fluttered from the room, her pink dress ruffling in her own breeze. Severus leant against the counter, his head tucking against his chest as he thought out what the next steps would be for the potion. It was an enhanced recipe that he’d been perfecting over his years of serving the dark lord, for after a meeting when he’d undergone too many curses to effectively teach the next day.

It had a finicky brewing time and he pulled out his watch to check it again as he calculated how much time he had left. The next step was the main reason he’d had to visit his home, the special base. It was something that he always kept on hand, even after the war. He’d used it during his healing process, everyone seemed surprised by his energy returning so quickly, he’d attributed it to proper rest. He wouldn’t tell anyone the real reason until he perfected the recipe, until he was done experimenting with it. He knew at least his latest version would help.

“How much longer?” Elias asked, pulling him from his thoughts. He looked back at his watch, actually seeing it now that his mind was present.

“Three minutes,” he pulled out his vial of electric blue potion and headed back towards the conservatory. He opened the door and stepped over to the cauldron that Hermione was hovering over like a mother. She cast a tempas and nodded at the countdown she’d set.

“Almost done, but I didn’t see the last ingredient,” she looked over at Severus as he held up the bright vial to his face. She reached out and he let her take it. Uncorking it, she took a sniff and looked at him intrigued. He simply plucked it back and looked at her tempas as the time ran out.

“Step back,” he advised, and she stepped back and watched as he tilted the bottle into the brew. It fizzed violently and Severus lifted his wand to cast a containment charm around it. “The fumes will knock you out for several hours if you inhale them,” he turned to her and smirked at her wide eyes.

“You made that,” she smiled and looked at him. “Will you teach me?”

“Eventually,” he reached out and brought her close. “It’s still in the experimental phase, but this version is stable enough for Chise to use,” her arms came up around him as he held her close. It felt almost silly how much he enjoyed her touch.

“How did you test it?”

“On myself,” he replied, and she pushed back from him.

“That’s really dangerous, was someone helping you?” He shook his head and looked away from her.

“I didn’t really have a choice, when you need a potion like this, you’re willing to try whatever it takes,” his eyes flicked to hers as he waited for her to understand. She looked over at the cauldron as the fumes seemed to disappear. Her teeth sunk into her bottom lip as she pulled him forward.

“I’m sorry you needed it,” she whispered, and he sighed, glad he didn’t need to explain anything further.

“It needs another fifteen minutes, Chise’s sleeping but we’ll need to wake her to take the potion whilst it’s still warm. It’s not as effective once it cools the first time,” she nodded against his chest before stepping back and setting an alarm over the top of the cauldron. Elias came into the room and looked down at the cauldron, a shimmery bubble encased it as bright numbers flickered the time left over it.

“I’ll wake her when the time comes,” Elias commented, walking to the workbench and taking a seat. The three sat in a comfortable silence as they watched the time slowly tick down. Sunlight was softly filtering through the glass walls and ceiling, filling the room with a lovely afternoon glow. Lunch would be eaten late, but none of them seemed to mind. At the one-minute mark Elias stood to go and wake Chise as Severus disbanded the containment charm and reached for a vial. Hermione handed it to him, along with a spoon that had a tapered edge that acted as a funnel.

He decanted a vial full, then stood as he held it up to the light. “It looks right,” then he looked to the brew, “seems a shame to not use it all,” he commented, and Hermione stepped over to it.

“What if we put it in stasis, it wouldn’t remain hot but if we could store it in a box charmed to keep it the current temperature then we could use it later. Then it wouldn’t cool and lose its properties, right?” He smirked at her and motioned to the other vials on the workbench before kicking a box open next to the cauldron. Heat poured into the area by their feet.

“Good job. If you would, I think this can be used again, though I dearly hope we don’t need to,” she nodded and picked up the vials to decant the remainder of the potion, carefully putting each in stasis.

Severus walked through the hallway and froze at the sitting room doorway. Chise was laying across Elias’s lap, she looked almost as lifeless as when she had run out of magic and the sight made his stomach clench. Her hand hung, almost touching the floor as Elias held the back of her head with one hand and with the other brushed the hair from her face.

“Chise,” he spoke so low, a comforting level.

“Elias,” she sighed, still fast asleep.

“Wake up my love,” her face pinched before it went slack again.

“Can’t,” she whispered, and Elias looked up at Severus as he stood frozen in the doorway. He motioned for him to come forward.

“Chise, we have something you need to drink, it’s hot, so I need you to sit up to drink it. It will help you,” he lifted her up so she was sitting forward, her body leant forward completely limp and Elias put a hand on her sternum to keep her from falling forward. Severus stepped forward and sat on the coffee table as he offered the vial to Elias. “Please, slowly give it to her,” he held the back of her head and she winced as the hot vial touched her lip.

“Too hot,” she mewled.

“I know, please drink it,” Elias tilted her head back a bit and Snape slowly tipped the vial so little dollops touched her tongue. She swallowed and accepted more until the vial was drained. “You’re done, you can rest now.”

“Bed,” she sighed, and Elias slipped his hand under her knees to lift her close to him, her limp arm hung down as her head lay against his chest. He stood and Snape rose as well.

“How long until it works?” Elias asked as Snape followed him into the hallway.

“It normally takes at least eight hours to feel the effects,” Elias nodded as he went up the stairs.

“Feel free to eat lunch, I’m going to stay with Chise,” Snape nodded as Elias turned the corner at the top of the stairs and disappeared from sight. Elias laid her down on their bed before curling in around her sleeping form. He’d never felt so afraid in his life, he felt helpless as he watched her slow breaths; her chest feebly rose and sank. She was so weak and he felt like she was fragile as sugar glass.

He tugged the blanket up around her shoulders to keep her warm and tucked her up against his chest as he drifted off to join her in sleep, hoping beyond hope that the next day would bring a change.

XOXO

Once the potion was decanted and their sandwiches eaten, Severus and Hermione spent the rest of the day looking for anything on binding one life force to another. They found themselves back at Hogwarts, combing through the restricted section until late into the night.

After finding a few that were most promising they Floo’d back to the cottage. Snape’s bed was a bit bigger but there was something about sleeping at the Ainsworth’s that was comforting. The smaller bed forcing them to sleep closer and neither of them minded one jot.

Chapter Text

Severus stayed in bed, he’d been getting up and making tea first thing, but then he realised that he didn’t need to wake up early. He could sleep in until after the sun had risen, he could stay ensconced in the embrace of Hermione. She was wrapped up in his arms as he lay next to her, listening to her breathe and relaxing. He curled his hands into fists and released them with a smile, he hadn’t felt the nerve pain he’d had because of the snake bite since Lindel touched him, and he was ecstatic. Everything felt softer, smoother, even her skin. He’d thought that it couldn’t get any better, feel any better, but it turned out that once the pain and numbness was relieved, everything felt better.

His back no longer ached and spasmed and his arms no longer tingled for no reason, it was amazing. He hadn’t taken a pain potion for three days and he couldn’t remember a time that he’d felt better. His mind drifted to Chise, watching her the day before had been difficult and he dearly hoped the potion would help her improve. The house was a comforting place to be, even in their worry.

He’d been awake for the last hour and was only now starting to get a bit restless. He leant down and kissed her temple, inhaling her wonderful smell as his arms tightened around her sleeping form. He partly wanted to wake her but another part, a selfish little voice, told him to let her sleep as long as she wanted so he could stay here and cuddle her.

Who would of thought Severus Snape would want to cuddle? Certainly not him. He nuzzled his hooked nose against her ear, and she giggled softly as she twisted in his arms to bring him closer.

“Morning,” she mumbled as she kissed behind his ear. He rolled onto his back and let her kiss her way down his neck to his clavicle. She shifted until her thighs easily slid over his hips and she kissed slowly from one side of his chest down in a wavy line that slid over one of his light caramel nipples, which she took into her mouth. She sucked gently as her tongue made circles around the wrinkled nub and he hissed as his back arched.

“Morning,” he sighed out as she continued down to his stomach. Her legs scooched back as she got to the top of his pants and he looked down at her, pulling her pillow on top of his so he could lean up and see her. She tugged them down and nuzzled her nose against him, slowly making her way down until she was able to tug them off him completely. He watched her closely as she lifted his legs up and one finger was generously laved by her tongue until it was damn near dripping. That wandering finger made its way down the seam of his balls and underneath until his breath caught.

She swirled it around his perineum in small circles as her other hand massaged his furry sack and her mouth slipped over the tip of his cock to take him deeply into her warmth. “Fuck!” he hissed as she simultaneously turned off his brain yet brought all his attention to her completely. His hand came up and his fingers ran through her hair gently. “Aaah…” his head fell back as she began to bob, and her finger went further south to circle something else entirely. His breath caught as the tip slipped into him and her tongue swirled around his cock.

Her wriggling digit sneaked deeper into him and he felt his heart stutter, her other hand moved from his family jewels to his sceptre as she set a rhythm easily. He looked down to see she was watching him avidly. “I want to fuck you so badly,” he whispered, and she smiled, opening her mouth, and dragging her tongue up across his slit with a little wriggle. “Aahh… get up here,” he growled as he reached down and dragged her up to his face. Kissing her none too gently as his hand took hold of his length to lead it into her velvet heat. She tilted her hips and he sunk in a few inches with a strangled moan.

She sat back, suddenly taking him completely and his head fell back on the pillow as his hands smoothly gripped her hips to hold her still before he started thrusting up into her warm body. Her head lolled back when he met her cervix at the top of each stroke, and she cried out as he picked up the pace.

“You feel so good,” she moaned. One of his hands gripping her tighter as he drove into her and the other moved down to tick back and forth against her slippery clit. He pulled her up suddenly and flipped them until she was face down on the bed and he was behind her. He pushed her legs together and massaged her bum before lifting her hips a bit and pushing back into her warmth as he straddled her thighs. Feeling her bum press against him each time he sank into her quim.

He reached down and wriggled his hand under her until his fingers met her aching bud and his front was pressed against her back. He didn’t realise she was moving until he felt her fingers stroking his nipples and looked down to see both her arms were crossed behind her back.

“Fuck! … If you keep that up… I’m not going to last,” he panted out as he sped up. Driving into her soundly as she mewled and circled her hips to stimulate her clit harder. He stilled, completely impaling her as her hips took what they wanted from him and his eyes rolled closed. He licked up her upper back to her neck, biting down as she circled faster until they were both groaning. “Are you close?” His stomach was wrapped in liquid fire as she brought him so close to the edge, “you feel so good…” Instead of answering him she moved faster, her fingers swirling over his nipples as she cried into the pillow.

“Uuunnhhh!” Her hips stilled and he whimpered. She laughed breathlessly as she started circling again, her hips whipping round, pressing her arse into him until he was willingly swept away with his own release. He grabbed her hip roughly as he groaned, his slick fingers leaving behind a wet trail. His head rested on her shoulder as he kissed her upper back. A few moments later he slipped free of her and collapsed next to her with a smile. She found herself wrapped in his arms as he kissed her gently.

“Good morning,” she smiled, sitting back to look at him. As he looked into her whisky eyes, he suddenly wanted to give her that ring in his jacket. Not just as a ring but as so much more and that thought scared the hell out of him and excited him at the same time. “Are you alright?” She asked, noticing his face change minutely.

“Yes,” he pulled her back to him and held her tightly. He’d never had any inclination to be with someone as strongly as he felt with her, he’d never had someone that wanted to be with him, and he hoped she would blame his quickly beating heart on their exertion. He kissed her hair and cuddled her closer as he took a few deep breaths.

XOXO

“Are you sure you’re strong enough Chise?” Elias watched her closely as she sat up slowly from bed and pushed herself up to lean against the headboard next to him.

“I don’t want to miss it,” she gave him a soft smile and he reached out his hand to run it along her cheek.

“I don’t want you to push yourself, you’re still healing,” his voice was soft but insistent.

“I won’t do much, the decorations are already finished,” she shrugged and looked down at his lap. “I’ll be careful.”

“You always say that,” he muttered and she gave him a sheepish smile.

“Well, you can watch me – “

“No, I don’t think I will,” he moved slowly, but as the bed dipped Chise lost her balance and barely caught herself from tipping over. “Hermione will stay with you today,” he said over his shoulder and she nodded. “The party will be enough of a strain on you, I want you to rest as much as possible today. You will do no magic and you will stay in bed until it’s time to prepare for the party tonight.”

“Fine,” she sat back against the headboard, her fingers picking at each other.

“Chise,” his hand rose to cover hers to stop her from mutilating her tender cuticles. “Please.”

“I will, but may I sit in the living room?” He thought for a moment and then finally nodded. “May I have biscuits?” He chuckled as her face lit up and he pulled her into his lap.

“You want biscuits do you?” He leant down and nuzzled against her temple as she laughed.

“I honestly feel better, much better than yesterday.”

“That’s not hard,” he admonished.

“Well… still,” she tried to wave him off. “I want to have Christmas cake and biscuits, and maybe some cider.” He picked her up and placed her on the bed as he rose to dress. He nudged a drawer open and threw a dress at her.

“You’d better get dressed if you want to indulge yourself,” he chuckled, pulling on his trousers, and turning to see her face beaming up at him. “I’m glad you’re feeling better, but still. Please rest today, you can have fun tonight but rest while you can. Ask me to do things, ask Silver lady, ask Ruth. We’re all here to help you.” She scratched the back of her head and nodded before she pulled off her night shirt and tugged on her dress. As it fluttered down to her knees she stepped forward and opened the bedroom door, everything felt slightly heavier and then she remembered that the curse had given her a great deal of physical strength in exchange for a shorter life.

The door swung open and as she rushed across the hall to the bathroom she almost ran into Severus as he came out of her old room. He gave an undignified yelp as she rushed passed him and closed the bathroom door.

“Morning,” Elias popped around the door frame, buttoning his shirt. Elias looked up at Snape, he had his dressing gown tied around him and he looked oddly carefree. It was the most relaxed he’d seen him so far. “Hope you didn’t need the bathroom.”

“I can wait,” Severus looked towards the still closed door. “How is she?”

“Better than yesterday,” he nodded.

“Good, that was…”

“Worrying?”

“Well… yes,” he puffed out a breath of mirthless laughter, happy just to see her walking around normally again.

“Help me watch her, will you?” Elias asked as he reached the bottom of his shirt and tucked it into his trousers, his aubergine hands not yet covered in his usual white gloves this early in the morning.

“Yes, of course,” Snape gave a little nod before the bathroom door flew open and she padded her way to the top of the stairs before bustling down them. Severus raised a brow at Elias, whose jaw had dropped as he watched her so full of energy.

“She’s going to be a handful today,” he groused, grabbing his waistcoat before following her down the steps.

“Could we have pancakes?” Chise asked Silky as Elias turned into the kitchen to see her smiling and Silver lady nodding happily. Chise saw Elias and pointed, “I’m going to sit in the living room, just like you said,” she then rushed out of the room and Silver looked up at him. He shrugged and looked over at the table where Ruth sat. Silver started cooking and Elias sat across from Ruth. “How is she? Really?”

Ruth looked up at him, there were bags under his eyes, but he looked better than yesterday. He gave the magus a half smile and sat back, “she’s very happy. It feels almost effervescent,” he laughed as he peeked across the hall. “She slept very well; she has a lot of energy today.”

Elias folded his arms and leant on the table for a moment as he slowly shook his head. “So, she’s better? She isn’t pretending?”

“She can’t pretend with me, she’s better, really.”

“Good then, she can still give it a while before she starts doing too much,” he rose and as he did Silver handed him a plate of pancakes. “Thank you Silver Lady,” he took the plate and headed out into the living room with syrup and cutlery. He barely set the plate down when Chise lifted it and began cutting up her food with an alacrity beyond anything Elias had seen her show. She was normally quite sedate when she ate but it seemed that either the potion had done something drastic to her appetite or she’d been taking lessons from Ruth. If Elias had eyebrows they would have been high as he sat slowly down beside her, but by the time he’d sat and made himself comfortable she was turning to him with the empty plate.

“May I have more?” She beamed at him and he nodded before standing and taking her plate back into the kitchen. They were going to need more food if she kept up this pace. Severus joined him in the kitchen a few minutes later and they decided to head into town within the hour to collect some food for the party and also for Chise’s increased appetite. Silver quickly loaded her plate with a high stack of pancakes which he took to Chise, who happily set to cutting into them.

“Side effect,” Severus said from the doorway. “I always got funny looks the day after taking the potion, increased hunger will probably last for another few hours. Though I think taking a second dose will probably do you good, if you’d like to, before you go to bed that is,” Chise nodded and Snape bit back a chuckle at how full her mouth was.

“We’re going into town in a bit, is there anything you’d like us to pick up?” Elias asked as he sat on the coffee table across from her.

“Chocolate biscuits.”

“Like digestives?”

“Or hobnobs,” she smiled and swallowed her mouthful. “Flapjack,” she looked up at the ceiling as if looking down a list of her favourite foods. “Fish and chips, and… a sausage on a stick,” she nodded her head once as if giving herself a pat on the back.

“Is that all?” Snape smiled as he watched her eat.

“Mmhmm,” she nodded, reaching for the syrup to cover her breakfast in sugary goodness. “Extra bits from the chippy.”

“You mean scraps,” Severus corrected with a smirk. Chise stopped chewing and looked over at him.

“Either,” she smiled and Snape turned to go back into the kitchen. Elias followed him as he pulled down a teacup and started the water boiling.

“What are scraps?”

“The bits of fried batter at the bottom of the fryer,” Snape looked over and Elias’s eyes had curved into a half-moon that made him look like he was smiling.

“How are you so thin, if you ate like that when you’d take the potion?”

“Well, because I didn’t eat very much at any other time,” he shrugged awkwardly. “I think Hermione’s taken it as her duty to fatten me up, I’ve gained a stone since last year,” he looked down at the teabag he’d thrown into his cup with a little smile. “She left me chocolates,” he opened the fridge for the milk as the water began boiling and Elias poured it into their cups. He brought down two more for the ladies and once they were prepared, they headed into the living room to find Hermione sitting with Chise and her empty plate sitting on the table.

“Would you like anything from town?” Snape asked as he handed over Hermione’s cup of tea.

“Strawberries,” she smiled, and Severus smirked down at her.

“With chocolate,” Chise quickly amended.

XOXO

A few hours later, the flames flared green in the sitting room and they heard a familiar voice call out.

“Hello!” Harry stepped to the door and peered out into the hall, then to the kitchen to see Hermione and Chise drinking tea.

“Harry!” Hermione jumped up and pulled him into a hug, her smile beaming.

“I’m here too,” Ron mumbled from behind them and she released Harry to pull Ron into a hug too.

“I’m so glad you two made it,” she motioned to the kitchen table as Harry adjusted his glasses and noticing the pegs on the wall, pulled off his cloak and swung it over one. Silver Lady rushed out of the room, only to come back a few moments later with slippers in her hands and an encouraging smile on her face. Ron and Harry looked at each other and shrugged as they took the slippers. As they sat and changed, Silver set out more teacups before snatching their shoes and taking them back to the front room.

“You have a lovely home,” Harry smiled, lifting his teacup, and taking a deep drink of earl grey heaven. “Do you need any help with setting up for tonight?”

“I’m not sure,” Hermione looked around and thought about the food and treats they had made earlier. “I think all that’s left is the punch.”

“Why not eggnog?” Ron offered, looking between the two woman as they exchanged confused expressions. “I went to America last new years with my family and we had eggnog, it’s not that difficult to make from scratch.” Hermione’s mouth dropped open at the thought of him making something from scratch.

“You know how?”

“Ginny does.”

Of course she does.

“When is she coming?” Harry looked over at Ron for confirmation.

“Umm,” Ron looked around the kitchen until he found a clock. “She told mum she’d be heading over here in about an hour.” Chise lifted her cooling cake from the counter and brought it over to the table to decorate.

“Chise, you’re still supposed to be resting,” Ruth came around the corner and shifted his tail to and fro in an agitated manner that simply had the red head blushing.

“Then don’t tell him,” she whispered, Hermione got up to grab the icing and sprinkles before Chise could stand back up.

“It’s not just him that cares about you,” Hermione admonished as she laid out the piping bag and icing. “Harry, would you like to decorate the cake?” Chise looked up at her and then at Harry, who shrugged and cleared his throat.

“So… where’s Snape?”

“He and Elias went into town to get a few last-minute snacks,” Hermione said as she filled the piping bag and handed it to Chise.

“They may have eggnog in the shops here,” Ron said, lifting the small teacup and take a sip of the steamy beverage.

“Do you think?”

“It’s worth a shot,” Ron shrugged, and Hermione thought for a moment. “Do you think they’ll still be on the walking path, Chise?” She thought for a moment and looked at the clock.

“They probably still are, why?” Hermione stood and concentrated on a happy thought as she muttered the spell for her Patronus. What leapt from her wand had all of their mouths gaping open. In place of her normal otter flapped a swan, it danced in the air, waiting patiently for her to give it her orders and she snapped out of the daze when it pecked close to her face to get her attention.

“Go to Severus with this message,” she watched as the swan flew gracefully out of the closed window and disappeared around the corner.

“Blimey, Hermione, since when has it been a bird?” Ron looked at her and she pulled her gaze from the window as her Patronus disappeared.

“I… I don’t know,” she sat down and tried to remember the last time she’d used it.

XOXO

The snow shimmered as they walked along the path, the afternoon sun still high in the sky, affording them some warmth amidst the chilly surroundings. Snape adjusted his scarf up around his face and took a deep breath. Even though the scent she’d infused the yarn with for his last birthday had warn away, the scent of Hermione could still be faintly smelt, and he was absolutely enamoured with that smell.

“Severus, isn’t that yours?” Elias had paused to turn when he felt magic and Severus turned to see the spectral swan flowing through the air. It stopped a foot from his face and opened its mouth.

“Severus look at my Petronus!! Also, could you look for eggnog in town?”

Snape chuckled at her excited voice before the swan disappeared into blue vapours. “Hers changed too,” he smiled to himself as he turned back to the path.

“Do they change often?” Elias asked and Severus shook his head.

“They only change when something big happens, the spell is sprung from a memory. If the good memory changes, it is possible for its form to change.” Elias looked over at him, his blond hair bouncing since they were so close to town. “My memory used to be of my first love,” he looked down and tried to remember when the memory changed. “Now the strongest happy memory I have is Hermione. For my whole life, my patronus matched Lily’s, a doe. I’m glad hers changed too, I didn’t want mine to be an otter,” he chuckled, and Elias looked ahead.

“Lily?” He waited for Snape to decide what he would say.

“She was my best friend, well… my only friend, when I was growing up. I loved her very much, but she couldn’t look past some of my proclivities.” He looked down as he stuffed his hands into his pockets. “I can’t say I really blame her. Then I called her a very bad name, no matter how much I apologised she wouldn’t forgive me,” he shrugged and looked at the path ahead.

“If you called Hermione that name, would she forgive you?”

“I would never call her that, so I hope to never find out,” he looked over at Elias. “The word is carved into her arm,” he muttered, and Elias stopped.

“Why?” Severus turned and looked up at the trees above as he took a deep breath.

“The war. There was a horrible woman,” I’ll leave out that it was Draco’s aunt. “She tortured her… for too long, she went through things that none of her friends have had to endure. Things that… I’ve endured. But that bitch carved the word mudblood into her arm.” He stepped closer to Elias on the path and pulled at his scarf to show him the snake bite scar. “If Lindel’s healing had changed my scar, I would have insisted that he help Hermione, but it only healed the nerves.” He huffed a mirthless laugh, “’Only’, I’m extremely grateful to have my nerves healed, but I wish there was something I could do to remove that word from her arm.”

“I’ve never seen it, I’ve seen her wear short sleeves,” Elias looked away and then back at Snape, “glamour?” Severus nodded and Elias lifted his hand to his chin in thought. “There must be something we can do,” he started walking again and Severus fell into step with him.

“There is so much I wish I could do for her,” Snape continued as they walked, suddenly remembering what Elias had said about removing Draco’s memories of Hermione and him in his ingredients cupboard. “She removed her parent’s memories of her, she doesn’t even know where they are, somewhere in Australia.”

“Chise,” Elias muttered as he thought about how she was the opposite to him in magic. “She can cleanse when I only corrupt. I can rid people of memories; I wonder if she can re-instate them?” Severus thought about that as the town came into view.

“We’d have to find her parents first… actually,” he froze for a moment. “There are two people that we could test her magic on, they don’t remember anything and have been in that state for almost twenty years now.”

Elias nodded and smiled, “Sounds like a worthy endeavour. I’ll talk to Chise about it and we can do some experiments.” Snape nodded and felt a bit of hope as they walked into the town.

XOXO

A knock at the door had Ruth changing instantly into his human form and rushing to answer it. When he opened it, he smiled up at his blond paramour. Draco stepped just inside the door to close out the winter chill, and without looking into the kitchen, cupped Ruth’s face and leant down to kiss him hello. Ruth happily kissed him back until they heard a cough from the other room.

“Get a room,” Ron coughed out with an awkward smile. “Malfoy,” he greeted, once Draco had looked into the kitchen with a sort of smug smile before he looked down and removed his soft leather shoes to step into a pair of slippers he’d brought. They looked expensive.

“I come bearing gifts,” he smiled at Chise as he set a handful of bags on the kitchen table next to the cake she was decorating. “How are you feeling,” he asked her as he knelt by her chair. It was the most concerned they had ever seen the pureblood, both Harry and Ron looked at each other to make sure they weren’t misunderstanding what was happening.

“I’m better today,” she smiled, and he patted her shoulder gently before rising again and turning to the rest of the people in the room.

“Excellent,” he softly said to her. “Hello Potter,” he held out his hand and Harry smiled wide as he shook it. “How’ve you been? Enjoying Auror training?”

“It’s alright,” Harry replied with a shrug. “Happy Christmas Malfoy,” Ron held out his hand and Draco took it, shaking it stiffly.

“Chise, the bags are all for you, you should open them before anyone comes.” She looked up at him as she wiped her hair out of her eyes, leaving behind a streak of frosting.

“What is it?” She set aside her pastry bag and lifted one of the bags. Pulling out a box with a gold leaf label and opening it she found leather slippers. She looked up at him with a dumbstruck expression.

“Now we’ll match,” he laughed, motioning to his own slippers. “There’s a pair for everyone that will be here tonight, a bit of luxury.” He held out his arm for Ruth, his black suit had a Slytherin green lining that became visible as he moved his arm. Ruth happily went to his side and smiled down at a box that Draco pulled from one of the bags. “These are yours; I’ll leave mine for when I visit,” he whispered into his shaggy hair.

“So,” Ron cleared his throat. “You’re officially head of Slytherin then?” Draco smiled and nodded.

“Since last September, Snape has been kind enough to let me come to him if I need anything, but I’d say it’s going pretty well.”

“What’s it like, being a head of house?” Harry asked, just remembering that Snape skulked around in a foul mood and snapped away points from every house but his own.

“It can be… stressful at times, but for the most part it’s actually fun. It was a bit difficult the first few months but in October I sort of laid down the law with anyone that wouldn’t heed my warnings,” he shrugged. “Luckily, most people listen to me simply because of who I am,” he flashed his winning smile and Ron rolled his eyes as he sat at the table.

A spectral swan flapped fluidly through the wall and stopped in front of Hermione; if they were shocked by hers changing they were even more so hearing Snape’s voice come out of the swan.

“We’ve collected everything, including the eggnog. We’re on our way back my dear, see you soon.”

Harry’s mouth dropped open and he looked over at Hermione. The swan dissipated before them and Harry was almost too dumbfounded for words. On top of that, Snape’s voice was so calm and… nice? He probably didn’t know that everyone was there yet. “He must really love you,” Harry muttered to Hermione as she blushed brightly and smiled.

“His Patronus changed?” Draco said, sounding bored, looking over at her, he winked, “I wonder why that is, hmm?” Ron, not understanding their private joke explained that hers had also changed. Draco looked at her knowingly and she plopped down in the chair next to Chise, wishing she could disappear into the background.

XOXO

Severus watched his swan fly away and disappear down the lane towards the house. Elias had been eyeing him the entire time they were in town and Snape knew he had something he wanted to ask. A part of him wanted to get it over with, but another part didn’t want to spoil the wintery calm around them. Severus looked over at him for a moment and found a curious expression on the magus's face.

“What is it, Elias?” He asked, looking back at the path.

"The things you bought in London. What are they... for?" Severus continued to look straight ahead; his heart began to strike up a faster tempo as he adjusted the shopping bag in his arms.

"Well..." Severus swallowed and felt his Adam’s apple bob behind his scarf. "What... specifically... are you asking about?" Snape had also bought a crotchless teddy and secretly hoped he would ask about that instead.

"The um... striped stick and wooden spoon," he looked behind them before turning back to the wizard’s apprehensive black eyes. Severus was deadly silent as he thought about how to answer. It wasn't a matter of answering it or not, he knew Elias wouldn't back down when it came to satisfying his need for knowledge. "I'm assuming they have something to do with... intimacy, but I can't figure out what. I've thought about it since that day, so I wanted to ask."

"They're for... special activities."

"I gathered that," Elias gave a little huff and adjusted the bag of groceries he carried.

"Spanking," Severus mumbled, but he knew the magus's ears wouldn't let him miss the word. He saw Elias staring at him from the corner of his vision and felt his cheeks heat.

"Like a punishment?" Severus gave a solitary nod as answer. "Do humans often punish their partners?" Elias thought for a moment and Snape turned to him.

"It's different than a punishment, and no humans don't punish their partners... it's for... well... you get something from it, it helps."

"How could hitting someone help them?" Severus winced and reminded himself that he needed to explain it in the plainest words he could whilst also leaving out as much detail as possible.

"It's not hitting per se... It's a spanking, it's something you ask for," Severus was starting to feel quite anxious. "I want to make it clear that beating your partner and spanking your partner are two extremely different things." Elias gave him a dubious look through his human facade.

"How?"

"One is not wanted... and one is. That's the difference. If I were to hit Hermione," the thought alone made him grimace. "Then I would hurt her, physically and emotionally. But if we talked about it before, that part is very important, and she said she would like me to spank her, then it would help her, it would give her something needed."

"What?" Elias stepped closer and Severus thought for a moment how best to describe it. He looked up into the sky as he thought, the wind gently blowing bits of snow around above them and the naked tree limbs swayed in a synchronized dance with each other.

What do you get from it? Suddenly it came to him and he looked Elias in the eye as he spoke.

"Absolution," He watched Elias carefully until his brow lifted from its furrow and his expression lightened.

"Do you... spank Hermione? Is that why you bought those things?"

"Um... no," his hand was by his side now and swayed as his palm gently hit his thigh. "I bought them for her... to use on me... if that's what she would like to do." He quickly turned and started walking down the path again.

"Doesn't it hurt?"

"I suppose it will," Severus mused as they continued to walk. He thought of all the times she'd taken her friends to task; she could hurt people with little compunction. Just look at the tiny divot in Draco's otherwise perfect nose. "Although… not all pain is bad. I know that sounds stupid," he grumbled as an afterthought. Elias was quiet for an inordinate amount of time and they were nearly back at the house before he asked his next question.

"Do you think Chise would like to be... spanked?"

"That is something you need to ask her," Severus readjusted his shopping bag and turned again to Elias. "This isn't something that everyone enjoys, and there are parts of it that if not done correctly can cause unintentional harm. You need to talk about it, it’s not just spanking... there are lots of things that fall under the same umbrella and if you want to know more, then do research. I'm not an expert," Snape laughed awkwardly for a moment. "I've only been exploring it since being with Hermione. She surprised me the first time, though the second time... I knew a bit more what was happening and found that it was... something I wanted to pursue."

"Did Hermione not talk to you first?"

"Hermione didn't start with spanking, in fact she hasn't at all yet." Snape began walking again and motioned for Elias to follow. "She started with a suggestion, something that hinted at what she wanted. Like she was testing the waters, making sure I wasn’t averse to the idea."

"What did she want?"

"I believe that is too personal," he looked over at Elias as he nodded understandingly. Elias thought that asking what she had done would probably be too personal too.

“What are some of the other things ‘involved’?” Snape took a deep breath and thought as they continued to trudge through the snow.

“Bondage, discipline, sadism, and masochism are the main things. Dominance and submission are implied, meaning one person is in charge and the other submits.” He shrugged uncomfortably and Elias nodded as he thought over everything.

“Bondage?”

“Yes.”

“Like tying someone up?” Severus nodded in confirmation and Elias thought about that. “I surround Chise with my vines… does that count?” Snape stopped dead and looked at the magus with his mouth slightly open.

“How?” Elias looked up and down the path for a moment and pushed a few vines from his flesh, they bled into purple the further away they got from his human glamour. Severus reached out and stroked one and it darted away from his hand.

“They are... quite sensitive to touch when they don’t have the thorns,” Elias explained, and Snape smirked.

“You’re quite the interesting creature,” he laughed, and Elias pulled the vines back into himself with an awkward shrug.

“So, does it count?”

“Do you restrict her movement with them?”

“No, but they help me… manipulate her body to suite my needs.”

“Yes, I think it counts,” Snape gulped at the thought. They began to walk again. Snape raised a brow in thought. “Have you ever suspended her with them?”

“In mid-air?” Snape nodded and looked over at Elias, who was looking off into the distance. “No, but that’s a good idea,” Severus could see his mind working behind his human facade. They were both lost in thought for the remainder of the way home.

XOXO

Chise had finished the cake and as they opened the door they could hear the laughing voices in the kitchen. Elias dissipated his shoes and they reformed, taking the place of his slippers that were suddenly covering his big feet. Severus huffed as he did it manually, there had to be a spell that did the same thing, but he’d never seen a reason to learn or create one. Such a simple thing. Elias stepped into the kitchen and Chise instantly rushed to hug him.

“We’ve collected the offerings you requests,” he smiled as he leant down to kiss her gently, his hand raising up to brush across her cheek as he stood back up and looked at her. “How are you feeling?”

“Better, I feel almost normal,” she beamed, and he patted her shoulder.

“Who makes the eggnog?” He asked, turning to the room and Ron stood, scooching in his chair as he walked over to the counter. He zeroed in on the red head as he followed him over.

“I need a punch bowl,” he looked up at the magus uneasily, even in his human glamour he was so tall it was intimidating. Elias opened a cabinet and found a small decorative bowl.

“Here, enlarge it,” Elias said as he leant his hip against the counter top and watched Ron carefully as he pulled out his wand and waved it over the bowl before it shattered. Harry stood and walked over with a sigh.

“Reparo,” They watched as it reformed, then Harry waved his wand, and the bowl grew four times the size.

“I’m better with defensive charms,” Ron looked up at Elias sheepishly before he took the eggnog cartons out of the bags and began filling the bowl with them. “Do you have any brandy or whiskey?” Elias tilted his blond head before walking towards the study.

“Follow,” he called, and Ron scampered after him. In the library, there was a globe in the corner and Elias waved his hand over it to reveal a line which bifurcated the circumference of the world. He pushed it open and hidden within were bottles of many different kinds of alcohol.

“Wicked,” Ron smiled as he started lifting the bottles one at a time.

“Not that one, it was the first one I purchased, and I only drink it with Lindel,” Elias smiled down at the 250-year-old bottle of bourbon.

“Are you a collector?”

“Not really, I buy them every now and then but have never finished one of them,” he shrugged with one shoulder as he stood tall and looked towards the door.

“I ask because some of these are really old,” Ron lifted a 200-year-old bottle of gin and then looked at the magus as his gloved hand hovered in front of his face.

“Take it, let’s have a good party,” Elias opened his hand to show a shimmery potion that Ron instantly recognised.

“The best,” he replied as he took it and stuffed it into his breast pocket.

“You may use whatever you like, except the bourbon,” he said before he turned to leave. Ron felt spoilt for choice as he looked through all of the old bottles, finally settling on a 90-year-old scotch and a 128-year-old whiskey. He closed the globe and the line disappeared again as if it were never there. Ron grinned and poked at the globe, but it felt completely solid, whatever charm was used made it completely hidden. He made his way back to the kitchen, his arms heavy with properly nice alcohol.

XOXO

Chise watched excitedly as Stella pinned and curled Ginny's hair. She was next, Hermione's was the easiest for once, she pinned up her hair at her crown, her natural curls spiralling cheerfully around her face.

Stella had been greatly helpful at the shop, insisting that the outfit wouldn't look as good without the proper layers. She had been right. Each of them wore chemises with stays cinched comfortably over the top. She had scolded Chise playfully when she started tight lacing Hermione, asserting that comfort and breathing were just as important as silhouette. It felt like proper dressing instead of fancy dress, Chise was getting excited.

She knew Draco was downstairs, transfiguring the men's clothes to look the part. Well tailored, double breasted tailcoats with waistcoats. She looked forward to seeing Elias in his party outfit.

"Okay ladies," Stella smiled when she finished Ginny's hair. "I need to go home and get ready. And grab my Karaoke machine." Ginny turned to Chise as Stella left again.

"Right, let's curl up all that fringe." Ginny held up the curling iron, feeling confident—regardless of lack of experience.

Hermione looked at Chise with a smile. "Don't worry, I have burn cream if we need it." Chise's lips turned into a thin line at that thought.

Stella skipped down the stairs and smiled into the large sitting room. Draco had taken the pictures she'd given him and the men all looked ready. I'll be back in an hour," she called over her shoulder as she changed her shoes and threw her jacket on.

“If you need help let us know," Elias said as he came around from the kitchen.

"I may need help with the karaoke machine," she smiled up at him as she fastened the last button.

"I'll see who we can send in about a half hour," Elias lifted the fob from the bottom of his waistcoat. He checked the time on his pocket watch to make sure he knew when they would leave.

"Thank you Elias... that outfit suites you," she chuckled at his pinking cheeks. He gave her a nod and she turned to open the door as a group of people entered the front garden.

“Chise!" Elias called up the stairs. "Your friends are here." He tried to sound pleasant and straightened his cravat as Snape, seeing the gaggle of girls, rushed up the stairs to avoid them for the time being.

They seemed to have all bought the same dress and decorated it with different colour sashes. Draco rushed into the hall and with an inviting smile ensured they changed into the gifts he’d brought before going back into the sitting room.

XOXO

The kitchen was bustling now as Harry and Hermione began preparing charcuterie platters. Chise was helping Draco and Ruth with final touches in the sitting room, ensuring the lights were all bright and arranging snacks and biscuits on little trays. Severus checked his pocket watch, seeing that more people would be arriving shortly. He’d felt very odd when he first came in to see everyone in regency style dress, he didn’t look out of place for once, it was surreal.

The fire flared to life with green flame as Neville stepped into the sitting room, Draco held up his hand to stop him before his wand was Accio-ing over a pair of slippers for him. Neville looked down at the leather slippers and raised his eyebrows.

“Take off your shoes,” Draco whispered to him and Neville immediately removed his shoes to carry them over to the door and put them with the others.

Elias stopped him at the door with a smile. "Neville, welcome." The young man placed his shoes by the door and grinned up at the magus's blond glamour.

"Hello Elias, anything I can do to help?" His hazel eyes flitted around the sitting room and noticed that Stella hadn't come back yet.

"Actually, we have a family friend that could use some help getting here. Would you be willing to go collect her?" Neville looked around at the crowded sitting room, full of people he didn’t know and nodded.

"Could I borrow a coat? I only brought this tailcoat since I was coming through the floo." Elias placed his hand on the young man’s shoulder and a long blue riding coat crept from his neck to the floor. Neville looked down, liking the way it went with his yellow and blue waistcoat. "Thank you Elias, now where is her home?"

After he gave Neville the directions, the sandy haired man tipped his top hat and refastening his shoes made his way out into the snow. As the door closed behind him, he heard the pop of apparition.

"Neville," Luna greeted and he stopped dead to gape at her. She wore a regency court dress—her top was tight fitting and elegant in juxtaposition to the skirt portion of the gown. It was a giant puff as if her torso was the top of a giant round cake. Her hair could only be described as a hair volcano, a high bun on the top that seemed to be swallowed by braids. "Leaving already?"

“Hi Luna," he smiled, holding out his hand. "I’m going to collect one of Chise's friends." She gave him a knowing smile as she took his hand, letting him lead her to the door before he turned to begin the trek again.

"I have a good feeling about her," she said casually as she rang the doorbell. Chise heard it ring and rushed over to answer it. Luna stepped into the house; she wore purple glasses with what looked like wings on both sides.

"Your home is very crowded," she smiled at Chise, who handed her a pair of slippers and noticed that she had already slipped out of her shoes. She looked around, not only seeing the people but all the little fae that called the Ainsworth cottage home. "I'm glad they're all the nice ones," Luna gave another whimsical smile before pushing her feet into the proffered slippers.

“Elise scares away the dangerous ones,” Chise smiled happily at her quirky friend. “Everyone’s in the living room.”

XOXO

Neville looked over his shoulder as the door opened for Luna and he opened the garden gate. He pulled the riding coat closer to him, happy that he wore long trousers but wishing he'd wore boots as his leather shoes crunched through the snow. Luna had been a sweet girlfriend to him, but he was certain that was because she was a sweet person.

After he'd taken the apprenticeship with Sprout and made it clear that travel made him anxious beyond reason, she’d talked to him for hours. And while they both liked each other very much, they both wanted different things out of life. She longed for adventure, whereas he wanted stability of a home and regular job. They were still close, but they hadn't been more than friends since the summer after the war.

His thoughts had completely distracted him when he realised that he was standing at the door of the person he was meant to be picking up. He gulped, glad that his feet worked their own magic to get him there safely. He knocked on the door and looked down at the paper as it opened.

“Are you here from the party?" A tall man asked Neville as he opened the door wide.

"Yes, I'm here to help Stella," he was barely done with the sentence when he heard a girl calling down the stair.

"Dad, could you let him in? I'll be right down," Her father smiled and motioned him in. Neville plucked the tophat from his head and held it at his side.

"You have a lovely home," he rocked back and forth on his heels, feeling more like he was picking her up for a date than just taking her to a party. When She came around the top of the stairs, a part of him wished that were the case. Her golden hair bounced in its curls around her whiskey eyes and he felt his heart pick up when she smiled at him.

It took him a moment to see the Karaoke machine weighing down her arms. "Here, I can take that," he quickly put his hat back on and she handed it to him.

“Thank you," she grinned, and the heavy machine suddenly felt lighter in his arms. She threw on a wool double breasted jacket that reached her ankles and fastened her bonnet before calling to her parents to not wait up. He couldn't believe his luck, she was beautiful and they talked easily the whole way back to the house. They could hear the laughter from the front garden and Neville was a little nervous he'd lose her when they got inside.

"If you want... I can walk you home," he glanced over at her and the happy look on her face made him blush.

"I'd love that," she opened the door and the laughter overtook them.

“Chise!” Stella called across the hubbub and Chise smiled as she shoved her way to the door to lead them back through the throng.

“Stella,” she smiled as she looked over at Neville. “I see you’ve already met Neville,” Chise pointed to one of the plugs in the corner of the room. “I placed a containment charm to protect it from magic. I know that may sound odd, but mage magic doesn’t disrupt electronics,” she laughed when Neville looked at her funny. Stella stepped over and put her hand on Neville’s arm as he set the box down.

“I can set it up from here, thank you,” she smiled, her brown eyes peeking up at him coyly, and he blushed a bit as he smiled back.

Neville wasn’t sure what to do with himself and Draco could tell as Stella continued to put her moves on him. Draco wrapped his arm around Ruth and smiled at them as he looked around the room. Chise and Stella finished setting up the karaoke machine and tested it to make sure everything was working, just to be sure, Chise extended the containment charm to encompass the machine.

Ruth gave her a thumbs up when he could clearly hear her voice through the speaker throughout the entire living room.

The eggnog started flowing, everyone laughing and enjoying themselves as they started taking turns singing. They all tried to do proper dancing, but only the wizards knew how, so everyone spread around, dancing and socializing in different parts of the house. Chise took a deep breath and smiled, finally she had her Christmas wish, surrounded by friends and the night was only just starting.

Chapter Text

Severus picked up the little velvet bag and tumbled the rings out for the nth-teen time. Watching as they shimmered in the light, the black tinge to his next to the gold sheen of hers was lovely and he looked forward to wearing them… so he could ensure her safety. He slipped the ring onto his ring finger and looked down at it.

This is entirely too soon.

He tilted his head as he looked down at the bit of gold, scoffing inwardly at the fact he was wearing a Gryffindor colour without shame. He lifted the silver ring with the black sheen and twisted it in the light, wondering if she would wear it.

Even if she does, I wonder which finger she’ll pick to wear it on.

It flickered in the light and he felt it vibrate softly, in fascination he thought about her possibly throwing the ring at him and the ring vibrated a little harder.

Emotional danger… I suppose is still danger. Then he paused and looked down at the little unassuming bit of magicked metal. She’ll know when I’m stressing about things… is that a wise thing to let her know? He looked up at the little mirror above the dresser the ring sat on. Who am I kidding, she can tell by looking at me when I’m unhappy… how the hell does she do that when no one else can?

Perhaps… she actually cares about you… that would be new.

Indeed…

He slipped the ring back off and secreted them both back into the little bag before pushing them into his frock coat pocket. He took a deep breath and looked down, his all black looked ridiculous with Chise’s turquoise slippers on his feet. He pointed his wand at them, at least if they were black they’d go better with his attire.

When he opened the bedroom door he immediately heard singing and laughter and wondered if this was really happening. He hadn’t been to a private Christmas party in… four years? He tried to remember the last Malfoy Christmas party that he’d attended. This affair would be quite different based on the company and atmosphere. He stepped down the noisy staircase and smirked when he could hardly hear the wood yielding to his feet over the jovial sounds coming from below.

Once at the bottom of the stairs he stepped into the kitchen to see three very drunk young people.

“Snape, Snape, Severus Snape,” Harry hiccuped as he clinked glasses with Luna.

“Dumbledore!” She giggled.

“Ron Weasley,” Ron joined in and they both looked at him before bursting out with drunken laughter. Snape walked in as they started over and raised an eyebrow at the trio.

How long have I been upstairs?

“What are you doing?” His amused tone made Harry laugh louder.

“Listing our favourite wizards,” he hiccuped, and Severus felt his cheeks heat a bit.

“Figures you’d say your own name,” he sneered down at Ron, trying to change the subject.

“I thought we was just listing cool people,” then when he realised he was still complimenting himself, laughed until he was slumped in his wooden chair. Snape rolled his eyes and left the room as Harry began the ‘song’ again.

In the living room, all the furniture had been pushed back to the walls and a karaoke machine had been set up in the corner. Chise was singing something in Japanese as she danced around in her empire waisted dress. Hermione, Stella, and Alice were dancing back up to her as she belted out the lyrics. Severus looked around and noticed that every room was full of drunken youths and walked over to the big punch bowl of eggnog. It had been charmed by Hermione to stay cold no matter how long it was left out.

He picked up the ladle and poured some into a cup before bringing it up to his very attuned nose. Anyone could have smelt the amount of alcohol that was in the brew. It smelt like eggnog for baby dragons… minus the chicken blood. He looked around the room and tried to deduce who could have spiked it, then he noticed that Elias was sitting in his big chair up against the window with a glass in his hand, laughing along with Renfred as they watched their apprentices enjoying themselves. He looked down at the cup in his hand and wondered… what would be the worst thing to happen if he just… let go?

Everyone else seemed to be having fun and he realised that this is how it always was. Every party at Hogwarts was spent with him in the corner, watching them get tipsy and trying to figure out who had brought the drink. He looked up and saw Hermione smiling at him, her cheeks flushing pink and he decided that just this once, he would party with them all. He took a deep drink of the eggnog and almost immediately felt a bubbling in his chest.

He felt a hand wrap around his and looked down at it as if it were something alien, something he’d not ever had. Hermione lifted his hand and his eyes with it to her lips, she planted a soft kiss to his lithe knuckles and smiled. His hand turned and cupped her cheek, gliding over the velvety flesh and feeling the heat from her blush softly spotted with brown freckles. He downed the rest of the drink and set the cup down as he took her in his arms.

Harry was up, wobbling into the room and over to the karaoke machine to pick the next song. It was a slow one and he sang as best he could, but bless him it wasn’t what anyone would call good. Severus swayed with Hermione and noticed that Elias and Renfred had done the same with Chise and Alice. Harry tried to carry the notes, but he kept dropping them. Snape couldn’t take it any more, stepping over to him, he took the mic from him. The look on Harry’s face as Snape began to sing was one of complete shock.

Severus would blame the eggnog if anyone asked, but his baritone voice sang the song much smoother and even Harry stepped away from the machine and fell into a chair. Snape concentrated on the words on the screen for a while and then when the chorus came on again he looked up at Hermione, who was beaming at him from across the room. He could have been singing about a fluffy bunny for all she cared, it was one of the sexiest things she’d ever seen him do and she wanted to drag him from the room and show him how much she loved him.

When the song ended, he put the mic down and all the ladies called for an encore, making his cheeks heat horribly enough that he contemplated Obliviating them all.

“Want to dance?” Hermione pulled him towards her and gently used her hand to turn his head from everyone else in the room. Severus started swaying slowly with her as Stella picked up the mic to sing a slow song. The music was cheerful and perfectly went with the little twinkle lights that were glowing above them.

He looked into her eyes and felt his stomach clench tightly; he realised he would do anything for her. He had promised himself long ago that giving 'anything' was a horrible idea. He'd lost damn near 20 years of his life the last time he'd done it; he knew it wasn't safe, and what would happen when she moved on from her apprenticeship? He would no doubt be alone once again, having loved and lost a second time.

Her eyes turned worried as his expression became more sombre and she wrapped her arms around him to try to bring him back to the present.

"Severus, is everything alright?" He leant in and kissed her, enjoying the warmth of her lips and the feel of her body against him before pulling away to again look into her eyes.

"Hermione," he hated that his voice was so shaky, so he cleared his throat to try again. "Hermione, what are your plans for the future?" Her face relaxed as if she knew what he had been thinking and a warm smile lifted her features.

"Well... I was planning on finishing my apprenticeship and perhaps opening an apothecary in Diagon Alley. Hopefully I will be able to find myself a... talented, sarcastic, sweet partner. One who I can marry and start a family with," she watched him carefully for a moment. "Do you know someone like that?" Her whispered question cut through him and his grip became tighter around her waist.

"I may," his nose brushed against hers and she breathed a sigh of relief that he hadn't pushed her away. "Are there any other requirements?" He was teasing her now, and she smiled, softly kissing his cheek.

"Well, he'd have to be devastatingly sexy, and have a way with words that would make me melt."

"Blast, I thought I had this one cinched," his voice was laced with cynicism; she laughed softly and pulled him closer.

"Most important of all, he would love me at much as I love him."

"What if he loved you more?" His dark eyes flicked up to hers and she smiled.

"That's not possible," their lips met, and she heard people cat calling from across the living room. “Shall we take a walk?” Hermione whispered. He nodded and they left the room to the sound of cheering and some whistles as Hermione dragged him out of the room. He looked down as she grabbed his hand, pulling him through the hallway and out into the conservatory on the other side of the house.

Harry stood up from the sofa and went back to the karaoke box before Renfred walked up to him.

“I think we’ve established you shouldn’t be doing this,” he leant over and selected a song, then turned to Harry and handed him a second mic. “Here, you can be my back up dancer,” Renfred smiled as the music started. Glad that he was finally able to drink without feeling depressed, he looked over at Alice and she smiled at him. Life was good.

Chise walked over to Elias as Renfred started singing and laced her fingers with his, “dance with me?” Elias smiled up at her, his blond hair bouncing as he quickly turned to her. She petted his long fringe with a big smile as he stood to join her. He paused halfway up and kissed her gently before straightening up all the way and taking her hand to dance with her, just like they had done a week ago. He led her around the living room slowly as the music played and soon they found themselves in the kitchen where Ron was happily snogging a very drunk Luna, her puffy pastel green dress overflowed the kitchen chair.

Chise laughed and quickly led Elias back out into the hall. She looked around the room and noticed that Draco and Ruth were in one corner while Stella was chatting happily with Neville. Ginny and Alice were laughing together at their boyfriends singing ‘talents’.

“Do you think everyone’s having fun?” She looked up at Elias and he was peering down at her with a sleepy smile on his face. “Are you having fun Elias?”

“I can think of a way to have more fun,” he winked at her and she giggled up at him.

“Would you like another drink?” He nodded down at her and she quickly went over to the snack table to grab two more cups. The song Renfred was singing turned into a ballad and they found out that Renfred wasn’t that much better than Harry. Chise made it back to the hallway to find Elias staring at the conservatory door. “Is everything alright?” He smirked down at her as he took the drink.

“Everything’s great,” he brushed his gloved hand over Chise’s cheek and let his thumb linger on her cheekbone. “I’ll tell you later,” she nodded and turned back to the living room to find Stella pulling Neville up to sing with her. Draco was hooting at them before pulling Ruth into a hug that turned into a slow dance. Everyone was having a good time and Chise felt herself relaxing as she took a sip of eggnog.

XOXO

“Hermione?” She pushed the conservatory door closed and pulled Severus forward as she unbuttoned his frock coat.

“Yes, Severus,” her fingers worked quick to undo them so she could take hold of his now open lapels and drag him into the darkest corner of the conservatory.

“How many of those… drinks, have you had?”

“None,” she laughed, and he looked up from her hands to her face.

“None? Why?”

“Ron poured something into it earlier, everyone seems fine so it’s probably just an un-inhibitor of some sort,” she looked up at his now very worried expression.

“It wasn’t just a bucket of brandy?” He mumbled hopefully, he felt the small bag weighing heavily in his pocket and wondered if he should give it to her now or wait until the potion had run its course.

“No, well… I suppose it could have been. But could one drink have gotten you singing?” She grinned at him as she unbuttoned the last button of his coat and dove her hands in around his waist to bring him in for a kiss. He supposed she was right.

He lifted his hands and insinuated his fingers into her carefully pinned hair as their mouths opened to each other. He swallowed her moans as his tongue met hers and he felt himself relaxing into her arms.

Maybe if I give the ring to her now she’ll blame it on the drink in case she wants to run away.

“Hermione,” he mumbled as he pulled back to see her face. “Do you really love me?” She pouted her bottom lip out and he wanted to nibble it but held himself in check as his eyes flicked back up to hers.

“You know I do, have I not shown you?” She hugged him tighter and leant in to kiss his neck.

“I have a question I want to ask you…” is it a question? Isn’t it just a ring? Oh no, have I made this more than it is… or more than she would want it to be? Maybe I should wait until this potion wears off.

“Yes?” She leant back to look up at him, dragging him from his inner monologue and he returned her smile before kissing her on the nose.

“I have a Christmas eve gift for you…” he watched her eyes light up as she looked back at the door, to make sure it was still closed.

“Can you give it to me now or do we need to go inside? Because if we have to go in I’d like you to give it to me first,” she gave him an eyebrow waggle that made him chuckle.

“It’s in my pocket,” he disentangled one of his arms so he could reach into his pocket for the little pouch. “If you don’t want it, I’ll completely understand.” What a blatant lie. He gave her a look of uncertainty and she pushed back to see him better.

“Is this a gift or a question…?”

“Both?” He lifted the bag and took a deep breath as he got his other arm over to help loosen the cord. “Hold out your hand and close your eyes,” she backed away enough to give him some room and smiled nervously at him before her eyes drifted closed; her hand lifted towards him. He took a deep breath and let the rings tumble from the bag into his hand, taking the gold ring and placing it on the workbench next to them, he looked down at the black sheened ring.

“Don’t be nervous,” she whispered, and he looked up at her to make sure her eyes were still closed. He lifted the ring and gave it a tiny kiss before he held it out and dropped it into her waiting hand. Her fingers curled around it and her eyes opened to look down and see what he had given her. His heart was thundering in his ears as he watched closely for her response. He didn’t have to wait very long, she held it up and looked at him. Her expression was soft, inquisitive and when she spoke her voice was calm and patient.

“Severus?”

“Yes?”

“What’s the question that goes with this?” He froze, floundering a bit with his hands as he tried to think of something. Was he really ready to commit so quickly? They’d only been together for a week… but they had been dancing around each other for the past year and as he looked up into her eyes he knew he would forever be hers.

“Will you… be my… witch?” A smile slowly raised her lips as she held the ring out to him.

“Put it on me,” she held out both her hands and waited patiently to see which one he would place it on. He held his breath as he slowly slipped it onto her left ring finger. She lifted her right hand, running her fingers through his raven locks before she drew him down to her. “Yes,” was her whispered answer before their lips met and his arms wrapped tightly around her.

A dream. That was the only conclusion his addled mind could come up with, how else would this beautiful, smart, sweet creature be his? At that moment it didn’t matter, he kissed her with everything he was, pouring all of his love into her as he drew her closely to him.

“I have… other presents for you,” he murmured. “Presents that you can only use… with me,” their lips met again as she giggled happily. She jumped up to wrap her legs around him as he grabbed her bum and turned them around to press her against the brick wall. They were breathing heavily against each other, his nose flaring to pull in as much air as possible, his exhales buffeting against the tiny hairs on her face as his hands worked one at a time to bring up her dress. Her hands were working against his shirt to get it open, and once it was she reached down to ruck her dress up further, whimpering as he held her bum.

“I can’t wait… to open them,” she muttered as she reached down to open his trousers, as soon as he was free he surged forward to take her. She gasped, her head falling back against the wall as he filled her completely and instantly, his face buried in her neck as he kissed her down to her cleavage, licking along the top of her breast, he pulled from her only to surge in again more insistently. Each thrust pushing her up the wall a degree and she fell down it as he left her, he reached behind her to protect her back from the brick, their lips meeting in a flurry of lips, breath, and tongues.

He took her with a possessive urgency that pushed her world off its axis, and she felt herself being pushed closer to release with each hard piston. Her arms wrapped around his shoulders as she clutched at his coat, moaning his name, the most beautiful music to his ears. He gave himself over to her, gave her everything he had, fucking her almost brutally as she wrapped her legs tightly around his hips. She was cradled in his arms like a Tentacula as her limbs curled around his body, holding him tightly.

“Fuck… Severus…” her head fell back again, and he watched her, his eyes greedily memorizing her body. Her eyes rolled closed as her mouth gaped open and he could tell she was close as her quim began to strangle him. “Uuunnnnnhhhhhh,” he wished he’d put a silencing spell on the room, but maybe the party would be loud enough to cover her screams.

“Hermione…” he buried his face in the velvet stretch of flesh between her neck and shoulder, gently biting as heat wrapped around his torso until he thrust as deeply as he could and released violently into her. He bit his lip to keep quiet as he held her closely, she clung trembling to him like a lifeline.

“Wow,” she whispered, kissing his cheek and nuzzling into him. “Remind me to say yes to you more often,” she laughed as he lifted his head to give her a shy smile.

“Sorry, I couldn’t seem to hold back,” he gently kissed her and pulled free from her body as he helped her back down to her feet.

“I have a secret for you,” she whispered conspiratorially, looking around the conservatory as if there would be someone else there. “I liked it,” his eyebrows raised in mock surprise as he righted his trousers.

“You did? I couldn’t tell,” he purred, pulling her close to him again. He looked over at the workbench and lifted his ring from it, handing it to her. She smiled and pulled his left hand to her, slipping the ring onto his ring finger.

“Now everyone will know you’re mine,” she winked and then they heard the door open. As quickly as he could, he threw up a disillusionment charm to hide them in their dark corner. They looked at each other as the door closed and two figures shuffled into the room, lips locked and hands searching. Severus looked down at Hermione, who firmly had her hand over her mouth and her eyes were wide as she watched.

Into voyeurism… He’d put that little fact away for later.

The light shifted as the shorter figure bent down on his knees and they realised who had joined them in the room. Draco started undoing his belt, his face slack with lust, until Ruth stilled his hands and sniffed the air.

“Severus? Hermione?” Ruth looked into the dark corner and Snape sighed, knowing they’d have to leave, and it would be awkward. He turned around to hide Hermione and took down the charm.

“Sorry…” Severus grabbed her hand and they rushed out of the conservatory as she started giggling. Ruth looked back up at the blond with a smirk and grabbed onto his belt as he pulled it free from its notch.

XOXO

Chise and Elias were still in the hall when the couple found themselves back in the house, Severus’s shirt and jacket wide open; they both were laughing as they caught sight of them. Severus lifted his hand and pulled out his wand to magically do up all the buttons before they walked over to Chise and Elias.

Hermione beamed as she walked forward and lifted her hand to show Chise her new ring. A wide smile broke out on her face as she looked between her two new friends before she dragged Hermione into the living room. As the ladies went over to the group of women in the room Severus stood next to Elias with a genuine smile curling his lips.

“Congratulations,” Elias smiled down at him, his blond fringe swooshing a bit as he looked down at Snape. He reached out and gripped his shoulder and Severus laughed as Chise and Hermione pushed Renfred away from the karaoke machine and took over, singing a duet.

“Thank you Elias,” he looked over at the magus as he removed his hand and leant against the door frame once more. “For everything.”

“You would have gotten there,” he chuckled, taking a sip of his eggnog. “It was so obvious that she loved you, it was the same with Alice and Renfred,” he motioned with his almost empty glass to the blond dancing back up for Chise.

“Obvious to everyone but me,” he muttered sadly. “I wonder… oh well, no point lamenting over the past. I’m so glad to be here right now.”

“We are very happy to have you,” he took another sip and laughing, looked over at the conservatory door. “That room is busy today,” he whispered to himself, but Severus looked up at him with a raised brow that quickly turned into a sheepish smile.

“I think… I’ll thank Weasley,” he stepped into the room and found Ron talking to Luna and he cuffed him lightly on his shoulder. “Mr. Weasley, thank you…” he leant in and winked. “For spiking the eggnog,” Ron blushed and gave him a nervous smile. At his confusion Severus pointed to Hermione, singing happily with the mic in her left hand to show off her new ring.

“Neville will be pleased,” Luna looked up at him with a serene smile on her angelic face.

“About?”

“Your engagement, he’s won the pot again,” she nodded at Neville, who was dancing with Stella on the other side of the sitting room.

“Blimey,” Ron muttered as his face fell into pure shock. “Well… happy to help I ‘spose,” he held out his hand and Snape looked down at it before he reached out and shook it heartily. Severus then made a quick getaway back to the doorway to stand with Elias.

“Would you like another drink?” Elias offered and Snape looked over at him for a moment.

“Yes, I do believe I would,” he grinned as he watched Hermione sing. She was off-key, but it didn’t matter, not even a little.

XOXO

Chise giggled as she passed the plate around to the small cluster of her college friends that had come. The plate was covered in a tower of puffed pastries filled with cream. Some of them had an extra surprise and as she handed them out, she picked up the last one on the plate with a smile.

"Christmas roulette," she lifted her own and popped the whole thing into her mouth, hoping that it wasn't one of the spicy ones. She beamed when all she tasted was lovely whipped cream. "Your turn," she smiled as each of them ate their desserts.

"Oh Merlin!" Harry yelped as his tongue was coated in wasabi. He rushed from the room to find something to quell the spice; followed by riotous laughter at his performance and at the paper that was slapped on his back by Ron.

Snape stepped into the kitchen to retrieve the cake Chise had made from the fridge when he heard Potter behind him, gasping as Ginny gave him a glass of milk.

'kick me, I'm the chosen one' Severus took a double take at the sign on Harry's back and looked around to find the culprits. Ron was huddled in a corner watching, his face slowly going red trying not to laugh.

"Potter, you have a—" Snape reached for his back and Harry turned and interrupted him.

"Snape!" Harry reached out and threw his arms around the taller man. Ginny immediately rushed out back into the sitting room, leaving a very harried Snape behind.

"What are you doing, Potter?" He hissed at the boy. Holding the cake aloft with one arm, his other arm resolutely by his side.

"I'm so sorry," his voice sounded strained, and Severus looked around, but everyone seemed to have deserted him, even Ron had done a bunk.

"We've already been through this... Harry," he lifted his free hand and patted Harry on the shoulder and the young man held him tighter.

"No, we didn't, I hated you for so long," Snape's hand stilled and he wanted to push the boy off. "Then I saw what my father did to you, and I couldn't cope."

"Did you ever think that's why I put it in the pensieve before we began?"

"No, I didn't," Harry pushed back and Snape saw the tears in his eyes. "I thought you got mad because you were embarrassed. I never told a soul,” he looked at Snape’s shoulder thoughtfully. “Though I'm not sure if that was for you or to protect my father," Harry's head thudded back into Severus's chest, causing a woosh of air to leave his body.

"I was," Snape muttered agitatedly. "I didn't like that you saw that for a lot of reasons, I was embarrassed, but not because of your father. I told you about him."

"I know, but everyone else only spoke highly of him, it didn't make sense. You were so mean to me and no one liked you, it was so easy to hate you."

"I know," Severus looked around again, but there was still no one to save him. A part of him knew he could just push him off and walk away, but some little part of him wanted to be honest with the boy. Probably the part drugged with potion. "Before the war, I only saw your father when I looked at you," he paused as Harry loosened his grip at last. "Now I see you," Harry pushed back and wiped his face.

"I feel the same," he gave a watery smile.

"Now... Unhand me before I get mad," his jaw was clenched tightly, indicating that he was already well on his way to infuriated.

"Yes, sir," Harry stepped back and adjusted his glasses back onto his nose. Severus lifted a finger and twirled it so he'd turn around, then he waved his hand over the sign on his back to read 'hug me, I'm the chosen one'.

"Go on Potter, go enjoy the party and don't think about me any more." Ever. Severus turned to find Hermione standing behind him with a grin. "You were here the whole time?" He growled at her, but she didn’t flinch.

"Maybe," she pulled him close and kissed him. "You both needed that I think, and don't worry, I wasn't listening... to much of it anyway." He looked down at her and huffed before his arm came up to circle her waist.

“I suppose we did, but not like that…”

“Would you like another drink?” Hermione smiled up at him cheekily and he had to fight for a moment to not sneer.

“I don’t know how much more party I can take,” his voice held the slight tinge of irritation, but mostly he sounded tired. Hermione took the cake and kissed him gently.