Adult-FanFiction.org : Harry Potter

The Headmaster's Wife	By : Mrs_HH Category: Harry Potter > Het - Male/Female > Snape/Hermione Views: 96752 -:- Recommendations : 1 -:- Currently Reading : 23
Disclaimer: I do not own Harry Potter, nor the characters from it. I do not make any money from the writing of this story.

Chapter List
- 28
- 29
- 30
Elementally, my dear Granger

Severus sat in his office sipping his third coffee of the day whilst reading the Prophet. He needed a good laugh after the morning he'd had and it wasn't even eight o'clock yet.

It had started out well enough. He woke up as usual, spooned behind Hermione, holding her protectively as his cock did its best to wake her. And as usual, it succeeded. She turned over, draping an arm over his stomach and mumbled her good morning as she snuggled into his chest.

Lightly running her finger over his skin, Severus moaned breathlessly as she teased his sensitive scars. Listening to Severus moan under her ministrations always aroused her senses and her pride, and Hermione wasted no time in straddling him as she lowered her mouth to his. Their kiss was particularly sensual this morning as their tongues rolled over each other's languorously. His fingers on one hand raked through her hair and massaged her scalp, holding the curls back as she leant over him, while his other hand wrapped around the base of his cock to position himself for her. He felt Hermione move back and waited for the welcoming bliss of her hot, wet channel. Severus held his breath but was snapped out of his reverie when he heard her say, "Wait...we can't...I'm sorry."

"What? Why?" he asked urgently, his voice cracking as his now aching cock bobbed of its own accord against her backside.

"I took my last potion yesterday. I don't know if I'm still safe," Hermione said with an air of worry in her voice.

Severus brushed his fingers over her hips, gently stroking circles on her skin. "Of course you are, and it's too late for anything to happen now anyway, isn't it?"

"If I'd been taking it regularly I would say yes, but this is the first time and I don't know how it's affected me," she told him, chewing her bottom lip with a pained expression. The last thing Hermione wanted to do was disappoint him, especially as she was just as desperate for a shag. But as much as the idea of a little Severus was becoming very appealing, and neither shied away from the subject, they'd decided that now was most definitely not the time. Besides, Hermione knew she wouldn't be able to relax and enjoy it if she was worried about a potential accident.

Severus pushed himself up on his elbows. "We could always use the charm if you're worried," he offered hopefully, but as Hermione shook her head and explained that she'd heard you shouldn't use the potion and charm together. He flopped sulkily back down onto the bed not making any attempt to hide his frustration. It was on the tip of his tongue to say that it didn't matter but he knew it did. And of all the mornings to argue with her, this was not it.

"I'm sorry, love, but I'd like to talk to Poppy before we risk anything. I'm just trying to be sensible." Hermione sighed despondently as she watched Severus run his hand over his face, knowing that he was not happy about the situation.

Mind you, she suspected his mood had more to do with all the meetings he had today. She knew he was stressed and now was probably not the best time to withhold sex, but it was better than the alternative. Yes, it is better than the alternative. It really is! she tried to convince herself.

"Don't be sorry," he said taking her hands. "You're right. Speak to Poppy and see what she advises." And with that he pulled himself up, wrapped his arms around her and kissed her gently. Deepening the kiss, he twisted them both so that he could lay them down on their side. They continued kissing for several minutes before he whispered seductively, "and hopefully I can make love to you later."

Hermione was slightly relieved to hear him chuckle as he nuzzled her neck. She gave him a peck on the nose and went to roll out of bed, but Severus grabbed her wrist and pulled her to him. "You know you could be nice and assist with my little problem," he smirked, indicating that he was still sporting a rather impressive erection.

"Or I could just watch you," she blurted out, not quite sure where such a bold retort came from.

Severus smirked as his hand found its way into Hermione's hair again. Pulling her down for a kiss, he wrapped his fist around his cock and began languidly stroking it.

"Tell me about the first time you masturbated while thinking about me," Severus asked in a husky tone after their kiss broke.

"What?" Hermione stammered, her eyes glued to the sight of Severus' long fingers gripping his cock.

"You heard me."

Hermione was surprised to find that she'd suddenly grown shy, but acquiesced to his request nonetheless. By the time she'd finished telling him, in great detail, about her fantasy where he fingered her in front of the whole class as punishment for helping Neville, despite Professor Snape's express instruction not to do so, he had come all over his stomach and hand.

"You really are a filthy bitch. Shall I take care of you now?" he panted into her hair.

"Later but thanks for offering. We better get up now," she whispered against his lips and with a flick of her wrist she cleaned him up.

A wank, he mused as Minerva walked into the office, whilst useful, was no substitute for having his witch wrapped around him; no matter how enlightening the circumstances. And no morning shag equalled a bad morning.

Good morning, Severus," Minerva greeted him cheerfully as she walked over and poured herself a coffee before sitting down opposite him.

"Morning," Severus chuckled without looking up as he read the latest odds on who he was taking to the Ministry Ball.

"And what's so funny?"

"Oh, Hermione has finally made the 'Who will be on Severus Snape's arm at the Ministry Ball' list. She'll be thrilled."

"And how is she this morning? Looking forward to her first staff meeting, is she?" Minerva asked.

Severus threw the paper in the fire and snarked, "Like the proverbial hole in the head, especially as I believe she may have put Horace's nose out of joint."

Minerva sighed deeply. "What did the man do?

"He came round last night to help Hermione prepare her lesson plans," Severus smirked.

Minerva nodded and through pursed lips inhaled quickly. "To be honest he doesn't know Hermione that well," she mused. "I presume they were already complete and colour coded?"

"Of course," he smirked. "She asked to borrow my lesson plans but in fairness she's improved them. Whereas I took the "sink or swim" approach; she's taken my notes, scribbled all over them and reordered the schedule all leading to a more nurturing approach to teaching. I admit I never had the patience to teach like that but she has. She has to be patient if she can put up with me!

"But the real issue was when she told Horace she wanted to check his lesson plans in case there was a crossover between her OWL syllabus and his sixth year syllabus."

"Ouch!" Minerva winced. "Well you always had very high standards, Severus, and Hermione's no different."

"You know I always resented not being given Defence Against the Dark Arts until I actually got it..."

"And you wasted no time in making me aware of that but you requested it," the voice of Albus Dumbledore chimed in from his portrait.

"Well I had no choice," Severus groused. Not having a choice didn't make it any easier.

"Indeed not but it did give me an excuse to bring Horace back into the fold," Dumbledore told him looking over the top of his glasses.

"Be that as it may. The fact was I had the position I'd always wanted but then I saw how Horace was dumbing down the NEWTS syllabus just to make his life easier and I realised I'd been coveting the wrong subject. Story of my life really. I just wanted to go back and teach potions...at least to make sure it was taught properly."

"Well you are one of our most talented Potions Masters," Minerva said watching Severus shift awkwardly in his chair. "It was understandable that you should want to go back to it. I always considered you had a fascination for the Dark Arts but a passion for Potions. And Severus...the story of your life? I would say it was the story of your life. I believe things are looking up," she smirked.

Severus allowed himself a small smile but looked down at his hands. "Things are immeasurably better."

Minerva looked up at Dumbledore and grinned. "I can feel you two sparkling from here," Severus grumbled. "I almost find it nauseating"

"Note he said almost, Minerva," Albus said cheerily. "We appear to be succeeding in cracking that tough outer shell."

"We cannot take any credit, Albus," Minerva snapped at him. "I believe Hermione has succeeded where we failed miserably. What time is she joining us to speak to the Founders?"

"Nine o'clock. Mr Potter will be joining us," Severus told her quietly.

"Is Harry alright?" Minerva enquired. "I saw him at breakfast and he looked like he'd not been to sleep all weekend."

Severus sighed deeply. "It isn't my place to discuss details but I'm sure he will, as always, value your support."

His deputy's eyes narrowed as she looked at him quizzically. She was used to him being tight lipped about the personal issues of his Slytherins but for him not to divulge what was ailing Harry, was very interesting.

"Well I'm glad he is confiding in both you and Hermione," Albus said thoughtfully. "You are his only connection to..."

"Are you colluding with Hermione?" Severus sneered.

"No but it cannot be denied. Now The Founders have agreed to meet you here," Dumbledore said more seriously. "Argus is arranging for their portraits to be brought up. I thought it would be more respectful to you, my dear boy."

"Why thank you," Severus snarked. "My life is now complete."

"Harry Potter, open this bloody door!" Hermione shouted as she banged on the large oak door for the third time.

Harry's ward setting had improved greatly during their time on the run and Hermione was frustrated that she couldn't break through them as easily as she thought she'd be able to. She stood there, arms folded, unconsciously tapping her foot as the door finally opened of its own accord.

Harry was still in the process of unpacking in his bedroom, having arrived at Hogwarts just been dinner last evening and leaving Severus and Hermione's rooms just before midnight.

"Do you like your rooms, Professor Potter?" Hermione called as she opened the curtains in the living room.

"Love them," he called back as he entered the living room only to see Hermione bent over picking up books from the floor. "Just a shame such a big bed won't be put to good use, but hey, not everyone is as lucky as you," he snarked.

Hermione began putting the books into his bookcase. Harry suspected she would be alphabetising them or something of the sort later on.

"I'm sure you and Ginny can work things out," Hermione said hopefully. "Last night you seemed pretty adamant that you could get through this."

She turned round to look at Harry and was shocked by what she saw. "Did you go to breakfast looking like that?"

He looked back at her sheepishly. "If you'd been at breakfast, you'd have known," he giggled, trying to hide his embarrassment at the fact he'd been caught completely unshaven and un-groomed, clad in an oversized, worn sweatshirt and ripped jeans.

"Well we were...well anyway, go and get in the shower, have a shave and get changed," she ordered. "Sev'll have a fit if he sees you like that."

"Not everyone goes round in a frock coat, you know."

"I am aware, but he's quite the traditionalist when he wants to be. Now have you given any thought about what you're going to wear when you're teaching?" Hermione asked in an almost motherly tone.

"Not really. I suppose a suit...but more of a Muggle one," he mused. "Have you got your teaching robes yet?"

"Severus bought me them," Hermione blushed.

Harry laughed. "What a romantic man you have!"

"I'll have you know, although he will deny it, he can be very romantic and actually I thought it was really sweet of him," Hermione replied bashfully.

"Sorry, love," Harry said, putting his arm around her shoulders and kissing the top of her head. "I'm just jealous..."

"What, you want him to buy your robes too?" Hermione teased.

Harry rolled his eyes at her and said, "No, you daft bint! I just wish..." he trailed off and Hermione wrapped her arms around his waist.

"It'll get easier one way or the other," Hermione mumbled into his chest before continuing in a more domineering voice. "Now go and make yourself look vaguely respectable. Severus is expecting us at nine."

"You look much more presentable, Mr Potter," Professor McGonagall said as Harry and Hermione walked into Severus' office.

"I got nagged," Harry explained, simply jerking his head towards Hermione.

Severus smirked. "You should try living with her," he drawled absentmindedly.

"I did and I feel sorry for you," Harry laughed as Severus indicated for both of them to sit down.

"Albus, are they ready yet?" Severus asked his predecessor's portrait, sounding slightly impatient. Four huge easels supporting four huge portrait frames stood in the headmaster's office and Hermione could tell he wasn't looking forward to this. Truth be told neither was she. As much as they wanted answers about this bond, they were afraid of what those answers would be.

Dumbledore sighed. "Yes, but I just wanted a quick word before I fetch them. Hermione, how is your research coming along? It may prove to be useful and Harry, you may well be wondering why you're here. Quite simply it is because the founders wish to speak with you. Severus, my boy, be nice."

Severus sneered at him and then gave Hermione an imperceptible smile before looking up as they heard the cheery Welsh accent of Helga Hufflepuff greeting them.

"My lady, it is an honour," Severus responded, bowing his head respectfully.

"Oh you could always be such a charmer when you were younger, Headmaster. I still can't believe that you're only just getting married now," Helga teased.

Severus went to protest but simply arched an eyebrow in surprise as she continued. "On the other hand, she was worth waiting for, I see," as she smiled at Hermione.

"Oh stop blathering, Helga," the rich west country drawl of Godric Gryffindor rang out into the room. He stood and looked down at the attending witches and wizards and bowed his head to Harry and then to Hermione. "Ah, two of my finest," he sighed. "I cannot tell you how proud I am of you both."

Harry and Hermione just looked at each other and blushed; both feeling awkward. Hermione was suddenly snapped out of her thoughts as she heard Gryffindor continue, "Headmaster, your office appears to be more of a lion's den than a snake pit. Does it make you feel uncomfortable?"

"I can assure you, Sir, it does not," Severus drawled, again bowing his head out of respect.

"And neither should it. You know, despite being the consummate Slytherin, I'd have welcomed you into my house, but wanting to be in a particular house because of a girl could have seen you put into Hufflepuff..."

"And what would have been wrong with that?" Helga snapped at him.

Gryffindor ignored her as he continued. "But no matter, you have your rightful lioness now, so all will be well," he smirked.

Severus was already getting annoyed but smiled graciously, even though he could feel Minerva and Harry staring at him following the revelation that he'd asked to be placed him in Gryffindor. Hermione already knew this from her conversations with the Sorting Hat but had only surmised that was why Severus had asked. She wondered if she'd grown up with him as Lily had whether he would have asked to be in her house, and smiled as he thought to her, Of course I would.

Really?

Well, I'm sure I would...

She stole a glance at him and despite the playfulness of his response, his face seemed as impassive as ever...apart from the scowl she could see forming.

Hermione turned her attention back to the portraits as she caught movement out of the corner of her eye and watched as the elegant form of Rowena Ravenclaw entered her portrait. She looked incredibly intimidating, even more intimidating than Lady Eleanor, and Severus' grandmother was not a portrait to be trifled with. Rowena's eyes locked onto Hermione's and her penetrating Scottish accent rang out. "So this is the girl?"

Helga tutted and answered, "Yes, this is Miss Granger. Won't they have beautiful babies?"

"Oh shut up! All I'm concerned about is her being the right one," Rowena sneered.

Godric huffed loudly. "Rowena, I believe the way your beloved castle is responding to her would indicate that she is and you're just jealous that it doesn't seem to listen to you anymore. And frankly speaking, who can blame it? We'd all prefer to not listen to you anymore."

"You insufferable man! Anyway, where is Salazar?"

"Who cares?" Helga mumbled.

Harry suddenly froze in his seat as everyone heard a hissing sound in the room. "Don't be rude, Salazar. You're already late and the very least you can do is speak in your native tongue," Rowena snapped.

Salazar Slytherin made Hermione's blood run cold as his eyes raked over her. "I see nothing to commend this girl. Is she really the one?"

"Really, Salazar, it's so obvious they're in love," Helga said dreamily.

"Love? Love is a futile emotion and to think that one of my own has shown such weakness with yet another mudblood..."

"Salazar, shut up. How dare you refer to one of mine in..." but Gryffindor's voice trailed off as Severus growled.

"Enough!"

Everyone, including the portraits, looked at the current Headmaster of Hogwarts as he stood up and walked in front of the portrait of his House Founder, the house which the Sorting Hat said was his elemental home, and looked up with distain. Minerva threw a quick glance to Dumbledore who was annoying smiling proudly at Severus, his eyes brimming with tears.

Hermione could feel Severus' anger and tried to soothe him. It's alright, love. It's not like I'm not...

Don't say you're used to it. You should never be called that. What you bear on your arm...I will end this for you. It ends now.

"Apologies for interrupting you, sir," Severus nodded to Gryffindor before turning to look at Slytherin. "How dare you refer to Hermione by such a term." His voice was calm but laced with anger and menace. It seemed slightly lower than usual and Hermione could feel something rising in him that she had never felt before. It felt like something was being unlocked inside him.

"Your bigotry has robbed our world of some of the best of our kind. She is worth far more than you," he growled. "I used to be proud to be a Slytherin...I didn't care much for many of those in my house and in turn many did not care for me, but the traits you demanded...ambition, cunning, achievement, leadership, self preservation...that is me. I am a true Slytherin. If I didn't belong socially, it was certainly was where my personality belonged.

"The tenets of your house kept me alive until it was no longer possible. And why was it no longer possible? Because your beliefs created a monster. A monster that took all that was good about your house and threatened to destroy everything our world holds dear. Yes, he lured me in for his own gain..."

"You hated Muggles." Salazar sneered at him.

When Hermione met Professor Snape in her first year she thought he was the most menacing person she'd ever met. She knew now that Severus was adept in the use of smoke and mirrors and that it was just a mask. But today he felt more menacing than he ever had done before and yet she just wanted to wrap her arms around him.

"I hated my Muggle father but then who wouldn't hate the man? No actually he wasn't a man, he was an animal. He was a drunk and a cheat and he destroyed a witch, he robbed a son of his mother. He drained her life magic, raped and abused her in front of their son. And when their son tried to intervene, to protect his mother either by physical or magical means, he turned his attentions to him. Who wouldn't hate a man who told his son he hated him, wished he had never been born and when his mother wasn't available..."

Severus stopped suddenly as he heard Minerva gasp in shock and quickly clap her hand over her mouth. As much as everyone had suspected the abuse, he had never acknowledged it. He felt weak. He could feel Hermione's emotions rip apart and he wanted to turn around and comfort her when all she wanted to do was comfort him. He sensed the movement behind him as Harry took Hermione into his arms and heard her sob. He heard the young man whispering words of comfort to her and yet he did not feel any pangs of jealousy. He felt himself growing calmer knowing that Harry was with her.

Severus closed his eyes, still feeling a sense of discomfort as he thought back to what he had just said and suddenly he saw her eyes...those emerald eyes that comforted him through this time. But they were changing, darkening, and he knew they were Hermione's.

His eyes snapped open and he spoke again in a calm, measured tone. "Who wouldn't hate a man like that? But I was granted two ways of escape. A Muggle-born and a school. And you enabled him to destroy both of them." Severus thundered at a slightly startled Slytherin.

"I swear to you that I will not allow this to happen again. I will not allow the innocent to be lost due to your beliefs. I will not allow our world to be weakened due to pureblood dogma. I will ensure that everyone in my school is safe and they are brought up to know that we are all equal through our magic, regardless of our blood status. Blood status is no longer a consideration.

"But ," his tone softened, "I cannot do this on my own. I need Hermione in more ways than I ever thought imaginable and with her help I will see this world right again."

He stopped and continued to stare defiantly at Slytherin, neither intending to break eye contact and neither realising that Hermione was now stood beside Severus. It wasn't until a welsh stage whisper from Helga Hufflepuff was heard and Severus felt a hand slip into his that their attentions were diverted.

"Oh we got him right, didn't we," she said excitedly. "And as for her, Salazar, if you weren't already dead, the look she's giving you now would prove more effective than an Avada, I feel."

Godric looked at Rowena and smiled knowingly. "I'm so glad I managed to wrestle them away from you," he said with a soft chuckle.

"Well you still lost him," Rowena teased him. "But I will concede my regret that the brightest witch and wizard of the age were not in my house. And to think she could have been a Slytherin."

"Indeed, but Helga lost out on her as well, didn't you dear?" Gryffindor raised his eyebrows as Hufflepuff sat staring dreamily at Severus and Hermione. ""Sorry, what was that?"

Severus turned to Hermione and putting his arm around her, kissed the top of her head. He looked into her eyes and their connection was established immediately. Hermione walked into his mind and saw him closing a chest which she had never seen before but noted that he didn't lock it.

I'm sorry. I never wanted to know. We'll talk about it. I promise we will but not now, sweetheart he told her before walking to the chair where she was now seated and knelt down before her. Hermione merely wrapped her arms around Severus and held him.

Rowena sighed deeply. "It doesn't matter."

They turned to speak to Slytherin but he was gone. No one saw him leave but they knew Severus' words would have hurt.

"If I may," Dumbledore piped up. "I believe these two deserve an explanation."

"Of course, Professor," Rowena said liltingly and turned to the couple. "Headmaster, Miss Granger..."

"Not for long I hope," Helga interrupted, almost bouncing on her chair.

Everyone in the room seemed to roll their eyes but Severus and Hermione both turned to the Ravenclaw Founder, who continued, "Headmaster, you are indeed correct in your assertion that this world needs to be fixed. The best way to ensure the way of the continuation of our people is through embracing all of our kind no matter their bloodline. It has regrettably taken too long for us...well Salazar actually...to realise this."

"There is a prophecy, that was uttered by Inigo Imago but it still requires certain conditions to be met before it can be revealed to you both," Gryffindor informed them.

"The dream seer," Severus muttered distractedly.

"Indeed Headmaster...and I believe one of my own has also been identified as such," Rowena added.

"You refer to Miss Lovegood, do you not, my lady?" Minerva asked.

"I do," Ravenclaw stated as she bowed to her fellow Scot. "All the players are moving into place for there is another to be revealed who will stand behind you...an enforcer if you will...one who requires a place in this world." She smiled as Hermione mouthed the name of the person to Severus. "Hermione Granger, you please us greatly. Salazar may appear indignant towards you but he does recognise your power. And you are powerful. Do you know why?"

Hermione considered this. The Sorting Hat told her that she had joined the illustrious group of students that it wasn't sure if it had sorted properly because they exhibited more than one elemental alignment. This group included Dumbledore, Sirius Black, Peter Pettigrew, Harry, Draco and Severus. The most common was a mix of Fire and Earth – Gryffindor and Slytherin, although Draco displayed an alignment to Fire and Water – Slytherin and Ravenclaw. No one wonder he was so confused, Hermione had mused.

Severus also displayed an alignment to Water as well Fire and Earth. Although as the Sorting Hat said, his fire far outweighed the other two elements.

But Hermione was very unusual, the hat told her, and was about to explain when they were interrupted. Although she hadn't had the chance to speak with the talking hat since, she now knew now what it would have told her.

Godric and Rowena had eluded to the fact all the houses wanted her. She felt Severus staring down at her and she closed her eyes as the realisation hit her.

You represent all four elements, darling, she heard Severus in her head.

Hermione swallowed hard. I know. It's what I suspected but it feels...I just...it's too much to get my head around.

I know but you're still you and I'm still right here, Severus reassured her.

Hermione took a deep breath as she realised what this meant and opened her eyes before speaking softly. "I am aligned to all four elements."

"Yes," Godric said, leaning forward as if he wanted to touch her shoulder. "Such a conglomeration has not been seen for three centuries. You still have to fulfil your full potential, Hermione, but it will come and you will prove to not only be the brightest but the most powerful witch of the age. With Severus' help you will see our world's future secure."

"And Mr Potter, your work in this world is not yet done. As the Chosen One you are a guardian of our ways. You have a duty of care to those who will secure our future as they have a duty of care to you," Godric told him.

Harry bowed his head and swallowed. "I understand, Sir," he said and tilted his head to look at Hermione, smiling as he noticed how tightly Severus was holding her hand.

"And can we just apologise for the orbs?" Rowena requested as she looked at Severus and Hermione, who seemed to be having a conversation in their heads. "We had to find a way to bring you together...we just didn't appreciate your soul bond would have done that for us. But I believe you find your mental connection useful, do you not?"

"It is most useful," Severus conceded.

"Except when you think something accidentally that you don't want me to know about," Hermione teased.

Severus smirked. "I believe that happens to you more than me," he drawled, raising an eyebrow playfully.

Bastard. "And I meant you to hear that," Hermione giggled.

"And of course, we did release your mind lock, Headmaster," Rowena continued.

Severus glared at her before raising an eyebrow and scoffed. "You could've been a little more gentle, and did you have to use Lily?"

"Again, our apologies," Helga said quietly.

"Will we have to live with the orbs forever?" Hermione asked, hoping the answer was no, but was disappointed when Godric told her they would.

However, Gryffindor continued, "The nature of the orbs will change. They will no longer influence your emotions or behaviours but they are still a warning sign. If either of you is in danger the orbs will let the other know."

"Now Dumbledore informed us that you have a staff meeting this morning so we will take up no more of your time," Rowena said almost cheerily.

Helga protested. "Do we have to go? Hermione please come and see me. I'd like to chat some more with you."

"Of course," Hermione said, blushing.

"I hope she will come and see all of us...well except Salazar. He can rot on his own. But it is an invitation I extend to all of you," Godric told them before bowing low to the assembled gathering and leaving his portrait.

"Come Helga, we must take our leave, dear," Rowena said, stepping into her friend's portrait and ushering her away. "Farewell to you all."

"Yes, goodbye," Helga almost sang and then in her well used stage whisper said to Hermione "Come and see me really soon."

Hermione couldn't help giggling, but her smile dropped as Severus let go of her hand and sat back down behind his desk.

Severus closed his eyes and rubbed his temples as he felt a headache coming on. "Would it be terribly rude of me to ask you all to leave? That includes you, Hermione," he said ruefully.

"Of course not," Minerva replied, trying to sound cheerful. She was a little surprised that he wished to seek solitude at this point but had known him long enough to know to not argue with him. "Come you two, let's go and have some tea and biscuits."

Hermione looked at Severus and summoned a headache potion for him. She pressed it into his hand and kissed his forehead but was relieved when he put his arm around her and whispered, "Thank you, darling. I won't work this evening so we can do absolutely nothing together."

She pressed her forehead to his. They didn't need to say anything else and she turned to join Minerva and Harry.

"I am so proud of you, Severus," Dumbledore gently told him, as Hermione closed the door before standing to take his leave.

Severus pinched the bridge of his nose and simply said, "Please stay."

The atmosphere in the staff room was very tense as Hermione and Harry walked into their first staff meeting. No one quite knew what to expect from Severus as he entered his second year as Headmaster, and there was an air of apprehension amongst the assembled throng.

"Harry, Hermione, how are you?" Filius Flitwick called. "I hear from Horace we have a fourth new assistant professor joining us."

"Yes," Hermione giggled. "Can you believe we have Professor Malfoy now?"

Septima Vector looked up and said quietly, "He'll be an excellent apprentice. Of course I'd have accepted you, Hermione, if the Headmaster hadn't decided to keep you all to himself." The older witch winked at her as she handed Hermione her copy of the Prophet and pointed to the article on who Severus would be taking to the Ministry Ball.

"Well if you haven't got money on me, I'd put it on soon before the odds shorten," Hermione giggled.

Septima smiled. "Oh we've all got money on you, dear."

Hermione laughed and went to sit down next to Harry.

"You alright now, love?" Harry asked as she lowered herself into the leather bucket chair. He' been surprised by how upset Hermione had been by the audience with the Founders.

Hermione gave him a watery smile. "I guess I have no choice but to accept it, even though I still can't get my head around everything."

"And you don't think I know how that feels?" Harry smirked, patting her leg just as Neville came in and sat next to Harry as well.

"How are you two? Pomona's just told me about Draco; is it true?" Neville asked urgently.

Hermione nodded. "He's brilliant at Arithmancy. He deserves it," she said and smiled as the man in question walked into the room. They all smirked when he was accosted by Professor Slughorn who began to wax lyrical about Draco and his abilities, which he apologised for not recognising earlier.

Draco just smiled and excused himself before bending down to give Hermione a kiss. "You alright, love? Luna wants to know how your meeting went earlier," he said knowingly.

"When did you, or rather, when are you seeing Luna?" Harry asked.

"Oh I had coffee with her this morning in that little cafe Hermione and I go to just outside Diagon Alley and..."

Harry snorted. "They should rename that place Malfoy's Pick Up Joint."

"What the hell is wrong with you?" Draco asked, looking bemused.

"Ask your father," Harry snarked.

Draco and Neville looked at Hermione for an answer, but she told Draco to sit down and shut up and Neville took that as his cue to sit back as well.

Draco continued to answer Harry's question. "I'm meeting her for lunch up in London before I meet father at the Ministry about my title. Do you want to come, 'Mione?"

"I can't. I'm seeing George and Angie before our meeting at the Ministry," Hermione told him..

"Are you seeing Adrian today?" Neville asked.

"Why?" Draco snapped.

Neville shrank into his chair. "I just wondered. You seemed to be getting on well with Luna, that's all."

"Well it's none of your business if I see your ex, but it is my business if you see my boyfriend," Draco snarled.

"Well make sure you do enough to keep him then," Neville bit back.

"For fuck's sake will you two stop it?" Hermione spat in an aggressive whisper.

Both Draco and Neville sat back in their chairs. Both were seething. Suddenly Draco leaned over in front of Hermione and asked Harry, "Why don't you and the Weaslette meet us for lunch if her highness cam't come?"

Harry looked evenly at him. "We can't, and if you want to know why, ask your father. Oh, and I've signed all the paperwork so we'll be bowing and scraping at your feet, Lord Black, by the end of the day. But I'm up for a pint in Hogsmeade later if you like."

"See you at eight at the Hogshead?" Draco asked as what Harry said sank in. He sat back and whispered to Hermione. "What the fuck has father done? Has he fiddled with the Weaslette?"

"More like the Weaslette fiddled with Lucius," Hermione replied.

"And he won't say no if it's presented on a plate," Draco conceded. Hermione just gave him a look of resigned acknowledgement.

"Fuck!" was all Draco could say just as the door was flung open and in strode a very tired looking Severus, Hermione noticed.

"I won't subject you to my presence for any longer than necessary as I need to be at the Ministry at midday. So if we can just get on with it," Severus drawled before looking around the room at his staff.

"Before I go any further, I would like to thank you all for returning this year, and offer to those of you who were here last year my sincerest apologies for what occurred under that regime. No words can express how sorry I am. I had to do what I did but if I could change what happened I would.

"But this is a new age," he said with an air of optimism. "I want to assure you that life here will not be as it was last year. I hope you will find it to be greatly improved. My door is always open to discuss any issues you may have regardless of the subject.

"I want to ensure that this school never breeds another monster like Voldemort, but I can only do that with your help. If you feel you cannot support me or work with me as the headmaster of this school, then I ask that you please leave now."

Severus paused and breathed an inward sigh of relief as no one moved. He was then surprised when Professor Sinistra spoke up.

"We don't know how much pressure you were under, but now that we know the truth I believe you have the full support of the staff," she said confidently.

Severus was taken aback by her words. Of course he wanted to hear them, but he hadn't expected it and actually stumbled over his response to thank her and by extension the rest of the staff.

He looked up at Hermione, who winked slyly at him and mentally conveyed, I told you not to worry, didn't I?

Does the phrase insufferable know-it-all mean anything to you?

He then continued. "As you know we have lost a few of our illustrious staff members have decided not to return to us and regrettably we will incur further loses at the end of this school year. So we have a few familiar faces joining us as Assistant Professors this year.

"Professors Potter, Longbottom, Granger and our last minute inclusion, Professor Malfoy will be covering Defence Against the Dark Arts, Herbology, Potions, and Arithmancy. I am sure you will offer them your full support in the coming weeks as they settle into their new roles.

"Also, the arrival of Professor Malfoy means that we need to choose a new Senior Head Boy. The candidates are Blaise Zabini and Dean Thomas. Any thoughts?"

"Please don't give it to Blaise...you know Parkinson fancies him. She'd make his life hell," Draco said with an air of concern for his friend.

"But Mr Nott is also returning so I think Mr Zabini's honour would remain intact," Severus drawled absentmindedly.

"Have you met Pansy Parkinson?" Draco chuckled.

"Yes," Severus smirked, and I'd would have the same concerns for Mr Thomas. So can we have a vote?"

Once the votes had been counted, Minerva began writing a letter to Blaise Zabini to inform him of the joyous news that he would be sharing rooms with Pansy Parkinson. Draco just wished he could be there to see his face when he read that.

Severus then turned everyone's attention to the new Deputy Head's of House positions and informed everyone of the recent decision that Harry was to be Deputy Head of Slytherin, Neville was taking on Hufflepuff and Aurora Sinistra was taking on Ravenclaw. The hardest position to fill, probably because no one wanted to deal with an overprotective Minerva, was that of Deputy Head of Gryffindor. Draco had jokingly offered to do it and realised, that when it suited him, Severus couldn't take a joke.

Severus also explained the new Enforcement Protocol and pastoral roles that had been created to help the students come to terms with any issues arising from the war and going forward. He was pleased that the staff were very receptive to his ideas.

But then he had to address the issue which most of them probably knew about, yet out of courtesy he still had to raise.

"As some of you may know, or at least I am sure you have heard the rumours, I can confirm that Professor Granger and I are living together and are the proud owners of a cat. I will leave it up to you to fill in and make up the rest of the details. All I will say is if you have bad news, don't think you can run things past Hermione in an attempt to get her to butter me up. She is just as likely to give you a flea in your ear as I am."

Hermione blushed as a few of the professors turned to look at her, and Severus smirked as she told him in his head that she'd give him a flea in his ear later if he wasn't careful.

"Now are there any questions because I really do need to leave soon?" he asked, hoping there wouldn't be and. To his relief there weren't. "Right. Well if you do think of anything, please just speak to Minerva or myself, and feel free to bugger off."

A few members of staff came to talk to him briefly before he had to leave, including Poppy Pomfrey, but he still managed to kiss Hermione goodbye before he disappeared into the Floo network, promising to see her and Harry at the Ministry at four o'clock.

"Poppy, can I have a word?" Hermione called to the school's matron just as Severus left.

"Of course, dear," Madam Pomfrey said cheerily, expecting Hermione to start chatting.

Hermione gave her a shy smile. "In private?"

"Follow me," Poppy smirked knowingly as Hermione followed her to the infirmary office.

"Do sit down, Professor. Can I just thank you for the prompt delivery of all the basic potions for the start of term? Severus always used to leave it to the last minute but then he did have other things on his mind. Do you mind me asking how he's been?"

"He's fine. Well, he doesn't complain about anything," Hermione said thoughtfully.

The older witch look at her and gave a wry smile. "That doesn't mean nothing's wrong."

Hermione considered this. "He still has nightmares but they don't last long and he generally sleeps well. His appetite's fine, although he does comfort eat I notice."

Poppy sighed lightly. "Well that's better than..."

"He's told me...well he's eluded to what he used to do when he was stressed. But I'm nagging him about taking sugar in his coffee," she said with a sense of pride that she had some kind of influence over him.

"Good luck with that," Poppy giggled. "How's his drinking?"

Hermione sighed deeply. "Fine. He's only been horribly on one occasion but he was upset."

"Is he exercising?"

"Well he's... he's active but not training like he said he was a few weeks ago," Hermione blushed.

Poppy smirked and reassuringly touched Hermione's hand. "Has he had any tremors recently?"

"Pardon?"

"While it is encouraging if you haven't witnessed any, we both know Severus is a stubborn bastard at times, especially when he wants to protect or hide something," the mediwitch giggled.

"He told me he'd fully recovered from Nagini's bite," Hermione said with a hint of protectiveness and annoyance in her voice.

Poppy again gave her the smile often practiced in the medical profession. "Oh, he has, and that's why St Mungo's has discharged him and placed him back fully in my care."

"Why are you telling me this?" Hermione asked incredulously. "What about patient confidentiality?"

"I'm not telling you anything. I'm merely asking how he is," Pomfrey sighed.

"But you've told me he's had tremors. That's a bit more specific than asking if he's eating and sleeping OK," Hermione huffed.

Poppy sighed again, pinching the bridge of her nose. She'd forgotten about Hermione's tenacious side; forgotten that she would fiercely protect her own and sure enough, there was the once bushy haired girl sat with her arms crossed defiantly.

"I asked him earlier and he changed the subject. Usually a sure fire sign..."

"That he's hiding something, I know. When did the tremors start?" Hermione asked, not sure what to make of what she was being told. Severus was fine. He was better than fine. Why was Poppy so concerned?

"After he-who...I mean, Voldemort, was exposed at the Ministry, he correctly suspected Severus had informed the Order of the plan to retrieve Mr Potter's prophecy. After the school closed for the summer, he went missing for three days and when he came back he was incoherent, shaking uncontrollably and had lost all control of his emotions. He'd been under repeated Cruciatus and beatings during that time. How he survived I'll never know.

"Luckily after a week of complete rest he regained his Occlumency skills because he was ordered back to Spinners End so that Voldemort could keep an eye on him. But the tremors remained. Their effects became less but he still had them whilst he was headmaster...well, he still is headmaster. I mean last school year."

"That's the real reason Dumbledore gave him Defence Against the Dark Arts," Hermione mumbled to herself and remembered what he'd said to Angelina at The Burrow about being as well as can be expected.

"Sorry, dear?"

"Oh nothing. I'll speak to him tonight," she said distractedly.

Poppy gave Hermione an appraising look before asking what she'd wanted to discuss. But Hermione's mind was elsewhere. "Hermione, dear..."

"Oh...ummm, well it's a bit...," she could feel herself blushing. The older witch knew their conversation would go one of two ways – pregnancy test or contraception.

"I need some advice," Hermione continued. "Severus brewed my contraceptive but because I was partly through my cycle he did daily and monthly doses for me..."

"Tailored, I presume," Poppy interrupted.

"Yes."

Poppy smirked. "And you've just finished the daily doses and want to know how long you're protected for?"

Hermione nodded and bit her bottom lip, slightly unimpressed by the look on the Poppy's face.

"If you've taken it for longer than seven days you're protected for three days with a tailored potion, and because this is your first month you can expect your period in that time. If you were to continue with daily doses after a few months you would go back to a 28 day cycle. But I must warn you, tailored potions are notorious for mood swings. Get plenty of sleep and between you I'm sure you can brew something to help with your moods," Poppy told her soothingly.

"Will it work on him as well?" Hermione giggled softly.

Poppy just smiled. "Alas, no."

"So how is he?" Hermione asked Angelina whilst George made her a cup of tea.

Angelina sighed. "He keeps comparing himself to Fred. Don't get me wrong; I loved Fred, but if I'm honest I've always fancied George from back when we played Quidditch together. I only went out with Freddie because he asked me to the Yule Ball. I'd really wanted George to ask me. But he doesn't believe me and this deal in Hogsmeade is annoying me. He keeps saying it was Fred's hard work that clinched it but that's rubbish. He puts himself down or says he's not good enough and it really upsets me."

"I know what that's like," Hermione told her.

Angelina looked shocked. "Surely Severus isn't like that!"

Hermione giggled. "Well you've not heard it from me but he can be. Everyone forgets that despite being a skilled and powerful wizard with a bastard-streak a mile wide, he's never been his own man. He's 38. He's seen and experienced things that make me weep just thinking about them, and when it comes to relationships he struggles. I'm sure he's half expecting me to leave him most of the time. He thinks he's unworthy and it upsets and annoys me too."

Angelina look dejected and gave Hermione a doleful smile."I just wish George would realise his worth. I can't imagine what it's like to lose your twin...I guess it must be like losing your soulmate but I hope he can move on one day."

"He's still grieving, but once things take off in Hogsmeade without Fred he'll see how good he is. And he's got you to keep telling him," Hermione reassured, stroking Angelina's arm.

"And what are you two ladies gossiping about?" George teased as he brought in the tea.

"You," Angelina deadpanned.

"Well of course! Who wouldn't talk about my fabulous self?" he sighed dramatically, but Hermione recognised the look in his eyes which showed deep down that he thought the complete opposite. It was the look she so often saw in Severus' eyes. One day, she hoped, that look would be vanquished.

George had left the shop in the capable hands of his assistant as the three friends sat in the back room, gossiping and laughing. But Hermione's thoughts kept slipping to Severus and what he'd obviously been keeping from her. She wasn't angry with him but after asking her not to shut him out, she hoped he would open up to her more. That said, there was a lot to be said and prior to May he wouldn't have told anyone anything. The fact that he talked at all was a miracle in itself. And the fact that he thought to think things to her that afternoon made her smile.

So far, since he'd left for the Ministry, she'd had three brief conversations with him.

Is it just me or is the world filled with fucking idiots? he thought to her.

It's just you, love. Still stuck at Board?

She could hear his frustration as he said Alas!

This was followed an hour later by-

Just had lunch with Pius. He shagged Narcissa. He almost sounded like an excited teenage boy. Although Hermione couldn't really imagine Severus being an excited teenager.

I thought you didn't like gossip, darling, she admonished him.

She could feel him laugh. This isn't gossip...it's...Lucius will go spare!

It's nothing to do with him, she told Severus, knowing full well he would say the same to her.

Even in her head she could hear his voice deepen. It happened in Lucius' library.

Oh!

Oh indeed!

And now she heard him say, I'm looking forward to cuddling up on the sofa tonight.

This brought a smile to her face. She knew what that meant. You romantic fool. Is that your way of asking if I spoke to Poppy?

He tried to feign surprise at her question. I'm hurt...but yes!

She says it's fine..

Even in her head he could make his voice drip all over her. Well in that case I'm looking forward to shagging you senseless on the sofa tonight.

Down boy! Hermione teased.

He's not...oh wait...fuck!

What's so funny? Angelina asked.

"Severus just said something amusing."

"Do you talk through your connection all the time?" George asked curiously.

Hermione laughed. "Gods no! It's usually when we want to say hi or need to tell each other something quickly. And when we're talking about someone behind their back."

George huffed. "Oh I'd love to be able to do that."

"It does have its disadvantages though, especially when you project that you think someone has a nice arse," she giggled.

Angelina nearly spat her tea everywhere. "Does he do that a lot?"

"No that's me! Sev's a boobs man. Which begs the question, what's he doing with me?"

"Oh I don't know," George said lasciviously. "Your boobs are quite lovely from what I remember when you accidentally...although I prefer to think it was deliberate...flashed me at Grimmauld Place."

"Hey, what about mine?" Angelina huffed.

George gave her a playful sneer and said "Yeah, they're alright."

They fell out laughing as Angelina slapped George, but Hermione's laughter was cut short when she heard, "George, mate, you around?"

George looked at Hermione urgently. "I'll get rid of him. Stay here."

"No, he's your brother. I'll go. I have to be at the Ministry soon...well so does he, but at least Harry and Sev'll be there as well. Thanks for a lovely afternoon. See you Thursday," Hermione said as she got up. Before leaving she whispered, "Oh, and a certain someone suggested we all get changed at his London flat on Friday and Apparate to the ball from there. I'll owl you."

Just as she was about to open the door, in stepped Ron. She froze on the spot...as did he, but Ron was the first to speak. "'Mione, what are you doing here?"

"Having a threesome with your brother and his girlfriend, or at least that's what you'll tell the papers because the truth of having a cuppa and a chat must seem rather boring!" Hermione spat at him.

Taken aback by her vitriol, Ron stammered, "Look I'm sorry I just..."

"Just what?" Hermione shouted at him and walked off.

But her escape was short lived as a strong hand on her arm spun her around in the middle of Diagon Alley. "'Mione, listen, please!" Ron pleaded.

"Stop calling me 'Mione. Only my friends get to call me that."

Her verbal slap in the face angered Ron. "What about your boyfriend?" he hissed.

"Yes, him too," Hermione snarled as she broke free from his grip and carried on walking towards the Leaky Cauldron.

"Who is he?" Ron screamed as he caught up with her and grabbed her again. "Were you shagging him before you broke up with me?"

"No. Oh, and thank you for admitting I broke up with you rather than the other way round," she roared at him as she went through the door of the Wizarding pub towards the Floo. Everyone stopped and stared as two thirds of the Golden Trio began to wash their dirty linen in public.

Hermione Flooed straight to the Ministry, hoping Pius was back in his office. She knew Ron would follow her but hoped he wouldn't try anything with the Head of Magical Law Enforcement around.

"I can't believe you shagged the Weaslette," Draco teased his father as they walked along the Ministry of Magic's main foyer.

"Will you keep your voice down?" Lucius hissed before adding, "my Lord Black."

He smiled at Draco as he acknowledged his son's new title, and for the first time in a long that either could remember, Lucius put his arm around his shoulders.

"But why?" Draco asked him, keeping his voice down as requested.

Lucius looked embarrassed. "Long story."

"Well give me the short version because I'm having a pint with Harry tonight and I want to hear your side first," Draco whispered.

Lucius smirked. "Becoming rather friendly, aren't we?"

Draco threw his father a disgusted look as he realised what Lucius was inferring. "Look, he's Lady Snape's best friend and," he added loftily, "he's now a colleague. I can't avoid him and he's..."

The two blonds' attention was suddenly diverted to the raised voices coming from by the Floos.

"That's Hermione," Lucius said, urgently drawing his wand.

"Over there," Draco added, pointing towards the lifts. "Weasley's got a fucking nerve. Come on."

They both turned and ran towards the lifts. Lucius wanted to stun Ron out of the way but there were too many people to do it safely.

"Shit, she's got in the lift...watch the floor she gets out at. I'll go and find Uncle Sev." Draco barked at his father.

"He's told me yesterday he would be with Shacklebolt and the brat's father now," and then added as he looked at the floor the lift stopped at, "She's heading for Pius."

But unknown to them, Hermione's orb had already alerted Severus.

What's wrong, sweetheart?

Ron's hassling me...keeps grabbing my arm. Heading for Pius' office.

Keep to the corridors. Draw your wand surreptitiously.

Already done.

"Look Ron, fuck off. I don't want to talk to you," Hermione screamed at him as she exited the lift.

"I got you a birthday present..."

"And that makes it OK, does it? You tried to ruin me because I left you and our non-relationship. You never talked to me, we never went anywhere, and you were undoubtedly shagging those bimbo groupies of yours..."

"And you weren't shagging one of the Malfoys? You're always seen..."

"We're just friends. And besides I'm always seen with Harry and..."

"Who? Your boyfriend. I bet he's still waiting to get in your knickers."

"Fuck off Ronald!" Hermione yelled.

She turned to carry on walking but Ron grabbed her arm again and snarled, "Not until you tell me who..."

The infamous sneering drawl of Lucius Malfoy cut Ron off. "I believe Miss Granger kindly asked you to Fuck Off, Mr Weasley."

Lucius walked towards them; his wand trained on Ron. "I suggest you do so post-haste or we may have to request that a team from Magical Accidents scrape you off the wall."

"Lucius, stop it," Hermione warned sternly.

Suddenly Ron had his wand trained on Lucius. Someone from the Misuse of Muggle Artefacts office stuck their head round the door to tell them to be quiet, but was stunned when Hermione barked, "Fetch Pius Thicknesse. Tell him I need him."

Turning her attention back to the standoff she said calmly, "Now lower your wands."

"I'll lower my wand when this prick does," Ron spat at her.

"Ronald please," Hermione pleaded.

Ron scoffed at her. "What, so lover boy can..."

"For the last time I am not seeing Lucius," Hermione screamed in exasperation.

"Well who the fuck is it then?"

"Obviously a far better man than you," a familiar deep, silky drawl declared, and Hermione felt a sigh of relief escape her as Severus walked around the corner.

"Back off Snape, this has nothing to do with you," Ron said, visibly shaking at the sight of his dreaded ex-Potions professor.

Severus smirked as he saw Ron's wavering hand. "On the contrary, it has everything to do with me. You are currently harassing my apprentice and Potions Professor and I will not have you upsetting her."

How's your arm?

It hurts a bit.

Severus felt the red mist descending and his hand itched to add to the number of drawn wands, but Arthur suddenly intervened and ordered Ron to put his wand down.

"But Dad, she..."

"Ronald Bilius Weasley, your mother and I did not bring you up to brawl in public. Lucius, my apologies for my son's behaviour," Arthur said with as much grace as he could manage. He still couldn't stand the man after what he'd done to Ginny in her first year, and if it ever got out why Ginny was separated from Harry he'd like him even less, but Ronald's behaviour was unacceptable.

Lucius bowed his head in acknowledgement. "No need Arthur. Your son is old enough to apologise to both of us personally."

"Over my dead body," Ron snorted.

"That can be arranged," Severus growled but Hermione threw him a look warning him to behave.

"What on earth is going on here?" Pius bellowed as he approached with two Aurors. Assessing the situation he politely asked Ron to vacate the building before he was removed by force.

"But I've got a meeting at four," Ron protested.

"We will pass on your apologies," Severus drawled impassively.

Ron, knowing he couldn't argue, stormed off but suddenly turned and smirked at Hermione before continuing to walk away.

"Shit," Hermione exclaimed. "He's got an interview at the Prophet later."

"I'll deal with it," Arthur said.

Severus looked at him with surprise. "Obliviating your own son?"

"Rather me than anyone else," Arthur said with sad smile. He hugged Hermione and ran off after Ron.

"Brandies in my office, I think," Pius announced almost cheerily as he turned and walked back towards his office.

Hermione smiled and thought to herself, there goes a recently laid man.

Draco offered Hermione his arm. "May I accompany you, my lady?"

Hermione gave him a watery smile and put her arm through his. She knew Severus would want to talk to Lucius about what had transpired.

The two wizards waited a few moments until Draco and Hermione were out of earshot before following them. Lucius told Severus what he'd witnessed and recognised the dark, dangerous look in Severus' eyes.

"What are you going to do?" Lucius asked him cautiously.

Severus narrowed his eyes and chewed the inside of his cheek for a moment. "We need to revise our plans slightly."
- 28
- 29
- 30
You need to be logged in to leave a review for this story.You need to be logged in to leave a review for this story.
Report Story

The Headmaster's Wife