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
- 29
- 30
- 31
Hormonally Granger

Hermione was in a foul mood when they returned home from the deathly dull meeting at the Ministry to discuss the presentation of their Order of Merlins. It was a complete waste of time and her mood wasn't helped by Severus reminding her that he'd earlier pointed out that the meeting would be a complete waste of time.

Harry told the head of the presentation committee that he didn't want any fuss and preferred to avoid a public presentation. Both Severus and Hermione concurred with this. No one cared what Ron wanted. So naturally the presentation would occur at the Ministry Ball. At least Severus had managed to persuade them not use his title...he hoped.

But aside from that, seeing Ron had really upset Hermione. Something about him was off and break up or no break up, he just didn't seem like himself.

She decided to forgo dinner with the rest of the staff in favour of a long, hot soak. Severus had tried to convince her to join them or let him join her. Much to his chagrin, he failed on both counts.

When he arrived back in their rooms after listening to Harry bemoaning ever knowing the two youngest Weasleys, he found Hermione curled up on the sofa with damp hair, wearing her thick bathrobe with her cat at her feet. She didn't have any lights on; the only illumination came from the fire which she was staring at. No books were to be found, something that worried Severus because if Hermione was too distracted to read, something major was playing on her mind.

"Have you eaten anything, sweetheart?" he asked as he unbuttoned his frock coat and walked into the bedroom.

"I'm not hungry," she replied. He could hear in her voice something that was quite wrong and he cursed the day Ronald Weasley was born.

After changing and rejoining Hermione in the living room, Severus knelt down beside her and leaning on the arm of the sofa, swept her damp hair behind her ear. "Are you sure you're not hungry?" he gently repeated.

"I said I wasn't. Stop fussing!" she snapped at him.

"My apologies for caring," he drawled, but his voice was prickled with annoyance. Severus calmly stood up and walked over to the armchair furthest away from Hermione, picking up his book from the coffee table. He flicked on the light closest to him, sat down, and summoned a glass and a bottle of firewhisky. He felt as if this was going to be a very long night.

Severus had no intention of reading. From his vantage point he watched Hermione as she occasionally wiped her eyes, whilst staring at the fire. He didn't say anything. He didn't want to get his head bitten off but also didn't want to push her. But when Hermione flinched as she rubbed the top of her arm, he was unable to keep quiet any longer.

"Let me see your arm," he demanded, putting his book down and walking over to her.

"It's nothing, love," she protested, trying to move her arm away from him. But Severus was insistent. He sat down next to Hermione and loosened the belt on her robe. "Sev, it's..."

"What? Alright? I suppose it's quite normal for your ex to grab you so hard that your arm hurts when you touch it," he snapped, but his annoyance wasn't directed at her. This situation brought back too many old memories and he felt his chest and stomach constricting as he remembered the sight of dark purple bruises on his mother's arms.

Severus then pushed Hermione's robe down from her shoulders, hoping not to see the same marks on her skin. But his breath hitched as he saw the angry bruise around the top of her arm. Hermione looked away as she saw him swallow hard before forcing out a gruff, "he shouldn't have done this to you."

"It's nothing," she told him, trying to convince herself more than anything that it really wasn't a problem.

Severus shook his head. "This is not nothing," he whispered before gently kissing her skin, trying to get a grip of his emotions before giving in to his desire to seek out Weasley and detach his head from his body.

Instead, he summoned a pot of bruise paste and applied it liberally; he was pleased when it began to work but knew that it would take a few more applications before the bruise properly healed. He then pulled Hermione's robe back up onto her shoulders and put an arm around her, pulling her against him and planting a kiss into her hair before resting his head on hers.

They sat in silence, apart from the occasional sniff from Hermione, relishing the comfort of the other's arms yet both still able to sense the turmoil weighing on their minds.

"Would you like to talk about it?" Severus asked as he shifted to look at Hermione. He leant his elbow on the back of the sofa, his head resting on his hand.

"Would you like to talk about it?" she responded, throwing him off guard.

Severus ran his finger over her cheek. "Of course I want to talk about what's bothering you."

"No, I meant do you want to talk about what's bothering you?"

Severus was taken aback and blustered, "The only thing bothering me is that you're upset."

"So no tremors to speak about or anything else you find difficult to tell me?" Hermione spat accusingly.

She observed Severus carefully, expecting his emotional wards to spring up but was surprised when they didn't. He sighed and pinched the bridge of his nose. "I thought you were only asking Poppy about..."

"She told me...I gave her hell about telling me but she asked how you were and then asked about your tremors. Why didn't you tell me?" Hermione asked, almost pleading for an answer through her concern.

Severus closed his eyes and raked his fingers through his hair. "Because I haven't had one for over a month. Even that was nothing compared to those I've suffered in the past. And truthfully, sweetheart, I wasn't keeping it from you. If I'd suffered one since we've been together I'd have told you.

"The Healers at St Mungo's believe they're a result of over exposure to the Cruciatus but I think they're related to my Dark Mark because they start in my left arm. Since Voldemort's demise the frequency and ferocity has lessened. I think they were another form of punishment. Perhaps that's why the magical signature of my mark and Lucius' is different."

Hermione pondered this. It did seem to be a reasonable explanation that would require further investigation. She then enquired softly, "Poppy mentioned the incident when they started. Was that why Dumbledore gave you the Defence position? Was it because you couldn't brew properly?"

"Partly," Severus acknowledged. "Dumbledore informed me after the incident at the Department of Mysteries that he wanted to seek out Horace. I had no idea why at the time. But when it became apparent the tremors were too severe, I informed him that it was unsafe for me to continue teaching Potions. I could still brew in private but I couldn't resign because of my other role. So Albus gave me Defence and decided to persuade Horace to come back, thus killing two birds with one stone. All he needed to do was dangle Harry in front of him."

"Is that why you looked so miserable about it when it was announced...because it was given to you as a compromise?" Hermione asked.

"Yes, and the fact that Dumbledore had just told me I had to kill him," he sighed. "I had no one to talk to. Everyone knew Voldemort was back and the staff had always questioned my allegiance. Lucius was in prison and Albus was slowly losing his mind. Plus for the second time in my life I looked across at the Gryffindor table and saw an unattainable sixth year," he admitted.

"But I wasn't that unattainable," Hermione teased, trying to lighten the mood.

Severus chuckled but with little mirth. "I know that now, but you were still unattainable whilst I was teaching you."

"So there wouldn't have been any fake detentions then?" Hermione giggled.

"Stop it," Severus growled as he nuzzled her neck, his hand parting the bottom of her robe slightly to seek out her smooth, naked thigh.

"Sorry," she said light-heartedly, moving to face him. Severus didn't move his hand but just her moving meant that it was now tantalisingly close to the apex of her thighs. He felt his groin tighten but was snapped out of wanting to explore her further when she asked challengingly, "But what will you do if you have another tremor?"

"I'll tell you immediately," he told Hermione, taking her hands in his and kissing them. "As for the other; I want to talk but not yet. I'm...what I mean is, it's difficult...very difficult for me to talk about it. I know I should be able to confide in you but it's..."

"It's alright," Hermione interjected as she brushed his hair behind his ear and reiterated, "it's alright, love. I'm sorry, I didn't mean to push you. When you're ready, I'll be here."

"I have no doubt you'll be here when I feel ready to talk about it. My concern is you won't be here afterwards," Severus admitted with embarrassment. He hung his head as she absorbed his words.

Severus watched as Hermione stared at him for a moment with a bemused expression whilst waiting for... he didn't know what he was waiting for. It could have been a sarcastic response, a resigned sigh, or mirthless laughter for all he knew, but what he wasn't expected was for a cushion to be suddenly swung at his chest.

"Do you realise how insulting that is?" Hermione hissed at him. "I hope what you eventually tell me isn't as horrific as I imagine it to be, but nothing is going to make meabandon you. I know you think you're broken but you have done an incredible job of fixing yourself..."

"Have I?" he questioned quietly.

"Yes. You don't want to be like your father and you're not. You are nothing like him," she said, trying to soothe him.

"I am just as violent, Hermione. I am just as much an addict."

Hermione sighed. She wasn't accepting this self deprecation from him. "What's the worst drug you've ever taken?"

"Don't ask," he said, slumping back on the sofa to avoid looking at her directly.

"Alright, when was the last time you used it?"

"1985," he told Hermione with a sigh.

"When was the last time you took any drug, excluding potions?"

"December 1994. And I virtually stopped drinking then as well...at least I stopped drinking a bottle of firewhisky a day," he admitted.

"So you've battled your demons. Did your father do that? Did he battle his addiction?" she asked insistently.

Severus shook his head, realising that what he had done was an achievement...he'd proved in a way that he was a stronger, better man than his father. He felt almost proud of himself...almost.

"And I know you have a temper but I also know I feel safe around you...safer than I ever have. I trust you. Severus, when we first got together you said that whatever issues came our way, we would face them together. And we will. No matter what, we will."

Severus looked at Hermione and couldn't help but lean over to kiss her with chaste desperation. "You have no idea how much you mean to me," he whispered against her lips before kissing her again.

"But I do know," she replied before adding, "Do you know what really upset me with Ron earlier?" she asked as she snuggled into his side. She felt him relax slightly as he shrugged. "I've known him since I was eleven. He was one of my best friends. He was, even though it was a mistake, my boyfriend, and we argued all the time. You probably saw the fights we had..."

"Heard them, more like," Severus interrupted her dryly.

"Exactly," she said, putting her arm across him and squeezing slightly. "But never did he grab me or make me feel unsafe. I always trusted him. Yet now...there's something different about him and I don't like what I saw or felt. I can't put my finger on what's changed but I'd always hoped that once everything had settled down, we could go back to being friends. But now, I don't know."

"It seems we both have lost a bit of faith in someone today," Severus mused. "I'll be granting Poppy an audience tomorrow to discuss her lack of professionalism, which I actually find quite disturbing."

"I think she's testing me out," Hermione said quietly. Severus inclined his head toward her and raised an eyebrow inquisitively as he waited for an explanation.

"I heard Minerva tell her to control the green-eyed monster," Hermione smirked as his other eyebrow joined the other, this time in shock and disbelief.

"No, she always fancied Lucius...if rumours are to be believed!" Severus said, trying deflect attention away from him.

Hermione slipped a finger between the buttons of his shirt. "Well everyone fancies Lucius so that's not news. But maybe seeing you naked so often..."

"Oh stop it!" he said, blushing.

"Well you are quite tasty naked," Hermione told him, inadvertently licking her lips before drawing her bottom lip between teeth.

"Only quite?"

Hermione's bottom lip was now red and plump where she'd bitten it and Severus found it quite distracting. She knelt up and whispered against his ear, "Well I don't want to stroke your ego."

"You can stroke something else if you like," he teased as his hand slipped under her robe and round the back of her legs.

"Mmmm, that would be nice but I'm feeling a bit hungry now," she whispered bashfully as she kissed him softly on the mouth.

"What would you like?" he asked, smiling against her lips.

"I really fancy some cheese, ham, and gherkin sandwiches," she said sheepishly.

"Gherkins?"

"I tend to eat pickles at this time of the month...oh and crisps, really salty crisps and..."

"Chocolate?" Severus ventured.

"Oh gods, yes, chocolate...all kinds of chocolate," Hermione said almost rabidly.

"Merlin only knows what you'll be like when you're pregnant," he chuckled and then yelped as Hermione turned into a cushion-wielding fiend again.

"Careful, Mister," she teased. "You'll be the one getting up at three o'clock in the morning to satisfy my weird cravings."

"But of course," he stated gallantly before he added teasingly, "Your wish is and will be my house-elf's command." And with that he summoned Missy to bring Hermione all that she required.

With Hermione's hunger and cravings sated, they lay on the sofa tangled up in one other, languidly relaxing, when Severus pressed a kiss into her hair and whispered, "I love you."

Hermione pushed herself up on his chest and without saying a word, leaned up and kissed him softly before returning the sentiment. He slowly ran his fingers through her curls as their kiss deepened sensuously; their tongues languidly exploring each other's mouths as Severus pulled Hermione on top of him. Without breaking their kiss he unfastened the belt of her robe, pulling the garment away from her body and throwing it onto the floor.

As their kiss broke, Severus wrapped his arms around his naked witch, holding her tightly to him and nuzzling her neck. They stayed like that, holding each other, merely inhaling each other's scent for several minutes before Hermione giggled lightly.

"What?" Severus mumbled against her neck before nipping at her earlobe.

The feel of his breath in her ear made her shiver against him before she responded, "You appear to have too many clothes on, young man."

"Young man?" Severus replied incredulously before adding. "I think I quite like you!"

"Get undressed," she whispered lustfully.

Severus smirked and pulled her close to him again, his hand tracing down Hermione's back until he reached her pert, rounded buttocks.

"Severus Snape," she purred, "get your kit off."

"I'll have to let go of you and I don't want to do..."

He paused as he suddenly heard her in his head, You're a wizard, aren't you? Get naked.

Fucking hell, you're a bossy, demanding witch tonight, aren't you?

"Severus, just do as you're..." Hermione stopped as she felt his warm skin against hers. He'd vanished his clothes magically and, although she felt slightly cheated that he had deprived her the pleasure of watching and assisting him with peeling the layers away from his body, the feel of his naked skin more than made up for it. "That's better," she said as she captured his lips with her own and kissed him hungrily.

His hands gently caressed her skin as their kissing became more heated and passionate, but something was stopping them from just shagging one another senseless. It was as if they wanted this passion and this closeness; this connection. He needed to be inside Hermione as much as she needed him to be, but they didn't need the pleasure of a climax. Everything they needed could easily be found in each other's arms.

Severus noticed that the fire was burning low in the grate, and with a flick of his wrist reinvigorated it so that it was once again not only providing heat but also light in the room. As the flames soft glow licked against their skin, Hermione felt Severus' mouth move down over her neck and throat before his tongue and lips teased and sucked her pulse point. She could feel the familiar ache in her core, a delicious arousal pooling between her legs.

Her breasts were against his chest as his arm held her tightly against him. His other hand moved down to the swell of her arse and she pushed herself onto him, feeling his hardening member growing against her. Hermione bit down on her bottom lip as she felt Severus positioning himself at her entrance. She pushed herself up against his shoulders before leaning down and kissing him. Her mouth swallowed the low moan that came from Severus as the tip of his cock brushed between her slick folds, right as she slid down his length until he was buried completely in the wet heat that made him feel safe every time they made love.

Severus didn't move inside her. He simply kept his arms wrapped around Hermione's body and held her; the fingers of one hand were in back of her hair while the other travelled down to her arse. They lay like that, kissing and nuzzling each other, whispering affirmations of their feelings, and then she had to go and do it. Hermione squeezed her walls around his cock and she felt Severus shiver as she slid slowly up and down, circling her hips as she moved.

All Severus could do was match Hermione's movement and began thrusting up into her slowly and deeply. Making love this slowly allowed them both to concentrate on every delicious sensation, every whimper and moan that was drawn out, as much as the act itself. So Hermione was surprised when he nibbled her ear and whispered, "I want you facing the other way."

Hermione smiled as she captured Severus' lips, but informed him that she didn't want to because she would lose the feel of him inside her. When he told her he had no intention of leaving her body, she looked at him, wondering how on earth he was going to achieve that. Severus simply asked her to trust him and told her to lean back, putting Hermione's legs out in front of her. Hermione hadn't been aware that she was a contortionist until now. Once her legs were in front of her, Severus lifted them up and somehow managed to spin her round so that her back was against his chest. Slowly his hands snaked around her, one hand caressing her breasts and teasing the hardened peaks, the other circling her clit.

Severus continued to slowly thrust up into Hermione as her moaning became more intense. He licked, suckled and kissed her neck, whispering the most deliciously sweet and filthiest nothings against her ear, and Hermione soon found herself hurtling towards an orgasm. He teased it from her, allowed it to build up until she couldn't take it anymore. Crashing all over him she expected to feel the familiar pulsing of his cock against her tight walls as he released into her but it didn't happen. Too consumed by her own climax, which he continuously stroked through, it wasn't until her breathing calmed and her muscles relaxed that Hermione realised he hadn't come.

"Sev, you didn't..."

"I still enjoyed it," he whispered.

She wore a pained smile. "I feel so guilty though."

"Well, don't," he told her almost sternly and kissed her neck.

Moments later, the sleepy couple slid into their bed and into each other's arms. She mumbled "I love you," into his chest and smiled when he said, "I love you too".

If Severus had not been looking forward to yesterday's staff meeting, he was dreading his meeting with the head students and prefects later that morning. It was two o'clock in the morning and found the thought of it keeping him awake. The only comfort he could find was in watching Hermione sleep.

He tried to convince himself that everything he had done last year had been so that she would be safe; that they all would be safe in the end. Whether he had lived or died was immaterial as long as everyone was free from that sadistic bastard. But the things he had done; the things he had allowed to happen in order to secure that freedom caused his stomach to knot as he thought of them.

Most of the students he was seeing later had experienced his hated regime last year. All of them, apart from a couple of his Slytherins, had suffered because of him. Admittedly, he never lifted a finger against them personally, and he had reined in the Carrows as best he could, but they still suffered. And he hated himself for it.

Hermione stirred slightly and mumbled, "Stop it, Sev."

He looked at her with surprise. "Stop what?"

"If you don't stop thinking so loudly I will slap you," she said as she opened one eye and smirked. "I presume you're worried about later?" Severus nodded. "You did what you had to do and they are alive because of it. Whether they hold a grudge against you or not, they should be grateful to you. What did I tell you about having more faith in yourself? Now, come here," she practically commanded, and wrapped her arms around him when he lay down with her.

Hermione stroked his hair gently as she whispered to him, offering soothing words to allay Severus' fears. It didn't take long for his body to relax as he breathed in her familiar scent, whilst lying on the comfortable pillow that was her chest. Slowly they drifted off to sleep and when he awoke a couple hours later, although he was still anxious, he was determined to have more faith in himself and to stay strong for Hermione. It wouldn't be easy, but he had to do it. He simply had to.

Blaise Zabini was beyond pissed off. He wasn't sure if he wanted to go back to Hogwarts, but his parents had insisted when they found out Headmaster Snape was once again at the helm. And besides, it saved him from thinking too much about the future, and admittedly it would be a nice, relaxing year for him.

At first when he received the letter from Professor McGonagall, asking if he would become Senior Head Boy, his first thought was for his friend Draco and Blaise wondered what fate had befallen him. The next thought was to run away as quickly as possible when he saw that Pansy Parkinson was the Senior Head Girl and they would be sharing chambers. His last thought, which was how to say no, had been interrupted by his mother, who upon noticing the letter grabbed it from her son and immediately told him to accept. In fact, she had done it for him.

So here he was, walking towards the Transfiguration classroom for a meeting with the other head students and Prefects in less than good humour, and it was surely about to get worse as he saw Draco walking towards him with Professor Vector, and obviously still intent on remaining at the school.

Draco went to greet his friend, but was stunned when he was instead greeted by, "I'm going to bloody kill you, Malfoy."

Septima smirked as Draco's body stiffened. "That's Professor Malfoy to you, you git."

"Oh, so that's why you have abandoned me to the clutches of Parkinson...you're a bloody professor. Of what? Dropping your mates in the shit?" Blaise railed at him.

"Professor Malfoy, join me in the classroom when your conversation is at an end," Vector said, trying not to giggle as she looked at his face. "Good day, Mr Zabini." With that she swept away towards the Arithmancy classroom.

"Actually, if you must know, I'm the Arithmancy apprentice, and that's why you've been drafted at the last minute. I tried to get them to choose DeanThomas but the staff wanted you," Draco hissed at him.

Blaise looked at him incredulously. "Your trying wasn't very successful then! What did you say?"

"That Parkinson would try to bed you. Uncle...I mean, the Headmaster said Thomas would have the same problem, even if she is with Theo," Draco told him.

"She's still with him?" Blaise asked, sounding a little surprised.

Draco shrugged. "I think so. Why?"

Blaise paused and considered his answer. "Father said there are a few rumours flying around at the Ministry about Nott Senior and Rookwood. Actually he said there are a few strange things going on at the moment. I expect it's just what happens when there is a regime change though," he pondered.

"I don't know anything about that," Draco deadpanned. Blaise was his friend, but somehow he felt it prudent to keep his mouth shut about the events of last week.

"Well anyway, I saw in the Prophet that Granger, Potter, and Longbottom are coming back to teach. Looking forward to that are you?" Blaise asked sarcastically.

Draco gave a wry smile. "I'm really looking forward to working with Hermione, and Harry's alright actually when you get to know him. Longbottom and I...well, we never did get on and it just got a lot worse!"

Blaise looked at his friend curiously. "Oh?"

"Fancy a drink tomorrow night? I'm at a loose end due to Longbottom," Draco asked sheepishly.

"Nicked your girlfriend has he?" Blaise teased.

Draco swallowed hard and looked at the floor. "Boyfriend actually...although he hasn't nicked him yet," he said positively.

"Oh, OK," Blaise responded.

Draco was surprised at the way Blaise had taken the news, because quite often those two would sit in the common room, giving various members of the female population of the school marks out of ten, and describing in detail what they would like to do to them.

Blaise saw the surprise in Draco's expression and smirked. "Shag who you like; you're still a git!"

Draco was about to respond when they heard raised voices approaching. They both looked at each other and recognising the voices, Draco grabbed Blaise's arm and dragged him into an alcove.

"Look, how many times do I need to say it- I'm sorry Harry. You're not the only one who's upset and you're not exactly innocent in this either," Ginny sneered at Harry as they walked towards his rooms.

"I do know, but..."

"But nothing," Ginny said as she started to cry. "I want to talk, I want to sort things out between us but we need to talk about what was wrong between before I did what I did, but you seem to think my feelings are stupid."

Harry snorted derisively. "No I don't, but if you think that's how I feel then perhaps..."

"Perhaps what? Go on, say it, Harry..."

Harry stopped walking right by where Draco and Blaise were hiding and sighed deeply. "I don't want to fight any more than you do, but I'm not the one who slept with..."

"I've told you that I'm sorry...I told you it was a mistake. But I've also told you why. Please listen to me, Harry," Ginny almost pleaded.

Harry brushed past her. "I am trying to listen, but you're not making it very easy at the moment. Perhaps we should do this somewhere neutral. Meet me in the Three Broomsticks for a drink later and we'll talk then. I just can't do it here."

He carried on walking and she called after him, "What time?"

"Eight," and with that he turned the corner. Ginny walked back the way they had come, unable to hold back the tears and praying she didn't run into Hermione. The last thing she needed was for her to look at her indignantly.

Blaise looked at Draco and asked, "So is the Weaslette single now?"

"Oh, I forgot you liked her," Draco chuckled as he raised a knowing eyebrow as they exited their hiding place.

Blaise hung his head sheepishly. "Well she was always a seven out of ten...she might even be an eight now. But I'm surprised she went back to him after what he did to her. He abandoned her for nearly a year..."

"He didn't really have much choice and as the Ministry's most wanted he couldn't just send a postcard, now could he?" Draco snapped.

"Oh come on, there were plenty of ways he could have got a message to her. No, I reckon he was banging Granger and who wouldn't?" Blaise said lustfully. "In fact, now that her and the Ginger Whinger have split up, and assuming the stories in the Prophet aren't true about her and your father, I might have a go myself."

"She's got a boyfriend," Draco told him with an air of protectiveness is his voice. "And besides, you really don't want to mess with her boyfriend."

Blaise almost took that as a challenge. "So come on then, who is Granger dating?"

"That's Professor Granger to you, Mr Zabini," the distinctive drawl of the headmaster announced as he approached them seemingly from nowhere. "And Draco's quite correct in stating that you would not want to mess with her boyfriend. Now did Professor Potter come this way? I have just seen a distraught Miss Weasley..."

"Heading for his rooms I believe, Headmaster," Draco informed him. Severus nodded and walked off. He didn't even have his robes on but he was back to filling the whole corridor with his presence again.

"Actually, I might just go and see if the Weaslette needs a manly shoulder to cry on," Blaise said almost distractedly.

Draco laughed out loud. "Well when you find one, I'm sure she'll be most grateful."

Blaise just glared at him and then smirked as Draco whispered, "I have to go now and do some proper work for once in my life." With that the two friends parted ways.

Professor McGonagall stood in her classroom, awaiting the arrival of the students who would be fulfilling the roles of Head students and Prefects. She wholeheartedly supported the Board's idea that for this year there should be Head Girls and Boys as well as Prefects from each house. She also thought the idea of a Senior Head Girl and Boy from the returning eighth years was sound until the incumbent Senior Head Girl waltzed into the classroom as if she owned it.

"Good morning, Professor. Back as Deputy Head I see. I am surprised that Severus wanted you back after what you did to him," Pansy said with an air of contempt.

"Miss Parkinson, you would do well to remember your place," Minerva said tersely. "You will refer to the headmaster as Professor Snape or Headmaster. I will not tolerate such insolence. I suggest you watch your tone because it would not do for Slytherin to have negative points before the start of term now, would it?"

Pansy glared at the Head of Gryffindor, whose own glare was impenetrable, before her attention was snatched away by the sound of the door opening as other students began to arrive. One of those was Justin Finch-Fletchley and Hannah Abbott, who despite originally being in Harry and Hermione's year, were returning to complete their seventh year as they had spent time away from Hogwarts due to being Muggle-born and bereavement. The students trickled in quietly and Minerva could sense a great deal of trepidation in the room.

Luna Lovegood slipped into the room, practically dragging a distraught Ginny behind her and they sat down at the back of the group.

"Miss Weasley, whatever is the matter?" her concerned Head of House asked, but instantly knew the answer and regretted the question.

"Nothing," Ginny said quietly.

Minerva walked over and put her hand on her shoulder. "My door is always open, Ginerva, as is the Headmaster's and of course Professor Granger's."

"Yours and maybe the Headmaster's perhaps, but not..." Ginny's voice trailed off. She hadn't spoken to Hermione since Saturday night.

"A word of advice," the older witch whispered. "To lose one's boyfriend is careless; to lose one's best friend is reckless."

As Professor McGonagall walked away, Ginny seemed to ponder this as the tall, lean frame of Blaise Zabini sat down next to her.

She looked at him, almost startled. "Oh sorry, is someone already sitting here?" Blaise asked quickly.

"No, no it's fine. I just thought you would want to sit with her holiness over there," Ginny stated, looking at Pansy.

"Gods no!" Blaise exclaimed. "I hate the bitch and I've got to share rooms with her. Anyway are you alright? You look..."

"She'll be fine," Luna interjected.

"Seemingly I'll be fine," Ginny said with a smirk.

"Have you seen Draco, Blaise?" Luna asked dreamily.

Blaise thought this an odd question from the Ravenclaw. "Just now, actually."

"Oh yeah," Ginny said teasingly. "What was going on with you and Draco on Saturday night? Are you replacing Hermione as his number one fag hag?"

"We're just friends," Luna grinned.

Ginny snorted. "It looked like more than just friends! Adrian..."

"Adrian?" Blaise interrupted. "Oh, is he Draco's boyfriend?"

"You know?" Ginny asked in surprise but continued, "Adrian looked really pissed off you. Mind you, he was flirting with Nev so..."

"Adrian and I get on just fine. We went for a coffee on the way back from Draco's place on Sunday morning," Luna told them cheerily.

Ginny's mouth was agape. "You stayed at Malfoy Manor? Did you sleep in Hermione's room?"

"No, in Draco's," Luna confessed slightly sheepishly.

Blaise nearly choked on his own saliva. "You slept with Draco?"

"And Adrian."

Ginny and Blaise looked at each other; both wide-eyed and bursting with all sorts of inappropriate questions.

"We're going for a coffee after this..my treat in exchange for information," Ginny informed Luna, feeling brighter than she had for days.

"Fuck that," Blaise told them. "I'm buying the coffee."

Ginny looked at him and smiled. She blushed slightly when he returned the smile but it was short lived as the classroom door was thrown open with a bang, and in strode the Headmaster, robes billowing, creating the impressive illusion of the man they all recognised as Professor Snape.

Truth be known, moments before the door crashed open, Severus was stood outside the classroom receiving a pep talk from Hermione.

"Just remember who you are, Sev?" Hermione told him, squeezing his hand as they walked towards Minerva's classroom.

Severus huffed. "That's the problem."

"You're the man you've always been. What you were before was partly an act. You'll never be anyone's favourite teacher, but you're not as much of a bastard as they think you are," she pointed out as cheerfully as she could. She was feeling incredibly irritable but was putting a brave face on it for him.

"You place far too much faith in me, Hermione," he quipped.

"Shut up!" she told him as she swatted his arm. "I could never put too much faith in you...you never disappoint on that score."

"I hope I don't disappoint on any score," he said, stopping just before they turned the corner and into Minerva's classroom.

Hermione gave him a disarming smile. "You never disappoint on that score," she said as Severus pulled her into him. She wrapped her arms around him, holding him for a few moments before he let go and cupped her face in his hands. Severus then chastely kissed her on the lips. "Thank you."

"You're welcome," she said as they continued walking. They stood outside the door and Hermione then added, "Now, Snape-Up," and with that slapped him playfully on the arse, which wasn't as easy as she hoped with his robes on, and then headed off in the direction of their rooms.

Severus smiled as he watched Hermione retreat before he allowed that smile to dissipate and his eyes harden. His mask descended as he took a deep breath and the door was flung open to announce his arrival.

"Good morning," Severus drawled as he reached the front of the classroom and dramatically turned to face the assembled students.

Minerva smirked at this display but also felt the need to chastise him about abusing her classroom door.

This caused a few sniggers around the room but these soon stopped as Severus's gaze shot around the room. But the tension was short lived as he turned to Minerva and stated, "If I hadn't opened the door so dramatically, a witch of your advancing years may not have been aware of my arrival."

Minerva's face hardened but her eyes were still playful as she threw Severus a fierce stare. Severus just set his face to impassive again and continued, "I would like to thank you all for giving up a day of your holiday to attend today's meeting, but I wanted to acquaint you with a few new rules and guidelines before the start of term to ensure all flows smoothly from day one."

The room was silent. Thoughts of new rules and guidelines following last year filled most of them with dread.

"But first," Severus said, "please allow me to apologise for my actions last year."

The room suddenly buzzed as Severus stood up from leaning against the desk to place his hands behind his back. "Many of you will have read the papers and know that I was appointed to this position by Voldemort." He noticed the room fill with tension at the mention of the dark wizard's name and added firmly, "We will use his name. He is dead and there is no need to fear him any longer.

"As I was saying, I was appointed by Voldemort, but I had placed myself in a position to be appointed on the orders of Dumbledore to ensure that you were as protected as possible.

"I appreciate that you may feel I was unsuccessful in this task, but I did my very best to protect you; to keep the Carrows on a tight leash. You may consider that I failed, but you are still alive and that was my number one priority. And because you are still alive, you are here to help me take this school and our world forward.

"All I ask is that you do not judge me on last year, but rather this year. As far as I am concerned my tenure as Headmaster of this school starts now."

Severus looked around the room and was surprised by the attentiveness of all but Miss Parkinson, but then again, she could never give anything her attention for more than five minutes.

He continued. "If any of you wish to discuss a grievance you have with me from last year, my door is always open. Any questions?"

No one spoke yet no one shifted awkwardly in their seat. They merely sat, waiting to hear what else Severus had to say. Most of them appreciated that for Severus Snape to apologise, and sound genuine in that apology, was a sure sign of better things to come.

An hour and half later, after what turned out to be a lively debate about Severus' plans, he actually allowed himself to think that everything he wanted to see at Hogwarts, everything he wanted the school to stand for, might actually come to fruition.

However, he was really beginning to sense Hermione's irritability through their connections and had to admit as he strode back to his office after dismissing the students, that it was putting a damper on his mood.

But what Hermione was experiencing was far worse than irritability. As Severus settled into the meeting with the students, she was back in their rooms, beginning the arduous task of sorting out some of the chests which were dotted around their living quarters.

Severus was going to Spinner's End the next day to bring back anything he wanted to keep from the property now that it was on the market. When Harry came for dinner the previous Sunday, he'd volunteered to go with Severus, because he admitted to never having seen where his mother came from or where his grandparents had lived. Severus was reluctant to agree to Harry accompanying him, but after Hermione mentally berated him, he gave in. Although still, giving Harry the grand tour of his and Lily's childhood haunts was not something he was looking forward to.

Hermione told Severus, as they walked towards Minerva's classroom earlier, that she was going to begin looking through the chests, and without a moment's hesitation he told her he was happy for her to do so.

With hindsight, Severus should have perhaps offered to go through one particular chest on his own because, as he was walking back to his office following his meeting, Hermione had just opened that particular chest and what she saw made her stumble backwards as her stomach turned in disgust.

Harry had been in his rooms since his row with Ginny, pondering if it was a good idea to meet with her so soon after everything. He couldn't deny that deep down he still loved her, but he kept going back over what she had said about wanting Harry and not Harry Potter. And the sad realisation he kept coming to was that he didn't know who the hell Harry was. Hermione had told him how Severus struggled to recognise himself as his own man, and Harry felt the same. Severus had been manipulated, as had he. The only consolation he had was that Severus was beginning to discover himself and if he could do it, so could Harry.

He'd been quite grateful that Severus had dropped in go see if he was alright after spying a tearful Ginny. Severus told him to go and see Hermione if he needed to have a chat as he was in meetings and had a mountain of paperwork to get through to finalise everything before the start of term on Monday. And so it was that a couple of hours later, Harry found himself walking towards the Headmaster's and Professor Granger's private quarters.

He knocked on the door. No answer. Severus had definitely told him she was staying in so he knocked again. This time the door opened to reveal a teary Hermione, clutching a bundle of black.

"Hey, what's wrong, love?" Harry asked as he stepped into the living room.

"I try to forget, Harry. I try to put it behind me. I know he's not like that. I know it was all an act in the end..."

"Hermione, you are not making any sense," he told her calmly.

She threw the bundle at him, and looking down he realised what it was that had upset her. "Ah," he said as he saw the two masks and what he assumed to be the corresponding robes. Without further examination he quickly picked up a cushion and transfigured it into a bag before placing the offending items into it. "I'll just look after these for you. We don't want you any more upset than you already are."

"What's that supposed to mean?" Hermione hissed at him. "Just because I'm..."

Oh shit, Harry thought to himself as he suddenly recognised the look in her eyes and commenced Operation 'Placate Hormonal Hermione'.

"I'd be upset too, if I found my boyfriend's Death Eater robes," Harry interjected, "But it's not like you've never seen any before and hell, you've even seen Lucius' in action and that hasn't put you off. Anyway, you know Severus was held in a different regard to everyone else. Maybe he didn't actually wear them," Harry offered, but he knew it was a long shot.

"There's dried blood on the masks – inside and out," Hermione told him...her voice almost devoid of emotion.

"Well that doesn't mean..."

"He wore them Harry. He fucking wore them!" she yelled at him.

"Alright, calm down," Harry said as soothingly as possible. "You've said yourself that this wasn't him. So he was a Death Eater; but he defected and look what he had to do. You've seen his memories, Hermione. You know this is just a remnant of his work as a spy. In all fairness these probably saved his life because they provided a bit of anonymity for him. And give the man a break. He only asked you to move in with him last week. I doubt he was thinking about these when he was asking you something so bloody significant. It's not like he's got them framed on the wall like fucking Quidditch robes."

This made Hermione's crying hitch into a snigger. She looked at her best friend bashfully and whispered, "I know."

Bravely Harry continued, "Look, I know this isn't the best time for you..."

Hermione snarled at him. "Oh yes, of course, because I'm hormonal and can't think straight and..."

"Well, yes, actually. And I mean it in the nicest sense," Harry snapped at her. "You have every right to be upset but don't take it out on him," and then in a more gentle tone he added, "I'll leave you alone for a bit, but I'll take these with me and pop up to see him. Just don't dwell on it."

It was then Harry saw the all too familiar quivering bottom lip and the frantic wiping of the eyes and he sighed deeply, sat down on the sofa and said "Don't bottle it up, love." He extended his arm so that Hermione would come over for a cuddle. Harry sat there for twenty minutes looking at the ceiling as he stroked her hair, wondering about all the changes that had happened in the space of the last few weeks.

Once Hermione had calmed down she promptly told him to bugger off. He wasn't going to argue with her as he knew that now she had cried herself out, her mood would swing again, and he didn't want to be the person on the receiving end of that. No, he decided, he needed to forewarn someone of what he was going to walk into when he went home.

"To what do I owe the pleasure, Professor Potter?" Severus drawled as he squinted at a piece of parchment.

'You need glasses," Harry simply told him as he sat down.

Severus snorted. "Perhaps, but I doubt you came here to discuss my ophthalmic requirements."

"No, I didn't," and with that he dumped the bag he was holding unceremoniously onto Severus' desk.

Severus eyed the bag cautiously. "What's this?" he asked as he began to open the bag.

"Hermione found..."

"Oh shit," Severus exclaimed as he looked at the bag's contents.

"Yeah! Just had her crying on me over them," Harry informed him knowingly.

Severus bit his bottom lip. "I knew there was something wrong. If you will excuse me I must..."

"Severus, she needs to be on her own. Trust me, at this time of the month it's best to leave her alone until you really have to see her," Harry advised.

"I thought you were joking the other day when you said how bad she was," Severus admitted quietly.

Harry shook his head. "Has she gone gooey-eyed over chocolate and demanded crisps yet?"

"Yes," was the only reply Severus could offer.

"You're in for a fun night then," Harry smirked as he saw the panic in Severus' eyes.

Severus groaned and then said, picking up the bag, "I'll take these to Lucius."

Harry nodded and told him with a wry smile, "The bag is one of her cushions, by the way."

"Thank you. Gods forbid I lose one of the dreaded cushions," Severus snarked.

Sweetheart, are you alright?

Leave me alone.

Harry's just been here. He...

I said leave me alone, Severus.

If you insist. I'm just popping out for half an hour. If you need me just let me know. I...I love you.

He never received a response.

Hermione's quest for solitude was quickly interrupted as Ginny had decided to take Professor McGonagall's advice and went to see her friend after an enlightening conversation with Luna and Blaise. It appeared Draco and Lucius had more in common than just hair and eye colour. She just felt guilty that she had the knowledge to be able to muse on that particular point.

She knocked on the door but realised this may have been a mistake as Hermione flung it open in a manner reminiscent of her partner. Now was probably not the best time for Ginny to discuss her relationship with Harry, and ultimately what she did and why with Lucius, unless she wanted her head bitten off.

Hermione knew that she would be terrible company, but nevertheless invited Ginny in as she hadn't seen her since the incident on Saturday night. It was only fair that she heard everyone's side of the story personally, and not just through Severus.

An hour later, Ginny left, safe in the knowledge that Hermione did not approve.

Whilst Ginny was having her ears bashed, Severus had just walked out of the Floo and into Lucius' office at Malfoy Manor.

"What are you doing here?" Lucius drawled as Severus strode straight over to his drinks cabinet and poured himself a large brandy.

"Want one?" Severus asked, holding up the bottle.

"Yes, please. What's wrong?" Lucius asked his old friend.

Severus downed his drink and poured another one. Lucius gave him a sympathetic look. "Oh, you poor bastard. She's driven you to the drink already, has she?"

"No, but her finding the contents of this bag have," Severus croaked out as he swallowed the contents of his glass in one and threw the bag at the blonde wizard. "I am in deep shit!"

Lucius opened the bag and could see his friend's dilemma. "Where were they?" he asked, trying to mask his amusement.

Severus sighed and raked his fingers through his hair. "She was sorting out some of the chests and she came across them. I forgot they were there. Well, I didn't, because obviously I was intending to bring them to you but...now was not the best time for her to find them."

"Ah! She's going through her harpy stage, is she?" Lucius asked, turning away from Severus so he could suppress his urge to laugh.

"You could say that," Severus muttered as he poured himself another drink.

"For fuck's sake, she's not Voldemort. She won't Crucio you."

"I know but..."

"But what? What are you so scared of?" Lucius asked.

Severus looked at the floor. "She shouldn't have seen them, or at least I should have been there. Harry said she was distraught. What if she...what if she's so upset that she...she shouldn't even be with me anyway, she deserves someone better than me..."

"I'm not listening to this ridiculousness anymore," Lucius interrupted him. "Are you having a sympathy period? What do you mean, she shouldn't be with you? I swear if you do or say anything stupid I'll..."

"What's going on?"

The two older wizards turned to the doorway where Draco was standing.

"Hermione found these," Lucius said, indicating the robes, "and he started spouting all sorts of nonsense because she's upset and he isn't sure how to handle her at the moment."

"What's so special about the present moment?" Draco asked distractedly.

Severus drawled, "I believe your father described it as her 'harpy stage' and she's told me to leave her alone."

"Oh," Draco smirked. "Belgian chocolate truffles work wonders. Well, they shut her up, at least, but as for leaving her alone...go and see her. Hell, I'll go and see her. I need to drop some stuff off in my rooms anyway. I'll see you later,"

As his son left the room Lucius turned to Severus and gave a piece of friendly advice. "The robes won't drive you apart, but keep saying that you're not good enough and one day you both might actually believe it. Don't throw away the best thing that's ever happened to you over your insecurities because believe me, being away from your soulmate is hell."

Severus stiffened at his words. He knew Lucius was right but he'd never give him the satisfaction of telling him so.

I'm back, love. Do you need anything?

No, I just want to be on my own for a bit.

'For a bit'...Severus thought that felt slightly encouraging.

The knock on the door made Hermione jump. She had been watching the fire again. She wiped her eyes and opened the door tentatively.

"Granger, beware of snakes bearing gifts. Chocolate?" Draco teased as he held out a small box of truffles.

"Feed me them," Hermione said pathetically.

Draco sighed. "I'll feed you one, but it's not my job anymore. Let Uncle Sev feed you the rest. You know he's scared you're going to leave him over the robes, don't you?"

Her eyes flew wide open...as did her mouth. "He what?"

"Yes indeed, Miss Hormonally Granger," Draco giggled mirthlessly. "Harry told him how upset you were and do I need to remind you how insecure he can be?"

"Oh gods," she mumbled.

"Well I'll leave you with that thought and these chocolates," Draco drawled before kissing Hermione on the cheek. He felt the tears streaming down her face and pulled her into him. "Just talk to him. Put his mind at rest...and yours."

With that he kissed her forehead and left the room.

Hermione sat on the sofa and looked at the chocolates before her. Indeed, you should beware of snakes bearing gifts and advice, she mused.

Where are you, love? she thought to Severus.

The lab. Why?

I need a cuddle.

She didn't receive a reply.

Hermione was pacing the living room when Severus appeared twenty minutes later, holding a vial of clear liquid.

"Finally decided to show up, have you?" she spat at him.

Severus didn't answer. He was shocked to see the state Hermione was in. Her eyes were angry, puffy and raw from crying. He felt guilty that he had not been there when she discovered the robes, that others had comforted her.

"Oh and I suppose you already know that I found your Death Eater robes. What a lovely surprise that was. Do you know how seeing them made me feel? It was like being slapped in the face. It was too real. I know it's not who you are or even who you were. I know what you had to go through but...I can't explain it. I..."

"No need to explain. I should have disposed of them," he said, his voice devoid of emotion.

"Yes, you should have. I've had all sorts of thoughts going through my head today. Thoughts I shouldn't be thinking, things I..."

"You should think them," he interrupted, holding out the vial. "I trust this may be of help."

"What is it?"

"Simple extracts of Chamomile, Blue Vervain, Monk's Berry, and Liquorice combined with a weak Calming Draught," he drawled as if he were talking to anyone else but her.

Hermione took the vial from him and was surprised when he took a step back from her. "What's wrong?" she asked plaintively. Again Severus did not answer. He did not know how to answer her.

Realising no answer was coming she simply said, "thank you," before swiftly drinking the contents.

Severus nodded curtly to her and turned to leave. His guilt had taken over and after seeing Hermione like this, he really needed to clear his head before the whole situation descended into a meaningless row.

"Where are you going?" Hermione asked in a panic.

Severus swallowed hard, trying to maintain his stoic disposition. He knew he was failing. "My office."

"Don't go. Please. I need...I need a cuddle," she whispered.

Severus sighed deeply. "Is that all you need?"

Her reply was emphatic. "No."

"Then how can I be of further..."

"Do you still love me?" she asked, her voice cracking. Even though he had his back to her, when he closed his eyes at her question, Severus could picture her tears and it tore at his heart that she should even ask.

He spun around and looked her. "Of course I love you. How can you ask me that?"

"Because I'm a bitch and I'm fat and I'm useless and I..."

"What the fuck are you talking about?" he asked incredulously. "Sit down and...no wait," and without saying another word, he walked towards her and putting a finger under her chin, lifted it so he could look into her eyes, which had now softened again. Taking a deep, hitching breath, Severus slowly exhaled before leaning down to press his lips to hers.

"I love you," he whispered roughly as their lips touched with desperation. The kiss deepened as he tried to convey exactly what she meant to him, even when she was being the moodiest witch he'd ever met. It wasn't enough of course; no kiss would ever be enough to tell her how he felt. He pulled her into his arms and they both relaxed as she returned his embrace.

"I hope that draught works soon because I never want to hear such drivel coming from you again," he muttered as he planted hard kisses into her hair.

After a moment of relishing being in each other's arms, Hermione said pensively, "Draco said you were scared I'd leave you."

"Draco ought to learn to keep his mouth shut," Severus groused whilst secretly commending the devious little shit for knowing which of Hermione's buttons to press.

Severus held her a little tighter as she told him softly, "Just so you know, I'm never leaving you."

"I should hope not," he whispered, allowing himself an unguarded smile.

"And I'm really sorry for how I've been today and I'm sorry about this..."

"About what?"

"How I get," she mumbled into his chest.

He chuckled deeply; the rumble in his chest made her feel safe. "You can't help it but I'll try and help you. And if I can't...well I'll have to get used to it. It's a small price to pay for being with you."

"You mean that?"

"I will one day, I'm sure," he teased. "Now I believe we both may be in need of some chocolate"

After an evening of chocolate and wine whilst Severus worked on the sofa, Hermione fell asleep snuggled up against him. The extracts had appeared to work, or else Hermione was making a supreme effort to keep her mood in check. He picked her up, carried her to their bed and undressed her wandlessly before slipping into bed beside her. He felt emotionally drained. He didn't feel quite so insecure though, he mused, just before drifting off to sleep moments after his head hit the pillow.

He was awoken a few hours later by swearing emanating from the bathroom.

"You alright, sweetheart?" he asked sleepily, stifling a yawn.

"Yeah," she replied with an air of almost defeat.

A few moments later Hermione returned to bed, her skin was cold as she snuggled up to him. He pulled her closer to warm her up and he whispered, "Are you sure you're alright?"

"I've come on," she mumbled.

"Oh! Well if you need anything let me know," he yawned, before thinking to himself, thank fuck for that. At least she'll be in a better mood tomorrow... I hope!
- 29
- 30
- 31
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