A Mother's Heart

[Rikki]

Well, here's chapter 12. Hope you like it. I know that Severus is rather OoC but hey. ;D

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When Minerva turned around, she gave a small cry of relief.
“Severus, are you mad? You gave us quite a scare.” Unknowingly, Minerva had clutched her wand tightly, holding it up in front of her.

“I’m sorry, Min. That wasn’t my intention.” Severus said softly. He could see that Minerva was quite scared. And he saw the scars that Umbridge had given her with the stunners. He stared at them for a moment until Harry cleared his throat.

“Are you okay?” the boy asked. Severus tore his gaze away from Minerva, who covered herself quickly with a towel. It wasn’t that Severus hadn’t seen her in her swimsuit before but she knew that he was upset about the scars.

“Yeah, I am.” Severus looked at Harry, a bit amazed that the boy – the young man – seemed to care about his well-being so much. But then again, they had gotten to get along these last weeks, and though Severus only grudgingly admitted it, Harry wasn’t that bad. He wasn’t like James. And he felt that Harry had come to a new respect for the man he had hated for so long.

“How was the meeting?” Minerva had draped the towel around her slender frame and stepped next to Severus, putting her hand on his arm.

“It was okay. We just got some instructions. Apparently, the ministry had planned some raids for tonight, and Voldemort wasn’t willing to risk any of his death eaters caught. Just wonder why he’s suddenly so thoughtful about their well-being,” he commented dryly. He would have to report the details of the meeting with Voldemort to Albus later on.

“Do you want to swim with us?” Hermione asked. She, too, had noticed that the potions master wasn’t that bad if one just got to know him a bit better. He was still rather moody but he wasn’t cruel to them anymore.

“No, thanks. I think I’ll just go back to the house and get myself a cup of tea or something.” Severus even tried to smile at Hermione. The insufferable know-it-all had turned out quite okay too, much to his surprise. But then again, he had always suspected that the girl just had to be quite nice, otherwise Minerva wouldn’t have to be so taken with her.

“I’ll go with you.” Minerva said quickly and gathered her belongings. “You three enjoy yourselves.” She smiled at the trio and waved goodbye to them.

Linking her arm with Severus’, she looked at the young man. He seemed pensive today. Not that that was unusual for him, but today it was just different.

When they arrived at the house, Severus headed in the direction of the kitchen while Minerva hurried upstairs to change. The table was set for two, with tea and cookies, when she entered the kitchen.

“I thought you might like some tea too.” Severus pulled a chair out for her, and Minerva sat down.

“Yes thank you.” She smiled at the young man who sat down next to her. “So, are you going to tell me what’s bothering you? Or do I have to tickle it out of you?”

Severus gave her a mock-annoyed look. But he knew it wouldn’t do to keep anything from Minerva, so he could tell her right away. That would be better for both of them. He knew how persistent she could be when she sensed that something was wrong with him.

“It’s just… I’ve never realized just how much Umbridge and her puppets hurt you. These scars…” his voice trailed of, and he kept his gaze down. “I’ve just never really realized how close I had come to losing you.” Finally he looked at Minerva, and she could see that he had tears in his eyes.

“Severus… don’t. Don’t even think of that possibility.” Minerva reached out and drew the young man into a tight embrace. Whispering words of comfort, she stroked his back and rocked him gently while he cried. Severus wasn’t one to cry easily, Minerva knew that; but since she and Albus were the closest thing to a family he had, that realization was quite a shock to him.

Regaining his composure, Severus pulled away from Minerva and wiped away his tears.
“I’m sorry,” he mumbled, clearly embarrassed.

“What for? For showing that you care for me?” Minerva caressed his cheek. “You can’t fool me, Severus Snape. I know that you do care for people, though you want to make everyone believe that’s not the case.”

“I know.” Gratefully Severus took Minerva’s hand and squeezed it gently. “And thanks.”

“Not for that, dear boy, not for that. You know that I’ll be always there for you, when you need me.”

“I know, Min.” Severus sighed. It had been difficult for him to accept that there was someone who saw right through his icy exterior, right into his heart. But Minerva had known him for so long, she had held him when his parents had died and his aunt had rejected him. She and Albus had celebrated with him when he had finished Hogwarts and graduated from university after his potions studies. They had suffered with him when he had been fooled to join Voldemort’s ranks, and they had been the first ones to welcome him back to the light side. And they had helped him getting the job at Hogwarts. He was eternally grateful to them, and seeing Minerva’s scars had unsettled him greatly. She was like the mother he had never really had – even when his birth mother was still alive she hadn’t really loved her son. And Albus had always been a father figure for Severus. When they had taken over the care for Severus, they had given him all the love he had never known. Now there was Harry, and for the first time in his life, Severus could understand how the boy must feel.

“And I think it’s great that you finally convinced Albus to let Harry stay here. I don’t know his relatives but it sounds awful, from what I’ve heard about them.” Severus nearly grinned.

“I’m glad you think like that, Severus. He’s a good boy. It’s really a pity the two of you had such a bad start.” Minerva took a cookie chewed it pensively.

“Well, I guess we still have to work on our relationship but I think it has already improved greatly. You know, you were right, he really isn’t that bad.” Severus said with a low chuckle.

“I told you so.” Minerva grinned at him.

Chatting lightly, they sat for another hour, waiting for Albus to return from his Order meeting.

[Rikki]

Is anyone still reading this story? Just wondering... If so, please don't forget to review.

---

The Order meeting hadn’t brought any news. So far, Voldemort operated more or less in secret and hadn’t made any open move. That brought the Order into a more passive situation as they didn’t want to offer the enemy any insight in their plans.

But Albus had arrived in a fantastic mood – not that he wasn’t in a good mood anyway most of the time, but he had bought some flowers for his wife and candy for the children. And that included Severus who would be staying with them for a few days.

“Good evening, love.” He kissed Minerva gently on the forehead and then gave her the flowers. Red roses had always been her favourites, and he had bought a huge bunch for her.

“Hello. And what are these for?” She inhaled their rich scent deeply.

“Nothing special,” Albus shrugged. He didn’t need an occasion to buy some flowers for his wife now, did he? With a wink he handed a bag of sweets over to Ron who grinned conspiratorially at him.

“So, what do you want for dinner?” Minerva asked while arranging the flowers in a vase.

Severus got up quickly.
“Well, I thought, since I spoilt your romantic evening last time, why don’t I take your three cubs out for dinner and then perhaps a movie or something and you two just enjoy yourselves?” He looked at Albus and saw the familiar twinkle in his eyes brighten up.

Minerva looked at the trio who all nodded.
“Of course, Minerva. There’s movie I’ve wanted to see anyway,” Hermione interjected, nudging the boys in the ribs.

“Well, then it’s settled I think.” Minerva smiled gratefully at Severus. Though she loved her cubs dearly, they were quite a handful. And with the lessons going on and Albus’ Order meetings, it was nice to have an evening all to themselves.

About half an hour later, Severus and the trio left the McGonagall manor and apparated to Edinburgh.
“So, which movie do you want to see, Miss Granger?” Severus asked. He had the nasty feeling that it would be some nice girl movie.

“It’s called ‘Blow Dry’,” the girl answered. “And please, sir… Can’t you call me Hermione?” She looked at him pleadingly. Hermione didn’t really know why this was so important to her but after these last days with Albus, Minerva and Snape it seemed so… cold to be called by her last name.

“Okay… Hermione. Uhm… what is the movie about?” The title indicated something about hair dressing. Which didn’t seem such an interesting topic for a movie.

“Well, it’s with Alan Rickman, and it’s about a hair dressing competition.”

Severus raised an eyebrow and looked at the boys who just shrugged.
“What about you two? Do you want to see that movie too?” he asked them. Ron and Harry didn’t seem able to make up their minds about that issue but Hermione looked at them with puppy dog eyes and so they nodded.

“Okay, then I think it’s ‘Blow Dry’,” Severus concluded with a sigh. Merlin knew what that movie would turn out to be. And who the heck was Alan Rickman?

“But let’s have dinner first. I’m starving.” Ron said, looking at a nearby restaurant. So they went in there and ordered.

Over dinner, Severus couldn’t help but questioning Hermione further about that movie.
“And who’s that… what was his name? Alan Rickman?”

Hermione blushed slightly.
“Oh, he’s the male lead, and he’s really hot.” Now Hermione’s cheeks were really flushed, and Ron and Harry couldn’t stifle a snort.

“Now, honestly, Hermione. Don’t tell me you have a crush on that guy,” Ron gulped.

Twenty minutes later they were on their way to the movie theatre, the boys still teasing Hermione about her earlier confession. Severus tried not to show it but somehow these three Gryffindors had managed to amuse him.

Back at the McGonagall manor Albus and Minerva had enjoyed their dinner. Nothing fancy, actually just some left-over from lunch. But they had enjoyed it immensely. Afterwards they had played a nice game of chess; Minerva had beaten Albus spectacularly – as usual actually. Now they had retired in front of the fire place with a mug of hot cocoa each, Minerva snuggled up in Albus’ arms.

Gently he kissed the top of her head and caressed her back.
“As nice as it is having Harry, Ron and Hermione here, as nice it is to have an evening just for us.” He smiled as she turned her face upwards to look at him.

“I know. Do you regret taking them in?” Minerva raised her hand and started drawing lazy patterns on Albus chest. He shook his head.

“No, it’s just that I miss quiet evenings like this, just you and me. And kissing you wherever I want…” His eyes gleamed with mischief as he spoke, and Minerva knew that he had actually more in mind than just kissing. But she knew what he meant. They had never had children, so they had never known what it meant to be careful not to be caught. Even with Severus around it hadn’t been like that. Severus had always been a quiet child, and after his parents’ death he had withdrawn into some kind of shell. But they had barely noticed that he was even there in the beginning.

But with the trio the house had come alive again; there was a constant buzz of excitement around the place.

“I miss it too. And remind me later to thank Severus for taking them out tonight.” Minerva snuggled deeper into Albus’ embrace and sighed happily. It had been far too long since they had last enjoyed such an evening with tender kisses and gentle caresses.

Albus placed a long finger under her chin and lifted her face up to him. Gently he brushed his lips over hers.
“I love you, Minerva. Don’t ever forget that.” Very tenderly he stroked her cheek.
“And I love you, Albus.” Minerva knew that they lived in dangerous times. There was an upcoming war, and Albus was the most dangerous threat for Voldemort. So she knew she just had to cherish the time she could spend with her husband. But Minerva was confident. They had survived the war against Grindelwald together and the first was against Voldemort. They knew each other very well, and they fought even better together, since each could anticipate the other’s next course of action.

Long before Severus and the trio returned from their outing, Minerva and Albus had retired to their bedroom for a romantic and passionate night.

[Toe Expert]

I wonder how will Severus react when he sees Alan Rickman...

I totally agree with Hermione on this point-- he is sooo sexy

[Rikki]

;D I know... just couldn't help it. *ggg* And of course Hermione is right.

Hugs, Rikki

[QuillofMinerva]

I did like the Alan Rickman mention..lol and I do have to agree with Hermione as well.

Nice update Rikki

Clayre x

[KayleeTonksLupin]

Tabby said:

*dies* Right there! RIGHT THERE YOU STOP!

You, ma'am, are ebil!

~Diana

I agree with ma soeur...but you get lots of Kaylee-wolf treats anyway, for luffely updates!

Hugs,

Kaylee!

[KayleeTonksLupin]

Alan Rickman? Oh, God...Snape seeing Alan Rickman...That's just...*dies* I can't wait for the dam to break...and yes, I know that Rickman doesn't really have Snape-hair...in fact, my sister believes he looks more like Lockhart in RL...*dies again* Kaylee-wolf treats all around, then!

Hugs,

Kaylee

[idealrain]

|I really do enjoy this story.

[JoanneM]

Hi Guys, my first entry in this board! ;D

I love it ;D .. I love it ;D .. I love it ;D
After I thought about the idea of "Snape seeing Alan Rickman" twice ... it's hilarious! *big grin* I am curious how Snape will react! And I think you are converting me of becoming an Alan Rickman Fan .. In some way .

And of course Min and Dumbledore are sooooooooo sweet together!

[Rikki]

I know it's short and it kind of sucks, but at least it's a chapter. *sigh*

When Severus and the trio emerged from the movie theatre, all three men had a slightly disgusted look on their faces while Hermione literally glowed with happiness.

“Honestly, Hermione, I would have thought that you had a better taste,” Ron said. He hadn’t liked the movie and couldn’t understand how Hermione could be so taken with it. The film had been about some hair dressing competition, and Alan Rickman’s character had been left by his wife for some girl. And of course he was a former champion of these competitions. Ron shuddered at the pure thought of the movie.

“You just don’t understand that, Ron.” Hermione said, raising her head a bit higher. But she still had the dreamy look on her face.

“Well, it wasn’t that bad,” Severus said. Certainly, this wasn’t his kind of movie but he had seen worse. Contrary to common belief, he wasn’t unaccustomed with muggle habits, and he even visited movie theatres every once in a while.

Harry and Ron looked at Snape in what seemed to be a mild shock. They couldn’t believe what they had just heard. Snape was the last person they expected to say something like that.

“What?” Severus looked at the boys with what seemed to be a smile – which shocked them even more. Though they had become accustomed to being around him and had gotten to know him better, they still weren’t used to seeing something else than his usual sneer on his face.

“Oh please… even Professor Snape is more open-minded than you – no offence, Professor.” Hermione grinned at him apologetically. It was truly amazing how much she had learned about her professors during the last days and weeks. She had even come to like Snape in a way.

Now Harry and Ron were mumbling now under their breaths but Hermione and Snape ignored them, talking about the movie while walking out of town to their apparation site. After checking a watch, Severus had decided that it was late; Albus and Minerva should have had enough time to enjoy themselves. Plus he still had some work to do before he called it a night.

They arrived at the McGonagall manor a couple of minutes later. There was no sign of either Albus or Minerva, so Severus concluded that they had retired to their room. He turned to the trio.

“Well, I guess we should go to bed. It’s rather late, and we’ll continue with your lessons tomorrow morning. So I suggest you get some rest.” He nodded curtly before he left for the provisional laboratory where he conducted some tests on a potion he had developed.

Ron, Harry and Hermione climbed up the stairs. Though none of them was really tired, they decided that Snape was right. Tomorrow would be another exhausting day. Minerva had started some more complicated spells lately, and even Hermione had to concentrate hard in order to get them right.

“Well, see you tomorrow then. Good night.” Hermione waved at the boys and then turned towards her bedroom which was right next to the one where Ron and Harry slept.

“Night, Hermione. And sweet dreams,” Ron said with a snigger. He knew what Hermione would be dreaming of this night. She had nearly drooled over Alan Rickman in the movie theatre.

“Night. Sleep tight.” Harry grinned and disappeared into the boys’ room.

Hermione rolled her eyes at Ron and then entered her room. It had been quite a nice evening. And she thought that Albus and Minerva had definitely deserved to be left alone for a change; there was definitely more excitement in the house than usually during the holidays. But on the other hand they seemed to enjoy having her and the boys around.

She let her thoughts wander while she brushed out her hair and pulled it back into a braid for the night. At first she had been quite annoyed at the thought of Snape staying here with them. But then she had realized that he could be a completely other person than the strict and feared professor they all knew from Hogwarts. She had never suspected that Snape might have another side to him, a softer side. But some things, Minerva had said about him, explained his behaviour. And though Hermione was still rather young, she understood that certain events could change a person. In that case not necessarily for the better, but then again, as Hermione had just found out, Severus’ mean behaviour was just the exterior of a person who had been hurt too many times.

Changing into her nightgown, Hermione let out a sigh and then climbed into her bed. Suddenly she was very tired and fell asleep as soon as her head hit the pillow. Just before she completely drifted away, she wondered if she was about to develop a crush on her potions teacher but decided that she had just started liking him.

[KayleeTonksLupin]

Ohmygosh...are we going for an HG/SS ship here, Rikki? Needless to say, I don't ship Mione with anyone but Ron...still, I've read a really well-written HG/SS before, "The Price". Very sad. But I still liked it, and I still like this.

Kaylee-wolf treats and huggleses,

Kaylee!

[Tabby Bee]

;D Ha! You KNOW she likes him! ^^

Great chap, Rikki!

Ta luv,

Diana

[Rikki]

Don't worry, Kaylee, this won't turn into SS/HG. Though I have to admit that I've thought about that for a moment.

Hugs, Rikki

P.S. thanks for the reviews.

[QuillofMinerva]

A short chapter but still as sweet ;D

Thanks for sharing

Clayre x

[Jaya]

Ugh!!!

**shudder**

sorry... just my opinion

But nicely written chapter

Jaya

[Hogwarts Duo]

Not a bad chapter at all. It's funny to see Hermione thinking about a possible upcoming crush on her Potions professor! Thanks for the update on the story! Even short chapters are most welcome! ^_^

[Rikki]

And here's chapter 15. Thanks for still reading.

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Severus had retired to his chambers, still inwardly amused about Hermione’s infatuation with Alan Rickman. Admitted, he was quite attractive, even he saw that. But still, he had always considered Hermione to be a more sensible girl.

Coming to think of it, he had thought about the girl for quite some time now. No improper thoughts, of course, but he had toyed with the idea of taking in an apprentice for quite some time now. And Hermione seemed to fit all the criteria he was looking for in an apprentice. She wouldn’t finish school for another year but perhaps she was interested in doing some more potions and be some kind of assistant to him for now.

Before he finally fell asleep, Severus decided to approach Albus with that subject matter as soon as an opportunity would present itself.

The next morning Minerva woke up as the sunlight tickled her nose through the window. She was snuggled up contently in the arms of her husband who was still fast asleep. Minerva didn’t care, she always enjoyed being awake before him and the opportunity to watch him so relaxed. During the day he was so tense which was only natural with all his responsibilities. But when he was asleep the tension was eased away from his face and the lines softened. He seemed to turn back into the man she had fallen in love with so many years ago.

Slowly Albus opened one eye, then the other, only to find his wife watching him intently. He couldn’t repress a grin when he saw her, hair all unruly around her head and still a bit sleepy.

“Good morning, love.” Carefully he raised his hand and caressed her cheek.

“And a very good morning to you too.” Minerva smiled at him lovingly.

Albus yawned heartily. He wasn’t an early riser, and usually he preferred to sleep in on weekends. Today was Saturday, and he didn’t have any plans. The next order meeting would be on Monday evening, Remus and Severus would be on alert for today and tomorrow. So he would have the whole weekend to spend with Minerva – and the trio. At the moment he wished they weren’t there. Not that he didn’t enjoy the company of the young Gryffindors but during the school year he didn’t see very much of his wife, only in the evenings and even then they couldn’t be sure that there weren’t any interruptions. But perhaps they would come up with something they would all enjoy.

“What about breakfast?” Minerva seemed to be very energetic today – despite their rather passionate night which meant that they didn’t get much sleep.

“Okay, okay, I’ll get up.” Albus chuckled and got out of bed. He knew that he didn’t stand a chance of staying in bed when his wife was in that mood.

While dressing he thought about what they could do today. He remembered that Minerva had always enjoyed the zoo, so he thought it would be a nice treat to apparate to London and visit the zoo there. When he told Minerva, it earned him a squeal and a kiss from his wife.

It was still rather early in the morning, and though Minerva knew that the children had come home rather late the other night, she decided to wake them. They could spend the whole day in London, first the zoo and then perhaps a visit to Diagon Alley. But to Minerva’s surprise, all three of them were already wide awake and up.

“Now what happened to you? I thought you would prefer to sleep in today.” Minerva smiled at Hermione who was just trying to get her hair into a braid which proved rather difficult. With some quick movements Minerva was behind her and took the thick hair into her delicate hands, braiding it with practiced ease.

“Thanks. And we thought we could do something together today. I don’t know… we thought perhaps you would like to go somewhere with us? No lessons today, you know.” Hermione winked at Minerva.

“Well, I’m glad you had the same idea. Albus suggested that we go to the London zoo. How does that sound?” She looked at the boys who nodded. Hermione gave a small squeal.

“Yeah, that would be wonderful.” She quickly hugged Minerva.

“Very well then. Go and have some breakfast before we leave.” Minerva turned to leave Hermione’s room when she felt a hand on her arm. She turned again and looked in Hermione’s brown eyes.

“Uhm… I mean… does Severus… come with us?” the girl asked.

Minerva smiled. She had noticed that Hermione seemed to have taken a liking in the potions master, and though she had first thought that the girl might develop a crush on him, she had dismissed that thought. Even if she did, Severus would be sensible enough not to start anything with her as long as Hermione was a student. That meant if he returned her feelings then.

“I’ll ask him, okay? He is supposed to share the watch for the order this weekend but perhaps Remus can take over today.” Minerva nodded and then finally left the room, on her way to find Severus.

It didn’t took Minerva long to locate the young man. In fact, Severus was still in his room and still asleep. It was not like him to sleep in, and Minerva had to smile when she entered his bedroom and saw him snuggled up under the covers, rolled into a tight ball.

Checking her watch, Minerva silently debated with herself if she should wake him or not, but the look on Hermione’s face made her decide in favour of it. Plus Severus wouldn’t like to sleep all day, he would be furious with himself for being so ‘weak’ as he saw that.

Softly Minerva stroked over Severus’ head, easing the hair out of his face, before planting a kiss on his forehead.
“Severus, dear. Wake up.”

Mumbling something indistinguishable, Severus began to stretch and slowly opened his eyes. He was quite surprised to find Minerva standing beside his bed; it had been quite some time since that had last happened.

“Good morning. Is something wrong?” His mind had started working immediately. He could only come up with some kind of catastrophe that made Minerva wake him in the middle of the night.

“Good morning. No, nothing’s wrong.” Minerva said.
Severus took a look around the room and noticed that it wasn’t dark outside anymore but bright daylight.

“What time is it?” Severus pushed himself up from the bed and pulled the covers back to get out.

“8 am. Albus had suggested we spend the day in the zoo in London, and Hermione asked if you would like to come with us. That’s why I thought I could wake you.” Minerva stepped back from the bed to grant him space to get up, looking down at him.

He looked at her quite surprised.
“Pardon? Miss Granger… uhm… Hermione wants me to come along?” Severus couldn’t believe it but Minerva nodded.

“Well, I’d love to but I have order duty,” Severus said regretfully. He couldn’t believe that Hermione actually wanted him to join them but apparently she did. And he couldn’t believe that anyone could imagine him enjoying a day in the zoo. But then again the three Gryffindors had gotten to know him quite well over the past weeks, and especially Hermione had discovered more than one new side of him with her sharp mind and close observations.

“Don’t worry. Albus had apparently thought about you joining in too. Alastor will cover for you today.” Minerva couldn’t suppress a grin at the look on the younger man’s face.

“Hey, so I didn’t really have a choice then it seems.” Severus tried to appear upset but failed miserably. Minerva could look straight through this mask that worked so well with all the students.

“Oh, nonsense. And now, up with you and get some breakfast. My Gryffindors are already downstairs, so hurry up if you want to get something to eat.” Minerva lightly slapped him on the arm and then left his room.

She sighed softly. It had been so long since there had been so much life in this large house. And even though she enjoyed having Albus usually to herself over the summer holidays, she enjoyed every minute. She loved having Harry, Ron and Hermione around and Severus, of course. It had been so long since she had had the possibility to look after him. At school she couldn’t do that.

When she entered the kitchen she found all four of her ‘adopted children’ sitting at the table, chatting about yesterday’s movie. She could make out that Hermione seemed to fancy the male lead and the boys lacked understanding for that. Severus could only roll his eyes at the outburst and hope for the best.

“Well, I’m glad you had a great evening.” Minerva helped herself to a cup of hot chocolate which Albus preferred for breakfast – a habit she had taken over years ago.

“Yeah, we did. Though I just don’t see what’s so great about that actor guy.” Ron shook his head.

“And who are we talking about?” Minerva knew quite some muggle actors since Albus had made it a tradition to take her out to a movie show every once in a while.

“Alan Rickman,” Hermione said, a dreamy expression manifesting itself on her face. Ron and Harry looked slightly disgusted while Severus had to suppress a smile.

“Oh, him. Yes, I have to admit he certainly is attractive.” Minerva grinned at the boys who had a rather shocked expression on their faces and Severus nearly choked on his tea.

“What?” Minerva looked at the three men with a raised eyebrow.

“Nothing. I just… didn’t expect you to say something like that. You certainly still manage to surprise me.” Severus grinned now openly. It was rather amazing. He had known Minerva for so long now, and he hadn’t known that.

Minerva smiled enigmatically.
“Well, I think there are some more things that would surprise you if you ever found out.” With a wink she rose from her chair and left the kitchen to gather the things they would need for the outing.

“Who would have guessed…” Harry said softly, but with a smile on his face.

[tanja]

i just can say the same thing again : GREAT !!!!!!!!!!
looking forward to updating ;-)

[Rikki]

And here's chapter 16. Have fun reading.

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When Severus and the trio emerged from the kitchen, Minerva looked at them critically. The kids had chosen clothes which made it easy to blend in with the muggles but Severus was dressed in his usual black attire.

“Severus, dear, I’m afraid you’ll have to change. At least get another shirt or something. And no robes,” Minerva added with a wink. She knew how Severus disliked wearing anything other than his billowing robes and the black suit underneath. But muggles weren’t really accustomed to seeing wizard clothes.

Severus looked down at himself, not liking the idea but he knew Minerva was right. He was about to start regretting the idea of joining the others in this outing when Minerva took out her wand and simply transfigured his robes and the black shirt. Now he was wearing his black trousers combined with a white shirt.

“I look like a waiter,” he complained but Minerva shook her head.

“Nonsense. You look just fine.” But she couldn’t suppress a smile. This was typically Severus.

“If you say so…” the younger man sighed.

“I do. And now we just have to wait for Albus – oh, there he is.” Minerva smiled appreciating at husband who had dressed in some simple dark blue cotton trousers, a matching jacket and a white shirt underneath. And he had shortened his hair and beard.

“You look lovely, darling.” She kissed him gently before spinning around to show him her attire. She had chosen a light summer dress which ended just below the knee.

“And you look absolutely stunning, Min.” Albus patted her on the small of her back before turning to the others who grinned at each other at the obvious display of affection.

“So, are you ready? We’ll take a Portkey to some place close to the zoo and then walk the rest.” Albus took out a pocket watch and indicated for the others to touch it. Then he murmured an incantation to activate the Portkey and off they were.

Within seconds they landed safely on their feet in what seemed to be a small park. Albus took a quick look around, offered Minerva his arm and then led the way to the zoo. Ron and Harry followed while Hermione fell back a bit to walk beside her potions master and ask about some theory she had read some days ago.

Arriving at the zoo Albus bought tickets for all of them and they entered.

“Where do you want to go first?” Minerva asked.

“I’d like to see the lions,” Hermione said. Minerva grinned at her. The girl really reminded her of herself when she was that age.

“That makes two of us. How about you guys?” Minerva looked at the four men.

“Oh, do we go Gryffindor now? If that’s so I’d like to see the snakes,” Severus said with a grin. He couldn’t help teasing Minerva with her affection for cats of all kind, let alone her pride in her Gryffindors.

“Uhm… I don’t know. The bears maybe? And the elephants.” Harry said. The last time he had been to the zoo had been with his relatives when he had set that python on Dudley. True, it had been an accident, and he was now able to control his magic but he still didn’t like the idea of a python running wild in the middle of a crowd.

“Yeah, that would be cool,” Ron chimed in.

“Well, according to this map these animals are all scattered over the area, so I think we’ll just start the tour,” Albus said who had studied a map of the zoo which was at the entrance.

So they set off. Minerva and Hermione were lucky; the lions were the first animals on their list they encountered.

“Isn’t he beautiful?” Minerva whispered. The lion looked straight at her but didn’t blink or move at all. He didn’t seem to see her as a threat or a nuisance. Another woman came and stood right next to Minerva. She looked from Minerva to the lion and back, then kind of pushed Minerva out of her way to get a better look at the animal. Suddenly the so far calm lion jumped up and roared, looking menacingly at the strange woman. Minerva had been caught off-guard and stumbled but Severus had caught her.

“I think you’ve made a friend there,” he said, pointing at the lion who had settled back down, again looking at Minerva.

“Yes, I think he can sense my feline animagus form,” Minerva whispered back. Severus just nodded. Animals could be rather perceptive when it came to wizards and their animagus forms. Severus wasn’t an animagus himself but he had been able to observe Minerva on several occasions as she dealt with animals. Most of them seemed to like her, especially cats. Only dogs seemed to have a problem with her.

Albus and the trio had already gone ahead to the next enclosure. Minerva followed swiftly but Severus lingered a bit before the lion, looking at it intently. Suddenly someone bumped into him. Severus turned angrily to see who had been so clumsy but when he saw the young woman standing next to him and apologizing profusely, he just couldn’t be angry anymore. She wasn’t exactly pretty, in the general sense of speaking, but she was beautiful to him.

“I’m so sorry, I didn’t see you. Are you okay?” she asked, her hand on his elbow.

“Yes, I am. No need to be sorry, that can happen.” Severus smiled at her, hoping that it would look like a smile and not his customary sneer. “Are you okay?”

“Yes, thank you.” The young woman smiled and was about to turn around when Severus knew he just had to stop her from leaving.

“Uhm… may I invite you for a drink? Over there’s a small café.” He pointed somewhere to his left, not sure there even was something.

“Yes, why not.”

And suddenly Severus had all forgotten about Minerva, Albus and the trio. He had only eyes for the woman next to him as they went to find the café he had been talking about.

After a couple of minutes of waiting for Severus, Minerva grew impatient.
“Albus, do you know where Severus is? He was right behind us in the lion enclosure but he seems to have disappeared.” She sounded worried.

“No, Minerva, he hasn’t. Look, over there.” Hermione indicated a point on the other side of a lawn where Severus walked with a strange dark-blonde woman. Minerva looked over and raised an eye brow.

“And who may that be?” she said with a smile on her face.

“I have no idea, but she must be something special if he forgot to inform us that his plans have changed.” Albus said with a chuckle. It seemed Severus had finally found a woman he was truly interested in. And that in the zoo of all places.

“Well, she certainly looks nice enough from here,” Ron said, trying to get a better look at the stranger.

“I think we should give them some privacy and not spy on them. If Severus wants to inform us he will do so. In the meantime I suggest we continue our tour.” Minerva said resolutely, ushering them further and away from the couple who had found a nice table on the terrace of the café.

Albus, Minerva and the trio spent the rest of the afternoon observing all kinds of animals. The trio managed to find the pet zoo, much to Albus’ delight. The baby goats kept following him everywhere, trying to get something nice from him.

“What is that with you Dumbledore men that you can’t stay away from goats?” Minerva asked in mock annoyance. Albus’ brother Aberforth bred goats, and actually Albus was quite fond of them too. Fortunately not as much as his brother but still…

“Hey, I’m innocent. They just follow me,” Albus replied laughing. Finally he was able to get away from them but not after they nearly ripped of the pocket of his jacket in their search for food.

Minerva shook her head but laughed. Albus would always be a child at heart, but that was part of why she fell in love with him in the first place. He could always make her laugh and remind her that there were also other things in life than just work and duty.

“Come on. I think the zoo is about to close. We should get out of here.” After checking her watch Minerva saw that she was right indeed. They had actually spent the whole day in the zoo, without even noticing how time flew by.

“I wonder if Severus is already at home,” Hermione said softly which earned her a strange look from Ron and Harry.

“Please don’t develop a crush on him!” Ron said forcefully.

Hermione just rolled her eyes.
“No, of course not. He’s my teacher. But I …” She couldn’t really explain that she was just curious about the strange woman. In a strange way she had come to like Severus Snape, and she cared about his happiness. Seeing Minerva interact with him had given her a pretty good idea why he had become the man he was.

“Let’s go back to that park so we can take the Portkey home.” Albus shoved them behind a bush and activated the Portkey which brought them back to McGonagall manor.

[QuillofMinerva]

Teehee very funny when the baby goats (kids) were following Albus around *giggle*

[Jaya]

Got to admit... the goats got me laughing too!

Great chapter!

Jaya ;D

[JKMcGonagall]

I got to laughing when Minerva transfigured Severus' clothes, and he said he looked like a waiter. I could just see him, and he would certainly fit in at my favorite eating place. The waiters and waitresses there dress in black pants and white shirts too. Heh heh heh.

Kay

[Jessabelle]

Good Story! I am interested to see how this goes. Are you going to carry it on until it is time for them to go back to school?

[Rikki]

And there's another chapter. Thanks for still reading. I know it usually takes me quite a while to update. So enjoy!

---

When the five of them arrived at the McGonagall manor, the children set off to their rooms immediately. It had been a long day, and after a short stop to fetch some dinner they were all rather tired.

Albus looked at Minerva over the rim of his glasses, slightly amused. He could see that Minerva was curious where Severus was and – more importantly – with whom. Of course he was just as curious, after all Severus had never been lucky with women so far, and Albus wanted the young potions master to be happy. He couldn’t imagine what his life would be like without Minerva and her love, and he knew that Severus needed yet to experience what that meant.

“You know, my dear, I think I’ll go to bed too. It’s already late, and there’ll be an Order meeting tomorrow morning at Grimmauld Place.” Albus put his hand on the shoulder of Minerva, who had sat down on the couch in front of the fireplace in the living room. She was gazing into the flames thoughtfully, but looked up when she felt Albus’ hand.

“Oh, right. Well, I guess I’ll stay here just a little longer. The boy might come home, and maybe he’s hungry…” Minerva’s voice trailed off. She knew that Severus would have taken the woman to some restaurant if he was really interested, so the chances of him being hungry were rather slim. But one could never know. Plus she didn’t want to wait ‘till the following morning to learn who that mysterious woman was.

“Well, goodnight then, my love. Don’t be too long. You know how badly I sleep with your bed empty,” Albus said with a wink. Minerva smiled gently and kissed him gently on the lips as he bent down to her.

“Sleep well, love.” One last kiss and Albus was gone. Minerva looked around the room, searching for something to occupy herself with while she was waiting for Severus. She found a book Poppy had given her just before the holidays had started, but so far she hadn’t found the time to read it. Snuggling up in the corner of the sofa, Minerva opened the book and started reading.

When Severus came home about an hour later, he found a sleeping Minerva rolled up on the couch with a book on her belly, the glasses at an odd angle on her nose. Smiling to himself, Severus took the book and placed it on the coffee table before gently shaking Minerva awake.

“Min! Min, wake up.” Severus couldn’t help but smile. A sleepy Minerva was certainly quite a sight.

“Oh, Severus, you’re back. What time is it?” Minerva pushed herself up in a more comfortable position and looked at the younger man.

“Oh, just about 11pm. You didn’t have to wait up for me, you know.” Severus grinned slightly and offered her his hand to stand up which she accepted gratefully.

“I know but I thought…” Minerva looked at him, and she knew she couldn’t fool him. “Alright, I was curious who that woman was who captured your attention so much you didn’t even tell us you were leaving.” Minerva went to the kitchen, with Severus following her. He knew Minerva would make some hot cocoa, just as she used to when he was younger.

“Well, her name is Kathryn Mitchell, and she’s a muggle. But she’s… I don’t know, I can’t really describe it. The moment I saw her, I knew that I had to find a way to get to know her. Apparently she felt the same, she was quite intrigued by me,” Severus stated in a rather satisfied tone of voice.

“You didn’t use legilimens on her, did you?” Minerva asked sternly. Judging from the suddenly guilty look on his face, he had.

“Sorry, Minerva, I just couldn’t help it. But that was about the only time I did.” Severus tried to defend himself but realized at the same instant that he had made another mistake.

“About the only time? What else?” Minerva demanded to know. She put down the mugs of cocoa in front of Severus and herself, sitting down at the kitchen table.

“Well… I… God, Minerva you know that I’m rather inexperienced when it comes to women. Well, at least in that department,” Severus said with a blush.

“Yes, dear, I do know that. But using legilimens is like cheating.” Minerva scolded gently, but she had a smile on her lips so Severus knew that she wasn’t really angry with him.

“I know. But she’s the most amazing woman I’ve ever met. She’s clever and beautiful and funny…” Severus’ face took on a dreamy look and he seemed to be miles away. Minerva smiled to herself. It was good to see that there finally was a woman who saw past that rather icy exterior of the young Slytherin. And perhaps it was good that this Kathryn Mitchell was a muggle. After all, Severus would have the chance to start a relationship with someone who didn’t know about Voldemort and Severus’ past as a Death Eater, someone who wouldn’t judge him for things he had done when he was in a desperate situation.

“I’m glad then. When will you meet her again?” Minerva asked.

“Oh… uhm… I thought, maybe tomorrow? It’s Sunday after all, and the children don’t have lessons. I’ll have to see how we proceed after that. I’ll get her something nice tomorrow morning.”

“Severus, I hate to disappoint you, but I’m afraid there’s an Order meeting first thing in the morning. But hopefully it won’t take long, so you can be off to find a nice gift for that charming lady.” Minerva patted Severus’ hand and then rose, taking the empty mugs with her to the kitchen sink.

“Oh, right, I totally forgot about that. Thanks for reminding me.” Severus was still sitting at the table, gazing ahead without really looking at something.

“Well, dear, I’ll call it a night now. Sleep tight and sweet dreams.” Minerva kissed him gently on the forehead and noticed with an amused smile that he didn’t really notice anything around him.

The next morning promised to become a glorious summer day, with sun and everything. The Order meeting was early in the morning, so Minerva and Albus had already returned when Harry, Ron and Hermione came down for breakfast. Albus had to dash off for another secret mission but Minerva was free to spend her day to her liking.

“Good morning, all of you. Did you sleep well?” Minerva poured herself some pumpkin juice and then joined the trio at the kitchen table. Albus had already left, after a quick hello to the children.

“Yeah, thanks. Any plans for the day?” Hermione asked while buttering her toast.

“No, not yet. Well, actually there’s a book which I would like to read but otherwise not.”

“Oh, well, we just thought we’d like to go to the lake and spend the day there. Care to join us, Minerva?” Harry asked. He knew that Minerva was likely to worry about Albus while he was away, which was perfectly normal of course but he thought that it would be nice if they were able to distract her a bit.

“Sure, why not. I can read there as well.” Minerva smiled at the boy. He had grown up so much over the last weeks. Of course Minerva knew that Harry tried to take her mind off Albus and his mission, and actually she was grateful for it.

So the four of them spent a very pleasant day at the lake, the boys enjoying water fights while Hermione and Minerva talked about some new theories and some questions Hermione had had for quite some time. It turned out that the girl seemed to be very interested in becoming an animagus, and wanted to know a lot of things about how to achieve that goal.

In the late afternoon, they went back to the house; Ron had caught a slight sunburn but Minerva took care of that with a healing spell. After changing back into their usual clothes Harry announced that they would like to go to the nearby village, just to have a look around. Minerva nodded, wondering when Severus would be back from his date.

Time went by rather quickly, and soon it was late in the evening. The trio had long gone to bed, and Minerva had curled up on the couch in her animagus form and fallen asleep while waiting for Albus and Severus.

When Severus came home around midnight, he found a sleeping tabby cat on the living room sofa. He smiled and picked her up gently, carrying her up to the master bedroom so she would be more comfortable. Just as he was about to enter the bedroom, Harry’s door opened and the sleepy boy emerged on his way to the bathroom. When he saw the potions master with the cat in his arms he was suddenly wide awake.

“Is this Minerva? Is she alright?” he asked in a worried voice.

“Shh, you’ll wake her. Yes, she’s okay, just asleep,” Severus whispered back, stroking the tabby’s back softly.

“Oh.” Harry said. “Well, goodnight then.” He turned around and shut the bathroom door behind him with a soft click.

Suddenly the cat stirred in Severus’ arms and he smiled at her.
“Hi there, sleepyhead. I thought you might prefer your bed to the couch.” Gently he put her down to the floor so she could change back into herself without ending up still being in his arms.

“Thanks, Severus. But you know that wasn’t necessary. You could have woken me.” Minerva winked. “So how was the date?” she asked, ushering him into her bedroom so they could talk without disturbing the others.

“It went really well. She’s really a wonderful lady. We took a walk in Hyde Park today and had dinner afterwards.” Severus smiled at the older woman who had sat down on her bed.

“That’s wonderful, my dear. But may I ask you something? What did you tell her about yourself? I mean… I guess you haven’t told her that you’re a wizard.”

“No, of course not. I told her that I’m a chemistry teacher at a school in Scotland – which isn’t exactly a lie anyway. But that’s about it. We’ve talked about so much, but not me.” Severus said sheepishly. He knew that – sooner or later – that topic would come up and that he needed a cover story. And he would need another cover story should he be seen with Kathryn by some Death Eater or other member of the magical community.

“Well, that’s a great idea. Not too far from the truth.” Minerva smiled at Severus with one of those smiles that told him that she was truly happy for him. But then Minerva couldn’t suppress a yawn.
“Sorry. I guess it’s rather late. But you’ll have to tell me all about that woman soon, okay?” Minerva patted his arm.

“Of course. And thanks for worrying so much.” Severus hugged the petite woman tightly and then kissed her goodnight on the cheek. “Sleep well, Min.”

[foci]

Oh, you updated! Super! The thing I most liked about this chapter was (you'll be laughing at this) Ron's sunburn. It's the little things that count.
I really, really like the idea of Severus dating a Muggle (and am so glad that Kathryn isn't a DE), for all the reasons Minerva named! Loved the cover story of Severus (Chemistry teacher, hehehe). Things are looking nice for him, which pleases me.
The hot cocoa moment and Min waiting up for him warmed my heart.

Thanks for the update! I really needed to read something nice today.

[Rikki]

Yeah, well, with the sunburn I was quite inspired by myself at the moment. ;D And I thought a chemistry teacher is the closest we Muggles have to potions. *ggg* But I'm glad you like it. Thanks for the review. *yay*

Hugs, Rikki

[Jaya]

Very nice chapter!

Jaya ;D

[Alesia]

Very nice update and I am kind of glad you decided not to turn this into a SS/HG story as well. I too am enjoying that Severus has found an interesting woman who just happens to be a muggle to be with. I giggled to myself about whether or not Herimone's questions where going to be about boys rather then magic!

[Jessabelle]

Nice update! Minerva is so cute .. lol .. I never really thought she could be like this with Severus ..

[Jessabelle]

Are you going to update soon for us?