Life at the Castle

Disclaimer: It's not my creation, but I do enjoy manipulating things. No money for me though. Enjoy.

A big thanks goes to my lovely beta, Charmed_Nay, and to my friends over at Potter_Place.

Severus looked down at the parchment as he had been doing periodically over the last couple of weeks. His witch was currently reading as she took a bath. How he longed to be with her. He closed his eyes and imagined sliding in behind her, arms going around her waist to cup her breasts and pull her wet, naked body against his own. He could nearly imagine her sigh of contentedness, hear her gasp of surprise as his fingers fondled her. Another scene flashed before him, causing him to reach down, grasp his erection, and stroke it slowly.

He was now remembering their shower together. When she'd walked in on him that morning, he'd been naked, and he'd been amused with her shocked eyes and quick turning of her head. It was as if she hadn't wanted to see him. He had been uncertain if she'd simply been angry for his horrid, drunken actions the night before or if she'd only been embarrassed. When he'd felt her arms come around him, he knew immediately that his actions had been forgiven. Severus still couldn't believe that he'd handled her in such a way. He'd been well in his cups and simply wanted her. There would be a long period where he'd not be able to hold her, kiss her, or touch her. He'd simply wanted something to tide him over, but she'd had the sense to remind him of why that could not be...not yet anyway.

If he'd taken her that night, they would likely not be back at Hogwarts, and Dumbledore would likely be missing his spy. What do I truly want? he asked himself. He paused his ministrations to ponder that question, as he'd been doing lately. If what Lucius said was the way of things, the old man would not be around much longer. Potter would be victorious, and his Lord would be defeated. It also appeared that maybe he would not survive the final battle. Why would he be standing with his Lord without her? Why would she be at Potter's side? Does she and he eventually have a falling out?

He stood up suddenly, moving away from his desk and fastening his trousers, self-pleasuring forgotten for the moment. Does she get close to Potter whilst living with him? Will she betray me? His mood darkened greatly. If she betrayed him, there would be no way that he'd cross sides and try to save her, much less Potter! There had to be more to it than that. Besides, it appeared that Potter grieved for the fallen person as well, enabling him to rally against his foe and win. Severus was certain that his death would bring joy to Potter, not grief or the need for vengeance.

The only thing that bothered him was that his witch had seemed so beside herself with grief. Who else would she mourn so if not he? Fate was cruel to show them a mere few seconds of the scene and showing it in such a way that only Death Eater type robes could be discerned. There was no mask, hood, or flash of hair that would hint at the person's identity. "I can't believe the headmaster dies," he said aloud. "How? Who? Why?" It was unreal to think of a wizard such as Dumbledore being felled by a mere curse.

Severus knew he should tell Dumbledore. He also knew that he should tell his Lord. What to say? How to say it? He knew that he'd purposely withheld information from the headmaster because he was angry with him for forcing him to bring Hermione back to the castle and even worse, for warding her room to keep him out of it. It had been years since they'd had such a large disagreement. Things still hadn't settled between them. He would tell Dumbledore nonetheless. The man had a right to know. The increase of the moon was upon them. In a mere few days, the full moon would shine down. Lucius should be sending word soon.

Lupin had made arrangements with the headmaster to try to find the Weasley girl's scent when he next transformed. Severus hoped that Draco had had enough sense to leave the vicinity. If Lupin felt for the girl as Severus suspected, he might take his anguish out on the boy. He could feel that they were nearby, but he hadn't the time to search thoroughly. When he'd been going home to Hermione each night, he hadn't wanted to spend any more time away from her than he had to. Now that they'd returned to the castle, there were other tasks the headmaster had given to him. He supposed it could be a form of punishment for his actions, and that made him all the more resentful.

He'd been given the task of meeting with Hermione and Potter daily to retrieve their work and see to their needs. Each time he brought their completed lessons to the headmaster, he had to endure long talks about things he cared nothing for. The moments in Hermione's presence were bittersweet. Each time she'd been curled up by the fire with a book and had watched his every move as he pretended to look over their items. Their eyes would meet and unspoken words would pass between them. After, he'd sneer and promptly leave, hoping Potter would never notice the longing his gaze held for the girl.

"Ha," he said aloud. "Cheeky bastard." Earlier in the day when he'd gone to get their work, the boy had dared to try to draw him into conversation. Wanting to remain in the same room with Hermione, he'd allowed it. It seemed the boy was trying to find out additional information on his friends that remained at Grimmauld Place. Severus wondered if there might not be something to Potter's requests. Was the boy trying to be friendly with him in order to use him? Dare Potter think that he'd speak to the headmaster on his behalf?

Severus snorted. "I most certainly will not. He can..." His voice trailed off. If he could arrange for Potter to visit Grimmauld Place or chaperone a trip for the brat and Hermione, then perhaps he could have time alone with her. Severus nodded. Tomorrow he would speak with Dumbledore. He would put a request in for Potter and Hermione to see their other friends, if only for a short amount of time, and if he received a satisfactory answer, he might enlighten the headmaster of Lucius' findings sooner than planned.

"Locus Hermione." He looked down at the parchment and saw that his witch had slipped into bed with her book. "How I wish I could be with you," he said wistfully.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Pansy reached down to grab Ron's hand to stop its brutal fondling. "Look," she said with a laugh. "You're a bit rough. If you want to please me, you have to be gentle." She smirked. "At least until I say I want it harder." This last part was said in a seductive tone, hoping to ease the blow to his ego. He truly had a lot to learn. He was nothing like Draco.

"All right," Ron replied, hand immediately dropping back beneath her open blouse.

Unsatisfied with his kneading, she pulled back. "Watch," she said, clearly irritated. She unbuttoned the last two buttons of her blouse and took it completely off. He'd already unfastened her bra, so she simply slid it away. Leaning back against the pillows, she placed a hand on each breast, gently kneading. "See how my hands are moving? Soft caresses will get more of a reaction with me." She swirled her index fingers around her hardened nipples. "You move your tongue the same way." She brought one finger to her mouth, flicking her tongue about the fingertip. "Like that. When you suck," she demonstrated, "it'll feel good for me and please you."

"I get overexcited sometimes, but I'm glad you're telling me," he admitted. He reached out and caressed her breast more gently.

"There you go," she whispered appreciatively, lying back more firmly against the bed. She closed her eyes and allowed him to experiment. When his mouth finally descended upon her, she moaned in approval. "Lovely."

Ron was happy that she seemed to be enjoying it... finally! Boy, she sure doesn't mind making a bloke feel like an arse. I wonder if Hermione had explained what she liked if we'd have been together. Thinking of Hermione, he suddenly felt guilty. He'd not treated her right. He cared for Pansy and was glad to have her, but Hermione was a hard girl to replace. He should have waited for her, he supposed. They would have had the rest of their lives to get it right. If that ruddy Snape hadn't been following him about, he could have practiced with Pansy and known how to treat Hermione. It's likely too late now, he thought glumly. At this moment, he realized that he was being unfair to Pansy by thinking of Hermione.

He pulled back to look at her. When she opened her eyes, he saw a glimmer of uncertainty there. It was as if she expected him to reject her. It made him feel better that she wasn't as confident as she'd let on. He knew she was no virgin. Thanks to ruddy Malfoy. However, it didn't really bother him as much as he'd first imagined. He pretended to not notice her fear and allowed her to feel as though she was in charge. "All right?"

"Yes," she said, smiling immediately. "Kiss me."

Lowering his face to hers, he never closed his eyes, wanting to see her expression as his mouth found hers. She'd never be Hermione, but he was satisfied. He cared for her, and one day he'd likely love her. They got on well, though his mum seemed to not trust her. That would all change in time. If he could just get Hermione out of his mind, he could give her all the attention she deserved. Part of him was glad that Hermione hadn't stayed at Grimmauld Place. It would never have worked. He smirked internally at the thought of her being stuck with Snape and whomever else Dumbledore had placed with them. Serves her right, that does, he thought snidely.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Hermione sat in the chair to wait for her wizard to come to them. The day's classes would have ended, and he would likely be along shortly, as was normal. She fluffed her hair lightly, smoothed it back down, and ran her fingers through it, undecided on how she wanted it to appear. In the midst of her preparation, she felt Harry's gaze.

"What?" she asked guiltily. "Ruddy hair won't stay fixed."

He shook his head in amusement. "It's been the same for the past two weeks. Right before Snape comes, you sit there and... primp!" he accused. "I think that you fancy him." He nodded as if affirming his words. "I thought that was funny because I remember that you used to fancy Lockhart, doing the primping before his classes, but then, er, I started watching Snape. I see how he looks at you before he leaves. I wonder if he doesn't fancy you back."

"Oh, honestly, Harry," she said, proud that she didn't sputter. "We are friendly now. That's all. Living in the same place for a few weeks will do that for people, even a professor and his student."

Harry smirked and made a noncommittal noise. To her horror, he came over to her settee and plopped down with her, stretching out to rest his head upon her shoulder and dangle his feet over the arm.

"Harry! What are you doing?"

"Just getting comfortable. I figure you won't mind if I have a look at what you're reading. I'm a bit bored," he said innocently.

"You are doing this on purpose!" She smirked. "Fine. Stay here and read with me," she said, making a decision about something. She'd been going mental thinking of ways to see Severus without Harry around. He'd just helped her out without knowing it. "Thanks, Harry."

"For what?" he asked, moving from his position to sit normally next to her.

"For wanting to read with me," she said, allowing her voice to sound wistful. "I..." She shrugged. "Never mind."

Curiously, Harry asked, "What is it? Talk to me. Something hasn't been right with you since you've been back."

She knew this to be the truth. There were so many things that she thought of continuously each day, and she was still no closer to knowing Severus' mysteries as she had been. She felt as if she loved him, but she wondered if she was in love with him. She supposed that was something different. The distance from him had definitely made her miss him more. She longed to be within his arms so much that she had begun to wonder if her doubts were simply ridiculous. If his heart wasn't with the right side, why would Dumbledore have him around? If he trusted Severus, then she certainly did. Besides, he would never let harm come to her. He loved her. Sort of anyway.

Hermione smiled sadly. "Between the two of us, Harry, I do fancy the professor, but you can't say anything to him or anyone else."

"What?" Harry's eyes widened. "I knew it." He began guffawing and laughing so loudly that his stomach seemed to hurt, as he was clutching it tightly.

"It's not funny." She slammed her book shut. "Why did I even say anything?"

After a few moments, Harry looked at her, smiling broadly. "Why would you fancy him of all people?" He snorted. "I can just see it now." He dropped his voice in imitation of Severus' low, annoyed tones. "Miss Granger, you have kept me up with that incessant snoring! I could hear it from my side of the house. You shall serve detention by scrubbing the floors."

"Oh, sod off, Harry," she said, laughing despite herself. "I don't snore anyway."

"Yes, you do," he said.

Hermione scoffed but leaned closer as if she were about to tell him a secret. "Well, he befriended me after Ron cheated with Pansy. He was there when I caught them, if you'll remember." At his nod, she continued. "Well, he apparently doesn't like sniffling women, so he gave me a book. Lord Byron!"

"Say no more," Harry said dryly. "A book. That explains everything."

"Wait," she said, swatting his arm. "At his house, he had shelves and shelves of books. Each evening we'd sit on the couch, much as we are now, and we'd read. We ended up having very interesting discourse over Lord Byron's work. When you sat with me, it reminded me of that." She grinned and sighed dreamily. "I must say, I miss having someone around that likes to read. Reading enabled me to get over Ron. Through my books, I felt like I was escaping."

Harry nodded. "I really wish that I cared about reading for pleasure, Hermione, but you know that I feel like it's too much like an assignment. Er...I can listen to you talk if you need me to," he offered.

"No, it's not the same. I wish he would stay for a read when he comes to see us, but I'd wager that he just doesn't want you to know that he is actually a nice guy away from school."

Harry made a choking noise. "Right."

"I'm serious, Harry. Didn't he actually listen to you ranting about missing Ron and Gabrielle yesterday?"

"I was not ranting."

"Were too."

"And anyway, it's not like..."

Harry's voice was cut off by the sound of their portrait squeaking open. Severus Snape entered slowly, all the while eyeing them oddly as he strode forward. "I've come to collect your day's work. I trust you've completed it," he said in a bored voice, eyes falling on the table where their parchments were stacked.

"Yes, sir," Harry said quickly. He went to the table and began fumbling with their assignments.

Hermione willed Severus to look at her, but he seemed to be pretending interest in Harry. She wondered if he was upset because Harry had been sitting so close to her. Or was it that he'd heard something they were saying? Couldn't be. Harry's voice broke into her thoughts.

"I'm sick of being trapped in here. Seems like Professor Dumbledore could let us have a walk at night if nothing else. Nobody could see us then." He nodded to Hermione. "All she wants to do is read. I've no desire to read. I want to play some wizard's chess, and she doesn't want to. I really don't see why Ron can't stay here with us." He gave the parchments to Snape. "Here. I'm off for a nap before Dobby comes along with our evening meal. If you see the headmaster, could you tell him that we have requests?"

"I am no errand boy to be commanded about," Severus replied evenly. Harry simply shrugged and stormed to his room.

Hermione knew exactly what had taken place. It was just as she'd planned. Well, it wasn't truly what she'd planned, but it was a start. Harry was giving her a bit of time alone with Severus without truly knowing the full extent of their relationship. His dark, penetrating eyes moved to meet hers. She smiled timidly.

"Sir, would you like to have a read with me?" she asked coyly.

Severus debated only momentarily. He glanced from her place near the fire to the door to Harry's room. Placing the parchments back onto the table, he sat down near Hermione, yet he left a respectable distance. "What are you reading?" he asked, nodding towards her book, his voice clipped.

"Only a book of Byron's letters," she said, showing him the cover and scooting closer.

"Do not," he warned, holding up a hand.

"But I miss you," she whispered desperately.

"As do I," he said, reaching out to move a lock of hair behind her ear. "To be too close, Hermione, would be disastrous."

"I'll find a way to come to you," she swore. "I have a plan."

"Plan? What plan?"

"Harry's Invisibility Cloak. I can..."

"No. You cannot risk being seen on school grounds." He shook his head. "I forbid it."

Hermione scooted closer. Harry had purposely left the room. She would have a private moment. "Kiss me," she whispered. "Harry won't be back for some time." She saw an uncertainty in his eyes and knew that she'd won. She leaned into him and boldly brushed her lips against his jaw. Bringing one hand up to clutch his shoulder, her lips moved to lightly graze his mouth. "Please," she begged when he didn't move. "I need this, Severus."

The next instant saw her pushed back against the arm of the settee with him partially lying over her, ravishing her mouth and her book smashed between them. Her free hand went to the back of his head as if to keep his mouth to hers while one leg draped over his body possessively. When she did the latter, he groaned into her mouth and rocked against her slightly. He ended the kiss abruptly and looked at her.

"That night at home... I wish I would have said yes," she admitted.

He shook his head. "No, you did the right thing." He kissed her chastely, not allowing her to deepen the kiss. "I cannot continue this way. I should never have done this." He untangled himself from her, moved away to get the parchment, and left quickly without a backwards glance.

She was stunned. What had he meant that he couldn't continue this way? Had he just turned her down, or had he completely broken things off. The regret in his voice made it hard to distinguish. Tears of frustration and disappointment welled up and spilled over. "Please come back to me," she said between nearly silent sobs.

A hand on her shoulder startled her. Harry. He stood before her and pulled her up into his arms. "Come on," he said, tone sympathizing. He led her towards their rooms, but instead of directing her to the room on the right, he entered his own and led her to his bed. Not particularly caring, she crept into the bed and never moved as he slid in behind her and wrapped an arm about her waist. "I'll hold you until Dobby comes with dinner. Cry if you want to."

"I think he's gone for good," she said brokenly.

"Shh. Just rest. I'm here for you."

She nodded, wailed as quietly as she could, and eventually allowed her misery to lead her to sleep. On the journey to her dreams, she thought about loving him. She must be in love with him. The thought of never kissing him or being with him again was nearly unbearable. She needed him.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

"Very well, Severus," Dumbledore said slowly. "I will allow for a visit to their friends at Grimmauld Place. They can go this Saturday. I shall have Minerva accompany them."

Severus narrowed his eyes. "I shall take them." He'd not let her spend the day away from the castle without him. He wanted...no, insisted...to going with her. He'd not give in on this. "Albus," he said, trying a new tactic, "my intentions are honorable. Inappropriate we may have been, but she is an adult and no longer my student. Even so, I've not crossed any lines that I cannot cross back. Shouldn't that account for something? I will spend this day with her or at least near her. I'll not ask again." If you don't allow this, I shall snatch her and be away from here just to prove that I can.

For a long moment, the headmaster simply gazed into his eyes. "Is there something else you wish to tell me?" he asked, changing the subject.

"Yes, and tell you, I shall. However, I would clear this matter up first," Severus said firmly. "The visit?" he added when the man said nothing.

"I will allow it. I ask only that you be discreet and that you not behave lewdly at Grimmauld Place." He sat back. "Now, tell me what is truly troubling you, Severus." He smiled kindly. "Leave nothing out."

Severus nodded. "I shall inform Potter and Hermione." Leaning forward to place his elbows on his knees, he looked directly into the headmaster's eyes. "Lucius has been in contact with me and has given me information on the centaur's findings." He noted that Dumbledore didn't seem surprised. "He told me of the visions. It appears that some of us will not be around all that much longer. Draco and Miss Weasley are returned to us. Potter appears to defeat the Dark Lord." He looked away and stood to pace. "I used Legilimency on Lucius to view a few things for myself. Someone will die whilst saving Potter and Hermione. We believe it to be me."

The silence was deafening. He waited patiently for his headmaster to speak, daring not to look at him as moved to stand near the window. He finally looked to the headmaster, and he saw that his eyes were suspiciously bright. "Sir?"

"While I never expected to be of this world much longer, it bothers me to know that you may be taken." He leant forward, bringing a hand up to cover his eyes. "Severus, you do realize that this can be changed?"

"I do," he said with a nod. "They could only do this so many times. The increase of the moon is now upon us. He will be contacting me with more information." He sighed. "Why don't I simply put this to Pensieve?"

"Very well," Dumbledore said, moving from his desk to retrieve his Pensieve.

Over the next hour, the man perused the memory and made no comments that would engage Severus in conversation. He simply mumbled to himself and watched the memory over again. In truth, Severus didn't mind. He used the time to think of Hermione and the way she'd clung to him during their kiss. He'd had to leave before he engaged in something inappropriate...with Potter in the next room no less! The longing and need in her voice was enough to bring his blood to boil. He'd had to compose himself before he'd gone to Dumbledore's office. As he told her, he could not continue at that moment. The safest thing for him to do was exactly what he'd done. He'd had to leave. Hell, truth be known, he hadn't even been able to look at her one last time, as he'd have likely thrown caution to the wind.

"Did you hear me?"

"I apologize. It seems my mind was wandering. What did you say?"

Dumbledore smiled. "I said that I should like to think over what I've learned further. I trust you will come forth the moment you hear something else?" Severus nodded. "I shall talk to Firenze and see what he can do for us. We should utilize him since he is on our side." Dumbledore stood and moved around his desk. "After I speak with him, we can decide what choices we want to make."

"Very well, sir."

"You can inform Harry and Hermione of our decision to allow them to visit their friends this weekend. I may make an appearance, but to be honest, I have another engagement." His smile faded slightly. "You know I trust you to do the right thing, Severus. I always have."

Severus nodded. "Thank you, sir." He left quickly, wanting to break the news to the boy and Hermione before the evening meal started. It pleased him that he'd be able to see her again. The headmaster's words trailed through his mind a few times. He didn't know if he should be disappointed in the man for trusting him so much or grateful. He paused as he realized that he'd yet to tell the Dark Lord of his visit with Lucius. He must not have been any wiser, though, as he hadn't summoned him for a meeting. He could only hope that the man wouldn't choose Saturday to call upon him. He wanted to spend the day with Hermione.

He entered their common room and found the fire burning low. Her book was on the settee where she'd been sitting, and her door was closed. She must have gone to her room to bathe or have a nap. He noticed that the boy's door was opened and headed that way. Just as he neared the darkened room's doorway, Potter materialized from the darkness and closed the door behind him.

"Sir," he greeted.

"Potter, I have news." He waited in hopes that his voice would carry and call Hermione from her room. "The headmaster has decided that a day spent at headquarters would not be amiss. We are to go this Saturday."

"We?"

"Yes," Severus said with a slight sneer. "I shall be your chaperone." Realizing that Hermione wouldn't come out, he turned on his heel and strode towards the exit. Be certain to tell your friend."

He angrily made his way down to his private chambers and retrieved his magical parchment from his desk. He whispered the spell that would locate Hermione, and immediately, his eyes darkened and narrowed.

Currently sleeping in Harry Potter's bed with Harry Potter at her side.

How could she? What had been going on? No wonder the boy had closed the door behind him. He hadn't wanted to be caught in the midst of wrongdoing. His witch had much explaining to do, and he'd be damned if he'd sit around and watch their progress through his parchment.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Harry watched Hermione sleep and wondered what she'd been dreaming about. She'd mumbled a few things in her sleep and twitched a little. He wanted to wake her and tell her about Snape's visit, but he dared not. He was still gobsmacked by what he'd witnessed earlier. When he'd retreated into his room, he had charmed the door to appear closed. Instead, he'd watched and heard all that had gone on.

Hermione and Snape had kissed. She'd wanted more with the man, but he'd pulled away. Dumbledore will not be happy about this, he thought grimly. Why was Snape interested in her in such a way? He'd always been hateful to her. In their earlier years, he'd caused her to cry on more than one occasion and had even verbally attacked her. One thing he'd never seen was the way Snape had talked to her, the way he'd looked at her, the way he'd touched her. It was clear to him that Snape wanted nothing more than to stay with Hermione, and it seemed to take a lot out of him to have to reject her.

Harry shook his head in disbelief as he snuggled closer to her. He'd been right. She fancied him, but she'd tried to trick him into thinking Snape didn't return the feelings. He knew the truth. Snape fancied her. To what extent, he didn't know. Each day when the man would come, he'd not part until he exchanged a glance with Hermione. Oh, they likely didn't know that he'd been watching, as he always tried to act indifferent or busy, but he'd noticed that something was going on. He wondered in exactly what way Hermione had been helping their cause. He'd assumed they were making some sort of potion. There was more to it than that.

Just the day before, he'd tested his theory. Snape truly had been cordial. Of course, he always had to get a little sarcasm in, but he was simply trying to hide his feelings for Hermione. From what Harry had gathered with their earlier conversation, they'd nearly... shagged, but Hermione had decided that it wasn't a good idea. Even though she'd apparently changed her mind, Snape seemed to realize that the decision had been a good one. This surprised Harry. Why wouldn't he take advantage of her? If Gabrielle had offered herself to him, he'd not have turned her down. What man would turn down such an offer? Harry glanced at Hermione. If she would have requested his attentions, he'd likely have agreed to it, though that would never happen. Besides, he was interested in learning more about Gabrielle. In fact, he was trying to figure out a way to be alone with her on their trip. He might have just found his ticket. Snape and Hermione. Surely they would want to be alone as well. He'd be able to give them the slip. Ron would pick up the hint and keep away for a little while. Perfect.

Even though he'd rather for Hermione to date someone else, he could see the usefulness of having Snape in her pocket. If the man were lenient with her, then he'd be so with everyone else. Wouldn't he? His eyes fell to Hermione's sleeping face again. What do you see in him? How did you two fall into such a cozy friendship? Was it as you told me? The reading? Harry supposed she'd talk to him when she woke. They would talk about everything, and he'd tell her his true opinions on the matter.

What were his true opinions? He sighed. If Snape made her happy, why not support her? "Can't believe I'm thinking this," he whispered aloud. He'd never be happy about this if he hadn't witnessed the way Snape had been with her. In those brief moments with her, he didn't appear to be a greasy bastard, just a bloke trying to care for his woman. I hate Snape. Can I ever put aside my feelings to truly accept him around no matter how convenient for us he is? Maybe time alone with Gabrielle isn't worth sacrificing Hermione. Harry sighed again. "Hermione," he said, shaking her shoulder. "Wake up."

At that moment, the door burst open. Harry jumped, and Hermione woke, sitting up shakily. "Wuzhappening?" she asked, voice groggy.

"Dobby is bringing Harry Potter his meal."

Harry grinned. "Just set it out there, Dobby. We'll come out for it." His heartbeat returned to its normal thumping. For a moment there, he'd expected Snape to come storming back through. He smirked. There is no way that he'll find out that she had been in my bed when he came. "Right then. Hungry?"

"No," she murmured. "Harry, about my crying, Professor Snape didn't do anything wrong."

"Look. I'm hungry. Let's talk while we eat." She nodded, and Harry led her to their table. Dobby stood waiting for them, smiling broadly.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Ginny smiled as Draco crept forward in front of her to check for anyone that might recognize him. He'd found some hooded cloaks for them to wear, and he'd Apparated them to an alleyway off of Diagon Alley near Gringotts. That had been hard on him, nearly draining him of his energy. He said that bringing someone along took more out of him since he hadn't much experience Apparating. He quickly came back after he gave a satisfied look around. "The street seems to be clear this time of the evening. Just a few stragglers." He pulled a chain from beneath his shirt. It had a key attached to it. "I don't want to leave you alone, but together, we might be spotted. I'm going to get the money. We can buy a wand from Ollivander and then get us a broomstick. From there, we'll be set."

"I'm going to hide behind these barrels. Don't worry. I'll be fine. Nobody will be the wiser," she said, rising up on her toes to kiss his cheek. "Be careful."

He nodded towards the barrels. "Go." The moment she was completely hidden from view, he pulled his hood over his face and ventured out into the street.

They'd moved from the first cave that they'd been staying in and went to stay in an abandoned flat in Hogsmeade. It was at the end of an alley near Madam Puddifoot's place. They were able to get food from nearby and use warm water. The entire time that they'd been staying together, he'd not made any attempts to pressure her into anything. Sometimes she'd catch him watching her, deep in thought, eyes narrowed. Sometimes he'd snap at her. During those times, she wondered if he regretted his decision to live on the run with her.

However, there were other times when he'd actually smile at her or hold her to reassure her that things would be fine, that Voldemort didn't want her, that his father didn't want her. She missed her family, but for some reason, being with Draco felt like the safest thing she could do. Even Hogwarts had lost its appeal for her. Draco didn't trust that they'd be safe there, and she would trust his judgement. She simply hoped that Bill or someone else wouldn't recognize him in the bank. If he was right, he could slip in and out with no one being the wiser.

Their plan was to Apparate back to Hogsmeade and return to the flat for a few days. They would prepare themselves magically with their new wand...altering their hair, eyes, and clothing. After that, Draco wanted to fly together to the coast and find a flat to rent. He said they should keep moving around every week or so and change their appearances often. It sounded like a good plan to her. She only hoped that nobody would find them. Draco wanted to stay away until the war was over. If Voldemort were defeated, they would come back and face their families for their actions. She was certain that her mum and dad would rather her be safely away than to risk something happening to her.

Time passed and the moon came out to shine brightly down into the alley. The full moon would be upon them in a couple of days. She wondered if Remus was about or if he'd taken to staying indoors. Each month before and after, he'd be weak as his body prepared itself for the change. Did he miss her? Did he try to find her? How did he feel now that he knew she wouldn't always be around waiting for him? She shrugged. To hell with him. I have Draco now.

Southern's Notes: I'm very sorry this is late. I wasn't able to get this to my beta until Thursday. Lots of things have been going on this week. Sorry about that. I'll be updating Tuesday.

I hope nobody was annoyed with the Ron and Pansy scene. I felt the need to show that. It's a wee bit of foreshadowing... maybe. :-)

Just a note that I do answer all reviews, so if you check off the box after you leave one, an email will be sent to you to notify that I did reply. Someone said that this is a way to keep track of when I update, as lately I've not been answering until I am ready to upload the next chapter again. I can't promise that will always be the case. If I have spare time, I answer them immediately. Either way. Cheers.