Progression

Disclamier: J.K.R.'s characters. I'm just having a bit of fun with them.

Thanks go to my beta, Charmed_Nay, and to all of my friends at the Yahoo!Group, Potter_Place.

Severus sat in the chair and watched his mother's portrait. Its occupant was sleeping or pretending to be. It was strange to see her after so many years. Everything about her, from her hair to her shoes, was an exact replication of the memory he held of his mother. Part of him wanted to be happy about having her around again, but another part of him wanted to not look upon her, wanted to close the room up again. It seemed only just that he would walk away from her as she had done to him. It would feel as though he'd gained vengeance on her for allowing herself to die. One thing he'd been taught was that vengeance was always sweet.

His thoughts drifted to his wife. Sometimes seeking vengeance isn't always the answer. Oh, he'd sought it on Hooch and Potter for their part in the trickery that had him posing as a gigolo, and he'd even made Hermione suffer. Was it worth it? He snorted suddenly, remembering Potter trying to get out of Hooch's clutches and Potter whinging when he thought Draco was going to have his way with him. "Entertaining to say the least," he mumbled to himself. He was glad that he'd had retribution. There was a niggling feeling, however, that he shouldn't have been so callous with his wife. She'd always loved him, and her only crime was that she wanted to be with him. She didn't force him to be a gigolo, did she? Of course, they had set it up too perfectly. Had he not offered, Hooch would have probably pretended to have the idea come to her and asked him to do so. Would he have accepted? Of course. Why wouldn't he have? Sex? Willing partner? Only a pillock would refuse.

Hermione was still fast asleep in their bed. He'd told her that he loved her the previous night. Well, that wasn't entirely true. He'd made sure that she understood that he loved her by pointing out the only way he could find the room was to be in love. She'd known though. She'd always been clever and able to think logically. That was one thing he found attractive about her. What's more, is that she accepted his words without pressuring him to say it. I love you. As he heard his voice speak it in his mind, he cringed. It sounded false, weak. He shook his head. No matter how hard he tried to change, the past would always be there. He never would change, would he? Did he truly want to? Perhaps he was simply too set in his ways.

What would it hurt to whisper those three words to Hermione? She would appreciate them, and he'd only be uncomfortable momentarily. It was hard to not think about things the way he used to. Before he'd truly trusted her completely and believed that she truly wanted him, he would have not said the words because he wouldn't want them thrown back at him or used against him. Now, he wouldn't say the words simply because they sounded weak to him, although the words would portray his strongest emotion. He simply didn't want her to think them false or cause her to wonder if he was lying. She'll know you aren't lying. You were able to see the room only because you love her. "Damn it," he grumbled. At this moment, he realized his mother's eyes had opened in the portrait, and she was studying him.

Severus stood up. "I'm not ready for this yet." Paying no attention to the understanding nod and the reassuring smile, he simply walked out of the room and closed the door. He made his way down to the living area and summoned his elves. There were other things...more important things...that he could be doing with his time. He instructed the elves to make breakfast and told them that they'd be away for most of the day. Whilst out, he wanted the elves to make some changes to the cellar where he spent some of his time researching. He hoped his wife would be pleased. After he did that, he went to the fireplace and Flooed the last person that he wanted to speak with, but he had to do it.

"Potter," he growled. "Let's talk." He certainly hoped she would appreciate what he was about to do. It was mostly for her that he was doing it. That's not entirely true. Well, at any rate, it was partly the reason. If she were occupied, she wouldn't press him about talking to his mother's portrait. Some things were just better left unsaid. He'd have his talk when he was ready and would not be pushed into it.

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Shocked was the only word that could have described how Hermione felt. Severus had told her that they were going out for lunch and a bit of shopping after they had a light breakfast. They went to Diagon Alley where she was able to shop at will. They'd visited the bookshop first, of course, and they were currently entering Gefjon's Gravidity Garments. It was a shop for expectant mothers. When he'd directed her to follow him inside, she realized that he had noticed her growing body, and whatever books he read must have indicated that normal robes and clothing were improper for the growth of the fetus to remain unrestricted, not to mention hell on the mother's comfort.

The owner, Madame Gefjon swooped down upon them immediately. "May I be of some assistance?"

Severus nodded. "My wife will be needing some new clothes soon..."

"Yes," the wizened woman interrupted. She whirled Hermione around, taking in her appearance. "You are about three and a half months along." She smiled warmly. "We've some lovely things here. In fact...do I know you?" Her eyes narrowed as she tried to place Hermione. She looked to Severus. "Your wife?"

"Yes, my wife," he said, smirking slightly. "It was in the Prophet."

"I do not read that rubbish," she said, waving a hand impatiently. "They have more lies than truths." She turned her gaze back to Hermione. "Harry Potter's friend, aren't you?"

"I am," Hermione said defensively. She didn't like the woman's tone. Nor did she like the fact that the woman seemed a bit friendly with Severus. How did he and a maternity shop owner come to be on such friendly terms?

"You must tell him that Madame Gefjon thinks highly of him." The woman flashed a broad smile again and tsked at Severus' scoff. "Come with me, dear. We'll go to the back and measure you." When Severus followed, her eyebrows rose, and she whispered to Hermione conspiratorially, "Ever let you out of his sight?"

"Not often," she admitted. Then, she added, "Just as I like it."

"Georgette?" the woman called. A willowy young witch with bright green hair crossed over to meet them. "Get a cuppa and biscuits for our patrons."

"None for me, thanks," Severus said immediately, taking a seat in the middle of the room.

"I'll only have tea," Hermione said.

"Very well." The woman summoned a charmed tape measure that took her measurements. "Tell me the styles and colors that you like."

After two cups of tea and the passing of nearly two hours, Hermione had her new items picked out. She'd warmed to Madame Gefjon once she noticed that she never looked at Severus. Neither did she try to converse with him. The small jealousy left her feeling foolish. There were many things in his past; most were things she'd probably never know about. She would just have to learn to accept some things, but their acquaintance was something that interested her. She would ask him when she got a moment.

"Remember, you can expand them all up to five sizes if need be."

Severus snorted, and Hermione threw a dark gaze his way. "I doubt I will get that big!"

"Some do," an amused Madame Gefjon said. The woman surprised her by hugging her. "Congratulations. We are only an owl away should you need anything else. Your items will be delivered this evening."

"That was nice of her," Hermione ventured after they'd left the shop.

"Yes."

"You seemed to know her already."

"Yes."

"Tell me. Was she a...friend? Girlfriend?"

"She was Rabastan Lestrange's ladyfriend at one point." He smirked at her shocked expression. "Before you ask, no, she does not miss him, not now that she's married. She never did follow the Dark Lord, only Rabastan."

"Oh," Hermione said, not knowing what else to say.

"Your jealousy is endearing, wife," he said with an amused tone.

She elbowed him playfully. "I was not! I was merely wondering," she said indignantly. "Wouldn't you wonder if I came in contact with some man you didn't know while we were on an outing? Wouldn't you wonder how I know him?"

He raised an eyebrow. "I suppose I would ask questions." He smiled wickedly before adding, "After I hexed him." He looked around warily. "There are so many people here today. I intended to allow you to buy things for our son, but we have time to come back. I'd rather get on with lunch."

It was the first time he'd spoken so openly with her about their child. He'd even said our son in a way that warmed her soul. She pulled his hand into hers. "Severus, what would you like to name him?"

"I have not thought of it." He seemed uncomfortable. "Have you?"

"Yes, only just." She bit her lip, wondering if she should admit what she'd been thinking.

"Go on."

"I was thinking that Darach would be a lovely name. That one name is what got us together in the first place, though it was through trickery." She doubted he would want their child to be named after a fake gigolo's name. She couldn't meet his eyes. She feared she would see regret there. When he made a humming sound, as if in thought, however, she chanced a glance at him. There was no regret in his gaze, no repulsion, only acceptance. Things truly were moving forward for them. He obviously no longer cared how they'd come to be together, only that they were.

"Darach Nicholas Snape. I like the sound of that." He nodded in acceptance. "We'll talk more about it later, but I think that is a worthy name."

"I wonder what Nicholas means," Hermione said.

"Does it truly matter?"

She smiled, tilted her head up, and kissed his cheek. "I suppose not." She giggled as he looked around to see if anyone had witnessed her public display of affection. "You look positively scandalized!"

Surprising her, he pulled her into his arms. She thought he meant to kiss her, so she closed her eyes and leant forward. The loud Crack! was unexpected. She opened her eyes to see that they'd Apparated to number twelve, Grimmauld Place. "Severus? Why are we outside of Harry's home?"

"Potter has graciously invited us to lunch. I felt that you would have wanted to come, so I accepted the invitation."

She could tell by the tone of his voice that he was anything but pleased to be there. It made her appreciate the gesture all the more. Hermione smiled. "Thank you," she said, following him to the door. She hadn't mentioned the cruel words that Harry had said to her. She certainly hoped that her friend would keep quiet. It would definitely not sit well with Severus if he found out what Harry had said about their relationship.

Before they could knock, Ron opened the door. "Bout time you got here. Harry wouldn't let me have anything to eat until you came." Her friend's eyes traveled to her husband, and he nodded slightly. "Snape."

"Weasley."

"Everyone is in the kitchen," he said, gesturing for them to enter.

"Everyone?" Severus asked suspiciously.

"Er...yes?" Ron seemed uncertain.

Hermione nudged Severus forward slightly, as she feared that he'd balk. "I'm hungry as well, pregnant woman and all that." This moved him forward, but he remained silent, sweeping into the room before her as if he owned it even though she knew he was uncomfortable. "Oh! Hi!" Hermione greeted happily. Rolanda was sitting at the table. The witch smiled and met her for a hug.

"Bet you didn't think you'd be seeing me, eh? Severus went and locked you up... owls come back, Floo unanswered. No telling what he might do," Rolanda said to Hermione. She turned her gaze on Severus. "Sev, old boy! Good to see you. I see things are working well. Married, eh?"

Severus nodded. "Rolanda."

Harry made his way over. "Hope you don't mind. Figured you'd want to see Ro."

"Not at all," Hermione said, waving away his concerns. It was then that she noticed the dark-haired witch sitting quietly at the table.

Harry noticed her gaze and said, "This is my...friend, Margaret Richardson. She's the Healer at that place where Snape and I..." His cheeks reddened with embarrassment. "It's where we lifted the potion from."

Severus strode forward and offered her a hand. "Healer Richardson. I am pleased to make your acquaintance. I do apologize for my underhandedness."

She smiled. "Please call me, Margaret. No apology is necessary. I am pleased that it worked. When you have time," she looked to Hermione, "the both of you, I would like to question you about any effect it may have had."

"Very well," he said, moving back so that Hermione could greet the woman.

"I am so glad that you did. We'll always be grateful." From there, a light conversation ensued. Ron talked about his plans to visit his brother, Charlie. Rolanda said her mystery witch made plans for them to travel down to Cardiff, but she wouldn't disclose who the woman was to any of them. Though she did leave hints, which left everyone wondering if the woman wasn't Vector. Harry and his friend seemed quite cozy. Margaret said that after she received a full account of things from Hermione that she would officially mark her as the first test patient, and since it was successful, she could move on to testing others without question from the Ministry of Magic.

Severus was quiet, making polite inquiries now and again, speaking when spoken to, but he remained aloof and seemingly uninterested in their conversation. The only time he participated with interest was when Margaret asked the questions needed for her research. Hermione simply left him alone and didn't force him to join in on their normal chatter, knowing how he truly felt about her friends. She loved that he was at least trying to get along with them. He hadn't cursed any of them. A moment of worry came when they were ready to leave.

Harry said, "Er...Snape? Care to join me in the library for a moment?"

Severus' eyes narrowed. "I suppose I have a spare moment." What the bloody hell does the brat want? He wasn't surprised when Weasley followed them into the room. Once the door was closed, he dropped his feigned politeness. "What is it?" he asked impatiently.

Both boys exchanged looks. Potter spoke first. "I was surprised to get your Floo today."

"And?"

"And," Potter continued, "I just wanted to say this lunch idea of yours wasn't as bad as I imagined it could be. I don't like you much. I still think that she shouldn't have married you, but it's not my decision to make." He shrugged. "As long as she's happy, I'm fine. The past..."

"Will always be there," Severus said, interrupting the obviously rehearsed speech. "Good day," he said curtly, turning to leave.

"That's not fucking fair," Weasley exploded suddenly. "You never did like us...even on the first day of our first term! We aren't asking you to be our mate, Snape. We are just asking if it can always be like it was today. No snide remarks. No hexes flying. No fights."

"If we can be men about this, you can, too," Potter chimed in.

Severus chuckled. Men? How dare they even... Hermione's excited face and broad smile came to mind. She had been happy that they were all together. He would do this for her, as she would no doubt ask it of him. "I see no reason as to why we can not tolerate one another's presence. I shall never call on you alone, seeking companionship, but I will be present when my wife chooses to do so. It would be prudent for us to never argue in front of her." He sneered at both boys. "And, do not ever show up at my house without having made prior arrangements."

"Fair enough," Weasley said, holding out his hand for a shake. He retracted it when Severus arched an amused eyebrow. Puffing out his chest, the redhead said, "Er...and don't think you can get away with picking a fight with me again. You...er...took me by surprise last time."

"Never speak ill of my wife, boy, and I'll have no reason to attack you," Severus warned. A gulp and a shaky reply, sounding like an agreement, were Severus' answers. He looked to Potter to see if he had anything to add. The boy's eyes were boring into his threateningly. Is he trying to intimidate me? What an unbelievable turn of events this is. "Yes, Potter? You've something to add?"

"The only reason we might have said things about your relationship is because you treated Hermione horribly, and she allowed it. That's not the Hermione we know." He waggled a finger between him and Weasley. "We're always going to be her friends. Nothing you can say or do will change that. Just don't hurt her."

"I think that I can handle my own affairs," he said snidely. "Is there anything else you boys wish to speak about?"

"Nothing at all," Potter said, nodding towards the door. "Let's go."

Severus smirked and left the room. It was admirable that they would try to give him a talking to about things and that they would try to be on friendly terms even though it was clear they didn't care to. He would never be a friend to either of them. He'd meant what he said about the past always being there. To keep the peace with Hermione, however, he would be cordial to them when associating. "Ready?" he asked when he found her waiting near the doorway having a conversation with Rolanda.

"Yes. All right?"

"Certainly."

"Oh, Sev," Rolanda called.

He grimaced. "Yes?"

"Congratulations."

He nodded and ushered Hermione out the door. Rolanda was the only one there that he fraternized with upon occasion, and he was glad that she seemed to accept his sudden marriage to Hermione. A betraying part of him was glad that the trick had been played on him. He couldn't imagine his life without his wife in it. However, the vengeful part of him constantly wondered what else he could do to avenge the trickery. It was nearly dark when they finally made their way home. It was then that he noticed her swaying slightly.

"What's wrong?" he asked in alarm.

"Just a dizzy spell. Maybe I should lie down."

"I think you might need to eat. It's been hours." He led her to the living area. "All that talking allowed time to slip away from us. Sit here. I'll be back." He hadn't thought to summon a house-elf; he simply wanted to care for her himself. It amazed him how much her presence had grown on him, how much he did feel for her, how much he wanted to know his son. Deciding that soup would be the best choice for a light meal, he quickly got things together, placing it all on a tray, and took it to the living area.

After they ate, he noticed the color had returned to Hermione's cheeks. "If you are up to it, I have something that I'd like to show you."

"Of course."

He hoped the elves had done exactly what he'd wanted. Sure enough, everything was perfect when they descended into the cellar. "I took the liberty of making some changes here. I thought you might like to help in some of my research or simply keep company with me."

"It's...great," she said, looking around appreciatively. "You couldn't know what this means to me." She took one of his hands in hers and pulled him forward so that she could inspect the changes. "My own station! Desk!" Suddenly, she was in his arms and nearly knocking him over as she placed numerous kisses over his face. "Thank you, Severus."

"It's nothing," he said modestly. Inwardly, he was feeling quite pleased that she had appreciated both of her surprises. "Would you care to see what I have been working on?"

"Yes."

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Weeks flew by quickly, and Hermione dreaded the return to Hogwarts. She'd gotten used to being home alone with Severus. Back at the castle, she'd have to share him with everyone else...students, Dumbledore, and the rest of the staff. Things had been great between them. The research on birth control for pets had been successful in all the subjects they'd been keeping records on. She thought it was honorable of Severus to try to get something longer lasting and more affordable on the market. Once he got approved, people would have a new potion that would temporarily sterilize their male familiars. They would only need two doses per year, instead of the current three. Any improvement on the quality, price, and quantity would be well received. She remembered his words months before.

Some places that I've been to are overrun with animals. I just think that unwanted offspring should never see the light of day. This would prevent the problem before it started. Mind, these are usually alleys or poor villages. I think I can make something that even they can afford and still make a few Galleons.

Whether he'd ever admit it, he was a good man underneath his apathetic exterior. Yes, he was intent on making money, but the reasoning behind his plans gave away his good intentions. What would his creepy father think now? Would he congratulate his son or pretend indifference? What would he think of her as a daughter-in-law? Of his grandson? She placed a hand on her swollen belly. She'd had to start wearing her maternity items right down to her knickers with the changes taking place in her body.

Severus still hadn't gone in to talk with his mother's portrait, but since their research was nearly completed, they'd had more time to talk to each other in the evenings. He'd begun to share some of the visions he'd seen and sat with her as she read through the many parchments that his father had left. He'd even brought her down to the family cemetery to show her around and explain which crypts and tombs held certain family members. He'd paused as he pointed out his little sister's final resting-place. His saddened voice and eyes still haunted her thoughts.

"This...is Samara. She would have been a lovely child had she lived. Her face..." His voice trailed away. "Well, this is where she is. Come along."

It was the second time that Hermione had ever heard his voice crack. The first time had been when he'd admitted that he'd seen his mother's portrait. He'd told her about the scene with his father as he brought his sister to her tiny coffin, but she could only imagine how it made him feel. Sometimes she felt sorry for his father. He was as manipulated as Severus had been. Had even his father, Severus' grandfather, been manipulated into what he was? Had he started everything? What did Grindelwald have to do with the way the man had treated Severus' father and his new bride? She would never be able to form a proper opinion until Severus allowed her to view the Pensieve. Dumbledore had stopped by for an afternoon the week before to discuss preparations for the upcoming start of the school year. Sensing that Severus would like a word with the headmaster alone, she'd left the room. She'd only heard a few things before one of them remembered to put up the Silencing Charm. Severus had fired off questions as to why Dumbledore kept quiet about things concerning his parents and grandparents. He had yet to disclose any part of the conversation to her, but she felt that he would in time.

"What are you thinking of?" Severus asked, interrupting her thoughts.

"I would like to have a look into your father's Pensieve today." She met his gaze evenly. "We'll have to go back to Hogwarts next week. You said that by the holiday's end I could see what you saw if I still desired to do so."

He nodded grimly. "I know what I said." The words were sharp. "Why would you want to see such tragedy, Hermione?"

"Because it's part of my family history now! This is the family my son is being born into. I want to know," she demanded gently. "Severus, I'll be fine."

"In your state, you shouldn't see such..."

"I'm pregnant, not weak. I can handle it," she pleaded.

Sighing, he said, "I'll not accompany you. I do not care to see any of that again, and I resent the fact that you seem to want to bring it up every few days. Haven't I told you enough?"

"You're right. I'm sorry." She stood. "I'm going to go up and put away the baby's things that Minerva and I found yesterday at the baby shop. If you need me, you can find me in the nursery."

"Hermione," he said, trying to halt her.

She continued as if she'd not heard him. If he wanted her to see it, he would have to come to her. She'd never ask him again. She wished that he'd understand her reasoning behind wanting to see it. It's because I love you. I want to share your pain. They'd had a slight row the day before after she'd returned from her outing with Minerva. While leaving the shop, an older wizard had approached her. The man had been a little intimidating at first, as he'd towered over her during their brief conversation, but after they had begun to talk, he smiled kindly, reminding her of Dumbledore. He'd simply commented on the weather, asked about her pregnancy, and disappeared into the crowd once Minerva exited the shop.

When she'd told Severus, he'd been extremely upset, cursing that he'd allowed her to go off alone without him. She'd argued that nothing inappropriate had happened, but he'd been adamant that she should have waited for Minerva before leaving the shop. She knew that he was only worried about her, but she'd been doing things on her own up until they'd become lovers. She didn't want him to start treating her any differently. She supposed he did have the right to make some demands, seeing as she was carrying his child. Being her husband also gave him that right. She just didn't appreciate being treated like a child.

A creak in the floor caught her attention. She looked up and met her husband's gaze. "Do you truly wish to witness the scenes in the Pensieve?" She nodded. "Come." He held out a hand to her.

She placed her hand in his and followed him down to their study. He led her over to his desk where he nodded for her to have a seat. While she sat patiently, he went to a locked cabinet, uttered the correct spells to take down his wards, and retrieved the Pensieve. He placed it before her on the desk.

Anxiously, Hermione looked between the swirling mist and her husband. "Are you certain?"

"I am." He looked over at the wall to the hanging timepiece. "You have enough time for this. If at any point you feel the need, please come out, Hermione. Don't stress yourself over things that cannot be changed."

She smiled briefly and leant forward. Severus knew that she was sucked into the opening scene of his father leaving the Great Hall. He sat down and watched quietly. What would she think of him? Of his family? Would she regret that her son was born into such a family? Never. It's what she wants. She knows nearly everything about the Pensieve anyway. Knowing about something and actually witnessing it were two different things.

When she'd stormed out earlier, after he'd refused to allow her to view it, he'd quickly rethought things. If she never witnessed it firsthand, part of him would always wonder if she'd care for him as deeply after actually viewing the disturbing past he and his parents had shared. She'd not badgered him about the parchments after she read through them, listening as he explained them, not questioning anything too uncomfortable for him. Had she not displayed that tact, he might not have allowed her to view the Pensieve. Such memories were private...mostly embarrassing if he thought of it honestly.

However, if she came through the Pensieve and still looked upon him with adoration, he would never regret allowing her to view it. After all you've done to her, things that your father did won't matter to her. What it came down to was that she was right...again. Fucking know-it-all, he thought. It was odd how things had changed. The voice in his head used to be snide when he thought of her as such, but just then, he'd swear that it was a voice laced with pride.

He looked towards the mirror and wondered if his mother's likeness was beyond it, watching them and hoping for company. "It's time to talk to her," he said aloud. With one last look at his wife, he made his way for the door. There were many things he needed to say to her. If he never said them, he'd never be able to move on and fully accept things.

Southern's Notes This chapter is a bit short, but I simply wanted to put a few things in...mainly how he'd act towards her friends and show how their relationship is progressing. I decided to carry on for just a few more chapters. It wasn't fair to leave so many loose ends though it was very tempting to let people make their own decisions about things.

I will have at least three more chapters. The next one will detail more about Hermione's viewing of the Pensieve, things always look different from someone else's perspective, eh? I will also have the long awaited talk between Severus and his mother's portrait. I have special plans for the portrait. She'll find a new home soon.

The maternity shop, Gefjon's Gravidity Garments, was snatched from GinnyW's story, To Beget an Heir. I beta for that story and asked if I could use it. I was trying to think of a name for a maternity shop when I remembered our brainstorming for that.