The third Option

The Third Option

Severus dropped his hand and looked up at the newcomer. How dare he enter here with this satisfied expression on his face? Is there even the hint of a smirk in his eyes? he wondered. He turned to see that the distressed girl only vaguely recognised Draco when he dropped heavily into the armchair. She is still looking at me, too weak and unfocussed to act. She expects me to tell the boy off.

"Your demeanour is unacceptable," Severus started, but Draco lifted a hand to stall him.

He topped their teacups although his hand was shaking. After his second cup, he looked up at them. "I've pointed out a few things to the Dark Lord."

"Pointed out what?" Severus' voice had a threatening tone.

"How truly you have spoken today, Severus. How well you two get along." The pair on the sofa did not react to Draco's explanation.

"We had a very good discussion, indeed," Draco continued with a sneer, but still they did not take in what he was saying. Tired and hurting, Draco was not in a mood to make intelligent conversation. He had been carefully weighing his every word for the last hour on their behalf already. Now he expected some kind of recognition. "Want to hear?" he finally asked in provocation.

"Not now, Draco." Severus warded him off.

Draco became angry at their indifference. "Listen, he WAS interested in your relationship!"

"What relationship? Whose?" Ginny asked tiredly, finally looking up at him. She closed her eyes and leaned back, too preoccupied to really care.

"The one you have with Severus! He has of course noticed how Severus praised you, and how he went to your defence today." This brought her attention back, and she asked bluntly what Draco had told him. "I mainly confirmed what has been said before," Draco drawled. Goodness, the way they acted he wanted nothing else than get into bed.

Absent-mindedly, Ginny murmured, "Performance at night."

She jumped to her feet, her neck turning scarlet. "You WHAT? You described me as the professor's whore? You made the Dark Lord believe he would harm a woman, maybe every woman that enters his house?"

Draco's head had jerked back from the blow. When she took a breath, he tried to interject, but she would not listen. "Is that how you see him? Is that how you thank your mentor?" she shouted on, hands trembling too much to stay in her hips.

"No!" Draco got up and shouted back at her now. "Damn it, I'm tired and hurting, will you at least listen now? I'm not demanding much, really. You can save your thanks for ten weeks from now if you want!"

"I'm not going to make it for ten more days, Draco Malfoy!"

Draco's patience left him. He headed for the concealed door that led up to his room, his every muscle hardening as he whipped his wand to open it. He pressed out a last remark and slammed the door shut, causing some of the books to complain about his rudeness.

:*:*:*:

Their emotion-loaded exchange had been too loud for Severus' strained nerves. He preferred sharp retorts that achieved their purpose best if spoken softly and was never receptive to a row like that. Now that it was silent, he stood and warmed the tea. He forced a cup of the sweetened drink into Ginny's hands, holding them for a moment to make sure she would not drop it. "Let him go, Ginevra. We can sort that out later." They both sat down on the bed again. "You should drink some more tea before you try to get some rest."

"I cannot believe he did this to you!" She was so upset that she spilled some tea anyhow. "Ungrateful git! Where would he be without you? How can he tell such stories about you?"

"Do not concern yourself with my reputation. It will not get deeper than Dumbledore's murderer." His voice was as emotionless as his words. "Or higher, for some."

"But, sir, you're nothing like that." Ginny provided with conviction. She turned to face him. "You've helped me so much. And anyway, you would never... not like them!" she breathed. They looked into each other's eyes finding despair, pain and grief, and maybe a little glint of something else, but it was too shy or well-concealed to come out.

Her eyes, brown with a few blue flecks, were open and clear right now, yet able to conceal what was behind them. Four more days... His breath unstable, Severus broke the contact and looked onto his hands cradling the tea, as he searched for a diversion. "I wonder what has come over him, though." Discussing Draco seemed to be safer ground than anything else that came into his mind.

"Why didn't he join us at home immediately?" She was equally glad that the awkward scene was over.

"He went over to his old school colleagues, although none of them is interested in him. He might be lonely compared to his school days."

"He even put up with me," Ginny noted lightly but became serious as she continued. "What would he talk about, though? He could not trust any of them anyway. And honestly, Crabbe and Goyle are no loss!"

"Careful there. But no," Severus conceded, "they are no match for him intellectually and nowhere close to the Inner Circle, where a Malfoy can still take his place."

"Uh, I'm not sure I meant that. But, sir, he didn't talk about them. He said he has spoken to Vo... the Dark Lord." She frowned and asked, "Can he do that, just waltz over and talk to him?"

"Certainly not! He has one foot in his grave as it is and would risk his life in making the attempt alone."

"He said he pointed something out to the Dark Lord. He was exhausted and shaking. And drinking thirstily."

Severus considered this. Could the boy have addressed their master on his own accord? If so, he must have been very convincing. Otherwise, he would not have returned in one piece, at least not able to walk. "What was it he hissed at you before he left?"

"I said I will be dead in ten days, and he said..."

"...if you listened you would live in ten years." In no time, Severus was on his feet. "Can he have found a way?"

"By insulting you?" Ginny huffed and stayed seated.

"We need to talk to him. Tonight. Now." When she did not move, Severus took her hand and dragged her along, jabbing his wand as they went, causing the books to cower at the hinge of the opening door. He ignored them and all but pulled Ginny up the stairs.

Draco's door was closed and no sound was to be heard. They knocked without success. "Draco, open the door," Severus called several times into the silence. When he received no reply, he stopped, frustrated. Eventually he turned to the girl, saying softly, "Now that I think of it, he was bursting with news..."

"... and we ignored him. If you force the door open, he will not say a word." Upon his surprised nod, Ginny whispered, "He is used to many things, but not to being ignored. Then we need an incentive." She turned back towards the stairs and noticed that her arm did not come along. Realising that they were holding hands, she quickly opened hers, averting her glance.

Severus let go as if he had touched hot iron and watched her descend, his fingers tickling oddly. He found great interest in the scraps on the door when she returned.

Back upstairs, Ginny asked aloud, but nicely, "Draco, this is Ginny. I'm sorry I shouted at you. Would you care for another tea or orange juice?"

The bed inside creaked, and a grunting Draco opened the door. He stooped in the door frame and drank down the tea eagerly. As he swapped for the glass of juice, he said, "I'm better now, myself. Let's go back downstairs, time is pressing."

:*:*:*:

Already before Draco finished, words had left Severus, and his stare was fixed onto the table. The boy has addressed the Dark Lord on his own initiative, risking his own life to save hers. He has played matchmaker for the two of us? The impertinent brat! Has the daring and foolhardy plan actually worked, and will our master allow this? That is unexpected, incredible. It is as hilarious as it is frightening.

There was hardly a chance to save her life, and Severus knew immediately that this plan, once conceived, would be the only key to it. Their master would not consider any fourth option. This was it: Greyback and his werewolves, a pack of Muggle hooligans or... him, Severus Snape.

"Listen now!" Draco caught Severus' attention. "The procedure goes like this: Tuesday for lunch, Severus needs to convince the Dark Lord that he is eager to have Ginny. Not only reluctantly agreeing to marry her, but found a family. A sufficiently happy one. This is important! He didn't cotton on for the prospect of merely leaving the Order in despair. This could be done with other means. He is obsessed with his next generation of Death Eaters. Salazar's Sea Serpent, he even accepted a Gryffindor, and a blood traitor at that!" Draco drawled sarcastically.

For the first time Severus turned to face the girl. She was more collected than before. She appeared to have weighed up her three possibilities already. As he turned, she looked at him apprehensively, but not shyly, expecting a reaction from him.

Severus took his time and let the prospects sink in before he said, "A marriage of convenience is one thing. We are in a war after all. But the obligation? Children? It is out of the question." Suddenly furious, he turned to the blond, causing a spring in the makeshift bed to squeak, and hissed, "What possessed you to even consider this, to risk the Dark Lord's wrath?"

Ginny's urgent move away from him and her little scream was quitted with another squeak from the old furniture.

Draco gave his answer with averted glance but in a firm voice. "Barbara Brisby and Serena Hutch."

Ginny looked from one man to the other, not understanding what was going on. She had heard the name Brisby before, but could not place it and knew nothing of a Barbara. The other woman was altogether foreign to her. Yet, two women. Severus sat stock still until Draco looked up into his cold and boring eyes. He held the gaze for longer than Ginny would have believed, not wavering, not backing down. There seemed to be no Legilimency.

Eventually, Ginny cleared her throat to interrupt them.

Her professor regrouped himself. "Ginevra is only sixteen, underage and still growing."

"Perhaps the Dark Lord would be willing to wait for a child... at least for a while," she tried.

Draco answered quietly, "The legal wedding age for witches used to be sixteen. My grandmothers wed on their sixteenth birthdays or Friday after. He might refer to the old times. He is the law. But he does realise that you are very young."

"A few months are a mere formality," Severus reasoned, "The war cannot end early enough, but eventually it will. If you are stuck with the child of a traitor, both your lives would be ruined."

A little too forcefully, Ginny pointed out, "Alternatively, my life's ruined next week." Not that the prospect of marriage was warming her soul, as it should if a woman was in love. However, this was life, and she wasn't ready to give it up too soon. "Besides, there are two of us for the child."

"One of whom is dead or sitting in Azkaban. The model father! Look." Severus exhaled. He paused before he went on, facing her directly now. Her eyes had a dangerous sparkle, and her jawline demonstrated determination. Severus swallowed what he had been about to say.

Ginny wasn't fool enough to think he would be overjoyed. It would take effort and time to fathom him out, but she had a few entry points. "Maybe if someone else petitioned...?"

"No!"

That has come a little rapidly, Ginny decided.

"You do not know them." Severus explained. "Ginevra, it is not that I would not be ready to do it."

She jumped to the edge of the bed, beaming. "You would consider it?"

"I recall telling you I would do anything, everything, if it helps you. But you'd be bound, don't you see? Having a child is a step we cannot undo."

"Even in the oddest of circumstances, childhood needs not be an ordeal. It is the parents who make it one. Old family wisdom."

Severus flinched, thinking, Parents can make childhood an ordeal, oh yes. "I am not a family person, not a social person, even. I do not know how to be..." He fought with the word, the whole concept. "... a husband, a father. I have been everybody's least favourite potions teacher for... goodness, for longer than you have lived."

"You'll manage, Severus. I'm positive," Draco provided, rushing on before he was interrupted. "Let me go through the rest. If Severus is willing... note, Severus, you must show more than grudgingly accepting her. You are to show you intend to get along with her. A common ground, respect, affection, a potential for love! This is what I promised, more or less. If you are willing, Friday will bring the decision. I believe the Dark Lord wants Ginny to decide in the end. Remember, Severus, that it is your reward. He is not interested in providing you with something or someone you would consider a burden. Not a shrew or a broodmare...sorry, Ginny, no offence."

Draco's eyes went unfocussed as he recalled the scene. "He talked frighteningly much about love and that Dumbledore told him he would never understand it." After a well-set pause, Draco reminded them with extra emphasis. "He wants this marriage to work. For the time being, at least, as in one of these many qualifying clauses. If I remember correctly, there is another group wedding Friday in nearly three weeks. Or two? You might just join them. But I don't know about that."

With that Draco turned towards the stairs, a jug of water in hand, moving with attention to every muscle. When he reached the door, wand drawn, a book bickered, "Mind your manners, young man. Don't you dare to shake us around again." He glared at it, turned back to the pair on the bed, his eyes showing as much of a smirk as he dared with his mentor. "He will want proof of your devotion. You better have something to show him. I could not provide much," he said and closed the door quietly.

:*:*:*:

They looked at each other. What would happen next? What would have to happen? Ginny's mind raced. Marry the Potions master. Marry Professor Snape, or Severus Snape.

Severus' mind felt as empty as his stomach. His eyes searched around the room for something concrete and settled on the dishes. Instead of flicking his wand to send them off, he carefully collected the cups and carried them into the kitchen. It didn't take nearly as long as he had hoped. "Miss Weasley..."

"You already used my given name tonight. I liked it."

"Gi... Ginevra then?" He tilted his head in question. "Then..."

"S... Severus," she acknowledged. "It might take a while to get used to."

Severus nodded. Their discussion was stuck. Finally he provided, "You are tired. The day was long."

"But Draco said..."

"I am aware of that!" Severus spat. Shocked at his outburst, his fingers went to his temples. He stooped lightly and shook his head. Softly, he continued, "This is not going too well, Miss... Ginevra." He sighed. "I am not used to this."

"To friendship, Severus?"

"Not to love or any other relationship. I told you that already." He looked up and over to her. As he didn't seem able to move, she stepped slowly closer. She tried to find this little something in his eyes again, the one behind the fear and the pain. But it was too dark to look into his eyes now. They were so dark themselves, and now they lay deep in their sockets in the dim light from the street lantern. If he turned his face a bit to the right... her hand reached out for his chin, but it never arrived there.

Severus caught her by the wrist, and this time he shouted. "WHAT?"

"Ouch, let go," she squealed, stepping back.

"I apologise," he offered, retreating into himself again. "It's a reflex, maybe." He let go of her and dropped his hands altogether, his face unreadable.

Ginny took in his form. Even if he tried, his stance was not nearly as self-assured as her caustic Potions master used to be. "I wanted to tilt your head towards the light, to see your eyes," she explained neutrally.

"... and I hurt you." His head sank down, as in justification of how inadequate he was to be near to anybody.

Ginny wasn't to be discouraged. After all, she fought for her life here. Boldly she stepped forward to where she had been...not an inch further, she reminded herself, this is not a teenager nor a Gryffindor. He will not be very open for excuses. "Try again?"

He had observed her step apprehensively, but she halted. Tense and strained as he was, he forced himself to nod. He watched her left hand approaching his face slowly but with determination. She set her fingers along his jaw with the tips very close to his ear. The heel of her hand cupped his chin. She pressed slightly to move his head. Now she saw his eyes better. The distress was still there, although it was maybe a different one. This time he was not so much fearing for her but wary and cautious in the face of a new situation, of requirements he wasn't sure he understood...much less could fulfil.

Her thumb stroked slowly up and down. The skin of an adult man. His beard had grown since the morning, and the sensors of her ring finger recognised the little scar she knew was there. She felt a shiver go through him and saw him close his eyes. He leaned slightly into her hand. Two feelings fought inside her. Fearful student Ginny wanted to run away and hide, while some other part of her, that she could not name, wanted her to stay, close her eyes, and just feel what would happen. Running is futile in this small house, she decided and closed her eyes.

He had wanted to look into her eyes, but with her hand on his cheek, he could not keep his eyes open. Her tender caress sent shivers up and down his spine. Ginevra's hands were long and not too slim. Hands that could deftly stir a stew as well as a cauldron or send hexes determinedly on their way. Hands used to all kinds of chores without getting blisters. Of course, her hands were not callous, but they exercised a steady, firm grip. Endearing, captivating. He took a deep breath.

Severus didn't dare open his eyes just yet. She had not moved. His right hand came up at her left elbow and inched along her inner arm to her shoulder. When it felt its way along her collarbone and then along her neck up to her cheek, he was delighted to feel her react to him, too.

Now he was ready to open his eyes. His left hand found Ginny's waist, and he pulled her a little closer. She reacted promptly and came closer than he had expected, but just a little, not in a demanding way, not frighteningly close. Her hands met in the nape of his neck, and although his right arm and hand were a bit trapped, he relaxed slightly in their embrace. Yet, he felt his arm in the way, effectively hindering whatever was supposed to come. Had it not always been so that a part of him had misbehaved, and all the rest had had to bear the consequences? Unceremoniously Ginny opened this side a bit, and he slid his right hand down and to her shoulder blade. Problem solved, his brain registered in relief.

They stood for a while, not touching tightly but sensing each other's body. Ginny felt his irregular, heavy, warm breath on her arms, and her hands noticed the tension in his neck and shoulders. She understood that he was insecure, did not know what he wanted or how to achieve it, didn't know what to do with his hands, how to hold his head. If she came closer he would recoil, she could feel it. Make him relax! She set her thumbs on both sides of his neck and massaged lightly, symmetrically up and down, small circles. Yes, his neck came up; he moved lightly against her fingers.

"Mm."

The sound coming from his own mouth shook him out of the trance. What was that? What happened to him?

"Relax, Severus. There is nothing to worry about."

"I'm at a loss." It was a first! Who am I, and where is Severus Snape, the nightmare of all first years, Neville Longbottom's greatest fear?

"Maybe we should sit down?" Ginny provided, letting her hands fall to his elbows. She steered him to the bed, next to herself, very close up, in fact. She frowned in thought.

"What is it?"

"Just thinking how to proceed. In such cases I go through my family and friends to get an idea what they would do. I was just considering Hermione..." he huffed, "...yes, indeed. She would give each of us a slip of parchment and a quill and have us make a list. What we understand, what we don't understand, what we want, what we fear... very systematic, boring. But for her it works."

"I'm not in the mood for bookkeeping tonight."

"No," Ginny agreed, "this is not a project on Transfiguration."

They found they were too tired and overwhelmed to think straight. The whole idea had to sink in first. They would talk again tomorrow.

:*:*:*:

Severus turned and rolled around in his bed without getting to sleep. Annoyed, he finally donned some clothes and left the house. With long strides, he stalked around the house and, at the end of the street, proceeded towards the fallow rows of allotments.

Marry! I'm going to marry! Ginevra Weasley! I have promised Albus I would do anything, and, Merlin, I will.

He huffed and turned, passed his own house and continued along the neglected or even abandoned houses in his immediate neighbourhood.

I will have to abandon my life, my freedom, my... well, honestly, what is there worth to cry over? As the situation is, I have nothing valuable that I could lose. No job, no friends, not even a daily ritual.

My bed...yes, I will have to share my bed. At least she doesn't snore.

As he crossed an equally shabby street, his instincts had him double-check for anything suspicious, but there wasn't more than a mangy, hungry dog in the street. Severus glared at him, and putting his tail between his legs, the damn dog pushed off.

There is still the question if she wants me at all, if she can stand me. Right now, she will of course say yes. I did manage to be civil towards her, and she certainly showed some...what? Positive actions, call them affection? True or made-up, I cannot tell.

At the next junction, Severus turned before he reached the slightly more agreeable area where Spinner's End was home of those working class families who had come out of the depression and unemployment relatively unscathed. Further down still, Spinner's End led into a more busy road, but Severus didn't dare to go too far away from the house.

I'm supposed to be the loving husband.

Severus felt most uneasy about that. He hadn't had a woman in years, because the whole act had never proven to be too exciting. But then, when it came to sex, she would not be too experienced herself. She might compare me with... Potter...oh joy. Before him, there had been a Ravenclaw and the other Gryffindor, Thomas. These two had been inseparable for weeks, and a few times he had caught them in corners or secluded corridors. Snogging wildly...but always dressed. He could not claim the same for all his Slytherins.

There is more than sex in a marriage. We will live together. Well, we've done so for a week already. Granted, she has proven to be bearable company so far, even if she has rearranged and redecorated my house already. Reasonable changes, mind you!

She has changed my diet as well. Hmm, her cooking is fantastic! Mouth watering breakfasts; crisp salads, spicy soups and curries, delicious desserts! She can give the Hogwarts elves a run for their money. Well, they don't receive money.

Money! What will we live on? How much will she spend? She's a Weasley, she knows how to restrict herself...

Severus had little savings. Hogwarts was run by the Ministry, and the school board had not lifted the wages for a dozen years or so. Most teachers came from well-off pure-blood families and administered their business in parallel, or they had research projects, got paid for publications or patents. Lacking the chance or desire to spend money, Severus had never bothered much about it either. He had bought books, of course.

For as long as the war was on, he decided, he could ask the Dark Lord for support. There would be ways.

Severus had almost reached the allotments once again and turned with zest. He abruptly stopped his musing when a black cloak swished around a corner. Such a garment had no business in this Muggle area. Not altering his brisk walk, he returned home.

Inside, everything was quiet, and with relief Severus returned to bed.

What will happen after the war? She will be a widow without a job but with a child. A child will wish for more than food and clothes. It will want friends and toys. His child should have the chance to participate, not be shunned by all peers as he had been. Certainly the Weasley clan would be of some support...whoever had fathered the child of their daughter or sister...but they had little themselves. They appeared to give their children warmth and appreciation but not too much else, certainly not books or space for peaceful contemplation. How could a child sharing his disposition thrive in these conditions?

What would happen if he survived, if he really could prove his loyalties at the trial? She would not want to stay stuck with him, and he could not expect it. They would leave him, wishing to see nothing more than his monthly cheque. Ginevra will still be less than 20 years old. She can have any young man she wants. The thought sent a stab of agony through his system. I'll fight for them. I'll not just let her go!

Hours later, Severus was wide awake again. On a hunch he left his bed once again. It was two o'clock. He went over to the sitting room and approached the lean figure in the bed. He stood still for a while, watching her. Then he reached out to remove a strand of hair from her face to find her eyes open, watching him. His hand froze in mid air.

"Severus," she whispered. "Can't sleep either?"

"No." His hoarse voice was loud in the silence of the night. With a wave of his hand he made the sconces emit a dim light.

She patted the side of her bed, begged him to sit down. "I feel strange," she said, turning to lie on her back to face him.

He cleared his throat. "Of course you would. You've been going through so much." His eyes roamed over her face, her hair, her neck. A hand came out from somewhere in the bed cover, taking hold of his own. Her eyes fixed on his, she explored his lower arm, felt the muscles, scars, hair. She groped up his arm, under the sleeve of his shirt, sending shivers through him again.

He clenched his eyes shut and bit his lips to not shout out loud, but he could not prevent a groan. "Ginevra, what..."

"Severus," she said in lieu of an answer.

Slowly Ginny moved her hand down again, halting half the way down to his elbow, circling and probing; feeling the very masculine arm, each muscle, the tendons and veins. She passed along the inner side of his lower arm and finally let her fingers glide over each of his. With his shiver, she withdrew her hand, and it retreated under the cover again. "You'll catch a cold, Severus."

"Hmm."

"Go back to bed, Severus," she ordered in a motherly tone.

Severus stood up slowly. I cannot sleep, thinking of you out here, he thought.

"What?" Ginny propped herself up on her elbows. Her eyes were wide open. "What did you say?"

"I have not said anything," he answered, trying for harsh but failing.

"You most certainly have. You basically... you invited me," Ginny stuttered, feeling a hot blush on her face.

Severus turned abruptly. "My apologies." He turned to leave.

She jumped out of her bed. "Wait." He was not sure he wanted to, but her voice had halted him already. "If I take you up on the invitation..."

"Ginevra!"

"... we might both find some sleep?" she suggested, turned and took up her duvet. In a stern voice she added, "Only sleep, Severus!"

For a while she wasn't sure she'd ever get an answer. His features did not reveal anything. Her bare feet got cold, and she moved one up her calf. Suddenly, a small nod. He gestured her to enter his room.

They lay down awkwardly, taking more comfort from the presence of the other than from the rest of their sleeping arrangements. When her own cover slipped down for the third time, Ginny cautiously lifted his and slipped in next to Severus. He stiffened, and she forced herself to lie stock still and listen to his breathing. Don't think of his strong arms now, she berated herself.

The warmth of his body next to her let her relax and finally fall asleep.

Severus had more problems to calm down. Never had there been another person in this bed with him. Certainly not such a bold female one, whom he was compelled to watch again and again. She was not afraid of him, how strange. Certainly four years of potions under his vitriol had left their imprints on her. Not even the Slytherins were ever really comfortable with him. But she was sleeping not three inches away from him. This evening, he had let her closer than ever, had felt she deserved it. She had needed it, too, but had that ever been a criterion for him? Yes, she deserved the best, and the best was not what he could offer her.

For the second time, he moved an errand strand of her hair from his eyes. He left another one draped over his neck. He bent his knees towards hers. Then he forced himself to calm down, tried to hear her even breathing. Yes, I will fight for her, was his last coherent thought.

:*:*:*:

In the wake of the curses, Draco's body didn't allow him a peaceful night. On the other hand, he had achieved what he considered one of his greatest deeds. Even if the pair downstairs could not see it, they were a promising match.

In the morning, it took him by surprise to find the girl's bed empty. He had never considered presenting them as lovers, or Severus as lusty. The idea was absurd, and the Dark Lord would not have believed it. Draco hadn't expected them to rush into...

With a whole pot of warm, sweet tea, he slowly heaved his body upstairs and back into his room. He would ask Severus for the potion against the physical exhaustion later.

When he returned downstairs more than an hour later, there was still no one to be seen or heard. He went into the kitchen to prepare breakfast. Finally he laid the table, taking care to be noisier than needed.

:*:*:*:

Clanks of glasses and china woke her up. Soft, rhythmical sounds matched the small movement her right arm made. A new smell surrounded her: spicy, masculine. She had no pillow, and while her back was warmed comfortably, her left arm and front felt cold because they hardly had enough cover. An unclear motion let the regular sounds stop. A soft grunt...Professor Snape, Severus! His bed. His smell. She wanted to turn around to have a look at him, but propping herself on her right arm had not been her best idea.

Fully awake in an instant, the experienced spy shot up, sending Ginny unceremoniously to the floor. "Expelliarmus!"

Realising that there was no armed opponent in his room, he shook himself and knelt on his side of the bed. "Ginevra!" He reached out for her hand and pulled her back onto the bed. "My apologies," he began, but she shook her head and held a finger on her lips. She crawled back under the warm cover and opened it for him to lie down as well.

"No."

"Only five minutes for a softer wake up."

Severus bent down and reached out his hand as if to touch her, then shook his head, stopped abruptly and was gone.

"You owe me," she murmured.

:*:*:*:

Severus inspected himself in the bathroom mirror. Synopsis: repulsive. Sallow skin with scars, thin pale mouth with yellowish teeth crammed into too small jaws. His menacing eyes together with a hooked nose long enough to serve three, gave him the air of a bird of prey.

His prey he had usually found easily at Hogwarts, mainly among the Gryffindors. He had not looked out for Weasleys and not particularly Ginevra Weasley. In Potions, she had been as annoying as the average student. Not more, but not less either. She had manoeuvred herself into half a dozen detentions during her four years of Potions under him. Not by blatant ignorance, like Creevey or Longbottom, and not for annoying him with the over-achievement Miss Granger presented. No, he had rather had to punish her for her dubious creativity outside the set tasks. Not quite as enthusiastic as her twin brothers, and forced to arrange herself with changing partners, she was still the type of an intrepid experimenter working in typical Gryffindor strategy: act first, think later. In his last year of teaching her Potions, she had been more attentive, had sometimes clung to his lips. Probably the danger of her actions had sunken in. Certainly her marks had profited from her change of mind. From their preparations over the last days, he could say that she had a reasonable knowledge of the fifth year of Potions lessons.

Severus remembered also that she had not approved equally of all potions in the curriculum. He distinctly remembered that several essays had disappointed him in their dismissive tone while a few others had almost been as elaborated as Granger's.

There had been nothing at all amiss with her performance in Defence. Her blocks were as wide or narrow as had been the task and always strong enough. She could put all her energy into her hexes, and he did not envy the receiver of them, even if it was only a Bat Bogey Hex. He would have loved to use her more on demonstrations in class, but was forced to favour Slytherins. For a few tricky blocks, he had picked her out. Had she ever understood this as the compliment he could not give her in any other ways?

Minerva had complained comparatively much about Weasleys in general, considering they were from her own house. Starting with Charlie and reaching climax with the clowns, Fred and George. Being Potter's friend, Ron Weasley was usually given more allowance than was good for him. Ginevra Weasley, on the other hand, had gone unnoticed for most of her first year, not raising the alarm she should have. After the revelation, everyone was more aware of her, yes, but her performance or behaviour in class had never provided a topic in the staff room. Severus could only assume she did well enough in all her subjects.

Last night she had taken him by surprise, although for once a mostly agreeable one. She had cajoled him, coaxed him, but stopped short at the point just before he would have rebuked her. She had managed to touch his face! She had wanted it, and he had let her...which of the two was the greater surprise? While Severus remembered her hand on his jaw, the same sensation washed through his whole body again. Pleasantly.

Later she had roamed his arm. It had even been his left one. She had not given a single thought to his Dark Mark. Then she had taken him on his invitation to share his bed, wherever this had come from. She had felt safe with him. Safe with Severus Snape? Am I losing my touch?

:*:*:*:

Severus tried hard to keep the discussion over breakfast on a business level, asking what Draco had told the Dark Lord, what questions Severus would have to answer. He did not want to think about the answers themselves. There was still one day to ponder about that.

What would be expected of them? The men remembered that couples of the group wedding were granted a honeymoon of sorts. And a Love Potion Draco was so accustomed to prepare, Ludwig's Lust: an ages old recipe for men to keep them going to compensate the lack of Death Eater children.

"Severus, isn't there any fertility potion?" Ginny frowned.

"Think you need that?"

She blushed vigorously. "Not for me, thank you. But what about these other women? Or men!"

"There is no potion, but Muggles have their methods. They can enhance a woman's fertility, often up to quadruplets or more. But the magic lags behind."

Draco went white. "Do you happen to know if my mum used this?"

Severus was not sure about that. In a hollow voice Draco told Ginny about his only sister, who had been a Squib. Sadly, Severus commented, "Look around the Death Eaters. Your sister was by far not the only Squib born, and none was allowed to live." Watching the boy, he added softly, "I realise that this is no comfort."

Severus remembered too well why he had not had any contact with the Malfoys at the time. He had been in Hogwarts for his third year and under a strict regime. Dumbledore had not yet trusted him. He was the traitor given a very well-supervised second chance. Minerva had been so suspicious that Slughorn was still responsible for the first and seventh years: the small ones to save her precious and delicate Gryffindors from Severus' atrocious teaching style, and the graduating class for the sake of fairness. Officially, of course, the teaching staff wanted to see a support for the young inexperienced colleague and didn't want Severus to take over as the Head of House just yet. It had taken him two more years to reach the position he had then pursued for so many years.

He had gradually been allowed to seek contact with his former acquaintances. Once Dumbledore had trusted him, they had conceived a plan concerning how to maintain his contacts and his image amongst them. But their superficially happy family life had not appealed to Severus at all.

Severus was thrown back to their discussion when Ginny vehemently declared, "How could one kill one's child, just for that?" When the men turned their faces down to their plates without eating, she asked, trembling now, "Does the Dark Lord expect this?"

Draco answered, "Our family reputation among the Death Eaters or in society hardly left Father any option. Although I would ignore this unspoken law. Father, of course, never gave it a thought. He killed her on her fourth day."

Wearily, Severus looked over to Ginny who expected a clear statement from him. On matters far beyond anything he was comfortable with sharing. He had never talked to anyone other than Albus about the killing, the torturing, all the tormenting he was forced to do or watch. He'd rather leave this room. But the unspoken question was about his child that would also be her child. She had a right to get an answer.

He cleared his throat. "My tasks under the Dark Lord have forced me to do things I detest." He took another deep breath, and Ginny saw emotions in his face that were normally covered by a mask of indifference. "I have killed. Done it myself, or done nothing against it. You know that." She nodded and swallowed hard, but she kept her eyes on him, drew an answer out of him. "To... define conditions when I would be ready to kill my own child goes beyond anything I imagine I could stand."

Severus' face went neutral again, but he kept his eyes on her. Ginny felt the strongest urge to reassure him, but the least he needed now was for Draco to notice anything. She stretched out her leg and shortly stroked his foot under the table. A small flicker in his eye was all the answer she needed.

When Draco reached out for more tea, Ginny thought about the night before. She tenderly asked him how his talk with the Dark Lord had started. With careful prodding, they learned the details. Ginny was impressed at his steadiness on her behalf. Severus didn't really believe that Draco had acted purely altruistically. Draco huffed and tried to shirk away, but they pressed his answer to the Dark Lord out of him. Sheepishly he reported and ended with a careful grin.

"You have arranged the marriage of your daughter before she is born? Before you even know her mother?" Severus asked in mock-disgust, and they all snorted. They almost forced themselves to take it lightly, for every little bit of a joke or sarcasm released some tension in their nerves.

"I couldn't well tell him that I hope for a promotion within the Death Eaters!"

"No." The Dark Lord assumed this whenever he was addressed. Telling him outright would have put Draco into mortal peril and would have sabotaged his whole idea.

Severus insisted on seeing the scenes Draco had presented their master. Draco fidgeted and hesitated until Ginny went for the bathroom. She closed the door, and soon they heard water running.

Ginny could not read her professor's...her fiancé's?...expression when she returned later.

:*:*:*:

Ginny fidgeted a lot the whole morning. She nervously went for the bathroom every now and then. Finally, she caught Severus on his own. "Could I have my wand for the next few days? Could you at least deposit it somewhere I can reach it, in the bathroom, preferably?" Severus didn't catch her problem. When some more hints were lost on him, too, she desperately shrugged. "All right then, may I go shopping for some of the Muggle things that women need every month?"

After a first moment of total silence, Severus reacted less embarrassed than she had expected. He took it from a more clinical side. Soon she found herself accompanying him to the shops, her wand provided for this outing.

He knew what to look for, and he described where in the shop she should go. On their way they both collected their knowledge. There would be two concepts, something called tampons for internal use and something resembling a nappy to put into the knickers. Without anyone to show her, she would be better off taking the external ones. It felt less strange to discuss this with him than Ginny would have imagined. But then she considered that he would have prepared potions for Madam Pomfrey and must have heard a lot what's going on in the hospital wing. Also being Head of Slytherin house meant dealing with girls.

She was on her own at the corresponding shelf but found two types of pads that seemed to serve her needs. Remembering one of Hermione's comments on how these Muggle pads tended to end up in the wrong place, she had taken two more pairs of knickers along. She used a cleansing spell along with her actions to press it all to her body.

Then she joined Severus in the food department. They had to restock on essentials as well as get fresh food for the coming days. Severus observed how she took her time to select the best fruits and freshest lettuces for salads. They ignored the deep frozen packages but went over to a counter to get fresh fish and to another counter for cheese. Next to cheddars, there were lots of Swiss, Dutch, and French cheeses, and they took four types, a small amount of each. Ginny noticed how all these concepts were alien for Severus, and she was not sure if he did it only for her or saw the point. He would at mealtimes, she decided.

Puddings? Ginny stopped at the shelf with ingredients for bakery. Luck was with her that there was a leaflet with recipes. On Severus' request she gladly collected everything she would need for a chocolate cake. "Can't promise I can match the... kitchen at school," she said, carefully selecting Muggle-proof vocabulary.

"I am not going to grade it," he assured her.

On their way home, Ginny asked what the place had been like in his youth. It felt safer to pull information out of him this way than directly addressing his family. He had quite a good memory of the places, the smaller houses, the little shops. They passed a playground. Two mothers were gathered at the sandpit that held three dirty but happy toddlers. Severus remembered that the place had often been full of glass and the swing broken. It was never a rich area. Many Muggles were unemployed.

"You used to play with the neighbour children? With Muggles?!" Despite the theoretical knowledge that he was not a pure-blood, Ginny had never imagined him acting as a Muggle.

"I never played with them, or even close to them," he mused. "I caused all kinds of accidents and scared them. Parents did not want their precious children to play with me."

"Where is the local school? Harry showed us his Muggle schools."

"It used to be two streets up, where the bank is today. The architecture could compete with your average Muggle prison. It was as cold inside as it was outside."

"You even attended Muggle classes?" Ginny blurted out before thinking. She immediately felt she was stretching it too far now. And indeed, for a while it looked as if nothing would come. At least not a row, she thought and turned to face him for an apology. To receive an elaborated reply before she had started was a nice surprise.

Severus had inwardly grunted at her curiosity but then decided that, after all, these questions were innocent enough to grant her an answer. "My father insisted that I was 'normal'. The school was strict, and I learned well enough. Then the taunting from the playground or the football field caught me even there. With the accidents my repelling magic caused, they insisted that I leave." He looked over to her and was rewarded with a lopsided smile. With more musing, he continued, "I wonder if the situation today is any better for a magical child."

"Hermione didn't have many friends because of the cleverness, which she could not rein in. But she didn't have much of a problem with her magic. Harry was taunted because his cousin organised it, and his aunt never interfered. Some magic must have puzzled his teachers though. Colin was mostly fine at school. He was a bit of a joker, which covered it up. But Dennis and their sister had trouble once the family knew about magic. So I guess it is still very much the same." Ginny stopped, realising she was babbling. Severus said nothing. Not all of Potter's magic had indeed been his own, but it was better the girl would not know that.

At the fence, she asked carefully, "Severus, do you know anything about the Creeveys?" He swiftly pushed her into the house.

Inside, wards re-erected, they proceeded into the kitchen before she got her answer. "They are in mortal danger. If the Aurors or the Order fails families like the Creeveys, they are easy prey. Currently, I know nothing of concrete plans." He hesitated. "Ginevra, I truthfully told you all I know about their situation. But you'd better not ask too precise questions. What I think you should know, what I can tell you, I will."

Swallowing hard, she nodded. She handed over her wand and went to the bathroom with her shopping.

They made a fish soup for lunch. Lacking a recipe, they imagined the soups from Hogwarts and analysed them. Ginny mostly knew how to prepare the ingredients, and for the rest they made guesses. They had to substitute some herbs with what they had. Fresh bread and a salad with a sauce that Severus whipped until it was creamy completed the meal.

Only when she took up the soup tureen did it occur to her that Severus had spoken about the future as if it was agreed already that she would be... with him. Distributing the simple iron spoons and forks, she felt tension leave her limbs.

"What do we have today?" Draco asked, his nose taking in the aromas.

"Fish fantasy and green delight," Ginny answered not missing a beat. Severus garnered her quick response with an amused look. It had been a peaceful morning.

While Ginny removed the remainders of the meal, the two men went into the lab. Severus would have to deliver potions tomorrow, or Draco's delay would show.

:*:*:*:

Two shabby and unkempt men arrived in the late afternoon, after they had had tea (and a chocolate cake that had tasted well enough but was of unstable shape). One tried to catch a glance of Ginny in the kitchen, but when Severus grunted, he quickly averted his look. Wordlessly, Severus ushered them down to the lab.

The men looked less concerned when they returned. Severus Obfuscated his owl Pöllö and made it follow the thinner one. Draco and Severus left the house to check the street. When they signalled that the coast was clear, the two strangers nodded at Ginny and left in a hurry.

Draco and Severus didn't provide any explanation. Their annoying secrecy reminded Ginny strongly of the Order, but for the time being it was best. And didn't she have secrets with Severus that Draco didn't share? The Horcruxes! Not even your average Order member knew about them. She felt better immediately. It was a way of protecting each other and not a question of superiority. Maybe she should ask again if she should be Obliviated from such events.

Pöllö arrived without any message while they had dinner. He briefly perched on Severus' backrest before he left for his nightly hunt. He wasn't used to treats, Ginny thought.

Very early, Draco excused himself. He took the two ointments along for soothing the remaining symptoms of the Cruciatus. When he opined he would not need a Dreamless sleep potion, Severus was content with this decision. Draco's mind had not been attacked, and he had known the curse already. It would not do to pamper themselves. On the other hand, each application of the curse damaged inner organs leading to chronic dysfunctions if not treated. That must not be risked.

:*:*:*:

Alone again, they felt silent. Comfortably maybe, but would there not be issues to discuss?

"Are you settling in here?" Severus eventually started, leaning back in his armchair. "I might not realise what is amiss. Don't hesitate to ask. Like you did this morning."

Ginny considered this. He wasn't referring to exactly this moment. It was a statement she would have to remember for their common future. If there was such a thing. "I understand. I'm fine now. Winter coming, I would probably need..." she stopped, holding her breath.

Severus took up the thought easily. "Yes, warmer clothes. And some more anyway because washing is more cumbersome then. I would like you to join our forest exercise, too." He was thinking in the same categories.

"Severus..."

"Ginevra..."

They both started a sentence and they both stopped. He gestured for her to continue.

Sitting on the edge of the sofa, elbows on her knees she wondered what it had been, and how to express it best. Finally she said, "It's me who is in the predicament, but you are asked to change your life."

"The war puts us into predicaments. All of us. And we are all asked to contribute to solutions," Severus corrected, leaning forward himself now to meet her eyes. "If you believe yourself in eternal debt to me, it will not work. Not for you and neither for me."

"I'm asking myself, what this 'it' is. What can it be, what not?"

Severus considered her for long seconds before he replied. "We had several terms yesterday. Some were... daring concepts. Most were concepts I am not very familiar with. All of them, I'm afraid."

She took up the pot of tea. "Want more?"

Severus handed over his mug, saying, "There is already a concept I might fail to comply to. Did I?"

Ginny smiled. "I'm a big girl, I do know how to help myself to tea. And no, I didn't notice such a faux pas today or any time." Having filled his and her own mug, she sat straight. "Maybe some practical things first. If we're married," she swallowed, "would I for example have my wand back? Not to 'free' myself, not to hex ten Death Eaters into next year. But I need it for laundry and cooking...for daily life. Maybe also for defence when you're out. We were allowed Magic this summer. I feel terribly vulnerable without it. A normal wizard life is with wand."

"When we're married I see no reason why not. Mrs Bulstrode has a wand, as have Mrs Sands and Mr Goyle. At least these three are putting our lives at risk whenever they use it."

"Mandy Sands' mother? The whole family is...?" Not that the proud Slytherin girl had ever pretended to be anything else, but hearing it now outright, made Ginny's stomach contract.

"Indeed. You did not see Miss Sands yet, but possibly you will meet her. In this case," he raised his voice, "you will play every card in your sleeve. A Snape does not surrender to a Sands!"

"A Snape..."

"A Weasley-Snape will not either. Would you wish to keep your name?"

"What? Oh yes, this is a Muggle habit, isn't it? I would think there are enough Mrs Weasleys in Britain, thank you. One of them ees verry 'ard to pleese."

"Fleur... Weasley?" he chuckled. "You will find that Mr Snape can be hard to please, too."

"I found that out some time ago," Ginny grinned. "It took me some time to please you with my Potions performance, if I recall correctly."

Reconsidering his statement, she blushed furiously. "Oh, you..."

Severus realised his pun a little late as well and stuttered, "I... I didn't... didn't mean..." His face turned a nice shade of red, too. He stood abruptly and left for the kitchen for more tea. Returning, he remembered just in time, to ask for Ginny's cup to top her tea. He sat down heavily. "Ginevra, what else should we talk about?"

"You tell me."

"The Dark Lord is inclined to take up the idea of me wedding you, stunning as it is. He is desperate to have high profile Death Eater progeny. I am ready to give him the indication that I wish to marry you, that I wish to found a family with you. Then you have the final choice, if I understand right. There will hardly be a hole you could slip through." After a pause he summarised, "You end up facing werewolves, a gang of Muggle hooligans or me. Aren't these options all equally horrible?"

"Severus!"

"With the Muggles, your life will be shortest. And your pain. They will undoubtedly rape you," Severus stopped, then added softly, "in rapid succession." Unsure how he could make his offer sound attractive, he went straight ahead. "A potion for fidelity could..." Severus had to breathe and close his eyes. "kill you and the second assailant. Saving you some of the pain."

She took that in without any outward reaction.

Severus continued. "Werewolves next. My informants think Greyback is not honest with his plans. He will keep you for himself. He leads the pack in wolfish manners, and only the Alpha has a mate. However, his mate is not placed into the position of an Alpha female as would be nature's law for wolves. His partners tend to live for a short while, some weeks, maybe months. Bitten, but alive. If Lupin gets to hear about you, which I could arrange... they could come for you under great risks for the Order. I consider it unlikely that they would succeed. DO NOT put your hopes on this."

He again paused and noticed how Ginny shuddered. She refused to imagine what physical and mental damage she would get before Bill or Remus reached her.

"Then, me. Ugly, old bat of the dungeons doesn't cover it: I'm a Death Eater now. Face it, Ginevra, this means you cannot return home. Not in months, maybe the whole war." Severus was satisfied to see her despair. She needed to see clear on this. Yes, it pained him at the same time. "He will put the same charm on us as on the young couples: regular... consummation. Your family could not take you away from me and have you living. We would be bound to each other. You're stuck. I will try to get the small print of the charm, but the essentials are obvious."

"If we are bound, would we not both make an effort... to have it bearable? Or better?"

"Not all that is bearable for one is bearable for the other. I am a solitary man. This means more than just no roaring parties."

"Among your... er... current acquaintances there would not be many people I'd want to invite. I see your point though."

He huffed. "No one ever comes in here. Since I'm a respected person right now, they will invite us to advance in my wake. I expect the Sands or the Parkinsons, possibly others. The Notts are a little more bearable. The Malfoys and the Lestranges, of course."

"Care to cheer me up with any disgusting details?" she drawled, not quite meeting his eye.

Here, he looked almost amused. "Considering the incredible rumours I heard at Hogwarts, I need to set a few things right: no group sex, no cannibalism. Yes, there are some bachelors holding parties where innocent Muggles are manhandled, tortured, raped and killed. I am not part of this group, nor are those whose social events I might have to attend. These are pretty formal, quite aristocratic receptions. They consider themselves peers, which is to some extend boring. Intellectual discussions are rare, discussions on business opportunities bypass my possibilities, small talk and gossip is rarely my interest. I am not sure which of these hold an appeal for you. Our respective work for our master is mainly out of bounds, which hinders me from my actual work but for which we should be grateful in your case."

"Severus, if it keeps me alive and otherwise not too unhappy... " She suppressed a yawn.

"We are at the otherwise then? I truly hope to get some delay for... the child. Your birthday is when, August?" She nodded. "You will be of age then. Since we both are so desperate to have the child...or at least I am...it would not be wise to attempt a delay beyond that. I am sorry." He really looked it, another expression Ginny was not accustomed to see from him.

"My main concern then is about leaving you behind in whatever way, Ginevra. You have no education, no income, and you cannot expect to inherit anything you do not see around yourself." He made a vague gesture around. "You might be so lucky to even get this, when I am convicted."

"We've been there," Ginny interrupted with a tired voice. "And over the day I went further still. Maybe I should say it straight away?" Severus made an inviting gesture, and she spoke. "The name Snape is linked to various... unfavourable... public memories. For over sixteen years you were not quite the ah... best-liked teacher. You... killed Dumbledore..."

Furious now, Severus interrupted her. "Don't you dare hold me responsible for that! You are the one trying to..."

"SEVERUS, HOLD IT!!" She tried to get over his voice. Maybe it was the shock to be spoken to like that, but for a moment he stopped his tirade, and Ginny filled the gap. "Our children, Severus, they will suffer from prejudices when we are not there to defend them."

Although he had not yet thought of that, Severus agreed. He had had a hard enough time at school without such a burden. He sat back with a desperate expression on his face and waved for her to continue.

"I would never, Severus! But society need not follow the verdict of the trial. Not an easy family for a child."

When he did not answer that, Ginny continued, "Weasley wasn't a name to open any doors either. Still, I dare say we all seven stood through well enough. Family and friends help a lot, but it requires a true family, Severus."

Severus sighed. "Not my strengths."

Ginny stifled yet another yawn. "You talked about sacrifices to be made. I'd wish I could be more than a sacrifice to you." Her tired eyes went up to him.

Severus moved over to sit on the sofa. "Yes, if you choose me, we should work on this." She leaned on his shoulders, and he hesitantly brought his arm behind her back, not touching her though.

"Course I choose you, if you let me." The confirmation suddenly meant more to him than he liked to admit. They sat in silence.

"Bedtime, Ginevra. You are dead tired, go ahead."

With a "Mhmm" she left for the bathroom, while Severus handled the Transfiguration. It would be done more than three times, but not many more. Thereafter she would move to him if she wanted him. Otherwise he would never excuse himself for her death. Severus Snape, you must encourage her, show her it is all right, that you are all right with the plan.

Why had he not managed a little more physical contact yet? She was not repulsive, and she was not overwhelming him with physical proximity either. Rather shy compared to her interaction with Dean Thomas. He even found her attractive, if not intellectually, then emotionally. Physically, she was so young, what could be repulsing? It did not matter to Severus if a hand was slender or broad, lips full or thin. The question was what that hand did, what those lips said, and he could not see hers occupying themselves wrongly. Not with a wand, a knife or a pestle and not with words. He made a mental note to try harder.

:*:*:*:

When Severus returned from the bathroom, Ginny stood at the window, fidgeting.

"What is it?"

"The same stars everywhere. I was just thinking of Mum and Dad."

He resolutely walked over and put his arm on the small of her back, pulling ever so slightly, before he had time for second thoughts. She turned to face him, grateful, but her eyes were red and full of tears. This was not his field of expertise. As a Head of House he had always frightened the Slytherin girls enough to not pester him in such a state. They had soon learned to go to the sixth- or seventh-year girls of their house instead, sometimes also to the head girl, although they tended to be from other houses. To not say anything wrong, he said nothing.

"I've never been away from each and every one of them for so long."

Taking strength from his warm hand on her back, Ginny quickly recovered, and a moment later she said resolutely, "I should stop this behaviour. It helps no one," and headed for her bed. "Good night, Severus."

"Sleep well, Ginevra." He managed to return her smile.

:*:*:*:

When Severus had left to talk with his old master over lunch, Draco couldn't possibly leave Ginny alone. He had withdrawn himself for the last one-and-a-half days to give them space and hoped they figured something out. Ginny seemed already on an impressively good track with the solitary man. She would eventually conquer him. But he would have an eye on the two of them, hopefully being able to help them climb over the roughest cliffs on their path. After all it was him who pushed them on the road...good intentions or not.

"Have you been getting along these last days?" he opened a talk that Ginny was ready to take up.

Yes, she had spent agreeable hours with her... hmm, fiancé?... while they had concrete work to do. Even a few talks on general issues had gone well. "But he always gets caught in his concerns that one way or another he would be forced to leave me alone with a child and an unsecured future."

Draco considered this. "He has reason enough for that. But maybe he also hides other fears behind this one."

Seeing she didn't follow his thoughts, he explained. "It has taken me a month to get to where I am now with him. Without the pressure to, well, to share a bed with him. Severus has been a loner for decades, maybe all his life. And yet..." he paused, "...I'd never have imagined someone could change Severus' eating routines or redecorate his rooms and survive to tell the tale. There is potential that you can get along and make this arrangement work." He would have liked to say something concrete, but it was better she didn't know just how Severus' eyes sparkled when he thought of her, heard her calling. Overconfidence could ruin all.

Leaning forward, elbows on his knees, he started anew. "Last Sunday, I had very little time to prepare myself. I don't think I would have had the idea at hand, had I not seen a chance. You ARE good with the interpersonal stuff."

Ginny was not willing to agree openly. "The Dark Lord wants me to have only horrible choices. Thwarting his plans is our paramount goal," she said with feeling.

"Good, if you can see it this way. Actually, he would not mind your being somewhat content, or more. He counts on having a good mother for the little Snapes. Like for the other promising Death Eaters. But he shows bloody little understanding in what it takes to get there. Severus will have his duties as before. A minimum honeymoon if you're lucky. We're at war."

"Severus needs to be active. For his own good and for the cause." Ginny turned silent. It was one thing to discuss it with Draco but another to live it with Severus. He was so reserved, shy even. How could she get from touching his arm to sleeping with him in only two weeks?

Seducing Severus Snape? She had not heard of any girl having put this on her schedule! Some seventh years had dreamt of Remus, yes. Vector and Miller, the teacher for Muggle Studies, had been admired and then Lockhart of course... but Snape?

Besides the issue of him being who he was, she had been more modest than her reputation, she wouldn't possibly have the charms to seduce a grown man! Or the knowledge.

He would, of course, fulfil the requirements but to schedule as a get-it-over-with-task what nature has meant to be a pleasure sought freely?

Suddenly panicking, the darkest of thoughts stormed her mind. Will the Dark Lord and Severus agree today? Would he change his mind on Friday? Was there a point in all her pondering for months ahead? Wouldn't she be dead on Sunday? Suddenly Ginny's lungs didn't fill with air any more. She was shivering, the table got out of focus and then... Nothing.

Draco had been caught in his own thoughts when he noticed her hanging limp in the armchair, beads of cold sweat on her forehead and arms. Quickly, he rushed over, Summoning a wet, cool towel to wipe her face. Her skin was cold, although her cheeks had a little more colour than normal. He picked her up and went to Severus' bedroom, noticing the upcoming problem too late. He doubled back to deposit her temporarily on the sofa, but finally he had manoeuvred her under the duvet without dropping her and had even removed her slippers and her outer clothes.

The room could not be heated, so he placed warming spells on her and on the duvet. They would hold a few minutes until a better solution was found. Not a fire, something radiating heat. Warm water keeps the temperature well, but... He searched around in the kitchen and bathroom for a suitable container. Quickly he checked the lab. With two unbreakable glasses, he headed up again, filled them with water so hot he could barely touch them. A thick fluffy towel (from the Malfoy household) around each, he placed them left and right of her slim body.

They had not had any opulent lunch, and now that he recalled it, Ginny had been too nervous to eat properly. This was not a base for a strong potion. Unsure about first aid, he opted for making a fruit tea. He added a good amount of honey to the tea and kept a glass of milk at the ready as well. All in all, he thought she was better off kept under than fidgeting, so he didn't wake her up but fetched a chair to sit close to her, reading and watching.

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This was how Severus found them an hour later. He approved of the warmth but whipped up a potion, similar but softer than a pepper-up, and diluted it with the warm, sweet tea. With the aid of swallowing spells they made the girl take in a satisfying amount before she stirred and slowly came to life again. "Severus."

Draco was glad she had turned to the man she was to live with, rather than to him. He left the room after pressing her hand encouragingly and nodding to Severus who had taken the place on the chair.

"Been brooding?" She nodded, ashamed to have broken down. He lifted her chin up and found a mix of hope and fear, despair even. "We had an almost amiable chat, and he appeared to be enjoying himself as a matchmaker. Especially for me." He snorted.

"We can get married?" She sounded genuinely glad, gladder than he could expect.

"If you really wish to."

"Oh, Severus," she exclaimed and rushed up to embrace him. "I've been so afraid he would not let me stay alive."

Awkwardly, Severus patted her bare back, glad that he could not see more of her. Her body was soft and warm now, and slowly his uneasiness melted. Strands of her hair tickled him slightly, and he brushed them away from his nose. The springy hair had a life of its own though, and he found himself handling the same strands again. Soon he was stroking it from her head down. Part of her hair had entangled and was wet from her sweat, sticking together and on her skin. He gently ran his fingers through it. Starting at her scalp, he soon noticed that around the nape of her neck he had produced a serious knot that could not be pushed down any more. Taking up the next strand, he started disentangling it from the shoulder downwards, then, stroke by stroke, working his way upwards. She held still and enjoyed his touch. Absent-mindedly, he worked his way through her hair. Ginny found comfort in his touch, followed his every move and relaxed further. Once he had the knack of it, his hands worked with security and gentle moves. She would have liked to stroke him on his back or neck, but didn't want to break his meditation-like state. Eventually, only the first strand was left. Severus frowned at the mess he had produced and carefully started from its bottom. "My apology for that," he noted without thinking.

"You're very good at disentangling hair. I like it."

He froze, all of a sudden fully aware of what he had been doing and of her so close to him. His grip loosened, and if it had been easily possible, he would have dropped his arms. But before he could pull away, Ginny reinforced the angle of her arms and started circling her fingers lightly. She gently stroked his back while her forearms held him tight.

Her light clothing put an end to her effort. "You are freezing. Do not catch a cold now," he warned her with an unsteady but generally soft voice.

"Hmm, pity!" she dared and let go.

He averted his eyes until she was dressed. Leaving for the sitting room, she reminded herself to be matter-of-fact around him. She cleared her throat and asked, "What are the Dark Lord's key interests with this arrangement?"

"He has tried matching me off before, to no avail. Each woman had backed off immediately."

"Barbara and ... what was her name?"

"Serena. Yes, mainly those two. Draco must have heard about Miss Hutch from his father. It was in the first war, before I dared go to... Her father moved her out of the country and got her a place as an apprentice at Durmstrang. I think she wed someone from there. Since she had no siblings and her father only a sister, the name Hutch isn't so well known to younger wizards any more."

Ginny didn't get any explanation for Barbara Brisby, and she didn't probe. "The Dark Lord, today..." she eventually prompted him.

"... was indeed keen on seeing a flourishing progeny of the Snapes. A large one."

"Oh dear. Quidditch isn't bad for a Sunday entertainment, but..."

Severus flinched. "I am not like your father, and I do not expect you to be or become like your mother."

It was the wrong thing to say, he realised when her blow hit him. "There is NOTHING wrong with my parents. They chose their way and are happy. They always made us happy, inwardly."

"Ginevra, I didn't mean it like that," he reasoned in a low voice to contrast hers. To catch her attention he took her elbows and moved them both onto the sofa. "While you had a hard stand at school...you have said so yourself...I believe your family gives you more than the Malfoys provide. Not to think of my own parents. Still, I do not feel like supplying Slytherin with a whole team."

"You could not, because half our children are Gryffindors, and I refuse to have twelve. Or thirteen considering the risk for a Ravenclaw stray. Or the chance." While he considered that, she took up their initial discussion. "What do you think the Dark Lord expects? All Slytherins?"

I truly hope he will not live to know, Severus thought, but replied neutrally, "He sees potential in both. Wormtail is not the prototype of a Gryffindor Death Eater."

"But I am?" she asked incredulously.

"No," he sneered, "but closer. He did point out again what Draco has told us: he is ready to put up with your... ah... dubious heritage to finally see my glorious one passed on. I'm as much a breeding stallion as you're a mare."

"Thanks a bunch, just the words of comfort I needed," she replied dryly, but at the same moment leaned closer, touching his arm that had fallen down behind her. "A stallion... " she teased him with an appraisal voice.

"Breeding bull then."

"Every day of the year rutting season, thanks to Ludwig's Lust?"

"I'm NOT discussing that!"

Her staring look almost made him cringe. "Or in fact yes, we should," he conceded. "We are to join the group wedding Friday next week, December 12th. Like with the other couples there will be the dratted copulation control." He stared at his knees, his voice failing him. "T... Twice a week." When she leaned forward to read his eyes, he didn't let her but stared out of the window.

Ginny didn't dare going further along this lane he was so clearly uncomfortable with. As if she were so eager! Sex would have its appeal when given and taken out of love, she assumed. That's why you call it making love. But do it because it is Tuesday? And with a woman he seems not comfortable with? No, this wasn't the right way to put it, he wasn't more comfortable with any other woman either. Less so, most likely, since he hadn't moved his arm away...if he considered her a woman at all. "What about contraception? My age?"

"He still depends on the Ministry. No pregnancy is desired before you are seventeen. But then please, the same day!" The topic was closed for Severus. He got up and ventured towards the lab without looking back at her.

:*:*:*:

Wednesday they had one of the two visitors from Monday again. This time he pushed both men rapidly into the lab, and Ginny heard the start of an argument before it was obviously muffled with a spell. Draco appeared soon after. He glanced around inside and peered through all windows, careful to not give himself away.

"I suppose your behaviour means I am to stay away from the windows?"

"Yes." The finality in his voice made it pointless to ask for more.

The visitor and Severus came upstairs when dinner was on the table. Her curiosity was hard to tame. Surprisingly, Severus came to her aid, commanding brusquely, "We have a dinner guest. Bring another plate." He was staring at her meaningfully.

"Yes, sir," she answered obediently and retreated into the kitchen to bring a set for the man. He could use it, she thought to herself. He had a haunted look in eyes that lay too deep in their sockets.

"No delay!" Severus commanded. Ginny hastened back and remained standing until the three men had sat down. She started serving the soup, first to the guest, then Severus, then Draco. She hesitated. Would she be sent away? "Serve yourself now and sit down so we can start!"

The monosyllabic talk didn't explain the errand of the stranger. As Ginny sat across from him, she didn't have to stare to take in his features. His short, unkempt hair had an undefinable colour and was flecked with grey. The worn out robe was dirty as well as darned at places one usually hardly tears them. He ate as if he hadn't had any meal today yet and wasn't expecting anything soon either. His table manners were a wondrous mix: aristocratic understatement with the occasional bout of primitiveness that he appeared to be ashamed of showing.

"Do not worry," Severus said when the stranger sighed once again into his empty plate. "Come and find me any time you need. And can. Even Sunday after next." The stranger looked up sharply but his host continued with composed voice, "Friday morning though, we have business. Afternoon or Saturday should be fine."

He stayed for a glass of wine, a drink she had not yet seen in this household. Severus seemed to make an extra effort to make this man feel comfortable. Draco received one glass as well, while Ginny was wise enough to not even bring a fourth glass or sit down close to them. But she didn't retreat to the kitchen nor did anyone expect this from her. She sat at the table reading an advanced book on medicinal potions, careful to show the book title to the stranger.

After Severus' thorough check outside, the man left around ten o'clock in the evening, not without praising 'the maid' for her cooking skills. Well, she thought, had I been an elf, he would have praised my owner. Severus accompanied the guest outside and sent his regards to his friend. "He is welcome here just like you." The stranger gave him a look of disbelief again, and disappeared. With a sigh, Severus closed the door.

"Let me guess, a pure-blood from a well situated family? Now on Greyback's pack?" Severus looked up sharply, but then simply nodded. "And his friend lives there, too." Another tired nod.

"Ginevra, do not ask such things. I am tempted to Obliviate the whole person out of your memory. If you had not asked, he could have been on a business meeting. Now..."

She gave a scathing retort. "Oh, but of course you would invite him over for the days of the full moon. Severus, I'm not deaf or blind. My BROTHER is a werewolf."

Severus looked up in shock. "I forgot. My apologies." Not saying more, he berated himself for forgetting Lupin and Bill Weasley. The Order needed these two experienced fighters. He should be able to brew them a cauldron full of Wolfsbane per month, or even two. Death Eaters had sources for ingredients respectable people currently had no access to, but the brew needed time. "Remind me of them in three weeks," he asked.

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I wish to express my gratitude to my betas, Pennfana and Jingjingchiquita, for their constructive criricism and their help with language issues.

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A warm thank also to all of you who have reviewed. Feedback is truly the very best that can happen to an author!

I'd like to remind you that this story does not consider Deathly Hallows. Let's therefore not comment on similarities or differences in reviews either since we might accidentially spoil this book to a co-reader. I will continue with this story as I had planned.

Similarities with DH are purely accidential, as are any discrepancies.

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