Pride and Prejudice

Nobody knows where I was born.

Madam Pomfrey, from the orphanage, used to tell me that on one of the warmer autumn nights, she found a small bundle on the orphanage's steps and a letter on top of it.

That was me.

The letter said that my name was Harry James Potter, that I was born on July 31^st that year and that both my parents were dead.

The orphanage in the town of Hogsmeade wasn't very large and was patroned by the church. The only good that came from that was that they taught us to read.

But I digress.

It was only because of Madam Pomfrey's compassion and love for children, and me, that I stayed. If it had been up to the church, I would have been sold as a slave to the first person who asked.

Growing up in the orphanage was no heaven. We often didn't have enough to eat, and would sneak into the market to steal a piece of fruit or two from the stands.

That was a sort of adventure for us, the stronger and faster boys, because if the priest or one of his helpers found out about it, or we did anything that displeased them (like breathing), they'd beat us.

It was the reason only the stronger boys snuck out, so that if we were caught, we'd be able to take the beating.

I've got exactly two fond memories from that horrible place.

One, of Madam Pomfrey - we never knew her given name, it wasn't appropriate - as she'd come to our room after the church officials left from their inspection and tell us wonderful stories, about heroes and heroines, fighting dragons and saving their kingdoms. Sometimes she'd tell us about great romances of princes and princesses, about how they lived happily, at least for a while.

I remember us hanging onto every word she said. It wasn't surprising, as the priests in the church never told us anything interesting, only about the sins of man, and how we were the definition of sin because our parents didn't want us and therefore, neither did God. They would tell us to try and make up for them. And then they'd laugh.

It was then that I started to question that belief. It was impossible for me to understand why God would choose these men to carry out his faith; they weren't doing a good job, that's for sure. Which, ultimately, made me think he wasn't that great a God after all.

It was, of course, forbidden to express these thoughts out loud. I didn't want to be beaten within every inch of my life, did I?

The second good memory is of my best friend - later turned lover - Seamus, no last name, and I learning to read together.

Seamus had epilepsy. We suspected that this was the reason his parents had abandoned him, either unwilling or incapable to take care of him.

Most of the boys were afraid of Seamus, thinking him a witch-kid, and so they teased and abused him. I couldn't stand it then as I can't stand it now. I approached him and asked him to be my friend. He was doubtful at first, but it wasn't long before we were practically inseparable.

But by becoming his friend, I was immediately shunned from the company of the other boys. They began to tease me as well, and we almost never had a moment of peace and quiet.

That is the reason I cherish that memory the most - just him and I, sitting quietly, with nothing disturbing us.

Seamus died a month before he turned eighteen, a month before he could leave the orphanage and see the world outside.

The only person who managed to comfort me was Madam Pomfrey. She told me that it was better this way and that he was happy there with me, but out in the world he would have been miserable, that grown men could be cruller than teenaged boys. She said that God made sure he died happy.

I still think about that sometimes.

It makes me question some of the choices I've made. The major one, that it.

I think that half the reason I prefer men to women is the church preaching. They said one thing, and I did the exact opposite, just to spite it.

Brings a lot of satisfaction to a person that does. I don't know why though.

I stayed in the orphanage for another year after Seamus' death. Then, the day I turned eighteen, they literally kicked me out.

Madam Pomfrey, apparently aware of this policy, had prepared a small package of dried bread and an apple for me, so I wouldn't starve to death immediately.

In my innocence, I went to the church and asked for a bible, so I'd have something to read on the road, as I resolved to travel for a while.

"And damage the holiness with your filthy hands?" answered the priest.

"Well, you hold it, so I though it must be all right," was my reply. And I turned around and walked away without a second glance.

During my traveling I got to really appreciate the fact that I could read and write.

Wealthy families always looked for tutors for their children. The fact that I started off by teaching from the Bible pleased the parents immensely.

I used to stay about two months in each town or village I'd pass by, stocking on food and money for my journey, for I was not traveling without a thought or a purpose. My ultimate goal had been to find, if not a mention, but at least my parents' grave. Unfortunately, I had no luck.

But those long years of journeying did not end fruitless.

Through my tutoring I had managed to gain a name and a reputation between the well-established families. Instead of going from house to house offering my services, I started receiving formal invitations.

As a teacher I had a free access to the libraries of my patrons, so my theoretical knowledge grew immensely.

At one point, I had gathered the courage to ask one of my patrons to pay for their daughter's tutoring with piano lessons instead of money. The lady of the house had been horrified I didn't know how to play, and resolved to teach me herself.

Those eight years had been a most pleasant time of my life, if not a stable one. I had learned a lot, about people, about the so-called 'real world' and 'real life'. I acquired the necessary skills, as my dear Madam Pomfrey would have said, to survive.

I was proud of myself, and had some sense of accomplishment, but I was not happy.

In those eight years I had precious few lovers. I was not the kind to pick up or be picked up in a dark corner of a lounge. I wanted to feel belonging and love, which few people offered.

But it wasn't that either.

A few of my patron families had offered me a full time job - to stay in their house and teach their children until they grew up. One of these families had six, the eldest of which was five years my junior and the smallest, still in progress. It would have been a position for the rest of my life.

I declined.

Not a few churches sought after me as well. I had great delight in turning those down.

Private schools, public schools, humble houses, rich houses, everything. As my twenty sixth birthday drew near, I understood that I should make up my mind, or be flooded with these offers.

But I couldn't accept any of these offers, and I couldn't figure out why. Until I received one more offer.

At the time, I was staying in a medium sized town in the north of Britain. It was lunchtime, about two hours before I had to go teach one of the mayor's daughters, a pleasant girl called Isabella, that I was sitting in my inn's lounge. I was enjoying a relaxing cup of tea when a young lady approached me.

It was no longer a rare occurrence since a lot of people knew about me. Most thought me handsome - though I strongly disagree - and generally considered me a good catch. I was beginning to be rather good at declining.

I stood up to greet her. She wasn't very tall and her frame suited her. She appeared to be about my age. Her brown, apparently curly, hair was tied into a ban under her cap. She wore a simple dress and did not wear any jewelry.

I smiled and bowed. She curtsied.

"It is a pleasure to finally meet you, Mr. Potter," she began.

'Mr. Potter.' I still wasn't used to that.

"As it is you. Only, I'm afraid I do not know your name," I answered politely.

"Forgive me. I am Mrs. Weasley." Mrs.? That was unusual, and bound to be interesting.

I gestured for her to sit down and followed suit in the opposite chair.

"How may I assist you, Mrs. Weasley?" I asked.

"My husband and I run a school, and I have come here to try and persuade you to help us," she said, looking straight at me. "We are well aware that you are a very sought after tutor, but maybe there might be something we could offer that you would not find anywhere else."

This woman's husband had let her travel all the way from wherever it is that they live to here, alone? I was starting to respect Mrs. Weasley and her husband already.

"Tell me," I said, to indulge her. "Where is your school located?"

"In the town of Hogsmeade -" she might have continued, but I didn't hear her.

Hogsmeade, the town where I grew up. There was a pang in my heart only from the thought of it. Not many good memories, but still, it was home. This was what had been missing.

She was looking at me politely, waiting for a response.

I smiled. "Could you come back tomorrow, please, so we can discuss this in more detail? I have pressing matters to attend to at the moment, but I would like to at least hear you out."

Her face lit up and she nodded. "Thank you, sir."

We got up and she left.

A week later I was sharing a carriage with Mrs. Weasley ("call me Hermione, please. I insist").

In a true business like fashion, I questioned Hermione about almost everything I wanted to know. Meaning, without her realizing she shouldn't talk.

As it turned out, she and her husband owned the estate of Hogwarts, just in the outskirts of Hogsmeade. From my childhood memories, I recalled hearing that it as huge." Hermione confirmed that it was.

She told me that it was much too big for her, her husband and their three children. So they had decided to have part of it turned into a school, as the Weasleys loved children, but didn't want any more of their own.

She had also told me about the town's news.

I was very sorry to discover that the church closed the orphanage a few years before, claming lack of founding. I was very glad to see Hermione furious about it.

Towards the end of the journey she became quiet and then, abruptly, she started watching me with an intense gaze.

I calmly waited for her to tell me what was on her mind.

"We have agreed that we would provide you quarters within the castle." A strange look.

I nodded.

"We have heard of you. I have heard a great deal of things about you, Mr. Potter."

I continued to look at her calmly. I would tell her what she needed or wanted to hear.

"They say you start by teaching children from, of and about the bible."

I nodded.

"And yet, you are unmarried, without an apparent house and poses an almost mysterious name." Her gaze intensified.

"I may remind you that you approached me," I noted. "I am no thief or con. I do my work honestly and true." She was insulting me, and yet she didn't flatter. If she wasn't a lady, she deserved to be one.

She nodded. "But there have been other things."

I smiled inwardly. Yes, the matter of corrupting her children. "I should point out that there have never been complains about my work."

She nodded. "Still -'

"My personal business is private. I prefer secrecy to a public shared. Does that satisfy you, my lady?" I couldn't help myself.

That quieted her down. She nodded and turned to look out of the window.

After a few silent hours we reached Hogsmeade, and ultimately, Hogwarts.

That place was HUGE!

I stared at it in speechless amazement for a few moments. How did they get this place???

When I finally managed to tear my gaze away from the building, I found a tall man standing at the top of the staircase leading to the entrance. Hermione was standing next to him. They were talking.

He must have been Mr. Weasley. He was tall, much taller than me. He had flaming red hair that shone in the setting sun. He was plainly dressed.

Again, I couldn't help but wonder how they managed to get a place like this.

I climbed the stairs, and was soon standing in front of the Weasleys.

"Mr. Potter!" he greeted me cheerfully. "It is a pleasure. I am Ronald Weasley. I hope the journey wasn't too tiresome."

"I'm used to it, sir." I shook his offered hand. "It's a great pleasure as well." Hermione frowned. I smirked inwardly.

"No need for formalities," Ronald was saying. "I'm just Ron to everyone, and if you're going to work with us, that includes you too."

I smiled. "Thank you."

"So, why are we standing here, outside? A hot meal is waiting for you." And Ron led the way.

Hermione disappeared rather quickly after that, doubtlessly to watch for any sign of so-called sin. Nevertheless, I had a wonderful meal with Ron. And I was sure that once I convinced the wife I wasn't bringing the devil into the house, we could all be good friends.

Ron had assigned on of the servants (for surely they needed several) to be my guide for the first couple of weeks, until I got used to it.

We parted, wishing each other good night, and I was led to my rooms. My belongings were already waiting for me inside.

First thing I did, although I was extremely tiered, was investigate.

It was immediately evident that the Weasleys had a lot of room and not much to do with it.

These weren't 'quarters', it was an apartment. I had a sitting room, a lounge room, one horribly huge bedroom and another one a little smaller, a study and a library. Each bedroom had its own bathroom the size of another room.

To say I was shocked was putting it mildly.

I had chosen the smaller bedroom, since the bigger one intimidated me somehow, undressed and collapsed on the bed.

Oh great Gods of Haven and Earth!

It was the softest thing I had ever had the fortune to lie on, and some of my patrons had been very generous.

It was at that point that it finally hit me.

I had a home, a permanent one. And where? In my childhood town, the one I had only two good memories of.

~*~

Settling into the job was fairly easy. I just had more students and more hours each day. The fact that most children liked my class and me helped a little as well.

I won Hermione's favor after about two weeks of not harassing her husband and children, and the other two teachers, Padma Patil and Oliver Wood, made good company when one needed cheering up.

I even got used to not having to pack everything up every couple of months.

Hogwarts life had grown onto me.

I spent two very enjoyable years living without care, except, maybe, the occasional straying student.

I even nurtured a foolish hope that my third year would be appropriately similar.

One hot August night, mere days from my twenty eighth birthday, I had decided to escape the scorching heat of the outside by visiting the teachers' lounge. It's a small room to the left of the Great Hall, where us teachers could sit, relax and have careless and pointless chats.

I found that Padma and Oliver where already there, and assumed they decided to escape the heat just like me. Not giving them a second thought, I chose the couch furthest from them, and tried to sink into the book I had brought with me. About half an hour later, I came to the realization that if the two of them didn't shut up, I'd never be able to read in peace.

I was just about to go over and ask them to be a little quieter when Hermione walked in and joined their conversation, looking just as excited as the other two.

That was interesting. Then, I had to find out what it was all about.

"Hello," I walked over and sat on a couch.

"Hello, stranger," Padma teased. "You don't write, don't visit, nothing. Are you in love with that dark corner of yours?"

"No, just my book." I teased back. "But I can't seem to spend enough quality time with it because of you lot. What's going on?"

"You mean you don't know?" asked Oliver, looking shocked.

"The whole town's talking about it!" added Hermione.

Interesting. I was burning with curiosity at that point. "No," I shrugged. "I've been busy here, preparing for the new year."

"Oh, you work too much!" said Hermione. "You have to get out, have a little fun." It was very hard not to stare at her in shock. Did I just hear that?

I shrugged in response. "Noted. Will try to comply. Now, what's going on?"

Both women's eyes started to shine and Oliver was grinning madly.

"There's been a rumor," started Padma. "That Lucius Malfoy is going to come to Hogsmeade, looking for a summer house."

I continued to look at my fellow teachers, which appeared to be the wrong reaction.

"Lord Lucius Malfoy," tried Hermione.

I had never taught anyone under the name of Malfoy, so had no idea who he was.

"The owner of most of the lands outside London, and this close to being the youngest Minister ever," suggested Oliver.

Oh, money. I let comprehension draw over my face. "Well, I can see how this might be appealing to you, Padma." I eyed Oliver cautiously. "But you, Hermione?"

"What, I can't have myself a rich lover?" she answered in mock indignation.

"And he's not coming alone," Padma piped in again.

"Yes, he'll bring all his friends along. Men and women," said Oliver. Thank the Gods! I was starting to worry.

I smiled. "Now I see a reason for celebration. When is he rumored to arrive?"

Padma slapped me playfully on the arm. "Nobody knows. Some say the beginning of September, some say late October, others say not until Christmas."

"Good God, I hope it's not September," I said jokingly. "Between the students and his lordship, when will you sleep?"

"Don't worry, mate," said Oliver, laughing. "I'm sure we'll find some nice lady to occupy your time as well."

We all laughed. But Hermione gave me a look, and I tried to look innocent.

After we all calmed down, a comfortable silence descended. Eventually, I broke it.

"So, how's the town dealing with this?"

"Everyone went mad," supplied Oliver.

"It's like Christmas came early," Hermione helped.

"Together with Halloween, Easter and Midsummer," added Padma.

I cringed. "That bad?"

They all nodded in union.

"Everyone is cleaning everything. I've never seen the town so clean in my life."

"I have to see that." Then I snorted. "Are you saying that Malfoy is bringing enough people to marry the whole town?"

Padma frowned. "Good lord! I haven't thought about that! Can you imagine the competition?"

That was just too fun to miss. "I also think that if anyone wanted to marry one of the Lord's friends they'd have to have the Lord's approval."

Padma's eyes grew as big as saucers. "Oh goodness! No wonder everyone is preparing this much! I'll never be ready if he comes in September!" With that she sprang to her feet and ran from the room.

"You're just too evil to be allowed," said Oliver after she was gone. "Scaring the little thing like that."

"If you care for her so much," I said with a grin. "Why don't you put her out of her misery and marry her yourself?"

He grinned back. "I thought you wanted her."

I had to laugh at that. "Don't worry, dear friend. Your coast is clear. I have no intention of marring now, or any time soon."

Oliver made a hurt expression. "And here I hoped to tease you some more."

I smiled. "How about I say you have one less man to compete against when you find your sweetheart between the Lordship's friends? Are we even now?"

Oliver grinned toothily. "Always."

I smiled and got up. "Well, it's time for me to go. It's already late."

Hermione got up as well. "Yes, you're right. Ron will be waiting for me."

Oliver bid us goodnight and we exited.

Hermione took me under the arm as we started walking.

After a while she said, "It's nice of you to warn Oliver, but what about Padma? She doesn't know she has one more person to compete against."

I smiled. "Your faith in me is astonishing. Have I been anything but discreet these past two years?"

She stopped, thus halting me as well. "You had men here?"

I smirked. "That's for me to know, and you to wonder about."

She looked at me for a moment and then we continued walking.

"No," she said finally. "I'd know if you had anyone here."

"Really?" I raised an eyebrow. "Check my sheets do you?"

She laughed. "Don't be silly. You'd be glowing-happy-silly if you had someone."

"I resent ever being silly." I forged an offended tone and she laughed.

"Goodnight, Harry."

"Sleep well."

And we parted.

True to my word, the next day I headed into town in order to investigate.

Oliver, Padma and Hermione weren't joking. Everyone had gone mad with the preparations. Someone actually yelled at me for walking over their freshly washed road.

I turned around to see who it was and found the smith glaring at me.

"Sirius! Hello, how are you?" I said pleasantly.

"Fine, thank you. Now, please, get off the road."

I gave him a quizzical look. "Sirius, where would I be if not on the road?"

He shrugged. "The other side? Go wreck Fredric's side."

I was finding it hard not to stare. "All right. I'm sorry."

I moved on quickly, not wanting anyone else commenting on how I was adding to the mud on the road.

I reached Flourish's bookstore and entered. It had been a general goal of that trip. If I was going into town, I might as well check for new books in the bookstore.

I ducked into the science section quickly, hoping to avoid Flourish's over-eager assistant, Colin.

Scanning the shelves for new additions, I became aware of two female voices coming from the nearby isle.

"I can imagine that happening," said the first.

"Yes. She would be so lucky," answered the second one.

"On the other hand, you can't be sure he'll go for looks."

"Oh, really. If he won't, then someone else surely will. I can guarantee you that Cho won't walk out of this unmarried."

Both women giggled.

"Can you imagine poor Rose trying to catch someone's eye?" said the second one.

"Or Padma, for that matter," added the other and they both laughed.

I thought I might explode from anger. How dare they? What kind of right did they have? I willed my hands to stop shacking and my fists to unclench.

Staring at the rows and rows of books in front of me, I realized I could actually do something about it. After all, I did spend eight years in the shadow of royalty and riches.

Smiling to myself, I picked out a book, rounded the shelf and faced the two gossiping ducks.

I should have known. Who else could it be except Josephine Lastange and Pansy Parkinson?

"Hello, ladies," I smiled pleasantly and bowed. "Have a nice day." And I left.

I could hear them whispering as I paid for my book.

Luck was with me and I found Padma eating alone in the Great Hall.

"Hey, there," I called.

She looked up from her meal and smiled. "Hi."

"Mind if I join you?"

"Go ahead."

I sat down.

"So, what's going on?" She eyed me suspiciously. "You never seek out anyone's presence unless you're bored to tears."

I laughed. "Padma, you're my only close, unmarried, female friend, right?"

She narrowed her eyes. "Right."

"And you would like to get Lord Malfoy and his friends to notice you, right?"

"Right," she said again, very slowly.

"How about I help you out?"

Her eyes grew wide. "You'll what?"

"Help you out. Give you inside information, so to speak."

She looked at me wide eyed for a moment, then her eyes narrowed, and then she started to laugh.

"You'll give me inside information?" she managed between fits of laughter.

I was hurt. "Yes."

"You? The person who prefers dark corners and big books, you?"

It was my turn to narrow my eyes. "If you don't believe me, you can go ahead and ask Hermione."

She stopped laughing. "Really?"

I nodded.

"How?"

"Before I started teaching here I was a road tutor, usually for the richest families. I picked up things here and there."

"What he means," said a voice behind us. I whirled around and found Hermione watching us. "Is that he can dance like a devil, play like a madman and knows things about the elite that most people here don't even dream about."

Padma's eyes returned to saucer size. "And you're willing to teach me?"

I nodded.

"That's great!" she exclaimed. "When?"

"Tomorrow?" I suggested.

"Where?"

"You could use the ballroom. Nobody ever uses it anyway," supplied Hermione.

Padma grinned. "Thank you!" She jumped from her seat and hugged and kissed me on both cheeks. "And thank you!" She did the same with Hermione and ran away to her rooms to start her preparations.

"Would you care to explain?" asked Hermione, sitting in the seat Padma just vacated.

I shrugged. "I overheard Parkinson and Lastange talking while I was in town."

Hermione nodded. "Nice of you to do that, though. She'll really appreciate it."

I nodded. "She's worth getting one of the Lords much more than any other one of them."

"You're right." Hermione smiled. "Well, good luck, then."

As promised I started Padma's tutoring the next day.

Not knowing the date Lucius Malfoy was supposed to arrive was not helpful, as I didn't know how much time I had. So, I started with the essentials and moved from there.

First, came the dancing. Padma already knew how to dance, but she needed practice and small improvements. That was easily accomplished as we spent at least two hours in the ballroom doing just that.

Next came language and pronunciation. That wasn't hard either. One was required to know certain phrases and forms of addressing different people with different status. Padma mastered it quickly. As for her Scottish accent, we decided not to do anything about it, so she'd sound unique.

Then, we went over clothing and wardrobe. I explained to her about all the different types of dresses and the different occasions each type of dress was made for.

As neither of us were very rich people, I told her to buy or pick a dress that could suit as many occasions as possible. I also told her not to wear all of her jewelry at once; for fear of looking cheep and over dressed, and that she should always smile.

Then came the hard part. I started teaching her to play the piano. She had no background with it nor with any other musical instrument, so it took her a while to grasp the basics. But neither she nor I gave up, and she managed to make a rather big progress.

The fact that Lord Lucius Malfoy and his entourage didn't arrive until late October, helped as well.

And arrive they did.

Ten carriages full of packages, boxes, trunks and what not arrived three days before the actual party together with the servants. The Lord, when he arrived, had a carriage for himself, which he shared with two of his closest friends. The rest of the entourage arrived in about ten more carriages with four passengers each. And of course, there were the servants.

In short, it looked like a whole city had decided to move.

I did not have much interest in the Arrival, as Padma called it, so I stayed at Hogwarts, giving extra lessons. But all of my colleges went and later spent a whole evening describing every single step his lordship made.

It was ridicules.

What I couldn't escape was the welcoming party, which was scheduled for the next night. There were several reasons for that - I had to be there for Padma's mental support; I wanted to take a look at this Lord everyone made such a fuss about; I really, really wanted to see the townsmen make fools out of themselves; and it was being held at Hogwarts, having the necessary space for such an event.

The party was announced to be started at six in the evening, so that his lordship might rest. But there was not one single person at Hogwarts who relaxed.

Hermione made everyone help somehow. Whether it was hanging decorations, preparing food in the kitchen, cleaning the floors, settling the musicians or just giving off-handed comments, she didn't care.

At five thirty everything was done and some of the earlier guests began to arrive. I had warned Hermione that Malfoy wouldn't arrive before seven. So we both enjoyed these people's cluelessness.

I ended up being right. Lord Malfoy and his friends arrived at about quarter past seven, while most of the townsmen were already there. No one dared to comment anything.

Just as the mayor stood up to speak, the doors opened again and in came Padma. She had a white and red evening dress she had bought for this occasion, her hair was falling in graceful waves down her back and shoulders, and there was a small sparkle on her neck. She looked perfect.

She smiled at everyone. "Sorry." And took her seat, not glancing at Malfoy even once.

There was a small murmur in the crowd, but from my hiding place in the shadows, I noticed Malfoy's eyes sparkling in interest as he watched her.

The mayor coughed to get the attention of the crowd and started speaking.

I took the time to evaluate Lord Malfoy. He was a tall, well-built man with shoulder length blond hair and blue-gray eyes. He gave off an air of authority and sneakiness like a swamp does toxic gasses. It was extremely obvious why everyone were falling all over themselves to be in his favor.

Malfoy leaned over to speak with one of his friends, and my breath caught in my throat.

His friend looked like the realization of every dream I ever had the courage to dream.

He was tall as well, but much taller than Malfoy. His figure wasn't bulky, but more on the artistically thin side. He had long black hair, which fell into equally dark eyes.

He lifted a hand to brush the hair away and I fell in love with those fingers, long, defined fingers. In that moment I longed for him.

I made myself look up from his hands.

My mystery man was surveying the room with a critical eye, probably ridiculing Hogsmeade's residences like I did in my head.

Malfoy said something to him, and his lips quirked up in a smirk. Gods, I wanted to kiss him.

It was strange, I had never believed in love at first sight before. Suited me right that did.

In the meantime, the mayor stopped speaking and the band started to play, but no one was dancing. Everyone looked like they were waiting for Malfoy's approval.

Malfoy smirked at his dark-haired friend, got up and strode to the other side of the hall. I could hear sharp intakes of breath from women he approached, and see the deep disappointment when he passed them.

He finally came to a stop in front of Padma, who was engaged in a conversation with Hermione and paid him no attention, all according to our little plan.

He coughed and she looked up.

"Yes?" she asked, smiling. I could hear everything perfectly, as even the musicians stopped playing to listen.

"I was wondering," he said in a sweat, honey voice. "If you would honor me with this dance?"

"Well," she started to say, as if to decline and turned to Hermione.

"No, go on," Hermione smiled back.

"If you insist," said Padma, got up and presented her hand to Malfoy.

He bowed, kissed her hand and led her to the clear space in front of the band, which started playing again.

From my dark corner I watched in great satisfaction the horrified looks the rest of the women sent Padma's way.

Padma and Malfoy danced one song before other people joined them, and I was satisfied that I had completed my job.

I could return to watching Malfoy's friend in peace. But in the rush to the dance floor everyone left their seats, and I could not find him.

My heart sank heavily and I frantically searched for his tall, dark and foreboding frame in the crowd. I didn't think I could bear seeing him with a woman, but I had to find him.

"You're not much for these parties either?" said a voice behind me.

I jumped, spun around, and almost died on the spot.

There he was, standing in front of me, talking to me. I managed to nod.

He eyed me, as if evaluating. Whatever it was, I wanted to pass it.

"You look different than the others." His voice, hot milk and rose thorns, almost drowned me.

I nodded again and commended my tongue not to stumble. "I spent some time with your crowd." He smirked, AT ME!

"My crowd indeed." His eyes wandered to the dancing couples. Not wanting to be caught staring, I did the same.

"What's your name?" he asked finally.

"Potter," I answered, glancing at him. "Harry Potter."

He considered it for a while. "I think I've heard of you before. But I can't seem to recall where."

I just had to satisfy his curiosity. Maybe, if he knew my reputation from the previous two years, he'd consider looking at me. "I used to be a road tutor." I chanced

another glance at him.

"Yes, that's right." He had a strange glint in his eyes. "Someone mentioned to me once that they wanted to hire your services. But you seemed to disappear." He looked at me down his nose, which was quite impressive on closer look. I didn't mind.

I nodded again. "I came here." Brilliant, Harry, state the obvious. "A permanent teaching position."

He looked surprised. "Where?"

"Here," I indicated the building. "Hogwarts is a school."

"How interesting." His face was a guarded mask.

I wondered how his lips would look after I kissed him.

"Thank you," he said finally. "It was very - fortunate to meat you."

And he was gone.

It was only after he left that I realized that I hadn't asked for his name.

~*~

I didn't stay in the hall for long after my conversation with Him.

What did I care about all these people around me dancing when I wasn't with him? I favored the solitude of my rooms and my thoughts.

I lit the fire in the hearth of my lounging room, and sank into one of the plush armrests.

He was probably the Lord's closest friend, but he didn't like the party and made fun of the people throwing it. He preferred solitude and darkness - shadows. He approached me, and spoke with me. He was interested in me, he listened to what I said.

I let my head loll against the back of my seat. What angel sent him to me? What God gave me this mercy?

I sat up straight and looked at the flames for a few moments.

No, I could not be in anyone's favor. He could not possibly want me, could not possibly prefer men, could never want someone like me, even as a friend.

I sighed heavily.

There really was no use contemplating these fantasies. I knew from experience how they ended.

I closed my eyes. Why, then, did I dream them up every single time?

No. This was different. HE was different. What I felt for him was different.

The others - they were nothing. I could never actually say I wanted to run away and live the rest of my life with them, raising sheep, goats and whatnot. Whereas with him....

I shook my head in amusement at my own thoughts. I didn't even know him, and I was making these foolish promises. He could be a sadistic.... The warm tingle that went through my body at the thought, made me face the fact that that might not be such a bad idea.

I sighed again. You are a foolish, foolish man, Harry James Potter.

I went to sleep in my little bedroom alone, like always. But not before I retrieved another pillow, to wrap myself around.

I woke the next morning to the sound of very loud banging. After a moment of sleepy cluelessness, I realized that the noise might be coming from my front door.

I hastily put on my night robe and rushed to open the door.

I came face to face with a mildly angry Hermione.

"Well?" she said.

I blinked at her in confusion. It must have been too early, as I usually woke myself up.

"Where is he?" she demanded when I didn't answer.

I took a step back from her and gaped. "Where is who?"

She was getting very furious. "The man. Whoever it is you left the party with, and is the reason you missed breakfast."

I missed breakfast??? A hasty look at my clock assured me that I did. I gaped at the clock for a few moments.

She was clearly not expecting this reaction. "Harry?" she put her hand on my shoulder. I jumped and stared at her. "You know you can tell me, right?"

"I... I...." I didn't know what to say.

We stood silently in my doorway for a few extra moments before I gestured for her to come in.

"There was and is no man," I said finally, sitting in my favorite armchair.

Hermione didn't say anything for a long moment.

"You don't honestly think I'd believe that, do you?" she finally said.

I smiled. "Yes. Why should you? It's the truth after all."

She smiled as well. "Harry, I've known you for two years. There hasn't been a day when you behaved like this. I know something's up."

"I might be tired, you know." Damn, wrong thing to say. "You know what I mean: with the stress of teaching Padma and all."

She nodded. I knew I was digging myself a bigger hole by fighting her, but I couldn't seem to stop.

Besides, I wasn't lying, exactly. There was nothing between us except a dozen or so words.

Hermione gave me one last assessing look and nodded again. "Alright. I'll let you off the hook this time. But I know you'd love to hear what happened at the party.... ?"

I smiled. Yes, a safe topic. Nodding, I said, "I wanted to ask you how Padma was. I couldn't seem to find her after the first dance."

Hermione's eyes sparkled. "Oh, she did wonderfully. At some point, Lord Malfoy asked if anyone was willing to play for him, and, of course, no one knows how, except you and Padma. So, she stepped forward, saying that she didn't like playing in front of so many people, but that she was willing to do it that once. I heard a few snickers from where I was standing." She gave me a meaningful look and I smirked. "But they all quieted down when she began playing.

"Good God, Harry! When did you teach her to play like that? She was magnificent!"

I smiled, content. "It wasn't easy, and no...." She opened her mouth to speak, but I stopped her. "No, I'm not going to teach you. Let me rest from Padma, will you?"

Hermione laughed, but nodded her head. "It's a deal."

~*~

The next day, while I was teaching a group of eleven-year-old children math and what they needed it for, I had a feeling I was being watched.

Looking around and out through the door's window I saw nothing. Deciding to investigate everything further after I was done with the children, I continued teaching, sending glances at the door from time to time.

I released the students, eventually, and sat by my desk to put some order on it before I went to investigate anything.

Looking up, I found an elderly man standing in front of me.

Boy, did I jump.

I composed myself as quickly as I could. The man just stood there and watched me.

"May I help you?" I finally asked.

"Are you Mr. Harry Potter?" he asked in a rusty voice.

"I am."

"Lord Malfoy invites you to a dinner party that your mayor was gracious enough to host." He handed me an envelope.

"Thank you," I smiled, unsure of how to continue.

"Please notify me if you are able to arrive, sir," he said with a stony face and voice. "Ask for Stewart Willingrew, his lordship's personal servant."

And he was gone.

I sat staring at the air for about five minutes before I got hold of myself. Malfoy must train his servants for years.

Sighing, I looked down at the envelope. It wasn't sealed, but it had the mayor's symbol on it in the corner. Good Lords, that man was cheap.

I opened it up and read the invitation.

BLACK TIE EVENING - it read.

I, Cornelius Fudge, in association with his lordship, Lucius Malfoy, am glad to invite you to a relaxing evening at my house.

Intelligent conversation and pleasant music assured.

This event will take place on October the 29^th, this Friday. Please, notify us if you are or unable to participate.

Cornelius Fudge

I smirked. Malfoy and his friends must have laughed their heads off reading this invitation.

For a moment, I contemplated refusing, just for the fun of it and the look on the mayor's face when I told him so. But then I realized who else was going to be at that party.

No force in Hell could stop me from going.

I finished my classes for the day, hurried to my room, and pulled my unused trunk out from under my bed.

I was no woman, but I do like to look good for my men.

I stopped for a moment, just letting that phrase roll around in my head - 'my men'. No, there was just one man for me.

I pulled out my trunk and opened it.

That trunk held all my unused things that I didn't want to put on display - memories of Seamus, of my life on the road. But except that it also held the one thing I didn't have any use of, but didn't have the heart to throw away - my evening dress suit.

I dug it out, tried to dust it up a little and looked for any permanent and lasting damage. There seemed to be none.

I sighed in relief. Good, the only thing I had to do is clean it. Considering Friday was three days away, I might just have enough time.

And then, on Friday....

A knock on my door interrupted my reverie.

I put the suit on a couch and went to see who it was. It turned out to be Hermione.

"So what's going on now?" she asked, walking in. "Some people saw a creepy old man getting in and out of the castle, but he spoke to no one, at least no one I talked to."

"So people saw him?" I asked lifting the suit and examining it again. "I was sure the land swallowed him and spit him out where he wanted it to."

Hermione cocked her head to the side. "So he did talk to you. Who is he? What did he want?"

"He is Stewart Willingrew, Malfoy's personal servant. He gave me this." I handed her the invitation.

She read through it. "Are you going?"

I looked up from the suit. "Yes, why not?"

"Because you're Harry I-Do-Not-Spend-Time-With-People-Leave-Me-Alone Potter?"

"I'm offended by that. I spend time with people. Occasionally."

"See," she sank into on of my armchairs. "This is what I was talking about. This is how I thought you'd act if you found someone."

I looked at her. "Like what?"

She shrugged. "All eager and semi happy and eager and not normal. You're never like this."

I put the suit down and sat across from her.

"Aren't you going to say something?" she asked.

"Yes. Can you please send someone to the mayor's house? Tell them to ask for this Stewart guy. Have them tell him that I would love to participate in an intellectual evening with minds that are older than ten."

She gaped at me.

"Oh, and can someone, please, help me with this suit?"

Some more gaping, and then she started to laugh.

"Yes, I understand," she finally managed. Hermione got up and hugged me, which I didn't expect. "You better introduce me to this guy of yours."

She took the suit and left.

~*~

Friday.

I imagine I quite liked Fridays. What better day of the week? It was the last day of work, and in the evening, one got to go to gatherings and meet people.

Fine day, Friday.

I put on my then washed suit and walked to town.

The mayor's house was the biggest in Hogsmeade, if one didn't include Hogwarts. Cornelius Fudge was a very cheap man when he had to spend money on other people, namely not him. He supported the church. The priests, in return, made sure he was reelected every time. That was achieved by saying that whoever opposed him - that righteous and humble man - was a sinner whose place was in the deepest of Hell.

Living in Hogsmeade was always fun.

I arrived at Fudge's house at half past seven, fifteen minutes after I was expected. A servant opened the door, took my coat and ushered me in.

There weren't many people in the room. Lord Malfoy was sitting by the fire, seemingly talking to Fudge, who sat opposite him. In reality Malfoy was watching and observing everyone in the room. Three other men were sitting on another couch, watching two others play chess. I noticed Flourish was winning.

No sign of my dark angel anywhere.

"So you arrived?"

For the second time in my life he made me jump almost out of my skin.

"Yes, I have." I turned to face him. He was clothed in black, which contrasted his pale skin and matched his hypnotizing eyes perfectly. His clothes resembled a robe much more than an evening suit. He looked gorgeous.

"Your townsmen aren't showing much respect," he commented, looking around the room.

I surveyed the room again. I noticed that many of the gusts hadn't arrived yet.

"They are simple folk," I answered him. "They copy the behavior of their superiors." I turned to look at him. "If anything, I thought it might be of amusement to you."

He was about to answer, a faint trace of a smile on his lips, when another voice interrupted us.

"Severus!" It was Lord Malfoy. For some untold reason, I was beginning to dislike the man. "What unfortunate young man have you caught in your clutches?"

We walked over to the fireplace and Fudge turned to look at us. His eyes narrowed when he saw me.

"He is no one, your lordship. You shouldn't concern yourself with him," he immediately said, trying to push me away.

"On the contrary," commented my dark angel. "This is the school teacher I mentioned to you, Lucius."

Malfoy looked me over. "You are Harry Potter?"

I bowed and nodded. "I am."

"I have heard a lot of things about you," he said.

"So have we, about you, your lordship," I answered, smiling. The look on Fudge's face was too comic for words.

Malfoy smiled as well. "All good things, I hope."

"As the birds sing in the evening," I said. From the corner of my eye I saw Him smirk. My heart swelled.

Malfoy laughed and Fudge looked absolutely lost. Five minutes and already this was turning out to be a fine evening.

The door opened and someone else entered. I took the opportunity to excuse myself and retreat to the back of the room.

I planned on spending the rest of the evening like that - sitting in the back, watching him, marveling at his presence. My plans never did work out well.

"And there you are again."

I turned and found Him. I had to laugh.

"Dear friend," I said at last. "It is now the third time you have scared breath from my breast. Prey, give me your name, for the fourth time will surly be my last, and what would I say to Gabriel when I reach the gates of heaven?"

He didn't laugh, but his lips quirked a little and it was enough for me. "I am Severus Snape. But only for that case alone did I give away my name."

"I would not dare to ask it otherwise." He seemed to enjoy those verbal jests and I would do anything to keep him at my side for a little longer.

He sat on a chair beside mine and we stopped talking.

Severus Snape. A fine name, sharp, authorative, slick and elusive. I imagined it suited him perfectly. What a foolish man I am.

"Do you enjoy yourself here?" he broke the silence, but didn't look at me.

I wasn't sure how to answer him. "I love my work. Children are very smart and underestimated folk. I was tired of traveling. I needed to settle down."

His smirk was somewhat bittersweet. "That is not what I asked. The town, do you like the town?"

"Things need some changes." He looked at me, and I pointedly looked at Fudge. He smirked. "But most people are good, pleasant."

"What about the girl Lucius danced with in the welcoming party?" He tried to sound concerned, but I could somehow see through it. Malfoy sent him, to gather information. Severus would probably make an excellent spy, if he wanted to. I decided to indulge him. What bad could it bring?

"Padma? What about her?"

"You know her?"

"She works with me at Hogwarts."

"She's a maid."

I smiled. "No, a fellow teacher."

"Really?" He leaned back in his chair and looked me over again. "I can see everything now. I did wonder where she learned to play like that."

I laughed. "You are assuming too many things, Mr. Snape."

His eyes were laughing. "I thought we agreed you would only speak that name to Gabriel in the heavens."

I bowed to him. "My gravest apologies. What should I call you then?"

Yet another assessing look. "'Severus' will do fine. Now come." And he led me back to the light, and back to Malfoy.

"Lucius," Severus leaned over and whispered something in his friend's ear, while I stood behind him, with Fudge glaring at me.

"Oh, yes," said Malfoy after Severus finished telling him whatever it was he told him. "We were just discussing Ms. Patil."

"And as I was saying," Fudge interrupted. "You'll find yourself much more happy if you considered one of my daughters, instead of...." His face showed obvious disgust.

An amused look passed between Severus and Malfoy. Something was definitely wrong there. I decided I would find everything out in time.

In the meantime, I said nothing, wanting to see what Malfoy would answer.

"Cornelius, dear man," said Malfoy. "Can your daughters dance like young Ms. Patil does? Can they play like she?" Fudge lowered his eyes. "I don't wish to hurt you, but your daughters do not catch the eye as Padma does." Another amused eye exchange with Severus. I needed to discuses this with Hermione the next day.

"Oh, speaking of playing," Malfoy hadn't stopped, but now he was looking at me. "Severus here tells me you can play some, for us. Cornelius, do you have a piano?"

Fudge looked outraged, but didn't dare to say anything, so he ordered one of the servants to bring the piano into the room.

"My Angelina is training on it," Fudge never gave up. "She is quite good. If your lordship would like...."

"I want to hear Mr. Potter play."

The piano was brought in and I sat in front of it. I tuned it to my liking and turned back to Lord Malfoy and Severus.

"What would you like me to play?"

Fudge was glaring at me. Most of the men in the room where gathered around the piano, gawking. Malfoy was just about to speak, but Severus interrupted him. He named one of the most difficult pieces adapted for the piano. The man was a genius. Gods, I loved him.

The room became silent and I smiled. "Alright."

I turned back to the piano and played.

Hermione was right, to a degree. I did play like a madman, but only when I wanted to. And at that moment I wanted to, desperately. If only for Severus to consider me as an equal, as a puzzle, as a mystery, as anything he wanted me to be, if only to get an ounce of attention from him, just one ounce.

As the music died down, I sat panting for a moment or two. That had been the fiercest I had played in my life.

I turned around and observed everyone's reaction.

The look on Fudge's face was quite satisfactory. I wished I could show it to Hermione, but my description would have to do.

The men from the town and Malfoy's friends were looking at me, awed. Well, not many people can play that piece, not to mention remember it by heart.

Malfoy looked mildly impressed, with a quirky little smile. I didn't like that expression.

Severus. Severus looked surprised, content - probably about making me play - and something else. I couldn't really read what it was. I would find out though.

Then Severus started clapping. After a second the other men joined them. A minute later and Malfoy clapped politely as well - and I thought that was beneath him.

Fudge didn't clap. I had the vague feeling I was going to be sinner of the month again. Oh, well.

When the clapping died down, Malfoy made me sit with him and Fudge. Severus disappeared.

"Tell me," Malfoy said. "Who taught you to play like that?"

"Lady Fig," I answered without thinking. "Of the moors."

Malfoy looked surprised. "She was willing to teach you?"

"Yes," suspicion drew in my heart, but I had to answer. "In exchange for her daughter's tutoring."

"She paid you with piano lessons instead of money???" Fudge.

"Yes," I said calmly to the outraged mayor.

He was just about to fault me in the biggest sin of the world, according to Fudge - not wanting money - when Malfoy interrupted him.

"You have excellent trading skills."

That definitely shut Fudge up.

I spent some more time with the two men, but their company was tiring, for I always had to watch my back. Besides, I didn't see a glimpse of Severus for the rest of the evening.

I eventually excused myself by saying I was extremely tired from working in the morning and afternoon.

When I finally dragged my exhausted body to Hogwarts and my rooms, my clock said it was past three in the morning.

I was so glad that day was Friday and I did not have to get up early the next day.

I collapsed on my bed, wrapped myself around the extra pillow and sighed.

"Severus...."

~*~

I didn't find Hermione until after lunchtime.

She was in the teachers' lounge, going over some papers. It didn't surprise me. Her being the lady of the house, made her extremely busy, teaching aside.

"Hello," she said when I sat down next to her.

"Hi," I answered.

"How was last night?" she inquired, still looking over the papers.

"Complicated." She looked up. "Look, if you're busy, I'll come talk to you later."

"No. It's fine. Just some essays some of my kids wrote. I'll look at them later. Tell me what happened."

I told her everything, leaving only my feelings for Severus out.

"Something's not right," I finished.

"Look, Harry,' Hermione said after a while. "Are you sure you're not reading too much into this? I can see you don't like Lord Malfoy, but Padma is happy. I'd hate to see her get hurt."

I buried my face in my hands. "Me too. It's just that I'm afraid she'll get hurt anyway."

"Don't assume anything."

I nodded.

We sat in silence for several moments. Hermione started going over the kids' essays again.

"Do you mind if I investigate it a little further, though?" I said at last.

"Just don't hurt her."

"Yes, I know." I looked at her for a moment. "Actually, you can help me.'

She looked up again. "How?"

"Can I invite Malfoy and his friends to the baths and steam room here? I know they are almost never used. Ask Ron if he wants to come as well."

She thought about it for a moment, but then nodded. "Alright. I'll talk to Ron, see if he wants to come as well." She gave me a piercing gaze. "Be careful." I nodded again.

Naturally, I didn't tell her the other reason I had for inviting Malfoy and his friends over to the baths. The prospect of seeing Severus naked or at least partly unclothed was absolutely delicious.

I went up to my rooms and composed the invitation, a properly phrased one. I couldn't send them before I had Ron's approval, though; he was the master of the house, after all.

Uncharacteristically, I ate my dinner in the Great Hall, anxious to hear Hermione's reply.

She took me to the side once the meal was over.

"He agrees to have it here," she said, but her face was extremely serious, so I listened attentively. "Ron doesn't want to participate." I nodded. "But he wishes you to tell Lord Malfoy that Hogwarts is not for sale, under no circumstances, no amount of money, or any other pressure. Tell him to stop trying."

I was momentarily stunned. I nodded anyway. That explained Severus' interest in Hogwarts and conformed, in my eyes, his being a 'spy' for Malfoy.

She smiled. "Everything's fine then. The baths are all yours. But don't ruin them permanently."

I laughed. "Don't worry. And thank you." Her eyes twinkled mischievously.

I laughed even harder. "Stop your plotting, woman. I need to ask you one more thing."

"What is it?"

"I've got the invitation all ready in my rooms. Can you send someone to deliver it?" I put my best puppy face on.

It was her turn to laugh. "Yes, no problem. I'll send someone to your room tomorrow. To be delivered to Stewart again?"

I shrugged. "Not one of Fudge's servants, that's for sure."

Hermione shuddered. "Don't remind me."

We parted like that. I went to my rooms and she went about her business.

I spent the rest of the evening brooding in front of the fire with a glass of red wine.

What bothered me the most was the reason for Severus befriending someone like Malfoy.

It was painfully obvious, to anyone who had eyes, that Malfoy was a sneaky, malicious, plotting and selfish bastard. He would do anything to get what he wanted, even if it wasn't within the borders of the established law. I could see that from the way his eyes swept through a room, taking everyone in and assessing their level of value to him in his head, no doubt.

Whereas Severus....

Severus didn't give off that vibe. As far as I could see, which wasn't much: Severus was a very private man. Politics didn't interest him. His needs were minimal.

And he would, probably, be content to just sit in a dark corner of some library reading a stuffy old book, rather than socialize or spend time with people at all. On the other hand, I could see he cared a great deal about his friends, and was probably willing to do a lot for them.

I could see that that was only the tip of the iceberg for this man, and I longed to find out more. I wanted to sit with him and just talk, about anything, from who had the rights to America to the latest advances in science. I was sure his opinion would be very evaluated, and I imagined I'd have to think for a long time to come up with any kind of answer.

I wanted to hear his wit. I had enjoyed it for the briefest moments in the mayor's lounge, and I wanted more.

I wanted to hear him laugh. In all the times I saw him, the closest to a laugh he came was a briefly uncontrolled twitch of his lips. I wondered what I could say that would make him lose control. I imagined how his laugh would sound, and the way it would wash over me, leaving only a quivering mass of flesh in its wake.

I wanted everything. I wanted to hear about the what, the why, and the how - every single and last thing.

My only problem was that I didn't know how to go about this seduction. I needed him to understand I was interested in him, not only as a friend or as an acquaintance, but sexually as well.

But I was desperately afraid it would scare him away.

I hoped that inviting him to the baths would solve a least one part of the problem.

If he would glance my way, look at me or show any other sign of interest, I might as well start constructing his path to my arms. But if he didn't - I would just have to start off by being his friend and seeing what that would lead to.

Around midnight, I retired to my bed, leaving an empty bottle of wine on the table beside the couch I had vacated and holding the hope that he, one day, might share it with me.

~*~

Stewart came to me with Malfoy's answer on Tuesday, saying that Malfoy thought it was a refreshing idea and that they would come on Wednesday.

That was perfectly fine with me, as I had the baths and the steam room almost finished. The only thing that I was worried about was that Severus might decide not to come.

I needn't have worried that much. He did.

I met Malfoy and his party by Hogwarts' gates. It wasn't very late, but not many of the residents were in the house, so we didn't encounter anyone on our way.

I tried to lead my guests through the darker corners of the castle, to try and discourage Malfoy, but he seemed to be enjoying himself rather than anything else.

"Through here." I gestured to the door in the wall.

We, seven in number, entered the changing room. Malfoy's eyes swept around greedily.

I forced a smile on my face. "This room should serve us as our changing room. Through that door." I gestured to the door in the back of the room. "Are the baths. The steam room is connected to the baths. We would have to get through this room to get back out."

"Isn't there a room where I could change?" The arrogant bastard.

"No, your lordship," was all I said.

With a mildly disgusted look, Malfoy stalked into a corner to undress.

"Good evening," Severus had selected a spot next to me on one of the benches.

"Hello," I answered, smiling.

"I see you haven't had the fortune to meet Gabriel, yet," he said as he took his shoes of.

"Finally," I said, as I took my shirt and under shirt off. "I have found your sinister plan!"

I didn't get an answer to that, so I glanced at him. His eyes were glued to my chest, traveling from my collarbone to my navel and back. He then averted his gaze quickly.

Struggling not to grin like a fool, I gave conversation another try. "So in what way will you kill me?"

He looked back at me. "Why should I tell you? It's your birthday surprise." I noticed he was struggling not to look lower than my neck.

I made an offended face. "My birthday is in July. Do I really have to wait that long?"

"Easter then," he said. I had problems not to stare as he took his shirt off.

We continued to undress in relative silence. At one point I turned around to take my pants and shoes off. I imagined I could feel how his eyes travel my behind and legs. If it weren't for Malfoy and the four other men, I would have gone down on my knees before him and begged him to take me.

When I finally turned around, Severus and all the others were fully undressed and were going into the next room. I grabbed a towel and followed them, trying to get Severus' body out of my head.

Malfoy took hold of one of the larger baths and the rest of us had to share the others.

I left my towel at the edge of one of them and sank in. The water was warm and I could feel all my muscles melt into batter, an extremely relaxing sensation, if I didn't have the thought of Malfoy nagging at the back of my head.

After about half an hour Malfoy rose, and entered the steam room. Two of his friends joined him. Severus stayed.

Fifteen minutes later, the three returned, and after a five minutes break they went back, taking the other two with them.

That left us alone.

Severus beckoned me to join him in one of the other baths. I rose from my own and moved into his.

I noticed Severus' pupils were a little dilated as I sank into the water.

"How does his lordship enjoy his visit?" I asked.

"He finds Hogwarts quite extraordinary," answered Severus.

I smiled and sank lower in the water. "That's not what I meant."

"Wasn't it?" He looked at me, his eyes piercing into mine. "What was it you asked then?"

I closed my eyes, giving an off-handed appearance. "There were many rumors about your arrival."

"Mine?" He was teasing me!

I opened one eye and smirked at him. "Who else's?"

His lips twitched. "Continue."

"Some said Lord Malfoy was looking for a wife." I looked at him, to see his reaction. "He seemed to find that." Severus averted his gaze. Something was definitely wrong there. "Or...."

He looked back at me. "Yes?"

"Others said that he was looking for a summer house." This time his features were blank.

I sank completely into the water for a few moments. When I surfaced, I found Severus leaning back against the edge and looking at the ceiling.

"It's a shame though."

He turned to me again. "What is?"

"The fact that he's wasting his time on Hogwarts."

His eyes narrowed. "What are you talking about?"

"Well," I smiled cheekily. "He won't get it. You see, it's not for sale. It's all in Hogsmeade's law. The only way to get Hogwarts is through heritage, and I don't recon that's possible for his lordship."

I let him chew on that for a few moments.

"I'm going to the steam room," I said finally. "Join me?"

He shook his head and I got up, wrapped a towel around myself and purposely walked to the door at the far left side of the room.

Malfoy and his four companions were just walking out as I entered.

Malfoy smirked. "Severus boring you already?" His companions snickered. "Doesn't talk about anything except his science books, does he?"

I shrugged and entered the suffocating steam room. I could still hear their snickering.

After ten minutes I needed out to breath. I found them all sitting in Malfoy's bath.

"Can't stand the heat, Potter?" said one of them.

I shrugged. "I don't take much for steam."

"Oh, let the lad be, Gregory," said Malfoy. "Come join us, we were just talking about...."

The next two hours were spent in much the same fashion. We would sit and talk intellectually, while they would venture to the steam room from time to time. I stayed in the baths.

I didn't manage to be alone with Severus again, but I could feel his eyes on me. I took it as a good sign.

Eventually Malfoy rose from his bath and announced they should go.

I called the men in the steam room, and we all returned to the changing room. We dressed in silence and I walked them through Hogwarts and the grounds.

We exchanged pleasantries, Malfoy said they'd be in touch and they left.

I stayed at the gates until I couldn't see Severus' retreating back anymore. Only then did I turn and started walking back to the castle, and my rooms.

All in all, it had been a fairly good evening.

Two out of the three things I set out to do were accomplished. I found out if Severus was interested in me other than as a friend - which was a decisive yes. And I made it clear that Hogwarts was not for sale, and there was no way Malfoy could get his hands on it.

There was no progress in the Padma case, as I called it. But I was sure that sooner or later I would find out something.

To say I was happy would have been a horrible understatement. I could see myself with Severus as clear as crystal. It didn't matter how, I'd think about that later, but at that moment I was sure of the end result.

I pictured myself waking up to feel Severus' strong arms, protectively wrapped around me. I pictured myself sleepily blinking and looking up to see his face above me, and how he'd really smile and not just twitch his lips a little.

I imagined myself tackling him back to bed while he tried to get up and get breakfast. I could hear our laughter in my ear as we wrestled playfully, like little kids. That image brought a smile to my lips.

Another image sprung to my mind: Severus sitting by the fire in an armchair with a book in his hand. I would sit at his feet and just stare at the flames, as he would run his fingers through my hair.

Other, more playful thought ran through my mind as well: of him writhing beneath me as I kissed and licked every inch of his body. I wondered how he would feel inside me, how it would feel to be inside of him.

I got a tingle all over my body from the last thought.

I had to have him. I didn't think I could live without him. He was, in one word -everything.

~*~