୨୧ Wanna share ideas? Check out my list of Fic Bits! ୨୧
Masterlist of My Published Fics:
୨୧ Longfics ୨୧
At Last - A longfic in progress. Answering a job ad in the Daily Prophet on a whim, Stella Rosenbaum lands her dream job, in her dream location. When Severus Snape greets her at the castle door, she's convinced she's also met her dream man.
Wanna read the smutty bits but not the whole fic? I've collated some of the smut into a collection on AO3: The Snape x Stella Smut Collection🤭 Will be updating regularly!
୨୧ Oneshots and Excerpts ୨୧
Send Me an Angel - (Oneshot, 18+, 12,397 words) Severus creates a time-travel potion, and his wife uses it to make his *first time* extra special. Romantic smut. (Tumblr link)
Send Me an Angel, Sev's Version - (Oneshot, 18+, 13,907 words) Same story, from Severus's POV. Romantic Smut. (Tumblr link)
More behind the cut
Women's Intuition - (Oneshot, 13+, 2,140 words.) Minerva tries getting Severus to ask out the new professor. Romantic fluff. A companion piece to Send Me an Angel but can be read as a stand-alone piece without context. (Tumblr link)
XOXO - (Oneshot, 18+ for smut, 3,165 words.) What do two horny Hogwarts professors do when their work schedules keep them apart? They sext via owl, of course. But Severus finds it increasingly difficult to focus on the task at hand... (Tumblr link)
Birthday Fantasy - (18+ for smut, 1,997 words.) Part of At Last, posted in celebration of Sev's birthday. Severus tries to keep his birthday a secret, but his girlfriend insists on celebrating. (Tumblr link)
Wicked Game - (18+ for smut, 3,391 words.) Part of At Last, posted in celebration of Valentine's Day. For the first time in his life, Severus Snape has a Valentine. The only problem is, she's too bloody busy to celebrate. Late that evening in her office, he makes sure they more than make up for it. (Tumblr link)
Keep Quiet - (18+ for smut, 1,272 words) Part of At Last, posted in celeberation of Alan Rickman's birthday. There’s a new teacher at Hogwarts… and he has the hots for Sev’s girl. Though he tries not to let possessiveness get the best of him, Severus can’t help reminding her who she belongs to. (Tumblr link)
For Educational Purposes Only - (G-rated fluff, Snape x Charity Burbage) It began as yet another of Dumbledore's tedious assignments. "Field research" with Professor Burbage on Muggle courtship. But somewhere between the wonders of Tube travel and Muggle cinema, the lines between academic research and something decidedly more personal begin to blur.
Professional Development - (18+ for smut, 4,581 words, Snape x Reader) Your sixth-month performance review as Potions Teaching Assistant at Hogwarts has just concluded, and you head down to the dungeons to properly thank your boss for his positive assessment. The cauldron is steaming. The sex is even steamier.
The Potions Professor's Perfect Assistant - A collection of smutty tales about Sev and his un-named teaching assistant. Some will be Snape x You (female reader,) some from Sev's POV. Each can be read as a stand-alone piece. No plot here, just smut!
Severus Snape x OC, Rated 18+ (Smut,) 3,774 words, Chapter 1 of 2
A bit of character study on our dear Potions Professor, and one of his particular erotic interests…💋
Excerpt and link behind the cut.
Severus remembered with crystal-clarity the day the tabloid newspaper his father read began a new sales tactic: Page Three Girls. Each day a fresh new coquette with her tits out for the working class blokes of Britain to drool over.
Reading the paper as usual in the morning, when he was still sober enough to pose as a functional adult, his father suddenly spat out his PG Tips like a startled Scooby-Doo character, his eyes going wide as saucers. “Gordon Bennett! Will you look at that!”
Ten year-old Severus rounded the table and peered over his shoulder with great interest. Right there in black and white, a gorgeous blonde woman sat naked in a field, posed in side-profile with one perfectly perky breast on display for all the world to see...
ִ ࣪𖤐 Read Chapter 1 of The Professor's Perfect Assistant on AO3ִ ࣪ 𖤐
Fandom: Harry Potter
Pairing: Severus Snape x OC
Chapter Rating: 13+
2,810 words
Chapter Masterlist
********
Chapter 59: Creep
A trip to Hogsmeade turns creepy, leaving Severus and Stella both a bit wary.
********
Thursday, 29th March, 2001
The scent of old books and freshly brewed coffee filled the still, quiet air of Bartlett's Secondhand Books. Stella breathed in deeply, enjoying having a free afternoon and evening for the first time in ages. Nigel had said he wanted to work on spoken lines with the theatre kids today, no music or dancing, and her afternoon lessons ended early on a Thursday. She needed to pick up a few things in Hogsmeade, so she decided to have a little wander through the shops, starting with the secondhand bookstore.
She was speaking with Clarence, the shop owner, about a new shipment of Muggle novels he'd just gotten in, when a movement in her periphery caught her notice. She glanced over to see a man peeking surreptitiously around the end of an aisle. He ducked back quickly when spotted. Weird. She shrugged it off and had a look through the cart of books Clarence had suggested, making a pile on the counter of ones she wanted to buy.
As she wandered about the shop browsing, the man seemed to pop up everywhere, quickly ducking away anytime she looked at him. He was hard to miss, dressed in rather old-fashioned looking wizarding robes, with a full black beard, large floppy hat, and dark glasses. She wondered if he was the dodgy guy who sold illicit potions to children... a bit creeped out, she purchased her books and left the shop.
She was just leaving the counter at the apothecary after collecting her Dead Sea sponge and having a chat with Ambrose when she noticed the dodgy man again, peering into the shop's massive front window. Very weird. No shrinking violet when it came to creepy men, she looked him squarely in the eye as she left the shop, letting him know that she realised he was watching, in hopes he'd get spooked and piss off.
She popped into Alice's Antiques for a quick look around, and lo and behold, who should also pop up but the same weirdo. She swore she heard a camera flash as she left the shop. This was becoming less annoying and more creepy now... she hoofed it to the music shop, deciding that if he followed her there as well, she'd not leave alone.
"Hi, Miguel!" She said brightly as she entered.
"Hello Estella!" Miguel always called her the Spanish version of her name. She didn't mind. He and his partner, Mateo, had gotten to know her quite well, and she loved their effervescent charm. "Here for the guitar strings?"
She glanced behind her... the weird guy was peeping into the shop, and this time he actually snapped a photo; the flash was blinding. "Yes, the strings. And also..." she leaned over the counter and spoke quietly. "...could I possibly borrow your owl, to send a quick note to the castle? This weird guy is following me. I don't want to go back alone."
The owl in question flew down from its perch and landed near her on the counter, ready for business. "Oh, clever boy aren't you? Have you got a quill and parchment, Miguel?"
"Si, of course. Will you be alright? Who's that guy?"
"I don't know, but he's been following me everywhere, and it's really creeping me out. I'm just going to ask if anyone can see me home." She scribbled a note, then folded it and put it in the owl's beak. Miguel opened the back door to the shop, and the owl flew off towards the castle.
"Ooh, that is dodgy! Just stay here then, until you hear back. While you're waiting, Estella, let me show you the new ukulele's we just got in. I remember you said you wanted one."
She made herself comfy in a corner of the shop and had a play about with some ukuleles, hoping someone could come meet her soon.
********
Expecting to find the usual memos and paperwork in his inbox, Minerva had instead oh-so-graciously left him another stack of old photos, with a note: Stella will want these, even if you don't!
Bloody Minerva. He rather preferred to leave the past in the past. She was right though - Stella would love them. I suppose I may as well see what humiliation she’s found this time, he thought, sitting down to look through the photos.
He was trying to recall the names of the other students in a photo of his third-year potions class when Ruth came in, making a beeline for the table when she realised Severus was alone. Having considered his reaction earlier that week in the Greenhouses, she'd decided to scrap the idea of trying to bond over tragedy, and instead appeal to his sentimentality. She remembered Stella's sappy conversation with Minerva about the old photos, and about her feelings for Severus - and how Minerva said he felt about her. All that nonsense about the job being meant for her, to bring them together. If he liked that sappy sentimental tripe, she was prepared to give him a double dose.
"Exhuming the past again, Snape?" She plopped down in the chair next to him and peered over at the photos.
Severus wondered if she had a tracking charm set on him. She always seemed to find him alone, anywhere in the castle. The only safe place seemed to be his office - and even then, she turned up at the worst times. He gave a noncommittal noise in response, hoping she'd take a hint for once in her wretched life.
"You must have so many memories of this place. You've been here for so many years."
"Mmm." He kept his gaze on the photos, wondering if a well-placed spell could perhaps make the ceiling above her collapse, spare him from further torment.
"You know, when I answered the ad for the Arithmancy job, it really felt meant to be. Like it was exactly where I was supposed to go. I thought at first that it was just because the job was so suited to me... but now I realise, maybe there was more to it." She leaned closer to him, reaching out for a photo, making sure her arm brushed his. She slowly pulled her arm back, letting it rub conspicuously against his. "Perhaps it was putting me in place to meet someone special. Someone like -"
A tawny owl glided into the room, landing nimbly on the table and hopping over to Severus to present the letter in its beak. He opened it, intrigued, immediately recognising Stella's bubbly script:
Hi honey,
Sorry to bother you, but I'm at the music shop in Hogsmeade and a really weird guy is following me around. I would apparate back, but what if he knows where I live... is there anyone about who can meet me at the apparition point at the edge of the castle grounds? Or failing that, could Hagrid come walk me back? I'll stay in the shop for now. Send a note back with the owl. Thanks, honey.
Love you,
Stella
He immediately sprang from the table, grabbing a nearby quill and parchment, and penning a response:
Darling,
Stay there. I'm on the way.
Severus
Ruth watched, flummoxed, as Severus sent the owl off with a note, then swept swiftly from the room without a word, leaving the photos scattered on the table.
********
Stella looked up from reading Sev's note to find him entering the shop. Damn, that was fast. "Where is he?" he asked, sounding as if he were prepared to dole out a few unforgivable curses.
"I haven't seen him in a bit. He followed me all over, then took a picture through that window. I think he's gone now, but it really creeped me out."
Severus approached and looked her over, concern etched on his face. "Are you alright?"
"I'm fine. Just a bit weirded out. You nearly beat the owl here, honey," she said, chuckling.
"Did either of you recognise him?" He asked Miguel and Mateo.
"No," Miguel said. "Never seen him. But we'll keep an eye out."
"Please. Do let us know if anything comes of it." He glanced down at the collection of shopping bags at Stella's feet. "I see you've made good use of the wait," he intoned.
"Miguel gave me a good deal on a ukulele, and an ocarina."
"A what?"
"A potato flute."
"Of course," he said, none the wiser. "Shall we go?"
"Sure. Thanks, guys. See you soon."
"Thank you for looking after her," Severus said.
"Anything for Estella!"
Severus gathered up the bags and held his arm out for Stella. She linked hers in his, and he apparated them to the designated spot just outside the castle grounds.
"Let's stop by the staff room on the way to your chambers," he said. "I've left something there."
They entered to find Minerva and Ruth at the table, looking through the photos. "Oh, there you are!" Minerva said to Severus. "Ruth said you dashed off, is everything alright?"
"Yes," he said. "Apologies, I had an urgent owl. I've come back to collect these," He indicated the photos on the table.
"Did she get herself cursed again?" Ruth asked with a cackle. "You flew out of here like a bat out of hell!"
"She's just fine, thank you," Stella said cattily.
Minerva guessed there was more to the story, but knew they probably didn't want to speak about it in front of Ruth. She'd ask about it later. "Been shopping, dear?" She said cheerfully to Stella. "Got some pretty new clothes from your friend's shop?"
"Not this time. Just books, and Miguel at the music shop talked me into a ukulele. I've been wanting one."
"Oh, lovely. Well, do have a look at those photos, Severus was quite young and adorable in them!"
"Ooh, I will!"
"Here love, you take these, I'll take the bags." He handed her the stack of photos. "Thank you for dredging up the past again, Minerva. Stella at least will enjoy them."
"Plenty more where those came from, I'm sure. Albus really was sentimental about that sort of thing."
********
They had just stepped into Stella's chambers when her mobile rang. "That's probably Mikey." She grabbed the phone from the coffee table and headed into the bedroom. "Moshi moshi..."
Severus made himself comfortable on the sofa and looked through the bag of books she'd bought; a few of those tawdry romance novels she said were like "reading candy." She liked them after a long day, something she could read in the bath without having to put forward too much brainpower. Always with a busty heroine in a flowing dress being embraced by a shitless man with giant pecs and long hair on the cover... She'd also picked up a few more substantial reads: a copy of Gone With the Wind, one called Memoirs of a Geisha, and a few by that horror writer she liked, the one who wrote that Green Mile story. She'd mentioned that the film version was incredible, and she wanted to show him, but said it was too emotionally fraught and never seemed to be in the mood. (It wrecks me for days...) He remembered her saying that library books were her saving grace as a child. Her family couldn't afford to let her take music lessons or go to summer camp, but the library was always there, and she read voraciously over her summer holidays from school.
He loved that about her; her love of books, her ability to read happily for hours, like himself. They often spent evenings reading separately together, each occupied with their own book, sometimes snuggled up close, other times down separate ends of the sofa, quietly enjoying the other's presence.
She giggled upon her return from the bedroom, finding him snuggled under a blanket engrossed in The Highlander's Bride. "Good book?"
"Not exactly. However, I suppose there's something to be said for having three rather erotic scenes within the first two chapters. Who the hell decided that "perky rosebuds" and "throbbing staffs" were sexy turns of phrase? And why are the women always fainting?"
She laughed. "Well, there is much better written smut out there, but it doesn't often turn up in Clarence's shop."
He put the book on the coffee table and beckoned her. "Come here, love." She sat across his lap, her legs to one side, and he wrapped the blanket around them. "I'm just so glad you're alright," he said, holding her close. "Who do you think was following you?"
"No idea. Probably just some pervert. He was so blatant about it though. It was really creepy."
"Someone in the village must know who he is. Gods, I don't want to let you out of my sight." He squeezed her, the protective, possessive feeling flaring up like fire inside him.
"Unfortunately, it's just part of being a woman. Sometimes creepy men just follow you. It's one reason we like to travel in packs."
"Hmpf. Well, I'll be with you next time, on Saturday. Let him try something. I'll hex him before he can blink."
"I know you will." She lay her head on his shoulder and breathed him in. It was rather nice to feel so cared for, so protected.
"How's Mikey?"
"He's good. He was calling to tell me that he'd spoken to Nigel, actually."
"Oh?"
"Yeah. Nigel sent him an owl, apparently wanting to catch up, reconnect. They've not been in touch since school. So Mikey talked to him over the floo yesterday, at Chris's place. He said it was normal at first, just talking about old times. But then Nigel started asking him a lot of questions about me... about what happened to my family, how I coped afterward. Whether I'd dated anyone in New York, things like that. Mikey got a bad feeling and cut the chat short. It's weird, because Nigel was asking me the same things Monday night. I answered him honestly, so why's he now asking Mikey? It's like he's trying to find something incriminating on me."
"Perhaps he thinks if he does find out anything, it would break us up."
"Hmm. Well good luck with that. I have too many clothes to have room for skeletons in my closet."
"Truer words were never spoken, darling." He kissed her lovingly in the top of the head. "Mmm. Your hair smells of coconut." He thought for a moment. "I know you asked me not to, but... I could go into his mind, just briefly, and find out what he's up to?"
"No, honey. Absolutely not. Doing that has caused nothing but drama. I don't have any embarrassing secrets to hide anyway, so who cares what he's doing. I'm not letting an idiot like Nigel come between us."
He sighed. "Fine. I shall bow to your will, Madam."
"Damn straight. Ugh, you know what the worst part of today is? I didn't even get to finish my shopping."
"You can make up for it on Saturday. I'll buy you something pretty to cheer you up."
"I was going to go to the lingerie shop."
"Oh..."
"What? Not interested?" she teased.
"Oh I'm interested. I've just... never been in there."
"Well you can stand guard at the door while I go in, if you want. Their new spring collection is in. I have far too much black, I need something more colourful."
"What's wrong with black?"
"Oh, nothing. It's my favourite. But variety is the spice of life."
"That must be Nigel's motto."
She laughed heartily. "You mean you wouldn't do the same, if you were him?"
He gave a huff somewhere between offence and disgust. "I could never be him, love. Or at least, I can't fathom it. How can having nothing but meaningless sex ever fulfil anyone? I'd honestly rather be alone for life, given the choice between the two."
"Really?"
"Really. I assumed I would be, for a long time. It wasn't fulfilling, but I'd prefer it to just chasing one one-night-stand after the other."
"Honestly, me too."
"It's a good thing I finally stopped listening to my stupid brain and kissed you, then. Or we might both have ended up alone forever.” She put her arms around his neck and kissed him tenderly. "On second thought," he said, "I'd have ended up alone forever. You? Not a chance."
"Oh honey, you say the sweetest things," she said, laughing. "Well, what should we do tonight? I may not have another evening free until spring break."
"Hmm. Why don't we order dinner in, have a nice long bath, then retire to bed and watch a film. Or... not." He glanced at the romance book on the table. "Perhaps there may be some sheathing of throbbing staffs."
Her face screwed up in laughter. "Okay, but fetch the smelling salts, lest I should faint in your rugged arms."
Join the Snapeshifters' Snape-centric Discord server for this month's Snapesignment. We're celebrates two things: songs that inspire us and LGBTQIA+ representation.
For this challenge, your work should: (a) be inspired by a song (lyrics are optional - vibes, themes, or mood are totally fine), and (b) include an LGBTQIA+ story element.
Prompts will be either:
🎵 a song-related element (e.g. “a song that mentions a mailman” or “a song that mentions alcohol”)
🏳️🌈 an LGBTQIA+ story element (e.g. “coming out,” “platonic life partner,” “Fire Island”).
There will be 20 prompts total and a maximum word count of 2407. Snape does not have to appear in your work.
Come Join SnapeShifters' Guild on Discord for more details!
(kudos to our member SanctuaryAngel for the above graphic!)
TIMELINE:
(in Eastern Standard Time, N. America)
Claiming open: Thursday, June 4 to June 19
Works due: Friday, June 19th at 10:00 PM
Works released: Saturday, June 20th at 2:00 PM
Voting due: Friday, June 26th at 10:00 PM
Reveals and awards: Sunday, June 28th at 4:00 PM
If you've never done a flash comp style event, feel free to ask us what it's about and details in the event channels on the server #snape-signments and #missives
PROMPTS:
a song that alludes to a myth
a song that is flat out dirty, all about sex
a song about a city
a song about a place that no longer exists
a song in another language
a song with no lyrics
a song about magic
a song that alludes to a feudal title (i.e. king, queen, prince, etc.)
a song with weather elements
a song from an animated children's film
a story about a secret crush
a story about being in love with someone who likes you but doesn't share a compatible orientation
a story where patronuses are affected by whether or not someone has accepted their orientation
a story where the MC runs into another closeted person at a queer event/space
a story about an underground safe haven for lgbtqia+ folk
a story about a lavender marriage (which can be cool, too)
a story about a love letter
a story about buying gender-affirming clothes for the first time
a story about having to explain lgbtqia+ term(s) to an (older) relative and they thought it was something completely different
a story about having a mentor/role model
We look forward to celebrating with you 🏳️🌈 💛
Severus Snape x You (female reader)
Rated 18+ (Smut,) 4,581 words
(Reader is his teaching assistant, is an adult, and is not his former student.)
Your sixth-month performance review as Potions Teaching Assistant at Hogwarts has just concluded, and you head down to the dungeons to properly thank your boss for his positive assessment.
The cauldron is steaming. The sex is even steamier.
Excerpt from an upcoming chapter of At Last; Masterlist here! Spoiler alert for anyone reading the full fic. Summary behind the cut.
Forgotten items, botched potions, and *ahem* adult magazines... Stella helps Severus clean out the Slytherin dorms during the summer break… and helps make his teenage dream come true.
Fandom: Harry Potter
Pairing: Severus Snape x OC
Chapter Rating: 18+ (Smut)
4,850 words
Chapter Masterlist
********
Chapter 58: Hot for Teacher
A simple black pencil dress makes Ruth the subject of ridicule, and Stella the object of every man’s fantasy - one which Severus is lucky enough to live out.
********
Monday, 26th March 2001
The long evening of play rehearsal in the auditorium was finally drawing to a close, culminating in Stella spending time working with Cleo on her pitch and breath control for Somewhere Over the Rainbow. After an hour of coaching, Stella threw her arms up in glee, yelping in excitement as Cleo finally completed the song perfectly in one go. "You did it, girlie! I knew you could!" She ran onto the stage and hugged her, tears of joy welling up in her eyes.
Nigel watched appreciatively. It really was lovely to see. For all his cad-ish ways, he did care about his students, and it was always satisfying to see them succeed. Stella had such a knack with them, and was able to help them in ways he'd never have been able to. His first big performance as Hogwarts Theatre professor was going to be a real success, and he had to admit, he owed a big part of it to Stella, who covered all things music and dance whilst he focused on the students' acting.
It was a shame he couldn't feel more for her than just lust, he mused.
He could never see himself settling down with any woman for the long-term, but should that day ever come, he'd want it to be with someone like her. It was also a shame her boyfriend was Severus Snape. He was going to get back at the bastard no matter what, and Stella was going to end up being collateral damage. Oh well. Maybe, just maybe there was still a slight chance he'd get a shag out of it, if he played his cards right?
Cleo headed back to her dormitory, and Stella sat back down in one of the audience seats to finish some paperwork. Nigel sidled over and sat next to her. "Well-done, Stella Belle, that was incredible work! I thought she'd never get there."
"I knew she would, she just needed the confidence." She continued with her paperwork, not looking up.
"It's getting late. Your loving bat must be wondering where you are."
"Piss off, Nige. How many times do I have to tell you," she said, too tired to hide her annoyance.
"Sorry, sorry." She carried on with her paperwork. "Who did you date before him, anyway? You must have had some interesting boyfriends in New York."
"I had a serious boyfriend for a few years. A really sweet guy from North Carolina. He died in the storm, too."
Nigel was taken aback. He'd not expected such a frank answer. But perhaps he could use it to his advantage... "Gods, I'm so sorry, I had no idea. You must have been devastated."
"I was." Was he really bringing this up now? Fucking hell, Nigel.
"How did you cope afterwards? After the storm?"
Stella sighed. Nigel had a lot of talents; reading a room was not one of them. Fuck it. She'd give him straightforward answers, hopefully make him regret asking, then finish her work and finally get to see her loving dungeon bat. She looked up from her parchment. "Not well. I really went through a bad time. It took years to become something like myself again. It's not something you ever get over, really. It's more like the overwhelming grief just slowly becomes easier to live with. Never easy... but slightly easier."
"Is that why you won't take a cheeky little toke with me? Was it drugs? Is that how you coped?"
Stella laughed and rolled her eyes. "No, Nigel, it wasn't drugs. I worked myself nearly to death. And when I wasn't working, I was off in some nightclub trying to dance my grief away. I barely slept for three years. Mikey had to quite literally scrape me off the sidewalk. I came to my senses and took a year off, living in a van and driving all over the US. Then I came here."
Nigel was furiously making mental notes. "Lived in a van? Wow, I never thought you'd be the sort! Well, I guess you're stuck here forever now, huh? Now that you've crossed paths with the infamous Severus Snape."
Stella shook her head slowly. Nigel really was unbelievable. "I'm really happy here. For the first time in a very long time. I don't want to be anywhere else. Or with anyone else."
"Oh, for sure! But what about when you were living in a van? You must have some stories!"
"Not really. I kept to myself, drove around, camped in different places, and did a lot of sightseeing on my own. That's really it."
"Oh come on, you must have some crazy tale to tell! Some embarrassing story to share with your old friend Nige!"
"I really don't. Are you gonna interrogate me all night, or can I finish my work now?"
Nigel sighed. She really was a tough nut to crack.
"By the way, what the hell were you and Ruth up to yesterday? Don't tell me you've added her notch to your bedpost?"
Nigel sputtered. "No, no! Never! Gods. She just saw me in the pub and kept buying me drinks. Who am I to turn down a free pint?"
A sound caught their attention: Severus, peering in from the auditorium door. "I'd better get going, need to do something in my office. Goodnight, Stella Belle." He jetted out before Stella could even respond. She looked up at Sev in the doorway and smiled tiredly.
Severus came in and sat beside her. "Hi darling. I'm sorry, I wasn't trying to stalk you..."
"It's okay. I'm actually glad you showed up. He really doesn't know when to shut up." She laid her head on his shoulder and breathed deeply of his comforting scent. "I'm almost done, just need to finish this. What time is it?"
"Nearly eleven."
"Jesus. I completely lost track of time. Poor Cleo... I had her singing for ages."
"If it means she can't speak tomorrow in my lesson, then it was worth it. She's one of those who can't seem to not talk out of turn."
Stella giggled. It was always funny what differing opinions they had of the students. Cleo was chatty, but also hilarious, and had a beautiful singing voice. Not exactly Sev's idea of the model student, but ideal for music and theatre. "I'll keep that in mind. Maybe next time we can work on vocal projection without magic, really get the maximum strain on those vocal cords."
"Please do. Well Madame, there is a hot bath ready for you, if you'd like to accompany me home? I added that peach-scented bubble solution you like."
"Mmm. Say no more, my loving dungeon bat."
********
Tuesday, 27th March 2001
The sound of Madonna's Erotica album emanated from the CD player Ruth had finally figured out how to work. She'd 'borrowed' the machine from the Muggle Studies classroom, thinking Beth wouldn't mind. And if she did, so what? After the way Beth had all but spurned her lately, she didn't really care if she minded or not.
She'd found the CD in the used bookshop in Hogsmeade, which had a small selection of Muggle music for sale. She picked it up on a whim, figuring it was worth a listen. If she liked Madonna, and Snape liked her, then why not see what it was all about. She'd gone all the way to bloody New York to see this Muggle wench in concert, it must really be something special.
The lyrics were shockingly sexual. This was what Little Miss Priss listened to? Did she let the students perform things like this?
She put on one of the dresses she'd gotten at the Belladonna Boutique, a plain black dress which was supposed to fall just below the knee; however, on Ruth's short body, it was nearly ankle-length. It had a high neckline, three-quarter length sleeves (which were nearly full-length on her,) and a thin belt with a buckle shaped like a bow around the waist. It was quite form-fitting; the lady at the shop had called it a "pencil dress," and said it was the sort of thing Muggle business women often wore. Ruth had a feeling she'd been trying to talk her out of buying it. She kept showing her other things, but Ruth knew Stella owned this particular one because she'd seen her show it to Beth in the staff room after returning from shopping one day. If it was good enough for Little Miss Perfect, it was good enough for her.
She regarded herself in the mirror. The dress really was figure-hugging, a far cry from the roomy robes she usually wore. Well, if it was the sort of thing Snape fancied, she'd give it a go.
Though she was fully committed to carrying out her plan, especially now that she had a partner in crime to assist, she still fancied the pants off the man. No harm trying to get him while she still had the chance. Maybe she'd even be the one to wreck their happy home, rather than Nigel. Wouldn't that be poetic justice?
She went to the mirror and started applying makeup, thinking that maybe this perverted music would put her in the right headspace for seduction.
********
Severus sat at the long table in the staff room, wondering what on earth Minerva had to talk about this time. Hadn't they just had one of these meetings yesterday? No, but it certainly seemed that way. The chair beside him was empty; Stella had left the lipstick she wanted to wear in her office and had gone to get it. She'd just now turned up; he could hear the heels she was wearing approaching before she entered, looking stunning in her new black pencil dress from Stevie's shop.
She went to make a cup of tea for the meeting. "Are we all here?" asked Minerva. "Oh, just waiting for Ruth."
Stella was still standing by the tea station when Ruth appeared, clomping in as if she were a child wearing her father's boots. She was wearing a rather matronly pair of shoes with short chunky heels... and the same black pencil dress Stella had on. Everyone at the table looked over at the noise, then at Stella once they noticed the matching dresses.
Stella was dying to laugh. This was getting downright creepy now. She could hear her Granny's country accent saying, "good lord, she looks like a busted can of biscuits!" The form-fitting dress was doing her no favours. And her makeup... There was a visible line where her too-light foundation ended; combined with the garish lipstick and eyeliner, she looked like a deranged geisha.
Knowing the entire staff had their eyes on her, Stella looked Ruth slowly up and down. "Lovely dress, Ruth, " she purred with a smile, sashaying gracefully to the table in her elegant five-inch heels with her teacup, sitting smugly next to Severus and crossing her legs daintily. She had on his favourite stockings, and Ruth was only making her look even better by comparison. God bless whoever donated brand-new Louboutins to that thrift store years ago! She idly bounced her foot, her shiny black stiletto gleaming in the light, knowing it would catch his gaze.
She was right. Bloody hell, she looks like a goddess next to a goblin, he thought, knowing every man at the table was making the same comparison. The thought gave him a fierce sense of pride and satisfaction. Look all you want, you sorry sods. She's all mine.
Ruth clomped awkwardly over to the last remaining seat - right next to Stella. At her age, and with her build, it was difficult to cross her legs in the same ladylike manner, so she instead crossed them at the ankle, the leather of her new shoes rubbing together with a loud squeak. The belt strained around her as she sat, and she fussed with it to try and keep it from digging into her pronounced middle.
Minerva had watched the scene play out with great amusement. "Don't you both look lovely," she said, before launching into today's meeting notes. It was difficult to keep her composure, looking at Stella and Ruth sat next to each other, in matching outfits; one the picture of grace and beauty, the other looking like a melted clown.
Severus was tempted to go into Ruth's mind; if nothing else, it would be hilarious to know what she was thinking right now. But he'd told Stella he wouldn't, and he didn't want to do anything that would upset her, after last week. He turned his thoughts instead to the sexy legs looking so alluring next to him... fuck. He may not be the only man lusting after her in the moment, but knowing that he'd be the one who got to touch her later mollified him, made him feel incredibly, deliciously smug.
When the meeting wrapped up, Stella went to her inbox; he watched as every male professor's eyes lingered on her as they left the room, save for Orion and Hagrid, who were real gentlemen. In that dress, with those heels, and her hair and makeup done to perfection as always, she was the epitome of every man's sexy teacher fantasy. Severus still couldn't believe he was lucky enough to get to live out the fantasy.
Finally only the two of them, Minerva, and Ruth were left. Stella finished up at her inbox and walked over to Severus, putting her arm around him, knowing it would make Ruth seethe. "All sorted."
Minerva eyed the pair gaily; she knew they'd each enjoyed the scene as much as she had. Stella because she didn't care for Ruth, especially after their night out. And Severus... well, he'd never said it directly, but she knew it must give him a thrill to be seen with such a beautiful woman next to him. And he certainly wasn't fond of Ruth. "You really do look lovely today, dear. That dress is stunning on you."
"Thank you. My friend designed it. She keeps me well-stocked in beautiful dresses."
"And the two of you are matching today, how adorable." Minerva winked at them conspiratorially, knowing it would annoy Ruth.
Stella giggled softly. "I didn't even think of that. Though he's not the only one I'm matching with today." She gave Ruth a pointed look, then turned her gaze back to Severus. "You better be careful, honey. You might mistake one of us for the other."
Severus couldn't help but audibly scoff. "Never in a million years, darling."
Stella laughed softly. "Well, I should go. Walk me to class?" she asked, looking at Severus.
"Of course, love."
Ruth watched them leave through narrowed eyes, wishing Stella would twist an ankle in those stupid shoes.
Minerva turned her eyes to Ruth. "You've got a bit of lipstick on your teeth, dear. Here, have a tissue." She pulled a small packet from her pocket and handed one over. "You know, I've been to that shop, the Belladonna Boutique. The lady who owns it is very knowledgeable. She gives excellent advice on the type of clothes to flatter various figures. Next time you should ask her, I'm sure she'd be glad to help."
Ruth paused, tissue still pressed to her teeth, and watched Minerva leave the room as her words sunk in
********
Severus followed Stella into her office, where they both immediately burst into laughter. "What. The hell. Is she thinking?" Stella could barely breathe.
"Gods, the two of you sat together like that... it was like Snow White and the Wicked Queen."
"Wow, nice Muggle reference, honey. I really am rubbing off on you."
"I did grow up in the Muggle world, you know..."
"If she doesn't stop, I'm going to crack a rib from laughing. Maybe if she weren't such a crazy bitch she'd have a nice female friend to help her with clothes and makeup."
"True, you did wonders for Beth. Even landed her a man."
Stella giggled, hopping up to sit on her desk. "Yeah, see, nice things happen when you aren't a complete harpy. I swear her makeup gets worse every day. Stevie was evil selling her that dress!"
"She did say she tried talking her out of it. By the way, how on earth do you walk in those?" He indicated her heels, which were exceptionally high, taller than her usual. "Gods, you're nearly my height when you wear them."
"Oh, I've been practicing since I was a child. Used to clomp around in my mom's shoes all the time. You just get used to it. I could run a marathon in five-inch heels. You know... I could use a charm to make my shoes silent, but I don't, only because I know it annoys her."
Severus laughed softly. "My evil little witch." He ran a hand appreciatively down her leg. "Do me a favour?"
"Sure?"
He kissed her deeply, his hand still caressing her leg. "Don't take them off when you get home tonight."
--------------------
Ruth passed by the auditorium later that evening, seeing Nigel and Stella both engrossed in play rehearsal with the Theatre students. Good, she'll be busy for a few hours. She left the castle and made her way to the greenhouses. She'd head Snape say to Pomona that he was going to come by and take cuttings of some plant. Pomona said she'd be out this evening, but to help himself.
She was going to try a new approach. Nigel had told her about what happened to the Yank's family. Who knew the little priss had a tragic backstory. Well, if he liked the damsel in distress type, she'd play up to it. It was worth a shot, at least.
She poked her head into Greenhouse Two and saw him with a small pair of shears, snipping off bits of some tall bush. "Trimming the bush, Snape?" she gibed, immediately regretting it. Shit, you're supposed to be the dainty, helpless type. No more crass jokes.
Severus audibly groaned. Couldn't he get a single moment of peace? "What is it this time, Professor?" He turned to find her in the same too-tight dress, her garish makeup looking even more melted than it had this morning.
"Oh, nothing, I just happened to be coming by for something and saw you, that's all."
"Right." He stared at her blankly.
"I just needed some of... um... of this." She pulled the closest potted plant near and began roughly ripping off leaves.
Severus raised an eyebrow. "Surely you don't need stinging nettle so badly that you're willing to collect it barehanded?"
Ruth's hands began to throb and turn bright red where she'd touched the plant. "Oh, silly me!" She attempted a girlish giggle, which came out as more of a harsh cackle. "I'm a bit distracted today. It's the anniversary of my grandmother's death."
"Mmm." He turned back to the bush he was collecting from.
"Yes, she died a year ago. It's been soooo hard for me since."
Severus didn't say anything, wanting to finish the job at hand and leave, but Ruth prattled on. "It was tragic. She was a hundred and ten years old, died in her sleep. None of us saw it coming. She had so much life in her still. I've cried over her every day since."
Severus was gathering his cuttings into a small bag, anxious to leave as soon as possible. "A peaceful death at the age of one hundred and ten. Tragic indeed."
"It's been so hard, not having anyone to comfort me." She drew closer, until she stood next to him. "I know I'm not the only one with a tragic background. People can really bond over things like that, you know. Be a real comfort to each other." She put her hand lightly on his forearm, and stroked it lightly. "We could be a comfort to each other..."
Severus drew back his arm. "I have all the comfort I require, thank you." He began walking toward the door.
"What, from her?" she spat, her mood turning on a dime. "From Little Miss Priss with her ten inch heels?"
Severus smirked. "Indeed. And I'm a lucky man. Doesn't she look positively stunning in that dress today? Every man in the staff room was drooling."
Ruth sputtered, looking down at her own identical dress.
"Hmm," said Severus, eyeing her in the too-tight, unflattering dress. "Clearly one size does not fit all."
He left, cloak billowing, hoping that the hag would get caught up in some devil's snare.
********
Stella kept an eye on the clock this time, making sure play rehearsal ended at a decent hour. She was back in her office around nine when Severus stood in the doorway, watching her tidying a shelf on the opposite side of the room. She was still in her heels, looking like every schoolboy's fantasy, and gods, she'd used one of her Muggle pencils to put her hair up in a bun, adding that extra little erotic touch to the sexy professor allure.
She turned to find him waiting in the doorway, looking at her with a peculiar gleam in his eye. "Hi, honey. You alright?"
He came in and shut the door, locking it behind him. "I am now." They moved toward each other. He kissed her briefly, then held back at arm's length to look her over. "But it's been a long day. All day, when I should have been thinking about lessons, or about brewing for Poppy's stock, all I could think about was you in this damn dress, in those damn heels. Every man in that meeting today was sick with desire looking at you."
She moved in closer, pressing herself against him. "Well, let them look. It's all for you." She pulled him in by the cloak and gave him a searing kiss; in the heels she didn't have to stand tiptoe or look as sharply up as usual to reach him.
"Mmm. Have you silenced this room today?"
"Mmm-hmm."
"Good." He kissed her ravenously, slowly leading her to her desk. "You always look so fucking cute perched on this desk every morning, all dolled up for the day, swinging your legs so innocently. I've imagined bending you over it more times than I can count." His hot lips travelled over her neck, kissing and nipping at her soft skin. He breathed deeply of her delicious scent; strawberries, honeysuckle, and a hint of her peach bubble bath. "You don't look cute today. You look incredibly sexy. Like every schoolboy's wet dream. I nearly came by at lunch to ravish you in the cupboard."
"Maybe you should have," she replied breathily, rapidly melting under his touch.
"Next time I will. For now, I'm going to live out the fantasy every man in this castle will be having tonight." He spun her around to face the desk, then resumed kissing up and down her neck, running his hands all over her. He hiked up her dress, nudging her closer to the desk. She leant over, resting on both hands. "Fuck," he inhaled sharply, taking in her black lingerie; one of her suspender belts and a pair of lace knickers, cut so that her arse cheeks only just peeked out. Combined with the stockings and heels, the sight caused a sharp pang of lust in his already hard cock. Merlin's fucking balls, will I ever tire of this sight? His hand stroked one stockinged thigh, caressing her arse cheek, and moving between her thighs; there he found a warm, damp little gift all wrapped in black lace.
She heard his belt undoing, felt her knickers being pulled to one side, then him, hot and hard against her; she let out a little moan of anticipation.
"Mmm, moaning already, Miss? Let me give you something to moan about, Professor." His cock filled her, slowly this time, inch by inch, and she surrendered blithely, leaning further over the desk. He paused briefly once he'd filled her completely, grasping her hips tightly and letting out a groan of pleasure, then commenced gliding in and out, his cock glistening with her slick arousal.
"Fuck, baby, you feel so good. Mmmm... ohhhh..." Her moans intensified, ringing prettily off the vaulted ceiling.
"You feel like a dream. And you look like a fucking centrefold." His deep, breathy moans seemed to harmonise with hers, an erotic overture intensified beautifully by the acoustics of the room.
The antique desk creaked a bit under them, each thrust rattling the various things atop it. A few items tumbled to the floor. He continued thrusting without care; it could be cleaned up with a spell later. Right now his focus was completely on the gorgeous sight before him; his cock thrusting into the sexiest woman in the world, wearing the sexiest thing imaginable, so wet and ready for him that they'd not even bothered removing her knickers, moaning his name as her breath grew shallower, her moans more desperate...
"Severus... Severus...oh god..."
"Mmm, fuck yes," he grunted through gritted teeth, his own explosive release juuust at the edge... "Cum for me, you sweet little tease. Mmmmpfh... fffffffuuuu..."
She came with an angelic cry that reverberated like a siren's song, clenching rhythmically around his cock. He followed in seconds, grasping her hips, trying to keep his eyes open to fully appreciate the sight of finishing deep inside her like this, fully dressed in something from a fantasy photo spread in a lads' mag.
After a few deep breaths, he took in the glorious sight one more time, then lowered himself tiredly onto her chair, enjoying the view until she caught her breath enough to straighten up, fix her knickers, and tug her dress back down. She hopped back up onto the desk, sitting prettily as she did each morning, swinging her legs a bit and looking at him. He looked so gorgeous, flushed from the sex, his hair a bit mussed, his face relaxed in post-coital bliss. "Gods, you are incredible," he said, still breathing a bit heavily. "I didn't ruin your new dress, did I?"
"No. But maybe you should write a nice review for Stevie's shop."
"Hmm. 'Clothes so hot they make grown men feral.'"
She laughed. "Maybe she should put a warning label on this dress."
"It's not just the dress. It's the whole thing... the stockings, those bloody shoes... you're the epitome of the sexy professor fantasy."
She giggled, extending one leg out to examine her shoe. "They're Christian Louboutins. His shoes are like art. Most people find them hard to walk in. My friend Byron used to say 'they're for fucking, not for walking.' But hey, why not both?" She smiled cheekily at him.
"Get over here and cuddle me, before I bend you over that desk again, Miss."
She hopped off the desk and onto his lap, laying her head against his shoulder. He was so cute; no matter how intense the sex was, or what sort of scenario they played out, he always wanted to cuddle afterwards. I bet no one would believe it if I told them.
Severus encircled her in his arms, kissing her forehead and sighing in contentment. "You know, when you first moved in, with all those trunks, I couldn't imagine why one person needed so much clothing. But... I'm beginning to see the merits."
"You do seem to appreciate it, more than most men probably would."
"To be completely honest, I fucking love how you look next to me. I know it's wrong. I shouldn't gloat. But gods... when a man notices you, then realises you're with me? I feel like a fucking god."
She giggled softly. "Conceited bastard."
"Then when I get to take you home... or to your office... or to my office... Merlin, it's like having a new woman every night. The sexy professor tonight, the cute little vintage pin-up tomorrow, the party girl in the gold metal dress next week... it's like I won the lottery of sex."
She laughed louder at that. "You're ridiculous."
"Perhaps. But I'm also a lucky bastard. And the best part is, you're just as sexy without all the trimmings. When you first wake up, with no makeup on, and your hair all messy, with your face all scrunched up like you have a personal vendetta against the morning... gods. I fall in love with you all over again." He felt her breath shuddering a bit. "Are you alright? What's wrong?"
"Nothing," she said, sniffling and wiping a tear from her eye. "You're just so sweet. I love you so much."
He smiled his half-smile and held her close, smoothing her hair and kissing her tenderly on the head. "I love you too, darling. So much you can't even fathom. Shall we go home for a nice bath? I'll come to yours; we can watch a film in bed."
"Okay. But... you told me to leave these shoes on when I got home..." She gave him a questioning look, one eyebrow raised.
"So I did. Not to worry, Miss. The night is young. I'm sure something can be arranged.”
So I did a thing... joined a fic flash fest... and ended up winning two awards! Best Romance, and Fluffiest Fic! This means so much, because this time last year I'd never written anything, let alone shared it! Thank you to The Snapeshifter's Guild server, @yearoftheleapling for hosting, and @bloodlineofbriars who made the Is It Cake award art.
Here's the piece! For Educational Purposes Only - (Snape x Charity Burbage, rated G)
And link to the full list of fics. There's something for everyone: smut, fluff, even crack! Go show the authors some love!
Fandom: Harry Potter
Pairing: Severus Snape x Charity Burbage
Rating: G Words: 1,866
Professional collaboration, Albus called it. Research for a unit in the new Muggle Studies curriculum, he’d said. She’s keen to see firsthand what Muggle courtship is like. And no one else at Hogwarts is capable of navigating the Muggle world with more panache than yourself, Severus.
What it actually was, Severus thought, was a humiliation ritual...
On AO3 🍿🎥✮⋆˙ by OutsideTheRain6070
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Part of the Secrets in the Staffroom Flash Fest put on by the Snapeshifter's Guild Discord Server
Fandom: Harry Potter
Pairing: Severus Snape x OC
Chapter Rating: 16+ (Drinking/drunkenness, domestic fluff)
5,225 words
Chapter Masterlist
********
Chapter 57: Back for Good
Stella has a heart-to-heart with Minerva, Nigel hatches a plan with Ruth, and Severus enjoys an evening of domestic bliss.
********
Sunday, 25th March 2001
Severus shook his head, a little exasperated, as he watched Stella dress for the day. He'd tried getting her to stay in bed, or at least stay under a warm blanket on his sofa, but she wouldn't give in. Though her body still ached a bit from her illness, she was feeling much better, and didn't want to waste the day. "I can't lay around like a useless lump for two whole days," she said, rattling off a list of things she claimed needed doing: visiting Reina the phoenix, dropping off/picking up papers in the staff room, tidying her classroom - she'd not been able to, having passed out on Friday. He managed to talk her out of going to Hogsmeade for shopping, at least, promising they'd go next weekend.
He wondered if he'd done the right thing. Should he have insisted she stay in? After last week, he didn't wish to appear overly dictatorial. But she was so bloody stubborn... he hoped she wouldn't overextend herself, make herself ill again before she was even fully recovered. He made a mental note to give her a little extra care tonight. Perhaps a nice long massage would help ease the lingering aches.
********
"Her feathers are coming in so fast! She's just gorgeous," Stella raved about Reina on the way back from Hagrid's. "You picked the most beautiful one."
"Only the best for you, darling," he returned as they entered the staff room.
"Oh, hello you two!" Minerva was at the long table, looking through a large assortment of photos. It's so good to see them together. I was beginning to think something may be a bit out of sorts last week…
"Hi, what are you doing?" Stella asked curiously.
"I've found an old box of photos in my office. Albus was a bit of a packrat. I've been slowly cleaning things out, but the task seems never ending. Come have a look, some of them are from your student days, Severus."
He wasn't sure how he felt about the prospect. "Must I?"
"Oh don't be silly, Stella wants to have a look, surely. Don't you dear?"
"Of course I do!" she replied, looking at Severus adoringly before eagerly joining Minerva at the table.
"I suppose I have no choice, then," he sighed, taking a seat beside her.
"This one's lovely, it must have been at the end of term feast. What are you here, about fifteen?" She passed the photo over; Stella regarded it with great interest, whilst Severus merely gave a reluctant glance.
She gave a little gasp. "Look at you! What a cutie!" she said with a giggle. He really was; same face, same long hair, same tall height, with the lanky slenderness of youth, looking cute as a button in her opinion, albeit with the shy posture of a young man not fully sure of himself. She'd certainly have found him beyond dreamy had she been his schoolmate.
"No need to humour me, love. Let's not tell lies in front of Minerva."
"Lies? Are you kidding? I'd have had the biggest crush on you."
He gave a hmpf of disbelief. Minerva's eyes sparkled merrily; it was rather adorable seeing him so disarmed. "I imagine I would have caught you two snogging in the corridors or passing notes in my lessons!"
Severus wondered if his cheeks were as red as they felt. "Mmm-hmm," Stella said. "Believe me, you were sooooo my type, it's not even funny." She turned her head and gave him a coquettish look. "And you still are."
"Having seen what you looked like at fifteen, there's no way in hell I'd have even had the nerve to speak to you."
"Well maybe I'd have sent you one of those classic 'Do you like me, check yes or no' letters," she laughed. "And then Professor McGonagall would have given us both detention. And I'd have been thrilled about it."
"Gods you are ridiculous," he said, though he couldn't help smiling slightly. "What further torture have you got for me then, Minnie?"
"Well, this one I think you'll want to see. It's even older." She slid the photo over. A group of students dressed in clothing that looked to be from the late 1940s sat behind a sign reading "Hogwarts Gobstones Club." Stella immediately recognised the girl directly in the centre. She looked very much like her son, Severus. "We were students together, you know. Only she was older than me, and in a different house. I didn't know her very well. It's a shame really. I wish I had some stories to tell you about her."
Severus looked at the photo with much the same expression he'd had that night Stella had shown him the old photos she'd developed. She put her hand on his in a gentle show of support.
"Why don't you keep it?" Minerva asked softly.
His brow knit slightly as he tried to form an answer. "I can keep it with the others, if you want?" Stella offered.
He nodded slightly. "Please. If you don't mind."
"Oh, now this one's a riot!" Minerva said, hoping to lighten the mood. "Can you believe it?" The photo showed a very merry Dumbledore in the kitchen surrounded by the Hogwarts house-elves, dancing with his hands in the air as if they were in a Muggle nightclub. "What on earth was he up to?" Minerva laughed.
Stella laughed as well, and Severus smirked slightly. "Well, as fascinating as this little trip down memory lane had been, I need to see Pomona for something." He stood up to leave. "You take care, love. Don't tire yourself out. You're still not over your illness. I'll be in my office later, when you're done."
"Okay, I'll see you later."
He longed to kiss her, but Minerva was right there, so he took his leave, grateful to cease the unexpected assault of memories.
Minerva watched him leave, then turned to Stella. "I do hope I've not upset him. I just thought he probably doesn't have very many photos of his mother, or of his younger self."
"I think it's just really hard for him. He's not exactly one to show his emotions, is he; not outwardly like me at least. I'll take the photos if you don't mind. I have a few others that I keep for him."
"Oh really?"
"Mmm-hmm. He gave me an old camera of his mother's. It had a half-used roll of film, and it ended up being a few pictures of him. Baby pictures, one with his mother, and one the first day he left for Hogwarts."
"Oh, I'd love to see those! You must show me sometime. Perhaps when he's not around..." she said conspiratorially. "I remember when he was just a student. I don't believe I've had any student before or after as utterly brilliant as him. It was shocking how intelligent he was. Well, it still is, really."
Stella smiled. "I know what you mean. I've never known anyone like him. It's absurd how intelligent he is."
"He was certainly brilliant. Troubled, though. It was no fault of his own of course, he didn't exactly have the best circumstances in his early life. He always had trouble connecting with people. He's improved vastly, believe it or not." she chuckled. "But it was difficult for him to make friends. Which made joining you-know-who very attractive, I suppose. Finally there was a group who would accept him."
Stella gave a low hum of understanding. "I can imagine."
"I was quite surprised when you seemed to get on so well with him from the start. He's usually quite standoffish to newcomers. And not many appreciate his dry wit."
Stella smiled. "He never seemed that way to me. He was so kind, so sweet. Even with the dry remarks. Honestly, it only made me like him more. I didn't even realise other people found him imposing until the rest of the staff arrived. It was always so easy to be around him. I see now that I'm one of the very few who feel that way," she laughed.
"With the war ending, and him finally being truly free, I think he's slowly learning how to be a regular person in a peaceful world. I think he felt a bit lost for a while. Relieved that it was all over of course, but rather without purpose. The difference in him this year versus last... he really is like a new man. Well, I can see the difference, anyway, even if others can't."
Stella looked idly through some of the photos whilst thinking about what Minerva was saying. "You know, when I saw the ad for the music teaching job, there was something about it that just drew me in. I hadn't planned on coming back to the magical world so soon, but something about it... It felt like it was meant just for me. But I had no idea..." she trailed off, chuckling slightly.
"Maybe it was also meant just for him," Minerva said, a warm gleam in her eye. "I'm not even sure he realises it, but there have been other lady professors in the past who've fancied him a bit. But he's never shown any interest. None of them would have been right for him, anyway. Too loud, or too bubbly, or not quite his intellectual equal..."
"What the hell is he doing with me, then? I'm nowhere near his intellectual equal," Stella laughed.
"Don't sell yourself short, dear. He'd never have spent so much time with you if you weren't!" She smiled warmly at Stella. "I'd say you're exactly what he needed. Someone intelligent, and sweet, but not the loud, bubbly sort that would have annoyed him. For someone who teaches performance, you have a quiet sort of presence that I didn't expect. But I think that's exactly what he loves about you. And you're a bit less rigid, more free-spirited than him, but not in an ostentatious way. It's exactly what he needed. And after all he's been through, and so many years alone, I'm so happy for him. For both of you."
Stella felt her eyes start to well up. "Gosh Minerva, you're going to make me cry."
Minerva reached over and gave her a motherly pat on the hand. "I know he must annoy you at times. He's always been so rigid in the way he does things, although I suppose he had to be, to survive at all." She looked wistfully into the distance for a moment and sighed. "And I know he can be overly... zealous, about certain things. He feels a real need to protect you. And he can certainly let jealousy get the best of him, be a bit possessive... but please, be patient with him. He loves you so much, and you just don't know what a world of difference you've made in his life." She looked back at Stella, who couldn't stop a few tears running down her cheeks.
"Honestly, he's done the same for me. I was so lost for so long, after what happened to my family... I didn't know if I'd ever be happy again. I felt so... untethered. Like I had no home. I mean, I had my place in New York, but that isn't really home home, you know? And my home isn't even there any more. But... now I realise home can be a person. And I feel like I have a home again."
"Oh, now you've gone and done it!" Minerva pulled a handkerchief from her pocket and blotted her eyes. "Look at us, a few old photos and we completely lose our wits!" Their hearty laughter carried into the corridor, where Ruth had been listening since shortly after seeing Severus leave. Filing away every detail, she wondered what the Yank had meant about her family, about her home no longer being there... she kept listening as Stella and Minerva continued to look through the photos.
"Here's another one of him, he looks about seventeen there," Minerva said.
"I know he doesn't believe me when I say it, but he really was cute. I always fancied the awkward, smart type."
"Here's one of the school choir just a few years ago. Filius used to have the students use toads as part of the performances." Minerva chuckled. "Once at the Halloween feast, they all hopped away mid-song. The Weasley twins had released a whole jar of flies, and the toads just couldn't resist."
Stella laughed as well. What on earth... "Toads as instruments? And I thought my lessons were unorthodox!"
"Well it was high time we modernised the music lessons anyway. The students have really blossomed this year."
"I'm surprised you hired me, to be honest. I'm not even classically trained. I learned from my uncle and auntie, and from Muggle music videos on TV."
"That didn't matter a bit to me. The other applicants all boasted about their training... you spoke about your students, and how much they meant to you. I could tell you actually have a passion for teaching, and for children. Anyone can learn a bit of Mozart. But a knack for connecting with children can't be taught. And Merlin knows we needed someone a bit less stuffy and traditional around here. Someone more nurturing."
"Oh stop it, you're going to make me cry again!"
Ruth took this moment to come into the room. "I'd better get going," Stella said. "My classroom needs tidying. Thank you for these." She indicated the photos Minerva had given her. "Let us know if you come across any more."
"I will, dear."
Stella did her business quickly at the inboxes, then left, blatantly ignoring Ruth, who was pawing through the photos at the table. God, look at her makeup today. She looks like she's auditioning for Whatever Happened to Baby Jane...
********
Stella was tying up a few loose ends in her office when a piece of parchment, folded into the shape of a bird, flew in and landed gracefully on her desk, unfolding itself to reveal a note in precise cursive:
Darling,
I've had to go into Hogsmeade to collect an order from the apothecary; a volatile potion ingredient that can't wait. I'll come to your chambers when I've returned and sorted it.
Love,
Severus
She chuckled to herself. A volatile ingredient? Such drama. The bird-shaped memo was a nice touch, though. She'd have to try and remember to ask what it was he'd collected. It was rather soothing to lay her head on his chest whilst he explained the ins and outs of various potions lore to her, even if it was often over her head. Just another part of that brilliant mind she so adored.
********
Nigel hadn't expected to find himself day-drinking with Ruth when he'd ducked into the Three Broomsticks, hoping to avoid Severus, whom he'd just spotted leaving Alice's Antiques, stuffing something into his inner cloak pocket. Nevertheless, here they were two pints and two Fizzing Fireballs later, nicely tipsy and having a proper conversation for the first time since he'd joined the Hogwarts staff. Ruth certainly wasn't the sort of woman he'd normally be seen having drinks with, but she insisted on buying, and who was he to turn down a free buzz.
"So how've you found it so far, working at the illustrious Hogwarts?" Ruth asked, her tiny eyes already reddening from the drinks. "Some of the staff are real nutters, eh?"
Nigel laughed merrily. "You're right about that! No idea how an oaf like Hagrid became a professor. And Trelawny is a total basket case. She told me the other day that I was destined for misery and gloom..."
Ruth beckoned to Madame Rosemerta, who sent another round of shots and two fresh pints over on a hovering tray. "Why Ruth, are you trying to get me drunk?" Nigel said, mockingly flirtatious.
"What better way to ease the misery and gloom?" They clinked shot glasses and knocked back the Fireballs. "Yeah, the staff are a right bunch of weirdos. Beth used to be alright, until she started hanging out with that Rosenbaum. Now she thinks she's too good to speak to me. She's got some new boyfriend, too. That meddling music teacher hooked them up, you know."
Nigel's ears perked up upon mention of Stella. "Good old Stella Belle, always a delight!" Ruth couldn't tell whether he was being sarcastic or not.
"With your charm, I figured you'd have talked her into bed by now!" Ruth said crassly.
Nigel gave a disheartened laugh. "I've been trying for fifteen years, Ruth. She won't budge. Especially now that she's tied up with that bloody dungeon-dwelling bat. Who decided a Death Eater was an appropriate person to teach children, anyway?!"
Ruth's smile was positively villainous. He seemed to hate Snape as much as she hated Stella. And he'd gone to school with her... he probably had a lot of information on her she could use to her advantage. This could be a match made in heaven... "But tell me how you really feel, won't you?" she said mischievously. "It's hard to believe someone her age and with her looks would go for him over you!"
"Don't I know it! I'm convinced he's keeping her drugged on some potion, or using dark magic! Hey, did you know that bastard can read minds?"
Ruth knew. She'd obsessively read every shred of information on Severus Snape she could get her hands on. But she feigned shock. "No!" she gasped. "How'd you know that?" She gestured for another round of shots.
"Well... you might not believe me if I told you!" His speech was slurring slightly now from the alcohol.
"Ohh??"
Nigel looked around to ensure no one was near, then leaned in over the table. "Because he does it to me."
"No!"
"Yes. And it makes me crazy. I can barely sleep at night. And the only way I can get back at him is to shag his bird, break them up. But she just won't. I'm telling you, he's got her under some dark spell."
"Personally, I can't stand the bitch. She prances around the castle like she's the bloody Queen, changing everything up, stomping all over school traditions. And she took my best friend. And she's got Snape wrapped around her little finger..."
"Sounds like you want some revenge too," Nigel laughed. "You hate her, and I hate Snape. I never realised we had common ground! Gods, what I wouldn't do to get one over on that bastard... but his bird's too bloody uptight to let me show her a good time!"
Ruth's villainous smile threatened to crack her face in half. "What if I told you there was a way to get back at both of them..."
Nigel's bloodshot eyes widened at the prospect. "I'm all ears."
********
The sound of shuffling feet and tittering giggles drew nearer as Stella rounded the corner on her way home. The last people she expected to see were Ruth and Nigel, completely sozzled, stumbling through the castle corridor with their arms slung around each other's shoulders like best mates.
"Hellooooo, Stella Belle, the girl of the hour!" Nigel hailed her as she approached.
"Shhhhh!!!" Ruth shushed him aggressively, making them both break into drunken giggles.
Stella shook her head slowly as she passed. "I'm not even gonna ask."
"Good!" Nigel shouted a little too aggressively.
I think hell has officially frozen over, she thought, laughing inside as she made her way home.
********
The living room was dim when he quietly opened her door, the flickering light from the film she'd been watching illuminating her sleeping form on the sofa. His heart softened at the sight. She was probably still tired from being ill, and as he expected, had worn herself out trying to be productive when she should have been resting. She had on her heart-printed pyjamas, which had grown on him, and was snuggled adorably under one of her handmade blankets, looking peaceful and pretty in the flickering light. Gods, I love her. Seeing her like this made that protective instinct flare within him, made him want to wrap his arms around her and keep her here in this room forever, where no harm could ever befall her. But alas...
He shucked off his black robes and made himself comfy on the other end of the sofa, using his wand to cast a glow just bright enough to read by. Settling in with one of the books she'd brought him from New York, he tried to lose himself in the archaic world of Plutonious Braythwaite, and waited for his lady love to awaken.
********
The end credits had just begun when her bare feet planted themselves squarely in his lap. She turned and stretched, sighing as she woke.
"Hi, darling." His voice startled her a bit.
"Hi, honey," she murmured sleepily. "Didn't know you were here."
"Just whose lap did you think you were kicking, then?"
"With any luck, Johnny Depp's," she said, hearing the end credits of the film emanating from the DVD player.
"Griping grief of the heart doth wound, Madam," he said impudently, holding his hand to his heart in mock sorrow.
She giggled gleefully. "Aren't you fancy. How long have you been here?"
"Long enough to wonder what the bloody hell that film is about. He just lived in an abandoned castle on a hill forever? How did he survive? Why didn't that girl ever go visit him if she loved him so much? Even if they all thought he was dead, she could have sneaked away once in a while."
She laughed even harder. "It's a fantasy story, don't ask too many questions."
"Hmpf. You seem to have a lot of that bloke's films. Must be one of your celebrity crushes."
"Oh, Johnny Depp is every woman's celebrity crush."
"Lucky sod."
She sat up and scooted close. "I'd go visit you, if you were living all alone in an abandoned castle and had scissors for hands." She snuggled up, laying her head on his shoulder.
"But then I'd not be able to make you squirm so deliciously under my touch..."
"True. We'd just have to be really creative."
He chuckled under his breath. "It's nearly eight, we should have dinner. What do you fancy?"
"Hmm..." she gave it serious thought. "Something stodgy. Lancashire hotpot. With peas. And some strawberry rhubarb crumble. No custard on mine."
"Just when I think you've fully assimilated, you say no custard."
"Once a Yank, always a Yank."
"Indeed." He summoned Weeble and asked for dinner to be sent.
********
They had dinner on the sofa, whilst Stella replayed the part of the film she'd slept through, crying a bit at the end even though she'd seen it umpteen times over.
"Ughhh, it's so sad!" she lamented, turning off the film and brightening the room a bit. "Tell me about your volatile shopping, get my mind off of it. How's Ambrose? Did he say my Dead Sea sponge came in yet?"
"He's fine, no it's not come yet, and it was Indonesian Glasswort powder I had to collect."
"And what's so urgent about Indonesian Glasswort that it needs special care?"
"It must be kept at a very precise temperature, else it explodes. Ambrose is more than capable of handling it, but he doesn't like to keep it in the shop any longer than necessary, just in case. I have a cold storage cupboard deep in the dungeons, in one of the unused rooms. Even if it does explode there - which it won't, I've made sure of it - the damage would be minimal."
"How dramatic. What are you going to do with it?"
"Well, my lovely girlfriend has spoiled me with riches beyond most potioneers' wildest dreams, so I'm now set up for brewing Mittomorbus Elixer in its original form."
"Oh? What's that for?"
"It's a very powerful cough suppressant. Poppy always laments that we don't keep it on hand. It's very difficult to find, and bloody expensive. If I'm able to make her some, she may very well do pirouettes through the hospital ward. Which would be a sight well worth the trouble of babysitting a volatile substance."
"You're making this up... all that for a cough potion?" She laughed incredulously.
"Maybe I am, maybe I'm not," he said, shrugging. "But you're not crying about Mr Depp all alone in that castle on a hill any more, are you?"
He regarded her thoughtfully as she laughed herself into more tears. Gods, this was lovely. Being with her, just lounging around together, talking shite and laughing. He wanted this every day for the rest of his life.
When she'd finally begun to breathe again, he suggested a hot bath. "No misbehaviour, Madam. You need to rest." She didn't listen, placing herself firmly astride him in the tub, kissing him and rubbing her wet body against his... he only mildly protested. Gods, this bath - and mine - have probably seen more action in the past few weeks than it did the preceding twenty years...
"As you couldn't seem to do as told in the bath, Madam, I insist you rest now," he said sternly once they'd returned to the bedroom. "Lie down and let me massage you. I've brought the lavender oil."
"Ooh, yes Sir." She eagerly planted herself facedown on the bed.
"See, you can follow instructions, though only when it suits you." He dimmed the lights and began slowly rubbing her sore muscles with the oil, starting at her neck and working his way down with hands as competent as any professional masseur.
"How's that book?" she asked, pointing to the one he'd been reading earlier (or at least pretending to read whilst becoming engrossed in the film,) which he'd placed on the bedside table.
"Fascinating, actually. He had some very innovative ideas about the merits of distilled versus rainwater for brewing."
"Oh. How captivating."
He knew she was taking the piss, but carried on. "Very. He also created the original Medellatrist Tincture. It's since been watered down so as to be nearly ineffective. I've always wanted to brew it in the original form. And now I can. However, it requires a very specific ingredient that can be difficult to procure."
"And will it burst into flames if not stored in a golden crypt guarded by an army of hedgehogs?"
"You cheeky little brat. Some potions really are extremely complex. Dare I remind you of the Nyctobane?"
"Mmm. Please do. That was a very lovely evening."
"Best night of my life," he said seriously, bending down to kiss her shoulder. "Hmm, you taste of lavender. Anyway, Medellatrist Tincture requires dried aestivanox blossom. A very rare flower that blooms only once a year."
"Of course it does. I'd expect nothing less from His Eminence Plutonius Braythwaite."
"If you keep this up, I'm going to put you in detention, Miss. You really are a terrible student."
She smiled blithely, enjoying both the rub-down and the banter. "Sorry, Sir. Please go on. I'll be good."
"Very well, Miss. Aestivanox blooms only once a year. As luck would have it, this year's date happens to fall during our spring break. And I know a place where it blooms, deep in the Forbidden Forest."
"Hmm. Just how deep are we talking, Sir?"
He gave a slight chortle of exasperation. "I'm going to assume you are still referring to the aestivanox and not to more crass topics... It's quite deep. But I know how to get there."
"Mmm, I'll say you do."
He sighed deeply. "Do you want me to stop massaging you, and make you write 'I will not backchat the professor' a hundred times?"
She giggled. "No, Sir."
"That is your final warning, Miss. Now, as I was saying, it blooms once a year, and I know where to find it. It's quite lovely; it blooms late at night, and it glows. It's worth seeing, if you would care to accompany me?"
Stella realised he was now being serious. "Is it... safe? Deep in the forest, late at night?"
"With me, it would be safe darling, I assure you."
"Let me guess; you happened upon it in your student days?"
"Yes."
"They really did just let the students run feral back then, didn't they?"
"Well, not exactly. I learned some very powerful non-detection charms in my final few years. I was able to go places others couldn't, and the professors were none the wiser."
She hummed in amusement. "No surprise there, you little genius. I really would have been completely lovesick over you."
"I still find that hard to believe. But seriously, I'll make sure you're safe, love. Please, come with me. It really is worth seeing. Not many get the chance.”
"Fine. But only because you're so cute. Now, tell me more about Plutonius, what other weird science did he create?"
Severus smiled, glad she'd agreed. "Well," he said, leaning down to use his elbows to massage her back in long, slow strokes, "he was the first to discover the effects of firewhisky on flammable potions. Most would assume that the addition of alcohol would increase the flammability, when in fact the sublimation of the stibnite distills the essence down to a state of stability, rendering the potion less combustible."
"Fascinating," she said quietly.
"Indeed." He moved downward to massage her legs. "Interestingly, he also did some of the earliest work on the effects of nightshade alkaloids on the mind. The dose-response is highly contingent on the respiratory rate of the subject. It's also dependant with the amount of albumin in the blood, but that wasn't worked out until much later."
"Mmm," came her reply, barely audible.
"Furthermore, he's credited with the penultimate research on western zodiac signs as stirring patterns. He discovered that using one's own sign as the pattern renders the potion with double potency, particularly when one's star sign is in retrograde. I once accidentally made a draught of peace so potent it filled my office with blue mist for days. I'd neglected to consider that I was a Capricorn. I was, however, in a very calm state of mind for quite some time." He chuckled softly.
She made no response. Severus looked down to find she'd fallen asleep. Who needs sleep draught when you have Plutonius Braythwaite. He covered her carefully with the duvet, then quietly slipped into bed beside her.
Gods, what a long week it had been. He wondered if they'd be on speaking terms yet, had she not fallen ill. What if she'd not forgiven him, had decided it was too much, that he was too much? It didn't bear thinking about.
Tonight had been nothing special, and yet it had been everything. Everything he'd ever wanted, but not ever dared to hope for. A simple evening in with the one he loved. Having dinner, talking of nothing important, sharing a bath... If ever he’d been certain about anything, it was this. That he wanted this, with her, for the rest of his life.
Over the moon to have things back to normal, he closed his eyes and drifted off, the scent of lavender drifting through his dreams.
My submission to @snapeshiftersguild 's Secrets in the Staffroom Flash Comp!
Tons of really great fics (and Dumbledore in speedos) in there that I highly recommend checking out 🙏 and I had so much fun with the beach day prompt even if my procrastination kicked me in the ass 💀
This excerpt is from an upcoming chapter of At Last. Chapter not yet published, so spoiler alert for anyone reading the full fic. Chapter masterlist here. ₊˚⊹♡
📓✎ᝰ Hot for Teacher ✎ᝰ.📓
Summary under the cut. ☆
Stella and Ruth, the obnoxious Arithmancy professor, show up to a staff meeting in the same black pencil dress. Severus comes to Stella’s office after lessons to make sure she knows he’s only got eyes for her. 💕
