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Chapter Text

Eileen Snape closes the bedroom door with a gentle touch. She holds her breath, hoping that the hinges won't betray her with their usual creaking protest. The air in the house is thick with an unsettling quietness, broken only by the sound of her own breathing. A sense of relief washes over her as the door closes without a sound, and she adjusts the weight of the bag on her shoulder before making her way towards her son's room.

Stopping outside the door to Severus's room, she takes a moment to compose herself. Her face is stained with tears and streaked with blood. She knows she looks a right mess, but she doesn't want her sweet boy to see her like that.

With trembling hands, she reaches up to wipe away the blood and tears. Once her face is relatively clean and the bleeding from her nose and lip has stopped, she takes a deep breath and slowly turns the doorknob. The door creaks softly as it swings open, revealing the soft glow of the nightlight inside Severus's room.

Tobias Snape stumbled home from work, inebriated and filled with anger, not out of the usual for him. His hopes for a promotion had been dashed, and instead, he had been demoted, budget cuts they told him - a blow to his ego and his already fragile sense of self-worth. 

As he entered the dilapidated house on Spinner's End, his mood darkened even further at the sight of his wife and young son playing in the living room, his son doing that witch craft he had vehemently banned from his house.

Losing what little control he had left, Tobias lashed out in a fit of rage. He grabbed his son roughly by his too thin arm, the boy wincing at the sudden roughness of his father's grip, yelling and striking him. Despite his fear, young Severus held back his tears because even at the age of 3, Severus knew it would make his da upset.

Eileen jumped up from the sofa, placing herself between her son and her enraged husband, pleading for him to stop.

“He's just a toddler, Toby. He's not doing it on purpose!” Tobias's fury turned towards Eileen as she shielded Severus from the monster that her husband had become. She could tell that this would be the worst she had experienced from Tobias’s outrage. 

Eileen's heart raced as she stood her ground, her arms wrapped protectively around little Severus. She knew she had to be strong, not just for herself but for her son. "Tobias, please," she pleaded, her voice steady despite her fear.

But Tobias doesn't listen, his eyes blazed with a mix of anger and alcohol-fueled rage, he yanks Severus out of her arms and grabs Eileen by her hair, Eileen lets out a pained cry, her hands instinctively reaching for her son. She yells at Severus to go to his room. She would rather have Tobias take his anger out on her.

This was a far cry from the man Tobias had once been – flawed but decent, with a drinking problem but never prone to violence. Things had changed when Severus's accidental magic had begun to manifest at the age of 1, Eileen was able to hide it for months, but Tobias saw one day.

Despite Eileen's efforts to explain her magical heritage and the true reason behind why she left her family, Tobias stubbornly refused to acknowledge or comprehend anything related to magic. The revelation of her identity as a witch and the circumstances surrounding her past only served to ignite his disbelief and anger.

Eileen had made the choice to leave her pure-blood family because of a marriage contract her family, more so her father, had set up for her with a Lestrange, a man she had went to Hogwarts with. Eileen found him to be conceited and disrespectful, especially in the company of his friends.

After graduating from Hogwarts, Eileen didn't hesitate to cut off all contact with the Lestrange man she was promised to. Their relationship had soured during their final years at school, worsened by his belief that the marriage contract entitled him to behave however he pleased.

After that, Eileen stood her ground and refused to fulfill the terms of the marriage contract, leading to a heated confrontation with her father. Hurtful words were exchanged, and she made the decision to leave her stuck-up family behind, believing it was the necessary step towards her freedom. Eileen took the little money she had and left to the muggle world, where she met Tobias at the restaurant where she was trying to get a job.

Eileen tried to hold out hope that her loving husband would return, that he would eventually come to accept her and Severus's magical abilities or, at the very least, try to understand them. She longed for the chance to rebuild the happiness they once knew as a family. Despite their limited financial situation and Tobias's struggles with alcoholism, he prioritized providing for their family's needs.

But that hope had been futile, she knows, Tobias is beyond redemption. He is consumed by anger, constantly drinking, and too afraid and ignorant about magic to change his ways. He has caused too much harm to his son and wife and is unwilling to change. However, Eileen is determined to create a better life for herself and Severus.

Eileen steps inside, her heart heavy with the weight of the evening's events, but her resolve unwavering as she approaches her sleeping son. Severus lay curled up in a tight ball on his small bed, his covers acting as a shield. Eileen lowers her sore and batten body to her knees, pulling back the covers to see her little Sev eyes shut tight and breathing slowly.

It breaks her heart to see his little face bruised. This just resolves her choice to go even more. She runs a shaky hand through his ink black hair. “Severus, love, you need to get up.” She whispers quietly.

She shakes him gently until he's slowly waking up, his deep brown eyes blinking up at her.

“Mummy?” Severus mumbles, blinking slowly.

“You have to get up, okay?” Eileen says softly as she gets him out of bed.

“Where are we going?”

“We're leaving.” She says while putting on his tiny shoes.

After he has his shoes on, Eileen walks over to the dresser in the corner of the room and begins stuffing as much of Severus's clothes and books as she can into her bag. “Grab any toy that you want, alright.” She says, looking towards Severus, who nods his head, then goes to grab the few toys that he is really attached to.

When Eileen is done, she scoops Severus up into her arms, gives him a kiss on the cheek, and holds him close as she makes her way out of the room. The walk from down the hall to downstairs is a nerve-racking and slow one, she has to avoid the creaking spots on the floor, Tobias may have passed out after he was done with her but she's not willing to chance waking him up.

Making it downstairs, Eileen carefully places Severus by the front door, “Stay right here, okay? I'll be right back, I just need to get something.” She instructs him, Severus nods, but she can see that he's scared. Leaning in, she plants a tender kiss on his forehead before vanishing into the small and musty basement.

Descending the creaky wooden stairs, Eileen carefully maneuvers around the broken step. She can't help but think, "Everything in this damn place is falling apart." Reaching the bottom, she stretches out her hand to grasp the string for the light.

Eileen wouldn't even be doing this if she did need the things in her old trunk. Digging through the mess of old coats, shoes, and Christmas decorations, Eileen finally locates her long-forgotten emerald green and gold trunk. Opening it, she sees her wand, untouched for years. She gingerly picks it up, feeling a rush of familiarity and power as she does so. It feels like part of her that she didn't know was missing has returned.

Since marrying Tobias, Eileen hasn't performed a single spell, but it only takes her a second try and a brief moment of focus. She successfully casts Reducio. Tucking the shrunken trunk into her pocket, she heads back upstairs. Finding Severus where she had left him, holding onto his favorite toy tightly, she scoops him up before heading out the door and away from Spinner's End.

Eileen walks down the road, her only goal to distance herself from the old house as much as possible. Once she feels sufficiently far away, she repositions on her hip before reaching for her wand. With a flick of her arm, she summons the Knight Bus.

Severus is captivated, his eyes wide with awe by the sight of the purple, triple-decker bus appearing from the end of the street and comes to a halt right in front of them. “What is that?" Severus asks, turning in his mother's arms to look at her.

"It's called the Knight Bus. It's one of the ways witches and wizards travel around," Eileen explains with a chuckle, smiling at her son's fascination. Boarding the bus, she informs the driver that they are headed to the Leaky Cauldron. Once on board, Eileen settles into a lumpy bed and draws the curtain around one side of the bed for privacy.

As the Knight Bus lurches into motion, Severus gasps in excitement, his eyes wide with wonder. The vehicle careens through the streets at breakneck speed, weaving between Muggle traffic and buildings with impossible agility.

Eileen nestles Severus between her and her bent leg on the bed as she explains that the bus is enchanted to avoid collisions and remain unnoticed by non-magical folk. The journey is a rollercoaster of sights and sounds.

Now that she has a moment to breathe and rest, Eileen rummages through her purse in search of a tissue. Finally finding a soft, crumpled tissue, she gets Severus's attention and gently turns his head to begin cleaning the dried blood from his nose. She can see that he had done his best to clean up the blood himself, and Eileen hates that he had to deal with it on his own in the first place.

As she tenderly wipes away the remaining traces of blood, Eileen's heart aches with a mixture of guilt and determination. Eileen knows she should have left a lot sooner. It shouldn't have taken two years for this to happen, and she'll always regret putting Severus through that.

With each gentle dab, she silently vows to be more protective of her son and do whatever it takes for him to be happy and safe.

“There you go, my handsome boy.” She says softly, and he gives her a toothy smile.

As they near their destination, the bus screeches to a halt, sending loose items sliding across the floor. Eileen gathers their belongings, then takes Severus hand and gets off the bus. Stepping onto the streets of London, Eileen and Severus are immediately engulfed by the cacophony of city life. The young boy's eyes widen, taking in the towering buildings and unfamiliar sights. Eileen, sensing his apprehension, gives his hand a reassuring squeeze.

"This way, Severus." She says softly, guiding him through the small crowd. They weave through throngs of Muggles, careful not to draw attention. Eileen's pace quickens as they approach a shabby-looking pub, its weathered sign barely visible to passersby. To Muggle eyes, it's unremarkable, but Severus notices it.

With a deep breath, Eileen pushes open the heavy wooden door of the Leaky Cauldron. The din of the street fades, replaced by the low murmur of patrons and the clinking of glasses. Severus's grip on his mother's hand tightens as they navigate the dimly lit interior, magic palpable in the air around them.

Eileen approaches the bar and gestures to get the barman’s attention to request a room. She pays for a room, and the barman gives her the key to the room she will be staying in. Eileen guides Severus towards the staircase, where she helps her three year old upstairs. As they ascend the wooden steps, Eileen holds Severus's small hand firmly, ensuring he doesn't stumble. The dim lighting casts long shadows on the walls, creating an eerie atmosphere to the young boy. Eileen notices his hesitation and offers a reassuring smile, gently urging him forward. Upon reaching their room, Eileen fumbles with the key, her hands trembling slightly from exhaustion and nerves.

She finally manages to unlock the door, revealing a modest but clean space. The room has highly polished oak furniture, a comfortable bed, and a tiny window that offers a view of the street below, now quiet in the late evening hours. 

Eileen ushers Severus inside, closing the door behind them with a soft click. She kneels down to her son's level, brushing a strand of his dark hair from his forehead. "We'll be safe here for now." She whispers. Severus nods silently, his young eyes reflecting wisdom beyond his years, as if he understands the gravity of their situation.

Eileen retrieves her trunk and swiftly uses Engorgio to restore it to its original size. She then places her purse and bag on the bed before rummaging through the bag to find her and Severus's nightclothes. Once Eileen has found them, she ushers Severus to the small bathroom, where she cleans him up and helps him change into his pajamas.

While tucking him into bed, Eileen considers their next steps. She'll need to find work soon and go to Gringotts. It won't be easy, but she's determined to give her son a better life, free from his father rage. Eileen takes a moment to secure their room with protective charms, her wand moving in intricate patterns as she whispers incantations. She knows it's not foolproof, but it provides a small comfort. Tomorrow, they'll start their new life, and she's prepared to face whatever challenges come their way.

Chapter Text

Eileen stayed awake for nearly an hour after putting Severus to sleep, cuddling him in her arms and contemplating their next steps. She grappled with the idea of reentering the wizarding world, unsure if it was the right choice after seven years away. The lingering stigma of being disowned by her pure-blood family for marrying a Muggle and having a child with him weighed heavily on her mind, she could see the headlines in the daily prophet.

But as she weighed her options, Eileen knew that the muggle world offered little promise for her future. Without a birth certificate or a school diploma, her Hogwarts education meant nothing, and she basically doesn't exist in the eyes of the muggle society. If she were to return to the non-magical world, she would be trapped in low-paying jobs, or worse, working under the table just to make ends meet.

With a heavy heart, Eileen acknowledged that the wizarding world was her best chance at a brighter future for herself and Severus. Despite the uncertainties and potential challenges that lay ahead, she made the difficult decision to embrace her magical heritage and confront whatever obstacles came their way.

With the thoughts of the night before in her mind, Eileen walks into Gringotts Wizarding Bank, Severus’s hand in hers. She approaches the goblin teller with a mix of confidence and respect, aware of the creatures' reputation for shrewdness in financial matters.

She informs the goblin that she needs to exchange her Muggle currency for wizarding money and requests to access her vault. The goblin scrutinizes her with beady eyes, then nods curtly. "Very well," he rasps, gesturing towards a heavy bronze scale nearby. "Place your Muggle money here for conversion." As she complies, the scale quivers and emits a soft golden glow. The goblin scribbles some calculations on a piece of parchment, then produces a small pouch of jingling coins.

Eileen's anger towards her father and hurt from her mother were so intense that she didn't even consider withdrawing money from her bank account. Looking back, she feels relieved that she hadn't emptied her account and now hopes that the remaining funds will be enough to get her and Severus on their feet.

"Your wizarding currency, madam," he announces, handing her the pouch. Next, he pulls out a piece of parchment and a small blade before handing them to Eileen so she can take an inheritance test to confirm her identity. "Three drops of blood, please." He requests.

Eileen reaches for the blade, then makes a small cut on her finger, letting three drops of blood drip onto the parchment below. Her finger heals as words on the parchment start appearing.

Name - Eileen Maeve Snape née Prince

Date Of Birth - 7 January, 1930

Mother - Seraphina Iris Prince née Brown

Father - Aetherius Ramsey Prince

Marriage Contract - Malgrim Lestrange (Broken)

Vault -

Eileen Prince Vault

Prince family vault

Eileen is surprised that she still has access to the family vault and remains a Prince. She thought her parents would have disowned her after that night. Regardless, she wants nothing to do with the family vault.

"Now, for your vault access." He pulls out a large, ornate key ring. "Follow me." He commands, leading her towards a narrow stone passageway. The air grows cooler as they descend, and distant rumbling echoes through the tunnels. Suddenly, a small cart appears, clattering to a stop before them. "In you go," the goblin instructs, his tone leaving no room for hesitation. "Keep your arms and legs inside at all times. The journey to your vault... can be quite exhilarating."

Severus is so captivated by everything around him that the smile and wonder on his face never fade, even as mum and son board the fast-moving cart to reach the vault. As the cart hurtles through the winding tunnels of Gringotts, Severus's eyes widen with excitement, his small hands gripping the sides tightly. The cool, damp air whips past them, carrying the scent of ancient stone and hidden treasures.

Eileen, equally thrilled by her son's joy, points out the occasional flicker of torchlight or glimpse of a distant vault door. The cart takes sharp turns and steep drops, eliciting gasps and laughter from Severus. He marvels at the intricate network of tracks stretching out in every direction, imagining the countless secrets they must lead to. As they plunge deeper into the bank's cavernous depths, Severus's imagination runs wild with thoughts of dragons guarding hoards of gold and magical artifacts waiting to be discovered.

The cart finally comes to a stop at one of the two Prince vaults. Eileen takes Severus' hand in hers as they step out of the cart and approach the massive ornate door. The goblin attendant steps forward, running his long fingers over the intricate carvings that adorn the vault's surface. With a series of clicks and whirs, the door slowly swings open, revealing a cavernous space filled with glittering gold, silver, and bronze.

Eileen pauses to take a deep breath before entering the room, while Severus gazes wide-eyed at the assortment of items that seem to have jumped right out of one of his storybooks. Moving towards a stack of gold and silver, Eileen starts to fill her pouch.

Eileen can't recall the exact contents of the vault when she last left, but she knows for certain that at least half of the items in here now are new. It must have been her mother's doing, considering Aetherius Prince had declared her dead to him. With this in mind, Eileen chooses to only take what she believes will be enough.

Once that is done, Eileen takes Severus's hand, and they walk out of the vault. They then get into the cart and begin their journey back to the surface. After leaving Gringotts, Eileen, with much hesitation, drops Severus off at Astra's Little Sparks Nursery so she can start looking for jobs and search for a flat.

With a deep breath, Eileen steels herself for the task ahead. First, she heads to the various shops lining the alley, inquiring about potential job openings. She visits the apothecary, recalling her talent for potions, and then stops by Flourish and Blotts, hoping her knowledge of magical texts might be valuable. 

Each conversation brings a mix of hope and disappointment, but Eileen refuses to be discouraged. As the afternoon wears on, she finds herself in Knockturn Alley, where she stumbles upon a small, dingy shop specializing in rare magical artifacts. The owner, an elderly witch with piercing eyes, seems intrigued by Eileen's background and offers her a trial position.

It's not ideal, but it's a start. With this glimmer of hope, Eileen turns her attention to finding a flat. She scours the magical classifieds and speaks with several landlords, each time weighing the cost against the meager savings in her pocket. Just as she's about to give up for the day, she discovers a modest flat above a secondhand robe shop. It's small and in need of repair, but it's within her budget and close to Diagon Alley. Exhausted but filled with a sense of accomplishment, Eileen makes her way back to the nursery to collect Severus.

The mother and son returned to The Leaky Cauldron and went up to their room. Eileen put away everything from their day before they go downstairs and settle down in a corner booth. She orders steak and kidney pie, and as soon as the food arrives,  Eileen helps Severus as he eagerly reaches for the warm, savory pie, his tiny hands grasping at the fork. Eileen patiently guides him, teaching him to blow on each steaming bite to cool it down. As they eat, she notices other patrons casting curious glances their way, no doubt intrigued by the young mother and her precocious child.

“Did you have fun at the nursery?” 

“Uh-huh, I made a friend.” Severus says before scooping some pie into his mouth.

“Really, what is their name?”

“Panda.” Severus smiles, reaching for his cup.

“Panda? Are you sure?” Eileen chuckles, helping Severus so he doesn't spill his drink on himself.

“Yeah. She has gold hair.” He brings his hands up to his hair.

“Well, it's good that you two played together.”

“We played with a boy, but I don't ‘member his name.” 

“I'm sure the two of you will see each other again. Then he can tell you his name again.” 

Although Severus was hesitant to leave Eileen when she dropped him off early today, she is glad that he was able to have fun and make friends. That was something he couldn't do at Spinner's End, where Eileen and Severus were stuck inside the house most days unless they went grocery because they couldn't afford daycare. Eileen did everything she could so Severus would not fall behind for his age, and Severus is a smart boy; she knew that from an early age.

As the evening progresses, the pub fills with an eclectic mix of witches and wizards. Eileen keeps a watchful eye on her surroundings, her hand never straying far from her wand. 

After they finish eating, Eileen takes Severus up to their room so he can have a bath and get ready for bed. As they enter the bathroom, she fills the tub with warm water and adds a few drops of lavender oil, creating a soothing atmosphere. Eileen carefully washes Severus's hair, her touch tender and maternal. She softly hums a lullaby, a melody from her own childhood, which seems to further relax her son. She helps him out of the tub and wraps him in a fluffy towel, In their shared room, Eileen helps Severus into his pajamas before leaving him on the bed with some toys while she takes a shower.

Eileen sits in the bathroom for a while before getting into the shower. Now that she has secured a potential job and a flat, she has other things to think about. Her marriage is over; she never thought she would be essentially divorced and a single mother at the age of 24. When she married Tobias and they found out she was pregnant a few years later, they had all these plans. Tobias was going to work at the mill and Eileen at the restaurant for as long as they could to save up enough money to move at least to the better side of Cokeworth and find better jobs.

The prospect of doing this alone when she and Tobias are supposed to be raising Severus together hurts. Eileen sighs, getting up and turning on the shower. She has practically been raising Sev on her own for the last two years anyway because Tobias basically refused to touch Severus after he showed signs of magic.

"Where's Da?" Severus asks as Eileen walks back into the room.

Eileen hesitates for a second, "He's at home." 

"Are we going home?"

"No."

"Why?"

"Because the two of us are going to stay here now." She gestures around the room.

"Da coming here?" Severus tilts his little head to the side.

"No, love. Daddy is staying at home."

"Why?"

"He wasn't being very nice, so he has to be in time out for now," Eileen explains as best she can to a three-year-old.

"Oh."

"But you and I are going to have fun because we can do magic now."

At the mention of magic, Severus's eyes widened with a big smile on his face. Eileen gets both of them comfortable in bed, then with a flick of her wand, she summoning one of Severus's books from their bag and starts reading him a story about magic.

~••~••~••~••~

Eileen finishes brushing her long black hair and turns to look in the mirror, making sure her makeup and outfit are alright. For the first time in too long, she looks in the mirror and doesn't want to cry because of all the bruises Tobias put there. Instead, she's getting ready for her first day of work and feels a sense of pride. She and Severus have been in the wizarding world for almost a week, and though you wouldn't think so, the change in mother and son is noticeable. Eileen supposes that multiple hearty meals a day, proper sleep, and not getting hurt all the time will do that.

Deeming her ready, Eileen walks out of the bathroom and into the room where Severus is sitting on the bed, trying to get dressed. He has done a good job; he just needs his suspenders pulled on.

"You're going to stay at the nursery longer today, okay?" Eileen says, pulling Severus's arms through his suspenders.

"Why?" Severus asks, fiddling with his suspenders.

"Because I have to work today."

"How long I stay?"

"Six hours." Eileen holds up six fingers.

"That's a long time." Severus says sadly.

"I know it is, but when I pick you up from the nursery, we're going shopping so you can pick out your new bed for your room," Eileen says with excitement, trying to get Severus's mind off the time.

"I get a room?" Severus says, pointing to himself.

"Yes, and you can put anything you want in it, like all your toys." She picks up a brush and runs it through Severus's hair.

"More than home?" Severus asks as he tries to reach for his toy car just out of arm's reach.

"Of course. Your room is going to look so good." Eileen sets the brush down, then hands Sev his car.

"Okay, we have to go now." Eileen picks Severus up, grabs her purse, then walks out of the room, and The Leaky Cauldron. The walk to the nursery isn't long, and soon Eileen stands in front of Astra's Little Sparks Nursery with its cheerful-looking building, where other parents are dropping off their kids. 

By the front doors stands Molly Weasley, welcoming all the kids into the building. Eileen remembers Molly from their time at Hogwarts. Although Molly was a few years ahead, she was always kind to Eileen. When the two met as Eileen dropped Severus off for the first time, Molly was just as friendly and didn't treat Eileen differently because of her past.

Molly has a warm smile and welcoming demeanor as Eileen approaches. "Hello Eileen," Molly says, giving her a big hug. "Hello Severus, how was your weekend?" Molly smiles, bending down to his height.  

"Me and mummy and played all weekend."  

"Really? That sounds fun." Molly smiles as Severus nods his head happily.  

"Well, I'm glad you came back. The others are inside."   

"Be good and have fun. I love you, Sev." Eileen gives her son a kiss on the cheek before watching him walk off into the building.  

"How are you doing, really?" Molly asks once Severus is out of sight.  

"I'm actually good. I start work today, so that's something," Eileen smiles.  

"Good. If you ever need anything, honestly, just let me know, and I'll be happy to help."  

"Thank you, I really appreciate it. I should be back around 2." Eileen says.

"Of course, don't worry about a thing," Molly reassures her with a gentle pat on the arm. "We'll take good care of Severus. I'm so happy to hear about your job. Where will you be working?"   

"It's a small shop in Knockturn Alley specializing in rare magical artifacts. It's a trial position for now.” Eileen responds, happiness in her voice.  

Molly nods encouragingly. "That's wonderful, dear. I'm sure you'll do splendidly there. And remember, if you ever need to work late or have any scheduling conflicts, we're always here to help with Severus."  

Eileen looks relieved and grateful. "Thank you, Molly. Your support means more than you know.”

After that, Eileen leaves and makes her way towards Knockturn Alley, her steps light with anticipation. As she navigates the winding cobblestone streets, her mind races with possibilities.

The shop's weathered sign comes into view, its faded letters barely legible. Eileen takes a deep breath, straightens her blouse and skirt, and pushes open the creaky door. The interior is dimly lit, filled with shelves of curious objects and ancient tomes. The air is thick with the scent of old parchment and exotic incense.

The elderly witch she met before emerges from the shadows, "Ah, you must be the new assistant, Eileen." She says, her voice gravelly but not unkind. 

"I'm Ms. Endora. Come, let me show you around." As Ms. Endora leads her through the shop, explaining the various artifacts and their significance, Eileen feels a surge of excitement. She realizes that her knowledge of potions and dark arts could be invaluable here. Eileen resolves to prove herself and make the most of this opportunity.

Chapter Text

Eileen is a bit tired as she makes her way out of Knockturn Alley and down Diagon Alley, but the thought of picking up Severus and going shopping for their new flat makes her happy and quickens her pace. Today is the day they can finally move in, and Eileen is thrilled about it. Living in the Leaky Cauldron isn't that bad; however, she can't wait until she and Severus have their own space and don't have to worry about anything.

When Eileen reaches the nursery, she sees Severus already outside with Molly and a few other children. As Severus spots his mum, he turns to the little girl he is playing with and points excitedly at Eileen. Eileen's heart swells with pride as she watches her son's enthusiastic gesture. She notices the genuine joy in Severus's eyes, a stark contrast to his usual reserved demeanor at home. This social interaction, though small, speaks volumes about his progress and growing confidence. As she approaches, Eileen observes the other children's reactions. They seem at ease around Severus, a promising sign that he's fitting in well.

The nursery staff, too, appear pleased with his behavior, offering encouraging smiles to both mother and son. This moment reinforces Eileen's decision to enroll Severus in the nursery. Despite initial doubts and concerns, she now sees the positive impact it's having on her child's development. The nursery environment is providing Severus with invaluable opportunities for social growth and learning that he might not have had otherwise.

"Mummy, this is Panda!" Severus beamed.

"Hello, cutie, I'm Eileen."

"Nice to meet you, I'm Pandora." The adorable 4-year-old smiled.

“Well, Pandora, it's lovely to meet you. How did you and Severus become friends?" She asked gently, her curiosity piqued.

Severus, still grinning, chimes in, "She let me play with her toy, so I shared my sandwich." Pandora nodded enthusiastically, her curly hair bouncing. "Sevvie is my bestest friend now!" she declared, linking her arm with Severus's. Eileen's heart melted at the sight of the two children's instant bond.

As she stands up, Eileen comes face to face with Pandora's mother. She isn't surprised; Pandora looks so much like her, with her long golden blonde hair, blue eyes, and dreamy demeanor.

"Aurora? Is that you?" Eileen says happily.

"Eileen! The wisps told me I would be meeting an old friend again," Aurora exclaims as she and Eileen hug. The two women embrace warmly, their reunion filled with a mixture of joy and nostalgia. As they pull apart, Aurora's eyes sparkle with the same ethereal light Eileen remembers from their youth.

"Oh, how I've missed you," Eileen smiles, her voice thick with emotion. "I should hex you for leaving like that without telling me," Aurora chides like only a friend could.

"I know, it was just a heat-of-the-moment thing," Eileen sighs. It wasn't one of her best ideas; however, she can't quite regret it because she has Severus now.

"I'm glad you're back, and don't you pull a move like that again, or I will drag you back here." Aurora glares playfully.

Eileen chuckles softly, her eyes brimming with a mixture of guilt and affection. "I promise, no more disappearing acts," she says, reaching out to squeeze Aurora's hand. "But you have to admit, my impulsiveness did lead to something wonderful." Eileen gestures towards Severus.

Aurora looks toward her daughter to see her and Severus playing with something. "So Sevvie is your son. I should have known; you always said if you had a son, you would name him Severus."

Eileen nods, a wistful smile spreading across her face. "He's my pride and joy. I may have made many mistakes, but he's not one of them." She pauses, her expression growing serious. "I know I have a lot to explain, and even more to make up for. But I hope you can understand why I did what I did."

Aurora's gaze softens, "Of course, I remember what your father was like. You were always like a sister to me, Eileen. That doesn't just disappear." She turns back to watch Severus, noting the boy's intense concentration on whatever game he's playing. "He seems like a bright kid. Must take after his mother."

Eileen laughs softly. "Oh, he's too smart for his own good sometimes. Reminds me of us when we were young, except without always getting into trouble."

The two mothers talked a bit more and make plans to meet up soon before parting ways. Eileen and Severus then make their way towards a furniture shop. As they approached the furniture shop, Eileen gently guided Severus inside, her eyes scanning the array of household items. She leaned down to her son and whispered, "We'll find something nice for your room, dear." Severus nodded, his dark eyes taking in the unfamiliar surroundings.

The shop owner, a portly man with a friendly smile, greets them warmly. "Looking for anything specific today?" He inquires. Eileen explains that she needs to furnish Severus’s room. The owner led them to a section filled with various options, each more intriguing than the last. Severus finds himself drawn to a dark wood montessori house bed. Eileen notices his interest and asked the owner about its price.

The owner, sensing their interest, begins to extol the virtues of the bed. "Ah, excellent choice! This Montessori house bed is not just a place to sleep, but a sanctuary for a child's imagination," he says enthusiastically. He goes on to describe its sturdy construction, the high-quality materials used, and the bed's versatility as both a sleeping area and a play space.

Eileen listens attentively, her eyes darting between the bed and Severus's captivated expression. The owner, noticing her hesitation, adds, "We're running a special promotion this week. If you purchase today, I can throw in a matching bookshelf at half price." He leans in conspiratorially, "Between you and me, it's the best deal you'll find in Diagon Alley."

Eileen can't refuse the offer. The prospect of a matching bookshelf at such a discount is too tempting to ignore. She glances at Severus, who's practically bouncing in her arms with excitement. With a smile, she nods, "Well, when you put it that way, it does seem like an excellent deal." The owner beams, his eyes twinkling with satisfaction. "Excellent choice, madam! You won't regret it." He swiftly produces a parchment and quill, jotting down the details of the purchase.

After that, Eileen picks out a dresser and a small table and chair for his room and lets Severus choose his toy chest. As they continue shopping, Eileen suggests picking out some decorative items to personalize his space. Severus hesitates at first, but then spots a set of constellation-themed wall decals. Recognizing his interest in astronomy, Eileen encourages him to choose them. This small decision marks a significant step in making the room truly his own. As they browse, Eileen gently prompts Severus to consider other items that might make him feel more at home, subtly fostering a sense of ownership and comfort in their new living situation.

With Severus's room furniture selected, Eileen quickly chooses her bedroom furniture. It isn't much, just a bed and dresser, but it will suffice for now. She still needs to pick out a dining table and chairs, kitchen supplies, bathroom essentials, and a sofa and coffee table. Eileen decides to prioritize the remaining items, focusing first on the kitchen and bathroom essentials.

As she browses through the store's kitchen section, she carefully selects a set of sturdy pots and pans, along with basic utensils and dishes. For the bathroom, she opts for practical, no-frills items that will serve their purpose without breaking the bank. Next, she turns her attention to the dining area. After some deliberation, Eileen chooses a modest but functional table with four chairs, envisioning quiet meals with Severus and the occasional visitor. The living room proves to be more challenging, as she wants to create a comfortable space for relaxation. Eventually, she settles on a secondhand sofa that's still in good condition and pairs it with a simple wooden coffee table.

"Now, about the delivery... We can have it sent to your home this very evening if you'd like." Eileen agrees and gives him the address of the flat. The salesman nods approvingly, jotting down the details.

After finalizing the transaction, Eileen leaves the store with Severus's hand in hers and makes her way to the supermarket. As she enters the bustling supermarket, Eileen goes through her mental food list as she grabs a shopping trolley and puts Severus into the front seat designed for children. She navigates through the aisles, employing various money-saving tactics she's learned over time. She opts for store brands over name brands, buys in bulk when it makes sense, and keeps an eye out for discounted items nearing their expiration dates. She skillfully balances quality and cost, ensuring that Severus will have nourishing meals despite their tight circumstances.  

Severus watches with curiosity as his mother examines labels and compares prices, occasionally pointing at colorful packages that catch his eye. Eileen, let's Severus pick out a few snacks as a special treat. After that, Eileen makes her way to the tills to check out  As they approach the checkout, Eileen carefully arranges the items on the conveyor belt, grouping similar products together for efficient bagging. 

The cashier, a friendly middle-aged woman, greets them with a warm smile, cooing at Severus as she begins scanning the items. Eileen engages in light conversation with the cashier, her eyes darting between the running total and Severus, who's become fascinated with a shiny keychain display near the register.

As the final total appears, Eileen feels a mix of relief and pride, having managed to stretch her limited funds further than expected. With their groceries bagged and paid for, Eileen let's Severus walk while she carries all the bags.

Mum and son make the walk to their new flat. Halfway there, Severus insists on carrying some bags, so Eileen lets him carry the lightest ones: one with a few fruits and vegetables and another with his snacks. It's not much longer before they arrive at the flat. Taking out the key, Eileen opens the door and ushers Severus inside. 

Eileen shuts the door behind her and walks down the small hallway. She then turns right into the kitchen where, with Severus's help, she puts away the food. By the time they are done, the furniture is being delivered. Most of their belongings arrive shrunk and in boxes labeled by room, which makes things much easier. Because it's getting late, Eileen takes the box for Severus and starts on his room first. 

As she unpacks, Eileen carefully arranges Severus's belongings, ensuring his new space feels familiar and comforting. She sets up his bed, putting on new sheets and covers along with his baby blanket, Eileen places his books in the bookcase, hangs his clothes in the wardrobe, and sets up his table and chair with meticulous care.  

“Do you like your new room?” Eileen asks Severus once she is finished. Severus nods shyly, his dark eyes wide as he takes in the transformed space. Eileen smiles, relieved to see her son's approval. She gently guides him to explore his new surroundings, watching as he tentatively touches his favorite toys and books.  

"Why don't you play with some of your toys while I make dinner?" Eileen suggests, hoping to give Severus some time to adjust to his new environment. Severus nods again, reaching for a well-worn stuffed fox. 

As Eileen makes her way to the kitchen, she can't help but feel a mix of emotions. The move has been challenging, but seeing Severus settled in his new room gives her a sense of hope. 

She begins preparing a simple meal, her mind wandering to the next tasks: setting up the table and chairs, setting up her bed, and putting the towels, rugs, and shower curtain in the bathroom. The rest can be done tomorrow. While cooking, Eileen occasionally glances towards Severus's room, checking on him. She's pleased to see him gradually becoming more comfortable, his initial hesitation giving way to quiet exploration. The sound of him softly talking to his toys brings a smile to her face.    

As the aroma of cooking food fills the air, Eileen takes the time to unbox the table and chairs, setting them up in the small kitchen while the food simmers. She finishes setting up the table and chairs, then moves on to preparing her bedroom. Unfolding the portable bed frame, she carefully lays out the mattress and bedding. In the bathroom, Eileen hangs the towels with care, spreading out the rugs and securing the shower curtain in place. She finds herself humming softly, a habit from happier times that she thought she had lost. Returning to the kitchen, Eileen stirs the simmering pot, the familiar motions grounding her in the present moment. She sets the table, laying out mismatched plates and utensils. This may not be the home she once dreamed of, but it's theirs, and she's determined to make it work.   

She calls Severus to dinner and helps him up into his seat before sitting down herself. She watches as Severus digs in with enthusiasm, something he couldn't or wouldn't really do when they lived with his father. After dinner, Eileen clears the table and washes the dishes.  

"Let's get you ready for bed, sweetheart." She says softly, picking him up and going into the bathroom. As she gently bathes Severus, Eileen can't help but notice how much more relaxed and content he seems. She speaks to him softly, telling stories of magic, her childhood, and all the fun things she did when she was his age.

After drying him off and helping him into his pajamas, Eileen carries Severus to his new room. She tucks him into bed, smoothing his hair back from his forehead before selecting a book. Eileen reads him a bedtime story, her voice low and soothing in the quiet room. It's not long before he's asleep, Eileen kisses his forehead and whispers, "Sweet dreams, my little prince." She lingers in the doorway, watching her son's chest rise and fall withe each breath before quietly closing the door.

Chapter Text

Disgraced Prince Seen Again?

Article By Ralph Skeeter

Disgraced daughter of House of Prince might be back with a child in tow. That's right, readers: Eileen Prince has been spotted around Diagon Alley and Knockturn Alley. I did some asking around, and this seems to be the case. If you remember, the disgraced Eileen left after Hogwarts and married a Muggle named Tobias Snape (see page 3 for the reprinted announcement).

I'm sure you have questions, as do I. What happened to her husband, Tobias Snape? Why is she back in wizarding society? Is she here to stay? I believe I have some answers to these questions. Eileen Prince works in a small shop in Knockturn Alley specializing in rare magical artifacts. She was seen nearly four weeks ago checking into The Leaky Cauldron, battered and bruised, with a toddler in tow. I also learned that the toddler is her three-year-old son, Severus Snape, who attends Astra's Little Sparks Nursery.

The question is, will she pull another disappearing act?

~••~••~••~••~

"Did you do anything fun today?" Eileen asks as she and Severus leave the nursery. This has been their routine for the past week and a half; when she picks Severus up after work, she asks about his day as they walk home.

"Uh-huh, we learned our numbers," Severus answers, grabbing her hand.

"Really, how high can you go now?"

"30."

"Wow, that is a big number."

"Yeah, are you that old?" Severus questions.

"No, I'm 23," Eileen replies with a chuckle.

"Twenty-three, 3 like me," Severus smiles, holding up three fingers.

"There is a three in it. You have a long way to go before you're that age," Eileen laughs as Severus nods up at her.

"Did you do anything else?"

"I helped with baby Reggie!" Severus beams, hopping in his step.

"You did? Wow, that means you're getting to be a big boy." Eileen praises, smiling at Severus.

"Eileen?" A voice rings out from behind her. Eileen turns to see who is calling her, and when she does, she sees a familiar face.

“Orion?”

Orion Black looks even better than the last time she saw him. His once-short black hair now reaches his shoulders and is expertly styled. His blue-gray eyes are still as beautiful as they were back then; however, Eileen can tell the years have taken their toll, as they aren't as bright, and his smile is a little more tired.

Eileen remembers having the biggest crush on him at Hogwarts, but between Lestrange and Walburga, Orion's now-wife, their friendship couldn't progress past that. Orion was destined to be head of the Black family, and Walburga was to be his wife—there were no arguments about it. Walburga would curse anyone she thought might get in the way of that. Eileen had met Arcturus Black, Orion's father, a few times growing up, and he always seemed like a decent man who really cared for his son. Orion's mother, on the other hand, Eileen had always tried to keep her distance from whenever she went with her parents to high society parties. Much like Walburga, it would seem the Black madness affects the women of the family the most.

"So the rumors are true; you have returned," Orion says with a playful tone.

"Indeed I have," Eileen replies, her eyes twinkling with delight at the unexpected reunion. She feels a flutter in her chest, reminiscent of her schoolgirl days. "It's wonderful to see you, Orion. How have you been?" Severus, having let go of his mum's hand, is now playing with Sirius. The two three-year-old’s have found something on the street that caught their attention.

Orion's face lights up with genuine warmth as he responds, "I've been well, Eileen. Life has its challenges, but seeing you here has certainly brightened my day." He glances over at the children, a fond smile playing on his lips. "I see our little ones get along very well."

Eileen follows his gaze, her heart swelling with joy at the sight of Severus and Sirius engrossed in their discovery. "They certainly have. This must be Sirius and Regulus that Severus talks about?”

"Indeed it is," Orion chuckles, his eyes crinkling at the corners. "Sirius, there is always full of energy, and Regulus is a sweet baby."

Orion turns back to Eileen, "How about we get lunch? I know the boys won't mind." He adjusted Regulus on his hip, the two-year-old squirming to be let down so he could play with his brother and friend.

Eileen's face lights up at the suggestion, her smile widening. "That sounds lovely, Orion. I'd be delighted to catch up over lunch." She glances at the children, her eyes twinkling with amusement. "I'm sure the boys will be thrilled to spend more time together."

As they begin to walk towards a nearby café, Eileen feels a surge of nostalgia. The years may have passed, but the easy camaraderie between them remains. She can't help but notice how fatherhood has softened Orion's features.

"So, tell me," Eileen says, her voice filled with genuine interest, "What mischief has young Sirius been up to lately? Severus always comes home with the most entertaining stories."

Orion lets out a hearty laugh, shaking his head in amusement. "Oh, where do I begin? Just last week, Sirius decided to give our house-elf, Kreacher, a makeover. You should have seen the poor elf covered in glitter!" He shakes his head fondly. "And don't get me started on his attempts to 'train' the family owl as his personal steed."

Eileen laughs heartily, picturing the chaos. "It seems Sirius takes after you in the mischief department." She teases gently.

Orion grins sheepishly, running a hand through his hair. "I suppose he does. Though I'd argue he's far more creative than I ever was."

As they approach the café, Orion holds the door open for Eileen. The warm aroma of fresh bread and coffee wafts out, inviting them in. They settle at a cozy table near the window. Orion helps Regulus into a high chair while Eileen ensures Severus and Sirius are comfortable. The waiter approaches with a friendly smile, handing them menus. 

"So, Eileen," Orion begins, his eyes meeting hers over the top of his menu, "What brought you back to the wizarding world? Last I heard, you were living among Muggles with your husband."

"It's a long story, Orion. But the short version is Tobias became violent towards Severus and me, and I knew I had to leave." Eileen divulges.

Orion's expression darkens, a mix of concern and anger flashing across his face. He reaches out, gently placing his hand on Eileen's arm. "I'm so sorry, Eileen. That must have been incredibly difficult for you both." He glances at Severus, who's engrossed in a coloring book with Sirius.

Eileen nods, appreciating his support. "It was, but we're in a better place now.." She smiles, changing the subject. "What about you? How is Walburga?”

Orion sighs, a hint of something in his eyes - perhaps regret? "It's... complicated," He admits. "She's Walburga." He looks towards Sirius and Regulus. "I thought that when we had kids, she would change, at least a bit. However, that is not the case. She isn't very motherly to Regulus and Sirius; in fact, she does whatever she can to avoid being near them. That's why they are at the nursery, so they won't have to deal with her wrath."

Eileen's heart goes out to Orion, recognizing the pain behind his words. She leans in, her voice soft and empathetic. "I'm sorry to hear that, Orion. It must be challenging for you and the boys." She glances at Sirius and Regulus, who are now giggling over something in the coloring book.

"They seem like wonderful children, though. You're doing a great job with them."

Orion's expression softens, a mixture of pride and gratitude crossing his face. "Thank you, Eileen. They're my world, really. I'm trying my best to give them a loving home, despite..." He trails off, shaking his head slightly. "Anyway, how are you finding life back in the wizarding world? It must be quite an adjustment after all these years."

Eileen nods, her eyes bright with a renewed sense of belonging. "It's been... liberating, actually. I'd forgotten how much I missed magic in my daily life. And Severus," she glances fondly at her son, "He's thriving. His accidental magic was getting harder to explain away in the Muggle world, but here, he can be himself."

As they chat, the waiter returns to take their orders. Once he leaves, Orion leans in, his voice lowered conspiratorially. "You know, Eileen, I've been thinking... The boys and I, we could use a change of scenery too. Maybe we could... I don't know, meet up more often? For the kids, of course," he adds quickly, a faint blush coloring his cheeks. Eileen feels a flutter in her chest, a mix of surprise and something else she can't quite name. She finds herself nodding, a smile spreading across her face. "I'd like that, Orion. I think it would be good for all of us."

Eileen finds herself laughing more than she has in years, feeling a warmth that goes beyond the steaming cup of tea in her hands. As their food arrives, she can't help but notice how attentive Orion is with the children, helping them with their meals and listening intently to their animated stories.

~••~••~••~••~

The new year brings excitement and birthday planning. Aurora, Ambrose ,Orion, Molly, Arthur, and Marquis and Christine Shacklebolt are at the Wesia cottage setting up a small party for Eileen's 24th birthday. Aurora and her husband Ambrose are hanging up twinkling fairy lights, while Orion arranges a display of Eileen's favorite magical plants. Molly busies herself in the kitchen, preparing an array of delectable treats that fill the cottage with enticing aromas. Arthur keeps Bill, his and Molly's 10-month-old son, entertained.

Meanwhile, Marquis and Christine Shacklebolt add their own touch of elegance to the decorations, hanging shimmering banners that change color with the light. The group's efforts transform the cozy Wesia cottage into a whimsical wonderland, perfectly suited to celebrate Eileen's special day.  

While the adults are busy setting up, the children, Sirius, Regulus, Pandora, Kingsley, and Severus -whom Orion picked up on his way here - are playing together in the garden. The children's laughter echoes through the air as they engage in a game of magical make-believe. Sirius, the natural leader, waves a stick as if it were a wand, casting imaginary spells on his playmates. Regulus follows his brother's lead, mimicking his movements with enthusiasm and casting spells on Kingsley.  

Kingsley, the tallest of the group, uses his height advantage to play the role of a gentle giant, carefully stomping around the garden while Regulus and Sirius try to "tame" him with their magic. Severus, ever the curious one, examines colorful flowers and leaves, concocting pretend potions in a small bucket he found. Pandora, with her wild blonde hair, twirls around in circles, pretending to be a fairy casting enchantments on the flowers. She examines the insects crawling on the ground, sharing her discoveries with Severus, and they both start making potions together.  

As they play, their imaginations run wild, transforming the garden into a magical realm. The adults, stealing glances at the children's joyful play, can't help but smile at the innocence and creativity unfolding before them.  

“I don't think I have ever seen your boys this happy.” Molly smiles towards Orion, picking Bill up when he comes crawling to her. Orion's eyes soften as he watches his sons, a rare smile tugging at his lips. "Indeed, it's refreshing to see them so carefree," he replies, his voice tinged with a mix of pride and wistfulness. "This environment seems to bring out the best in them."  

Molly nods in agreement, bouncing Bill gently on her hip. "I'd better check on the cake. I don't want it to burn." As Molly walks away, Orion finds himself contemplating the scene before him. The laughter of his children echoes through the air, a sound he realizes he doesn't hear nearly often enough at Grimmauld Place.  

12 Grimmauld Place had been in the Black family for generations before he and Walburga moved in after getting married. The house has never been warm and inviting, but rather gloomy and stifling, thanks to Walburga's taste in decor and her mood. Sirius and Regulus didn't play like this at the house when Walburga was home.  

Orion shakes his head. No use dwelling on it. He grabs the plates off the counter and goes back outside to set the picnic table, Eileen will be here soon.  

As Orion sets the picnic table, he can't help but see the stark contrast between this vibrant scene and the somber atmosphere of Grimmauld Place. The Wesia cottage, with its warm, welcoming ambiance, seems to have awakened a longing in him for a different kind of home life. Aurora notices Orion's pensive expression and approaches him. "Everything alright, Orion?" She asks gently.   

He nods, offering a small smile. "Just thinking about how different this is from what the boys are used to." He admits.   

Aurora places a comforting hand on his arm. "You know, it's never too late to make changes," She suggests softly. "The boys clearly thrive in this environment. Perhaps you could consider...?" Before she can finish, they're interrupted by Christine's excited voice. "I think I see Eileen coming up the path!" She calls out.   

The adults quickly gather the children, hushing their giggles and ushering them into position for the surprise.     

The moment Eileen steps through the gate, a chorus of "Surprise!" erupts from the gathered group. Her eyes widen in shock, then quickly fill with joy as she takes in the scene before her.     

"Happy birthday, Eileen," Orion beams as he walks up to her.    

Eileen's hands fly to her mouth, stifling a gasp of delight. "Oh, Merlin, I can't believe this!" she exclaims, her voice trembling with emotion. Orion gently guides her towards the crowd of friends, all wearing warm smiles.    

"You all really didn't have to do this," Eileen says, shocked, but the smile never leaves her face.     

"Of course we did," Aurora replies warmly, embracing her friend. "You deserve this. and so much more."     

Severus runs towards Eileen, crashing into her legs with a smile on his face. "Happy birthday, Mummy!" The 3-year-old giggles. Eileen scoops up Severus, planting a kiss on his cheek as tears of happiness threaten to spill from her eyes.  

The air is filled with the tantalizing aroma of Molly’s food and the sweet scent of freshly baked cake. Laughter and chatter mingle with soft music playing in the background, creating a perfect ambiance for celebration. The group settles around the beautifully decorated table, Eileen finds a chair in the middle of the table and sits, Severus eagerly climbing onto her lap. 

The table is laden with an array of mouthwatering dishes, each one a testament to Molly's culinary prowess. As plates are passed and glasses filled, the conversation flows easily, punctuated by bursts of laughter and heartfelt toasts. Between bites of savory roast and perfectly seasoned vegetables, Eileen finds herself regaled with stories and memories shared by her friends, making it clear that this surprise party is a moment she'll cherish forever.

~••~••~••~••~

On the morning of the 9th of January, Eileen wakes up to her alarm going off. Quickly turning it off, she gets out of bed and goes through her morning routine so she can start breakfast. Walking into the kitchen, Eileen sets about making a delicious birthday breakfast for Severus, who is turning 4 today. As she prepares the ingredients, Eileen can't help but smile, remembering how much Severus loves her homemade chocolate chip pancakes.  

Eileen had tried to do something nice for Severus's 3rd birthday while Tobias was away at work. She had hoped he would be out all day so that it would be just her and Severus. However, Tobias came home right after work, not because he remembered it was Severus's birthday, but because he and his drinking mates didn't have enough money to go out to the pubs that night. As a result, it was a quiet and tense evening, and Eileen felt terrible about it.  

This year, however, is different. Eileen has the money to buy food, decorations, and presents, and she has planned the day with friends to make it special. Once the pancakes are done, Eileen starts on the eggs and sausage. She expertly flips the sizzling sausages, her mind races with excitement for the day ahead. She's determined to make this birthday unforgettable for Severus. As she plates everything, Eileen hears small footsteps approaching. She quickly lights four small candles on top of the pancake stack, eager to see Severus's reaction.  

Just as Severus enters the kitchen, his eyes widen with wonder at the sight before him. Eileen's heart swells with joy as she watches her son's face light up, a rare and precious smile spreading across his features.   

"Happy birthday, my little prince." She says softly, kneeling down to his level. Severus approaches the table, mesmerized by the flickering candles and the enticing aroma of his favorite breakfast.  

"Thank you, Mummy!" Severus exclaims, reaching out to give Eileen a tight hug.

Eileen laughs softly, tousling his hair. "You are welcome, love. Now, make a wish and blow out the candles."  

Severus closes his eyes tightly, taking a deep breath before blowing out the candles with all his might. The room fills with the sweet smell of melted chocolate and the sound of his giggles.  

After breakfast, Eileen helps Severus open a few presents she got him. His eyes light up at each new gift, his excitement contagious. After that, Severus sits in the living room to play with his new toys while Eileen heads back into the kitchen to prepare the cake. As she mixes the batter, Eileen smiles, hearing Severus's delighted giggles from the other room.   

The cake will be chocolate with green and white frosting. She also bought little candy cauldrons, dragons, and books to put on top. While the cake bakes, filling the flat with its sweet aroma, there is a tap on the window. Going over, Eileen recognizes the Wesia family owl. Opening the window, the owl perches on the windowsill, then sticks out its leg, showing her the attached letter.    

Eileen quickly scans the letter; it's from Aurora saying that everyone is starting to arrive at the park and set up. She glances at the clock, realizing they'll need to leave soon. When the timer for the cake goes off, Eileen moves to take it out of the oven and set it aside to cool. Because the flat is too small to fit their friends, the rest of Severus's birthday will be held at a park, where Severus can play with his friends and enjoy a picnic lunch.    

"Severus, it's time to get ready." Eileen calls out, walking out of the kitchen.    

"Where are we going?" Severus questions, following Eileen into his room. "We're going on a little adventure," Eileen replies with a smile, trying to maintain an air of mystery.   

Severus's eyes light up with excitement, his curiosity piqued by his mother's words. Eileen helps Severus change into his outdoor clothes, selecting a comfortable outfit suitable for playing in the park. After she ties his shoelaces, Eileen quickly packs a bag with essentials, water bottles, and a light jacket.   

Icing the cake is a quick yet gentle affair for Eileen. Taking a step back to make sure it looks good, she goes on to put the candy cauldrons, dragons, and books on top. With meticulous precision, Eileen carefully places each decorative element. The candy cauldrons appear to bubble with sweet concoctions, while the intricately crafted sugar dragons seem poised to take flight. Miniature fondant books, their pages etched with edible ink, add a scholarly touch to the whimsical display.   

Eileen feels she can breathe when she's finished, placing the cake in a container and using a sticking charm so it won't move during the walk to the park.  

"Now, let's head out and see what we can discover," Eileen says, taking Severus's hand. As they leave the flat, she can barely contain her own excitement, knowing the surprise that awaits her son at the park. The anticipation builds as they walk, with Severus eagerly pointing out interesting sights along the way.    

The park gradually comes into view, its lush greenery, a stark contrast to the urban landscape they've left behind. Eileen notices colorful balloons peeking above the treeline, and she subtly steers Severus towards them. As they round the final corner, the full scene unfolds before them. 

A chorus of "Surprise!" erupts from a group of familiar faces. Severus freezes momentarily, his eyes wide with disbelief as he takes in the sight of his friends gathered around a festively decorated picnic area. Streamers dance in the gentle breeze, and a banner proclaiming "Happy Birthday, Severus!" stretches between two trees.  

Severus's grip on Eileen's hand tightens as he looks up at her, his expression a mix of shock and delight. "Mummy, is this all for me?" he whispers, his voice filled with awe. 

Eileen nods, her heart swelling with joy at her son's reaction. "Yes, my love. Happy birthday," she replies softly, giving his hand a gentle squeeze. 

The group of friends and their children begin to approach, led by Aurora Wesia, who's carrying a brightly wrapped gift. "Happy birthday, Severus!" She exclaims warmly. "Are you ready for some fun?" Severus nods enthusiastically, his initial shyness melting away as he recognizes familiar faces.   

Eileen watches as he's swept up in a whirlwind of birthday wishes and hugs from his friends. She takes a moment to survey the scene. The picnic area is a riot of color and excitement. Tables are laden with an array of snacks and drinks, while a separate table holds a small mountain of presents. In the nearby field, Eileen spots various games set up - a magical version of pin the tail on the dragon, a miniature Quidditch set, and even a small obstacle course designed for young wizards and witches. As the children begin to play, their laughter and shouts of joy fill the air.   

"Thank you so much for setting this up." Eileen expresses her gratitude to Orion, Aurora, and Molly as she sets the cake on the table.  

"It's no problem. Look at how happy the kids are." Molly smiles.    

“We are just glad we could help make Severus' day special. He's such a delightful boy." Orion chimes in, his eyes twinkling with amusement as he watches   

Aurora nods in agreement.  

As they speak, a small commotion erupts near the magical pin the tail on the dragon game. Eileen turns to see Severus successfully pinning the tail in almost the exact right spot, much to the amazement of his friends. The dragon lets out a playful roar, causing the children to squeal with delight.   

Throughout the afternoon, Eileen watches as Severus moves from one activity to another, his face alight with happiness. He plays games with his friends, unwraps presents with gleeful enthusiasm, and even attempts to catch a practice Snitch, much to the amusement of the adults. As the sun begins to dip lower in the sky, Eileen decides it's time for the cake. She carefully levitates it to the center table, its candles flickering to life with a wave of her wand. The children gather around, their eyes wide with wonder at the magical confection before them. 

Severus stands at the head of the table, his eyes sparkling with excitement as he takes a deep breath and blows out the candles in one mighty puff, eliciting cheers from his friends. Eileen begins to cut and distribute slices of cake.

The children eagerly dig in, their faces soon smeared with frosting and crumbs. The adults gather nearby, chatting as they enjoy their own pieces of the delicious treat.

As the party winds down, Orion approaches Eileen, a warm smile on his face. "This has been a marvelous day," He says. "Severus looks so happy. You are doing a wonderful job, Eileen."   

Eileen's eyes light up at Orion's kind words, a mixture of pride and relief washing over her. "Thank you, Orion," She replies softly. "It means a lot to hear that." She glances over at Severus, who is laughing with his friends.

As the sun sets, casting a golden glow over the picnic area, families begin to gather their belongings and bid farewell. Severus, though clearly tired, beams with happiness as he says goodbye to each of his friends. Eileen picks Severus up and makes her way home.

Chapter Text

It's almost the end of brunch, and in a small restaurant just outside of Diagon Alley, Eileen and Orion sit at a table, having just finished a nice meal. Eileen glances at her watch, sighing as she realizes their time together is running short. "Merlin's beard, is it that late already?" she says, reaching for her bag.

Orion nods, a hint of disappointment in his eyes as he pushes back his chair. "Time flies when you're in good company," he quips, tossing a few Galleons on the table to cover their meal.

Eileen chuckles, shaking her head. "Flatterer." She teases, there's a warmth in her smile.

As they stand, Eileen reaches for her bag while Orion moves around the table. He grabs her cloak off the chair and drapes it around her shoulders. He then moves her long hair aside and fastens the clasp.

"Orion..." Eileen trails off. As much as she likes Orion, she knows it can never be more than the friendship they have. Eileen doesn't want any of their interactions to be misinterpreted as something more and have a scandal on her hands.

"I am just helping you with your cloak. Can I not help a friend?" He replies, putting his hands up in mock surrender, a slight smile on his face.

"I'm sure Walburga will see it that way if she finds out." Eileen muses as they make their way out of the restaurant.

"Walburga has a problem with everything," Orion murmurs.

"I know wizards, especially pure-bloods, do not divorce, but maybe that is best for you and the boys." Eileen remarks as they make the short walk to Diagon Alley.

Orion's face darkens at the mention of his wife, his steps faltering slightly. "It's... complicated," he says, his voice low. "The boys, the family name, traditions... it's not as simple as just walking away." He runs a hand through his hair, a gesture of frustration.

Eileen nods sympathetically, understanding the weight of pure-blood expectations all too well. "Is it?" she asks softly, touching his arm briefly. "Sometimes traditions need to be challenged. You are Lord Black; you are very respected. If she's not treating the boys right, I can't imagine many people will be on her side."

Orion's expression softens at Eileen's words, a mix of gratitude and uncertainty crossing his face. "You might be right," he admits, his voice barely above a whisper. "But the fallout... it would be monumental." They pause at the entrance to Diagon Alley, the bustling magical street just beyond. "Sirius and Regulus, they are already struggling. A divorce could make things worse."

Eileen turns to face him, her brow furrowing slightly. "Or it could give them a chance at a happier home," she counters gently, then adds, “And what about your own happiness?"

Orion's eyes meet Eileen's, a flicker of longing passing between them before he quickly looks away. "My happiness..." He murmurs, shaking his head. "I'm not sure I even know what that means anymore." He takes a deep breath, squaring his shoulders. "But you're right about the boys. They deserve better."

They step into Diagon Alley, the noise and bustle of the magical shopping district washing over them. As they walk, Orion's hand brushes against Eileen's, a touch so light it could be accidental.

"Perhaps you are also right about challenging traditions," he muses, his voice low. "It's just... the thought of uprooting everything is daunting."

Eileen nods, understanding in her eyes. "Change is always scary," she agrees. "But sometimes it's necessary. Trust me, leaving was the best decision I could have made for Severus and myself.”

Orion turns to Eileen, a mix of emotions playing across his face. "Thank you, Eileen. For listening, for caring. It means more than you know."

Eileen returns his smile, warmth in her eyes. "That's what friends are for," She says, giving his arm a gentle squeeze. "Just... promise me you'll think about it? About what's best for you and the boys?"

Orion nods, his expression serious. "I promise." He says softly. Eileen gives him a quick, friendly hug before stepping away. They say their goodbyes and head in opposite directions, disappearing into the crowd.

~••~••~••~••~

Inside Astra's Little Sparks Nursery, Sirius, Severus, and Pandora are gathered around a pile of colorful building blocks, their small hands carefully stacking and arranging the pieces. Severus frowned in concentration, his tongue poking out of the corner of his mouth as he meticulously aligned the blocks, creating sturdy walls for their castle. "We have to make sure it won't fall down," he murmured.

Sirius giggled as he stacked a few more blocks precariously high. "Not bad, but it needs more pizzazz! How about...a golden spire on top?" He carefully balanced a shiny yellow block at the very peak.

Pandora clapped her hands excitedly. "Ooh, let's make a moat with these blue blocks! It'll be so sparkly and pretty like water." She began lining the castle's base with shimmering azure bricks.

Severus nods happily, "Good idea, Panda. We need to protect the castle. And add some secret passages too." He meticulously carved out a tiny tunnel through the castle wall.

"Brilliant!" Sirius exclaimed. "And don't forget the drawbridge. We'll need the longest blocks we can find." He scurried over to the block bin, rummaging around until he found the perfect pieces.

The castle continued to take shape, each child adding their own unique touches, as they worked, their imaginations ran wild. Pandora began crafting tiny flags from scraps of paper, carefully placing them atop the turrets. "Every castle needs a royal banner." She declared proudly. Sirius and Severus start creating a miniature village around the castle. "Look, these are the loyal subjects!" Sirius explains, using smaller blocks to represent houses and shops.

"Ooh, I know!" Sirius suddenly cried. "We should make a dragon's lair down in the basement!" He carefully arranged a pile of red blocks to create a fiery den.

Pandora clapped excitedly. "Yes, and we can have all magical creatures living around the castle! Unicorns and griffins and pixies!"

The three children continued building and decorating, their laughter and chatter filling the air. Before long, a magnificent castle stood before them, a unique blend of fortress, fairytale, and fantasy.

"It's perfect!" Sirius declared, gazing up at their creation in awe.

Pandora nodded in agreement. "The bestest castle ever. Who wants to play knights and dragons?"

"Okay, little ones, it's time to play outside," Molly says with a smile as she gets out of her chair. "Before we go, we have someone new joining us, so make sure to be nice to him." She explains before going to the door where a young nursery witch stands with a little boy. He has shoulder-length white hair, the texture of candy floss and green eyes, wearing a sage green and yellow jumpsuit.

As the children line up, Amethyst, the young witch, introduces the new child. "Everyone, this is Xenophilius Lovegood. Make him feel welcome, alright?" Amethyst announces before she and Molly take the children out to the garden.

The children eagerly welcome Xenophilius, their curiosity piqued by his unique appearance.

"Wow, a new friend! Hi, I'm Sirius." The 4-year-old boy asks, bouncing up to the newcomer.

The shy boy replied, "I'm Xenophilius. It's nice to meet you."

"Xenophilius? That's a cool name! Do you like to play games?" Sirius inquired, his eyes sparkling with excitement.

Xenophilius nodded shyly. "I like to play hide-and-seek. Do you want to play with me?"

"Yes! Let's get the others to play, too!" Sirius exclaimed, grabbing Xenophilius' hand and pulling him towards Severus and Pandora.

"Sev, Dora, Xenophilius wants to play hide-and-seek! Who's in?" Sirius announced, grinning from ear to ear.

The two four-year-olds cheer and quickly form a circle. "I'll be the seeker first!" Declares Pandora, covering her eyes and starting to count.

The rest of the children scattered, giggling as they find clever hiding spots. Xenophilius darted behind a large bush, tucking himself into a small nook. He held his breath, peeking out to see if Pandora would find him.

After what felt like an eternity, Pandora called out, "Ready or not, here I come!" She began searching the garden, checking under benches and behind trees.

Xenophilius watches, amused, as Pandora walks right past his hiding spot without noticing him. He stifled a laugh, not wanting to give away his position.

Suddenly, Pandora stopped and tilted her head, her eyes scanning the area. "Hmm, I wonder where 'Phil could be?" She mused aloud.

Xenophilius held his breath, hoping she wouldn't spot him.

Just then, a flash of color caught Pandora's eye, and she grinned. "Aha! There you are!" she exclaimed, parting the bushes to reveal Xenophilius' hiding spot. Xenophilia giggled and emerged from his hiding place, "You found me! That was fun!"

"One down, two to go!" Pandora laughs. She turned her attention to the rest of the garden, and other children run around playing games of their own, her eyes darting from tree to bush.

"Now, where could those sneaky boys be?" She crept along, Xenophilius right behind her. Suddenly, a muffled sneeze came from behind a large oak tree. Pandora's eyes lit up.

"Gotcha!" She shouts, dashing around the trunk to find Sirius trying to stifle another sneeze.

"No fair!" Sirius grumbled good-naturedly. "Stupid alle'gies."

Pandora grins triumphantly. With only Severus left to find, Pandora scanned the area. A slight rustling from a cluster of tall grass caught her attention. She tiptoed over, then dramatically pulled the grass apart. "Found you, Sevvie!"

Severus emerges, a smile on his face. After that, they all gather to decide on their next game, and they decide to create a fairy garden using twigs, leaves, and flowers. While they are creating their fairy garden, Kingsley joins them, the 6-year-old helping the younger children arrange pebbles and twigs into tiny houses and pathways.

Xenophilius giggled as he carefully placed a delicate petal on the tiny twig house. "Look, Kingsley! This is where the fairies will live!"

Kingsley nodded, his brow furrowed in concentration as he arranged a path of smooth pebbles. "We have to make it just right, so the fairies will want to stay."

Pandora dipped her fingers into the leaf-filled pond, watching the water ripple. "I hope the fairies like our pond. Sevvie and I made it special for them."

Severus beamed with pride. "The fairies will love it! They can swim and play in the water."

Pandora giggled. "My mum says fairies are real, and they live in gardens like this one."

Sirius came over, carrying an armful of pinecones. "I made a fairy meeting spot! See, the pinecones are like little chairs for them to sit on."

Kingsley clapped his hands. "That's brilliant! The fairies will have the perfect place to have their meetings."

Just then, Xeno's eyes went wide. "Oh no, we forgot about the Nargles! They live in the mistletoe, and they're misch'vous little things."

Severus looked concerned. "How do we keep the Nargles away from our fairy garden?" Xeno thought hard. "We need to make a special Nargle house, with lots of protection spells. That way, the fairies will be safe!"

The children got to work, carefully constructing a tiny house out of twigs and leaves. Xenophilius sprinkled more "fairy dust" around it, chanting under his breath. Kingsley nodded in satisfaction. "There, now the Nargles can't bother the fairies. This is the best fairy garden ever!"

The others cheered in agreement, thrilled with their magical creation. "Alright, children, it's snack time." Molly calls out. The kids reluctantly tear themselves away from their fairy garden. As they walk towards the building, Pandora whispers excitedly, "Maybe when we come back, we'll see real fairies in our garden!"

Sirius nods enthusiastically. "Yeah! And maybe they'll leave us a thank you note for building them such a nice home." They enter the room, where Amethyst has laid out a spread of fresh fruit, biscuits, and juice. The children eagerly grab their snacks, chattering excitedly about their fairy garden and the possibility of real fairies visiting.

~••~••~••~••~

Eileen, Orion, and Aurora arrive to pick up their kids around the same time. They exchange hellos and discuss their workdays while waiting for their little ones to come out. Aurora talks about her day at St. Mungo's, mentioning a particularly tricky case involving a wizard who accidentally transfigured his ears into teacups.

Orion chimes in, saying he'd just wrapped up a big project at the Ministry and was looking forward to some downtime. Eileen discusses her day at the rare magical artifacts shop, mentioning a peculiar object that came in - a self-stirring cauldron that seemed to have a mind of its own. Just then, they hear the pitter-patter of little feet and excited squeals. Their kids come bounding out, full of energy and stories from their day.     

Eileen smiles as Severus runs up to her, waving a colorful drawing. "Mummy, look!" he exclaims, proudly showing off his artwork. Eileen bends down to admire it, praising his creativity.     

Meanwhile, Sirius races towards Orion, nearly tripping over his own feet in excitement. "Dad, Dad! We made a friend today!" He shouts, his grey eyes sparkling with joy. Orion ruffles his hair affectionately, asking about this new friend. Amethyst comes out Regulus in her arms and hands the happy child over to his father.

Pandora skips out last, her pigtails bouncing. She animatedly talk about their fairy garden project, gesturing wildly with her hands as she describes the tiny houses they built from twigs and leaves. Aurora listens intently, her eyes twinkling with amusement at her daughter's enthusiasm. The parents exchange knowing glances as they wave goodbye to each other, promising to make plans for the weekend via owl later.

During the walk home, Severus enthusiastically recounts all he did today, and Eileen attentively listens to every word until Severus runs out of things to say.  

"What do you think about spaghetti for dinner?" Eileen asks as they walk up to their flat.  

“Yummy. Can I help?” Severus asks.    

“Sure, but you have to be really careful.” Eileen says, pushing open the door and letting Severus go inside.    

“Okay.” Severus agrees.   

Before starting dinner, Eileen gives Severus a bath. Once he's squeaky clean, mother and son go into the kitchen to make dinner. Eileen sets up a small step stool for Severus to stand on, allowing him to reach the counter. She gathers the ingredients while Severus eagerly watches, his eyes wide with excitement.     

"Alright, love, let's start with the tomatoes," Eileen says, handing him a few ripe ones. "Can you wash these for me?" Severus nods enthusiastically, carefully carrying the tomatoes to the sink.   

After he rinses them, Eileen starts the water for the pasta. "Alright, love, you can pour in the salt when I say so." She tells him, handing him a small measuring spoon. Severus nods, concentrating hard on his important task. Eileen gives him the go-ahead. He carefully tips the salt in, beaming with pride.   

"Great job!" Eileen praises.    

She then shows Severus how to tear fresh basil leaves, letting him smell the fragrant herb. The kitchen fills with the aroma of garlic as Eileen sautés it in olive oil. "Now, we'll add the tomatoes." Eileen explains, helping Severus carefully pour the chopped tomatoes into the pan. The sauce simmers, and Severus watches in fascination as it bubbles and thickens. Eileen lets him stir occasionally, reminding him to be careful of the heat.     

As the water starts to boil for the pasta, Eileen takes out the pasta. "Now, you have to be careful when putting the pasta in the water." She demonstrates how to gently lower the pasta into the pot, then lets Severus try with a few strands. He giggles as the spaghetti slips through his fingers into the bubbling water.   

While the pasta cooks, Eileen shows Severus how to grate cheese, guiding his small hands to keep them safe from the grater's sharp edges. Severus' tummy rumbles in anticipation. Once the pasta finishes cooking, Eileen teaches Severus how to test if it's ready. She fishes out a strand with a fork, blows on it to cool it down, and lets him take a bite. "Is it al dente?" Eileen asks with a smile. Severus nods, even though he's not quite sure what that means. Eileen drains the pasta, then lets Severus help mix it with the sauce. Finally, they plate up their creation, with Severus sprinkling the grated cheese on top like a little chef.   

As they sit down to eat, Eileen can't help but smile at her son's satisfied expression, proud of their joint culinary effort. Severus takes a big bite, sauce smearing around his mouth, and grins up at his mother. "It's yummy, Mum!" he exclaims, twirling more pasta onto his fork.   

Eileen chuckles, reaching over to wipe his face with a napkin. "I'm glad you like it, love. You were a big help in making it."  

As they eat, Severus chatters excitedly about his favorite parts of cooking. "Can we do this again tomorrow?" He asks, eyes shining with hope.  

"Of course," Eileen replies, ruffling his hair affectionately. "How about we try making pizza next time?" Severus claps his hands in delight, nearly knocking over his glass of milk. Eileen catches it just in time, laughing at his enthusiasm. They finish their meal, sharing stories and giggles.   

After dinner, Eileen lets Severus help with the dishes, standing on his step stool to reach the sink. He splashes a bit, but Eileen doesn't mind the mess. It's worth it to see the joy on her son's face. As bedtime approaches, Severus yawns widely.

Eileen scoops him up, planting a kiss on his forehead. "Time for bed, my little chef." She says softly. Severus nods sleepily, already dreaming of their next cooking escapade.  

Leaving Severus’s room, Eileen walks the short distance to the bathroom to take a shower. Eileen turns on the water, adjusting the temperature until it's just right. As she steps under the warm spray, she reflects on the evening spent with Severus. She reaches for the shampoo, working it into her hair while thinking about how quickly her son is growing up. 

As she rinses, Eileen makes mental notes about ingredients they'll need for their pizza-making adventure. She's already looking forward to seeing Severus' face light up as they knead the dough together. The steam fills the small bathroom, fogging up the mirror. Eileen finishes her shower, wrapping herself in a fluffy bathrobe. She wipes a circle on the misty mirror, studying her reflection. Her eyes are tired but happy, the corners crinkling with the hint of a smile. She brushes her teeth, humming a lullaby she often sings to Severus.   

Drying her hair with a towel, Eileen walks out of the bathroom. She could use a drying spell, but that just makes her hair frizzy and dry; it does the same to Severus. Walking to her bedroom, Eileen hears a knock on the door. Not expecting anyone, she quickly dresses and grabs her wand before stepping into the hallway. She checks on Severus, who is still sleeping, so she closes his door and proceeds to the front door.       

Eileen's heart races a little as she approaches the door, and her wand held tightly at her side. She takes a deep breath, reminding herself that it's probably just a neighbor or maybe one of her friends. Peering through the peephole, she couldn't identify the person as their face was obscured, but she noticed they wore elegant robes.        

Eileen slowly opens the door, leaving the chan still latched, and peers out cautiously. "Can I help you?" she asks, her voice steady despite her nerves. The figure shifts, revealing a familiar face.      

"Eileen, it is you."      

Closing the door and undoing the chain, Eileen opens the door. "Mum?" Eileen whispers, shocked. "I... I didn't expect to see you," Eileen stammers, her grip on the wand loosening slightly. Seraphina Prince stands before her, looking every bit as regal and imposing as Eileen remembers.     

Her mother's sudden appearance leaves her feeling both surprised and uneasy. "May I come in?" Seraphina asks, her voice soft but carrying a lot of emotion.    

Eileen hesitates for a moment before stepping aside. "Of course." She murmurs, closing the door behind her mother. The two women stand in awkward silence, years of unspoken words hanging between them.    

"You look well," Seraphina finally says, her gaze settling on Eileen's damp hair. Eileen self-consciously runs a hand through her locks. "Thank you. Would you like some tea?" Seraphina nods, and Eileen leads her to the small kitchen.   

As she busies herself with the kettle, her mind races. Why is her mother here after all this time?    

Seraphina takes a seat at the kitchen table, her eyes roaming over the modest surroundings. Eileen can feel her mother's gaze on her back as she prepares the tea, her hands slightly trembling. The silence is thick with unasked questions and years of estrangement.  

"How did you find me?" Eileen finally asks, turning to face her mother as the kettle begins to whistle. Seraphina's lips quirk into a small smile. "After I saw the article in the Daily Prophet, I did a bit of digging and asked around.”   

Eileen nods, unsurprised. She pours the hot water into two cups, the familiar ritual helping to calm her nerves. Eileen places a cup in front of her mother, then takes a seat across from her. Seraphina runs her fingers around the rim of her teacup. "I've come to make amends, Eileen. It's been far too long, and I've realized the error of my ways."    

Eileen's breath catches in her throat, a mix of hope and skepticism warring within her. "Error of your ways," Eileen mumbles. "It just took you eight years." Eileen can't help the jab that comes out.  

“I know there is no excuse for the way I acted and the things I did not do when it comes to your father, especially that night.”  

Eileen feels a lump forming in her throat, memories of that fateful night flooding back. She takes a sip of tea to compose herself before responding. "It's... it's been a long time, Mum. A lot has changed." Eileen's voice is soft, betraying a hint of the hurt she's carried all these years.     

Seraphina nods solemnly. "I understand. I don't expect forgiveness, but I hope we can start anew. I've missed so much of your life, Eileen."  

Eileen studies her mother's face, searching for sincerity. She sees remorse in those familiar eyes, so like her own. "Why now?" Eileen asks, her curiosity getting the better of her.   

Seraphina takes a deep breath. "Seeing you in the Prophet... it made me realize how much I've lost. I want to be part of your life again, if you'll have me."Eileen feels a mix of emotions - anger, hope, fear, and longing. She's dreamed of this moment, but now that it's here, she's unsure how to proceed.    

"I... I don't know what to say," Eileen admits, her fingers tracing the pattern on her teacup. "It's not that simple, Mum. You can't just waltz back in after all this time and expect everything to be okay."   

Seraphina nods, her eyes downcast. "I know, dear. I don't expect it to be easy. I'm prepared to work for your trust to prove that I've changed." Eileen takes a deep breath, trying to process her conflicting emotions. "It's just... there's so much you've missed. So much has happened."  

"I'd like to hear about it if you're willing to share," Seraphina says softly, her voice filled with genuine interest.   

“What about Father? Is he okay with you talking to his disgraceful, dead daughter?” Just thinking about Aetherius makes Eileen want to cry. She loved her father, but his words that night broke something in her.   

“Your father has regretted what he said to you since you left and wants to make amends.”

 “Then why isn't he here with you?” 

Seraphina's expression softens, a hint of sadness crossing her face. "He... he wanted to come, Eileen. But we thought it might be too overwhelming for you to face both of us at once. We decided I should come first, to test the waters, so to speak."  

Eileen nods slowly, absorbing this information. She feels a mix of relief and disappointment that her father isn't here. "I see," she says, her voice barely above a whisper.  

"Your father has changed, Eileen. We both have," Seraphina continues, her voice gentle. "Losing you... it made us realize how wrong we were. How our prejudices and expectations cost us our daughter."  

Eileen feels tears prickling at the corners of her eyes. She blinks them back, trying to maintain her composure. "It's not just about that night, Mum. It's about all the years before, too. The pressure, the expectations..."

Seraphina reaches across the table, her hand hovering near Eileen's but not quite touching. "I know, dear. And I'm truly sorry for all of it. We were wrong to try to force you into a mold that didn't fit. Your happiness should have been our priority."

Eileen takes a shaky breath, her emotions threatening to overwhelm her. "It's going to take time, Mum. I can't just forget everything that happened."  

"I understand," Seraphina nods, withdrawing her hand. "I'm prepared to take all the time you need. I just hope you'll give me – give us – a chance to make things right."   

“I'm off tomorrow. Maybe you can come back tomorrow, and we can talk.” Eileen suggests.  

Seraphina's face lights up with a hopeful smile. "I'd love that, Eileen. Thank you for considering it." She pauses, then adds softly, "Is there anything you'd like me to bring? Perhaps some of your favorite childhood treats?"

Eileen feels a rush of nostalgia at the mention of her childhood favorites. "Some pumpkin pasties would be nice." She admits, a small smile tugging at her lips.

"Of course, dear. I'll bring them," Seraphina promises, her eyes twinkling with warmth. She stands up, smoothing her robes. "I should go now. I don't want to overstay my welcome on this first visit."

Eileen nods, standing as well. She walks her mother to the door, feeling a mix of relief and apprehension about their upcoming meeting. As Seraphina steps out, she turns back to Eileen. "Thank you for hearing me out, Eileen. It means more than you know." She says, her voice thick with emotion. 

Eileen manages a small nod. "I'll see you tomorrow, Mum." She says softly, watching as her mother disapparates with a soft pop. Closing the door, Eileen leans against it, her mind whirling with thoughts and emotions. She knows that rebuilding her relationship with her parents won't be easy, but a small part of her dares to hope that maybe, just maybe, they can find a way forward.

Chapter Text

Seraphina stands on the doorstep, a warm smile on her face and a basket in her hands. The aroma of freshly baked pumpkin pasties wafts through the air, bringing back a flood of childhood memories for Eileen. "Hello, dear," Seraphina says softly, her eyes searching Eileen's face. "I hope I'm not too early."

Eileen steps aside, gesturing for her mother to enter. "No, you're right on time. Come in." As Seraphina walks into the cozy living room, her eyes dart around, taking in the details of her daughter's life. Eileen has put up pictures of her and Severus throughout their small apartment. The walls are adorned with snapshots of their time here, from lazy days at home to silly moments with their friends. Seraphina's gaze lingers on a photo of Eileen and Severus, from Severus 4th birthday party.

"You two look happy," Seraphina comments, her voice a mix of pride and something else Eileen can't quite place. "You've made quite a home here."

Eileen nods, a small smile tugging at her lips. "We are. Severus is thriving here. Tea?" Eileen bustles into the kitchen, Seraphina follows, sitting at the dining table

Seraphina places the basket on the table, "I brought a variety," She carefully remove the pumpkin pasties and arranging them on a plate. "I hope these are as good as you remember," Seraphina says, a hint of nervousness in her voice.

Eileen brings over two steaming cups of tea, setting one in front of her mother. "Thank you," she says softly, eyeing the pasties. "They smell wonderful."As they settle into their seats, a comfortable silence falls between them.

Eileen takes a bite of a pasty, closing her eyes briefly as the familiar taste floods her senses. "Just like I remember." She murmurs.

Seraphina's face brightens. "I'm glad. I spent all morning trying to get them just right."

Eileen nods, appreciating the effort.

"So," Seraphina begins, her fingers tracing the rim of her teacup, "tell me about Severus. He looks like such a bright boy in the photos."

Eileen's face lights up at the mention of her son. "He is. He's incredibly clever for his age. Always asking questions, always wanting to learn more." She pauses, a proud smile on her face. "He's been showing signs of magic since he was two."

Seraphina's eyes widen with interest. "Really? That's wonderful, Eileen. What has he done?"

Eileen chuckles softly, remembering. "Last week, he was upset because he couldn't reach a book on the top shelf. Next thing I knew, the book was floating down to him."

Seraphina laughs, a warm, genuine sound that Eileen hasn't heard in years. "He sounds remarkable. I'd love to meet him someday, if... if you're comfortable with that."

Eileen hesitates, her protective instincts flaring up. "Maybe... in time," she says carefully. "I need to be sure that things are... stable between us first."

Seraphina nods, understanding in her eyes. "Of course, dear. I completely understand. We'll take this one step at a time."

Eileen takes a sip of her tea, grateful for her mother's understanding. "Thank you," she says softly. "It means a lot that you're willing to be patient."Seraphina reaches across the table, gently placing her hand on Eileen's. "I've learned the hard way that pushing too hard only drives people away. I want to rebuild our relationship, not damage it further."

They sit in companionable silence for a moment, each lost in their own thoughts. Eileen breaks the quiet, her voice hesitant. "Mum, I... I need to know. What made you and Father change your minds? About me, about... everything?"

Seraphina's expression turns somber. "It was a gradual process, dear. At first, we were angry, hurt. But as time passed, the anger faded, leaving only regret and longing. We missed you terribly." She pauses, taking a deep breath. "Then, about a year ago, your father fell ill. It was nothing serious, but it made us both realize how fragile life is, how easily we could lose each other. It put everything into perspective."

Eileen listens intently, her heart aching at the thought of her father being ill. Despite everything, she still cares deeply for her parents.

Seraphina continues, her voice thick with emotion. "We realized that our prejudices, our outdated beliefs, weren't worth losing our daughter over. We started questioning everything we thought we knew. It... it wasn't easy, Eileen. But the thought of never seeing you again, never meeting our grandson... it was unbearable."

"Your father spends hours in his study, looking at old family photos." She reaches into her pocket, pulling out a small, worn photograph. "He wanted me to give you this."

Eileen takes the photo with trembling hands. It's a picture of her as a child, laughing as her father spins her around in the garden. The memory hits her like a wave, bringing tears to her eyes.

"Your father misses you terribly," Seraphina continues softly. "He's been trying to find the right words to say to you for years. He's afraid that no apology will ever be enough."

Eileen stares at the photograph, her fingers tracing the edges gently. A mix of emotions swirls within her - nostalgia and longing. She takes a deep breath, gathering her thoughts before speaking."I... I miss him too," she admits quietly, her voice barely above a whisper. "And you, Mum. It hasn't been easy, being away from you both."

Seraphina nods, her eyes glistening with unshed tears. "We've all made mistakes, dear. But we're here now, trying to make amends. That has to count for something, doesn't it?"

Eileen looks up from the photo, meeting her mother's gaze. "It does," she agrees softly.

As they continue to talk, the afternoon sun streams through the windows, casting a warm glow over the kitchen. The conversation flows more easily now, touching on lighter topics - Eileen's work, her friends, the little joys of raising Severus. It's not perfect, and there's still a long way to go, but it's a start. As the visit draws to a close, Seraphina stands, smoothing her robes. "Thank you for today, Eileen. It means more than you know."

Eileen nods, a small smile on her face. "Same time next week?"

~••~••~••~••~

As the winter chill fades, spring arrives with sudden rain showers, blossoming trees, and flowering plants. Amidst this seasonal transition, Regulus's 3rd birthday is just around the corner. Today, the gloomy rain casts its shadow over 12 Grimmauld Place, mirroring the slowly brewing atmosphere within the house.

Inside, the Black family are absorbed in their own things. Sirius bounces around his room with little Regulus toddling after his big brother, giggling and clapping his hands. The house-elf, Kreacher, makes sure they are out of Walburga's way, sensing the bad mood she's slowly getting into. It has nothing to do with Regulus or his birthday - Kreacher wouldn't be surprised if she didn't remember it. No, Walburga is in a bad mood because of Master Orion and the Daily Prophet, not that there's anything particularly bad in it, but that doesn't matter.

"Really, Orion. Have you stooped so low?" Walburga accuses, walking into the bedroom where Orion is getting dressed.

Orion sighs, leaning his head back, looking up at the ceiling. "What are you on about, Walburga?"

"Don't play coy with me," Walburga hisses, her eyes narrowing. “I know that this past year you have been spending a lot of time with that woman.” She spits out the word 'Woman' as if it's poison on her tongue. Orion turns to face his wife, his expression a mixture of irritation and weariness.

"Are you implying an affair?" Orion raises an eyebrow "Because if you are, you are sorely mistaken."

"I have eyes. People talk." She says, crossing her arms.

"Talk is cheap, and people love to gossip," Orion retorts, his frustration evident in the tightening of his jaw. "You should know better than to listen to idle chatter." He sits down o bed to put his shoes on.

Walburga continues as if she didn't hear him, "You stoop so low as to sleep with a Muggle-loving whore right in front of my face."

Orion's hands freeze mid-lace, his knuckles whitening as he grips his shoelaces. "You will not speak about Eileen like that. She is ten times the woman and mother you will ever be." Orion snaps.

Walburga's eyes narrow dangerously, her voice dripping with venom. "How dare you compare that pure-blood trash to me? I am the mother of your heirs, the keeper of the Noble and Most Ancient House of Black!" She takes a step closer, her magic crackling in the air around her.

Orion rises slowly, his own anger simmering just beneath the surface. "And yet, you fail to see the importance of compassion and understanding in raising our sons," He says, his tone measured but firm. "Eileen has shown more kindness to Sirius and Regulus in a year than you have in four."

Walburga's face contorts with rage, her hand twitching towards her wand. "You would choose her over your own family? Over our traditions?"

Orion stands his ground, his gaze unwavering. "There is nothing going on between Eileen and I. Our sons are friends, and we are old classmates. That is it."

Walburga's lips curl into a sneer, her disbelief palpable. "You expect me to believe that? You are gone all day; you don't come back until late at night. You could at least have the decency, like most other pure-blood men, to have an upstanding witch with decorum and keep it behind closed doors!" She circles him like a predator.

Orion's patience wears thin, his voice low and dangerous. "I will not dignify your baseless accusations with a response. Your paranoia and prejudice are poisoning this family, Walburga." He takes a step closer, his eyes flashing with determination. "Our sons deserve better than to be raised in an environment of hatred and suspicion. Sirius and Regulus need to understand the world beyond our narrow pure-blood circles. Severus’s friendship offers them that perspective."

"Our sons may be friends now, but mark my words, that half-blood spawn of hers will corrupt them."

Orion's jaw clenches, his patience wearing thin. "Severus is a bright boy, and his friendship has been good for both Sirius and Regulus. You're letting your prejudice cloud your judgment, Walburga."

"Prejudice?" She scoffs, her eyes flashing. "I am protecting our legacy, our purity. Something you seem to have forgotten in your infatuation with that woman."

Orion takes a deep breath, trying to maintain his composure. "How can you say you are protecting anything when you won't protect our own sons? Kreacher told me how you cursed Sirius because he wanted something from you!"

Walburga's face pales momentarily before her anger resurfaces. "How dare you question my methods? I am molding them into proper heirs of the Noble and Most Ancient House of Black!"

Orion's voice rises, his composure slipping. "By abusing them? That's not molding, Walburga, their two and four! Can't you see the damage you're inflicting?"

"Damage?" She laughs bitterly. "I am making them strong, resilient. The world is not kind to the weak, Orion. You of all people should know that."

"I will not continue this conversation with you because you do not understand. We are going in circles here; I'm done." He turns away, reaching for his cloak.

Walburga's hand shoots out, grasping Orion's arm with surprising strength. "You're not walking away from this, Orion," she hisses, her eyes aflame with a mixture of fury and desperation.

Orion's jaw tightens as he turns back to face his wife, his patience wearing dangerously thin. "Remove your hand, Walburga," he says, his voice low and controlled. "This discussion is over."

Walburga's grip only tightens, her nails digging into his skin through the fabric of his shirt. "It's over when I say it's over," she snarls, her face contorted with rage. "You will not continue to disrespect me and this family."

Orion's eyes narrow, a dangerous glint in them. With a swift motion, he breaks free from her grasp, taking a step back. "I am not disrespecting this family. I am trying to save it from your madness."

The tension in the room reaches a boiling point as Walburga's fingers wrap around her wand. Orion's eyes flicker to her hand, his own muscles tensing in anticipation."Think carefully about your next move, Walburga," Orion warns, his voice low and steady. "You don't want to do something you'll regret."

Walburga's lips curl into a sneer, her wand now fully drawn. "Regret? The only thing I regret is not seeing sooner how weak you've become."

"I've had it with your paranoia and your cruelty. Our sons are not pawns in your twisted game of pure-blood supremacy!" He takes a deep breath, trying to regain his composure. "I am taking the boys and we are leaving. They deserve normalcy, away from your toxic influence."

Walburga's face contorts with rage. "You can't do this! They are my sons too!"

"Then start acting like a mother," Orion retorts, his voice cold. With that, Orion leaves the room, slamming the door behind him. He takes a moment to compose himself before heading to Sirius's room to get them ready and away from the dark cloud that hangs over their home.

~

Eileen hums as she cleans up the flour and cheese from her and Severus' pizza making. “How about you go play while the pizza cooks?” She says to the 4-year-old, who happily runs off to his room. Eileen smiles watching him go. After the kitchen is cleaned, Eileen walks into the living room, picking up a few toys here and there before she stops at the desk by the window. Eileen sighs as she looks through the mail on the desk, finding a letter from the court about the divorce she filed for some time ago. The letter informs her of the case number and confirms that the application has been issued to Tobias.

Eileen is uncertain whether Tobias will refuse to sign the documents, making the process more difficult than necessary, or if he will simply sign them and get this over with. Eileen is hoping for the latter scenario but preparing for the former.

Eileen's fingers tremble slightly as she sets the letter down, a mix of relief and anxiety washing over her. She takes a deep breath, steadying herself against the desk. The divorce proceedings are finally moving forward, a step towards closure she's been both dreading and longing for. She glances towards Severus' room, where she can hear him chattering happily to his toys. A small smile tugs at her lips, this is for him, she reminds herself.

Turning to the window, Eileen watches the street below, lost in thought. The last year has gone by in a whirlwind of change - leaving Tobias, reconnecting with her parents, building a new life for herself and Severus. It hasn't been easy, but moments like with her mother remind her that she's on the right path. A knock on the door pulls Eileen from her reverie. She quickly tucks the letter into a drawer and smooths her apron before heading to answer the door. 

As she walks, she wonders who it could be - perhaps her neighbor, Mrs. Thompson, dropping off some extra vegetables from her garden again. Eileen opens the door, a polite smile already in place she is a bit surprised to see Orion standing there with Sirius and Regulus. Eileen's smile falters slightly, replaced by a look of concern as she takes in Orion's tense expression and the boys' confused faces. "Orion? Is everything alright?" She asks, stepping aside to let them in. 

Orion ushers the boys inside, his voice low and strained. "I apologize for the unexpected visit, Eileen. We... we had a situation at home. I was hoping we could stay here for a bit, just until I figure things out." 

Eileen nods, her brow furrowed with worry. "Of course, come in. You're always welcome here." She kneels down to greet Sirius and Regulus, forcing a cheerful tone. "Hello, boys. Severus is playing in his room if you'd like to join him." 

As the children scamper off, Eileen turns back to Orion, noticing the tension in his shoulders and the weariness in his eyes. "What happened, Orion?" She asks gently, leading him to the kitchen where the aroma of baking pizza fills the room. 

Orion follows Eileen into the kitchen, his shoulders sagging as the weight of the situation finally settles on him. He runs a hand through his hair, taking a deep breath before speaking. "Walburga and I had a... confrontation," he says, his voice low and strained. "It's been building for a while, but today... today was the breaking point." 

Eileen nods sympathetically, gesturing for him to sit at the kitchen table while she pours two cups of tea. "I'm so sorry, Orion. Can you tell me more about what happened?" 

Orion accepts the tea gratefully, wrapping his hands around the warm mug. "She accused me of having an affair with you," he says, shaking his head in disbelief. "But it's more than that. Her paranoia, her cruelty towards the boys... I couldn't stand by and watch it anymore." 

Eileen's eyes widen at the accusation, a mix of shock and concern crossing her face. She reaches out, gently placing her hand on Orion's arm. "Oh, Orion, I'm so sorry. That's absolutely ridiculous." She pauses, gathering her thoughts before continuing, "You did the right thing by leaving. The boys' safety and well-being come first. You're all welcome to stay here as long as you need." 

Orion nods gratefully, taking a sip of his tea. "Thank you, Eileen. I just... I don't know what to do next. I never thought it would come to this." 

Eileen squeezes his arm reassuringly. "We'll figure it out together. For now, let's focus on making sure the boys are comfortable. Have you eaten? I've got pizza in the oven that should be ready soon." 

As if on cue, the timer dings. Eileen stands, moving to check on the pizza. "Why don't you go check on the children? I'll get dinner ready, and we can talk more after they're in bed." 

Orion nods, standing up. "That sounds good. And Eileen? Thank you. I don't know what I'd do without you." Eileen offers him a warm smile. "That's what friends are for, Orion. We'll get through this together." 

As Orion leaves the kitchen to check on the children, Eileen turns her attention to the oven, her mind racing with thoughts and concerns. She carefully removes the pizza, letting it cool while she retrieves the pizza cutter. She then begins slicing the pizza, her movements automatic as she considers the situation.

She feels a mix of emotions - concern for Orion and the boys, anger at Walburga's accusations, and a twinge of guilt, wondering if her friendship with Orion had inadvertently contributed to the situation. 

Orion comes back into the kitchen with Severus, Sirius and Regulus following close behind him as Eileen sits the pizza on the table. "Perfect timing! Who's hungry?" She asks.

The boys eagerly take their seats while Eileen serves the pizza, she keeps up a stream of light conversation, asking the boys about their day and what games they'd like to play after dinner. Orion watches from his seat, struck by how easily Eileen interacts with the children. He can't help but compare Walburga's stern and distant manner to Eileen's kind and motherly presence It's like night and day, he thinks, watching Eileen laugh and talk with the kids. She's got this natural warmth that just draws them in. Orion finds himself wanting to experience more of this. 

Orion catches himself smiling, despite the turmoil of the day. He joins in the conversation, asking Severus about his latest drawings and talking to Sirius. The atmosphere around the table grows lighter, filled with childish giggles and animated chatter. As they finish their meal, Eileen suggests, "Why don't you boys go wash up and then we can play a game together?" 

The children scamper off excitedly, leaving the adults alone for a moment. Eileen begins clearing the table, and Orion stands to help. "Let me give you a hand," he offers, gathering plates. As they work side by side, a comfortable silence falls between them. Eileen breaks the quiet, her voice soft. "The boys can sleep in Severus's room, and I can transfigure a bed for you in the living room. I know the living room isn't ideal."

Orion nods gratefully, "That's more than enough, Eileen. Thank you." He pauses, then adds, "I'm sorry to impose like this. I know it's not easy, especially with such short notice."

Eileen waves off his apology, "Don't be silly. You and the boys are always welcome here."  

The sound of running feet and laughter echoes from the hallway. Eileen smiles, "Looks like they're ready for that game. Shall we join them?"

Orion returns her smile, feeling a weight lift from his shoulders. As they head to the living room, Orion can't help but feel a sense of peace wash over him. Despite the uncertainty of his situation, he knows that here, with Eileen and the children, they'll find a way forward. 

Chapter Text

In the soft afternoon light, Eileen gently fastens the laces on Severus's shoes, her hands a comforting warmth against his small feet. Their tiny flat hums with anticipation, the scent of breakfast still hanging in the air. "There you go. Now we can go." She says softly.

“Are we going to see your mummy?” Severus asks as they leave the flat.

“That's right, and my father. They are very excited to meet you.” Eileen replies with a smile. She takes Severus's hand before walking down the road.

Severus squeezes Eileen's hand, his eyes wide with curiosity. "What are they like? Do they have magic, too?"

Eileen chuckles, "Well, they're a bit different from us. My mum's quite the chatterbox, and Dad's more of the quiet type. And yes, they both have magic, just like us."

As they turn the corner, Severus hops over a crack in the sidewalk. "Will they like me?" He asks, a hint of worry in his voice.

"Of course they will, sweetheart," Eileen reassures him, ruffling his hair. "They'll adore you. Just be yourself, okay?"

Severus nods, a small smile playing on his lips. They continue their walk, the boy pointing out interesting things he spots along the way – a funny-shaped cloud, a cat lounging in a window, a colorful flower poking through a fence.

Her mother has been eager to meet Severus since they have been working to mend their relationship, and now that the time has arrived, Eileen feels a blend of happiness and nervousness. Although Eileen and Seraphina have reconnected for months and speak frequently, Eileen has only communicated with her father through letters and, surprisingly, phone calls.

As they make their way to the park, Severus chattering excitedly, Eileen's mind wanders to Orion. She hopes that Orion is doing well, as today is the day he's meeting Walburga for mediation. It's been three weeks since everything happened, and since then, Orion and the boys have found a place to stay. The house is one of the Black family properties, as Orion didn't want to fight Walburga over 12 Grimmauld Place, so he made the decision easy for both of them by moving into one of the other properties.

As they approach the park, Eileen spots her mother and father. She can't help but smile when she sees the two of them chatting and laughing together. Severus spots them too and tugs at her hand. "Come on, mummy!" He says, pulling her along.

Seraphina is the first to spot Eileen and Severus. "Hello, darling. I'm so glad you could make it."

"Hello, mum." Eileen replies, accepting her mother's hug.

"And this handsome young man must be Severus." Seraphina smiles.

"Yes, this is Severus," Eileen confirms, smiling proudly.

"It's a pleasure to meet you, Mrs. Prince," Severus says, a little shyly.

"Such manners," Seraphina chuckles, "But none of that Mrs Prince stuff, call me Nana."

Severus smiles up at Seraphina. "Okay, Nana."

“Severus, this is your grandfather Aetherius.” Eileen introduced.

Severus gazed up at his grandfather, his eyes widening. The man is tall, with long black hair tied back at the nape of his neck with a dark blue ribbon. His beard is trimmed, with streaks of gray visible. He wore a silk royal blue shirt, the sleeves rolled up, and black pants.

Aetherius kneels to Severus' eye level, his face warm and open. "Hello, Severus. It's wonderful to meet you."

Severus is instantly taken by his grandfather, a large smile stretching across his face. "It's nice to meet you too, Grandad!"

Aetherius smiles fondly at his grandson, his heart swelling with pride and affection. "I've heard so much about you from your mother.

"Would you like a drink?" Seraphina asked Severus, reaching for the picnic basket beside her, trying to give her husband and daughter time to talk.

“Yes please.” Severus smiles.

Seraphina rummages through the basket, pulling out a bottle of homemade lemonade and a colorful plastic cup. "Here you go, dear. It's my special recipe," she says, pouring the drink for Severus. While Seraphina keeps Severus occupied, Eileen and Aetherius step aside for a moment.

Eileen feels a mix of emotions as she faces her father after so long."You look well, Eileen," Aetherius says softly, his eyes twinkling with warmth. "I've missed you terribly."

Eileen's throat tightens with emotion. "I've missed you too, Dad. I'm sorry it took so long for us to..."

Aetherius shakes his head, gently interrupting her. "No need for apologies. We're here now, and that's what matters."

They share a brief, heartfelt hug before turning their attention back to Severus and Seraphina. The boy is animatedly describing his favorite magical creatures to his grandmother, who listens with rapt attention.

"He's a wonderful child," Aetherius remarks, his voice filled with pride. "You've done an excellent job raising him, Eileen."

Eileen feels a warmth spread through her chest at her father's words. "Thank you, Dad. It hasn't always been easy, but he's worth every moment."

As they rejoin Severus and Seraphina, Aetherius pulls out a small, wrapped package from his pocket. "Severus, I have a little something for you," he says, presenting the gift to his grandson.

Severus's eyes light up with excitement. "For me? Thank you, Grandad!" He carefully unwraps the package to reveal a beautiful, intricately carved wooden box.

"It's a puzzle box," Aetherius explains. "It has several compartments, each with its own magical secret. I thought you might enjoy figuring out how to open them all."

Severus beams, already turning the box over in his hands, searching for clues. "This is brilliant! Can you show me how it works?"

Aetherius chuckles warmly, settling down next to Severus on the picnic blanket. "Of course, my boy. Let's start with the first compartment, shall we?" He gently takes the box, pointing out a small, almost invisible notch on one side.

As grandfather and grandson huddle together, engrossed in the puzzle box, Eileen and Seraphina exchange fond glances.

She watches as Severus lets out a delighted gasp, having successfully opened the first compartment with Aetherius's guidance. Inside, they find a shimmering feather that seems to change color in the sunlight.

"That's a Fwooper feather," Aetherius explains, his eyes twinkling. "They're quite rare, you know. Each compartment has a little magical treasure inside."

Severus's eyes widen with wonder. "Wow! Can we try to open the next one, Grandad?"

As the afternoon wears on, Eileen and Seraphina lay out the food on the picnic blanket. A delightful spread of sandwiches, fresh fruits, and homemade pastries.

"You've outdone yourself, mum," Eileen praises, admiring the spread. "This looks delicious."

"Thank you, dear," Seraphina replies, her eyes shining with pride. "It's nothing special, but I thought Severus would enjoy it."

"He certainly will," Eileen chuckles, glancing at her son, who is eagerly watching Aetherius's attempts to open the next compartment of the puzzle box.

Eileen calls the two over, "Severus, time to eat."

Severus rushes over to his mother and grandmother, his eyes bright and cheeks flushed from excitement. "Did you see the Fwooper feather, mummy? It changed colors in the sun!"

Eileen smiles warmly at her son. "I did. It was very beautiful. Now, let's eat, and you can tell me more about it, okay?"

Severus and Aetherius settle onto the blanket, eager to dig into the food. As they enjoy the delicious picnic, Seraphina and Aetherius tell stories of Eileen's childhood, regaling Severus with tales of her exploits. Severus listens with rapt attention, asking a million questions. 

Eileen is a blushing mess, protesting and trying to redirect the conversation, but her efforts are futile. She can admit to herself that she was a bit of a wild child growing up, but she calmed down before entering Hogwarts.

As the sky slowly changes from blue to orange, the four of them pack up the picnic, and Seraphina suggests, "Shall we have a walk through the park before we head home?"

Everyone agrees, and soon they're strolling along the path, admiring the vibrant flowers and the setting sun. Aetherius walks ahead, holding Severus's hand, while Seraphina and Eileen trail behind.

"Thank you for today, honey," Seraphina says, feeling a swell of gratitude and love. "It means a lot to me and your dad."

Eileen smiles at her mother. "Of course, Mum. I'm glad we could finally do this."

They stop at a pond, watching as ducks float lazily across the water. Severus is tickled when the ducks bob underwater and then pop back up, quacking loudly.

"Grandad," Severus pipes up. "Are there any magical ponds with magical fish?"

"There are," Aetherius chuckles. "Some have talking fish, others can change their shape. There's even a pond in Scotland with a Kelpie."

Severus's eyes light up. "A talking fish would be brilliant. Wouldn't it, Mummy?"

Eileen chuckles, imagining her son chatting away with a fish. "Yes, it would, but perhaps it's best if we stick with regular fish for now."

As the sun dips below the horizon, the family makes their way home. Severus's excitement has quieted, the boy dozing off in Aetherius's arms. They walk in comfortable silence, the air cool and peaceful. 

"We should do this again soon. Perhaps a family dinner?" Aetherius suggests, as he hands Severus to Eileen.

Eileen cradles her son close, and his sleepy form snuggled against her chest. "I'd like that, Dad. Thank you."

They exchange goodbyes and part ways, promising to meet up again soon. As Eileen makes her way back to their small flat, she feels a sense of contentment. It's been a good day, and she knows Severus is just as pleased.

Back at the flat, Eileen settles Severus into bed, tucking the covers around him. She leans down and presses a soft kiss to his forehead.

"Sleep tight, little one," she whispers. "I love you."

With a gentle click, she closes the door behind her and makes her way to the living room. She collapses onto the sofa, her mind racing. So much has happened in the past few months. It's been a rollercoaster. But in the end, it's all worked out.

Eileen smiles softly as she reflects on the day. It's been perfect. Her parents adore Severus, and she's finally found a place of peace with them.

Later that day, Orion arrived with Sirius and Regulus. While the boys played around the flat, Eileen and Orion prepared dinner together. 

"How did the mediation go?" Eileen asks as she chops carrots. 

“Just as I anticipated. She didn't believe I would actually follow through, so she's upset." Orion sighed, dumping cut-up onions into the pan. 

"Is that going to be a significant issue? I understand that things are handled differently than they are for muggles," Eileen asks. While it's not common, Eileen is aware that it's much simpler for witches and wizards, particularly those with wealth, to obtain a divorce. Tobias has received the divorce papers, but surprisingly—or perhaps not—he hasn't signed them yet, and Eileen doubts he will. Therefore, she needs to pursue an alternative method to end their marriage.

"I doubt it. I'm allowing her to retain Grimmauld Place and providing her with a fair compensation," Orion explains, putting the chicken into the oven.

Eileen leaned against the counter. "That seems reasonable enough." She replies. 

Orion nods, his brow furrowing slightly. "I just want to make sure everything is settled without any unnecessary drama. The last thing I need is for her to stir up trouble."

"Well, hopefully, it'll all work out." Eileen says, placing a comforting hand on Orion's shoulder. 

Orion smiles, "How was your visit with your parents?"

"It was really nice. My dad got Severus a puzzle box. They both loved him, and he had a lot of fun." Eileen explains, smiling at the memory.

"That's great. I'm glad it went well." Orion says, his voice full of sincerity.

"It was a really good day." Eileen smiles. 

There's a sudden crash that comes from the living room, followed by Sirius's cackling, Severus, and Regulus giggling. Eileen and Orion glance at each other, their eyes full of affection and amusement.

“I swear that boy gets into more trouble than a Boggart in a classroom,” Orion chuckles, shaking his head fondly.

“Looks like I’ll need to rescue something before they turn my flat upside down,” Eileen says with an amused sigh. She wipes her hands on a towel and heads toward the chaos unfolding nearby. 

She enters the living room where toys are scattered haphazardly across the floor like fallen leaves. Sirius grins up at her from where he's on the floor, in a mess of blankets, pillows, and stuffed animals.

"What's all this then?" Eileen asks, trying to maintain a serious tone, though her lips betray her.

"We're playing camp-out!" Sirius declares.

"We're making a fort." Regulus adds.

"And it's top secret." Severus whispers, a finger to his lips.

Eileen crouches down to peer at the trio through the blanket fortress. "Top secret, eh? Well, don't let me get in the way. Carry on." She grins and returns to the kitchen where Orion is preparing a salad.

As Eileen enters the kitchen, Orion glances at her, a questioning look on his face.

"The boys are hard at work, It's top secret." She whispers conspiratorially.

Orion raises an eyebrow, an amused smile playing at his lips.

"Apparently, they're having a camp-out, and it's top secret," Eileen explains.

"Ah, well, better not interrupt them, then," Orion chuckles, finishes assembling the salad, and places it in the fridge.

While they wait for the chicken to cook, Eileen and Orion join the boys in the living room, assisting them with the fort construction. They add extra pillows and blankets, creating a cozy den.

They play a game of wizard's chess, and then Eileen tells the boys a story, making the pieces dance around the board. The boys are enthralled by the story, and by the end, they're begging her for more.

~•~•~•~•~

The air is pleasantly warm, and there's a gentle breeze as Orion and Eileen set the table in the garden of Orion’s house. The garden is in full bloom, with vibrant flowers swaying gently in the wind. Eileen couldn't help but admire how much effort Orion had put into making this space beautiful and inviting since moving in.

Eileen and Orion work together, setting out plates, cutlery, and glasses. "Would you like some help?" Sirius asked, bouncing over to his father.

"Thank you, pup," Orion says, smiling warmly at his son.

Regulus trailed behind Sirius, holding a handful of daisies he’d picked from the garden. “I brought flowers for our table!” He announced proudly as he carefully placed them in a small vase that Eileen had set aside.

“That’s perfect! They’ll add some lovely color.” She praised him as she took them arranged vase between the plates.

"I want to help too." Regulus whines, tugging on his father's robes.

"Okay, Reggie. How about you help me carry the food from the kitchen, hm?" Orion says, patting Regulus on the head.

"Can I help too, mummy?" Severus asked, gazing up at Eileen.

"Of course, my sweet." Eileen smiled. She took her wand and levitated the pitcher of lemonade from the kitchen and placed it on the table.

"Woah! Can I do that, Mummy?" Severus asked, his eyes shining with excitement.

"You'll learn when you're older." Eileen chuckled, playfully tousling his hair. With Severus's assistance, Eileen poured lemonade into five glasses.

Sirius and Regulus helped Orion carry the rest of the food from the kitchen, setting it on the table. Eileen and Severus added the finishing touches, placing the napkins and cutlery around the plates.

"This looks delicious." Orion smiled as he admired the spread. "You've outdone yourself, love."

Eileen flushed, waving a dismissive hand. "Oh, it's nothing. I just wanted to make a nice meal for everyone."

"Well, it's very thoughtful." Orion said, pressing a kiss to her cheek.

"Come, let's get you boys washed up before we eat." Eileen leads them inside, guiding them to the washroom and helping them scrub their hands.

"There we go, nice and clean." She praises the boys, drying their hands with a fluffy towel.

The four of them return to the garden, where the food is waiting on the table. Orion smiles as he takes a seat next to Sirius, who is seated between him and Eileen. "Looks like everyone is ready to eat. Let's dig in."

Orion helps the boys get their plates sorted and begins piling up their plates with delicious food. There's pasta salad, roasted potatoes, grilled vegetables, and lamb chops. 

Eileen and Orion chat quietly while they eat, and the boys chatter excitedly. "Did you see that huge caterpillar by the roses?" Sirius exclaimed, his eyes wide with enthusiasm. "I swear it was bigger than my hand!"

Regulus nodded vigorously, ready to jump into the conversation. "And I found a ladybug! It sat on my finger!" His excitement was infectious, and even Severus chimed in with a soft giggle. 

As they continued to eat, the garden buzzed with life. Bees flitted from flower to flower, and a pair of butterflies danced above the table, adding to the cheerful atmosphere. Orion took a moment to soak it all in—the laughter of his boys, Eileen's radiant smile as she laughs with the boys and the delicious flavors that filled their plates. It is a stark contrast to the life and atmosphere at Grimmauld Place, which had been tense and oppressive for some time.

This wasn't possible with Walburga. This was the kind of life that Orion wanted his boys to have—a happy and carefree one, free from the stress and tension that Walburga wanted to uphold. And he's finally made it a reality. Their divorce has been finalized for two months now. He has sole custody of Sirius and Regulus, and Kreacher comes and goes between the two of their houses.

After finishing their meal, Eileen suggested they move to the grassy area under an old oak tree for dessert—a homemade berry tart she had prepared earlier that morning. The boys cheered at the thought of sweets as they helped clear off the table without being asked. Once settled under the shade of the tree, Orion served slices of tart topped with fresh whipped cream while Eileen poured more lemonade into their glasses. 

Severus dug into the tart, a look of delight spreading across his face. "It's good, Mummy."

"It's the best!" Sirius chimed in, his mouth full of tart.

"Sirius, what have I told you about talking with your mouth full?" Orion chided, though he was fighting back a grin.

"Sorry, Dad," Sirius mumbled sheepishly, swallowing his bite.

Eileen hid a smile behind her glass as she took a sip of lemonade.

After enjoying their dessert, the boys run off to play. Severus and Regulus take a plastic bucket and begin concocting potions in it, while Sirius races around, pretending to be a brave knight on a grand adventure. Severus carefully selects dandelions and clover from the ground, mixing them enthusiastically into their bucket as if they were rare ingredients from an ancient spellbook. 

Regulus mimics his serious demeanor but can't help giggling every time he splashes water from the pond into their potion, creating a frothy mess. Sirius pauses in his knightly pursuits and approaches them with curiosity.

"What are you making?" He asks, eyes wide with excitement.

Severus straightens up proudly and declares confidently, “It’s a powerful invisible potion!” This piques Sirius’ interest, and he plops himself down next to Severus and Regulus.

"I want to help! Is it finished yet?" He asks, eager to be included.

"Not quite," Severus replies, looking thoughtful. "But you can add more flowers."

"Yeah, let's put lots of flowers!" Regulus adds enthusiastically.

Sirius scours the garden, collecting an armful of wildflowers. He returns triumphantly, dumping them into the bucket.

"Perhaps it's time for him to receive a potions starter kit?" Orion suggests, his voice filled with warmth as he glances away from their children.

"Absolutely! He's always trying to make potions." Eileen chuckles lightly, her eyes sparkling with amusement. With a swift motion, she reaches for an empty glass and expertly transfigures it into a small potion vial, its surface gleaming in the sunlight.

"We have quite the little potions prodigy in our midst." Orion remarks playfully. Just then, he calls out to Kreacher. In no time at all, Kreacher appears at his side, carrying a small cup filled with vibrant fruit juice.

"We do, indeed." Eileen replies with a bright smile as she carefully pours the colorful juice into the newly transformed vial. 

"It's finished!" Severus declares, looking into the bucket.

"Let's see what we have." Eileen says, examining the murky mixture. “And it looks perfect." She taps the bucket with her wand before producing the vial.

Eileen hands the potion to Severus, who admires it with a look of awe.

"Wow!" He exclaims, holding the potion up to the light. "We did it!"

Sirius and Regulus cheer, celebrating their success. "Good job, everyone." Eileen praises the trio, ruffling their hair affectionately.

"Now it's time for us to drink the potion," Severus says, lifting the vial.

Eileen sits back with Orion as they watch the boys drink their ‘potion’. Severus takes a brave sip first, his face scrunching up slightly at the taste. “Ew! It’s kind of sour!” He exclaims, quickly passing it to Regulus. 

Regulus hesitates but then bravely takes a swallow as well. His eyes widen in surprise before he bursts out laughing. “It’s like lemonade gone wrong!” He giggles, and soon all three boys are roaring with laughter. 

Sirius, unable to resist the temptation any longer, grabs the vial from Regulus and downs the rest in one go before dramatically pretending to collapse on the grass. “I’ve been poisoned!” He cries out in mock agony as Regulus and Severus erupt into more fits of giggles. 

Orion and Eileen share amused glances as they watch their children revel in their playful antics under the oak tree's shade. 

"Well," Orion chuckles softly, leaning back against his chair while enjoying this perfect moment with Eileen beside him, "At least we know they’re not afraid to experiment."

“They’ll be great wizards one day.” Eileen replies affectionately before turning her attention back toward their boys. 

Chapter Text

"What do you think?" Eileen inquires, her voice soft yet curious as she glances at Severus through the mirror.

"Your dress is really lovely, mummy." He replies with a warm smile that lights up his face.

"Thank you, sweetheart." Eileen responds, her fingers gently smooths her hand along the side of her dress as a wave of emotion washes over her. Tonight marks a significant occasion: it is not just any evening; it’s her and Orion's official first date. A flutter of excitement mixed with anxiety stirs within her chest for reasons she can't quite pinpoint, making this moment feel all the more important and nerve-wracking.

She adjusts her earrings, glancing at her reflection one last time before turning to face Severus. Eileen scoops up Severus from the bed and plants kisses all over his face. "Are you going to have fun at Molly's?"

Severus giggles, squirming in her embrace. "Yes! She has the best toys!" His excitement is infectious, and soon both of them are laughing uncontrollably.

"Good." She says, setting him down gently. "Remember to behave for Molly and Arthur."

"I will." Severus nods earnestly, his gaze locked onto his mother's.

The floo activates in the living room, indicating that Orion has arrived. Eileen sets Severus down on the floor before they enter the living room together.

Orion beams at the sight of Eileen. She is breathtaking. Her long dark hair is done into a feathered hairstyle, her makeup is elegantly simple, with nude eyeshadow, a subtle shimmery blush on her cheeks, and matte brown lips And and her gown accentuates her slender figure—a stunning sparkling light blue and white ensemble paired with black heels and a chic black shawl. She looks stunning, and Orion's breath hitches.

"You look beautiful." He says softly, his voice full of awe.

"You don't look too bad yourself," Eileen smiles, taking in the sight of him. He's wearing a light blue dress shirt complemented by a matching half-cut jacket and sleek black slacks that compliment his lean physique, and his dark hair is styled into a curtained haircut.

"Thanks." He smiles, extending his hand. "Are you ready?"

"Absolutely," Eileen replies, slipping her hand into his.

Eileen and Orion help Severus as he travels through the floo to Molly's, where she, Regulus, and Sirius are waiting for him. After making sure the kids are comfortable, Orion and Eileen exit Molly's house, apparating to a park in London where they walk to a restaurant.

"Are you nervous?" Orion inquires as he takes her hand, leading her towards the restaurant.

"I'd be lying if I said no." Eileen admits, her hand squeezing his.

"Me too," Orion smiles reassuringly. "But I promise, it'll be fun."

The two step into a stunning wizarding restaurant known as 'Celestina's'. The ceiling made of glass, allowing light to filter through, while enchanted trees are scattered throughout the space, their branches adorned with lush pink, white and purple leaves, vibrant flowers, and chirping birds. A dance floor beckons guests as music fills the air. The decor exudes elegance, with tables elegantly dressed in white tablecloths and gleaming silverware. Soft lighting casts a warm glow, enhancing the romantic ambiance.

Walking further into the space, they are greeted by a beautiful witch wearing a shimmering pink dress and silver jewelry. She welcomes them with a friendly smile.

"Mr. Black and Ms. Prince, your table is ready. Please follow me." She gestures towards the entrance and leads the way. They are led to their table, a cozy spot by the window. Orion pulls out Eileen's chair and then settles himself across from her.

"The décor is stunning," Eileen remarks, gazing around the room.

"I thought you might like it," Orion replies, smiling affectionately. "I remember how much you loved the enchanted forest theme that time at school."

Eileen chuckles lightly, the memory flooding back with warmth. "I did, It was magical, just like this place."

The headmaster had decided that for the 7th years there would be a special event celebrating their final year, and the enchanted forest theme had transformed the great hall into a breathtaking forest, complete with twinkling lights that mimicked stars and soft music echoing through the trees. Eileen Eileen recalled how everyone had danced under twinkling fairy lights, surrounded by vibrant foliage and magical creatures.

Their server arrives with menus in hand, introducing themselves warmly before stepping aside to allow them to peruse their options.

Eileen glances at Orion over the top of her menu, a playful smile dancing on her lips. "So, any recommendations?"

Orion leans back in his chair, a thoughtful look crossing his face. "Well, I've heard incredible things about the enchanted mushroom risotto. They say it’s unlike anything you’ve ever tasted." He suggests, his eyes sparkling with excitement.

Eileen raises an eyebrow playfully. "Mushrooms? You know me too well.”

"And the chef is also an avid fan of potions. So, we can only imagine the ingredients and flavors he used." Orion's smile grows wider, his anticipation evident.

Eileen can't help but grin. The thought of tasting a delicious, potions inspired dish sends a thrill through her. "You've sold me," she declares, setting her menu down.

Their server returns to take their orders. Once they place their selections—Eileen opts for the mushroom risotto while Orion chooses grilled salmon—they order a bottle of wine, and the waiter disappears, promising to return with their food shortly.

They chat easily, catching up on the past week, while they wait for their food. After a few minutes, their server reappears, carrying two beautifully presented plates.

"Here we are, mushroom risotto for the lady and grilled salmon for the gentleman." The server announces, placing their dishes on the table before asking if there's anything else they need.

"Everything looks wonderful. Thank you." Orion responds, smiling warmly at the server.

"You're welcome. Enjoy." With that, the server departs, leaving them to enjoy their meal.

"Mmm, it looks delicious," Eileen remarks, inhaling the aroma wafting off her plate.

"Shall we dig in?" Orion proposes, picking up his fork and knife.

"Definitely." Eileen replies eagerly, mirroring his movements.

Eileen takes her time, savoring each bite. The risotto is unlike anything she's ever tasted. The mushrooms are tender and bursting with flavor, and the texture is rich and creamy. She can't help the moan that escapes her as she indulges in another mouthful.

Orion takes a sip of his wine, watching Eileen as she savors her food. "Good, isn't it?" He asks, a playful smile tugging at his lips.

"Amazing." She says, nodding enthusiastically. "What about your salmon?" Eileen asks, tilting her head curiously.

"It's delicious," Orion replies, taking a bite. "The chef has a way with flavor."

"Yes, he does."

They continue eating while exchanging playful banter about each other’s tastes and memories at Hogwarts until they finish their meals. Soft music begins playing more romantically as couples sway gently near the dance floor. "Shall we?" Orion asks after taking note of how Eileen's gaze lingers on those dancing nearby.

With eager anticipation lighting up her eyes, she nods enthusiastically. "I'd love to." As they rise from their seats and make their way toward the dance floor hand-in-hand.

The music is enchanting, a hauntingly beautiful melody that fills the air, its ethereal tones echoing through the space, and captivating the room. Eileen and Orion find their rhythm, gliding effortlessly across the dance floor. It is a moment of pure magic.

Eileen feels herself getting swept up in the music, the atmosphere, and the romance, as she dances with Orion. His body is close to hers, their hands clasped, their gazes locked. She can't help the grin that spreads across her face, and her heart flutters when she notices his expression mirrors hers.

~•~•~•~•~

Eileen and Orion stroll down the sidewalk, their arms intertwined. The evening sun begins its descent, painting the streets around them in a soft golden glow that dances across Eileen's shimmering dress, making her look almost ethereal. "Thank you for such a lovely dinner." She murmurs softly, as a delicate blush blooms on her cheeks.

"It was my pleasure," Orion replies with an infectious smile, his heart swelling as he gives her arm a gentle squeeze.

"I haven't danced like that in ages..." She pauses thoughtfully, "Not since my wedding."

"Really?" Orion's eyes widen with surprise at this revelation; yet within him stirs a warm feeling—a sense of pride knowing he has brought joy back into her life.

"Yes, really," she continues, nostalgia lacing her words with bittersweet undertones. "He never really enjoyed dancing much... and after Severus came along, everything changed for the worse."

"Well then," Orion says playfully yet earnestly, "I'm honored to be the one to reintroduce you to the art of dancing." With that playful spirit between them, he twirls her effortlessly. Eileen bursts into laughter—bright and genuine.

"So am I." She responds as a playful smile dances across her lips.

They walk a little further down the street, their footsteps echoing softly against the pavement, before Orion suddenly stops in his tracks. “How about dessert?” His suggests, his gaze drawn to a charming shop adorned with an array of delectable cakes, pies, and ice cream that seem to beckon them closer.

Eileen's eyes gleam as she gazes at the tempting array of treats; she's always had a sweet tooth, “You know the way to my heart.”

Just as they are about to step into the shop filled with tempting delights, a voice pierces through their moment: “Eileen?”

Orion and Eileen glance over to see who called her, and Eileen feels her heart sink. Before them stands the last person she ever expected to encounter again: Tobias Snape. His eyes are narrowed as he observes Eileen and Orion, his gaze shifting between them as he notes their intertwined arms.

Eileen’s heart races, an uncomfortable mix of surprise and dread washing over her. “Tobias,” she manages to say, forcing a smile that doesn’t quite reach her eyes.

Orion senses the shift in her demeanor and instinctively tightens his grip on her arm, ready to protectively step in if needed.

Tobias does not match Orion's expectations; in fact, he is rather attractive, sporting messy, slightly graying black hair, hazel eyes, and a prominent nose. However, Orion notices that years of heavy drinking have left their mark on him, while the hard labor has kept him quite fit. Orion acknowledges that he can understand why Eileen chose to marry him all those years ago.

"I'm guessing this is the bastard that you ran off for." Tobias spits out, his voice dripping with disdain.

"And you really had no part in that?" Eileen retorts, her scoff laced with disbelief and hurt. "Please leave us alone." She says, turning to walk away.

"Not so fast!"

"I believe she said to leave her alone." Orion interjects, his voice a shield of firmness and protectiveness.

"Stay out of this," Tobias snaps, anger radiating from him. "This is between me and my wife."

"Ex-wife," Eileen corrects sharply.

"We still have a son," Tobias counters, his voice dropping to a low growl.

"Do you really care about him, or are you just trying to hurt me?"

"I'm his father! Of course I care." Tobias responds defensively.

"Really? Because the last time you saw him, you nearly broke his wrist!" Eileen retorts bitterly, her heart aching as she remembers that night.

"That was an accident."

"And what about the bruises? Were those an accident too?" Eileen questions fiercely, her words cutting like glass.

"He was misbehaving," Tobias insists loudly now, frustration spilling over into aggression as he struggles to justify himself.

"He was three!" Eileen snaps back fiercely; her hands clench into fists at her sides as if holding onto every ounce of strength left within her.

"That doesn't excuse him being a little brat!" Tobias spits venomously.

Eileen's heart pounds in her chest as fury ignites within her, "How dare you come here and speak about our son like that after the way you've treated him!" Her voice trembles with intensity, magic crackling fiercely in the charged air around them.

"How dare you run off with another man!" Tobias snaps back, his tone a mirror of her anger.

"That's enough." Orion cuts in decisively, positioning himself between them, his gaze sharp. "You have no right to speak to her like that, and if you don't leave immediately, I will handle this myself." His voice brims with barely contained fury as his magic surges through the air.

Tobias glances between the two of them, throughout their years of marriage, he has never witnessed Eileen behave like this; he can feel her anger and magic radiating from her, like a storm about to break. It unnerves him, however he's never been one to stop when he should.

“Is this what you’ve become?” Tobias sneers, trying to mask the uncertainty brewing within him. “Some pathetic little girl hiding behind her new toy?”

Eileen’s jaw tightens at his words, but she refuses to let them pierce through her resolve any longer. “No, Tobias,” she replies with unwavering calmness, “This is me finally standing up for myself after years of being belittled and afraid.” Orion nods supportively beside her, his presence a steady anchor.

Tobias takes a step back, momentarily taken aback by the strength radiating from Eileen. The realization hits him like cold water; she has changed in ways he never anticipated. “You think you’re so strong now?” He scoffs, though there’s an edge of doubt creeping into his voice.

“I know I am.” She counters firmly, unfazed by his attempt to belittle her.

Orion shifts slightly closer to Eileen, “Leave now,” Orion commands again with authority that brooks no argument. The air crackles intensely around them as magic flares subtly from him; it’s clear he won’t hesitate if things escalate further.

Tobias scoffs dismissively but the bravado in his eyes flickers under Orion's unwavering glare. Tobias runs a hand through his hair in exasperation. The fight drains out of him somewhat as he realizes he cannot win this battle today. “Fine,” He mutters reluctantly before taking a few steps back. “If that's what you want.” With that statement, he turns on his heel and walks away.

"Our son is about to turn five. Do you even care?" Eileen calls out, her voice trembling with frustration as she watches him walk away.

"I'm sure your new boyfriend can handle the little brat just fine," Tobias retorts sharply, without looking back.

"Go to hell, Tobias!"

As soon as he's gone Eileen exhales deeply and feels the weight of tension begin to lift from her shoulders. The adrenaline that had fueled her anger gradually dissipates, leaving behind a strange mix of relief and lingering frustration.

She turns to Orion, who maintains his steady gaze on her, a comforting presence amidst the chaos .“Are you okay?” he asks softly, concern etched in his features.

Eileen nods slowly, still trying to process everything that just happened. “I didn’t think I had it in me to stand up like that,” she admits, the tremor in her voice betraying the vulnerability beneath her newfound strength.

Orion offers a small smile. “You’ve always been stronger than you realized. It just took a little push for you to see it.”

Eileen gazes at the place where Tobias had been standing and mutters, "He wasn't much good dad anyway."

Orion extends his hand and gently squeezes hers. "You’re an incredible mother."

"Thank you," Eileen replies quietly, a smile playing on her lips. She lifts her hand to cradle his face, drawing him in for a kiss. It’s tender and lingering, filling her with warmth.

They remain close, their foreheads pressed together, breathing steadily and calmly. "You’re a far better dad to Severus," Eileen eventually murmurs with a hint of gratitude in her voice. "He looks up to you so much, and I can see how happy you make him."

Orion chuckles softly, his eyes twinkling with affection. "Well, it’s easy when he is such an amazing child.” He brushes a strand of hair behind her ear, his touch gentle and reassuring.

"Come on, I still owe you dessert," Orion offers with an inviting tone, a playful smile tugging at the corners of his lips.

Eileen beams back at him, her spirits lifting as they walk Inside the cozy shop filled with sweet aromas and colorful confections displayed behind glass cases, Orion selects a pumpkin cheesecake with whipped cream and cinnamon sprinkles, while Eileen opts for a bloomin’ apple pastry that looks almost too beautiful to eat. With their treats in hand, they find a quaint park bench nearby under a sprawling oak tree.

As they sit there enjoying each bite, Eileen's mind drifts back to her recent encounter with Tobias. A wave of relief washes over her; her heart fills with joy at how much brighter her life feels now that he is no longer part of it.

"What are you thinking about?" Orion asks gently after noticing her distant gaze breaking through her reverie.

"How much better things are without him."

Orion nods in understanding, he smiles warmly at her before reaching out to take her hand in his own—his grip firm yet tender—as he gives it a gentle squeeze. “You deserve to enjoy your life without that kind of negativity hanging over you."

“Yeah,” she replies softly, her voice barely above a whisper. She leans against him, resting her head on his shoulder, enjoying the closeness.

"Severus occasionally asks about when Tobias is getting out from ‘time out’, but I believe he's beginning to grasp that it's not going to happen." Eileen says after a few moments, her brow furrowing slightly at the thought.

Orion reclines, pondering her words with care. "As you've mentioned, children are resilient," he responds, his voice comforting. "Besides, he has you, me, and the boys."

Eileen smiles at the thought, her heart warming at the mention of their little family. "That's true." she agrees,

"Sometimes I find myself wondering what might have happened if I had decided against leaving. How would Severus be years from now?" Eileen expresses her thoughts aloud.

Orion is quiet for a moment, his expression thoughtful. "Well, I'm grateful you did." He meets Eileen's gaze, adding, "I believe you've improved not just your life and Severus's but mine as well."

"What do you mean by that?"

"I am finally free of Walburga, and words cannot convey how much lighter I feel. The boys and I are genuinely happy now," Orion reveals, his voice brimming with relief.

"Do you truly think you would have stayed with her?"

"To be honest? I likely would have," Orion confesses, a hint of regret shadowing his features. "With divorce not being done in our world; You either fight through your struggles or pretend they do not exist. I likely would have chosen the latter, pretending everything was fine while the truth gnawed at me—and it wouldn't just have been me suffering; the kids would have borne the brunt of that pain."

"I'm happy things turned out well for you."

Orion gazes at her with a tender smile, his heart swelling with gratitude. "So am I. I can't even imagine what my life would be like without you lighting the way."

Eileen whispers softly, leaning in closer, her lips brushing against his in a gentle kiss. "We'll never know."

"Indeed, we'll never know," Orion replies, his voice filled with warmth as he deepens the kiss, savoring the moment they share.

~•~•~•~•~

They reach the front door of Molly's house, where a drowsy Arthur greets them, dressed in a t-shirt and pajama pants. "Did the boys cause you any trouble?" Eileen asks with worry as she takes in his disheveled look.

"Not at all," Arthur replies with a warm smile. "They had a great time, and we even prepared dinner for them along with a chocolate cake for dessert."

Eileen lets out a sigh of relief, her worries melting away. "Oh, that sounds wonderful! I hope they didn't make too much of a mess." She chuckles, imagining the chaos that could ensue with her their three boys.

Arthur waves his hand dismissively. "Just a few flour explosions in the kitchen and some frosting on the walls—nothing we can’t handle!" He laughs lightly, and Eileen can’t help but join him.

"Thank you for everything," Orion said with a warm smile.

"Anytime," Arthur replied, returning the gesture. "Just let us know if you ever need a babysitter."

"I will," Orion nodded, extending his hand for a shake.

Molly appeared at the door with Severus, Regulus, and Sirius beside her, all tidy and dressed in their pajamas. "Thank you for taking care of them."

"Anytime," Molly responded, a fond smile playing on her lips.

"Are you ready, boys?" Eileen asked as she affectionately ruffled Sirius' hair.

"Yes." The boys reply in chorus.

They bid farewell to Molly and Arthur before making their way to apparition point, with Severus and Regulus holding Orion's hands as Sirius skips ahead of them.

"Why don't you and Severus stay over tonight?" Orion suggests as they step inside the cozy home.

"That sounds great."

After that, Eileen and Orion swiftly moved about the room, gently tucking each boy snugly under their warm, colorful blankets. Once the boys are settled in comfortably, Eileen picked up Dilly the Dragon Learns to Fly from the shelf. With a warm smile on her face, she began to read aloud in an engaging voice, bringing the characters and adventures to life as Orion sat beside her, occasionally chiming in with sound effects and playful commentary.

One the boys are asleep Eileen quietly closed the book and placed it back on the shelf. After making sure everything is in order for the night, Eileen and Orion take a refreshing shower, separately, of course.

Once they are both dressed in comfortable loungewear, they make their way into the living room. The flickering light from a nearby lamp creates an intimate atmosphere as they sink into the plush couch together. Wrapped in each other's arms under a soft throw blanket, they each hold a steaming cup of fragrant tea—Eileen’s with chamomile and honey while Orion prefers his with a hint of lemon. They share quiet conversations about plans for the upcoming week.

After some time, Orion can tell that Eileen is becoming tired. "Ready to turn in?" He asks softly, stroking her hair.

"Mmm, yes." She murmurs, snuggling closer.

They rise slowly, their limbs heavy with fatigue, and make their way to the master bedroom. Once they are settled under the warm covers, Eileen presses herself close to Orion's body. She places her head on his chest and listens to the steady rhythm of his heartbeat.

~•~•~•~•~

Wedding Bells for Eileen Prince and Orion Black?

Hold onto your hats, dear readers, because we have some sizzling gossip that’s sure to make waves in the wizarding world! Rumor has it that lovebirds Eileen Prince and Orion Black are gearing up to take the plunge into matrimony. Yes, you heard that right! After nearly four years of dating bliss, these first-time divorcees might just be ready to say “I do.”

Last night, our sources spotted the enchanting couple surrounded by family and friends in a stunning indoor garden setting. The atmosphere was nothing short of magical as laughter filled the air. But what really caught this reporter's eye was Eileen’s breathtaking white dress—an absolute showstopper! However, it wasn’t just her gown that had everyone buzzing; it was the exquisite granite engagement ring sparkling on her finger that truly stole the spotlight.

Could this be a sign of wedding bells ringing in their future? With such a beautiful ring adorning her hand and smiles all around, one can only speculate about what’s next for this charming duo. Stay tuned as we dig deeper into this blossoming romance—after all, love is always worth talking about!

Article by Ralph Skeeter

Chapter Text

The platform in front of the Hogwarts Express train is busy and bustling as always, with families hugging and waving off their children before boarding the impressive stream train. Among the many families is the Black family, Orion Black stands tall and proud in a black turtle neck and red slacks, next to him is his beautiful wife standing happily next to him in a red suede dress looking ever the image of perfection.

Eileen hugs her two sons tightly as they get ready to board the train, tears shining in her eyes. "I know you will make us proud, my darlings," she murmurs affectionately, planting one last kiss on each boy's head.

The two young boys smile warmly at their mother, hugging her once more before heading over to join their father. "Don't miss us too much while we're away," Sirius says with a smirk.

Eileen can't help but laugh fondly. "Of course we'll miss you both. Be good and try not to cause any trouble," she replies playfully, tousling his hair.

"We'll try." Sirius grins, nudging his brother. Severus rolls his eyes affectionately; if anyone is likely to get into trouble, it’s definitely Sirius.

"Sirius..." Eileen chides with a knowing smile as she shakes her head. "Remember to write and take care of yourself." She then turns to Severus. "Keep an eye on Sirius."

"I'll do my best." Severus responds with a smile.

"I want to hear all about everything in your letter!" Regulus interjects eagerly, looking at his brother with wide eyes. "Don’t leave out a single detail!"

Sirius chuckles warmly and gives Regulus a hug. "Of course, Reg. I'll make sure to write all about it." He says reassuringly.

The conductor sounds the whistle, signaling the final call for passengers to board the Hogwarts Express. Orion shakes his head, his expression warm and affectionate. "Go on then," he gently encourages, ushering Severus and Sirius onto the train. "Have fun," he calls out while waving goodbye.

"Our boys are growing up so quickly," Eileen remarks wistfully as she pulls Regulus close to her while they wave at the boys.

Orion nods in agreement. "It feels like just yesterday they were toddlers running around the house, playing pranks and causing mischief." He sighs with nostalgia.

Regulus rolls his eyes, a smile creeping onto his face. "I'm still here," he protests with feigned annoyance. "It's just Sirius and Severus who are off to school now."

"That's true enough." Orion chuckles lightly, wrapping an arm around Regulus affectionately. He gives the young boy's hair a quick ruffle before letting him go.

Eileen laughs softly. "You might get tired of your father and I after awhile, though."

"That's impossible!" Regulus responds cheerfully as they make their way toward the apparition point.

~•~•~

After boarding the train, Sirius and Severus searched for an empty compartment. After several minutes of searching, they finally found one near the back of the train where a boy was already seated, engrossed in a book. His light brown hair is neatly combed, and his robes were a little wrinkled, but overall, he had a tidy appearance.

"Do you mind if we join you?" Severus asks with a hopeful smile, gesturing towards the empty seats across from him.

The boy looks up, surprise lighting up his face. "Oh, not at all," he replies warmly, closing his book. The two boys beam with gratitude as Severus takes the seat by the window across from Sirius, who eagerly plops down next to the boy.

"I'm Remus Lupin, by the way," Remus introduces himself cheerfully.

Sirius matches Remus' enthusiasm with a bright smile of his own. "I'm Sirius Black, and this is my brother, Severus." He says joyfully while nodding towards Severus, who gives a friendly nod in return. "Nice to meet you."

"You as well." Remus replies cheerily, shaking each boy's hand firmly. "This is my first year," he informs them with a smile. "How about you two?"

Sirius leans back in his seat comfortably, casually draping one arm around Remus' shoulder as if they were old friends. "It's our first year too," he responds with a smile, clearly pleased that they've made a friend already.

Severus nods, settling back against the window and gazing outside. He can feel Sirius's excitement practically vibrating off of him. "This is so exciting," Sirius gushes. "Can you imagine all the cool adventures we'll have at school?"

"You make it sound like we're going on a mission instead of attending classes." Remus points out with an amused grin.

"Aren't we?" Sirius challenges.

Just then, they hear voices outside the compartment before the door slides open. "Sev!" Pandora exclaims joyfully as she steps inside.

"Panda! I was hoping to see you before we reached the castle," Severus beams with excitement.

"I was searching for you two on the platform. I spotted Kingsley in another compartment, but it was packed," Pandora sighs, then brightens up. "Mind if we join? Oh, and this is James Potter," she adds cheerfully, turning to James, who has been surprisingly quiet since they've met.

James, meanwhile, is totally mesmerized as he gazes at Severus. His cheeks are turning pink while he admires the boy’s features and that silky raven hair falling over his face until Severus casually tucks it behind his ear.

All those clever words James had planned to introduce himself just vanish, and all he manages is a clumsy "Hullo."

Sirius shoots James a look with an eyebrow raised and says, "Of course we don't mind." He pats the spot next to him, so Pandora sits down beside him, leaving an open seat next to Severus. 

"I'm Sirius; that's my brother Severus, and this here is our new buddy Remus." He gestures toward the other boy, who waves to them both politely.

Pandora and Sirius jump right into a lively chat about their first year, all smiles and excitement. Meanwhile, James takes a deep breath to calm his nerves and slides up next to Severus. 

Usually outgoing and talkative, James finds himself oddly speechless around this quiet boy with those mesmerizing eyes. Feeling his face heat up with embarrassment, he tries hard to keep it cool and make a solid first impression.

"Hullo Severus," James greets as he nervously fidgets with a lock of his brown hair.

"Hi James." Severus greets back softly, smiling warmly, unaware that the gesture was enough to cause James's heart to beat wildly in his chest.

James smiles widely and relaxes a bit, letting out the breath he'd been holding in. “Which house do you think you’ll be sorted into?” He inquires curiously as he settles back into his seat and shifts closer to Severus, eager to draw him into the conversation.

Severus tilts his head slightly, a thoughtful smile playing on his lips as he considers the question. "I suppose Slytherin seems like a good fit," he muses with delight. "I've always been drawn to its ambition and cunning nature. Plus, it was my mum's house."

James nods eagerly, clearly intrigued. "That makes sense! But I think Gryffindor would suit you too," he adds with a playful challenge in his voice. "You've got that quiet bravery about you."

Sirius chuckles at this exchange, clearly enjoying James's attempt to connect with Severus. “I bet you’re going to be a Ravenclaw! You love learning.” He chimes in.

Severus shakes his head, smiling fondly at Sirius. "I suppose we'll just have to see."

Remus leans forward eagerly, “What about you, James? Any idea where you might end up?”

“Oh definitely, Gryffindor!” James replies enthusiastically, puffing out his chest slightly as if already embracing the role of a brave lionheart. “My dad was in Gryffindor too; it runs in the family!”

His excitement becomes contagious as Pandora chimes in. “I’m hoping for Hufflepuff!” she exclaims brightly. “I hear they’re known for loyalty and hard work. It sounds perfect for me—and besides, I really want to make lots of good friends, you know? What do you think, Severus?" She rambles eagerly.

"Hufflepuff is definitely a great fit for you." Severus beams with warmth at his dear friend.

Remus glances over at Sirius, his expression slightly curious. "I'd imagine you would probably end up in Gryffindor. It's clear that you are very bold."

"Gryffindor, hmm..." Sirius muses, looking thoughtful. "That sounds quite good." He flashes a toothy grin, clearly liking the sound of that.

"What about you, Remus? Any idea what you might be sorted into?" Sirius asks.

Remus shrugs nonchalantly. "I really have no clue," he responds with a small chuckle. "My dad went to Gryffindor, but I really don't know if I have the personality of a Gryffindor. Perhaps Ravenclaw? Or maybe I'll be a Hufflepuff!" Remus ponders his options for a moment.

Pandora nods thoughtfully, "You do seem like you could be a Ravenclaw. You have that sort of quiet intelligence about you, I think," she says encouragingly, a friendly smile on her face.

"Thank you, I appreciate that." Remus responds warmly.

Just then, the Trolley Witch knocks on the door and slides it open, and a sweet voice chimes out. "Anything off the Trolley, dears?" She asks brightly, a welcoming smile on her face.

The five children happily take out their coins and make their selection. After a moment, everyone is munching happily on Pumpkin Pasties, Cauldron Cakes, Lemon Drops, and Chocolate Frogs. They chat excitedly about the upcoming school year as the train rushes along through the Scottish countryside, drawing ever nearer to the castle.

Chapter Text

Eventually, their conversations fade away as the train comes to a stop, and excitement buzzes among the group as they gather their belongings. As they step onto the platform, a flurry of activity surrounds them—students are reuniting with friends, older students are directing traffic toward various carriages, and a few first-years stand wide-eyed at their surroundings.

A booming voice cuts through the chatter: "Firs' years! Firs' years over here!"

The group turns to see an enormous man with wild hair and a bushy beard towering over the crowd. His eyes crinkle kindly as he waves a massive hand.

"That must be Hagrid," Sirius whispers excitedly. "Dad told me about him.

He's the gamekeeper."

They make their way toward the giant, joining a growing cluster of nervous first-years. Hagrid beams down at them all.

"Right then," he says. "Follow me to the boats!"

The first-years trail after Hagrid, winding down a steep, narrow path. The trees part suddenly, revealing a vast, glassy lake. Across the water, perched atop a mountain, stands Hogwarts Castle. Its windows sparkle in the night, turrets and towers reaching towards the sky. The children gawk as they approach the small fleet of boats waiting along the shore.

"Woah..." Pandora murmurs breathlessly as she and the other children take in the sight before them. "It's so beautiful."

"It's amazing!" Sirius says eagerly. "I can't wait to get a look at the castle up close."

Hagrid grins. "It is indeed, lad." He gestures at the boats waiting at the edge of the water. "All aboard! Make sure you share a boat with yer classmates! There should be enough fer everyone!"

The first years file into the boats, and Severus sits at the end of a row with James and Pandora on either side of him and Sirius and Remus across from them.

The first years file into the boats, and Severus sits at the end of a row with James and Pandora on either side of him and Sirius and Remus across from them.

As the boats glide smoothly across the dark lake, the children gaze in awe at the magnificent castle looming ever closer. The flickering lights from its windows dance on the dark water, creating a mesmerizing display.

"It's even more incredible up close," Severus whispers, his eyes wide with wonder as he takes in every detail of the castle.

"Yeah, it's brilliant," James agrees. He's not entirely sure if he's talking about the castle or the boy next to him. "So, uh, are you excited about the classes?"

Severus turns to him with a small smile. "Very much so. I'm particularly looking forward to Potions and Defense Against the Dark Arts. How about you?"

James's face lights up at Severus's response. "Oh, yeah! Defense Against the Dark Arts sounds brilliant. I bet we'll learn all sorts of cool spells."

Meanwhile, Sirius leans towards Remus, whispering conspiratorially, "I heard there's a giant squid in the lake!" He gestures vaguely at the dark waters beneath them, his voice tinged with excitement. "Maybe we'll get a chance to see it sometime!"

Remus tilts his head curiously, his expression thoughtful. "I didn't know that there was a squid living in the lake. That would be amazing!"

As their boats approach the castle, the first years find themselves growing increasingly excited. When they finally reach the shore, they're practically buzzing with anticipation. They follow Hagrid as he leads the way up to the castle and through its massive entrance.

Once they're inside, the group of first-years stands together in front of a set of tall wooden doors, gazing up at its massive, carved frame. There is a sudden, excited shuffling as the doors open with a slow creak and a tall woman in long black robes steps forward. Her stern face softens into a kind smile as she regards the new students in front of her.

"Welcome, children," she begins. Her voice is warm and welcoming as she addresses them. "I am Minerva McGonagall, the Deputy Headmistress at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry.

Now that we are all here, we can proceed to the Great Hall." McGonagall waves her hand, and the first-years marvel as the doors slowly swing open to reveal the Great Hall. The high-ceilinged room is lit by hundreds of candles hovering in the air over four long tables. A shimmering, starry sky twinkles on the ceiling as they approach.

"Before you take a seat at the table, you must be sorted into your houses by the Sorting Hat." McGonagall announces. "Once you have been sorted, you will sit with the rest of your house until you graduate."

They all sat at the end of a table and Severus finds himself sandwiched between James and Pandora, who he gives an encouraging smile before he turns his attention to Professor McGonagall who is standing on a raised platform. 

A three-legged stool has been placed in front of her. A small, shabby, brown pointed hat sits on it. The hat has a tattered brim and a large tear near its point.

The Great Hall becomes silent as she sets the Sorting Hat down on the stool, its worn brim falling limply to the side. The Sorting Hat lifts the brim of the hat up with the brim. The brim then opens to form a mouth, which begins to sing.

A song? Severus thought, he looked at Sirius, who looked as excited and amazed as him.

Once the hat is done singing, a small, wrinkled parchment scroll floats into view. It stops in front of Professor McGonagall and unfurls with a small flick of her wand. The hall once again goes silent as McGonagall calls out, "Aarons, Hugo."

A tall boy with dark brown hair approaches the front and takes a seat on the stool. The hat is placed on his head. "Hmmm... Gryffindor!" The hat shouts. The hall bursts into applause. Hugo gets off the stool, sits at the table with the red and gold badger symbol, and begins chatting happily with other first years.

Professor McGonagall continues sorting, and names are called, one by one, until. "Black, Sirius."

Sirius stands up, flashing a confident grin at his friends before striding up to the front. He sits on the stool, and the Sorting Hat is placed on his head. "Hmm, you are very cunning, yet ambitious, brave, and you love to have fun... Gryffindor!"

Sirius beams, hopping off the stool and heading to the Gryffindor table amid cheers. He gives Severus a thumbs up as he passes, and Severus grins at his brother proudly and applauds along with everyone else.

Black, Severus." Professor McGonagall announces, Severus approaches the front with his heart beating quickly in his chest. The sorting hat is placed on Severus' head, and it goes silent as if it was deep in thought. 

"You are resourceful, cunning and very ambitious, you would be very successful as a Slytherin," Severus felt his heart leap in his chest as the hat announced Slytherin but, it then paused, "yet your intelligence and creativity along with your loyalty...I think...yes! You'll do well in RAVENCLAW." The hat shouted.

The Ravenclaw table bursts into cheers, and Severus beams as he sees his brother whooping in his seat. He moves over to the Ravenclaw table, smiling shyly and taking a seat in between two older girls, who are all smiles as they welcome him into their group.

“Lovegood, Xenophilius.” McGonagall calls, and the boy with messy blond hair steps forward to sit down.

"Ravenclaw!" The hat announces proudly, and the table of blue and bronze cheers for the new Ravenclaw member. Xenophilius smiles happily as he takes his place next to Severus.

A few more students are sorted before, "Lupin, Remus" is called, Remus blushes because of all the eyes on him as he walks to the stool.

The sorting hat sits on his head, humming and thinking, Remus nervously taps his fingers on his knee as the hat comes to its conclusion. "You're a smart and wise lad, with a good sense of justice, I think RAVENCLAW is the right place for you!"

The table of blue and bronze once again erupt in cheers for a new Ravenclaw student and Remus beams as he takes a seat on the other side of Severus. The older kids eagerly introduce themselves to their new peers.

After several more students are sorted, McGonagall is calling out, "Potter, James!"

Severus claps for James as he confidently walks towards the stool and sits down, and the sorting hat is placed on his head. After only a moment of contemplation, the sorting hat shouted, "Gryffindor!"

The red and gold table erupts in cheers as James moves to join his table, and Sirius gives James an encouraging grin as he takes the empty seat next to him. James glances over to where Severus sits at the Ravenclaw table and flashes him a grin. Severus beams and flashes him a smile in return, giving a quick wave.

"Wesia, Pandora!" Professor McGonagall announces.

Pandora hurries to the stool, and Professor McGonagall places the sorting hat on her head. "Hufflepuff!" The sorting hat announces cheerfully. The table of yellow badgers cheers, and Pandora smiles as she joins them and makes small talk with a girl her age.

After the last student’s are sorted, Dumbledore steps onto the raised platform, his bright blue eyes twinkle as they survey the Great Hall. He claps his hands, a delighted smile lighting up his face.

"Now that everyone has been sorted, I'd like to welcome the new students to Hogwarts and wish them all good luck and a happy year! And as always, let's eat!"

With a wave of his wand, the plates and goblets of water on the table are suddenly filled with delicious foods, such as a chicken leg with potatoes, broccoli, a steak and peas. Students chatter excitedly as they start eating.

After dinner, the Prefects show the first years to their dorm, Asher Green is the one to show the Ravenclaw first years to theirs. They follow him up a winding staircase, past several large paintings of beautiful landscapes, and through the wooden door of their common room. 

The students gaze in awe as they look around at the cosy room, decorated in the blue and bronze of Ravenclaw, with numerous shelves full of books.

"Welcome to the Ravenclaw dorm," Asher begins proudly, waving his arms in a dramatic arc as he gazes fondly at the space around him. "We have two Prefects who live in the dorm with the other years, so feel free to ask them if you need any help."

The Prefects give a small wave of greeting and smile at the group. "Now then, if you follow me, I'll show you to the boys' dorm. The girls' dorm is in another corridor," Asher tells them as they follow him up yet another staircase, leading to the boy's dorm.

The blue and bronze theme continues on from the common room. The space has six four-poster beds, three on each side, positioned against the walls, each accompanied by a window. Scattered throughout the room are several large, comfortable chairs.

"Right, here we are," Asher announces. "Feel free to choose your beds. The elves will give you your trunk when you do."

"Once you’re settled in, feel free to explore more of what Ravenclaw has to offer! There’s always something interesting happening down in the common room." He glances back towards them and smiles warmly before stepping back into the corridor. “Just call if you need anything—we’ll be around!”

With that, the first years exchanged excited glances, each eager to pick their spot. Severus, Remus, and Xenophilius pick beds on the left side of the room and begin to unpack their belongings.

The room is alive with the chatter of his new friends, and he loves the sense of camaraderie. He opened his trunk to reveal a collection of books he had packed—some old favorites and a few new ones he'd been eager to dive into.

"Hey, have you read this one?" Remus asked, holding up a book titled "Magical Creatures: A Guide." His eyes sparkled with curiosity.

Severus shook his head. “Not yet! I’ve heard it’s really good, though.” He watched as Remus flipped through the pages, occasionally pointing out interesting illustrations.

Xenophilius chimed in enthusiastically,

Xenophilius chimes in enthusiastically, pulling out an odd-looking gadget from his trunk. “I love creatures! Did you know there’s an entire chapter on Thestrals? They’re fascinating!” His messy blond hair seemed to bounce as he animatedly shared facts about magical creatures that left both Severus and Remus captivated.

After the trio finishes unpacking, they decide to explore the common room.

“I’ll join you shortly; I need to write my letters first,” Severus replies as he takes a seat at one of the desks.

“Alright, see you down there,” Remus smiles before he and the other boys head downstairs.

Severus pulls out two pieces of parchment from his trunk and sets to work on writing two letters. He pauses briefly to gather his thoughts before he begins writing. Once he finishes, Severus joins the others, arriving just in time as their head of house enters the common room.

“Good evening, Ravens! I am Filius Flitwick, your Head of House and the Charms Professor.” He greeted. He smiles warmly at the new first years as they stand and look at him expectantly.

Filius Flitwick is a small man, about three feet tall, with a cheerful, slightly puffy face and a pointed, gray beard. He claps his hands, attracting the group's attention. He stands on the small round wooden table. His face is kind, and his voice is soft as he speaks, but he still manages to be heard throughout the common room. 

"I wish to welcome you all to Hogwarts. I have no doubt that this year will be an excellent one for all of you. To help you get settled in, I would like to go over a few important house rules and discuss some house events that I feel you may find interesting."

Severus listens carefully as he describes the house rules and lists the dates of special events in Ravenclaw. 

"Lastly, I wish you all good luck with your studies!" Flitwick concludes with a smile. "I'm sure you will all make Ravenclaw proud. That being said, you are welcome to enjoy the common room until 8:30."

When he's finished, the Professor beams at his audience and gives an enthusiastic bow, then turns to head out the common room.

The Ravenclaws bid their house professor a goodnight. As the professor leaves the room, the students begin to settle into their common room. Some sit and chat in the common room, while others head off to get an early night's rest. 

Severus wanders over to an armchair that faces a fireplace, picking up a book that rests on the small table beside it. He sinks down into the plush chair, tucking his long legs under him and begins to read.