The Way Back Home

WL1031: We’re back again with chapter 15! Yes!



Jade: And guess what? We’ve got over twenty reviews and almost 1,200 hits! *dancing around* YES!



WL1031: *High fives Jade* And shouts out to LovesThePotionBoy for that absolutely fabulous review of the story.



Jade: Yeah, she’s our new friend! So, people read up! Enjoy! *starts to head offstage*



WL1031: *pulls Jade back* The disclaimer silly! We need the disclaimer or that pack of rabid dogs—I mean the LAWYERS will get us!



Jade: Oh yeah… *holds up the sign*





Disclaimer: I don’t own it. Only the story line and the characters that you don’t recognize are mine. Everything else—the main characters and the Harry Potter Universe—is the fabulous brainchild of J.K. Rowling and her publishing company friends.







The Way Back Home:

Chapter 15: The New Year’s Ball and Afterwards







The morning of the ball, the carriages rumbled up to the gates of Hogwarts, bringing back the students for the evening festivities. The air was saturated with the sounds of the returning students, humming with excitement. Girls could be heard talking about what they had decided to wear, while the boys commented on who would look good in what.



As the day wore on around the school, things were being prepared for the night. The halls were swept, picture frames dusted, dinners bubbled on the stoves of the kitchens, and sprigs of mistletoe were hung about the doorways. In the Great Hall, holiday trees were decorated with glowing candles held by giggling little fairies and sparkling bulbs of glass that reflected each of the four house colors in various shades and tints. The four house tables were gone once again, replaced by the numerous smaller tables that were there for the Halloween ball. The tables were decorated in a winter wonderland theme, complete with little snowmen and women gliding around the mini ice field centerpieces. The enchanted ceiling completed the winter atmosphere, dropping down sparkling snowflakes that disappeared before they touched any surface.



Everything was set. The only thing that was missing was the students and staff.







Zeporiap placed the last pin in her hair. It was a battle to get all of her hair up into the style that she wanted, but she won. It was swept up into a slightly messy up-do, with soft tendrils curling around her face and at the nape of her neck. Applying a small bit of color to her cheeks, she turned when Hermoine came into the bathroom.



“Your hair looks great. And thank you so much for helping Ginny and I with ours. You’ve definitely got a talent with hair and cosmetics.” She patted her hair, admiring the sleek chignon that Zeporiap tamed her hair into. “I never would have been able to get my hair to do this, even with the charms that Lavender gave me!” She hugged Zeporiap in thanks.



“You’re very welcome, ‘Mione. I love doing hair and cosmetics, it’s what I was doing before, and I don’t mind sharing beauty tips with other girls. Everyone deserves to be beautiful for occasions like this—I get joy from doing this for others.” She smiled as Ginny came into the bathroom.



“I think that you should set up some kind of business, Zeporiap. You’ve got something that just brightens a girl’s day.” Ginny said with a smile. She patted the rows of braids that graced the top of her head, along with the curls that drifted down around her shoulders.



“Well, I don’t know. I would like to, but there’s no way that I could afford to do that. Still, it would be nice.” She smiled wistfully at the thought. “Now, come on let’s finish getting ready. It’s almost time to go downstairs.”



The girls quickly got dressed, anticipating the night of excitement. Just as they were about to head out of the room, a tapping could be heard at Hermione’s window. Turning at the sound, Ginny opened the window and a black owl flew in and sat on the back of the desk chair.



“What an unusual owl. It’s definitely not a school owl or I would have seen it before.” Hermione said as she approached the bird. Zeporiap laughed as the owl ruffled her feathers in a dignified manner.



“This is Nemesis.” Zeporiap said, stroking the soft black feathers. She reached around and pulled the small letter tied to Nemesis’ dainty leg. “She’s Severus’ owl, as you can see she’s just like him.” Nemesis nipped at her fingers gently causing a soft laugh to come from Zeporiap. She opened up the small note.





Zeporiap,



Meet me downstairs, my love. I have something for you.



Severus





“Hmm… it seems that I have a gift waiting downstairs.” Zeporiap smiled, wondering what it could be.



Ginny and Hermione exchanged looks. They knew what was going on because the Professor had asked them to keep tabs on their friend. Smiling secretively, they prodded Zeporiap out of the room.



“Hurry and get down there to see what it is!” Ginny exclaimed. Hermione laughed at the look on Zeporiap’s face.



“Yeah, go on and see what he wants. Whatever it is, you can show us at the ball.” She made a shooing motion with her hands. “Go on with you, Ginny and I were about to go downstairs anyway.”



“Okay, I’m a bit nervous, but the curiosity is taking me over.” Zeporiap giggled and quickly headed out of the door and downstairs.



As soon as the door closed, Ginny rushed to write a quick note to the Professor, while Hermione gave some owl treats to the patiently waiting owl. Tying the note to her leg, Ginny opened the window for Nemesis to make her delivery.





Professor,



She’s heading down now and will be there soon.



Ginny and Hermione





“That should do it.” Ginny said smiling. Hermione had a similar smile of her own. “She’s going to be so surprised.”



“Oh I know what you mean. I can’t wait to see it.” Hermione said.



The girls rushed out of the room and downstairs, being sure to be careful on the stairs.







Just getting over the shock of Zeporiap coming downstairs, Harry and Ron waited for their dates to make their appearance. Hermione made her way down first, looking gorgeous in a set of gold dress robes that complimented her beautiful shoulders. She sparkled and glinted in the light as she moved, floating to a graceful stop in front of Ron. She twirled arouor aor a bit.



“Well, what do you think?” She asked. Ron was stunned for a moment, unable to form the appropriate words. Finally, his mind seemed to cooperate.



“You look beautiful, Hermione.” He leaned down and softly kissed her lips. Hermione smiled sweetly.



“Thank you Ron, you look very handsome yourself.” Ron was wearing a nice set of black robes that Harry had gotten him as a Christmas present.



“You look great, ‘Mione.” Harry said smiling at his friend. He gasped when he saw Ginny. She came down dressed in a beautiful set of lavender-colored robes that complimented wonderfully against her vibrant red hair. She had a sweet smile on her face as she came up to hug Harry. He kissed her cheek, his emerald eyes sparkling.



“You look amazing. I don’t know how else to describe it.” Harry said. He took her hand and brought it to his lips. “You’re beautiful.” He laced her fingers with his own. He turned to Ron and Hermione. “How about we go dance?”



The group laughed and headed for the Great Hall.







Stepping into the room, Zeporiap was curious to know what Severus had for her. All kinds of ideas and scenarios ran through her mind, all of which would have driven her crazy. Shaking her head, she walked towards the couch. Turning her head, she noticed Severus sitting in his comfortable chair by the fire. He sat with his legs crossed at the knee; his elbows rested on the arms of the chair and his fingers were steepled in front of his face. His black eyes glittered in the fire light as he watched her move towards him.



To any other person, Severus’s appearance would have been highly intimidating. He gave off an aura of something dark and evil and his eyes alone frightened many. But, Zeporiap was used to his mannerisms and was not afraid. She walked until she was standing just in front of his crossed legs.







Severus watched as Zeporiap walked towards him. The appearance of her was exquisite. The black dress she wore seemed to be poured onto her, showing off the beautiful lines of her body. It bared her smooth brown shoulders, the sleeveless neckline pushing up the curves of her breasts. He ached to taste her, but that would have to come later. As she walked the floor-length skirt moved, sliding against her body and separating to show off her lovely legs. Her hair was up, leaving only a few tendrils to curl around her face and neck.



When she stopped in front of him, he reached out and pulled her onto his lap. She immediately curled into him, releasing a small breath.



“I missed you today.” She said quietly. Her fingers played with the tips of his long hair that brushed against her shoulder.



Severus caressed his hand along her thigh, feeling the soft silky material under his skin. “I missed you as well.” He kissed the top of her head. “Now, as much as I would like to sit here for the rest of the night, we can not.” He reached over to the side table next to his chair and handed her a box. “Open it.”



Looking up at him curiously for just a second, Zeporiap turned her attention to the velvet covered box. Gasping urprurprise, she panted out a breath. Inside the box lay an intricately floral designed sapphire and diamond necklace. The jewels glinted, seemingly looking as if they were alive in the firelight. The stones were set on a platinum chain, every crevice and space filled with the glittering blue stones. A larger stone dipped down, supported by the loop connected to the end of the chain.



“Severus?” Zeporiap breathed. “You want me to wear this?” He nodded wordlessly and took the necklace from the box. He fastened it around her neck, kissing the curls on her nape as he did so. He reached for another box and opened that as well. It was the matching earring bobs which he clipped onto her ears. Finally, he reached for the last box. It was the matching tiara that he placed gently on her head.



Zeporiap was in awe. She’d never been around so much decadent jewelry in her life and was unsure of how to say her thanks. “I’ve never—do you—Sev, you know I’m not one for fancy jewelry.” He laughed quietly, not at all fazed by her stunned speech.



“These jewels belonged to my mother. She gave them to me just before she died, telling me to only give them to a woman who I deemed special enough to have them.” He kissed her forehead this time. “That woman just happens to be you.”



Zeporiap gasped in surprise again, feeling tears gathering in her eyes. “I am honored to wear these jewels if they belonged to your mother.” She wiped her tears away and leaned up to kiss his cheek. He turned his head and captured her soft lips, tasting her for just a moment. She whimpered when he broke the kiss.



“No my love, that will have to wait for later.” He said laughing when a little pout came over her face. He stood up with her in his arms, placing her on her feet. He grabbed her hand and led her out of the door.



“How much longer until later, Severus?” Zeporiap asked.



Severus’s laugh echoed quietly down the hallway.







In the Great Hall, everything was in full swing. The students were dancing the night away, eagerly waiting for the New Year to arrive. The band was playing a mixture of lively tunes for those that really wanted to dance and soft slow sets for those who wanted to be close.



Albus Dumbledore and Minerva McGonogall took a swing around the dance floor on a slow set. They looked around the room, smiling at the students enjoying themselves. Minerva’s eyes kept straying to the doors as if she was waiting for something. Albus caught on quickly.



“Thinking about the bet, my dear?” He asked slyly. Minerva tried to hide her shock.



“Yes, I know all about it. I’ve put my bid in as well with Molly for after the dance.”



Minerva shook her head. “That was supposed to be between us. How did you get in on it?”



“Remus Lupin.” He said with a smile as he twirled her around another turn. He laughed when Minerva punched him on the arm.







Stepping into the Great Hall, Severus led Zeporiap over to Albus and Minerva. They had just sat down and were eating their meal. Severus pulled out her chair for her to sit down, then sat himself down. Minerva smiled, nudging Albus with her knee.



“You look lovely, my dear.” She said to the younger woman. “Those jewels compliment your dress nicely, I must say.”



“Gracias, Señora.” Zeporiap said with a shy smile. “They were given to me this evening—a gift.”



“Well, they look very nice, my dear.” Albus chimed in. She really did look nice. Albus looked over at Severus, feeling that the happiness radiating from the younger woman was a result of the dark man.



“I’m glad that you think so.” Zeporiap said. Putting down her fork, she reached for her wine glass. She usually wasn’t one to drink wine, but this wine had a very nice and smooth flavor that went nicely with the fish she was eating. She looked over at the older couple again and could see them smiling. The music playing slowed down and people from the other tables began to move towards the dance floor. Minerva nodded, smiling as she watched to students move to the floor.



“Well my dear, you can’t sit here all night. This is, after all, a ball.” Minerva said with a motherly smile. “Severus? Take the miss for a dance.” She made a shooing motion with her fork.



Severus stood up and held out his hand. “Shall we?” he asked. Zeporiap smiled and placed her hand in his.



“Yes, we shall.” The couple glided off towards the dance floor.







Albus and Minerva looked on with soft smiles settled on their faces.



“She’s good fim, im, Albus. She’s givim sim something to live for.” Minerva said. Tears came to her eyes.



Albus patted her hand softly. “Yes, she’s very good for him. They’re good for each other.” He smiled. “You know…”



“What’s wrong Albus?”



“You’ve better be prepared to cough those galleons up.”



Minerva smiled and shook her head.







Ron and Hermione twirled around the dance floor. They danced for most of the night, having only li bit bites of food in between each set. Harry and Ginny were right there with them as they spun around the floor. Ginny spotted Zeporiap dancing with Professor Snape and smiled at Hermione. She gave her a thumbs-up behind Harry’s shoulder and giggled a little bit when Hermione’s eyebrows shot up.



The plan was in effect.







Over an hour had passed and soon it was time for the countdown to the New Year. Severus led Zeporiap out of the Great Hall and away from the dancing crowd. Going down a few hallways, he led her out into the school courtyard, under the sparkling stars. He stopped and turned to her when they came to a group of rose bushes. The sounds of the countdown could be heard in the distance.



He leaned down and kissed her deeply. Then he looked at her face and smiled.



“There’s something I want to say. And I hope that you will give me the answer I hope for.” He caressed his fingers along her jaw line. “Now, close your eyes.”



“Why?” Zeporiap asked. Still, she did as he asked.



In the distance, the counting could be heard from the Great Hall.



“Ten…”



Severus made sure her eyes were closed.



“Nine…”



He pulled a velvet box from the pockets of his outer robes.



“Eight…”



Grabbing Zeporiap’s hand, he brought it to his lips.



“Seven…”



Zeporiap smiled, still keeping her eyes closed.



“Six…”



Severus brought her hand from his lips and spread out her fingers.



“Five…”



“Four…”



“Three…”



Zeporiap felt something sliding onto her finger and gasped.



“Two…”



“One…”



The bells rung in the New Year as Severus kissed her again. Opening her eyes,oriaoriap looked down at her finger. A double platinum ring, with a floral sapphire and diamond design, graced her finger. As it tightened to fit to her finger, Zeporiap stared at it in awe. Then she looked up at Severus.



“I know that we are soul mates, but that is not enough. You have changed my life for the better. You are my shelter from the storm and the light in my soul—all that I love is you. Will you do me the honor of becoming my wife?”



“Sí! Yes!” Zeporiap said, tears sliding down her cheeks. “Yes, I will be your wife!” She flung her arms around his neck and laughed as he spun her around.



Suddenly a small round of applause could be heard, followed by a few flashes. Severus set Zeporiap down and turned her towards their audience. Ginny, Hermione, Harry, and Ron stood there with smiles on their faces. Albus and Minerva stood there as well, along with Madam Pince, Madam Pomphrey and Molly and Arthur Weaseley. Colin Creevey had his camera out and was taking a few pictures.



“They all knew?” Zeporiap said completely surprised. Severus nodded as the group came forward.



“Yes, we all knew, dearie.” Molly Weaseley said. She came forward and hugged Zeporiap and kissed her on the cheek. She did the same to Severus. Arthur shook hands with Severus and gave Zeporiap a hug.



“It was so tough trying to hide this from you, but we were successful!” Hermione said. She and Ron came forward to congratulate the couple as well. Soon they were quickly followed by Harry and Ginny.



Madam Pince and Madam Pomphrey came forward next with their congratulations,gingging the couple warmly. Finally, Albus and Minerva came forward with their own joyful congratulations, smiling like two very proud grandparents as they hugged and kissed the cheeks of the newly engaged couple. Colin took pictures of everything, making sure to get in a good picture of the ladies admiring Zeporiap’s engagement ring.



Soon, the small group broke up to head back inside. Saying their goodbyes as they went on their separate ways, Severus led Zeporiap down to their rooms.







Carrying Zeporiap to his bed, Severus laid her down and watched her in the candle light. She smiled at him and leaned forward to kiss him. He waved his hand, leaving them completely naked. He leisurely caressed her body, lovthe the shape of her hips and breasts; taking the time to pleasure all of her.



Just when he was about to join their bodies, Zeporiap whispered in his ear. “Te amo, Severus. I love you. You are my heart, mi corazón y alma.”







And so, they made love slowly, cherishing the moment their love created,dingding each other close as they came together.







The next morning, an owl flew through the window at Twelve Grimmauld Place. Molly placed a few treats on the table for the tired owl to eat.



“Hoot.” It said gratefully as it settled down to eat. Molly untied the letter from the owl’s leg.



Molly,



I know all about the little bet you had going. I did not have her dress off until well after the Ball was over—well past the time you stipulated.



Pay up.



Severus



Molly sat down and groaned, but she had a smile on her face. Remus came into the kitchen and laughed.



“Lost the bet, did you?” He ducked out of the wayn Mon Molly threw a slice of toast at him.











_,’^’,_._,’^’,_._,’^’,_._,’^’,_._,’^’,_._,’^’,_._,’^’,_._,’^’,_._,’^’,_._,’^’,_._,’^’,_._,’^’,_.







WL1031: That was so nice.



Jade: *wiping her tears* Yes, I know. It was just so beautiful.



WL1031: And the proposal was absolutely fabulous. *wipes her own tears*



Jade: *bawling her eyes out now* Fabulous.



WL1031: The little bit at the end was funny as well. LOL, Molly and Minerva thought that they were sly.



Jade: *blows her nose* They sure thought they did! Hey review people and be on the look out for the next chapter soon!



WL1031: Yes, please review!











Translations:



Gracias, Señora: Thank you, Ma’am



Te amo: I love you.



mi corazón y alma: heart and soul