Chapter Ten

I wrote this without my glasses lol. Please point out any spelling errors! Thank you and enjoy!

"Is she asleep?"

"Yeah. I think so"

Fred and George quietly make their way into the main living room of Twelve Grimmauld Place. Athena was asleep on the vintage couch after helping Molly decorate the place for Christmas. She was soundly asleep and as usual, Fred and George just have to take advantage of her vulnerability.

"You think we should draw a mustache on her face? Perhaps a beard?" Fred asked in a hushed voice.

"Already one step ahead of you, Freddie" George said holding up a permanent marker.

The twins giggled like little girls causing mischief. They were sure that this would piss Athena off but they saw it as just a bit of fun. George held the marker right over the space between her lip and nose.

"Do that. And you'll regret it" Athena said, her eyes were still closed.

Fred and George jumped at the sound of her voice and watched as she sat up. They smirked at her and figured to hell with it. Before she knew it, both boys were tackling her. Fred held her down while George ran the marker on her face.

"You idiots!" Athena's voice rang through the entire house.

Next door in the dining room, everyone attending the Order meeting jumped at the sound of Athena's loud voice. Sirius and Remus looked to the door and smiled at everyone sheepishly.

"So, once we gain more intel on You Know Who's recruitment-" Sirius said before he was cut off.

"I am going to neuter you both!" Athena's voice rang out in the house again.

This time Severus smiled a small smile as he stared at his lap.

"As I was saying, once we find new intel, we will let you all know. The minister is still refusing to see reason so it's up to us to keep our eyes open" Sirius finished explaining.

The sound of a stampede brought everyone's attention towards the doorway. The order watched as Fred and George ran up the stairs laughing. Athena appeared moments later holding one of her shoes in her hand. She turned around and everyone held in their laughs at the state of her face. Fred and George managed to draw a mustache on her face and a pointy beard.

"As you were, gentleman and ladies" Athena said awkwardly. She locked eyes with Severus before turning a deep shade of red and went up the stairs.

Remus was dying inside as he covered his mouth with his hands. Sirius looked like he just saw the best thing ever while Severus only had a look of amusement in his eyes.

"Well. I guess that concludes the meeting. We will meet next week before New Year's Eve. Happy Christmas everyone!" Sirius said quickly.

Upstairs Athena was in her bathroom washing her face. She was mumbling curses under her breath already thinking of ways to get back at Fred and George. She heard a knock and walked out of her bathroom only to see Severus leaning against the doorway of her bedroom.

"Sev" she breathed.

"I can't stay very long... but I wanted to see how you were doing. It was quite the...show you three put a few minutes ago" he said smiling teasingly at her.

"Noooo. That was so embarrassing! Fred and George gave me a mustache!" Athena whined.

Severus chuckled which made her frown.

"It's not, funny"

"I know" Severus said though he continued to chuckle.

"Then stop laughing"

Severus gave her an innocent smile. Seeing him in front of her was hard because she couldn't hug or kiss him. It's been three days and she missed him terribly and he did too.

"I really want to kiss you, Sev" she whispered.

Wanting to do the same, he peered out into the hallway before taking a step into the room. He leaned towards her face, about to kiss her when Sirius's voice echoed from downstairs.

"Are you done Snivellus?!"

Athena groaned in annoyance. Severus sighed and gave her a quick peck on her lips. It was small but Athena figured it was better than nothing.

"Your grandfather wanted me to give you this. He sends his best" he said handing her a silver envelop.

"Thanks. I'll walk you down. Seems that's the best we can do" Athena grumbled before her eyes widened when she remembered something.

"But first. I need to give you something!" She said and ran to her desk before walking back to him.

"This is for you, my darling" she said hiding out a box wrapped in dark green wrapping paper with a silver bow on top.

Severus raised an eyebrow at her then took the box from her. "What's this?"

"It's the deed to my heart" she said playfully, before adding, "It's your Christmas present!"

He was touched since he never received anything- at least from someone he loves. Albus and Minerva always got him gifts but this was something much more personal.

"Thank you, love" he said breathlessly as he reached out to caress her face.

She melted at his touch but pouted when he removed his hand. They knew they had to head down before Sirius himself comes up to find them. The man had become like a father figure to Athena, always checking up on her, so imagine if he found Severus in her room for longer than expected.

They both walked down in silence. Once they reached the first floor they were greeted by Sirius and Remus. Athena smiled at them while Severus rolled his eyes at the sight of the two men.

"So, what took you two so long?" Sirius asked curiously.

"Sirius" Remus scolded his friend.

"Not that it isn't any of your concern. But I had to discuss a private matter with Miss Westenra about her grandfather"

Sirius mimicked Severus which made Athena mentally face palm due to his childish behavior.

"Oi, be nice Sirius. He is a guest in your house" Athena reprimanded him earning a snicker from Severus.

"A guest that is, leaving. Goodnight Lupin, Black, Miss Westenra " With that Severus turned dramatically and left the house.

Athena shot a glare to Sirius for his behavior. The man only rolled his eyes as he downed the last of his wine.

"Don't look at me like that! Merlin's beard, you spend too much time with Molly!" Sirius complained.

"Well she did say you needed to be scolded every so often" Athena said giving him a smirk.

Sirius only waved his hand dismissively knowing she was right. Remus chuckled lightly as Sirius walked away with a pout. The only reason why Molly Weasley had asked Athena  to keep on eye on Sirius, was because the older woman was rather impressed with how mature the girl was for her age. Fred and George tried to tell their mum otherwise, but the ginger haired woman wasn't having any of it. 

"Here we go! Daddy's back!" Mrs. Weasley announced rolling in Mr. Weasley who was sat in a wheel chair.

Everyone clapped, happy to see that Arthur Weasley was making a good recovery. Everyone sat at the dinner table exchanging gifts. Athena was beaming with joy since this was her first real Christmas. Last years Christmas she spent it on a snowy rooftop in France during a mission to retrieve a witch.

"Thena? I never noticed that scar on your neck?" George said squinting his eyes at her.

She placed her fingers on the scar. It was very thin and faint and took a lot of concentration to actually see it but it was there. Everyone else was curious to know what happened to her so she gave them what they wanted. An answer.

"I was slit in the throat" Athena said casually as she gathered all the scraps of wrapping paper.

Everyone laughed thinking she was just joking, except for Harry who had just walked into the kitchen. And Sirius who was stood by the door. Athena didn't notice their serious expressions since she was too occupied cleaning up all the ribbons and ripped up wrapping paper from the table.

"It's wonderful to meet you, Athena. Dumbledore has told us much about you. You certainly look like your mother but you have a lot from your father" Arthur said.

Athena gave him a polite smile when he mentioned her father. Of course he would know her mother, she was in the Order sixteen years ago.

"Pleasure is all mine, sir. And I am glad to see you are doing much better"

"I have you and Harry to thank for that" Arthur said patting her arm.

Athena smiled and walked over to Harry giving him a hug and his gift. He thanked her before Molly pulled him away happily urging him to get a bite to eat.

"Athena, may I have a word with you?" Sirius asked.

She followed him out of the kitchen and into his study. He shut the door behind him and Athena already had a feeling what he wanted to talk to her about.

"Harry told me about what you did for him that night in Little Whinging"

"Then I'm sure he also told you that I didn't tell him the reason"Athena pointed out.

"Athena. You can tell me and Remus anything. You know that, don't you?" Sirius said motioning for her to take a seat.

Athena would want nothing more than to tell everyone what she's keeping. But her friends were already in enough danger as it is, and then knowing her secrets would result in them being in even more danger.

"I know that. But I can't tell you-"

"Your grandfather told me that you went through something terrible. Didn't share the details but I can only think of the worst"

"Sirius. As much as I would like to talk about it, I can't. It will only put you in more danger. And enough people already know about it"

"Like Severus?" Sirius found himself asking.

Athena tensed. She wasn't sure if he was referring to the fact that Severus knows her secret or if he knows of their relationship. Sirius grinned like a Cheshire Cat

"Oh yes. I know all about your relationship with him. And I happen to be a very good observer. You both are pretty obvious, you know that?"

"What gave it away" Athena asked not bothering to deny it.

"Merlin's beard! So it is true!" Sirius exclaimed.

Athena was confused for a moment before her eyes went wide. He had managed to get her to admit it. She narrowed her eyes at him while he smiled sheepishly at her.

"Sirius!"

"What! You two were very obvious last night! And did you forget you were wearing lipstick too? Snivellus left the house with red lips last night!" Sirius explained.

She face palmed in sheer embarrassment. Athena forgot she was wearing lipstick. She  had been too distracted by giving Sirius a scolding look, completely not noticing Severus's red lips.

"Is that why everyone was giggling at me during dinner last night?"

"I might've asked everyone not to mention it to you. But on a more serious note, what the hell are you thinking being with a man like that Athena Westenra? Does your mother know?"

Here we go.

"A man like what?"

"He's....boring!" Sirius said almost saying what Dumbledore made him aware not to tell Athena.

Athena smirked.

"You don't know him like I do. And mother doesn't know! So I'd like to keep it like that. Not that she would even care"

Sirius was rubbing his temples.

"Blimey Athena he's like a hundred times your age!" He exaggerated. "But I guess we don't get to choose who we fall in love with"

"He's good to me Sirius"

"He has so many demons, Thena"

So do I.

"But something tells me that he's truly in love with you too. A man like Severus doesn't let people in and for some reason, he let you in. Just be careful, alright?"

"Severus wouldn't hurt me, if that's what you're worried about. But thank you, Snuffles"

Sirius rolled his eyes playfully. He did think it strange that Athena and Severus were together. For one she was way younger. But he knew deep down that Snape wouldn't involve himself with anyone if he wasn't serious about them. And he knew that Athena meant a great deal to Severus Snape. They were a rather odd couple but it wouldn't stop Sirius from playing the surrogate father or older brother.

"Thena, if he hurts you I'll have him dangled by his ankles...over a cliff....with sharp rocks at the bottom"

"You're terrible" Athena scoffed but knew he was just joking.

"Yes, I've been told that before. Anyways! You have another gift that's been delivered to you. Arrived early this morning" Sirius said handing her a rectangular black box with a gold ribbon.

Sirius smirked before leaving her alone in the study. Athena shook her head and looked to the box. It didn't say who it was from but opened it either way. She gasped when she saw a vintage gold necklace with a sapphire pendant. She admired it, wondering who would give her such an expensive gift. She turned the pendant over and sighed seeing the inscription on the back.

You have my heart.

Always

S. S

Athena smiled fondly as she slipped the necklace around her neck. It fit perfectly and for a moment, she felt that Severus wasn't so far away from her now...

Christmas break came to an end, much to Athena's disappointment. She was happy about being surrounded by her friends during the holidays but she as very eager to return to Severus's arms. Katie and Leanne ran to her happily once they saw her walking towards the castle along with the rest of the student body. They were soon joined by Neville who thanked her for the gift she gave him.

"So how was your holiday, Athena?" Leanne asked as they made their way to the Gryffindor common room.

"It was great. Spent it with the Weasleys since grandfather had to go on a business trip. How about yours?"

"Mine was alright. My annoying cousins stayed with us. Triplet boys. Annoying little shits really. Kept trying to snoop around my room. Can't wait to turn seventeen so I can use magic outside of school" Leanne whined.

"Speaking of seventeen. Aren't you going to turn seventeen soon?" Katie asked.

Athena snorted in her mind. She didn't need to turn seventeen to use magic outside of school. She had Sylvie and the sisterhood to thank for that. But she was looking forward to seventeen because it meant a next step closer to graduating so that she and Severus could go public.

"If you call four months soon"

Katie rolled her eyes, but soon widened them when she spotted a certain Professor walking their way. Athena wasn't aware since she was searching from something in her bag. Before Katie or Leanne or Neville could warn her, Athena bumped right smack into Severus's chest.

"Blyad- oh! Hello there" Athena said realizing it was Severus.

He raised an eyebrow due to her choice of word. Athena had been teaching him a little bit of Russian and he knew what Blyad meant.

"Miss Westenra. Are you incapable of watching, where, you are going?" He hissed.

"And are you incapable of seeing that it was an accident?" She shot back.

Severus narrowed his eyes at her and she did the same. The two were having a sort of staring contest for a few seconds, causing her friends to stand there nervously.

Make that two months detention, my darling. Athena snickered playfully in her mind.

Let's see if you can even last two months yourself, my love. Severus told her in return.

Athena smiled sweetly at him. He scowled then looked to her chest seeing the necklace he got her. His eyes flickered to hers and she saw his lips twitch slightly before he strutted away.

"Blimey. I thought he was going to give you detention for sure. I don't know how you manage to get away with talking to him like that" Leanne cringed.

"Perhaps he's still in the Christmas spirit" Katie said sending a teasing smirk to Athena.

The blond nudged her arm playfully but it didn't escape Neville's notice. He only shrugged and thought nothing of it.

Once in the Gryffindor common room, Athena went into her room to get changed. She noticed something on her bed, a small gift. It was a small box with a silver bow on top. Athena opened it and saw a silver ring. Inspecting it closer, she saw that it had designs of her favorite flower, Irises. She didn't see a note so she had absolutely no idea who it was from. But she likes the gift and slipped then ring over her index finger. A perfect fit.

"Now I expect a three page report on the Invigorating Draught on my desk Wednesday! It will be half of your grade. Many of you dunderheads aren't doing any better than last..year, so I suggest you study ..extra hard" Severus said once he dismissed the class.

Athena snorted to herself remembering when she called him a dunderhead a few weeks ago. Katie also sent her a small smile since Athena told her about it too. As everyone piled out of the classroom, Severus glanced at Athena.

"Miss Westenra, may I have a word with you?"

"I'll see you at the great hall" Katie told her.

Once Katie shut the door, Athena turned around and walked over to him. Severus pulled her into his arms and kissed her hungrily. She kissed him back just as eagerly expressing how much she missed him.

"More than my own life" he mumbled once he pulled away.

Athena smiled as he held out the pocket watch she gave him.

"That's how much I love you" she said planting her lips on his again.

"I assume it's non arguable?" He asked raising an eyebrow.

Athena smiled sweetly at him. She brushed her fingers through his dark hair while biting her lower lip. They'd always get into small disagreements about who would give who's life up for them. Severus knew that he'd die for her in a heartbeat but Athena was just as determined should they always find themselves in a life threatening situation.

"Nope!"

Severus chucked. He left his finger glide down from under her chin, down her neck and stopping at her chest. He lifted the Pendant of the necklace he gifted her.

"Well,  no matter what happens... I will always be with you" he promised still holding the pendant in his fingers.

Athena was about to kiss him again when the door opened. McGonagall walked in but stopped at the door, a giddy yet stern smile on her face. Athena was shocked when Minerva told her she knew about her and Severus but was relieved to know that her dear godmother approved. But it still made Athena even more aware of how careful she and Severus needed to be.

"I hope I wasn't disrupting anything" Minerva said.

"Uh, nope. I was just leaving" Athena said awkwardly. "So I'll see you tonight, Sev?" She asked trying to sound casual.

"Same time" he said stiffly but managed to give her a loving smile.

Athena smiled in return before she left the room, earning a teasing smile from Minerva. She left the dungeons quickly and headed to the great hall. She walked over to where her friends were when she was suddenly picked up by someone with strong arms. Without thinking, Athena kicked her legs down, her feet hitting the floor. She used all her strength to crouch down throwing the person
over her. Theo Nott was now on the floor in front of her.

"Bloody hell Athena!" Theo groaned but chuckled at the same time.

Everyone gasped having seen what happened. Athena smiled sheepishly at everyone before helping her friend stand up.

"That's the last time I sneak up on you" he groaned.

"Yeah well try waking her up from a nap. Nearly broke my nose one time" Fred said remembering a month ago when he made the mistake of shaking Athena awake from nap. Her fist just barely missed his face.

"It's why you all should always remain alert" Athena suggested.

"Alert for bloody what?!" Ron complained as he chewed his food.

"A potential assassination attempt" she said simply.

Everyone laughed at her dark humor but little did they know that she wasn't joking. Theo rolled his eyes and wrapped the girl into a hug. Athena hugged him knowing he needed it. It wasn't easy for Theo to be at home during the holidays and she felt guilty for having a good time while he was probably stuck in his home with his toxic family.

"Don't bother asking. Christmas was fine. I just missed my best friend" Theo mumbled.

"I missed you too Theo" she said hugging him extra tight.

Athena knew not to push. Theo would talk about it with her when he was ready. He just needed a few days to decompress. Her eyes opened and landed on Draco who was looking at her intently. It reminded her that she also needed to talk to him about the night he took her to the infirmary.

The feast began and Theo went back to the Slytherin table. Athena noticed that Severus wasn't present, which she thought was weird. She then figured he was just catching up on grading papers and planned to cook him something later that night.

Once dinner was over, she went straight to her room claiming she was tired. She changed into some black leggings, a grey long sleeve and threw on jumper along with her boots.Turning invisible, Athena left the common room and made her way down to the dungeons. She was excited to spend time with Severus since they haven't in two weeks.

"Phoenix" she muttered the password and the door opened.

Athena walked in with a smile, only for it to fade when she saw that he wasn't there. She checked the bedroom and the bathroom but  there was no sign of the potions Professor. He wasn't in the potions classroom nor his office since she liked to check there before making her way to his private quarters. Athena  was a little confused as to where he would be.

Thinking that he was just somewhere around the castle, Athena decided to make him some food in case he hadn't eaten anything. She made him some chicken, rice and some veggies then set the table. Athena picked out a book from his bookshelf and read for a while. She waited and waited and waited. Her eyes glanced at the clock for the tenth time and saw that it was half past midnight. The food had gotten cold so she put it away and walked over to the couch.

The fire was warm but the lack of Severus's arms around her made her feel cold. Grabbing the blanket, Athena wrapped herself in it and laid down on the couch. She tried staying awake but her eyes grew heavy and she drifted off to a deep sleep.

Two hours later, Severus arrived. His eyes instantly landed on the sleeping blond on his couch and he sighed heavily. He felt guilty for having stood her up but he didn't have much of a choice. He bent over and picked her up in his arms and inhaled her scent. She smelt of pine trees, a winters day, new parchment and a hint of lemon. It's the scent he smelled that day they made Amortentia.

Severus took her to his bedroom and placed her under the covers. He slipped out of his clothes and put on a long sleeve sleeping shirt and black pajama bottoms. After dimming the lights he slipped into bed next to her and wrapped his arms around her smaller frame.

"Severus?" She mumbled once she felt a presence next to her.

"It's me. Go to sleep, love" he mumbled and kissed her forehead.

She instantly snuggled into him, already planning on questioning him the next morning. Severus sighed tiredly and held her close in his arms. His heart drummed in his chest and a certain ache engulfed it. The worry he had still consumed him and he started to wonder how many more times he would be able to hold Athena in his arms like this. Things were slowly but surely getting more complicated and he was terrified...

Katie side glanced Athena who was sat in a corner eyeing her bag of sherbet lemons. To anyone, the girl has been in what seemed to be in deep thought but Katie knew better. She walked over to her best friend and sat besides her waiting for the other DA members to show up.

"Maybe he's just really busy. Owls are right around the corner and I'm sure he's rushing to get things prepared" Katie told her.

It has been a few weeks since that night she fell asleep waiting for Severus. However when she woke up, he had left her a note saying that he needed to take care of some business. However, that's what Severus's excuse consisted of whenever he'd disappear. He's not only been disappearing a lot lately, but it was driving a kind of wedge between him and Athena. He had stood her up for the last few weeks and she didn't know why. Athena had a gut feeling like something was wrong and he wasn't telling her. Every time she tried to stay after class, he would give her a quick kiss and would leave rather quickly.

She asked Dumbledore if he knew what was going on and why Severus had been disappearing into thin air but the headmaster would ask her not to worry. He would tell
her that he was taking care of some business but wouldn't go into the specifics.

Athena trusted her grandfather but her gut feeling told her that he too was keeping secrets. It's gotten to the point where Athena started to think of the worst. Was Severus avoiding her? Did she do something wrong? Was he a secret drug dealer? Was he having an affair? A plethora of thoughts would swirl in her mind as she tried to figure out what could possibly be going on with the man she loves.

"Maybe" Athena mumbled to Katie before getting up once the last group made it to the room of requirement.

Harry explained that they were going to learn the Patronus charm. Everyone was excited about it but Athena felt more down than ever. She tried to think positively once Harry said they could begin.

"Expecto Patronum!" Athena said but nothing happened. Her mind was swirling of memories from her past and it didn't help that she felt sad at the moment.

"Make it a powerful memory, the happiest you can remember. Allow it to fill you up!" Harry explained walking around the room. He gave Athena an encouraging smile which gave her the little boost she needed to try again.

Athena took a deep breath and tried to think of a happy memory. Her mind instantly went to Severus and how happy he's made her for the last few four and a half months. Her mind went to the day he confessed he liked her and then the day he told her he loved her. She thought of all the moments they spent together and how much light he brought into her life.

"Expecto Patronum!" Athena said loud and clear.

A bright blue light shot out from her wand and Athena gasped when she saw a sliver wolf run around in the air around the room. A wide smile plastered on her face as she felt her heart thump rapidly in her chest.

"Very well done Athena!" Harry said.

Soon the entire room was filled with patronus's when suddenly, a loud banging sound echoed in the room. Everyone stopped and the patronus's disappeared. There was another banging sound and then another causing one of the mirrors to crack until a small hole opened. Dennis got closer and peeked into the small hole, Athena right behind him.

"I'll make short work of this" she heard Umbridge say which made her blood turn cold.

Athena managed to get a glimpse of the woman pointing her wand at the entrance of the room. In a swift movement, she grabbed Dennis, shoved Harry to the other side of the room using her leg before she and Dennis rolled away avoiding the explosion charm Umbridge casted.

Athena checked Dennis over to make sure he was okay before helping him up. She turned and saw the Inquisitorial squad and Filch standing there. Athena wondered how they knew the exact location of the room but her question was answered when Draco appeared and pulled Cho along with him for everyone to see.

Everyone gasped when they saw the Ravenclaw. Harry more than anyone looked betrayed. Draco smirked, but it faded when he locked eyes with Athena. For a moment, just a moment she saw regret in his silver eyes but they turned cold after a few seconds.

"Get them" Umbridge demanded her flying monkeys.

The Slytherins stormed into the room and started dragging everyone out of it. Draco walked up to Athena reaching for her arm but she shot him a warning look. Theo on the other hand gently guided Athena out of the room. She wasn't angry that Theo joined the inquisitorial squad, she understood why he did it. But for some reason she felt enraged with Draco.

"Well. I must say that I am very disappointed in you, Athena. An absolutely bad influence!" Umbridge huffed as Athena stepped out into the corridor.

"Ah, well at least I'm not the only disappointment here Professor" Athena said sweetly giving her a fake smile.

Umbridge scowled.

"And it's Miss Westenra. Only my friends can call me Athena, Delores Umbitch"

The pink clad woman walked up to Athena and slapped her across the face. The sound echoed in the corridor causing everyone to wince. Draco clenched his jaw while Theo's hand twitched towards his wand.

"Alright toad face. It's going to take a lot more than a little slap to hurt me" Athena said with a chuckle.

"Take Mr. Potter, Miss Chang and Miss Westenra to the headmasters office! Now!"

Draco grabbed Athena roughly by her arm which only made her laugh. Her laughing seemed to piss off Umbridge even more which is why she did it. They were taken to Dumbledore's office and despite Harry freaking out, Athena remained as calm as a steady stream.

"I've been watching them for weeks. And see, 'Dumbledore's Army'- proof of what I've been telling you right from the beginning, Cornelius"Umbridge told the Minister as she, Harry and Cho were brought into the headmasters office.

Harry shot a glare to Cho, who looked at him guiltily. Athena couldn't even look at the girl and settled her gaze on her grandfather. Dumbledore just stood there cooly, his expression calm. He gave Athena a subtle smile telling her it was alright.

"All your fear- mongering about You Know Who never fooled us for a minute. We saw your lies for what they were- a smoke screen for your bid to seize control of the Ministry!" Umbridge accused.

"That is a lie and you know it!" Athena shot at her.

"Naturally" Albus said responding to what a woman is. Athena gave him a questioning look.

"No, Professor- He had nothing to do with it; it was me" Harry said.

"And me" Athena added.

"Most noble of you, Harry, Athena, to shield me. But as has been pointed out the parchment clearly says 'Dumbledore's Army'. Not Potters or Athena's. I instructed Harry and Athena to form this organization. And I, and I alone am responsible for its activities" Albus explained.

Athena frowned wondering why he was taking the fall. It wasn't fair and she feared what could happen to him. Albus have Athena a stern glance and she felt that this was a part of some plan he conjured up. She subtly nodded her head that only Draco seemed to catch. He tightened his hand around her arm earning a glare from the girl.

"Dispatch an owl to the Daily Prophet. If we hurry, we should still make the morning edition. Dawlish, Shacklebolt, if you will escort Dumbledore to Azkaban to await trial for conspiracy and sedition"The Minister said.

Athena and Harry's eyes widened in shock. Albus seemed to be a little alarmed but kept his calm demeanor.

"Ah, I thought we might hit this little snag. You seem to be laboring under the delusion that I'm going to- what was the phrase? Come quietly. Well I can tell you this, I have no intention of going to Azkaban" Albus said then gave Harry and Athena a wink of his eye.

"Take him!" Umbridge shrieked.

Suddenly Fawkes flew over and Dumbledore clapped his arms up causing a flash of fire making everyone fall to the floor. Athena and Harry were the only ones left standing, the blond smiling at the state of Draco's disheveled hair.

"Wha. Well, you may not like him, Minister. But you can't deny. Dumbledore's got style" Kingsley said seeming very impressed.

"You girl! Where did he go!?" Fudge demanded Athena.

"I don't know" Athena responded and she really didn't.

"She's lying!" Umbridge squealed.

"You dare like girl? I am your Minister of Magic! The highest Authority and I demand you tell me where he is!" Fudge shouted at Athena.

"I only have one form of high authority Mini-ster. And she's much more terrifying than anyone in this room. Would you like to meet her?" Athena asked darkly sending a cold shill throughout the room.

Cornelius Fudge looked taken back and fearful for a moment. He seemed to snap out of it and scowled at her.

"Contact her mother and deal with her accordingly. I don't want her leaving the grounds!" He demanded belfry storming out of the room with Percy Weasley and Dawlish.

Kingsley have Athena a small smile before he too left. Umbridge motioned for Draco to lead Athena, Harry and Cho out of the room but Athena stayed put at the door.

"Miss Westenra I will not ask a second time!"

Athena's made an X motion with her wand over the door to the head masters office. Taking out a small blade she sliced her palm and mumbled an incantation. Now no one would be able to go into Dumbledore's office except for Athena and Dumbledore and anyone Athena allowed. Like the curious cat she is, Umbridge grabbed the door knob only to hiss in pain because it burned her.

"Good, it works! I hope it reminds you to keep your little paws to yourself" Athena said referring to the slap the woman gave her....

Hogwarts had now become a prison. With Umbridge now being the headmistress, Hogwarts had turned into a horror show. The school had lost its soul and everyone was short on becoming soulless as well. With Umbridge's rules, Athena and her friends found that following them was what was best. Everything felt military and Athena hated it. She sat by the window of Severus living room. It didn't make sense since his room was in the dungeons but he must've enchanted it somehow. She missed him terribly but it's been weeks since they had a proper conversation.

The door to his chambers opened and the man himself walked in. She was the first thing he saw and slowly walked over to her. Athena didn't turned to look at him, she just gazed out of the window.

"Where have you been, Severus" she asked softly.

"The new headmistress was holding a meeting with all the staff. And one I needed to attend" he explained though he knew that's not what she was referring to.

Athena rolled her eyes and scoffed at his answer. In truth, she felt alone now that her grandfather wasn't in the school walls. She couldn't even talk to her friends much since Umbridge made a special rule for those who were a part of Dumbledore's Army that they couldn't socialize with one another. And it didn't help that Severus has been MIA lately.

"Whatever you say, darling" Athena sighed as she subconsciously stared rubbing to top of her left hand.

Severus saw the scar given to her by Umbridge's special quill. The words were, I will never betray the ministry again. It made his blood boil that he couldn't do anything about it, but it angered him as well that Athena would put herself in a portioned where she would get herself into trouble.

"I told you to be careful. And why have you been skipping classes?" He asked.

"The same reason you're not telling me why you've been disappearing or avoiding me"

"I am not avoiding you"

"And neither am I" Athena lied and he knew it.

Another wave of guilt overtook Severus. Dumbledore had asked him to keep an eye on Athena during his absence. But he was failing at it because Voldemort had been sending him out on small missions the last few weeks. Of course Athena couldn't know but the secrecy was putting a strain on their relationship.

"Um, I left you some lunch on the counter. I'll see you later" Athena said standing up from the comfy chair.

She gave him a quick peck on the lips before walking over to the door. She stopped however and took a deep breath.

"I could cast a Patronus charm now. I couldn't before but you made that possible for me. You are enough for me, Severus. I just need you to know that" Athena said then left.

Severus sighed heavily knowing how hurt she was. He wishes he could tell her what he's keeping from her. But it was dangerous and she will never see him the same way ever again. He remembered his talk with Albus which also sent another wave of pain to his heart.

What should I do...

Everyone around Athena were wincing in pain. They were in their fifth detention with Umbridge and it never got any easier. Athena wrote the same words over and over again as the same words carved into her hand. It hurt like a mother but Athena wasn't affected by it as much as her friends were. She had a high tolerance for pain and remembered that one time she had an arrow lodged in her thigh and took it out like it was just a little splinter.

You can imagine the frustrated look on Umbridges face as she watched Athena seemingly enjoy detention. Her face was plump and beet red which made Athena all the more happy. But it didn't take the anger she felt towards the woman. She would observe her friends, specifically Luna and little Dennis and how they both whimpered in pain.

After another hour of torture, they were all dismissed. Athena along with her friends left the great hall. She gave Cho- who had been waiting for them to be dismissed- a cold glare wondering why the girl betrayed them like that. Cho gave her an apologetic glance to which Athena rolled her eyes. She didn't go to common room right away and decided to just sit by a window sill in an empty corridor.

"You weren't at lunch" Draco said breaking her out of her deep thoughts.

"I don't particularly have an appetite"

"Huh. That's new. Doesn't Athena Westenra always have an appetite?" Draco asked trying to make light of their small conversation.

Athena didn't say anything. She didn't fancy his company, or anyone sat the moment. Umbridge had made it her mission to punish anyone who would either talk or hang out with her claiming that she was a bad influence on everyone. So Athena did what she was good it and that's isolate herself.

"You really don't know where Dumbledore is, don't you?" Draco asked taking a seat next to her.

"Even if I did, I still wouldn't tell. What are you doing here anyways? Going to report to Umbridge that I'm still breathing? Merlin knows how much that woman wants me gone"

"No. I'm just here as a friend" Draco said.

"Friend? Since when are we friends? Last time I checked we hate each other" Athena scoffed.

Draco rolled his eyes. "I do not hate you. I just tolerate you"

"Wow. I feel honored" Athena stated sarcastically.

"So now that you're here, I've been meaning to ask. Why did you help me that night and take me to the infirmary?" She asked him.

Draco clenched his jaw and looked away.

"Anyone would have done it" he said.

Athena didn't buy it. She knew that deep down Draco was a good person, he just had trouble showing it.

"Yeah, you're right. Or maybe because you do think of me as a friend and one who was worried about me" she decided to tease him.

Draco scoffed not finding it funny.

"I wasn't worried about you. It was the right thing to do. Couldn't bloody well leave you to bleed out on the floor, you know?"

"Well according to Madam Pomfrey, she said you were very very horrified and worried. Demanded that you save my life" Athena said remembering when she asked the witch if it was true if Draco was the one who brought her to the hospital wing.

Draco clenched his jaw again and looked out of the window. He stared out for a few seconds before signing heavily.

"Well isn't it obvious?" He asked all of a sudden.

"What's what obvious?" Athena ask.

Draco looked into her eyes then turned to look at something else. Athena moved her head to see what Draco was looking at and saw Severus walking down the corridor.

"Mister Malfoy, I have to make you aware that Umbridge is holding a meeting that requires your.. attendance"

Draco got up and left but not before he have Athena a quick glance. Once he was completely out of sight, Athena crossed her arms and waited for Severus to say something.

"You haven't come to my chambers in a while" he told her softly.

"Because I know you wouldn't be there"

"Athena I am not..avoiding you" he hissed.

"Then tell me what have you been hiding? Where have you been disappearing to?"

"I already told you that I have business to tend to in Knockturn Alley. I get some of my supplies for my potions there. I have placed a few orders that are still pending"

Athena laughed bitterly.

"You almost made me believe that. I know you're hiding something from me, Sev. Why can't you trust me enough to tell me?"

He pursed his lips not knowing how to answer that. Severus did trust her but there were things she couldn't know. Things that would hurt her beyond repair. He felt a sharp pull in his head and he knew that Athena was trying to read his mind. He pushed her out and saw the hurt flash in her eyes.

"There can't be an us if there's no trust, Severus" Athena said in a voice above a whisper.

She couldn't stand being near him right now. Turning on her heel, she started to walk away. However what Severus said next made her stop in her tracks.

"Lily just stop!" Severus shouted.

Athena felt the air get knocked out of her. Severus looked at her wide eyed realizing what he just said. It was dangerously silent between them. So silent that it could be cut with a knife. Much to Severus's shock, Athena stated to chuckle.

"Affair it is, then" she said lightheartedly before continuing on her way out of the castle.

Severus only stood there in complete shock at what he had called her. He didn't mean it even though he was under a lot of pressure at the moment. If things weren't getting bad before between Athena and himself, then things just got even more complicated...

Sooooo is this the end of Athena and Severus's relationship? He's made quite a mess of things hasn't he? Will he now tell her about Lily Potter? And if he did, how will Athena react?

So five people now know about Severus and Athena. Katie, Dumbledore, Minerva, Sirius and Remus (even though I didn't add it to the story, Remus does know). And yes I'm planning on someone else finding out about them wuahahahaaa!

There is only one chapter left for part one of this book. And things are going to be such a roller coaster of emotions for Half Blood Prince! I think you all might have an idea why 😀.

Things between Severus and Athena are getting unstable. I'm sure you know what secrets he is keeping from her but will our smol assassin find out?

And there will be a very special meeting between Athena and a certain someone next chapter! Stay tuned to find out!

Thank you for reading! Let me know your thoughts and predictions you might have! And don't forget to vote!

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