Entitled

Chapter 47

The Departure

The morning sun casts a golden glow over Spinner's End as you and Severus prepare for the return to Hogwarts. The atmosphere is tense, Severus' worry palpable as he methodically checks his belongings.

He turns to you, his expression serious. "I need to go on ahead with my trunk to check the castle for any signs of Sirius Black."

You feel a pang of disappointment. "You won't be riding the train with me?"

Severus sighs, his eyes softening. "I wish I could, but I need to ensure the castle is secure. I need you to keep a watchful eye on the students in my absence."

You nod, understanding his concern but still feeling the sting of his absence. "Surely Sirius Black wouldn't be stupid enough to attempt to board the train. It should be safe."

He gives a faint smile. "One can never be too careful. Your presence will help maintain order and keep an eye out for anything unusual."

You carefully place Mary and Barry into the pouch around your neck, their tiny heads peeking out as they settle in. "Alright, I'll do my best."

Severus pauses, his dark eyes sweeping over you with an appreciative gaze. "You look beautiful," he says, his voice soft and tinged with a rare note of flirtation.

You feel a warm blush rise to your cheeks. "Severus..."

He steps closer, his fingers gently brushing a stray lock of hair from your face. "You truly do. It's almost enough to make me want to stay and pull those trousers down around your legs..."

You smile, feeling the familiar flutter in your chest. "Almost?"

He chuckles, a deep, rich sound that sends shivers down your spine. "Almost. But duty calls."

His hand lingers on your cheek for a moment, his touch sending a spark of warmth through you. "Be careful," he murmurs, his voice dropping to a whisper. "I don't like being away from you."

You nod, your eyes locking with his. "Tonight, though..."

He pulls himself away reluctantly, his fingers trailing down your arm until they finally let go. "Tonight," he says, a playful glint in his eye, "I'll handle you properly at bed time. Here, give me your watch before I forget so I can make a new port key from my chambers to yours."

You raise an eyebrow, a teasing smile forming on your lips as you unclasp the watch from your wrist. "Is that a promise, Professor?"

Severus smirks, his eyes darkening with intent. "Oh, it's more than a promise."

You hand him the watch, feeling the electric tingle of his fingers as they brush against yours. He takes it and carefully tucks it away in his pocket, his eyes never leaving your face.

"Remember," he says softly, "keep a watchful eye on the students, and don't take any unnecessary risks."

You nod, trying to suppress the smile that threatens to break through. "I'll be careful, Severus. And I'll see you tonight."

He gives you one last lingering look, his eyes filled with a mixture of affection and longing. "Until tonight," he murmurs before finally disapparating with a soft crack.

The Dementors

With a sigh, you gather your things and head to King's Cross Station. The platform is bustling with activity, the excitement of the new school year palpable in the air.

You find an empty compartment on the Hogwarts Express and settle in, Mary and Barry peeking out from their pouch, their tiny eyes filled with curiosity.