Raised Differently

Ministry of Magic

Severus slept most of the night and day of the blasted press conference. At 12:00 though, he was awoken by an incessant shaking of his right arm.

"Severus, time to get up and get ready," a soft voice cooed in his ear.

Severus opened his eyes and saw Lily standing above him, " Hi," he said, his voice gruff from sleep, "Why aren't you with Harry?"

She smiled, "Because we all agreed I'd be the only person able to wake you up."
Severus grinned,"Probably true. What time is this blasted conference anyway?" "And will you be there?" he thought to himself, "Fool! Why would she want to be there for you after what you said in fifth year? It's a miracle she's even talking to you!"

A new voice joined in, "It's at 2:00, so you have two hours to get ready, plenty of time!" They both turned to see Albus standing in the doorway, " Up you pop, my boy, we must be at the ministry by 9:30." Albus then asked what had been on Severus' mind since he was told about the conference, "Lily, my dear, are you coming with us?"

Lily smiled,"Of course we are, Harry and I wouldn't miss it for the world."

Severus felt like doing a little dance,"Yes! She's coming!"

Severus decided to wear some loose black robes that wouldn't hurt his still bruised ribs. At 1:00 Dumbledore came back with Lily and Harry,"Ready?" he asked as he walked in Severus groaned,"As ready as I'll ever be."

They walked through the castle and down to the edge of the castle grounds, as they reached the gate and apparated away, ready to face an all new version of chaos.