My Gift To You

Chapter 22

Weeks flew by. Severus slowly regained the ability to speak. Hermione's baby bump grew and school days became numbered.

As NEWTS approached, Hermione's stress levels rose. Severus and McGonagall kept a close eye on her.

After NEWTS had started, Hermione had a month to go before Bree's birth.

"I'm glad that's over," Hermione said as she sat for lunch.

Harry and Ron nodded.

"It was nothing like they said it would be," said Harry as he grabbed a goblet of pumpkin juice.

"I bloody hell nearly passed out," said Ron as he stuffed his plate with food.

Hermione sighed. Bree had been kicking like crazy since the night before. Harry looked at his friend.

"Are you okay? You look a little pale," Harry said as he put his hand on hers.

"I'm fine, Harry. I just need to rest,"she said as she wiped her face.

A sweat had broken out. She became clammy. Her body felt suddenly hot.

"Mione you're shaking," Harry said.

"I'm fine," she said, sounding stronger than she felt.

"Mione?" Ron asked as he watched her.

"I damn well said I'm fine," Hermione said, then grimaced.

"Miss Granger?" McGonagall's voice came up behind her.

Hermione turned to face the old woman. She smiled weakly.

"Miss Granger, what is the matter?" McGonagall asked.

"I think we should go see Poppy," Hermione said as she gestured for someone to help her up.

McGonagall and Harry did so, with Ron being on the wrong side of the table to help.

Hermione grimaced yet again. She looked at McGonagall.

"I don't think I'll make it there myself. I'm not feeling very well," Hermione said as she wavered.

McGonagall steadied her as best she could.

"Potter, go get Professor Snape. He needs to help," McGonagall said as she wrapped Hermione's arm around her.

"I could help--" Harry started.

"Now, Potter. We may need him to apperate," said McGonagall sternly.

Realisation settled over the boy's features. He nodded and ran out the Hall in order to find the Potions master.

"Do you feel well enough to walk while we wait for him to join us?" McGonagall asked as Hermione took an unsteady step.

"I think so," Hermione said as she winced.

"Okay, let's try and get as far as possible," said McGonagall as she steadied her.

"Okay," Hermione said as they slowly made their way out of the Great Hall.

Their progress was slow. They took every step as if it were the last Hermione would be able to take.

Get your ass here, Hermione grumbled in Severus' mind, not knowing if it would reach him.

On my way, woman, dammit. Where are you? Severus answered back.

On the first bloody staircase. Making our way to the second floor, she snarled back.

Woman, you are one emotional mess, he said, I'll be there soon.

Hermione rolled her eyes.