A Chance at Happiness

42. Family comes first.

Nathan's program was so full that he hardly managed to eat dinner with his Dad and Mom.

It was a clever idea for Severus to have a lunch break together, otherwise the boy would actually starve to death.

- I must admit that Hogwarts was child's play comparing to this, Father!

- I told you that I am a very strict teacher, with very high standards, so stop complaining!

- I am not complaining, I am only commenting on your teaching methods. Am I any good ? You never say a good word

- It's not about being good or bad. Obviously you are not bad. I don't know if you are good, because I haven't tested you yet. I am planning to test you on real demand, not academic.

- Really ? Nathan was impressed.

- Well, yes. What is the point in teaching you so many thing if you cannot apply them when needed ? Severus commented with his famous arched eyebrow.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Charlotte was very easily tired, but she was glowing.

She was also very easily moved to tears, so it was natural for her to cry for almost an hour when she read her daughter's reply to the news.

- Bella is so considerate and kind.

- Of course she is Mother, she has taken after you.

- Since when are you calling me Mother and not Mom ?

- A slip of the tongue. We have mutually agreed with Father, well Dad, to call him "father" while in class, because "dad" was too weird for me and he didn't want me to call him "Professor" of course and

Charlotte eyes were round from surprise.

- Sorry, he mumbled.

- Hey what's wrong ? Baby are you crying again ? Severus asked while entering the living room.

- Come on! Stop teasing me, she said wiping her brilliant eyes. Bella is very happy for the news. She only hopes that the baby is a girl, though, she answered with a laugh.

- And you are crying because you want another boy ? he teased.

She slapped him on his arm.

- No, Sev! I am crying because I have the most wonderful children and the most amazing husband.

He kissed her on her lips and hugged her from her waist.

- She also cried because I called her Mother and not Mom, Father.

Severus started to laugh, being unable to stop.

- Hey, stop teasing me , I said. Ok I am over sensitive, she pouted.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Summer was beginning, Hogwarts term was officially over and Bella was on the train to return home.

Her whole family was expecting her.

She carefully hugged her Mom, whispering "Congratulation! I am so happy ! I can't use words to describe my happiness" , then she hugged her brother " I am glad that you are ok and you look so gorgeous! That's why you left Hogwarts, huh ? To avoid having an army of girls chasing you ? " she joked. and then her father "I missed you terribly" she told him.

They arrived home and enjoyed bbq in their garden, catching up with the news.

- So, Mom, when is your due date?