When All is Lost One is Found

Chapter 138: Confirmed with Minerva

When All is Lost, One is Found

Author: Rinoaebastel

Chapter 138: Confirmed with Minerva

Disclaimer: I don't own Harry Potter and gain no profit from this fanfiction other than writing practice. JK Rowling owns Harry Potter.

AN: This story may contain scenes taken from the Harry Potter movies and books, but it's not exact dialogue, just rewording of dialogue or omission. It is not marked.

The path that led to McGonagall's office was filled with a strangling pressure. The rage had faded from his system but the nerves for Hermione hadn't. She was still surprised. Affected by Weasley's intervention and defamation of her.

He could see it in her eyes. Read it in her body language. As they walked, she stayed close to him, seeking his protection by instinct. She was a strong witch, and he'd never doubt that, but they were here to support each other.

The gargoyle came into view when they turned the corner.

"I know I'm an adult and they can't do much to us because of our relationship, but . . . But what Ron said. Now everyone will think..."

"Your true friends know the truth. They are the important ones, but from what I saw in that class, you have other students supporting you."

"Supporting us, Severus," she said then her brows furrowed. "What are we going to tell Minerva? The truth?"

Should they consider Minerva a friend as well? She didn't seem to be hostile toward them when she told them to come to her office. "It looks like we have no choice."

"I'm sorry, I know you don't like attention and this will bring a lot of it."

He was more worried about her than himself. He'd reassured her about the students in the dueling club, but he was unsure of what the entire school would think. She didn't have long until she graduated, so she wouldn't have to put up with the whispers for long at least. If there were any. And anyone that thought she didn't earn her grades in his class based on merit would be a fool. Very few would listen to such nonsense.

"We will deal with it." It was true that he hated people butting into his life. He was a private man, but he refused to back down and hide from them. He wouldn't let her take on the world alone. She was his equal and he would make that clear to every person that dared to ask or talk negatively about her. "Let's face Minerva first."

"You don't think she'll expel me do you?'

He chuckled lightly at her and she pouted. "It's not a laughing matter."

"I apologise, but of all the things to worry about, that is so typically you." He leaned down and kissed her on the nose. He straightened and they faced the stairs. "She won't. She actually can't. You are an adult and have control of your own activities now."

"But you work for her. What if she fires you?"

"She doesn't have any grounds since we didn't go against any rules". He shrugged. "But if that happens I'll just open a shop and do some research for a company." When he saw the worry on her face, he gave her a comforting smile. "Don't worry, my witch. Whatever happens, we shall deal with it," he repeated for what seemed like the hundredth time since their journey there.

"How can you be that relaxed? You could lose everything." The stairs moved underneath them, taking them to their destination.

He was far from relaxed, but after facing down the Dark Lord and staring death in the face, Minerva was a kitten. "Lose everything? My everything is right here beside me with her headstrong presence." It was ironic that someone who had brought such calm in his life was so worried.