Cat was practically skipping down the hall as she made her way towards the dungeon, she couldn't wait for lunch, she had to let Harry know right now. Besides it was almost the end of the morning, even with double potions they had to be almost done. Cat was smiling from ear to ear as she approached the door to the potions classroom, only to hear Severus screaming at a student . Cat sighed, *why must he do that, its not like it help them to learn, it must be his father's influence* she thought as she recalled the harshness and abject cruelty she had witnessed in the Snape household..

Taking a deep breath Cat tapped gently on the door, waiting until she heard Severus bellow to come in, timidly she opened the door and stuck her head in. Severus had a look of complete shock on his face, it was apparent he wasn't expecting her, and as she looked to see which poor student was getting the tongue lashing she suddenly understood why Severus was looking so shocked.

"Hi Cat" Harry said as he looked at her, rolling his eyes at the situation. "Need me for something?" he asked her hopefully.

"As a matter of fact I do." Cat replied, only she wasn't looking at Harry, she was staring at Severus, who, Harry noted was having a little difficulty meeting Cat's eyes. "Something I need to know about Professor Snape? Was Harry doing something?"

Luckily the bell signalling the end of class had just rung, all of the students hurried out of class, making sure to avoid Snape's glance, all except Harry and of course Cat. "Severus" Cat said a she closed the door after making sure all of the students had left the hallway "what is going on, why are you yelling like that?" She walked right up to him, completely unafraid "Severus, what did he do?"

"It was an accident" Harry chimed up, he could see this was just going to get Snape angrier with him if Cat didn't back down "I used wormwood instead of wormwort, it was my mistake." he said quickly, trying to avoid any further confrontation.

"And for that you scream and embarrass him in front of the entire class?" Cat asked tersely, Harry winced as he saw the look on Snape's face, as much as he loved the fact that Cat was standing up for him, Harry knew he would be the one to pay for it.

"Miss MacLeod, I will thank you not to interfere with the running of my class" Severus said stonily as he clenched his jaw "Mr. Potter will be serving detention as well as losing points for his house."

Cat stood there and stared at Snape, her face was unreadable "Harry, wait for me in the hall" she told him "don't go anywhere, don't do anything, I want you to come in when I call for you, understand Mister."

Harry nodded at her, he had no desire to stay around Snape and watch the argument that was sure to ensue. Before he left he gave Cat a worried glance, but she just smiled back at him and winked. *Talk about nerves of steel* Harry thought *even Remus would avoid Snape in a mood like this* Harry closed the door softly behind him and leaned against the cold stone wall, waiting for the screaming to begin.

Severus could feel a cold fury inside of him, he was not used to being challenged, especially in his own classroom, as much as he cared for Cat, he was not going to allow her that sort of power over himself. "Miss MacLeod......" he took a deep breath before continuing, he had to do this properly, she needed to understand without becoming angry with him, "I understand your concern where Mr. Potter is concerned, but I am the ...." Severus paused as he saw her smiling at him now he was completely confused, he was expecting this to become an argument.

"Sev, I realize this is your class and you are entitled to run it as you see fit." Cat needed him to understand she wasn't challenging his authority, just his methods "and if Harry did something that horrible, I will stand behind your punishment." She walked up to him and placed her hand on his arm "but don't make him pay for things he hasn't done, he's Harry,... not James, not Sirius." she looked him directly in his eyes "Now tell me again, what did you have them making that such a little mistake could cause such and outburst, your usually so calm about things."

Severus returned her gaze and tried to remain straight faced "It was a stupid and possibly dangerous mistake. If we had been making a poison, or if it had been applied to anyone....."

"The key word in that sentence was "mistake" it was not intentional" Cat chided gently "and as teachers we are here to help them learn, you do learn from your mistakes, don't you?"

"Some mistakes can be deadly Cat, they need to learn the proper way *now*" Severus told her, his voice sounding strained "I will not have my students killing themselves or anyone else with idiotic mistakes like that." he placed his hand on hers and tried to smile at her.

One look at Severus told Cat he was trying to hide something from her, something unpleasant by the strained look on his face. She thought it best not to push for details at the moment, he needed distractions, something to make him smile a little, his life had been full of enough pain and suffering. Cat smiled sweetly at Sev as she moved closer to him "Just answer me one thing honestly Sev, if it had been a Slytherin... would you give the same punishment?" her smile quickly became mischievous as she saw him trying to get around her question. "I thought so..." she draped both of her arms over his shoulders, smiling as he began to blush slightly at her boldness.

Looking slightly nervous, Severus told Cat softly "Miss MacLeod...Cat, really, a student could walk in at any time.... do you really want people to find out like this." he had to smile though, he had dreamed about this so often, he had always been jealous at the physical affection she had showered on Black and Lupin in school, he had wished it would have been him.

"And you honestly think people haven't already begun to talk? Besides Harry's out there, and trust me, he'll warn people to stay away" Cat laughed, "He probably thinks you and I are going to start a screaming match." She threw her head back as she laughed at some unknown joke....

"And what may I ask, do you find so amusing" Severus asked as a smile crossed his lips. "And it had better not be me" he added playfully as he slipped his arms around her waist, savoring the warmth and softness.

"I just find it funny..." Cat said as she looked fondly at him. "Imagine my surprise to find out that my Severus was the most feared teacher in Hogwarts, I still can't understand how that ever happened."she was smiling brightly, daring him to be angry with her.

Severus rolled his eyes "Nothing like being dramatic..." he said sarcastically, although he was thrilled to hear her call him "her Severus" it sounded so right to him. He pulled her closer to him as he let his hands drift to her hips, his heart began beating faster as she gently yielded to his touch.

Cat's smile softened as she continued "it seems that the only student beside your Slytherins who does not live in deadly fear of you is that strange little Hufflepuff, the 5th year one" her voice was getting softer as well.

Severus sighed as he said "You must mean the one they call Izzi," the ire in his voice evident "she is forever leaving me poems, with hearts drawn all over them. I honestly have no idea what has gotten into that girls head." He started slightly as he felt Cat's hand gently stroking his ear lobe, it sent a divine shiver down his spine, especially when she traced the edge with her fingernail, it was amazing what a little thing like that could do to him.

A satisfied smile crossed Cat's face as she ran her fingers behind Severus's ear, gently tickling the hollow were his ear and neck met. His eyelids fluttered slightly, it was obvious he was enjoying the sensation, she laughed softly as she continued, "Ahhh she has a crush on you, that’s sooo cute." her fingers continued to tease him, she moved them from his neck to the back of his head, as she began twirling his hair around her fingers. "Or are you going to blame a love potion gone bad?" She was pleased with herself, his anger was completely gone, although she could still feel his sadness, it hurt her to think of the way he had been denied affection for so long, it was little wonder he had such a harsh reputation.

Severus looked at her and sigh, it was pointless to argue with her, and he was having a very hard time keeping himself restrained, she was just to close, to ... willing for him to even try to concentrate on very much else. "Very well, no points, but he still serves detention" he said firmly, no amount of teasing or flirting would change his mind on that, Potter needed to learn, mistakes could be deadly.

"Agreed, but he serves detention with you, and be nice." She said softly " It would mean a lot to me if you to would get along with each other." Cat told him sincerely, as she pressed herself against him ever so slightly, as she felt him sigh contentedly.

Severus smiled at her, stroking her cheek, "Agreed, I feel safer if he were with me, it would be much easier to keep my eye on him. But as for getting along, ...... he is not particularly fond of me, you know that." He reminded her gently, he knew exactly how much it would mean to her, in fact he felt that it was the one thing that would cause her to refuse him, it was the only reason he had not asked her to marry him yet.

"Give him a chance to know the 'real' you Sev, all he's ever seen is this mask of yours, you need to start enjoying life a little." she said tenderly as she pressed herself firmly against him as she kissed his cheek.

Sev closed his eyes enjoying the feel of her in his arms, instead of letting her go, he held her tightly, pulling her up to him as he kissed her sweetly on her lips "I have another class to prepare for, I do need to go" he said reluctantly.

"I understand" Cat said softly as she affectionately touched his cheek "do you want to tell him yourself?" she asked as she motioned towards the hallway.

"No, I think he would take it better coming from you. He will probably assume his guardian angel rescued him, ..... yet again." he smiled at her as he gathered his books. Opening the classroom door he spied Harry who was waiting anxiously for Cat, Severus could not resist turning to look back at Cat "What did I tell you...." he said as he motioned towards the pensive Harry with his eyes as Cat laughed sweetly at them both.

"Ppsssttt, Remus.." Sirius whispered "What were you two talking about?" he couldn't stand not knowing, Sirius was hoping it was about him, or more precisely about them.

Remus gave him a look that told him they would discuss it later.

Sirius just sighed, he knew that look, it was pointless to argue with him right now, they would have to talk later. Sirius followed Cat and Remus up the stair to the landing outside of Albus's office. He turned to say good night to Cat, who was busy pinning her hair up again with his wand. He stood there smiling at her as she wove the wand in and out of her hair, it never failed to amaze him, the way women could do things like that, he could hardly tie a necktie and they would be twisting and braiding and doing who knows what else.

As Cat finished with her hair she looked up to see Sirius smiling at her, he had that dreamy look in his eyes again. It was a look she remembered well, he used to look at her like that when they had dated. Cat felt herself twinge as she remembered both her joys and heartbreak were he was concerned. Still she found herself wishing things had turned out differently, they could have been very happy together. She walked up to Sirius, she did need to tell him one thing before Albus spoke with him. "Sirius, I heard you tried to carry me to the hospital last night.." Cat paused as he nodded. Placing her hands on his shoulders Cat whispered "thank you" as she kissed him softly on the cheek.

Sirius felt himself flush as Cat pressed herself against him as she kissed his cheek, he missed this so much, he missed her, the physical contact, the emotional bond they had. He wasn't sure if his heart was going to soar or break right now. He looked down at her as she finished her kiss, he couldn't help but smile at her.....

"Well I'm off to find Cash, good luck" Cat said as she began walking away, thinking for a moment, she turned to them "and if you see Harry's grim, let me know.. I don't want any Slytherins getting their hands on him." Cat waited to see both Remus and Sirius nod that they would before she left through the downstairs doorway.....

"Even as a dog, she still cares about you... Amazing" Remus said to Sirius as Cat closed the door at the bottom of the steps. "When are you going to tell her about being an animagus, I was sure you would have told her when we were in school."

"I wish I would have, but James and I promised each other we wouldn't tell either Cat or Lily" Sirius explained "just in case MOM found out, we didn't want them to share the blame."

"Well that may just be the only sensible thing you ever did where Cat was concerned." Remus said as they entered Dumbledore's office.....

Cat took off like a bullet as soon as she closed the door behind her, she needed to get rid of some of her nervous energy. She almost lost her resolve several times tonight were Sirius was concerned, it didn't seem to matter that she had spent the last two weeks of her student life at Hogwarts crying her eyes out over him. It didn't even matter that he had broken her heart, she shook her head as she sped through the halls, why couldn't she just forget him and get on with her life. She had been perfectly content to have Harry back, and Severus was a good man, she was positive he intended to take their relationship to the next level, probably very shortly. Cat felt the confusion welling within her, how could she have such deep feelings for two different men, it just wasn't right, and it certainly wasn't fair, not to them or her.

Cat skidded to a halt as she sniffed the air.... Cash's scent .... he was close, and he was stalking someone. Cat paused as she allowed her eyes to adjust to the darkness, their was someone moving down the hall to her left, and it wasn't Cash. She turned and looked directly at them as they froze, she could smell the fear dripping from it's body. It was a man, one who didn't belong at Hogwarts, Cat growled fiercely as she tore down the hallway, fully intent on inflicting harm. This was now her home, and she protected what was hers, person, place or thing, it didn't matter. She saw the man turn to run, she had to laugh, he didn't have a chance, not when she was in a mood like this, the only thing that could stop her was her own clan. Cat was closing in on him quickly, she practically laughed as she saw the look of utter horror on his face. *serves him right for violating the school* she thought, as she delivered a well placed kick to his solar plexis, causing the man to double over and fall to his knees. She walked up to him, she wanted to get a good look at his face, grabbing a fist full of hair, she jerked his head back..... it was no one she recognized.

He was trying to get up, he actually though he could fight her... Cat smirked at his arrogance, just because she was a woman he thought she would be easy prey. Interlacing her fingers, Cat swung, making solid contact with the man's jaw, he practically flew backwards. Just as Cat went to grab the man, she felt someone behind her....turning quickly she recognized a familiar face, clan Gangrel, it was Raul.

Before Cat could say a word, Raul gently moved her out of the way, he wasn't looking good, his skin was very pale, almost sallow. His eyes seemed cloudy, and his fangs were bared, Cat knew what was coming next. She turned her back on the scene as she heard the man whimpering, they all knew he was as good as dead, Raul needed to feed. Cat heard the man trying to scuffle away , she listened as his shoes scraped against the stones, only to have Raul pull him up into the air, the man's breathing was coming in ragged gasps. Cat closed her eyes as she heard Raul pull the man's neck back and sink his fangs deeply into his veins, she heard the flesh tearing as Raul drank deeply from the man. She turned around when she heard the man stop struggling, Raul was still grasping the limp figure tightly around the middle, its back was against Raul's chest. Cat watched in fascination as the figures head jerked limply with each draught that Raul pulled from its body, the man's heart had stopped beating a few short seconds ago, but Raul was not the sort to waste anything....

Raul paused and opened his eyes as he realized that Angel was watching him, he was surprised to see her smiled softly at him, only to divert her eyes shyly moments later. Raul almost felt like blushing himself, he was completely unaccustomed to having anyone watch him feed, it was as if she had walked in on an intimate act, but he reminded himself, she was here first, he vaguely recalled moving her out of his way in his rush to feed. Raul was enraptured by Angel, he had only met her a few months ago, he had heard of her of course, Cash and Tris always spoke of her, especially of her willing acceptance of them, her entire clan was like that according to them, but never did Raul expect such a level of comfort either physically or emotionally. It was no wonder she had acquired the name Angel, that was exactly what she was to his clan, a loving and accepting being, heaven sent to save them from the loneliness that threatened to consume them.

Raul dropped the empty shell as he finished feeding, he would dispose of it in a moment, but he felt the need to make sure Angel had not been harmed or disturbed by what she had witnessed.

"Angel?" he spoke softly, waiting for her to turn and face him. He was pleasantly surprised to see her turn quickly, "I hope I have not caused you distress.." he paused as he saw her blushing. It was only then that the realization had hit him, she was not upset by what she had seen, she was embarrassed, she understood, she must have experienced the embrace at some point in her life.

"No..... no I'm fine Raul" Cat said as she tried to regain her composure. She took a deep breath and looked Raul squarely in the eyes, only to see him smiling tenderly at her. She returned him smile "Sorry, .. I've only ever seen my clannad do that, you're the first non-family member that... well.."

It was Raul's turn to blush "I understand Angel. I apologize for earlier, I did not mean to push you out of the way." He offered her his arm, he was hoping all the stories Cash and Tris had told them where true, it would kill him to have Angel baulk at his touch. His fears where shortly put to rest as Angel took his arm, he escorted her away from the corpse, she did not need to see such things. "What has you roaming so late Angel, you should be sleeping"

"Looking for Cash actually, I scented him down here." She explained "Albus wishes to speak with him about the Slytherin brats. He has already spoken with me, and Remus and Sirius are in his office now." As if on cue Cash and Tristessa walked around the corner, dragging what was left of another deatheater, it was obvious that Tris had just fed.

"Speak of the devil" Cat said as she saw them. "Cash, the headmaster is looking to speak with you." She gave him a meaningful look.

Cash and Tris saw the look in Angel's eyes, they turned to look at each other then quickly came to her side. Tris hugged her cousin as she asked her "Angel, what’s wrong, you look as if something has upset you?" Cash stood behind Tris, one hand on Tris and one on Angel, he had a very concerned look on his face.

"I'm worried, Albus has Sirius and Remus in his office now" Cat said hurriedly "he wants to know exactly what happened to those three Slytherin brats. I'm afraid Sirius intends to take the blame for the whole thing." the concern was evident in her voice, the Gangrels stared at her for a moment.

Cash's expression grew angry "What do you mean Sirius, .... if it weren't for him that little beast and his teacher would be dead right now, he was the only thing that saved them." The edge in his voice was frightening, Tris instinctively wrapped her arm around Cat and pulled her back a few feet. "How dare they blame him for anything, I was the one who did the brat, and I take full responsibility for it and that professor guy as well. I gave the orders, not Sirius" he was in the middle of a full blown tirade, with no end in sight.

Raul stepped up "Cash, calm down" he physically held onto Cash's arm, only to be thrown aside by Cash. "That is more than enough!" Raul yelled as the girls cringed.

Cash turned on Raul "Back off, this doesn't concern you" he hissed "I am not going to let him suffer because of me, he's been through enough." Cash turned to Cat "Angel, where is he, take me to him right now..." Cash's words stuck in his throat as he saw the look on her face, it was close to terror. Taking a deep breath, Cash lowered his voice and spoke again. "Angel, I need to speak with Dumbledore, Sirius wasn't responsible for any of it" Cash walked towards Angel, only to be cut off by Raul, Cash gave him a warning look before turning back to Angel. " I saw the way you looked at him Angel, the way you smiled at him before you passed out. If he means anything to you, take me to him now." Cash said as he reached his hand out towards her.

Cat didn't even hesitate, no matter how angry or upset Cash could get, she trusted him, he was family. She took his hand, glancing over to Raul to let him know everything was fine. "Albus has them in his office, he's already spoken with me" She told Cash "he wanted to know exactly what had happened. This is sure to bring MOM here, and that brats father, Lucius Malfoy" even Cash was shocked by the disgust in her voice, it was as though the mere mention of the name had caused her pain. Cat noticed the looks Raul and Cash were giving her, she turned to Tristessa, she had thought Tris would have told them. "Malfoy is the one responsible for the current state of my family" she explained bitterly.....

Raul looked intently at Angel, she was obviously upset, but what concerned him most was the hatred he saw in her eyes when she mentioned this Malfoy. Up until this moment he had not thought she was capable of such and intense hatred. It seemed almost obscene to him, Raul had always seen Angel as a being full of joy, of course she could become angry and sad, but those were just passing emotions to her, like clouds passing across the face of the sun, he could not imagine what this man must have done to cause such a horrible passion within her.

Raul walked up to Angel's side, touching her cheek with the back of his hand "Angel?" he asked as he turned her to face him "Do you want us to go with you? If this monster is waiting in Albus's office, it may be best..."

Cat cut him off before he could finish. "No Raul... its alright, he's not here yet." She explained "He won't come alone, I promise you that, he's too much of a coward" she smiled warmly at Raul as she placed her hand on his squeezing it gently. "Besides, I have Cash to protect me" she said as she winked at him, she could see the concern on Raul's face and while she thought it very sweet, Cat did not want to get into explanations right now.

Raul looked at Cash and nodded, despite Cash's volatile temperament he could always be counted on to protect his clan. "As you wish Angel" Raul said softly "but I must insist you no longer roam these halls on your own, as you can see" he motioned to the two lifeless bodies on the floor "the peril increases everyday."

"Don't worry Raul, I won't ever allow anyone to harm her" Cash reassured Raul, "and neither would Tris" he finished nodding towards the young looking Gangrel standing next to Cat. Tris smiled at Cat and winked "through thick and thin.." to which Cat replied "through sick and sin." Raul looked at them curiously as the girls began to giggle at some unknown joke.

"Come on Cash" Cat said as she began pulling his arm "I don't want Remus and Sirius up there any longer than they have to be. Knowing the two of them... well..." Cat hesitated as she thought of all the trouble her two friends were capable of getting into "lets just hurry, okay?"

Cash smiled at her as he allowed himself to be drug down the hall by her, he turned to Tris and Raul and gave them a little wave as he rolled his eyes "In trouble again apparently" he yelled to them as he and Cat rounded a corner.

"Sooooo tell me Angel, exactly how much trouble *am* I in?" Cash asked "Will I be expelled? Or just given detention?" he joked, trying to lighten up her mood a bit.

"Cash its not funny.... If Sirius takes the blame for this there is no telling what will happen to him" Cat explained "especially if Malfoy finds out, he's always hated the marauders, and this would give him a perfect opportunity to hurt people."

"Well don't worry about that, if anything Sirius is the hero of the story, if it weren't for him, those two would be dead, and I will swear to that." Cash told her bluntly

"I wanted to ask you about that" Cat said hesitantly "the teacher that Sirius save, it was Severus Snape? The potions master?" she could hardly believe it was possible.

"Yeah, that’s the guy" Cash responded "not the nicest of fellows, but I'll give him credit, he's tough, most people would have begged for mercy once Olia got involved."

Cat stopped dead "You let Olia *play* with him" she looked at Cash as he nodded "how could you?" Cat felt physically sick "She's the nearest thing to a monster I've ever seen Cash, she rapes peoples minds, she doesn't even think twice about the pain or harm she's causing" her eyes were tearing up "How could you let her do that to him, he didn't deserve it..... he...."

Cash took one look at her and knew this was trouble, apparently Kara and Olia were correct in their assessment; that man was well know to Angel. Cash shuddered as he thought of the teacher becoming a member of their clan, "It’s not her fault Angel, you know as well as I do she should never had been embraced. Her empathic talents made her unstable in life, and we all know that only becomes magnified with the blood."

"I'm not blaming her Cash, but she should not be allowed to do that to people" Cat turned to Cash, "what if it had been Remus she did that to, would you stand by and allow him to suffer that?"

"Of course not, Remus is clan..... and your teacher friend didn't suffer long, Sirius stopped it from going any further." Cash replied irately, as if he would harm his own...

"I still can't believe Sirius defended Severus, they hate each other "Cat told him" I think they always have" she shook her head in disbelief. "Maybe Sirius has finally gotten over that..."

"Don't count on it" Cash said sarcastically "You should have heard him when Kara and Olia told us that your potion teacher had *plans* for you." now it was Cash's turn to sound disgusted "I thought it was going to be a coin toss to see who got to rip his throat out first."

Cat knew better than to ask Cash what those *plans* were, she could hear in his voice he was in no mood to discuss it. Besides she had other more important questions that needed answered. "How long have you known Sirius? I thought you two had only just met for the first time in the hall."

"Oh you mean when I accidentally interrupted your little kiss?" Cash said as he watched Angel turn pink. Grinning with satisfaction he continued "Actually it was the first time I met him, but after all of Remus's stories, ... well lets just say we hit it off mighty fast."

"I guess so...." Cat said as she tried to regain her composure "especially if he could manage to talk reason to you. How did he stop you from killing them, if I may be so bold?" she said as she nudged him playfully, she had learnt a long time ago, if you wanted info from Cash, never insist or push, just tease him until he told you what you needed to know.

Cash stuck out his tongue "Smart a**,.... and don't worry there wasn't any hexing involved, he just asked me to stop, said he couldn't stand to see him suffer like that."

"He asked.... and *you* listened???!!" Cat was astounded "You must really like him" she was staring at Cash, it was not like him to take to strangers, even one as friendly as Sirius.

"Yeah, he asked me to stop..." Cash repeated to her "he seems like a nice guy, and a lot of fun." Cash grinned at Angel wickedly, "he should fit in well with the rest of the family. You are planning on seeing him I hope." it was his turn to nudge her, she was so much fun to play with, especially when he could see what she refused to admit, she cared about Sirius Black.

Cat dropped her head "I think he's already spoken for Cash... besides I'm kinda seeing someone else at the moment"

"Someone else??" Cash had a bad feeling about this "Well as long as it isn't that potion guy, I guess I can live with that." He decided then and there, he would oppose Snape entering the clan, if Angel wanted to play with him, have some fun and experiment, that was fine, but there would never be a marriage, not to a Slytherin. He may have only just learnt the term, but he understood its implications perfectly, Slytherins were not to be trusted.

Cat shot Cash a look of warning, but her mind was preoccupied by his statements. Try as hard as she could, she just couldn't imagine Sirius protecting Sev, she had heard that he had almost killed Sev on at least one occasion, and to top it off, Sirius was willing to take the fall for Cash, and they had only just met. Something was definitely going on, .......

They had finally made their way to Albus's office, Cat knocked softly at the door before she opened it. She was stunned to see Remus and Albus comforting Sirius, who had plainly been crying "Sirius, what’s wrong, what’s happened?" Cat asked, fearing the worse.

Sirius looked at her as he wiped his eyes, "Nothing, ... nothing at all" he tried smiling at her, but it only brought more tears to his eyes. Why did she have to walk in now, he didn't want her to see him like this, he felt silly and weak, after all he was a full grown man, a former auror, an escaped convict...god, why did he life have to be like this.... more than half of his life was gone, stolen from him by someone he had thought was his friend. Two of his best friends murdered, their son left an orphan when he should have been there to raise him, his family dead and gone. He had even caused the love of his life to leave him, all because of his stupid mistakes. Why did he fail everyone he ever loved. James, Lily, Harry, Cat... he had let them all down. It was becoming to much for him to bear....

Right now the only thing that made him feel as if there was hope was the look of concern shining in Cat's eyes, and the support of Remus and Albus, they both knew everything he had been through, and they always told him to hold on, he had made it this far he could make it the rest of the way. If only he could get Cat alone, he needed to speak with her desperately, even if she couldn't love him anymore, he needed to know she forgave him. Harry had accepted him, even with all of his shortcomings and faults, Sirius could only hope that Cat would be able to do the same. He wanted to have his life back, not this shadow existence, he wanted to be able to walk down the street with Harry and Cat, as a family, he was tired of hiding and lurking.

Sirius looked sadly at Cat as she approached him, she knelt next to his chair "Sirius, talk to me. Whats wrong" she asked him softly as she took his hand in hers. Sirius smiled gratefully, *she must still have some feelings for me* he thought, he placed his forehead against hers "Not now, ... please. I want ..... need to speak with you, but it has to be later." He needed to get control of himself, he needed to do this the right way, not like the last time, he had just blurted things out, he didn't want to ruin things, not now, not with her.

Albus stood there looking at them sadly, this was not going as well as he had hoped, things had become far to complicated. He had never really expected Severus to take such an interest in Cat, granted he expected him to try a kiss or two, but everyone had seen the ring box from Gemini Jewelers, never did Albus even think that Severus would want to remarry. Albus felt his mind real a bit, he hated to interfere with peoples hearts, but it was so very important that both Sirius and Cat had children, they were both the last of their bloodlines, and if they were going to defeat Voldemort, and see to it that he remained defeated they must continue the blood line, there was just no way around it. Sadly Voldemort knew it as well, as his systematic murder of Sirius's family had proven, every member of his family had either died or disappeared over the last ten years. And of course the Ministry had made it a point to hunt down any member of the Sidhe who found themselves stranded away from their family.

Albus needed to end this before things became any more involved, he needed to speak with Sirius, to find out exactly what he wanted and expected to do. If Sirius had the strength to fight for Cat and Harry, Albus would back him completely, but if he was unsure or if he felt he would not be able to see it through to the end, then he needed to leave them alone, allow Severus to take his place in their lives.

"Cat, perhaps it would be best if you left us to discuss yesterday's events" Albus suggested gently, her being here was only causing Sirius more pain "I will speak with you and Raul about it tomorrow" he took her by the arm and escorted her to the door "it would be for the best, Cash and Sirius seemed to have been the most involved" Albus stopped her as she tried to object, his mind was made up. "Goodnight Miss MacLeod, sleep well."

Cat dropped her head and sighed, their was no arguing with Albus when he had his mind made up. Placing her hand on Albus's arm Cat pleaded "At least promise me you won't do anything until you speak with Raul and I, please." she implored as she cast a worried eye towards Cash and Sirius.

"I give you my word Kitty" Albus told her as he shut the door.

The next day, true to his word Albus Dumbledore had a very long talk with Cat and Raul, neither Cash nor Sirius would be punished for their actions, considering the circumstances, but they needed to prepare themselves for MOM. They would be sure to arrive shortly, Draco Malfoy had sent an owl to his father this morning. Albus also asked them not to mention Sirius Black, he explained to them that Sirius was assisting him in his efforts to expose Voldemort's plans, which is why Sirius had to stay hidden at the school when he wasn't out in the field. This made Cat feel better, at least it was something of an explanation as to why Sirius was here and not with his family.

She and Raul had discussed amongst themselves that when MOM showed up it would be better for her to be there, with the Gangrel and Garou waiting for her signal of course. Raul was not fond of letting her face them alone, but she reminded them that Remus and Albus would be with her, as well as Minerva, who Raul distinctly remembered hearing about, apparently she was quite the little firecracker if it came down to a fight, much like the rest of her family. The only happy thing that had come from the meeting was Albus had given permission for Harry to spend the holidays with Cat and her family in Caledonia, it would be their first real Christmas together, and Cat was sure Harry would love spending it in a large house with more family than he could count. Albus had even informed her that Harry was in potions at the moment, he knew she couldn't wait to tell him........

"Hi Cat" Harry said as he looked at her, rolling his eyes at the situation. "Need me for something?" he asked her hopefully.

Severus could feel a cold fury inside of him, he was not used to being challenged, especially in his own classroom, as much as he cared for Cat, he was not going to allow her that sort of power over himself. "Miss MacLeod......" he took a deep breath before continuing, he had to do this properly, she needed to understand without becoming angry with him, "I understand your concern where Mr. Potter is concerned, but I am the ...." Severus paused as he saw her smiling at him, now he was completely confused, he was expecting this to become an argument.

Severus returned her gaze and tried to remain straight faced "It was a stupid and possibly dangerous mistake. If we had been making a poison, or if it had been applied to anyone....."

"The key word in that sentence was "mistake" it was not intentional" Cat chided gently "and as teachers we are here to help them learn, you do learn from your mistakes, don't you?"

"And what may I ask, do you find so amusing" Severus asked as a smile crossed his lips. "And it had better not be me" he added playfully as he slipped his arms around her waist, savouring the warmth and softness.

"I just find it funny..." Cat said as she looked fondly at him. "Imagine my surprise to find out that my Severus was the most feared teacher in Hogwarts, I still can't understand how that ever happened." she was smiling brightly, daring him to be angry with her.

A satisfied smile crossed Cat's face as she ran her fingers behind Severus's ear, gently tickling the hollow were his ear and neck met. His eyelids fluttered slightly, it was obvious he was enjoying the sensation, she laughed softly as she continued, "Ahhh she has a crush on you, thats sooo cute." her fingers continued to tease him, she moved them from his neck to the back of his head, as she began twirling his hair around her fingers. "Or are you going to blame a love potion gone bad?" She was pleased with herself, his anger was completely gone, although she could still feel his sadness, it hurt her to think of the way he had been denied affection for so long, it was little wonder he had such a harsh reputation.

Sev closes his eyes enjoying the feel of her in his arms, instead of letting her go, he held her tightly, pulling her up to him as he kissed her sweetly on her lips "I have another class to prepare for, I do need to go" he said reluctantly.

"I understand" Cat said softly as she affectionately touched his cheek "do you want to tell him yourself?" she asked as she motioned towards the hallway.

Leaving Cat to talk to Harry, Severus walked towards his office, he could not remember the last time he felt so content, he almost didn't notice that his office door was ajar. He knew he never left his door unlocked, much less open. Cautiously Severus entered the room, as his eye adjusted to the gloom, he saw a figure seated at his desk.

"So glad you feeling better Severus" Lucius sneers, "Must be convenient having a friend like her, convenient in so many ways." he finishes practically hissing, the disdain pouring from him was overwhelming. Lucius had been riffling through Severus's office, he noticed several of the drawers of his desk were still open.

"Find what you were looking for Lucius?" Severus asked non-plussed, as Lucius glared at him.

"You didn't answer me Severus." He said almost threatening "I trust your *enjoying* yourself with the b**ch, to bad she won't be here much longer." Lucius had an evil grin on his face, he was going to make sure Cat didn't get away this time.

Severus weighed his words carefully, Lucius was a dangerous man, a man who had no loyalties. "Really, has our dark lord decided its time to move?" he questioned, hoping it sounded appropriate, any slip up and they would all be dead.

Lucius glared at him "And do you think I would trust you with such information? Your loyalties seem to lie elsewhere."

"Really Lucius" Severus snapped irately "do you honestly think I am that stupid? I have not forgotten what she and her friends did to me, and I never will." he scowled at the thought.

"Then maybe you can explain this....." Lucius said as he threw a piece of parchment at Severus.

Severus hesitated, he has always been so very careful, what could he have possibly left to chance, he burned anything that could possibly be traced to him or to Albus. Taking the parchment in his hand, he opened it slowly. As soon as he saw what it was he grimaced distastefully, "And exactly what do you think this is Lucius?" the tone in his voice bordered on mocking.

"Mrs. Severus Snape.... little love poems..." Lucius smiled contemptuously "perhaps a letter from your dear Miss MacLeod"

Severus actually laughed out loud at him, "You think this is from *her*.... Lucius the stress has apparently broken you" Severus told him snidely. "This *love letter* is from a 5th year student, one who obviously has issues"

"My but aren't we plucky" Lucius growled "I hope you can contain your feelings when you meet with the Ministry today" he gave Severus a self-satisfied smile as he saw the look of shock pass the potion masters face.

"I was unaware of any meetings" Severus said as he quickly regained his composure "I hope it will be interesting."

"Its sure to be most interesting, of course your girlfriend may not see it that way" Lucius smirked "and Dumbledore is sure to get a few nasty surprises, along with those monsters he's allowed into the school."

"My girlfriend??" Severus said contemptuously "She's a fool, just like any woman, attack where they are the weakest, their hearts" replies Snape smirking "Do you actually think I could care about a creature like her? Her kind is lower than the mudbloods "

"Then why are you so interested in her, not still pining over your *lost love* are you?" He remembered well the tears Severus had shed over MacLeod during their school days, he had always been a fool for her.

"She's got Dumbledore's ear, he tells her things he doesn't even mention to anyone else" hissed Snape. "Why else would I put up with her,... and they trust her with Potter, I can easily get them both, just give me time to win her trust." Severus spat.

This seemed to placate Lucius for the time being. Although Severus had the distinct feeling that Lucius was simply biding his time, waiting for an opportunity to strike at them all. But as long as Lucius thought he was still on Voldemort's side there should be little trouble, Severus felt his stomach lurch as Lucius informed him of what his roll would be in the Ministry meeting, he was to testify against Cat, tell the Ministry she was solely responsible for his and Draco's injuries. He had no idea how to avoid doing this, and still keeping Malfoy's trust.......

Harry and Cat were laughing loudly on their way to lunch, unaware of Lucius Malfoy's presence. They were too busy making plans for Harry's Holidays with Cat and the family in Caledonia.

"So I have a lot of family" Harry asked as he eyes grew wide with anticipation, he had always wanted to feel like part of a family "and we're going to a farm, with horses and cows and everything?!" He was practically dancing around her as he waited for her answer.

"Yes Harry, now please, calm down a little" Cat laughed, apparently she wasn't the only one who was excited, and wait until she told the rest of her family, they would be thrilled.

Cat gave Harry a quick hug before they entered the hall, Harry went to sit with the other Gryffindors while Cat walked to the head table, smiling at Remus.

"Well someone is in a very good mood" Remus commented "your meeting with Albus went well I assume."

"Very well, he is letting Harry stay with me over the holidays" Cat beamed happily "can you imaging what the clannad is going to be like?" her eyes rimmed with happy tears "You're more than welcome to come along Lupy, I know the boys would love to have you visit again."

Remus smiled at her, the thought of going back to her clan was very tempting, they accepted him completely even knowing what he was, it just never seemed to bother them. "I just may do that Kitty, but only if you promise to keep them from trying to set me up with every eligible woman in your family" he sighed dramatically "I swear its some sort of hobby for them."

"How do you think *I* feel" Cat sympathized completely, she knew what it was like having your entire family trying to marry you off "besides, I guess that means they want you to become true clannad, not just a guest" she said as she winked.

"Now Cat, you know my feeling on marriage." Remus reminded her sternly "I do have one question though... I know Albus said it was alright, but did you ask Harry's godfather yet? I think he should have some say in the matter."

"No" Cat sighed deeply "I haven't seen him since last night, and I'm worried about him. Albus didn't want to discuss it in front of Raul, he kept changing the subject, all he told us was not to mention Sirius, apparently he's spying for Albus or something" Cat said as she searched Remus's eyes, hoping for confirmation.

"He has been going on some very dangerous trips" Remus admitted "Harry and I get worried sick sometimes, but he always manages to see his way through" he added with a strained smile. Trying to change the subject to happier things, Remus began piling food on Cat's plate.

"What is this for?" Cat asked as she stared at Remus "Or are you just trying to fatten me up?"

"Nope, your just not eating very well lately... and don't start telling me you are" he cut her off before she could start "you've been going night and day, you need to keep up your strength too. Honestly between you and Sirius I don't know which is worse, neither of you listen."

"Yes mother.." Cat replied as she moved her plate out of his reach.

Remus gave her a grin as he shook his head and laughed "Mother... I've been called that far to many times this week" he said as he shook his finger at her, then paused as he realized what he was doing. "Oh no..... your right....?!"

Cat laughed as the shock look on Remus's face gave way to laughter "Brother James and Mother Lupy... something is soooo wrong with that" she giggled as Remus rolled his eyes.

"Speaking of old friends" he said gently "I really would like you and Sirius to talk about this whole holiday thing, before there are any misunderstandings. Maybe tonight, we can meet in my classroom after supper?" he held his breath as he waited for her answer. He had to get them together, they needed to talk about so much, Remus knew in his heart that if Cat found out that Sirius had never married, never had children... well they may need to explain Azkaban to her, but it was sure to change her relationship with both Sirius and Severus dramatically...........

Harry couldn't wait to tell Hermione and Ron about his holiday plans "Can you believe it, after all this time, my first holiday away from Hogwarts... with family" Harry spouted excitedly, he couldn't wipe the smile off of his face, he was just to happy.

"That's great Harry, but are you sure its safe?" Hermione asked, truly concerned for his safety "Without Dumbledore around, you-know-who may decide to try something."

"Are you joking?" Ron asked disbelievingly "did you see what she did during that battle, she would have them all dead in minutes. Don't worry about anything Harry, you'll be fine with her"

Harry smiled gratefully at Ron, he hadn't actually thought about Voldemort at all, leave it to Hermione to think of everything.

"Is Sirius going as well?" Ron asked.

"Oh No, Sirius" Harry moaned "I wanted to talk to him, I need to apologize for the way I behaved the other night" quickly gathering his books and cramming some food into his pockets, Harry bolted out of the hall to find Sirius, he would probably be in Dumbledore's office right now.........

"I think that’s a very good idea, and I still want to know why he was crying last night" Cat told Remus sincerely "I could never stand to see him cry, and he looks so..... I don't know... sad, tired, he just doesn't look like himself." she said quietly, avoiding Remus's eyes. She didn't want to explain herself, she knew it was wrong for her to think so much about Sirius, he had his family, and she had Severus, she was more sure of that now then ever before, she had seen the look in his eyes when they were in the dungeon together earlier.

Remus smiled widely, *finally * he thought, *we can get it all into the open, I'm sure everything will be just like before, they still love each other, I can see it whenever they look at each other* "so tonight then, right after supper, we can walk up together.... wouldn't want you getting lost on your way" he added loudly as Snape sat down at the table. Remus was about to inform him that Cat would be helping him with something tonight when he saw the terrible look on Snape's face.

"Severus.... are you alright? What on earth is wrong?" Remus asked, genuinely concerned.

Before Severus could answer, Cornelius Fudge walked into the hall, followed by his Ministers and two dementors. The look on Albus Dumbledore's face said it all........