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Hermione and Severus decided to get another cat to replace Crookshanks because it was strange not to have one in their chambers. He went to the Magical Emporium to see what was available.
“Hello, any cats that need a home?” Severus gave the proprietor an arch from his brow.
“Actually, yes. A 6-month-old kitten just arrived here, and it needs solitude.” The man dipped his head.
“Why do you say that?” Severus’s brows furrowed.
“Let me show you.” They walked towards the back where the cages were, and the man opened one and lifted a Smoke Maine Coon kitten out. It was shaking in his hand, but when it caught sight of Severus. The tall, dark man enraptured him.
“It’s a beauty.” Severus carefully lifted it from the man and looked him over. “Yes, this will do. He will replace Crookshanks nicely.”
“Oh, did that cat finally pass?” The man’s eyes showed genuine curiosity.
“Yes, he passed away three months ago, and it’s too quiet in the house.” Severus sighed, “and Hermione has been devastated.”
“This one will cure her from her heartbreak.” The man nodded.
“Yes. Let’s get some things to go with him and bring him home to the quiet.” Severus tucked him under his arm and brought him to the counter. “Do we need to neuter or get shots?”
“No, that’s already done.” The man smiled as he gave him a bag of food and some new kitty litter as well.
“Excellent.” Severus paid the man and placed the new kitten in his new carrier. “Alright, Smokey, Let’s meet your new mummy.”
“Meowl.” Smokey agreed to his new name.
Severus apparated them home, and Smokey let it be known that he didn’t like that sensation. “Sorry, Smokey.”
“Severus?”
“In here, Hermione.” He placed the carrier on the table and patiently waited for her to come in.
She gasped when she saw the cat. “Oh, Merlin, the kitten is so precious.” She opened the carrier and took him out of it. “He’s beautiful!” Hermione cuddled him into her arms. “Name?”
“Smokey.”
“Of course you did.” Hermione laughed. “It’s perfect.” She flicked her eyes into his. “Thank you.”
“It was too quiet after Crookshanks died.” Severus shook his head. “Plus, you were sad and needed something to perk you up a bit.”
Hermione walked over to him, reached up, and kissed his lips. “Smokey and I thank you.”
“Go, play with your new kitty. I don’t want to see you in the lab until tomorrow.” Severus gave her a serious look.
“Yes!” Hermione danced around. “Come, Smokey, Let me give you a tour of your new home.”
Smokey purred in delight.