Hermione had dreamt about this day for many years, she was finally joining the ranks of the Hogwarts staff, okay she was only a teaching assistant but it was a start. Hermione had left the school not knowing what the world held for her, she had fallen into some bad company, been lead astray but now she wanted to inspire young wizards and witches, like so many of her teachers had her. Yet she couldn't decide which subject she wanted to teach in....potions, care of magic creatures, transfusion, defense against the dark arts, the list was never ending. In this predicament Hermione decided it was fitting to write to Dumblore--he always seemed to put things into perspective.
He suggested that she 'TA' various classes through out the year and hopefully she would find her passion. Hermione arrived a day before the term was due to start, the place brought back so many memories. Dumbledore met her and they walked up to his office:
"Well, my dear how was your summer?"
"Good."
"I'm glad, as soon you shall be surrounded with noise, and tasks, it shall be like school all over again, as it is in fact a learning experience. First I'll show you to your quarters."
They began the rather long walk downwards, it seemed as if they were heading towards a dungeon...but what had she expected the nice quarters of her childhood?
"Well here we are, I'm sorry they couldn't have been upstairs in the warmer part of the castle but we have so many staff this year, and this is all that remains, until the renovations are complete."
"Oh I'm sure I'll be just fine, I have a fireplace after all."
"Yes, and Severus, Professor Snape, you remember him?" Hermione nodded how could she forget how he had tortured her, Ron and Harry. "his quarters are just down a flight of stairs and to the left, though he may not be the best neighbor in the world it is most likely comforting to know you aren't alone down here." Dumbledore smiled and turned to leave, "Hermione, please join myself and the rest of the staff at dinner the evening so we can all become aquatinted--don't worry their are other new members like yourself."
"It would be a pleasure."
"Good, 6 o'clock in the main hall."
Hermione closed the door and looked about what would be her room for the next several months...it was dark, the only light source came from a rather old beat up candle chandler, so with a wave of her wand Hermione started a fire. It really wasn't that bad, the main room held a desk, some book shelves and a couch. To the left was a small kitchen and a bathroom, and to the right was a bedroom. The bedroom did leave a bit to be desired though, it had a large closet and a bed but nothing else. Hermione wasn't that surprised, she had been prepared for this, the rest of her belonging would arrive tomorrow and that would help things.
It was 5:30 so Hermione began to get ready, she had a nice long soak in the tub, and began to 'beauty' herself, if you could call it that...she wasn't really interested in the whole fashion thing....She used a spell to quick dry her straight black hair, then out of what had become second instinct casted a charm to make her hair the blond and wavy mop all knew...found a decent navy dress, not that it mattered as she threw on her long back robes overtop.
Not waiting to be late she headed up towards the great hall, as she turned the last corner to the hall she bumped(it hurt) in a young wizard.
"Sorry, about that I'm new here and I think I've just gone in a circle about ten times. Hermione stifled a laugh. "Not to worry you'll get used to it, the only reason I know my way about is I was a student here, anyways that hall is just right ahead."
The two walked in to the hall, found not the normal setting arrangement of the head table and the four house tables, but instead a circular table in the center of the room. A few people were already there, as they approached them the only one that Hermione recognized was McGonagall, who clearly remember her, as she was warmly greeted and introduced to everyone.
The room began to fill up and everyone found a place at the table, Hermione was in-between the lost young man(whose name was Gregory) and Snape. The meal was excellent, the food better than Hermione could remember. Following the meal, Albus welcomed them all, and introduced everyone -- their names and what they taught. Hermione was the last one to be introduced, "This is Hermione, she is going to be the teaching aid of many of you--as she is trying to discover what her passion is for, -- I'm sure many of you are wondering what I mean, well she is going to be a teaching assistant by muggle terms, helping a different teacher each week in the beginning, eventually though just one or two depending on her choosing. Anyways she will first be helping Hagrid with his class.
The staff began to disperse, all the other staff began to head upstairs to their quarters, Hermione and Snape began the lengthy walk down. Snape walked a pace or so infront of Hermione, he soon realized that she was going the same way as him and stopped walking. "I do believe the teachers quarters are upstairs and to the right."
"Yes, they are, but they also happen to be all occupied, my quarters are just a floor above yours apparently."
"In that case, we might as well continue together." Snape replied in a rather unpleasant tone.
The two walked in silence, down the long flights of stairs, for what seemed like forever, finally Hermione came to her door...she turned to say goodnight to Snape but he was already hurrying his way down the next flight of stairs. Hermione thought to herself 'Dumblore was right, he isn't the best company.' Hermione began to unpack her belongings, they had arrived sooner than she had expected. She quickly filled the two book shelves, and set up another in her bedroom. She then proceeded to make a small space for all her potion stuff, (caldron, ingredients, books). Hermione was so used to her nightly routine by this point, she automatically began to make her sleeping draft (as she would be awake all night without it). She was half way done before she realized she had no milkweed. Damn she cursed, 'what am I supposed to do now'....Hermione sat thinking about what she could substitute, when she remembered where she was, why didn't she just see if Snape had it, he was a potions master after all. Hermione hurriedly walked down the flight of stairs, and knocked on the door, it opened and Hermione looked around...Snape's quarters were almost identical to hers, only he had a laboratory at the back. As Hermione was observing the surroundings Snape appeared, "I do believe your quarters are limited to the floor above."
"Yes, sorry to bother you, but I was wondering if you had some milkweed I could borrow--not all of my supplies have arrived yet, I can pay you back you tomorrow if you wish."
"What could be so important that it can't wait until your belongings arrive?"
"With out it, I can't finish the sleeping draft I was making...."
"No need to tell me your entire life story Miss Granger, take this, a goblet will do."
"Thank, you Profess--"
"Shut the door on your way out please."
With that Snape left the room, and Hermione stood there dumbly... 'how rude' she thought, 'he apparently hasn't changed a bit'. She returned to her quarters...and fell fast asleep.
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Snape was pacing back and forth across his room, true he had the sleeping draft, but he honestly didn't want to rest. Who the hell did she think she was? She thought she was queen of the school--again. Snape shuddered the thought of Granger and Potter ruling the school was intolerable. Why would she need a sleeping potion? What problems could she possibly have? Probably just some stupid, boy problem....why was he pondering about her, she was just a stupid indecisive woman, no not even that, she was a girl a stupid girl! With that Snape laid down on his bed, and drank the potion, hopefully sleep would come soon, so as his thoughts would torment him no longer.
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CHAPTER2
The first two months just sped by, Hermione first helped Haggard with his care of magical creatures class, it was nice to work with Haggard, he treated her as an equal, but she really wasn't that fond of all the animals....so she decided to rule out that subject. The following week she was the TA in the charms class. The subject was okay, but the teacher--some witch named Olivia, was horrible to work with, all she made her do was filing, and marking, stuff she didn't want to do herself...Hermione glad for the end of that week. Next she helped in the herbology class, and the astronomy class, nothing overly remarkable...the following week was spent with Professor McGonagall, who worked her to the bone, she had her prepare for each lesson and even teach a class--it was hard work but atleast she was doing something right? Hermione then helped Gregory with his defense against the dark arts class, it was great, the subject was always one of her favorites(not that she would have ever told anyone that in school) and Gregory turned out to be a half decent guy. It was time for her last class, until she picked one or two that she wanted to work in for the rest of the year--potions with Snape.
Monday morning of that week she was awakened by a thud on her door, groggy eyed and half asleep she opened the door--only to find Snape standing there.
"I expect you in the potions class room in twenty minutes, don't be late." Hermione closed the door, and began to get ready...why the hell did he want her down their so early, classes didn't start for another three hours atleast. Hermione showered and quick dried her hair, pulled on her standard black robes and hurriedly went downstairs. Snape was stirring a potion...he didn't even seem to notice she was there, until she was about a foot behind him-- "Let me finish this, we can talk in a moment!" he said it in such a way as to imply that she was interrupting him--he had invited her for petes sake.
"Okay, have a seat, we need to discuss what you will be doing this week, as I know you probably think that you will just be assisting me like you have the other teachers, sorry but I don't work that way, I run the show, you'll do what I say, if you don't like it too bad, leave. Is that clear Miss Granger?"
"Yes, sir."
"Good, each day I expect you here at the same time as this morning prepared to work, you leave when I tell you to, not before, and do not touch anything in my personal cupboard unless directed to do so." Hermione nodded (was he recalling when she had taken some of his personal supplies many years ago...) "This morning you will be attending to a potion in the back while I teach, a lunch time I will come and check on your progress which will determine the remainder of today's work. You will find a set of instructions, and all the necessary means in the back, I suggest you begin now."
With that he walked out, probably going to get breakfast thought Hermione--why should I be his personal slave...oh well, complained in the presence of Snape always lead to more harm then good. By noon Hermione had basically finished the potion, the only thing left was for it to simmer, for the next day or so. She was sitting down, listening to Snape teach, so far she had heard him make two girls cry and yell at more than ten students. Next she heard the shuffling of books, and the scrapes of chairs...Snape walked in, mumbling something about stupid students. Without even so much as a hello, he walked over to the caldron and inspected her work.
"I see you haven't forgotten everything about potions. You may have a quick lunch now, be back within the hour mind you and we shall discuss your next task." With that Snape stormed off and Hermione was left alone. Hermione hurried up to the hall for lunch, and sat down beside Gregory...she was starved.
"Missed you at breakfast, did you sleep in?"
"I wish, Snape had me up early, and I've been busy all day working on a potion for him."
"Oh, that hurts, I was going to ask if you wanted to help me tonight on a project, but if your busy..."
"I'll see, if can manage to swing by the teachers common room when I'm done, I better hurry back or else Snape will never let me out of there tonight."
Hermione knew that she only took half an hour for lunch, but she wanted to make a good impression, but just incase Snape wasn't back yet she grabbed a book from her room before heading down. Upon arriving she didn't spot Snape so she just headed back to the work area and sat at the table reading. Hermione lost track of time, until she was interrupted --
"*cough*, "if its not to much trouble could I tare you away from your reading for a moment?"
"Sorry, I didn't see you."
"I suspected as much, anyhow we need to talk about what you'll be doing this afternoon. First of all, you can begin by doing two more standard potions for me, followed by brewing a sleeping potion, if I remember correctly you know how to do that." Without waiting for an answer he continued "by that point I should be done by afternoon lessons, and hopefully you shall be done your work."
Snape left, with a sigh Hermione began to work, it wasn't that she minded doing the work as she actually enjoyed making potions, it just that she wasn't overly fond of being told what to do all the time, and having to work alone. Hermione finished an hour or so before Snape's last class, so she sat back down and continued to read. She must have went into a daze as she soon heard Snape's voice "Miss Granger! You are not here to sleep, you are here to work!"
"Sorry, Sir but I've been done for almost an hour..."
"Fine, as long as your task was completed properly, now are you hungry?"
"Now that you mention it..."
"Good, follow me, you can dine with me this evening."
They walked into Snape's personal quarters and into the room that resembled something of a kitchen--it had a table. Snape told her that there was a bathroom around the corner and to wash up, when Hermione returned food was covering the table. The began to eat in silence.
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CHAPTER3
"Sir, *pause* Sir! You wouldn't happen to know what I'll be doing tomorrow would you?"
"Tomorrow? Shouldn't you be asking what you'll be doing this evening? Tonight you are going to be doing some research for me. You'll need to find a potion that the average dumb third year can complete, and write out instructions on how to do so. It shouldn't be too hard of work, I have plenty of books in my study that will serve you well. This must be finished tonight, as I have third years first tomorrow."
"Okay, if you would be so kind as to show me where your study is located, I'll get started."
The study was more than Hermione could have ever imagined, book shelves covered two walls, a fire place occupied another, the floor was a smooth marble, and the ceiling looked like the night sky, the chairs were leather(who would have thought Snape would have leather furniture?), a old but excellently crafted table occupied the center of the room. The only down side was it was rather dark, as the only light came from some candles. Hermione found the section of potion books and began to pour over them. She needed to think like a teacher, what was a third year capable of? After a couple of hours she found a potion that seemed like the right level, after making sure all the ingredients were attainable she carefully wrote up a set of directions. Just as she was about to finish Snape walked in--
"My it seems it must be late, as the charm on your hair has worn off." Hermione gazed at her hair, he was right, but oddly enough it didn't bother her. "As I recall you hair was always blond....thus you must have always charmed it...not what I expected."
"No, my hair was once blond, and frizzy, as you recall...."
"Fine, I'm not going to force you to share, if your finished you may leave."
"Thank you, good night Professor."
"Severus is fine."
With that he returned to the room at the back of his quarters, probably his bedroom. Hermione walked up the flight of stairs, it seemed to take forever. It was too late to go see Gregory so she sent him an owl explaining, he could read it in the morning considering she wouldn't be at breakfast again.
Hermione woke early the next morning, she didn't bother charming her hair -- as Snape had already seen it, and nobody else would see her for the rest of the day anyways. As she opened the door fully expecting Snape to be stirring at something and telling her that she was late. But he wasn't in the room, so Hermione checked the kitchen, and study, no Snape....he must be sleeping still thought Hermione....she knocked on the door (which she assumed was his bedroom). With no response Hermione figured her only option was to open the door, there Snape was lying on his four poster bed, on his black silk sheets, completely a la nude...Hermione quickly shut the door, it wasn't that the sight was unpleasant it was just....Anyways there had to be another way to get him up. Hermione thought for a moment, of course just a simple spell....which made her voice louder and would allow him to hear her.
"Severus? Are you in there? Its Hermione."
"What!"
"You asked me to be here..."
"I know what I said! Just a minute."
Snape soon appeared in his typical black garb, nothing surprising...only Hermione's mind kept on thinking about him sleeping, he looked so....
"Hermione....Hermione! I asked you if you wanted a bite to eat before you start, as I haven't eaten yet."
"Come to think of it I haven't eaten either."
The sat themselves down at the table once again, Snape made the food appear--pancakes, eggs, bacon, toast, cereal, almost anything you could imagine. The ate in silence for awhile.
"I see you didn't charm your hair today."
"I figured you had already seen my hair so what was the point?"
"None, I suppose. Anyways today you'll be working in the back again, so chances are you won't see anyone but me...everything is set up for you just follow the instructions I left." With that Snape got up and left. Hermione went to work, finished early as usual so she decided to visit Snape's study...it was so nice in there. What to read, what to read...finally picking a book on muggle medicine Hermione settled down, it was really warm in the study so she removed her robes, after all she was wearing a dress under them. Snape came barging in around noon "What do you think your doing?!"
"Reading."
"I see that, but what do you think your doing in MY study, WITHOUT my permission."
"Sorry, I didn't think you would mind."
"What!? are you so absent minded? Did I not tell you to stay out of my quarters on the first day--yesterday for pete sake. If I ever catch you anywhere near my things without me asking you to again, I will see that you are terminated!"
"Understood, do you have my work for this afternoon?"
"Yes, it is ready for you in the lab...what an interesting mark on your arm..."
"Oh that, its nothing" replied Hermione as she quickly pulled on her robe and left.
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No it couldn't have been, Hermione wasn't the type, she was Potter's best friend for pete's sake. There was no way she had the mark of a death eater....she was too young, and she would have to be one of the only few female death eaters ever...Snape decided it was time to consult Dumbledore.
"Albus!"
"What is it Severus?"
"Could I speak to you, about Miss Granger?"
"I was hoping this discussion would never happen....but since it seems unstoppable...what do you want to know?"
"Why is she here? What happened? Her arm...."
"As unlikely as it may seem Severus you and Miss Granger have much in common. You were both students here, and you both traveled down a rather unfortunate path....but you both also seeked out my aid, and I lent you both a hand."
"How could I have anything in common with that girl?"
"I just told you! Listen! She was a student here remember? She was recruited as a spy for the death eaters...to keep watch on me, and Harry....anyways she like you became horrified by the actions of her fellow death eaters, and turned over a new leaf. Does that explain the mark on her arm?"
"Yes, but why is she here?"
"Why are you here?"
"As a favor to you...."
"She is here as she wanted to teach and no other wizardry school would except an ex-death eater. But you and I both know what standards I have, and I also am certain that I have as much faith in her as I do in you. Now, I hope I have satisfied your curiosity for the time being Severus, as I'm going to dinner....by the way it wouldn't hurt to let the girl out for meals once in awhile, she won't run away you know."
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CHAPTER 4
"Hermione? Are you in here?"
"Back in the lab Professor!"
"You can leave for dinner if you wish, we shall talk when you return."
"Thank you, Sir." Hermione hurried up stairs, she hadn't talked to Gregory all day, and she wanted to make sure he understood that she didn't stand him up last night. "So the old bat let you out?"
"Yeah...I don't know what's gotten into him, sorry about last night, did you get my owl?"
"Its not a problem, I understand, Anyways I owled you back and you'll have a pleasant surprise waiting for you when you return to your chambers tonight." Hermione wondered what in Merlin's beard he could be talking about....the rest of dinner just flew by, the hall began to clear out and Hermione figured there was no point in putting Snape off any longer. The second she opened the door Hermione called "I'm in my study, come and join me please." He had taken of his famous black cloak but was still fully covered in black. "I do believe Miss Granger that we need to discuss something, please be seated. First of all you should probably know I spoke with Albus this afternoon about you."
"Why? Could you not speak to me directly?"
"It was easier talking with Albus, you most likely would have become defensive, and I had just yelled at you, or don't you recall?"
"Okay, what did you talk to him about?"
"You can talk off your cloak if you wish, as the mark on your arm is no longer a mystery shall we say."
"Oh."
"Its not as bad as it sounds."
"How can that be? You just found out basically the thing that keeps me up each night, that I strive to hide!"
"I know how you feel."
"How could you possibly!"
"Fine, if your going to be difficult." Snape sighed and slowly unbuttoned the front of his jacket, only to revel a short sleeved black shirt....he removed the jacket entirely and turned so his arm was facing Hermione. "See, I do know how you feel."
"Sorry, I didn't know."
"I'm surprised it hasn't occurred to you, half of the students here think I was one, hell your best friends lead that bunch....anyways our new found knowledge of one another can either bring an understanding between us, or it may just make things awkward, its really your choice. What kind of relationship do you want us to have?"
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Hermione knew what kind of relationship she wanted to have with Snape, but how would he respond to such a childish answer...he wasn't referring to a 'relationship' he was refer to co.-workers and how they got along....
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"First of all, an understanding would be nice, it would make things easier."
"Fine, by understanding does that mean no unnecessary personal questions? If so it has to go both ways you know."
"Yes, and No."
"Speak your mind, I don't want to try and figure it out."
"Well, how about we just leave out certain chapters of our lives in regular conversation, but we may talk about the past if we must, when we decide to."
"As complicated as that seems, I suppose I don't have much choice."
"Next, I wish to be treated differently." Snape raised an eyebrow but didn't say anything. "You treat me as though I'm still a student, as though I'm here to do the tasks you don't want to do. When you should be treating me more like an equal, more like a teacher."
"Miss Granger, have you seen how I treat my fellow teachers? I ignore them, do you wish for that?" Hermione shook her head. "I didn't think so."
"Okay, but could you address me by my first name, and I yours?"
"Done. And in addition I have another offer, one that I have never offered to a co-worker, and will most likely never do so again. You may, move freely around my quarters during your time here, though I would prefer it if you stayed out of my sleeping area--the study, the kitchen, the lab, the classroom, my supplies are at your disposal."
"Thank-you. You must really trust me now."
"I do, Hermione, I do. You can leave for this evening, I'll see you early tomorrow right?"
"Yes, I'm glad we talked."
"By the way, the spell this morning good idea, though you should have tried it before opening the door."
"You were awake?"
"You could say that, well goodnight--oh here have a flask of my sleeping draft, as I have kept you rather late and it would take sometime for you to brew some yourself."
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Well that went surprisingly well, thought Snape. I didn't get hit, yelled at too badly, and she didn't throw anything at me. Too bad she will probably only be here for another few days, unless she decides to stay with potions...but the chances of that are so slim...Snape quickly put the thought out of his head. He couldn't, well shouldn't was the better word be lusting after some woman, that he had no hope of getting any type of response from. When he had asked Hermione about what kind of relationship she wanted, some rather unprofessional images came into his mind, but how could he help himself? She was so good looking, and he was only human. But chances were Hermione was already seeing someone, probably that stupid defense against the dark arts teacher--they were the same age after all. But that boy would never understand her pain, chances are if he discovered what Hermione was....well it would be a rather unpleasant encounter.
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Hermione returned to her quarters...think about her problem....Snape was something she had often dreamed about, but the chances of it happening were rather slim...Gregory on the other hand was almost a sure thing, but he would never understand her like Snape did...even if she explained to him what had happened....now this is why she had avoided relationships in the past. She opened her door, only to find a fire in the fireplace, and candles lit in her bedroom, she hung up her cloak, and walked in her bedroom, there was Gregory...sitting on her bed. 'Shit she thought, my arm'... "Hi, this is a rather pleasant surprise."
"I figured, we could atleast sit and talk or something."
"Great, just let me go to the bathroom." Hermione hadn't been so glad of the bad lighting in her quarters until now, she stood in the shadow so he wouldn't see her hair or her arm. A quick charm fixed her hair problem, it was back to the red Gregory was used to--now for her arm...make-up and charms wouldn't cover it up (Hermione knew from experience) so she decided to throw on a sweater...it would cover it up.
They sat on her bed, just talking of unimportant things, stuff that required no thought. Gregory began to rub her shoulders "Your really tense, just relax." His hands felt so nice, they worked her shoulders, releasing the tension, just being there...she became lost in the moment, he removed her sweater. Nothing more happened for a few minutes, than Gregory suddenly stopped all action--and stood up.
"Son of a--"
"Whats the matter Gregory?"
"Your nice little marking, you...you...you death eater!"
"Thats unfair, I'm not like that anymore."
"How do I know that?"
"Do you think Albus would have allowed me to come here if I was?"
"Maybe he doesn't know! Considering how you pulled the wool over my eyes. I can't believe I was attracted to something as worthless, something as horrible as you...I'm going to report you to Albus! You'll regret the day you decided to come here! You don't even deserve to live you fifthly piece of crap!" With that Gregory stormed out of the room, and up to Albus' office.
"Albus?!"
"What is so important that it couldn't wait until morning?"
"We have a death eater amongst us!"
"Really, sit down, tell me everything." As the story poured out Albus contemplated what to do, explaining Hermione's past to Gregory as he did to Snape would probably not be sufficient, as the boy seemed to truly hate Hermione--for what she was...he would not be able to see the change in her. The only other option was a memory charm, he hated doing it, but there seemed to be no other way. So he charmed Gregory and sent him back to his quarters. Next he owled Hermione.
When it arrived Hermione was slumped in a chair, in tears...she didn't know what to think of the whole mess. The note read as follows:
Miss Granger,
Tonights rather unfortunate incident has been taken care of. Gregory will not remember ever going down to your chamber, so the incident will never have happened. May I suggest you do not encourage any further advances from Gregory. That is not to suggest that this was your fault, as in no way is it. I only wish to avoid a repeat of this evening. If you need to talk, you know where to find me. Good night my dear.
Albus Dumblore
Hermione was so relived, she almost began to cry again, only from joy this time. She wondered if Snape would still be up, she wanted to speak to him, he would certainly know what to do when Gregory spoke to her again. She walked down the stairs knocked on the door.
"Come in."
"Sorry to bother you, so late Sevrus."
"You can I both know, sleep doesn't come easily to me so forget about the hour. What happened? And don't tell me nothing, your tears give you away, besides Griffindor's can't lie." Snape looked Hermione over, her hair was blond, chances were she had a late night caller, and things did not go as planed.
"When I returned to my quarters tonight Gregory was already there...not a huge problem just an inconvenience....nothing a hair charm and a sweater couldn't fix, I figured. But he...he saw the mark on my arm--he went nuts, I never thought he could be so cruel. He went straight to Albus, thinking that I would be kicked out--only to have a memory charm placed on him."
"I see, was this your first encounter of the sort?"
"Excuse me?"
"Not that type of encounter Hermione, I ment was this the first time someone has seen you mark and reacted like so."
"Yes."
"I'd like to say things get easier, but....in truth it is often simpler just to avoid relationships in which you may be exposed to a not so understanding person."
"Normally, I date muggles, who think the mark is nothing but an odd tattoo." Snape smiled slightly "I remember that phase, it was rather pleasant...but the company of muggles is not overly satisfying as you cannot talk to them about so much."
"I know, how do you explain that your leaving London to go teach at Hogwarts?"
"You don't. It seems that we both need an understanding witch, well in your case wizard who won't curse us for our past."
"So it seems." Hermione moved over onto the couch beside Snape and thought 'he is a wizard who doesn't care about my past, and I'm a witch who doesn't care about his past...we need each other.' Snape looked over at Hermione, she was so close to him now. She had been hurt, and was needy. Snape desperately wanted to take advantage of the situation, but he knew better. It would only be a one time thing, and chances are Hermione would end up hating him, and never speak to him again. She moved in closer, another inch and she would be on his lap. She began to reach for his hand, but Snape interrupted the action "I'm really very flattered Hermione, but it would be unfair of me to take advantage of you considering what you just went through."
"But I want to, it's my choice."
"Maybe right now it seems like the right thing, but you'll regret it in the morning." Hermione sighed, there was no use arguing. "Fine, but can you sit with me until I fall asleep."
"Of course, Snape positioned himself so that her head was resting comfortably on him. Hermione drifted in to sleep shortly-- she must have taken the potion before she came down. Snape slowly got up, covered Hermione with a blanket and went to his room. He undressed and slipped between the sheets. A beautiful woman was in the next room, yet here Snape was alone, with only himself for pleasure. So many night had he been alone without even the slightest chance for companionship, yet now that the opportunity had arisen he couldn't bring himself to grasp it. Sure he wasn't the nicest person in the world, but even to him it seemed untasteful to use Hermione. But if she was to tempt him again, the lord knew he wouldn't protest.
CHAPTER 5
Snape awoke early the following morning, Hermione was still sleeping, so Snape got breakfast for the two of them and shook her. "Morning, Miss Granger."
"Mmmm, what smells so good?"
"Breakfast, do you care to join me?"
"Love to." They ate in silence, both recalling the previous evenings events. Snape finally broke the silence "I have an errand to run, but I'll be back before my first lesson."
"Fine, that gives me time to change my robes." They left their separate ways, Snape didn't actually have an errand to run, but he figured if he left it would be less awkward, besides a walk might be nice.
Hermione was on a high, even though the night began horribly, the end wasn't too bad. Snape wasn't the heartless bastard everyone thought he was. When Hermione returned to his quarters Snape had yet to return, she tried to read...but her mind kept on picturing Snape and her... "Hermione."
"what? Oh sorry, I was in a daze."
"I was saying if your feeling up to it, I would like you to assist me in my classes today. Nothing to big, just wondering around helping students with potions. While I catch up on some marking."
"Sounds fine."
"All right, let us go then." Snape stormed into the class, all the kindness from his voice left, and he became the teacher Hermione had feared when she went to school. "Class, Miss Granger shall be assisting us today, your assignments are laid out, if any problems arise do not bother me, Miss Granger is fully able of helping you." The first three classes of the day were uneventful, but during the fourth class things went rather arye. Hermione circulating the class spotted a Slytherin boy who had raised his hand, assuming it was another dumb student who couldn't read the directions walked over and asked "How can I help you?"
"Well, I date with you would really help my studies."
"I don't think so." Hermione coolly responded. "Why? Its not like there is a teacher here who deserves you. With a such a nice piece of a---" Snape was suddenly beside Hermione. "That will be quite enough Mr. Barber, I should have known that you couldn't contain yourself for an entire period. The lack of disrespect you have just shown Miss Granger has earned you a week of detention, and a loss of 50 points. If I ever catch you speaking like that again to anyone, you shall be suffering far worse consequences. Is that clear Mr. Barber?"
"Yes, Sir."
"Good, class dismissed." The students rushed out afraid to even look up, In case Snape's rampage continued. Since it was Thursday, Snape didn't have anymore lessons. Hermione and Snape walked into the adjacent room "You can have a break now if you wish, just be back shortly after dinner."
"Do you mind, if I stay here? I don't think I'm ready to face Gregory, even if he doesn't remember what he saw last night."
"Not at all, my quarters are yours remember. I'll be working on a potion, I'll call you when I require assistance." Hermione settled down in the study, Snape had so many books she couldn't decide, so she finally just picked one at random. Hermione couldn't focus on the book though, she kept on thinking about how Snape was only in the next room. Finally she couldn't stand it anymore, since Snape wasn't going make the first move, she would. Snape was bottling potion when Hermione entered the room, she stood beside him and waited for him to notice her. Snape slowly turned towards Hermione (knowing since she had entered the room that she was there). "Yes Hermione?"
"We need to talk." Snape somewhat puzzled, nodded and sat down. "Well what is it?"
"I know you think last night I was irrational, not thinking clearly, but thats not true. I feeling something for you Severus."
"Something? What resentment? Hate?"
"No you moron, I want to be with you."
"Oh."
"Oh? That is all you can say? How do you feel? Do you feel the same way or not? If you don't fine, I still want to know. We can pretend this conversation never happened if that's the case." Snape sighed, she had tempted him again....he knew what he wanted to do, and what he had to do--and they were very different things. "Miss Granger, though you think what you feel is true, it is false. You are only seeking me in comfort, as an escape from the events of last night. I will not tell you again, what your doing is not what you really want. So don't think it is." Before Hermione could reply Snape stood up, "Now, this discussion never happened remember? I have to go speak with Albus, I shall see you in the morning."
He suggested that she 'TA' various classes through out the year and hopefully she would find her passion. Hermione arrived a day before the term was due to start, the place brought back so many memories. Dumbledore met her and they walked up to his office:
"Well, my dear how was your summer?"
"Good."
"I'm glad, as soon you shall be surrounded with noise, and tasks, it shall be like school all over again, as it is in fact a learning experience. First I'll show you to your quarters."
They began the rather long walk downwards, it seemed as if they were heading towards a dungeon...but what had she expected the nice quarters of her childhood?
"Well here we are, I'm sorry they couldn't have been upstairs in the warmer part of the castle but we have so many staff this year, and this is all that remains, until the renovations are complete."
"Oh I'm sure I'll be just fine, I have a fireplace after all."
"Yes, and Severus, Professor Snape, you remember him?" Hermione nodded how could she forget how he had tortured her, Ron and Harry. "his quarters are just down a flight of stairs and to the left, though he may not be the best neighbor in the world it is most likely comforting to know you aren't alone down here." Dumbledore smiled and turned to leave, "Hermione, please join myself and the rest of the staff at dinner the evening so we can all become aquatinted--don't worry their are other new members like yourself."
"It would be a pleasure."
"Good, 6 o'clock in the main hall."
Hermione closed the door and looked about what would be her room for the next several months...it was dark, the only light source came from a rather old beat up candle chandler, so with a wave of her wand Hermione started a fire. It really wasn't that bad, the main room held a desk, some book shelves and a couch. To the left was a small kitchen and a bathroom, and to the right was a bedroom. The bedroom did leave a bit to be desired though, it had a large closet and a bed but nothing else. Hermione wasn't that surprised, she had been prepared for this, the rest of her belonging would arrive tomorrow and that would help things.
It was 5:30 so Hermione began to get ready, she had a nice long soak in the tub, and began to 'beauty' herself, if you could call it that...she wasn't really interested in the whole fashion thing....She used a spell to quick dry her straight black hair, then out of what had become second instinct casted a charm to make her hair the blond and wavy mop all knew...found a decent navy dress, not that it mattered as she threw on her long back robes overtop.
Not waiting to be late she headed up towards the great hall, as she turned the last corner to the hall she bumped(it hurt) in a young wizard.
"Sorry, about that I'm new here and I think I've just gone in a circle about ten times. Hermione stifled a laugh. "Not to worry you'll get used to it, the only reason I know my way about is I was a student here, anyways that hall is just right ahead."
The two walked in to the hall, found not the normal setting arrangement of the head table and the four house tables, but instead a circular table in the center of the room. A few people were already there, as they approached them the only one that Hermione recognized was McGonagall, who clearly remember her, as she was warmly greeted and introduced to everyone.
The room began to fill up and everyone found a place at the table, Hermione was in-between the lost young man(whose name was Gregory) and Snape. The meal was excellent, the food better than Hermione could remember. Following the meal, Albus welcomed them all, and introduced everyone -- their names and what they taught. Hermione was the last one to be introduced, "This is Hermione, she is going to be the teaching aid of many of you--as she is trying to discover what her passion is for, -- I'm sure many of you are wondering what I mean, well she is going to be a teaching assistant by muggle terms, helping a different teacher each week in the beginning, eventually though just one or two depending on her choosing. Anyways she will first be helping Hagrid with his class.
The staff began to disperse, all the other staff began to head upstairs to their quarters, Hermione and Snape began the lengthy walk down. Snape walked a pace or so infront of Hermione, he soon realized that she was going the same way as him and stopped walking. "I do believe the teachers quarters are upstairs and to the right."
"Yes, they are, but they also happen to be all occupied, my quarters are just a floor above yours apparently."
"In that case, we might as well continue together." Snape replied in a rather unpleasant tone.
The two walked in silence, down the long flights of stairs, for what seemed like forever, finally Hermione came to her door...she turned to say goodnight to Snape but he was already hurrying his way down the next flight of stairs. Hermione thought to herself 'Dumblore was right, he isn't the best company.' Hermione began to unpack her belongings, they had arrived sooner than she had expected. She quickly filled the two book shelves, and set up another in her bedroom. She then proceeded to make a small space for all her potion stuff, (caldron, ingredients, books). Hermione was so used to her nightly routine by this point, she automatically began to make her sleeping draft (as she would be awake all night without it). She was half way done before she realized she had no milkweed. Damn she cursed, 'what am I supposed to do now'....Hermione sat thinking about what she could substitute, when she remembered where she was, why didn't she just see if Snape had it, he was a potions master after all. Hermione hurriedly walked down the flight of stairs, and knocked on the door, it opened and Hermione looked around...Snape's quarters were almost identical to hers, only he had a laboratory at the back. As Hermione was observing the surroundings Snape appeared, "I do believe your quarters are limited to the floor above."
"Yes, sorry to bother you, but I was wondering if you had some milkweed I could borrow--not all of my supplies have arrived yet, I can pay you back you tomorrow if you wish."
"What could be so important that it can't wait until your belongings arrive?"
"With out it, I can't finish the sleeping draft I was making...."
"No need to tell me your entire life story Miss Granger, take this, a goblet will do."
"Thank, you Profess--"
"Shut the door on your way out please."
With that Snape left the room, and Hermione stood there dumbly... 'how rude' she thought, 'he apparently hasn't changed a bit'. She returned to her quarters...and fell fast asleep.
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Snape was pacing back and forth across his room, true he had the sleeping draft, but he honestly didn't want to rest. Who the hell did she think she was? She thought she was queen of the school--again. Snape shuddered the thought of Granger and Potter ruling the school was intolerable. Why would she need a sleeping potion? What problems could she possibly have? Probably just some stupid, boy problem....why was he pondering about her, she was just a stupid indecisive woman, no not even that, she was a girl a stupid girl! With that Snape laid down on his bed, and drank the potion, hopefully sleep would come soon, so as his thoughts would torment him no longer.
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CHAPTER2
The first two months just sped by, Hermione first helped Haggard with his care of magical creatures class, it was nice to work with Haggard, he treated her as an equal, but she really wasn't that fond of all the animals....so she decided to rule out that subject. The following week she was the TA in the charms class. The subject was okay, but the teacher--some witch named Olivia, was horrible to work with, all she made her do was filing, and marking, stuff she didn't want to do herself...Hermione glad for the end of that week. Next she helped in the herbology class, and the astronomy class, nothing overly remarkable...the following week was spent with Professor McGonagall, who worked her to the bone, she had her prepare for each lesson and even teach a class--it was hard work but atleast she was doing something right? Hermione then helped Gregory with his defense against the dark arts class, it was great, the subject was always one of her favorites(not that she would have ever told anyone that in school) and Gregory turned out to be a half decent guy. It was time for her last class, until she picked one or two that she wanted to work in for the rest of the year--potions with Snape.
Monday morning of that week she was awakened by a thud on her door, groggy eyed and half asleep she opened the door--only to find Snape standing there.
"I expect you in the potions class room in twenty minutes, don't be late." Hermione closed the door, and began to get ready...why the hell did he want her down their so early, classes didn't start for another three hours atleast. Hermione showered and quick dried her hair, pulled on her standard black robes and hurriedly went downstairs. Snape was stirring a potion...he didn't even seem to notice she was there, until she was about a foot behind him-- "Let me finish this, we can talk in a moment!" he said it in such a way as to imply that she was interrupting him--he had invited her for petes sake.
"Okay, have a seat, we need to discuss what you will be doing this week, as I know you probably think that you will just be assisting me like you have the other teachers, sorry but I don't work that way, I run the show, you'll do what I say, if you don't like it too bad, leave. Is that clear Miss Granger?"
"Yes, sir."
"Good, each day I expect you here at the same time as this morning prepared to work, you leave when I tell you to, not before, and do not touch anything in my personal cupboard unless directed to do so." Hermione nodded (was he recalling when she had taken some of his personal supplies many years ago...) "This morning you will be attending to a potion in the back while I teach, a lunch time I will come and check on your progress which will determine the remainder of today's work. You will find a set of instructions, and all the necessary means in the back, I suggest you begin now."
With that he walked out, probably going to get breakfast thought Hermione--why should I be his personal slave...oh well, complained in the presence of Snape always lead to more harm then good. By noon Hermione had basically finished the potion, the only thing left was for it to simmer, for the next day or so. She was sitting down, listening to Snape teach, so far she had heard him make two girls cry and yell at more than ten students. Next she heard the shuffling of books, and the scrapes of chairs...Snape walked in, mumbling something about stupid students. Without even so much as a hello, he walked over to the caldron and inspected her work.
"I see you haven't forgotten everything about potions. You may have a quick lunch now, be back within the hour mind you and we shall discuss your next task." With that Snape stormed off and Hermione was left alone. Hermione hurried up to the hall for lunch, and sat down beside Gregory...she was starved.
"Missed you at breakfast, did you sleep in?"
"I wish, Snape had me up early, and I've been busy all day working on a potion for him."
"Oh, that hurts, I was going to ask if you wanted to help me tonight on a project, but if your busy..."
"I'll see, if can manage to swing by the teachers common room when I'm done, I better hurry back or else Snape will never let me out of there tonight."
Hermione knew that she only took half an hour for lunch, but she wanted to make a good impression, but just incase Snape wasn't back yet she grabbed a book from her room before heading down. Upon arriving she didn't spot Snape so she just headed back to the work area and sat at the table reading. Hermione lost track of time, until she was interrupted --
"*cough*, "if its not to much trouble could I tare you away from your reading for a moment?"
"Sorry, I didn't see you."
"I suspected as much, anyhow we need to talk about what you'll be doing this afternoon. First of all, you can begin by doing two more standard potions for me, followed by brewing a sleeping potion, if I remember correctly you know how to do that." Without waiting for an answer he continued "by that point I should be done by afternoon lessons, and hopefully you shall be done your work."
Snape left, with a sigh Hermione began to work, it wasn't that she minded doing the work as she actually enjoyed making potions, it just that she wasn't overly fond of being told what to do all the time, and having to work alone. Hermione finished an hour or so before Snape's last class, so she sat back down and continued to read. She must have went into a daze as she soon heard Snape's voice "Miss Granger! You are not here to sleep, you are here to work!"
"Sorry, Sir but I've been done for almost an hour..."
"Fine, as long as your task was completed properly, now are you hungry?"
"Now that you mention it..."
"Good, follow me, you can dine with me this evening."
They walked into Snape's personal quarters and into the room that resembled something of a kitchen--it had a table. Snape told her that there was a bathroom around the corner and to wash up, when Hermione returned food was covering the table. The began to eat in silence.
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CHAPTER3
"Sir, *pause* Sir! You wouldn't happen to know what I'll be doing tomorrow would you?"
"Tomorrow? Shouldn't you be asking what you'll be doing this evening? Tonight you are going to be doing some research for me. You'll need to find a potion that the average dumb third year can complete, and write out instructions on how to do so. It shouldn't be too hard of work, I have plenty of books in my study that will serve you well. This must be finished tonight, as I have third years first tomorrow."
"Okay, if you would be so kind as to show me where your study is located, I'll get started."
The study was more than Hermione could have ever imagined, book shelves covered two walls, a fire place occupied another, the floor was a smooth marble, and the ceiling looked like the night sky, the chairs were leather(who would have thought Snape would have leather furniture?), a old but excellently crafted table occupied the center of the room. The only down side was it was rather dark, as the only light came from some candles. Hermione found the section of potion books and began to pour over them. She needed to think like a teacher, what was a third year capable of? After a couple of hours she found a potion that seemed like the right level, after making sure all the ingredients were attainable she carefully wrote up a set of directions. Just as she was about to finish Snape walked in--
"My it seems it must be late, as the charm on your hair has worn off." Hermione gazed at her hair, he was right, but oddly enough it didn't bother her. "As I recall you hair was always blond....thus you must have always charmed it...not what I expected."
"No, my hair was once blond, and frizzy, as you recall...."
"Fine, I'm not going to force you to share, if your finished you may leave."
"Thank you, good night Professor."
"Severus is fine."
With that he returned to the room at the back of his quarters, probably his bedroom. Hermione walked up the flight of stairs, it seemed to take forever. It was too late to go see Gregory so she sent him an owl explaining, he could read it in the morning considering she wouldn't be at breakfast again.
Hermione woke early the next morning, she didn't bother charming her hair -- as Snape had already seen it, and nobody else would see her for the rest of the day anyways. As she opened the door fully expecting Snape to be stirring at something and telling her that she was late. But he wasn't in the room, so Hermione checked the kitchen, and study, no Snape....he must be sleeping still thought Hermione....she knocked on the door (which she assumed was his bedroom). With no response Hermione figured her only option was to open the door, there Snape was lying on his four poster bed, on his black silk sheets, completely a la nude...Hermione quickly shut the door, it wasn't that the sight was unpleasant it was just....Anyways there had to be another way to get him up. Hermione thought for a moment, of course just a simple spell....which made her voice louder and would allow him to hear her.
"Severus? Are you in there? Its Hermione."
"What!"
"You asked me to be here..."
"I know what I said! Just a minute."
Snape soon appeared in his typical black garb, nothing surprising...only Hermione's mind kept on thinking about him sleeping, he looked so....
"Hermione....Hermione! I asked you if you wanted a bite to eat before you start, as I haven't eaten yet."
"Come to think of it I haven't eaten either."
The sat themselves down at the table once again, Snape made the food appear--pancakes, eggs, bacon, toast, cereal, almost anything you could imagine. The ate in silence for awhile.
"I see you didn't charm your hair today."
"I figured you had already seen my hair so what was the point?"
"None, I suppose. Anyways today you'll be working in the back again, so chances are you won't see anyone but me...everything is set up for you just follow the instructions I left." With that Snape got up and left. Hermione went to work, finished early as usual so she decided to visit Snape's study...it was so nice in there. What to read, what to read...finally picking a book on muggle medicine Hermione settled down, it was really warm in the study so she removed her robes, after all she was wearing a dress under them. Snape came barging in around noon "What do you think your doing?!"
"Reading."
"I see that, but what do you think your doing in MY study, WITHOUT my permission."
"Sorry, I didn't think you would mind."
"What!? are you so absent minded? Did I not tell you to stay out of my quarters on the first day--yesterday for pete sake. If I ever catch you anywhere near my things without me asking you to again, I will see that you are terminated!"
"Understood, do you have my work for this afternoon?"
"Yes, it is ready for you in the lab...what an interesting mark on your arm..."
"Oh that, its nothing" replied Hermione as she quickly pulled on her robe and left.
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No it couldn't have been, Hermione wasn't the type, she was Potter's best friend for pete's sake. There was no way she had the mark of a death eater....she was too young, and she would have to be one of the only few female death eaters ever...Snape decided it was time to consult Dumbledore.
"Albus!"
"What is it Severus?"
"Could I speak to you, about Miss Granger?"
"I was hoping this discussion would never happen....but since it seems unstoppable...what do you want to know?"
"Why is she here? What happened? Her arm...."
"As unlikely as it may seem Severus you and Miss Granger have much in common. You were both students here, and you both traveled down a rather unfortunate path....but you both also seeked out my aid, and I lent you both a hand."
"How could I have anything in common with that girl?"
"I just told you! Listen! She was a student here remember? She was recruited as a spy for the death eaters...to keep watch on me, and Harry....anyways she like you became horrified by the actions of her fellow death eaters, and turned over a new leaf. Does that explain the mark on her arm?"
"Yes, but why is she here?"
"Why are you here?"
"As a favor to you...."
"She is here as she wanted to teach and no other wizardry school would except an ex-death eater. But you and I both know what standards I have, and I also am certain that I have as much faith in her as I do in you. Now, I hope I have satisfied your curiosity for the time being Severus, as I'm going to dinner....by the way it wouldn't hurt to let the girl out for meals once in awhile, she won't run away you know."
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CHAPTER 4
"Hermione? Are you in here?"
"Back in the lab Professor!"
"You can leave for dinner if you wish, we shall talk when you return."
"Thank you, Sir." Hermione hurried up stairs, she hadn't talked to Gregory all day, and she wanted to make sure he understood that she didn't stand him up last night. "So the old bat let you out?"
"Yeah...I don't know what's gotten into him, sorry about last night, did you get my owl?"
"Its not a problem, I understand, Anyways I owled you back and you'll have a pleasant surprise waiting for you when you return to your chambers tonight." Hermione wondered what in Merlin's beard he could be talking about....the rest of dinner just flew by, the hall began to clear out and Hermione figured there was no point in putting Snape off any longer. The second she opened the door Hermione called "I'm in my study, come and join me please." He had taken of his famous black cloak but was still fully covered in black. "I do believe Miss Granger that we need to discuss something, please be seated. First of all you should probably know I spoke with Albus this afternoon about you."
"Why? Could you not speak to me directly?"
"It was easier talking with Albus, you most likely would have become defensive, and I had just yelled at you, or don't you recall?"
"Okay, what did you talk to him about?"
"You can talk off your cloak if you wish, as the mark on your arm is no longer a mystery shall we say."
"Oh."
"Its not as bad as it sounds."
"How can that be? You just found out basically the thing that keeps me up each night, that I strive to hide!"
"I know how you feel."
"How could you possibly!"
"Fine, if your going to be difficult." Snape sighed and slowly unbuttoned the front of his jacket, only to revel a short sleeved black shirt....he removed the jacket entirely and turned so his arm was facing Hermione. "See, I do know how you feel."
"Sorry, I didn't know."
"I'm surprised it hasn't occurred to you, half of the students here think I was one, hell your best friends lead that bunch....anyways our new found knowledge of one another can either bring an understanding between us, or it may just make things awkward, its really your choice. What kind of relationship do you want us to have?"
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Hermione knew what kind of relationship she wanted to have with Snape, but how would he respond to such a childish answer...he wasn't referring to a 'relationship' he was refer to co.-workers and how they got along....
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"First of all, an understanding would be nice, it would make things easier."
"Fine, by understanding does that mean no unnecessary personal questions? If so it has to go both ways you know."
"Yes, and No."
"Speak your mind, I don't want to try and figure it out."
"Well, how about we just leave out certain chapters of our lives in regular conversation, but we may talk about the past if we must, when we decide to."
"As complicated as that seems, I suppose I don't have much choice."
"Next, I wish to be treated differently." Snape raised an eyebrow but didn't say anything. "You treat me as though I'm still a student, as though I'm here to do the tasks you don't want to do. When you should be treating me more like an equal, more like a teacher."
"Miss Granger, have you seen how I treat my fellow teachers? I ignore them, do you wish for that?" Hermione shook her head. "I didn't think so."
"Okay, but could you address me by my first name, and I yours?"
"Done. And in addition I have another offer, one that I have never offered to a co-worker, and will most likely never do so again. You may, move freely around my quarters during your time here, though I would prefer it if you stayed out of my sleeping area--the study, the kitchen, the lab, the classroom, my supplies are at your disposal."
"Thank-you. You must really trust me now."
"I do, Hermione, I do. You can leave for this evening, I'll see you early tomorrow right?"
"Yes, I'm glad we talked."
"By the way, the spell this morning good idea, though you should have tried it before opening the door."
"You were awake?"
"You could say that, well goodnight--oh here have a flask of my sleeping draft, as I have kept you rather late and it would take sometime for you to brew some yourself."
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Well that went surprisingly well, thought Snape. I didn't get hit, yelled at too badly, and she didn't throw anything at me. Too bad she will probably only be here for another few days, unless she decides to stay with potions...but the chances of that are so slim...Snape quickly put the thought out of his head. He couldn't, well shouldn't was the better word be lusting after some woman, that he had no hope of getting any type of response from. When he had asked Hermione about what kind of relationship she wanted, some rather unprofessional images came into his mind, but how could he help himself? She was so good looking, and he was only human. But chances were Hermione was already seeing someone, probably that stupid defense against the dark arts teacher--they were the same age after all. But that boy would never understand her pain, chances are if he discovered what Hermione was....well it would be a rather unpleasant encounter.
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Hermione returned to her quarters...think about her problem....Snape was something she had often dreamed about, but the chances of it happening were rather slim...Gregory on the other hand was almost a sure thing, but he would never understand her like Snape did...even if she explained to him what had happened....now this is why she had avoided relationships in the past. She opened her door, only to find a fire in the fireplace, and candles lit in her bedroom, she hung up her cloak, and walked in her bedroom, there was Gregory...sitting on her bed. 'Shit she thought, my arm'... "Hi, this is a rather pleasant surprise."
"I figured, we could atleast sit and talk or something."
"Great, just let me go to the bathroom." Hermione hadn't been so glad of the bad lighting in her quarters until now, she stood in the shadow so he wouldn't see her hair or her arm. A quick charm fixed her hair problem, it was back to the red Gregory was used to--now for her arm...make-up and charms wouldn't cover it up (Hermione knew from experience) so she decided to throw on a sweater...it would cover it up.
They sat on her bed, just talking of unimportant things, stuff that required no thought. Gregory began to rub her shoulders "Your really tense, just relax." His hands felt so nice, they worked her shoulders, releasing the tension, just being there...she became lost in the moment, he removed her sweater. Nothing more happened for a few minutes, than Gregory suddenly stopped all action--and stood up.
"Son of a--"
"Whats the matter Gregory?"
"Your nice little marking, you...you...you death eater!"
"Thats unfair, I'm not like that anymore."
"How do I know that?"
"Do you think Albus would have allowed me to come here if I was?"
"Maybe he doesn't know! Considering how you pulled the wool over my eyes. I can't believe I was attracted to something as worthless, something as horrible as you...I'm going to report you to Albus! You'll regret the day you decided to come here! You don't even deserve to live you fifthly piece of crap!" With that Gregory stormed out of the room, and up to Albus' office.
"Albus?!"
"What is so important that it couldn't wait until morning?"
"We have a death eater amongst us!"
"Really, sit down, tell me everything." As the story poured out Albus contemplated what to do, explaining Hermione's past to Gregory as he did to Snape would probably not be sufficient, as the boy seemed to truly hate Hermione--for what she was...he would not be able to see the change in her. The only other option was a memory charm, he hated doing it, but there seemed to be no other way. So he charmed Gregory and sent him back to his quarters. Next he owled Hermione.
When it arrived Hermione was slumped in a chair, in tears...she didn't know what to think of the whole mess. The note read as follows:
Miss Granger,
Tonights rather unfortunate incident has been taken care of. Gregory will not remember ever going down to your chamber, so the incident will never have happened. May I suggest you do not encourage any further advances from Gregory. That is not to suggest that this was your fault, as in no way is it. I only wish to avoid a repeat of this evening. If you need to talk, you know where to find me. Good night my dear.
Albus Dumblore
Hermione was so relived, she almost began to cry again, only from joy this time. She wondered if Snape would still be up, she wanted to speak to him, he would certainly know what to do when Gregory spoke to her again. She walked down the stairs knocked on the door.
"Come in."
"Sorry to bother you, so late Sevrus."
"You can I both know, sleep doesn't come easily to me so forget about the hour. What happened? And don't tell me nothing, your tears give you away, besides Griffindor's can't lie." Snape looked Hermione over, her hair was blond, chances were she had a late night caller, and things did not go as planed.
"When I returned to my quarters tonight Gregory was already there...not a huge problem just an inconvenience....nothing a hair charm and a sweater couldn't fix, I figured. But he...he saw the mark on my arm--he went nuts, I never thought he could be so cruel. He went straight to Albus, thinking that I would be kicked out--only to have a memory charm placed on him."
"I see, was this your first encounter of the sort?"
"Excuse me?"
"Not that type of encounter Hermione, I ment was this the first time someone has seen you mark and reacted like so."
"Yes."
"I'd like to say things get easier, but....in truth it is often simpler just to avoid relationships in which you may be exposed to a not so understanding person."
"Normally, I date muggles, who think the mark is nothing but an odd tattoo." Snape smiled slightly "I remember that phase, it was rather pleasant...but the company of muggles is not overly satisfying as you cannot talk to them about so much."
"I know, how do you explain that your leaving London to go teach at Hogwarts?"
"You don't. It seems that we both need an understanding witch, well in your case wizard who won't curse us for our past."
"So it seems." Hermione moved over onto the couch beside Snape and thought 'he is a wizard who doesn't care about my past, and I'm a witch who doesn't care about his past...we need each other.' Snape looked over at Hermione, she was so close to him now. She had been hurt, and was needy. Snape desperately wanted to take advantage of the situation, but he knew better. It would only be a one time thing, and chances are Hermione would end up hating him, and never speak to him again. She moved in closer, another inch and she would be on his lap. She began to reach for his hand, but Snape interrupted the action "I'm really very flattered Hermione, but it would be unfair of me to take advantage of you considering what you just went through."
"But I want to, it's my choice."
"Maybe right now it seems like the right thing, but you'll regret it in the morning." Hermione sighed, there was no use arguing. "Fine, but can you sit with me until I fall asleep."
"Of course, Snape positioned himself so that her head was resting comfortably on him. Hermione drifted in to sleep shortly-- she must have taken the potion before she came down. Snape slowly got up, covered Hermione with a blanket and went to his room. He undressed and slipped between the sheets. A beautiful woman was in the next room, yet here Snape was alone, with only himself for pleasure. So many night had he been alone without even the slightest chance for companionship, yet now that the opportunity had arisen he couldn't bring himself to grasp it. Sure he wasn't the nicest person in the world, but even to him it seemed untasteful to use Hermione. But if she was to tempt him again, the lord knew he wouldn't protest.
CHAPTER 5
Snape awoke early the following morning, Hermione was still sleeping, so Snape got breakfast for the two of them and shook her. "Morning, Miss Granger."
"Mmmm, what smells so good?"
"Breakfast, do you care to join me?"
"Love to." They ate in silence, both recalling the previous evenings events. Snape finally broke the silence "I have an errand to run, but I'll be back before my first lesson."
"Fine, that gives me time to change my robes." They left their separate ways, Snape didn't actually have an errand to run, but he figured if he left it would be less awkward, besides a walk might be nice.
Hermione was on a high, even though the night began horribly, the end wasn't too bad. Snape wasn't the heartless bastard everyone thought he was. When Hermione returned to his quarters Snape had yet to return, she tried to read...but her mind kept on picturing Snape and her... "Hermione."
"what? Oh sorry, I was in a daze."
"I was saying if your feeling up to it, I would like you to assist me in my classes today. Nothing to big, just wondering around helping students with potions. While I catch up on some marking."
"Sounds fine."
"All right, let us go then." Snape stormed into the class, all the kindness from his voice left, and he became the teacher Hermione had feared when she went to school. "Class, Miss Granger shall be assisting us today, your assignments are laid out, if any problems arise do not bother me, Miss Granger is fully able of helping you." The first three classes of the day were uneventful, but during the fourth class things went rather arye. Hermione circulating the class spotted a Slytherin boy who had raised his hand, assuming it was another dumb student who couldn't read the directions walked over and asked "How can I help you?"
"Well, I date with you would really help my studies."
"I don't think so." Hermione coolly responded. "Why? Its not like there is a teacher here who deserves you. With a such a nice piece of a---" Snape was suddenly beside Hermione. "That will be quite enough Mr. Barber, I should have known that you couldn't contain yourself for an entire period. The lack of disrespect you have just shown Miss Granger has earned you a week of detention, and a loss of 50 points. If I ever catch you speaking like that again to anyone, you shall be suffering far worse consequences. Is that clear Mr. Barber?"
"Yes, Sir."
"Good, class dismissed." The students rushed out afraid to even look up, In case Snape's rampage continued. Since it was Thursday, Snape didn't have anymore lessons. Hermione and Snape walked into the adjacent room "You can have a break now if you wish, just be back shortly after dinner."
"Do you mind, if I stay here? I don't think I'm ready to face Gregory, even if he doesn't remember what he saw last night."
"Not at all, my quarters are yours remember. I'll be working on a potion, I'll call you when I require assistance." Hermione settled down in the study, Snape had so many books she couldn't decide, so she finally just picked one at random. Hermione couldn't focus on the book though, she kept on thinking about how Snape was only in the next room. Finally she couldn't stand it anymore, since Snape wasn't going make the first move, she would. Snape was bottling potion when Hermione entered the room, she stood beside him and waited for him to notice her. Snape slowly turned towards Hermione (knowing since she had entered the room that she was there). "Yes Hermione?"
"We need to talk." Snape somewhat puzzled, nodded and sat down. "Well what is it?"
"I know you think last night I was irrational, not thinking clearly, but thats not true. I feeling something for you Severus."
"Something? What resentment? Hate?"
"No you moron, I want to be with you."
"Oh."
"Oh? That is all you can say? How do you feel? Do you feel the same way or not? If you don't fine, I still want to know. We can pretend this conversation never happened if that's the case." Snape sighed, she had tempted him again....he knew what he wanted to do, and what he had to do--and they were very different things. "Miss Granger, though you think what you feel is true, it is false. You are only seeking me in comfort, as an escape from the events of last night. I will not tell you again, what your doing is not what you really want. So don't think it is." Before Hermione could reply Snape stood up, "Now, this discussion never happened remember? I have to go speak with Albus, I shall see you in the morning."