Disclaimer: I don't own the Harry Potter universe. JK Rowling does. End of story.
I shivered and wrapped my arms tighter around myself. The wind was picking up and the rain getting harsher. The lake was getting choppier as the minutes ticked by. Tears slipped down my face as I remembered the happiness and celebration back in the great hall. Yes, Voldemort was gone. But he'd taken my family with him. I didn't care anymore.
I remember Dumbledore telling me, so long ago, the reasons why I needed to stay here, at Hogwarts, instead of going home. How everyone was in the Order, and I couldn't help. My status meant that I had to keep myself safe, instead of doing something, anything for the cause. I had managed to keep myself sane by throwing myself into my studies, not letting myself get close to anyone. Because they'd be in danger if I did. Instead of having relationships, I worked in the library, at breaks, lunchtimes, even after school. My grades went up, my social life down. I missed out on so much. Flirting, kisses, and more.
I walked further away from the huge castle, to the far side of the lake. If anyone realised I was gone, they wouldn't find me here. I swept my hair out of my face as I looked towards the Forbidden Forest. That place had protected me so many times, and hurt me just as much. I'd miss it. Especially Grawp. The loveable oaf saved my life when the dementors stormed the castle, and I never really repaid him. Yet, somehow, I didn't think he'd miss me. He probably wouldn't care.
I stood at the edge of the lake, wondering where it had all gone wrong. It didn't seem fair that I had to suffer where everyone else didn't. It didn't seem fair that I was alone while everyone had, well, everyone. It wasn't fair.
No one cared about me. No one was bothered whether I lived or died; not now Voldemort was gone. No one even gave a thought to me. I was alone.
My extra Defense Against the Dark Arts classes would come in useful now. I had learned the worst curse of all. I had used it against so many people. Now it would be used against one last person. I placed my wand against my head. I closed my eyes and took several deep breaths, and readied myself to stay those final words. A hand closed over mine and lowered it. I turned around expecting it to be Dumbledore.
"Don't kill yourself, it's not the answer." A sharp voice stated.
I looked up into the eyes of none other than Severus Snape.
"You aren't as alone as I am." His face changed into one I've never seen before on him.
"But you aren't alone." He cupped my face and slowly and sweetly kissed me.
"You have me, Hermione."