Hermione ranted and raved. Crookshanks hid under the bed.
"How dare he reject my article? I've never been rejected! I have an international reputation, for Merlin's sake."
Crookshanks tried to make a noise of agreement and pity but it came out like a strangled warble.
Hermione flew around her bedroom, getting dressed in a no nonsense suit.
"He won't even know what hit him. This means war!"
Hermione smoothed down her feathers as she entered the publisher's office. She pasted on a friendly smile and extended her hand. Then froze.
"Professor…?"
He inclined his head. "Miss Granger."
"You're 'Mr B. Tobias'?" Hermione asked incredulously.
"Indeed."
"Right, well, what the hell is the meaning of this rejection letter?!"
Severus stepped closer to Hermione. "I thought you would have questions." He articulated carefully, knowing full well she was angry at him.
"Why? Because all this time I couldn't possibly have been an independent woman who can take care of herself? Because I was just pining every day for a man…. For you?" Hermione growled through clenched teeth, all the while aware of just how close he was to her now.
"Of course not. No one in their right mind would think that of you. But have you… "
"Severus Snape. The only thing I'm concerned with right this minute is your utterly ridiculous rejection of my article!" He was only inches from her face now, and Hermione willed the tears not to come. She was independent and strong. He would not make her cry!
"Yes, I can see that." He leaned in close and whispered. "It brought you here, though, didn't it?" Then he kissed her gently.
Hermione was strong, but oh Merlin how she missed him. She had thought him lost forever. Hermione leaned into the kiss as her tears flowed down her cheeks.
"Mr Tobias. Your next client is here."
"Dammit." Severus swore and replied to the inter-office message. He turned back to Hermione who was trying to get herself together once more. "I'll come over tonight."
Hermione nodded and gathered her things, then paused at the door. "You will publish my article though, won't you?"
"Hermione, I've already sent it to the printers. It will be in tomorrow's edition."
"Oh!" Hermione clenched her fists. "You infuriating man!" Then she stormed out of the room, slamming the door behind her.
Severus smirked to himself and opened the door for his next client.