Disclaimer: Anything you recognize is not mine.

A/N: I tend to start stories and then not update for the longest time. I think I am up to two years with three of my other stories, it might be one year, but I don't remember. They will get finished, eventually. Don't let that stop you from reading this though, this is going to be a short one.

Dear Severus,

Writing this letter is excruciatingly hard and I wish I would not have to, but I see no other option. As you work in service of Lord Voldemort and the Order, I tend to get forgotten. I understand you have no other choice, but I do. I'm done defending our relationship and I wish to end it. Of those I've told, they are confused, relieved, and in some cases angry. I will always be your friend, but never again your lover.

With Deepest Regret and Love,

Hermione

As Severus Snape finished reading her letter, he took out the ring he had been carrying in his pocket for the past few months. He had been waiting for the right moment and was never with her enough to have the chance. He played with the box, snapping it open and closed. Why would she have ended their relationship? Was it guilt? Or had someone played her? He was always a distrusting man and went with her being pushed. She may not have realized it, but with her intelligence, she may have. In the beginning he would have thought Potter, but the boy had shown remarkable understanding. During his frequent absences Hermione had grown close to Lupin. He had been disapproving from the beginning and maybe even a bit jealous. Hermione would only have listened to someone with experience and someone she trusted completely. Throughout his pondering, a man with silver-blonde hair entered the room.

"Severus?" the man questioned in a silky voice.

"Yes, Lucius? Is there a task requiring my assistance?" Severus questioned back.

"No, but I am curious as to why you are toying with the ring box and as to why you are furious," Lucius Malfoy replied.

"And you think I am furious why?" Severus tip-toed around the question like the best of politicians.

"Your mask was down when I entered, your so carefully concealed emotions were revealed. I am curious to know what broke through your walls and unmasked you," Lucius countered with his growing impatience showing.

"My mask was broken by a woman," Severus answered cryptically.

"You never could understand women as I could, my friend," Lucius joked.

"That is something I am glad for, I've never been hit below the belt, unlike you. I wish to retire for the night and you are keeping me from doing so," Severus said relieved he hadn't asked for more.

"A good night to you, Severus," Lucius called over his shoulder as he left the room.

"And to you, Lucius," Severus said as he shut and locked the door.

When he was sure Lucius had really gone, he took out a quill and parchment and drafted a letter to Hermione.

Dear Hermione,

I wish to know the motive behind your action. Anytime I was free, I was with you. I constantly send you letters and tokens of my affection. I do everything within my power to please you and yet, you try to end our relationship. I have never strayed from you, never once cheated as I hope you have not. I will not let you end our relationship without good reason and I calmly await your response.

With Love,

Severus

A/N2: Press the button that says review, I do not know what color it is now. :)