Disclaimer: Allright, here we go again... No, I do not own Harry Potter, just the plot in this story.

Chapter One

First Encounter

Another year, another sorry-arse year, without her. Severus was standing in the Great Hall to greet the new teachertaking over Potions. Since Dumbledore's death Minerva had to step up as Head Mistress and he had finally got the position as the Defence Against The Dark Arts teacher. He also knew he wouldn't be here if it wasn't for his anonymous witness at the trial. He was forced to leave the room before this mystery person was giving his testimonial, witness protection, they'd called it. Why would the witness need protection anyway? It's not like he would run after him and take his life. Especially since he'd testified in Severus' favour. Severus shook his head and turned his attention towards the door as it opened, getting the shock of his life, looking straight into the face of Hermione Granger.

Her hair was straightened out and reached her mid-waist and the colour had turned deeper over the years, or maybe she'd cast a dying spell on it? He couldn't really tell, but it had a deep mahogany colour and it looked great on her, compared to the old mouse brown colour she'd had when she was still his student.

They stared at each other, for what seemed to be forever, before Minerva broke the silence. "Ah, Hermione! It's so nice to finally see you again!" She went over to Hermione and gave her a long hug. "Thank you, Minerva. It's nice to see you too." They let go of each other and smiled. "It's going to take me a while to get used to calling you by your given name, professor." Hermione laughed, but he could see the smile didn't reach her eyes. She was fully aware of his presence and he couldn't shake the feeling that he was ruining the two women's moment.

Merlin, grant me self control! She looks amazing! He thought as she turned to face him again, her eyes cold as never before.

"Severus." She said with a short nod of the head and reached out her hand for him to take it. He shook her hand politely. "Miss Granger." He consciously addressed her as he'd done eleven years ago and noticed the slight twitch of her hand as he said it. She drew a breath before answering. "Hermione." She let go of his hand and he looked at her. "Excuse me?" Her eyes met his. "My name, professor, is Hermione." Severus shook his head. "You will have to excuse me, but you will always be Miss Granger to me."

Things considered. He thought.

Hermione turned to Minerva. "Can you please show me my quarters, Minerva? I'm tired and want to get some rest before supper." The Head Mistress nodded and took her arm. "Of course, Hermione, you must be exhausted!"

Severus watched them as they left the Great Hall. She had given up on him. There was no more challenge left in her. She'd resigned.

She gave up on us a long time ago…

The thought nearly killed him and he felt like someone had been dancing on his grave.

Singing; 'Yes, sir! I can boogie!'

Hey, y'all! Short first chapter, I know! I just wanted to check the feedback. So please, review! ;)