AN: Sorry it took so long for the third chapter. I had some surprise surgery that kept me from making any headway. Thanks for your patience. Also, thank you to FirstYear for pointing out typos I missed.
Disclaimer: I do not own the characters. I make no money.
Snape checked his reflection in a mirror by the elevators. While he was able to get away with wearing his familiar robes before, he had to attempt to fit into the muggle world tonight. He picked off a piece of lint from his jacket.
His mandarin tuxedo was a comfortable compromise between the two separate worlds. The jacket's low collar and high set buttons were similar to his dress robes. The vest and matching tie was a change of pace, but their dark shade of green felt like home. Snape would not have guessed he could feel so natural in muggle clothes.
Snape made his way through the hotel's atrium. A quick scan showed him Hermione did not arrive yet. He took a seat at the atrium's bar. His position allowed him a view of the front doors and receiving area. A waiter took his order and quickly returned with his drink.
Snape resisted the urge to swallow his drink in one gulp. He ran his fingers through his soft hair. He was shocked at his own nerves. He was proud at how well he could hid his emotions. It was one characteristic that saved his life and the lives of others for so long. It was frustrating to know one woman could shake him.
Oh hell, I need this. Snape finished his drink and waved the empty glass to the waiter. It's not firewhiskey, but it should help. Snape swirled his second glass. He liked the sound of the ice hitting the glass. His stomach felt warm and his nerves seemed a little more steady.
He looked up from his glass to see Hermione standing just inside the doors. Her hair was pulled up and away from her face. A few chestnut curls fell to frame her face and danced over her shoulders. She wore a black satin chiffon dress. The V-neck and spaghetti straps accentuated her neck and creamy skin. The asymmetrical hem exposed her right thigh while covering her left knee. Perfect for my plans. Snape thought.
He finished his drink and left his money with the empty glass. Hermione saw him stand, and walked toward the bar. Snape crossed the atrium to meet her. He lifted her hand to his lips and kissed her knuckles. "You are breathtaking my dear."
She flushed automatically. She eyed his clothes, "This is a look I was not expecting from you," she stated.
Snape blinked at her statement. "Was that an attempt at a compliment?"
Hermione let a soft giggle escape her lips. "Please excuse me." She touched his shoulder and let her fingers follow the outline of his arm. "You are very handsome this evening Severus."
Snape's chest swelled at hearing her use his first name. He extended his elbow, "shall we?"
Hermione smiled and wrapped her arm in his. "I was thinking we could start at this perfect little restaurant I found."
The two stood on the sidewalk. He waved to someone in the parking lot and returned his attention to Hermione. She continued. "The restaurant is small, but the food is amazing. I promise!" She did not notice the black car that pulled up next to them. The driver moved around the car to open the door for Hermione. She looked to Snape in surprise.
He gestured to the car. "I am sure you will enjoy the evening I have planned for us."
Hermione looked from the car to Snape. He could not help the smug look in his eyes. "We really do not want to be late." Her jaw moved, but no words came out of her mouth. "Oh my, do not tell me I've actually stunned Hermione Granger speechless!" His words dripped with sarcasm.
His statement caught her attention. She pressed her lips together in a thin line while her eyes narrowed in frustration. Snape smiled at his small victory. He could not help but look at her exposed thigh as she slid into the backseat. Tonight would be interesting to say the least.
AN: Sorry the chapter is so short. I promise to update very soon!
