"Stay after class, Miss Granger" Professor Snape called. Harry and Ron gave Hermione sympathetic glances as they hurried from the room, relieved they weren't asked to stay.
"Professor?" Hermione inquired as she walked towards his desk.
Snape sighed in vexation at the annoying presence of the bushy-haired know-it-all. "The headmaster ordered me to have you help me brew potions for the infirmary. You will report here every evening directly at 7:00 and stay till just before curfew. That is all. You may leave."
Hermione, however, stood her ground. "Thank you for letting me brew with you, Professor Snape."
Snape glared at her. "Do not thank me, insolent chit, I take no joy in being in your presence. The headmaster ordered me. Make no mistake, you are not wanted here."
Hermione was unsure how to respond. On one hand, she felt sorry for the man, yet she knew if she showed sympathy he would shut her out, making it impossible for her to befriend him. Deciding on safer words, she said "If that is all, may I leave?"
"You may." Hermione was almost out the door when he called "And Miss Granger, don't be late."