Walking quickly toward the library, I mentally prepared myself to see Severus. He was already seated at a table in the back. I approached as quietly as I could. There weren't many people around luckily.

I put my books down next to his and yanked out the chair beside Severus. I sighed heavily and plopped down. Might as well play it up, right? After all, he knew what had happened.

Severus carefully closed his book, tucking a stray piece of parchment into his spot. "Are you done?"

I crossed my arms and pouted. "No."

"Well, then," he said, reaching for his book. I grabbed his wrist and pulled his hand between mine, wrapping my fingers around his and stroking his fingers. I couldn't help but stare at his hands. He didn't pull it away, so I put his hand in my lap and looked up at him.

He met my eyes and we sat looking at each other for a few long moments. I didn't know what to say to him.

"So what was that today?" he asked finally. He was still looking at me, but his eyes seemed to be riveted on my lips.

"Those jerks. They get an idea in their head and they just can't let it go. I'm sorry you had to see that." I stroked the back of his hand.

"You must realize why they do that." He didn't sound upset. I felt a little of my tension ease at this realization.

"No. I figure they're just gits that like to make trouble."

"Well, that is true of course, but they target you specifically because James likes you."

My head snapped up from where I had been staring at his hand in my lap. "What?!"

Severus squirmed uncomfortably in his chair and tried to pull his arm from me, but I wouldn't have it. He seemed to tense up, but did not try harder to release his hand. "You heard me."

"I don't know how you can say that," I said, turning my attention back to his pale hand. "They tease me and spread rumors and--"

"Why do you think you are the focus of so much of their attention?" He peered at me, seeming to be honestly curious.

"I don't know...they aren't very nice to you either, Sev." He sighed.

"There's a reason for that too, Lily." He was looking down at his book now. "I'm--I would guess that they feel me an easy target."

"No. They are simply cruel and awful. Don't let them get to you." He turned sharply. "I don't."

I nodded seriously. He looked so cute when he was defending himself. "I don't like Lucius."

"I know."

"And I don't want to meet him in the owlery late at night."

"I KNOW!" From across the room came a loud "Sshhh!" But still he was looking at me.

I imagine I looked visibly relieved. "Thank goodness. I thought...well..."

"You thought I might believe it." He looked away again, but this time only for a moment.

"Yes."

"I know better, Lily." I nodded in response. "Are we going to study one-handed tonight?" he asked lightly.

"Perhaps. Shouldn't we discuss what happened this morning?" Something like fear crossed his face before he controlled it again. I couldn't help but smile.

"So..."

"Yes?" he asked. I sighed. He was not going to make this easy on me...of course.

"Well, if it's up to me to start this conversation, so be it. What do you say we try for honesty?" I tilted my head at him. He simply nodded. "Okay, then. Let me begin by saying I really enjoyed kissing you. I am so glad I was your first kiss!" He scowled and looked down at our entangled hands.

"Why are you so glad?"

"Oh come on Sev. I thought we were going to be honest?! What happens when I pour my heart out and you just sit there and scowl? How will I feel then?" I could feel the redness returning to my pale face, as even my ears were warming. The kernel of frustration was becoming a bowling ball. "Must you be so infuriating?"

He seemed to think that was funny. I have to admit, it did me good to hear him laugh. I couldn't interrupt. When he quieted, he turned towards me again and put his other hand on top of my own.

"Lily, if you truly want to hear the truth, I am willing to tell you." I felt my eyes widen. "But not here." "Oh..." I said softly. "Well, okay, I guess." And to my surprise, he leaned forward quickly and pressed his lips to mine. "Tomorrow is Saturday. We can meet at that same tree and have a chat...about whatever you would like." Another light kiss. I couldn't tear my eyes from his lips. Maybe if I wished hard enough he would kiss me again.

"For now, let me say that I enjoyed this morning as well." A smile broke across my face as I saw his honesty and sincerity. I leaned close to him as I stood up and whispered in his ear.

"Come on, don't make me wait--do you have feelings for me?" Pause. "Beyond friends, I mean." I didn't move, just waited there, my face millimeters from his ear, his dark hair tickling my cheek.

He turned his head a little and whispered, "I might."