"What? You mean- he's dead?" Hermione exclaimed, gripping the arms of the chair.

"No. No, he's not dead. But he has disappeared. No warning- he didn't tell anybody where he was going."

"He ran away?"

"Most likely. However... I cannot imagine why. He has never been the type to 'run away' from situations, or people. Miss Granger, please do not tell anybody this information, as I have told you in confidence. It is strange that you would notice his disappearance already... Is there anything you wish to tell me?"

Hermione shook her head, stunned. Snape had run away? Why? Was it because of her? Was it her fault?

"Professor? If he's out there somewhere, couldn't you just send an owl to him or something? Surely there are ways of finding people."

"Yes. There are ways. But there are reasons people leave, Miss Granger. I fear trying to contact him after such a short absence would only push him further away, make him more determined to isolate himself. He may have already made himself untraceable. There are countless possibilities. But yes, when the time is right, I may attempt to contact him."