Thanks for all the follows and favorites! Right. On with the story...

Hermione was gradually introduced to the rest of the occupants attending brunch that afternoon. This included Priam Prince, Severus's grandfather, his great uncle, Raza Prince, Salome's mother, Sera Delacour and her husband, Seville Prince. And also Severus's aunt, Eileen's twin sister, Eva, who in turn had twins, Mya and Myra, who were slightly younger than Hermione.

"It's so good to finally see Severus happy with somebody, " Salome said to Hermione after Severus became occupied in a conversation with his grandmother and grandfather. "So, you have been together for a while right?"

"Umm, actually no. Just about two months."

"Really? You look so comfortable together and well, he gave you this, " she said pointing to the bracelet Severus gave her.

"I suppose it is a little extravagant. But technically speaking I've known him for over nine years. I was his student."

"I see. That explains how well you know each other, but that doesn't explain why he felt he could give you that bracelet," she let out pointedly.

"I don't understand?"

"It's the Prince family jewelry. It usually goes to someone's intended. Knowing Severus, it would take him longer than two months to get that far with someone. I feel like there's something you're not telling me..."

Hermione was beyond surprised, to think that Severus regarded her so much that he would bestow upon her a gift that meant so much. "I admit that our relationship has progressed faster than the norm. That's because we didn't begin the normal way. I fell in love with Severus a long time ago. After the war... I was too busy with school and trying to restart my life. Suddenly, two months ago, he just waltzed right back into my life and my heart as well. So, yeah," she finished breathily.

Salome touched Hermione's hand and smiled, "So you're in love with Severus?"

Hermione laughed wide-eyed. "Yes, undeniably yes. You know, that's the first time I ever admitted it out loud."

Salome hugged her. "You're a sweet girl Hermione, my big brother needs someone like you. I'm so happy he has you! "

"I'm happy too."

When brunch was over, the small party retired to the parlor and Raza proceeded to play the piano for them. Priam immediately stood and asked for Hermione's hand. Severus merely delivered his trademark eyebrow arch and Hermione allowed the old man to lead her around the room. Soon other couples followed, even Gram Prince was joining in the fun.

Priam Prince was a very distinguished looking and powerful wizard. He had a large black beard that was peppered with gray as well as his shoulder length hair. He had the same black eyes, a Prince family trait, no doubt, and Hermione couldn't help but feel like she was seeing what Severus might look like in forty years. "So, Severus tells me that you were the top of your class at Hogwarts?"

Well, if Hermione was expecting anything it certainly wasn't this. "Uh, yes I was. I value education greatly. It's why I'm continuing my education at university," she answered with only the faintest of blushes.

"Ahhh, yes. In America. Long way from Scotland, no?"

"Yes. But there's always portkeys."

"True, but you can't deny that it's still an inconvenience. Do you have the patience for a long distance relationship? "Priam asked pointedly.

Hermione was floored. "Severus and I haven't discussed things, but I care for your grandson dearly and if he will have me, I'm more than open to a long distance relationship. Besides, I only have a year left at university," she finished neatly.

Priam gave Hermione a measuring look before his lips stretched into a small smile, "A lady who knows her mind. It would seem that my grandson is in good hands indeed."

"May I have this dance? "

It was Professor Snape himself and Hermione welcomed him with an intimate smile. Priam simply bowed to Hermione, and Severus encased her in his arms. "I thought I'd never have you to myself," he purred in her ear. "Are you enjoying your Christmas eve?"

"Yes, especially now, " allowing her lips to brush his briefly. "I can see that your family truly wishes the best for you."

"Prince family interrogation? "

"Something like that." They turned about the room once more. "I do have one question though," Hermione said slowly

"And that is? "

"Severus, why didn't you tell me the significance of this bracelet?" She felt him grow tense. "I'm not trying to start a fight, especially not here. But if I am to be questioned about it, about us, I'd appreciate a little warning, "she said calmly reigning in her emotions.

Severus groaned inwardly knowing that she was right. "Hermione, it was not my intention to cause you any discomfort. I only wished to give you a gift that meant something. Truthfully, I was afraid of scaring you away. Meeting my family is already a big step. I didn't want to overwhelm you by telling you the true meaning behind this bracelet." Hermione was silent.

Even as the song ended Hermione still hadn't responded. "Am I to take your silence as a form of resignation? " he asked icily. Hermione looked up sharply, snarky Snape was back. They were sitting alone in an alcove. Away from everyone in the parlor.

She took his hand but he recoiled from her touch. "Severus," she let out gently, as he turned away from her, "I promise my silence has nothing to do with my wanting to leave you. In fact, it was quite the opposite. Your words, they calmed the storm in my heart. My insecurities are no more." She was tearing up now, " Severus," this time he looked at her, "I love you."

It was like someone had cast the Wingardium Leviosa on him. Her declaration made him float. It was with everything in his being that he uttered these next words: "I love you too."