The same dream claims Hermione night after night, seductive darkness gently rocking her in its arms.
Standing in the middle of a deserted and remote street, a light drizzle begins to fall. In a matter of seconds, the timid rain turns into a heavy downpour, wild drops soaking her curls, her clothes, her soul. She remains immutable, allowing the icy water to wash away the melancholy that stains her very essence.
He is always there, mere inches away from her. Tall, dark, menacing. Thin lips curling into a sneer, obsidian eyes stare at her with raw desire, with tangible passion. Unable to breathe, she waits; she waits until he swiftly closes the distance between their bodies; until his hands grab her waist with forceful lust, pressing his tantalising erection against her stomach; until his mouth searches hers, tongue vigorously demanding entrance. Lascivious words warmly gasped against her ear make her moan in ecstasy, and her shivers soon turn into frantic tremors, furious and desperate kisses fighting a sublime, sensuous battle of carnality and concupiscence.
However, tonight's dream is quite different. The same deserted street welcomes her, the unchanging heavy downpour inexorably soaks her bones. Even he is there, so close she can heavenly taste his distinctive, delectable aroma of sandalwood, herbs and musk. And yet… This dream feels brighter, clearer, more… Real.
His black eyes are transfixed on her, usual desire and passion banished by sweet longing and breath-taking yearning. Slowly moving towards her, confusion deeply overwhelms her when he gently caresses her left cheek with long, delicate fingers.
It is only when he gifts her with his beautiful, honest smile that Hermione finally understands.
"This is not a dream," she whispers, tears of happiness and relieve mixing with the pouring water that bathes them both. Blissful hope filling her heart, she closes her tired eyes; the need to feel his warm body becomes delightfully unbearable.
Tightly embracing her in his strong arms, Severus entrancingly presses his forehead against hers and a contented sob escapes his mouth. "No, it is not," he sighs against her lips.