Cloak of Courage Chapter 10, a harry potter fanfic

Disclaimer: Harry Potter is not mine. Anything you recognize from JK Rowling's books is not mine. Anything you don't recognize (i.e. the Call of the Blood) is either mine or a typical fanfiction plot device. Partly inspired by the Marriage Law Challenge on WIKTT. See Chapter 1 for full disclaimer. Author's Notes at the end.
Warning: This fic is SS/HG and includes character death, descriptions of abuse, and adult situations.

Cloak of Courage

WendyNat

Chapter 10

~~~~~~~~

Her cheeks burning, Hermione took the seat that Professor McGonagall waved her to. Great way to impress her, Hermione, she chided herself. Ogle another Professor right in front of her.

McGonagall gazed at her for a moment silently, and the knowing look the older woman gave her made her wince inwardly in embarrassment. Finally, McGonagall cleared her throat and said, "Well, Miss Granger, I have to say I'm very pleased you've chosen Transfiguration as your specialization of study. I had thought that you may choose Potions, with the… current situation in mind."

Hermione shook her head. "No, Professor… it's actually due to the current situation that I didn't choose Potions. I didn't think it would be a good idea to be in a… a marriage… with someone who has that sort of position over me."

The Professor smiled. "Yes, Albus told me that was why you decided to take your NEWTs early. A very wise decision, Miss Granger. Though that really shouldn't surprise me – you've always shown a certain wisdom beyond your years." McGonagall paused for a moment before stating, "I hope you realize that the master/apprentice relationship is rather different than that of teacher/student. I will, for instance, request that you use my given name, and vice-versa, when there are no students present. You will be my assistant as much as I am your mentor, and most of the work that you do will be with my guidance but without my command, if that makes sense." Hermione nodded, a tentative smile appearing on her face. "Very well, then," Professor McGonagall said, and they launched into a discussion of the specifics that would be required from them both when Hermione became her apprentice.

After going over the requirements and agreeing to begin the official apprenticeship the middle of the next week, Hermione said, "Well… I do have my NEWTs to study for, still. I really should get back. Thank you so much for speaking with me, and accepting me as your apprentice."

McGonagall sat back and looked at the young woman in front of her. To Hermione surprise, the older witch said, "Hermione? Don't fret so over your NEWTs, please. This apprenticeship offer is completely independent of those tests. I know your skills quite well from the years you've studied here at Hogwarts. Keep in mind, once you attain your Mastery, no one will be concerned with those scores."

"Thank you, Professor." When McGonagall raised her eyebrows sternly, she smiled and amended, "Minerva, that is."

Minerva was silent for a moment, watching her appraisingly. Finally, the older witch spoke. "Would you like some tea, Hermione? There are a couple of other things I would like to discuss with you. Things that I was already planning on speaking with you about when Albus told me of the… situation. I promise not to take too much of your time."

Hermione nodded hesitantly. "All right, Prof- Minerva."

Minerva took a deep breath and said, "I will admit I was rather concerned when Albus told me of the situation in which you found yourself this past Friday." At Hermione's guarded look, Minerva raised an eyebrow. "Yes, Hermione, I know everything that occurred. And while I cannot condone your actions… or your intentions… that doesn't mean I do not understand your motivations. I'm only thankful that Severus was able to… be of some help to you, regarding your decision." Hermione was mortified. It was bad enough that Snape and Dumbledore knew of her Dark Arts study, but Professor McGonagall? Her Head of House? And Deputy Headmistress, don't forget, she reminded herself. Of course Dumbledore would inform her of Hermione's actions.

Belatedly, Hermione realized that McGonagall was awaiting a response. "Um… I appreciate that, Professor."

McGonagall gave her another shrewd look before reminding her, "It's Minerva, child." A short pause, and then she continued, "Don't be ashamed, Hermione. You aren't the only one to feel the lure – but in the end, you made the right choice." Hermione swallowed guiltily. What would McGonagall think if she knew about the books? If she knew what I'm planning?

They will pay. I will make them pay.

Belatedly, she realized Minerva had continued speaking. "…you ever attended a wizarding handfasting before, Hermione?" Hermione shook her head, and Minerva smiled. "That's what I thought. I asked Albus, but he wasn't sure. If I may… the ceremony itself isn't complicated, but it's only right that you know what to expect. And the preparations can seem rather… daunting… to someone unfamiliar with them. If you would allow me, I would like to offer my services. I daresay I've assisted with a fair number of handfastings in my life."

Hermione's mind was whirling. With everything else going on, she hadn't even considered the preparations necessary. "Goodness… I hadn't even thought about it, Minerva. Please, yes – if you could help me, I'd appreciate it. I suppose I should get some books on it, but I don't really have time to do a lot of reading…" She stopped when Minerva chuckled.

"Leave it to me, Miss Granger. I've done enough of these ceremonies to know what's what. I'll be happy to act as your mentor. First of all, there are some things we'll need to pick up in Diagon Alley – your gown, of course, and the cords that you'd like to use."

Hermione just blinked at her. It was really going to happen… When would they find time to do all of this? Aside from her need to study, Minerva had classes… As if reading her thoughts, Minerva continued, "I would suggest late Wednesday morning, if that sounds acceptable. I have a free period immediately before and after lunch." Hermione nodded absently. This is really happening. The memory of Albus' voice from just a few days ago rang in her mind.

Miss Granger… Voldemort wishes for you to marry a Death Eater. And… we just happen to have one right here…

With an expression bordering on concern, Minerva said, "Hermione – are you all right, child?"

Startled out of her reverie, she said, "Yes, yes… I'm fine. This is all just so… it's hard to digest. It was such an abstract idea, when Professor Dumbledore and Severus first told me about it… marrying Severus… but now, talking about handfasting gowns and cords…" Hermione shrugged weakly.

This is the best solution for you.

"Severus is a good man," Minerva said gently. After a short pause, the older witch raised one eyebrow and commented, "And not entirely unattractive to you, I believe?"

"Not… not unattractive, no," Hermione said in a low voice, looking down at her hands and willing herself not to blush again. She heard Minerva stand and move around the desk. When she looked up again, she saw that the older witch had taken the seat next to her.

"It's nothing to be embarrassed about, Hermione. I'm relieved, to be honest. When Albus first told me… well. You can imagine my concerns, I'm sure. Severus is a good man, true, but he's not a particularly nice man… and not the type that most young woman are attracted to, though he can certainly be charming enough when he so desires." Yes, he certainly can, Hermione thought, her lips curving into a small smile before she could stop them. Minerva chuckled lightly. "Well, I'm glad, again, that you show more wisdom and maturity than other girls your age. And taste."

"Um… Thank you, Minerva," Hermione said uncertainly.

"It's the simple truth, dear. And, if I may… we will be spending quite a lot of time together in the near future. Please feel free to discuss any subject that is on your mind. I'm old enough not to judge." McGonagall's intent stare gave her no doubts as to which subject she was referring to. "I know you have some friends your own age to speak with, but when you feel the need for an older woman's experience and advice… well. Please feel free to come to me. Severus is… a very complicated man."

"Minerva – I think that's a bit of an understatement."

* * * * * *

That evening, Severus' eyes sought out the Gryffindor table as soon as he entered through the small staff door behind the Head Table. Hermione was already there, seated once again between Miss Weasley and Potter. Instantly, his eyes scanned the Slytherin table, noting with satisfaction the subdued demeanor of Malfoy and his two sidekicks. It was unlikely that the boy would attempt anything else that day, at least… although he had little hope for the boy's continued restraint over the remainder of the week.

The younger Malfoy had proven himself to be just as immune to common sense as his father, and the… temptation… that Miss Granger presented may well be too much for his overwhelming lack of control. He had not been exaggerating when he had told the Dark Lord that the boy lacked subtlety and intelligence. Severus sighed. Indeed, the girl was a temptation in many ways. Besides the obvious use for the Dark Lord, she was a strangely appealing girl. With a deliciously curved form, as his eyes had noted a number of times over the weekend, and as his body had noted earlier that day during their embrace… he firmly shoved the thought aside.

Seating himself beside Minerva, he offered his fellow Head of House a clipped greeting before turning his attention back to the Gryffindor table. She was speaking with Longbottom, and smiling at something he said. Severus had heard of Longbottom and Potter's impassioned defense of their friend, and for once he found himself grateful for their actions. He had to admit that he was quite surprised at how well Potter had taken the news. Although it was unknown just how the boy would have reacted had Albus not softened the blow for him.

As he took a sip of his tea, he saw her flick a length of thick, unruly hair behind her shoulder. Her behavior that morning still confused him… there had obviously been something that had startled her – the frantic clutching of her hands on his arm had reminded him of the episode in his office the other evening, as she wept out her fear and frustration against his chest. He could scarcely believe that that incident had only occurred three days before…

With a sigh, he picked up his fork and twirled it idly in his fingers. He wondered again at the strange… affinity… he had felt for the girl over the past week. That morning, when she woke him, he had felt it strongly. A simple cursory study of the Dark Arts should not have been enough to engender such a response from him.

His eyes narrowed in thought as he considered the young woman. She had claimed that she didn't read far in the Book of the Blood, and instinctively he had believed her claim. But, could he truly be sure? He discarded the thought almost as soon as it arose in his mind… she would definitely have shown signs of the reaction illness. Minerva spoke then, interrupting his musings.

"She's looking well. A great deal better than she did last week, don't you think?"

Realizing that he had been staring at Hermione the entire time – and, even worse, that he had been caught doing so - he pursed his lips together in annoyance before answering, "Indeed. I am certain that the satisfactory conclusion to her dilemma concerning her field of study has much to do with it."

Minerva chuckled slightly. "I have a feeling that something else has quite a bit more to do with it, Severus." He shot her a glance, and was irritated to see her eyes twinkling in a manner disturbingly similar to Albus'. Damned Gryffindors.

He glowered at his plate, stabbing at his dinner with the fork rather more violently than necessary. "I'm glad you find this entire situation so amusing, Minerva."

He was surprised to feel a hand on his arm and when he raised his head, he saw Minerva regarding him with a serious expression. "Severus – if you would, I would like to speak with you concerning this situation, as you put it. I have some concerns-"

"Of course you do, Minerva. One of your precious Gryffindors, soon to be bound to the Head of Slytherin House. I can only imagine the hissing and spitting that went on in Albus' office when he informed you," he sneered.

Minerva gave him an amused look and shook her head. In a low voice, she commented, "Well, you're rather off the mark on that one, young man. I was relieved, Severus." He looked at her in disbelief and she nodded her head. "I was even more relieved after I saw the two of you together this morning, and spoke with Miss Granger. However…" She paused, her face losing its amused appearance as her expression grew serious. "As I said, I have some concerns, but this isn't the most appropriate location to discuss them. May I see you tomorrow in my office? Over lunch, perhaps?"

Severus sighed, surrendering to the inevitable. He had things to get done tomorrow, but the sooner he could relieve Minerva of her concerns and get her off of his back and out of his business the better. "Very well." Minerva gave him a satisfied nod and they both turned back to their dinners.

His gaze shot up when he caught movement at the Slytherin table. Malfoy was leaving. The boy still seemed cowed, and didn't even glance over at the Gryffindor table as he walked past… although Snape noted that Potter was watching the blond boy with a dangerous expression in his eyes. Ah, yes, he thought with satisfaction. Miss Granger undoubtedly had informed Potter of Draco's earlier threats. All to the good, if it made Potter take the danger seriously. Though Draco and his two followers were foolish and inept, all three were quite capable of a passable Imperius curse. That curse was a particular talent of the Malfoy family.

At least Dumbledore had modified the wards around the school and grounds after the fiasco surrounding the Dark Lord's return in Potter's fourth year. Portkeys that were not imbued with the Headmaster's personal signature were no longer effective on Hogwarts grounds – anyone traveling via a non-approved Portkey would be redirected to the Headmaster's office, to be dealt with as necessary. It certainly reduced the likelihood of a successful kidnapping venture, and Malfoy - as a governor of the school - was well aware of the new wards that Albus had erected.

He would have to begin the girl's Occlumency lessons as soon as her NEWTs were completed. She would eventually have to make an appearance at one of the various social events that the Death Eaters engaged in, though he would stall as long as possible. For now, he hoped to persuade the Dark Lord that she would be too frightened, too shocked… that it would work against their carefully wrought plans to bring her before her hated enemies so soon. She had to first question her loyalties, to transfer those loyalties fully to Severus, before that could be risked.

Her eyes suddenly lifted and met his. This time, he did not look away, and as their gazes locked he saw something… the same something he had seen in her eyes that morning, when she had told him that she already trusted him. Fool girl, he thought, barely holding back a sneer. She truly had no idea who she was dealing with. Although, a small voice admitted that she could trust him – at least as far as her safety and protection were concerned.

Trusting him with her emotions, on the other hand… Hermione looked away, then, and even from the distance he could see the flush suffusing her face. He sighed inwardly and took another bite of his dinner. The girl wore her emotions on her sleeve… so typical of young Gryffindors. Age tempered that tendency somewhat, as in the case of the Headmaster. But for now… she simply couldn't be counted on to falsify the necessary emotions, with or without his coaching in Occlumency. Her reactions to him had to be real, not forced, or the Dark Lord would detect it immediately.

He thought his manipulations on that front were going well. Although he may have to step things up a bit, to ensure that the girl wasn't overly nervous when the time came to consummate their marriage. He couldn't step things up too much, of course. Despite the blatant hypocrisy of it, he knew Albus would have his head - and likely other valued parts of his anatomy - if he took the girl prior to their handfasting. Not to mention, she was an innocent… he needed to gain her trust, not scare her off. Her words from that first night rang in his ears: One time does not a lover make, Professor. He sighed, rubbing the bridge of his nose with annoyance. One time… the girl may as well be a virgin, for all the experience she had had. She was even more of an innocent than he had supposed.

Yes, he would have to begin soon, to accustom her to the preliminaries, at least… if everything were new to her on their… wedding night… it would be overwhelming to the girl, increasing her nervousness. He regretted, now, not kissing her in the Head Girl's rooms earlier that day. He had considered and then quickly discarded the idea… he had felt that it would be too soon… that it would not be believable. Although the look she gave him as he left McGonagall's office had caused him to speculate if that were really the case. Perhaps that evening… if the opportunity presented itself...

He pinched the bridge of his nose, feeling a headache coming on. Headache potion tonight, he thought with a sigh. He pushed his chair back, preparing to leave, when a minor commotion at the Gryffindor table caught his attention. A nondescript brown owl was swooping along the table, flying unusually low due to the weight of the bundle strapped to its legs.

The book-shaped bundle.

Filled with foreboding, he watched as the owl descended in front of Miss Granger. Mechanically, her hands lifted and relieved the owl of its burden. She looked up and met his eyes, and even from this distance he could see the fear darkening them. Krum. With a meaningful look, he nodded towards the entrance doors and she immediately took the message. Potter and the Weasley girl stood with her and the three young people left the Great Hall. He gave it a few moments before standing and slipping out of the staff door, sweeping quickly through the Entrance Hall and down to the dungeons.

* * * * * *

As she stepped through the fireplace, she saw Severus standing in the middle of the study, waiting for her. With an imperious gesture, he motioned for her to lay the bundle on the low table. She hadn't dared to open it yet, and after she laid it down she stood silently, staring at it as if it would attack her.

"Are you planning on opening it, Miss Granger? Or were you just going to admire its beauty from afar?" The familiar sarcastic tones cut through her fear, and she looked up angrily.

"It's Hermione, Severus. And I thought I would let you open it, actually. If it's…" Her anger left her then, leaving her feeling strangely bereft. "If it's a… another Book of the Blood… well, you did tell me not to handle the other one too much…"

He shook his head. "It is very unlikely, Hermione, that Krum would send you another book as valuable – and rare - as that. And if you could be bothered to use that much-vaunted intellect, you would know why I do not relish the thought of opening it myself."

She stared at him for a moment before comprehension dawned. "Viktor may have charmed it to my touch alone." Snape nodded, an eyebrow raised. "Oh, all right, then." Grabbing the package, she tore it open and pulled out the book. A short piece of parchment fell from it when she held it up. "A journal?" A frown of confusion appeared on her face, quickly changing to suspicion.

Snape held out a slender hand and she passed him the parchment, placing the journal back on the table. He read the parchment quickly and then stared down at the journal. A thin line appeared between his brows as he pulled out his wand. Murmuring a quick revealing charm, he grunted when there was no effect. His frown grew as he whispered another incantation.

This incantation had an effect. The journal glowed blood-red for a moment and Snape nodded in satisfaction, pocketing his wand. She opened her mouth to question him but was forestalled by his statement, "This could prove to be quite useful, Hermione."

"What… what is it? What was that glow… is there a charm of some sort on the journal? What was the incantation? I didn't recognize it…"

Snape snorted softly at her barrage of questions. "One at a time, please. The journal is charmed, yes. I am not quite sure what game Krum is playing, but I am concerned… I will have to watch him closely at the next meeting." He stood silently, apparently lost in thought, and Hermione had to bite her tongue to forestall the questions that wanted to burst from her mouth. Finally, he said, "Whatever you write in that journal will be immediately duplicated in its twin. I can only assume that the linked journal is in Krum's possession, although…" Again, he trailed off. Hermione waited patiently for him to continue, but he never did.

"Although what?"

"It is of no matter. The incantation, to answer your final – I hope – question… it is a stronger revealing charm than any you have studied. Unless it is in one of those books that our friend Mr. Krum sent you previously."

"It's a Dark spell?" Hermione asked. Snape nodded absently, sinking down onto the couch, still looking at the journal speculatively.

"After a fashion… like calls to like." She frowned, confused by that statement, but he continued before she could ask him to explain. "The duplication charm was hidden underneath a Dark spell… a cloaking spell, I suppose you could call it."

"How can it prove useful?" Snape remained silent, flicking his eyes to hers. He raised one eyebrow slowly, and Hermione sucked in a breath and said, "You think he's spying on me… on us… don't you?"

"The timing is rather suspect."

She nodded and moved to the couch, sitting down next to him. "You're thinking that we can… feed him information… false information?"

"Ah. So I see you are not completely without deviousness," Snape said dryly.

"Not completely, no." At this comment, Snape shot her an amused glance. She smiled at him and then looked back at the journal. "What should I do? Should I write him back?"

Snape thought for a moment and then nodded reluctantly. "Just a short note. Let him know you are studying for your NEWTs and will write more next week… and thank him, of course, for the lovely gift," Snape said, sneering as he said the last words.

Hermione nodded. "That sounds good. I don't think I could come up with any convincing… devious words… to write in it at the moment. There's a lot going on this week as it is… between my NEWTs and the… the ceremony…"

"Yes," Snape said, not looking at her. "In fact… there are… certain arrangements… which must be taken care of for the handfasting ceremony. Are you familiar-"

"I know. Minerva said she would take me to Diagon Alley on Wednesday. I guess there's more to a handfasting than I thought." She stared down at her lap, biting her lip. She still couldn't believe it was really happening…

"It is rather more involved than it initially appears from the outside, yes. But not too complicated, particularly with a guide to assist you. I am… pleased… that Minerva has offered her services."

Hermione shook her head and glanced up at him. He was watching her with a level gaze, and she felt bold enough to confess, "I never paid attention to the requirements, before… I didn't think it would become an issue for me for a long time. A very long time…" her voice trailed off uncertainly.

"Hermione…" the silky tones of his voice caused her heart to speed its rhythm. He took her hands in his and gazed down at her intently, an unreadable look in his black eyes. "I am aware that this is not the most… ideal… situation for either of us. But I do promise you that I will do whatever I can to make it as… painless… as possible. Trust me." He had bent his head towards her as he spoke, and she licked her lips unconsciously.

In a shaky voice, she whispered. "I told you earlier – I do trust you… but… thank you, still."

That familiar calculating expression appeared on his face, but it was gone even before she could begin to analyze it. Gone, and replaced with another expression entirely. An expression which made her mind go numb, unable to remember to breathe, much less analyze anything. Her breath froze in her lungs, and she watched him with wide eyes as he spoke.

"Hermione…" He leaned over slowly, very slowly… slow enough that she could pull away without embarrassment, but she didn't want to pull away… no, she didn't want to pull away at all…

Her eyes drifted shut as he brushed his lips against hers… softly… so very softly… his lips were warm, smooth… he pressed them against hers once, twice… a chaste pressure, but so much more to her mind…

She was swimming, floating… enjoying the chaste kisses that had her head whirling far more than any so-called passionate kiss she had ever experienced. She leaned into him, her hands tightening in his, an excited flutter in her stomach accompanying the answering pressure of his fingers against hers.

They pulled back slowly, and she kept her eyes closed for a time. When she finally opened them, she saw him watching her with that calculating gaze again… and a strange feeling of uncertainty stole over her. He seemed to sense this, and pulled one hand away from hers to stroke her cheek silently. Her eyes fluttered closed once more, and she heard him murmur, "I will do what I can."

When she woke the next morning, her cheek was resting on his chest. His bare chest. She tried to back away, startled, only to find that he had one arm wrapped around her, holding her to his side. The bedcovers still separated their bodies, although his had been pushed down, giving her a pleasing view of his torso. One of her arms was draped over his chest and she watched, enthralled, as it rise and fell with each of his breaths. She watched it for a time, allowing her mind to wander…

She could clearly remember the light touch of his lips on hers the night before, and even that innocent contact made her blood sing in memory. With that kind of reaction to a simple kiss, she wondered what would it be like to… to sleep with him? To make love… if it could be called that, in the situation they found themselves in. She was unaccountably nervous at the thought… he was a man, not a teenaged boy, and certainly more experienced than she was… could she handle it? She would have to, she supposed. It had been pleasant - nice, even - with Ron… but awkward, also, both of them new to the act itself. It had hurt, but not as badly as some of the more dramatic girls had claimed. What would it be like, to be with someone that wasn't as inexperienced as she was? To be with someone that wasn't Ron?

Did you know your name was the last thing that passed his lips?

She squeezed her eyes shut, forcing back the tears. At least this morning the books weren't calling her quite so strongly… perhaps because she was anchored by the feel of strong arms around her, by the rise and fall of a strong chest under her cheek. She would be glad when they both slept in the same bed… the arm she had curled under her was getting lost in the gap between the two mattresses, but she didn't want to move. She sighed and snuggled closer to him, loath to give up the contact, and pretended to sleep until he woke.

Finally, his breathing changed and she could sense that he was waking up. Before she could move from her position, she felt his eyes on the top of her head. She wondered how unruly her hair had gotten as she slept and hoped it wasn't too ridiculous. "Hermione…" his voice was still gravelly from sleep, and she smiled against his chest. "You are awake, aren't you?"

"Yes. Just resting."

"I see." Silence then. "Far be it for me to interrupt your rest, but I believe we both have tasks which we must see to this morning?"

"I suppose," she said, running her finger lightly along the long thin scar on his breastbone. His fingers suddenly clamped around her wrist, stalling the movement. She raised her head to meet his eyes, and stammered, "I'm… I'm sorry…" He gave her a cool look before nodding curtly.

They untangled themselves awkwardly and Hermione disappeared into the bathroom to quickly wash up. She was confused. Sometimes he seemed so… different… and then he reverted back to type. She shook her head. A complicated man, indeed, Minerva, she thought dryly. At least it wouldn't get boring.

After a short time she was dressed and ready to depart. Remembering something at the last moment, she paused at the entrance to the fireplace and turned to face him. He was pulling on his teaching robes, preparing to leave for breakfast.

"Um – Severus? Lavender, Parvati, and Ginny want to talk to me tonight…"

"I was under the impression that you were talking with them at meals," he commented.

Hermione sighed. "Lavender and Parvati want to corner me for a girls' night, I think. Trust me – it's easier to just go along with them than to fight it… the earlier I get it over with, the better. I was originally going to arrange a time on Friday after my NEWTs, but they may drive me insane before then." Snape gave a noncommittal grunt at that statement, straightening the sleeves of his robes. Forging ahead, she said, "I thought tonight would be good. Harry said he would escort us from dinner to the Head Girl's rooms. I'm assuming that's acceptable?"

"Asking my permission, Miss Granger? That is a pleasant change of pace," he drawled.

"Don't get used to it," Hermione shot back quickly, frowning. "It's just until after the handfasting."

He smirked in response. Her breath caught at the way it made him look… dangerous… sexy… "Hmm. I will enjoy it while it lasts, then." After he spoke the words, the smile melted from his face and he gave her a sharp look. "Floo myself, or Minerva if you prefer, should you have any desire to go elsewhere… such as the Common Room."

"Should I just bring them here instead?"

He shook his head quickly, frowning. "We are trying to be discreet, if you recall, Miss Granger. We can afford no hints of impropriety." She smiled inwardly, thinking of his kisses the evening before. Would that be considered an act of impropriety? He raised a mocking eyebrow at her, and she wondered for a fleeting moment if he had sensed her thoughts. "The rooms are quite safe. I have already placed strong wards on the entrance as a precaution. As did Albus."

"That's good, but I think Harry's planning on standing outside, actually." She had laughed at his overprotectiveness when Harry had suggested it, and was therefore startled by the serious nod that Severus gave her.

"Good. Even so, leave through the floo before the other girls exit the room, Hermione." She nodded absently and was surprised when he reached out to grip her arm urgently. He gave her an unyielding look, and she swallowed in trepidation. "The danger is real – didn't Malfoy's little act yesterday morning teach you that? I want you to be careful." He moved closer to her, an unreadable look in his eyes.

Forcing the words from her dry throat, she said, "I will be."

"Be sure of it," he commanded, a touch of his hand on hers softening the tone of his warning. She drew in a shuddering breath and stared into his eyes, watching as he drifted towards her and lightly brushed her lips with his in yet another chaste kiss. "Until this evening, then, Miss Granger."

Trying to regain her balance, she muttered, "It's Hermione."

Again, that devastatingly sexy smirk. "I know."

* * * * * *

"She is young, Severus. An innocent. I know you're more accustomed to a… certain type of woman…"

Snape threw Minerva an irritated look. He had come, as requested, to her office during the lunch period... and already she was annoying him. Sarcastically, he said, "An innocent? Is that right? How very upsetting to find out this information. Well, then, I suppose I'll have to pack away the manacles and leather straps. Such a pity." Did the woman think him an imbecile? Or blind? He blew out an exasperated breath. "I am not going to damage the girl, Minerva. Please desist your nattering."

McGonagall pursed her lips, patently annoyed with his sarcastic answer. "You know very well what I meant, Severus."

"I assure you I am not planning on using any Death Eater seduction tactics on the girl, Minerva," Severus snapped. "I may even decide to skip the blood mating ritual. But – if you have other concerns - do enlighten me."

"She's not a girl, Severus," McGonagall said. Severus eyed her sharply. "And I think you need to bear that in mind. I'm not interested in the physical aspect of your… relationship… other than to say that you may be surprised on that score – Gryffindors aren't known for being shying lilies-" she gave a small smile when Snape rolled his eyes. "Oh, yes, Severus – I have indulged in a bit of… manacles and leather straps, you said? Yes… I quite enjoyed it."

Severus blanched at the inadvertent mental image that statement produced. As if reading his mind, Minerva let out a surprisingly youthful peal of laughter. "Oh, Severus – if you could see your face! Did you really think only a certain type enjoys such things?" Severus stared at her incredulously. "Though I will admit that it may be a bit much for Miss Granger to deal with right away. She isn't our most experienced seventh year, after all." Severus snorted at that.

"No – I believe Misses Brown and Patil jointly bear that title."

Minerva was quick to point out, "Don't forget your own house, Severus… I'm sure Miss Parkinson could give them some competition." He didn't respond. He would bet Galleons that Miss Parkinson would win the competition hands down. "But in all seriousness, Severus… I'm not concerned about the physical aspect, as I'm sure you have that well in hand, so to speak." She ignored the glare he sent her and continued, "However, I am concerned about the emotional aspect." She stopped then, looking down at her hands for a moment before sighing and continuing, "Severus… you're exactly the type of man a naïve young woman could easily fall for. Your aloofness, your confidence… even your rude demeanor… more than one innocent has fallen for the… dare I say it… bad boy image."

He sneered at the comment, shaking his head in disgust. Minerva eyed him challengingly. "Scoff if you wish, Severus, but I know more about women than you do. About women's emotions," she amended quickly, seeing him open his mouth. He subsided with a smirk. "I just don't want to see her get hurt, not after everything else she's been through. Be careful with her. Please."

Minerva was perceptive.

"I will take your advice into consideration," Severus said slowly. "But mark me, Minerva… I will do what I must to keep the girl – the young woman – alive and out of the Dark Lord's hands. If her emotions must be tapped for this subterfuge to be successful, then that is what I will do." He paused a moment, considering his counterpart silently. "And I must ask you not to interfere."

Minerva looked uncomfortable, but he held her gaze unblinkingly and eventually she nodded. "I understand, Severus… and I'm not without sympathy for your position, you know."

"Why am I so very certain that there is a but in here somewhere…" Severus muttered sardonically. Minerva shot him a quelling glance.

"But-" she ignored Severus' smirk "-the child has been in my House, under my protection, for seven years. I can't help but be concerned for her welfare – physical and otherwise." The Deputy Headmistress sighed, staring out the window. "Just… do what you can. Please."

"Of course," he said soothingly. The earnest concern in her eyes swayed him, and he stood from his chair, pacing back and forth. "Minerva… I will make the girl… I will make Hermione no promises, or declarations that are not true. And as you know, I have no real control over her emotions, in the end… despite any attempts to influence them. I will do what I must, but no more than that." Minerva nodded and let out a small sigh. Looking at her, he shook his head in defeat. He would do what he must. Moving back to the chair, he collapsed into it and gave her a weary gaze. "Now – did you have any other pearls of wisdom to bestow upon me?"

"No wisdom, just some questions." Severus' lips twisted, causing her to chuckle. "None that will be too painful, Severus. I assume the handfasting will be Saturday, from what Albus said? The sooner the better, with Mr. Malfoy sniffing around." Snape nodded, and she continued brusquely, "Well, then. I've arranged to accompany Miss Granger to Diagon Alley tomorrow to gather the items she will need-"

"So she said. And, before you begin prying – allow me to inform you that I have already arranged to go during my free period this afternoon." McGonagall raised an eyebrow at him, waiting. "What more do you want to hear, Minerva? It's all arranged. Albus will perform the ceremony, of course, and it will occur Saturday morning. I believe he's arranged for a celebratory feast afterwards, and then…"

"And then, you will do what you must," McGonagall finished in a gentle voice.

"Precisely."

* * * * * *

At dinner that evening, Hermione couldn't keep her eyes from her fiancé. She tried to be secretive with her glances, but their eyes met too often for him not to have noticed. Then again, she realized, in order for their eyes to meet as often as they had, he had to have been watching her, also. Each time their eyes locked, a sharp jolt of excitement sped through her body, and she couldn't help but smile shyly at him once. His slight answering nod warmed her, and her mind turned to the kisses he had given her the previous evening and that morning. Her mind had replayed the kiss - the kisses, rather - all day, generally at the most inopportune moments. Such as when she was attempting to practice a rather involved Arithmancy problem, or when she was attempting to pay attention to the nonsense that Lavender and Parvati were prattling on about.

"Hermione!" The indignant voice cut through her musing, and she turned back to Lavender with what she knew was a guilty look. A guilty look that quickly changed to irritation when she caught the knowing glance shared by the two girls seated across from her. "That's it – we need to talk. You're done, right?"

Hermione sighed and nodded, pushing her plate away. Ginny gave her a pitying look, a small smile playing on the redhead's lips. "Come on, then." With Harry escorting, the girls left the Great Hall.

Safely ensconced in the Head Girl's rooms a short time later, Lavender and Parvati began speaking at once. "All right – tell us all about it. Has he kissed you?"

"What made you pick him, really?"

"It was what we said the other week, wasn't it?"

"Have you seen him without the robes?"

"I can't believe you're marrying Snape!"

Hermione groaned inwardly. "I can only answer one question at a time, girls. Look – you know why I picked him. There wasn't much choice… I couldn't… I couldn't afford to let someone else be…" her voice trailed off as she looked at Ginny with tears in her eyes. Lavender and Parvati had the grace to look abashed.

"We're sorry, Hermione… we know why you picked him. It's… we're not… listen, we miss Ron, too. We know how close you were…"

"But you didn't love him." The low, calm voice startled everyone, and they all turned to stare at Ginny. The redhead's eyes never left Hermione's. "You didn't love him, not like that, at least. He knew. You shouldn't feel guilty, Hermione. If you can be happy… that's what he would want. You know that."

Hermione looked down at her hands. "I… I don't know if that's possible, right now…"

"Is Snape that bad? I mean, he's pretty nasty in class and all, but I thought… if you're married to him, he can't be mean all the time, can he?" Parvati said, her brows furrowed in concern.

Hermione shook her head. "No, he's not bad… I mean, he's still Snape, but he's also… well, he's also Severus, you know? He's trying. I can tell… this isn't easy for him, either."

"Why did he do it, then? Didn't he send you the proposal?" Parvati asked, frowning.

"Dumbledore asked him, didn't he?" Ginny spoke again in a low voice. Hermione nodded reluctantly.

"Oh, wow," Lavender breathed. "So he didn't… I thought he just wanted a young wife, you know. And you've got brains…"

Hermione shook her head. "He's doing it to protect me, girls. He's Head of Slytherin… besides Professor Dumbledore, there really isn't anyone else that could keep me safe… that could keep himself safe, from the Malfoys. From… from Voldemort."

There was silence for a time, and then Parvati smiled knowingly. "Well, he may be doing it as a favor, but he's getting something out of it, too… I've seen how he looks at you at mealtimes. He's attracted to you, Hermione."

Hermione's head shot up at that. "Do you think so?" Instantly, she berated herself for showing such weakness in front of those two. But rather than mocking her, they both nodded seriously.

"He does, Hermione. How could he not? You're young, not bad looking… could use some makeup, and if you did something with that hair… but then again, he's not exactly in a place to criticize about anyone's hair," Lavender said sensibly.

Parvati grinned. "I bet he's pretty experienced. Mum said he ran with a pretty wild crowd when he was younger…" Hermione barely held back a snort. If she only knew…She carefully avoided looking at Ginny.

Lavender smiled wickedly. "Just imagine, if he's as good with that tongue in bed as he is when he's insulting students…"

"Lavender!" Hermione gasped, shocked. She bit her lip, thinking…

Parvati's eyes grew wide as she watched Hermione. "Oh, Gods… you're not a virgin, right?" Hermione shook her head slowly. "How much are you not a virgin? Did you and Viktor ever…" Hermione shook her head quickly at that, and Parvati grinned. "So, you and Ron, right?"

"Once." Her words sounded hollow, even to her own ears. She looked at Ginny guiltily and opened her mouth to explain, but Ginny cut her off.

"I knew about it, Hermione. Ron told me, that next morning." Ginny smiled tremulously. "At least he didn't die a virgin, right? That's what he was always worried about…"

Parvati and Lavender shared another look. Lavender turned to face Hermione and said, "All right… so, you and Ron did, right after the marriage proposal went through? He was your only one? That was the only time?" Hermione nodded. "Wow. Snape's… well, he's a man, Hermione… not a teenager… are you sure…" Hearing her own worries repeated back to her was not helping her anxiety over the situation.

"What choice do I have?" An uncomfortable silence fell, then.

Finally, Parvati spoke up. "It'll be fine, Hermione… I'm sure he knows… and, I mean, it's not a bad thing. He's experienced, so he knows what to do… it'll be good for you."

Lavender nodded. "Better than dealing with teen fumbling."

"Just look at the way he moves… Gods, the man exudes sex, doesn't he, Lavender?" Lavender nodded, and Hermione blushed. "And that whole mean, angry thing… that's pretty sexy. Not everyone sees it, but…"

"This is really strange… he's my fiancé, you know. Should I even be listening to this?"

"It's girl talk, Hermione," Parvati chided. Ginny rolled her eyes, causing Hermione to grin.

"Well, I think I've got to call it a night on this talk. I need to study for my NEWTs still, and poor Harry's probably getting pretty bored standing out in the hallway."

The other three girls nodded and stood. "We'll have to talk to you after your handfasting, and find out how it went," Parvati said with a smile. Hermione flushed and shrugged.

"Maybe… I don't know. That's kind of private." Parvati and Lavender rolled their eyes and headed for the door, Ginny trailing along behind them.

He's a man, Hermione… not a teenager… are you sure…

Now she had another set of worries invading her mind. With a sigh, she tossed the floo powder into the fireplace and stepped through.

___________________________________________________________

A/N: Whew. Another long chapter. I hope you enjoyed it! For those who are waiting (im)patiently, the handfasting will occur in the next chapter. Can't promise the post-nuptials will make it in, but they will be in Chapter 12 if not in 11. As always, pleeez review!!

The Perfectly Imperfect – Thank you – I'm glad you liked the clicking. I may try to incorporate the log analogy later on – thanks!

Serpens Potio – Thank you – more Severus for you in this chapter, I hope you liked it. Again – my sincere promise to not Hufflepuff Severus ;).

Moi – Wedding next chapter, wedding night either next chapter or the one after… hang in there! At least a little smoochin' going on in this chappie, right?

Chantal9 – Thank you so much – I'm glad you appreciate the pacing. And yes, while I do enjoy reading Good!Draco fics, I just have a hard time writing him as anything other than an evil, sadistic, spoiled brat…

Dakota – Thank you for reviewing! No, no mushy Snapes appearing here…

Electryone – The inexperienced!Snape wouldn't work in my storyline… I also have a hard time buying it. His body movements, as described by JKR, make me think that something happened between adolescence (twitchy, jerky movements) and "now" (sweeping in and out of rooms, etc) to make him more confident at least physically. I'm glad you enjoyed the addition of the Call, and I hope enjoyed the other chapters!

AngelofLight72 – Thank you for the review!

Anarane Anwamane, Denise Ruth, Arafel2, Jana, Babygidgurl, Selene, – Thanks for reviewing!!