A/n: Eldnia writes a wonderful Snape, and I never would have been able to pick this story off the ground if not for her. Thank you!

...the wind that shakes the barley well it rattles in my bones. I wake up with a hunger but for what I do not know. I know somewhere it matters and there's got to be a reason why I feel this way with you... you've given me so much to believe in.

'Perhaps I should stay permanently astonished today,' Remus thought to himself, letting out the breath he had been holding while Snape had been surveying him. It brought a warm feeling to his stomach and a curl to his toes and he was more than a little shocked by it. It wasn't the thought of being attracted to another male, for Remus had long known he preferred his own sex, but Snape? A man that, although stated he was not disgusted by him, Remus knew did not tolerate him well. That was just asking for trouble, Remus snorted. Yet the thought stayed with him, leaving the warm feeling in the bottom of his stomach. Clearing his throat, he said, "I'm not bad at potions."

This roused Snape's curiosity as he had a vision of Lupin towering over a bubbling cauldron, hands running over ingredients, chopping them carefully, sprinkling them into the mixture as he slowly stirred. He couldn't explain why but he found this image most appealing. "You never struck me as the potions type Lupin."

"Like I said, I prefer other things." He shrugged. "Besides, we can't all be excellent at potions. I'd hate to put you out of a job."

"That would be doubtful. It is a great shame, however, to have a potential talent lay untapped." Modesty wasn't Snape's strong suit. He knew that he was one of the greatest potion makers of his generation; after all, if he wasn't his skills wouldn't be consistently called upon in capacities other than teaching. "What do you prefer then? Surely you have other interests outside your field of expertise."

"I wouldn't teach anything else other than what I do, ironic as it may be for me to do so. Other than that, I too enjoy reading, occasionally drawing and, believe it or not, cooking."

"On the contrary, what better person to teach a subject that someone who has first hand knowledge of what they are teaching."

"Be that as it may, it's still no less than ironic to teach people how to disarm and kill people such as myself."

Snape shrugged. "No more so than my teaching students how to brew potions that would render me as incapable as any other witch or wizard, should the unlikely event of my actually taking one arise."

"Depending on the student, I can certainly see how that would be an issue," Remus said, only half teasing.

"Yes, well, Longbottom was particularly dangerous. Consider yourself lucky Lupin you only have to teach him how to defend himself against the Dark Arts. I am lucky I still have a dungeon to teach in."

Remus wondered if Snape was thinking about the same incident from several years past. Indeed, it was not something one could easily forget. "Potions was not Neville's strong suit, no."

"Does Longbottom even have a strong suit?" Snape shook his head. The boy was a menace to the magical community. "Admittedly, his progress was noteworthy under your tutelage."

Remus had already said to himself he would stop being surprised by Snape today, but he was failing miserably again. "Muggle Studies," he said abruptly. "If I wasn't teaching Defense, I'd want to teach Muggle Studies."

Surprised by the sudden change in topic, Snape gazed at Lupin for a few moments in obvious bewilderment. Snape knew that Lupin was somewhat modest and unassuming but he had never realized before how difficult he found accepting even the smallest degree of praise. Of course, perhaps it was the person doing the praising that he had the problem with, not the act itself. Mentally shrugging, he decided that it was of no consequence. "Why?"

"Partly for the same reasons as Defense. I know well what I would be teaching. Partly because it is so challenging. Living as Muggles do? It's not easy," Remus said.

"I see." Of course, Snape didn't see at all; a man with Lupin's talents, explaining to a class full of students what some odd artifact was and how it is used in the muggle world? It would be an extraordinary waste

"If I recall correctly, you didn't care much for Muggle Studies as a student. I take it nothing has changed?"

Snape raised an eyebrow. He was more than a little surprised that Lupin would recall such a detail. "No, I didn't. Although a certain degree of understanding is required so that we can co-exist without upsetting the delicate balance of our worlds, much of what was taught was irrelevant and useless."

"Irrelevant, perhaps, but you didn't find any of it all fascinating?"

"What I found fascinating was their unbelievable capacity to spend ridiculous amounts of time on creating objects to do the simplest of tasks when it would be quicker for them to just to it themselves. Muggles really are incredibly lazy."

"How do you suppose making a machine to do something or using magic to do the same is any different?"

"Simple. Magic still requires some level of skill. One could argue that so does learning to use one of those contraptions, but magic is an almost an art form. It takes style, grace and of course the talent. The same can't be said for a the ability to use a machine."

"It seems to vary by 'machine', much the way it does by spell. Certain spells require a higher level of skill, much the same as certain machines require more skill than others do. I can think of one in particular that's been very helpful to me, and might interest you greatly. Of course, the skill level required to use it is rather steep."

Not one to refuse a challenge, Lupin had used just the correct method of bait to arouse Snape's interest in Muggle contraptions. "Indeed. And what would that be?" He was, of course, doubtful that it would prove too difficult for him to master in a short period, but it would not hurt, he supposed, to try.

"It's a sort of machine that allows Muggles to communicate with other Muggles that have the same machine. Communication and problem solving seem to be the main features, and although it allows a doorway into almost unlimited knowledge, few seem to use it for such."

Nodding slowly, Snape mulled over this information. "I see. So what makes it so complicated to use?"

"The comparative intelligence from human to machine, or the varying lack of intelligence from human to human."

"Does this machine have a name? I take it you have used one before?"

Remus nodded. "Computer, and yes I have. It's easier to use than to try and speak to people in our world."

"Computer..." Snape repeated slowly. It was rather an odd word for a machine, coarse and almost clinical. "Well of course, anyone can say that a Muggle artifact is complicated to use if they have no way of proving it." Not that he doubted Lupin's word, but Severus Snape had a very difficult time believing that anything in the Muggle world was so complicated that it was beyond his comprehension.

"I have one at the cottage you'll be staying at... but I am hesitant to give free reign on it," Remus chuckled. "A computer can't be bullied into cooperation by threats or harsh words."

"If you are suggesting Professor that I have neither the intelligence or the skill to operate this...thing, I think you will find you are very much mistaken." He paused, "However, if you would prefer that I did not interfere with it that is your prerogative. After all, I would hate to break one of your little toys."

"I am suggesting no such thing, Severus. I was merely pointing out you would actually have to learn to manage it instead of bullying it into managing you," Remus said, grin present again. "I mentioned it because I do believe you'd enjoy the high amounts of information to be commanded. It's fascinating how much they hit upon small things in our world, and yet never quite manage to pull it together."

"Muggles are stupid and self involved. They think they are superior to everyone else so it is hardly surprising that they do not consider the possibility that there is another world out there, co existing with their own where the things they only imagine possible in their dreams are actually a reality."

"That is true. Much of the same could be said for a good amount of the wizards I know as well."

"Indeed." Snape nodded curtly. "So..." he began, anxious to change the subject. He did not particularly feel comfortable with the path that it was taking. "What exactly did you have planned for the holidays?"

"A two day visit to Pitlochry and then Christmas and Hogmany with a friend."

"Anyone we know?" Snape tried to keep his tone unaffected, not liking the pang of jealousy that stabbed his chest, making it slightly hard to breathe.

"No, I don't believe so. You know, Severus, you're more than welcome to investigate the computer at the cottage if you promise me not to melt or otherwise break it," Remus was quick to change the subject, not wanting further questioning on who he would be spending his break with. Snape did not need more reasons to dislike Remus.

Snape looked amused. Lupin's haste to change the subject had not gone unnoticed, but he decided not to press the matter. What he did in his spare time and whom he did it with was entirely his affair, although Snape found himself recalling Lupin's comment from before, and his face flushed slightly at the memory of how he felt. He wondered then if Lupin was keen to keep his friend a secret because there was more than just friendship. Snape had never even considered the possibility that Lupin may have a partner, and he felt a sudden pang of longing as he realized just how alone he really was. The events of the day had opened up a new world to him; one where he had someone to confide in, converse with, perhaps even forge friendship with, although it really was too soon to say that at this at this stage. As anxious as he had been for the door to open earlier, he now found himself dreading the moment when it did, fearing that as they left the room they would also be leaving behind the moments of companionship they had shared. He cleared his throat, trying to force his mind away from the thoughts that has begun to fill him with something very like sadness, much to his annoyance. "Very well, you have my word."

"I have a book with information about it. If you'd like I can bring it by tomorrow?"

Tomorrow... Snape sat there in silence for a few moments, unable to get the words to form on his lips. Was this not what he had wanted? Had he not feared that their forced camaraderie would end as soon as the door re-opened? Yet, here Lupin was, with something that looked very much like an offer of its continuance. Blinking several times, trying to snap him self out of the shock that he had so unexpectedly fallen into he nodded. "Thank you Lupin."

"Nine hours left, Severus. It doesn't seem like very long does it? But I would love a cup of tea and a hot shower right about now instead of waiting."

Snape glanced at the clock briefly. The past couple of hours had flown by, he had hardly noticed the passing minutes. Standing, he bend down placing his hands on his knees and stretched his legs. He was not used to sitting for so long and his legs had become somewhat numb lying motionless while they conversed. "I'm sure I saw some tea in the cupboard." Straightening he strode over to the table, removing his robe and tossing it on the spare chair as he did so, Remus' eyes following his actions. "Yes, they appear to have several kinds. Which would you prefer?"

Remus figured now was as good a time as any to pull up that legendary Gryffindor courage, and knock two problems out at once. Standing, he too stretched out his legs before walking to stand behind Snape. Pretending to consider the tea options, Remus instead considered Snape. Now that the man wasn't wearing those thick robes, Remus was able to study his body easier. It was nice, there was no denying that, but Remus noted he didn't feel the quick pull he had earlier. That was good, he nodded to himself.

Snape found himself having to catch his breath as Lupin edged ever closer to him. For reasons he couldn't explain, he felt his pulse quicken as he felt the other man's breath on the back of his neck. Something deep within him awoke, and despite his best efforts, he could not control the sudden rush of blood to his head that was pounding loudly in his ears. If he could not feel calm with this uncharacteristic rush of excitement, then he would certainly at least maintain the façade of being so. "Do you see anything you like?"

Two seconds ago Remus would have answered no and felt he was being truthful. There was no pull, no sexual charge, nothing there but a small waxing state of like for Snape's intelligent conversation. Then Snape had turned around and looked Remus in the eye any calm Remus had felt was gone, replaced by attraction so strong that Remus had to force himself to look away from Snape and into the cupboard before he did something incredibly stupid. "I suppose there's nothing more interesting than plain old black tea in here, is there."

Snape shook his head, unable to stop his eyes trailing from Lupin's own to the pair of soft lips that were slightly parted, and looking alarmingly inviting. Closing his eyes, he screwed his face up slightly, trying to regain some of his composure, but instead he was met with an image of him turning more fully towards Lupin, and tentatively, brushing his own lips against those he had closed his eyes to forget. Growling softly, he took a step back, and turned so that he was now facing the cupboard, gripping the edge of the table for balance. What was going on? Confused, he silently reached into the cupboard, intending to busy himself with making tea and surprised to find that his hands were trembling. "I'm afraid not," came his rushed reply, walking briskly back towards the chair, desperate to put space between them, tea all but forgotten.

All the while Remus stood perfectly still, willing himself to not even breathe. He had not missed the way Snape's eyes had drifted to his lips, nor had his missed the growl of dissatisfaction from Snape after. It was interesting, to say the least, that Snape might have felt the same charge he had. Interesting, and at least now he knew where he stood in regards to his own feelings. Not that he hadn't before, but he was grateful for Snape jolting him back to reality before he had possibly done something stupid. Perhaps he didn't disgust Snape, but disgusted and wanting to fuck were two very different things. Reaching into the cupboard, Remus pulled out a canister marked 'Tea'. "Did you want tea, Severus?"

"No thank you." Snape's voice was forced, as he busied himself flicking through one of the other magazines on the table he hadn't poured over yet.

Stupidly pained at Snape's harsh tone, Remus took longer than normal to make his tea before returning to his seat. Sitting down, he cupped the mug in his hands for warmth before staring off, involved in his thoughts.

The awkwardness was more than apparent. It hung in the air like a thick blanket and Snape felt sure that he would suffocate if he didn't do something to alleviate it and soon. "You seem troubled Lupin."

There was no way even Remus was going to answer that honestly. "Just a bit cold," he said finally. That at least was partly true. He felt cold, both physically and a little bit emotionally.

Waving his wand in the direction of his robes, he floated them towards Lupin, laying them on his lap. "Those may help." Lowering his eyes, he focused his attention back on the magazine he was holding.

The robes were indeed warm, but it was more than that that caused Remus to feel less cold. He was a deeply romantical person in the truest sense of the word, and the kindness, intentional or misleading, warmed his heart. "Thank you."

Snape smiled. "You're welcome." It bothered him that Lupin seemed disturbed, and although he respected his decision not to discuss what was on his mind, he did feel surprisingly hurt. He had thought that after their previous conversations that they would be able to be honest with one another. Mind you, had Lupin asked him what was on his mind a few moments before he couldn't be certain he would have answered truthfully, so perhaps that was fair.

They sat in silence for a few moments, Lupin continuing to stare at the wall, a distant look in his eye, Snape flicking through the pages of yet another ridiculous magazine before finally sighing and throwing it back on the table. "What is Skye like Lupin?" Snape was more than a little curious to know about where he was going to spend his holiday. He had idealized visions of tranquil surroundings and nights by a log fire, but he had no idea if these reflected any part of the reality; and Snape hated being disappointed.

Remus risked a glance at Snape before speaking. "Cold at this time of year," he laughed softly. "It's very old, very beautiful. You can see the mountains from the seashore, and visit both within an hour if you so prefer. There's much history there, it's a very mystic place."

"It sounds almost too good to be true."

"I love my home there, I have for a very long time, so perhaps I speak with a bit of bias. You might find it fits your tastes differently?"

"I am sure that it will suit me fine." Snape looked up then, and smiled. "Thank you for your hospitality in allowing me to make use of your home."

No, surprised wasn't going to cut it this time. Remus was fully blown away. "You're quite welcome."

Feeling the tension alleviate somewhat, Snape couldn't resist the grin that was tugging at the corners of his lips. Laughing gently, he shook his head. "If someone had told me yesterday that I would be spending the holidays in your home I would have packed them off to St. Mungo's certain that they had been affected by some terrible curse. Extraordinary how events transpire."

To that Remus threw his head back and laughed. "Aye, rather staggering indeed."

His face becoming serious once more, Snape fixed Lupin with a fervent gaze. "The encounter hasn't been wholly unpleasant."

"You have no idea how surprising it is for me to hear you say that," Remus said honestly.

Snape shook his head. "I believe I do. You thought I hated you, and in fact I believed that also. I assure you it is just as surprising for me to hear myself say it, and mean it, as it is for you to hear it, Remus."

He could barely believe the words as they were flowing through his lips, almost as though someone else were saying them instead of him; however Snape knew them to be true. In the course of the day, he had gone from being trapped in a room with a man he despised, to dreading the opening of the door and having to walk away from a man he was finding himself increasingly attracted too. It was ironic, that the only person to incite the feelings of longing and passion within him was a man whom he has spent the best part of his life believing he hated.

Remus did not know what to say. He knew, of course, that this sudden attraction to Snape was foolish and no amount of talk from Snape would change that, but it would be nice to have a friend. "Saying thank you seems trite and hardly meaningful, but I'm glad."

"Good. Now perhaps you wouldn't mind making me some tea."

Eyes wide, Remus stared at Snape for only a minute before laughing again. "As you command, sir." Still laughing, he stood and on the way to the kitchenette, dropped Snape's robes back on his lap. Making the tea faster than he had the previous time, he returned to where Snape was sitting and decided it was wiser to place the cup on the table next to the man than it would be to try and hand it to him. "I do hope that meets your standards, sir."

The aroma of sandalwood and musk combined with the sweetness of chocolate that now scented his robes did not go unnoticed by Snape. Again, he felt the familiar stirring in his stomach, the butterflies fluttering around as he struggled to keep his breathing even. "Thank you, I am sure it will be fine."

Sitting down in his own chair again, Remus studied Snape for a minute. "The beach will be too cold for much walking over the holidays. Any idea what you'll want to do?"

Snape shrugged. "The cold hardly bothers me at all so that won't be much of an issue. Otherwise I'll read, perhaps take a few supplies and work on some potions."

Remus wrinkled his nose. "Surely you plan on going out some? Having a little bit of fun?"

Sighing, Snape laid his tea back down on the tabletop. "Is the thought of my enjoying being alone reading and brewing potions so very difficult to grasp?"

"No, I suppose not. My apologies."

"You have to understand Lupin, my work is my life. It is the way that is has always been. I have never had much time for fun, and so I learned to enjoy what I had to spend my time doing. I simply cannot imagine doing anything else, and quite frankly if I had to I have no idea where I would even begin to think of it."

Taking a moment to let Snape's words sink it, Remus wondered of there was more to what Snape was saying, or if his imagination was working too hard. "That is understandable, Severus. Again, I apologize."

"Lupin, you really need to stop apologizing for everything."

"I'm s..." Remus checked himself. "Okay."

Smirking, Snape took another sip of his tea; thinking in passing that it really was rather good. Perhaps there was some truth in Lupin being a proficient cook after all. "Is it always so easy to have you agree to do things, or are you simply humoring me?"

"Perhaps a little of both?" Remus laughed. "It's not like you've asked for blood, so there's no problem in bending a little. I much prefer how we've spend today than how we've spend all previous days together. Why ruin it?"

There was no denying that. While Snape had always thought to gain pleasure from belittling and criticizing Lupin in the past, he had come to discover that it paled in comparison to the mostly comfortable companionship that they had shared during their confinement. "Thank you." He said quietly, his words were barely more than a whisper.

Remus smiled his welcome over his cup, more pleased than words could truly say. "So now what, Professor. We've only a few hours left. Anything else you'd like to ask? Or perhaps order me to do?" He chuckled.

Snape's eyes twinkled mischievously as he contemplated all the things he would like to order Lupin to do. Some of which came as a total surprise to even him, none of them being particularly appropriate. They were washed quickly from his mind, however, as the approaching end of his imprisonment with Lupin loomed like a shadow over him. "Why did you let them do it? All those years, you saw what they did to me and you said nothing; did nothing. You know what it is like to be alone, an outsider looking into a world that you want to be part of but are never accepted as, and yet you went along with them." His voice was soft, no trace of the bitterness he had carried with him for years left as eyes filled with pain rested on Lupin's own.