Disclaimer: I imagine JK wouldn't even dream of writing something like this, let alone showing it to the world, but, still, the credit for the characters goes to her.

AN: Warning: This has some questionable language in it. As a Yank, none of the words bother me, but... Anyway, here's part ten. Sorry it's so short, but more is to come.

Part X: Circe's Revenge

1.

Circe thought back to her conversation with Hermione. She had felt the twinge of guilt Hermione had experienced, but originally thought it was because of disappointing her. After seeing Snape making that potion, while humming "Brown Eyed Girl," well, they obviously were better actors than she had anticipated.

"Vengeful little buggers," she thought. They couldn't just enjoy their newfound happiness in peace, could they? They had to get her back for making them happy, did they? Well, she'd show them it wasn't wise to mess with love. It wasn't wise to mess with Circe either, now she thought of it.

2.

It didn't take long before Circe had a fully formed plan waiting to be executed. She dropped her disillusionment charm, and knocked on Professor Snape's door.

"Enter," his voice shot out.

When she came in, she noticed all traces of the potion were gone, as was his humming demeanor. She looked at him thoughtfully for a moment and then proceeded.

"How are your dates progressing with Hermione, Severus?"

"As well as can be expected I suppose," he sneered, his voice implying the worst.

"Mm. That's too bad," Circe said, smiling seductively at him. "Maybe she's the wrong one for you."

3.

Snape stared at her, hoping he was misreading her signals. When he spoke he was grateful his voice remained squeak-free.

"Perhaps."

Circe smiled hungrily. "Well, it doesn't happen often, but I can admit it when I'm wrong. I must admit I am slightly shocked, but I'll also admit that I'm rather pleased."

She had advanced on him slowly through her speech, and was now standing before him running a finger lazily up and down his frock coat buttons.

"As I've gotten to know you a little better, it's plain to see that you need a mature woman, not a girl."

4.

"Madam!" Snape objected, pushing her hand away, and backing away from her quickly. "Are you trying to seduce me?" His voice did squeak that time.

"Trying? No." Circe smiled at him. "I do not try to seduce. I succeed." She then brought her lips to his, and proceeded to kiss him passionately.

Several things went through Snape's mind in quick succession. First, though Circe was one talented witch, she couldn't compare to Hermione. Second, Hermione would KILL him if she found him snogging her grandmother, and third, he would really deserve it.

He pushed Circe away forcefully. "Woman, desist now!"

5.

Circe wiped her mouth and smiled triumphantly. "I knew it! You love her! I don't know why you two tried to fool me, but-"

Snape cut her off. "Why do you think I'm in love?"

"Because, silly boy, the only times anyone has actually refused me was when they were in love. Or preferred men."

"Well, you are correct," Snape unwillingly conceded. "I am in love."

"Oh, that's so wonderful, we must owl my son with-"

"It's not Miss Granger," Snape interrupted.

Circe stopped and stared. After a few moments, she gained her voice and asked, "Who, then?"

"Albus Dumbledore."

6.

He was having a difficult time restraining his smirk, which threatened to cut loose its bindings and run rampant across his face. It was very difficult; Circe's face was satisfyingly stunned.

"But... He's never... You... Hermione... You kissed her!" she finally managed to vocalize.

"Madam, do you think I want to advertise my true relationship with Albus? It is not exactly an appropriate arrangement," Snape pointed out.

Circe hummed thoughtfully, then looked up with a smile.

"Well, I must go congratulate Albus on such a fine catch."

Snape sincerely hoped his scheme would amuse the headmaster enough to play along.