To say that Albus and Minerva reacted in opposing manners to Severus' marriage to Hermione would be an understatement. Severus discovered that Albus was seething, and desperate to dissolve their union. Albus was most put out when Severus gave him their legalised, Ministry approved, and duly filed marriage parchment to read. Albus was also acting a bit oddly towards Hermione, but Severus had not had time to ponder that, as he fended off Minerva. Her approval was effusive, and manifested physically. Why women needed to weep and hug when they were happy was a deep mystery to Severus. Why Minerva had dared to subject him to this treatment was beyond his comprehension.

Severus and Hermione had been badgered into remaining at St Mungo's for the night, to be tested and studied. Nothing had come of the indignity of course. However, it had been decided that they would not mention the attack, or the subsequent strange circumstance that saved Severus' life to anyone as yet. At least now they were free. Well reasonably free. They were about to enter Number 12 Grimmauld Place to attend their first Order meeting as husband and wife. This would be interesting, and possibly dangerous to Severus' person. He made sure he had quick access to his wand, and he just refrained from casting a shielding spell before they went in.

"It would seem that everyone else is already here. I daresay Albus misled us intentionally. He told us the wrong time," Severus hissed in Hermione's ear.

"Yes, I'm not surprised. He is extremely devious," Hermione said. She squeezed Severus' hand reassuringly. "Are you up for this, if not - "

"Of course I am. But, if you are ashamed - "

"NEVER!"

"Shall we then?" he asked.

Hermione took Severus' arm. He was not one for public displays, but he allowed her this time. Realising this, she smiled up into his face. "I will never regret it Severus. I hope you don't," she said.

"Perhaps they will try to make me, but one such as myself is not easily swayed by common opinions," he returned smoothly.

"I should think not," she laughed.

With that they entered the kitchen, where almost every member of The Order was seated. Unbeknownst to them, they made quite a picture. Hermione entering on Severus' arm smiling up into his eyes, as he gazed intently back into hers.

"Now that our final number have joined us, let's get to business," Albus declared, ignoring the scowl Severus cast him at the inference of tardiness.

Severus and Hermione sat together at the empty end of the long rectangular table. From behind the curtains of his hair Severus' black eyes swept the room, taking in every occupant.

"We have some new members with us today, so I think we should all introduce ourselves. Please tell us your name, and primary function for The Order. Let's start with Minerva," Albus said, his usual twinkle was replaced with a calculating gleam.

Minerva who sat on Hermione's left began, and the introductions included two new wizards from this years Auror Programme, an elderly witch from Wales, and a young wizard newly immigrated from America. The introductions proceeded around the vast table back to Severus, who introduced himself with a sneer. "I am Severus Snape." he said disdain evident in his voice. "My major function with The Order is as a spy in The Dark Lord's inner circle."

It was now Hermione's turn. She looked boldly at her friends, teachers and colleagues, "My name is Hermione Snape. I am new to The Order and do not have a particular specialty yet."

It took a minute to sink in, and then Tonks spoke laughingly, " I think you're tired there Hermione, you said you're Hermione SNAPE."

"Yes I did, as I am Hermione Snape. Mrs Severus Snape to be exact," she replied proudly, with just a hint of challenge in her tone.

This proclamation was met with dead silence. Strangely it was Alastor Moody who broke the silence, "Humph, that explains it then." All eyes turned questioningly to the old Auror. He fixed his magical eye on the table in front of Severus and Hermione. "It explains why she's had her hand on his thigh this whole time."

Hermione turned beet red, and her missing hand whipped up onto the table top, while Severus' assumed his best death glare.

Albus called the meeting to order. "Yes, to business then. I was hoping to field suggestions as to the use of our five newest members."

"Albus," Severus said.

"Yes, Severus, you have some input?"

"I believe my wife," Severus paused to scowl at everyone who showed a reaction to his emphasis of the word wife," could best serve The Order as a strategist."

"I absolutely agree!" Minerva exclaimed. "Hermione is brilliant, and to use her for anything else would most certainly be a waste of her talents and intelligence. Talents and intelligence that she can use to help end this war."

There was some discussion, but soon enough it was decided.

"Hermione will begin developing her skills as a tactician," Albus allowed.

"Albus," Hermione spoke up.

"Was there something, Miss Grang - Oh, no. Pardon me, Mrs Snape?"

"No, I am fine with my husband's and Minerva's suggestion. It is just that I have an idea regarding Mr Adams."

Everyone glanced at the new member from America, "Please call me James." He smiled at Hermione.

"James then," Hermione said. "I was wondering if perhaps he could infiltrate The Dark Lord's ranks." Wide eyes regarded Hermione at her use of the term 'The Dark Lord'. "Perhaps put himself in a position where The Dark Lord or one of his followers would approach him, and attempt to sway him to their cause. James would be able to seem quite appealing to The Dark Lord, in as much as he could ostensibly gain support for The Dark Lord in the Americas. Obviously it can not be Severus who recruits him, as we would not want to jeopardise Severus' position in the inner circle. However, if James plays his part well, it should not be too difficult to get someone else to approach him on behalf of The Dark Lord."

"I suggest, Lucius," Severus interjected in a cold voice. "Being The Dark Lord's right hand, he will not garner any suspicions. I could see that Mr Adams - "

"James please." The American laughed. "You make me sound like my grandfather."

Severus nodded irritably. "I can see that you are placed in Lucius' path by credible happenstance."

Remus Lupin joined in, "I think that's an excellent idea Hermione. The more people to infiltrate He-Who-Must-Not-Be-Named's inner circle the better."

"Lupin - " Severus snarled.

"Severus, I am not disputing the quality of your work. You have done more towards defeating He-Who-Must-Not-Be-Named then all the rest of us together. I was actually thinking that you will be safer with support in his circle," Lupin said sincerely.

Severus glared regarded Lupin, his eyes glittering dangerously. When he spoke his cold voice was deadly, "Are you suggesting that I am incapable - "

Again Lupin cut him off, "Not at all Severus. I was just thinking that if the worst should happen, and your role as a spy were uncovered, then it would be better if you had an ally nearby."

Hermione spoke up, "Remus, any other spy could not be of any help to Severus, even in such horrific circumstances. Another spy would have to go along with The Dark Lord, to protect their place with him."

Albus held up his hands. "James," he said authoritatively, "how do you feel about all of this. Would you be comfortable being recruited by Voldemort, and spying for us? It is the most dangerous position there is to be in. I would not take offense if you were to decline."

Hermione was appalled by Albus' blatant manipulations. She could not prevent herself from snorting in disgust, audibly. She managed to mask her face in neutrality as questioning looks were sent her way.

James had a thoughtful serious expression on his face as he answered Albus. "It sounds pretty risky, but of course I'll do it. I'm here to help stop that madman. If this is the best position for me then so be it. I'll do what's needed."

Albus smiled. "That's settled then. Now as to our new friends from the Auror Programme. I would like Tonks to take them under her wing at the Ministry. We can never have enough people placed in the Ministry. If that is acceptable to the three of you?"

"S'fine with me Albus," Tonks answered, along with the two Auror trainee's mumbled agreement."

"Splendid." Albus nodded. "Finally Hattie is a retired Healer." Albus turned to the elderly woman from Wales, "I would like you to brush up on the newest medical spells and techniques, and take up your profession with us. We don't have enough people medically trained. If that's all right with you?"

"Why yes, Albus," the elderly woman agreed.

"If there is nothing else?" Albus asked the group.

Emmeline Vance spoke, "Albus, I believe congratulations are in order. Two of our number have found happiness together in these dark times." She smiled at Severus and Hermione. "I think that deserves celebration."

"Thank y - " Hermione began, only to be rudely interrupted by Moody.

"Congratulate a Death Eater on his marriage?"

Here Kingsley Shacklebolt interceded, "Alastor, Severus is not a Death Eater. You know that." Kingsley turned to Severus and Hermione and spoke in his regal tones, "And I would like to extend my congratulations to you both, Severus, Hermione."

Moody reacted before Severus and Hermione could respond. "I don't trust you Snape. You're up to no good. There's only one thing someone like you would want with her."

"I am so glad you appreciate my finer nature Moody," Severus said icily.

Bill Weasley took the silence that followed Severus' sarcastic words as his opportunity to speak. "Hermione, why him? You could have done so very much better! Did you want to be berated and belittled for the rest of your life?"

"Bill Weasley! How dare you?" Hermione was furious. She half rose from her seat, placed her palms flat on the table and leaned towards Bill. She looked directly into his eyes and spoke, "Have you not grown past Potions class? There is so much more to Severus Snape then the Professor who has to rule his potions classes with an iron fist to keep his place with The Dark Lord, as well as keeping the dunderheads from blowing themselves up! Severus Snape is more wizard, more man, then you will ever be."

"You've got to be joking Hermione. You can't seriously want him. Why did you really do it? It must be a secret assignment or something. After all, no woman would willingly - " Bill tried to argue further.

"This is not your concern! However, yes I want Severus. I chose him and I would never want anyone else. We chose each other. This is the choice we made!" Hermione spat with unrestrained rage.

She then turned her full attention to Albus. "Our choice, no one else's!" she reiterated furiously, her eyes blazing.

Looking away from Albus her irate gaze came to rest on Moody. "And you, Alastor Moody, Severus Snape risks his life daily. He suffers constantly at the hands of The Dark Lord, with no thought for his own safety. He does this without personal gain or recognition. He faces unimaginable horrors repeatedly, for your sake, for all of our sakes. His only concern being his ability to help defeat The Dark Lord, so our world will be safe for us all. He has earned your trust with his spilled blood and worse! Much worse. Time and time again!"

Hermione suddenly looked appalled. She sat back down and turned to Severus abruptly. Realising what she had just done, she spoke in a voice so quiet that only he could hear her. "I'm sorry Severus. I just, I couldn't stand by while they maligned you. I just - Oh! I'm so sorry." She stood and abruptly left the kitchen, her robes flying behind her.

"So Snape. Got yourself a little - "

"Be warned, if you finish that statement - " Severus began in a lethal whisper.

"Enough!" Minerva cut in, her face thunderous. "Severus Snape is one of us. He is brave, dedicated, honourable and trustworthy. Everyone present should know this. I don't want to hear another word against him, or his marriage, from anyone," She glared at Moody.

Albus Dumbledore reasserted his control, "On that note, I would say this meeting is adjourned. Severus please remain, I would like a word."

Remus Lupin stopped beside Severus on his way out.

"Lupin. Stopped to tell me what a perfect husband I am for Hermione?" Severus asked with a sarcastic sneer.

"In way Severus, yes. Of course, had it been my choice, I would have chosen a cheery besotted young man for Hermione. But it wasn't my choice it was hers, and I respect that. It is also quite clear to anyone who cares to notice, that you two are well suited for each other. You and Hermione are alike in so many ways," Remus said thoughtfully.

"If we are through here Lupin?" Severus spat maliciously, his dark eyes gleaming.

"Just, congratulations Severus. I mean that," Lupin said earnestly as he turned to go, leaving Albus and Severus alone.

"Severus Snape," Minerva called, upon seeing his face as he left his meeting with Albus. "What did Albus say to you?"

"Nothing Minerva," Severus snapped. "Just leave it."

"You know me better then that," she scoffed. "And I know Albus. He made you feel guilty over your marriage."

"What marriage Minerva?" Severus asked coldly. "I have taken advantage of a child. No more, no less. She is in no way capable of consent - "

"Stop right there Severus Snape. Hermione is a member of The Order Of The Phoenix. How much more proof do you need of her ability to consent? She is an adult in more ways then just her age? In fact her ability to consent, and indeed her maturity was put to a vote by the entire Order. You were there. Everyone except Molly, and she doesn't count when it comes to these kinds of opinions, agreed that Hermione is consenting adult. Everyone agreed that she is a mature, competent, capable, intelligent, consenting adult. So I will hear no more of this, do you understand me? The woman loves you it's obvious," Minerva declared.

"Have you told her that you love her?" Minerva asked. At Severus' lack of response she continued, "I thought not. Yet, both of you knew when you decided to marry, didn't you?"

Severus' face twisted into a deep sneer. When he spoke his silky voice was scathing, "Despite your... touching sentiment - "

"Fine. Let's just say you both knew you wanted to cohabitate when you made your decision. Deny that," she challenged.

"I can not," Severus growled, furious at the idea of Minerva hitting on a truth that his guilt complex was trying to ignore.

"I thought so. What else did Albus say? And don't you try to put one over on me. I know the old coot too well to think he didn't try to send you into throes of guilt for not consulting him before you made a decision," Minerva insisted.

"He merely pointed out the truth, that I am a pathetic old man, who is seeing things he wants to see. He pointed out, and rightly so, that she can have only pity for me. It was unfair of me to bind her to one such as myself. Even you can not deny that Minerva," Severus said in a smooth controlled voice.

"I won't just deny it. I'll prove it to you. Come!" Minerva pulled a shocked Severus by the sleeve. She led him to her room at Grimmauld Place. "I want you to see how Hermione reacted, how she felt, when you were dying. It wasn't pity she felt for you, of that there is no doubt Severus. None at all."

"A Pensieve. Why do you have - "

"I have lived with Albus since I turned eighteen. I don't do anything behind his back, but sometimes even I have personal things I wouldn't want an accomplished Legilimens delving into." Minerva smiled.

"Ah," was Severus' comprehending response.

Minerva put her wand to her head, and pulled out thin wispy memories, placing them in her Pensieve. When she was through she said simply, "In."

Severus looked shrewdly at her, but stepped forward and entered her memories. He was dropped into his private room in St Mungo's. He saw himself on a cot, Hermione sitting up against his side. He could see that she was crying. She held his hand to her cheek. Her lips were against his wrist, and he could barely make out that between her sobs that she was begging him not to leave her. He didn't see or hear the Healer draw Hermione's attention to Albus. He was absorbed by the sight of Hermione's concern for him. A concern that appeared to run deeper then pity. He did see when Hermione turned to face Albus. However, he paid no attention to Albus' words as he was taken in by the expressions on Hermione's face. Intense anguish, and fear. 'Fear of his death?' he wondered. He couldn't fathom it. Then he heard Hermione speak to Albus. He heard her emphasise with pride, that her name is Snape. He couldn't help but be affected by Hermione obviously valuing that his name was now hers as well. Then he saw Hermione becoming angry. He heard her tell Albus that he had no right to be there. He heard her accuse Albus of exploiting him, using him. He lost the ability to breathe as he saw Hermione resplendent in her fury. He was astonished that her rage was in defense of him. He heard her vow that she would end what she thought to be Albus' mistreatment of him. She was so vehement in her defense that he could not help but believe her concern for him to be genuine. He found her unbelievably beautiful as she threatened the most powerful wizard in the world on his behalf. Then he felt Minerva's hand on his shoulder, and he left the Pensieve.

"Do you see how this woman - " Minerva broke off at the look on Severus' face and defended her choice of words. "Yes, Hermione is a woman. A young woman, but you are a young man. Do not argue with me. You have had an unbearably hard life and that has taken it's toll. I am sure that makes you feel old beyond your years. But, you are a young man Severus. Hermione hasn't suffered as you have, and maybe that's why you refuse to give her credit for her maturity. However she is well aware of the evil we face, and I for one certainly hope she never has to suffer as you have. If she is that lucky that will always be a difference between you. But, that also makes for a good balance between the two you."

"I never want her to have to face - "

"I know you don't. Now, as I was saying, do you see how Hermione feels about you? You are not, 'a pathetic old man who is seeing things he wants to see'. Hermione's heart and soul are clearly settled on you. Her feelings for you are real. You deserve her, and she deserves you. In time you will see that you did the right thing, Severus. Don't let Albus bully you. I love him more than life, but I know his shortcomings. He will try to undermine your relationship because he wasn't consulted. He loves you like a son, and I know you love him like a father, but that doesn't make him infallible. He's only human, much as we all see him as some sort of Demi-God at times." Minerva paused and patted Severus affectionately on the arm. "I'm off to Hogwarts. You go to your wife. I'm sure she's waiting for you. You two will have this whole house to yourselves for the entire weekend," Minerva smiled knowingly.

She was pleased that she was there to effect damage control. For this, Albus would be sleeping on the proverbial couch tonight.

Severus found his room empty, it was still an utter mess from when he and Hermione were abducted months ago. He immediately realised that Hermione would be in the untouched room next door. Severus opened the door to that room, his dark eyes glinting as he took in the sight of Hermione. He swiftly entered the room, his robe billowing behind him. In two great strides he had Hermione in his arms. He clasped her to him, and buried his face in her neck.

Hermione understood Severus' unspoken need. The need to possess her, to stake his claim to her. It was natural after the terrible opposition they had been met with at the meeting. She didn't even want to imagine what Albus may have said to him. Something in her chest responded strongly. She felt a deep reciprocal need to be possessed by him, and to possess him as well. She voiced what she felt, "I am yours Severus." She tangled her hands in his hair. "I am yours alone, Severus, always."

Severus clasped her even more tightly to him. "Hermione, my wife," he breathed in awe.

"For ever Severus. I am yours only, for ever," she whispered.

Severus took Hermione's mouth in a bruiseingly possessive kiss, which she returned with equal intensity. He carried her to the bed, toeing off his boots and socks as he went. He lowered her to the bed and joined her on it. "Hermione? Hermione you want me?" he moaned.

"Yes, Severus. I want you. Only you. Always you," she whispered seductively.

He gathered her in his arms and clasped her to him. They stayed like that for quite a while. Just being as close as they could possibly be with each other. Hermione smiled into his chest, realising that this was a declaration of love, even if Severus didn't admit it.

He could no longer riegn in his urgent need for her. She couldn't suppress her pleasure, so lost was she in the feeling of making love with Severus Snape. Severus bent his head and absorbed Hermione's moans in his mouth as he kissed her.

Later she cried his name, followed closely by him calling hers. He rolled to the side keeping Hermione held to him. She smiled in her bliss. How she wanted to declare her love, but she wisely remained silent. Content to hold Severus to her, and stroke his back and arms.

After a while Severus spoke softly, "Hermione, I was..."

"Perfect," Hermione supplied. "How did you know exactly what I needed?" she asked.

As they lay in each other's arms drifting off to sleep Hermione spoke quietly, "Severus?"

"Hmmm?"

"Madam Macnaughton seemed to be upset that you were bound to a Muggle-born. You are a pureblood. I know you knew about me, how often has Malfoy pointed out that I'm a Mudblood, but - "

"You will not refer to yourself in such a derogatory manner," he snapped. His tone softened, and he added, "You were wondering, perhaps, if I have any lingering prejudices?"

"No, Severus. I know you don't. I'm worried that my being a Muggle-born will make your life more difficult. It caused Madam Macnaughton to treat you with disapproval. I do not want you to - "

"Silly witch," he said. "Surely you don't think I would allow the prejudices of others to effect me in such a way? I may have to appear to support The Dark Lord, but rest assured it is merely and act. My subterfuge requires - "

"I do know that. I just don't want others to make your life more difficult because you are bound to me. Although it's already too late for that, isn't it?"

"Perhaps I find it worth the disapproval..."

"I know I do Severus, I just needed to be sure that you - "

"Be sure," Severus said firmly.

She smiled as he drew her tightly to him, laying soft kisses on the nape of her neck, and across the back of her shoulders. After a few minutes Severus spoke softly, "Albus asked me to create a potion that will cause Potter's powers to be amplified for his prophesied encounter with The Dark Lord. I suppose I could use some assistance. If only I could find someone with enough interest, and intelligence - "

"Severus!" Hermione turned in his arms to face him again.

"Very well, I shall allow you to assist me," he said in a mock irritated tone.

"Yes you will! Enhance Harry's powers, hmmm." Hermione chewed her lip in thought. "I wonder what would happen if we brewed the potion with a stone containing the appropriate energies in the cauldron? I know stones like moonstone have been commonly used in potion-making. What I am thinking is something more out of the ordinary, as well as more appropriate to our needs. Amazonite could help Harry release his fears. Although maybe bloodstone would be better. Bloodstone is considered the stone of warriors as it brings protection to those in dangerous situations, and enhances strength while aiding in decision-making... No! Jet of course! Jet has a negative electrical charge, that makes it perfect for drawing power. It could help Harry draw extra power from - "

Severus smiled. "Settle down brilliant one. We can work on this tomorrow. Although I must say the idea of incorporating the properties of unusual stones is fascinating."

She did settle down in the face of his smile. It never failed to amaze her that she could cause this man to smile. She snuggled her head onto his shoulder, and a comfortable sleep soon claimed them both.

Hermione awoke with the most amazing sensations coursing through her.

Severus' exquisite torture caused her to voice her encouragement, "Oooohhhh, Oh, yyyeeesss!"

Neither she nor Severus heard the door open. Albus had told Molly to bring Ron and Harry out for the weekend so they could spend time with Hermione, as they hadn't seen her in months. Ron and Harry froze in shock at the sounds and semi-sight they were greeted with upon opening Hermione's door.

"Yyyeeesss! Oh! Ah! Yyyeeesss!" Hermione's cries increased in intensity.

"Who is she with?" Ron whispered to Harry.

The room was still dark and all they could see were silhouettes of the couple on the bed.

"We need to get out of here," Harry responded.

"Maybe it's that Jeremy Pryce she was seeing - " Ron began.

"Come on Ron let's go!" Harry urged.

"No I want to know who he is. Wait! His hand on her thigh, it has a wedding ring. She's seeing a married man Harry," Ron whispered.

At that Harry looked. He noticed that Hermione's hand in the man's hair, also bore a wedding ring. "No Ron, look at Hermione's hand, I think she was gone to... I think she went away to get married."

"Did she marry that Jeremy? No, he's blond this man has dark hair."

Their near silent conversation was interrupted by Hermione. "Severus, I want you. I need you... Sev-er-usss."

Severus groaned in response.

Harry thought he recognised something familiar in the man's voice even though he had only groaned. However, Harry couldn't quite place it. "Ron we need to leave," Harry said turning away.

"Harry do you know a, 'Severus'?" Ron asked.

"The only tall, thin, 'Severus', I know of is - "

"Snape!" Ron shouted.

Hermione screamed, and Severus' head whipped around in the direction of the door, his eyes glittering dangerously in the semi darkness. When he saw the intruders Severus clicked his fingers and the bed sheet flew into his hand. He covered himself and Hermione, and barked an incantation lighting the candles. Severus' wand was pointed directly at Ron and Harry. His face was white and twisted in rage. He visibly shook in absolute fury as he roared, "What are you two idiots doing here? Get out! Get out now!"

"What are you doing to Hermione!" Ron shrieked.

"I TOLD YOU TO GET OUT!" Severus bellowed.

"Azkaban is too good for you! I'll see you dead for this Snape!" Ron ranted insanely.

"Ron leave it alone! Let's go! Ron," Harry insisted, trying to pull him away. Ron shook Harry off and pulled his wand, raising it at Snape and advancing into the room.

"One more step and I shall - " Severus began.

"Expelliarmus! Accio Ronald's Wand!" Hermione cried. "Stop it both of you!" She plucked Ron's wand out of the air as it flew to her. "Harry get him out of here, before I hex him! No, before I hex you both! Don't you know how to knock! Just get out!"

Molly's voice rose over the fray, "What is going on up there?" As she came upon the scene, her hand flew to her throat. "Oh my!" she exclaimed.

"Mum he - " Ron began frantically.

"Ron, be quiet," she snapped. Molly then turned to the couple in the bed, "Professor Snape, explain yourself. What is going on here?" she demanded.

"I should think that would be obvious to a woman with so many children," Severus responded icily.

Hermione snorted in nervous laughter, as Molly turned bright red in abject anger. "I am a properly married woman Severus Snape. How dare you?" Molly raged. She had missed the Order meeting and had not spoken to Bill or Arthur about it yet. She had no idea that Hermione and Severus were married.

Severus raised a regal eyebrow at Molly.

"Answer me, Professor Snape!" Molly demanded again.

"Remove yourself Madam, and I shall endeavor to explain in a more appropriate setting," Severus answered disdainfully.

"Hermione Granger get out of that bed, and come with me this instant!" Molly ordered.

"Mrs Weasley, my name is Hermione Snape. Mrs Hermione Snape." She paused briefly to allow her words to sink in. "Thank you, but I will remain in my bed, with my husband. Now, please leave and we will speak with you downstairs later. In a more appropriate place as my husband already suggested to you."

Shocked silence reigned. When Molly found her voice it was to stutter, "Albus never said, he, he - "

Harry ushered the mumbling Molly, and the green tinged Ron toward the stairs. He turned back briefly and said, "You're right Hermione, I'm sorry, we should have knocked."

With that Severus and Hermione were left alone. Hermione turned to Severus and said, "Albus set this up."

"Indeed," Severus concurred.

Severus and Hermione showered, dressed, and went downstairs in search of the others. They found them in the front room making ready to depart via the floo.

"Ron." Hermione caught their attention. "Here's your wand," she said, as she held it out to him.

"Yeah, right," he mumbled, taking it from her while looking down at the floor.

His mother cuffed him on the back of the head.

Still staring at the floor he spoke, "Professor Snape, Hermione, I'm... uh... sorry," he spluttered resentfully.

Molly addressed them in an apologetic tone, "Severus, Hermione, what can I say? I'm so sorry. I had no idea. Albus led us to believe that Hermione was alone here. I just spoke with Albus through the floo, he wanted me to give you this." She handed Severus a sealed parchment. "Again I am so very sorry. Congratulations on your marriage. I mean that, I can see how you will do well together." She smiled. "Ron, Harry, and I are going to the Burrow now. We'll spend their weekend off from Hogwarts there. Don't worry, they have promised not to mention your marriage to anyone. Albus was emphatic that you should have the pleasure of announcing it yourselves."

"It was a misunderstanding. Albus can be vague sometimes, I know. No harm done really," Hermione said to Molly. "And guys, honestly, you need to knock on closed doors. Even if I had been alone, I could have been changing."

Harry walked over to Hermione and handing her a parchment apologised again.

Ron steadfastly ignored her.

"We're off then," Molly said with false brightness. The three flooed out to the Burrow.

Hermione opened the parchment Harry handed her and held it so that Severus could read it as well:

Dear Hermione,
I am writing because I don't think I'll have a chance to talk to you without Snape around right now. I just want to tell you again how sorry I am. I want you to know that I'll try to do something with Ron. Just give him some time okay? It's an adjustment. It's weird, you and Snape...

This was followed by an ink blot as if Harry had stopped to consider what to write next.

I hope you'll tell me what the hell made you do something like this. I mean, marrying Snape? Anyway, just take care okay, and talk to me when you can.
Harry

"Eloquent," Severus commented.

"And what is your parchment?" Hermione asked.

Severus opened the parchment from Albus, and they read:

Severus,
I will expect you and Hermione back at Hogwarts Sunday evening. I will meet with you in my office at eight, if that is convenient? We will decide then how to proceed. Regardless, I will need you back in the swing of the school year by breakfast Monday morning. I am sure you will be pleased to make your happy announcement to the school then.
Albus