Her mouth met his, and it was bliss for both, for they had not met in any such way for a long time; Severus had been away on missions for the Order, and Hermione had been on holiday with her parents.

As they parted, both knew that the need was there… flowing just under the surface. Hermione's face was impassive, but her eyes were full of mischief as she said, "Let us away."

Severus held her in his arms, and was about to reply, when a rather disheveled Minerva McGonnegal burst into the room.

"Severus Snape! I want a word!"