Chapter 11

"Wine?" asked Severus, closing the door.

"Please," murmured Rosemary, shrugging off her robes and draping them over a chair. Sevrus poured them both a glass of wine and gestured for her to sit. He paused to look at her, his obsidian eyes sliding over her with an almost gentle scrutiny. Finally, he handed her the glass and sat down across from her.

The fire popped and crackled merrily beside them as they drank in silence. At long last, Severus set aside his glass and pulled a small green box out of his pocket.

He cleared his throat in an almost nervous gesture. "I have something for you," he said hesitantly. Leaning forward just a bit, he handed her the tiny box. He watched as she opened it, studying the subtle delight and curiosity that played over her face. Upon opening the box she found a small silver snowflake, nestled inside among a layer of cotton. Her eyes went wide as she picked it up and found that it was attached to a delicate silver chain. She immediately fastened it about her neck.

"It's beautiful, Severus; thank you."

"I wanted to…" he looked away, unsure of how exactly to continue. Rosemary smiled at him and slid to her feet.

"It's all right," she said softly, "I understand."

He tensed as she touched his shoulder and slid into his lap. His body was rigid against hers, and she touched his cheek tenderly.

"Relax," she whispered. "I don't bite; well, not hard at least," she added thoughtfully. Slowly, Severus adjusted his body to hers. One arm snaked around her waist for support, while the other draped itself casually across her lap.

"Thank you," she repeated, brushing her lips across his ear. "The gift was very thoughtful."

Severus pulled back just enough to look her in the eye. His hand rose up suddenly of its own accord and tucked a straying lock of hair behind her ear. Her eyes fluttered closed as his long, elegant fingers slid down to stroke her neck. He closed the gap between them slowly, almost hesitantly, and pressed his lips firmly against hers. She sighed against his mouth and let her arms wind around his neck. She shivered as his hands slipped gently through her hair, fingertips brushing lightly over her scalp.

On the other side of the wall, Hermione was smiling smugly at Ron and Harry. With twin looks of disgust, they handed over their galleons and began making their way back to the common room.