I am so, so sorry. It's been awhile, I know. My computer broke, and it wasn't fixed until the 21st! That was 3 days later than expected. Then, when I really wanted to start on my story, I had to go through my e-mail and delete the things I didn't want, and read the updates. I still haven't read every single one. I had 300 in my yahoo, and 139 in my hotmail. So again I'm very, very sorry for the delay.

Thank you to all my reviewers, they mean everything to me. I've decided I could never abandon this story. It's done so much better than expected. I hope all of you at least give my next story a try. I'm thinking of leaving a preview for it at the end of this...what do you think?

So I'm going to stop my ramblings and get on with the story!

WARNING: ANOTHER NAUGHTY CHAPTER. CONTINUE AT YOUR OWN RISK.

Chapter Sixteen

SNAPE'S POV, LONGBOURNE VILLAGE

The room was dark, perfect for secret meetings. It must be important if Lucius had come all this way. He usually prefers the other person to do all the work. Lucius was sitting completely cloaked in the darkest corner of the room. I knew it was him because he had worn the same cloak he did when he wanted to meet privately. He always wore a dark green, velvety cloak that repelled water. If he was going to have a regular meeting, he wore a regular (but still nice and expensive) black cloak. I made my way over to his table, making sure my cloak never revealed my face. I settled into the seat across from Lucius, facing the wall. Lucius cast a quick silencing spell around our table so anybody within hearing distance couldn't hear what was being said.

"Severus, thank you for coming. I took the liberty of ordering you a brandy." My lips stretched in a small smile. He knows my favorite drink still...Lucius always did have a good memory for that sort of thing...I nodded in response and thanked him quietly. Lucius played with his cup, staring down into the swishing liquid. Finally my drink arrived. I took a sip of it and sighed. Mmm...brandy.

"Lucius, while I am very happy to be drinking brandy I didn't have to pay for, and spending time with an old friend, please get to the point." I drawled, my tone bored. Lucius merely raised an eyebrow and nodded. He pushed his long blonde hair out of his face, his cool blue eyes watching me watch him. After a pause, he leaned forward.

"Severus, I have enjoyed my time with our lord immensely. It has brought me closer to people of my caliber, and it has provided some amusing moments in otherwise dull times. That is, until around the time the school year started." He sat back and waited for me to process this information.

Did something happen? Does Lucius know something? What's happened to make him feel the Dark Lord is boring? Does he wish to switch sides? I narrowed me eyes. "So?" I growled. He chuckled softly.

"Patience Severus. I will explain." He looked calmly back at me, clearing enjoying my impatience. I scowled at him. Arrogant blighter...

"At the beginning the summer our lord began to get stronger, and some of his...appetites returned. Normally I would not have cared about that. But he began to cast his eyes in the direction of my wife. As much as I pretend to not give a damn about her, she's one of the few good things in my life. Her, Draco, and of course you." I was surprised to hear this, enough to where my control slipped slightly.

"I'm honored." Sarcasm filled my voice, but I allowed him to briefly see by my facial expression that I really was honored. He inclined his head, eyes never leaving mine.

"You should be. Not many have that honor. Now, as I was saying...When I showed my disapproval over our Lord's wandering eye, he punished me and said that as my lord, he could take what he wanted and that I should be honored he finds my wife so attractive. Before this I had been feeling off, and this seemed to push me over the edge. I went home and told Narcissa to leave the country. I fully expected the Lord to punish me, but I didn't care. He wasn't going to get his claws on my wife. Draco was supposed to go with Narcissa, but apparently Narcissa got it into her head that he had to stay and make sure I didn't die." I was again surprised. Lucius looked tired, angry, sad, and of all things, guilty. I sat back and studied the man before me.

His eyes were what gave him away. His face was still a cold mask, and only someone who knew him very well would be able to read his as I could. He was dressed as impeccably as usual, but there seemed to be an air of...something about him. He looked depressed and almost desperate. My interest piqued, I leaned forward and gestured for him to continue.

He sighed. "I was summoned and responded as usual. When I got there, everybody was surrounding a rock. Somebody was on the rock, and they were just lying there. My heart began to pound and I began to sweat. I moved forward to catch a glimpse of what was on the rock." His grey eyes met mine, and I was shocked at the wealth of emotions displayed freely in them. "Draco was tied to the rock, naked except for some boxers. He was dirty, his hair mussed, and he looked terrified. When he met my eyes, the look in them...oh god." He put a hand over his face and took a deep breath. I sat still, trying to process the thought that Draco was had been in the Dark Lord's clutches and he was still alive, as well as the fact that Lucius was displaying emotions like a Gryffindor.

I leaned forward and awkwardly patted his arm. He looked up at me, and thankfully his face was completely free of tears. His face was twisted with worry and pain. He looked down at his drink and tried to gain control once again. Finally, when he looked up again, his face was perfectly calm, almost serene. He took a gulp of his alcoholic beverage and set it down. He licked his lips and continued.

"I nearly ran forward to foolishly try and get him away from there, anywhere but there. The others stunned me and made sure I could see what was going to happen. You weren't able to make it because of Dumbledore." His eyes were closed as he recounted the horrible scene. "I could do nothing but watch as the Dark Lord stepped forward. He laid his hand on my son's face and caressed it, like a lover. Then he said something about paying the price. He...he...cast a dark spell on Draco. He started screaming...screaming for help. I saw from that point on what Dumbledore had been trying to say for years. The Dark Lord is a demented, murderous...thing. He shouldn't be allowed to live." He lowered his shaking hands, and his eyes were bright with tears. He met my eyes full on, not bothering to hide emotions. Of course he wouldn't hide. He wants something, and he feels the only way he can get it is if he's sincere.

"Draco's made of sterner stuff that I thought. Since he's recovered from the incident, he's looked normal. Except sometimes he has nightmares. He wakes up screaming and crying. I don't want my son to spend the rest of his life on his knees begging for mercy from some freak who isn't even pureblood." So what do you want? "I want to join the Order and spy for Dumbledore on the condition that he provides protection for my son."

"I do not have the power to grant you your wish by myself. I will meet with Dumbledore and other necessary people and we shall discuss it. I'll give you our decision when one has been made." Lucius nodded. I finished off my brandy and set the cup down. I stood up and moved to pay for my drink. Lucius waved away my attempt.

"It's taken care of. Just promise me to try your best to get my son protected." I studied him. He's so sure I'm actually on Dumbledore's side.

"How long did you know?" Lucius was no fool. He knew immediately what I was speaking of.

"From the very beginning." I cocked my head to the side and raised an eyebrow.

"And you never said anything because...?"

"Because you were my closest friend, and even if you didn't agree with my values, you were still my friend." I was oddly touched. I smiled slightly.

"Thank you for the brandy, Lucius. Have a safe trip." Translation: Thank you. I consider you a friend as well. I nodded once more at Lucius before sweeping out of the room. I noticed some witch staring at me appreciatively and sneered in her direction. She humphed and returned to her meal.

I need to speak to Albus and the Order right away.

HERMIONE'S POV, ARIES

"So we all agree that Lucius should join if he passes our Veritaserum test?" I heard murmurs of agreement spread through the room. I simply nodded and shifted slightly. I wanted to leave quickly and interrogate Severus on what had happened at the lastest meeting. Then I was going to fuss over him and make sure he wasn't in any pain, and if he wasn't...well...It all depends on what he feels up to.

"Well, I'm sure you all have much to do. We'll have another meeting in a couple of days to update our progress." Everybody stood up, and the noise level rose to a less than discrete volume. My friends started heading for the door, and I followed. Severus hates noise as much as I do, and at some point he has to exit through this door. I stood in the small hallway, discussing the meeting and which students needed more help with training than the others.

The students were all working hard, learning at a fast pace. They practiced even when they weren't training. They studied the spells they had learned when class wasn't in. Amazingly, somehow the training had made them more dilligent students. From what I heard, grades were at a high point. They were working hard; less concerned about quidditch and gossip. They asked intelligent questions and applied themselves, inside and outside the classroom. House rivalries were practically non-existent, although not completely gone.

I heard the voices from within the room get louder, and then muffled yet again. A few seconds later, Severus appeared, looking tired and very grumpy. He stopped to greet my friends politely. I'm rather proud of how he treats them. Not quite equals, but not inferior either. They returned his greeting equally polite.

"So Professor. When exactly do we get to make the shrinking solution? I can think of a few guys I might like to test it on." Tabby inquired. Severus smirked down at her. She smirked just as mischievously as he back. He put an insincere scolding look on his face, and wagged a finger at her.

"Now Miss Carter. I do hope I won't catch you using that potion on some, poor, undeserving male, shall I?" Tabby put on an insincere contrite look on her face, and stared down at her shoes.

"No, sir. I would never." I choked back a laugh. I could almost hear Tabby's thoughts, "Now a deserving male on the other hand..."

Severus nodded."As much as I am enjoying our, chat, I really must get back to my chambers." He looked exhausted and at the end of his patience. When he swept by, I moved to walk behind him. He spun around, and seeing me standing behind him, raised an eyebrow.

"I'm coming with you." He scowled but didn't object. He moved swiftly through the castle, never slowing down for me. It's good to know that you don't treat people you supposedly care about any different than you do everybody else. I followed silently however, never uttering a word of anger. He just got back from a meeting. He probably doesn't even want you with him right now. His footsteps stopped in front of the painting guarding his entrance. He muttered the password and held the door open for me to move past. Wow. He can be chivalrous. I settled into the chair by the fire and watched as he moved around his chambers, shedding clothes and ordering tea. He finally settled in the chair opposite me, face weary.

"Do you want to talk about it?" He shook his head and sank into the chair. A house elf popped in from the kitchen, carrying a tray of tea. Severus moved to pour himself a cup, but I shooed him back into his chair and poured his cup for him. I added nothing, just as he liked it. He sighed and wiggled his toes in content. I chuckled softly, and he sent a half-hearted glare in my direction. I wiggled my toes at him, and one corner of his mouth twitched up. I turned towards the fire and stared into it, fascinated by it's movement. Severus stood up and moved to the couch. It startled me and I jumped even as my hand moved down to where my wand was hidden. Severus raised and eyebrow and gestured that I should join him on the couch.

Instead of settling in next to him, I sat in his lap. At first he stiffened, then slowly relaxed. He wrapped his arms around me and held me close. My hands rested on his arms, and my face was in the crook of his shoulder. I sat there, content just to be with him. His breath brushed against my cheek, which was rather comforting. Neither of us spoke. Finally, at an unspoken signal, we both moved to get up. I jumped up, then offered my hand to help him up. After a moment's hesitation, he took it. Still doesn't want to accept help...I stood up on my tiptoes and kissed his lips gently, and then I brushed his jaw with my fingers softly. He stared down at me, his eyes that lovely shade of black, face inscrutable. I backed up slowly and smiled.

Turning, I grabbed my shoes and bag. As I reached the door, Severus came up behind me and grabbed me. Startled, I spun around just in time for Severus to gather me into a hug. I hugged him to me as tightly as I could, the shoes and bag in the way. I kissed his neck, which was as high as I could reach without standing on tiptoe. I pulled back reluctantly.

"I'll see you tomorrow." I whispered. He nodded and tucked a lock of hair behind my ear. I smiled at him once again, but quickly left. Any more time there, and I wouldn't leave. I had spent last night with him, so I couldn't tonight. I still needed to spend time with my friends, no matter how much I wanted to spend time with Severus. I hopped down the hallway, shoving my shoes on. The bag bounced with every jump and bounced off my back. I winced everytime it struck. Finally the shoes were on, and I raced up the stairs, almost running into whoever stood at the top.

I started to tumble backwards, but strong arms jerked forward to grip my forearms just in time. I breathed a sigh of relief as I caught my balance. I glanced up to thank whoever it was that had saved me, but the words died in my mouth. Professor Matthews stood before me, face twisted with dark emotions I couldn't identify in the dark lighting. Still holding my arm, he turned and began to walk towards an empty classroom, dragging me with him. What in the world...?

He flung open the door, and closed it with a resounding bang once I was safely inside. He shoved me up against the wall and got up in my face. I raised an eyebrow at him.

"Is there something wrong, Professor?" This seemed to make him even angrier. He moved closer still, and I began to feel trapped. I put my hand out to stop him. The second my hand touched his chest he stopped. His face was still twisted with emotions I couldn't quite see.

"How long have you been seeing him?" The whisper sounded harsh, and I nearly flinched on reflex. You are no longer a Gryffindor. Act like a Sneaky Slytherin and get out of this!

"Seeing who?" He grabbed my arms and slammed he into the wall.

"You know who." He hissed.

"Voldemort?" I guessed. He growled deep in his throat like an angry animal.

"Don't be absurd. How long have you been fucking Snape?" A dart of anger shot through me, cutting through the fear. Who the hell is he to ask me that?

"None of your damned business." I snarled. He pressed his chest against my back, his lips against my ear.

"When I first heard that you were fucking Carse, I was surprised. I didn't know you liked your teachers. But of course, it gave me hope. Then, you and Carse denied having any relationship deeper than friendship, and I knew you were meant for me. But then Snape came, and I saw the way you looked at him. I saw you dancing at the club." I swallowed nervously.

"I knew I had to have you. I've been watching the both of you for awhile now. You think you're so sneaky. But you're not, my dear, your not." The tip of his tongue traced the outline of my ear, and I shivered in disgust. I struggled helplessly against him, but that seemed to just turn him on. "You've had your fun with Snape, Hermione. I want you. I can show you things he never could, I make you feel things you could never feel otherwise." He placed small, soft kisses across my face. My face was turned towards the door, my breaths coming out quickly. Gods, this isn't happening!

He grabbed my shoulder and spun me around, slamming me once again into the wall. He pressed his body against me, his erection pressed into my stomach. My eyes overflowed with tears as he made a small groaning sound. I was sickened at the idea of his hands on my body, and yet I was powerless to stop him. He grabbed my wrists and pinned them above my head before muttering a sticking charm. His hands quickly unbuttoned my shirt, cupping my breasts through my bra. His fingers moved over my nipple, and to my horror, they hardened. The tears were streaming down my face now, and my limbs were shaking for intense fear and slight arousal. I felt betrayed by my own body, by its reactions.

"Yes...you like that?" He sucked, nibbled, and kissed his way up to my lips. He suddenly gasped and collapsed forward. His eyes rolled backwards into his head and he slumped down at my feet. I looked up to find Severus standing there, his fists clenched, his face twisted in hatred, anger, and disgust. I whimpered softly, knocking Severus out of his trance. He quickly moved forward to cast the counterspell to the sticking charm. I rubbed my wrists, still crying softly. Severus tilted my head up so he could look me in the eye.

"Are you hurt anywhere?" I shook my head. I clutched Severus to me, soaking his shirt with my tears, which were already slowing. Just his presence can calm me...Finally the shaking stopped, and I started to step back. Severus continued to hold me to him, his heart beating in my ear. I gave up trying to get away and melted into his embrace. He kissed the top of my head and murmured something, but I couldn't catch it.

"You're staying with me tonight." He stated firmly. Too shaken to argue, I allowed him to lead me back to his rooms. He held my hand the entire way, and only let go of it to snap his fingers and summon an elf. I heard him speaking softly, but I was too distraught to notice. How many times have I been attacked this year? Three times? And by a teacher! Matthews' face flashed before my eyes, and I whimpered. Why do I just attract the assholes? Is there something wrong with me? Severus' arms suddenly wrapped around me from behind, cradling me to him. I relaxed in his embrace, feeling safe. Maybe I don't attract just assholes. Severus is good, if a bit clueless at times. Severus was definitely good in bed; there was no doubt about that. But when it came to affection and comfort, he got a bit confused. Usually just his presence calmed me, however. Much to his good luck.

"You're going to be alright Hermione." I nodded. I nodded in agreement. I turned in his arms and pressed myself against him. He looked down at me, and passion flared in his eyes. He lowered his head, his warm lips meeting mine gently. I opened my mouth to him, enjoying how he made me feel. I moaned softly and his hand wandered up to cup my breast. His thumb teased my nipple, which hardened again, this time for the right man. He kissed from my lips down to my neck, before sucking on the skin. I sighed and ran my hands through his hair. Maybe this would help me forget what almost happened with Matthews'.

He scooped me up into his arms and carried me into his bedroom. He gently set me down on the bed, and with a flick of his wand, we were both naked. He settled in beside me, simply touching me and devouring me with his eyes. Eventually I couldn't take it any more, and I rolled over on top of him. I trailed kisses over his face, his neck, and his chest. I met his eyes and smiled at the look that was in them. There was no mistaking the desire that deepened his already dark eyes.

I moaned as his mouth closed on my breast. He sucked and licked at it before switching breasts and giving the other one the same treatment. I was on fire, and desperate to feel him inside me. Unfortunately, Severus seemed to be in a playful mood. When I moved to slide down on him, he prevented me from doing so. I was quickly growing frustrated, wanting my own way. Let's give him a taste of his own medicine. I stopped him from nipping at my collarbone by wiggling down to eye level with his nipples. I licked one, and then blew on it. It hardened immediately. I could feel his erection pressing against me. I moved one hand down to rub it, and he made a whimpering sound in the back of his throat. This fueled my desire even more. I was more than ready for him. He rolled over on top of me, but instead of just forcefully sliding into me as happened in the past, he stopped just at my entrance, teasing me with my own desires. I jerked my hips and whimpered, an invitation to continue. He simply smirked.

"Patience." Patience my ass. He entered me slowly, stopping every few inches, drawing out the stretching sensation of my body accommodating his I continued to jerk my hips, still whimpering. I grasped his shoulders, trying to egg him on. I wrapped my legs around his waist, opening myself to him, trying to seat him completely inside. He simply kissed my face and continued his slow, torturous, movements. He buried his face in my neck, a sign that perhaps this wasn't easy for him to maintain control and his own patience. I relaxed myself, knowing that nothing I could do would make him go any faster, he was dedicated to this course of action. I simply did my best to remain still and quiet. Every now and then whimpers, groans and pleads would escape my lips, but for the most part I was silent. My hips jerked reflexively, remembering times of more frantic mating between our bodies. When they did, he groaned deeply. Finally he all the way in me, and I reveled in the feel of him throbbing inside me.

I couldn't take it anymore. I went crazy, kissing him, scratching down his back, grinding myself against him, hips bucking and rolling to provide any amount of friction, no matter how small.

"Relax, Hermione. There's no need to rush. Just enjoy the moment." My thoughts were fuzzy, and I briefly wondered how he could manage to form complete sentences. He began thrusting, but not as forcefully as usual. He was gentle, but still managed to draw pleasure and passion from me with his deliberate movements.. I pushed his hips closer to me, wishing I could just melt into him. I screamed out his name as I came, an intense wave of pleasure slowly washing over my body before it ebbed away. Strong and prolonged enough to draw his own release from him. He collapsed on me, chest heaving. He rolled sideways so he wouldn't squash me, yet again cradling me to him. I was shocked at how safe and...Well, cared for I had felt during the sex. It was amazing...sex between us usually wasn't that way. Does this mean he's starting to care about me? Not that I don't like the rough sex, but that was the best sex so far! I felt so connected to him!

"That...was amazing..."

"Of course it was. I was the one you were with, wasn't I?"

"Your ego is amazing."

"I know." I yawned and snuggled closer to Severus. This is the first time he's ever attempted to cuddle after sex. I wonder if something's wrong...

"Don't you dare fall asleep like this. I'll get cold." I opened one eye and gazed up at him. He was glaring sternly down at me. I simply sighed and rolled away from him. I made my way up to the head of his bed, laying my head down on Severus' favorite pillow, and was halfway asleep when the pillow was jerked out from under my head.

"This, my dear Mia, is my pillow."

"But it's the most comfortable one." He smirked.

"I know."

"But I'm a guest!"

"So?"

"So, the guest always gets the best things." Severus snorted.

"Not where I'm concerned. Most guests are uninvited and unwanted." I felt hurt by his comment, but was comforted that he said most, not all. I grabbed the other, less fluffy pillow, and used that one instead. Severus lay down next to me, his arm thrown across my back. I quickly fell asleep, content and sated.

HERMIONE'S POV, THE NEXT MORNING, BREAKFAST

"So, Mia. You didn't come back last night." Mike leered at me. I rolled my eyes and finished eating my toast. I had put off telling them about Matthews attacking me, hoping they wouldn't bring up last night. I cleared my throat and looked up. I set the rest of my toast down and met each and every one of their eyes.

"Guys, I have something to tell you. But first, I want you to listen to the entire story before declaring war and getting sent to Azkaban for murder." Their joking smiles faded, replaced with suspicious, already-on-the-way-to-being-mad smiles. I licked my lips and brushed a few wisps of hair back. I had simply cast a straightening and de-frizzing spell on my hair. It was barely manageable. I had pulled it up in a simple ponytail, and I had a bare minimum of makeup on.

"Well...last night as I was leaving Severus' chambers, I ran into Professor Matthews. He was a little upset at me being out with Severus. He dragged me into an empty classroom and threw me against the wall. They then proceeded to show me just how well he thought he could make love to me." I quickly went on, noticing the dark looks that were replacing the suspicious and concerned ones. "Severus came in the nick of time and hexed him, then took me back to his chambers, where I would be safe from another attack."

"HE WHAT!" The chorus of voices cut through the chattering of others. People were turning to look at us, including the teachers. I shot a glance at Severus, who was looking rather amused. I glanced at Matthews, who was looking rather worried. We're well known for our anonymous revenge. I'm glad he's worried. I cast a quick smile at Severus, who smirked back.

"Honestly, it isn't as bad as it sounds. And now that Matthews knows you know, he'll be so worried about what we're going to do to him. I say we wait awhile, let the tension and anxiety build before striking." The all grinned, already pleased with the idea. They began discussing ways to get revenge, and I tuned them out. What exactly is my relationship with Severus? Are we friends with benefits or lovers? Does he care about me in a more than friend way? Last night was wonderful...but what if it was only temporary? I glanced up at him to find him glaring darkly at Matthews, who was steadily avoiding his gaze. I returned happily to my food, joining my friends in their discussion of what you should do to a male once you castrated them.

"Miss Granger, could you please come with us?" I turned to find Professors Peabody, Lupin, McGonagall, along with the two Headmasters, standing behind me. I finished off my eggs and got up from the table. Silently, my friends got up and followed us out. They were shot some annoyed looks, but they ignored them. They surrounded me, silently giving me their support in case I needed it. Severus was standing outside the doors already. When did he get up? Dumbledore gestured for us to gather in an empty classroom. He cast several privacy spells, and turned towards me. His cheerful smile disappeared, replaced with a seriousl look.

"Miss Granger, we asked you here to ask you a few questions about your relationship with Severus." My heart jumped into my throat, and my eyes darted to Severus. His face was might as well been carved from stone for all I could read it. I faced Dumbledore and the rest of the teachers, meeting each and every one of their eyes.

"I care for Severus very much. He hasn't given me better grades because we've been seeing each other. If I make a mistake in class, he still insults me as much as anybody else. There is no special treatment."

"How did this happen?" Peabody asked. Nosy wench.

"Um...well when he first arrived I hated him as much as I hated all of you...but...I don't know. I just felt connected to him somehow. I couldn't help but want him. It's become more involved than that though." I hastened to add. Everybody's face had darkened, and I wanted to make them understand before Severus got fired. They all looked to Severus for confirmation, and he nodded, his face still a mask. The teachers whispered among themselves briefly while I waited nervously for them to say something. Somebody briefly touched my shoulder, offering comfort. It made me relax, and I muttered a soft thanks. Finally they turned back towards us.

"As long as there's no special treatment, I can see no reason to object to the relationship. You're of age and you've given consent to a relationship. Somebody else will have to teach you potions however. It's only right." McGonagall stated. I couldn't keep my disappointment back. I love watching him create potions. His hands...how hard he concentrates...

All my friends patted my back and congratulated me. I smiled in response, but wished I was alone with Severus. He still hadn't said a word, and I was worried he was mad at me. The teachers filed out of the room, casting curious glances between Severus and me. My friends nodded at Severus and left the room, shutting the door with a bang behind them. Sunlight filtered through the windows, revealing dust floating in the air.

"Severus?" I asked tentatively. He merely looked at me. "Severus, are you angry at me?" There I said it. He'd better respond!

"No." That simple word caused me to relax profoundly. I sat down on the desk, limp with relief. I hated having Severus mad at me.

"Good. I was worried you were angry at me for...well for this whole episode." He walked toward me and gathered me in his arms. I inhaled his scent and sighed in contentment. This feels so good, so right. He kissed the top of my head, and I moved closer to him.

"I do not like my private life on display, but I saw the necessity of that conversation." I nodded, my face pressed against his chest. He pushed me away gently. He tipped my face up towards his and kissed me. It was a demanding kiss, one that promised much pleasure in the future. Desire swept through me. I opened my mouth to him, my tongue dancing with his. He pulled back once again, breathing heavily, his dark eyes glittering with lust.

"You should go. You need to prepare for class." I pulled away reluctantly, smoothing out my rumpled clothes. I glanced up to find him watching me, his eyes still glittering. I felt a tug in my midsection, and knew if I didn't leave soon we'd end up having sex on the desk next to us, or pressed up against the wall. Ohh...that brings some pretty naughty images to mind...

"I'll see you later, Severus." I stopped and turned around. Marching up to him, I ignored his raised eyebrow and inquiring look. I stood on tiptoe and brushed my lips against his. I kiss his cheeks, his forehead, and then the tip of his nose. He pulled back after that, staring down at me. Is he worried I was making fun of his nose? I rather like it...I reached up and brushed some hair back from his face and smiled. His entire face softened slightly, before he gestured for me to go.

I left the room without a backwards glance.

SNAPE'S POV, POTIONS CLASSROOM

"I don't want to hear a peep out of any of you. If I hear so much as a sneeze, you'll spend a week in detention, doing the most disgusting work I can think of." The brats literally scampered to the shelves, trying to get the work done quickly; reducing the length of time I have for a chance to yell at them. I sank gratefully into my seat and rubbed the bridge of my nose. Idiots, every one of them...The third years were still causing noise, bottles being set down to hard, people arguing over which ingredients were needed. How hard is it to read the board?

Hermione and her friends can at least read. So the world isn't completely hopeless. I sighed softly and squeezed my eyes shut. Hermione. I pictured her standing before me, her long curly hair hanging down a little past her shoulders, her cinnamon eyes shining happily out at me. A small smile lit her face up. The sunlight showed her red highlights. I felt a tightening in my groin, and something much scarier. A tugging at my heart.

I felt the first tug during Christmas, when she had given me those wonderful gifts. I hadn't worn the t-shirt, although I was tempted to wear it to a staff meeting, just to see everybody's reaction. The book was interesting, informative, and simply addicting. The information contained in that book was horrifying at times, but the healing potions written within were detailed and extremely useful. Her admission about caring for me only fueled my feelings, and I was at a lost as how to proceed. I wanted her to stay with me forever (I winced at the thought. Apparently lust had turned into need...which had turned into something I refused to identify), but why would she want to stay with an old, cruel man who had no future?

But why would she want to be with me now? She could have practically any male in this school, and she chose me. Why?

What does it matter? She probably is just having fun. I don't need her! I don't need anyone!

But a little treacherous voice whispered, Oh, but you do. You want her, you need her. Admit it. You're crazy about her. You're in lo-

No! I don't...I don't...love her. I remembered all those images I had seen in the potions lab of us growing old together. My heart twinged. I felt a sense of longing, something I hadn't felt in awhile. My life had consisted of fatigue, guilt, worry, and anger. Longing was new. Not one for introspection, I gave into examining my feelings. I pictured her standing before me as I had before. I stared at my closed eyelids, seeing her face, her body. Examining my feelings, I was shocked at the list of feelings I was experiencing. Lust, fondness, annoyance, amusement, possessiveness, caring, worry and...

Love.

I couldn't escape it. I loved her more than life itself. I was almost afraid to think it. What am I supposed to do? I promised myself I'd never change for anybody. But Hermione could never l-love somebody like me. I'm cruel, old, and homely. Why would she want me? Confusion, longing, and that twinging feeling filled me again. First thing's first. Admit what you feel for the girl. Say it!

I couldn't.

Say it, Severus! Be a man!

I gulped. I haven't loved anybody since my mother. Every I had ever had feelings for had hurt me. Would admitting I care for Hermione somehow cause her to hurt me? She'd never do it on purpose, but that doesn't change the fact that it happens. I'm cursed.

Be a man. Hermione would never hurt you, and if she did, she'd be torn up with guilt. She's already admitted to caring for you. Caring is on its way to love. Manipulate her; get her to fall in love with you. The little voice sounded firm and confident. I didn't feel the same.

Could I do that? I'm arguing with myself. The disconnected thought amused me greatly. I could feel my lips twitching. I must not let the class see me smile. I returned my attention to my previous thoughts. I can do this. It's just a simple thought. Just because I admit it does not mean I have to actually tell the girl how I feel.

I licked my lips and forced myself to laugh. Hermione's image wavered before my eyes. I met her imaginary eyes and smiled softly.

I love you, Hermione Granger.

Woot for Severus! He finally admits his feelings. Does it seem a little rushed to all of you? I didn't know if it did myself. But it's important that Severus loves Hermione. Again, I'm sorry for the delay. Computers do get broken, unfortunately. If I had my way, they'd be invincible. Please review. I'd appreciate it greatly.