Disclaimer: It isn't mine, it never was, and never will be.

PLEASE, PLEASE READ!

My subplots have NOT been abandoned. We will still find out who is controlling Hermione, who the spy is, and who attacked her. As for Hermione's snake, he's around. He's not important to the story, but since he was mentioned I'll give him a part in the story. Maybe not in this chapter or the next, but he'll make an appearance. Hermione gets raped because one, she's an enemy to Voldemort and two, she's attractive.

It was mentioned that if computers were invincible, they'd take over the world. Shivers I've never thought of it that way. Could you imagine, be on a computers beck and call? Your absolutely right, JTBJAB! Then again, if computers were invincible, we wouldn't have any problems with them.

I have started another story based on the book series Sweep. When I post my chapter for Sweep, some are going to get it in their mail. Just delete it. Once this story is over (this story is priority #1, Sweep is 2nd) I will immediately begin on my next Hermione/Severus story. Then that story will become priority #1.

I'd also like to thank Peruvian-girl for pointing out one of my earlier mistakes and being kind about it. I've had that mistake pointed out before, and some others were rude. As for them partying...well they just went through a battle, and now some of the students want to have some fun. Celebrate life, and all that. And as for Hermione having sex with Severus after nearly being rape: well Hermione trusts Severus completely and believed he wouldn't ever hurt her.

I love my Lucy as well. There's something about Slytherins that just...sexy.

Chapter Seventeen

5 MONTHS LATER, END OF MAY

"Okay, everybody. Get into position. On the count of three, begin trying to hex your partner. Remember not to use anything life threatening." I blew the whistle, which was magnified by a sonorous charm. Everybody immediately formed lines, standing about twenty feet from their partner on the school grounds. I blew my whistle yet again and they moved into their dueling positions. I could hear Tabby and the other's blowing their whistles as well. Everybody looked concentrated, ready to give it their all. I blew my whistle one last time, and they started shouting hexes at one another. Everybody was as far apart as they could get without being out of my or my friends line of vision. We were spread out as well; each watching closely, ready to jump in if somebody got seriously hurt, or to correct somebody's dueling.

I watched as Weasley threw a slicing hex at Potter, who deflected it easily. He quickly cast a stunning spell at Weasley, who was so busy trying to cast another spell he didn't bother to block. He was knocked off his feet, landing about two feet behind where he was originally standing. I moved towards him, and offered a hand to help him up. He took it grudgingly. I nodded at Potter, who relaxed. He moved closer to us, ready to listen to whatever advice I was going to give.

"Weasley, you did good. Next time, watch Potter carefully. He blocked your spell. Instead of trying to sneak a spell in, wait for him to try and hex you. Block that one, and quickly let loose a hex at him. He'll be so busy blocking, that you have a better chance of hitting him." Weasley nodded, his face red. I rolled my eyes and moved back to where I was standing before, safely out of the way from any stray spells. I cast a rudimentary shielding spell to keep all basic spells out and nodded at Potter and Weasley to begin. I kept my eye out for any spells that might get past my shield.

After fifteen minutes of nonstop dueling, I allowed them a five minute break, sternly reminding them that in a real battle there will be no break. I settled down next to Tabby and the rest of them, drinking lemonade and enjoying the beautiful day. I leaned up against the tree trunk, watching the other people laugh and talk amongst themselves.

"I think they're doing well, don't you Mia?" I nodded.

"They've progressed wonderfully in the short amount of time we've been working with them. They have most of the complex healing, defensive, and offensive spells memorized. Funnily enough, they're having problems with the easier spells. But I still think it was a good idea to start them on the more complex ones. It's not as if the Death Eaters are going to be using simple hexes." I leaned my head back against the trunk, eyes closes, completely relaxed.

"Yeah. It's rather amazing. Graduation's at the end of this week. Even if we have taught them as much as we could in the time we had, I don't know if it's going to be enough. And that drives me crazy, the thought of sending them mostly unprepared into battle. We can't plan a mock battle, because Voldemort has spies that'll inform him we're having one. It's just so damn frustrating." Jon sounded uncharacteristically worked up and angry. I opened one eye and glanced at him.

"We did the best we can. It's up to them now. There's nothing more we can really do." Tabby soothed. Her face was worried and frustrated as well, though. I agree with them. They're not completely prepared, but there is nothing more we can do but hope they make it through in one piece. I felt my face tingle, and knew that somewhere, Severus was watching.

On his birthday, I had gotten him a necklace of a snake curled up. It had a powerful protection charm on it, and whenever Severus gets agitated, it projects feelings of calm, peace, and relaxation on him. It also created a link between the two of us. I had a matching necklace; the only difference is mine has ruby red eyes instead of black. Whenever he was nearby, if he was wearing the necklace, I could sense him. When he was looking at me, I tingled. But most important of all (at least to me) was that whenever Severus was feeling the greatest, I could tell. So if he got into a tight spot in a battle, I could find him. It worked like a point me spell as well. All I had to do was grip it and whisper his name, and I'd be able to go to where he was. It was rather like a hook pulling me toward him, but I was willing to use whatever methods worked.

I opened my eyes and glanced towards the doors leading into Hogwarts. Severus stood there, blending in with the shadows except for his pale face. He pointed at something, and I turned my head. Malfoy stood several feet away, watching me speculatively. I raised an eyebrow at him, and he turned away. He didn't look back. I looked back to find Severus still standing there. I moved to get up, and he shook his head. Even from the distance I was away from him, I could tell he was mouthing the word 'later' to me. I nodded, knowing that he didn't want to cause gossip by walking up to me. I also knew that this was the only time he had to spare for giving me a private message. He worked on healing potions all day, and taught in between.

"It's time to start again." We all stood up, and the others, seeing us standing, automatically followed suit and moved into their positions without complaint. I blew my whistle, and they moved into dueling position. I blew my whistle yet again, and they began to duel. Yelling voices filled the air, as did flashes of light and curses as people were hit. I sighed as two students used a powerful freezing hex at the same time. The ice blue balls of light bounced off each other,hitting their casters and sent them sprawling. I shook my head and moved to unfreeze them.

I hope to Merlin they'll be ready.

AFTER DINNER, IN CORRIDOR OUTSIDE GREAT HALL, HERMIONE'S POV

Gods, I'm so full. I don't think I could run to save my life without hurling everywhere. I moved gingerly towards the stairs, holding my stomach. I had eaten more than I should have at dinner, and was now paying the price with a stomach ache. Mike and Julie had gone on ahead. They'd been getting closer in the last five months. I was extremely happy for them, but worried. I was worried about everyone lately, but it seemed to be bad timing. They were falling in love just before a major battle in which either person could die. Not smart when it could lead to distraction during a crucial moment in battle. But when have feelings ever followed what was smart? I thought of Severus, of my love for him. I couldn't tell him how I felt, but it wast here.

"Granger." I turned at the sound of my name and - surprise, surprise - there was Draco Malfoy standing behind me. His hands were jammed into his pockets, and he seemed uncomfortable but determined. His blonde hair wasn't slicked back, but falling forward into his face. I turned around and crossed my arms over my chest.

"Is there something I could do for you, Malfoy? Kiss your ass? Lick you boots?" He winced, and I felt a brief pang of guilt. I pushed it away and moved closer. I stood in front of him, not even bothering to hide the fact that I was measuring him up. He stood patiently, and his gray eyes met mine as I finished my once-over. I felt air brush past me, and I knew he'd cast a silencing spell.

"Granger...is it true my dad is trying to join the Order?" He looked hopeful and doubtful at the same time. And no wonder...I moved my head sideways, never breaking eye contact.

"Hasn't your father contacted you?" He shook his head.

"It's too dangerous. If somebody intercepted that letter...I overheard Dumbledore and Snape talking about it. I asked them, but they told me that they were too busy to explain and that I should seek you out. So what's going on, Granger?" I sighed. I wasn't feeling well, I was tired, I had homework to do, and I didn't want to speak to Malfoy.

"Your father approached Se-Snape after a meeting. He requested they meet the next day. Snape agreed. Once Snape showed up, your father asked if Snape could inquire about him becoming a spy for Dumbledore. Snape brought it up at a meeting, and we agreed to give your father a chance. But we're naturally suspicious of him. Out of the blue, Malfoy decides to switch sides? We checked out his story, and it checks out. So yes, your father's a spy for the order."

"And of course, the Order doesn't give him any information." He looked angry and worried. As I would too. His father isn't getting any information from the Order that could be critical, and he's worried we won't help him in the final battle. I shook my head, and spoke gently and as persuasively as I could.

"We can't take that chance. Can't you see, Malfoy? If your father does turn out to be evil, he won't have any information to pass on. If he isn't evil, we'll guard his back during the battle and make sure he gets recognition for what he has done. We just can't take a chance this close to the final confrontation. Not only that, but if he is found out, he can't have any information that could be tortured out of him." Malfoy nodded, although he still looked mad and worried. He nodded and I turned around, moving swiftly toward my common room.

I just want to sleep.

MORNING, DAY BEFORE GRADUATION, HERMIONE'S POV

"Hermione." His voice rumbled in his chest, and I snuggled closer. Severus and I had been lying on this couch, reading before the fire. His arm was wrapped around me, and I was leaning on him. I was so comfortable that I'd fallen asleep. I ignored him and tried to move closer to his warm body. He chuckled, and his chest vibrated. My lips curled up into a smile involuntarily, and I leaned back to gaze up at him.

The firelight was reflecting off his eyes and hair. His lips were also curled up into a smile. He gazed down at me in amusement and contentment. I smiled up at him and kissed his lips gently. He pulled me closer, the book sitting on the couch forgotten. His chin rested on the top of my head, and my eyes slid closed once again. I was felt completely boneless, leaning all my weight onto him.

"Hermione. You shouldn't be down here. This is the day before the battle, and you've spent all of it with me. What of your friends? I'm sure they'd like to spend some time with you." I sighed, knowing he was right. I just didn't want to leave him for even a second. Chances were, he wasn't going to survive the battle. Chances were I wouldn't survive either.

"I know I should, Severus, but I want to spend time with you as well." I waited for him to reply, but he didn't. I glanced up to find him staring into the fire. He was deep in thought, fighting himself about something. I could see the indecision in his eyes. He seemed to finally reach a answer. He glanced down at me and smiled grimly.

"I have an idea." I raised and eyebrow and gestured for him to go on.

"Invite your friends down to my room. You'll have privacy, and you'll be able to spend time with your friends and myself." I gaped, unable to form words. He's letting people into his rooms?

"But...but...Severus, you hate having people in your rooms!"

"Mia, they're adequate at potions, and if they're your friends, they might have enough intelligence to actually hold a conversations with. I'll never know until I find out. Besides, it takes care of your problem. They already know about us, and I dare say they don't disapprove. I promise to be nice. Or as nice as I get, at least." He bared his teeth. I rolled my eyes.

"Are you sure?" He gave me a duh look, and I squeaked in happiness. I threw my arms around his and kissed his cheeks, nose, lips and forehead. I jumped up from the couch, and in my haste nearly fell flat on my face. I moved over to his fireplace and threw the floo powder in. I called out Slytherin common room, and stuck my head into the fireplace. The heat felt good on my face. My friends were gathered around the fireplace, and stopped their conversation when they saw my floating head. I grinned up at them from my spot near the floor.

"Severus has so graciously offered us the use of his rooms. Please come over." I removed my head from the fireplace and moved back to give them room to get through. One by one, my friends exited the fireplace, dusting the soot off of their clothes. They immediately moved forward to shake Severus' hand and thank him, before (predictably) moving toward his bookcase. They oohed and ahhed over his books, discussing the one's they had read, and talking over the ones they wanted to. Severus had a small smile on his face when watching them. I grinned at him, but he was too busy watching my friends to notice right away. He only tore his eyes from them when I settled in next to him.

"Perhaps your friends will be tolerable. They seem to be intelligent enough to appreciate rare books." My friends heard his comment, and descended upon him to question him about his collection of tomes. I sat back and just listened as they discussed the books they'd read. Then Severus recommended certain books. His bookcase was filled with books from every subject. It had muggle literature, things on charms, transfiguration, myths, but most of all...potions. None of my friends had my love for potions, but each enjoyed the subject. If they couldn't specialize in their first choice, potions was their second choice. At least for Tabby, Jon, and Mike. Julie would much rather specialize in Charms or Ancient Runes.

SEVERUS POV

They aren't really all that bad. I suppose I can understand why Septimus might not have minded them invading his privacy. They're tolerable, and as a good point, they're much more tolerable than Potter and Weasley. If Hermione had been friends with Potter and Weasley while we were involved...

I glanced at Hermione to find her in a heated argument over some article she and her friend had read. Her eyes were alight with happiness, her hair every which way. Her clothes were rumpled, but she looked beautiful. She'd look beautiful no matter what. I snorted. When I was young I promised myself I wouldn't get sentimental and idiotic. It seems I've broken my promise. I leaned back on the couch, content to just observe.

The night wore on, and nobody seemed to notice or get tired. They argued, joked, reminisced, and teased. It was obvious they were close. They finished each other's sentences, and sometimes seemed able to tell what the others were thinking. I felt something ache in my chest. I've never had friends like this. Hell, I've never had friends at all. How much different would my life be if I had decent friends like them, instead of acquaintances? I never was one for self-reflection, yet I couldn't help but imagine events that could have happened. I could be married, have children, instead of serving a megalomanic and a crazy old Headmaster.

I chuckled at some of their comments, earning shocked looks. This caused me to chuckle again. Hermione's lips were curved in a smile, but she didn't look startled at all. The other's shifted, glancing at each other nervously, like I was a dog who hadn't acted like a dog should.

"What? I am not allowed to occasionally laugh?" I put on an innocent look, making them laugh. It wasn't so bad, making people laugh. As long as they weren't laughing at you, but with you. I glanced at Hermione to find her watching us, a happy expression lighting her face. I've made her happy. Something I've never felt before filled my chest. I glanced away, uncomfortable with these new feelings. The other's seemed to pick up on the fact that for some reason I was uncomfortable. They stood up suddenly, moving to put the books back on the shelf.

"You may borrow those on one condition." Whatever this feeling was, I rather liked it. And making Hermione happy was very important to me. It wasn't a happy realization, but it was true. "You must make sure nothing happens to those books. Return them once you're finished with them. I do not care if you share them amongst yourselves. If anything should happen to them, you will buy me a new copy, an exact replica." I tried glaring sternly at them, but their profuse thanks rather ruined the effect. I simply sat there, watching as they said their goodbyes to Hermione and myself. I was rather surprised I was included, and even more surprised when they shook my hand, or in the girls' case, hugged me. The proper thing is to stand when guests are leaving, so I had done so. Perhaps I should've just sat. Then I could not have been hugged.

I was more used to being touched now that Hermione was in my life, but I wasn't used to getting hugs from people I barely knew. Most people avoided contact, instead of engaging in it. It seems I have lost the ability to scare them into submission. If I, in fact, ever could scare them. I nodded once again to their goodbyes and thank yous, and breathed a sigh of relief when the door closed behind them. I turned to find Hermione standing next to the couch, smiling. My heart started to pound faster.

"Thank you, Severus. Thank you for giving them a chance to prove they're not dunderheads." She came forward and wrapped me in her arms, holding me close. Almost of their own accord, my arms moved to embrace her. She rested her cheek against my chest. I kissed the top of her head, allowing myself the brief moment of weakness. I wanted to hold on to her forever. Better yet, I wanted her to sink right into me. She pulled back slightly and stood on tiptoe, kissing my lips gently.

She stared in to my eyes, her own beautiful cinnamon ones reflecting the fire light. She leaned forward to kiss me again, but this time the kiss was more heated. She pressed her body against mine, and I growled at the feeling of her breasts pressed against my chest. Her tongue slipped into my mouth, and I eagerly allowed her tongue to explore my mouth. I broke away from her mouth to nip at her jaw line before moving down to her neck. She whimpered and her head fell back, exposing her neck to my mouth. I stopped my exploration and ignoring her whimper of protest, I scooped her up into my arms.

I moved towards the fireplace, setting her down before it. She was close enough to feel the heat, without being burned. I settled down next to her and gathered her in my arms. While I was content to just lay with her, the little vixen had other ideas. She rolled over on top of me, unbuttoning my robes and managing to lick my earlobe at the same time. How she managed to get all of my buttons undone so quickly was beyond me, but then she had become quite the distraction of late. Suddenly she was latched onto my nipple, driving any logical thought from my mind. I growled, my erection becoming even more pronounced.

I pat around on the ground, searching for my wand. Once I had located it, a quick flick and our clothes disappeared, only to reappear folded neatly on the arm of the couch. She squeaked in startlement, and I used that second of surprise to roll over on her. She wiggled around, and I groaned. She smiled wickedly at me, and I leaned forward to wipe that smug smirk off her face. I nipped at her collarbone before making my way to the valley between her breasts. My tongue left a wet trail, and I could feel her shiver at the sensation. I moved my attention to her nipples, sucking them and using my tongue to play with them.

She was whimpering like crazy now, her hands tangled in my hair. She pulled until my eyes watered from the pain. I obeyed, allowing her to move me up so she could kiss my lips. Our tongues tangled together, and her legs spread so I was resting against her core. I jerked my hips, rubbing myself against her. She cried out, arching up to bring our bodies closer together. I moaned as she rubbed against me.

"Vixen." I gasped. She laughed, again rubbing against me. I pressed myself down on her, pinning her in place. I stared down into her eyes, and let my hand drift between our bodies. Moving slightly the side, I gained access to her most private area. I brushed my hand against her, and she cried out again. If I don't have her soon, I won't last...I removed my hand before kissing her deeply. I could tell she was more than ready for me.

I slid inside her, loving the feel of her surrounding me, the delicious friction of her walls squeezing tight. She arched up, and I slid deeper into her. My control was rapidly breaking, and the wonderful noise she was making wasn't helping. She lightly ran her nails down my back before cupping my buttocks. I groaned and began to thrust. She began moving against me, creating friction. With ever thrust, she whimpered. Oh god...yes...please...

"Severus, please!" Hearing her say my name in that breathless, husky way was the last thread. My control snapped, and I began to thrust harder. I slid my hands underneath her and pulled her closer. My head was hazy from pleasure. I could barely hear my own cries over hers. I kept my eyes opened, staring down at Hermione. She caught my gaze and held it. We stared into each other's eyes as she clamped down on me, signaling her orgasm.

"Severus...I...oh...I need you, Severus!" That threw my over the edge, and I came hard and fast. I kept thrusting until I could barely move any longer. I collapsed on her, my chest heaving, everything more intimate because of our locked gazes. The expression on Hermione's face as she came was imprinted in my brain. I'll never forget that image for as long as I live...

I moved to roll off of her, positive that I was crushing her. She made a small noise of protest. Her arms wrapped around me, holding me in place. She kissed my chest and sighed happily. I relaxed against her, feeling sleep began its alluring pull. She said she needs me...does she mean in a sexual way, or in a more meaningful way? I was in that state between sleep and awake when Hermione suddenly moved under me. I jerked awake; sure she was struggling to breath under my weight.

"Hermione, are you alright?" I didn't bother to mask my worry. She glanced up and nodded, giving me a brief smile.

"Severus, as much as I love laying underneath you, I need a bath. I was trying to figure out a way to slip out from under you without waking you." I rolled off her and fluidly got to my feet. I offered a hand to help her up, which she took. She moved towards the bathroom, and I followed. She glanced behind her, no doubt wondering why I was following. She shrugged her shoulders and entered the bathroom, gathering the necessary bathing items. Once she had all the soap, shampoo, and whatever things she felt she needed, she turned the bathwater on. The steam from the water heated the room pleasantly. Once the bath was filled, Hermione settled in.

"Hermione, move forward." She scooted towards the far end of the bathtub, never questioning me. She trusts me. It made that odd feeling come back, stronger than before, a soaring pull in my heart coupled with a sinking weight in my stomach. I climbed in behind her, and grabbed her from behind. She jumped, but allowed me to pull her backwards until she was resting against my chest. She relaxed there, settled between my spread legs. The water was spelled to stay warm, and I felt the familiar tug of sleep calling to me again. I sat up to ward off the sensation. Hermione sat up also, and proceeded to get her hair wet. I grabbed the cup she had been using and dipped it in to the water myself. Hermione leaned her head back, and I slowly poured the water on her head. After her hair was sufficiently wet, I grabbed the shampoo.

I lathered her hair until I was sure the shampoo was throughout her hair and rinsed it gently. That done, I grabbed the conditioner and gave her hair the same treatment I had with the shampoo. Once finished, Hermione turned my way with a gleam in her eye.

"Your turn." That said, she gestured for me to turn. We switched positions, me sitting between her spread legs. She made sure my hair was wet, and then shampooed my hair. Her nails scraped against my scalp, and I couldn't help but purr in satisfaction. She laughed, and the feeling in my chest grew. Once my hair was shampooed completely, she rinsed, and then performed the same thing with the conditioner. She again rinsed, but this time, instead of just stopping, she continued to scratch my head. I relaxed against her completely, almost boneless. She chuckled and continued her lovely treatment of my head. I murmured my approval, too tired and content to speak much louder.

After awhile, she ceased her movements. I grumbled in unhappiness. Her lips brushed against my ear as she spoke.

"Severus, it's late, and I have graduation tomorrow. Not to mention the battle. I think sleep would be a very good idea." I nodded drowsily and climbed rather gracelessly out of the tub. Grabbing a nearby towel, I took pleasure in drying her off.

"Once again, it's your turn." She moved to the cabinet where the towels were kept and grabbed a large, fluffy, Slytherin green one. She gently pat me until most of the water was gone. She dried my hair a bit more roughly, and laughed once again.

"Severus, I love the way you look when your hairs partially dry and all over the place. It's so...sexy." I gave her one of my rare, genuine smiles. She then bestowed upon me one of her brilliant, caring, loving smiles that she normally reserved for Septimus and her friends. It warmed me up considerable. I pulled her close, and kissed her temple. I closed my eyes and breathed in her scent. I can't lose her tomorrow. I need her. The idea of telling her briefly entered my mind, but I ruthlessly shoved it away. I was a brief fling, someone she cared about but not someone she was willing to spend the rest of her life with. My dreams of when we were in the potions lab and growing old together were ridiculous and idiotic considering that I was already old in light of her youth.

I pulled back, reluctantly.

"Hermione, you should go back to your rooms. As you said, it is late and we both need our sleep." She hesitantly looked up at me. Her cheeks were slightly pink, and she looked so lovely. Is she blushing?

"Severus...would it be alright if I...stayed here tonight? Please!" She added. "I want to spend the night with you. I won't be able to be alone with you tomorrow, what with the graduation and battle. Give me tonight, please." I hesitated to agree, but a small voice in the back of my head urged me to allow her to stay. What she asks is reasonable, and you wish her to stay. You have a very good chance of dying tomorrow. Allow yourself one happy memory. The maudlin thought decided it for me.

"You may stay, Hermione." She leaned forward and kissed me, even though she was smiling. I grinned down at her. She pulled me out of the bathroom and towards the bed. She climbed into the bed and settled in as if she had always been allowed in my bed. She held out her hand, and I joined her. I climbed under the covers with her. She was quick to snuggle up next to me, her head resting in the hollow of my shoulder. Her leg was thrown over mine possessively, her breath tickling my neck and she inhaled and exhaled.

Sleep yet again started to take me. I finally succumbed to sleep, but not before I heard Hermione speak.

"Severus, I love you." I responded without thinking.

"I love you, too."

I had no idea tomorrow I wouldn't remember the words, and neither would she.

GRADUATION DAY, HERMIONE'S POV

"Granger, Hermione." I stood up, grinning like an idiot. I did it! I've graduated! I moved confidently toward the platform, waving and rolling my eyes at the people that were whistling. The Hogwarts students, who were the first to receive their diplomas, clapped, but didn't really seem too thrilled for me. I was graduating top of my class, which meant I had to go last. I climbed the steps, shook Headmaster Tubby's hand, and moved towards the other end of the stage, where I'd exit and go back to my seat. I met Severus' eyes, and I smiled happily. His lips twitched, but he didn't move to hug me or do anything that might be interpreted as a public display, affectionate or otherwise. Typical Severus...

Headmaster Tubby then made a lengthy speech, naming the numerous achievements I'd had in my academic career. Then he went on to talk about my personality, how I was giving, vivacious, beautiful, intelligent, blah blah. I started to doze off, waking only when everyone began clapping, signaling the end of this speech. I jerked awake, eyes wide, hand on my wand just in case. I relaxed when nothing happened, and prepared for the congratulations that were going to be thrown my way during the party.

"Ladies and gentleman, the class of 1998!" Everybody stood up, cheering, clapping, crying, all the while throwing their hats up into the hair and hugging each other. I was caught in Mike's embrace, and hugged back happily. I hugged everyone around me, not really looking at whom I was hugging. It wasn't until I realized I was hugging Draco Malfoy that I came to my senses. I stepped back, and attempted to smile at him. All that came out was a grimace. He grabbed my hand, forcing me to stay.

"Granger." I glared down at his offending hand.

"Aren't you worried I'll soil your hand? Wouldn't want you to get dirty, would be?" I jerked my hand away, but stopped when Draco spoke.

"I'd like to thank you Granger." I was so surprised, I tripped over my feet. I steadied myself and turned toward the young man. I studied him. He seemed completely serious, and oddly earnest. I shrugged and stepped closer to him.

"For what?"

"For helping my dad realize muggleborns aren't lower beings. You're the reason he switched sides. Indirectly, of course. He said something about never hearing of a more intelligent girl than you. He said muggleborns always work harder than the rest of the wizarding world, and it's not their fault they were born with magic." I was silent. Lucius Malfoy said this? I couldn't help but be skeptical.

"It's true." I turned to find Malfoy's father leaning against a beautifully made cane. He looked handsome and calm, his smile showing off his bright teeth. He stepped forward and took my hand, placing a kiss on the back of it. "So this is the girl that Severus is currently seeing." He gave me the once over, and much to my shock, and seemed approving. I stared at him, and he chuckled at my expression. "Severus and I have been friends for years. I see the way he looks at you." I nodded, unable to speak. He dropped my hand. He stared at me thoughtfully, before coming to some sort of decision.

"A friend of Severus' is a friend of mine. I would like to invite you to Malfoy Manor for a party I'm throwing about a month after the battle. Severus will be attending as well, of course." I stared at him, my brain again unable to form words for me to speak. Lucius Malfoy complimenting me, and in a twisted way, stating his approval of Severus and my relationship?

I licked my lips. "I'd be honored to attend your party, sir." He nodded and smiled at me, before he and his son drifted off, to possibly shock some else with an invitation to an exclusive Malfoy party. I, Hermione Jane Granger, muggleborn, am going to be attending a Pureblood Malfoy party. Will wonders ever cease?

The sudden sound of people screaming alerted me that the Death Eaters were approaching. The younger students retreated to the castle, and half of the older ones retreated with them. When the first line of defense got tired, the new line would come out. The old line would retreat to the castle for medical care, and then prepare to fight once the second line grew tired. It was to be repeated over and over. The aurors would be the first to encounter the Death Eaters. They were positioned on the very outside of party. Constant vigilance. They would face off the Death Eaters, and hopefully give the families time to retreat.

All over Hogwarts grounds, people drew their wands and moved into their duel positions. Concentration settled on everybodys faces, and a fierce anger that was almost palpable filled the air. I drew my wand and was about to go into my duel position when strong arms wrapped around me from behind. I struggled, but the arms stayed wrapped around me.

"Hermione." Severus' breath tickled my ear. I immediately stopped struggling and turned to him, wondering why he was holding me. I couldn't fight if he kept holding me like that. He looked down at me, and brushed my hair back from my face. So many expressions on his face... Worry, hope, sadness. My breath left my chest. Love?

"Hermione." He repeated. "Go up to the castle. Help Madam Polinski in the hospital wing." I opened my mouth to protest, but he cut me off. "Hermione, please. I'll be able to fight better if I know you're up there, away from the fighting." I shook my head.

"Severus, I can't. My friends are down here. Your down here...I need to fight. I'm sorry I'll worry you, but I refuse to leave." Severus eyes darkened in anger and frustration. "You can't make me go up there."

"Hermione..." His voice sounded rough. I shook my head again. His face grew even angrier. He's hiding something. The thought appeared out of nowhere, but I could sense it almost. I looked closer at his face, noticing the worry and strain. I stepped back. The screams were getting louder, this time mixed with curses and flashes of light.

"The only reason you want me to go up to the castle is so you won't worry about me. That's it? There's nothing else? Well then, let me tell you something, Severus. While I'm up there, safe and away from the fighting, I won't be any help to anybody. I'll be so busy worrying over you and my friends."

"Fine. Do you want to know the truth?" He was extremely mad now. His face was turning a red color, and his eyes flashed. "It's because I'm afraid to lose you. I care about you, okay? I care more about you than I should. I need you, Hermione. All right? I need you, I care about you, and there's no way in hell I'm going to lose you. I've just found you..." His voice trailed off, and he continued in a whisper. "I can't lose you." His face was still slightly red, but his eyes were sad and nervous.

I stared at him. He cares about me. He doesn't want me to get hurt. My heart started to pound. I stepped closer to him. I reached up and traced his lips with my fingers. He stared down at me, looking like his life was about to end. He thinks I'm going to reject him. He thinks I'll tire of him, that I'll walk away. I stood on my tiptoes and kissed him gently. I'm an idiot, walking away from my friends like this. But if he's distracted and gets hurt...

"Okay Severus. I'll go up to the castle." Tears filled my eyes. "But please, please be careful. I'm not prepared to lose you. Promise me you'll do your best to survive." He relaxed, and his eyes warmed up. He leaned down and brushed his lips against mine. Behind me, the battle was raging.

"I promise." I smiled at him, and hugged him tightly. I've got to tell him. I might never see him again.

"I love you, Severus." He straightened up, looking down at me in surprise. I smiled at him, tears running down my face. Please god, let him survive. "I love you." Before his shock dissipated and he could form an answer, I moved around him, running towards the castle. I passed students who might end up dying before the day was over, just so muggleborns and muggles could live. I gave them encouraging smiles as I passed, and some smiled back. Others straightened up and attempted to not look so terrified. I taught them. I felt proud of them, and proud of myself.

I pushed open the entrance doors, and they slammed shut behind me. The school was eerie, empty and quiet. My footsteps echoed in the corridors, and I couldn't wait to get to the hospital wing. Madam Polinski had a few contacts at St. Mungo's, and a few people volunteered to help Madam Polinski help heal the students and adults as needed. I entered the hospital wing, the doors closing with a bang, startling the nurses. They glared at me, which I returned happily. Madam Polinski hurried forward.

"Are you hurt dear?" I shook my head.

"No. I was ordered to go here to help you all. Call me if you need me please." I turned to the witches gathered in a group around a table. "Sorry about the noise." I made my way to the back of the room, settling down next to Septimus. His breathing was even, and he looked healthier now than he ever had. Madam Polinski had commented over the past months that Septimus seemed to be getting better, and that once or twice she could've sworn his hand had twitched. I leaned forward, resting my elbows on the bed next to his body.

"Everybody's down there fighting, Septimus. Everyone except me. Severus told me to return to the castle, and for some reason, I did. I should've stayed to fight beside my friends." I'd kept Septimus up to date on everything that had been going on in my life. When he was conscious, he had been my confidant. It was rather comforting to talk to Septimus about everything. He knew about my relationship with Severus, Matthews' attack, and all about what was going on in the Order. Professor Fields - Julie - had visited everyday as well. Sometimes we'd sit across the bed and talk back and forth. Julie's down there fighting as well. If Julie got hurt and Septimus woke up...he'd be devastated. He's loved her for so long...

"I feel so useless now. You've got to wake up. I need you now more than ever. Julie needs you too. We both miss you like crazy, and everyday your not here, Julie withdraws more and more. She hardly ever eats or sleeps anymore. She just cries. I'm tempted to cry all the time as well. Please, please wake up." More tears slid down my face. If everyone was defeated, besides the fact that everyone I cared about would be dead, Septimus would be helpless against the Death Eaters. He wasn't even conscious.

Time seemed to slow. Hermione continued to pour out her fears and feelings to the man. Finally, exhausted, she laid her head down on her arms and drifted into an uneasy sleep.

DREAM SCENE

People were lying on the ground, crying and calling for help. I stepped over a man who was extremely bloody. I directed a passing student to help him to the hospital wing, and the student obeyed without question. I moved forward, searching for the Boy Who Lived and his cronies. Wherever he was, the center of the fighting was sure to be. People were running every which way, throwing hexes wildly. So many curses were shooting through the air that the grounds were completely light.

I threw a hex at a passing Death Eater. My hood prevented anybody from telling who I was. People everywhere were lying on the ground, some dead, others in conditions where they would've been better off dead. I moved towards a group of trees where there was no screaming, no light. I stepped into the line of trees and was immediately faced with dozens of wands. I pulled back my hood, revealing my face. Some relaxed, while others looked suspicious. The sound of a twig snapping distracted everybody and I was free to move up next to the Headmasters. They glanced at me briefly before turning their attention to the noise. A shape started to materialize out of the darkness.

Rain began to drizzle down, as if Mother Earth decided it was time to add to the misery. It wasn't pouring, but it was enough for everybody to get wet. The shape got closer and became more defined. We could just start to make out a face when the sound of fighting grew closer. Everybody was tense, wands drawn, faces turned towards the approaching figure. Others were looking around them as well; ready to defend from the back. The figure finally got close enough to be able to see who it was. It was -

Pain exploded in every nerve of my body. I doubled over, gasping. It felt like my muscles were being ripped apart and then jabbed at with knives. Darkness clouded my vision, and I fought to stay awake. I fell to my knees, my body trembling with the effort to not pass out. As quickly as the pain came about, it ended. I lay on my side, gasping for breath. My muscles were still screaming from the pain, but it was just the after-pain. I sat up and climbed to my feet. I was unsteady, but able to stand. I squinted at the figure before me.

The world exploded in red.

END DREAM SCENE

I awoke with a gasp. The dream had been so real, so painful. Even now, I could remember what it felt like. Merlin, is that really what it's like outside? I shivered. I felt something warm resting on my chest. I glanced down. My necklace was glowing brightly. What in the world?

Severus! He was hurt! He needed help! I hadn't realized I was screaming that until Madam Polinski followed by her helpers appeared. They tried to calm me, but I couldn't stop screaming for them to help Severus. The necklace grew brighter, and I felt pain move from where the necklace touched my chest to the rest of my body. I double over, gasping. Just like my dream...The world started to darken, but unlike in my dream, I couldn't hold it off. I allowed it to swallow me up, surrendering to its painless darkness.

I never noticed the man on the bed jerking into an upright position suddenly. Nor did I notice him whispering my name hoarsely. I did not feel his weak arms barely prevent me from hitting the floor. I did not hear the surprised exclaimations from the witches standing at the foot of the bed. I was in the dark, comforted by the thought that nothing could hurt me while I was there.

I could feel no pain.

The next chapter will be the battle, from Severus' POV completely, possibly. We'll just have to see how it goes. Sometimes my muse has a mind of it's own. I hope this makes up for the long wait for the last chapter. Please, please read and review. My goal is to reach 500 reviews by the end of the story, and I'm only a few away. We have a few more chapters. The story is almost to an end. We have the battle, the aftermath, the Malfoy party, and one year from then.

The teachers finally decided to confront Severus and Hermione about their relationship. They were aware something was going on. Dumbledore has that whole omniscient thing, not to mention Severus and Hermione slept on the same cot in the hospital, which is a very public place. In a future chapter, Dumbledore express his true feelings on their relationship.

Remember, everything will be revealed in the next chapter.