Students were arriving at Hogwarts. And Hermione Granger sat in the library alone. She had gotten a reply from Ginny that morning at breakfast and now sat with the unopened letter in front of her.
Hermione,
Well now you can finally say that you kissed teacher, I am only kidding of course. You obviously don't seem disgusted about the fact that the git kissed you. And well, maybe you should see where this goes... You have to tell me all of the gory details.
Love always,
Ginny
She had to smile. Ginny always had a funny side too her, even if she did tend to hide it unlike her brothers. She knew that some of the students, especially some of the older Gryffindors might remember her; even if it was only in the capacity of Harry Potter's friend.
Madam Pince flitted around the library like a hummingbird. She was armed with her favorite feather-duster... Hermione smiled at her, "Irma, there isn't a speck of dust left in here,"
"There will be," Irma replied with conviction and flitted off again.
****
She was in a good mood despite that fact that she and Severus hadn't spoken to each other in two days. He had taken to scowling at her again, she continued to smile at her.
She had gotten an owl from Remus Lupin as well, he would be returning to teach the DADA class this term, she was glad that they ministry had worked out a plan for him to teach at Hogwarts again, seeing as they owed Dumbledore and Hogwarts big time.
She got up, picked up her letter and left the library. She made her way down to Gryffindor tower; Ah, the memories to be had within. She smiled at the painting and said the password; 'Chimaera quills,' and the painting swung open. She stepped inside and immediately was surrounded by students.
"Who are you?" one of then asked, "What are you doing in our Common Room?"
"My name is Miss Granger, and I am the assistant librarian. This used to by my common room,"
"You mean Hermione Granger right," Hermione nodded, " Just making sure you're not a Slytherin. I remember you though, you helped Harry Potter and Dumbledore defeat Voldemort."
I had a hand in the preparation. And not all Slytherin's are bad you know."
"What about that greasy git Snape?" another asked, "He's a right terrible Slytherin."
"That greasy git helped defeat Voldemort by risking his life spying for our side. Half of you wouldn't even be here if it wasn't for him." She gave them an icy look, "I may look young, but I am staff and can take points away, or give them,"
"Oh right, Sorry then Miss Granger..." She couldn't help but smile as she left the common room. She thought for a moment what Severus would say. She laughed and walked down the hall greeting students as she walked. She ran into nearly Headless Nick and said hello to him.
****
Severus Snape walked down the halls. He was eager to say the least, to start taking points away from students, especially arrogant Gryffindors.
He ached inside, he wanted so badly to talk to Hermione but there hadn't been any opportunity to do so. they had both been extremely busy. Hermione was training under Madam Pince; who had announced her retirement for mid-term. And He was busy making sure all of his lesson plans were ready, and that he was indeed fully stocked for potions. The way he figured the more he longed for Hermione the meaner he could be to students...
Hermione had received an owl that morning and seemed happy about the letter, even if she hadn't read it right away, Severus wondered if it was from a boyfriend she had failed to mention.
He scowled and continued to make his way down the halls. He was also unhappy about the newest Defense Against Dark Arts teacher; Remus Lupin. His robes billowed around him menacingly, he was in a foul mood indeed.
He saw several students he desperately wanted to take points from, He have to wait until tomorrow to do that. he thought to himself. he made his way to the Slytherin Tower and after saying the password entered.
There were many students in there many looked eerily alike: Pale and gaunt. He passed his gaze over the group. "The term is about to begin and I expect no nonsense from any of you, I expect a hundred percent from all of you," His look could have frozen anyone in their place, "I will be keeping a close eye on all of you,"
"Professor Snape?" A girl with nearly white blond hair stood up.
"Yes Miss Nettleburn?" Snape turned to face her, she reminded him of the Malfoys, now all imprisoned.
"We heard," she started gesturing to the girls that sat near her, "That Hermione Granger was here, is that true,"
"Yes, that's true. Miss Granger is going to take Madam Pince's place in the library."
He turned to leave and was halfway out of the door when he heard a comment "...Great now we have to deal with Harry Potter's Bushy haired know-it-all sidekick. Who doesn't..." Snape turned and soon loomed over the girl.
"Fifty points from Slytherin as soon as house points begin..." he headed for the door once more, "Be thankful I didn't give you lot a detention..." with that Severus left the Slytherin common room...
***
By the time the First years had arrived, the entire student body knew that Hermione Granger was working there. There was a low murmur as the students watched her take her place at the high table between Severus and Lupin. The boys for the most part stared and the girls were commenting on her outfit and how beautiful she was. She became a Goddess to many of the boys, and a role model for some of the girls that day.
She watched the sorting ceremony with rapt attention noting who went to what house. Remus smiled as he listened to Dumbledore's speech. he looked healthier and happier that he had the last time he had seen him. "Remus?"
"Yes Hermione?" he said turning to her.
"I'm glad you're back here teaching, even if I'm not one of your students. You were one of my two favorite teachers here,"
"Who was the other?" He asked curious to know. Hermione turned her head slightly, "Oh!" He say that Snape wasn't paying attention to the conversation.
"Interesting choice," He laughed, "I'm glad to be back here, since the Ministry worked up that potion with Severus' help, I am as good as cured."
"It's good to know that Severus has a helpful side..." Hermione said as she started to eat.
"Funny, Miss Granger. " Severus said under his breath, as he plied himself to his plate.
***
Dinner ended without event. Hermione sat in the library next to the fireplace. She was finishing up her notes from the 'Arcane Potions' book. She yawned and stretched. She thought about Severus' birthday present that sat in a box under her bed. She had to figure out how to give it to him. She did have an invisibility cloak of her own.... perfect, she thought as she smiled, Severus will never know what hit him....
She put the book back in its place in the restricted area and sat next to the fire for about a half hour changing the colors of the flames. "You getting yourself in too deep Hermione Granger," She said to herself as she played with the flames color, She concentrated and even got a plaid flame. She was amused by this and apparently someone else was too, She turned in her chair when she heard a laugh. "Oh professor Flitwick, I didn't see you there,"
Flitwick smiled, "Quite all right dear, I see you gotten a plaid, took me a month to do than when I was younger," He smiles and patted her arm, "You were always good at charms, and potions for that matter,"
"Has Severus ceased being a block of ice?" she looked shocked, "I was one of the few teachers who noticed your lack of enthusiasm, after Severus didn't return. And your new resolve to smile every time he scowls at you... He may warm to you yet,"
"He's an insufferable annoyance, So typically Slytherin," she said, "I'm sorry I shouldn't have called him that."
"Quite all right," Flitwick laughed and walked out of the library. chuckling to himself as he left, did he know something she didn't? she asked herself...
She decided not to dwell on it and headed for her chambers.
***
Severus sat at his desk in the Potions class going over the lesson plans for the last time. He felt good about being able to take points from students even if it was from his own house. He'd talk to her as soon as classes got settled. He looked at the everlasting rose, he give it to her soon but in secret.
He Finally let it sink in that he was in love with the girl, he must have been for sometime; It was not merely respect anymore. Severus Snape had fallen in love. He had to wonder what Hermione felt about him though, he had to know...
He would be a gentleman, he was one of course underneath the sarcastic and cynical exterior. He would accept if she didn't reciprocate. He let himself smile, For once in his life, a bitter thought didn't intrude on his good mood.
"Severus?" He looked up and scowled, slightly. Dumbledore stood in the doorway, "You look pleased with yourself, A Slytherin girl came to me and complained abut taking points from the her house, early."
"She was insulting staff, You know I cannot abide by that, especially when it's from my own house," he looked at his lessons plans again.
"I guess I can let this slip they have all year to regain those points," Albus laughed, "I hope you know what you're getting yourself into," Albus was gone when Severus looked up.
What could he mean by that? he thought, That man always knew more than he let on. He thought for a moment and became half-filled with doubt once more.
He raise the sleeve of his shirt up and looked at the remnants of the Death Eaters mark, now just and ugly ragged scar, Could Hermione love someone with his past? Surely she could, she allowed him to kiss her, and he had been wrong about the phantom boyfriend...
After another hour of work Severus headed to his chambers, and along the way came to a conclusion: He no longer cared or worried about his past. he only cared, no, loved Hermione and hoped they could have a future together...
*****
*****
Severus woke early that morning. He had had the realization that it was his birthday, His forty-fifth birthday to be precise. He didn't feel it though, and unlike all of the birthdays he had had in the past he felt there was something special about today.
He hadn't had the opportunity to speak with Hermoine in nearly two weeks. tonight would be different, He thought to himself, he would ask her to join him for a private dinner in his chambers.
He got up and quickly went to his desk and grabbing a quill and parchment began to write. Five minutes later he summoned a house elf, " I want you to take this to Miss Granger's room, you know where that is?"
"Yeses master, it's by the library," Snape nodded and the house elf disappeared.
Not even a minute later there was a small knock at his door. He got up and went to the door, he opened it and looked around the hall. There was no one there. He looked down, there was a brown paper wrapped package at his feet. He looked around one more time before picking it up and closing the door.
***
Hermoine got up from her cramped position about four yards away from Severus' door. She smiled smugly to herself, he had picked it up, Now wouldn't he be surprised when he opened it. She wrapped the invisibility cloak tighter and walked back to her room, she took cloak off just as she walked in. "Dobby!"
"Misses, remember Dobby!" He got up from where he was sitting by Crookshanks near the fireplace, "Masters sent this for you," he bowed and handed her a piece of folded parchment, she looked at it and when she looked up again he had disappeared.
She sat on the edge of the bed. Odd, she thought as she looked at the parchment. she unfolded it and read the what was written inside:
Miss Hermoine Granger,
Please accept this invitation for a private dinner in my
chambers tonight as 7 P.M. sharp.
Severus Snape
He wrote this before he got the package she thought and looked at his handwriting; it was elegant and serpentine, How fitting she thought...
***
Severus laid the package on his desk and looked at it suspiciously, It was obviously a birthday present in disguise he thought as he too a letter opener and slid it across the sealed edges of the paper. He stopped when he picked up a faint scent; Vanilla and roses.
He closed his eyes and picture who it belonged to; a stubborn young girl with brown curls and soft lips. How had she known it was his birthday? He put that thought out of his mind and returned to opening his birthday present he opened the brown paper and was shocked to see another layer of it underneath. She did this to him on purpose, he thought as he noticed a small envelope of the same paper, he opened it and inside was a slip of parchment.
'Happy Birthday Severus Snape'
She hadn't signed it but he knew her handwriting, meticulously neat, but elegant with sweeping arches and loops. He put the card down and picked up the letter opener again, he carefully slid along the sealed edge as he had with the first one and opened up the paper wrapping. He gasped when he saw what was inside....
*****
*****
Severus stood staring at his gift, I was one of the few books he didn't have in his collection. "That little witch," he said, smiling. She had to have been sorted into the wrong house, she is definitely Slytherin. "She's had this planned for a while," he said out loud to himself.
In front of him, resting on the brown paper wrapping was a mint condition copy of 'Arcane Uses for Chimaera, Hydra, and Basilisk' He laughed and picked it up, she has to accept that invitation if she got this for me. He noticed the book smelled faintly of Vanilla and roses, She has been planning this for a while indeed.
He was in a good mood, one could call him happy. He was still smiling when Dumbledore walked from the fireplace, "Good morning Albus,"
"My Severus you are in a fine mood today. Even if it is your birthday," Albus said popping a lemon drop into his mouth. "So what students did you run into last night for roaming the halls?"
"None," He picked up the book and handed it to the old man, "Miss Granger was kind enough to send me a useful birthday present,"
Albus chuckled as he looked at the book, "She must like you if she is willing to pay 40 galleons for a single book," Severus gagged, he had forgotten how much the book cost, even a shabby copy brought in at least 8 galleons. "Dinner alone in your chambers again this year?"
"As always," Severus replied, The old man raised an eyebrow and was about to say something. "What are you going to say Albus?"
"I was just going to suggest you invite Miss Granger. It does you no good to spend all of you time alone down here,"
Severus scowled, as he watch Dumbledore leaving, that man always knows more than he lets on, he thought, but still he did have a point it does me no good to be down here all by myself, so I'll just go up to the great hall and terrorize students there.
Severus left his Chambers, he left the book there, and replaced the wards, he hadn't bothered to set them recently. He had no reason to fear from Voldemort or of the Deatheaters still at large. Aurors were taking care of that problem. He had nearly an hour before breakfast and wandered around the halls until then. By the time he had reached the library he had taken several points away from each house for various reasons, it was his birthday present to himself.
He saw Madam Hooch walking towards him, "Ah Rolanda, Preparing for broomstick lessons?" She stopped and looked at him.
"Hello Severus Happy birthday," He nodded, "Yes, I am preparing for them, at least there are no Neville Longbottom's this year,"
"But if you remember, Longbottom became a rather succesful Auror, despite his clumsy nature" He replied. "Shame that Lucius took it away from him so soon," He actually missed Longbottom, but he had be led into a trap even the best in the ministry would never have seen, and tortured by Lucius and several other Deatheaters who had escaped.
"Truly a great loss," She said, "I have to be going Severus, happy birthday again." He gave her a weak smile that caught her off guard, she smiled back and hurried off.
Severus continued to walk and eventually made it to the great hall just before breakfast was about to start. He took his seat next to Hermoine and did his best to not smile.
***
Hermoine was grinning throughout the better part of the meal, Remus saw her amused look, "Hermoine you're looking rather please with yourself this morning,"
"I've just had an interesting morning," she replied, "I woke up early and got a few things done,"
"Ah I see," He leaned over, "Happy Birthday Severus," He smiled at him. He turned his attention back to Hermoine, "Did you hear about Sirius?"
"No, what about him?" Harry hadn't told her anything about his godfather in months, all she knew was that he was still alive and no longer in hiding.
"The Ministry gave him a job, several in fact, but he's coming here in a few weeks for a visit," Remus smiled, "It's just a little trip for himself, and he promised Albus that he would visit more often."
"It will be good to see him again, especially since the ministry decided he was indeed innocent,"
Severus felt his foul mood returning, Lupin and Black, great he thought the war was the last time he would see the two together.
though he did save Sirius' life as well as Remus', or so it was told by, nearly dying himself. That may be your only trump card Severus thought as he left the table.
***
Hermoine giggled, "Did you see the look on his face?" She asked Remus, "He looked like someone had slipped a leach into his food,"
Remus smiled, "He still doesn't like Sirius that much I take it. He did save Sirius' life though," Hermoine looked puzzled, "Didn't you hear about that?" she shook her head, "I'll tell you all about it later okay?" She nodded.
***
After breakfast had finished there was still some time before classes were to start for the day. Remus and Hermoine sat in the DADA classroom, they were the only ones in there for the moment.
"It was right before Harry finally hit Voldemort. Voldemort had corned Sirius, Harry and I and was using the cruciatus on Sirius and I. He was taunting harry as to which he should kill first. He never did see Severus coming up behind him. He looked like he had been through hell, it's a wonder that he could have survived.... Any ways Severus had somehow managed to keep his wand throughout his entire ordeal, and Yelled at Voldemort to stop. Voldemort didn't turn around when he started taunting Severus, he called him a failure and a weakling, and kept going even when Severus had raised his wand. He used the Avada Kedavra one Voldemort, but this didn't kill him, because Severus was flung a good thirty feet away into some rubble. Voldemort had released us from the cruciatus when Severus hit him. He was weak enough for Harry and I to strike him down for good with the help of a few of the Aurors who hadn't been injured. Black had passed out from the pain and wasn't doing to good. So Severus actually saved the three of us, but Sirius especially."
Hermoine had tears in here eyes as Remus told her what happened, she was only beginning to learn what had happened, that fateful day, to Severus. "I had no idea he did that,"
"Not many people did, and Severus definitely doesn't like to talk about it," Remus replied.
"That man is an enigma," Hermoine said as she wiped her eyes and stood up.
"And you're going to solve him?" Remus laughed, "Typical Gryffindor determination. Classes will be starting soon," Hermoine nodded and wiped her eyes a final time before leaving.
As she walked down the halls, she noticed that a few of the fifth, sixth and seventh year boys would follow her for a few yards then head towards the classes they needed to go to. "This is going to be a trying year," she said when she entered the library,
Madam Pince was dusting books, as usual, "Why is that?" she asked as she flitted among the shelves.
"Have you noticed the boys following me around?" She asked as she picked up as stack of books to put away, "Valentine's day is going to be especially trying."
"But that's months away, dear." She gave the girl a shrewd smile, "But look on the bright side it will draw students into the library," they both started laughing.
***
Severus watched the first years file into his classroom, double potions with Slytherin's and Gryffindor's. The best combination in the world, he thought sarcastically, I must really find some reason to take points away from Gryffindor today.
They were going to do a simple wart remover potion today he told the class and they groaned, not audibly though, points mattered to them. He gave them a cruel smile as he paired them up; a Gryffindor with a Slytherin.
Severus was anything but pleased, three cauldrons had been melted beyond recognition, all because they got nervous every time he stood over them. I'm the teacher I am supposed to do that, he thought, when will this day end?
****
Severus wasn't at the High table at lunch he was making arrangements for his private dinner, hopefully for two, that evening. He talked to the House elves, who were absolutely happy to do it for him, he was relieved that that has gone so well, he grabbed a sandwich from the kitchens and headed back to his classroom.
****
Hermoine had several visitors in the library that day, mostly Gryffindor girls who remembered her, who had to say that she looked absolutely smashing in her black dress and how she managed her hair. She told them thank you and said that her hair settled itself out after a few years. A few of her visitors were some of the older boys who decided that 'study' just the excuse they needed to be around her
She smiled at a first year girl with bushy black hair and dark brown eyes, she was reading Hogwarts; a history, while trying to sneak in bites from an apple she had hidden in her robe. She was shocked when she saw Hermoine looking at her, "I'm sorry Miss Granger,"
"It's quite all right, you remind me of me when I was younger, I spent a few lunches in here too, reading that very same book, while trying to sneak an apple or a sandwich,"
"Really?" the girl asked, "Oh I'm Cicely Rosewood,"
"Let me guess... Gryffindor?" the girl looked shocked again, "I'm a Gryffindor too," the girl looked relieved and smiled, "Lunch will be over soon do you want to check that out?" the girl nodded. Hermoine's day was going smoothly, but she just wanted it to end?
***
Classes didn't end soon enough for either Severus or Hermoine, they both thought today had been lengthened for at least three hours. Hermoine didn't mind it so much, she made a new friend. Severus on the other hand was certain he had made a few enemies out of a few of the seventh years.
*****
Hermoine sat on her bed wrapped in a towel and still wet from her bath, It was six-thirty and she was deciding what to wear to dinner, "I know," she said out loud, she had managed to get another weekend afternoon at Diagon alley and got another dress like the burgundy one only this one was black. She had already done her hair in to a series of ringlets that cascaded down from the hair sticks that held it up.
She dressed and pulled out a dark green cloak. I'll indulge him, she thought, she put it on and added a light silver serpentine pattern along the edges and around the hood, she put it on and looked in the mirror, please let none of the boys see her, she thought, She wanted only Severus to see her in this dress.
She finished of the outfit with a pair of soft-soled suede boots that came up just below her knee. "Perfect," She said out loud, "What do you think you silly cat?" she asked Crookshanks.
The orange cat looked up and meowed, she patted his head and smiled, "I'll be back later, okay," he meowed, purred and curled up into a ball. Silly lump of a cat she thought as she slipped her wand into a small pocket inside of the cloak.
She opened the door to her chambers and looked out into the hall, no one was in the hall. She was greatly relieved as she closed the door and walked quickly and silently down the hall. Just like a serpent, she thought and laughed silently to herself.
She made her way to the dungeons and past the potions classroom to Severus' chambers. She stood calmly at the door, collecting her thoughts.
***
Severus stood my the mantle of the large fireplace, He was dressed in black slacks and a long sleeved black dress shirt. He heard a knock and smiled, That would be Miss Granger by the sound of it, he thought, Now they would have the opportunity to chat without interruptions. Hopefully, as long as Albus could keep his hands out of the floo for an hour or two.
He walked to the door and after taking a deep breath opened it, "Miss Granger, I am glad you could make it," He flashed her a smile, "Please come in,"
"Thank you for inviting me," She stepped inside and waited for him to close the door, "I am assuming that I am your only guest this evening," she said.
"You assumed correctly," He stepped up behind her, "May I take your cloak for you? or would you rather wait until dinner is served?" Without a word she undid the clasp at her throat and drew the cloak from around her. Severus was without words as he looked at her, The crushed velvet hugged her curves deliciously, and her complexion was almost that of snow.
She handed the cloak the him and watched him as he went to hang it up. He really is very attractive when he smiles, more so than normal. She smiled to herself as she caught sight of a book on the couch by the fireplace, "I knew you'd open it," she said softly to herself, she stood by the fireplace and looked at a few of the picture he had up there, there was one of him as a younger man, probably just out of Hogwarts, the picture was scowling at her, she giggled.
Severus watched her looking at the book and then at the pictures, he held to glasses of wine. He finally stepped forward when she giggled, "You find my picture amusing, Miss Granger?"
She turned and smiled at him, he nearly dropped the wine glasses,
"Not all of them, just the ones that are scowling at me," She giggled again, all of the pictures of Severus were scowling at her, "Thank you," she said as he handed her a glass of wine.
Severus laughed, which took Hermoine by surprise it was a rich and silky laugh that sent a chill of pleasure down her spine. "You looked slightly surprised,"
"I always figured that you couldn't laugh and that's why you scowled so much," she sipped the wine, it was incredible, "I'm sorry,"
Severus smiled again, "I scowl because that's the image I have to live up to," He sipped his wine and admire the way the fire light played off of the black velvet and her body. "Thank you for the book, How did you know I wanted it,"
"You get a glint in your eye, when you see something you want," she smiled again, just like now, she thought. She was really enjoying this so far, "How did you know that I sent the book to you?"
"I'd know your handwriting anywhere," He said without smiling, "Second you smell like vanilla and roses, you're the only person who smells like that and the note was infused with it,"
Hermoine blushed, she didn't know whether to be insulted or complimented, She had kissed the note before she had put it in the envelope...
The clock tolled seven and Severus looked at Hermoine, "Shall we dine?" he asked offering his hand to her, she nodded and he led her over to candle lit table, it was sitting in front of a window.
"Severus?" she asked confused as she sat down, he had pulled her chair out for her before that.
"Yes Miss Granger?" he replied as he himself sat across from her.
"Please call me Hermoine," she looked into his eyes and shivered slightly as she watched the candle flames reflecting in them. "I never saw a window like this outside,"
"Well, Miss Gran... Hermoine, it's charmed to show up as stonework on the outside. I do like sunlight despite popular opinion." I just burn extremely badly and never tan, he thought.
"It's a beautiful view," she said looking out at the twilight beyond.
It is indeed, Severus thought as he stared at the incredible view he had.
"Severus, I do believe that you are staring at me," Hermoine said, when she caught him watching her out of the corner of her eye, She smiles as she watched him add a little color to his cheeks. He mumbled something about dinner being served. Their plates appeared out of nowhere; salmon with watercress and wild rice salad, and a croissant
With the meal served, they talked as they ate. They talked about Potions and Books, Severus was enjoying himself and actually let himself smile and laugh. This made Hermoine tingle every time he did. He needs to laugh more, it makes him younger, she thought as she watched him.
Hermoine was enjoying the meal immensely but something was bothering her, "Severus, Remus told me that you saved his life in the battle,"
Severus looked up from his plate, he had a grim look on his face, "I was facing my demons,"
"I'm very proud that you did," She said, "I thought you had died when you didn't return from the Deatheaters meeting,"
"Flitwick said something about that to me the night you slapped me," he looked into her eyes they were so warm yet so full of concern for him, "I'm sorry,"
"For what?" she asked, as she watched him watching her. "What do you have to be sorry for?"
"For kissing you, I shouldn't have done it," He replied breaking his gaze, and looking down at his plate
"Severus, If I had been offended I wouldn't have given you that book, I wouldn't have accepted the invitation and you would probably have multiple hexes upon you at this point, or poisoned. I learned from the best after all." She smiled at him.
"Oh," he swallowed hard, nearly choking. He noticed her green cloak hanging in the corner and the shimmering snakes along the edges, "Hermoine did you realize that there were silver serpents on your cloak?"
"I put them there," Severus nearly choke on his wine, "I thought you might like them."
He did immensely, the cloak itself was in Slytherin colors and the snakes just added to the overall effect. "I do like them, very Slytherin of you,"
"Why thank you Severus, and this invitation is very Gryffindor of you," she smiled, the dinner had vanished and was replaced with small creme brulee each.
***
Severus and Hermoine sat on the couch together. She leaned against him as they faced the fire. She had retrieved her wand from her cloak and was laying with the flames. He sat reveling in her warmth as she leaned into him. He silently watched her play with the colors of the flames and the different combinations of color she could create. Severus was truly surprised when she made the flames green and silver, "Very impressive Hermoine,"
"Why thank you Severus, but I am not quite finished yet." she flicked her wand and the flames became serpents that writhed and entwined themselves.
"Charms must have been your favorite class," Severus said as he watched the flames.
"No, actually Potions was," She said as she made the flame into a plaid pattern, "That's what I had originally thought the job opening was here, I didn't know you had survived and I am glad you did," she put her wand aside aside and looked up into his eyes.
"I'm glad I survived too," Severus said causing Hermoine to laugh, "I would've have regretted not being able to do this,"
Hermoine stopped laughing as she looked at him quizzically. Severus took her hand in his as he leaned and gently kissed her lips. Hermoine parted her lips as he kissed her and leaned into him as his tongue searched for hers, she slid her free hand around his neck and ran her fingers through his silky hair. Severus shivered when she did this, His free hand snaked around her waist.
Hermoine was quite breathless when they finally parted, Severus watched her as the clock tolling it was ten-thirty. Already?!
"It's late," He said, as he stood up, "Can we do this again soon?"
"What kiss? Anytime." She smiled and gave his hand a squeeze, he gave a half-hearted scowl "Oh, you mean dinner? Oh yes I would love to do this again."
"You are so Slytherin at times Miss Hermoine Granger," He said smiling, "I'm stating to think you were sorted wrong,"
"You're so Slytherin all of the time, well most of the time any ways." She smiled and kissed him on the cheek, "Thank you for a very entertaining evening Severus, And happy birthday,"
"This had been the happiest birthday I have had in a long while," He replied. He clasped her cloak for her and walked her to the door, "I'd walk you to your chambers but there are probably a few students as well as teachers roaming around, and that wouldn't look good for either of us at this point, now would it,"
"That's not a problem. Your students might accuse you of favoring Gryffindors. Good night Severus." Hermoine have him another kiss on the cheek smiled as she left His chambers and began to walk back to her own.
***
Severus on the couch, and rubbed his hands on his cheeks, he knew he was flushed and he felt the warmth of his cheeks. He had enjoyed this evening but it went by too quickly. He didn't want to cut it short but he had to go back to Archimedes Apothecary in the morning, he had found he was short on wolfsbane, and with Remus here now... He'd rather be prepared.
He looked at the flames they were still plaid, he'd leave that way until the fire died down. They were a comforting reminder, to an evening well spent.
He got up, thinking about Hermoine had given him a bit of a rise, "I'm getting rather tired of cold showers, maybe I should try that freezing spell," He muttered as walked towards the bathroom...
****
Hermoine opened the door to her quarters, a great orange lump met her by the door, he walked around her feet as she walked in, he sniffed her and gave her a rather cross and suspicious look that said 'You smell like Snape, why?'
"Oh you great lump of a cat, that Kneazle in you gets the better of you more and more these days," She picked him up and kissed the top of her head, "I had dinner with him, that's why I am all dressed up." He meowed when she set him down and headed for the bed.
Hermoine hung up her cloak and decided to keep the pattern, it was very subtle and hardly any one can see it, she thought. She went to the bathroom and undid her hair. the curls fell down well past her shoulders, Next time, I'll wear my hair down, she thought. she draped her dress across the small chaise she had in her room.
She slipped her pajamas on, burgundy flannel with yellowish buttons, and slid under the covers of her bed. She waited for Crookshanks to settle under his corner of the covers and closed her eyes, and drifted off to sleep...
******
******
Severus woke feeling calm and relaxed, he stretched and threw aside the dark green bed linens. It was dawn, he had left his bedroom door open and could see the light streaming in from the enchanted window. He picked up his black bathrobe and carried it with him to the bathroom.
He put the robe on the towel rack and and looked into the mirror; He looked younger! He saw not the tired man he was used to seeing every morning, but the vibrant young man of thirty who had yet to feel the phantom pains of the cruciatus catching up to him. He had lost the dark circles under his eyes and had regained the lost fire for life.
He stripped to the waist and looked over his shoulder into the mirror, he looked at the white scars that crisscrossed his backside; from shoulders to mid thigh, part of the torture he had endured for years. There weren't any potions he knew of that could make them fade any further. He sighed stripped the rest of his clothes off and stepped into the shower...
He thought about the day ahead of him as he dressed: Several meetings with teachers then a free afternoon, He would floo over to Diagon and get the dried aconite (wolfsbane) he needed. He had the sudden thought that Hermoine might like to go, but he'd wait to ask her when she was sure to be awake...
***
Hermoine was awakened to: Meow! Whump! She sat upright immediately and rubbed her eyes, "Crookshanks you silly thing, Did I kick you off of the bed? " He grumbled, "I'm sorry," She yawned and stretched. It was a little after sunrise about six a.m. or so, she didn't bother looking at the clock. Crookshanks grumbled, "I'm not picking you up, you can get on the bed yourself," again another grumble. She rolled her eyes and got out of bed, Crookshanks promptly took over the warmest spot under the covers.
She smiled. She had to tell Ginny, She thought, She did say she wanted the gory details.
Dear Ginny,
I was invited to a private dinner in his chambers last night, It was his birthday. I had a good time, we talked for several hours and you know what? He's sweet, kind, and has a sense of humor. And when He laughs, Oh Ginny it could send tingles down your spine. I am going to see where this goes, I actually enjoy his company, wish me luck.
Love always
your friend
Hermoine
She smiled and sealed the letter, Now what to wear today? she thought as she stood up, she owl the letter after breakfast. She went to her closet and opened the doors she chose a burgundy dress of silk brocade, it was more of a simple shift than a formal dress.
Now for the bath, she went to the bathroom and stripped out of her pajamas, she turned the hot water on and climbed into the tub as it filled. As she soaked she thought of last night, I wonder where this will lead, she thought after she turned the water off.
Hermoine stepped out of the large tub in her bathroom and pulled the fluffy white towel around her, Crookshanks was sitting on her bed when she stepped out of the bathroom, he jumped off of the bed and after walking several circles around her he sniffed her and meowed. His look seemed to say; You don't smell like Snape any more, good job.
"You silly cat, you may have to put up with that smell," he seemed to frown, "He's not that bad and you know it," Crookshanks stood and with tail straight up headed under the bed.
She dried her hair with has drying spell and put it up with a hair pin. She looked at the cat who purred with approval, You're not the only one who would purr you silly thing, she thought smiling.
***
Severus made his way from the dungeon to the library. He had taken several points from a Hufflepuff girl for running into him, Literally, and left her sucking her upper lip.
"Ah, Severus," Severus froze in his tracks when he heard Albus behind him, "Did you have a happy birthday?"
"Yes, thank you," He turned to face him, Albus has several brown wrapped packages under his arm, "We thought it best to wait until after your birthday to give to these," Albus gave him a knowing smile.
"Thank you," Severus took the packages but looked at him rather suspiciously, the man was smiling for a reason, "You seemed rather pleased with yourself today Albus,"
"I do?" He replied and then chuckled, "But my dear Severus I always look like this,"
You're lying, but that's okay, I'll let it slide, Severus thought. He scowled for the first time that day, "I have to be going,"
"Of course," Albus smiled again and turned and walked off.
Severus looked at the six packages in his arms, he muttered a spell and shrunk them down, before sliding them into a pocket of his robe. He continued on his way. Hermoine's Chambers were in a side hall behind a tapestry. wise move, he thought, students can't find it.
He took a deep breath and knocked on the door, He stood patiently as he waited. The door opened a crack and he gave a slight gasp, Hermoine smiled at him, she was wrapped in a large white towel. "Oh, hello Severus,"
"Good morning Hermoine," He made a small squeak that made her smile, "I was wondering if you would like to go with me to Diagon alley this afternoon? I have something I need to pick up," He gave a weak smile.
She gave him a fell smile, "Of course I'll go with you," She replied, "I'd let you in but I just got out of the tub,"
"Quite all right, We'll meet in the library at one?" he asked, Hoping she would agree.
"Of course," She replied, "If you'll excuse me?" he nodded and mumbled a god bye. She closed the door as he turned to leave.
Severus waited until she shut the door before continuing, He needed that freezing spell, but toned it down to a mere chill, he didn't want to do anything that might have to be explained to Madam Pomfrey.
****
Hermoine closed the door and began laughing uncontrollably, she thought Severus was going to die when he saw her. In a towel no less. She threw of the towel when she reached her room and got dressed.
****
Severus sat at the high table watching the students chattering like monkeys. He watched as the tables hushed as Hermoine walked to the high table. He smiled, a fairly cruel smile, as she walked up to her seat next to him.
"Good morning to you too Severus. I must say you look rather handsome today," she said under her breath as soon as the students started talking again. "Thank you for dinner last night,"
"You're welcome," He replied through a scowl. Hermoine gave a small laugh and began to eat her breakfast. He caught a strange scent from her, he had smelled it once before, It was a composite scent, Amber, he believed, it blends well with vanilla and roses, he thought, I may have to use that freezing spell again...
Severus excused himself from the table and made his way back to the potions class. He caught the scent of amber, vanilla and roses and turned around, Hermoine was standing behind him. "Can I help you with something, Hermoine?"
"Only a question, Severus. That is if you don't mind,"
"Why would I mind?" His voice was soft and silky, like a snake, she thought, I really have to stop doing that ...
"Do I really smell like Vanilla and roses?" She asked clasping her hands behind her back.
"Yes you do, and it is quite intoxicating," He replied, she gave another shiver when he answered, "Does that answer your question?"
"Yes, but it also raises a few of my own which can wait until this afternoon," Hermoine said goodbye to him, smiled and headed for the library.
Severus suddenly felt curious, another nasty trait from Gryffindor, What could she possibly have questions about? other than everything under the sun? He dismissed this and made his way to his classroom where he had to meet with Remus, of all people first.
****
Hermoine smiled as she walked, from the owlrey, she saw Albus and smiled at him, "Good morning Albus," She said
"Good morning dear," His eyes twinkled, "I was wondering how you came up with Severus' birthday present?"
"How?" She asked, "He saw the copy we have in the library and got a glint in his eye, It's the same look my cousins got every time they saw something they wanted,"
"He seems to like it," Albus replied, "What are your plans for this afternoon?"
"I am joining Severus for a trip to Diagon alley if my afternoon is free," She replied.
"I'm sure it will be," He gave her a very knowing smile, "I must be going,"
Hermoine watched the aged wizard walk away, Why doe he always seem to know things? she asked herself as she walked into the library.
Irma watched Hermoine as she walked through the doors, "Library will be closed for a few hours this afternoon dear," Hermoine looked confused, "Cleaning top to bottom, team of twenty house elves. We each have the afternoon off,"
Hermoine just smiled s she put the few books that were out away, She looked forward to this afternoon with Severus.
Hermione,
Well now you can finally say that you kissed teacher, I am only kidding of course. You obviously don't seem disgusted about the fact that the git kissed you. And well, maybe you should see where this goes... You have to tell me all of the gory details.
Love always,
Ginny
She had to smile. Ginny always had a funny side too her, even if she did tend to hide it unlike her brothers. She knew that some of the students, especially some of the older Gryffindors might remember her; even if it was only in the capacity of Harry Potter's friend.
Madam Pince flitted around the library like a hummingbird. She was armed with her favorite feather-duster... Hermione smiled at her, "Irma, there isn't a speck of dust left in here,"
"There will be," Irma replied with conviction and flitted off again.
****
She was in a good mood despite that fact that she and Severus hadn't spoken to each other in two days. He had taken to scowling at her again, she continued to smile at her.
She had gotten an owl from Remus Lupin as well, he would be returning to teach the DADA class this term, she was glad that they ministry had worked out a plan for him to teach at Hogwarts again, seeing as they owed Dumbledore and Hogwarts big time.
She got up, picked up her letter and left the library. She made her way down to Gryffindor tower; Ah, the memories to be had within. She smiled at the painting and said the password; 'Chimaera quills,' and the painting swung open. She stepped inside and immediately was surrounded by students.
"Who are you?" one of then asked, "What are you doing in our Common Room?"
"My name is Miss Granger, and I am the assistant librarian. This used to by my common room,"
"You mean Hermione Granger right," Hermione nodded, " Just making sure you're not a Slytherin. I remember you though, you helped Harry Potter and Dumbledore defeat Voldemort."
I had a hand in the preparation. And not all Slytherin's are bad you know."
"What about that greasy git Snape?" another asked, "He's a right terrible Slytherin."
"That greasy git helped defeat Voldemort by risking his life spying for our side. Half of you wouldn't even be here if it wasn't for him." She gave them an icy look, "I may look young, but I am staff and can take points away, or give them,"
"Oh right, Sorry then Miss Granger..." She couldn't help but smile as she left the common room. She thought for a moment what Severus would say. She laughed and walked down the hall greeting students as she walked. She ran into nearly Headless Nick and said hello to him.
****
Severus Snape walked down the halls. He was eager to say the least, to start taking points away from students, especially arrogant Gryffindors.
He ached inside, he wanted so badly to talk to Hermione but there hadn't been any opportunity to do so. they had both been extremely busy. Hermione was training under Madam Pince; who had announced her retirement for mid-term. And He was busy making sure all of his lesson plans were ready, and that he was indeed fully stocked for potions. The way he figured the more he longed for Hermione the meaner he could be to students...
Hermione had received an owl that morning and seemed happy about the letter, even if she hadn't read it right away, Severus wondered if it was from a boyfriend she had failed to mention.
He scowled and continued to make his way down the halls. He was also unhappy about the newest Defense Against Dark Arts teacher; Remus Lupin. His robes billowed around him menacingly, he was in a foul mood indeed.
He saw several students he desperately wanted to take points from, He have to wait until tomorrow to do that. he thought to himself. he made his way to the Slytherin Tower and after saying the password entered.
There were many students in there many looked eerily alike: Pale and gaunt. He passed his gaze over the group. "The term is about to begin and I expect no nonsense from any of you, I expect a hundred percent from all of you," His look could have frozen anyone in their place, "I will be keeping a close eye on all of you,"
"Professor Snape?" A girl with nearly white blond hair stood up.
"Yes Miss Nettleburn?" Snape turned to face her, she reminded him of the Malfoys, now all imprisoned.
"We heard," she started gesturing to the girls that sat near her, "That Hermione Granger was here, is that true,"
"Yes, that's true. Miss Granger is going to take Madam Pince's place in the library."
He turned to leave and was halfway out of the door when he heard a comment "...Great now we have to deal with Harry Potter's Bushy haired know-it-all sidekick. Who doesn't..." Snape turned and soon loomed over the girl.
"Fifty points from Slytherin as soon as house points begin..." he headed for the door once more, "Be thankful I didn't give you lot a detention..." with that Severus left the Slytherin common room...
***
By the time the First years had arrived, the entire student body knew that Hermione Granger was working there. There was a low murmur as the students watched her take her place at the high table between Severus and Lupin. The boys for the most part stared and the girls were commenting on her outfit and how beautiful she was. She became a Goddess to many of the boys, and a role model for some of the girls that day.
She watched the sorting ceremony with rapt attention noting who went to what house. Remus smiled as he listened to Dumbledore's speech. he looked healthier and happier that he had the last time he had seen him. "Remus?"
"Yes Hermione?" he said turning to her.
"I'm glad you're back here teaching, even if I'm not one of your students. You were one of my two favorite teachers here,"
"Who was the other?" He asked curious to know. Hermione turned her head slightly, "Oh!" He say that Snape wasn't paying attention to the conversation.
"Interesting choice," He laughed, "I'm glad to be back here, since the Ministry worked up that potion with Severus' help, I am as good as cured."
"It's good to know that Severus has a helpful side..." Hermione said as she started to eat.
"Funny, Miss Granger. " Severus said under his breath, as he plied himself to his plate.
***
Dinner ended without event. Hermione sat in the library next to the fireplace. She was finishing up her notes from the 'Arcane Potions' book. She yawned and stretched. She thought about Severus' birthday present that sat in a box under her bed. She had to figure out how to give it to him. She did have an invisibility cloak of her own.... perfect, she thought as she smiled, Severus will never know what hit him....
She put the book back in its place in the restricted area and sat next to the fire for about a half hour changing the colors of the flames. "You getting yourself in too deep Hermione Granger," She said to herself as she played with the flames color, She concentrated and even got a plaid flame. She was amused by this and apparently someone else was too, She turned in her chair when she heard a laugh. "Oh professor Flitwick, I didn't see you there,"
Flitwick smiled, "Quite all right dear, I see you gotten a plaid, took me a month to do than when I was younger," He smiles and patted her arm, "You were always good at charms, and potions for that matter,"
"Has Severus ceased being a block of ice?" she looked shocked, "I was one of the few teachers who noticed your lack of enthusiasm, after Severus didn't return. And your new resolve to smile every time he scowls at you... He may warm to you yet,"
"He's an insufferable annoyance, So typically Slytherin," she said, "I'm sorry I shouldn't have called him that."
"Quite all right," Flitwick laughed and walked out of the library. chuckling to himself as he left, did he know something she didn't? she asked herself...
She decided not to dwell on it and headed for her chambers.
***
Severus sat at his desk in the Potions class going over the lesson plans for the last time. He felt good about being able to take points from students even if it was from his own house. He'd talk to her as soon as classes got settled. He looked at the everlasting rose, he give it to her soon but in secret.
He Finally let it sink in that he was in love with the girl, he must have been for sometime; It was not merely respect anymore. Severus Snape had fallen in love. He had to wonder what Hermione felt about him though, he had to know...
He would be a gentleman, he was one of course underneath the sarcastic and cynical exterior. He would accept if she didn't reciprocate. He let himself smile, For once in his life, a bitter thought didn't intrude on his good mood.
"Severus?" He looked up and scowled, slightly. Dumbledore stood in the doorway, "You look pleased with yourself, A Slytherin girl came to me and complained abut taking points from the her house, early."
"She was insulting staff, You know I cannot abide by that, especially when it's from my own house," he looked at his lessons plans again.
"I guess I can let this slip they have all year to regain those points," Albus laughed, "I hope you know what you're getting yourself into," Albus was gone when Severus looked up.
What could he mean by that? he thought, That man always knew more than he let on. He thought for a moment and became half-filled with doubt once more.
He raise the sleeve of his shirt up and looked at the remnants of the Death Eaters mark, now just and ugly ragged scar, Could Hermione love someone with his past? Surely she could, she allowed him to kiss her, and he had been wrong about the phantom boyfriend...
After another hour of work Severus headed to his chambers, and along the way came to a conclusion: He no longer cared or worried about his past. he only cared, no, loved Hermione and hoped they could have a future together...
*****
*****
Severus woke early that morning. He had had the realization that it was his birthday, His forty-fifth birthday to be precise. He didn't feel it though, and unlike all of the birthdays he had had in the past he felt there was something special about today.
He hadn't had the opportunity to speak with Hermoine in nearly two weeks. tonight would be different, He thought to himself, he would ask her to join him for a private dinner in his chambers.
He got up and quickly went to his desk and grabbing a quill and parchment began to write. Five minutes later he summoned a house elf, " I want you to take this to Miss Granger's room, you know where that is?"
"Yeses master, it's by the library," Snape nodded and the house elf disappeared.
Not even a minute later there was a small knock at his door. He got up and went to the door, he opened it and looked around the hall. There was no one there. He looked down, there was a brown paper wrapped package at his feet. He looked around one more time before picking it up and closing the door.
***
Hermoine got up from her cramped position about four yards away from Severus' door. She smiled smugly to herself, he had picked it up, Now wouldn't he be surprised when he opened it. She wrapped the invisibility cloak tighter and walked back to her room, she took cloak off just as she walked in. "Dobby!"
"Misses, remember Dobby!" He got up from where he was sitting by Crookshanks near the fireplace, "Masters sent this for you," he bowed and handed her a piece of folded parchment, she looked at it and when she looked up again he had disappeared.
She sat on the edge of the bed. Odd, she thought as she looked at the parchment. she unfolded it and read the what was written inside:
Miss Hermoine Granger,
Please accept this invitation for a private dinner in my
chambers tonight as 7 P.M. sharp.
Severus Snape
He wrote this before he got the package she thought and looked at his handwriting; it was elegant and serpentine, How fitting she thought...
***
Severus laid the package on his desk and looked at it suspiciously, It was obviously a birthday present in disguise he thought as he too a letter opener and slid it across the sealed edges of the paper. He stopped when he picked up a faint scent; Vanilla and roses.
He closed his eyes and picture who it belonged to; a stubborn young girl with brown curls and soft lips. How had she known it was his birthday? He put that thought out of his mind and returned to opening his birthday present he opened the brown paper and was shocked to see another layer of it underneath. She did this to him on purpose, he thought as he noticed a small envelope of the same paper, he opened it and inside was a slip of parchment.
'Happy Birthday Severus Snape'
She hadn't signed it but he knew her handwriting, meticulously neat, but elegant with sweeping arches and loops. He put the card down and picked up the letter opener again, he carefully slid along the sealed edge as he had with the first one and opened up the paper wrapping. He gasped when he saw what was inside....
*****
*****
Severus stood staring at his gift, I was one of the few books he didn't have in his collection. "That little witch," he said, smiling. She had to have been sorted into the wrong house, she is definitely Slytherin. "She's had this planned for a while," he said out loud to himself.
In front of him, resting on the brown paper wrapping was a mint condition copy of 'Arcane Uses for Chimaera, Hydra, and Basilisk' He laughed and picked it up, she has to accept that invitation if she got this for me. He noticed the book smelled faintly of Vanilla and roses, She has been planning this for a while indeed.
He was in a good mood, one could call him happy. He was still smiling when Dumbledore walked from the fireplace, "Good morning Albus,"
"My Severus you are in a fine mood today. Even if it is your birthday," Albus said popping a lemon drop into his mouth. "So what students did you run into last night for roaming the halls?"
"None," He picked up the book and handed it to the old man, "Miss Granger was kind enough to send me a useful birthday present,"
Albus chuckled as he looked at the book, "She must like you if she is willing to pay 40 galleons for a single book," Severus gagged, he had forgotten how much the book cost, even a shabby copy brought in at least 8 galleons. "Dinner alone in your chambers again this year?"
"As always," Severus replied, The old man raised an eyebrow and was about to say something. "What are you going to say Albus?"
"I was just going to suggest you invite Miss Granger. It does you no good to spend all of you time alone down here,"
Severus scowled, as he watch Dumbledore leaving, that man always knows more than he lets on, he thought, but still he did have a point it does me no good to be down here all by myself, so I'll just go up to the great hall and terrorize students there.
Severus left his Chambers, he left the book there, and replaced the wards, he hadn't bothered to set them recently. He had no reason to fear from Voldemort or of the Deatheaters still at large. Aurors were taking care of that problem. He had nearly an hour before breakfast and wandered around the halls until then. By the time he had reached the library he had taken several points away from each house for various reasons, it was his birthday present to himself.
He saw Madam Hooch walking towards him, "Ah Rolanda, Preparing for broomstick lessons?" She stopped and looked at him.
"Hello Severus Happy birthday," He nodded, "Yes, I am preparing for them, at least there are no Neville Longbottom's this year,"
"But if you remember, Longbottom became a rather succesful Auror, despite his clumsy nature" He replied. "Shame that Lucius took it away from him so soon," He actually missed Longbottom, but he had be led into a trap even the best in the ministry would never have seen, and tortured by Lucius and several other Deatheaters who had escaped.
"Truly a great loss," She said, "I have to be going Severus, happy birthday again." He gave her a weak smile that caught her off guard, she smiled back and hurried off.
Severus continued to walk and eventually made it to the great hall just before breakfast was about to start. He took his seat next to Hermoine and did his best to not smile.
***
Hermoine was grinning throughout the better part of the meal, Remus saw her amused look, "Hermoine you're looking rather please with yourself this morning,"
"I've just had an interesting morning," she replied, "I woke up early and got a few things done,"
"Ah I see," He leaned over, "Happy Birthday Severus," He smiled at him. He turned his attention back to Hermoine, "Did you hear about Sirius?"
"No, what about him?" Harry hadn't told her anything about his godfather in months, all she knew was that he was still alive and no longer in hiding.
"The Ministry gave him a job, several in fact, but he's coming here in a few weeks for a visit," Remus smiled, "It's just a little trip for himself, and he promised Albus that he would visit more often."
"It will be good to see him again, especially since the ministry decided he was indeed innocent,"
Severus felt his foul mood returning, Lupin and Black, great he thought the war was the last time he would see the two together.
though he did save Sirius' life as well as Remus', or so it was told by, nearly dying himself. That may be your only trump card Severus thought as he left the table.
***
Hermoine giggled, "Did you see the look on his face?" She asked Remus, "He looked like someone had slipped a leach into his food,"
Remus smiled, "He still doesn't like Sirius that much I take it. He did save Sirius' life though," Hermoine looked puzzled, "Didn't you hear about that?" she shook her head, "I'll tell you all about it later okay?" She nodded.
***
After breakfast had finished there was still some time before classes were to start for the day. Remus and Hermoine sat in the DADA classroom, they were the only ones in there for the moment.
"It was right before Harry finally hit Voldemort. Voldemort had corned Sirius, Harry and I and was using the cruciatus on Sirius and I. He was taunting harry as to which he should kill first. He never did see Severus coming up behind him. He looked like he had been through hell, it's a wonder that he could have survived.... Any ways Severus had somehow managed to keep his wand throughout his entire ordeal, and Yelled at Voldemort to stop. Voldemort didn't turn around when he started taunting Severus, he called him a failure and a weakling, and kept going even when Severus had raised his wand. He used the Avada Kedavra one Voldemort, but this didn't kill him, because Severus was flung a good thirty feet away into some rubble. Voldemort had released us from the cruciatus when Severus hit him. He was weak enough for Harry and I to strike him down for good with the help of a few of the Aurors who hadn't been injured. Black had passed out from the pain and wasn't doing to good. So Severus actually saved the three of us, but Sirius especially."
Hermoine had tears in here eyes as Remus told her what happened, she was only beginning to learn what had happened, that fateful day, to Severus. "I had no idea he did that,"
"Not many people did, and Severus definitely doesn't like to talk about it," Remus replied.
"That man is an enigma," Hermoine said as she wiped her eyes and stood up.
"And you're going to solve him?" Remus laughed, "Typical Gryffindor determination. Classes will be starting soon," Hermoine nodded and wiped her eyes a final time before leaving.
As she walked down the halls, she noticed that a few of the fifth, sixth and seventh year boys would follow her for a few yards then head towards the classes they needed to go to. "This is going to be a trying year," she said when she entered the library,
Madam Pince was dusting books, as usual, "Why is that?" she asked as she flitted among the shelves.
"Have you noticed the boys following me around?" She asked as she picked up as stack of books to put away, "Valentine's day is going to be especially trying."
"But that's months away, dear." She gave the girl a shrewd smile, "But look on the bright side it will draw students into the library," they both started laughing.
***
Severus watched the first years file into his classroom, double potions with Slytherin's and Gryffindor's. The best combination in the world, he thought sarcastically, I must really find some reason to take points away from Gryffindor today.
They were going to do a simple wart remover potion today he told the class and they groaned, not audibly though, points mattered to them. He gave them a cruel smile as he paired them up; a Gryffindor with a Slytherin.
Severus was anything but pleased, three cauldrons had been melted beyond recognition, all because they got nervous every time he stood over them. I'm the teacher I am supposed to do that, he thought, when will this day end?
****
Severus wasn't at the High table at lunch he was making arrangements for his private dinner, hopefully for two, that evening. He talked to the House elves, who were absolutely happy to do it for him, he was relieved that that has gone so well, he grabbed a sandwich from the kitchens and headed back to his classroom.
****
Hermoine had several visitors in the library that day, mostly Gryffindor girls who remembered her, who had to say that she looked absolutely smashing in her black dress and how she managed her hair. She told them thank you and said that her hair settled itself out after a few years. A few of her visitors were some of the older boys who decided that 'study' just the excuse they needed to be around her
She smiled at a first year girl with bushy black hair and dark brown eyes, she was reading Hogwarts; a history, while trying to sneak in bites from an apple she had hidden in her robe. She was shocked when she saw Hermoine looking at her, "I'm sorry Miss Granger,"
"It's quite all right, you remind me of me when I was younger, I spent a few lunches in here too, reading that very same book, while trying to sneak an apple or a sandwich,"
"Really?" the girl asked, "Oh I'm Cicely Rosewood,"
"Let me guess... Gryffindor?" the girl looked shocked again, "I'm a Gryffindor too," the girl looked relieved and smiled, "Lunch will be over soon do you want to check that out?" the girl nodded. Hermoine's day was going smoothly, but she just wanted it to end?
***
Classes didn't end soon enough for either Severus or Hermoine, they both thought today had been lengthened for at least three hours. Hermoine didn't mind it so much, she made a new friend. Severus on the other hand was certain he had made a few enemies out of a few of the seventh years.
*****
Hermoine sat on her bed wrapped in a towel and still wet from her bath, It was six-thirty and she was deciding what to wear to dinner, "I know," she said out loud, she had managed to get another weekend afternoon at Diagon alley and got another dress like the burgundy one only this one was black. She had already done her hair in to a series of ringlets that cascaded down from the hair sticks that held it up.
She dressed and pulled out a dark green cloak. I'll indulge him, she thought, she put it on and added a light silver serpentine pattern along the edges and around the hood, she put it on and looked in the mirror, please let none of the boys see her, she thought, She wanted only Severus to see her in this dress.
She finished of the outfit with a pair of soft-soled suede boots that came up just below her knee. "Perfect," She said out loud, "What do you think you silly cat?" she asked Crookshanks.
The orange cat looked up and meowed, she patted his head and smiled, "I'll be back later, okay," he meowed, purred and curled up into a ball. Silly lump of a cat she thought as she slipped her wand into a small pocket inside of the cloak.
She opened the door to her chambers and looked out into the hall, no one was in the hall. She was greatly relieved as she closed the door and walked quickly and silently down the hall. Just like a serpent, she thought and laughed silently to herself.
She made her way to the dungeons and past the potions classroom to Severus' chambers. She stood calmly at the door, collecting her thoughts.
***
Severus stood my the mantle of the large fireplace, He was dressed in black slacks and a long sleeved black dress shirt. He heard a knock and smiled, That would be Miss Granger by the sound of it, he thought, Now they would have the opportunity to chat without interruptions. Hopefully, as long as Albus could keep his hands out of the floo for an hour or two.
He walked to the door and after taking a deep breath opened it, "Miss Granger, I am glad you could make it," He flashed her a smile, "Please come in,"
"Thank you for inviting me," She stepped inside and waited for him to close the door, "I am assuming that I am your only guest this evening," she said.
"You assumed correctly," He stepped up behind her, "May I take your cloak for you? or would you rather wait until dinner is served?" Without a word she undid the clasp at her throat and drew the cloak from around her. Severus was without words as he looked at her, The crushed velvet hugged her curves deliciously, and her complexion was almost that of snow.
She handed the cloak the him and watched him as he went to hang it up. He really is very attractive when he smiles, more so than normal. She smiled to herself as she caught sight of a book on the couch by the fireplace, "I knew you'd open it," she said softly to herself, she stood by the fireplace and looked at a few of the picture he had up there, there was one of him as a younger man, probably just out of Hogwarts, the picture was scowling at her, she giggled.
Severus watched her looking at the book and then at the pictures, he held to glasses of wine. He finally stepped forward when she giggled, "You find my picture amusing, Miss Granger?"
She turned and smiled at him, he nearly dropped the wine glasses,
"Not all of them, just the ones that are scowling at me," She giggled again, all of the pictures of Severus were scowling at her, "Thank you," she said as he handed her a glass of wine.
Severus laughed, which took Hermoine by surprise it was a rich and silky laugh that sent a chill of pleasure down her spine. "You looked slightly surprised,"
"I always figured that you couldn't laugh and that's why you scowled so much," she sipped the wine, it was incredible, "I'm sorry,"
Severus smiled again, "I scowl because that's the image I have to live up to," He sipped his wine and admire the way the fire light played off of the black velvet and her body. "Thank you for the book, How did you know I wanted it,"
"You get a glint in your eye, when you see something you want," she smiled again, just like now, she thought. She was really enjoying this so far, "How did you know that I sent the book to you?"
"I'd know your handwriting anywhere," He said without smiling, "Second you smell like vanilla and roses, you're the only person who smells like that and the note was infused with it,"
Hermoine blushed, she didn't know whether to be insulted or complimented, She had kissed the note before she had put it in the envelope...
The clock tolled seven and Severus looked at Hermoine, "Shall we dine?" he asked offering his hand to her, she nodded and he led her over to candle lit table, it was sitting in front of a window.
"Severus?" she asked confused as she sat down, he had pulled her chair out for her before that.
"Yes Miss Granger?" he replied as he himself sat across from her.
"Please call me Hermoine," she looked into his eyes and shivered slightly as she watched the candle flames reflecting in them. "I never saw a window like this outside,"
"Well, Miss Gran... Hermoine, it's charmed to show up as stonework on the outside. I do like sunlight despite popular opinion." I just burn extremely badly and never tan, he thought.
"It's a beautiful view," she said looking out at the twilight beyond.
It is indeed, Severus thought as he stared at the incredible view he had.
"Severus, I do believe that you are staring at me," Hermoine said, when she caught him watching her out of the corner of her eye, She smiles as she watched him add a little color to his cheeks. He mumbled something about dinner being served. Their plates appeared out of nowhere; salmon with watercress and wild rice salad, and a croissant
With the meal served, they talked as they ate. They talked about Potions and Books, Severus was enjoying himself and actually let himself smile and laugh. This made Hermoine tingle every time he did. He needs to laugh more, it makes him younger, she thought as she watched him.
Hermoine was enjoying the meal immensely but something was bothering her, "Severus, Remus told me that you saved his life in the battle,"
Severus looked up from his plate, he had a grim look on his face, "I was facing my demons,"
"I'm very proud that you did," She said, "I thought you had died when you didn't return from the Deatheaters meeting,"
"Flitwick said something about that to me the night you slapped me," he looked into her eyes they were so warm yet so full of concern for him, "I'm sorry,"
"For what?" she asked, as she watched him watching her. "What do you have to be sorry for?"
"For kissing you, I shouldn't have done it," He replied breaking his gaze, and looking down at his plate
"Severus, If I had been offended I wouldn't have given you that book, I wouldn't have accepted the invitation and you would probably have multiple hexes upon you at this point, or poisoned. I learned from the best after all." She smiled at him.
"Oh," he swallowed hard, nearly choking. He noticed her green cloak hanging in the corner and the shimmering snakes along the edges, "Hermoine did you realize that there were silver serpents on your cloak?"
"I put them there," Severus nearly choke on his wine, "I thought you might like them."
He did immensely, the cloak itself was in Slytherin colors and the snakes just added to the overall effect. "I do like them, very Slytherin of you,"
"Why thank you Severus, and this invitation is very Gryffindor of you," she smiled, the dinner had vanished and was replaced with small creme brulee each.
***
Severus and Hermoine sat on the couch together. She leaned against him as they faced the fire. She had retrieved her wand from her cloak and was laying with the flames. He sat reveling in her warmth as she leaned into him. He silently watched her play with the colors of the flames and the different combinations of color she could create. Severus was truly surprised when she made the flames green and silver, "Very impressive Hermoine,"
"Why thank you Severus, but I am not quite finished yet." she flicked her wand and the flames became serpents that writhed and entwined themselves.
"Charms must have been your favorite class," Severus said as he watched the flames.
"No, actually Potions was," She said as she made the flame into a plaid pattern, "That's what I had originally thought the job opening was here, I didn't know you had survived and I am glad you did," she put her wand aside aside and looked up into his eyes.
"I'm glad I survived too," Severus said causing Hermoine to laugh, "I would've have regretted not being able to do this,"
Hermoine stopped laughing as she looked at him quizzically. Severus took her hand in his as he leaned and gently kissed her lips. Hermoine parted her lips as he kissed her and leaned into him as his tongue searched for hers, she slid her free hand around his neck and ran her fingers through his silky hair. Severus shivered when she did this, His free hand snaked around her waist.
Hermoine was quite breathless when they finally parted, Severus watched her as the clock tolling it was ten-thirty. Already?!
"It's late," He said, as he stood up, "Can we do this again soon?"
"What kiss? Anytime." She smiled and gave his hand a squeeze, he gave a half-hearted scowl "Oh, you mean dinner? Oh yes I would love to do this again."
"You are so Slytherin at times Miss Hermoine Granger," He said smiling, "I'm stating to think you were sorted wrong,"
"You're so Slytherin all of the time, well most of the time any ways." She smiled and kissed him on the cheek, "Thank you for a very entertaining evening Severus, And happy birthday,"
"This had been the happiest birthday I have had in a long while," He replied. He clasped her cloak for her and walked her to the door, "I'd walk you to your chambers but there are probably a few students as well as teachers roaming around, and that wouldn't look good for either of us at this point, now would it,"
"That's not a problem. Your students might accuse you of favoring Gryffindors. Good night Severus." Hermoine have him another kiss on the cheek smiled as she left His chambers and began to walk back to her own.
***
Severus on the couch, and rubbed his hands on his cheeks, he knew he was flushed and he felt the warmth of his cheeks. He had enjoyed this evening but it went by too quickly. He didn't want to cut it short but he had to go back to Archimedes Apothecary in the morning, he had found he was short on wolfsbane, and with Remus here now... He'd rather be prepared.
He looked at the flames they were still plaid, he'd leave that way until the fire died down. They were a comforting reminder, to an evening well spent.
He got up, thinking about Hermoine had given him a bit of a rise, "I'm getting rather tired of cold showers, maybe I should try that freezing spell," He muttered as walked towards the bathroom...
****
Hermoine opened the door to her quarters, a great orange lump met her by the door, he walked around her feet as she walked in, he sniffed her and gave her a rather cross and suspicious look that said 'You smell like Snape, why?'
"Oh you great lump of a cat, that Kneazle in you gets the better of you more and more these days," She picked him up and kissed the top of her head, "I had dinner with him, that's why I am all dressed up." He meowed when she set him down and headed for the bed.
Hermoine hung up her cloak and decided to keep the pattern, it was very subtle and hardly any one can see it, she thought. She went to the bathroom and undid her hair. the curls fell down well past her shoulders, Next time, I'll wear my hair down, she thought. she draped her dress across the small chaise she had in her room.
She slipped her pajamas on, burgundy flannel with yellowish buttons, and slid under the covers of her bed. She waited for Crookshanks to settle under his corner of the covers and closed her eyes, and drifted off to sleep...
******
******
Severus woke feeling calm and relaxed, he stretched and threw aside the dark green bed linens. It was dawn, he had left his bedroom door open and could see the light streaming in from the enchanted window. He picked up his black bathrobe and carried it with him to the bathroom.
He put the robe on the towel rack and and looked into the mirror; He looked younger! He saw not the tired man he was used to seeing every morning, but the vibrant young man of thirty who had yet to feel the phantom pains of the cruciatus catching up to him. He had lost the dark circles under his eyes and had regained the lost fire for life.
He stripped to the waist and looked over his shoulder into the mirror, he looked at the white scars that crisscrossed his backside; from shoulders to mid thigh, part of the torture he had endured for years. There weren't any potions he knew of that could make them fade any further. He sighed stripped the rest of his clothes off and stepped into the shower...
He thought about the day ahead of him as he dressed: Several meetings with teachers then a free afternoon, He would floo over to Diagon and get the dried aconite (wolfsbane) he needed. He had the sudden thought that Hermoine might like to go, but he'd wait to ask her when she was sure to be awake...
***
Hermoine was awakened to: Meow! Whump! She sat upright immediately and rubbed her eyes, "Crookshanks you silly thing, Did I kick you off of the bed? " He grumbled, "I'm sorry," She yawned and stretched. It was a little after sunrise about six a.m. or so, she didn't bother looking at the clock. Crookshanks grumbled, "I'm not picking you up, you can get on the bed yourself," again another grumble. She rolled her eyes and got out of bed, Crookshanks promptly took over the warmest spot under the covers.
She smiled. She had to tell Ginny, She thought, She did say she wanted the gory details.
Dear Ginny,
I was invited to a private dinner in his chambers last night, It was his birthday. I had a good time, we talked for several hours and you know what? He's sweet, kind, and has a sense of humor. And when He laughs, Oh Ginny it could send tingles down your spine. I am going to see where this goes, I actually enjoy his company, wish me luck.
Love always
your friend
Hermoine
She smiled and sealed the letter, Now what to wear today? she thought as she stood up, she owl the letter after breakfast. She went to her closet and opened the doors she chose a burgundy dress of silk brocade, it was more of a simple shift than a formal dress.
Now for the bath, she went to the bathroom and stripped out of her pajamas, she turned the hot water on and climbed into the tub as it filled. As she soaked she thought of last night, I wonder where this will lead, she thought after she turned the water off.
Hermoine stepped out of the large tub in her bathroom and pulled the fluffy white towel around her, Crookshanks was sitting on her bed when she stepped out of the bathroom, he jumped off of the bed and after walking several circles around her he sniffed her and meowed. His look seemed to say; You don't smell like Snape any more, good job.
"You silly cat, you may have to put up with that smell," he seemed to frown, "He's not that bad and you know it," Crookshanks stood and with tail straight up headed under the bed.
She dried her hair with has drying spell and put it up with a hair pin. She looked at the cat who purred with approval, You're not the only one who would purr you silly thing, she thought smiling.
***
Severus made his way from the dungeon to the library. He had taken several points from a Hufflepuff girl for running into him, Literally, and left her sucking her upper lip.
"Ah, Severus," Severus froze in his tracks when he heard Albus behind him, "Did you have a happy birthday?"
"Yes, thank you," He turned to face him, Albus has several brown wrapped packages under his arm, "We thought it best to wait until after your birthday to give to these," Albus gave him a knowing smile.
"Thank you," Severus took the packages but looked at him rather suspiciously, the man was smiling for a reason, "You seemed rather pleased with yourself today Albus,"
"I do?" He replied and then chuckled, "But my dear Severus I always look like this,"
You're lying, but that's okay, I'll let it slide, Severus thought. He scowled for the first time that day, "I have to be going,"
"Of course," Albus smiled again and turned and walked off.
Severus looked at the six packages in his arms, he muttered a spell and shrunk them down, before sliding them into a pocket of his robe. He continued on his way. Hermoine's Chambers were in a side hall behind a tapestry. wise move, he thought, students can't find it.
He took a deep breath and knocked on the door, He stood patiently as he waited. The door opened a crack and he gave a slight gasp, Hermoine smiled at him, she was wrapped in a large white towel. "Oh, hello Severus,"
"Good morning Hermoine," He made a small squeak that made her smile, "I was wondering if you would like to go with me to Diagon alley this afternoon? I have something I need to pick up," He gave a weak smile.
She gave him a fell smile, "Of course I'll go with you," She replied, "I'd let you in but I just got out of the tub,"
"Quite all right, We'll meet in the library at one?" he asked, Hoping she would agree.
"Of course," She replied, "If you'll excuse me?" he nodded and mumbled a god bye. She closed the door as he turned to leave.
Severus waited until she shut the door before continuing, He needed that freezing spell, but toned it down to a mere chill, he didn't want to do anything that might have to be explained to Madam Pomfrey.
****
Hermoine closed the door and began laughing uncontrollably, she thought Severus was going to die when he saw her. In a towel no less. She threw of the towel when she reached her room and got dressed.
****
Severus sat at the high table watching the students chattering like monkeys. He watched as the tables hushed as Hermoine walked to the high table. He smiled, a fairly cruel smile, as she walked up to her seat next to him.
"Good morning to you too Severus. I must say you look rather handsome today," she said under her breath as soon as the students started talking again. "Thank you for dinner last night,"
"You're welcome," He replied through a scowl. Hermoine gave a small laugh and began to eat her breakfast. He caught a strange scent from her, he had smelled it once before, It was a composite scent, Amber, he believed, it blends well with vanilla and roses, he thought, I may have to use that freezing spell again...
Severus excused himself from the table and made his way back to the potions class. He caught the scent of amber, vanilla and roses and turned around, Hermoine was standing behind him. "Can I help you with something, Hermoine?"
"Only a question, Severus. That is if you don't mind,"
"Why would I mind?" His voice was soft and silky, like a snake, she thought, I really have to stop doing that ...
"Do I really smell like Vanilla and roses?" She asked clasping her hands behind her back.
"Yes you do, and it is quite intoxicating," He replied, she gave another shiver when he answered, "Does that answer your question?"
"Yes, but it also raises a few of my own which can wait until this afternoon," Hermoine said goodbye to him, smiled and headed for the library.
Severus suddenly felt curious, another nasty trait from Gryffindor, What could she possibly have questions about? other than everything under the sun? He dismissed this and made his way to his classroom where he had to meet with Remus, of all people first.
****
Hermoine smiled as she walked, from the owlrey, she saw Albus and smiled at him, "Good morning Albus," She said
"Good morning dear," His eyes twinkled, "I was wondering how you came up with Severus' birthday present?"
"How?" She asked, "He saw the copy we have in the library and got a glint in his eye, It's the same look my cousins got every time they saw something they wanted,"
"He seems to like it," Albus replied, "What are your plans for this afternoon?"
"I am joining Severus for a trip to Diagon alley if my afternoon is free," She replied.
"I'm sure it will be," He gave her a very knowing smile, "I must be going,"
Hermoine watched the aged wizard walk away, Why doe he always seem to know things? she asked herself as she walked into the library.
Irma watched Hermoine as she walked through the doors, "Library will be closed for a few hours this afternoon dear," Hermoine looked confused, "Cleaning top to bottom, team of twenty house elves. We each have the afternoon off,"
Hermoine just smiled s she put the few books that were out away, She looked forward to this afternoon with Severus.