Severus eyed the Boy Who Lived with an air of approval. "Exactly, which is why I must leave you now, If Hermione were to suspect that I was not under her complete control she could go to Dumbledore, or the ministry and tell them that I had taken you. I would be arrested and she could be free to carry out her scheme. Until a reasonable solution can be found you must remain here. I need you to trust me."
The boys nodded dumbly at him.
"There's a house elf summon here if you need anything. I will return soon."
"Severus!" Hermione wrapped her arms about the dark man's frame. "Where have you been? I was so worried."
Severus, with great willpower, suppressed a shudder. She was better at this double game that he had ever been. Her eyes gleamed with unshed tears and if he hadn't been placed under the imperious curse and forced to kidnap he two best friends he never would have believed her to be anything but sincere. "Don't worry love," he whispered into her bushy hair, "Everything will work out."
"How do you know?" she asked tearfully.
"Good always wins." He said with a smirk.
Hermione let the warm water of the shower wash over her, automatically shampooing her hair as her thoughts skipped frantically over the evening. Something was wrong. Severus was still complying with her every command, but she had a horrible feeling he was doing so of his own accord. She was probably just being paranoid, but it was better safe than sorry. She had really hoped she wouldn't have to resort to locking him up with Harry and Ron but it appeared she didn't have a choice. Yes, that's what she would do she decided. Tonight, before he could suspect anything.
Severus gulped down a shot of fire whiskey. He needed to go to the Headmaster that was really his only option. He had hoped to be able to return the boys today but it was not to be. As far as the staff was concerned Severus was out scouring the country side trying to locate the boy wonder and his gangly carrot topped side kick. If only things were that simple. He downed another shot of whiskey and tossed his tumbler into the fire. Tomorrow would be soon enough to talk with Albus. He needed sleep to clear his head.