"I can't run away with you, Severus," Hermione whispered, tears filling her eyes.
"Why not?" he asked in a voice that was both confused and amused.
"I have duties. Obligations. Friends. I have a life here, I can't just up and leave it."
"Even to be with me?" he prompted.
"Even to be with you."
Silence fell between them. Hermione felt as if her heart was breaking bit by bit as the impact of her answer began to show on his face.
"I'm confused," he admitted. "How can your friends be obligations?"
"I didn't say that! Don't twist my words!"