A/N The poor Weasley family! I feel bad for them but feel totally excited that Severus and Hermione are getting much closer.

Thanks for reading!

Chapter 9

Hermione Granger awoke early to the thoughts of being extremely comfortable. She realized she hadn't had a nightmare. It was the first time since before the war that she hadn't.

She woke Severus with a kiss and said, "How did you sleep?"

He said, "I haven't slept like that ever. I didn't even have a nightmare. You must be my good luck charm."

"That's strange," Hermione said, "I didn't have one either. Maybe someone slipped us some dreamless sleep."

He knew she was only kidding. They decided to spend Sunday in her quarters reading and talking. They sent word to Minerva who understood having already heard of Ron's death. They had the elves bring them food and ate and talked about their work. Severus did what he'd been aiming to. He distracted her from the death of someone she'd loved. Nearing the end of the night Hermione had once again started crying. He held her close on the couch again and they fell to sleep.

The next morning Minerva came through the floo into Hermione's living room to what she considered a strange sight. She said, "What is going on in here?"

Hermione and Severus woke up and saw her standing there with her hands on her hips demanding an explanation.

Severus rolled his eyes and drawled out, "Clearly we were sleeping."

Minerva said, "I understand that you were sleeping but why were you sleeping together?"

Hermione said, "We forgot to mention that we were dating. With everything that has been going on I hadn't gotten the chance to tell you."

Minerva seemed to change views immediately, "Dating! Oh my! How exciting! I mean, I knew you were close friends but dating? We will soon here the pitter patter of little feet!"

A morbid looking Severus snapped, "Woman do not say such things. We've only just changed from close friends to something more!"

Hermione smiled at the both of them and snuggled back into Severus stating, "If you two are quite done, I'd like to sleep through this morning. I've had quite the few days and would gladly appreciate the rest."

Minerva said, "Of course dear, I came to tell you that I received word that Ronald's funeral will be tonight at the burrow. All the staff is going together, but if you two would like to go ahead that would be understandable."

Hermione started crying again and a concerned Minerva took her leave. Severus said, "Hermione, why don't we sleep until mid afternoon, then head over to the burrow early. I'll even come with you."

She looked up at him and hugged him. He truly was her best friend and truly did care for her. They fell back asleep and awoke later to get ready for the funeral.