Disclaimer: This fanfiction is based on characters and settings from the Harry Potter series, created by J.K. Rowling and owned by Warner Bros. Any changes or additions to the original story are purely for creative purposes and are not meant to reflect the original work. This story is not for profit and is written for the enjoyment of fans.

~O~

Lost and Found

Chapter 4: Admiration

The anniversary of the Battle of Hogwarts had arrived, and the day was unexpectedly bright and sunny, a rare break from the typical wet May weather. It was a Sunday, and Grimmauld Place was alive with activity, a contrast to its usual somber atmosphere.

In the kitchen, Molly Weasley, along with Ginny, Hermione, and Fleur, worked diligently to prepare a feast fit for the occasion. Meanwhile, Harry, Bill, and George were occupied in the dining and sitting rooms, rearranging furniture, adding extra tables and chairs, and hanging decorations to set the mood for the evening's celebration. Even Kreacher, the usually grumpy house-elf, seemed caught up in the festive spirit, contributing to the preparations without his usual complaints. The entire house was filled with a sense of camaraderie and anticipation as they all came together to honor the memory of those lost and celebrate the victory that had been hard-won.

The guest list included the surviving members of the Order of the Phoenix. Harry had mentioned to Hermione that he hoped Severus Snape might also attend. He had sent an invitation to Snape a week prior, though, true to form, he had yet to receive any response. Hermione had extended the invitation to him personally during one of her regular visits to his home. Though he responded with a scowl and a grunt, it was not an outright refusal, leaving a possibility that he might still attend.

The one person Hermione was dreading to see that evening was Ron. Earlier, Ginny had discreetly pulled her aside when no one was around, gently warning her that Ron was planning to bring his new girlfriend—the very woman with whom he had betrayed Hermione. Hermione struggled to keep her expression neutral, but her eyes gave her away. Ginny quickly reassured her, promising that if Ron or his new girlfriend showed even a hint of hostility, both she and Molly would be the first to send them packing. Hermione responded with a soft, amused laugh as she imagined the of scenario.

Once the turkey was placed in the preheated oven, Hermione seized the opportunity to step out through the kitchen's backdoor into a quaint garden. Despite its modest size, the garden was a testament to the effort and dedication of Harry and Ginny, who had diligently worked on it after the winter.

Hermione settled onto a metal chair that matched a round metal table and took out the phone from her pocket. She pondered how she might persuade the stubborn Severus Snape to leave his seclusion and attend the anniversary dinner for the first time since the end of the war. Since his discharge from St. Mungo's, Snape had deliberately avoided any gatherings with the group, clearly preferring solitude. Despite his wish to remain isolated, Hermione felt strongly that he should reengage with those who still cared for him. She made it her mission, or perhaps her responsibility, to coax him out of his self-imposed isolation and encourage him to experience the companionship and support he had long been missing.

"Mr. Snape, good day! We would like to extend another invitation to you for tonight's gathering at Grimmauld Place at 7 p.m. We will be commemorating the Battle of Hogwarts and celebrating the lives of those who sacrificed so much for the cause. Your presence would be greatly valued, and I assure you there will be excellent food. It would be an honor to have you join us. Please come."

Hermione crossed her fingers as she waited for his response. "Miss Granger, I am not inclined to subject myself to the discomfort of social pretense. Leave me alone." She fumed. What a royal twat, that he is. If niceties wouldn't convince him, then Hermione decided she would need to change tactics. Hermione was not typically one to resort to manipulation, but she was willing to make an exception this time.

"Mr. Snape, it's a shame you won't be able to join us. I have the first installment of Dan Brown's latest mystery series, and I recall you enjoyed Digital Fortress. This new novel comes highly recommended. However, it seems I'll have to keep it on hold until our next meeting, which remains undetermined." A little blackmailing wouldn't hurt.

Hermione almost jumped with joy when his reply came through. It was clear that her subtle coercion had worked. "Your tactics are as transparent as they are unwelcome. Very well, I will attend the event this evening, though I am certain my presence will not add much to your celebration." Ah, Severus Snape and his unexpected love for Muggle mystery.

The door to the kitchen opened and closed, Ginny approached Hermione with a keen eye, noting the contrast between her current demeanor and the subdued mood from earlier. As she settled into the chair opposite Hermione, Ginny couldn't help but ask, "Somebody's in a good mood. Care to share with me?"

Hermione's grin widened. "Oh, just a small victory," she replied, her eyes sparkling with satisfaction. "It seems our friend might be reconsidering his decision about tonight."

Ginny raised an eyebrow, clearly intrigued. "You mean Snape? You managed to convince him to come after all?"

Hermione nodded, her expression one of triumph. "It looks like my little bit of... persuasion worked. I think he'll be joining us tonight. It's going to be good to have him there, even if it's just for the evening."

Ginny smiled, clearly pleased with the news. "That's wonderful to hear. It'll mean a lot to everyone, especially Harry. And it's nice to see you so cheerful after our earlier conversation."

Hermione's expression softened as she acknowledged Ginny's comment. "He can be mean and snarky most of the time, but I've found a way not to be intimidated by him. Last week, I accidentally splashed coffee on his research papers, and—" Hermione abruptly stopped, realizing what she had just said.

Her friend's eyes widened, and a mischievous smile crept across her face. "What do you mean 'last week'? Have you been secretly meeting with him, Hermione?"

"No, no! We were just discussing some potions research to help with Dad's condition." Hermione immediately lied, her face flushing a deep shade of red.

Ginny narrowed her eyes, her gaze filled with suspicion. "Now that you mention it, Harry did comment a noticeable change in your mood ever since you helped him deliver his birthday gift. Am I detecting something more here, Hermione?"

"Oh, not at all, Gin! We're just friends!" Hermione exclaimed, giving her friend a gentle slap on the arm.

"I never knew you were friends with him. Honestly, Hermione, we're all adults here. It's okay to admit you got the hots for Snape. I won't judge!" Ginny teased. Noticing her companion's discomfort, Ginny softened her tone. "Okay, okay. Sorry if I overstepped. I was just surprised to learn that you and Snape are on friendly terms. I'm genuinely happy for him. Merlin knows he needs a friend after everything he's been through. And honestly, it makes sense that you two would get along—both of you are incredibly intelligent and share a deep appreciation for the academia."

Hermione laughed, shaking her head as her discomfort dissipated in response to Ginny's remark. "That's true. He is genuinely an interesting person if you look beyond his cold and intimidating facade. I'm just glad he accepted my persistent invitations."

Ginny's eyes twinkled with mischief as she said, "Now I can't help but imagine black, bushy-haired babies running around."

"Ginny!"

~O~

When Harry learned that Snape would be attending the dinner, his nervousness became palpable. He meticulously checked every detail, ensuring everything met what he imagined would be Snape's exacting standards, whatever he thought it was. Harry even ventured into the kitchens, insisting on tasting each dish. His fussiness prompted amused snickers from the others, who found his overzealousness both absurd and endearing.

Hermione gently reminded Harry that Snape would likely disapprove of any fuss made on his behalf. "He's not one to appreciate being the center of attention," she said. "It would be better to let him enjoy the evening without any added pressure. Just let him be and focus on having a pleasant time with everyone."

"I guess you're right, Hermione. It's just that…this is the first time he's voluntarily agreed to join us. I want him to feel welcomed and enjoy himself so he might consider joining us again in the future."

"I understand, Harry. But give him a bit more time. I'm sure he'll come around." Hermione felt a pang of hypocrisy in her words, recognizing that it was she who had persistently sought out Snape's company despite his reluctance.

At seven o'clock, the guests began to arrive, marking the start of the evening's festivities. Luna Lovegood and her father, Xenophilius, were the first to arrive, followed closely by Headmistress McGonagall, Andromeda Tonks with her two-year-old grandson, Teddy Lupin, Rubeus Hagrid, Aberforth Dumbledore, Neville Longbottom, and Minister Shacklebolt. The atmosphere was warm and lively as everyone mingled over an array of cheese, crackers, and wine. Conversations flowed easily, laughter echoing through the rooms as old friends reconnected and shared memories. The comforting buzz of chatter filled the air, creating a sense of camaraderie and nostalgia, a perfect backdrop for the evening's commemoration.

The mood shifted slightly when Ron Weasley entered with a striking brunette woman by his side. Introducing her as Elena Petrova, Ron's new companion, the scene grew tense for a moment as Hermione and the others adjusted to the unexpected arrival.

Elena Petrova's presence at the gathering proved challenging for Hermione. Her voice, a piercing blend of shrill tones and a hard Russian accent, made it nearly impossible to ignore her. Elena had a knack for dominating conversations, and her loud, grating commentary filled every room she entered. Hermione, determined to avoid any interaction with the couple, busied herself by retreating to the kitchen under the guise of helping with last-minute preparations. When not in the kitchen, she skillfully navigated the gathering, engaging in pleasant conversations with everyone except Ron and Elena, all while keeping a careful distance. Her irritation only intensified whenever her gaze accidentally met Ron's. He had a smug, self-satisfied expression that made her blood boil. The sight of his arrogant smirk sent waves of frustration through her, and she found herself resisting the urge to march over and punch him right then and there.

"Hermione, care for a wager? I give them one more month before they break up. That Russian woman is far too high-maintenance for Ron. Did you see her reaction when he introduced her to everyone? She looked at us as if we were insects beneath her heels. I can't stand her!" Ginny whispered vehemently to Hermione as they were in the kitchen, searching for more wine for the guests.

Hermione giggled and teased, "Now, now, Ginny. Try not to be so judgmental about your future sister-in-law. It's not very nice."

Her friend stuck out her tongue, looking thoroughly disgusted. "Sister-in-law, my foot! Have you seen Mum and Dad's faces? They're not impressed at all. You've set the bar high, Hermione. Ronald's going to need to do a lot better if he wants to impress the family."

Hermione laughed at Ginny's comment, her amusement evident. She was about to respond when she noticed an abrupt silence had fallen over the next room after the sound of a door closing. The lively chatter and clinking of utensils had ceased as if a Silencing Charm had been cast, casting an unusual hush over the gathering.

Hermione's heart raced wildly, though she couldn't quite pinpoint the reason for her intense reaction. The sudden silence that had enveloped the room could only mean one thing: Severus Snape had arrived.

"Your boyfriend is here!" Ginny teased, wrapping Hermione in a playful hug.

Hermione shot her a sharp look, her eyes wide with warning as she pointed an accusing finger at Ginny. "Stop it! Or I'll tell Harry your deepest secret!" she hissed, trying to keep her voice low.

Ginny immediately mimed zipping her mouth shut, her eyes twinkling with amusement.

Hermione and Ginny emerged from the kitchen, each carrying bottles of wine in both hands, ready to refill glasses and keep the festivities going. There, by the door, standing with an air of quiet intensity, was the former Potions Master, Severus Snape. His presence seemed to command the entire room, his dark eyes sweeping over everyone with that familiar, unyielding stare that could silence even the most boisterous of crowds.

He hadn't said a word, but he didn't need to. The mere sight of him, his imposing figure cloaked in black, was enough to command attention. Snape's expression was inscrutable, as if he were assessing each person with the same critical eye he used to evaluate a potion's effectiveness. The tension in the room was palpable; no one quite knew how to react to his arrival.

But before anyone could react, Molly Weasley, ever the matriarch, broke the silence. With a warm smile, she crossed the room toward Snape, her steps brisk and determined. "Severus, you made it!" she exclaimed, her voice bright with genuine warmth. She reached out and wrapped him in a hug that was both motherly and comforting, catching Snape off guard.

The former Potions Master stiffened, his expression faltering for the briefest moment as Molly's arms encircled him. He clearly wasn't accustomed to such displays of affection, especially not in front of so many people. But he didn't pull away. Instead, he stood there, rigid, as Molly held him close for a few seconds longer than necessary.

Ginny and Hermione exchanged glances, a mixture of surprise and amusement flickering between them. "Well, that's one way to break the ice," Ginny murmured with a grin.

As Molly stepped back, Arthur Weasley moved forward, offering Snape a firm handshake and a welcoming smile. "Good to see you, Severus," Arthur said, his tone sincere.

The floodgates opened. One by one, the other guests began to approach him. Kingsley Shacklebolt, with his tall, imposing presence, gave Snape a respectful nod and offered his hand. Minerva McGonagall, her eyes glistening with emotion, stepped forward and, in an uncharacteristic show of affection, patted his arm. Even the normally reticent Aberforth Dumbledore mumbled a gruff greeting before extending his hand in a gesture of goodwill.

Snape remained rooted to the spot, not quite returning the gestures but not rejecting them either. He simply endured, his expression a mix of discomfort and resignation.

Harry, looking like he was meeting a celebrity, stepped forward, his hand slightly trembling as he offered it to Snape. "Thank you for coming, Professor."

The silence was tense, stretching on as Snape continued to stare at Harry's hand. For a moment, it seemed like he might leave the gesture unreciprocated, a final remnant of the old animosities and misunderstandings between them. The room held its breath, every eye fixed on the scene unfolding before them.

But then, to everyone's amazement, Snape's expression softened ever so slightly. With a measured, deliberate movement, he extended his own hand and clasped Harry's in a firm handshake. The simple act was electric, the room buzzing with astonishment.

While Molly was ushering Snape towards the sitting room, his eyes travelled around the room as if looking for something. When his eyes found Hermione's across the room, the corner of his lips slightly moved, and he gave her a knowing raise of an eyebrow.

Hermione, still standing near the doorway, watched with a growing sense of pride. Tears of joy welled up in her eyes as she took in the scene. Despite everything, despite his past and the barriers he had built around himself, Snape was here, surrounded by people who were finally seeing him for more than just the man he used to be. And for that, she couldn't have been happier.

~O~

Kingsley Shacklebolt stood at the head of the table, his deep voice commanding attention as the dinner celebration began. "Tonight, we commemorate the night of the fateful battle, a night that changed all our lives," he began solemnly. "We honor the memory of those who gave everything for our freedom and celebrate the strength of those who remain."

He paused, looking around the room. "In that darkest hour, we were a tapestry of differences—different houses, backgrounds, and beliefs—yet we stood united, fighting for a common cause. That unity is our greatest strength, and it's what we celebrate tonight."

The Minister raised his glass, a solemn expression on his face as he surveyed the room. Everyone followed suit, lifting their glasses in unison. The room was filled with a quiet reverence, each person reflecting on the sacrifices made and the bonds formed during the battle. The clinking of glasses echoed softly through the room as they toasted, a collective acknowledgment of the past and a shared hope for the future.

Hermione spotted Snape later, seated quietly in a secluded corner of the dining room. He was methodically enjoying his plate of roasted turkey and mashed potatoes, maintaining a deliberate distance from the lively commotion at the other end of the room. Snape distanced himself from Hagrid after the giant expressed deep emotion and apologized for his treatment of Snape following Dumbledore's death. Snape had visibly flinched at the mention of Dumbledore's name, a fleeting crack in his otherwise stoic facade. The giant and the others didn't notice it, but Hermione did.

"Mind if I join you?" she asked softly. She took a seat beside him without waiting for an invitation. He did not look up but simply shifted slightly to make space for her on the three-seater sofa. "Are you enjoying the turkey? I was assigned in the basting department."

A faint smile touched the corners of his lips as he nodded in agreement. He continued eating, his eyes focused on his plate.

"Thanks for coming, Mr. Snape. Your presence here means a great deal to me—to all of us." Hermione watched him finish his plate and washed it down with an elf-made pumpkin juice. "And I wasn't joking about Dan Brown." She reached into her beaded bag and produced a brand-new paperback.

Snape's eyebrow arched as he observed the book, Angels and Demons. He placed his cup down and took the book from her with deliberate care. His interest was evident as he read the summary on the back. Once he had finished reading, he looked up and met her gaze with an expression that bordered on tenderness—a look he had never directed at her before. Hermione held his gaze and gave him a soft smile, searching for the meaning behind his unexpected display of warmth.

Suddenly, Snape rose from his seat and pocketed the book. He turned to face Hermione, taking a small step back before offering her the briefest nod of acknowledgment. Without another word, he exited the house.

~O~

"Hi. Are you home?"

"I'm coming over. I don't care if you're home or not."

"Will you answer me?"

"Everyone's asking why you left so abruptly."

"Did I do something wrong?"

The messages were read, but Severus did not respond. The Muggle device beeped and vibrated several times on the small table, and he didn't have the strength to reply to her.

As Severus sat alone, the events of the evening replayed in his mind. The dinner party had been an unsettling experience, stirring emotions he had never previously encountered. He deliberately sought out her warm brown eyes, hoping their calmness would soothe his nerves amidst the barrage of social greetings from everyone. When he found them, something shifted within him—a profound, unfamiliar sensation that had never arisen during her regular visits to his home. The warmth and kindness she had shown tonight were starkly different from their past interactions. He found himself grappling with a confusing mix of feelings, questioning the nature of his newfound emotions towards her. It was as though he was perceiving her through an entirely new lens.

When she graced him with that sweet smile, a lock of her charming curly hair falling across her face, Severus felt his composure slipping. Unable to bear the unfamiliar emotions stirring within him, he left Grimmauld Place abruptly, fearing he might do something he would later regret.

"Fine, I'll leave you be. Let me know if you want to talk."

It was difficult to admit, but Severus Snape, the feared and infamous bat of the dungeons, had found himself inexplicably drawn to the insufferable know-it-all, Hermione Granger.

~O~

A/N: I'm not really sure if I'm doing well or not since I haven't received many reviews. Please leave a review and let me know what you think. Thank you!