Oh, sad.  You've done this very well, you know, balancing the sad and the comfort of a decision well-made.  Severus's affection for her, and the knowledge that she really won't ever reciprocate, against Hermione finally coming to grips with herself in that glbtq way- it sort of balances, but leaves a melancholy aftertaste that I appreciate all the more because it's unexpected.

So much told in so few words; very well knitted!I feel so sorry for Severus, though. Will be looking for the SSMM, the 3rd being the charm, that you promissed. You presented a great selection of very in-character comments there! All of them, but esp Lav Lav, should eat dung.

interesting.  thanks

I'm so sorry for Severus. He always falls in love with the wrong woman.

Lovely story. I read it on the exchange and enjoyed it very much. Though I must say, when I read it the first time, I missed the following passage: "He wanted to kiss the tears away, but considering the evidence he’d used to get her away from Weasley, making his own approaches would not be beneficial. ... Lover was not in the stars." If that paragraph is implying what I think it is, then I feel a bit sorry for Snape. The first time he felt that way, he was rejected; second time and he doesn't stand a chance because of his gender. Maybe the third time would be the charm for Snape.

What a nice story!  Besides being a good read, it had several things that I really like.  First, I am always happy when Ron and Hermione don't end up together, but he isn't made out to be a villain.  I certainly didn't expect the reason that she didn't marry him to be what it was.Second, while I am a die hard SS/HG relationship fan, I really enjoy stories where they are just friends.  Those are hard to come by sometimes, but I'm always thrilled to find them.  It changes their dynamic and allows them all of the things that I love about them together, without the angst and tension that comes from a romantic and physical relationship.Nicely done.  Thanks for sharing this tale!

Love it. :)