42- Concessions and Confessions

Author's Note: I know. I know! I've been AWOL for FAR too long now. *cringes* I'm sorry!! But, see? I promised I wasn't abandoning this, and I haven't! *small voice* Please don't hurt me... Anyway, Lotm has been the usual rockin' beta and muse-feeder. So, go express your gratitude for her inestimable help by reading her cool fics too! :) Hope everyone had a lovely holiday! Keep an eye on my LJ for what's up in my life: http://www.livejournal.com/users/pern_dragon/ Thanks so much to all of you who kept sending me notes of support and requests for updates! You rock my world!!! And so... here we go:

Chapter 42- Concessions and Confessions

Tuesday evening, at dinner, Hermione looked much better than she had...so much so that Harry even remarked on her visible improvement, congratulating himself on extracting her promise to visit Madam Pomfrey. Too relieved and happy to be arch about his attitude, Hermione simply contented herself with averring that she felt much better, exchanging knowing looks with a smirking Ginny.

Allowing herself to be drawn into the animated conversation about Ginny's daring exploit in Potions class, Hermione joined the others in casting furtive glances at the High Table, where Snape sat, impassively gazing about the Hall as he ate. Anxiously anticipating retreating to Snape's quarters, Hermione finished her meal quickly, unable to eat much with the fluttering in her stomach. Finally, after having made her tea, drinking hers while Snape drank his, Hermione clasped her hands in her lap, masking the trembling of her fingers. Her heart pounded fiercely in her chest when Snape stood, smoothly gliding down from the High Table toward her.

As his tall figure moved down the table, the Gryffindors fell silent under his shadow, peering up at him warily. Snape barely spared them a glance. He had eyes only for Hermione. Stopping behind Hermione, he flicked a glance at Ginny, who solemnly gazed up at him, her serious demeanour belied by the mischief dancing in her eyes. Jaw twitching in an effort to suppress a wry smile at the redhead's audacity, Snape gazed down into Hermione's upturned face.

"Miss Granger, come with me." His voice was devoid of anything but professorial authority. Hermione nodded hastily.

"Yes, sir." Rising quickly, she rippled her fingers at her friends in farewell. Snape stepped back, waiting for her to free herself from the bench, then spun and strode away, certain that she would be on his heels. Ginny and Hermione locked eyes one last time, Ginny's offering encouragement, and Hermione's glowing with gratitude, before Hermione scurried after the rippling robes of her Potions Master.

In the corridor, Snape glanced over his shoulder, jerking his head toward the dungeon stairs, and Hermione nodded, quickening her pace to catch up with him. They descended in silence, neither one daring to look at the other. As they continued down the dungeon corridor, Snape paused near his office door, frowning as he peered back the way they had come. Apparently coming to a decision, he briskly strode farther, beckoning for Hermione to follow him to the entrance to his quarters. Obediently, she joined him, crossing the threshold at his polite nod. Snape stepped inside and shut the door behind him, sighing heavily as he locked and warded it, focusing on the grain of the wood as he gathered the courage to turn around and face Hermione in the privacy of his rooms.

Straightening, he set his teeth and turned, his sombre gaze seeking Hermione's. She stood a few paces in, hands worrying in front of her, bottom lip between her teeth, brown eyes wide and anxious as she waited for him to speak. They gazed at each other for what seemed an eternity, until Hermione couldn't stand it any longer.

Voice cracking, she burst, "I'm so sorry!"

As soon as she began to speak, Snape held up a hand and closed his eyes, murmuring, "Hermione..."

The pause that followed was charged with emotion. Snape opened his eyes to see Hermione's lips trembling. Her shoulders were high and tight with tension, and his chest tightened with a surge of compassion. Stretching her hands toward him in entreaty, her voice barely a whisper, Hermione said, "Please, forgive me, Severus."

At that, Snape couldn't resist any longer, and he crossed to her, gripping her hands in his, pulling her to him. As she collapsed against him, gulping great, shuddering breaths, he wrapped his arms around her and rested his chin on her hair, murmuring, "Hermione... Shhh... Of course I forgive you. I was wrong to blame you as I did. For that, it is I who must ask for your forgiveness."

Hermione's arms snaked around his waist, squeezing hard in the excess of her catharsis. Like a litany, she rasped, "Yes, yes, yes! I forgave you long ago. I've been so miserable since then. Please, let's never let such a misunderstanding happen again!" Her fervent words were punctuated by more squeezing around his waist.

Snape laid his cheek atop her head and caressed her hair. "All I can say is that I promise I'll try." He lifted his head and dropped a gentle kiss on the crown of her head. They stood that way for a long moment. Finally, Snape pulled back enough to tuck his finger under her chin and tilt her face up, his black eyes searching hers. His brows drew together as he struggled to put things into the right words. "I don't know if you can appreciate just how wounded I felt..."

Hermione's eyes went wide and she earnestly interrupted him. "I can! I didn't..."

Snape grimaced and covered her lips with his fingertips. "Let me finish."

Hermione went silent and he took a deep breath to continue. "I've already told you that I haven't felt like this for anyone before. I had no idea how much I feared being without you until you weren't here when you were supposed to be. I won't even pretend that my reactions were rational. We both know they weren't. But, when I realized that you had kissed someone else..." Again, Hermione drew breath to protest, but Snape stopped her.

"I know. Miss Weasley...Ginny...told me all about it. I know you didn't invite it." He paused, swallowing hard, and forged on. "I panicked. I can't control myself around you. I did the only thing I could think of to get to the truth as quickly as possible. Believe me when I say that I had no idea you would object so vehemently to me using Legilimency again. It seemed the most logical course of action." His lips twisting, he looked down, avoiding her eyes.

His voice grew fainter as he said, "You're right. I shouldn't have done that without your agreement. I realize that now... that by invading your mind like that, I was no better than the imbecile who forced his affections on you against your will." Shame saddened his expression as he lifted pained eyes to hers again. "Ginny enlightened me about how I was in the wrong as well. Neither of us is blameless..."

Hermione's eyes dimmed beneath an upwelling of tears. She lifted a shaking hand to Snape's face and moulded her palm against his cheek. Snape's eyes closed as he leant into her touch. "Severus..." Hermione breathed.

At his name, Snape opened his eyes again, and Hermione stretched up to him, damp eyes bright with the glow of adoration. As her lips neared his, she stared into his eyes and whispered, "And I've told you before: I forgive you for anything you feel you need forgiveness for. I love you, Severus."

Snape felt dizzy with the joy that threatened to explode from him, and his lips brushed against hers as he replied, "And I love you, Hermione." On the tail of his words, their lips met, and the rest of the world faded into nothingness as they exchanged absolution through their kiss.

Clutching each other fiercely, they feasted on each other until they were both breathless. Tearing themselves apart, fighting for air, they pressed their foreheads against one another, glorying in the sublime sense of rightness that flooded them in the wake of their reunion.

Stroking her hair, Snape whispered, "Come now, my love. We have a task at hand."

Hermione nodded and swallowed, wiping her face and composing herself. "Yes, of course." Peeling apart, they clasped hands, gazing at each other. Offering a watery smile, Hermione squeezed Snape's hands and said, "Go on. I'll fetch everything." Sliding her hands from his, she crossed to the bathroom, and Snape moved to his sitting area, allowing himself to sink weakly into the chair.

Hermione returned, laden with the styling items, and beamed at Snape. The joy in her face was enough to crack Snape's solemn exterior, and he found himself smiling back. As his lips slowly curved upwards, and his eyes softened, Hermione's breath caught in her throat, moved by the beauty of the transformation.

Absently dropping the items to the side table, Hermione goggled at Snape, fervently whispering, "Ye gods, Severus, you should smile more..."

Snape was taken aback by the awe in her voice, and his brows rose, even as his smile widened. Feeling almost giddy with relief, he felt a ripple of amusement surfacing. Slyly, he murmured, "What? And ruin my reputation? Rubbish!"

Hermione laughed aloud, shaking her head. "You and your reputation!" Caressing his brow and cheek, she directed him to face away from her so she could begin brushing his hair. Snape turned away, eyes closed with the pleasure of her touch. As Hermione began drawing the brush through his long locks, she continued, "Ginny told me how you 'got her' about detention. You're so Slytherin..." She snorted affectionately, and Snape humphed.

"Everything I said is true! I couldn't believe her antics. I felt for a moment as if I had her obnoxious brothers back in my class instead of her." He paused to voice an aggrieved huff, then continued, in a low voice. "I must say, though, she certainly is a one-of-a-kind. I daresay that if Arthur and Molly ever truly find out what they've spawned, they'll be horrified."

Hermione frowned. "What do you mean? What's wrong with Ginny?"

Snape tossed his head, and Hermione spread her fingers over his hair to still him. "That girl is quite the manipulator! It's a wonder she wasn't sorted into Slytherin..."

Hermione jumped to Ginny's defence. "All of the Weasleys are in Gryffindor! They're all very brave..."

Snape snorted in wicked amusement. "Ginny must have been either very brave or very stupid to do what she did in my classroom."

Slightly put out on her friend's behalf, Hermione said, "I think she's brilliant. Where would we be if it weren't for her? She's a true friend, and..."

Snape's hand snapped up and gripped Hermione's wrist, and he twisted to face her, interrupting. "I know!" He gazed into Hermione's startled eyes, and his mouth twisted wryly. "I'm not belittling her, Hermione. I agree: Ginny is a true friend. And I know we'll need all the friends we can get."

Suddenly, Hermione's eyes narrowed and she pursed her lips. Eyeing him suspiciously, she drawled, "Wait just a minute. 'Ginny'? 'We'll need'? Since when do you call her Ginny?" She trailed off at Snape's abashed look, peering at him as he ducked his head and released her wrist.

Blinking, and staring into the middle distance, Snape's jaw worked as he fought with himself. After a long moment, he levelled a sober look at Hermione. "Miss Weasley was merely my student, no more needful of my attention than any other. But, in light of all that has happened, I realize that Ginny is not just another tedious child, boring me with her inanity." Hermione's brows rose, and her eyes widened in astonishment. "She has proven to be quite astute, wickedly clever, and surprisingly generous. She has managed to surprise me several times over with her maturity and loyalty, and the fact that she has a nimble mind worthy of a Slytherin is one of the highest compliments I can give her." Almost shyly, Snape captured Hermione's hands, lightly stroking his thumbs over her knuckles. "It occurred to me, in the wake of her bold manoeuvre, that she truly is on our side. It would be arrogant in the extreme for me to reject such a kind overture of friendship."

Hermione's face lit up, and she smiled. "You've accepted Ginny as your friend?"

Snape rolled his eyes. "That's the simple way of stating it..."

Hermione raced around the chair, throwing her arms around his neck, hugging him fiercely. "That's wonderful! Wait till I tell Ginny!"

Snape disentangled himself from her embrace, muttering, "Hermione!" He glared at her sheepishly. "You'll do no such thing!"

Taken aback, Hermione gazed at him curiously. "Why not?"

Snape's expression went from mutinous, to embarrassed, to exasperated, and finally stopped on supercilious. Arching one eyebrow, he gravely intoned, "That is a matter that should be addressed between myself and Ginny. We are not children playing a game of 'do you like me, check yes or no.' Allow me to give her the respect of treating her as an individual, and not simply as an extension of you."

Hermione's mouth dropped open in surprise. Blinking rapidly at the unexpected reference to a pre-pubescent ploy, she assimilated his words. Slowly, she replied, "All right. I sha'n't mention it." Then, she smiled again. "But it still makes me happy."

Snape snorted and quirked his mouth in a wry smile. With a deft caress of her cheek, he murmured, "That is my noblest ambition, now that the war is over: to make you happy, my love." Then, ghosting a kiss over her lips, he whispered, "Carry on. We must be in the Great Hall soon."

Hermione sighed resignedly and slid behind him again, smoothing the pomade through his hair. As she worked, she said, "I have to admit; I can't help but be curious about what you two talked about. She told me about the bubbles..." A short giggle snuck past her attempt to stifle it.

In a deep tone of annoyance, he growled, "It's not funny, young lady." Hermione masterfully contained any more bursts of amusement. "As for our conversation, I sha'n't repeat it. It's not my place to divulge what may have passed between us in confidence. Suffice to say that she led me to consider things in a wholly different light, after which I determined that it was not worth sacrificing our happiness to an unfortunate concatenation of circumstances."

Still curious, Hermione offered, "I'd tell you what she and I talk about..."

Snape held up a hand. "Please! I would rather not know. I already have too much first-hand information about Ginny Weasley's secrets."

Hermione bit her lip. Chagrined, she mumbled, "Oh dear, that's true..."

A beat later, Hermione finished securing his hair into a thick tail, and she rubbed his shoulders. "Finished!" Snape stood and spun to face her, extending his hand for her to take. She slid her hand into his and stepped closer, smiling up at him. Lips trembling again with emotion, she whispered, "I'm so glad you don't hate me any longer."

Peering intently into her eyes, Snape said, "I never hated you. I was angry, yes. Hurt: very. But I didn't hate you. My hatred is reserved for Dark Lords and dunderheads and infamous Boys-Who-Live, of which you are none."

Hermione couldn't help but laugh, but then she sobered. Sadly, she queried, "Do you really hate Harry so much?"

Snape's eyes narrowed and his lips thinned. Shooting her an aggrieved glare, he growled, "Bloody hell, woman, why do you have to be so damned perceptive?" Stepping back and running a hand over his hair, he stared into the hearth. Heaving a huge put-upon sigh, he crossed his arms over his chest and scowled. "Fine. Hatred is the wrong word. I used to. I loathed him. But, after everything he did to defeat the Dark Lord, I don't hate him any longer." He flicked a dark glance at Hermione, seeing her smiling indulgently. "Oh, stop that! I don't like him either. He's still obnoxiously irritating, and it still makes me want to rend him limb from limb when I see him holding you and kissing you onstage!"

Hermione's smile disappeared instantly. She crossed to him and laid a hand on his arms in sympathy. He stiffened and closed his eyes, holding his breath for a moment. Then, exhaling slowly, he shook himself and opened his eyes, obviously composing himself with effort. He looked at Hermione, a flicker of insecurity in his eyes, and rumbled, "Ginny said she deals with seeing it by knowing that he'll be with her at the end of the night. Yet, I don't have that sort of reassurance."

Hermione's eyes widened in comprehension, and she slid her hands up his arms and along his throat to mould them against his jaw. Her voice was low, but determinedly fierce, as she said, "You do. We may not be able to be together at the end of every night in person, but I will always be with you in here." She gestured to her chest before cupping his jaw again. "And I will be with you at the end of the night come June. At the end of every night, if you'll have me."

Snape's chest tightened, and he swallowed against the constriction of his throat. Uncrossing his arms, he covered her hands with his, then pulled them from his face to plant kisses in her palms. His voice was rough as he merely said, "Indeed." He swooped in to plant a devouring kiss on her lips, crushing her against him. They gripped each other tightly, as if they could become one flesh by doing so, until Hermione pulled back, aghast at the time she had noticed on the mantel.

Galvanized, she gasped, "We have to go! We'll be late..."

Snape whirled around and saw the time. Eyes wide, he snatched her hand and pulled her to the door. Grabbing his Phantom mask from the table by the door, he yanked Hermione through, pausing only long enough to lock and ward his quarters before he enveloped her hand in his and sped down the corridor at a run, dragging Hermione behind him. She scrambled to keep up, trying not to trip. As Snape launched up the stairs 2-3 at a time, Hermione found herself lurching forward, breaking her fall against the stones by wrenching her hand free from his and landing splay-fingered on the stairs with a little squeak.

Snape stopped in mid-stride, spinning to see her sprawled on the stones, and, with lightning-quick reflexes, whipped his wand out and barked, "Mobilicorpus!" Hermione stifled a shriek at the sensation of being lifted into the air, turning startled eyes to Snape. Nodding sharply at her and placing a finger over his lips for silence, he flicked his wand and started charging up the stairs again, Hermione floating along behind him.

He didn't stop until they were at the doors to the Great Hall, where he placed a steadying hand on Hermione's arm and ended the spell. Staggering to regain her balance once her feet hit the floor, Hermione stared at him, owl-eyed and speechless with astonishment. He passed a cursory glance over her before turning to the doors, which were open, and inside which Harry and Ginny were standing, goggling at the sight of their Potions Master floating their friend down the corridor.

Snape stopped short, abruptly straightening, his face coldly devoid of expression.

Harry sputtered, "We were just coming to look for you. We were worried. What happened? Hermione, are you all right?"

Hermione gathered her scattered wits and hastily retorted, "I'm fine!"

Snape's lip curled and he sneered, "Miss Granger clumsily slipped on the stairs from the dungeon. I was simply ensuring that she arrived at rehearsal on time and without further chance for injury. Do step out of the entrance, Potter, you're in the way."

Ginny's brows rose, and she flicked a glance between her friend and her professor, clearly unsure whether or not to believe them. Harry merely scowled up at the tall man and edged back, allowing them space to enter. Snape arched one eyebrow at him and cut a glance at Hermione. Irritably, he snapped, "Well, go in! I shall explain to the headmaster why we are tardy."

Hermione ducked her head and hurried past him, catching Ginny's eye and shaking her head minutely to indicate that the other girl shouldn't ask questions. Ginny blinked back at Snape before following Hermione down the aisle again. Harry stomped into the rest of the group, sulking at Snape's attitude.

Dumbledore turned an inquiring gaze on Snape and the others. Hermione felt her face flushing under the scrutiny, but Snape smoothly stepped up to the older man. "Forgive our tardiness, Headmaster. Miss Granger took a minor tumble on the stairs. She is not hurt, and I took the liberty of transporting her here as quickly as possible. However, I did not take the time to address the abrasions from her fall..."

Dumbledore cast a concerned look at Hermione, who did her best to dissemble, and glanced at her scraped knees. "Are you certain you're not hurt, my dear?"

Hermione held her palms up and said, "Just a scrape, sir. Nothing to worry about. I'm fine."

Dumbledore nodded and smiled gently. "Very well." He turned to Snape and said, "Then, would you please take care of those minor injuries, Severus, while I get everything ready for the whole of Act One?"

Snape nodded politely. "As you say, Headmaster." He gestured for Hermione to come closer. "Miss Granger, have a seat in the front row." Hermione hastened to the seat, and Snape gazed down his nose at her. "Palms out, Miss Granger." She extended her hands, and he muttered the healing spell that disinfected the wound and knit the flesh together. Face impassive, he said, "Extend your leg." She poked one foot out, shyly pulling the edge of her skirt up to bare her knee, and Snape repeated the spell. A barked, "Next," made her poke the other foot out to heal her other knee.

Finally, mended, she decorously smoothed her skirt back over her knees and solemnly raised her face to his. "Thank you, Professor." Snape nodded sharply and spun away, focusing on Dumbledore's preparations.

Exhaling a long breath, Hermione jumped when Ginny plopped down beside her, avidly hissing, "What really happened? Is everything okay?"

Hermione smiled at her friend and whispered, "Yes! We were late, and he was running up the stairs too fast for me to keep up. I did stumble and fall, and he just whisked me up here! But, everything is much better now, thanks to your help." She patted Ginny's arm and smiled again.

Ginny ducked her head to demur. Flushing with pleasure at the praise, she muttered, "Good! I'm glad to hear it." Then, flashing a mischievous grin at Hermione, she added, "You can give me all the details later, 'kay?"

At Hermione's glare of mock outrage, Ginny laughed, and Hermione joined her. They stopped quickly when Dumbledore arrived and said, "I trust Professor Snape has put you back in tip-top shape?"

Nodding, Hermione smiled and said, "As good as ever, sir."

Dumbledore chuckled and said, "Excellent. In that case, would you please take your places for the beginning of Act One? Remember, everyone is to do exactly as we've rehearsed, including singing."

The girls rose quickly and hurried to their places, Ginny pausing only long enough to have Dumbledore cast Suaviloquentia on her.

A nervous buzz swept through the assembled cast as Dumbledore set up the music box. Snape melted into the shadows in the back of the house while others waited anxiously in the wings or in the front rows. At Dumbledore's cry of "Action!" the Auction began.

Snape watched his employer as he handled the complex wand work to effect all of the set changes from the Auction scene to the Opera House stage. I wonder if he's going to do all of that from the house during the performance... It might draw too much attention. I shall have to ask him about it.

When Pansy was singing, and the drop fell, Snape felt his lips twisting in a smirk of amusement. He rolled his eyes as she and Draco stormed off in a huff, musing, Well, at least her accent has got better.

The rehearsal was moving fairly smoothly, with only a few points at which the actors struggled for a line or shuffled into the right spot onstage at the furtive urging of their co-actors. Dumbledore manned the music box, stopping it and starting it at the correct intervals. Then, when it came time for Hermione to sing, Snape sucked in a breath and held it, anticipating the pure sounds that washed over him like a warm, drugging bath.

In the middle of the song, as Dumbledore transformed the stage, Hermione took the opportunity to practice her costume change, barely intoning the spell in between lines. Her casual clothing morphed into the sumptuous gown, and a delighted gasp filled the Hall. Eyes sparkling in amusement and satisfaction, she smiled as she sang the triumphant finale of the song, curtseying at the spontaneous applause from several of the cast members.

Snape stopped himself from joining in the applause, mindful of maintaining appearances. Fighting down the surge of pride, he glided down the side aisle of the house, coming closer as the dressing room appeared onstage, eyes locked on Hermione as she drifted downstage, lost in thought. From one side, Snape didn't even bother with the Sonorus charm, crooning, "Bravi, bravi, bravissimi."

Hermione started at the sound and blinked, head turning as she sought out the source of his voice. Ginny edged up behind her and drew her attention, and Snape slunk away toward the stairs to the wings. The few students who were in the wings on that side quickly ducked out of his way as he took his place near the magic mirror.

While the scene with the managers was happening outside the dressing room door, Hermione stepped behind the screen that was part of the dressing room set and cast the spell to return her clothes to normal. While she was out of sight, she felt the tingle that signalled Snape watching her and cast a quick glance into the wings, pausing and blinking when she saw Snape's dark eyes pinned on her. His expression was blank, but she knew he was no longer angry with her. Smiling tentatively, she nodded and ducked back out from behind the screen.

Snape took a deep breath of relieved contentment and donned his mask. If he needed it for later, he might as well wear it the whole time. Onstage, Harry and Hermione were singing "Little Lotte." Smoothing his robes and settling his shoulders, Snape stepped behind the mirror, ready to sing.

As soon as the music started, Snape felt a surge of energy course through him, and he belted out his opening lines. Hermione responded with an equal intensity, and by the time Snape had grasped Hermione's wrist to pull her into the mirror, he and Hermione both felt the electric connection between them.

Completely in the thrall of the play, moving through the swiftly changing sets, Snape and Hermione locked eyes as they sang their duet. Coming to a stop in the Phantom's Lair, Hermione hit the high peak of her vocalizing, and Snape deftly launched into "Music of the Night."

Ginny joined several of the others as they slunk out into the house to watch the rehearsal. She felt goose flesh prickling her skin at the emotion crackling between Hermione and Snape. Gazing intently, she mused, Thank the gods that they've made up. Amazing! Oh, but it's gonna' be awful when everyone finds out. I just hope that people will realize that they belong together. How anyone can see them together like this and not see it is beyond me. She crossed her arms tightly against her ribs, soberly watching the beauty of Snape pouring his love into his song. Shuddering at the overwhelming nature of their connection, she sighed, a faint smile of accomplishment on her lips at the thought of her role in bringing about such happiness.

She was brought out of her pondering with a start when the other girls gasped at the wax dummy's reach. Even knowing what she did, she couldn't help but marvel at the gentle way Snape lifted Hermione's limp body to lay her on the bed. It was just so at odds with his usual persona. During the lull after his final line, the students in the audience shifted, rustling as they came out of their trance.

Snape crossed to the organ and began miming playing it. Hermione slowly awoke, creeping up behind him. Finally, she snatched the mask off, and Snape whirled, roaring. Ready for it, after having seen it before, Ginny watched the rest of the cast, smirking as several of them lurched back into their seats, cringing in horror. Idly, she wondered how long it would be before she no longer feared him, like Hermione. They were all just staring as Snape's song wore on, and Hermione gingerly handed his mask back to him. When he crossed back to the organ, Ginny realized how close their cues were and jostled the nearest elbow.

In a hiss, she urged, "Hurry! We have to get ready!" There was a muffled scrum as they all rushed toward the stairs into the wings, nervous about missing their cues. As Snape guided Hermione offstage, the girls and Terry scampered on. They tried not to notice when Snape and Hermione glided back out, until the point where they were supposed to see them, at which point they all skittered off, passing McGonagall on the way.

Snape and Hermione took a fleeting moment to squeeze hands and exchange a parting caress in the wings as the sets changed to the managers' office. Snape exited the stage and made his way up to the tier of boxes to watch and wait for his next cue, and Hermione snuck out into the house to watch the scene.

She felt a surge of fond pride at how well Neville had risen to the challenge, playing his role. As Ron joined him, and Harry followed, she found herself smiling in delight at the presence they all displayed onstage. They were really coming into their own, growing up.

Pansy and Draco burst onto the scene, and Hermione frowned in dislike, but her brows rose in grudging admiration at the quality of Pansy's performance, especially since she was one of the few who hadn't used the singing spell. McGonagall entered, as prim and austere as ever, with Ginny in tow. Again, Hermione grinned in appreciation of her friends' work. When they began reading the Phantom's letter, Snape's voice rang through the theatre. Hermione glanced around, seeking his hiding spot, and smirked when she zeroed in on his location within one of the Boxes. Her attention was drawn back to the rehearsal as they approached "Prima Donna." Now would be a true test of their improvement, seeing how well everyone meshed. So far, they had managed fairly well.

Hermione choked back a snort at the charmingly ingratiating manner that Neville adopted toward Pansy, and the absurdly winning smile that Ron flashed while they sucked up to her. Everyone spread out to their places, and they forged on, voices fading in and out of understanding as they overlapped and trailed off. Hermione noticed Dumbledore watching intently, his hands and head moving unconsciously, as if conducting them.

Eventually, as they neared the end, Hermione jumped at the booming sound of Snape's voice bellowing his threat, and she realized that she needed to be backstage. Hastening to the stairs, she raced to her place as Harry, Ron, and Neville started the next scene.

Contenting herself with an aloof nod at Pansy, both girls climbed onto the bed that Dumbledore slid out onto the stage. Taking a deep, steadying breath, Hermione clasped Pansy's arm and mimed kissing it as the bed curtain opened.

The scene progressed, and everyone onstage paused as Snape's voice rang through the theatre. Harry, Ron, and Neville leant over the edge of the Boxes they were in, gazing about in concern. Snape stayed in the shadows in another Box, anticipating the hanging. Pansy began croaking, and Snape's creepy laughter echoed through the Hall. Ron and Neville tore down to the stage as Draco led a weeping Pansy into the wings. The ballet girls skittered onstage, and Dumbledore suddenly paused the rehearsal.

"I apologize, everyone, but I just realized something." He spun and searched the Boxes. "Severus!"

Snape stepped forward and peered out from the Box. "Sir?"

"I need you. Could you come down for a moment, please?"

Snape nodded curtly. "Certainly." In a flurry of robes, he swept down to the house, joining Dumbledore in front of the stage. "What can I do for you, sir?"

Dumbledore stroked his beard as he gazed thoughtfully at the stage. In a low voice, he mused, "Apparently, there are supposed to be large shadows playing across the backdrop, indicating that you are above the stage, ostensibly wreaking havoc. So, we need to get you up there and figure out what lights will work to that effect. Mr. Boot is already on the catwalk, ready to be hanged. If you would, please join him."

Snape inclined his head and strode off to the stairs, entering the wings and climbing up to the catwalk. Terry nodded gravely at him when he arrived. From below, Dumbledore called, "Severus, take a look around and see if you can find some lights that will serve our purpose."

Snape peered about and noticed a few spots near some lights that would work, but he was on the wrong catwalk to reach them. "I believe that there are a few. I shall have to go back and enter a different catwalk. Just a moment."

Snape backtracked and entered a catwalk further downstage. Stepping in front of the light, his shadow was cast over the backdrop, and Dumbledore crowed, "There we go! Now, are there any others that can cause bigger shadows?"

Snape glanced around, squinting against the heat and glare from the lights. Frowning, he retorted, "Yes, but I can't get to them easily or quickly. I'd have to go all the way back to the wings and back out on a different catwalk each time."

Frustrated, Dumbledore huffed and said, "How in the world do the Muggles do it?"

Clearing her throat, Hermione spoke up. "Sir?" Every head turned to look at Hermione. At Dumbledore's encouraging nod, she continued, "I'm sure that it wasn't all done by the same actor who played the Phantom. Really, anyone could make those shadows, while the Phantom is where he needs to be. Of course, it would be easier if Professor Snape were able to just pop about to all the different places he's needed..." She trailed off with a shrug.

Dumbledore stroked his beard again and nodded solemnly. Above him, Snape rolled his eyes with impatience and called, "I'm sure we'll work something out. Shall we carry on?"

Nodding absently, Dumbledore muttered, "Yes, yes. Very well then, everyone back to places. We'll pick up where we left off. Sorry for the delay! Keep up the good work, everyone." He shuffled back to the music box and looked up. "Here we go!"

As the music started again, the ballet girls danced, and Snape postured in front of the light, casting his shadow on the stage. The ballet girls fluttered and squealed in fright, and Terry peered purposefully down at the headmaster. As the music swelled, Dumbledore aimed his wand at Terry, and the boy stepped off the catwalk, the cable secured about him. He plummeted toward the stage, and the girls shrieked, scattering to the wings. As pandemonium reigned and Dumbledore started the shift of the sets for Harry's and Hermione's flight to the roof, Snape climbed back down into the wings, hoping to get to the statue in time to move onstage with it.

Unfortunately, there wasn't enough time for him to get back down and cross behind the stage to the statue before it was sliding into place. Annoyed, he paused in the wing and scowled toward where he was supposed to be. Displeased, he crossed his arms and seethed, waiting for Harry and Hermione to finish their song, so he could creep out to his place.

Harry and Hermione were singing, "All I Ask of You," smiling and touching, and Snape ground his teeth, trying not to let it get to him. Suddenly, he was startled by a touch on his elbow. Rounding with a fierce glare on whomever had the audacity to disturb him, he was surprised to see Ginny gazing up at him with understanding sympathy. She flashed a wan smile at him and dared to squeeze his arm before she let go and stepped back. His expression softened, and he inclined his head in tacit gratitude. Nodding at him, Ginny melted back into the wing, leaving him alone again.

Bolstered by the unexpected support, Snape took a deep breath and settled his shoulders, forcing himself to watch the scene, holding his renewed faith in Hermione like a talisman in his heart. As they exited the stage, Snape furtively slunk out to his place behind the statue. Dumbledore paused the music.

"Severus?" Dumbledore regarded Snape with ill-concealed surprise.

Scowling under the scrutiny, Snape rumbled, "There was not enough time for me to get down from the catwalk and to my place behind the statue. I apologize." He ducked his head.

Dumbledore grimaced and nodded ruefully. "I understand." He sighed and added, "I must work something out!" Frowning in determination, he huffed and then waved his hand at Snape agitatedly. "Carry on, Severus."

Dumbledore started the music and Snape began his song. When he neared the end, and climbed onto the statue, Dumbledore wafted it toward the proscenium and changed the sets back to the opera stage. Hermione stepped out onto the apron and Dumbledore shook the chandelier above their heads. Snape roared, "Go!" and the chandelier crashed at Hermione's feet to the accompaniment of the rushing music.

On the tails of the finale, Dumbledore called, "Severus! I'm bringing you down now." The statue floated back down and Snape stepped neatly off it. At Dumbledore's urging, the cast gathered on the stage for notes. Dumbledore gazed about silently for a moment before turning his attention to the cast and smiling. "All right, everyone, pay attention..." He spoke to each actor in turn, commending what they had done well and offering suggestions for what they still needed to work on. He came last to Snape, and he grimaced ruefully. "I promise that I'll figure things out for you, Severus. You're doing spectacularly. Just bear with me while I work out the snags."

Snape inclined his head politely. "Of course, Headmaster. I'm sure you'll come up with a brilliant plan as always." He blinked as the older man chuckled and buffeted his shoulder before turning back to the rest of the cast.

"I was going to have you all run through Act One more than once tonight, but I think I'll just let you go now, since I want to figure out how to fix some issues before we try again. Keep practicing, and don't forget all we've done here. We shall begin with Masquerade next rehearsal, so revise your dancing before then! Now then, run along to your dormitories, and we shall meet again Friday night. Good night, all!"

Surprised mutters rippled through the cast as they moved to leave. On his way through the house, Snape passed by Hermione and snapped, "Miss Granger, I shall collect you after dinner Friday evening as usual."

Hermione nodded soberly. "Of course, Professor. Good night."

Snape sniffed and cocked an eyebrow up as he spun to leave, raking his glare over the assembled students. Once in the corridor, he stalked off, leaving the rest of the cast to break off into smaller groups on their way back to their rooms.

Ginny pulled Hermione to one side and whispered, "You two were fabulous! I can't imagine how everyone else can't see the connection you have." She shook her head slowly in awe.

Hermione smiled. "I sincerely hope they don't! But it is amazing. Thank you again."

Ginny shrugged eloquently. "No worries. Hey, things really are starting to come together aren't they? The play, I mean."

Hermione nodded, beaming. "They really are. You were great, and the boys are doing well, too." She laughed. "I couldn't help but laugh at the way Ron and Neville were treating Pansy for 'Prima Donna'!"

Neville poked his head past their shoulders. "What are you saying about me now?"

Both girls spun to face him, smiling fondly. Neville's smile was mostly playful, but a little bit truly anxious. Ginny patted his arm and said, "We were just talking about how well you're doing. I can't wait for next rehearsal!"

Neville grimaced and flushed. "I've been practicing the dancing as much as I can. I don't want to mess up."

Ginny tucked her arm through his and beamed up at him. "You'll do fine. You were great at the Yule Ball years ago, and I'm sure you'll be great this time too."

Neville's ears went pink, and he ducked his head sheepishly. "Aww, thanks, Ginny..."

Harry suddenly appeared beside them, taking in the picture of Ginny hanging on Neville's arm and smiling at him, while Neville blushed. Affecting suspicion, he crossed his arms and frowned. "Oi, Neville! What are you doing with my girlfriend?"

Neville's eyes went saucer-round and he started stammering, ineffectively trying to pull his arm from Ginny's grip. Ginny held on tight and flashed a repressive glare at Harry. Eyes narrowed in admonishment, she tartly rejoined, "You be quiet. I was just complimenting Neville on his dancing. And I can hang on him if I like. He's the one who asked me out first, you know." Her chin tilted up defiantly, and Harry approached them. Neville eyed Harry nervously, unsure of what to do. Hermione looked on in resigned amusement.

Stopping directly in front of the pair, Harry scowled at Neville, then said to Ginny, "Yeah, well, obviously I've wised up since then." At that, he flashed a wickedly unrepentant grin at them both, chuckling at Neville's abject relief that Harry was only teasing. Harry jovially punched Neville in the shoulder, making Ginny drop his arm. "Honestly, Neville, did you really think I was serious? Come on, mate, you should know better than that. I'd think that if you had enough sense to realize how special my girl was, you'd have enough sense to know when I was taking the piss. Ease up." He threw his arm around Neville's shoulders and hugged him, pulling him into a playful headlock and mussing his hair.

Both girls intervened, swatting at Harry. Neville wrenched free of Harry's grip and smoothed his hair, rolling his eyes at Harry. Ginny smacked Harry in the gut and tugged him away.

"Honestly, Harry, don't be such a prat!" Dragging Harry down the corridor, Ginny glanced back over her shoulder. "Sorry about that, Neville. I'll teach him a lesson, I promise. And I meant what I said about the dancing!" She flashed him an encouraging smile before turning forward again to struggle with the laughing boy in her grasp.

Hermione reached up to pat Neville's hair back into place, shaking her head. "Sorry. He doesn't know when to stop playing sometimes."

Neville shrugged. Turning a wry smile on Hermione, he tilted his head down the corridor to indicate they should continue as he said, "Eh, it's all right." They walked in silence for a moment, then Neville continued, "So, do you really think I'm doing okay?" He turned anxious eyes on Hermione. "I mean, I know I can't even come close to how fabulous you are. And, I never thought I'd be saying this, but even Professor Snape is really good. I just can't imagine I'd measure up to you."

Hermione smiled. "You really are doing well. Everyone is." She snorted. "I know what you mean about never thinking you'd be saying that, since I thought the same thing about Pansy earlier. She's really improved, and it's even more impressive since she's not enspelled. Actually, that's what Ginny and I were talking about: how funny it was to see you and Ron playing up to her for 'Prima Donna.' We know you loathe her, but you acted beautifully!" They laughed.

Arriving at the portrait hole, Neville stopped laughing and paused, regarding Hermione solemnly. "I could say the same to you. You really are a great actress, since you actually look like you enjoy being with Snape." He shuddered lightly and grimaced. "Really, better you than me."

Hermione froze at his words, pulse speeding up in worry. She took that moment to open the portrait and climb in, composing herself. Once inside, she straightened and faced Neville. In a low voice, she said, "Thank you. I appreciate the compliment. But, I have to say, Professor Snape isn't as bad as he used to be. Try not to let past impressions rule you, Neville. They can blind you to the truth."

Neville's brow creased in confusion, but Hermione simply squeezed his arm and whirled, retreating to her room before he could respond. Blinking after her, Neville pondered her cryptic statement as he headed up to his dormitory. But, as he climbed the stairs, his thoughts turned to how he could get back at Harry for scaring him, and all thought of Hermione's impressions of Snape disappeared from his mind.

************* **********

Fortunately, after making up with Snape, things returned to normal for Hermione. Potions class was enjoyable instead of unbearable from the tense shame that had driven a wedge between them. Her appetite came back, and meals were fun again, especially since Colin had stopped staring after her. By the time Friday night's rehearsal rolled around, a crackle of nervous excitement rippled through the cast, some eagerly anticipating the Masquerade, and others dreading it.

At dinner that evening, Dumbledore excitedly approached Snape as he was mixing his tea after eating.

"Severus, I think I have hit upon a solution for your problem."

Snape looked at his employer blankly. "What problem would that be, Albus?"

Dumbledore beamed. "The one that keeps you from being able to get to your places onstage in time!"

Snape blinked. "Oh. That one. Very well. What is it?"

Dumbledore chuckled. "I'll explain everything tonight. Right now, I need to check on a few things first. Meet me here before rehearsal."

Slowly, Snape said, "Rehearsal begins in approximately 35 minutes. Doesn't now qualify as 'before rehearsal'?"

Dumbledore waved his hands about airily. "I'll have dinner end a bit early. Be back here in 20 minutes." He patted Snape's shoulder as he stood and announced, "I do beg your pardon, but dinner will be ending early this evening. You have about 15 minutes left before you will have to vacate the premises."

A curious mutter swept over the students still eating. Puzzled faces cast questioning glances at one another, to be met with eloquent shrugs of ignorance. Snape shot up straight in his seat. Dumbledore was turning to go, but Snape stopped him with a hand on his sleeve. Aggrieved, he said, "This means I have less than 20 minutes to collect Miss Granger to prepare for rehearsal?"

Dumbledore spun and gazed at him absently. "Oh! Well, I guess it does. Get a move on then, Severus. I shall see you back here at quarter 'til." He shuffled away quickly, leaving Snape staring after him, annoyed.

Snapping his gaze to Hermione, he saw her looking curiously at him. Lips thinning in aggravation, he stood, slamming his teacup on the table. Hermione's brows rose. Sharply, he whipped around the High Table and down the dais to Hermione. Hastily, she stood.

As he strode up to her, she queried, "Professor Snape?"

Scowling, he growled, "Hurry, the headmaster requires me to be back here at quarter 'til. Move along, Miss Granger."

Hermione nodded, eyes widening in comprehension. Even as she replied, "Certainly, sir," she jumped over the bench and raced down the aisle to the doors, Snape fast on her heels. Neither saw the owl-eyed looks cast their way by the other Gryffindors.

Rushing down the corridor and the dungeon stairs, neither spoke, saving their breath for making haste. Barrelling through the door to his quarters, Hermione made a beeline to his bathroom to fetch the hair products, and Snape snatched up his Phantom mask, cradling it in his lap as he sat, awaiting Hermione's return.

When she had stepped up behind him, briskly drawing the brush through his hair, she ventured, "What's going on? What does Dumbledore want?"

Snape snorted, annoyance apparent in his voice and posture. "Bugger if I know. He says he's figured out how to solve my problem... The one that keeps me from being able to get to all my places in time."

Hermione's hands were deft as she smoothed the pomade, but Snape sulked at the loss of the sensual enjoyment of her slow, loving ministrations. A trifle vaguely, she replied, "Oh. Well, that's good, isn't it?"

Snape rolled his eyes in pique. "Well, he could have bloody well chosen a better time to tell me! Nothing like making us rush..."

Hermione chuckled ruefully. Leaning closer to one ear as she pulled his hair into the elastic, she murmured, "He has no idea that it would be such a problem, thank the gods. I'm as disappointed as you are, dearest, but do try not to let it get to you so much. Else, he might begin to question why you're so put out."

Snape voiced a non-committal "Mm" as she patted his shoulders, indicating he was done. Rising in one smooth motion, he took her hand and pulled her to the doorway. But, before he opened the door, he startled her by pressing her against it and pouncing on her with a demanding kiss. It was fierce and deep, and it served to disarm her utterly.

Her hands scrabbled against the wood as his hand moulded against her jaw, his fingers slipping into her hair behind her ear. When he just as suddenly pulled back, she blinked up at him, dazed. His eyes were blazing with pent-up passion, and Hermione felt like she'd been hit with a Jelly-Legs Jinx. Before she could do anything more than gasp, he straightened, opening the door and thrusting her through it. After he locked and warded the door, he whirled on her, seeing her staring at him, still stunned.

A wicked smirk graced his lips and he murmured, "I shall see you in a bit. I must hurry to meet Dumbledore. Take your time recovering. You're not required for a while yet..." Smug amusement danced in his eyes before he nodded sharply and set off down the corridor, his footsteps echoing off the stones.