33- Christmas and the Cast Party- part 1 of 2

Standard Disclaimer goes here.

Author's Note: I know this took more than the usual 2 weeks, but I ended up doing what had to be split into 2 chapters, so PLEASE make sure you read both of them, and in the right order! LOL Oodles of thanks go out to: Ladyofthemasque, Laela, Horserider, SnivellusSnape, and yutamiyu. And, thank you so much to everyone who reviewed and kept asking about the next chapter! :) Remember, you can find out about the current status of my work on my livejournal at http://www.livejournal.com/users/pern_dragon/ . Also, Becky has been doing all sorts of ROCKIN' fanart for me for this fic. You can see it at photobucket at the address listed on my livejournal. *bows down to Becky* Anyway, here it is at long last, hope it's worth the wait! :)

Nicole aka Good_Witch aka pern_dragon

Chapter 33- Christmas and the Cast Party- part 1 of 2

Snape slept fitfully, waking often, afraid to miss the house-elf's arrival with his ingredients Christmas morning. He grumbled to himself as he saw every hour on the clock through the night. Finally, around six o'clock, he gave up and got out of bed to get ready. After his morning ablutions, he dressed in his lounge wear and headed into his sitting room to await the house-elf. He was surprised to see more than the usual obligatory gifts on his dining table.

Every year, from Minerva he would receive a tin of shortbread, from Albus a bag of lemon drops, from Filius a sharp new raven feather quill, and from Pomona a brave potted seedling. And every year, Snape would manage to eat one or two biscuits before the rest went stale, resignedly pucker over one lemon drop before just dumping the rest into Albus's bowl when he wasn't looking the next time he was in the headmaster's office, snag parchments trying to use the sharp quill, and sigh over the over-optimistic idea that any plant could thrive...well, even survive!...down in the dungeons as he watched the seedling wither and die.

Christmas generally didn't hold much interest for him... until now. Among the standard gifts from his fellow Heads of House and the headmaster was a shiny silver package, decorated with green ribbons. His pulse quickened along with his pace as he strode across the room to examine it.

There's no name on it! Here are the others, as always, but this one is new. It must be from Hermione. Granted, I suppose I can understand why she didn't label it... Feeling the anticipatory excitement threading through him, he sat at the table, negligently shoved the other gifts out of the way, and began untying the ribbon. With the ribbon off, he carefully untaped the sides and removed the thick, shiny paper. Opening the box, he gingerly lifted the tissue-covered book, laying it on the table and gently unwrapping it. His eyes lit up as he saw the book. Reverent fingertips grazed along the leather cover, tracing across the gilded, embossed title. A delighted smile broke over his face, making him look for all the world like any child getting just what he wanted on Christmas.

He opened the book and saw the parchment bookmark, with Hermione's inscription. "Be sure to read the end of the last chapter aloud. Then you'll truly see the effects of your voice." How curious... What has the little minx done now? His smile widened indulgently as he flipped through the pages, caressing them with obvious care. Black eyes shining, he closed the book again, to savour the leather binding. After a pause, he frowned thoughtfully and opened the book to the bookmark, where it lay inside the flyleaf. On a whim, he pointed his wand at it and murmured, "Aperio." Instantly, writing appeared, but not on the bookmark as he had expected.

Slightly taken aback, he began reading Hermione's dedication on the flyleaf, and his chest tightened painfully. Closing his eyes against the moisture that threatened to escape, he breathed deeply, love and gratitude almost overwhelming him.

Hermione... my love. His head bowed for a long moment before he closed the book gently and reached for the tissue paper to toss away. Pulling the box to him, he felt that it still had something in it, and he peered inside, surprised. More tissue filled the bottom, obviously wrapped around something else. Mouth falling open in amazement, he picked up the second gift, tearing the tissue away. His breath escaped his lungs forcefully, as if someone had kicked him in the gut. Weakly falling back in his chair, he gazed at the photo of Hermione, looking sophisticated and charming in her elegant dress and accessories.

Memories of the evening they had gone to the play flooded him, bouncing from one extreme to another. It took a moment for him to realize that his knuckles were white, so tightly was he gripping the frame. Consciously relaxing his hold, he took a deep breath and attempted to view the gift objectively. Wrenching his gaze from her image...which was static, like all Muggle photos...he noticed how ornate the frame was, with its carved silver vinery inlaid with green gems. A tender smile graced his lips as he thought, Even in this, she caters to my Slytherin side. The wrapping paper, the frame... So thoughtful.

He was startled from his reverie by the muffled pop that indicated a house-elf had appeared. Hastily shoving the photo under the discarded tissue, he stood and spun, face once again a mask of indifference. The house-elf stood near the hearth, a tray of ingredients in its hands.

"Master Snape, Tandy has the recipe ingredients. Tandy isn't late. Master Snape said Tandy could come as early as 7:00, and Tandy is here, as promised, sir." The creature bowed and bobbed at Snape, who quickly strode over to the elf and retrieved the tray of ingredients.

"Excellent, Tandy. I thank you. You have been most helpful. That will be all." He nodded politely at the elf, who nodded and beamed back at him.

"Thank you, Master Snape. Tandy is glad to help. Happy Christmas, sir."

Snape inclined his head gracefully and gently replied, "It is, Tandy, thank you. Happy Christmas to you and the other house-elves as well. Good day."

Tandy practically wriggled in ecstasy at being wished a happy Christmas, clasping her hands and grimacing in abject gratitude. Bowing and bobbing again, she gasped, "Thank you, Master Snape! Thank you!" Then, with another pop, she disappeared, leaving Snape to gaze at the fire in the hearth, musing on his good fortune.

Sighing, he briskly turned to the table and picked up the photo, carefully cradling it as he entered his lab to begin the mousse. He propped the photo up on his table, so he could look at it as he worked. A ghost of a smile flirted with his lips as he methodically prepared the recipe. When he finally finished, he tasted the concoction, hoping it was good.

The rich flavour spread over his tongue, and he closed his eyes in appreciation. Mmm. Not exactly like her mother's but delicious nonetheless. I daresay it will meet with her approval... Quickly tidying his workspace, he cast the cooling charm on the bowl and put it away in a cabinet, adding a stasis charm for good measure. Satisfied, he returned to his quarters to dress for the Christmas lunch, even though it was hours away.

He whiled away the time before it by lying on his bed, reading the book, and glancing at the photo now placed on his nightstand, occasionally running his fingers over it, as if to reassure himself that it was indeed real.

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

Hermione awoke, excitedly realizing that Christmas had come at last. Rubbing her eyes, she sat up in bed and saw a stack of gifts waiting for her in the armchair. Crookshanks purred at her from the foot of the bed. Stretching, she reached down and scrubbed his head. "Happy Christmas, Crooks!" She hastily threw the covers back and bounded to the stack, immediately ripping into them as if she were a five-year-old.

Wrapping paper flew all around her, and Crookshanks watched with amused disdain as she squealed and gasped and laughed and made comments on her gifts. Upon opening one package from her folks, she clasped her hands and breathed, "Oh! How wonderful! I can't believe she let me have it!"

Eyes shining, she lifted from the box the dress that she had worn to the play with Snape. A note fluttered to her lap. Picking it up, she read, "Dear Hermione, I decided that you must have this dress. It was perfect on you. Hopefully, you'll have occasion to wear it again. You look beautiful in it, darling, and I hope you are pleased to have it. Happy Christmas! Love, Mum."

Hermione hugged the dress to her and closed her eyes, beaming. A cascade of memories washed over her from the night she and Snape had gone to the play. Sighing, she murmured, "It's perfect, Mum. Thank you so much!" Then, as she looked at the dress again, she laughed aloud, bouncing in place. "Oh! It is perfect! I can wear it tonight to the party! Won't Severus be surprised? I can't wait to see his face!" Grinning in anticipation, she carefully folded the dress back into the box and tore into the rest of her gifts. Eventually, she came to a small, narrow box, wrapped in gold paper, but with silver ribbons. Her name was on it, in Snape's distinctive writing.

Inhaling sharply in excitement, she paused, wondering what could be inside. Just like us: Gryffindor gold and Slytherin silver! What could it be? Well, it's too small to be a book! Giggling, she pulled the ribbons off and unwrapped the box. Opening it, she saw the choker lying against a bed of scarlet velvet. Her eyes widened in wonder as she lifted the black velvet ribbon, examining the iridescent cameo.

Why, it looks like my mum's! But it's not. Hers was solid black, and this has a sheen to it. It's beautiful! Is it... no, it couldn't be... Is it bicorn horn?! Someone had to have made this in the wizarding world then! I wonder where he found it... It's so lovely. This is even better! I can wear this with the dress tonight, and it will be like when we went to the play! When we finally realized how much we felt for each other... I can't wait to see him. I just wish I could thank him at lunch! It will be so hard to just sit there when all I want to do is spend Christmas with him...my best gift ever!

Tenderly placing the choker back in the box, she noticed a bit of parchment tucked in with the velvet. Curious, she pulled it out and unfolded it. It was blank. Grinning mischievously, she tapped it with her wand and said, "Aperio." Snape's writing appeared, cramped and spiky. Tears pricked her eyes as she read it.

"My beloved Hermione, I made this choker for you in the hopes that the memories it may evoke are as cherished by you as they are by me. Know that every line etched was filled with my love for you. I hope that when you wear it, you will feel me close to you, as I long to be. Happy Christmas, my love. Mine is already, as you are the best gift I could ever receive. I love you, Hermione.

Yours completely, Severus."

Sniffling against the tears that clung to her lashes, she got up and placed the note with her other letters from him. Belatedly, she cast Celo on it, the writing disappearing instantly. Chewing her lip, she mused, A thousand blessings and good fortune on Fred and George! Then, chuckling, she returned to her gifts, finishing the last few and Vanishing the wrapping paper.

Hugging Crookshanks in the excess of her happiness, she kissed his furry face and laughed as she spun to the bathroom, seeing his smug cat expression. Humming in contentment, she bathed, knowing that the other Gryffindors would soon be clamouring for everyone to get together in the common room to celebrate before lunch.

She was just finishing drying her hair when she heard a loud banging on her door, accompanied by hoots and shouts of laughter. Grinning, she ran to the door and flung it open, to find Harry, Ron, Ginny, and Neville all crowded around her door, grinning and jostling each other in high spirits. As one, they cried, "Happy Christmas!" and tumbled through her door, hugging her as they came.

Laughing, Hermione responded, "Happy Christmas to you, too!" She flopped on her bed and beamed at her friends, who all found spots in her chairs or on her bed as well. Ron was already happily eating a chocolate frog, and Harry was sucking on a candy cane.

Ginny tugged on Hermione's arm and said, "All right, we're all checking out everybody's loot! What do you have, 'Mione? Oh! And we all agree that the photos are great, even if they are Muggle." She grinned and Hermione laughed.

Ron piped up, "Yeah, you looked smashing, 'Mione! You were so pretty, I almost didn't recognize you!" Ginny squawked in indignation and punched Ron in the arm, making him yelp. "Oi! What was that for?"

"Really, Ron, you are an idiot sometimes! I can't believe you'd insult Hermione like that...and on Christmas!"

Ron's eyes were wide in confusion. "Insult her? I was complimenting her! I said she looked smashing!" Everyone else giggled at Ron's oblivious expression and Ginny's exasperated rolling of her eyes. She tossed her hands up as if to say, "I give up."

Hermione leant over and patted Ginny's hand. "It's okay, Gin. I understand a Ron compliment when I hear one. Don't worry about it." She grinned at her friends and crossed to her pile of gifts, plopping down amongst them. "Okay, here it is!" She went through her gifts, thanking them for what they had given her, explaining who had given her what otherwise, and generally having a good time. She could barely contain her excitement as she opened the dress box and showed it to them.

Ginny clapped her hands and squealed in delight. The boys exchanged bemused glances. Then, Neville asked, "Isn't that the dress you were wearing in the photos you gave us?"

Hermione nodded. "My mum said I should have it. It was hers. But now it's mine!" She continued through more gifts, until she came to Snape's. She hesitated a moment, but Ginny spied the small box and pounced.

"Ooh! What's in there? Good things come in small packages! That looks small enough to be a jewellery box. What is it?" Her eyes gleamed with interest.

Hermione slowly opened the box, unsure of what to say. Harry cut in, "Wow! And your mum gave you the choker too? That was really nice of her!"

Hermione reeled in relief and gladly grasped Harry's supposition, acting as if it were the truth. Fortunately, Ginny interrupted before Hermione could respond. "Perfect! You can wear them together! They do go together so well... Oh! 'Mione! I have an idea!" The redhead bounced on the bed, eyes wide. "Why don't you wear them to the cast party tonight? Dumbledore said it was formal, and you'd look positively smashing!" She beamed at Hermione hopefully.

Hermione laughed and said, "I think that's a great idea, Gin. I'll do it." Ginny clapped her hands again, grinning. Then, Hermione added, "So, let's get out of here. I want to know what you all got!"

They all scrambled to their feet, hurrying to the common room. The morning passed pleasantly enough among the cheerful teenagers, until it was time to go to the holiday lunch. Everyone traipsed down to the Great Hall, lively with happiness, and hungry for the excellent feast about to be set before them.

They entered the Great Hall to see it resplendent with wintry decorations. Instead of the usual High Table and House tables, there were smaller tables, set in a pentagon, one side for members of each House and one for the staff. It was much more intimate than the normal setup, since there were far fewer students present. Students took seats, and some even sat with their friends from other Houses...except for Slytherin. They glared loftily at the others for mixing. Cheerful greetings rang through the Hall as people filed in. Even the staff smiled at the students and wished them a happy Christmas.

Snape stealthily entered, keeping to the edges until he could take a seat at the staff table. His eyes sought Hermione, laughing with her mates. It was but a moment before she unerringly turned to see him watching her, her beatific smile even more joyful upon seeing him. He pressed his lips together firmly to keep from grinning back. But, he hoped she could see in his eyes the wonder and delight he felt at her gifts. He nodded slightly at her as he took his seat, politely responding to the well-wishes and greetings from the other staff present. He gravely, if a trifle coolly, thanked the other Heads of House, as he did every year.

Eventually, Dumbledore was the only one not present. Everyone began whispering at his tardiness. Curious eyes glanced about, looking for him. Finally, he burst through the staff entrance, creating quite a spectacle.

A ripple of murmurs and whispers flowed through the assembled group as they goggled at him. He was wearing a long robe of bright red velvet, trimmed with white fur. Atop his head was a cap of the same materials, and over his shoulder was slung a large, bulging bag. As he entered, he bellowed, "Happy Christmas, everyone!" beaming and twinkling to rival any Father Christmas anywhere.

A multitude of voices responded, shouting, "Happy Christmas to you!" Laughter bubbled up as he approached the tables, letting the bag swing around his shoulder to the floor behind his chair. He made a show of opening the bag and withdrawing a string of bells, which tinkled as he shook them. Pointing his wand at them, he uttered some spells that made them hover over the tables, playing Christmas melodies. A couple of students clapped at the display. Then, he reached in and began pulling out crackers, tossing them to the waiting hands of the students. Cheering resounded through the Hall, accompanied by the bells chiming merrily.

Snape closed his eyes, grimacing at Dumbledore making such a fool of himself. He glowered in disdain as the old man thrust some party crackers at him. As Dumbledore moved to hand out more, Minerva leant toward Snape and sniffed. "Really, Severus, do try to look as if you're having a good time. You wouldn't want to ruin Christmas for the poor children, would you?"

He cut a black glance at her. Acidly, he stretched his lips into a horrific caricature of a smile. Rolling her eyes, Minerva snorted and muttered, "Never mind! That's worse than the glaring..." At that, Snape's lips rippled in amusement as he snorted. His expression softened into his usual smirk, and Minerva cast a long-suffering look at him before she smiled indulgently and whispered, "Happy Christmas, Severus. Remember, this is the first one since Voldemort's defeat, so there is something to be happy about."

Snape inclined his head graciously and drawled, "How could I forget? Happy Christmas to you as well, Minerva." She blinked in astonishment at his amiable rejoinder before nodding at him and sitting back in her seat, turning her attention back to Dumbledore and his antics.

My dear Minerva, if you only knew how much I had to be happy about this Christmas... He glanced back at Hermione, feeling his chest tighten at her radiant smile and infectious laughter.

Dumbledore finally finished distributing his loot and contentedly sat, beaming at his charges. With a dramatic gesture, he announced, "Let the feast begin!" Glorious food appeared along the tables, sending the students into sighs of rapture. Immediately, the hubbub died down as everyone filled their plates and began stuffing themselves.

After a long, leisurely lunch, replete with every delectable dish ever concocted for the holiday, the group settled into sated conversations, erupting into laughter as they pulled crackers and shared stories. Snape idly watched the interactions among the students, relieved to see that Potter and the Weasley girl seemed quite involved with each other, and neither of them looked to be giving Hermione any more grief. In fact, everyone seemed to be perfectly happy, enjoying themselves hugely.

In his silent ruminations, Snape thought forward to the evening's party, wishing that he could be free to involve himself with Hermione like the younger couples would certainly be doing. He hoped that she had liked his gift, and he wished he could do more to please her, after the double surprise she had sent him. His gaze trained on some faraway point as his thoughts turned inwards, and he never even noticed anyone looking at him, not even when they were staring at him with a puzzled air, trying to determine what was different about him. His whole demeanour was somehow calmer, more peaceful, and it unnerved some of the students and perplexed some of his colleagues.

Thus, it was with no little consternation that Minerva regarded him when he seemed to stiffen in his chair, his eyes flashing and his whole person suddenly full of pent-up energy. The ghost of a smug smile on his lips was even more disconcerting. He pushed back from the table abruptly, drawing Dumbledore's attention.

"Leaving so soon, Severus?" Dumbledore eyed him genially.

Snape inclined his head as he murmured, "I would hardly call it soon, Albus. We've been here for hours already. I do have some things to attend to in my quarters, before the festivities this evening." He stood, nodding politely to the staff. "Good day to you, and... Happy Christmas." One corner of his mouth quirked up in amusement at the surprised looks the other teachers gave him.

Dumbledore nodded and said, "Very well then. We shall see you this evening. And Happy Christmas to you, too, dear boy." Snape swept the Hall with a pensive look as he strode to the exit.

Hermione glanced up at him as he rose, wishing she could leave with him so they could spend some time together. A tiny sigh escaped her lips as she watched him leave.

"Odd, how different he seems, isn't it?" Hermione started and turned to see Ginny's speculative frown as the other girl leant toward her.

Apprehensive, Hermione simply said, "Different? What do you mean?"

Ginny tilted her head and wrinkled her nose. "I dunno' really. He just seems... different. Like, I would have thought he'd be snarkier, having to be here, with all of us around too. He's still a mean git, but he hasn't been quite as unrelentingly horrid as usual. It's like he's changed, but I can't explain how."

Hermione blinked, frozen in fear that Ginny would figure things out. Tentatively, Hermione ventured, "Well, it is Christmas. And the war is finally over. So, maybe he's actually getting a chance to relax. He is a human being, after all."

Ginny shrugged noncommittally. "I really have no idea, but it's just odd. I see it in rehearsals sometimes too. I mean, he hasn't ripped you to shreds, and you have to spend so much time with him... Then again, even you say he's not bad, so there has to be some answer to why he's not as much of a bastard as he used to be."

Hermione struggled to keep breathing evenly. Icy dread gripped her heart, but she forced her attention to her plate, toying with the remains of her pudding. In a tone of bored indifference, she said, "Hmm. Who knows. It's really none of our business, if you think about it."

Ginny rolled her eyes. "I know that! But you know me. I'm just naturally inquisitive." She schooled her expression into a prim façade, and Hermione laughed.

"'Naturally inquisitive'? Try nosy, Gin. That suits you much better..." She laughed again as the redhead shoved her arm indignantly and stuck her tongue out at Hermione.

From behind her, Harry drawled, "Hey Gin, don't stick it out unless you plan to use it..." Ginny's brows shot up before she grinned saucily at Harry's wicked smirk.

"Tempting..." she lilted, and Hermione covered her face with her hands, groaning.

Hermione's voice held a long-suffering note as she said, "T.M.I.!" Then they all laughed, and Hermione heaved a sigh of relief that Ginny was once again distracted from her unnerving near-discovery of Snape's reason for being happier.

Eventually, everyone dispersed, the cast members ready to relax and likely take a nap before the party that night. As Hermione returned to her room, once again gazing at the choker and dress in amazed appreciation, Snape was in his room, reading the book she had given him, well on his way to finishing it before the festivities.

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

Later that evening, Hermione was getting ready for the cast party. She had taken a long, hot bath, soaking in the scented water. Then, she used some of the new lotion she had received for Christmas and slathered it all over. It was a lovely fragrance of citrus and honey, sweet but subtle. Once again putting on her transfigured stockings, suspender belt and shoes, she slipped into the dress, admiring how perfectly it hugged her body. Reverently, she clasped the choker around her throat, feeling her throat and chest tightening and tears pricking her eyes as a great surge of love overwhelmed her. Smiling, she looked at her reflection. Then, she frowned.

Blast! I don't know how to do my hair like Mum did... And it just doesn't look right just hanging like this. That's it. I need help... Resigned, she spun and burst out of her room, heading straight for Lavender's dorm room.

At her knock, Lavender opened the door, gasping in amazement at Hermione's elegant look. "Oh, Hermione! You look wonderful!" She beamed at her and pulled her into the room. Lavender was wearing a silk kimono, having been applying her makeup before dressing.

"Hi, Lavender. Where's Parvati?"" Hermione glanced around, looking for the dark beauty.

"Oh, she's still in the bathroom. That's such a beautiful dress!"

"Thanks! My mum sent it to me for Christmas. Um, listen, I was wondering if you could help me." She looked at Lavender sheepishly.

"With what?" Lavender sat back at her vanity, continuing with her makeup, eyeing Hermione in the mirror.

Hermione worried her hands and replied, "Well, my mum did my hair this really nice way, and I want to do it again, but I don't know how. If I showed you a picture, do you think you could help me?" She gazed at Lavender's reflection imploringly.

Lavender blinked at her in the mirror before spinning and facing Hermione. Her eyes gleamed. "You want me to do your hair?"

Hermione shrugged and nodded. "Would you, please?"

Lavender jumped up and flew at Hermione, hugging her impulsively. "Of course! Why, I've always said that you could do so much with your hair, if you only tried. Yes. I will do it. Just show me what you want, and I'll do it!" She grinned at Hermione, who was torn between relief and anxiety.

Faintly, Hermione said, "I'll just go get the photo. Be back in a tick." Then, she hurried from the room, heading to Ginny's dorm, hoping to borrow the photo she had given her for Christmas.

She knocked on the door and heard Ginny call out, "Who is it?"

"It's Hermione. Can I come in?"

Muffled by the door, she heard Ginny say, "Sure, come on in!" Hermione opened the door and stepped in. Ginny had the dorm to herself over break, as the others had all gone home. Hermione stopped dead in her tracks, stunned by the sight before her.

Ginny was standing proudly, her hands flung to the sides as she crowed, "Ta da!" Hermione's eyes bugged out, unable to look away from her scantily clad friend. Ginny was wearing a sheer, lacy bra in deep blue, which stood out against her pale skin. The matching knickers were barely that, more realistically a triangle of the same see-through lace held on by thin string. The bra and G-string both had sapphire rhinestones at the corners, glittering in the light. Along with that salacious ensemble, Ginny wore a suspender belt of the same deep blue, but in satin, and the clasps held up dark, smoky stockings. As Ginny spun, Hermione saw that the stockings had seams up the back, and she tried not to notice her friend's bare arse. When Ginny faced her again, she put her hands on her hips and asked, "So, what do you think?"

Hermione cleared her throat, flushing madly. "Ginevra Molly Weasley! What are you wearing?"

Ginny rolled her eyes and sighed. "'Mione! I told you I bought this to wear for Harry! Remember?"

Hermione passed a hand over her eyes and groaned. "Yes..."

Ginny smirked again and said, "So... what do you think?"

"I think it's more than I needed to see. Wait, make that less than I needed to see. Honestly, Gin, I don't need proof that you're a natural redhead..." Ginny burst out laughing at Hermione's sardonic tone.

Taking pity on her obviously embarrassed friend, Ginny slipped a robe on. "Well, if it scandalizes you that much, I daresay Harry will like it."

Hermione rolled her eyes. "Oh, definitely! Hey, listen, can I borrow the picture I gave you? Just for a bit. I need to show Lavender, so she can do my hair that way for tonight."

Ginny clapped her hands. "Of course! That's great! You really do look fabulous; I should have said something sooner, but we were too busy dealing with your prudishness..." She wrinkled her nose at Hermione in jest. Hermione grimaced back. "Oh! Speaking of..." She whirled and hastened to her trunk, rummaging through it. When she spun around again, her arms were full of books and magazines. Brightly, she queried, "Do you want to borrow these now?"

Hermione blushed again. Uncomfortable to say the least, she took the items from the grinning redhead and shrunk them to the size of a matchbook, tucking them in her cleavage. Ginny snickered at her, but subsided at Hermione's glare. Ginny cheerfully handed Hermione the photo, and Hermione muttered, "Thanks. I'll bring it back soon." She turned to head for the door.

Behind her, Ginny teased, "Don't worry about bringing the rest back soon. Take all the time you want in your research." Hermione turned a black look on her, which just made the other girl laugh.

Huffing in exasperation and shaking her head, Hermione sighed, "Thank you, Ginny. I'll see you later..." She shut the door behind her, blocking out the sound of Ginny's giggles.

When she returned to Lavender's room, she was taken aback to find the other young witch waiting for her, pointing to the chair before the vanity, a dazzling array of hair products before them.

Imperiously, Lavender said, "Sit!" Hermione obeyed, handing Lavender the photo. Pursing her lips critically, Lavender murmured, "Hmm. Looks like a twist. That shouldn't be too hard. All right, let's go!" She placed the photo on the vanity and immediately took charge of Hermione's head, tilting it, turning it, then pulling and twisting her hair.

Hermione kept her mouth shut, not wanting to antagonize Lavender, since she really wanted her hair to look nice. Parvati returned and offered a short greeting before she started getting ready herself. Hermione watched in amazement as Lavender coaxed and cajoled Hermione's mass of frizz and curls into a replica of the picture's sleek twist and cascade of smooth curls with long tendrils framing her face. Granted, where her mother had used pins and spray and gel, Lavender used charms and potions. But, the result was just as pleasing. Finally, after one final, minute adjustment, Lavender eased back, smiling in satisfaction.

"There. How's that?" She met Hermione's eyes in the mirror.

Hermione beamed, marvelling at the change. "Lavender, it's perfect! Thank you so much!" She stood and hugged her in gratitude. Lavender grinned, smug.

"Glad you like it. I must say, it does make a difference. And you're right, your hair looks much better up with this dress and jewellery. Now, just go do your makeup, and you'll be set! Unless you want me to do that for you too...?" She raised her eyebrows in question, obviously eager to do Hermione's makeup as well, but Hermione shook her head.

"No, thank you. I can do that. Besides, you have to get ready yourself. I really appreciate your help though. It's wonderful."

Lavender preened at the praise. "Just remember, all you have to do is end the enchantments the normal way we do with all of them." She leant closer. "I'm not going to say it, or we'll have undone all that work, but you know what I mean."

Hermione nodded and crossed to the door with her picture. "I do. Thanks again. I'll see you two downstairs later!" She hurried to Ginny's room again, knocking.

"Come in!"

Hermione hesitantly entered, afraid of what she might see this time, but Ginny was dressed, putting on makeup. Relieved, Hermione handed her the picture and said, "Thanks."

Ginny looked up at Hermione and whistled. "Wow! She did a good job! You look gorgeous, 'Mione! It's a good thing Harry's over you now, or I'd never have had a chance to get him back after he saw you like this."

Hermione laughed. "Whatever, Gin. But thank you. I'll see you later." Waving, she left Ginny's dorm, secluding herself in her room, where she carefully did her makeup, copying what she had done when she had gone to the play. Pleased with her reflection, she took her Secret Santa gift out of its hiding place, wrapping it in paper different from any that she had already used. She had made sure to cast sufficient cooling and stasis charms, as well as a charm to keep it from shifting in the box before she had tucked the jar of cherries in beside the bowl and sealed the package. Instead of writing Snape's name on it, she attached the original piece of parchment that he had put into the box for the Secret Santa drawing, with his name written in his own writing.

She contemplated going to the common room to get some dinner, but decided against it, still not really hungry after the huge feast that morning, and positive that she could find enough at the refreshment table if she got hungry during the party. In all, there wasn't much time left before they could all head down to the Great Hall anyway. She kicked off her shoes and carefully settled herself on the bed to read a bit in her Ancient Runes text while she waited for 7:00 to roll around.

***** *****

Down in the dungeons, Snape had spent the day devouring Hermione's gift, and he finished the book that evening, eagerly anticipating reaching the last line, so he could read it aloud and find out what else the clever witch had in store for him. It was after 6:00 already, but he wasn't too concerned about showing up after the party started; after all, he would likely not stay the whole time anyway. He raced through the pages, absorbed in the growing tension of the tale, until he reached the end.

He found his pulse racing, and his throat was tight in empathy for Erik. His eyes closed for a moment, deeply grateful that he, unlike Erik, had the woman he loved, and would, gods willing, keep her for the rest of his life. A sharp pain lanced through him as he thought about what it would be like if Hermione loved someone else, and he would be compelled to set her free. Although others would probably not believe it, Snape could understand how someone could consign himself to misery, in the hopes that it would bring happiness to one he loved. Thank the gods and Merlin that he was not faced with such a choice.

He reached the last line of the final chapter, and, sitting forward in excitement, read it aloud, his voice ringing through the silence of his quarters. As the last word died on his lips, his eyes widened in surprise as the concealment charm lifted from the facing page, revealing the photo of him and Hermione, standing together in front of her parents' fireplace. His breath caught in his throat at the joyful smile on her face. Stunned eyes roved over the image, looking curiously at himself in the clothes he had transfigured for the play. He looked at his hair, and remembered the way Hermione had reacted to him. He unconsciously licked his lips as a wave of arousal swept over him.

Leaning back once again, he laid the book against his chest, caressing the leather as he stared, unseeing, at the ceiling. So clever. So sweet. How could she ever want me? I don't know what I did to warrant this bliss, but I plan to cherish and enjoy it for as long as I am able. So many surprises... She revels in making me happy. I wish I could return the favour. I've already sent her her present, and she'll get the mousse tonight. What else could I do to please her? Well, at least, what else can I do in public to please her? A smug smirk crossed his lips at that thought.

He sat, pensive, for a moment more, before he sighed and sat up, once again marvelling at the photo she had hidden in his gift. Then, suddenly, his head rocked back as a bellow of delighted laughter echoed against the stones. His uncharacteristic mirth gripped him for several moments, before he subsided, a grin still plastered on his face. Aloud, he murmured, "Yes. I believe that should work..." With that, he briskly stood, reverently closing the book and placing it on his nightstand. He crossed to his bathroom, shedding his clothes with a practiced flick of his wand, and started the shower, intent on getting ready for the party that was about to start upstairs.

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

Hermione jumped at the knock on her door, startled from her absorption in Ancient Runes. "Yes?"

"We're about to head downstairs. You coming?" She recognized Ron's voice.

"Yes, hang on..." She bounced up and put her shoes back on, taking one last look in the mirror at her hair and makeup. Smoothing the dress and caressing the choker, she grabbed her Secret Santa gift, shrunk it to fit in her palm, and crossed to the door, opening it and smiling.

She was met with a low whistle. Ron's eyes travelled up and down, giving her a very appreciative once-over. "Wow! Bloody brilliant!"

Hermione laughed and bobbed a saucy curtsey. "Why thank you!" She closed her door behind her and tilted her head at him. "Shall we go?"

Ron nodded vigorously, grinning crookedly at her. "Yeah, the others are waiting. Really, 'Mione, you look even prettier than you did at the Yule Ball in fourth year. You sure you don't want to try dating again?" He waggled his eyebrows at her suggestively.

Hermione laughed again, elbowing him in the ribs. "Oh, please! We both know the answer to that one..." She smirked at him.

Ron snorted and nodded again, cheerfully shrugging. "Hey! You can't blame a guy for trying! What red-blooded male wouldn't think that way when faced with a beautiful woman like you?" He shook his head at her rolling her eyes and tucked her hand through his arm, leaning closer. Gently, he murmured, "Honestly, Hermione, you look great." He affectionately dropped a light kiss on her cheek. "Happy Christmas."

Hermione smiled back at him. Squeezing his arm, she whispered, "Thanks, Ron. You're looking rather dapper yourself." His dress robes were a far sight better than those he had worn to the Yule Ball.

Assuming an arrogant air, he thumbed his nose and sniffed. "Of course I am. I know. It's the Weasley smashing good looks, you know."

Hermione burst out laughing, and Ron dissolved into chuckles as they arrived in the common room. All of the Gryffindors on cast was there, chatting excitedly. Cheerful greetings flew from all sides as they entered.

Hermione raised her voice over the hubbub and queried, "Does everyone have their Secret Santa gifts?" At the nods and affirmatives, she continued, "Good. Well then, let's go!" The group jostled to get through the portrait hole, laughing as they did so.

They met the other student cast members in the corridor leading to the Great Hall, and the noisy crowd surged through the doors as one. The decorations were as opulent as earlier, but the lighting was more subdued, casting pools of golden light on the round tables set about, and leaving dim shadows in between, above which stars glittered. There was a large dancing area, with one side edged with tables full of refreshments. In the very centre of the far edge of the dancing space, there was a table set up for the gifts. Dumbledore was there, beaming at everyone from above his twinkling robes of black velvet set with silver spangles.

"Welcome! Come, leave your Secret Santa gifts here, and enjoy yourselves! Now that you're here, let the music begin!" He waved his wand, and music filled the Hall, from the Wizarding Wireless Network. Christmas songs wafted above them as they traipsed across the dance floor to drop off their gifts. One by one, Dumbledore took the gifts and placed them on the table, concealing them from everyone until all were there, continuing the secretive nature of the exchange.

Hermione meandered over to the refreshment table, choosing a dainty selection of treats, and found a seat at one of the round tables. She gazed about her appreciatively, and wistfully wondered when Snape would arrive. She nearly choked on her punch when Trelawney floated through the doors. Her hair was bigger and wilder than ever, with glittering baubles throughout, and her robes were covered with what reminded Hermione of strings of Muggle Christmas lights, blinking and chasing in a myriad of colours. Apparently, Sibyll was enormously pleased with her ensemble, and she beamed fatuously at Lavender and Parvati as they approached her with protestations of admiration.

Stifling her urge to laugh aloud, Hermione bit her lip, looking down at the table, thinking, Oh, how much fun Severus and I could have in the face of that outfit! He has about as much use for the old fraud as I do... I can just imagine his razor sharp comments now!

Fortunately, Trelawney and her followers moved out of Hermione's line of sight, and she glanced around, watching people chatting in small groups, couples sitting separately, their heads tilted close together, and others dancing to the occasional song that wasn't a Christmas song coming over the WWN. She looked over to the gift table, noting that Dumbledore was still stationed there, keeping the concealment charm in effect. McGonagall was standing with him, her head bent toward him as she talked. Hermione thought she looked irritated, and wondered what could be bothering her. Dumbledore laid a hand on her arm and spoke softly, looking like he was soothing her. McGonagall shut her mouth with a snap and straightened, huffing in resignation.

Hermione had been sitting there for about 30 minutes already, when she thought she understood what may have annoyed McGonagall. Where was Snape? Everyone else was there, and they couldn't do the gift exchange until everyone had arrived. So, where was he, and why was he late? Exasperation welling up, Hermione stood and strode over to the punch bowl again, refilling her cup. Colin and Neville were standing nearby, chatting about the food.

Hermione's thoughts were wandering, when she was startled by Colin squeaking, "Bloody hell! Is that Snape?" She glanced up to see Colin and Neville looking decidedly disconcerted and whirled to see Snape, framed in the doorway of the Great Hall. No one, including Hermione, noticed when she gasped and promptly dropped her cup of punch on the floor. Everyone was staring at Snape, dumbfounded.

Snape looked at the scattered cast members, secretly enjoying their shock. His expression was quite regal and haughty as he smoothly glided across the floor to the gift table. Glancing at Hermione, he rejoiced in the success of his ploy, noting the flush rising up her throat...the throat that wore his gift!...to suffuse her face. Her eyes were almost black, so dilated were her pupils, and they sparked with desire. He tore his gaze away from her, inordinately pleased that she was wearing the choker, and apparently with the very same dress she had worn to the play! She was beautiful, and he couldn't allow himself to look at her for too long, lest anyone notice.

Harry and Ginny had been sitting close together, completely immersed in each other's eyes, when Snape entered and galvanized the room. At the airy gasp, followed by a sudden hush, Harry looked up, eyes widening in disbelief as he took in the image of Snape at the door. An inarticulate sound of incredulity erupted from his lips, and Ginny whipped her head around to see what had shocked him so much. Her eyebrows shot to her hairline and her mouth fell open in awe. Blinking rapidly, she shook herself, trying to determine if she was hallucinating. Was that Snape? Professor Snape? Black hearted git of the dungeons? Greasy dreaded Potions Master of Hogwarts?

If it was, he certainly looked... different!

*proceed immediately to the next chapter for part 2!*