Circumnavigation

Circumnavigation

Severus heard the soft footsteps approaching and quickly shut his eyes.

There was a sigh above him. She was probably exasperated at finding him still unconscious.

"You should have done this yourself," she murmured. She knows I'm awake. But instead of the expected accusations, a small hand brushed hair away from his face. Automatically, he flinched and heard another sigh in response. "I hope this doesn't wake you," she continued. "You must've been exhausted not to make it yourself; you know I've a full potions pantry."

A coolness spread across his eye, where Hermione had carefully placed a soothing compress.

Hermione watched him a moment before retreating to the kitchen; she'd clean-up to do and rather thought it best if she wasn't around when Snape awoke. He'd probably throw a big enough fit as it was. She knew him well enough now to know he abhorred being— or seeming —vulnerable. Falling asleep on her couch definitely qualified. And the way he had stared at her earlier… completely beyond his normal bounds.

She had to admit, though, after her initial feminist outrage… Well, it was nice being regarded as a woman for once— and attractive, at that —by someone she respected.

"Thank you."

The words were curt and ungraceful as Snape tried handing the compress back to Hermione.

"You should use it a bit longer," she replied; he still had faint bruise-edges. "You're welcome, though."

"I should've left hours ago, Miss Granger."

She shrugged, pretending not to notice his discomfort. "I wouldn't've made the invitation if I didn't mean it." Which was true. "Clap that thing back on while I cook. It's my fault you need it; dinner's the least I can do."

Feeling an awkward fool, Severus returned to the sofa. That damned T-shirt still lay upon its arm.