I also had to go reread the chapter and wanted to compliment you on this gorgeous line, "He seemed to linger over each vivid fantasy, as though he were slowly pulling petals off a flower and rubbing them between his fingers before he let them fall." Also, Snape sneaking up behind her and, saying, "Does this feel safe to you?" was incredibly sexy. Whenever I review I find that whether the story leads me to refer to Snape as 'snape' or 'severus' says a lot about the author's characterization. While I definitely am using Snape here, there is a strong temptation to refer to him as Severus also, which I promise is a good sign :)

That was one of the most fantastic things I have read in quite a while! Damn, the sexual tension you created was absolutely insane! Such an awesome connection. I am looking forward to seeing his realization of her feelings from his perspective. Also just looking forward to whatever happens next. I cannot wait for the next installment!! Pretty pretty please update soon!

Evil cliff indeed. Just when it was beginning to get really interesting. As always, looking forward to the next chapter!

Wow, what a display of power.  Severus managed to break a stone, castle dungeon floor in anger.  Truly it gave me a shiver.  The end of the chapter was incredible as well.  I can't wait to see where the muse will lead you.

AAAAAAARRRRRRRRRGGGGGHH!!! That was a horrible cliff hanger. I was like, "Yes! Finally!!!" and then it ended. I can't wait for the next chapter. :D And I really loved this one, even though it had an evil cliffie.

Oh my god, so beautiful!  "Safe"-?  Oh yes, safe in his arms--the safest place in the world, as far as Hermione is concerned!  Can't wait for the next!

Well THAT was fabulous! Someone  commented earlier that the only way Severus would believe her would be through Legilimens and I agree. Someone with that kind of self-esteem (i.e. none) would find it impossible to find himself an object of desire, especially of someone who interests him. Reciprocity is very difficult to accept when you think you are everything that is wrong in a person. Ah, Severus! As we get closer to the end of sixth year, how far are you plannig on taking this story? Just curious.Remember how I downgraded your evilness level from 'Umbridge' to 'Dumbledore'? Well, I take it back...even if that last line, ‘Yes, you stop,’ she croaked. ‘My turn.’ is just fabulous. I have to keep up appearances, you know.The offer of baked goods as incentive still stands!

Wow that was intense. Of course Legilimens would be the only way Severus would believe that Hermione wasn't playing a prank on him. I'm glad they got that worked out. I'm looking forward to reading the next chapter.

onderfully written. Yes, it IS an evil cliffy, but all the better when we get to read the next chapter! They have no excuses now. Please don't keep us waiting too long ;)

That was fabulous. Oh and as for Ms. Pince, just think what she'd say if she knew Hermione touched her books while  thinking impure thoughts.

What a cliffhanger! It was just getting interesting, I think you have some making up to do for that hehe.

Wow... that was so bloody hot I can't tell you!Hurry up with the update... I need to know...!

Oh my. Fans self. That is hot. And the snippet from the next chapter is ... his surprise strikes em as pitch perfect.

I was actually reading a book when I decided to check my email and got a notice you updated so I put it down to read this chapter:) Can't wait for the next update especially after what happened now:)

There is only one reply to an evil cliffhanger that a reader can utter. I hope you realise it, because it is crass and, dare I say, rude. But here it comes:Get on with it already.On a reviewing side, I must expand this a bit. I particularly liked that instead of jumping to conclusions, he bothered to investigate if it was a spell he experienced and found her. I view that as an exceptionally positive development that helped them to take a huge step forward in their relationship. Very positive. Therefore, the cliffhanger is actually not very daunting. They are safe in one another's arms and that counts.

I want to read MORE! Lol:)

Wow, I didn't think this story could get better after the last chapter, but it did！

I love this point in a story... where Severus realizes what he wants but it's just too early for him to admit it to anyone but himself.  And I liked that Hermione also realized that being attracted to him could be a long-term thing.

I really enjoyed your Severus.  Nice chapter.

Poor Sev.  He needs action.  NOW! :P

I am confused -  Isn't Sinistra the astronomy professor? 

Loving the story - and love the Dowland even more (if possible).  Thank you for both gifts!!

married off more times than a ken doll?  that is totally a reference from dogma. ...only changed.  :D

I love the way both Severus and Hermione are having similar thoughts and dreams about the other, and have both come to similar conclusions.   For Severus, he had admonished himself that he shouldn't allow his thoughts to dwell on an impossible future with Hermione...  But if he were about to lose her smiles in reality, he’d keep them in his dreams. He’d fucking bask in them. And she’d love him in a way she never would in real life—this girl who’d overwhelmed his defences without even trying to...  Maybe one day… probably not, but maybe… That thought couldn’t go any farther, but he let it stand. Maybe one day.And Hermione had come to "an understanding" with herself.  What if she stopped thinking of her feelings for Severus as a silly crush she’d inevitably outgrow and started thinking of them as a part of her life that might never go away? And that could fortify her in the dark days ahead? And that might actually bear fruit one day in the unimaginable future? ...Maybe one day, she thought. I won’t count on it but… maybe. And meanwhile, I’ll treat myself to as much of him as I can manage.I am so looking forward to the next chapter.  You did say it would involve a certain spell.  What is this thing that Hermione needed to look at... in her room... could it be a certain spoon?  Perhaps?I'm lovin' it!Beth

Read your A/N and I'm glad to hear that we've got a long way to go yet with this story, because I'm loving it. The more, the merrier! Something tells me that poor Seamus is besotted with Hermione but that his efforts to woo her will be in vain. I can also see that as being a source of jealousy for Snape. As always, looking forward to the next chapter!