Nine
Chapter 9 of 15
ElizabethWinky curses Hermione after forming a house-elf union. Severus gets attached to the curse and his only option is to work with her to break the spell
The last Friday in November produced a horrible storm. Snow fell in thick, wet flakes. At dinner, Hermione promised Neville she would help him cast warming charms in all the greenhouses to keep the exotic plants safe from the wicked weather. She bid Susan farewell at the staff table and trudged through the knee-deep snow to greenhouse four. Hermione found Neville already starting with the small potted plants on the center table. He greeted her and pointed in a general direction to start working. After a few hours, they'd ended up in the first greenhouse, which also housed Neville's office. Exhausted, they sat down to have a cuppa. While Neville made the tea, she cleared a space on his desk. Hermione couldn't help but notice that the paperwork she was handling was Neville's own schoolwork. Not Hogwarts papers, but for a secondary school for Herbology.
"Are you getting another degree?" she asked eagerly.
Blushing, he said, "Yes, it's a secondary degree-by-owl program. I just do the required work and send it to my professor in London once a week. I'm doing it full time, but it's starting to get a bit tough with my own work around here. But it will be worth it in about a year once I've finished. I can request a higher salary, and I can become a private tutor during the summers."
"Oh, Neville, that's splendid." Hermione took a glance at the required work for this week. Neville saw her eyeing it.
"This is my major essay before the Fall Final. We've been discussing Herbology in relation to potion ingredients. The topic is about the differences in at least fifteen varieties of aconite, and the proper care of it both while it's alive and then for storing its leaves, roots and nectar for potions ingredients."
"Well, you're clever with plants, this essay should be a piece of cake!" said Hermione.
At that moment, Severus stuck his head in the door. "Professor Longbottom, I was looking to speak . . . Ah, I see you have company. I'll come by another time." He was gone as quickly as he'd come.
His eyes hadn't rested on her for more than a few seconds. Was he ashamed at being friendly with her and didn't want the staff to know they were having weekly tea together? What a silly thought. She turned back to her Neville.
Neville looked scared. "What do you think he wants, Hermione?"
"Don't worry, Neville; he's been decent recently. I'm sure it's nothing. He didn't look angry, did he? Then buck up. It'll be fine."
He handed her the tea, and Hermione yelped with shock when she saw a two-layered chocolate cake sitting on the table. All over the icing were words relating to aconite.
"It's my essay!" he chortled. Picking up a fork from a drawer, he tucked in. "Have some. My essay tastes wonderful!"
"Nonsense, Neville, you don't know if the aconite was actually used as an ingredient for the cake. You could die!"
He spat it out. To be safe, she took him to Poppy to get an antidote. It wouldn't do to kill her friend with her big mouth; somehow this curse was popping up unexpectedly. She apologized over and over for the loss of his essay and for nearly poisoning him. He laughed it off and told her he had a copy of the essay in a drawer and thanked her for keeping him from eating the rest of the cake.
Oliver had accepted her apology for making him bleed, but he'd been quite short with her since. He insisted they start over as friends too. She wasn't thrilled with the idea of going back to the beginning, but she was glad he still wanted to be around her. But he frequently brought up her "problem," as he called it, and was an absolute prat regarding the whole incident. Even Severus had been more forgiving over the situation.
In fact, she'd never apologized to Severus for nearly killing him, only for trying to help him. And yet, it wasn't awkward to either of them. They were both comfortable knowing she'd made him bleed without any magical cure. So why hadn't Oliver been as forgiving? He'd been upset his old Quidditch wounds had been bleeding, and she understood how that could have been emotional for him. But Severus had been bleeding out his neck, and he'd previously almost died from those wounds, and she hadn't seen him crying over the wounds re-opening.
But they were two very different men. Isn't that what she liked about Oliver, that he was basically the complete opposite from Severus? Yet, Severus conversed with her pleasantly; she saw his passion for subjects that she'd never seen in anyone else. He had depth. But only on Sundays. Any other day of the week, he was reserved and cold, acting as if he'd never seen her before. Just a façade...that was all. He was an actor, but on which days was he acting?
Their past wasn't exactly something she could forgive at the drop of a hat either. He'd said cruel things to her, and he'd deliberately goaded and embarrassed her for no reason. Why was she so willing to keep coming back every Sunday after the way he'd treated her in the past? She didn't have an answer. Perhaps it was because she was lonely. Or the fact that he was the only one who thought along the same lines she did. Even when Minerva had been around, their conversations had never been this invigorating. It could have been that over time, the pain he'd inflicted had healed and subsided, and so she'd allowed herself to imagine it had never happened. But whatever the reasons, she found herself drawn to him. He was mysterious and intriguing. Besides, Minerva had befriended him and she must have had good reasons.
Oliver was a good man, though. Minerva had insisted he replace her, so he was all right too, right? He'd been through his own troubles too. He'd never reached his full potential after his horrid accident had permanently crippled his hand. At this very moment, he could have been playing Quidditch somewhere, doing what he loved. Instead, he was teaching at a school with students who were below his standards in Quidditch. He was constantly hitting up Rolanda to let him fill in when she couldn't make practice. Hermione saw him giving tips to the players regardless of their house team. Oliver was willing to find any ear to give expert tips and plays. His eyes lit up when he was on the subject. But Hermione often found herself fading out of attentiveness by that point. The only other subject that similarly affected her was Divination.
She would have to try harder to be a better friend. She'd gotten an idea back when they'd been in Hogsmeade, but her scary flight into the air had driven it from her mind for some time. However, now Oliver's birthday was approaching. So she sent off a letter to Viktor Krum in hopes that he could help her with a gift. They had occasionally corresponded over the years: a Christmas card here or a random note around each other's birthday...nothing serious. But she knew he would be willing to help her out. That was the kind of person he was. It was now December, and Oliver's birthday was on the twelfth. She was cutting it close, but Viktor should be able to comply.
The end of term was fast approaching; Oliver's birthday was the last day of fall term. In the meantime, she had her own papers and essays to grade. Her students were ahead of schedule, and they were all excelling. She was quite pleased with their output. A few students even showed signs of pursuing careers in Potions. Hermione mentioned this to Severus during their next teatime, and he scoffed at her.
"These students are all dunderheads. I've never seen a whole year excel in one large mass before, and it's not likely to happen during your first year teaching. You're too easy on them."
"Severus, you're an old sourpuss," she said.
Minerva snorted into her teacup trying to hide a laugh. It was about time someone told him he was just beastly!
The first weekend in December brought more snow. Hermione was glad to be spending most of it with Severus in his study. Minerva was playing cards with a young man in her portrait. Severus was getting a little long-winded on the subject of daisy roots, and she was forcing herself to listen, instead of blurting out her own joyous opinions of the stuff when there came a startling rap at the window.
Three owls were carrying a large parcel as the rushing snow swirled around them. They were having a difficult time hovering in one place, and they would drop several feet and then rise as they tried to synchronize their flapping.
Severus jumped up and opened the latch. They flew in, and he had to direct the box through the window. He called Winky to bring up some victuals for the owls. Hermione untied the parcel from a barn owl's foot.
"This package is addressed to you, Granger," Severus said. "It's from Viktor Krum. I didn't know you were still in contact with him."
"There are a lot of things about my personal life you don't know, Severus," she said.
"I didn't mean to pry. You know I, above all others, respect privacy."
"I'm sorry, I didn't mean to sound rude. I was only stating we hardly know each other. We just share common interests." It wasn't intentional, but her words had come out sadly. Hermione busied herself with the second owl.
Winky had some livers on a platter for the owls and some warm pumpkin juice in a bowl. She set these by the window. Severus was eyeing the parcel but was patiently waiting for her to explain what was inside. Hermione thought it would be fun to deny him the answer.
"It's late, and I want to unpack this in my room, so I think I'll be going. Thank you for tea, Severus." Hermione gathered up the long box and tried to leave. She couldn't quite get the door open; Severus, with a look of disappointment, came over and opened the door dramatically.
"If you intend to keep coming to my study for tea every Sunday," he said, "you could at least give me a few hours in the evening to get work done. Instead, you spend all afternoon up here bothering me with your silly ideas about daisy roots."
There were several retorts she wanted to say, but she knew he was mad she wasn't going to let him see the contents of the parcel. Instead, she smiled as the door shut in her face. She was beginning to sense when he was being sarcastic and when he was truly serious.
All of the students were leaving in the morning. It was Friday night and Hermione, Susan and Neville had thrown together a little birthday party for Oliver in the staff room. It was past student curfew, so most of the staff was gathered together eating cake and ice cream. Everyone was joined in little groups of twos or threes telling stories or sharing jokes. There was a small pile of gifts on the table from those in attendance, and Hermione raised her voice to get their attention.
Oliver started opening his gifts. He unwrapped a large bottle of Ogden's from Filius, much to his delight. Hagrid bestowed a large box of Honeydukes chocolates on him; Rolanda gave him a polishing kit for his broom. Poppy contributed a pillow infused with lavender to induce an aromatic therapy while he slept. Severus gave him an extra day's pay but reminded him to pay up on his debt from their last Quidditch bet. Sir Nicholas even came, but he left after a forlorn look at the food.
Finally, Hermione pulled out her gift and placed it carefully on the table in front of Oliver. He gently unwrapped the long parcel and reverently pulled out a Jet Stream Broomstick.
"Wow, Hermione. This is great. But I've already got a great broom..."
"Look, Oliver. It's signed by Viktor Krum," she pointed out. "I asked him if he had an older broom of his he could sign and send to you for your birthday. So he decided to buy a new one and signed this broom, which was his until last week."
"This is the greatest gift anyone's ever given me," he said as he stood to give her a hug of appreciation.
"How did you know," Severus asked with a wicked gleam in his eye, "that he wanted an expensive broom he's not going to ride, but just look at?"
"Well," Hermione answered thoughtfully, "when we went to Hogsmeade back in October, we stopped in Quality Quidditch Supplies' new store. And Oliver saw a broom signed by a Beater for the Irish National Quidditch team or something like that.
"And . . . " Severus prompted.
"And Oliver said, 'I'd give my left nut for a pro's signed broom,'" Hermione finished.
Severus actually grinned at her, but before she could question why, Oliver collapsed onto the table with a groan. Everyone else reacted, but Hermione whipped her head to look at Severus. He just smirked at her across the table with Oliver grunting between them. It was suddenly obvious to her that Oliver was missing his left testicle. How had she not put this all together before? Severus had egged her on, and she'd managed to destroy one of Oliver's reproductive organs. That sneaky Slytherin must've known more information than he'd let on.
As Poppy looked over Oliver, he gave Hermione a look of pure terror. She wanted to help but remembered her last slip-up. Would he forgive her this time? How did she always manage to hurt him? Things were not turning out the way she wanted them to for this relationship. Sadly, though, things never turned out the way she planned. She should be used to it by now. Without waiting to be told off by Oliver, she quietly left the infirmary.
The next day was hectic as students left for the holidays. She was on duty to escort a few groups down to the Hogwarts Express, and the snow was steadily falling. By dinnertime, she realized Oliver still hadn't been dismissed from the hospital wing, but she forced herself to stay away to give him some space. He was bound to break off any relationship with her...platonic or otherwise. She went to the Great Hall to have dinner but found most of the staff members weren't present. She ate quickly and went to her chambers for the night.
Hermione was surprised to see Poppy's head through the Floo an hour later.
"I think you need to come up. Severus says it concerns Oliver's health," she said, and then she was gone.
Hermione threw on some robes and stepped through the fire. Severus was standing next to the bed with his back to her, and Oliver seemed calmer than he had when she'd left yesterday. Severus turned slowly; he was holding the Jet Stream. What was going on?
"Hermione," Oliver said tentatively, "I don't want your gift anymore. Please take it back. Thank you for the thought, but I could do without it." The last part he said was cold, and he emphasized the "it" as if referring to her or the relationship she offered.
Severus thrust it into her hands and looked her directly in the eyes. Oliver cried out in pain and passed out. She turned to look at Oliver, but out of the corner of her eye she saw Severus smirk. Poppy rushed over and told them to leave. Gladly!
As soon as they were in the corridor, she rounded on Severus. "What is going on? I know you're behind it. You're terrible at acting."
"I'm excellent at acting," he said as he continued walking.
She jogged to keep up with his long strides. "Don't dodge the point. You know what's going on, and you've kept it from me. You're possibly behind it too. I've never stopped considering you as a suspect."
"I've never done anything but be present while you've repeatedly maimed others."
"But you have information, don't you?" she said. Now they were ascending the spiral staircase to his office.
"You were expecting something to happen last night and again just now. What are you keeping from me? I'll admit I'm somehow responsible, but you know how to make it happen. I saw your face. You knew before it occurred."
He was back to his old self again...shutting her out. Severus sat at his desk and sneered,
"All I know is when you say certain phrases, they activate the curse. But that was obvious. I know nothing, trust me."
"You're hiding something. There has to be more . . . some sort of pattern, maybe. What do you see that I don't? I know it happens when I say things. But at times I expect something to happen and it doesn't. Then I think I'm in the clear . . . and testicles disappear."
"Then I suggest you leave a wide berth around me. You are dismissed." He didn't bother looking up. She left angry with him, angry with herself.
Was he really keeping information from her, or was she paranoid? She had thought they'd made it past their disagreements of the past. Severus was her friend now, and he wouldn't lie to her, she hoped. After all, what kind of friend held back information? Hermione needed some time alone. She had to put this all together. There was a well-worn path in her sitting room...probably from the man who vexed her the most. Despite its origins, she found that walking its length was comforting. Her mind got to work as her legs carried her up and down the room. Whenever certain phrases passed her lips, things happened. But Severus swore he had no involvement. Perhaps he was right. When had it all started? The first occurrence had to do when her fingers had stuck together in September. It couldn't have been too long before the incident that she'd been cursed...maybe the week or two before. But nothing eventful had taken place that she could remember.
Except, she thought suddenly, Severus had gotten angry with her for fraternizing with the house-elves. There was a motive for him: he could have cursed her for going behind his back. But he insisted he hadn't done anything to her. What if Winky had done it? The elf had been short-tempered when Hermione had asked for breakfast the next morning. Perhaps she hadn't liked the whole union project either. Hermione's best bet was to pull out her old research on house-elf magic. She'd gone through a lot of it while working for the Ministry, but nothing about this particular curse seemed familiar. However, she felt up to a challenge.
Severus watched Granger leave with only the slightest bit of guilt. Yes, she was catching on, but he'd been quite obvious with it because he wanted to see how quickly she'd put it all together. It was amusing to watch her.
"Severus Snape! I can't believe you," Minerva said behind him.
"I don't know to what you are referring," he said.
"She's scared and confused about what's going on. You can't just leave her in the dark."
"Excuse me, Minerva, but I believe this curse was set upon her to teach a lesson. I'm helping her learn. Is this not an institution where teaching and learning take place? I am a professor. It's only my nature."
"Tosh, Severus. You had best treat her with respect. She'd fall apart without you."
"What are you implying?" Severus was a little startled.
"I think Hermione is the type of person who needs intelligent conversation. She doesn't get much around here. But you fulfill that need for her. I used to fill it, but now that I'm not physically here, I can only do so much. She's matured, being around you. Besides, now that you two talk, I've noticed you are much more amiable. And the two of you converse so well together. Your discussions are much deeper than mine ever went with her. And secretly, I think you look forward to them just as much as she does."
He'd been afraid Minerva was going to say Granger had a sort of infatuation for him, something along the lines of a crush. Sometimes he wondered if she did, but then he reminded himself that no one had ever had feelings for him, nor ever would. Lily had been his best friend, but even she'd never expressed romantic feelings. And she had gotten closer to him than anyone else ever had. He'd had a fixation with her, and she'd never reciprocated. His love had driven her away in the end; it had been too much for her. But that hadn't stopped him to this day. Yes, he'd kissed many a woman, but he'd never ventured any further. He would die loving her in mind and body, a painful sort life. But recently the pain had subsided. It must be his excess workload. Thank Merlin for small blessings.
He'd never been good with relationships. It had come from his parents' improper examples. They may have been in love at one point, but it had been long before he'd been born. They had been the two most spiteful and selfish people he'd ever known, excepting the Dark Lord, of course. But his relationship with Granger was turning out to be beneficial in more than one way. She was his plaything. He felt as if he were like a snake with wounded prey, playing with it for entertainment and then free to dispose of it once he grew tired of the game. But he was also enjoying the conversations and verbal sparring. She made Sundays exciting. It wasn't another useless day; he looked forward to teatime with a vigor he had never held for other activities. Perhaps she was having a slight effect on him. He was finding himself more lenient with the students and even with the staff when they requested help. Actually, he was considering mixing up the meal for Christmas dinner, just to have a change, and Severus Snape was a man who hated change.
Maybe it was the upcoming holidays putting him in this mood. It might be a passing thing, and Granger might not even be responsible. Nonetheless, he was in the mood for changing the menu, but he wanted everyone to be comfortable with the menu items. What the hell...he was in a generous mood. He would let the staff all pick their favorite foods, and then the elves would make a few servings of each so there would be plenty to go around. Yes, a good idea. He could be a nice guy...he wasn't always watching others fall victim to his wants.
Over the next few weeks, the castle was quiet. Only seven students decided to remain for the hols, and they were small first-years...not into making too much mischief. The snow was a thick blanket throughout the grounds, and the lake was frozen solid across the top. The halls were chilly, and almost everyone stayed in their respective areas of the castle. Granger, on the other hand, preferred to work in his office. He sensed that she was trying to pry more information about the curse from him, but he wasn't going to slip up.
The first few days she'd been in his office had been fine, they'd worked in companionable silence, but as her workloads lessened, and the time drew nearer to their upcoming convention, conversation dominated their time together. It would have been fine, but Severus really needed to get as far ahead as possible so he wouldn't have a mountain of work when he got back from the convention. But truth be told, he didn't want to do his work. He'd much rather debate topics with Granger. She was a formidable sparring partner, and sometimes she made him even think about something that had never crossed his mind in all his years as a Potions master. And then, he must remember, was his real reason for keeping her talking: it produced entertainment to see her get stuck in a hyperbole or idiom and have to figure her way out of it. Just the other day she'd said something about biting off more than she could chew, suddenly her biscuit had been shoved into her mouth, and she'd drooled all over herself before the curse had worn off. Even Minerva hadn't been able to resist laughing at the absurdity of the situation. But lately she'd been careful to stay on topic, and her slip-ups were decreasing. So did he force her to talk candidly to get some entertainment, or did he make her shut up to get his work done? It was a hard balance.
Christmas Day was bright with sun reflecting off the crisp snow. He showered, then dressed in his usual black and entered his office at eight o'clock, exactly. Granger was already sitting across from his desk, working quietly. She glanced up at him, flashing a smile in greeting and offered him some buttered toast. The day slid by smoothly as they worked alongside one another. Occasionally they would strike up a conversation, but it was as if she knew he was behind on work, and she was forcing herself to keep quiet. Several times he saw her staring at him with a furrow on her brow. Her mouth would open and close repeatedly, like a fish's mouth, but then she would resume her work.
By the time dinner approached, she had given in to her desire. He pushed his quill and bottle of ink aside and leaned back in his chair. Her talking spree was on her reasons for using fermented hyssop syrup as opposed to fresh hyssop extract. Granger was just getting into the finer points of the issue, when Minerva gave a knowing cough. Severus glanced at the clock...they were late for dinner. It was one thing to walk into the Great Hall together, as it appeared like they'd met in the hallway and were headed in the same direction. But it was another thing completely to be noticeably late together, indicating the two of them had been in each other's company prior to the meal and that their time together was the cause for their tardiness. He wasn't embarrassed to be seen with her, but rather, it was his reluctance to allow others to know about his personal life to some extent. Or that they would know they could go through Granger to get to him...but this was the spy talking inside him. There was no danger anymore, but he had a hard time convincing his instincts.
They entered the Great Hall, and every head turned towards them. There was no food yet because Winky waited for his signal, when he would be ready for the feast to begin. Everyone was seated at one table in the center of the room, students and staff alike, and there were only two seats left: his Headmaster chair, which sat at the head of the table, and the chair directly to his right.
Granger sat, and all eyes were on him. He welcomed everyone and wished each person a happy holiday, then announced that the feast should begin. Instantly the food appeared. The most random assortment of food was spread out before them. In front of all the staff members were their chosen entrees. Everyone was passing platters around the table, and a casual buzz of conversation picked up. A plate of ribs sat in front of Granger. She had her napkin tucked into the top of her robes, and she was bowed over her plate, covered in barbeque sauce, with her mouth full of pork. Well, that did look appetizing. He passed the bowl of buttered peas to Filius on his left and then took a few ribs from the large platter.
"I assume you choose the ribs?" he asked between mouthfuls.
"Yes, we had these when I was at DuPont. It's a big thing in the Southern United States; they have huge competitions for the best barbequed ribs and such. Here, you must have the potato salad and coleslaw with it. They add to it."
She passed him the two sides, and he was surprised when they did indeed fit perfectly together despite all appearances to the contrary. More plates of food passed over him; he continued to eat the pork ribs. The tangy yet sweet and zesty sauce was addictive. He couldn't get enough. Towards the end of the feast, he saw Filius eyeing the last rib. Severus snatched it before the short man had a chance.
"By the looks of it, those ribs were quite tasty," Filius pouted.
"They were finger-lickin' good," Granger said as she dropped the last bone onto the pile. She leaned back, closed her eyes and sucked the sauce off her thumb. She moaned softly and continued to the next digit. Severus stopped eating to watch. Her moves were seductive and enticing. Her other hand came up to her mouth, and she slowly opened her eyes. As she put her other thumb into her mouth her eyes found his. Those beautiful brown eyes were half-lidded and warm as she sucked her fingers. She finished the pinky finger, then ripped off her napkin from her collar as if it were binding her down.
Suddenly, she leaned...or rather, lunged...across the corner of the table and grabbed his hand. While looking directly into his eyes, she brought his fingers up to her full lips. Slowly, ever so slowly, she drew his pointer finger in her mouth and swirled her tongue around the pad. Her cheeks slightly puckered as she sucked on his finger with delight. His blood was pounding in his ears. She moved to his next finger and plunged it much further into her mouth, moaning as it slid against her warm tongue. His eyes were uncontrollably drawn to her lips as she cleaned off each finger; a slight smudge of sauce dappled her lower lip.
A heat was creeping up his neck, and as she moved from finger to finger, it felt like fire. Each time she finished a finger, the cool of the air that replaced her warm, caressing mouth was a loss he hadn't expected. When she finished with the first hand, he willingly proffered the second. She smiled at him, a seductive smile. This time she was vicious with her sucking. Her moaning was growing in volume, and in the back of Severus' mind he remembered there were others present at the table...most likely watching her do this to him. In a way it was more erotic to know others were seeing her touch him in such an intimate manner.
She still sucked his fingers, but her hand wandered down to her breasts; lightly she squeezed and caressed them one at a time. Granger's eyes closed again as she reached his thumb. She took her sweet time rolling her tongue around and around his thumb and pulling it in and out ever so gently. Regretfully, she finished, softly laying his hand on her chest right above her breast. She smiled demurely at him. Then without any warning she jerked, her eyes widened, and her jaw dropped. She stammered incoherently a few times, then jumped up from the table and fled the room in obvious embarrassment. He ruefully watched her run...that cursed phrase had been the most pleasurable yet and he had Filius to thank for it. All eyes were on him, and Wood appeared jealous. He raised his eyebrow with a sardonic smirk, rose from the table and left with a billow of robes behind him. Once out of the room, he practically ran to his study. What had just happened?
He couldn't stop debating over one question: did she really have feelings for him, or did the curse make her behave so sexily? A part of him would like to think she harbored those types of feelings for him; after all, it was nice to be wanted. But his practical side reminded him of his love for Lily, and nothing...not even Granger...could replace Lily.
Granger must be mortified. Either she liked him and was embarrassed he'd found out, or she didn't like him and was afraid of what he would think of the whole situation, not to mention what everyone down in the Great Hall was thinking.
He would have to speak with everyone and explain she was the recipient of a curse, and it had been activated...a one time occurrence, he would lie. Then there was the problem of the convention coming up. In a huge castle, it was rare they would bump into each other, but if they were traveling and attending the convention together, things were bound to get awkward at some point.
Granger's Gryffindor courage came to the rescue, though. On Sunday, she knocked on his door at their usual teatime. Her face was crimson, and she didn't quite meet his eyes when he greeted her, but she sat and politely drank her tea.
"Christmas dinner was understandable," he said, placing his cup down softly.
She looked at him over her teacup with eyes the size of her saucer.
"I realize," he continued, "the curse was in charge of your actions. And I'm not offended by any means. I explained the whole situation to the staff and students the next morning at breakfast...which you didn't show up for. And they know they are not to bring it up with you, out of courtesy."
She put her cup down and let out a sigh of relief. "Thank you. I am sorry about it all. I knew what I was doing the whole time, but it was right, needed. I couldn't stop myself. I didn't want to stop. It was almost like the Imperius Curse, you know? And as soon as I was done, I realized I'd embarrassed you in front of the staff. I never meant to put you at risk of gossip."
She was more afraid of making him look bad than of making herself look bad? Wow, he'd underestimated Granger. He was sure she'd have been upset to be seen sucking his fingers seductively. Instead she was more concerned with his image.
"I see." He was at a loss for words. It certainly gave him something to think about later . . .
"There was a time once," she said, "when I would have loved to have embarrassed you in front of everyone. It wasn't too long ago either. And sometimes I still want you to suffer. I don't think you're behind my curse problem, and I want you to know that I trust you. We're friends, right?"
He really didn't know what to say to that.
"Anyway," she said, changing topic before it became uncomfortable, "we need to plan our departure for the Potions Convention. It starts on Thursday at noon. The first speaker is one of my old professors, so I'd like to be there early. Could we leave around eight? We could get a good seat, and I could talk with Professor Belby."
"Shouldn't we check into the bed and breakfast before the conference?" he asked.
"No, they don't accept check-ins until the afternoon. We can do it once we've finished at the convention for the day. Don't worry; I made those reservations ages ago. It's the cutest little place, right on the Aura River, called September Sky. It's only a few blocks from the convention, so we can walk easily."
"You do realize it will be freezing on the Gulf of Bothnia this time of year. No doubt the gulf is frozen over, as well as the river. We'll see even more snow than we do here," he explained.
"But it will be so charming. Finland is such an enchanting country. All the woods and lakes..."
"Those are further north, you silly girl. We won't see any of the countryside, just the inside walls of the conference hall."
"It's the idea that's so picturesque, and in a way romantic." She stifled a small giggle, and he wondered what she meant by "romantic."
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Latest 25 Reviews for Cursed Love
209 Reviews | 7.29/10 Average
This was a HILARIOUS and lovely story. I appreciate your obvious talent for writing. I can't wait to read more! Thank you!:)
Response from Elizabeth (Author of Cursed Love)
Thank you so much for your review. I had a lot of fun writing this story, and I'm glad you enjoyed it. I just got my first rejection letter yesterday for a story I submitted to a publisher. And although I had prepared myself for rejection, it still stung more than I'd expected. So your review made my day. Thank you, thank you, thank you. :)
I loved this story, I'm sad that it's over!
Response from Elizabeth (Author of Cursed Love)
I'm so pleased you liked it. And I'm saddened that it's over as well. But that's how stories go. Thanks for reading it though, I appreciate your dedication. :)
Too funny, so Severus is cursed as well? Serves him right.
Response from Elizabeth (Author of Cursed Love)
Yes, it does serve him right. Glad you liked it,
Response from Elizabeth (Author of Cursed Love)
!
Really? It's almost over? I was so absorbed I figured it would go on for a few more chapters. I usually get a bit peeved when Severus thinks on Lily over the woman who's right for him. BUT I do like the way he realizes he needs to forget her, but is having a hard time. That seems rather real to me. And with Winky's revelation, it makes a lot of sense.Don't get me wrong, I'm still peeved. :) His recognizing the flaw, however, is promising. Hopefully he can figure it all out.
Response from Elizabeth (Author of Cursed Love)
Yes, it's almost over. :( I realize that I could drag it out a bit. But I'm done, ya know? Time to move on, aka my "real novel" :PI'm glad you find his problem believable! I think I'm finally starting to get down characterization a bit more...Everyone is peeved with him at the moment. I have a line of no less than nineteen people ready to pound the poor man for the way I've described him. ;) Hopefully he gets better in this last chapter.
This chapter was just packed to the brim with good stuff. First of all, if I were anywhere near Hogwarts, I would march right up to his door and give him a swift kick in the ass. She is so good to him, and he just keeps being a jerk. I know it's partly just how he is, and he is having Lily issues, but seriously buddy, get over it. If he doesn't soon, he won't have to, because there won't be another woman around wanting her spot. He can't have any doubts about how she feels about him after she pleads for one more night with him, and then accosts him at his desk.The shower scene was fun. And I like the ways they've found to lounge on the couch and to sleep at night. It is just as it should be (minus an inappropriately placed finger) and I bet Winky is thinking that it is about time. You described in pretty definite detail how they maneuver around while attached to each other, so I have to wonder what nice person allowed you to use their nose while doing research for this story :)And the tomatoes appearing after her "can it" comment was just too funny. I like to think there will be a happy ending, but after this chapter, who knows how many wrong turns will be taken before they get there. Looking very forward to the conclusion!
Response from Elizabeth (Author of Cursed Love)
She is too good to him. He is a bit on the rough side. But he improves, I promise!I'm glad you liked this chapter. It was my favorite one to write—my pride and joy. Anyway, the next chapter will be the last and I hope I wrap up all the lose ends. It should be up in the next week (or so...)
I have never laughed and cryed while one story so much as have this one. Please finish.
Response from Elizabeth (Author of Cursed Love)
I'll take that as a good thing :)I have the last chapter done and I just need to send it off to my beta. I won't keep you much longer...I hope.
well, i love thist story...clever plot and funny too! but unlike hermione, poor sev would have had his head bashed in by now ~shrug~lol keep it up! i can'twait for more!
Response from Elizabeth (Author of Cursed Love)
You'll have to get in line to bash his head in. Most people have commented that they would love to do just that to him as well. :)I should have the last chapter up soon! Thanks for the comments!
Wow guess I should have waited till this was finished, I look forward to the last chapter...really love Severus and Hermione together. sigh.
Response from Elizabeth (Author of Cursed Love)
The last chapter is finished, I just need to send it to my beta and then post it. It should be up soon enough. I'm glad you kept reading, and in one sitting. Very impressive. I won't keep you waiting too long. I promise :)
Loved this Very nice scenes in the bedroom and love hearing Severus thoughts. Stubborn isn't he lol.
Response from Elizabeth (Author of Cursed Love)
Yes, he is a bit stubborn. Maybe a bit much. At least that's what some reviewers are saying. :P But I'm glad you liked it.
Great story - very creative plot device.
Response from Elizabeth (Author of Cursed Love)
Thank you. That means a lot to me. :)
Loved this chapter what fun LOL and sensual :)
Response from Elizabeth (Author of Cursed Love)
It was a lot of fun to write it too! Glad you enjoyed it.
Very enjoyable, I like the story very much
Response from Elizabeth (Author of Cursed Love)
Thanks, I enjoy your comments very much too. :)
oh my Gosh , how horrible, wll wriiten but horrible.
Response from Elizabeth (Author of Cursed Love)
I know. I had to do it. :(
Very good looking forward to more :)
Response from Elizabeth (Author of Cursed Love)
Why, thank you! More to follow soon...
Oh my LOL
Response from Elizabeth (Author of Cursed Love)
Yes, he has such a big nose, it was bound to grab attention to the curse sooner or later...
a few steps forward and a few back. A very frustrating chapter.... but that makes it good writing, good work Elizabeth.
Response from Elizabeth (Author of Cursed Love)
LOL. What would keep us reading if our beloved characters didn't take steps back every now and again?
Liking this direction more and more. Really enjoying having a good peice of fic to keep me copmany tonight.
Response from Elizabeth (Author of Cursed Love)
I'm glad you like the story, and you are reading it all in one sitting. Wow! This story is novel length-ish!
Really like that someone is thinking about the reasons for the odd ooccurances. severus should really question Winky....the little bratt LOL
Response from Elizabeth (Author of Cursed Love)
Yes, Winky did overstep her boundries a little, didn't she. But it makes for fun trouble!
Excellent, I love how they teamed up for the curses. I do hope Severus will come around and tell Hermione how much he wants her. Men can be so stubborn at times. THe part where he had to can food was a hoot and I had an image in my mind of him canning all those vegtables and I laughed even harder.
Response from Elizabeth (Author of Cursed Love)
I wanted them to have fun together. So I'm glad you liked it. And the canning part wasn't even originally in my plan. But I'd written in the "Can it" part and realized what I'd made her say. So I just had to have the canning in there. I figured he's done potions enough, he would know how to can food. I'm so happy that you liked it. Thanks for the review!
Gah, only one more chapter left? This has been such a fun chapter!This has been quite the chapter! Such angst between Severus and Hermione and now it's gone and gotten worse! I would say you could make things so much more angsty for Severus, but then it would have to be longer than just the next chapter to probably do it. Can't wait to see what comes next!
Response from Elizabeth (Author of Cursed Love)
I'm glad you liked this chapter. It was my baby. I had so much fun writing it.Yes, I realized that I could have added so much more to Severus, but I just didn't write it in. But I hope you like the ending just the same.The next chapter is almost complete, it should be up very soon.
He's really disturbed, or obsessed. I think I would have probably given up on him. But it certainly makes for a good story.
Response from Elizabeth (Author of Cursed Love)
Ha ha! I'm glad the story is creepy in a good way.
This is so good. I've had the best time reading it.
Response from Elizabeth (Author of Cursed Love)
Thank you! I'm so glad you like it. Only one more chapter though...but it's my baby, and I have to set it free someday.
Your Snape strikes me as extremely malicious. His fun has been nasty; Hermione has been humiliated several times and he knows but has dismissed the possibility of real physical harm. You may have Hermione forgive him, but he will have to do a LOT of learning before I will!
Response from Elizabeth (Author of Cursed Love)
I didn't know that I'd made him so strong with his emotions. I'm sorry that he's coming off that way. It wasn't what I intended. But thank you for reviewing.
One of these days Severus is going to learn his lesson about tricking Hermione into activating the Curse. Even Winky told him not to mess with Miss's learning her lessons.I can't wait to see what happens next!Beth
Response from Elizabeth (Author of Cursed Love)
His lesson will be learned, at least I hope so. These characters have a mind of their own, you know. But he should take some advice, especially if everyone is telling him the same information. There is fun up ahead!