Skipping Forward

Disclaimer: All characters are for J.K.R. of course. Plot thought of by Betz. The other stuff belongs to me!

As always, a big thanks to the brilliant Charmed Nay for being my beta!

Some woman had spent a portion of the night in his arms! It just wasn't fair. Hermione pouted slightly as she threw herself into the desk of one of her pupils. They would be filing into class shortly after breakfast, so she had a bit of time to ponder on the morning's events before facing them.

Severus Snape had actually had a date the previous night. Not just a dinner date either. Who would have thought that to be possible? The man never seemed to truly associate with anyone. Was it some long-distance relationship? Something serious with a local woman? But, no! It couldn't be. He'd only remembered that he had 'other plans' at the last minute. If it were something serious, he would have never been on the verge of accepting her offer to meet with him in his rooms the night before. The harlot marked him! How exactly did she do that? Hermione shook her head sadly. If she couldn't fathom how to mark her man, how could she compete with a woman that could? Libertine! He would explain things.

"Professor Granger, we have to have a little talk," a silky voice said, interrupting her thoughts. Her cheeks reddened as she realized he'd caught her acting like a brooding student.

"Please come in, Professor. I was just mentally going over... my first class' quiz," she said, hopefully sounding truthful.

"I think that we need to discuss what just happened at the breakfast table," Severus said, crossing his arms, standing in front of her.

She noticed how angry he seemed. "Sir, if you are disappointed that I removed your... passion mark, I can assure you that it was only out of worry for your reputation with the students. As you so kindly showed concern for my reputation yesterday afternoon, I sought to return the favor," she said briskly. "I suppose it must have meant something for you to have not spelled it off yourself. I fear I have overstepped my bounds, and I do apologize for that."

Severus raised an eyebrow. She sounded very convincing, but he could see the signs. She had been jealous. When he'd come into the room just moments before, she had been brooding over what had happened. He didn't buy into her class quiz rubbish for one second. "I do not appreciate the acrid little comments that your two friends felt the need to make. I realize that you cannot control their tongues, but I do believe that you can control your outbursts."

"I said that I was sorry, Professor. What more can I say?" she asked, raising her hands in question. "Perhaps I did react a bit strongly."

"I would say so," he said with a nod. "You dared to act as if you were... resentful that someone had marked me. I have consented to accompany you on an overnight trip to a conference once school lets out. Do you honestly think that it means anything more to me than just a trip between two colleagues?"

Hermione bit her lip and looked away. The bastard. Why not tell him? The worst he could do is cancel their plans? And if he didn't cancel them, well, Libertine would teach her how to attract him. Because if he didn't cancel their arrangement, that meant that on some level he was possibly interested. Where was her courage to just say it? She could do it. She would do it. Now.

"Anything more to you? I seriously doubt it. I admit that I had hoped we could build some sort of kinship with our pending trip. I used to find staff meetings interesting when you would dare sink so low as to pay attention to what I had to say. Then, you just stopped talking to me all together. This morning made me realize why. Maybe I just didn't like the idea that you ignore me now because you are in a hurry to meet someone else."

There! She'd said it. Let him make of it what he would. Hermione held her breath for a moment and looked away. The biting remark would come. Any moment. She finally released her breath and looked up at him timidly.

Severus cocked his head to the side, and his eyes seemed to be penetrating into hers. "I have no one that I meet often enough to be considered a steady distraction. As far as staff meetings, you might thank your chivalrous sidekicks for my fast getaways. I do not care to sit about whilst they tell tall tales. I have detentions to oversee tonight, but if you would like to come down tomorrow after the evening meal, I will be glad to show you the information that I have concerning the area and possible lodgings for our trip. Good day."

She was too stunned to agree or disagree. He left in haste as the first of her students began shuffling through the doors. Hermione noticed how they looked at their feared Potions master's retreat to her place at a student's desk. They probably thought that he'd been admonishing her for something.

She smiled softly. "Come on in, everyone."

As the class began taking her quiz, she thought about what he'd said. There was no steady witch in his life. This woman that he'd been intimate with the night before had to be only a casual acquaintance. She could compete with that... with Libertine's help. She had admitted that she enjoyed his company and hoped they could have some sort of closeness with their pending trip. He hadn't cancelled their trip. Instead, he'd offered for her to go down to his chambers the following evening to look over parchments. He was interested as well, though he didn't admit it. Hermione had found out something else from their brief conversation. All this time she had been thinking that she had done something wrong to turn him away after they'd shared the beginnings of a friendship. She'd never realized that his aloofness coincided with Harry and Ron's appearance.

Hermione knew in her gut that she had to make an impression on the austere Potions master, and it had to be on their time away from the castle. She decided to put together a list of questions for her hired man. Their meeting was only a few days away, but now she could barely wait to meet with him. There was so much that she wanted to learn. So much he could answer for her.

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Severus' smug expression never left his face as he journeyed down to his classroom. If he didn't have to face a class of idiotic first years, he might have even hummed a slight tune. Instead, he slammed into his class and began lecturing for an hour before pausing, sitting at his desk with his face propped up by his hands as if bored. His class likely thought that he felt ill. They would never know that he was in the best mood that he'd been in for what seemed like years.

The best thing that he could have done was to follow her to her classroom and surprise her just as he had done. After her little outburst at the table, it had occurred to him that it was an opening moment to either go forward with his plans or be forced to put them on hold. Never would he end them. He would have her... somehow. Severus smirked to himself, realizing that he'd still given her no open declaration that he was attracted to her. He'd merely accepted her admission. If she voiced something different at a later date, he could always pretend to have misunderstood, but there would be no need. The seduction of Hermione Granger was about to begin. Starting the next evening.

There was only one problem. Libertine. Damn! Now that she, the real Hermione Granger, appeared to be interested in him, it would seem that he no longer needed his side job. Severus pondered on what to do. He would no longer take any new clients, nor would he see those that he had been seeing, but he couldn't just turn her away. It was in his best interest to meet with her, to educate her, of course. What he learned in that one meeting could help him along the ways of winning her body... and her heart. Heart? Did he want her heart? Yes. Hell yes! All of her. Realizing that his class was staring at him expectantly, he barked, "Copy your assignment from the board and leave."

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"I'll be down in my chambers, Professor. If you would still like to come look over the brochures and parchments, I shall be waiting," Severus said cordially. It had taken a lot for him to tell her that. Both insolent dolts, Potter and Weasley, were eyeing them with interest, and each even had the audacity to smirk at him knowingly. What the hell had she told them exactly?

"Oh, I'll come now. I've had more than enough," Hermione said with a slight smile, taking a quick sip of her drink. Severus bit back a reply. She hadn't actually eaten anything. He'd been watching her push her food around on her plate for the past half hour.

"Very well," he said, standing up. He pulled back her chair for her and ushered her out of the side entrance to the hall. On the way, he casually asked, "Do your friends know of our plans?"

"I've not told them, but they may have overheard us talking about it at the table." She stopped. "Is it supposed to be a secret?"

He had already moved ahead a few paces when he noticed that she'd stopped. Severus gave her a moment to meet him before replying.

"Not at all, Miss Granger. I simply noticed that they seemed to be taking an interest in our conversation. I only wondered how you had dealt with their questions or explained why you would be accompanying such a git on an overnight trip," he said smoothly, steering her towards his chambers.

"I don't think you are a git," she said honestly. "My business is my own."

"They think that I am a git. Does their opinion not matter to you?" he questioned, raising an eyebrow.

She shook her head. "Harry, Ron, and I are three different people. We each have our own opinions, contrary to popular belief. If I choose to accompany a most brilliant man to a conference, well, that is my business and only my opinion should count."

Severus could have pulled her to him for a tight embrace. A most brilliant man. That was exactly the way he felt about himself at most times, but to hear those words fall from those lush little lips overjoyed him. "We'll use this entrance," he said suddenly, pulling her back to him. He whispered a password and tapped the stones on the wall in a particular succession. An opening formed, and he led her in. It was a dark, narrow passageway that he'd found by accident one day whilst searching for an invisible tapestry. He simply added his own wards and password to make it his own shortcut. It saved him an entire flight of stairs and a long stretch of corridor when he used it. He was used to the steep incline and had learnt a practiced pace, but Hermione kept running into him as her feet would move faster at times.

"Ooh, sorry, Professor," she said each time her body collided with his.

He would merely grunt that it was fine, but he secretly enjoyed the feel of her body upon his, no matter that it was only for a few seconds at a time.

"Place your hands on my back and let my body guide you," he instructed silkily. Hermione placed her trembling hands on his back and allowed herself a brief fantasy of touching his bare skin. Did the man not know that being so near to him made her... well, what? Tingly inside, yes, but something else. Warm? Right. Giddy. Beneath her hands, she could feel his raw strength and solid back. Since Voldemort had been defeated, he had put on a little weight, and he'd never looked better. Her fingers itched to caress his back and feel each inch of the expanse before her. "Just a moment," he said in nearly a whisper. She could hear the tapping of his wand, and then light began creeping into the passageway.

Hermione looked around. They were in his bedchamber. The man was tidy. Not a thing seemed to be out of place. His bed was nicely made. His large bed. It was nearly twice the size of her own. She was surprised that there was only one slender bookshelf with books near his bed. She would have thought him to own many books. She allowed him to take her hand to pull her to the next room. On the way, she saw a glimpse of the bathroom. From what she could see, he had a tub the equivalent of a small pool such as in the prefects' bathrooms. She saw that there was even a plant in the corner. How quaint! She'd never thought him to be a man that would tend to plants (aside for potions reasons).

"This is my personal study. It's connected to my office through that door there. In that other door there, I have a private laboratory, and just in this one, I have a small kitchen." He pulled out a chair for her at a small table. "I'll be just a moment." He went off into the kitchen, and Hermione took in the impressive room. One entire wall was lined with shelves and filled with books. She grinned broadly. That was more like it. She could see some parchments and open books on his desk. Did the man ever rest?

Severus came back into the room carrying one plate and two forks. "I noticed that you barely had anything for dinner, so I thought you might enjoy a bit of trifle. I made this after my last class today. I wanted to try a mixture of brandy that I recently acquired. I hope you like strawberry jam and whipped cream?"

"I do," she said with a smile, taking a fork from him. There was just something intimate about sharing a dessert with someone, and good Lord! If the man could make something as delicious as this, what other hidden talents did he have? "This is really superb, Professor."

"Thank you. I'm afraid that lately I have a soft spot for desserts," he admitted. "And, please, call me Severus."

"All right then. Call me Hermione, if you don't mind." They slowly savored each bite while mostly staring into each other's eyes. Hermione wondered what he was thinking. Could he really find her attractive? What of the woman that had been with him the night before? Was she beautiful? Older? More mature? More sophisticated? What did she have to compete with?

"Well, now, Hermione, I'll put this away and fetch what we need," he said softly.

She nearly melted with the way her given name sounded falling from his lips.

"Here is the parchment on the building itself and the grounds. It's right outside of Cardiff. There is a small Wizarding section near the beachfront. It's where we can stay." Severus placed a brochure in front of her.

She smiled down at the moving pictures.

"I'm partial to this establishment."

"It's very nice. Pity we only have the one day. I've never been there before."

"I do have the need to replenish my stock of Shrake spines. If I contact the local fisheries, they could gather some. It may take an additional day. Would you be opposed?" Severus nearly bit his own lip, as she seemed to mull this over.

Finally, she smiled. "Not in the least. I've no other plans. I'll trust you to make all of the arrangements since you know the area. Are... are we to dine out maybe? Should I pack something nice to wear?"

You don't have to wear anything. "I hadn't thought about it, but I don't see why not. Perhaps you should bring Muggle clothing as well. Just in case."

She nodded idly as her eyes were drawn back to the changing picture on the brochure before her. Hermione was greeted first by the sight of a spacious sitting room with a cozy fire. Next, there was an alluring table set for two, topped with what appeared to be chilled wine. Then, she saw a large bathroom where the shower was made to resemble a small waterfall. Lastly, the spacious bedchamber presented itself. The open doors to the moonlit balcony appeared to allow a breeze through. The curtains were swaying loftily and the candles were flickering. All of the scenes were really romantic. Was he seriously choosing a place such as this to stay at? How did a man like Severus Snape know of such a place? Had his woman friend accompanied him there already? "It's really beautiful."

"Yes, you are," he said, watching her intently.

"Sorry?" Had she heard that correctly? Her eyes met his.

"You are quite right. It makes a lovely view." After a long moment, he tore his eyes away. Merlin, she was perfection. She would be his. He could see that she had fallen in love with his choice of accommodations. The possibilities were limitless.

"What is that noise?" Hermione asked, looking around. She could hear a faint clawing sound and flapping. "Have you a familiar?"

"I do not," he replied, walking towards the door that led to his office. The moment he opened the door a large creamy owl fluttered in. In a panic, he scrambled after the owl to retrieve the parchment. Sure enough, it was addressed to Mr. R. Libertine. It wouldn't do for her to see this. "Off with you," he said to the creature. He stuffed the parchment into his pocket and turned to Hermione. "It seems I have some other matters to attend to. Allow me to walk you back to your chambers." Most of his owls did come late in the evenings. Perhaps it wasn't convenient to have her there at the present time.

Disappointed, Hermione stood and followed him through his office and out into his classroom. They quietly made their way down the dungeons' corridor and up towards her quarters. Awkwardly, they stood at her portrait for a moment. "Well, thanks," she offered. Should she ask to visit him again? No. That would be too forward. "I had a nice time, Severus. I will see you tomorrow."

He gave her a small smile. She had annunciated his name perfectly. He took her hand and brought it to his lips. "Good evening."

Hermione stood there, grinning like an idiot, until he was long out of sight. She resisted the impulse to do a cartwheel. Bursting with excitement, she Flooed Ginny straightaway.

"Hi, Hermione," her friend greeted.

"Ginny! Can you come through?" she asked, not wanting Draco, if he happened to be there, or the Weasleys, to overhear anything.

"Sure. Stand back." A moment later, her friend came through.

Hermione hugged her gleefully.

"What's going on?"

She could see Ginny's curiosity. "I'm just happy."

"Spill. There must be more. You look like... you've had sex! Well, who is the lucky guy? Harry? Ron?" Ginny asked.

"No, this is better than sex! He shared dessert with me, planned a getaway with me, walked me to my quarters, and kissed my hand! It was pleasant!" Hermione merrily danced around a confused Ginny.

"Er? Who? And, not to be rude, but that is better than sex?"

Hermione snorted and pulled her friend to sit with her on the davenport. "If I tell you, do I have your word not to say anything?"

"Yes. Always."

"Professor Snape." Hermione grinned. Ginny gave her a look that asked her to explain further. "He and I are going to attend a conference together after this term is finished. We were only going to stay over one night, but now it appears we'll be staying for two. And the resort is simply romantic!"

"You... have a... thing for Professor Snape?" Ginny asked uneasily. "I didn't know that."

"Neither did I," Hermione said quickly. "Well, I thought that I might, but lately, yes. Yes, I do. Is that so wrong?"

Ginny shook her head and smiled. "Not at all. I'm just surprised is all."

Hermione quickly told her about the past couple of days.

"Well, it sounds as though he just had a bit of a one night stand then. I wouldn't worry that he's actually dating someone else. I think you have a chance of starting something here. What next?"

Hermione grinned impishly. "Don't get the wrong idea, but I've hired that Libertine bloke whom Luna was talking about."

"You are going to shag a gigolo?" Ginny asked incredulously. "I know I mentioned it, but I never thought you would actually do it."

"Of course, I'm not. He's going to give me some pointers on how to satisfy an experienced man. I would like to be able to do things that his... other witch is able to do. Like leave a mark if I so choose," she said humbly. "I've already begun preparing a list of questions to ask him, and I've been studying in a book. I just need a bit of guidance."

"Hermione, reading about sex and participating in sex are two different things. This gigolo is going to want to show you. As much as you said you would like to wait for the right man, I am not sure if this is a wise decision. I would hate to see you talked into something that you aren't ready for," Ginny said, concern etched in her face.

"I want to be with Severus. He makes me feel... something. I can't explain it." Hermione smiled. "When have I ever been talked into anything that I haven't truly wanted to do? I can handle myself."

"Well, what is it that you want to know? I can help you out," Ginny offered.

"It's not the same. I want to know what a man likes from a man's mouth. I want to know what he expects from a woman. Then, if things progress between Severus and me on this trip, well, I will be prepared," she said, nodding at her decision.

"I can understand that then, but just so you know, each man's desires are different. Not to gossip, but think on Harry for a moment."

Hermione scrunched up her face.

"Don't look like that! Harry is really gentle and sort of lets you lead the way while Draco... well, Draco takes charge and doesn't mind getting a bit rough. Two different men. Two completely different styles of lovemaking."

"Well, this fellow says that he can give me advice. Hang on. Read his note for yourself," Hermione said, getting up to search for her letter. Finding it, she handed it to her friend.

Having read the letter, Ginny smiled. "This guy really is chivalrous, isn't he? Be careful. You might find him far more appealing than our dear Potions master."

"Ho ho," Hermione said indolently. "That won't happen. So, Ginny... about what he and I discussed tonight, and from what I have mentioned on the quarters we're to share, do you think he means for something more to happen?"

"Well, I would think so, but did he say if you'll be staying together?"

"Blast! I never asked. I only assumed. How ridiculous!" Hermione's face heated. She'd never thought of it any other way from the moment she'd looked through his papers.

"Maybe he is assuming as well. He is handling all the decisions about where to stay and how long to stay. Is he paying for everything?"

"Oh! I hadn't asked that either. Bloody hell! What's wrong with me?"

"Don't be embarrassed. I know that some men assume things. They figure if they are paying for your dinner, for your drinks, and for your room, then they should get something in return for their act of kindness. It could be that Professor Snape is assuming something here, and since you've not voiced reason for him to not believe it, then definitely. He's hoping that something will go on between the two of you," Ginny said confidently. "In this case, I don't think that I would be offended."

"No, I am not. It's what I would like." Hermione smirked. "Now, that idiot Charlie is a different story. Can you believe he had them calling me Her-my-icy-woman behind my back? Bastard!"

"I slipped and told my mum about it. She was furious. Sent him a Howler all about disrespecting women," Ginny said sheepishly. "Hope you don't mind. Seemed to make Ron and Harry feel better as well. They were all set to go out to Romania to have a talk with him."

Hermione giggled. "What would I do without those two?"

"You'd probably be in a lot less mischief. What's this I hear about you three jinxing all of Madam Hooch's first years' brooms to take off flying when the students tried to summon them?" Ginny asked, tapping her foot against the chair.

"I have no idea what you're talking about," Hermione said innocently. The girls talked for another hour before Ginny made to leave.

"When are you off to see him?"

"Day after tomorrow." Hermione sighed. "What should I wear? I figured I would look normal so he won't think that I am trying to impress him."

Ginny nodded. "Right. Save the dressing up for Snape. You go there with your normal attire, book, and parchment. He'll realize soon enough there will be no shagging, and no doubt he'll feel as if he's joined a study group."

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Severus read over the parchment once more. Client number one was ready for another go. He had to end things, but what to tell her? He hid the parchment in his desk, deciding to answer her the next day. He had other preparations to make. He was most pleased at how the evening had turned out. Things were working out well.

He scribbled a letter to the Evening Prophet to cancel his ad. Whilst things were progressing nicely with Hermione, there was no need to keep up meetings with other women. He wrote another letter requesting one private room for three nights and reserving good seats for the conference. He would wait to search out the locals for his Shrake spines once they were settled in.

It hadn't occurred to him that she might believe to be staying in her own room. She had seemed to accept that they would share the same space. Just in case, he decided to mention that it was the only one available. If she had anything to protest about, he could claim that he would transfigure a separate bed for himself. Either way, once he'd had a few hours alone with her, she would not think any more on separate rooms or beds. She would only be thinking of him and how he made her feel.