Where do we go from here?

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Disclaimer: All characters depicted belong to JK Rowling.

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Thanks to my beta WickedlyWanton for all her help and encouragement. If you're wondering where 'The Road to Hell (Part 2)' went, it will be along shortly.

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For a brief moment, Severus stood like a statue whilst the magic of his obligation took hold of him, then shivered as he felt it subside. Inhaling deeply, he drew himself up to his full height, turned his head and looked down his long nose at Hermione.

'Remove your hand from my person,' he said icily.

'Severus, I–'

'Now!'

Whatever it was Hermione was about to say, Severus did not wait to hear it. Seething with rage, he turned his back on her. With three long strides, he reached the top of the stairs and disappeared from view.

How dare she. How fucking dare she.

He moved so fast it took Hermione a few seconds to register that he had left her abruptly for the second time that day. She pelted down the stairs after him. By the time she reached the bottom, he was halfway down the corridor.

'Severus, wait.'

He took no notice.

Hermione sprinted after him. Severus made no effort to slow down when she caught up, so she had to jog by his side.

'Please wait. I haven't finished.'

'There's more?' Severus stopped and turned with such rapidity that Hermione bumped into him. He pushed her away roughly. Using the full advantage of his height, he loomed threateningly over her, fists clenched in anger at his sides.

Hermione could feel the rage coming off him in waves. She ignored it. 'Yes,' she panted. 'I didn't mean come back for ever, Severus. Just a year, perhaps two – two at most.'

'Oh, and I'm supposed to be grateful for that reprieve, am I?' he spat. 'Well, I suppose it's marginally better than a life sentence.'

'Would it really be that awful?'

Severus stepped into her personal space, making Hermione shrink back until she was up against the wall.

'Did it ever occur to you, Miss Granger,' he hissed in her face, 'that I do not actually like teaching, hmm? That being a teacher was the last thing I ever wanted to do with my life?'

'No, it-it didn't,' she stammered. 'I-I didn't think–'

'No, you didn't think, did you, Miss Fount-of-all-knowledge? It would be too much to expect you to actually use that brain of yours for a change instead of stuffing it full of facts. You didn't think because in your perfect little world, Hogwarts is still Fairyland, isn't it? Well, let me tell you, madam, to me it's bloody Purgatory! In fact,' Severus threw back his head and roared at the ceiling, startling the ghosts who had stopped to listen, 'I FUCKING HATE IT HERE.'

He set off at a breakneck speed once more with Hermione hot on his heels. Severus just wanted to put some distance between them, but she was buzzing around him again like a bothersome insect – a bothersome insect he would dearly like to swat. His fingers itched to go for his wand.

'Okay, okay, so it was wrong of me to interfere,' Hermione puffed, trying to keep up as Severus swept down the next flight of stairs. 'It was a really bad idea. I take it all back. Satisfied?'

'It is not that easy, Miss Granger,' Severus replied over his shoulder, increasing his pace. 'I am honour bound to repay my debt.'

'I was only trying to help. I'm sorry.'

Severus spun around. 'HELP?' he cried. 'I neither want nor need your help. I am not a house-elf! I am not some cause for you to champion! You cannot fix me, you stupid girl, IT IS BEYOND YOUR CAPABILITIES!'

That did it. He had insulted her intelligence once and she'd let it go. Hermione wasn't about to let him get away with it a second time.

'STUPID?' she shrieked. 'Who are you calling stupid, you arrogant, ungrateful pig? I'm not the one too blind to see what's best for him. I'm not the one throwing away a perfectly good job opportunity because he's too proud to accept help from a friend–'

Severus stopped in his tracks. 'I am not some-some charity case,' he spluttered. 'And furthermore, Miss Granger–'

'STOP CALLING ME MISS GRANGER! ' she screamed.

Taken aback, Severus could only stare. No one shouted at him – ever. Who the hell did she think she was? And yet... She did look rather endearing, standing there with her hands on her hips, out of breath, face flushed pink in fury and exertion. He wasn't sure whether he wanted to hex her or kiss her. Uncomfortable with that thought, Severus spun on his heel and strode off again.

'Don't walk away when I'm talking to you!'

Severus ignored her, leaving Hermione with no choice other than to run after him again.

'Minerva isn't offering you this chance out of pity,' Hermione said, gasping for breath. 'She wants you back because you're the best man for the job. Anyone with an ounce of common sense could see that. But nooo, you'd rather cut off your big nose to spite your face than admit it, wouldn't you!'

Severus clenched his jaw and remained silent. What pissed him off the most was that, deep down, he knew Hermione was right. Under the circumstances, this was the best job he was likely to get, and that within Hogwarts' protective wards, he wouldn't have to be constantly looking over his shoulder. Given a few more minutes on the Astronomy Tower and he would have undoubtedly arrived at the same conclusion of his own free will.

In spite of his anger, therefore, Severus' Slytherin mind was already trying to turn the situation to his advantage. While it was certainly true that he had been reluctant to return to the place where Albus had died, he was keenly aware that it was mostly his stubborn pride that had kept him from accepting Minerva's generous offer. By forcing his hand, Hermione was unwittingly allowing him to save face. He was not about to tell her that, though.

'And what about me?' Hermione panted. 'Do you care about how I feel, hm? Do you think I could stay here and study without a care in the world, knowing that you run the risk of being hexed by some rogue supporter of Voldemort every day? Do you think I could rest easy in the knowledge that any day I might get an owl telling me you've been found dead in a ditch somewhere? Well, do you?'

'Twenty years,' Severus remarked bitterly, stepping onto the moving spiral staircase. 'Twenty years and two masters. I thought I was finally free of all that, but no such luck. Now, it would appear I have a new Mistress.' He turned to Hermione and bowed mockingly. 'Well, Madam, is there anything else you require of your servant?'

Hermione leaned over, clutching her side. 'Oh, for heaven's sake, it's not like that. I just want you to be happy.'

'HAPPY? Are you mad, woman?'

'Come in, both of you,' Minerva called. 'The door's open.'

Severus turned the knob and pushed the door, looking back towards Hermione. 'If you think you can just–'

'Ah, there you are at last, my boy. It's about time you showed up. And Miss Granger, too. How lovely to see you, my dear.'

'Good afternoon, Professor Dumbledore,' said Hermione.

Severus stopped dead. Transfixed by Albus' portrait, his anger melted away.

'Come, Hermione,' said Minerva, ushering her towards the fireplace, 'let's leave them to it.' She threw some Floo powder into the grate. 'Join us in my sitting-room for tea once you've finished, Severus.'

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

Hermione received no sympathy from Minerva for her behaviour and, feeling like an eleven-year-old up in front of the headmistress, decided not to wait for Severus to join them. Giving the excuse that she had to feed Crookshanks, Hermione Flooed back to Grimmauld Place, startling Harry and Ginny in the process, who were having a snog on the settee at the time. She barely noticed them. Muttering to herself, she began to pace up and down on the rug.

The couple exchanged glances.

'Hi, Hermione,' said Harry. 'Anything the matter?'

Hermione stopped pacing, started to say something then thought better of it. Instead, she collapsed into a chair, put her head in her hands and groaned.

'Okay,' said Harry. 'What's he done to you, and do you want me to hex him for it?'

Hermione shook her head and wailed, 'He hasn't done anything to me. It's what I've done to him.'

Harry motioned to Ginny.

'I was just about to open a bottle of wine,' Ginny said. 'Would you like a glass?'

Hermione nodded.

'So,' said Harry, after Ginny had left the room, 'what's this all about?'

She told him.

Harry ran his hands through his hair. 'Good gods, Hermione, what on earth made you go and do a thing like that for?'

Hermione stared at the floor. 'I know, I know. There's nothing you can say that Professor McGonagall hasn't said already.'

'Read you the Riot Act, did she?' Harry asked. 'I can't say I'm surprised.'

Hermione sighed. 'It wasn't very clever of me, was it?'

'Stupid, Hermione, stupid. The word you're looking for is 'stupid'.'

Hermione didn't argue.

'It's not like you're dealing with me or Ron, you know,' Harry went on. 'This is Snape we're talking about. Remember him? Tall, scary bloke? Big nose? Likes black? You can't boss him around and expect him to thank you for it.'

'I realise that now.'

'Still,' Harry said, 'look on the bright side. He can't hex you for demanding repayment, although...' He grinned. 'He probably knows a few untraceable poisons...'

'Harry...'

Harry stopped smiling. 'Does he know I'm coming back, too?' he asked worriedly.

Hermione shook her head miserably. 'I didn't get that far.'

'Great,' said Harry, leaning his head on the back of the settee. 'Bloody great.'

* * *

Severus did not stay very long with Minerva either. After the day he'd had, he was in need of something a bit stronger than tea. Being a balmy summer's afternoon, he decided to walk to Hogsmeade – both to get some much needed air into his lungs after being cooped up in Grimmauld Place for so long, and, quite possibly, to drink himself into oblivion at the Three Broomsticks.

Seeing Albus in portrait form had been a painful experience for Severus. In fact, his mind was so occupied with the memory of the encounter that he could think of little else – Hermione included. Severus had expected words of forgiveness, even though it was the last thing he had wanted to hear and, ye gods, had Albus laid it on thick, but nothing could have prepared him for the reality of seeing his old mentor like that, or of being able to talk to him again. It made Severus realise just how much he'd missed the old sod.

Crossing the railway line, Severus was shocked out of his reverie by the scene of devastation that greeted him. The battle had taken its toll on Hogsmeade. Some familiar landmarks had disappeared entirely while others were being extensively repaired. It was evident that some of these structures were only being held up by magic, presumably awaiting more permanent renovations. Elsewhere, there were piles of rubble where houses had once stood. Severus reflexively pulled his hood up, not knowing what sort of welcome to expect.

Entering the pub, Severus went up to the bar, stood in the corner with his back to the wall and waited to be served. His eyes automatically scanned the room, looking for any signs of trouble.

A rather tipsy middle-aged wizard approached the bar and slammed his tankard down on it. 'Another pint of that Doxy's piss you call ale, Rosmerta.'

Rosmerta scowled at him. 'If you don't like my beer, Archie McTavish,' she said, flicking her wand towards the barrel, 'you can go and drink somewhere else.'

'And where else would I find such charming company?' Archie slurred, leering at her cleavage.

Rosmerta rolled her eyes at him. Then she noticed Severus.

'Prof– Mr. Snape!' she exclaimed.

A deathly hush descended as everyone turned to look at him.

Hesitantly, Severus pushed his hood back. 'A pint of heavy please, Rosmerta – and for Merlin's sake call me Severus. You've known me long enough.'

'Of course, of course.' Rosmerta beamed at him.

There was a loud crash as a glass hit the floor and Archie lunged across the bar towards Severus. 'Death Eater scum!' he cried, going for his wand.

Rosmerta disarmed him easily. 'OUT!' she yelled. 'And don't come back until you've learned some manners!' She looked around at the rest of her clientele. 'Well? Haven't you all got something better to do than sit around like goldfish! I'm sure Mr. Snape didn't come in here to be gawped at!'

'I'm sorry about that, Severus,' she said, putting his pint down in front of him. 'Archie's not normally violent. It's just... Well, he lost his home during the battle, you see.'

Severus held out a Galleon in payment. 'It is understandable,' he said.

Rosmerta closed his fingers around the coin with her hand. 'It's on the house. If half of what they've said about you in the Prophet is true, it's the least I can do.' She gave Severus a look that left him in no doubt there was more on offer than free beer.

Extricating his hand from her grasp, he inclined his head and thanked her. Rosmerta smiled coquettishly and sashayed off to serve another customer. Severus watched as she went about her work, effortlessly pulling pints and measuring spirits with a flick of the wrist, and sending the empty goblets, glasses and tankards to wash themselves in the sink with a casual swish. Gods, she was a handsome woman, and that figure-hugging robe she was wearing was showing off her assets to their best advantage – particularly when she bent over like that. Severus sighed. It wasn't that long ago when he'd have paid good money to sample the delights of that particular bosom, but now? He downed his pint.

It had been one hell of a day. In twenty-four hours he had been reunited with Hermione, had the most amazing sex, been given his freedom, turned down a medal, got his job back and been absolved of murder by a portrait. On top of that, one of the most sought after witches north of Glasgow was plying him with alcohol and offering him the comfort of her not inconsiderable charms. The thought struck him that, for the first time in his life, he had his choice of women. He smiled to himself. There was no competition, really. Still, there was no harm in looking. He was a man; he wasn't dead and Rosmerta's knockers were hard to ignore.

Rosmerta noticed Severus' appraisal of her. 'Same again?' she asked. 'Or... would you prefer a dram of firewhisky? I've got some 50-year-old Old Ogden's I've been keeping for a special occasion.'

'That would be most... acceptable,' Severus said silkily.

Rosmerta winked at him and bustled off to the cellar.

Severus glanced around the bar once more and noticed a copy of the Evening Prophet on a nearby table. Curiosity getting the better of him, he picked it up and, not knowing quite what to expect, began reading.

SNAPE ACQUITTED!

Sensational Revelations at Wizengamot

Full Report page 2

Severus Snape: Hero or Villain. An in depth profile by Rita Skeeter page 3

His eyes widened in amazement as words like 'brave,' 'courageous' and 'heroic' leapt off the page. Sensing he was being watched, Severus looked up quickly and caught several people averting their eyes. Embarrassed, he hastily folded the paper and placed it on the bar. A smaller article on the back page caught his attention.

In The News This Week: Harry Potter. Hero turned Benefactor.

Harry Potter is to set up a widows and orphans trust in memory of his late mother, Lily Evans-Potter. Accompanied by close friend, Hermione Granger, Mr. Potter announced to a small gathering of Ministry officials and other dignitaries that he wished to 'repair some of the damage done by the war.'

Hogsmeade, Scotland, will be the first to benefit from Mr. Potter's generosity by the establishment of a 'Primary School.' Mr Potter explained this Muggle concept. 'All children from all walks of life will be welcome,' he said, 'whether orphaned or not. The curriculum will offer basic reading, writing and Arithmancy skills, together with some Muggle studies. I want our children to be taught that people, Muggle or wizard, deserve equal respect and that there is no room for prejudice in a modern society.'

Can such an ambitious scheme succeed? Only time will tell.

When questioned by this reporter if there was any truth in the rumour that he and Miss Granger would make an announcement of a more personal nature in the near future, Mr Potter denied they were involved romantically. 'We are just good friends,' he said.

Again, only time will tell...

'Make a lovely couple, don't they,' Rosmerta said, putting the firewhisky on the bar.

'They are not a couple,' Severus replied emphatically.

She shrugged. 'If you say so.' She poured two drams of whisky. 'Slange!'

Severus raised his glass to Rosmerta and drank. It was like nectar.

'Do you like it?' she asked.

It was the best firewhisky he'd ever tasted and told her so.

'My father was something of a connoisseur,' she said. 'That's the last bottle of that year. Take the rest home and enjoy it.'

'I cannot possibly accept, Rosmerta,' he protested. 'It must be worth a small fortune.'

'Please,' she said, patting his hand. 'I'd like you to have it.' She smiled and moved away again.

Flustered by Rosmerta's generosity, Severus dropped his gaze to the newspaper once more. Hermione and Potter; the fairy-tale ending everyone wanted to see. He smirked. They were going to be disappointed. He took another sip of whisky and sighed. What was he going to do about Hermione.

He was no longer angry, just... sad. Albus had said not to be too hard on her, but Severus could not help but feel hurt and betrayed by Hermione's duplicity.

She is young, Severus.

That was certainly true, but was that really any excuse? How often would he have to make allowances for her youth?

Whatever her reasons and the favourable outcome of her demands, Hermione had manipulated him and Severus resented her for it. He was in no hurry to get back to her, and by now, he realised, she must be wondering where he was. Well, she could stew a bit longer as far as he was concerned.

Severus had to admit, though, that not many people would have stood up to him as fearlessly as she had, and Merlin, had she been mad at him. He lifted his glass to his lips and stopped.

And I turned my back on her.

He allowed the thought to sink in. He had turned his back on an angry witch and hadn't thought twice about it. Why had he done that?

Because she would never harm me. Because I would trust her with my life.

Severus put his drink down and quietly left the pub.

* * *

The only sound that broke the silence in the sitting room of the Blacks' ancestral home was the purring of a very contented half-Kneazle, luxuriating in the pleasure of being scratched behind the ears. Crookshanks was in seventh heaven. He had his mistress' undivided attention for what seemed like the first time in ages and he was enjoying every minute of it. She did seem a bit distracted, though, but he wasn't about to complain. He butted her hand to get it where he wanted it. Ooh, yes... Over a bit... yes... Just a bit more... Up a bit... Ooh, right... there.

Hermione sighed as she absentmindedly stroked the purring ball of fur on her lap. It was getting late and there was no sign of Severus. What was keeping him? She was beginning to think that he wasn't coming back when she heard the door opening with a soft click. Severus stood there, still dressed in his summer travelling cloak.

'Are you staying?' she asked nervously.

'If you can you put up with an ungrateful, arrogant pig,' he replied.

Pushing Crookshanks off her lap, Hermione leapt up and launched herself at him. 'I'm so sorry. I shouldn't have called you names like that.'

Severus put his arms around her and drew her in close; the smell and feel of her taking away the last vestiges of his anger. 'In the circumstances, I think you were probably justified.'

'No,' Hermione said, 'I was in the wrong and I'm ashamed of what I did. Please, please, forgive me.'

'And am I to expect such behaviour in future if I do not comply with your wishes?' he asked gruffly.

'No,' she replied vehemently. 'No, I've learned my lesson. I promise I won't ever pull a stunt like that again.'

'Very well,' Severus said, chuckling softly, 'I accept your apology. What's done is done. However, there is still something that needs to be addressed.' He took her hand and led her over to the settee. 'Sit with me a moment.'

Hermione sat down next to him, still holding his hand.

'What you did,' Severus began, 'could have adverse consequences – for you. You do realise that?'

She shook her head. 'I don't understand.'

Severus pinched the bridge of his nose and sighed. 'Hermione, if you order someone to do something against their will, even in payment of a life debt, it can be almost as bad as casting the Imperius Curse. Performing such magic can harm the caster. Did Minerva not tell you of this?'

Hermione was shocked. 'No-no, she didn't. I suppose she was too angry – for your sake.'

'I see.' He took both her hands in his. 'I doubt you need be too worried. What matters, as in all magic, is the intent. I do not believe that you acted maliciously, but you must tell me what you were thinking – at the exact moment – when you made your demand.'

Hermione tried to remember. 'I was thinking... I wanted you to be happy and to have time to heal–'

'That was certainly selfless of you,' he said dryly. 'Anything else?'

'Not really,' she replied, 'only that I wanted to keep you safe. I suppose that was partly selfish of me.'

'Perhaps.' He considered the possibility. 'However, I do not see anything harmful in that sentiment. I accept your motives were honourable and that you did not intend to entrap me.'

'No,' she said, shaking her head, 'I most definitely did not.'

'Good, then it would appear no harm has been done.' He squeezed her hands. 'You should also know I told Minerva that I was returning of my own free will, and that what you did was unnecessary.'

'There was no need–'

Severus hushed her with a kiss. 'I will return to Hogwarts for two years after which time I shall review my position. Does that meet with your approval?'

'Yes.' Hermione flung her arms around his neck and kissed him back. 'yes, it does...'

She rested her head on his shoulder a moment and then giggled as a thought occurred to her. 'You know, Severus, I think that this probably qualifies as our first row.'

Severus smirked and kissed her forehead. 'I am inclined to agree with you.'

'And...' Hermione nuzzled his neck. 'I've heard tell that make-up sex is really great...'

'That is a theory I would, uh, very much like to put to the test. What are you, um, proposing?'

'Oh, I have a few ideas.' She nibbled his earlobe. 'But I think it requires a more thorough and meticulous analysis elsewhere.' She stood up and tugged his hand. 'Come on. Let's go to bed.'

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

It was Hermione who awoke first the next morning and had the pleasure of studying her lover while he slept. Severus looked years younger in repose, she noticed, the lines on his face being less pronounced in this relaxed state. She observed his breathing for a few moments, fascinated by the flaring of his nostrils as he exhaled. Hermione did not have Severus' patience, however, and could not resist kissing him on the tip of his nose.

'Still here, I see,' Severus said, without opening his eyes.

Hermione swatted his arm. 'I need to go to the loo–'

'Don't let me stop you.'

'I didn't want you to wake up and find me gone.' Hermione leant forward and kissed his chest. 'And... it's very difficult to get out of this bed with you in it.'

'Woman, you're insatiable.'

Hermione laughed. 'Hello, pot, meet kettle.'

'Where do you get these expressions?'

Still smiling, Hermione caught a lock of her hair and swirled the end around one of his nipples.

Severus emitted a strange, strangled noise. Intrigued, she did it again.

'Stop it!' he said through gritted teeth.

I don't believe it! 'You're ticklish, aren't you?' Hermione grinned at her discovery.

'Yes,' he admitted, 'I am – and you are not to breathe a word of it outside this room on pain of death.'

Hermione swirled the hair around the other nipple. 'I won't tell a living soul, I promise. It'll be our secret.'

Severus growled and flipped her over onto her back. 'If you need to go to the lavatory, I suggest you do so now.'

Laughing, Hermione wriggled out from underneath him and reached for her dressing gown. Severus reclined on his elbow, eyes tracking her every movement, as she padded towards the dressing table and picked up her toiletry bag. He watched as she slipped her dainty feet into those ridiculous slippers – the ones that made her look like she had a dead rabbit attached to the end of each foot – and then slung a towel over her shoulder. He didn't think he would ever tire of looking at her, or of the intimacy of witnessing her little morning rituals. Two years in Hogwarts was a small price to pay for that privilege alone. Hermione blew him a kiss from the door and then she was gone.

Severus sighed and rolled onto his back. Putting his hands behind his head, he stared at the ceiling with smug satisfaction. Make-up sex definitely had a lot going for it, he decided, although it had certainly taken him by surprise, her taking the lead like that.

Severus smirked at the memory of Hermione slowly disrobing him and the hungry look on her face as she pushed him back on the bed. He touched his fingertips to his mouth and closed his eyes. Feathery kisses; butterfly lips on eyes, nose and cheeks; he traced the path she had tenderly followed, exploring his neck with admirable thoroughness, finding that oh-so- tender spot behind his ear, and then turning her attention to his collarbone. Nipping and sucking, hot breath on his extremely sensitive nipples; he touched them now, remembering how he had quivered when she had finally discovered them. Down his torso she had travelled, bathing each and every one of his scars with her kisses. He trailed his hand over his abdomen and lightly stroked his erection, recalling how he had almost forgotten to breathe when she had caressed it against her cheek. It was then that Severus had sensed some hesitation on her part and, not wanting her to feel under any sort of obligation, assured her that fellating him wasn't necessary. Hermione had merely smiled.

Any misgivings Severus may have had were soon forgotten when Hermione ran the tip of her tongue along the length of his cock and then took the head into her mouth. Severus closed his eyes and relived the experience all over again. In all honesty, it wasn't the best blowjob he had ever had – there had been far more sexually experienced women in Severus' life than Hermione; women whose technique had taken him to the brink of insanity, deep throating and sucking him off with mechanical efficiency. Hermione's performance couldn't compete with that, but then her lack of skill was not an issue. It was her, and he had dreamt about Hermione's mouth around his cock for a very long time.

Severus stroked himself more firmly now, imagining that hot, wet, sucking heaven. Arching into her and fisting the sheets, he had given her fair warning of his impending orgasm, wanting and not wanting to come in her mouth; afraid somehow that his seed would despoil her. But Hermione had kept going, relishing the taste of him and swallowing the salty liquid without complaint. Then, as he lay there recovering his breath, she had done an extraordinary thing. To his utter incredulity, Hermione squeezed out the last drops from the tip of his cock and licked them up.

She must have mistaken the look on his face for something else as she had asked him uncertainly, 'Was that okay?'

Unable to speak, Severus had pulled Hermione into a crushing embrace and held her until he was sure he could exhale normally. This total acceptance of him, of all of him, was almost his undoing. Feeling the unfamiliar pressure of tears behind his eyes, Severus had been afraid to look at her. He held her fast, preventing Hermione from turning her head towards him. She hadn't fought it. Instead, Hermione had kissed the skin that was closest to her and said that she loved him. Severus had not replied.

Remembering the moment, Severus chastised himself as he reached for his wand to clean himself up. Fool. Why didn't you say something? Would it have been so hard to say, 'I love you, too?' He sighed. Relationships. He had avoided them for so long he had no real idea how to behave.

Please God, don't let me cock this one up.

He scratched his balls and yawned. Where was she anyway? She was taking an inordinate amount of time in the bathroom.

By now, Severus also had a pressing need to empty his bladder. Not feeling particularly inclined to get up, however, he hunted around under the bed for a chamber pot. Having no luck there, he scanned the room, spotted a rather ghastly porcelain shepherdess on the mantelpiece and Summoned it.

Suitably po-faced, he thought, catching the simpering figure. This'll wipe the smile off it.

Severus Transfigured the unfortunate shepherdess into a suitable receptacle, relieved himself and banished the contents. Job done, he restored the ornament to its former state and sent it flying back to the mantelpiece. He lay back on the bed in eager anticipation of Hermione's return. Suddenly remembering Hermione's views on oral hygiene and morning stubble, Severus reached for his wand again just in time to clean his teeth and perform a shaving spell before the door opened. A large breakfast tray floated into the room with Hermione behind it.

'What's this?' he asked.

'Breakfast,' Hermione replied. 'What does it look like?'

'I don't normally eat breakfast,' he grumbled. The thought of eating first thing in the morning made his stomach churn. 'Just coffee will do, thank you.'

Hermione set the tray down on the bed.

'I'm not going to miss breakfast two days in a row,' she said determinedly, 'and you need to keep your strength up.'

Severus grunted.

'There's nothing heavy or fried,' she said. 'Look, it's just some poached eggs, toast and marmalade.'

Hermione dipped some toast into the egg and fed it to him. Between the tray and his mouth, some egg yolk dropped on his chest.

'Oops,' she said. 'Let me clean that up for you.'

Severus sighed as he chewed the toast and Hermione licked up the egg. Breakfast in bed, he decided, was something he could quite easily get used to.

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

The summer passed in a blur of activity. Hermione, unable or unwilling to deal with her parents' estate during the war, had run out of excuses. Even so, the prospect of selling her family home was not pleasant, for she was only too aware that once the house was gone, her last solid link to her childhood, indeed to the Muggle world itself, would go with it.

Severus understood what she was going through and was both sympathetic and supportive. 'There is no need to rush into selling either property, Hermione,' he said. 'Take your time and start with the small things. Don't make any decisions until you feel ready.'

Hermione heeded his advice. Severus made sure the wards were secure on the house, but other than that he left Hermione to her own devices, thinking that it was a necessary part of her grieving process and something she had to work through herself. Instead, he concentrated on putting his own house in order and making preparations for the new school year.

Such practicalities aside, there was still plenty of time to do all the usual things new lovers do; they went for long walks, ate out and stayed in bed for whole days at a time. They talked about the past; their childhoods, their likes and dislikes and found they had a lot in common. Uncertainly at first, Severus began to tell Hermione things about his youth that he had never confided in anyone else. She listened attentively, held him when he relived some ancient pain, and never once passed judgment. Naturally, these discussions also included their plans for the future and it was during one such conversation that Hermione casually mentioned she was considering curse breaking as a career.

'Haven't you had enough excitement for one lifetime?' Severus asked, taken aback at the idea. 'I thought you would have preferred something a little more... academic.'

'Well, yes,' Hermione replied, 'but the thing is, what? I'm interested in a lot of subjects and I'd find it hard to specialise in just one. Curse breaking combines a lot of the disciplines I like – Charms, Arithmancy, Runes – Potions even, as well as history and archaeology.'

'Most curse breaking jobs are not all that glamorous,' Severus said. 'You do realise that, don't you? The competition is stiff to get into the field, Hermione. Most Curse Breakers end up working for Gringotts doing repetitive, routine work.'

'I know,' Hermione conceded. 'Bill Weasley told me that. I do realise I'd have to start at the bottom and work up.'

'It can also be very dangerous,' Severus continued. 'Experienced wizards get killed every year. Very few witches consider it as a career–'

'Exactly,' said Hermione.

'And,' Severus ignored her interruption, 'it is not what you could call steady employment. You have to go where the work takes you, and a lot of it is on short term contracts.'

Hermione didn't like to point out that periods of unemployment were the least of her worries. She sighed. 'I know there are dangers involved, Severus. It's just... I wouldn't like to think that all the exciting times of my life are behind me before I've even turned twenty. But, you never know,' she added, smiling, 'I might change my mind. Again.'

Severus privately hoped so. Of all the careers she could have picked, Hermione was considering one that could be potentially life threatening. It was unlikely that Hermione would be content with a mundane job at Gringotts for very long, he knew that, and if anyone was likely to succeed, it would be her. But then that would mean a lot of time spent out of the country; time spent away from him and Severus did not think much of that idea. Some of the bravest, not to mention best looking, wizards he had ever met were Curse Breakers; men who might well become Hermione's colleagues. A little seed of concern lodged itself in his brain. With Draco Malfoy's trial only days away, however, he did not allow himself to dwell upon it. There was still plenty of time for her to reconsider and choose a more suitable profession.

Severus had expected Draco's trial to be a circus, and he wasn't disappointed. The great, the good and the curious packed the courtroom to hear Harry Potter and the other Order members bear witness. Severus sat close to Hermione, ignoring the stares and whispers aimed at him. Minerva, Harry and the Weasleys sat around them as a show of support.

A hush descended as the Aurors lead Draco into the courtroom. Hermione instinctively reached for Severus' hand and squeezed. When she tried to remove it from his grasp, he gripped more tightly and wouldn't let go.

'Too young,' Severus whispered, so quietly Hermione almost missed it.

She had to agree. Draco's customary swagger and arrogance was absent. He had lost weight and looked pale to the point of transparency. She glanced at Harry, but he was too busy watching the magical chains bind Draco to the interrogation chair.

I'm so glad it's not Severus who has to sit in that chair, Hermione thought guiltily.

Draco surveyed the room nervously. Catching Severus' eye, he relaxed a little at the sight of a friendly face. Severus acknowledged him with a brief nod.

Very soon, it became clear to all concerned that the Minister of Magic wanted to make an example of Draco and that the Wizengamot was going to be more than happy to convict him. It was as much as Severus could do to keep his face impassive while they read out the charges. By the time they got to 'Conspiracy to commit genocide,' Severus thought Draco was looking at a life sentence.

The Interrogators put forward their case; Draco had taken the Dark Mark voluntarily and had been keen to do Voldemort's bidding. He had wilfully put Hogwarts at risk by giving Death Eaters access to the school, and could not deny his attempts on the life of Albus Dumbledore or his part in the former headmaster's eventual murder. A term in Azkaban seemed a foregone conclusion.

The Chief Warlock gazed down at Draco. 'Do you have anyone to represent you, Mr Malfoy?'

'I–'

'Yes, he does.'

Heads turned in the direction of a determined looking Minerva McGonagall.

'You?' Scrimgeour asked incredulously.

'Yes,' said Minerva, 'me. Do you have any objections, Minister?'

There was a murmur around the Judges' Balcony.

'No,' said the Chief Warlock. 'You may proceed, Professor.'

'Thank you, sir,' Minerva replied. She turned to Harry. 'My first witness is Harry Potter.'

There was a collective gasp as Harry stood.

'Mr Potter,' Minerva began, 'please describe for us the events that took place on the Astronomy Tower at Hogwarts, the night Albus Dumbledore... died.'

'Certainly, Professor.'

There was silence in the courtroom as Harry gave his account of that tragic night.

Severus stared straight ahead, but kept a tight grip on Hermione's hand.

'So,' said Scrimgeour triumphantly, 'you saw Snape kill Dumbledore!'

'Minister,' the Chief Warlock interrupted, 'that has already been established. What is important is the reluctance of Mr Malfoy to carry out the task.' He turned to Harry. 'Please continue, Mr Potter.'

Harry described how he gave chase as Severus and Draco fled Hogwarts, emphasising how Severus had prevented the Death Eaters from harming him.

'Thank you, Mr Potter,' said Minerva. 'That will be all. My next witness is Severus Snape.'

A ripple of excited chattering echoed around the room as Severus stood up.

Minerva coughed before she began her examination. 'Professor Snape, please tell us what happened after you left Hogwarts that night with Mr Malfoy.'

Severus recounted their year in exile, stressing that Draco had not been involved in any of the atrocities committed by Voldemort's followers. You could have heard a pin drop as Severus testified how Draco had searched for and delivered the Hufflepuff cup to Harry and the part he had played in drawing the Death Eaters away from Hogsmeade.

'To go back to that night on the Astronomy Tower when you killed–'

'Minister!' the Chief Warlock exclaimed. 'May I remind you that Professor Snape is not on trial here. I must ask you to confine your questioning to the case before us. Do you have any further questions for this witness, Professor McGonagall?'

Minerva inclined her head towards the bench. 'No, sir. I would now like to present the testimony of some of the survivors present at the battle.'

As the others related how Draco had defied Voldemort in the end and had refused to kill Hermione, the Minister of Magic sank lower and lower into his seat, knowing his chances of making a public example out of the last Death Eater were shrinking by the minute.

'There are no further witnesses,' said Minerva. She sat down and folded her hands in her lap.

'Very well, thank you, Professor.' The Chief Warlock looked down on Draco. 'Is there anything else you wish to add in your own defence, Mr Malfoy, before we consider our verdict?'

'No, sir,' said Draco, 'only that I am deeply sorry for the death of Professor Dumbledore. I was stupid and naïve. I regret not having the courage to stand up to my father and doing what was right. I will regret it for the rest of my life.'

* * *

It took an hour for the Wizengamot to consider the evidence. As the court reconvened, Severus reached for Hermione's hand again. She gave him a small smile.

'Fingers crossed.'

They turned their attention to the Judges' Bench. The Chief Warlock shuffled the parchment in front of him and prepared to read out the verdict. He cleared his throat.

'Draco Malfoy,' he began, 'the Wizengamot finds you guilty of the attempted murder of Albus Dumbledore.'

There was uproar.

'Silence!'

Once he had re-established order, the Chief Warlock continued. 'Given the nature of your participation in the defeat of Voldemort and other extenuating circumstances, however, we do not consider a custodial sentence appropriate. It is the judgment of this court, therefore, that you be banished from Wizarding Britain for a period of five years. All other charges are hereby dismissed.'

With an evil grin on his face, Scrimgeour reached for Draco's wand and snapped it in two. Severus watched in horror, knowing that it could so easily have been his own.

'Oh, that was just... just spiteful,' said Hermione. 'There was no need for that. They could easily have kept it.'

'Indeed,' Severus agreed. What will happen to him now?

'You are free to leave this court.'

'Go to him, Severus,' Hermione whispered. 'We'll help him. Tell him he can stay at my place, if necessary.'

Severus was touched by Hermione's concern. Draco had never lived among Muggles; he would be defenceless without his wand and wouldn't have a clue how to survive. Severus took both her hands in his.

'You have a good heart, Hermione,' was all he managed to say.

It was a kind offer, but an unnecessary one as Draco's French relatives offered him a home for the duration of his exile. Minerva arranged his safe passage out of the country, knowing there were people eager to carry out their own form of justice on the last of the Death Eaters. With a stiff promise to stay in touch, Severus and Draco said their farewells.

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

All too soon, the summer days grew cooler and the start of the Autumn Term was upon them. On the last day of the holidays, Hermione inspected the bright, spacious rooms overlooking the grounds that Minerva had allocated her in Gryffindor Tower. She sighed, admiring the view. That was the one thing she didn't like about Severus' quarters; no windows. It was such a pity that she would be spending very little time here, she thought. Minerva had graciously given her a Floo connection to Severus' chambers so, as comfy as the bed looked, Hermione doubted she would ever sleep in it. She glanced at the clock. There was just enough time for a quick shower before the Welcoming Feast. She picked up a handful of Floo powder and tossed it into the grate.