Severus

Professor Severus Snape sits in his favorite wingback chair by the hearth absently shifting his now lukewarm cup of tea in his hands. It would appear from the doorway that Severus is looking at something inside the empty fireplace, but in actuality he is hardly registering his surroundings at all. He is deep in thought, having chosen to skip breakfast this morning in favor of the quiet solitude of his lair. My lair...

A smug grin flutters across his face. Yes, this has been his lair for many years, but that is all to change today. In a few hours time, he will be a bound man and his will become theirs. No more will this be his lair. These rooms will be their home, at least during the school term. He can hardly believe it is true. At 42 years of age, he is still quite young by wizarding standards, but he long ago gave up any dreams he once had of love, marriage or a family of his own.

~ * ~

He'd had a girlfriend once while he was a student, but it had never amounted to more than a few hot and heavy snogging sessions. The relationship didn't last long either. As soon as the girl discovered Severus' lack of pureblood breeding, she quickly fled his company.

Shortly after graduation, he joined the ranks of the Dark Lord's minions. Although to be honest, when given the choice between complete submission to the most powerful dark wizard of the age or excruciating torture followed by death, he really hadn't felt he had a choice at all. As a Death Eater, he received many female invitations. While it was true that he accepted a few such invitations, the women rarely stuck around for repeat performances.

Such women didn't want him. They wanted what they thought Severus could offer them -- power and wealth. It was common knowledge within the dark circles that Severus was quickly rising within the Dark Lord's ranks and that the Dark Lord paid his servants well, usually in looted bounty. Those women didn't care at all that his assigned tasks cost him his morality.

Even after receiving a measure of atonement though Dumbledore's trust and accepting the older wizard's job offers, both with the school and the Order of the Phoenix, Severus never allowed himself to hope for a real relationship. What kind of life could he expect to offer a woman? He was always at the beck and call of one of his two masters, the Dark Lord or Dumbledore. Besides, what respectable woman would want to bind herself to a known Death Eater turned spy? So, ultimately, he resigned himself to his self perceived bad looks and worse fortunes.

~ * ~

Yet here I am on the brink of marriage, Severus thinks, pulling himself momentarily out of his reverie. Without even daring to hope, Severus has found love, in the person of a beautiful young witch with enough passion and intelligence to rival his own. Hermione is his rare jewel, and yet he has no idea how this all came to be. It is this confusion that keeps him wandering through his memories this morning.

~ * ~

Hermione Granger was an unbearable student, an insufferable know-it-all! Her looks didn't help her much, either, with her bushy brown hair and protruding front teeth. To make matters even worse, she was a detestable Gryffindor, although at the time he was hard pressed to understand why. Gryffindor's have always been known for their bravery and courage, but tagging along after Ronald Weasley and the young Potter prat seemed neither brave nor courageous to Severus.

Over the years, though, Severus had to admit, even if only to himself, that Miss Granger did have a few very good qualities. Her intelligence was more than enough to rival that of any Ravenclaw. She also displayed the resourcefulness and cleverness of a Slytherin on more than one occasion. The unauthorized entry and subsequent theft from his personal storeroom to brew a restricted Polyjuice Potion during her second year being one of the more notable examples.

Had the girl been sorted into Slytherin House, Miss Granger probably would have been the professor's pride and joy, although Severus never would have told her so, given the apparent enormity of her ego already. However, as a proud member of Gryffindor's troublesome trio, she was nothing short of a pain in his arse.

By Miss Granger's sixth year, even Severus could not deny that the once plain, if not downright awkward, looking girl was growing into somewhat of a beauty. Add to that the fact that she could best even his star pupil, Draco Malfoy, when she actually concentrated on the task before her, and the resulting combination was enough in increase Severus' dislike of the girl on mere principle. No Gryffindor should be allowed such good looks and outstanding intelligence!

Her lack of concentration in class that year was a source of great personal irritation though. She dared to thwart his position and his subject by lazily staring at the tables in front of her instead of tending to her lessons properly. Given her age and the glazed look in her eye, he was certain that Miss Granger was nursing a crush, no doubt on the red-headed Potter sidekick.

Well, he put a stop to that by loudly announcing in class that Miss Granger would be spending the rest of the term at the front table partnered with Mr. Longbottom. "Oh, and ten points from Gryffindor for Miss Granger's obvious lack of attention." He then turned to look at the young witch squarely with a smug sneer. "If you had spent half as much class time today minding your lesson as you did ogling over Mr. Weasley, perhaps you would have noticed that your notes fell on the floor over five minutes ago!" To his delight, the young Gryffindor blushed a deep Gryffindor-red and for once seemed completely speechless.

As far as the professor was concerned, putting Miss Granger with Mr. Longbottom was worse than any detention he could dream up. Besides with the source of her distraction seated far behind her, perhaps she would be able to keep that dimwitted Longbottom from destroying his classroom. Honestly, is the boy good in any subject?"

The punishment was also quite justifiable. Severus was sure that the dimwit's miraculous O.W.L. mark in Potions, and probably several of his other subjects as well, had been a direct result of an enormous amount of study help on Miss Granger's part.

~ * ~

Severus shifts slightly in his chair. The memories of his disdain for the schoolgirl version of his soon-to-be bride made him feel very uncomfortable. They do, however, serve to remind him of how it had come to pass that he had not once thought of Hermione for over a year after Dumbledore's death and Severus' subsequent flight from Hogwarts.

Severus lifts his teacup to his lips only to discover the herbal tea within it is now cold. Tapping his wand to the side of the cup, he murmurs the incantation for a warming spell. Then he absently adds some more cinnamon to mask the flavor the spell always leaves behind before allowing himself to remember the first time he saw Hermione outside of Hogwarts.

~ * ~

He was among the Death Eaters the Dark Lord sent to attack the home of the Auror Nymphadora Tonks. As the members of the Order of the Phoenix began arriving, Severus was astounded to see Gryffindor's Golden trio, consisting of the Red-Headed Dunderhead, little Miss Know-It-All and the Boy-Who-Lived-Only-To-Irritate, had joined their ranks. McGonagall must be off her cracker letting mere children join in this kind of confrontation! But upon closer inspection, he realized that they were no longer mere children.

One good look at Miss Granger proved that fact beyond a shadow of a doubt. The young woman was voluptuous and curvy in all the right places. She also quickly proved to be a competent and fierce combatant, having hit Severus with a stunner shortly following her arrival, although admittedly, he was distracted at the time by her shapely new physique.

Sleep did not come easily for Severus that night. He could hardly believe the thoughts the young witch aroused in him. He had known of her intelligence and talent, but was coming completely unglued after being confronted with her breathtaking beauty and her impassioned combat skills. Miss Granger was a force to be reckoned with.

When his mind suddenly questioned what other activities might unleash the young witch's passion, Severus' tented trousers left no question as to just how enticing Miss Granger had become. Her caramel eyes flashed with unabashed rage, her hair blew wildly with every move she made, and her hips swayed as she confidently hexed her way through enemy ranks. Severus was in for a very uncomfortable night! He dryly mused that this would probably not be the last night of painfully restrained arousal he would be forced to suffer on account of this particular young witch. The thought did nothing to ease Severus' restlessness.

Severus was not surprised when his Dark Mark flared to life a few days after the second battle involving the Golden Trio. Three Death Eaters had been killed by poorly aimed or dodged killing curses. Another Death Eater had been badly hurt from a series of hexes that Miss Granger herself had delivered and at least three more had been captured and handed over to the Ministry. It had been by far the most costly altercation of the war so far.

The former double agent was surprised, however, when the Dark Lord specifically identified Miss Granger, whom he called Potter's Mudblood, as a direct target, along with Potter of course. Miss Granger might be Muggle-born, but she has prevailed over every so-called pureblood Death Eater that she has encountered. Severus seethed with rage, accompanied by the unfamiliar feeling of fear. His mind refused to entertain questions as to why, but Severus was suddenly quite determined that somehow he needed to protect Hermione!

Carefully maneuvering himself close to Hermione at the next battle, Severus kept a close eye on her. Then, just as he sent Bill Weasley's wand flying from his hand, Severus saw the one thing he had feared most. Lucius Malfoy, recently escaped from Azkaban, was heading straight toward Hermione, his wand level with her back. As soon as he heard Lucius start the curse, Severus cast his own hex, tripping Hermione. The green streak of light narrowly missed her as she fell.

Severus quickly marched forward and took up a protective stance just steps away from the fallen witch. In the failing light of dusk, Severus saw Hermione searching the ground for her wand. Hermione was unarmed and Lucius was still coming at her. Severus had no choice. Lucius was too entrenched in the pureblood dogma. Severus turned his wand on his long time ally and watched Lucius drop dead onto the ground.

Looking back down at Hermione, he almost chuckled at the pure disbelief etched across the young witch's beautiful face. By then, however, Hermione had recovered her wand. If he didn't do something fast, he was going to be on the receiving end of another one of the vixen's hexes. He knew it would give him away immediately but hoped the sheer shock of hearing his voice would delay her reaction. In his best Professor Snape sneer, Severus told her to keep her pretty little head down if she wanted to save it.

He no sooner finished speaking when a movement caught his attention out of the corner of his eye. Bellatrix was heading to his aid. Quickly, Severus pointed his wand down at Hermione while scoffing at Bellatrix to find her own fight; this one was his. He then placed Hermione under a full body bind before she hexed him into oblivion. He knew Hermione would despise him even more for hexing her, but it kept her out of harm's way, while still creating the illusion that he had at least gravely injured his target.

Once Hermione was safely out of harm's way, Severus quickly looked around to ensure no one was close enough to have witnessed their exchange. He saw no one close, but he did notice that Bellatrix had in fact moved on to another target, namely Potter. A momentary internal struggle ensued. Severus hated the egotistical prat, the spawn of his childhood nemesis, the adored Golden boy of Gryffindor recklessness. Yet, according to the prophecy, only Potter could defeat the Dark Lord, thus freeing Severus from his servitude. Severus drew up his wand and with a flash of green, Bellatrix fell to the ground. It was with this new hope in mind that Severus continued to covertly aid the Order of the Phoenix under the cover of battle.

Finally, the Death Eaters began to flee the scene. Only then did Severus silently lift his curse from Hermione before Disapparating. Unfortunately, leaving his memories of the young witch on the battlefield proved much harder than actually leaving the witch herself had been.

For the next two years, Hermione was rarely far from Severus' thoughts. He never actually allowed himself to examine the reasons or emotions behind such thoughts. He didn't even realize that he always thought of her as Hermione now rather than Miss Granger, yet images of her filled his dreams and aroused his passions. Severus continued to watch over Hermione at each encounter, but refrained from hexing her again, unless the fighting intensified enough that he could not properly guard her.

Then, late one evening, an owl appeared at his window. He never received owls anymore, except for the one that delivered his Daily Prophet. None of his acquaintances sent them due to fear of interception. The Dark Lord had no need for them. He had his mark for communication. Confused, he retrieved the parchment, but the contents of the letter only furthered his confusion. The Order of the Phoenix was offering him reinstatement. Why? How could this be?

He immediately penned a reply and sent the bird back to Minerva. His note read simply:

MM,

I request explanation. Please meet me at the werewolf's refuge at 9 o'clock tomorrow evening. If this time is unsuitable, please owl as soon as possible. I will notify you if plans must change.

SS

The following evening Severus arrived at the Shrieking Shack to prepare a room for Minerva's arrival. As requested, the Headmistress arrived promptly at nine and found him seated in one of the two chairs he had transfigured from the broken furniture that laid scattered around the dusty room.

"I don't usually leave the castle at this late hour if I can help it, so I will need to keep this brief, Severus," she stated, seating herself in the chair opposite him. He thanked her for coming and then went straight to the question at hand. "Minerva, I do not want to appear ungrateful, but how is this possible?"

Minerva smiled. "This has been a long time in coming, Severus. One of our members has been chronicling your helpful behavior for two years now. However, to be fair, I feel I must tell you that this was not the first time that the topic has been put to a vote, nor was it unanimous. I am sure that there are some who will not be convinced even if you do agree to come back into the Order." Severus felt a slight sting from her words, but knew she spoke the truth. It had been that way from the very beginning; at least Minerva had the courage to tell him plainly.

"I'm sure I've got some pretty good guesses as to whom you speak," he scoffed, more to himself than to the woman sitting across from him. Nevertheless, Minerva raised her eyebrows in a skeptical look. "You might be surprised. It may interest you to know that the vote passed by a margin of two. The youngest Mr. Weasley and Mr. Potter cast the deciding votes."

The blood seemed to drain from Severus' face as this revelation sank in. He did not want to be indebted to those egotistical little gits, but it also meant something else. He no longer needed to ask who would have pushed such an issue into fruition. Ronald Weasley and Harry Potter's contempt for him was equaled only by his contempt for them. There was only one person who could have persuaded the young men to vote in his favor -- Hermione Granger.

Severus cleared his throat. "Based on the information you have provided, I feel I can confidently accept the Order's offer. Knowing that my favor within the Order has remained unchanged only reassures me that the offer is not meant as some sort of trap." Minerva practically choked in indignation. Her voice was stern and reproachful when she spoke again. "Surely, Severus, you know that the Order does not utilize such crude methods of operation."

Severus smirked. "The organization may not Headmistress, but I can assure you, there are those among your ranks who could and would, if given the opportunity. But now, I will detain you no longer. I thank you for your time and your honesty, Minerva."

Minerva softened considerably as he expressed his gratitude, but hesitated to leave. "You are welcome, but before I officially accept your answer, I must clarify. You do understand that you will once again be expected to report to us regarding Lord Voldemort's activities and plans?"

Severus noticed with consternation that Minerva winced at the Dark Lord's name, but just nodded. He understood their expectations.

Later that night, Severus sat in front of a dying fire. Under the numbing effects of copious amounts of firewhisky, he allowed himself to examine his motives for participating in such an agreement again. He now had to inform the Dark Lord of his upcoming reinstatement, and he would have to be each organization's liaison to the other once again. Although Severus deeply regretted having to kill Dumbledore to uphold his vows to Narcissa and Dumbledore, it had at least made his life a little less stressful. It had left him with only one master instead of two. Now, he was right back in the same position as before.

But this time is different, Severus told himself. Knowing that Dumbledore had faith in him had meant a lot to Severus, but discovering that Hermione had faith in him as well ... well, that was beyond anything he had ever dared to hope for. Hermione personified everything Severus admired: intelligence, talent, and power, and yet she maintained her humility and compassion as well. It didn't hurt that she was a woman either. A woman that happened to be very pleasing to the eye. Yes, this was one debt he was most definitely willing to repay.

When the day for his reinstatement ceremony arrived, Severus steeled himself for the inevitable. He hated to be the center of attention and knowing that many of those in attendance sincerely did not want him there only made it worse, but he did attend the ceremony. He stood in front of the assembly and swore his allegiance to the Order and its members. Even those that hate me. He then, begrudgingly, accepted their gestures of welcome. He even politely ignored the rudeness of those who ignored him.

All the while, Severus searched the crowd looking for Hermione. He needed her to know how much he appreciated her efforts. Gratitude was difficult for Severus to communicate. "Please" and "thank you" were not often heard in his childhood nor were they necessary in a Death Eater's way of life, but Hermione had earned his respect and his gratitude. She deserved to hear it, but where was she? Severus was about to give up on all hope of finding her when he heard her unmistakable giggle. It sounded exactly as it had when she was a student at Hogwarts.

Hermione was leaning against the wall on the opposite side of the room. She looked more beautiful than ever in bronze colored robes that accentuated her caramel-colored eyes, eyes that appeared to be dancing in the bright lights of the room. Eyes that drew him in and swallowed him into their depths. Eyes full of emotion, although what emotion he was unable to discern at the moment.

Startled, Severus suddenly realized that he had unconsciously crossed the room and was standing directly in front of Hermione. He had to speak. "I understand this is a result of your doing." No, that sounded all wrong, his mind instantly cried out. The words sounded cold and ungrateful.

Hermione just nodded and then stared down at the floor. Certain that he had hurt her with his unchecked words, Severus rapidly tried to think of a way to rectify the situation. However, before he could formulate a complete thought, his body once again reacted of its own volition. His arms reached out and took her soft hands into his own. A bolt of pure energy sizzled through him. He watched as Hermione jerked her gaze back to his face, and he could not restrain the resulting smile. Just maybe, she had felt something too.

"Thank you, Hermione," he somehow managed to whisper as another shock of energy raced through him. The urge to lean down and kiss her was almost overwhelming. Yet, reigning in his sensibilities, he simply released her hands and purposefully strode straight for the door. He needed to get away. He needed to think clearly.

By the time he reached the sanctuary of his home, Severus felt like he was floating on air. Hermione was no longer the young girl who had been his student at Hogwarts. She was now a beautiful, talented, mature witch. Although she had looked surprised, and he couldn't really blame her, Hermione had not recoiled from his touch or showed any signs of disgust or revulsion. Quite the contrary, she had even smile back at him, and if he was not mistaken, she had watched him intently as he left.

In the months following his reinstatement, Severus felt happier than he could ever remember feeling before in his entire life. While it was true that he didn't see Hermione much, his fortunes finally appeared to be improving immensely. The Dark Lord had been pleased to hear that he had been welcomed back into the Order, as he no doubt thought it to be a huge advantage to his own war efforts.

Minister Scrimgeour cleared Severus of his murder charge, thanks almost entirely to the testimony of Hermione and Minerva, in a closed session trial. The Daily Prophet even printed an article about it. Of course, the article was small and carefully crafted so as to allow Potter to maintain his dignity and public image, but even that didn't bother him as much as usual. At least Hermione would be pleased that he hadn't tarnished her best friend's reputation.

However, that had apparently been the calm before the storm, because one week after Severus' trial, the Dark Lord summoned his minions for an attack that would prove emotionally devastating to Severus. Voldemort announced his plan immediately. "Hogwarts has just brought in a new professor for next year's term, who also just happens to be an extraordinarily powerful Mudblood, a close friend to our young Mr. Potter, and an esteemed member of their Order of the Phoenix: one Miss Granger." The Dark Lord continued that he had just received word that Miss Granger was planning to be at the home of her Muggle parents, unguarded, this very evening. His orders were to kill them all.

Severus was horror-struck. Protecting Hermione during a battle without being detected was hard enough; he had no idea how he could protect her and her defenseless parents from an all out attack. Fortunately, the Dark Lord unknowingly gave him a faint chance. The Dark Lord ordered Snape to lead the mission. He was to go ahead of the group, as a scout, to ensure that Hermione was in fact there alone. Voldemort felt that Hermione might not question Severus' presence, if discovered, thinking that perhaps he was there as an Order-appointed guard. The rest of the attack party would then follow after approximately 15 minutes time. It didn't leave Severus much time, but he had to try. He loved her.

As this sudden realization began to saturate his brain, Severus was spurred into action. Yes, I do love her, and I am going to protect her or die trying. Severus Apparated to Hogwarts' gates and sent his Patronus to Minerva. He then sent another toward Hogsmeade for the Weasley twins and Remus before Disapparating for the Granger's home.

Never before had he felt such relief at the sight of a Weasley as he did when the twin redheads appeared almost immediately after Severus, but by then he had limited time. There was no time to relax. He burst into the house shouting a quick explanation and a demand. Hermione needed to get her parents out of the house. Now!

Severus reported back to an irate Dark Lord after the ensuing scuffle. Severus had been in charge of the mission and, therefore, held the responsibility for its failure. Of course that was entirely true; he was responsible for Hermione and her parents' current health and would gratefully confess as much to anyone, except the man standing before him at the moment. Therefore, he lied and the Dark Lord made sure he paid for it, in pain. Yet somehow, he managed to keep his mental defenses intact as Voldemort searched for any sign of betrayal. Finding nothing, the Dark Lord eventually released him.

Only once he was safely outside of the Dark Lord's presence did Severus' panic truly set in. As the lead man of the mission, he had had to lead the Death Eater's retreat as well. A series of horrible possibilities began to fill his mind. What if one of the Death Eater's got in a parting shot after Severus Disapparated? What if the Dark Lord had another party waiting at Hogwarts as back up?

Severus Apparated to Hogwarts' gates for the second time that evening, sprinted across the grounds and through the main entrance. He immediately headed toward the hospital wing, hoping against hope that Hermione would not be there, but also that someone there would know her current whereabouts. Quickly pounding his way along the most direct route, Severus only made it approximately half way when Remus Lupin's voice drew his attention. "Snape? Is that you? What are you doing here?"

Severus snapped around to face Remus who stepped out of a side corridor. "Lupin, has Hermione arrived here?" He knew he sounded exceptionally ill-tempered, but he felt increasingly desperate. He needed to see Hermione, to see for himself that she was unharmed. Remus looked at him suspiciously, but ultimately answered, "She passed me about 15 minutes ago with Harry and Ron, on the seventh floor near that big troll tapestry." Severus immediately turned and started off in the new direction with an abrupt, "Thanks," hissed over his shoulder.

Severus reached the seventh floor in short order. Clearing his mind of all other thoughts, Severus concentrated on Hermione. I need to see Hermione Granger, I need to see Hermione Granger. He continued the mental chant until the door appeared. Then he thrust open the door a bit more forcibly that he intended causing it to bang against the stone wall.

Seeing Hermione's wet cheeks and her body trembling with sobs, renewed panic washed over Severus. Nothing else in the room registered his mind as he called out to her. He urgently needed to hear Hermione's reassurance that she and her family were in fact unharmed.

He wasn't sure how he had expected Hermione to react to him storming into the room, but it certainly hadn't included the relief he saw in her face or her flinging herself into his arms. Another sizzle of heat shot through him as Hermione's arms encased his waist causing him to instinctively stiffen. Then his mind latched onto her words. Did she just call me Severus? She was worried about me? He allowed himself to relax then, wrapping his arms around the trembling witch, while enjoying the feeling of her warm body pressed against his own. That was until Severus looked over her shoulder.

Standing in front of the couch Hermione had just vacated were Severus' two least favorite former students, wands in hand, although they were obviously shocked by the sight of his and Hermione's embrace. Their mouths hung open in a most undignified manner for several minutes. Unfortunately, both Weasley and Potter recovered their voices as Hermione released her grip on him to return her attention toward her two friends. Their joint objections didn't surprise him in the least, but her request that her friends leave them alone, together, threatened to empty his lungs of air. It further amazed him when the two boys gave in to Hermione's request at the slightest display of irritation on her part.

It was only after the prats were gone that Severus realized Hermione was still holding tightly to his hand. Contemplating the possible implication of this most pleasant discovery, Severus almost missed the fact that Hermione was gesturing for him to sit down. When she sat next to him, her closeness, her lavender aroma and her soft hand in his, all started to overwhelm him. Then Hermione looked at up him with a most tender expression and thanked him. His chest ached with confirmed emotion. He loved this witch in a way he had never allowed himself to love before. Unbidden tears began to well up in his eyes and slowly creep down over his cheeks.

Hermione looked so vulnerable with a stray hair falling in front of her beautiful face, which at the moment was filled with gratitude and concern. He couldn't resist the opportunity that hair presented to touch her again. He reached out to push it aside and tuck it behind her ear. When Hermione's eyes fluttered closed and she tilted her head ever so slightly into his hand, it was all the encouragement Severus needed. He caressed her cheek. "Just seeing you alive and well is thanks enough, Hermione. I could never have forgiven myself..." He wanted to make her understand how he felt about her, but silent sobs suddenly overtook him, choking out all hope of further speech.

At some point, Severus realized that Hermione had encased his shoulders with her arms. Hermione was embracing him, comforting him. This intelligent, beautiful witch, who could no doubt have any wizard she wanted, was holding him, running her fingers through his hair and letting him cry on her shoulder. Normally, Severus would never let anyone see him so vulnerable, but at the moment he wished only that time would stop, allowing Hermione to hold him forever.

Eventually, Severus got his tears back under control. In the new silence, he heard Hermione whisper his name. He noted that her voice held telling signs that she had been crying again as well. He pulled back from her just far enough to look into her face. It was true. Her cheeks were flushed and damp. "Yes?" His reply was no more than a whisper.

"You never told me what kept you so long after the fight ended tonight?" Severus dreaded having to answer that question, but deep down he suspected Hermione would get around to asking it. Memories of the recent torment flooded his mind so fully that he hoped his involuntary answer had been worded correctly.

A reminder of who he really was would no doubt make her flee from him in disgust. Fear engulfed Severus as he saw horror fill her beautiful face. He silently cursed himself for ruining the wonderful moment they had just shared. Instinctively, Severus looked down. He didn't want to watch her as she fled. But Hermione didn't flee. In fact, quite the opposite. She gripped him tighter, pulling him up against her again.

"He didn't hurt you did he my love?" My love? Did I hear her correctly? Severus had wanted to hear such words from Hermione for so long. He could barely believe that she had actually said them. No one had ever accused Severus of being a happy man, but at that moment, he felt completely giddy with nervous excitement.

He searched Hermione's face for confirmation that he hadn't just dreamt those two beautiful words. Her expression hadn't changed; she still looked horror-struck. "I've suffered his Cruciatus Curse before, and I'm sure he believed me when he could find no contradictory evidence during his internal investigation." He hoped this would comfort her, but instead of looking relieved, Hermione started crying again.

Damn it Severus! You're scaring her away! "Hermione, it's not your fault", he quickly reassured her with what he hoped was a smile. He had to make her understand. "I would face that curse daily if it meant I could hear you say those words again."

Severus thought his heart would stop when Hermione responded by leaning forward and brushing her lips against his own. She kissed me! His heart cried out joyously. If this is a dream, I don't ever want to wake!

He felt her fingers in his hair. She tilted her head back, leaning into him as he ran his tongue over her bottom lip requesting entrance. As her lips parted, his tongue explored the unknown terrain of her mouth. She tasted even sweeter than he had imagined.

But as their kiss deepened, a horrible question arose in his mind. What if this is just a result of guilt or gratitude, or worse, pity? Severus pulled away sharply. He wanted her now more than ever, but he could never allow himself to accept her pity. He had to know.

"Severus, what's wrong?" He stumbled over the words as he tried to answer, not wanting to hurt her, yet wanting to be understood. "Hermione, are you sure you know what you are doing? That you really want this? That you want me? What I mean to say ... is ... I do not want to take advantage of you in a vulnerable state." Hermione did not even hesitate before answering with an obviously genuine smile. "Severus, I have been dreaming of this moment for a very long time. I've never wanted anything more than I want this."

The sincerity and conviction in her voice erased all his doubts. With a delighted smirk, he scooped her up onto his lap and passionately took possession of her luscious lips. Severus wanted this kiss to last forever, but as soon as the wish was made, Hermione withdrew.

Severus followed Hermione's gaze to locate the source of her distraction. Minerva stood in the doorway, donning a look of utter astonishment. He watched with amusement as Hogwarts' Headmistress apologized to Hermione for entering without permission. She then acknowledged him as well. "Professor." He supposed that Minerva, along with the rest of the wizarding world, had never contemplated the possibility that he and Hermione could ever become linked romantically, but in all the years he had know her, Severus had never seen Minerva McGonagall look so flustered. He couldn't help but chuckle as he acknowledged her blunder. "I know that this has been an extraordinarily difficult evening for you, Minerva, but may I remind you that the title of professor no longer applies to me."

Minerva, however, didn't appear capable of comprehension at the moment. She simply continued to gawk at the couple before her. Severus wrapped his arms around Hermione again, watching Minerva's reaction with increased amusement. He then tried once more to engage the Headmistress in conversation. "Was there something you wanted, Minerva?"

Finally composing herself, Minerva explained the reason for her intrusion. She explained her plan for securing Mr. and Mrs. Granger's safety and then offered an invitation for Hermione to stay at the castle for the night. Once her conversation with Hermione ended, Minerva quickly exited the room, shaking her head.

Staying at Hogwarts for the night under the Order's guard was, of course, the safest, most sensible option, and Severus told Hermione so as soon as Minerva left. Hermione, however, argued that she wanted to return to her own flat. "I insist on accompanying you for the night if you wish to reject sensibility and return to your own flat so soon," he announced firmly. Severus knew that his plan held enormous risk potential. The Dark Lord would immediately know of his ruse should they be discovered together, but now that Hermione was his, at least he hoped she was his, Severus was unwilling to risk the possibility of another attempt on her life if he could help it.

He was extremely relieved when Hermione agreed to the arrangement. She provided him with the information he need to Apparate. Then, he kissed her good-bye and left for the castle gates. Once outside the school's boundaries, Severus Apparated to Hermione's flat to ensure its safety and await her arrival.

Severus expected nothing more than to watch over Hermione that night, but instead it turned out to be a dream come true. Severus had been with a few women over the years, but actual lovemaking was a new experience. Once again he felt a flood of fear threaten to overwhelm him when Hermione confessed that this was her first sexual experience. It was obvious that she trusted him. Hermione offered herself to him as she had to no other man. He wanted this to be a loving and tender act. He did not want to hurt her and therefore felt gratefully relieved to discover that his new-found love filled him with a tenderness he had never known he possessed.

Severus spared no effort in ensuring that their coupling was a pleasurable experience for Hermione. He had not expected, however, to receive so much in return. What Hermione lacked in experience, she made up for in eagerness and true affection. His skin tingled under her caresses. His breath hitched in this throat from the impact of her kisses. His passion ignited at the sight of her revealed body, and when they finally joined together as one, Severus surrendered to her not only in body, but heart and soul as well.

The following morning, Severus sat Hermione down for a long talk. He wanted her to know that he loved her more than he had ever loved anyone in his entire life, but he also needed her to know the harsh realities of their situation. The Dark Lord believed Severus to be on his side. A relationship with her, if discovered, would result in certain death for them both. Such a relationship, if in fact she wanted one, would require an enormous amount of secrecy.

Much to his delight, Hermione adamantly dismissed his offer to walk away from further involvement. Instead, she suggested they tell only those who would eventually suspect anyway: her new boss, Minerva, and her two best friends. Severus felt extremely reluctant to share this news with Potter and Weasley. Given the opportunity, he felt quite confident, they would happily aid in his demise. Sharing such valuable information with them as this definitely provided just such an opportunity, but he needed to prove his trust in Hermione as well. He ultimately conceded to her wishes and hoped that the two boys would have enough sense to realize that wagging their tongues about this would endanger Hermione as well.

Given the secrecy restraints on their courtship, normal dates, especially within the wizarding communities, where strictly out of the question. Instead, Severus came up with more creative ideas. He made her dinner, complete with candlelight and music. He took her to Muggle restaurants where no one would recognize them. Severus even swallowed his pride and took her out dancing in London to Muggle dance clubs when he discovered how much she enjoyed dancing. He also quickly discovered how much he enjoyed watching Hermione dance. All the same, the couple always made sure that they arrived and left the buildings separately. When calling at one another's homes, they Apparated directly inside.

When Minerva offered Severus a return to his position as Hogwarts' Potions professor, he accepted, hoping it would allow him more time with Hermione. Unfortunately, it only succeeded in creating more barriers than opportunities. They could no longer Apparate due to the castle's fortifications, and he could just imagine the sensation they would create if they were to be seen entering or leaving each other's personal chambers. As the newly reinstated Head of Slytherin House, Severus could easily estimate the number of owls that would be rapidly sent home to relay the news of such a scandal. No, that was a risk they needed to avoid at all costs.

Thankfully, shortly after the start of term, Minerva discreetly suggested to them that the Room of Requirement would make an ideal place for a date. Why they hadn't thought of it before, Severus wasn't sure, but he was grateful to Minerva for reminding them of it. Indeed, the room turned out to be very helpful, especially considering that it could turn itself into almost anything they could dream up. His favorite though was the bedroom it created for Hermione for his birthday.

Hermione asked him to meet her there that evening so she could give him his present privately. Of course, by then the need for secrecy was gone, but Hermione said she wanted to use the room "for old time's sake". Severus entered it that evening to find Hermione atop an enormous bed wearing nothing but some black lace and a big red bow. Severus had never before received such a tantalizing gift, and he immensely enjoyed unwrapping and playing with his "new present".

Their need for secrecy had in fact ended in December. The final battle ensued throughout most of Christmas Eve day until finally, Potter once again, thankfully, refused to die and struck down the Dark Lord. The nightmare was over. The Dark Lord was gone forever.

Late that night, Severus lay in bed replaying the evening's events in his head.

The Minister of Magic himself declared each member of the Order of the Phoenix a war hero. Severus even received special commendation, along with Potter, of course, for his work as a spy. Then Minerva insisted they all have a Christmas Day celebration the next evening with Severus and Harry Potter as the guests of honor. For the first time, Severus looked forward to Christmas. This year he had many reasons to celebrate.

Severus smiled as his thoughts turned to the following day. Tomorrow would be Christmas, and they were finally going to tell Hermione's parents about their relationship. Severus had a plan of his own as well. He looked over at the grey velvet box sitting on the mantle. "Accio ring". The box flew silently across the room, landing gently in his hand. Severus opened the lid to examine the ring for what had to be the twentieth time, at least. He'd had the ring especially designed for Hermione a month earlier, and now he planned to use it.

Dressed in his finest robes, with Hermione's ring in his pocket for encouragement, Severus watched the mantle clock. Ten more minutes. He stole another glance at the mirror. Nervousness replaced the confidence he'd felt the night before. Five more minutes. What if Hermione's parents don't approve of me? What if they think I'm too old for her? After all, I was one of her professors. Her father might be offended that I am requesting marriage after just finding out about our relationship this morning. One more minute. Bloody Hell! Here goes nothing!

Hermione ushered Severus through a modest Muggle neighborhood, reassuring him each step of the way. He had never felt so apprehensive. He did allow himself some relief, though, when Hermione's parents recognized him immediately, thanking him for his rescue the previous summer.

He cringed slightly when Hermione introduced him as her "boyfriend". At almost 42 years of age, Severus could hardly be considered a boy. Her parents, however, seemed only slightly surprised with Hermione's announcement and subsequent explanation of how long they had been involved and why they had not told them previously. Finally, the last of his nervous tension melted away. He felt free in the new openness of the situation.

Mr. Granger invited Severus to join him in the sitting room for an after dinner drink once they had finished dessert. A lump leapt into Severus' throat. This was the opportunity he had been hoping for. The women were happily chattering away in the kitchen over a sinkful of dirty dishes. He felt quite confident that there would be no interruptions for quite awhile.

Severus gratefully accepted the brandy his host offered him. It's no firewhisky, but still, it should help, he thought dryly before taking a large gulp from the crystal glass. He swallowed hard, attempting to dislodge the lump still lodged in his throat. He took another drink of the brandy and tried to muster the courage required to speak. But before he could, Mr. Granger, who had obviously been watching him closely, cleared his throat.

"Severus, why don't you tell me a little about yourself? Unless I misread our current situation, you are planning to ask me a very important question. I'd like to know a bit more about you before I have to answer it." Severus smiled. The man was very intuitive and to the point. Severus admired that.

"Well sir, where should I begin?" Mr. Granger paused for a moment. Severus watch the man quickly analysis him. "Severus, you are no mere boy. You are probably closer in age to my wife and I. How is it then that you've become involved with our daughter?" The question was not accusatory; in fact, the father's tone and face both appeared quite friendly.

"I will be 42 next month, sir. I was one of Hermione's professors for her first six years at Hogwarts; however, I feel it important to stress that my feelings for her did not arise until I saw her again after her graduation. Our actual relationship did not begin until last summer, the night the Death Eaters attacked your home." Mr. Granger's eyebrows rose in a humored looked, but he made no comment. Instead, he asked another question.

So it went for some time, the father seeking information and Severus providing it. Eventually, Mr. Granger seemed satisfied. "Now, I do believe you had a question for me, Severus?" Severus drew himself up. "Mr. Granger, I love Hermione more than I would ever have thought it possible for me to love anyone. I make no pretense as to deserving such a woman as your daughter, but if she'll have me, I'd like your blessing, sir."

Mr. Granger actually smirked at him before answering. "Begging your pardon, Professor, but I'm sure you are well aware that you weren't exactly Hermione's favorite teacher and my daughter can be very stubborn. Therefore, the way I see it, if the two of you have managed to overcome your previous prejudices concerning one another, then I'm pretty sure that together you'll be able to overcome any obstacles that may be in your future. Welcome to the family, son." Severus exhaled the breath he didn't know he'd been holding. Displaying a genuine smile for his new soon-to-be-father-in-law, Severus nodded his head slightly. "Thank you, sir."

Severus arrived at the agreed upon location later that night to meet Hermione for the Order's Christmas Party, ready to put his plan into motion. Hermione knew him well. She knew how he guarded his privacy. No doubt Hermione would wait and follow Severus' lead. But Severus also knew her well. Hermione was a social person. Maybe not social by most girl's standards, but she was definitely much more social than Severus. Tonight, though, he would be everything Hermione could ever hope for.

He made a point of walking Hermione into the party on his arm. He kissed her under the mistletoe and doted over her all evening. Normally, the collection of gathered friends and acquaintances would have irritated him into a fury with their gasps and nosy, intrusive questions, but Hermione looked so happy that for tonight, at least, he could overlook everything else. Severus slipped away for just a moment to set everything with Arthur Weasley before leading Hermione out to dance. Finally, Severus moved her around to the front of the dance floor and gave Arthur the signal.

This was it. The moment of truth had come at last. Severus would have preferred a quiet proposal, but Hermione's friends were all here, and he was anxious to get her formal answer. He could feel his nervousness building as he called for everyone's attention and then looked back down at Hermione. Please say yes, please say yes, his mind chanted as he continued to speak. He could barely even hold the box steady in his hand as he asked her the most important question of his life.

Hermione looked more beautiful than ever when she tearfully agreed to make him the happiest wizard alive. He now knew what real love felt like. Hermione gave Severus' life new meaning and renewed hope. She completed him.

The next five months flew by in a frenzy of activity. On top of their already busy teaching schedules, Severus and Hermione spent every spare moment together. They talked about the wedding, their future, even the possibility of a family.

~ * ~

Severus' characteristic Professor Snape sneer graces his face as his finger slides down the silver trim of his white velvet marital robe still hanging in his wardrobe. "Merlin, save Hogwarts when our children arrive." He can only imagine what little spitfires their children will turn out to be.

Reigning in his thoughts, Severus dresses for the ceremony. The white robe appears to glow against his black trousers and vest. "Deserving or not, this rare jewel of a woman has given me her love, and I am going to spend the rest of my life trying to earn it," he tells his reflection as he ties his black tendrils back in a white leather band. Then he steps through the doorway in route for the Great Hall. He has a wedding to attend.