Retribution!

Disclaimer: See Previous chapters

A big thanks to my beta, Charmed Nay!

********* ********* SS ********* HG ******** *********

He left. He really left! Hermione stared at the door to her bedchamber for a long time. She was simply shocked. How could he just leave after this? Didn't he want to talk about what she'd done to him? What he'd done to her? She'd thought that since things were suddenly out in the open, he would stay for a while. He hadn't even kissed her this time. He did seem like a different man.

When he was pretending to be Darach, he seemed more affectionate. Not overly, but just enough to please her. Their second coupling had been a better experience than their first. She'd been so happy after he'd left her the night before. The first thing she'd thought about when she awoke was Severus. She'd wondered how he'd taken the words she'd said. Would he be angry? Would he avoid her? Would he try to approach her as himself? She'd come back to the castle and felt like lying about. It had been a surprise to see him standing at her door. For a few brief moments, she'd dared to dream that he had come to tell her that he was interested in her.

Unfortunately, he had another agenda. He'd come to approach her as himself all right, but the Severus that had made love...er...had sex with her was not the same man from her two previous encounters. He hadn't even looked at her when they'd had sex. He had made her turn over! What the bloody hell was that all about? Although it was an interesting position, she had wanted to look into the eyes and face of Severus Snape as he slid into her.

How had he guessed about her deception? She should warn Rolanda about his figuring things out. What would he do to Ro? Thank God he doesn't know Harry is involved! Hermione smiled softly. "I've shagged with Severus Snape! Three times!" She felt giddy. It was in the open. Surely they would move forward. He was probably just furious about being tricked when he thought he was doing the tricking. Well, he'd taught her his lesson. He did say that she could go to his chambers if she wanted to talk, after she'd thought about whom she fancied.

The true Snape. Blast! Would he always be so abrupt? So cold? No. Things would change eventually. He might be able to care for her one day. How could she face him though? What if she was wrong? What if he detested her? His words came back to slap her in the face. My heart isn't something I give lightly, and I can boast that nobody has ever owned it. Can you live that way? Do you want to rut with me like this often? Things would never change, would they? He would be so bent on making sure that she never broke through his outer layers that she wouldn't have a chance to really get to know him.

How did he feel about bedding her then? You were a pawn in a little game, Hermione. He would never care about her. She'd really messed things up. Apparently, she was good enough to have sex with, but she wasn't good enough for other things. What had she done? It was fine when he thought he was fooling her, but now that he knows that she was dishonest... "Damn it," she said, plopping down on her bed. "What have I done? I've driven away someone that might have looked my way one day." Who was she kidding? He'd never looked her way, and the only reason he had this time was because he thought he was pulling one over on Harry. A commotion in her living area brought her out of her thoughts. Her painting was calling to her, saying she had a visitor.

She opened the portrait hole, and her hopes were dashed. It was Minerva. "Good morning, Minerva. What brings you by so early?"

"Why are you crying?" Minerva asked, looking horrified. "Hermione? What's he done to you?"

"Crying?" Hermione turned to look into the mirror. Bloody hell! She had been crying. "Oh, Minerva, really. I'm just...hang on! What's he done to me? What are you talking about?"

"Well, if you must know, Albus and I were just around the corner, and we saw Severus stalking away from here. I assumed that you'd had an argument, and from the look of your face, I would say so," Minerva said, putting a hand on her shoulder. "What's happened?"

Hermione sighed. What could she tell her? This was her mentor! She would be disappointed if she knew what she'd done. "It's complicated. The only thing I can say is that we've had a little disagreement."

Minerva smiled softly. "Hermione, I have to be honest with you. I overheard Rolanda and Harry talking. Are you and Severus an item?"

"No," she said softly, wiping new tears from her face. "I do fancy him, but he doesn't reciprocate my feelings. I think he wouldn't mind a certain type of relationship, but it's not the kind I would like. Do you understand?"

"I see," said Minerva curtly. She was going to throttle Albus as soon as she saw him next! Hermione was a mess! Severus had been a right bastard to her! She should have never gotten herself involved! But, she had. She had no choice but to follow through. They could be happy if they gave it some time. "Hermione, sit with me. I want to talk to you about Severus for a moment."

"All right."

"Severus has always been a private man. I've seen the way you look at him at times, and, if I'm not mistaken, I have caught him looking at you as well. I think it's just hard for him to really trust someone. Look how he's spent his entire adult life. It's in his nature to always look for deception." She smiled. "Give him some time. I don't want you to get hurt, but there is always hope. Maybe stay away a few days. If he comes to you, then you'll know he is interested."

"Don't worry. I'm a bit embarrassed to go anyplace near him for a while after what we...er..." She blushed profusely.

Minerva nodded. "It's all right. You are a woman, Hermione. I've been in your shoes before. All you can do is try. If he doesn't come around, then it's his loss. I just think you should give it some time. Don't put any pressure on him."

"I don't plan to pressure him. Trust me. I won't go near him, but you are right. Maybe I should wait him out and let him come to me, if ever." Hermione took Minerva's hand. "Thanks for this talk. I only wish that he didn't intimidate me so much."

"You've never been intimidated by anything."

"Well, now I am. When I try to talk to him, just one look sends me away. Blast! I have to go. I promised to meet Ginny in London today!" Hermione smiled at Minerva's concerned expression. "I'll be fine. I will give him some time. If he doesn't come around, well, then he just doesn't."

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"Albus, what are you doing wondering about the dungeons this early on a Sunday morning?" Severus asked snidely. "I was about to take a shower."

"I can see that I interrupted," Albus said, eyes twinkling. "I think your bathrobe gave it away. Go on. I'll wait here and have a read."

"Is it something important?" Severus asked, sitting down. Surely he wouldn't be so insistent about staying if it wouldn't be.

"Severus, I was in the corridor earlier, and I saw you leaving Hermione's chambers," he said slyly. "It's not my concern really, but-"

"You're right. It's not," Severus said brusquely.

"However, when I see a staff member in tears, I do believe it is my job to make sure things run smoothly here," Albus lied. He hadn't seen her in tears, but from what he'd sensed, she had been. "What's happened?"

"Albus, Miss Granger and I had private matters that we needed to discuss. I would appreciate it if you didn't meddle in my affairs," Severus said, feeling as if he private life had been invaded again.

Albus looked at his young friend. Why couldn't he see her for what she was? She could be a good thing for him if he would just let her in. "Had I known that you and Hermione were an item, I would have never questioned you about Rolanda. I apologize for that. It makes sense that you would choose someone like Hermione. I've noticed the way she's been looking at you for a long time now."

"Don't go getting ahead of yourself, old man," Severus said. "We are not an item. We are simply two people that had something to discuss. Now, if you would excuse me, I should like to take a shower."

"All right, Severus, if you say so," he said disappointedly. Minerva wouldn't like this. Hopefully things went better with Hermione. "I simply hope that you won't let something that could be great pass you by. Until later."

Severus watched his friend leave through narrowed eyes. Crying in the corridor, eh? He smirked and made his way to his shower. It served her right. She should never have tried to trick him. But, you tried to trick her as well, Severus. Who cares? They had both gotten what they wanted. While he was angry at the deception from her, it angered him more that Rolanda and Potter knew he'd been tricked. He chuckled, remembering the brat's scared eyes as 'Draco' began descending upon him. Rolanda was next. She would get hers. Potter had his payback. Hermione...damn it! Granger had her payback. Things would be grand. He couldn't wait to see her at the noon meal. Would she dare show her face? Not likely. She would probably wait until the evening meal before daring to face him.

When he'd answered the door for Albus, he'd half expected it to be her standing there. He had almost hoped she'd come to beg forgiveness and agree to continue what they'd started on an occasional basis. He could do with a willing woman nearby and available for bedding. He stepped into the spray of warm water and wondered how she would look with her hair plastered to her face, body wet from the water, and her little voice whimpering from his ministrations.

A sudden surge of emotion flowed through his thoughts. She loves you. He smirked. "She loves some fantasy version of how she thinks me to be. She can't love me, as she doesn't truly know me." He'd never wanted a relationship anyway. Never thought about one actually. Willing women were easy to come by when he needed one. Having one so young, so responsive, and so close would be a change. An interesting change. If she decided to continual sexual relations, he'd be sure to have her as often as possible.

Albus' words came back to haunt him. I simply hope that you won't let something that could be great pass you by. What was so great about being in a relationship? Why pretend to be caring and nice when it was far from who he really was? He liked being alone. He liked never having to answer to anyone. He'd learnt long ago that the only person one could depend on was himself. If he would care, he would eventually only get hurt. He saw it all around him with everyone else.

She cried for you. She felt guilty. She wants you. "Shut up," he growled, plunging his head under the spray as if to drown the offending thoughts. Whatever happened, happened. He would not go to her.

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THREE DAYS LATER

Where the bloody hell had she been? She hadn't been to one meal, and he hadn't caught one glimpse of her since he'd left her chambers. Did she hate him? Severus smirked. So much for loving him. He knew it! Ha! This was why he didn't put trust in people. Most never really meant what they said. If she truly loved him, she would have come down to his chambers. He'd left the invitation wide open. He was curious as to why she'd been avoiding him. Hate? Regret? Embarrassment? There was only one way to find out. But, how could he go about it without appearing to care? "Which I don't, of course," he hissed to himself. Caring was a weakness. He was not weak. What excuse could he find? The book! Of course! The bloody book that he'd taken from the library.

He snatched up the book and made his way to the library. It would be time to close it down in approximately ten minutes. He would slip in undetected, allow her to run the brats out, lock the door, and then he would approach her. Severus wondered what all she'd told Rolanda and Potter. Rolanda acted as if nothing was amiss. She'd even gone as far as to question the Polyjuice Potion. Bitch. Traitor. She'd get hers. He entered the library and made his way to a stack of books to his left. She hadn't noticed him, as she was too busy herding up a few stray students. Before long, they were gone, and she warded the doors. He stepped out and followed her to the counter where she placed a stack of books.

"Good evening, Miss Granger," he said silkily. She jumped but didn't turn around. He placed one hand on the counter to the left of her while he placed his book on the counter to the right of her, leaving her pinned between the counter and his body. Leaning forward, he whispered in her ear, "I've come to return a book. I do hope there is no penalty for keeping it for as long as I have."

He relished her reaction. She'd shivered slightly when his hot breath blew against her ear. He could see her hands begin to shake and knew that he still had an effect on her. "N-no, you've not had it long at all. It's fine." She tried to speak confidently, but he'd caught the slight stammer. She was nervous.

"Well, I thank you," he said softly, rubbing his nose along her hairline, pressing his body into hers. She stiffened slightly, and then, he felt her shift against him. "Where have you been, Hermione?" he asked, sounding huskier than he'd intended.

"Busy," she said breathlessly.

"Is that so?"

"Yes."

"Did you not wish to see me, Hermione? Is that why you've been staying away at mealtimes?" he asked, resting his forehead on the back of her head in order to inhale her flower-scented hair. "Are you not interested in what I had to offer you?"

"Severus, I just couldn't face you yet." She swallowed. "Not knowing if you hate me for my deception. I was embarrassed."

"I don't hate you," he said, moving to bring his lips to her ear once more. "I desire you," he said seductively. He pressed his erection into the small of her back. "Do you feel that?" he asked in a whisper. A slight whimper was his only answer. "What do you expect, Hermione? Are you interested?"

"I am," she said after a moment.

"What do you expect? I've told you that we could never have anything else besides this," he said, grinding against her backside.

"I do," she said.

"Do what?"

"I do want you," she admitted, pushing back against him. She turned her face to kiss him, but he moved his mouth to her neck, twisting her around to face him. "Oh!"

Severus pulled her up to seat her on the edge of the counter, his lips never ending their quest to taste her cleavage. Her partially unbuttoned robe disappeared with a soft murmur and a flick of his wand. He tore open her blouse, sending buttons flying. No bra? What did he care? It was easier for him. His mouth found her breasts and began nuzzling each, licking circles around each hardened nipple before actually suckling on one.

"Oh, my God," she breathed.

"Yes, I am," he said arrogantly, hiking up her skirt around her waist. He raised an eyebrow. She had on a pair of black knickers with silver snakes. "Severus Snape, Potions Master of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry." When the knickers splayed open at his command, he felt a rush of power. He owned her, didn't he? He looked at her face and saw that her eyes were closed. "Look at me," he said, testing his power over her. Her eyes fluttered open. He could see her desire there, and he knew that she would be ready for him. Slipping one finger between her now parted legs into her body, he was able to feel her complete arousal. His wand had rolled away, down the counter, but that didn't stop him from quickly unfastening his trousers and releasing his hard cock.

Realizing that she was about to be had, her legs snaked around his back and pulled him closer. Their eyes had never wavered from each other. He moved his free hand down to guide himself to her opening. In one swift motion, he slammed completely into her. Her eyes widened and her hands immediately went to his shoulders to steady herself as she gasped at his invasion. "Severus," she whispered as he pulled back slowly. He slammed completely in again, maneuvering his body to better brace himself.

"Whom do you want?" he asked, still looking into her eyes.

"You. Oh," she said as he buried himself within her again. "Always you."

"You shall have me," he said silkily, moving closer to her face. He nearly kissed her, but realizing his folly, his lips found her shoulder and nipped at her flesh a few times. He would not kiss her. It was too intimate. Severus Snape would not show her a weakness. He was in control. She began arching into his strokes and attempting to move with him as his lips found her breasts again. "Yes," he hissed as he felt her legs began to tremble, and her insides began to tighten in odd spasms.

"Severus! Don't stop," she said with a moan. "I'm almost there."

Stop? He had no intention. His rhythm was his own as he arched back away from her to plunge in with rough, steady strokes. "You are mine," he growled, piercing her eyes with his dark gaze. "Mine." She smiled faintly before beginning to chant his name. He felt the heat of wetness burst around him just as his own climax had come for him. "Hermione," he whispered a moment later, resting his forehead against hers. "Thank you." He didn't pull away until her legs fell limply at his sides.

Hermione watched as he moved away to get his wand, clean himself, and fastened his trousers. That was it? He was leaving again? "Are you leaving?" she asked in disbelief. She noticed that he seemed annoyed with her question.

"I have some things to attend to, and I'm sure you need to finish up here," he said smoothly, casting a cleansing charm on her. She slid down from the counter and picked up her knickers to stuff them into her pocket. She repaired her own blouse before putting on her robe. He walked up to her and his lips quirked up slightly.

"I'll see you tomorrow. You need to start eating again," he said.

Touched that he cared, she smiled. "I've been eating alone or with Harry."

His look soured. "I shall pay you a visit in your chambers tomorrow evening about this time. Is that acceptable?"

She nodded. Say something! Make him talk! "Good night," she said quietly, standing on her toes to place a kiss on his cheek. He seemed startled for a moment but nodded nonetheless.

"Good night," he said, swiftly exiting the library. That went rather well. He did hope that he didn't seem too eager. Just being near her made him want to be inside of her. Perhaps this arrangement wasn't so bad after all. She was eager to please him, and that made him feel emotions he'd never felt before. A woman had been longing for him. Not just any woman either. A young, fair looking woman, that happened to be an excellent lover, wanted him. Just as he thought nothing could ruin his good mood, Potter stepped out to greet him.

"Snape," the boy spat. "What are you doing around here?"

"Potter," he said with disgust. "What I do and where I go is none of your concern. It would do well for you to remember that, boy."

"I don't like how you've treated Hermione. She told me that you stopped by the other morning and had a go at her for her trick. I think you're lucky she even looked twice at you," Potter said angrily. "Stay the fuck away from her if you can't treat her with respect."

"Respect, Potter?" Severus asked incredulously. "I only treat those worthy with respect. Plotting against me to get me into bed isn't a very noble deed, now is it? Tell me, Potter," he said quietly, stepping closer. "Did you partake in that trickery?"

The boy swallowed. "Just leave her alone, arse. You don't deserve her."

"I never claimed to," Severus said with a smirk, brushing past his pest. He paused a few feet away and sneered for a moment. "But, I shall not refuse what is freely given. Stay out of our business, Potter, or I shall have to let Draco know that you've regretted your hasty decision of turning him away."

Harry nearly went for his wand. If the man had stayed there any longer, he would have. The nerve of that bastard! What the bloody hell did Mione see in him? Greasy git! Harry decided to visit Hermione another time. It was apparent that they'd just finished...! How disgusting! Rolanda would know what to do. "Ruddy bastard knows about Draco. That arse just had to go blab his mouth!"

Still fuming, he made his way to Rolanda's chambers. She grinned brightly when she saw that Harry was at her door. "We need to talk," he said quickly, moving into her room. "It's about Snape."

"What's he done now?" Rolanda asked. Damn! Those two were going to mess up her chances of getting her Polyjuice Potion if they kept bothering Snape. "Go on."

"He's shagging Hermione!" Harry ranted. "I just met up with him down the hall from the library! He was acting smug and as much as told me what he'd been up to. What can we do to stop this? It's going too far."

"Well, Harry, from what she said, they had a bit of a row because of some things she'd said. It's her fault, you know! He hasn't breathed a word to me, and he still intends to give me what I want. I say to you, lad, leave them be."

"You just care about your ruddy potion! What about Hermione? He's obviously using her. It's partly our fault. We shouldn't have gone along with this," he said, wishing things hadn't gone so far.

"It's what she wants, Harry. If he went to her tonight for a shag, who are we to stop it? She's obviously getting what she wants. Let them work out their own problems. Our meddling will only add to it," she said wisely. "I say we just mind our own business for now. If things get bad, well, then we step in. Fair enough?"

"Yes," he said grudgingly. "She is an adult. I just don't like that he doesn't appreciate her the way that he should. She's too good for him if you ask me."

"Well, I didn't ask you. Come on. Might as well have a match while you're here."

Harry nodded and followed the witch to the table near her fire. He would let Hermione make her own decision about Snape...for now, but if that bastard ended up hurting her, he'd have to deal with him.

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ONE WEEK LATER

Severus smiled smugly at his reflection while he combed his hair. This past week had been most satisfying. He'd been up in her chambers nearly each night. If he felt the need to have her, he simply told her at the evening meal. Of course he didn't say it aloud where the other meddlers and Potter could hear, but she knew what he meant by a certain look and nod. It had been two nights since he'd had her, and he was in need. She'd been on his mind all day. He wanted her so badly he could almost taste her and feel her when he closed his eyes to conjure her image.

Their relationship was working out well. Relationship? He supposed it could be considered a mutual agreement instead of a relationship. They agreed to have sex on a regular basis with no further expectations. Severus frowned for a moment. She often tried to kiss him and hold him after they'd been satiated. He would pull away. It seemed harder to not kiss her. He'd slipped and kissed her when he was Darach. It hadn't really mattered then though because he wasn't really himself. If he held her for long, she would think she had something over him. That would never do. He fastened his robes and made his way to her chambers.

Hermione stepped out of the tub and looked at her clothing. Why bother putting on clothes? He'd only come in and spell them away. She decided to slip on a silky robe and leave her nightclothes for later. She went to her living area to await his arrival. Each time they joined, she felt like she gained a small part of him. Without realizing it, he would flash her a small smile or a possessive look, letting her know how much she meant to him. You are nothing more than his whore.

She pushed the thought away. She preferred to think that things would change. A piece of her heart was given to him each time she gave her body to him. He consumed her thoughts each day. Hermione wanted a future with him. If she patiently waited for him to realize that he wanted a real relationship, it would be worth it. The only thing that she hated was that he left her feeling slightly cold each time. Why could he never kiss her lips? Oh, he kissed her body everywhere else, but never would he even brush his lips to hers. Would it be too much to ask? Why couldn't he stay and cuddle with her as he had done the second night they'd been together?

She decided to ask him to stay tonight. She would not give up. Things could work out for them. She just needed to give him time. No pressure, just as Minerva suggested. He had come to her first, hadn't he? That alone meant that he truly was interested in her. Only for your body, Hermione. "Shut it, you," she told the ruddy voice. That nagging voice sounded suspiciously like Harry's. Poor Harry. He'd been eyeing her oddly lately, hoping to get her to talk about things. She didn't want to involve him any further. They'd done enough already. This was her life. Her decisions.

"He's here," the witch in her portrait sniffed.

"Thanks," Hermione said softly, moving to open the portrait. "Hi."

He nodded, taking in her appearance. "Your hair is damp."

"I can spell it dry," she offered.

"Leave it," he said, lifting her up to straddle his waist. She began kissing and nibbling on his neck. She had to express her affection somehow, and this was the one way that seemed acceptable to him. He seemed to enjoy when she explored his body. "Here," he said, standing her near her bed. He opened his robes to reveal nothing underneath.

Grinning mischievously, she opened her bathrobe. She heard the slight intake of breath as his gaze settled over her body. A moment later, he pounced on her, positioning over her immediately. "I should have come last night," he said before slipping into her. "Yes."

They frantically moved together until they found release. He lingered only a moment before he began to pull away. "Stay," she requested softly, touching his arm.

He paused to look at her. For a brief instant, she could see his longing to stay, but then his eyes darkened. "I must decline," he said. She watched as he cleaned himself, slipped on his robes, and walked to her door.

"Severus."

"Yes?"

"That's my password. Your name." She wished that he'd been facing her to gage his reaction, but he hadn't turned back to her.

"All right," he said, and he was gone.

She made her way to her bathroom and got back into the shower. She would ask him to stay until he relented. He couldn't push her away forever.

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ONE WEEK LATER

"Severus, would you have some time to come up to my quarters after you've finished eating?"

He spun around in his seat to glare at the woman. Vector! Was she still at it? "I have another engagement this evening," he said coolly, turning back to his plate.

"I will wait for you to be done. It doesn't really matter what hour you come," she said in a low, suggestive voice.

Severus noticed Hermione's narrowed eyes. She'd heard. Even Potter was watching with an irate glare. Damn! He was simply grateful that Rolanda wasn't present. She would have made a scene. "I really must decline. I do not know what time I shall be free. Surely you can say whatever you have to say right now." He raised an eyebrow at her silence. "No?"

"You know, Severus. I think you are lying to me." Vector's voice was quiet, but Hermione had still heard her.

She couldn't let that woman trick her man into going to her rooms. Hermione knew they'd shagged a while back, but she would be sure that nobody else would be with Severus again. In a bold move, she removed Vector's hand from its perch on Severus' shoulder. "I do believe he's told you that he is busy."

The outraged witch looked at Hermione incredulously. "What business is it of yours?"

Severus threw his napkin down and stood up. His voice was so low that both witches had trouble hearing him. "You will never make a scene in front of the students again. I have plans tonight. In fact, I will always have plans. Do not approach me again." He looked to Hermione. "I think we can leave now. It's nearly time to add an ingredient to the potion." Hermione nodded and followed him out of the hall without looking at anyone.

She knew that no students had actually heard or likely noticed anything, but he seemed annoyed at Vector's audacity. To her surprise, he didn't escort her to her own chambers, but he went straight to his. She knew where his chambers were, but she'd never been inside before. Hermione didn't have time to look around. Severus rounded on her as soon as they entered.

"What were you thinking?" he asked angrily.

She blinked in surprise. "W-what? She was touching you!"

"So?"

"So? Well, I didn't like it."

"You have no say in who touches me, Hermione! I think I can rebuff unwanted attentions on my own." He kicked over a nearby chair. She flinched slightly, and he felt a moment of guilt. "Why?" Her answer shocked him.

"Why? How dare you ask me why? Wouldn't you care if someone touched me?" she asked in disbelief. "You wouldn't, would you?"

He opened his mouth to answer and closed it. How would he feel if someone touched her? What could he say? He was not her...partner. They were merely lovers. "Whether or not I like it, you make your own decisions. I have no say in what you do. As such, you really have no say in what I do."

"I see," she said, feeling tears welling up. He really didn't care, did he? "I have to go."

"Do not leave," he commanded.

"I really need to," she said firmly. "I will talk to you later."

"Hermione, stop," he said, pushing her against the wall with his body. "Don't leave yet." His lips crushed hers roughly as she struggled against him. He felt her tears on his face, but he didn't care. She opened her mouth, stopped struggling, and began to kiss him back. He couldn't fathom why she would be crying at such an inopportune moment. The kiss was intense as he tried to possess her mouth with his. You are kissing her like a weak fool! Stop! She will think that she has a right to tell you who to see and what to do. He pulled away. What was he doing?

She looked him through half-opened eyes. "Severus?"

He stepped away and wiped his mouth with the sleeve of his robe. "We will not speak of this again," he said shortly. She nodded. He turned and left her standing there. Hermione couldn't believe what had happened! He'd kissed her! And, then he'd left. She fled his chambers quickly. She had never felt more used. He didn't care. He would let her leave with a man at any moment as long as he was still able to visit her bed. Something had to change. This was getting too hard, and it hurt too much to know that after two weeks, he still didn't care any more than he had in the beginning. She needed to see Harry.

Later, Severus walked to her chambers. He didn't want to wake her. He simply wanted to check on her. Why? What had compelled him to feel so utterly guilty? As he approached the portrait, the haughty witch smirked at him. "Too late, you are," she said. "She's gone for drinks with her friends in Hogsmeade. Another man was with her, you know."

"Not that I care," he said hatefully, walking down to the main entrance. Perhaps he should venture into Hogsmeade to check on her. It was rather late for her to still be out. He Apparated just on the outskirts of the village and had to quickly dodge behind a tree. She was walking towards him with Weasley. Rolanda and Potter were far behind them singing as horridly and as loudly as possible. His eyes narrowed when he heard Weasley's words.

"You don't really want to walk all the way to the castle. Let me Apparate us to my flat. You can sober up there, have a little fun, and come back in the morning," the boy said, slurring horribly.

"Shove off, Ron. I told you no," she said. Severus could tell that she was also inebriated. To his annoyance, Weasley stopped and pulled her close to him.

"Just give me tonight."

"No."

"What's wrong? Not good enough for you?" he asked angrily. "You can sleep with Snape but not me, eh? Why? What's so good about him?"

"Who told you that?"

"Harry did! Doesn't know what to do about it," Ron said. "You need to leave that git alone. You're too good for him, Mione. You need someone that knows you. Someone that appreciates you. Why do you think Harry set this up? He wants us to try."

"Let go of my arm, Ron. You and Harry should not bother with my business," she said. "We are just friends. I don't want to ruin that by doing something we will both regret tomorrow."

Ron couldn't believe it! She had turned him down. According to Harry, she and Snape had a steady thing going. He'd spotted Snape leaving her chambers nearly a dozen times in the past couple of weeks. He looked at her now and saw someone else. This wasn't the Hermione that he knew. She would never have let some bloke walk all over and treat her like rubbish. "You're nothing more than Snape's whore!" The slap to his face was instantaneous.

"I hate you," she said before running towards the castle.

"Mione!" he called. Damn! Why did he go and say that? Suddenly, he was grabbed from behind and Apparated away. "What the fuck?" he looked around and recognized the area near the Shrieking Shack. "Snape!" His one time Potions Master stood seething before him.

"If you ever touch her again, I shall kill you," Snape threatened. "Do I make myself clear?"

"Kill me, eh? Planning on making an honest woman out of her? Harry says she never eats, and she cries all the bloody time when she thinks that nobody is looking! You don't deserve her, you bastard!" He wasn't expecting Snape to strike out, but a fist suddenly connected with his jaw. "Bloody hell!" he yelled.

He lunged back at the man, and a quick fight ensued. If he hadn't had so many drinks, perhaps he could have landed a few blows on his face. It seemed that he only reached his chest or arms. "Stand still!" he shouted angrily. One last hit had Ron falling on his arse.

Severus stood over the boy, breathing in quick breaths. He hadn't had such a physical work out in a long time. "Never call her a whore again. Never touch her. Remember what I said, Weasley." He Apparated to the gates of Hogwarts before the brat could speak. He needed to find Hermione. His little scuffle hadn't taken all that long, but she was probably just getting to her rooms. As soon as he got to her portrait, the witch made a face at him but opened before he could utter the password.

He found her sobbing in the bathtub. "Hermione," he said, alerting her to his presence. She splashed in surprise, but she wouldn't look to him. He quickly took off his clothing and slid in behind her. After a moment's hesitation, he pulled her back against his chest. "I would hate it if someone touched you."

The small sniffles stopped with his words. "I wouldn't let anyone touch me."

"I know," he said softly. "Nor would I."

She wasn't sure if he meant that he wouldn't let anyone touch her or if he wouldn't let anyone touch him, but she didn't care. It seemed as though there was hope after all. She smiled as his arm awkwardly settled around her in a slight embrace. Maybe they'd reached a turning point. She closed her eyes to relish the feel of him holding her and drifted off to sleep. She awoke a few hours later to a small disappointment. He'd placed her in her bed and left. Sighing, Hermione turned over to pull the pillow next to her into her arms. It was warm. It held his scent mingled with her soap. He had lain with her, and apparently, he'd only just left. Smiling, she drifted back off to sleep.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ HG ~~~~~~~~~~~~~ SS ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

ONE WEEK LATER

Minerva scoffed as Hermione left the table. "She barely eats," she said to Severus. "Don't you notice? She's losing weight. It's unhealthy!"

"What Miss Granger eats or doesn't eat is not my concern, Minerva," he stated. "If you think she has an eating disorder, speak to her about it. Don't badger me."

"Really!" she said angrily, keeping her voice low. "I happen to know that you take a great interest in the things that Hermione does, Severus. I think you should at least talk to her about taking care of herself. Something is troubling her!"

"I've had enough of this conversation," he said, rising from his chair. He sneered at Potter as he walked by his chair. He'd decided on a plan to take that insolent brat down another notch. He had meddled in his affairs again! First, he'd accosted him outside the library, and then he'd tried to set Hermione up with Weasley the week before. Yes, vengeance would be sweet once again. Rolanda's potion would be ready in less than a week.

He smirked as he thought about his plan. It was actually a mix of two potions. One that would work as an aphrodisiac while the other would not change her into the person she wanted to become, but it would change her into her partner's worst sexual fear. Well, now that wasn't worded right. She would turn into the person that her partner wanted to have sex with the least.

At least, she would be in appearance only. Her body wouldn't really change, nor would her voice. She and the other person present would simply imagine it. It was more of an illusion than anything. The person would be appalled, and she would never know why. All she would know is that she needed them, and they were denying her. Potter would be that person. He'd be sure that the brat was there just moments after she drank the potion. Pity it would only last an hour. Both of them would pay for their meddling.

Minerva's disappointed expression flitted through his mind. Was he responsible for Hermione's change in eating habits? She seemed fine to him. He did notice that she'd lost a little weight, but it wasn't much. Hell, things had been working out perfectly. Since their problem with Weasley and Vector the week before, they'd come to a silent understanding. Even though they were not committed to a relationship, they would not see other people. This was perfectly fine with him, as he was completely satisfied with his little vixen. He didn't mention that he'd had a confrontation with Weasley, but from the way she worded something the next day, he was sure that someone had told her.

Things were just as he wanted them. He had his privacy, and he had a woman when he needed her. It was perfect. Wasn't it? He'd still not slept the entire night with her. He stayed a few hours the night she fell asleep in the tub. It had been nice to have a warm body close to him as he rested. He left as soon as he realized that it felt pleasurable. Since that night, he had kissed her twice whilst climaxing. He'd like to think it was simply a reaction, but part of him felt the desire to kiss her. The desire to share such an intimacy was mostly easy to control, but those two times had been unbearable. What did this mean? I will not care about her. There. That was the bottom line. They were just two warm bodies taking pleasure in each other.

I do care about her. Damn! What the fuck? Where had that come from? Did he care? Well, he would like her to eat more, but that was only so she wouldn't be undesirable to look upon. Right? That wasn't entirely honest. He wanted her to be healthy. He wanted her to be happy. However, he wanted her to be happy with what made him happy. If that was selfish, so be it. Either of them would end things when it was time to move on. It was a mutual understanding. He darkened at the thought of Hermione breaking things off. He set off to find her.

Hermione was sitting out near the lake thinking about her relationship with Severus. Things had changed only slightly. He was a little more affectionate with her, but she craved more. Maybe he was right to question her before they began seeing each other. He'd been honest with her from the beginning. He'd said that he'd not change, and he'd asked her if she could handle that. She truly had believed that she could at that time. Each crumb that he threw would only satisfy her momentarily. She wanted more. This could not go on.

Harry was right. She was being used. Severus would never love her, and he would never commit to her. No matter how much love she held for him or how much she tried to make him love her, his affection only extended to a few heated kisses. Well, he had attacked Ron for what he'd said to her. She smiled softly. Ron deserved what he'd gotten. Even Harry agreed with that after he learnt what Ron had said to her. Those actions had made her believe that Severus cared. She wasn't sure now. It was time to talk to him. If he said that things would never change, then she would tell him that she couldn't allow herself to be used any longer.

As Hermione stood, she felt an arm snake around her waist. "Nice evening," her lover commented. She smiled and pressed back against him. It wasn't often that he touched her this way. Feeling bold, she groped for his other arm and pulled it around her as well. They stood like that for a long time. "Are you cold?" he asked finally.

"Not since you've come," she replied. She turned around to look into his eyes. "Severus, we need to talk." Something flickered in his eyes, and she felt her heart melt. Was he concerned with what she had to say?

"Hermione, you've not been eating much as of late. Are you not well?" he asked quietly.

She was touched. He'd noticed that she hadn't been eating! "I've just had a lot on my mind lately."

"Such as?"

"Us." She felt him tense up for a moment, but he didn't loosen his hold on her.

"Do I not satisfy you?" he asked softly.

"Oh, Severus, you know that you do. No one will ever compare to you," she said.

Her words bothered him. Was she about to break things off? Even worse, was she thinking of eventually having another lover? He would not have it. He could not let her go until he was ready for her to go. He still hadn't had his fill of her yet. A small gust of wind blew hair onto her face. Instinctively, he reached up to move the strands aside. The way she looked up at him made his stomach tingle. Her eyes held such adoration and need. He cupped her cheek and guided her lips up to meet his. The chaste kiss lasted only a moment before he pulled away. When she smiled at him, he felt compelled to smile back.

"I love to see you smile," she said, bringing her lips back to his. This time the kiss held a promise of passion. He could actually feel himself being aroused by her kiss. No flash of skin or naughty vision had a part in it either. It was her kiss. What did it matter if they shared such an intimacy? By the way she was molding her body to his, it seemed that she had been longing for such affection.

He wanted to kiss her again, but he preferred to be in her bed whilst doing it. "Let's go to your chambers," he whispered.

Hermione's decision to have a talk about their future disappeared. He'd smiled at her. He cared about her health. He was holding her! What had she been thinking? She could not end this. She loved him. Harry's words were just poisoning her mind. This was right. Severus was right. "Will you stay with me tonight?"

"Yes," he whispered before kissing her once more. Damn! Why had he agreed? "It's Saturday. I don't see why I couldn't." That's more like it. Don't be weak. He relinquished his hold on her, but took her hand in his. They walked back to her chambers undetected.

Once they were in her room and had slowly undressed each other, he lay back on the pillows against the headboard, pulling her on top of him. "Pleasure me." He closed his eyes and let her do with him as she pleased. His Hermione loved to touch, kiss, and lick him. His eyes opened the moment he felt her mouth slide down his erect shaft. He loved to watch her as she licked and suckled on him. Her expression was always the same. She seemed amazed that she was doing something so intimate. When he would grunt his approval, she would always smile faintly, pleased that she'd made him feel good.

She'd learnt so quickly. Everything was always perfect now. One look or gesture would alert the other to what was wanted. Words were no longer necessary. As he felt the familiar sensation forming in his groin, he reached down to still her practiced movements with his hand. Her eyes drifted up to lock with his. He needn't say anything more. He simply closed his eyes again and felt her moving over him. In one swift movement, she slid down onto him. He reached out to fondle her jiggling breasts with one hand as the other reached down to caress her arse. Hermione began grinding in circular movements. "Always need you," she murmured.

He opened his eyes to watch her. Without realizing what he was doing, he sat up to get closer to her mouth. "Kiss me," he commanded. Her lips found his, and when her climax began moments later, he muffled her cries with his tongue and mouth. He enjoyed the feel of her body jerking against his whilst her tongue and mouth plundered his. His release came just as hers ended. Once his passed, she slumped forward slightly to steady her limp body.

"Severus," she whispered, smiling softly.

He brushed the damp hair away from her brow as he pulled her back to lay with him. Her head rested on his chest. "Sleep," he said, shifting them on their sides. Her legs tangled with his naturally. He watched her face as she drifted off to sleep. Holding someone intimately wasn't all that bad. What had made him think it would be weak? It was just one more way of pleasing a lover, wasn't it? Oddly enough he couldn't imagine ever holding any of his past lovers this way. Only her.

No matter how good this felt, he couldn't make a habit of it. She would begin to think that they were sharing something more than just a bed. He could admit to himself that he did care for her, but he wouldn't openly say it to her. It would be something that she could use against him. Never give the enemy any leverage to use against you! The enemy? This was no enemy. This was Hermione, his lover. He pushed his thoughts away. There would be time to think of it later. For now, he wanted to rest. When he awoke, he would take her again.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ HG ~~~~~~~~~~~~~ SS ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

ONE WEEK LATER

"Severus, I do appreciate you giving this to me. How soon do you say I can use it?" Rolanda asked happily.

"You must take it in precisely twenty minutes. Had you come earlier, you would have had more time to make arrangements." Severus looked at the leering witch. "Remember, one hour. I would take it and be off to where you need to be."

"I've never had to take it at a precise time before, Severus," Rolanda said, rubbing her chin. "Well, I suppose you would know."

"Yes, Rolanda, I would know, wouldn't I? Be glad that I added that extra ingredient to make it taste better," he said slyly. Her eyes had narrowed right away when she first saw the goblet. She'd taken Polyjuice Potion before and knew what the color and texture should look like.

"Lucky for me I've not very far to go," said Rolanda with a slight wink.

"Pardon?"

"I've made arrangements to have a bit of fun with a friend here at the castle."

Severus' eyes narrowed. He wondered just who her friend was. Potter? Hermione? No, Hermione would not be with anyone else. He shrugged. What did he care? Rolanda's mission would never come to pass. "Hurry along to your chambers, Rolanda."

"I'm going that way now. As soon as the transformation is done, I will glide over to Vector's chambers for a visit. See you," she called, already leaving his office.

Glide over to Vector's? Good Lord! What sort of arrangement had those two made? Without any time to waste, he made his way to Potter's chambers. He nearly panicked when he was informed that the brat wasn't there, but once he turned around, he saw his prey walking towards him.

"What do you want, Snape?" he asked suspiciously.

Severus angrily replied, "Your friend, Rolanda, has told me everything! I daresay, you might want to go see about her. She didn't look too well when I left. You'd better watch your back, Potter." The little berk had the audacity to gesture rudely with his finger before stalking off to Rolanda's chambers. He'd timed things perfectly. Rolanda would just be drinking her potion when Potter arrived. Severus followed leisurely, knowing he had no need to rush anything.

Once he was outside of her chambers, he heard a sudden shriek. He quickly placed a Silencing Charm on the door before walking in. Rolanda had given him the password long ago. He was simply thankful that she didn't have one of those ruddy portraits hiding the entrance. He had been tempted on more than one occasion to hex the haughty witch in the portrait outside of Hermione's chambers.

The sight before him was priceless. Potter was standing there with his mouth gaped open whilst Rolanda was grabbing her crotch. "I've got a few extra bits in here," she said. "I'm not supposed to be Malfoy! What the hell?"

Severus wished that he could see what she and Potter saw, but it only worked for the two of them. Potter finally found his voice. "Rolanda? Draco? How did you do that? Why...er, why are you looking at me that way?"

Rolanda licked her lips. "Mate, you just need to relax. It won't take long. I'll have a go first, and then you can have a go at me after."

"Like bloody hell!" Severus snorted as Potter tripped over a small table in his haste to retreat. Rolanda pounced on his fallen form, trying to pin him down.

It was time to make his presence known. "Well, well, well," he said snidely. "What have we here? Two conspirators finally getting their comeuppance, perhaps?"

"What are you talking about, Snape?" Potter asked, pushing Rolanda aside.

The witch flung herself on him again, trying to rip his shirt off. "Who cares about Snape? Let's get this going, Harry."

"GEROFF!" Potter yelled, pushing her roughly and sprinting behind a table. "You did this, didn't you, Snape? Didn't you?" Severus smirked as Rolanda began stalking the brat around the table. "Get back, Draco! Er, I mean, Rolanda! Snape has slipped you something! Fight it."

"You see what happens to people that meddle in my affairs, Potter? Hmmm?" He raised an eyebrow. "I suggest that you stay out of it. Never dare to approach me again. Never dare to send other men after Hermione. Do I make myself clear?"

"Change her back!" Potter yelled, dodging the witch again.

"It's an illusion, Potter. You and she only see her as being and sounding like Draco. He is the person you've had a frightful sexual experience with, isn't he?"

"You know an awful lot about everything. You were the one that sent him that owl, weren't you?"

"Perhaps," Severus smirked. "Have fun, Potter." He began backing towards the door.

"You can't just leave! Change her back!"

"She will change back in, oh, fifty minutes or so. Enjoy," he said sarcastically. Once he slipped out of the door, he placed a ward on it to keep them within. It wouldn't do for the brat to make a run for it whilst Rolanda was still in that condition. There were students about, after all. He smugly made his way to Hermione's chambers. She wasn't expecting him, but he knew that she would not deny him.

He felt such glee that he wanted to express it the best way he knew how. Sex with Hermione, of course. She would have gotten in from the library not long before. Feeling at ease, he entered her quarters and found her sitting in front of the fire. "Good evening. I didn't see you at the evening meal."

"I had things to do," she said. "I summoned some dinner to my office." She turned to face him. "I didn't think you were coming by tonight."

Severus smirked slightly. "I could leave."

"Stay." Her voice was softer than normal. "I am tired, but I would like for you to stay."

"Hermione," he began, "I don't know if we shou-"

"It's Saturday," she said, throwing his words from the previous week back at him.

"Very well," he said, going to sit with her. "Why are you so tired?"

"I was helping some students with some research for their independent projects, and I guess it took its toll on me. My back hurts slightly," she said, stretching.

Without warning, Severus picked her up and brought her to her bed. He laid her on her stomach and spelled away her clothing. He took off his robes and sat astride her. He chanted a quick warming spell on his hands and began to knead her tense flesh. "Oh, that feels wonderful," she said quietly. He continued massaging her until he felt her relax.

It was then that he began to place small kisses along her spine. He felt her body shiver slightly, and he was amazed at the gooseflesh that had risen all along her back. "Hermione, I want you," he whispered.

He heard what sounded like an assenting sigh as she turned around to face him. "Severus," she said softly. "I've been thinking...about us."

Severus moved away slightly. "And?"

"Well," she said, sitting up to cup his face. "I need to say something." She lightly kissed his lips. "I don't care what you think or say to me in return." Her lips brushed his again. "I just think you should hear me say it." The kiss she gave him then was more forceful, as her tongue invaded his sealed lips and began exploring his mouth. Severus began to kiss her back, feeling a stirring within his soul.

He knew what she wanted to tell him. He could see it in her eyes. He didn't want her to say it. It was important to not hear those uttered words. Not now. Ha! Not ever, a snide voice thought. When she pulled away, he pulled her back, laying her down gently as they kissed. He would keep her occupied. He'd not hear her words of love. It would mess everything up. It would change things. They would have to end their relationship. He knew he cared, and he would hate for her to have any other lover. However, he could not condone such a declaration and remain with her. If he did, it would appear that she'd won her battle for a relationship to develop. "Hermione," he growled as her hands cupped his arse to pull him closer to her.

Unfortunately, there was another voice screaming out her name. What the fuck? Potter! What was he doing here? She moved away from him, summoning a long nightgown. "Something must be wrong."

Severus followed her out to her living area, thankful he'd never undressed. "Where is he?" Potter stormed in. Severus began chuckling at the spectacle. The boy's normally messy hair was disheveled far worse than it had ever been. "Think it's funny, do you? She's only just realized that she hasn't a prick to prick me with, bastard!" The brat drew his wand quickly.

Severus had been prepared for it nevertheless. His wand also pointed to his foe. "What the hell is going on?" Hermione asked, clearly shocked. "Put your wands down."

"No," Harry spat. "Bloody git deserves to have his arse hexed! Did he tell you what he did to me? To Rolanda?"

"No," Hermione said, moving between them. "What is it?" This question was directed to Harry, but she turned to Severus.

"He knows everything. He knows about me being involved in the first bit, he is responsible for Draco coming here, and he gave Rolanda a potion to make her want me while appearing to look like Draco! She's been trying to...shag me!"

Hermione laughed. "You can't be serious." She looked from Harry's furious stance to Severus' smug one. "Severus?"

"Vengeance is sweet," he said, sneering at Harry.

Her heart sank. It had all been about that, hadn't it? He'd been having relations with her until his ruddy potion for Rolanda had been ready, and then he would have had his revenge on them all. He was going to end things. She could have slapped herself. She'd been about to tell him that she loved him. "Is that what this is?" she asked in a whisper.

"It's all it always was, Mione. I told you he was just using you!" Harry said angrily. "Just getting a few free shags because he knows you love him! All the while, he was planning to make arses out of the three of us."

"Not the three of you, Potter. You and Rolanda, yes," Severus said coldly. "I had secretly hoped that a little more would happen than what you've said. Tell me, how is Rolanda coping?"

To his dismay, Potter began laughing. "Thinks it's rather funny. Now she wants me to go back and have a real go at me. Don't think I will, thanks."

Severus scoffed in annoyance. "Of course, she would find it humorous. I might have known." He hardened his glare. "I warned you to stay out of my business, Potter, yet here you are again. I wonder." He paused for effect. "What should I do with you now?"

"Why you bas-"

"Enough!" Hermione shouted. "When will this end?" She eyed Severus and then Harry. "It won't, will it?" She looked to Harry for a moment. "Leave."

"Hermione," he said in disbelief. "You're not going to let him keep on with it? He doesn't care about you. He never will. Can't you see it?"

"I'll be over shortly," she said, widening her eyes. He realized that she meant to break things off, nodded, put away his wand, and left quickly.

She turned around to face Severus. "I think that maybe we should end this." Her eyes didn't quite meet his, and tears suddenly threatened to spill over. "I should have done this last week when I decided, but then you...oh, I thought that you had changed. I can't do this any longer, Severus."

"So," he said coldly, putting away his wand. "That's it?"

She nodded. "I think so. I can't think straight anymore. I've changed so much that I don't even recognize myself. Harry's right. You will never love me. That's something that I need, Severus. This would have happened eventually. It might as well be now. Maybe it will save me a couple of years of heartache."

"Very well. Good evening," he said curtly, sweeping away.

Hermione began to cry almost immediately. He hadn't even tried to change her mind. He truly didn't care. She'd been nothing more than a possession. It was her own fault. She should have known that she was no match for Severus Snape. She couldn't handle his aloof mannerisms, his need to keep her at arm's length all the time, and his lack of affection for her. She needed Harry. He would know what to say. She quickly pulled a cloak over her nightgown and made her way to his chambers.

Severus watched from the shadows as she exited the portrait hole. She was still sniffling and wiping her face. Her expression was one of supreme sorrow. He had done this to her. She thought that he didn't care. I do care about you, Hermione. A part of his mind had repeated the phrase over and over since he'd walked out. He should have told her, but he couldn't. It was better this way. He followed her to Harry's chambers. Potter opened the door and pulled her into a long embrace.

"Mione, I'm sorry, but it's for the best. Stay here tonight," the brat said. Hermione nodded and allowed him to pull her in.

Severus pulled out his wand. He should hex the little bastard! He was going to take advantage of her fragile state. Harry Bloody Fucking Potter was going to get his way after all. He might not have wanted her to begin with, but he most certainly would have her now, wouldn't he?

He, Severus Snape, had allowed this. He'd let his petty mission for vengeance interfere with his sex life. Perhaps he should have told Hermione about his plans. She wouldn't have felt the need to end things if she had known something of his plans. She believed that he had intended to end things.

I simply hope that you won't let something that could be great pass you by. Damn Dumbledore! Would those words always haunt him? He put away his wand. What's done is done. It was over. She was gone. The one woman that cared about him had told him that things were over. The past month had been most satisfying. He would remember it fondly. Severus made his way back to his own chambers where he sat drinking Firewhisky. At some point near dawn, he realized that his feelings for her were more than he'd originally believed.

He didn't love her, but he wanted her in his life. He didn't want Potter or Weasley moving in on what was his. Hermione belonged to him. She'd given herself to him and had chosen him above all others. There had to be a way to get her back without appearing weak and without sniveling at her feet. Severus longed to go to Potter's chambers and drag her away from the berk. He really should hex the little bastard! If he hadn't said all of those things, she would have allowed him to stay. She would have realized that he'd only meant to hurt Rolanda and Potter. Rising, he threw his glass into the fireplace just to hear it shatter. He'd find a way to have her again. "She's mine," he whispered. "I will have her."

~~~~~~~~~~~ HG ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ SS ~~~~~~~~~~~

A/N: Sorry that it's so long, but I had much that I needed to write (ducks away from the approaching howlers). Let me know what you think. Was Severus too mean? I'm glad Hermione finally stood up to him.