Chapter 2

Disclaimer: Still borrowing characters.

Thanks again to the lovely amsev for daring to read through this. LOL

SW Says: Same thing as before.

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The closer they got to his chambers, the more she shivered. "Are you cold?" he asked in an amused voice.

"N-no," she stammered.

"Welcome home," he said softly as he opened the door to his sitting room in his chambers. His chambers resembled McGonagall's chambers; only his were green and silver, the colors of Slytherin. He had four large bookshelves, and he noted how her eyes lit up. "You can go through them another time." He warded his door and placed a Silencing Charm. He walked to a cabinet near his desk and took out a liquor bottle, pouring them each a glass. "Here. I want to propose a toast to my wife." She smiled and took her glass. "Hermione, I want to thank you for accepting my offer of marriage. Just being with you these past couple of hours makes me feel like a different person. Thank you. You have brought hope into my life. I hope that I can one day be everything that you ever wanted."

She tapped her glass on his, and she took a long drink. She coughed only a bit before grinning. "This is some strong stuff." He only smiled and downed his drink. "I know you didn't really want me, but I promise that I will try to make you happy." She downed the rest of her drink, and to her amazement, she didn't choke.

Severus set his glass on the table and was upon her in an instant. "I told you I wanted you," he said before pressing his lips to hers. As she lost herself in the kiss, her glass was forgotten, and it landed somewhere near her feet on the floor. He picked her up and carried her to his bedroom.

He let her stand just before his bed. With piercing, dark eyes, he gazed over her body once before unbuttoning her outer robe. He let it drop to the floor, and she stood before him clad in only her wedding dress and slippers. Severus set her on the bed and kneeled before her. He unlaced one shoe and then the other. He moved them aside, and both of his hands glided up slowly, caressing her skin beneath her dress. When he got mid thigh, he ran his hands back down to her ankles again. He stood, bringing her up with him. He kissed her forehead softly before turning her around. He unzipped her dress and pushed the sleeves down to let it fall on the floor near her robe. She was clad in only a sheer slip. She still had her back to him, so he took a moment to appreciate her long, lovely hair. He gathered two handfuls and brought it to his nostrils. Her scent was intoxicating. Severus ached to be in her, to have release. He turned her slowly around to face him.

Hermione's wide-eyed expression of innocence met his lustful one, and he grinned. He had so much to teach her. Severus kicked off his shoes. He watched her face fill with wonder as he slipped his own outer robe off. One by one he began slowly unbuttoning his shirt until he finally slid that off to land on the floor. He unbuckled his belt and unclasped his trousers, sliding them down to mingle with his shirt. He was standing before her with nothing but his silky, dark green boxers. She gazed at him, and he detected that she liked what she saw. Kneeling before her, he placed his hands on the bottom of her slip. As he slid the garment up, his thumbs traced her bare flesh, and he rose as it did. She gasped as they passed over her breasts. He tossed the garment behind him. Looking her in the eyes, he stepped away from her. Finally, he lowered his gaze to take in her naked body, and he groaned. Perfect. Long, muscular legs, soft stomach, ample breasts. "You are a goddess, Hermione," he said seductively.

He could take no more. He captured her lips with his as he pushed her back on the bed. He kissed her until she was writhing under him, and then his lips traveled quickly over her neck and to her breasts. She was moaning and squirming already. He became intimately familiar with each breast before nuzzling her stomach. He positioned himself between her legs, and his mouth and fingers went to work. He needed to loosen her up a little before he would be able to sheath himself inside her. His tongue swirled and licked her sensitive nub until she was convulsing and whimpering. She finally shrieked in full orgasm. At some point, he had slid out of his boxers, so in one smooth move, he positioned himself to enter her. He kissed her soundly. "Look at me," he commanded. Her eyes never left his as he plunged in. He stilled for a moment as she cried out and her nails dug into his back. He felt her move after a few moments, and he took that as his cue to continue. He gathered her legs around his waist, and when she locked them there, he pulled all the way out and plunged in again. This time she moaned with pleasure from the sensation. He was lost in everything Hermione. He ravished her neck, her lips, her breasts... anything his mouth could reach as he pounded into her.

"Gods, Hermione, you were made for me," he murmured. He heard her breath catch, and then he felt the internal quivering. "Look at me," he whispered, as she had closed her eyes. Stroke after stroke she met him until her body arched off the bed trying to allow him in deeper. She convulsed around him.

"Sev... ver... ussssssss," she shrieked. He slowed his motions as her feelings subsided. When she got that dazed look in her eyes, he began again. Hard and fast he thrust into her until his own orgasm claimed him.

"Her... mioneeee," he groaned and collapsed on top of her. Once he was breathing normally again, he looked into her eyes. "Are you all right?"

"Yes," she said, kissing his lips softly. Her arms held him in place when he tried to move. "Stay," she whispered. "I've never felt that way before. Something just came and took over me."

He chuckled and kissed her nose. "No woman has ever felt so good to me. I want more." She nodded, and he felt himself harden again within her. Slowly, he rocked back and forth, enjoying the sensation of being buried inside her. Before long, they were both reaching their peaks again. This time, he lay on his side and pulled her into his arms. He marveled at how well she fit against his body. They drifted off to sleep for a while, but once he woke and realized she was with him, he began caressing her until she was begging him to make love to her. The last thing he remembered before he drifted off to sleep the second time was thinking that marriage wasn't so bad.

Hermione awoke first the next morning. Or should she say afternoon? It felt like she had slept for many hours. She had been content and peaceful all night. The warm chest pressed against her back made her sigh in contentment. She lifted the hand near her breast and kissed it. She immediately regretted it. What if things went back to the way they were before? Hadn't he said he only expected her in his bed on their wedding night? But he'd seemed to really want her. They had made love three glorious times. She'd never known that sex could be so intimate, so emotional. She had caught herself twice wanting to tell him that she loved him, but she knew it was too soon for that. She was probably just caught up in the midst of swirling emotions.

She moved his arm to rest on his side so she could sit up. The sheet fell to her waist, and she noticed bloodstains on the under sheet. "Oh, no," she said softly. How come he hadn't collected her virgin's blood? A Potions master should have wanted something so precious. Maybe he can use magic to get it from the sheets. "Damn." Then she realized that she was not the only person awake. Her embarrassed eyes met the amused eyes of her husband. "Hi," she said, smiling shyly.

"Good morning, my lady," he murmured.

"I think I messed up your sheets," she said for lack of not knowing what else to say.

He smirked. "I do believe that was to be expected. Are you feeling well this morning?"

"I am a little sore," she said, eyes raking over his thick, hairy chest. She hadn't really been given the chance to admire him the night before. She suppressed the desire to yank the sheet away. It was spread just over his waist shielding her from viewing any other part of his body. He sat up and stretched. She watched the muscles in his arms flex and grinned. His robes sure did hide a lot. His hair was tousled slightly by sleep, but it didn't look too out of place.

He leaned forward to place a chaste kiss on her lips and ran a finger down her body. "You are lovely, Hermione." It was then that she realized she was exposed. She looked down at her chest and blushed. "I'll be right back. Don't move," he said, getting up. He walked across the room completely naked, and she watched hungrily. His body was perfection. Smooth, slightly pale, muscular. He was well endowed, and from the looks of it, he was ready yet again! How can men do that?

She lay back on the bed and pulled the sheet up over her. The thoughts that she was married and was no longer a virgin kept swirling in her mind. She'd married Professor Severus Snape! No other woman could say that she'd accomplished that. What did her future hold for her? Could he fall in love with her? She already felt as if she was falling for him. She wished that she could read his mind. Being a Legilimens sure would be a handy thing.

He walked back to the bed with a vial in his hand. A black bathrobe covered his nakedness. "Drink this," he said. "It will ease your aches."

She did as she was told. It was strawberry flavored. Her favorite. "Mmmm. Thanks. It's very good."

He nodded. "I... made it for you yesterday. I thought you might need it."

"I love the strawberry taste," she offered.

"I know." He kissed her lips softly again, but he pulled away abruptly. "I am going to go run a soothing bath for you. That will help you as well. Do try to hurry though. I'll have a lunch sent up to us. After that, we might want to go see Poppy."

"Severus..." she said.

"Yes?"

"Nothing. I just wanted to say your name." She smiled. He did not reply, though he softly caressed her cheek. He nodded and left the room. She smiled to herself as she crept toward the bathroom. One look in the mirror told her that her hair was still straight and hardly tousled. She removed her flowers that McGonagall had given her and placed them on his sink; then she slipped into the tub. Miraculously, her body felt renewed. All of her aches had disappeared with that potion. She smiled. He had given it a strawberry flavor. How had he known that she would like that?

Suddenly hungry, she washed as quickly as she could. After getting out, she cast a drying spell on her body and let her hair down from the makeshift bun she had put it in before her bath. She had no clothes! How had she forgotten to have her things brought down? She put a crack in the door to see if Severus was in the room. One quick glimpse told her that he was not. The only piece of clothing that she saw was her slip near the bed. She hurriedly put it on. What had he done with her wedding dress and robe? She walked toward the sitting room and peeked around the corner. He was sitting at his table, sipping on coffee, reading the paper.

"Um...."

"Yes, Hermione?" he asked, looking up from his reading.

"I didn't bring my clothes. Can I wear my slip?" she asked uncertainly. She didn't feel so badly when she saw that he was still clad in only his bathrobe.

"Of course. You can wear anything or nothing at all." He gave an impish grin.

Mustering all the dignity she could, she walked over to the table and sat across from him. He continued reading his paper and ignored her while she ate. She felt a little put out. After all they had shared, he could at least try to talk to her about something... anything. After she ate a few slices of toasts, she tried to have a conversation. "Professor?"

He folded down one corner of his paper and glared at her. "My name is Severus, Hermione." He flipped his paper back up.

"Sorry," she said, disappointed in herself for making things worse. She bit her lip and almost wanted to cry. He had warned her though. He would not change. She would just have to be strong about it.

"Well?"

"I just wondered if you could have an elf bring my trunks here. They are packed already, and then I would like to see Madam Pomfrey to get that over with."

"Very well," he agreed.

There was a knock on the chamber door, and Hermione heard Harry's voice. "Mione?" he was calling.

"Oh! It's Harry!" she said excitedly and went for the door.

"And, just what, might I ask, do you think you are doing?" His eyes were cold and narrowed.

"I was just going to... answer the door," she said, unsure why he would be upset about this.

"Wearing only that sheer garment?" His voice was almost a whisper.

She looked down at herself. "I'm covered. It's only Harry."

He slammed his paper down. "Only Potter? You are my wife now. As such, you will behave accordingly. You are not to gallivant in front of any other male in something as inappropriate as that. Go to your room!" he bellowed.

She felt like a reprimanded child, but she scurried off to the bedroom anyway. What had she gotten herself into? He had been fine earlier. He had been so tender and concerned. She couldn't hear what was being said since she'd closed the door, but she wished she could hide. He would probably come in here and say more nasty things.

Minutes later, he came in with her trunks. "Potter sends his regards," he said curtly before turning on his heel and going to the bathroom. It could have been worse she supposed. She hovered her trunks to the far corner before digging into them. She pulled out a matching set of undergarments, jeans, and a sweater. Hurriedly, she switched her clothes using magic. She didn't want him to walk out while she was naked. She felt too vulnerable as it was. She put on her socks and shoes and sat on the bed obediently. She replayed the morning's events in her mind to try to see what she had done that was so wrong. She could see his point about being dressed immodestly in front of Harry. She was married now. She would just have to get used to it. She was seething internally, though, at being sent to her room like a child. Is that how he saw her? She thought after last night he would have realized that she was a woman. Maybe he found her lacking after all.

Well! That was fine! He didn't want to bed her anymore anyway. He had made that clear when he had agreed to offer for her. And he had warned her that he was not a nice man. She would just have to tread carefully. She could make this work. They had done so well working on those potions for the Order, hadn't they? It would be easier, though, if she hadn't let herself have feelings for him. She was attracted to him before this, she realized, and after last night, she could see herself falling in love with him easily. Damn!

Severus came out of the bathroom fully dressed, lacking only a robe. He didn't even look at her as he put on his black robe. She felt so small, sitting in his large bed with her knees pulled up to her chin, waiting for some sort of acknowledgment. She found none as he busied himself with his boots. He strode out of the bedroom door without a backward glance. Could she leave the room? Was she... punished? This was ridiculous! He came back in and said, "Perhaps you would be so kind as to join me in the infirmary?"

She got up and followed him silently, feeling dejected. She could almost feel the anger radiating from him and had wisely chosen to keep her mouth shut. She didn't want to be on the end of any of his tirades. They spoke not one word to each other until they got to the infirmary. "Sit," he commanded. She glared at him for a moment, but she sat down. First, he treated her like a child... now, like some puppy. He glided over to where Madam Pomfrey was. She was beckoned forward.

Severus was instructed to wait outside the screens while Poppy checked his wife. He could see that she was uncomfortable about the entire thing. He didn't understand why Poppy couldn't just take his word for it instead of putting Hermione through the humiliation. He listened closely as the mediwitch tried to lower her voice.

"The hymen is gone, and I conclude that your marriage was consummated. Are you hurting?"

"No," Hermione answered.

"Are you sure, child? There are bruises there that weren't there yesterday," Poppy said in an accusing tone.

"I am fine. I had something for soreness this morning. I don't know why I would be bruised though," his wife said innocently.

Ha! She was a lot smaller than he'd thought. There were naturally a few marks to be seen, even though he had taken the pains to be gentle. The first time anyway. He narrowed his eyes at what he heard next.

"All right, then. I can give you a contraception potion if you would like...just this once. It would be sure to clear up anything that may have seeped through last night, and it lasts for a month. After that, you aren't allowed any, as per the Ministry."

"No, that's all right," Hermione said.

He wondered why Poppy was trying to push the potion off on her, and he was privately pleased that his wife had declined.

"Are you sure, dear? You still have next term left of school. I would hate to see you in the family way while still here," Poppy prodded.

"I'll not take something that would kill life that might be inside me. I'm sorry," Hermione said shortly. "It's just how I feel. If it is meant to be, then it will be."

He smirked. He was feeling better than he had been earlier. So, she would not object to a child right now if their union last night had proved successful. How would he feel about that? A child so soon? His child? The thought wasn't as displeasing as he'd once thought it would be. Motherhood, like everything else, would be mastered by Hermione. Just as she had mastered the art of making love. This morning, after she had gone to take her bath, something unsettling had come over him. He had 'feelings' for her. That had not been part of their deal. He knew he wanted her... desired her. He wanted to possess her... to own her. Not love her.

The way her name sounded on his lips had given him chills. His wife, Hermione, had upset everything he had thought normal. He never spoke before having coffee, yet this morning he was up fetching healing potions and running bath waters. He would not become soft. No matter the cost. Then after, she had come in trying to have conversation before he was ready. He could see that she was nervous, and being the hateful man that he was, he liked it. It was good to know that he wasn't the only one whose life had been turned upside down. He had been contemplating how he could go about getting her in his bed again when Potter had shown up with her trunks.

She would have answered the door in her scantily dressed state! 'It's only Harry' indeed. She would learn that no male would see her as he had seen her. Nobody but he would hear her cries of delight when she was so passionately aroused. He could tell that he had overreacted of course. He had treated her like a child when he'd sent her to her room. He would have to learn subtlety. In time. Severus had no patience at times. He had seen the hurt and defiance in her glare, yet here she was defending him to Poppy. That made him angry as well. Why did she have to be so forgiving?

"She's healthy as a tick, Severus. You've a strong wife there," Poppy said, guiding Hermione out. "I want to see her in a couple of weeks if her monthly cycle does not start." He nodded and led Hermione away.

"We need to go to Diagon Alley," he said suddenly. To his dismay, she said nothing. She merely followed him to the outer gates where they Apparated near Madam Malkin's. He stopped and took in her appearance. Yes, she was angry. So, was he to finally see explosives as Weasley had warned him? This should be interesting. "We are ordering you some new clothes," he stated.

"What's wrong with these?" she asked, looking at her Muggle attire.

He smirked. "My wife does not wear things for comfort. She wears things fitting her station. Though you are little more than a child yourself, I would like to feel as though I have a mature witch at my side. It is hard to continue that line of thought seeing you dressed... like a student," he explained.

"But I am a student," she said numbly, looking into his eyes.

"You are also now Lady Snape and married to the head of a very old, aristocratic family. I suggest that you humor me in this," he said coldly, pulling her into the shop.

Once inside, he instructed the saleswitch to find her at least ten finely woven robes of whichever colors she chose, a couple of dress robes of black or green, and whatever other necessities she required. After everything had been purchased, he Flooed them to his chambers so they didn't have to carry the packages around. He also had her put on one of her new robes over the clothes she'd been wearing. At least now she didn't look like such a... Muggle. Her hair was still gloriously tamed as it had been the night before with her highlights brightening her appearance. Severus approved as he looked at her.

"Very nice," he murmured and thought he saw a small smile on her face. His heart flopped. Damn! What spell was this little nymph weaving? "Do you require anything else, Lady Snape?" he asked formally, offering her his arm.

She took it. "I would like to go to my vault at Gringotts if you don't mind."

"You don't need any of your money, Hermione. You can use my accounts for whatever you need," he said firmly.

"I would like to buy Christmas presents for my friends. I am sure you would rather me not spend your money on those items," she snapped, though her voice was not bitter. "And I wanted to get something while I am in there."

"As you wish," he murmured. He led the way to the bank and rode with her below through the mazes, twists, and turns of the tunnels. Finally, the cart came to a halt. The little goblin took her key and opened the vault. He was impressed by the amount of money she had stacked in the corner. It seemed that her parents had been very well off for Muggles. He was more impressed, however, with the other things he saw. She had many books lining the walls, boxes of non-moving portraits, and other items that could have only come from her family's home. She must have taken all that meant something to her and placed it here to be kept safe. He watched as she dug through a chest and retrieved a small box after she had filled her medium-sized pouch full of Galleons.

"I'm done," she said. He had been examining her books that lined the side of the vault. She had a large mixture of Muggle books as well as Wizarding books.

"What have you there?" he asked casually as they rode the little cart back to the surface. She turned to him, eyes burning with unshed tears.

"I will show you later," she said, nearly sobbing. He nodded and let the conversation drop. Apparently, it was something that had meant a great deal to her. Perhaps just being amongst her family's things had brought on sentimental feelings. Perhaps... maybe she was regretting their marriage already. He nearly jumped at the thought.

They were bound together of course, and the ceremony could not easily be undone. It bode well to remind himself that she was only eighteen, and he should not be so hard on her. She had not asked for the ridiculous law any more than he had asked for it, though he seemed to have gotten the good part of the bargain. After they made their way back to the streets, he asked, "Would you like to eat here in town?"

"If you are not too embarrassed to be seen with me, I wouldn't mind," she said, voice barely above a whisper.

Is that what she thought this was all about? He pulled her to the side of the street to look at her. "I am not embarrassed of you. I just like to give the public a proper display of my heritage. The same heritage that is now yours. One day you will understand that," he said in a low, reprimanding voice.

"So it matters not that I am a Mudblood?" she asked, something akin to defiance flashing in her eyes.

"I have not used that word since the misspent days of my youth, and I abhor it. Do not refer to yourself in such away!" he spat angrily. "Besides, the Ministry is changing everyone's views on that, now aren't they?"

She nodded and allowed him to lead her just outside a large restaurant. The person she saw nearing them gave her a feeling of unease. Marcus Flint was walking slowly toward her. Had he not seen Severus with her? He seemed to be seeing nothing except her. She had been standing there while Severus perused an item some peddler was trying to push.

Flint sneered and bared his grotesque teeth. "Granger. What are you doing all alone here? Don't you know it's unsafe? You filthy little murderer!" She stepped back as he inched closer. "I got a return owl saying that my offer was denied. How very fortunate for you that you found some brainless oaf to take your hand! I assure you I would have done my best to break you and that damned intolerable aura of goodness."

Suddenly, two hands had woven their way around his neck. His startled, bulging eyes met the piercing, deadly gaze of Severus Snape. "How dare you even speak to her!" Snape said, his voice a deadly hiss. "You will apologize." The death grip on the younger wizard was released.

Hermione took an involuntary step toward her husband as Flint gasped for air. "Professor Snape," he finally managed. "I didn't know they reduced you to chaperoning Gryffindors."

"That's my wife, you insolent, little blackguard! You will apologize or face me in a duel," Snape said. Hermione had seen his eyes flash this angrily only a few times before. He had been engaged in battle each time.

Suddenly, with a swish of black and silver fabric, someone was at Severus' side with his wand drawn, pointing it toward Flint. "Is everything all right, Severus?" a cool, drawling voice questioned. Hermione cringed. Lucius Malfoy!

Severus' eyes never left Flint's. "Yes, I am awaiting this lout's apology, or he shall face me."

Lucius' eyes danced with entertainment. He slipped his wand back into his cane and took a step closer to Flint. "Surely, you don't mean to go against Severus Snape?" he hissed, encircling his prey. Then, his eyes met Hermione's fearful gaze. "Ah. Lady Snape, a pleasure of course," he said bowing slightly. She felt an involuntary tremor go through her.

"Forgive me, Professor and Lady Snape," Marcus finally said, looking extremely uncomfortable.

Lucius stepped closer. "Is that all you have to say?" Hermione saw the younger wizard flinch. "You see, I know of your plans for her. It's the reason my son asked for permission to offer for her. I sent in two. One for him, and one for Goyle. At least she would have had a choice that way. Luckily, Severus was there to save the day, eh? Good Lord, man. Speak!"

"Mr. Malfoy has told me that my father's death was an accident, and I have not been able to accept it... until now," he squeaked. "You will not be bothered by me again." Hermione watched in silence as he all but fled away from the pair of ex-Death Eaters.

"Congratulations, old boy," Lucius said evenly. "I see you have come to your senses and finally wed." His eyes roamed over Hermione. Only a few people intimidated her the way this man did. One being her husband, one being her headmaster at school, and the other being an angry Harry Potter. She bit her lip as he assessed her. "She's turned into quite a fetching woman." He took her hand and kissed it.

"I'm so glad you approve, Lucius," Severus said dryly.

"Well, of course, Severus. Only the best for an old friend." Lucius nodded. "Good day, then."

Hermione never realized she was trembling until her husband's arms surrounded her. He Apparated them back to the gates of Hogwarts. "It's all right. Do not be afraid," he murmured in her hair. "He won't try anything stupid. I'm sure of it. Not when he knows he would have to deal with either Lucius or myself." The unshed tears from earlier came rushing back; though she did not sob, she let them glide down her face.

"I've caused you so much trouble, and it's only been a day," she said sadly. "Why even bother with me?"

"It is no trouble, Hermione. I will protect you and make you happy. Or, at least, I will try... Once we become used to each other, it will be easier," he said firmly.

"What was Malfoy playing at back there?" she asked, swiping at her tears.

"He was speaking the truth. I used my ability to tap into his mind. Perhaps he truly is trying to turn over a new leaf. Though he does owe me," Severus said.

"Owe you?"

"Yes, I am the reason he did not spend his full term in Azkaban. I helped him snake his way out so to speak."

"Why?" Hermione asked incredulously.

"He reminded me of me. Caught up in lies and a power struggle with no way out but death. Lucius could never have been a double agent. He is a terrible Occlumens. I persuaded him to give me names, locations, plans, and in return, Dumbledore spoke on his behalf." He smiled ruefully. "Though no one ever knew of course. I did not know if it was wise of us to do that. I never knew if it would come back to haunt me or not. Apparently, for once, I have done something right."

She noted the bitterness in his voice, and she placed a kiss on the hand holding hers. "You have been my hero for nearly three years now, Severus. I think you have more than made up for anything you've done in the past. You've saved both Malfoys and probably even Goyle. And, me."

"I am sorry," he whispered, his voice strained.

"Don't be. I wanted to marry you. Trust in that," she said softly.

"This morning... I was harsh. I am not a morning person, and I had a lot on my mind. Maybe we c..."

She brought a finger to his lips. "It's all right. We'll work something out. As far as Harry, I just didn't think about it. He's more like a brother to me than anything. I just want us to work, and if I have to... change, I will."

Hermione couldn't read the emotions brimming in his eyes, but she thought that it suspiciously might be respect. Or something deeper. "You are an amazing woman," he said, looking as if he wanted to say more.

"I'll try to not embarrass you or your name. I just need guidance," she said, kissing his lips softly. Where had she found the nerve to do that?

He seemed surprised and pleased. "Keep that up, and you'll not be safe from me this night," he said silkily.

"You aren't really going to make me sleep somewhere else are you?" she asked suddenly.

"Do you want to?" His piercing eyes were questioning her.

"No, I thought my place was at your side."

He growled and scooped her up for a long, passionate kiss. "I think you will be my undoing," he whispered as he broke the kiss. Then straightening, she saw him glare hatefully at someone behind them. She turned to see a smirking Draco Malfoy walking toward them. "Yes?" Snape questioned in an annoyed tone.

"Professor, Lady Snape." Draco nodded. "I was hoping to find you. I wanted to make sure that what happened yesterday..."

Snape held up a hand. "It's quite all right, Mr. Malfoy. I am certain your intentions were honorable, though a bit extreme. Rest easy." Draco nodded and moved back toward the castle. Snape saw her pulling the little box out from her robes. "What's in there?" he questioned curiously.

She opened the box, and he saw two dazzling rings. One was a silver and gold band with three small diamonds cut into it. The other was a matching band with three large diamonds protruding from it. "Uh..." she said nervously. "These were my parents' rings. Being part Muggle, I suppose I am a bit... sentimental. I would like to wear my mother's ring in memory of her and in honor of our vows."

"All right," he said softly.

"Severus, I would really like it if you would wear my father's ring. I have no right to ask you, but I just..." To her surprise, he picked up her father's ring said a chant to enlarge it and slipped it on his left hand.

"I would be honored, Hermione. Your parents have reared an intelligent, beautiful creature," he choked out emotionally. She had touched him more than she knew. He took her mother's ring, said the same chant, and slipped it onto her finger. The sparkle in her eyes and the smile that lit her face enabled him to swallow his pride and not feel so bad at allowing her to witness his moment of emotional weakness. She began showering small kisses on his face.

"Thank you so much," she said happily.

***It's the MLC for SS/HG***Weehee!***

Later that evening, he began poring over last weeks' class assignments. "Imbecile dunderheads!" he said darkly. He had fallen behind, as he had been caught up in his personal affairs. Hermione brought him a cup of tea and sat quietly across from him.

"Severus?"

He raised an eyebrow. She knew he didn't want to be disturbed while he worked. "Yes?"

"In your class, do I... am I a better student then you've led me to believe?"

He grinned. "You know you are, minx. Brewing Polyjuice Potion at thirteen years of age? Helping Potter through my potion riddle at age twelve. Brewing the things we did together for the Order. Learning to make Wolfsbane at eighteen? I dare say you are more than a capable student, though I never thought to bestow my thoughts to you."

"Thanks. That means a lot. I thought I was, but then... you always made me feel inadequate."

He smirked. "Is this going somewhere?"

"I would like to propose something." She eyed him warily.

"Go on."

"Would you allow me to help you with years one through four? I have had enough of your scathing comments on my own papers to know exactly what you are looking for, and I feel that my help would lighten your load." She smiled. "Please don't think I am trying to intrude. I just thought maybe..."

He smiled. "You want to be my apprentice, don't you?"

She laughed. "I'm just a wife hoping to help her husband."

He nodded. "You know, you may be on to something. I could then concentrate on my fifth years and prepare them better for their O.W.L.s., and I would be able to concentrate on my advanced classes for those in sixth and seventh years."

"Really?" she asked, excitement flowing through her.

"Yes, so long as it doesn't put you behind in your studies, though I don't doubt that you could pass your N.E.W.T.s on the morrow," he said, smiling appreciatively. The fates had finally been good to him. They sent a goddess into his life, into his bed. More sternly he added, "I, of course, will be sure to check over some of the essays and assignments that you peruse for me just to be sure that the Snape tradition does not waver."

She giggled. "Well, hand some of that over then." He split his stack with her, and they worked in silence for the rest of the evening. Near midnight, they were done. While she wanted nothing more than to crawl into bed, he announced that he was going to make his rounds.

"Do you ever sleep?" she asked in awe.

"I have never been much for sleep... hence my need for silence early in the morning." He grinned wickedly.

"Can I come?" she asked suddenly.

"Why, Lady Snape, dare you leave our chambers after curfew? I could easily take points from Gryffindor." He sneered playfully.

Her brows furrowed. "I hadn't thought of that. Do I still have a curfew? Who do I answer to? You? Minerva? Where do I sit for meals?"

He grinned. "I am sure if you are with me, no curfew would descend upon you. As for the other questions, yes, you answer to your husband first, then to your Head of House. The meals... I should like to have at least one meal with you each day. Perhaps the evening meal?"

"I would like that. Do I sit with you?" she asked.

"Of course! You don't think I would dare grace the Gryffindor table, do you?" he asked indignantly.

She laughed at the thought. She could see Neville passing out, Harry grinning, and Ron's expression of horror. "I would like to sit with you then, sir. And I appreciate that you will allow me to sit with my friends at the other two meals."

His gaze dropped to the ring on his hand. "I've never been one for jewelry, though I must admit that I rather like this ring."

"I'm glad." She got up and kissed his cheek. "Go on with you then."

"What? Not braving curfew?" he asked, teasing her.

"Certainly not without Harry's Invisibility Cloak. You never know what professor might be lurking out there, ready to take points."

"Rule breaker!" he called at her retreating back. As he made his rounds, he thought about the day's events. Things would be all right. There was light at the end of the tunnel for once in his life. He could feel his feelings deepening for her. He was indeed falling in love. Something he'd never thought possible. How had a slip of a woman gotten into his heart so quickly? He could see that she cared for him. She would love him. It was in her nature. He fingered the ring on his hand. Forever, he thought happily. When he finally got back to their chambers, she was sleeping soundly. He didn't have the heart to wake her, nor was he sure that his advances would be welcome so soon. She was probably still tender. He contented himself with holding her sleeping form to him all night.

***It's the MLC for SS/HG***Weehee!***

The next day had been uneventful. Hermione noticed much whispering in her direction. She had breakfast with Ron and Harry as usual. Lunch as well. They asked if she would be able to go down to Hagrid's hut with them after the evening meal, and she told them that she would. Although she hadn't let her husband know just yet. Surely, he wouldn't mind. She would talk to him that evening during dinner. She had seen him for a few moments after lunch as he walked her to her Advanced Arithmancy class. The students stared slightly at the sight of their foreboding Professor Snape walking with his arm looped through hers, but they scattered the moment he turned his eye on them. He had told her to meet him at the entrance to the Great Hall before the meal so that they could walk in together.

He was waiting for her as she made her way to the hall from the library. "Hi," she breathed softly, kissing his cheek. He nodded and took her hand in his. Together they made their way to the head table. They shared an enjoyable conversation, though they were the objects of many stares. She even saw Harry and Ron sniggering. "Severus," she said softly. "Would you mind terribly if I went with Harry and Ron to visit Hagrid after we eat?"

The glass he had been bringing to his mouth paused in mid action. He turned to look at her and then to the Gryffindor table. "I don't suppose that would be a problem." She could tell that he didn't like it.

"Er... would you ... would you like to come?" she asked softly. Although she wanted to spend time with her friends, she didn't want him to be upset. They had gotten on so well yesterday evening.

He smirked. "No, thank you. I have potions to test and essays to look over."

She felt guilty. "I won't be long, and then I will come help you."

"All right," he agreed. She felt a tingle in her stomach as he laid a possessive hand on her thigh while she finished eating. It was as if he was trying to mark her so that no one else would approach her. Well, he needn't worry. She never was a man magnet, though she rather appreciated Draco's gesture to help her even though he had gone about it all wrong. She squeezed his hand tightly before heading to the Gryffindor table.

"Ready?"

"Sure, let's go," Harry said. They made their way to Hagrid's hut, and they heard all about his latest 'cute' pet. Eventually, they made their way back to the castle. Hermione stood talking to her friends before they had to separate. Them going above and her going below. They were just about to part ways when she heard a scathing remark from someone she thought was a friend.

Roger Davies stood with his arms crossed. "Well, I guess we finally see why you have such good grades, don't we? How long have you been shagging the evil Potions master?"

"What?" She couldn't believe her ears. And Hannah Abbot was standing there not saying a word. "Is that what you think?"

Hannah shrugged. "Well, sorry, Hermione, but I mean nobody ever got good grades in Potions except you."

"You two best sod off," Ron said angrily. "Everybody knows Mione studies harder than anyone in school. She always has."

"I beg to differ. I study just as much, yet my grades are nowhere near hers," Davies commented.

"Maybe you're a dense git," Draco's drawling voice said as he came nearer. "Snape never laid a finger on her before they were married."

Ron, Harry, and Hermione exchanged glances as Malfoy, Goyle, Zabini, and Parkinson circled around Hermione and her soon to be ex-friends. "What's it to you, Malfoy? You don't like her anyway," Davies pointed out.

"She's a Gryffindor," Hannah commented.

Smack! Pansy Parkinson slapped Hannah on the face. "She's our Head of House's wife. You will respect her."

Hannah was holding her face and near tears when Roger pulled her close. "How dare you?"

"Oh, but we do dare," Draco drawled. Zabini and Goyle each pulled Davies away from Hannah. "Wand at the ready, Davies. You won't get away for these insults."

Ron and Harry had come down from the stairs as well to watch the duel. They would be sure it was fought fairly even though they hoped Davies would be flattened. "Get his arse, Malfoy!" Ron called. "Wanker!"

Davies gulped but bowed to Malfoy. They took their paces. Each turned around. Zabini counted down. "Three, two, one..."

Davies hexed first, but Draco shielded himself. He then sent a Jelly Legs Hex to Davies that hit him in the chest. Davies didn't drop his wand and accidentally sent a Serpensortia to Draco. He looked smug as Draco backed away. Draco sent a Disarming Hex to Davies and won the duel, but the snake was still sliding toward Draco menacingly.

Harry stepped forward and started speaking in Parseltongue. The snake stopped, looked at Harry, and then quickly made his way to where Davies and Hannah were now standing. Hannah ended his Jelly Legs Jinx and had picked up his wand. But both made haste to get away from the snake. Those remaining were laughing wildly.

"Good one, Potter," Draco said grudgingly.

"Thanks," Harry said. "See you, Hermione."

"Good show!" Ron called.

Hermione made her way to the dungeons with the group of Slytherins. "Er, thanks," she said before making her way to her new chambers.

"We take care of our own," Draco said.

"When Snape took you in, we all did," Pansy commented. Hermione smiled and nodded understanding. She felt elated until she walked into her chambers and met Severus' angry face.

He was seething. She had been gone for over an hour. That was more than enough time to visit blubbering Hagrid. Had she been 'practicing' snogs with either of the two boys? Jealousy raged through him. "Tell me, where have you been?" he demanded. "I let you go without a female, deciding to trust you, and this is how you repay me?"

She gulped. "I... I went to see Hagrid. You said that I could go, and then..."

"You said that you would not be long. I assumed maybe thirty minutes at the most. It has been nearly two hours now!" He was in a rage. His lips were white with anger. She had been inconsiderate! Didn't she know that he had been waiting all day to spend time with her? "Have you been doing anything that you shouldn't have been?"

She couldn't believe this! He was accusing her of being disloyal! She had had enough. "He was showing us his new pet, and we listened to him. He doesn't have many visitors! How dare you accuse me of being inappropriate! Do you know that people I thought to be my friends just verbally attacked me? They accused me of sleeping with you for good grades! If it wasn't for your Slytherins, I'm sure Harry and Ron would be in deep trouble right now!" She was screaming loudly now and shaking with rage. "I have only ever slept with one person and that wasn't until I was married. Now everyone thinks I have loose morals?"

She made to storm toward the bedroom, but he grabbed her arm, roughly pulling her to him. He enjoyed the feisty spark in her. It made him want... no, need her. He crushed her lips with his and picked her up. He didn't stop until they reached his bed. He dumped her unceremoniously onto the bed before chanting a spell to remove both of their garments. He chanted a Lubricating Spell on her before dropping his wand to the floor.

Hermione couldn't believe this! He'd yelled at her, she'd yelled back, and now he wanted her? So much for the honeymoon! She felt wetness begin to pool in her nether regions and realized what he was doing. She scooted back, but he pulled her under him with all the grace of a mad man. Forcing her legs apart with his knee, he positioned himself over her. As he gave her another bruising kiss, he slammed into her. Her muffled cry didn't go unnoticed as he stopped his movement for a moment and kissed her a little more softly. The moment she began to kiss him back timidly, he began thrusting into her over and over until she was about to burst. All of her anger was slowly draining away and was being replaced by another blissful emotion. Crying and panting, she finally succumbed to the feeling and shrieked out his name. She felt him lose himself within her and collapse onto her.

"I am sorry, Hermione," he choked out before springing away from the bed. He threw on his robes and stalked out.

What the hell had just happened? It had happened so quickly. She shakily sat up and pulled the top sheet around her. He had been rough, unfeeling, demanding... and she'd liked it. From the look of horror on his face just now, she knew that he probably thought he had raped her. Had he? Well, no, he was her husband. Her body was his right...just as his was hers. And she had consented. Hadn't she? She'd wanted him. She loved the feelings that he brought out in her. She stood up shakily and pulled on jeans and a tee shirt. She threw a set of new robes over them and went to find him. She was now throbbing between her legs from his roughness, but he had felt good to her at the time...after the initial thrust anyway...so she pushed those thoughts away. Making her way to the lone tower above the library, she found him. His arms were crossed in front of him as he stared out into the night. The icy wind blowing his hair wildly as the moonlight silhouetted him made him look so... beautiful. He was hurting. He thought that he had hurt her. His words had hurt her some, but she would be sure to let him know that his actions were not unwanted.

He must have sensed her because he went rigid just before she circled her arms around his waist from behind. She pressed her body and head to him tightly. "Why are you here, Hermione? Why would you want to be near me after... that?"

She placed a kiss on his back. "Because I want to love you...already do care a great deal." She felt him release a deep breath. Then she felt him shudder slightly. Was he crying? She wanted to look into his face, but she knew he would be uncomfortable with that. She just tightened her hold on him and placed a few more kisses on his back. Finally, his arms reached back behind him to clasp at her sides.

"I don't deserve you," he said. "I deserve no one."

Suddenly, comforting him became the most important thing in the world to her. "Deserving or not is a moot point. You have me. And I want you. All of you. Snarky Potions professor, evil Death Eater, loyal Order member, Severus the gentleman, Severus the hero. You are mine, Severus. I will not let you go, nor do I want you to think that anyone else could ever tempt me away from you. No one compares to you."

He turned around and looked into her eyes. She could feel some tickling in her mind. He was trying to see if she was telling the truth. 'Well, let him look,' she thought. 'Let him see how I feel.' Then her heart melted. He gave her the softest smile that she'd ever seen him give. His features softened so much that he looked half his age. His eyes were no longer piercing but... loving. "I adore you," he said softly before kissing her gently. Those were not the three little words that she would have wanted him to say, but they would do. For now. Love would come. Love had come. She knew that. He wasn't ready to say it yet, probably didn't completely feel it yet, but she knew that he would. She gave a silent thanks to whatever idiot had come up with the marriage law. It had given her the man of her dreams.

Severus held her closely after their lips parted. He had delved into her mind, and he had seen many things. Her mind was filled with flashes, but they were mostly of him: him sneering at her many years before, yelling at her, and putting her down; him from last year when they had worked amicably together; him from Order meetings; him in battles they had fought in; him dancing with her on their wedding night; him making love to her. He felt the love emanating from her. It overwhelmed him. Yes, he adored her. Deep down, he knew that he was falling in love with her. How could he not? She had changed him after all. Something he had vowed wouldn't happen. They would survive. She would be the mother of his children. He would live his life protecting her and his family. And even her ruddy friends! "Let's go home," he whispered and led her into the castle.

***And they lived happily ever after...with triplets who each had a hard to spell name and with many cherished friends***

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Southern's Notes: I just want it stated for the record that I've always had a soft spot for Marriage Law stories. No offense to anyone is intended. I just like to snicker about things sometimes and hope others can be entertained as well.

Confession time: I wrote most of this years ago, and gasp!!! I meant it as a serious story. LOL Now you can see why I never posted it. I figured adding some things in and cheesing it up some would make for a good parody. Hope you've had fun, mates!