Chapter Two

Disclaimer: All characters belong to J.K. Rowling. I own nothing here except the plot. This is for entertainment purposes only. Happy reading!

A big thanks to my original beta, Charmed Nay, and another big thanks to GinnyW for doing the beta work this time around.

The next few days were pure torture for Severus. Each night at some point she would come to him. Twice she had gotten as far as being completely naked, and had begun to stroke him before he had the strength to try to turn her away. The Succubus was just too alluring. When she became angered, her eyes would flash dangerously, and it looked as though she meant to take him anyway. Fawkes or Dumbledore had been coming to his rescue. He couldn't keep imposing on the headmaster that way though. Some nights he would just have to take the damn Dreamless Sleep Potion and be done with it. He wondered how Granger was faring.

It looked to him as if Weasley and Potter had named themselves her champions, as if they were trying to keep her from the clutches of the evil Potions master of Hogwarts. He'd caught Potter staring a few times, and Weasley always scowled at him. It was no doubt that she'd told them about the situation. They were her best friends after all. Damn Golden Trio! As long as nobody else knew, he supposed he could live with it. Tomorrow night there would be that stupid party Dumbledore had put together. He was told that he had to attend as part of the staff to oversee the students. Severus wondered briefly if Albus had told the staff about his problem. When he walked into the staff meeting the previous evening, it seemed all conversation stopped. He even thought that he detected a hint of amusement on Hooch's face. She'd tried to corner him afterwards, but he had fled as quickly as possible.

Now he was beginning to feel like a stalker. Every time they were in the hall, a corridor, or in class, he couldn't stop himself from looking at her. He even patrolled the halls out of his way for a momentary look at her. His eyes, even now, moved of their own accord to where she was sitting with her friends. She looked up at that moment, blushing slightly. Could this shy girl actually become an enticing temptress? It was a question that had been haunting his mind as of late. He resisted the urge to walk over to them. What would he say if he did talk to her? It wouldn't be safe for either of them. The urge to slap her and kiss her would be at war. No, he'd just stay away. For now.

He watched Hermione fixedly as she picked up her book bag and was led away by Potter. Weasley sauntered behind them glowering back every few moments. Severus sprung up, suddenly remembering an important potion that he could be brewing. He was able to catch a single glimpse of her as she made her way up the staircase. Feeling daft, he made his way down to the dungeons.

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

Hermione sighed. "I can't believe it! Tomorrow is my last day of regular class. I hope I am ready for this," she said softly. Her tests wouldn't be a problem to pass. She'd always been studious. She would pass everything easily enough. Her concern was with her upcoming apprenticeship. Would the students respect her? Would Severus...er...Professor Snape respect her? Over the last few days, she'd continually pondered the future. How would it have been for them if this hadn't occurred? How many years would it have taken for him to notice her as a colleague? A woman?

Harry grinned. "I think you would have been ready last year, Mione. You're the most brilliant witch I have ever met. I think that you are doing the right thing. Staying here at Hogwarts. I...I wouldn't mind it myself in all honesty." Ron, who had caught up with them, snorted.

"What would you like to do? You're not going for Aurors now, are you?" She knew they weren't, but she was trying to get them to decide what they would do. It had been their dream to fight the injustices of the world, but after the battles they had been in, the job had lost its luster for them. The boys never wanted to talk to her about what they had decided on since then.

Harry and Ron exchanged glances. "We intend to play Quidditch of course. We'll see what there is to do after that," Ron said happily. Damn! Didn't they know there was more to life than playing Quidditch, and just how did they know they would be accepted on a team? She only nodded, not wanting to hurt their feelings.

"I think I will get to sleep early tonight if you don't mind. I have a lot to do tomorrow, it being my last day and all. I Owled Mum and told her to not bother coming for me since you invited me to the Burrow, Ron. She hasn't replied yet. I just hope she's not disappointed. I just figured it would be best not to...you know...go home while this is going on until I can research further." Hermione's brow was gathered in thought. "I wonder how he is doing with all of this."

Ron laughed evilly. "I hope he's being tormented."

Harry just shook his head. "It looks like he is managing all right as far as I can see."

Ron guffawed. "Don't you see how he looks at her? A bit creepy if you ask me about it. It's like he's studying her or something. Git doesn't take his eyes off of her the whole time we are in the hall. Haven't you noticed?"

Hermione shrugged. She had noticed that he looked at her often, but it was no more than she looked at him...surely. Those dark eyes. That penetrating stare. His graceful hands. His seductive voice. She shook herself. Where had that come from? Damn, must be after effects of the erotic dreams she'd had of late with the Incubus. Ron and Harry would wake her as soon as she began thrashing about, but each time he'd gotten closer. He'd say all the things that she longed to hear. He would completely disrobe now, but she would avert her eyes. It didn't seem to be right to actually see her professor's body without his permission. She could feel every part of his skin against hers, though as his hands and mouth began their seduction.

"Couldn't you just...make love to someone else? I mean wouldn't that help?" Ron questioned.

"I don't think so. I mean, I would no longer be a virgin, but it's already coming to me. I don't know if that would stop it. And, besides, no one interests me that way," she said softly. "If it was a normal Incubus, maybe that would work, but I don't see that helping here. Not when it's him."

Ron was silent for a moment. "Well, Harry or I would do it. Let one of us try. You never know. It might just work. I mean, it's just us. We wouldn't tell anyone. It might blast the git's Incubus off its course. It's not like you'd regret being with us, as we're your best mates."

"Ron!" Harry admonished, but the damage was done. "Could you shut your mouth for once? Don't speak for me either!"

"You imbecile!" Hermione shouted. "How dare you?" She jumped up, pushed him down onto the chair, and ran to her room, warding the door behind her. Wouldn't regret it, would she? How could he even suggest that? She heard them knocking at her door. She knew she needed them to watch her sleep, but she couldn't let them in yet. Besides, she could always read for a bit. Harry would have sense enough to wait her out. How dare he say that! They were like...brothers. She couldn't do that. She pulled her book from her bag and lay down to read. Within moments though, she was fast asleep.

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

Severus Snape was just adding the last ingredient to his potion when he felt suddenly aroused. What in the world? He could hear someone whispering his name. He looked around wildly. He was awake. There was no Succubus here. What was going on? Then he realized. The Incubus must be with Hermione. Damn her! He chanted a Suspension Spell on his potion, so as not to interrupt its progress, and ran for Gryffindor Tower. He could feel desire building within himself. It was her desire for him. They were linked somehow. He must not have noticed it before because he was more than likely sleeping by the time her Incubus visited. Unless those small tremors of arousal he felt were her feelings. They didn't last long. He chalked it up to desire that stemmed from his personal thoughts. This feeling, though, this was the feeling of someone on the edge of oblivion. She would likely have an orgasm soon.

He reached the portrait of Gryffindor's Fat Lady. "Open," he bellowed. All portraits were instructed to open for professors, so she didn't question him. He walked in quickly, robes billowing menacingly behind him. He saw Potter and Weasley outside her door, looking dejected. Both were sitting against the wall, but they stood quickly when they saw him enter. The remaining room of students gasped at the sight of their wicked Potions master in their safe house.

He walked purposefully towards her door. "How long has she been in there?"

"Ten minutes, sir," Potter answered quickly. "She's warded us out." He noted that Weasley looked guilty. "Can you get in?" Snape nodded, already beginning to test her wards. Simple enough to break.

"Stay here," he commanded. They nodded and moved out of his way. He broke her wards after only a moment. He entered her room, slamming the door shut behind him. The loud noise didn't rouse her as he had planned. She was asleep on her bed with a book loosely held in one hand. Nothing seemed amiss even though his body still felt her arousal. Was he too late? Had his mind been playing tricks on him? He had apparently made a fool of himself by coming here to save her from her Incubus, but as he turned to go, she moaned. He froze, turning back slowly. She was squirming now, and she had even started mumbling incoherently. Only a few words were decipherable.

"I can't...." she was saying. "I'm not ready. Oh, my..." He went to her and shook her roughly. That voice. It was the husky voice his Succubus used, and he immediately reacted to it. He wanted nothing more than to climb in bed with her, but he could not...would not...do that.

"Hermione, wake up," he said softly. "Wake up." She grabbed the hand on her shoulder in a death grip before bringing it to her lips for a kiss. He tried to extract it, but she held it firm, sliding her tongue on his palm.

"I do want you..." she said softly, "but not like this." That almost made him lose himself. He snatched his hand away forcefully.

"Miss Granger," he barked. "Wake up this instant!"

She shot up into a sitting position. "Wh-what?" He watched as her face took in her surroundings and landed on him. She began wildly feeling for her clothing, which consisted only of her school skirt and blouse. Her robes and cloak lay on the chair next to her bed. Looking around the room, he noticed two pillows and blankets on the side of her bed.

"Your Incubus was here," he informed her. "I am not he, so do not be alarmed."

"How did...what are you doing here?" she asked, dazed.

"I just...knew. What's the meaning of this?" he asked, pointing to the makeshift pallets on side of her bed. He narrowed his eyes. What exactly had been going on in here?

"You knew? I mean to say, thank you, Professor," she said nervously, drawing her knees up below her chin. A flash of white, lacy panties startled him, and he jumped back. Did she not know what she did to men? Loathing his visible reaction to her, he masked his desire.

"Explain this," he bellowed, pointing once again to the side of her bed.

"Harry and Ron...they wake me usually when....when you come for me," she said, voice full of fear. She seemed nervous.

Something unleashed within him. Those two idiots had taken to sleeping in here with her? He would not have it! Fate said that she belonged to him...or would at some point. If they witnessed anything like he had just seen, they would be coming all over themselves, and one would be most tempted to take advantage of her. "You dare to bring boys into this dorm room? Alone?" Why was he feeling so...jealous?

"But, it's just Harry and Ron. They are like brothers to me. Honestly, I didn't know what else to do. Once it's gone...the Incubus...they go on to their own rooms." She was pushing back against her headboard now, trying to get as far back as she could. She seemed to think he was going to lash out at her.

"Be that as it may, Miss Granger, I don't think you fully realize what they have to endure when you are having an encounter. The moaning, the twisting of your body! I have been here for one minute, and it makes me want to dive in with you!" he yelled. What? Why had he told her that? Damn! "We'll have to find another solution for you. You don't expect them to stay with you in your new chambers once you become a member of the staff, do you?"

She was near tears. Why was he doing this to her? "Professor, I swear, I didn't know what else to do. I told you I would fight it. I just thought it best to be awakened. I never thought about having my own chambers after the holidays. I just...I am confused." A few tears escaped, making their way down her cheeks.

Snape resisted the impulse to wipe her tears away. Little chit! "Where are you spending the holidays?"

"The Weasleys have invited Harry and me," she said, wiping her tears off her face.

Weasley! Probably just trying to get her alone. Or, was it Potter? Bloody bastards! "I must insist that you take the Dreamless Draught with you. You will be too far away, and I don't believe I will be able to rescue you from your Incubus. It's the only guarantee we will be safe until we can find another way around this."

"I don't want to become addicted," she said indignantly. "I'll be gone for nearly three weeks! And, besides, I room with Ginny while I am there. I promise you, she will wake me. I will just have to confide in her about what is going on, but she won't breathe a word of it," she pleaded. "Please don't make me take it." He couldn't make her take it, could he?

"Why have you not asked her before now? Surely, it would be more appropriate to have a girl in here than two boys. Boys who could easily be turned on by your...outbursts!" He was ranting again. She stood up on the other side of the bed and faced him squarely.

"Harry would never...!" She took a deep breath. "And, Ron...he wouldn't...he...Oh." He watched as her face fell. So, Weasley had tried something, had he? That damn prat! He would tear him apart.

"Has he tried to...?" He didn't finish the question. If he voiced it, he would lose all control. How dare the boy try to take advantage of her!

"No, he just said that maybe...maybe if I wasn't..." her face went red.

"If you weren't a virgin?" he questioned, knowing full well it was what she meant.

"Yes, he said that maybe it would go away since I would no longer be chaste." Her soft, wet, brown eyes met his black, cold eyes.

"I think it is a bit late for that, Miss Granger. You are bound to me in this. You will not be with Weasley. Do you understand?" he asked menacingly, taking a step closer to her side of the bed. "You will not allow him in here again. He desires you, and he will take advantage of that."

She nodded. "It's why I locked them out. I won't do such a thing. They are like brothers to me. I won't betray you," she said so softly that he almost didn't hear it.

He blanched. Won't betray me, he thought. What the hell? Why that insolent little witch! She was implying that they had some sort of...relationship. Which they did, of sorts, but she didn't need to be voicing it! "Miss Granger, there is nothing to betray between us. We have nothing except this damn...curse, as I would call it for lack of a better word. Feel free to bed whomever you wish...just don't waste yourself on Weasley. Be with someone who actually wants you without knowing how needy you truly are! In any event, I think you should perhaps be with someone not so close to you. It may ruin your little friendship!" With that, he angrily spun on his heel to vacate her room. Potter stood his ground near the door, but Weasley slinked back a few steps when Snape glared his way.

"You," he spat, pointing to Weasley. "I better not hear of you being in there again. If you go in, I shall personally make you pay." Weasley's eyes went wide, and his mouth gaped open in shock! "Potter, see to her." Snape eyed everyone coldly before sweeping out of the portrait hole. Ron made for Hermione's door, but Harry stopped him.

"Ron, you heard him. He doesn't want you in there," Harry said, eyes pleading with Ron.

"Why can you go, but I can't?" he asked incredulously. "She and I have been broken up for a year now, and I am sort of seeing Luna!"

"But, he must know...what you said...about ...you know," Harry hinted, not wanting the others lurking nearby to hear.

Ron's face fell. "I didn't mean that though, Harry. I was just....I don't know what I was about. I just want to help. I can't stand that he's always watching her...waiting for her to go to him. I hate it! She's too good for the likes of him, she is!"

"It's her life, Ron. Let me go to her." Ron nodded, and Harry entered her room to find her crumpled next to her bed, crying wildly. He immediately went to her to hold her close. Poor Hermione, he thought bitterly. He didn't like what was happening any more than Ron did, but he wouldn't add to her grief by saying the things that went through his mind as Ron did. That was the last thing she needed.

Hermione whimpered in Harry's arms. Why had she said that? She would never betray him. How ridiculous she had been! She wasn't thinking clearly. Deep down, she truly believed that they would be together one day as The Fates had meant them to. Because of that thought, along with her nightly visits from the Incubus, she had taken to thinking of him as sort of her betrothed. Clearly, he wanted no part of it. He had even told her to go and bed someone else!

But, before that, he was enraged to think that another man had propositioned her. The professor had even made sure to demand that she not sleep with Ron. He had gone as far as to forbid Ron from coming in here. Harry seemed to be no threat to him though. He was such a cruel man. His eyes had been filled with something dark. Most likely it was disgust. What a ridiculous girl she must seem to him! Well, he was right. She could still be with other people even though her Incubus took his form! They had no relationship to obstruct a fling or two. He obviously didn't care, did he? I'll show you that I can find someone, Professor.

"Do you want to talk about it, Hermione?" Harry asked.

"I don't know, Harry. I think that I just made things worse between us. If Ron was right about him always looking at me, I think its only because he is daydreaming about my demise. He loathes me, I think." She sighed. "I only hoped..."

"That he would be interested in you?" Harry offered.

"Yes. I'm going to be a part of the staff here. After learning all of this, it's been on my mind constantly. I've found myself thinking that he's attractive, that I could see myself with him, and that I could love him eventually. My nightly dreams are so real that when I see him in the flesh, my heart and body ache for him. It's almost as if we really are sharing intimate moments." She pulled away from Harry. "But, he told me to go shag someone as long as it isn't Ron! I guess he's been doing the same thing. Maybe it eases the frustration."

"He seemed concerned when he came into the common room. When he left, he acted like a jealous lover," Harry said with a grin. "I think maybe the professor feels more than he is letting on. Don't do anything you might regret, Mione."

"Oh, I'll not regret anything, Harry. I'm frustrated. I'm annoyed. I'm hurt. Whatever it is that I do, I can guarantee that I won't regret it. As he said, there is no reason not to indulge myself. I want to feel those things that I feel in my dreams. So, why not?"

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

While getting ready for the party, a wicked thought occurred to Hermione. She would take a lover tonight and lose this blasted virginity! Who knew? Maybe it really would break this...curse as he had called it. That's right. She would get dressed in a Muggle dress that she had bought over the summer. It hugged her every curve. It was only by chance she had brought it here. They didn't get to wear Muggle clothes often, but she would show herself off tonight, as she knew she was capable of being seen. She would look...seductive. That would show the old bat! How dare he! She set about getting ready.

She got out her wand and went to work. Her hair was properly curled and scooped up in a glorious crown on her head, and she allowed a few wisps to escape near her face and neck. She thought that looked sexy. She applied dark, red nail polish to her nails before she lengthened them just a tad. She put on matching lipstick as well. Carefully, she applied Muggle make-up as her cousin had instructed her over the summer. She used light brown, tan, dark brown, and olive colors to bring out her eyes. She finished up with black eyeliner and mascara. She applied a bit more powder to her face, and then took a good look in the mirror. She did not recognize herself. She looked more mature. Older than eighteen. Pretty even. With a flick of her wand, her large shirt disappeared, and a black strapless dress took its place. She had matching lacy, black panties. There was no need for a bra. The dress cupped her breasts perfectly, adding to her already ample cleavage. There was no need for stockings either, as her legs were tanned and smooth already from her earlier ministrations. There was a knock on her door. It was Harry.

"I'll meet you there. I'm not ready," she called. She was actually ready, but she didn't want him or the others to see her until she was there. She put on her Muggle high heels, feeling more confident being able to stand two inches taller. She turned slightly before the mirror. There was a slit on one side, but you couldn't really see much of her thigh. Hermione hoped Snape would eat his words! That arrogant git! Bed whomever she wanted indeed! Now, she only needed to pick someone out who would have her.

She loved the way the dress clung to her body, though her stomach was not exactly flat, it looked perfect in the dress. She felt...confident...sensual. She could do this. She took another sip of her firewhisky. It was her second glass. She had smuggled it from Ron's dorm earlier, and he never knew the difference. Just a tad of blush, and she was ready. It was her last night at Hogwarts as a student. Well, was she a student still? Who cares! She walked to the door and opened it cautiously. She didn't bother with a cloak since the firewhisky had warmed her immensely.

Easily, she glided down to the Great Hall, and she stood outside for a moment before entering. She heard Dumbledore wishing everyone a good time, and then she heard voices chattering as whatever band he had hired was ready to begin. She took this moment to walk in. Enter Hermione Granger...on a mission to be deflowered. The moment she walked in, all talking ceased as she made her way toward Harry, Ginny, Ron, and Luna. Her two best friends were gaping at her in a less than pleasant manner. She noted that Ginny stamped on Harry's foot. She looked at no one but her friends. She knew the entire hall was staring at her. She...liked it. She had finally come out. She was now finished with school. She would come back as part of the staff. She felt... superior to all students. She smiled at her friends when she got close. They were almost too stunned to talk.

Severus watched her walk in. It was his Succubus. I have fallen asleep at this dreadful party! But, why was everyone still here? He was usually alone in his bed when she would come for him in his dreams. He looked to Albus. Those damn twinkling eyes met his. "Am I awake?" he asked cautiously. Minerva answered before the headmaster could.

"I would say so, Severus. Doesn't she look ravishing?" He didn't reply. His eyes followed her. She would be the death of him. What was she playing at coming in here looking like that? Her soft curves were completely visible now; her breasts were hidden, yet visible enough to make him want to touch them. He couldn't explain away his reaction to her this time. His Succubus had come to life. She made no attempt to search him out in the crowd, and this angered him. He had been mulling over her words since he'd heard them. I will not betray you, she had said softly. And, he as much as told her to go on with it as long as it wasn't Weasley. Damn! She was here tonight to find someone. It was the only thing he could think of. She never worried about her appearance. He would be sure that she kept to her vow whether he wanted her or not. She would not betray him. He glared hatefully at everyone.

Albus and Minerva exchanged glances when they saw the dark look on Severus' face. "This could be quite entertaining," she whispered conspiratorially to her lover.

"Yes, Minnie, I do believe this party was a great idea after all," Dumbledore said, whisking her away to the dance floor to break the ice. No one was attempting to dance yet. He was glad that Minerva had told the staff about the goings on. No one would interfere if something did happen between the pair.

Ron whispered in Hermione's ear, "Don't look now, but the greasy git can't take his eyes off of you. He seemed shocked at first, but now he seems angry. Good luck." Ron's expression told her that he feared the man. She wondered briefly exactly what it was that the professor had told him.

She smiled, but didn't let it affect her. Why should she? He probably realized that she was just following his advice to search for someone to shag while she still could. Once she was an apprentice and part of the staff, all students would likely be off limits for her. This was her last night. She'd make it worthwhile. Someone tapped her on her shoulder. Draco.

"Want to dance, Mione?" he asked, looking almost shy. She could see that he liked her new look. Any positive appraisal coming from a Slytherin could only be a good sign. Her heart pounded.

"Of course, Draco," she said softly, taking his hand. He led her out near Harry and Ginny. It was a slow song that was playing, and he pulled her extremely close.

"You look and smell...delicious," he purred in her ear. She didn't reply, but only smiled at him. They danced through that song and the next one. He didn't seem to want to let her go. "I can't get over this. I never saw you as a woman before. You were always just...Granger. Wow."

"Well, that, my dear Malfoy, is your fault, now isn't it?" she asked coyly. They made their way to the refreshment table. "Oh! I had two shots of firewhisky earlier. I would like to keep the giddy feeling I have. Do you know if the punch is spiked?"

He grinned evilly. "Just so happens, the red one there is spiked nicely thanks to yours truly." She took the cup he gave her. "I need to use the loo. Don't move."

"I'll be right here waiting for you," she said softly. So, Draco was interested. She never imagined that would happen. Well, hopefully Snape would approve that her attention was on one of his own and not on any other House's students. Suddenly, she had the sensation that she was being watched. Many eyes were upon her, but this was different. It felt like...a piercing pair of eyes was trying to penetrate her. Only one man made her feel that way. She turned around slowly and saw him. Her nightly nemesis. "Professor," she said coolly.

"Miss Granger," he said, moving forward. He watched as she drank her spiked drink, and he said nothing as she filled it again. Her calculated expression had his heart racing. "What are you playing at, Succubus?" he hissed finally.

She blanched at the name. How dare he! She was not here dressed up for him after all. She was dressed to shag someone else just as he graciously told her to do. "I know not what you mean, sir."

"Oh, I think you do, Hermione. This is no game," he said, his voice low and husky. "Don't you know what seeing you like this does to me? It's like she's come to life." It had taken a lot for him to admit that to her, but he didn't know what else to say.

She stepped closer. "Sorry, sir, but as you said, there is nothing between us. You are only my Incubus after all. Good evening," she bid curtly before turning on her heel. He would have reached out to grab her, but Draco chose that moment to return.

Draco eyed his Head of House uneasily, and noted the daggers glaring his way. He pulled Hermione away nonetheless. "What was going on just then?"

"It's a long story, Draco. I'll tell you about it someday," she said, biting her lip. Damn that man! He knew just how to deflate a woman's ego. Hang on! Deflate it? Why he did nothing of the sort! He as much as told her she was driving him mad. He had called her Hermione. He wanted her. It had to be why he was acting so strange the day before! As Draco put an arm around her waist, she looked back to see her professor scowling deeply. Her Incubus. Something stirred within her, and she almost pulled away from Malfoy to go to him. From the look on his face, it seemed to be exactly what he wanted her to do. Sadly she put that thought away. He would be mortified if she approached him in front of the entire school. Yes, he wanted her, but it was only because she resembled the Succubus dressed as she was. He'd never appreciate the real me, would he? She was determined to push thoughts of him away for the rest of the night.

They went to sit at a table with Harry and the others. Ron asked her for a dance next, and she accepted. It was funny dancing with him to the quick paced song. Ron was so uncoordinated. She didn't know how he managed to stay upright on his broom! When the music slowed, Draco came forward, and he spun her out of Ron's grasp. They danced the entire song closely. She was feeling the effects of her liquor quite nicely. Just how many cups had she had anyway?

"Hermione, would you want to go for a walk maybe?" Draco asked hopefully, his lips grazing her ear. Hermione couldn't believe it. Draco Malfoy was asking her for a walk. It was clear he wanted to snog her and possibly something else. Could she be with him in that way? Though she felt no loving feelings for him, he might be exactly what she needed to put her priorities straight. The one man that had been clouding her mind for the past week didn't want her. Besides, this might help with the Incubus.

Just as she was about to answer, she was pulled away. Severus Snape held her roughly by the arm. "She'll not go any place with you, Draco. As you were," he said dismissively. Draco's eyes widened, and he backed away. She saw that Ron was watching through narrowed eyes, but he dared not speak out on her behalf. The staff seemed to have turned a blind eye to this. Did they all know? "Come with me." Snape's voice was dark and low. She had no choice but to allow him to lead her out of the hall. She was well aware that everyone present had witnessed this, and she was humiliated. She felt as if she was a naughty girl caught doing something wrong by her father. Once out of the hall, she wrenched her arm free. "How dare you!" she hissed. "You gave me permission! You wanted me to do this!"

"Oh, but I do dare," he said silkily, and with that, he picked her up roughly, placing her over his shoulder. He set off toward the dungeons. She hit his back a few times to tell him to put her down, but he didn't budge. Along the way, they met up with two younger Hufflepuffs. "Ten points from each for meddling in the halls!" Snape growled at them, and they scattered quickly. Now it would be known how he was carrying her around. Surely, Dumbledore wouldn't stand for this. Before she realized it, they were in his office, and he was slamming her down on his couch.

"What in the bloody hell do you think you are doing, Professor?" she asked, her liquor giving her a tad more courage than she truly felt. He smirked at her unemotionally before turning to ward his door.

"I told you it was no game, Succubus. Now we have just changed the scenery a little." He was closer to her now, and he was throwing off his black dress robes.

She jumped up and ran for the doors. He just chuckled at her attempts to open it. "Accio wand!" he said. To her horror, her wand flew directly into his hand. "Let me out of here," she said, unable to mask her fear. What was he going to do?

"I do believe we have much to discuss, Hermione," he said edging closer to her, pressing her to his door. She could smell liquor on his breath as well, and a cold chill gripped her heart. His crisp black trousers did nothing to disguise just what he wanted to discuss. She felt his midsection digging into her stomach. When he put a hand on either side of the door and brought his lips to hers, she inhaled his aroma. Such a scent as this would turn any woman on. No wonder he attracted a Succubus to his bed. She didn't open her mouth for his probing tongue, so he moved to kiss her neck softly. She moaned, and he looked up to search her face. Before she realized it, his mouth was on hers again, and this time hers was open. She felt his tongue expertly invading her mouth, and then with a mind of its own, her tongue began mingling with his erotically. Her hands found their way to his waist and pulled him closer. They broke apart panting minutes later.

The dark glint in his eyes frightened her again. "I have to go," she whispered. "Please let me go."

"Why? I thought you wanted to be deflowered tonight? Why not let me do it? It would save us much trouble," he purred in her ear. She trembled as his teeth nicked her lobe.

"I...I have changed my mind," she said weakly.

"Is that so?" he asked, putting his hand on her chin to make her look into his eyes. She nodded. "I'm afraid I don't trust you, Little One. I can't have my woman going about as she was just now searching for a lover."

His woman, was she? Why that...dirty, rotten, arrogant...! "Now, see here, Professor. I am not yours. You told me..."

"Silence!" he spat out before backing away from her. "I know what I said." She allowed confusion to take over as she watched him pace. "I don't want to be attracted to you in any way."

Anger flowed through her. "Not good enough for you, am I? Is that why you are alone? Because nobody is good enough!"

"In a way, yes, that is why I am alone," he said, smirking evilly. "Until now."

"Professor, stop it, please. What are you saying?" Her head was about to burst. So many thoughts were taking place at once, she couldn't bear it any longer. He was toying with her mentally. This would not do. So, he really didn't want her to have a lover then? He wanted to be her lover?

"I am saying that you will desist in all of your little fantasies about finding a lover. I will be the only one you will have, but I won't do it until we are both ready!" he said angrily. Then he kicked his desk. Everything on top shifted. "You think I like feeling something? Anything at all? It has been years. Years! I keep hearing those words-I'll not betray you, and it undoes me!"

She flinched as he made his way back to her. "I didn't mean to up-"

"Will you hold your tongue for once?" he asked wildly. "I don't want this, but I need this. Can you understand me?" He hated sounding so desperate. And, especially to her of all people. It wasn't her fault. Any of this, but he had to blame someone. "You are turning my world as I know it inside out, and I hate it. Yet, I like it." It took every ounce of restraint that he had to not pounce on her.

She bit her lip and watched the expressions go through Snape's face. He had never sounded so...confused in all her time that she had known him. He didn't want to want her, and he was trying to fight it. But, he, like she, had been thinking of it as well. Just the mere fact that a spirit chose them to terrorize meant that they would have been together eventually. They were both powerful in their own right, both intelligent, both loners, and it would have been inevitable for them to spend time together with her joining the staff. She had been thinking of the future so much lately that it began to seem natural to her. She did want this.

They were just shocked by it all at first. Never in the past seven years had they thought of each other in this way, and then it was thrown at them suddenly. She put a shaky hand on his arm, taking one step closer. He looked down at her hand, and then back at her questioningly, raising an eyebrow. She pressed her lips to his for another intoxicating kiss. Why fight it? He pulled her to him and dropped down to the floor with her. Her hair had begun unraveling from its place at the top of her head, and now the long locks were curling about his office floor.

He pulled back from her mouth and stared into her eyes. Did she really want him? How did she really feel? He had to know. He couldn't do this ...with her and not know. She had made him feel again, and though it was not love...it was something. He wanted to possess her, own her, ravish her. She belonged to him. Innocence be damned! That belonged to him too. He smirked wickedly knowing he would be the first and the last to ever enter her intimately. Her eyes were filled with shock, and if they were half drooping from the liquor or desire, he could not tell. He ran a finger from her chin down to her cleavage. She trembled under his touch.

It would be so easy to take advantage of her, but he wouldn't. He only meant to bring her here to scare her, but something deeper had taken place. She had allowed him to dominate her, and she took in all that he said. She wanted him. She was his. His. But, he wanted her to come to him on her own. Not because he forced her to. He had told her of his weakness for her, now it was up to her to make the move. If they would have been together in the future at some point, he would bet that their first time wouldn't have been on his office floor. Quickly, he got up to move away from her.

Severus watched through hard eyes as first she looked surprised then hurt. Her eyes filled with tears. "What did I do wrong?" she asked. It tore at his soul.

"Nothing, Little One. I just think we need time to deal with this," he said, pointing at her and then to him. He unwarded his door and went to his lab to retrieve a large bottle of Dreamless Draught. Summoning a small cup, he poured a small amount into it, and he handed it to her. "Your Incubus will not come to you this night. Drink," he said. She took the cup and brought it to her now swollen, much kissed lips. "Be sure to bring this with you. If Ginny is not there to wake you for any reason, be sure to take some."

"How can you stand it?" she asked softly. "Does it not tear you apart as it does me?" Those words affected him deeply. She had been pining for him. Him. Not the Incubus. Before he could answer, her eyes were closing. She leaned into him as sleep took over. Relishing the feeling of holding her, he stood there thinking for a long time.

"It has been tearing me apart," he admitted, knowing she couldn't hear. "I need and want you, but I loathe desiring someone and feeling needy. I don't think you could ever truly understand that."

He picked her up into his arms easily, and he made his way to Gryffindor Tower. "Open," he instructed the portrait. As he walked in, all life within the common room froze. He cradled his sleeping Succubus to him and made his way toward her room. Let them stare, he thought. She's no longer a student! She is now a member of the staff. An adult. He sneered at those he passed, reveling in the fact that their eyes darted elsewhere. Amazingly enough, neither Potter nor Weasley were there yet. As he entered her dorm and closed the door, he heard them begin to whisper. No doubt all about how the evil Potions master had drugged their Head Girl and taken advantage of her. He smirked down to the sleeping girl...woman ...in his arms.

"You're mine," he whispered. And, he knew it to be true. Pulling back her blanket, he laid her on the bed gently. He pulled off her shoes and placed them on the floor. With a flick of his wand, her dress was removed, and a long nightshirt replaced it. He covered her and kissed her forehead. "Sleep, Little One." Biting back the urge to run his fingers along her plump little thighs, he decided to leave her room.

This was the second time that the students of Gryffindor had seen him come into her personal room. There was sure to be talk especially after what he'd done in the hall. What an idiot he had been! He smirked while remembering the look on Draco's face. No one would dare challenge him. He walked out of her door and looked around. Everyone scattered. He scowled hatefully at all those who dared to look at him as he stalked out of the dorm. They probably noted that he was no longer wearing his robes. Damn! He'd forgotten that he was only in his trousers and shirt. Bugger them!

Albus was waiting for him in his office when he returned. "Well?" he asked questioningly.

"Nothing happened, Albus. I gave her some draught, and I gave her enough to take with her if need be. Your resident know-it-all is still safe from me," he snarled. And, good thing I didn't take her on my office floor. We would have had an audience.

"She is no longer a student, Severus. Nor is she a child. What you do is of no concern to me now, so long as you won't be making too many scenes like the one earlier," he said, chuckling.

"I don't know what came over me," Severus admitted. "I guess the gossip mongers will start now, won't they?" Great. Just what he needed. He could see it now. He'd be the laughing stock of the staff meetings.

Albus' eyes were twinkling. "The staff already knew of course, but the students, apart from her two friends, had no idea. They still don't know. I think I heard a snippet of conversation from someone that you were in her rooms the night before, and now you were jealous because she was dancing with another. I think you two are believed to be in the midst of some sordid, love affair."

"Ha! If they only knew, Headmaster! I didn't ask for this. None of it. But, now...I have the audacity to dare to hope for something..." Snape sighed. "I'll try to sleep now. Will you stay for a few minutes?" Dumbledore smiled. The party was a success. The two had finally realized that a joining was inevitable. Ah, it was so nice when things went according to plan. Severus was asleep and in no time, he was writhing uncomfortably. Albus woke him easily before Flooing to Minerva's quarters. He couldn't wait to tell her the news!

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

Severus made his way to the train station the next morning with the rest of the staff. Albus had started a new tradition as of last year that they would see the students off each time they left. He had many better things to do, but this morning, he didn't particularly mind. He wanted to see her again. He took his seat next to Hooch in the staff box, and sat quietly searching through all the heads for his bushy-haired Succubus.

"Looking for someone in particular, are we?" Hooch teased. "I must say it's about time too." He glared at her, but she grinned as if it didn't bother her. "What? I think it's grand."

He rolled his eyes, looking to the other woman next to him. A giggly Madame Sprout. Great! Just what he needed. "So, Sev, old boy, how's the head this morning?" she asked.

Hooch leaned forward. "You might need to specify which one, Pomona." Both women started laughing. He turned back to look at Albus. The man just smiled softly. Damn him! Minerva was even smirking. What in the world had he gotten himself into?

"Well, look who it is! It's Harry Potter and company," Hooch declared deviously. Snape's head whipped around to search for his girl. There she was. She was trailing along behind Potter and Weasley. She seemed to be stifling a yawn. Perhaps he had given her too much draught. As they passed the staff box, Potter gave a half salute to them and kept on. Ron just nodded. Hermione though stopped and smiled softly. His heart melted. She was not angry with him. He nodded curtly as if to tell her all was well, and she moved on. He could hear the silent sniggering from amongst the staff.

He growled at them in an exasperated manner. "What? What do you want to know?" Most of the women broke out in giggles. What a sight he must have been the night before! Dragging Hermione Granger out of the great hall. Glaring down Draco Malfoy. Speak of the devil! Malfoy was just approaching Hermione as she was about to board the train. Something stirred within him again. That damn little git dares to talk to her after he saw her leave with him?

"Don't look now, mate, but I do believe that you've gotten a little competition. Doesn't give up easy, that one," Hooch goaded. Severus didn't even bother to look at her. He knew she was trying to bait him. The damn biddies wanted to see him make a fool of himself yet again. Then he noticed that Hermione had boarded. Draco gave a thumbs up sign to Crabbe. Why that insolent.... Before he realized what he was doing, he stood up and made his way toward the train. Hooch called out, "Be gentle, old boy!" Draco was probably trying to get her into a compartment alone.

"Stand aside," he hissed to all in his way. He began walking through while looking into each compartment. Most students were too shocked to speak once seeing him on the train. He finally found her. She was sitting back on her seat holding her cat in her lap with her eyes closed tightly. Draco was sitting next to her as was Ginny Weasley. Lovegood, Weasley, and Potter were sitting across from her. He watched as Draco pushed at her shoulder. She opened an eye and swatted his hand away. She wouldn't be talked into anything on this train ride. He was satisfied with what he saw, but before he could leave, Draco looked up at him through the glass.

"Prof...essor Snape," he acknowledged. He saw that both Weasleys threw hostile glares his way while Potter and Lovegood sat quietly. Hermione opened her sleepy eyes, taking in the sight of him. Of her own volition, she stood, came to the door, and opened it.

They just stared into each other's eyes for a moment before he spoke, feeling like a lovesick schoolboy in front of the students. How embarrassing. "If you should need anything , my Floo is open." He lifted a finger to her cheek. In a bold move, she grabbed it with her fingers to place a kiss on it.

"I have the draught. Don't worry. Happy Christmas, Severus," she whispered. He gave her his first genuine smile in ages. He hated Christmas, but he loved the words that came from her mouth. On instinct, he pulled her forward and kissed her lips chastely.

"And, you, Hermione," he said softly. Crack! He Disapparated back onto the platform, and left her there longing for him to kiss her deeply as he had the night before. She felt her heart stir slightly. She wanted him, but now it seemed for different reasons. How would it feel to wake up with him every morning? Life would never be dull. Who would have guessed that his normally cruelly, thinned lips could bestow such magic on a lover's mouth?

"Holy shit!" Seamus said from down the aisle. "Was that Snape? Did he snog you?" She blinked in surprise, noting for the first time that many heads were out of their compartments looking at her. She smiled bashfully and closed the door to her compartment. Draco had narrowed eyes. Ginny had a goofy grin, Luna had a dreamy look about her face, Harry's expression was blank, and Ron's expression was mutinous.

"Sorry," she said, not knowing what else to say. She felt unexplainably happy. He had come to her in front of the students. She looked nothing like a Succubus today in her dumpy winter clothes, so it could be that it was actually her that he wanted.

"Falling for the git, are you?" Ron asked.

"Yes," she said softly.

"No wonder he looks at me like he wants to kill me," Draco said with a grin. "He thinks I am the competition. Hell, I'll stay away. Wow! How'd you ever hook him, Mione? He's always been so cold."

"I think it's romantic," Luna said with a sigh.

"Yes, it kind of is, I mean, even though it is Snape. He came here in front of all of us and snogged you," Ginny agreed, giggling.

"We didn't snog!" Hermione said hotly. "We just wished each other a Happy Christmas."

Draco raised an eyebrow and sneered in imitation of Snape. "Granger! My Floo is open should you need it." Everyone started laughing. Even Ron eased up and made some jokes. For the entire trip back, fellow students were putting their heads in and making comments. Ginny was bursting to tell Molly first thing about Snape and Hermione, but Ron elbowed her saying to keep it quiet. Draco bid them farewell as Lucius walked up to collect him. Luna and Ron had a long snog before parting ways, and then they were off to the Burrow.

Southern's Notes: Well, I hope Sev didn't seem too soft in here. Up next...a few days apart.