Chapter Three

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 goes to my original beta, Charmed Nay, and also to GinnyW. She's doing the beta job this time around.

The first night was particularly hard for Hermione. Once the lights had been turned down, she kept remembering him...his heated kisses and his fingers on her skin. Severus Snape was actually quite warm under his cool exterior. She remembered the heated words he'd said to her. She was wanted...by a man. He wasn't just any man either. He was a Potions master, and a man of extremely high intellect. She'd read much of his published research. One question nagged her. Did he truly see her for what she was, or was it the Succubus he wanted to possess? If their future was any indication, she knew he would have grown to love her. Thanks to this ruddy spirit, she knew it would have come. The fallen angel was trying shamelessly to step in, to pick away at fate.

What would their children look like? His straight, black hair contrasted her brown, wavy hair. His black, menacing eyes contrasted her soft, brown eyes. He was a hard, private man while she was a soft, semi-private woman. She had a few friends that took care of her. Who took care of Severus? From what she could tell, he kept his distance with the staff. She would see him and Madame Hooch chatting amicably at times, but mostly it would be Professors Dumbledore and McGonagall that he took council with. Would he want to lock her away in the dungeons like Ron had said? She doubted it. He knew how she was, but then his words came back to her again.

He said that she was his woman. Her words of not betraying him had touched him, and they caused him to feel emotions that he hadn't felt in years. Though he didn't want her now, it was likely that he could grow to love her just as she could grow to love him. In fact, she felt that she already did on some level. No one had ever made her shiver on the inside the way he had. It was while thinking these thoughts that she fell asleep. Her Incubus came right away.

Hermione opened her eyes. She saw Ginny's sleeping form in the bed next to her while Severus kneeled down and kissed her wrist. "I want you now," he whispered. "I couldn't wait any longer." She allowed him to pull her up from the bed. How did he know how to get through the Burrow's wards, and how did he know which room she'd be in? "Do you want me?"

"Yes," she whispered. He put his hands below her nightgown and stroked his way up to her inner thighs. "I think I love you," she said softly. She hoped he would take her out of Ginny's room. She didn't want her friend to wake up while he touched her.

"And, I love you, Hermione Granger, bearer of my child," he said. Something about what he had said and how he said it made her eyes open wide. Her professor would never have told her that.

"You are my Incubus," she blurted. "Stop!" His grin turned evil, but his hand was relentless in its quest to pull down her panties. "No, don't..." His lips began an assault on her neck that she couldn't resist. She moaned loudly. It felt like Severus' mouth on her. Perhaps he had come for her.

"You want me in any form. Just relax. It's your lover that is here with you," he soothed between kisses.

"Hermione!" Damn...of all the times for Ginny to wake up.

"Hmmm?" she said sleepily.

"Hermione! Wake up! It's the Incubus!" Ginny cried.

Hermione sprung up, looking about in a daze. "But...Severus..."

"No, Hermione. It was just the two of us in here. You were dreaming. Are you all right?" Ginny asked with a worried expression. There were voices from the hallway and knocks on the door now. Ginny told them to enter.

Ron, Harry, and Molly walked in together. "Are you all right, Mione?" Harry asked quickly. "We...we heard you from up there."

"Yeah, you'd think the Incubus would soundproof the room. Ha Ha Ha..." Ron said, beginning to laugh.

"Incubus? What is going on here?" Molly questioned. "My God, Hermione, are you plagued by one?"

Hermione swallowed. "Yes. It's a bit complicated though."

"Come on then. When there's talk needed, it's always a good time for a cuppa," Molly said softly. Hermione followed her down to the kitchen glumly, and she spilled all the sordid details to a gossip hungry Molly. Ron had fallen asleep again on the table by the time Hermione's tale was told. Harry and Ginny had disappeared for some snogging, no doubt.

"Hermione, I know this may sound like something horrible, but Severus is a good man underneath all that hard exterior. We've known him for many years, and all the work he did in the Order just proves what kind of man he truly is. I think that if you choose to be with him, it would be wise. In fact, you should be with him sooner than later to rid yourselves of this horrid entity," Molly said softly.

"I know. He wants to as well. At least I think he does, but I think he wants it to be on his terms. I get the feeling that he doesn't like being pushed into this. I want to. It's just...odd. I always thought that I would marry for love or at least love whom I slept with, you know? I know that I could love him...easily. I've seen him in a different light. I know he is good. I saw first hand what he did for the Order. The risks he took. The times he saved our lives." Hermione sighed. "And, like the legend says, the fallen angel is trying to stop us from having a child together because the combining of our powers would bring forth magically powerful children. So, there is no doubt, at least to me, that we would have been together eventually since it's trying to intervene."

"Well, dear, I think you have some choices to make, and some things to talk about amongst yourselves." Molly hugged her tightly. "Did he say if...if he intends to marry you?"

"He didn't exactly say that," Hermione admitted.

"Well, what did he say?" Molly prodded.

"He said things like I was his woman, and I made him feel again even though he didn't want to. He said that he wants me." Hermione looked away in shame. Those were not words of love. Spoken aloud it made her feel like a scarlet woman, as Ron called them.

Molly grinned. "I think those small words are close enough, dear, knowing Severus."

Hermione smiled hopefully. "He did come on the train to tell me his Floo was open if I needed him, and he gave me a small kiss in front of everyone."

"Sometimes actions speak louder than words, Mione. Just think on that. Well, it's safe to say your Incubus won't be reappearing this night. Off you go now."

"Thanks for talking to me. My mum would never have understood any of this," Hermione said gratefully.

"I think of you as a daughter, Hermione. I'm always here for you if you need me. Night, dear."

Hermione crawled back into bed only vaguely noticing Ginny's absence. She must be off with Harry in some corner. She hoped Ginny was on The Potion. Thoughts of Professor Snape came back to her, as she lay back with her eyes closed. Molly had a point. He didn't seem to be a man of many words. Well, she supposed he was, but just not when it concerned something like this. His Floo was open for her in case she needed it. Did he want her to just pop in then? Perhaps it was his way to apologize for his behavior the night before. She didn't remember getting back to her dorm, but the others had told her that he came in carrying her. He had forgotten his robes to hear Parvati tell it. They were going on about how sexy he looked without them. She smiled softly, thinking they were right. And, her nightclothes had been on when she awoke? Did he sneak a look? No, she knew he would do no such thing. For some reason, she trusted him. Sleep came for her again.

~~~~~~~~~ hg ~~~~~~~~~ ss ~~~~~~~~~

Albus had been watching Severus for the last hour. He hadn't moved a muscle. This was odd. Why hadn't the Succubus come yet? Had she come already then? Was Severus able to send her off before anything happened? Just as he reached out to wake his friend, Albus heard him utter one name. Hermione.

Severus had been dreaming about Hermione. It started with him following her up to the Astronomy Tower. Each time he would call out to her, she would giggle and speed up. Once he searched each corner of the tower's roof, he looked out toward the lake. He could see her down there holding hands with Weasley. Fuming that she would dare lead him on a chase, he went back to his chambers. Once there, he saw that she was in his bed waiting for him.

"What are you doing here?" he barked. "Shouldn't you be off with Weasley?"

"I told you I don't feel that way about Ron. Why don't you come have a little lie in with me?" Her voice had turned husky, and she appeared to be naked under the duvet. Ha! It was the Succubus trying to get one over on him. He'd see about that.

"Miss Granger, I think you ought to leave straightaway whilst you still can. I'm not above hexing harlots that find their way into my chambers." He sneered as hatefully as he could, and was quite proud that his insult seemed to hit home.

"Please, sir, I've only come to talk. Nothing more," she pleaded, a flush seeping out over her cheeks.

"Oh, that takes the biscuit, Succubus! Get out! I'd rather sit down for a good hour with noughts and crosses before talking to you. Go on," he bellowed, patting himself triumphantly as she sprung up from the bed. His internal victory was short lived, however, as he noticed something wasn't quite right. "What are those clothes you are wearing?" So, she had been dressed then!

"Don't worry about it, sir, and please, don't let me keep you from your ruddy game!" Were those tears in her eyes? He'd never know because as he moved forward to have a closer look, she vanished. In fact, to his puzzlement, his entire room began to darken. What the hell?

He blinked when firelight suddenly flooded his vision. "Sherbet lemon?" Albus asked from the side of the bed. Damn! It had been a dream. All of it. Of course, he knew it was a dream, but who was that?

"Of course not!" he hissed. "How long have I been asleep?"

"Quite a while, Severus. I dare say, you finally just had your visit? It's the only time you've moved or spoken since you've gone down," Albus said, fumbling in his pocket for a candy.

"I'm not quite sure what I just had to be honest. I felt as if Hermione was in my dream at first, and then when I came back to my room, I thought it to be the Succubus. However, as I told her to get out, she acted completely opposite to any previous visit," he said softly as he pulled down his twisted, gray nightshirt. "I think I may have thrown the wrong woman out. She didn't try to advance on me unless she was about to when you woke me."

Albus looked at him thoughtfully. "Indeed?"

"Yes," he bit back slightly annoyed. Would he have said it if he didn't mean it?

"Severus, I only called your name to wake you. I didn't have to shake you or say your name more than once as normal. I was unsure. You acted as if in normal sleep. To be honest, I didn't see proof that a Succubus may be visiting you until you said Hermione's name just now. Perhaps, as you said, it was not the Succubus."

"Great! What the hell is taking her so long to visit?" Severus said, bringing his fingers to his temples as if to massage away a nonexistent headache. "It could be that she was trying a new tactic. I don't know. I can't be sure, but it feels as if that was not her."

"Very well, my boy. I have nothing to do tonight. Try to go back to sleep. I'll wait here if need be," Albus offered kindly.

"No, Albus, I can't keep you here half the night. I think maybe I will succumb to the urge of drinking a bit of the Draught," he said firmly. At least both witches, temptress one and now temptress two, would not be able to visit. "Just for tonight of course."

His friend smiled. "I'll see you take it before I go, Severus. Not that I don't trust you. I just want to be sure you don't doze off again before you do. Just in case."

Severus got up to retrieve his phial and took a healthy dose. "There! Good enough?" he asked saucily. As if he would fall asleep without taking it! He was more careful than that. What did Albus take him for? A doddering fool? An imb...

Shaking his head in amusement, Albus held out a hand to magically arrest his Potions Master's fall. He'd been in such a snit that he'd taken a good bit too far from his bed. He should definitely be more careful than that. Ever so gently, he glided him over to the bed. He looked down at the sleeping face before him for a few moments. Had the Succubus changed tactics? Why did she wait so long to come here? It would do to think about this for a while. Vaguely he wondered how Miss Granger's visits were coming. He couldn't just come out and ask her, but maybe Molly would have some insight. Molly usually, pardon the pun, weaseled out any information she wanted from someone.

~~~~~~~~~ hg ~~~~~~~~~ ss ~~~~~~~~~

"Psst, Mione," Harry whispered from his seat across the table.

She looked up to see him nodding towards the door and widening his eyes. Only Harry, Ron, and Ginny sat at the table with her still. Ron and Ginny were arguing over the Chudley Cannons' last game. "Er...I think I'll be back in a moment."

"All right, fine," Ron said, waving her away without really noticing. Ginny didn't say a word. She was too busy throwing a slice of toast out of the window. "Eh! Watch it! You don't want to waste that!"

"The gnomes will eat it, you lout! And, Starley is the better Seeker, I tell you! Why, if they had only put him in..."

Her angry words faded as Hermione slipped outside. She only had to wait a moment before Harry found her out back. "Thought I'd never get away. Just as I stood up, Ron asked my opinion!"

"How'd you sneak out then?" she asked with a grin.

"Grabbed my stomach and said I had to make way for the loo or else," he said smugly.

"I talked to Molly, and she said that it would be all right to go to Diagon Alley today. I know what I would like to get for Ginny for Christmas, but I'll need your honest opinion. I know she's not picky like most girls, but I still don't want to disappoint her. Would you suggest that we all part for private shopping, and then double back to meet me at Vablatsky's Magical Devices?" She never saw Harry this nervous before.

"Of course, Harry," she agreed. Something she'd only thought on briefly before came to mind. "Wait," she put a hand on his arm. "I'd like to maybe get Professor Snape something. Do you think...I mean, would that be too...forward?"

Harry gave her a lopsided grin. "I think that would be nice of you. The worst he can do is lug it back at you!" He ducked as she swatted at him. "Just joking. From what I've seen, Hermione, I think it would be all right. It would let him know that you are interested."

"I guess you're right. It was a silly dilemma for me really. I mean he's not just the kind of guy that would allow warm words or nice gifts to impress him. I'll just get something, and if he likes it, fine." Hermione would do this. She knew he would not get her anything in return, but she didn't care. It was the season to give, not receive. If he used her gift, then that would be good enough for her.

~~~~~~~~~ hg ~~~~~~~~~ ss ~~~~~~~~~

Severus had just stepped through from The Leaky Cauldron when he saw her. With Potter. He had braved the streets of London for a gift that he thought she might like. Why did he do this? Apparently, he was an idiot. Here she was without a care in the world, walking hand in hand with Potter. Exactly why in the hell did he even get her a Christmas gift? Christmas was nothing to him. It was Albus and Minerva! When he'd finally drug himself to breakfast, they were saying what a nice gesture it would be. Fool! She obviously wasn't worried about him one bit. Not that he was worried about her, mind. He just thought it would be courteous. She would understand that he was interested, somewhat. If nothing else, it would just say that he could understand what she was enduring each night, and that he hoped his gift would bring about some appeasement. After making a fool of himself on the Hogwarts Express and at the party, he was sure that she knew he was interested...in something. Not a relationship, no. Not a heated bedding either. Just something. Exactly what? He'd think on that later.

Debating on whether or not to throw his new purchase in the dustbin, he crept forward to Vablatsky's where he'd last seen them. Making sure that no prying eyes were watching, he whispered a quick Disillusionment Spell. Feeling much like a sneaky chameleon, he made his way to the store. It was easy enough to remain in a corner while they talked to the saleswitch. There weren't that many people about.

"So, what do you think? Will she like it?" Potter asked hopefully.

"Oh, Harry! Yes. If I know Ginny, she will love it! I think it's brilliant!" Hermione was holding up some sort of chain. It appeared to be a Golden Snitch with a magical lightning bolt flashing through it ever so often. What kind of gift to a woman is that? Hang on! Ginny's gift. Not Hermione's. A smug smile broke over his face. She'd not betray him. What? Blimey! As much as he wanted to stay, he had to leave. He needed to go back to his personal domain to clear his thoughts. That was just part of the reason. The Disillusionment Spell only lasted a ruddy ten minutes at best! That would be just perfect! He'd never live down the shame of materializing in front of them. They'd think he was some sort of...spy! Blast! CRACK!

Out of instinct, Harry pulled Hermione behind him. "Did you hear that?"

"I did. Sounding like someone Disapparating," Hermione said, looking around in puzzlement. "You don't think someone was trying to spy on us? To see what you've gotten Ginny, do you?"

"I doubt that," Harry said suspiciously. "I didn't see anyone over there though. Do you think they were under an invisibility cloak?"

"Maybe," Hermione shrugged.

"Ah, don' worry my lit'l dears. 'Appens all the time, it does. Ye get used ter it," the saleswitch said in a bored voice.

"We'll be off now, thanks," Harry said with distaste, pulling Hermione behind him. Once they were back on the street, he felt more relaxed. "If I didn't know better, I'd say that witch was really a hag in disguise. Did she not make you feel...strange?"

"I admit that my hair prickled on the back of my neck once. Odd place, Vablatsky's. Come on now. I want to show you an idea I have for Professor Snape's gift. Do you mind?"

"Lead the way," Harry said with a smile. Though he and Snape hadn't gotten on well for the past near seven years, he wouldn't mind putting the past behind them. Snape was the only one left near him that knew his parents from their days at Hogwarts. Snape had mellowed out some since the final battle, but he did still appear to have a wand stuck up his arse on most days. Maybe this situation with Mione would change things. Maybe she was onto something that night when she said that fate might want her to bring him some joy after all he'd had to endure. Sod it! Time would tell.

"Blast! Ron has spotted us!"

Harry chuckled at her dismay. "Oi! What've you got there, Ron?"

"None of your bloody business, Harry!" His eyes narrowed. "What are you two doing here together? I thought we were all off for a bit of private shopping!"

"We are! I just met up with Harry as I came out of a shop down the way. Now, if you'll excuse me, I do believe I have a few more shops to visit," Hermione said haughtily.

"Reckon we ought to follow her and see what she gets us?" Ron asked slyly.

Harry's eyes glinted for a moment, but then he remembered that she was off for Snape's gift. "Christmas isn't that far off, you lout. Come on then. Let's see what they have in stock in the way of Quidditch supplies." He knew this would mollify Ron.

"You've got it, mate. I wouldn't mind a broomstick servicing kit, meself. I wonder how many Galleons a second hand set would cost?" Ron asked, brow furrowing.

"I have some extra if you need it, Ron," Harry offered, but he knew his proud friend would never accept.

"No, it's all right. Doesn't hurt to window shop, does it?" Harry hated the wistful expression that passed over Ron's face, and in that moment, he knew just what to get his mate for a gift. Before they entered the shop, he would have sworn that he'd seen Snape down the way walking into an alley with Lucius Malfoy. What were they doing there? He shrugged. Wasn't his business, really. Why worry on it?

~~~~~~~~~ hg ~~~~~~~~~ ss ~~~~~~~~~

Hermione had just finished wrapping Severus' Christmas gift. It was a set of silver phials. She knew he could always use these for some of his more complicated potions that could only be handled in silver. She hoped he wouldn't mind terribly. Of course, he wouldn't return it. After all, he had practically told her that one-day soon they would share a bed. She hoped though that maybe this Christmas could be the start of something special. Over time they could become compatible, and their feelings would grow.

She yawned again. It was getting late. Ron had already gone up to bed. Ginny and Harry were up in her room. She had just taken a shower to kill time, and they still weren't out of the room. She didn't want to interrupt anything, but she dared not go to sleep without taking her draught if no one was around. The only problem was that her draught was in the room with Ginny. Suddenly, she felt a tingling in her stomach. A burst of heat swept through her as if her Incubus had touched her! Severus had known when she was being visited. Maybe these are the feelings he felt. He must be experiencing it at this moment. Dumbledore would wake him soon, wouldn't he?

Worry flooded her thoughts. The feelings had not subsided yet. If anything, they had intensified. She felt...aroused. Many minutes had gone by, and she was beginning to feel damp in her knickers. There was no time to waste. She had to get to him. She ran to the fireplace and scooped up some Floo powder. She threw it in and said, "Severus Snape's Chambers." When the fire turned green, she jumped in. Moments later she tumbled out onto the floor of his bedroom. There was one candle lit across the room to her right. She had to let her eyes adjust to the light. She could just make out his form in the bed. He appeared to be moving and...moaning. For a brief moment, she felt embarrassed. He might have someone here! But, no, she could see no other shape in the bed. She pointed her wand at herself, and chanted a cleaning spell to get the soot off her body. Approaching the bed slowly, a wave of heat rolled over her body, and she almost moaned herself just as Severus did.

"Severus?" she called to him. No response. "Professor?" She placed a hand on his shoulder and shook him gently. "Please wake up. It's the Succubus."

"I can withstand you," he whispered. "I'll send you away in just a moment, wench!"

"Professor, no! It's her! Wake up," she said, forcefully shaking his shoulders.

He sprang up, sweeping her onto the bed in one smooth motion. His fingers bit into her skin painfully. "Wait," she murmured.

"Why do you torment me?" he asked between clenched teeth, and maneuvered her until she was pinned beneath him.

"It's me, Hermione," she squeaked. He must still think that he is with the Succubus in the dream. "Professor, I'm not her. I swear it."

He chuckled evilly. "Hermione, indeed. She is at her friends' home this night. I want you out of my bed. NOW!"

"Professor, it's me. I came to...to check on you," she cried. His hands were squeezing her wrists painfully. "You said the Floo would be open to me should I need it. I just thought you needed me to rescue you from the Succubus." Recognition passed through his dark eyes from what she could make out. He glanced down to her body beneath him, likely realizing that she had on different clothes than the Succubus. She was still wearing the short, white cotton nightgown that she liked to sleep in. She'd had it for a couple of years, and it was comfortable. He loosened his grip on her wrists, but did not let her go.

"Why are you here? How?" he asked, his voice rough with sleep.

"I felt you. I had to come. The Succubus..." She swallowed. "You said I could come through the Floo. I didn't mean to intrude on you."

"Silly girl," he said through a relieved grin. "You are welcome in my chambers." Realizing he still had her wrists extended above her head, he let her go, and slowly moved off her. "I apologize. That was most inappropriate though you can understand why I felt the need to use such force."

She sat up touching her wrists gingerly. "It's all right. I shouldn't have startled you. I didn't know what else to do." She could still see the imprints of his fingers. He was an extremely strong man. Aside from the slight throb on her wrists, she was pained by the expression on his face. If she didn't know better, she would think that he was disappointed that his dream with the Succubus was over. Well, of course, he wasn't, but the dream had obviously been one that was...enjoyable. "Professor, did you...?"

He looked at her oddly. "No." He got up and went through a door. When she heard water running, she realized it must be the bathroom. Oh! Severus Snape had apologized to her! Things had changed between them, and she could almost see the longing in his gaze just before he went to his bathroom. The door opened suddenly, and he was back next to her in an instant. "Hermione, what are you doing up so late?"

Her face turned bright red. "Well, I couldn't very well sleep, now could I? Harry and Ginny were locked in her room, and my Sleeping Draught is in there. And, well, you told me not to be alone with Ron. His parents were over at a function for the Ministry. I was just killing time until Harry and Ginny finished...er...talking."

"Talking indeed." Severus smirked. "So, you've not slept then?" She shook her head. "I have some draught I can give you. Hold on." He stood up to leave the room, and she stopped him.

"Wait, sir. Do you think that maybe we could talk? We've never been alone. Not really. I mean to say..." Hermione didn't know how to explain that she would like a few moments with him to talk about a possible future. She had been over Molly's words nearly a hundred times over the last few days. She was a Gryffindor. She was brave. She could do this. What had she to lose? "About us."

"Us?" he questioned through narrow eyes. "I suppose that would not be out of order. Cover yourself," he said shortly, not wanting to see those legs. He almost smiled at the thought of her not being too thin. He liked a woman he could feel comfortable jostling about with in the bed. He wouldn't have to fear breaking her when the time came. Damn! Get out of my head!

"Sorry, I couldn't change before I came," she said slipping his duvet up over her. "Have a seat, sir. I won't...I won't bite you know." She was trying to tease him to lighten his tense mood. It seemed to work as he sat on the edge of the bed. She wanted to giggle now that she realized what he was wearing. It was a long, gray nightshirt. She was used to seeing Ron and Harry in their pajamas, so this was just a bit of a different sight.

"Very well. Go on. How would you like to start this...conversation?" he asked formally.

"Well, sir, this entity. It only proves, at least to me, that in time you and I would have... well, we would have fancied each other. Do you still find the idea unpleasant?" She bit her lip nervously. Who would have thought she could have mustered up this much courage on such short notice?

He thought over his answer before saying it. Was it unpleasant? The situation could have been better. That much was true. He didn't like being goaded into something. In fact, any other woman would have been acceptable. Now that wasn't entirely true. This Succubus had opened his eyes to the possibilities with the young witch before him. However, the more he thought on it, the more he realized that she was appealing to him. He'd enjoyed their past debates in Order meetings somewhat, though most nights he could have throttled her. Her occasional company might not be all that distasteful. How would she do as a lover? The time he saw her writhing under her dream trance had him craving to have her. She could be taught. Yes, he could see this going on and not being objectionable in the least. "I think that since time has passed, I have gotten over the shock of it. It doesn't appear to be as farfetched as when I first learned of it." There that didn't sound too dreadful, now did it?

To his amazement, she smiled. "That's good then, right? I...I have been thinking on it often, and I tend to believe that I wouldn't mind getting to know you better, Professor. I won't try to intrude on you, of course, but I wouldn't object to having tea or talks with you on occasion."

He gave her a tight smile. "That doesn't sound appalling. Would you...care for some now? Is it too late?" he asked unsure of how to proceed. He'd not ever entertained a woman in his chambers before. Nor had he felt compelled to be as cordial to one before. What exactly was going on here? What was this...excitement?

"I've nothing else to do, sir. So, yes, I accept your offer."

"I'll be back shortly," he said, nodding to her. Pointing his wand to the grate, a cozy fire sprang to life. He went into his other rooms to summon some tea, she supposed. She glanced around his bedchamber. It was tastefully decorated from what she could see. His bed was large. What did he need all this room for anyway? It was not exactly sparse in furniture, but it wasn't cluttered either. She saw a bookshelf near a table in the corner. Her eyes lit up. Wonder what he's got hidden in there? She'd have to check on that once she was accustomed to being here with him. Bloody hell! They'd only had a brief chat, and she could already see herself spending plenty of time here...with him.

"Here we are," he said, handing her a cup. She saw that he had put on a bathrobe. Gingerly he sat back on the bed, this time she noticed that he was nearer to her. That was a good sign.

"Thanks. So, Professor, how are the holidays treating you?" It was as good a place to start as any.

"I enjoy any time that I have when the castle isn't filled with dunderh...er...students. I am much more relaxed, and there isn't much patrolling needed. That is to say, at least when Potter doesn't stay for the holidays," he added with a small, knowing grin. He relished that she had the graciousness to blush. Truth be known, she was as much of a rule breaker as Potter and Weasley. Well, that wasn't exactly fair. "What of your holiday? Done anything yet?"

"Well, we did go to Diagon Alley a few days ago. Everyone wanted to do a last bit of shopping for Christmas." Was that a blush? "I even saw what Harry got for Ginny. He was a bit worried that it might not be a fitting gift for a girl at this time of year, but I believe she will like it."

That gift was hideous! Who would want a Snitch and lightning bolt on their neck? "Well, that was nice of you to put him at ease about it. Is the tea to your liking, Miss Granger?"

"Quite. So, have you done any research while you've been on break, sir?" she asked, not wanting the conversation to die down. She felt...special, having him all to herself in this way.

"Only some. I admit that I have been in the library browsing on information about our current situation. It seems there is not much else to add to what you already told us. I guess we'll just have to..." This was dangerous conversation. The erotic vision that flitted through his mind had something stirring within.

She cleared her throat. "I think so, sir. Do you not...feel odd during the day as well? I mean, do you think about it?"

"Yes," he breathed. He'd not elaborate. She couldn't exactly know the things that he thought about. She'd run off in fear.

"Sometimes I feel overtaken by thoughts. Memories, I guess, of my dreams...and that night, you know... in your office," she admitted, not meeting his eyes.

"Did I not frighten you?"

"A little, I admit, but I think it knocked some sense into me. It made me realize that I should take a more mature approach to this, though I'm still bushwhacked at times with so many conflicting emotions." She swallowed deeply. "Is it wrong of me to be attracted to you, sir? I mean, how do I know if I truly really am, or if it's the Incubus?"

"An intelligent question. One, I'm afraid, that you will have to find the answer to within yourself. I should like to think that maybe I might have something to do with it," he said softly. He was trying to bait her. He wanted to hear her voice her feelings.

"Well, I have held you in high regards for some time now. All of the things that you have done for us, all the risks, the research you publish...I mean, you are brilliant. What's not to respect?" She smiled, meeting his eyes again. "Sometimes you are a great ruddy prat about things, but I suppose it's only in your nature. I find you attractive in your own way. That night...in the office, I would have..."

He nodded after a moment, knowing she would not continue. Those words sparked that warm feeling again. The excitement. It's not just the Incubus. "Do you truly read my research?"

"Of course, I do. Though it has been a while, I also read the minutes from the last conference you attended just before your birthday. I saw how you tore apart that lousy presentation. It was a bri..."

"How do you know when my birthday is?" he questioned, eyes narrowed. Had she been checking up on his personal information? Who had she been questioning?

"Well, I heard Professor McGonagall tell Madame Hooch that she would not put up with any rude surprises in the staff meeting even if it was your birthday. That was January 9th of last year. It wasn't intentional. I only overheard them in passing," she said, hoping he'd not become angry. This seemed to appease him though. He relaxed a bit.

"It's fine. I was just wondering if perhaps you had been asking questions about me. I don't know if I would have liked that," he said, clearing his throat. "Now that we are...talking, I would request that you ask me anything you should want to know. Not that I would answer all of your questions," he added, raising an eyebrow.

She giggled. She loved that eyebrow. That was...sexy. Even the devilish smirk he was sporting was sexy. His dark eyes didn't seem to be penetrating her this night. They seemed to be simply looking on her as if she was a woman, a friend, or a colleague. "Sir, where is the Headmaster this night? Is he not usually with you?"

"He and Minerva decided to spend the evening with her niece's family. I was to take the Draught." He should have taken it the moment he began to feel tired, but he'd been having pleasant thoughts, and he didn't want to get up for the phial.

"Mistakes happen," she said with a shrug. Suddenly, she yawned. "What time has it gotten to?"

He looked toward the table where his empty cup sat. "It's just past midnight," he said, seemingly reluctant. Did he wish for her to stay? To continue their visit?

"It's been pleasant. Thank you for allowing me this time, sir. And, if you don't mind me saying, Happy Christmas."

"Yes, it is, isn't it?" He smiled at her, allowing the smile to reach his eyes. "Here let me get you a phial to take along with you. Your friends may not be finished with their...talk."

"Please, I would rather not take it if I didn't have to. Could I just...? I mean to say...I could just...you know...stay."

He was shocked! She meant to stay here with him. She wanted to sleep next to him, so that he could wake her when her Incubus came. An evil thought occurred. He'd be able to hear those luscious little moans again. "Are you sure you want to stay?" Please say yes! What would Albus say? To hell with Albus; he had touched upon this subject often enough. Hermione was eighteen. She was a colleague, sort of. Yes, she could stay.

"Of course." She was biting her lip. Did she not know that added to her innocent little look? Here she was in a white, short virginal nightgown in his bed looking wide-eyed and innocent. He had never been attracted to things pure for fear he would taint them, but he wanted to taint her. He wanted to mold her and make her his own. He wanted to break her maidenhead, delve into her depths, and make her call out his name. Damn! Where had this flood of possessiveness come from?

Why at this moment? She'd been here for a long while, and he'd kept these thoughts at bay. Well, mostly anyway. It was an after effect of the Succubus perhaps, but then again, it could be her. Stop lying to yourself! It is her! His groin was already stirring. "Do you want me to stoke the fire? It's dying out." She nodded. A little concentration and a wave of his hand saw flames renewed in the fireplace. He usually only lit it enough to heat the room comfortably for a bit, but then he would extinguish it, liking the cold. His small candle had finally met its end and burnt out. There was only the firelight now. He slid into his bed beside her after removing his bathrobe. She didn't move. She had gone rigid. Afraid, was she? He suppressed an evil chuckle. She had nothing to be afraid of. Not just yet anyway. "Sleep, Little One. I'm here for you."

She smiled softly and loosened up, snuggling closer to him. He lay on his side, looking down at her relaxed face until she fell asleep. Her breathing had finally deepened, and he knew she was gone. Astonishingly, it was only moments before she started writhing in bed. So, her visitor took the first opportunity to come to her as his did most nights? It didn't waste any time, did it? He'd only had a reprieve that one night when he was unsure if she had come or not. A little gasp escaped her lips, and he hardened a little in response. "I can't..." she murmured. Oh, but she could. And, she would. He brought down his hand to cradle the side of her face. She moaned. Was it from his touch or from her Incubus? Severus couldn't help but to place a small kiss on her cheek. She smiled in her sleep at that. "I want you," she purred.

If he thought he could get no harder, he had a surprise; he was rock hard. Damn! He'd have to wake her, or he'd find that he was making love to a dreaming girl without her consent. "Hermione, wake up. It's Severus." At that, she laughed, and pulled his hand from her face down between her thighs. Her nightgown had eased up, and his palm was now pressed over a hot, white, lacy mound of panties. He groaned. When he tried to move his hand, she held it there. "Hermione...please," he said, completely exasperated. Holding his hand tightly between her thighs, she reached her other free hand up to pull his face down to hers for a scorching kiss. Sweet Merlin! She was a right little vixen! She started moving provocatively against his hand. He could feel the slightest traces of wetness seeping through. All he had to do was...No! He wouldn't. He snatched his hand away, and he tore his lips away from hers. He could see that she was pouting, eyes still closed though. "Miss Granger!" he barked. She shot straight up, gasping for breath.

"Oh, my," she murmured. "I almost...wow..." She wasn't looking at him, but she was looking straight ahead of her. He watched as she shook her head slightly. Then she turned to look at him, completely embarrassed. "Sorry." He could take no more. He wanted her. He sat up and pulled her into his arms. His Succubus.

"I want to kiss you, Hermione," he told her so as not to frighten her. Before she could reply, he pressed his lips to hers. She opened her mouth, welcoming him. He felt a strangled groan rumble in his throat. Their tongues were dancing, slowly mesmerizing each of them. When he felt her hands in his hair, groping, pulling him closer, he knew that she was his this night. As gently as he could without breaking their kiss, he eased her back on the bed. Her first time. His first virgin. He would make it memorable for her. Finally, he pulled away to search her face for signs of submission. He prayed he wouldn't find disgust there. All he saw was a welcoming smile that warmed his soul. "I'm going to kiss you again," he stated hotly, noticing how strained his own voice sounded.

"Please..." she begged, as her eager lips searched for his again. She tasted faintly of the tea they'd had and something minty. He suckled on her lower lip for a moment, then her top lip, and then his tongue plunged in to find hers enthusiastically waiting. After a long moment, he placed small, butterfly kisses along her jaw until he reached her throat. Such soft flesh! He resisted the urge to actually bite into her, settling for a sensual tongue assault. Each gasp and whimper that escaped her lips, let him know that he was pleasing her. This only encouraged him further as he moved his mouth to her ear, nibbling, licking, and suckling her lobe.

"Little One, you taste so good to me," he breathed into her ear. At his words, her body arched into his as her hands found their way once again into his hair. He closed his eyes at the sensation she was causing. Who would have thought that she could make him feel so welcome? So wanted? So needed? Finding her mouth again, he placed a demanding kiss on her lips. He would have her.

A/N: Just gotta love/hate evil cliffies! That only heightens anticipation though...hehe. Thanks, all!