Question of Freedom

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~o 13 o~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Question of Freedom

~H~

Harry and Hermione were eating breakfast when Ginny arrived. "You didn't wait for me?" she asked, collecting the mail from Kreacher and joining them at the table.

"Sorry, couldn't," Harry said. "I've stealth today, and I want to stop by and see your dad before training."

Kreacher set a plate of eggs in front of Ginny. "Going to ask Dad for my hand, are you?" she teased him.

"Done that. Just waiting for the confirmation and approval owls from all of your brothers," Harry replied, grinning. "So, anything for me?"

"Hermione, Hermione, Hermione and Hermione..." Ginny rambled as she sorted out the mail, handing each one to her. "Here's your Daily Prophet, Harry, Hermione's Daily Prophet, and another letter for Hermione... Four more letters for Hermione... a Howler for Hermione..." Ginny held up the last letter just out of Harry's reach. "And, yes, you got one!" Harry jumped up and grabbed the letter from Ginny's hand, smirking at her.

"Why are they still sending me letters?" Hermione groaned, checking the envelopes.

Harry had opened his copy of the paper, scanning the first article, and looked up at her with a stare that told her that the news was bad. "I think you should read this."

Hermione set her letters down and picked up her copy of the Daily Prophet. A picture of Hermione and Severus arguing in his cell graced the front page; the occupants of the picture were apparently unaware that there had been a photographer present. "What the...!" she screeched as she quickly read the first article. "'Interesting discovery of the investigation into the criminal activities of Severus Snape has been exposed. As concerned citizens, we may rest assured that the remaining Death Eaters are being rounded up and secured behind the walls of Azkaban. This reporter has unearthed the fact that our newly appointed Minister of Magic is personally overseeing the investigation of former Death Eater, spy, murderer, and ex-Headmaster of Hogwarts, Severus Snape. Wizengamot members and long-time friends of our new Minister, Oswald Grunthyme and Rolf VanBuren, have been assigned to preside over the hearing while another friend of our Minister, Holden Goldstein, has been named as chief investigator from the Magical Law Enforcement with José Aladama as assistant investigator, also from the MLE. Aurors Ralph Lerman and Galvin Darthmyer apprehended Mr. Snape in his attempt to abduct...' This is utter rubbish! He didn't abduct me!"

"Hermione, I know," Harry said, reading the same article and looking every bit as angry about it as Hermione was. "They have a lot of the facts right though; although, they aren't exactly right about everything. They've twisted a lot of it around... but it's all here. There's a leak, there has to be." He slammed the paper down and rose. "Kingsley is going to be furious. I better go."

"Harry, wait," Ginny said, reaching for the paper and flipping it over. "You'd better read this." She had been reading the back of his paper and pointed to the article that caught her eye. "'The trial date for Severus Snape has been set to begin the first of July. The question is why so soon and why the hurry? A Ministry official close to the case stated attendees will be hand-picked and will be restricted to Ministry personnel and approved members of the press and public in order to protect the rights of the witnesses and accused. Inquiring minds should wonder why the Wizengamot should grant Severus Snape such considerations when his actions and activities during the war are a concern to us all? What is the Ministry trying to hide?'" She looked up at Harry. "It's written by Rita Skeeter, and she mentions the injunction against her book. I think she's been riding on Mr. Darthmyer's robes again."

"Shite! I'd forgotten about that! Ginny, you're brilliant," Harry said as he turned and ran from the room without another word.

"You're welcome," she yelled, turning to Hermione, who was glaring darkly at the Daily Prophet. "Hey, are you okay?"

"Listen to this rubbish," Hermione sneered, reading from the paper. "'Will Hermione Granger-Snape stand by her wizard? The question regarding Hermione Granger's annulment from Severus Snape, the famed Death Eater, supposedly turned spy, and the murderer of beloved Headmaster Albus Dumbledore, is still pending. Marvin Maretbell of the Magical Reversal Office stated that should Miss Granger request a dissolvent of her Bonding, the Ministry would be happy to oblige, although such an annulment hasn't been granted in over six hundred years. Neither Miss Granger nor Severus Snape have yet to announce their decision to either confirm their recent Bonding or denounce it and request an annulment. According to Maggie Whitmire of the Magical Marriage and Birth Registration Office of the Magical Licenses and Certificates Department, Miss Granger has been given an extension for filing her annulment pending the outcome of Mr. Snape's trial. The Department will automatically grant the annulment and reverse the Bonding Spell once Mr. Snape is declared guilty. However, curious witches and wizards are wondering what kind of spell is keeping Miss Granger-Snape loyal to her Bonded mate.'"

"Isn't that the old biddy you met in Kingsley's office? Luna said she couldn't stop staring at Harry's scar," Ginny said.

"Yes, she is." Hermione turned the page and let out an outraged yelp. "How did they get these pictures? This is the second one of Severus and I in his cell! What if it had been taken when Severus and I were... intimate?" she asked, going slightly pale, and Ginny leaned over to see the picture. It was a picture of Hermione and Severus in the room with the plank wood table, obviously taken during her second visit. "'Sources at Azkaban have stated that Miss Granger-Snape has visited Mr. Snape on several occasions for Ministry approved conjugal visits...' – I only went there twice! 'The magical license registration ledger recorded the Bonding of Severus Snape and Miss Hermione Granger, hailed defender and hero of the Wizarding world during the You-Know-Who war, best friend and confidante of Harry Potter, last May. How did such a foul and dark wizard entice Miss Granger? What is this hold he has over her? Can she be saved?'" Hermione smacked the paper on the table with such force, she broke her plate. "This is utter rubbish! How dare they print this?!"

Ginny quickly repaired the plate and pushed it aside. "At least now we know why you received so many owls this morning. Would you like some help with these?"

Hermione drew her wand and carefully examined the first envelope. "Sure, you might as well, only please be careful. I got one with bubotuber puss in it once, and I'd hate for you to break out in boils. It was miserable."

"I'll be careful," Ginny promised.

*

For the third morning in a row, Hermione stumbled out of bed, refreshed herself in a long hot shower, and made her way down to breakfast only to find more Howlers waiting for her. It became a morning ritual; she and Ginny spending the morning hours opening letters and growling over the articles in the Daily Prophet. So far, none of envelopes had contained anything dangerous, although Hermione had received plenty of marital advice and offers to match her up with sons, nephews and grandsons.

Kreacher crossed her path in the entrance hall and shoved her mail at her, complaining about owls and nosey letters in the same grumbling growl he used to use before Harry had given him Regulus' locket. Ginny was already in the kitchen and looked up at her with a smile from the table as she entered. Hermione figured Ginny had Flooed over early again to have breakfast with Harry. Hermione had just sat down when Kreacher appeared, handed her more letters and hurried out of the room, still grumbling about owls. "What's got Kreacher all tied up in a knot?" She dropped the mail on the table, grimacing when she spied a few red envelopes.

"You've gotten quite a few owls this morning," Ginny said as she pushed a pile of letters toward Hermione, three of which were in crimson envelopes. "Go on, open the Howlers and get them over with first."

Hermione opened the first and instantly the letter began to offer her advice to leave Severus and find a nice respectable bloke, suggesting that her nephew was available. The second announced that she was barkers to stay Bonded with Severus Snape, wanting to know why she was waiting to get the annulment, and that she should marry Ron instead. The third started in on a rant of accusations and chastisements.

"I'm glad my brother didn't hear that second one," Ginny giggled as Hermione opened the last Howler.

"How could you be so daft? You dated Harry Potter and Viktor Krum and then go and Bond yourself to a wizard like Severus Snape?" the Howler roared. "What in Merlin's name are you thinking?"

"Miss," Kreacher said, trying to be heard above the Howler. He was covering his ears the best he could with her mail. "You has more noisy letters."

Hermione tried to thank Kreacher, but he was already running from the kitchen, covering his ears. "Don't think he likes Howlers," Hermione yelled as the last one continued ranting.

"Nope," Ginny shouted back just as the Howler stopped and tore itself into pieces. "Bloody horntails! That one was long. So how about the rest? How many are there, five? Six?"

"Blimey, six. Should I simply open them all at once and get it over with?" Hermione asked.

Ginny nodded and grabbed an envelope just as Harry entered the kitchen. "Hey, what's with all the yelling?"

"Howlers," Ginny replied, smiling. "Here, open it." Harry looked at her dubiously and opened the red envelope as Hermione and Ginny did the same. All three Howlers began at once, all sounding judgmental in their accusations, delivering the writer's opinion in a confused jumble of noise. Hermione and Ginny started laughing as the last screaming Howler tore itself up.

"Now, what was the point of that?" Harry asked, looking at the girls, confused.

Hermione handed Ginny another red envelope. "Fan mail. They usually come after you've gone. Sorry about them. Kreacher hates them, too."

"Nice way to start a morning," Harry replied sarcastically, giving Ginny a quick kiss as two more Howlers began screeching. "Well, I'm off to training. You girls have fun."

*

The Daily Prophet announced the following in their Monday morning edition:

The trial for Severus Snape's crimes began under much curiosity and speculation last week and continues into this week. Many prominent witches and wizards are still scheduled to appear as witnesses into the actions, associations, and activities of Severus Snape, including several members of the Hogwarts staff and presumed members of the Order of the Phoenix, for which Mr. Snape is said to have acted as a spy. See page three.

Just below the article was a picture of Kingsley Shacklebolt with the caption: Minister of Magic taking a personal interest in the case of Severus Snape.

Although unable to attend, this reporter has discovered several facts regarding the accusations levied against Severus Snape. Are any of them true? For more details, see page two.

The picture showed Rita Skeeter winking cheekily at the reader with her Quick Quotes Quill hovering over her pad of parchment.

Mr. Harry Potter, Miss Ginevra Weasley-Potter, Mr. Ronald Weasley, Miss Luna Lovegood-Longbottom, Neville Longbottom and several students claiming to be members of Dumbledore's Army are scheduled to testify in Severus Snape's trial this week. Miss Hermione Granger, who testified last week, has been attending the hearing on a daily basis. Still no word on whether Miss Granger will accept her Bonding to Severus Snape or if she is still planning on filing for an annulment at this time. For the latest comments from Maggie Whitmire, see page five.

The picture under the caption showed Hermione sitting behind Severus in the witness stands, surrounded on either side by Luna, Neville and Ginny, all four watching the events attentively and occasionally whispering quietly to each other. Sean, Dean, Lavender, Padma and Parvati were sitting in the row behind them.

Wizengamot members, Oswald Grunthyme, Rolf VanBuren, and Griselda Marchbanks are presiding over the hearing of The Wizarding Community vs. Severus Snape. Holden Goldstein has been assigned as chief investigator from the Magical Law Enforcement with José Aladama as his assistant investigator from the MLE and will thus be representing Severus Snape as his defense team. Aurors Ralph Lerman and Galvin Darthmyer are assigned to handling the prosecution... For more details, see page four.

Beside the article was a picture of Maggie Whitmire, an elderly witch with short, curly grey hair and glasses hanging from a chain, smiling and waving.

Another article read:

Elena McMullen, Master of Healing and Head of the Poison and Potion Accident Ward of St. Mungo's talks about the potions and poisons used by Death Eaters and Tom 'Voldemort' Riddle. Did Severus Snape have any involvement in the conception of these dangerous potions? Who created the mysterious antidotes, antivenin, and restorative potions sent to St. Mungo's? Continued on page three.

In fact, except for the weekly garden tips from Tilden Toots, the horoscope, crossword puzzle, and the birth, marriage, and death announcements, most of the edition centered around Severus' trial, his known activities, and the interviews of witnesses who were willing to speak to reporters. Many of the interviews seemed a bit odd, as if possibly taken with a Quick-Quotes Quill.

~H~

Severus Snape's trial began on the first with a great deal of interest, mostly stirred on by Rita Skeeter's articles in the Daily Prophet. The atrium of the Ministry was full of people wanting to be in the visitors' seats. Thankfully, Minister Shacklebolt restricted access to only those either called to testify or those granted official permission. Aurors Darthmyer and Lerman had sat at the prosecutors table while José Aladama and Holden Goldstein had sat for the defense. To Hermione, it seemed that the members of the Wizengamot were trying to find Severus guilty, regardless of the reassurance from Harry after each of her interrogations. Of course, Lerman and Darthmyer were trying to get Hermione to testify about things that she knew were hearsay at best. Harold Goldstein, on the other hand, seemed to be focusing on things Severus had been forced to do, on both sides, and to explain why Severus had been unable to prevent innocent deaths, destruction, and attacks of the Death Eaters from occurring.

Hermione found herself defending countless statements of mistreatment, harassment, and personal attacks Severus had made during her years of school, most provided by other students. These had been easy, since she could repeatedly state that he was simply being snarly, snide, or curt, as was his known attitude toward students, and that, as a spy, he couldn't very well have shown favor toward her since she was, after all, one of Harry's best friends.

Throughout it all, Severus sat stiffly, his face a controlled mask of indifference, as he listened to what was being said about him. There had been a slew of witnesses against him, people who came to testify about his character. Many of whom had come forward to provide statements were never actually called to take the witness stand because neither Oswald Grunthyme and Rolf VanBuren apparently wanted to take the time to hear personal grudges. The Wizengamot called every surviving member of the Order, Hogwarts staff, and several Healers from St. Mungo's forward to testify as every accusation, personal opinion and speculation were questioned and interrogated by his defense and prosecutors.

Severus was unwaveringly calm, his demeanor cool and polite but reserved whenever he was asked to defend or comment upon the issues and statements raised by witnesses. Hermione knew that his statements were true and factual, even admitting and confirming many of the accusations and witness statements, only denying what statements were false and giving his account of what had transpired. He rarely shifted blame, only occasionally accusing one of the other Death Eaters. His signature smirk and sneer appeared occasionally, briefly, but his dark eyes showed little emotion, which did very little to dispel the general opinion of the public regarding his character. The pictures of him in the papers were so still, the facial expression indifferent and controlled, that they may as well have been Muggle snapshots of him.

And through it all, Hermione continued to receive owls and Howlers, offering all sorts of advice, admonishments, and scolding for standing by Severus, even though her friends were sitting with her for support as well.

~S~

Severus stood facing the bench as Oswald Grunthyme read the Wizengamot's decision with a sense of relief. He could hardly believe that the panel, which had deliberated for days, had come to a unanimous decision and was letting him go. So far, thirty-seven charges had been read, and with each verdict, he was declared either as non-contributory, not guilty, or awarded an acquittal. As Oswald Grunthyme read the remaining twelve, more major, criminal charges, there had been a buzz in the room. With each declaration of the Wizengamot's finding, absolving Severus of the more heinous crimes, the general chatter in the room became louder until finally Oswald Grunthyme had to demand silence in the courtroom.

"And finally, on the charge for the murder of Headmaster Albus Percival Wulfric Brian Dumbledore on the fourth of June, 1997, by use of the Avada Kedavra," Oswald Grunthyme said. The courtroom was completely silent as if everyone in the room was holding their breath. Even the reporter's quills had stilled in anticipation, increasing the dead quiet as Oswald Grunthyme checked his parchments. "Due to testimony given by Harry Potter, Draco Malfoy, and Severus Snape, as well as the affirmation given by the portrait of Albus Dumbledore, and upon review of both evidentiary and suppositional evidence, we find the defendant guilty of murder with extenuating circumstances." Gasps and sighs could be heard throughout the room as people began to mutter to their neighbors. Mr. Grunthyme continued, paying little heed to the response in the room. "According to memories found in Albus Dumbledore's personal Pensieve, his personal diary, and records from the Hogwarts medical files, Albus Percival Wulfric Brian Dumbledore had been severely cursed on the eighteenth of August, 1996, and consumed a poisonous potion of unknown origins on the fourth of June, 1997, prior to the casting of the Killing Curse."

Only the sounds of the reporters' quills could be heard as Oswald Grunthyme paused before continuing, "Evidence shows that Severus Snape did, by every effort he could, assist Headmaster Dumbledore to reverse this aforementioned curse, and tried undauntedly to extend Headmaster Dumbledore's life during the school year, up until his death. Furthermore, there is conclusive evidence in the magical autopsy report that Headmaster Dumbledore was nearly dead at the time the Killing Curse was used, resulting from an unknown potion. Testimony from Harry Potter states that he was the instrument in administrating this unknown potion to Dumbledore, also by Dumbledore's adamant instructions, and that this potion would have been the cause of Dumbledore's death that very night had the Killing Curse not been cast."

"It is the finding of this court that, although Severus Snape did use an Unforgivable against Headmaster Dumbledore, he did so, apparently, according to Headmaster Dumbledore's personal request, given to Severus while he was pledging an oath to the Headmaster," Oswald Grunthyme paused briefly, allowing those in the courtroom to take in what he'd said. "Therefore, this court will accept a pardon presented by our Minister of Magic, Kingsley Shacklebolt, and hereby reinstate Severus Snape to his own recognizance. In addition, due to his actions concerning the welfare of the students during the Death Eater occupation of Hogwarts School for Witchcraft and Wizardry, this court approves the reinstatement of Severus Snape as Headmaster of Hogwarts, pending the approval of the school governors. Severus Snape, you are hereby free to go."

The people in the courtroom burst into shouts, in all ranges of exuberance, anger, dissatisfaction and astounded disbelief. Severus was in shock, still coming to the realization he'd been absolved of all his crimes, just as Kingsley had promised. He stood rigid, his mind awhirl as those present in the courtroom began to move about. Severus himself was stoic, standing calmly as many different people came down to shake his hand. Still, his eyes sought out the only face in the crowd he really wanted to see and was pleased to see her exuberant smile as she tried to weave her way through the crowd. Unfortunately, Harry Potter was leading her, making the crowd move out of their way as they approached him.

Griselda Marchbanks and Kingsley drew his attention, both offering their congratulations when Hermione suddenly threw herself at him and kissed his cheek. "You did it! You did it! You're free!" she repeated over and over.

He gripped her tightly with one arm to keep her from toppling him over in her excitement, still reeling from the implications of what the Wizengamot's decision would mean for him. "Yes, Hermione. Now please calm yourself," he chided her to no avail. Hermione flung both arms around him, burying her face in his neck. He was surprised to feel tears wet his skin. Others were touching him, patting his shoulder and back. Several voices were congratulating him, and asking him questions – asking him how he felt.

"Severus, please come up to my office," Kingsley stated, then turned to Harry. "Maybe you could help me escort them, Harry?"

Several security wizards began trying to move the crowd out of the courtroom as Harry and Kingsley maneuvered Severus and Hermione through the throng. Once they appeared in the corridor, flashbulbs went off as photographers tried to get pictures of Severus and Hermione. Aurors were trying to get control of the throng of people who filled the atrium as the small group forced their way to the lifts. Only once they were safely in the lift did Severus really take in what had occurred.

"So, how does it feel to be free?" Harry asked as he leaned against the wall of the lift.

"As one would expect, Mr. Potter," Severus stated noncommittally, watching Hermione fidget nervously and chew on her bottom lip from the corner of his eye. For some reason, it struck him as adorable.

As soon as the lift doors opened, Kingsley ushered them all quickly into his office. He conjured several more chairs in a semi-circle by his Floo and started passing out glasses of amber liquor. "I hope you don't mind a brandy. I'm rather partial to the drink, and I'd like to toast the release of a friend." There were two surprised looks as both Hermione and Severus lifted their glasses in a toast. "Congratulations, Severus. May you never have to look back, except to receive the accolades, thanks, and gratitude of all those you've helped these past dark years. We could not have won this without you, and I, for one, am proud to call you friend."

"Here," Harry said, grimacing slightly when he sipped his drink.

"So, now, Severus," Kingsley stated. He rose and pulled a long thin box from his shelf just as Arthur Weasley entered the office. "I'm pleased to return your wand to you. Arthur here has collected all the items taken from your house and will return them to you as well. I have given you special Ministry recompensation regarding your more questionable and restricted items, since I know you used them to our benefit." He smiled at Mr. Weasley and then sat down.

"Not all of them," Severus mumbled. "Thank you," he said louder, feeling a sense of awe that Kingsley had saved his wand from being snapped.

If Kingsley had heard his comment, he didn't show it. "Now, I know you and Miss Granger have some things to discuss. However, before you go, I'd like to ask you what you intend to do. Have you given any thought to your future, Severus?"

Severus exhaled as he looked at the fire in the hearth. "No, not really. To be truthful, I never thought I'd survive the war, and when I'd been arrested, I never thought I'd be pardoned." He looked up at Kingsley. "Why did you go out on the tail like this for me?"

"Because you kept sending me owls, informing me of Riddle's plans even after you killed Dumbledore," Kingsley stated with a warm smile. "I know you sent owls to Arthur and Molly as well. I thought it odd enough, and a bit incongruous, so I visited a certain portrait and had a nice long chat. Dumbledore's portrait told me everything. It was why the governors didn't protest when you were appointed as Headmaster. I secretly and privately vouched for you. I can honestly say that I would do so again should you decide to return to Hogwarts as Headmaster this year. It's an option I think you should seriously consider."

"Headmaster?" Severus repeated, surprised. Free, fully acquitted and pardoned for everything I did, and to be reinstated as Headmaster? Next thing they will tell me is that I'll be acknowledged as a war hero... It was still a bit surreal to him.

Hermione smiled as she held her drink. "You should do it," she said softly.

Snape turned his head slightly in her direction, not exactly looking at her, but just enough to see her fidget with her glass from the corner of his eye.

"If that is what you want to do, you should," she added, tilting her head as if trying to get a better look at him.

Severus turned his head back to the fire dancing in the grate.

"You don't have to decide right now, of course," Kingsley stated. "You have until the end of the month to make up your mind, not that it gives you much time. But I'd like to have your decision as soon as possible if we are forced to replace you." He rose and walked over to his Floo. "I'm sure Minerva will fill the post should you decline."

Mr. Weasley walked over and handed Severus a folded piece of parchment and a key. "There are a couple of large crates in my shed with your things in them. Molly knows which ones. She's home and expecting you. If I know my wife, she'll want to feed you both. If I might be so bold, stay at my house for at least an hour or more – as long as you need. It will give you a diversion from the reporters and some time to yourselves. None of the kids will be there, so you'll only have Molly to contend with."

Severus looked at the key in his hand, wondering what possible motives Arthur had behind his offer. "Thank you, Arthur, Kingsley," was all he could think to say.

Mr. Weasley smiled warmly. "You're welcome."

"You should go, Severus, before my office is overrun with reporters," Kingsley stated, indicating the Floo. "I can only hold off the vultures for so long. Good luck and congratulations. I'll be waiting to hear from you."

Severus nodded, shook hands with Kingsley, Mr. Weasley and even Harry before entering the huge Floo. "The Burrow," he said, and the green flames rose up and swept him away.

The minute he stepped from the Floo at the Burrow, Mrs. Weasley was waiting for him. Just as Mr. Weasley had warned him, the smells of her cooking permeated the air, and he suddenly realized just how hungry he really was. "Severus, how good to see you," she said. "You've a while yet before the food is ready. Would you like to wash up before you eat?"

Severus wanted to laugh, but refrained. "They cleaned me up before bringing me to the Ministry."

Mrs. Weasley looked at him with concerned eyes. "If you're sure. I've a bath drawn, and I placed a set of robes on the counter in the loo. It might make you feel better to clean up after that place and change robes? You've all the time you need."

Severus nodded. That is definitely true. Mrs. Weasley was well known for her mothering, and a hot soak did sound good to him. He nodded silently and followed her to the loo. It was small without feeling cramped, and he knew that the room was magicked to accommodate whoever occupied it. The tub, which appeared small, was actually large enough inside to allow him to fully stretch out in the hot water and soak. He closed his eyes and tried not to think about much. He had decisions to make, whether or not to accept returning to Hogwarts as Headmaster, and what do about Hermione for starters. Neither was a decision he wanted to make right away.

~H~

Hermione watched Severus leave the office in a swoosh of green flames. He'd all but admonished her at the end of the trial, and had hardly looked or spoken to her the entire time in Kingsley's office. He hadn't even looked at her in the lift. She sighed heavily, staring at the Floo pot Kingsley was holding, unsure of what she should do. Should I follow Severus to the Burrow or simply return to Grimmauld Place and wait?

It was the touch of Harry's hand that pulled her from her thoughts. "Hermione, are you okay?"

She didn't know what to say. She felt – blank, empty, void. She simply looked at him, unsure how to answer his question.

"Hermione," Mr. Weasley said in a deeply concerned and fatherly tone.

"Harry, maybe you should escort Miss Granger too..." Kingsley started to say and then paused.

"I don't really want to go to the Burrow just yet," she said and then turned to Mr. Weasley. "I'm sorry. You're being so kind to us, but I think I... I need to think."

Mr. Weasley smiled, knowingly. "It's not a problem. Molly will understand."

Harry stroked her arm as if trying to be reassuring. "How about if I just take her home?"

Kingsley nodded. "I'll inform your instructor. I think she needs her friends right now."

Hermione allowed Harry to guide her into the Floo. She laid her head on his shoulder as he said, "Grimmauld Place," very clearly, while still keeping an arm across her shoulders. She clung to him as the Floos flashed by, nearly tumbling them both when they arrived.

Harry was looking at her expectantly, waiting, until Hermione realized she was still clinging to him. "I'm sorry, Harry," she said quickly, releasing him and backing away. Now that she was here, she realized she wasn't sure that this was where she wanted to be.

"Hermione, do you want... some tea?" he asked cautiously, still watching her.

Hermione realized that he was feeling at a loss as to what to do for her. She tried to smile, to reassure him, but gave up and simply shook her head.

"I've got stronger stuff," he suggested. "There are bottles of liquor in the cellar. Are you hungry? I could ask Kreacher to fix you something."

She shook her head. "No. Thank you." She looked at the doorway and saw Kreacher peek around the doorframe, waiting to hear whatever she decided.

"Do you want to be alone?" Harry asked.

She looked at him and shook her head. "No, not really. But I don't really feel like talking either." He crossed his arms, standing there but not actually staring at her. "Harry, I'm fine. I just don't know what I want. I've been so focused on one thing, helping Severus get free. Now that he is – I just don't know what to do. Nearly all my life I've focused on something, school, our multiple adventures, the fight against Riddle, staying alive, helping you stay alive, finding and destroying the Horcruxes and... The only thing I know for certain is that all of that is over, and I have no idea what I want to do – except finish school."

"You feel lost? I can understand that," he said, stepping closer and pulling her into a hug. "It'll be all right. Everything will sort out. I'll be here for you, just like you've always been there for me." He kissed her cheek. "I'm going to go see if Ginny's home."

"I'll be in... the library," she replied, following him into the hall. She watched him go up the stairs before turning to her usual sanctuary.

She paced the library, picking up then discarding one book after another, not really interested in reading. She drew back the drapes and stared out at the street, her mind restless and unfocused. She honestly felt that the decision to remain with Severus wasn't entirely her own, but he'd already expressed his desire to be done with her. Still, she was raised to take marriage, even a magical marriage, seriously, and she simply couldn't make up her mind about him. Hermione had never known anyone who'd claimed to have met and married their soul mate not to have had a fantastic marriage.

In one month, she would return to Hogwarts, finish her seventh year and graduate. That was the only thing she knew for certain about her future; she wanted to finish school. Besides, having a year with Ginny and Luna, sharing classes with her friends appealed to her. But Severus might be at Hogwarts, too, as Headmaster.

She left and headed up to her room, staring at the bed. The covers on the bed were the ones she'd taken from her childhood bed the week she'd emptied everything from her parents' home and sent them to Australia. The familiar coverlet reminded Hermione of just how young she really was to have been through so much in such a short amount of time. Seven years. All of this happened in only seven years – hardly a lifetime. And now I'm married to Severus Snape. Regardless of how much she'd admired him in the past, or the fact a Pairing Charm had matched him, she was beginning to think it was all a mistake. At eighteen, a married woman, war hero, and I haven't even finished school yet! I'm still a student! His student. She fell into the bed, turning to face the wall. "He doesn't want me," she moaned into her pillows. "I might as well give him his freedom and end this sham of a marriage." The thought made a huge lump in the void of her chest. She rolled onto her stomach and cried.

~ T B C ~>

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Author's notes: