32- Christmas is Coming

Standard Disclaimer goes here.

Author's Note: We're covering several days in this chapter, moving things along a bit. Hope you don't mind... *snort* And, I'm trying to get better about posting on my Livejournal, so feel free to check it out for update info. http://www.livejournal.com/users/pern_dragon/

Without further ado, I hope you enjoy the following:

Chapter 32- Christmas is Coming

Saturday morning, Hermione received a letter from the Muggle Liaison in Flourish and Blotts. Her cheeks warmed with excitement and she smiled faintly as she stuffed it in her pocket to finish eating. Her friends simply rolled their eyes at her getting more mail. When she was done with breakfast, she nodded to the others and briskly got up from the table, flashing a cheerful grin at the High Table as she left the Hall. Snape watched her from his vantage point of languidly leaning back in his chair, his chin propped on his fingers. Once she was gone, he smoothly stood and exited through the staff entrance, returning to the dungeons.

At her desk, Hermione read the letter from the Muggle Liaison.

"Miss Granger,

Flourish and Blotts."

Hermione pursed her lips as she considered her options. I figured it'd be hard to find just what I wanted, but these are decent. Hmm, which would be better, the leather binding, or illustrations? I really like the idea of the gilded title... I'll go with the leather one. It's the oldest of them too. It may not be pristine, but I doubt Severus cares about that. Old books have character, and I'm sure he can appreciate that.

She immediately wrote a response to Andrew Mosten, choosing the oldest book, and included her authorization for him to debit her Gringotts account when he shipped the book to her.

There, that's taken care of. Perfect! Now, I just need to get the photos copied. She scanned the responses she had received from the photo shops and chose the one with the best options for her. Filling out the order form, she bounced to her bureau and withdrew the photos. Carefully, she packaged them with her order form. Satisfied, she gathered her correspondence and trekked to the owlery.

On her way back, she paused by the notice board and looked at the next rehearsal notice. "Wednesday December 17: Run through Dressing Room to Music of the Night, including songs. All actors required to attend." She began humming to herself as she climbed the stairs to Gryffindor Tower.

************

Down in his lab, Snape was back at work, carving the bicorn horn. His eyes gleamed with pride and satisfaction as he lifted the completed carving from the tabletop, turning it in the light to see it from several angles. It was black, but with an iridescent finish that looked purple and brown depending how the light hit it. He carefully put away the finished carving and took out the ribbon he had bought.

How long should this be? I don't want to make it too large, but I also don't want it to be too small... He closed his eyes and focused on Hermione's slim throat. Opening his eyes, he splayed his hand and looked at it thoughtfully. He stretched his fingers and thumb apart, slowly curving his hand into a C. I'll find out for sure at the next rehearsal. He stretched the ribbon out on the tabletop and clamped it down, leaving it until he had his answer.

**********

The week seemed to be passing quickly, and Hermione was eagerly anticipating Potions class and rehearsal. She had written another letter to Snape, including it in her homework. It was a breezy, chatty letter, full of tidbits about what she'd been working on, her thoughts on her classes, how she had been getting along with her friends, and of course, how much she missed him and loved him. After reading his letter, she felt quite out of her depth in trying to write steamy things. So, she decided that she'd learn more before writing anything too lascivious.

When she turned in her homework, she caught Snape's eye and nodded minutely, glancing at the parchment. His eyes narrowed suspiciously and she bit her lip, sheepishly shaking her head "no" and shrugging. Snape's lips rippled as he held back a smile.

He indulged his curiosity and read her letter during class, feeling warmed by the sweet confidences within. One part gave him a pang of dismay.

"I know using owl post is okay right now, since I've been getting so much mail, but that's about to end. So, we do need to figure out how you can get letters to me outside of class and rehearsal. Don't worry too much about it until after the holidays. I'm going to be getting mail through then. People don't mind so much when you're acting secretive when it's Christmas time. Besides, I threatened everyone with keeping their presents if they bugged me too much! So, keep that in mind, you sneaky Slytherin. If you annoy me, I just may keep your present for myself!"

He felt his chest tighten. So she has a gift for me? Beloved, you're the greatest gift I could ever receive... He peered at her through his hair, feeling like he was almost buoyant with happiness. But, I'm so glad I am almost done with her present. I do hope she'll like it.

******** *********

Snape marched down from the High Table to collect Hermione before rehearsal. At this point, it was an established fact that he would be doing so, and the other Gryffindors stopped acting shocked about it. For her part, Hermione saw him coming and finished her meal, clearing her throat and dabbing her lips with her napkin before rising and facing him as he stalked down the aisle toward her. He barely flicked a dark glance at the others as he reached her, merely grunting in response to her polite, "Good evening, Professor." Nodding sharply at her to follow, they exited the Hall and made their way down to his quarters.

In companionable silence, they entered his room. Once the door was shut and warded behind them, Hermione spun and advanced on Snape, actually slamming him into the door as she pressed herself against him. Snape's surprised cry was muffled by Hermione's passionate kiss. His arms came up around her involuntarily and a low groan issued from his throat as he succumbed to her enthusiasm.

Pulling away to gasp for breath, Snape stared dazedly down into her dilated eyes. Dryly, he rasped, "Well, hello to you too." Hermione grinned impishly at him and bit her lip.

In a tone that was anything but repentant, she said, "Sorry. That was building up for a while. Just be glad I managed to contain myself until we got here!" She giggled as he raised one eyebrow at her.

His tone sardonic, he drawled, "Indeed, how very fortunate." Glaring his reprimand at her, he removed her hands from his person and decidedly set her away from him. "Come now, you know the drill..." She made a moue of disappointment and sulked over to the chair as he collected the hair products.

As he sat on the ottoman in front of her, Hermione said, aggrieved, "You know, it's not fair that I do this for you every time, and I don't get someone playing with my hair."

Snape chuckled and glanced over his shoulder at her. "I promise that I will return the favour. But I must request that you teach me that detangling charm before I even try to address those curls, my dear." He ducked away from her indignant swat, chuckling again. She tugged on a lock of his hair and he spun quickly, capturing her hands. "Now now, that's completely unnecessary." She struggled half-heartedly and he smirked at her. Favouring her with a particularly menacing glare, he released her hands and turned back around.

Hermione huffed and went back to her task. As soon as she was done, Snape stood in one fluid movement and whirled behind her chair. She started to look at him, but he placed one large hand against the crown of her head and directed her to face forward again. She blinked, puzzled, but her eyes fluttered closed as she felt his deft fingers grazing along her hairline, slipping into her curls, massaging her scalp. A blissful sigh that sounded suspiciously like a moan erupted from her lips.

Snape thrilled to the sounds she was making, and gently caressed her cheeks and neck. Suddenly, he was hit with an inspiration, and he slid his hands around her throat in a languid caress, paying attention to how much of his fingers stretched around her. Excellent! Now I can finish the ribbon, since I know how long it needs to be... He dragged his nails along the sensitive flesh below her ears, scraping them up into her hair and pushing her head forward. He could feel the goose flesh under his fingertips as she shivered in ticklish delight.

After a few moments of rubbing her neck and shoulders, he gathered her bushy hair to one side and leant down, pressing nibbling kisses along the column of her neck. Whimpering mews met his ministrations and he smiled wickedly. With a regretful sigh, he withdrew, letting her hair fall back.

"That's all you get this time. We have to go."

Hermione's eyes snapped open and she whipped around to glare at him heatedly. Mutinous eyes pinned him as she practically growled her displeasure. "Bloody hell!"

Snape bit back a smirk at her impatience and cocked one eyebrow. "Language..."

Hermione shot to her feet and wrinkled her nose at him. "Oh, sod off..."

Snape sputtered with laughter as he waved her past him. Snorting at her incensed reaction, he gathered his mask from the table by the door and dutifully composed himself for their trek to the Hall.

The rest of the cast was entering the Hall as they arrived. Dumbledore was casting Suaviloquentia on those who needed it as everyone took their places to begin the run-through. Snape slunk into the wing to await his cues, concealing himself in the shadows. Dumbledore set out a music box and called for places.

Ron, Neville, Millicent, and Harry entered the stage, crossing to the door of the dressing room, where Hermione sat waiting. As Harry entered the dressing room, they exited the stage into the wing. Harry and Hermione began their scene, and Dumbledore started the music for them to sing. Once Harry departed, Snape's music started, and he stepped up behind the mirror, still hidden from view. Once again, he used the Sonorus charm to let his voice echo throughout the theatre. They sang through "Angel of Music," Harry bursting back onto the stage and through the dressing room door right after Snape pulled Hermione through the mirror. At that point, Dumbledore was hard pressed to keep the set changes flowing as they continued through

Phantom of the Opera" in the "Labyrinth Underground."

The rest of the cast scrambled out into the house to watch the scene progress, since they hadn't seen the previous rehearsal for the blocking. Eyes goggled in rapt attention at the intricate set changes, and the smooth performances of their Head Girl and Potions Master.

Hermione felt mesmerized by Snape as they continued on to "Music of the Night." Snape put forth his usual intense effort, focusing on Hermione and relegating the rest of the cast to the realm of the unimportant. Therefore, he didn't hear the susurrus of gasps and whispers that met his hypnotic seduction through song.

When he wrapped his arms around Hermione and touched her face, Ron and Harry exchanged pained glances. Ginny was staring at them intently, brow creased in thought. Finally, as the scene progressed through to the point where he unveiled the wax form resembling Hermione, and it thrust its hand toward her, several of the girls jumped, startled. As Hermione crumpled, he deftly caught her and swung her up into his arms with consummate ease, gently depositing her on the bed. As he tenderly arranged her limp form, a few of the girls sighed, completely caught up in the pathos of the moment. When the song was finished, and the music stopped, Snape abruptly pulled up, coldly exiting the stage as Hermione opened her eyes and stared after him.

Ginny shook her head, trying to come out from the thrall of his intense performance. Mutters and shocked whispers buzzed through the rest of the cast, unprepared as they were for seeing such a side of their black-hearted professor.

Dumbledore beamed at everyone, calling for them to take their places again for a second run-through. This time, everyone put a little more effort into their performances, feeling rather outdone by Snape. He ignored everyone except Hermione, once again excelling in his part. Finally, Dumbledore had everyone go through the scenes one last time, satisfied that it was running smoothly. When it was over, he ordered everyone into the house for notes.

"Marvellous! Everyone is coming along splendidly! This Friday is our next rehearsal, and we will be blocking through 'Prima Donna.' I know those scenes are much longer than these have been, but the blocking will be fairly simple, so don't worry. Also, I want to remind everyone that we will be having our Secret Santa gift exchange on Christmas. Friday's rehearsal is the last one before Christmas, and we won't have another one until the 27th. I'll post about them on the notice board of course. Now, about Christmas..." Interested looks ricocheted through the group.

"We will have our normal holiday luncheon for everyone who is staying at Hogwarts for the break that day at 11:00. The Hall will be decorated for the holidays as usual, and if you've never stayed at Hogwarts over Christmas, you're in for a treat, as we have a wonderful feast to celebrate! That evening, after dinner, we will have a Christmas party for the cast. It will be a formal affair, so prepare your best outfits. We will have music and treats and we will do our Secret Santa gift exchange then. So, if you haven't yet taken care of your gift, make sure you do so soon! After the exchange, we'll reveal who chose whose names. The party will last until midnight, so we can all enjoy ourselves as a family. Remember, this cast is a family in and of itself, and we should take these opportunities to bond." The group exchanged varied looks, from excitement to disdain. Snape glanced at Hermione and saw a pleased smile on her lips. He nodded wryly to himself, knowing his Secret Santa gift would meet with approval, if nothing else!

Clapping his hands, Dumbledore twinkled at the cast and dismissed them. Excited murmurs arose throughout the group as they split into small clumps. Snape hung back, watching Hermione being pulled along with her House-mates. He was startled by an amused voice at his shoulder.

"Everything going all right with you, Severus?" Snape spun and politely nodded to the twinkling old man.

"I believe things are satisfactory at the moment."

Dumbledore chuckled. "Are you ready for the gift exchange?"

Snape rolled his eyes and sighed. "Yes. I have already taken care of that task. You needn't worry."

A jovial hand clapped Snape's shoulders, knocking him forward. "Excellent, my boy! I must tell you, you really are wonderful as the Phantom. You surpass yourself every time..."

Snape ducked his head uncomfortably. "Yes, well... I am merely doing my part for the success of the production."

Dumbledore crowed with delight. "Pun intended, Severus?" He laughed at Snape's grimace. Once again patting Snape's shoulders, he leant in confidentially and said, "Well, keep it up. You and Miss Granger are simply amazing together!"

Snape froze for a second, icy sweat prickling his skin. Thinking quickly, he responded, "Hmph. Fortunately, she does have some skill. It's a good thing for Hogwarts that we have a capable actress for an occasion such as this. She has been quite professional about her role, and I will admit that I find her almost tolerable to work with."

Dumbledore beamed at him. "Good to hear, good to hear. Very well then, run along. Keep up the good work." He waved his hands at Snape dismissively, and Snape inclined his head before spinning on his heel and stalking up the aisle to leave. The rest of the cast was gone already, so he missed one last chance to watch Hermione before he retired to his quarters. However, she was the only thing on his mind, as he headed straight for his work table, to finish the ribbon.

Once he had cut it to the appropriate length, he attached the clasp to the ends. Then, he retrieved the carving from his cabinet and used a Permanent Sticking Charm to attach the cameo to the ribbon. Humming in his throat, he smiled at the finished product. The choker was as close to the one she had worn to the play as was in his power to recreate. Every line was carved with the care borne of deep devotion, and he hoped she would be able to appreciate the time and attention he gave to his self-appointed project. Safely storing her gift out of sight, he made a mental note to acquire appropriate gift wrap, and soon.

********** ***************

Hermione was at the notice board, reading "Friday December 19: block the next morning, Notes, and Prima Donna. Actors required to attend: Everyone except Justin, Colin, Dean, Draco, and Seamus," when Ginny popped up behind her.

"Hey 'Mione!" Hermione spun to see the redhead grinning at her.

"Hey Gin, what's up?" She smiled at her friend as they continued into the Hall for lunch. "Just checking on rehearsal tomorrow night..."

Ginny saw Ron and Harry already at the table and pulled Hermione away from them, whispering, "Can I talk to you in private for a bit?" Hermione's brows rose but she nodded and followed the other girl to some seats down the table.

"Sure, what's going on? Is everything okay?"

Ginny nodded vigorously, a secretive smile on her face. "Oh, yes, everything's great. I just have to share with someone or I'm going to burst..."

Hermione leant closer as she filled her plate. "What?"

Ginny glanced around furtively and whispered, "I just got the sexiest outfit to wear for Harry for Christmas! I ordered it from a catalogue Lavender had. I know it's an outfit for me, but me wearing it is definitely for Harry!" She giggled.

Hermione blinked blankly as she felt colour rising in her cheeks. Lamely, she retorted, "That's... great, Gin. Really... I'm glad things are... going so well."

Ginny giggled again and smirked archly. "They are. I even managed to sneak into the boys' locker room after Quidditch practice Tuesday evening and we had a quickie before coming in. It was really exciting..." She laughed aloud at Hermione's shocked countenance.

"Ginevra Molly Weasley! You are going to get yourselves into so much trouble! What were you thinking?"

Ginny shrugged. "Oh, give over. It was no big deal. I told you, it was a quickie! Anyway, I wanted to ask you if you'd be willing to help us out for Christmas. I want to be able to wear the outfit for him, and I want it to be special, but we don't have a good place to meet. His dorm is out of the question, and you know he can't get into my dorm..." She turned imploring eyes on Hermione.

Hermione's eyes goggled and she choked. "No! You can not use my room!"

Ginny gripped Hermione's arm eagerly. "Please? If you won't help us, we'll just have to sneak out again..." She shot Hermione a challenging look. Hermione's eyes narrowed.

"I can't believe you! I should just turn you in myself..."

Ginny rolled her eyes. "Come on, 'Mione! It's just for a couple of hours. I promise we'd leave everything in ship shape. You know I'd do the same for you if our positions were reversed." She favoured Hermione with usually-effective puppy-dog eyes.

Hermione stared at the redhead speculatively. Surreptitiously glancing around, she leant in and whispered, "I'll think about it. But if I agree, you owe me big."

Ginny's eyes lit up with hope. "Anything! You name it, it's yours!"

Hermione snorted and sat, pensively eating for a few moments. Ginny ate her lunch with an attitude of pent-up energy. Finally, Hermione took a deep breath and muttered. "I want to borrow some of your smut."

Ginny went still. Blinking rapidly, she queried, "What?"

Hermione fought the blush that was suffusing her face, to no avail. Looking decidedly embarrassed, she repeated, "I want to borrow some of your smut. You know, your trashy books. The ones your mum would throw a fit about if she knew you had them. I need them. For research..." She looked down at her food sheepishly.

Ginny swallowed. Dazedly, she stammered, "A-all right. You can come get them whenever you want... Research?" She regarded Hermione with a completely puzzled expression.

Hermione glared heatedly at Ginny and hissed, "Don't make me change my mind..." Ginny gasped and her brows shot to her hairline.

Vigorously shaking her head no, she grabbed Hermione's elbow and squeaked, "Really?" Hermione simply cut her a black look and Ginny bounced in her seat. "Oh, thank you! You're the best. Borrow whatever you want! I don't care!" She laughed delightedly and cast a wicked glance at the oblivious boys down the table. Turning solemnly back to Hermione, she averred, "I swear, I won't say anything to anyone, not even Harry. It'll be a surprise. I figure we can skive off from the Christmas party a bit early. It'll be perfect! Thank you so much..." She gave Hermione a quick squeeze and beamed at her.

Hermione morosely eyed her plate. "I hope I won't regret it..." Ginny went back to eating, and Hermione cast a glance up at Snape. He was watching her thoughtfully through his hair. One eyebrow rose in question about her interactions with Ginny. Hermione grimaced and rolled her eyes. Then, sighing, she reached for the teapot to prepare her tea, and relaxed again when she saw Snape doing the same.

Well, at least I can start my research... Oh, Christmas can't get here soon enough!

******** **************

Friday evening found Snape strolling down the aisle by the Gryffindor table, glaring at Hermione as she stood to follow him. They made the familiar trek to his quarters, entering in companionable silence once again. As soon as the door was closed, Snape reached for Hermione and cupped her cheek in his hand, gazing down at her, eyes gleaming with feeling.

She sighed and tilted her head into his caress, eyes closing. Her eyes snapped open again at his velvet purr. "I could easily get used to this..."

"This?" She looked up at him curiously.

He pinned her with an intense stare as he said, "Coming home... to you." Hermione's breath caught in her throat as she stared back at him. Slowly, he leant down and covered her lips with a gentle kiss. His hands slid into her hair and hers snaked up around his neck, pulling their bodies together. After a moment, Snape pulled back from the kiss and enveloped her in a tight embrace.

Hermione's voice trembled as she murmured, "I love you, Severus."

Snape's breath stirred her hair as he sighed, "Hermione, my love..." Then, he released her and smiled down at her. "Ready?"

Hermione grimaced in regret and nodded, knowing what he was referring to. She crossed to the chair and he retrieved the hair products from the bathroom. As he took his seat on the ottoman, he asked, "What were you and Miss Weasley so intent about yesterday at lunch? You looked quite flustered. Is she causing problems... she's not onto us, is she?" He shot a concerned glance over his shoulder. He blinked in surprise when Hermione firmly gripped his head and turned him back around.

"Hold still or I can't finish." She was grateful that he was facing away from her, since she was blushing again. "No, she was asking me for a favour. Nothing about us."

Mildly curious, Snape continued, "What favour? You didn't look like you were too pleased about it."

Hermione snorted and drawled, "I'm not, but I struck a bargain with her. So, it'll all work out. As for what favour, you needn't know. It's better that way..."

Snape's eyes narrowed in perplexity. "Just what is going on?" His voice hardened. "Will I run the chance of happening upon those two imbeciles again? I can't promise that I'll let them off again if I do..."

Hermione huffed in irritation. "I said it's taken care of, Severus! And no, you shouldn't find them again. Just don't worry about it." She finished his hair and let her hands slap onto her lap. Snape swivelled immediately and pinned her with a severe gaze. Hermione returned it with equal intensity. He squinted at her. "Look, you're the one who suggested their Head Girl should keep an eye on them. I am. So, forget about it." She thinned her lips and eyed him, showing no signs of backing down, folding her arms across her chest.

Snape stared at her for a moment, finally exhaling his displeasure, but capitulating. Scowling, he growled, "Fine. I will trust that you have things under control. Do not let my trust be misplaced." At that, he cocked an eyebrow and stood, crossing his arms as well. Hermione rose, letting her hands fall to her hips.

With grave dignity, she said, "Thank you. Now, shall we go?"

With equal solemnity, Snape drawled, "Certainly." He waved her ahead of him and they made their way up to the Hall.

Down near the stage, Dumbledore waved them to take their places from the end of "Music of the Night." "Severus, why don't you do what comes naturally. You do have such wonderful instincts about all this..." Snape nodded crisply. He took his place at the pipe organ, and Hermione sank down onto the bed. "Miss Granger, just respond as naturally as possible to whatever Professor Snape does. We'll change things later if we need to." Hermione nodded and looked to Snape. He turned from her and faced the keyboard.

Hermione began the scene, rising from the bed and reciting her lines, crossing to Snape at the organ. She quietly snuck up behind him, hesitantly reaching for his mask. Finally, as she finished her lines, she grasped it and pulled it from his face. Instantly, he covered his face with his hand, whirling on her in a rage. As he roared, "Damn you! You little prying Pandora! You little demon..." Hermione gasped, eyes wide, scuttling backwards, falling to the floor and cowering away from him.

Out in the house, the students gasped as well, terrified for Hermione as Snape advanced on her in fury. He was menace personified as he towered over Hermione, his free hand flailing wildly, making her cringe away from him. He paced the stage like a caged tiger as he continued, "Is this what you wanted to see? Curse you! You little lying Delilah! You little viper! Now you cannot ever be free..." He ended up back at the organ, leaning over it, and slammed his fist against it as he bellowed, "Damn you!" He drew a ragged breath and flung his hand violently outward as he spun away from her, his shoulders sagging as he cried, "Curse you!"

There was a beat of electric silence before he turned back to her, the side of his face that was usually covered by the mask turned upstage. His expression was cold and hard as he glared at her. He began, "Stranger than you dreamt it. Can you even bear to look or dare to think of me - this loathsome gargoyle who burns in hell but secretly yearns for Heaven. Secretly... Secretly..." Then, he deliberately stepped toward her, closing the distance between them as he continued, "But Christine... Fear can turn to love. You'll learn to see to find the man behind the monster - this repulsive carcass who seems a beast, but secretly dreams of Beauty. Secretly... Secretly..." He sank to his knees in front of Hermione as he neared the end, his voice fading softer and softer, until it broke as he rasped, "Oh, Christine..." He reached toward her and she flinched away from him, causing him to grip his hand into a fist and pull back, as if he had been burned. His face fell at the rejection, and Hermione hesitantly proffered his mask, gazing at him warily.

Snape took the mask, turned his back to the house, put it on, and turned more so that the mask was visible to the audience before rising and crossing back to the organ. Once there, he squared his shoulders and spun, composedly snapping, "Come, we must return. Those two fools who run my theatre will be missing you." He extended his hand imperiously, crossing back to her. Hermione took his hand and rose, stumbling after him as he dragged her into the wing.

In the wing, he faintly whispered, "Are you all right?" giving Hermione a searching look. She nodded hastily, flashing him a warm smile before they exited back onto the stage. Dumbledore was beaming at them again.

"I knew it! That was perfect. Now, let's get that copied down before we move on, shall we?" He began scribbling in his script and Hermione and Snape followed suit. Once they were done, Dumbledore changed the sets to the next scene with Buquet and the ballerinas. Terry Boot took the stage and recited his lines, standing where Dumbledore told him. The girls gathered around him, watching his performance. Dumbledore called out, "Severus!" Snape immediately emerged from the wing.

"Headmaster?"

"You and Miss Granger are supposed to come up through a trap door in the centre of the stage. I haven't yet figured out how we'll be handling that. So, for now, just go to the spot where it should be and pretend you've come up from below."

"As you say." He gestured to Hermione to join him centre stage. They took their position and Snape pinned Terry with a dangerous stare before he wrapped his arm around Hermione and led her back offstage. The ballerinas scampered off into the opposite wing, passing McGonagall as she entered and then recited her lines to Terry.

Dumbledore changed the sets again to the Managers' Office, and Neville nervously took his place at the desk. He took a deep breath and began reciting his lines, taking him to the point where Ron burst in to stomp over to the desk in a temper. They made it through their lines with ease, and Harry entered, joining them at the desk as well. Neville stood once Harry handed his note to Ron. They read through the note, and Pansy flounced onto the stage, radiating haughty indignation.

Eventually, McGonagall and Ginny entered as well, adding to the line forming across the stage. Dumbledore directed Neville to cross to the centre when he took the note from McGonagall. Everyone else crowded around behind him to read along. Snape stood in the wing, Sonorus spell ready to chime in for the note.

As he finished the note, the group onstage spread out, Pansy stepping downstage to claim focus as she began her tirade. Ron and Neville flanked her to appease her. Harry, McGonagall, and Ginny stood to the sides behind them, each adding their own bits to the tumult. Their positions remained the same through "Prima Donna," and Snape bellowed his final threat, his enspelled voice echoing through the Hall.

Dumbledore clapped his appreciation as he called everyone back to begin again. The students watched again in fascinated wonder as Snape and Hermione performed the beginning scene with such expression. Slowly, they moved through the scenes, practicing the blocking. Then, after they finished the second time through, they repeated it once more, much more smoothly.

Dumbledore offered his ebullient praise again, reminding everyone that the next rehearsal would be after Christmas, and to be ready for the cast holiday party and the Secret Santa gift exchange. Smiles and chuckles met his reminders, and he wished everyone a pleasant break. Snape stalked up the aisle, glaring at anyone who was in his path. Students ducked away from him, even more fearful of him after his terrorizing performance. He sighed in annoyance, but was grateful that it was now the break, and he wouldn't have to deal with the dunderheads for two weeks, outside of rehearsals.

He secluded himself in his quarters, rereading the letters Hermione had sent him, letting his mind wander to the myriad things he wanted to do with her. His arousal tented the lounge wear he wore, and he retreated to his bedroom to strip down and get comfortable in his bed. Sprawling out on the cool satin sheets, he pillowed his head in his left hand, his right hand snaking down his body to tease his heated flesh.

Hermione... Gods, how I want you...

Long fingers wrapped around his cock, stroking and squeezing. His breath caught in his throat, and he exhaled forcefully, his body twitching at the pleasure arcing through him. His eyes closed, and he pictured Hermione, her lips parted, swollen and wet from his demanding kisses. He imagined her body, revealed to him in all its naked glory, her nipples stiffening and pointing toward him where he hovered over her. He remembered the taste of her skin, and how smooth it was under his tongue, and he increased his languid pace, fisting his cock harder. His left hand pulled out from behind his head and travelled down to cup his balls, holding them tightly, but not painfully.

His panting echoed through his room, but in his mind, he relived Hermione's whimpers and moans as he brought her to orgasm. Licking his lips, he yearned for the taste of her juices again. He envisioned her fantasy of taking her on the rug before his hearth, covering her with his body, sliding into her tight heat. At that thought, his strokes became more erratic, and his muscles tightened, heralding his impending orgasm. Squeezing with both hands, while still stroking furiously, a deep groan poured forth as he shot his come over his belly and hand. He felt the warm wetness cool quickly on his skin in the clammy dungeon air.

Each muscle relaxed in succession, until he felt as if he were melting into the mattress. Breathing deeply in the wake of his climax, he marvelled at how intense his lust was for the young woman who had changed his life so completely in the previous two months. But it was the matching intensity of his deeper feelings for her that made him smile in the darkness, idly reaching for his wand to clean up his mess before sinking into a sated slumber, his deep rumbling voice pervading the room as he murmured, "Good night, Hermione. Sleep well, my love."

******** ************

Hermione was excited to receive her mail Saturday morning. It so happened that the packages from both the photo shop and Flourish and Blotts showed up at the same time. The Hall was practically empty that morning, as most of the students had already left the evening before to go home for the break, and those few that were left were having a lie-in to start the break off right. Hermione, never one to miss an opportunity to study for N.E.W.T.s, had decided to take advantage of the peace and quiet and got up early, her Arithmancy text on the table in front of her. She was amused to note that Snape hadn't even arrived at breakfast yet, and the morning post was arriving.

Happily offering the owls bits of bacon, she took the packages from them, glancing around furtively before tearing into the photos. Riffling through them, she was pleased to note that they were all good copies, and she looked forward to finishing her gift wrapping later that day. Then, she carefully opened the package from Flourish and Blotts, eagerly uncovering the book she had bought for Snape. As she unwrapped it from the tissue paper, she sighed in contentment to see the quality of the book.

It was aged leather, and the pages were indeed yellowed, but the binding was of obvious quality, and the pages of thin, strong, silky paper. The gilded, embossed title lent it a rather aristocratic air, and she was inordinately satisfied that it would suit Snape perfectly. Reverent fingers caressed the pages, gently flipping through them, and she leant closer to inhale the aroma of old book. It was a scent that Hermione revelled in, and this particular book was redolent with the almost musty smell of aging paper and old leather, strong glue and dark ink. Almost bouncing in her seat with joy, she gingerly wrapped it again and put it away, the wheels of her mind already forging ahead to how she could include the photo of her and Snape together with the book.

Excited to finish her holiday gifts, she gathered her things and left the Hall, feeling a moment's regret that she had not stayed long enough to see Snape. Once in her room, she took all her gifts from the hiding places in her closet and spread them on her desk and bed. She had just begun placing all the photos with the frames when there was a knock at her door.

"Who is it?"

Through the door she heard Ginny's muffled voice. "It's Ginny. You coming to breakfast? The boys are waiting in the common room."

Hermione snorted and called back, "I already ate. I'm wrapping gifts, so go on and I'll catch up with you lot later."

She heard Ginny's chuckle before she answered, "All right. See you later!"

Hermione continued putting the photos in the frames, and packaging them with the other bits and baubles she had got to add to each gift. As she finished each package, she transfigured parchment into colourful wrapping paper and wrapped them, gaily adding ribbons and bows for decoration. She left Snape's gift for last. After putting a photo of her in the silver and green frame, she wrapped it in tissue paper and placed it in a box. Once the book was ready with the other photo, it would join the framed one in the package, completing his gift. Sitting on her bed, leaning against the headboard, she gazed thoughtfully at the book. She skimmed through it, wondering where would be an appropriate place to add the photo. As she pondered, she decided that she would include an inscription on the flyleaf. But, in the interest of being safe, she realized she should use the disappearing ink.

Moving to her desk, she opened the ink and dipped her quill in the bottle, soberly thinking about what she wanted to write. Closing her eyes for a moment, she took a deep breath and wrote, "For Severus, my love. In celebration of that which enlightened me to the man behind the Potions Master, and which indeed proved that fear can turn to love. This story will always have a special place in my heart; for without it, we may never have been brought together. I love you, my very own Angel of Music. Happy Christmas, beloved. With love, Hermione." She chewed her lip, reading her words. Finally, she cast Celo and reached for the photo of her and Snape together.

Thumbing through the book, she realized that she wanted him to read the whole thing before finding the photo. Turning to the blank page between the final chapter and the epilogue, she used a gentle Temporary Sticking Charm to attach the photo to the blank page, following that with a concealment charm, of which the revelation would hinge upon reading the last line of the final chapter. Then, smiling to herself at her manipulations, she included a transfigured bookmark, upon which she wrote, "Be sure to read the end of the last chapter aloud. Then you'll truly see the effects of your voice." Giggling under her breath, she tucked the bookmark inside the flyleaf and lovingly wrapped the book, first in tissue paper, and then, after placing it inside the box, in silver paper with green ribbons. She didn't bother with placing his name on it. It was the only package in Slytherin colours, after all.

She hid all of the wrapped gifts again, warding them, just in case anyone somehow managed to snoop. Then, she gathered her gifts for her parents and trekked out to the owlery to send them on.

******* **********

The days leading up to Christmas were filled with leisurely exploits. The Gryffindors played innumerable games of Wizard's Chess and Exploding Snap, sometimes even inviting some of the other remaining students to join them out in the snowy lawn, throwing snowballs and building snowmen and forts. Laughter rang through the castle and the grounds as the Hall was decorated by the staff for Christmas, with huge trees and wreaths, non-melting icicles and snowflakes, ribbons and garland, and festoons of holly and mistletoe. Every day there was something else added to the spectacular decorations.

In the interest of allowing students more freedom, the first Monday of the break, a notice was placed on the door of the Great Hall, informing the remaining students that meals would not be held in the Hall until the Christmas feast, and that they could order meals from the house-elves to be eaten in their common rooms during regular meal hours. It was both a novel experience for the students, and a welcome respite for the staff, who could adjust the Hall at will, without having to worry about clearing things away before mealtimes. Because of the new rules, Hermione saw very little of Snape before Christmas, a fact that caused her no little frustration.

She missed seeing him, sharing tea with him...well, at least at the same time as him...and most of all, she missed being in class and rehearsal with him, having the chance to be near him. She was looking forward to making the mousse for him, hoping he would like it. But, she was most excited to send him his gift. She had already decided that she would avail herself of Dobby's vehement desire to be useful, and have him deliver her gift to Snape's quarters Christmas Eve after she had made the mousse in the kitchens. She didn't want to take the chance that anyone would notice the package when she took her gifts to the house-elves before Christmas for distribution.

Dumbledore had always asked the house-elves to help with the festivities by keeping track of all of the presents that were sent for students who were staying at Hogwarts over breaks. Then, overnight, on Christmas Eve, they would distribute the gifts to the respective recipients, much like the elves in the lore of Santa Claus. That way, students were able to wake up to their gifts Christmas morning, and they had no chance to sneak peeks before they were supposed to. Dumbledore took great pleasure in his emulation of Father Christmas... not but what you'd notice with the twinkling and the jollity and all that.

Christmas Eve was fast approaching, and Hermione pulled Harry aside one evening. Glancing around to make sure no one was listening, she said, "Harry, I need to ask a favour again."

Thankfully, Harry had finally managed to revert to his former self, the one who was friends with Hermione and not trailing after her like a lovesick puppy. Ginny had really done wonders with him since they had got back together. Harry grinned at Hermione expectantly and said, "Sure, 'Mione, what do you need?"

"I need to borrow your Cloak Christmas Eve. Same thing as last time. Will you help me?" She looked at him, silently imploring.

Harry laughed. "No problem. Just make sure you come get it that evening. I'll say this; I can't wait to find out what you're up to!" He laughed again at Hermione's grimace and raspberry.

Hermione rolled her eyes and drawled, "You'll see at the gift exchange. Not much longer now!"

Harry wrinkled his nose and shrugged. "I'll be glad when it's all over. I really had no idea what to give a Slytherin."

Hermione huffed in exasperation. "Honestly, Harry, you make it sound like Slytherins are a completely different species or something. They're people too, you know!"

He eyed her askance and muttered, "You sure about that?" Hermione was about to smack him, incensed on Snape's behalf, but Harry continued, "I thought they were ferrets." At that point, she clapped a hand over her mouth to stifle the bark of laughter that escaped. Eyes dancing with mirth, she forgave him his attitude and shoved him instead.

Giggling, she murmured, "Cheap shot, Harry, cheap shot!"

They chuckled and joined the rest of the lounging Gryffindors for a team game of Exploding Snap.

***** *********

Christmas Eve was a raucous one in the Gryffindor common room. The remaining students were so excited about the holiday that they just couldn't settle down to sleep. Hermione had already retrieved the Invisibility Cloak from Harry earlier that day and was anxiously awaiting the time to sneak down to the kitchens. The hour was getting later, and it was already after curfew. Hermione was starting to get nervous about being able to get out of the Tower, what with everyone hanging about in the common room. Finally, she dragged Harry to one side again and hissed, "I can't get out of here with everyone hanging around! I can't very well sneak out under your Cloak right in front of them!" Her brow was creased with anxiety.

Harry patted her arm and whispered, "No worries. I'll take care of it. Go in the corridor and put the Cloak on. Then, come tap me and I'll go open the portrait. You can slip through that way."

Hermione's eye lit up with hope. "Will it really work? What will you do?"

Harry smirked. "Don't worry. I'll take care of it. Just go get the Cloak and tap me, okay?" Hermione nodded quickly and flashed him a grateful smile before dashing off. Harry wandered near the portrait hole and leant against the wall. Several minutes later, he felt a tap on his shoulder. Yawning hugely, he stretched his arms out, feeling Hermione slip past him. "Ahhh, I wonder if the house-elves are delivering gifts yet." He opened the portrait hole and made a show of looking out into the corridor. Pulling back, he felt Hermione edging past him.

Colin looked up and queried, "What'd you say, Harry? Why'd you open the portrait?"

Harry shrugged and said, "Oh, I was just wondering if the house-elves had started delivering gifts yet. Thought I'd have a look. I don't see any out there yet, but maybe they'll start soon." He paused, shutting the portrait. Frowning thoughtfully, he added, "Say, come to think of it, maybe they won't until we're all in bed. You know, like Santa's elves in the stories..." Several people perked up at that.

Colin muttered, "Well, maybe we should all clear off, so they can get to work. I don't want to miss out on my gifts just because we're down here too late." A murmur of agreement rippled through the group. Harry grinned.

"Well, then I suggest we all turn in. Come on, mates, off to bed with you."

Ron looked around, puzzled. "Oi, where's 'Mione?"

Harry cleared his throat and said, "She went to bed already. Didn't you lot notice? Oh well, we'll see her in the morning. So, let's move, folks!" He started making shooing gestures at everyone, urging them to vacate the premises. Stretching and yawning, they began to disperse, calling out "good night"s to the others. Harry waited until he saw that everyone was departing before he headed to the stairs to his dorm. Ginny caught him as he passed the shadows on his way to the stairs.

"Hey, you. Do I get a good night kiss?" She grinned impishly at him. He smiled back and pulled her to him. Wrapping his arms around her, he kissed her soundly.

"Does that qualify?" He cocked an eyebrow at her roguishly. She sighed and nodded happily.

"By all means. I hope you'll like my gift for you... Happy Christmas, Harry, and sweet dreams." She tilted her head and gave him a coy look before bouncing up and kissing him again.

As she pulled away from him, Harry drawled, "They'll be sweet dreams if I dream of you..." Ginny laughed and tossed her head.

"Smooth talker..." She rippled her fingers at him in a wave and climbed the stairs to the girls' dorms. Harry grinned to himself and headed for bed, looking forward to the next day more than any Christmas before.

******** **********

Hermione crept down to the kitchens, carrying her chocolate and Snape's gift. She tickled the pear in the painting and was stunned by the sight that met her eyes as she entered the kitchens. House-elves were scurrying about, carrying loads of gaily wrapped gifts. They were stacking them in four piles, presumably for each House.

As she stared, wide-eyed, at the bustle, stuffing the Cloak into her robe, Dobby appeared by her, clapping his hands and bouncing in his excitement as he squealed, "Miss is here! Oh, Harry Potter's friend is here, just like Miss said! Dobby has everything ready for Miss. Just follow Dobby..." He gripped her elbow and guided her through the maze of preparations.

They arrived at a stove, with all of Hermione's ingredients and utensils stacked on the adjacent counter. Hermione fished the recipe out of her pocket and stuck it to the cabinet above the stove with a Temporary Sticking Charm. Turning to Dobby, she flashed him a dazzling smile and said, "Thank you so much, Dobby. I can manage from here. Don't let me keep you from your other tasks. I promise I'll clean up when I'm done. You've been such a help. Just remember, this is a secret. All right?"

Dobby nodded so vigorously that his ears flapped and his eyes widened so much that Hermione feared that they might fall out of his head. Breathlessly, Dobby said, "Oh, yes, Miss. Dobby understands. If you need anything else, just call for Dobby. Dobby hopes Harry Potter and all his friends have a happy Christmas. And now, Dobby must help deliver gifts, Miss..." At that, Hermione jumped and grabbed Dobby's arm.

"Oh! Thank Merlin you reminded me! Dobby, I have a package that needs to be delivered. Would you do that for me? It's a secret too, which is why I didn't just put it with the others..." She gazed solemnly at the elf, and he puffed his chest out in pride.

"Dobby will help Miss, with anything! What should Dobby deliver, and where?"

Hermione gravely handed him the silver-wrapped package and whispered, "This needs to be delivered to Professor Snape. Tonight, when you're all taking the rest of the packages around. It isn't labelled, but you know whose it is, right? And you can take it for me, can't you?" She smiled brightly at Dobby, holding the package out.

Dobby eagerly took the present and stood ramrod straight. "Dobby will take Miss's package! Dobby will deliver it to Professor Snape tonight! Thank you for letting Dobby be of service!" He bobbed and bowed as he backed away deferentially, carefully holding the gift. Hermione nodded in relief and waved pleasantly before turning to her recipe.

Then, face set in intense concentration, she set about brewing the chocolate mousse with all the seriousness that she approached any potion Snape had ever set them. Whew! Thank Merlin that's done. Now, for the mousse... It has to be perfect!

Perspiration was beaded on her upper lip by the time she had finished. Full of pent-up excitement, she dipped a spoon into the mixture and tasted it. Her eyes closed and she exhaled a long sigh of contentment. Oh, it's good... Smiling in satisfaction, she cleaned up the area and prepared the mousse for transport to her room, where it would remain until the cast party. As she turned to go, she was struck with a thought. I wonder if they have any cherries... Searching for Dobby in the organized chaos that surrounded her, she despaired of ever finding him. Catching the eye of another house-elf, she asked, "Do you know where Dobby is?"

The other elf nodded and dashed off, returning moments later with Dobby. Once he had presented Dobby to Hermione, he scampered off again before Hermione could even finish thanking him properly. Dobby gazed up at Hermione again.

"What can Dobby do for Miss?"

Hermione smiled gently at him and whispered, "I've finished my recipe, but I was wondering if you had any maraschino cherries, you know, the bright red ones with the long stems?"

Dobby snapped his fingers and grinned widely. Snapping his fingers again, a jar appeared in his hand, which he proffered to Hermione. Hermione uttered a little cry of delight and took the jar, impulsively hugging Dobby.

"Perfect! Thank you, Dobby! You just made my Christmas even better!" She beamed down at the elf. Dobby gazed at her in awe. He clasped his hands tightly and seemed to tremble from head to toe. Hermione's grin faded in apprehension. Hesitantly, she asked, "Are you all right?"

Dobby's eyes watered and two large tears welled up, dripping down his cheeks. Hermione frowned at him in consternation. Dobby seemed to choke as he gasped, "Miss hugged Dobby! Harry Potter's friend treated Dobby as a friend! Oh, this is a great day for Dobby..."

Hermione blinked, disconcerted by the creature's abject adoration. Uncomfortably, she said, "Oh. Well, good. You've been a great help, Dobby, and I am your friend. Just like Harry. But I have to go back to Gryffindor Tower now, and you have to finish your deliveries. So, good night, and Happy Christmas, Dobby!" She ducked away and hurried off, before the elf could prostrate himself more.

She made it to the painting and pulled the Cloak on again, gripping the bowl of mousse and the jar of cherries tightly. Her heart pounded as she snuck back up to the Tower, hoping that she wouldn't be found out by any delivering house-elves. She whispered the password to a sleepy Fat Lady and ducked quickly through the portrait, rushing to her room.

Once she was safely back in her room, she heaved a sigh of relief and hid the mousse and the Cloak. Wearily climbing into bed, she hugged herself in glee over the success of her plan and almost immediately dropped off to sleep with Snape's face in her mind, smiling in pleasure at her gifts.