35- All Good Parties Must Come to an End

Standard Discalimer sitll applies.

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Chapter 35- All Good Parties Must Come to an End

Ginny stopped outside the Great Hall and peeked in. Scanning the corridor as well, she ended the charm and briskly strode into the Hall to rejoin the party. Harry, Seamus, Neville, and Colin were loitering at the gift table, chatting about their presents. Colin and Neville were both animatedly pointing at things in their books, while Harry and Seamus nodded along. Ginny smiled at the tableau and crossed the dance floor to join them. As she neared, Harry looked up and saw her, his face creasing into a huge grin.

Grinning back, Ginny sidled up to him, letting him draw her in close, wrapping her arm around his waist as he draped his arm across her shoulders possessively. Harry ducked his head near her ear after everyone exchanged greetings and murmured, "Everything all right?"

Ginny nodded hastily. "Oh, yes! I needed Hermione's help with something."

"With what?"

Ginny glanced up at him and surreptitiously jerked her head at the other boys, giving him a significant look. Harry cottoned on and nodded. Sliding his hand down her back, he slipped it around to grasp her hand and began leading her away from the group.

"Back in a bit, fellas. I think it's time to dance with my girlfriend again." He flashed Ginny a winning grin and nodded at the boys. The others waved at them cheerfully. It was easy to pick a spot on the dance floor that wasn't near anyone else, since the party was a fairly small one anyway. Pausing, Harry spun Ginny into his arms and pulled her close. "So, what did you need Hermione's help with?"

Ginny smiled up at him and tilted her head. "Your Christmas present..."

Harry's brows shot up in surprise and he sputtered, "My present? But you already gave me a present."

Ginny wrinkled her nose saucily and purred, "Oh, I have something special for you, just between us..." She chuckled low in her throat at the stunned curiosity in Harry's eyes.

Harry grimaced in incredulity. "And Hermione helped you with it?"

Ginny giggled and rolled her eyes. Stretching up to his ear, she whispered, "We should really skive off early if we can. We've only got 'til 1:00 to use her room." She delighted in the strangled gasp from Harry's mouth and the way he tightened his grip convulsively around her waist.

He hissed, "Are you serious?"

Ginny pulled back enough to lock eyes with him. Cocking one eyebrow up, she drawled, "As a Cruciatus Curse..." Harry blinked rapidly as he processed that information, then his jaw throbbed as he ground his teeth. A wicked smile slowly spread across his face, and Ginny responded with a mischievous smirk.

Harry bent his head lower and touched his forehead to Ginny's. In a low voice, he murmured, "Best. Christmas. Ever!"

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

Hermione swathed herself in the Cloak and dashed down the corridor to the stairs leading up from the dungeons. As she went, she tried to compose herself, to quiet the roaring in her ears and to still the tremors that had taken possession of her body. In her mind, a voice kept shrieking, Yes! Yes! You get to be with him again! Brilliant!

Jogging up the stairs, she paused at the landing to regain her breath and to find a good spot to stash the Cloak for later. There were several alcoves along the corridor, many of which created shadowed nooks. Resolutely, she strode down the corridor and stepped into the shadows near the doors to the Great Hall. After a quick glance around to make sure no one was watching, she whipped the Cloak off and folded it into a tight bundle. Shoving it into the dark corner as far as it would go, she even went so far as to mask it with a concealment charm like the one she had used to hide the photo in Snape's gift. Confident that no one would find it, she straightened and smoothed her clothes and hair, turning to enter the Hall again.

As she entered, she saw Harry and Ginny dancing, almost plastered against one another. Stifling a snort, she scanned the room and saw Ron and Susan still at the same table where she had left them. But, now, they were sitting closer, and leaning toward each other, completely absorbed in their conversation, to the exclusion of everyone else. Hermione could tell by their expressions that they were exploring a new-found fancy for one another.

Colin and Neville were still at the gift table with Seamus, and the other Gryffindors had joined them. As Hermione walked up to the group, they all smiled in greeting. Parvati was trying on the different hair accessories that Dumbledore had given her, and they were all laughing at the trinkets' antics. Hermione reached in to pick up her mousse, and suddenly found herself the centre of attention.

Lavender looked solemnly at her and said, "I tell you, Hermione, that was the weirdest thing I've ever seen, you and Snape laughing like that..."

Colin and Neville blanched at the thought and nodded. Neville squeaked, "Are you really going to eat that? I mean, Snape made it. It could be poison!"

Hermione rolled her eyes at the rumble of agreement that rolled through the rest of the group. "Please. Do you honestly think that Professor Snape would poison a student? Use your head!"

Neville grimaced and retorted, "He was perfectly ready to poison Trevor that time we made Shrinking Solutions!"

Hermione fixed him with an aggrieved stare and said, "Trevor is not a student! Besides, you're all being ridiculous. The mousse tastes divine!" And a faint smile flitted across her face as she spoke.

Colin's eyes bugged out. "You already ate some? I can't believe it!"

Hermione picked up the spoon and served up a dollop. Glaring heatedly at their horrified faces, she popped the spoon in her mouth and swallowed the mousse, her eyes closing involuntarily at the flavour. Sighing happily, she opened her eyes to see them all looking at her as if they were waiting for her to explode. Again, she rolled her eyes and huffed. "It's really good! Why don't you try it?" She proffered the bowl.

Vehement head shaking erupted on all sides. Hermione narrowed her eyes and set her jaw. Spooning up some more mousse, she whirled on Colin and ordered, "Eat it!" Colin's eyes widened. Hermione glared at him with all the severity of Snape and added, in a deadly quiet voice, "Now."

Colin, never much for standing up for himself, completely quailed under Hermione's forceful demand. Swallowing nervously, he opened his mouth, unwilling to incite Hermione's wrath. Hermione firmly deposited the spoonful of mousse in his mouth and then pulled back, crossing her arms.

"Go on. Swallow." Colin grimaced but complied. After a beat, Hermione jerked her chin at him. "There. See? Perfectly fine. And how did it taste?" She eyed him warningly.

Colin blinked a few times, working his mouth. His worried expression slowly smoothed into a bewildered one. Plainly incredulous, he stammered, "It... It was... good!" Hermione's lips thinned in satisfaction.

Dean cocked his head and said, "Seriously?"

Colin shrugged sheepishly and nodded. "It tasted good..."

Hermione flashed a triumphant look at the rest. "There. Happy now?"

There was an awkward shuffling. Neville shot Colin a reproachful look, and Colin grimaced. "What do you want from me? It was really good! Try it yourself if you don't believe me!"

Hermione pinned Neville with a challenging stare and said, "Why not, Neville? It's obviously safe. Or are you scared?" She knew she was goading him, but she couldn't help herself.

Neville's ears turned pink and he scowled. Clearly steeling himself, he mumbled, "Fine. Give it here." Hermione handed him the bowl and the spoon. He served up a moderate helping and screwed his eyes shut as he shoved it in his mouth. Almost instantly, his eyes popped open, widening in surprise. He swallowed and licked his lips, looking thoughtful. Finally, he glanced around the group almost apologetically. Smiling wanly, he murmured, "He's right. It is good."

Hermione snorted and rolled her eyes heavenward, placing the bowl on the table again with an air of "Duh! What did I tell you?" As the others began muttering heatedly amongst themselves, Hermione noticed Harry and Ginny making their way back to the group. As they arrived, Harry caught Hermione's eye and flushed, looking away hurriedly. She smirked, looking at Ginny to confirm that the other girl had clued Harry in on their deal. Ginny nodded minutely before brightly addressing the others.

"What's up, mates?" She glanced back and forth between the other Gryffindors, who were scowling and shooting suspicious looks at Hermione, and Hermione, who was standing there with a long-suffering look on her face.

When no one volunteered an answer, Hermione sighed loudly and explained, "They couldn't believe I would eat the mousse Professor Snape made for my gift. Some even thought it might be poisoned! So, I made Colin and Neville try it, and they admit it tastes good! But, the others are still too chicken to take a chance and taste it." She cast a withering gaze over the rest of the group.

Ginny's brows rose and she shook her head. "Oh, give over! Snape would never hurt Hermione!"

Everyone zeroed in on Ginny in consternation, including Hermione, who felt a sudden surge of panic. She glared at Ginny as icy sweat prickled her skin. Harry was perplexed enough to be drawn in, forgoing his embarrassed avoidance of Hermione. Squinting, he queried, "What's that supposed to mean?"

Ginny realized her mistake and glanced warily at Hermione, noting the other girl's tense posture. Quickly, she heaved a sigh and rolled her eyes. "Honestly! She's only the lead in the show! Dumbledore would have Snape's guts for garters if he did anything to hurt her!" She gazed loftily around the group, feeling relief wash over her as they accepted her logic. Hermione closed her eyes and sent a silent thanks to the powers that be that Ginny hadn't spilled the beans so quickly.

Then, in an attempt to divert attention even more, Ginny stepped up and said, "Here. I'll try it. I'm not afraid." She extended her hand for the mousse, and Hermione recovered enough to hand it over. Ginny airily ate a spoonful and smiled. "Oh! This is top notch stuff!" She deliberately turned to Harry and offered him a spoonful. He hesitated only a moment before tasting it. His brows rose in appreciation.

Swallowing, he glanced at Hermione with a rather impressed expression and said, "Ruddy good, that was..."

At that, Seamus and Dean stepped forward for their chance, and then Lavender and Parvati followed. Eventually, they had all tried it, reluctantly admitting that it was quite tasty. Finally, when they had all come around, Hermione retrieved the bowl with a possessive air and said, "Good. I'm glad you all can agree that Professor Snape isn't a monster who would poison a student in the guise of a Christmas gift! Now, if you don't mind, I'd like to take my gift back, thank you very much, before there isn't any left for me to enjoy!" She eyed them all severely, and they sniggered back.

The others began to disperse, some to the refreshment table, some to the dance floor, and some to the tables along the edges. Hermione looked up to see Ron and Susan dancing, smiling shyly at each other. A fond grin spread across her face, and she caught Ginny's eye as Harry twirled her out to the dance floor again. The two girls looked at Ron and then locked eyes again. Beaming, they chuckled indulgently, both hoping Ron was having a good time. Good ol' Ron deserved it as much as anyone ever could.

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

Snape leant against the wall for several moments after Hermione's departure. His head swam with a welter of emotions. Every time he came up against the fact that she would be sneaking to meet him that night, his cock throbbed. He kept waiting for his erection to flag, so he could get to his quarters and back up to the Hall, but it wouldn't budge. Gingerly reaching down to adjust himself, he hissed at the jolt of pleasure his touch incited. Bloody hell, I can't go back up there like this! This is just out of control... He shifted on the hard floor, once again gasping at the surge in his groin. Rolling his head back along the stone, he closed his eyes and gave in to the inevitable.

Deft fingers slid down his length, stroking through his trousers. Inhaling sharply, he resolutely unbuttoned his trousers and reached into his pants to grasp his erection. His hands felt cold against its hot skin, but he rather enjoyed the contrast. It certainly served to heighten the sensations. His breath came more raggedly as he squeezed and stroked. He knew it wouldn't take long to reach his peak, not with how aroused Hermione had made him. Envisioning her, remembering the feel of her bare arse in his hands, and the taste of her tongue battling his, he pumped his fist faster. Harsh huffs and grunts echoed in the long passageway. Then, the tickle began in his balls. He could feel his cock getting harder as his sac drew up tight against his body. His spine stiffened and his hips thrust forward into his furiously pounding hand as he came, a guttural groan oozing from his throat. All of his muscles twitched, spasming in rhythm with the spurts of semen that dripped over his fingers. As he came down from his euphoric high, he blinked to clear the sparks that were swimming against his closed eyelids, taking deep breaths and swallowing convulsively.

In the aftermath of his tumultuous giving-in-to-temptation, he noted that at least he was finally able to clear his head, and he briskly reached for his wand to cast a cleansing charm on himself. Tucking away his spent member, he pushed himself up from the floor, straightened his clothes, and retrieved the shrunken mousse. Heaving a cleansing sigh, he regained his equilibrium and peeked out of the door, checking for observers. Seeing none, he quickly shut the door and strode to his quarters, where he restored the mousse to its original state and placed it securely in a cabinet, after refreshing the cooling and stasis charms on it. Making a quick pass through his bathroom to check his appearance in the mirror...mercy! his hair was dishevelled...he headed back out to the Great Hall.

When Snape entered the Hall again, he saw several couples dancing, and Dumbledore and McGonagall deep in a discussion at a table near the door. Swiftly glancing about, he saw Hermione sitting at a table, idly stirring a cup of tea, her chin propped on the back of her other hand. She was gazing at Ron and Susan on the dance floor, a faint smile on her face. As Snape looked at her, she blinked and started, turning her head to see him near the door. With a minute tilt of her head, she clinked her spoon in the teacup, quirking her lips up even more.

Snape felt the heat rising to his cheeks as he thought about his wanton activity not ten minutes prior. Ducking his head a bit, he sidled to the opposite side of the room, giving Trelawney a wide berth at her table.

He was safely ensconced in a chair, alone, when Dumbledore and McGonagall apparently wrapped up their discussion. With a decided nod of his head, Dumbledore beamed about the room, while McGonagall sat back with an almost resigned air, but also smiling primly. As Dumbledore scanned the Hall, he spotted Snape. Clapping his hands, he crowed in delight as he shuffled eagerly over to the younger man.

"Ah! Excellent, Severus, you're back!"

Dryly, Snape retorted, "So it would seem..."

"And it looks as if all our charges are accounted for as well."

Snape flicked a tallying glance around the Hall. "Correct again."

Dumbledore grinned at Snape, and Snape felt the unease creeping into his gut again. Oh, for gods' sakes, what now? With a jovial air, the headmaster sank into a chair beside Snape, chuckling to himself. "Now we can move on to the next event of our festivities."

Snape clenched his teeth and simply looked at the older man, utterly silent.

Maddeningly, Dumbledore continued, "Don't you want to know what that is, Severus?"

Snape narrowed his eyes scathingly at his employer. "Certainly you know me better than that by now, Albus. I would rather not know, but I'm sure you're going to tell me anyway." He heaved a long-suffering sigh.

Dumbledore responded with what sounded suspiciously like a snort, causing Snape to eye him sharply, but then he cleared his throat, briskly tapping his hands on the table. "Indeed... I have decided that since we have to choreograph the Masquerade, we all need to learn how to dance properly. So, now that you're back, you can help the rest of us instruct the students."

As he spoke, a wave of horror rolled across Snape's pale face. Then, a spark of cunning lit in his eyes and a smirk crept to his lips. Almost triumphantly, Snape retorted, "Aha! But, Albus, the Phantom does not dance at the Masquerade. He merely arrives to cause chaos and then disappears..."

Dumbledore shook his head amiably. "Tut tut, dear boy. You are still a teacher here, and I need your help in instructing the children. It's not so very difficult. Minerva and I have worked out a basic pattern that can be varied and repeated in the scene. I daresay you can manage it." He pinned Snape with a steely eye, once again making Snape feel like he was caught in a trap.

Damn him! Snape felt his triumph dissolving, and he slumped dejectedly back in his chair. In a deadened voice, he droned, "As you say, Headmaster."

Dumbledore clapped him heartily on the shoulder and chortled. Snape's head rocked on his neck, and he rolled his eyes in defeat. "Wonderful! Minerva and I will get things started, so just be ready to join us when we call you." With that, Dumbledore stood and glided back to McGonagall, offering her his arm. Gracefully taking it, McGonagall stood and joined him as he stepped to the centre of the dance floor.

With a snap of his fingers, the music stopped, and all heads turned toward him, wondering what the headmaster wanted. Gazing merrily at the cast, Dumbledore waved his hand and called, "Gather 'round, please! I have some important news for you all." The students exchanged curious glances as they crowded in front of him and McGonagall. Snape sat listlessly in his chair, brooding about how little he wanted to partake of this new idea.

"Professor McGonagall and I have been working hard to ready this presentation for you. As you all know, you will all be dancing during 'Masquerade.' Well, as we have a perfectly ripping dance space available to us right now, we have decided to use this time to instruct you in the basic dance patterns we will use during that scene." Several students gaped at each other, clearly discomfited by the notion, while others grinned cheerily, looking rather expectant.

Dumbledore pulled a music box from within his robes and fiddled with the dials. With a satisfied sniff, he placed it on a table at the edge of the dance floor and gazed around the group. He beckoned to Trelawney, gesturing for her to man the music box for him. Then, he cleared his throat as he waved at Snape. Snape glared at the old man as he slowly straightened and trudged over to the rest of the assembled group. Several students eyed him warily and edged away from his forbidding presence.

"Severus, Sibyll, pay close attention to the steps as we demonstrate." He and McGonagall stepped into their dance position and looked at Trelawney. At Dumbledore's nod, Trelawney opened the music box, and the headmaster and his Transfiguration professor began to dance.

Grimly, Snape watched their feet, counting in his head with the measures. After several bouts of the same steps, he raised his gaze to watch their frames. He absorbed the placement of their hands and the shape of their arms, as well as the sway of their bodies as they spun and minced along the dance floor. Suddenly, Dumbledore announced, "Now, this is a bit different..." They launched into a different pattern, but Snape could see that the basic idea was still the same. Eventually, the demonstrators showed several variations on the initial pattern, easily mixing them up as they danced. When the music ended, they glided to a stop, turning smiling faces to the students, who had immediately begun applauding.

McGonagall bobbed an amused curtsey and Dumbledore offered an exaggerated bow. Chuckling, he murmured, "Thank you, indeed. Now, Severus, Sibyll, join us, please."

Snape stalked over to them, horror welling up at the thought that Dumbledore would make him dance with that old fraud of a Divination professor. Something of his panicked revulsion must have shown, because McGonagall gripped his elbow reassuringly and muttered, "Come now, Severus, let me show you how it's done, while Albus teaches Sibyll." Despite himself, and his usual animosity toward the Head of his rival House, he couldn't help the look of abject relief and gratitude that washed over his face. McGonagall simply chuckled understandingly.

Shooting a black glare over the assembled students, Snape stiffly took his place with McGonagall to begin. Dumbledore and Trelawney stood to one side.

"Miss Lovegood, would you be so kind as to open the music box again on my mark? Thank you. Now, everyone, pay attention!" Dumbledore cast a meaningful look at Snape, who nodded icily. Before starting the music again, the headmaster described the steps, slowly showing them to the group as he went.

McGonagall waited patiently until he went through it once, then she nodded sharply and turned to Snape. "All right then. Position!" Snape sulkily gripped her hand and waist, feeling the light weight of her hand on his shoulder. Trying not to stare at his feet too much, he followed the instructions as McGonagall repeated them in a low mutter, just as Dumbledore was doing with Trelawney.

After a couple of run-throughs, they paused again, for Dumbledore to explain the variations. The more they practiced the steps, the more confident Snape felt. Relieved that it wasn't more difficult, he grudgingly admitted to himself that the ease with which he picked up on the steps was in large part due to the skill of his partner. Fortunately, McGonagall was maintaining a completely professional attitude, and the instruction was going smoothly.

Hazarding a glance at the students again, Snape saw them all watching with intense concentration...some of the boys more so than the girls. Having actually succeeded to a reasonable degree, he felt a bit smug as he saw the petrified anxiety on Neville's face. At least I don't have to bother with learning all this to do so on stage...

Having practiced all of the steps, Dumbledore said, "Now, let's try with the music, shall we?" All traces of smug satisfaction disappeared from Snape's countenance. McGonagall saw the flare of unease in her partner's face and chuckled.

In a bare whisper, she said, "Easy there, Severus. It's not that bad. You've caught on; just pay attention to the rhythm as we go." Snape swallowed and thinned his lips in acknowledgement. Quirking her lips in an indulgent smile, she took her position and nodded to Snape. "Ready now..."

Dumbledore nodded to Luna, who opened the box again, and the music began. At McGonagall's subtle urging, Snape gingerly stepped off to begin their first set. Firmly focused on reciting the steps in his head, he paid no attention to the rest of the cast.

Hermione fought down a tender smile and thought, Oh, he looks so uncomfortable! And I thought he was about to bolt when it looked like he was about to be paired up with Trelawney. Poor dear! But, it looks like he has rather got the hang of it. I hope the rest of us can catch on so quickly. I'll bet he's just rejoicing in the fact that he doesn't have to do any of this in the play!

As they danced, Dumbledore called out variations, and each couple transitioned into the new steps on the next set. There were a few minor stumbles, but by the time they had reached the end of the music again, each pair had shown that they were comfortable with the patterns.

Coming to a stop, Dumbledore released Trelawney and clapped his hands. "Wonderful! I say, Minerva, Severus managed quite well, don't you think?"

McGonagall smiled primly and patted Snape's arm where he had crossed them over his chest defensively. "Indeed. You picked it up very quickly. Well done."

Snape narrowed his eyes but nodded minutely. Dumbledore then turned to Trelawney and clasped his hands in front of his chest. "You caught on well, my dear. Very well then! Everyone gather 'round and partner up to learn." He beamed expectantly at the students, who all began to shuffle and mutter amongst themselves.

After a long moment, Harry stepped forward and offered up a rueful smile, idly rubbing the sting on his bicep where Ginny had thwacked him. "Might as well see if The-Boy-Who-Lived can also be The-Boy-Who-Can-Dance!" Titters greeted his wry comment as he politely stepped up to his Head of House and bowed. "Professor McGonagall?" He grinned at her cheekily, and she stifled an amused snort.

"Very well then, Mr. Potter. Follow me." She stepped away to give them space to practice. It was as if a dam had broken. Draco was hissing to Pansy furiously, propelling her forward to join Snape, and Parvati was smiling winningly at Dumbledore as she stepped forward. Terry Boot approached Trelawney with a grave, pompous air, and all four couples spread out to practice.

Low murmurs buzzed throughout as all four teachers explained the steps to the students. Snape kept telling himself that the torture would all be over soon, and showing how much he loathed his current task would just goad Dumbledore into more sadistic ideas. He was cool and precise in his instruction, attempting an air of detached indifference as he guided Pansy through the steps. Of course, since he wasn't as adept at the dance as Dumbledore or McGonagall, they had finished with their students before he had finished with his. Surreptitiously glancing about, he noted that Trelawney was still working with Terry, and Snape felt a pang of relief that he wasn't behind everybody.

As Parvati rejoined the spectators, Lavender took her place with Dumbledore. Neville, feeling rather an affinity for his Head of House after receiving his lovely gift, smiled shakily as he took Harry's place.

A few minutes later, Snape and Pansy finished their practice, and he coolly nodded at her in dismissal. She offered a quick thanks and scurried back to the other Slytherins. Just at that moment, Trelawney and Terry finished as well, Terry hurrying back to the group. Millicent had already begun her trek to take Pansy's place with Snape, and there was an awkward silence as no one else stepped forward to take Terry's place. Snape rolled his eyes and sighed. Standing straighter, he pinned the students of his House with a warning glare, and Pansy shoved Draco. With a startled look at Snape, Draco caught on, a resigned look on his face for a fleeting moment before he schooled it into a superior sneer. Swaggering forward, he cast a contemptuous glance over the others before joining Trelawney. Once in position, Draco shot a questioning glance at Snape, who responded with a slight nod of approval. Pleased, Draco returned to Trelawney's instruction, while Snape went through it all with Millicent.

Again, Dumbledore and McGonagall finished with their partners, and Hannah jumped forward to claim Dumbledore with an air of exaggerated relief that she wouldn't end up with Snape. Colin took Neville's place at the other Gryffindor boys' jovial urging.

When Draco and Millicent were done, they joined a solitary Pansy to one side, whispering and sniggering at the other students as they learnt. When Snape was once again alone, the other girls exchanged uncomfortable glances. Hermione looked at Ginny with a mute pleading in her eyes. Ginny realized that Hermione couldn't very well volunteer to join Snape right off, or she might garner some suspicion. That decided it. Ginny thought about the agreement she had come to with Snape, and the human side she had been witness to, and she firmly made up her mind. Casting a haughtily amused smirk over the shocked audience, she boldly stepped forward to join Snape.

Snape's brows rose in surprise. As Ginny approached him, with her back to everyone else, she quirked one corner of her mouth up and shot him the slightest of winks. Snape blinked. Steeling himself to keep his composure, he gravely intoned, "Miss Weasley."

She politely retorted, "Professor." Silently, they took their positions, and Snape repeated the instruction. Ginny had been paying close attention each time the others had practiced, and was anticipating each instruction. After a few times, Snape went silent and she glanced up at him. His face was inscrutable.

"It seems you do not need me to repeat the instructions."

Ginny shook her head faintly and shrugged. "I paid attention already."

Snape's lips twitched. "Indeed." They performed the set a few times before Snape suddenly changed to a new pattern. Ginny almost stumbled, but caught herself quickly and recovered. Snape's lips curved in a smirk. In a low rumble, he said, "Ah, so our inestimable Miss Weasley doesn't necessarily figure everything out..."

Ginny's eyes widened as she recognized the jibe. Astonished that Snape would tease her, she tilted her head and, before she could reconsider, flashed, "Maybe not everything, but mostly the important stuff!" Snape's brows rose at her cheeky retort, but she could have sworn she saw a spark of amusement.

With a non-committal "Hmph," Snape turned them away from the rest of the group as they continued on to a new step. Dryly, he muttered, "How pleased Hermione will be to know she rates as 'important stuff.'"

Ginny choked back a snort of laughter. Snape eyed her shrewdly. Rather enjoying this opportunity to banter with a not-so-evil Snape, Ginny remarked, "Apparently you are too, sir." Snape blinked again.

Thinning his lips to fight the urge to smile, Snape murmured, "Miss Weasley, you are full of surprises."

A wicked impulse rose up in Ginny, and she slyly drawled, "Reckon it's a good thing I'm on your side, eh?" Before Snape could do more than snap his warning glare to her, she continued in a bare whisper, "I could always provide alibis..."

Snape cast a furtive glance about the room again, seeing Dumbledore and McGonagall pairing up with Susan and Ron, while Trelawney was dancing with Justin. In a strained hiss, he said, "Just what are you implying?"

Ginny pretended to be watching her feet as she lilted, "Well, I could be useful as a go-between... and I could always tell people she was with me if she was with you..." She gasped and snapped her eyes up to his blazing ones as he gripped her painfully.

Boring his gaze into hers, Snape bit out, "This is not a childish game! Have you any idea of the scandal that would result if we were found out?" Ginny nodded dumbly. Swallowing and closing his eyes for a moment to regain control, he stared icily at her and added, "Enough. We're done here." With a final warning look, he guided Ginny back to the group and she bobbed a curtsey as she scrambled back to Hermione.

Hermione looked back and forth between them, wondering what was wrong. After a bare moment's hesitation, she resolutely stepped forward to join Snape. As they politely nodded to each other, Trelawney had finished with Justin, and everyone stifled their chuckles at Seamus's stage whisper saying, "Go on Dean! She gave you a ruddy Christmas present, the least you can do is dance with her!"

Dean scowled at Seamus as he slunk forward, shaking his fist at his dorm-mate when Trelawney's back was turned. Snape deftly guided Hermione away from the others and began reciting the instructions. She paid attention until she was comfortable with the steps, and then she glanced up at him worriedly.

"What's wrong? You're upset." She gently squeezed his shoulder, willing him to look at her.

Snape glanced around furtively before muttering through set lips, "She said she could provide alibis for us!" Hermione's eyes widened and her mouth formed a stunned "o." "Can we trust her? It seems like she thinks this is all a game!" He shut his lips tightly again and Hermione could see his jaw throbbing. Fleetingly, she wished she could reach up and soothe it.

She cast a quick glance around the room and focused on her feet again as she formulated her response. Slowly, she murmured, "I don't think she meant it like that. She's just trying to be helpful. She probably feels like she owes me one anyway."

Snape frowned and ground out, "Owes you one? For what?"

Hermione grimaced uncomfortably and shrugged faintly. "Um, I'm loaning my room to her for a bit tonight. Long story..."

Snape's brows shot up, and his hands clenched spastically. In a hiss, he spat, "Loaning her your room?! Dare I ask for what?" He eyed her sternly.

Feeling the heat rising in her cheeks, she muttered, "Their Head Girl is taking care of things, remember?" Glaring at him, she tilted her chin up defiantly. Snape's lips curled and he shuddered.

"I'm sorry I asked..."

Hermione retorted a frosty, "Indeed." They were silent for a few moments, broken only by the low murmurs of Snape instructing her in the next set of steps. Eventually, Hermione ventured, "You know, she could be useful..."

Snape blinked warily. His tone was short and flat as he said, "How?"

Sneaking a glance up through her lashes, she drawled, "Well, we can't use owl post with impunity, and I only have Potions once a week..."

Comprehension dawned, and he regarded her with a frankly stunned admiration. "Since when did you Gryffindors get so cunning?"

Hermione stifled a smirk and purred, "Perhaps it comes from such close association with you Slytherins. Perhaps you're rubbing off on me..."

Snape swallowed hastily and fought the embarrassed flush that wanted to stain his cheeks at the thought of just what he had been rubbing off earlier. Fortunately, Hermione continued, and didn't seem to notice his discomfiture.

"Ginny can pass letters for us..."

Snape cut her off with a scathing, "She knows how to reveal the writing!"

Hermione worked her jaw in irritation at being interrupted, and Snape recognized his rudeness at once. Clearing his throat and inclining his head in tacit apology, he schooled his expression into one of polite interest as she glared at him.

"As I was saying... She can pass the letters for us, and we can make sure that we get them from her as soon as possible, so she doesn't have time to try to pry."

Snape muttered the last steps' instructions to Hermione, and they glided through them. As they neared the rest of the watching group, Snape mumbled, "We'll talk more about this later." With that, they wound up where they had started, and within moments, all of the other pairs were finished as well.

Dumbledore gazed happily at them all and crowed, "Marvellous! Just as I had expected! Everyone did quite well. I'm so pleased! Thank you all for your attention and hard work. Now, that's all I have planned for you this evening. The rest of the party is yours. Happy Christmas to you all!"

Applause and answering shouts met his announcement, and the students all ambled off, some discussing the dancing, some crowding around the punchbowl, and others gliding off to dance together their way. Ginny pulled Harry off to one side and whispered, "I'm going to head on up and put my calendar away. I'll be waiting for you in Hermione's room. Don't be too long... We've only got until 1:00." Then, she flashed him a wicked grin and squeezed his arm before she dashed off to the gift table.

Harry stood alone, watching Ginny collect her gift and say goodbye to her friends on her way out the door. Once she had disappeared, the import of what he was about to do hit him, and he glanced around anxiously for Hermione. She was politely listening to Colin, who seemed to be worrying about the dance steps. Harry took a deep breath and resolutely strode over to her.

"Hey, Hermione, Colin. Um, could you excuse us for a moment; I need to talk to Hermione." He tried to look nonchalant as he eyed Colin. Still not quite over his hero worship of Harry, Colin immediately demurred and backed away.

Hermione looked at Harry quizzically. "What's up?"

Harry shoved his hands in his pockets uncomfortably and looked down. "Um, nothing much. I just wanted to... uh, I guess, thank you... for... well, you know."

Hermione swallowed a smile and glanced away. "Well, it's better than you two sneaking around and taking chances. Just..." She glanced at him with a hint of anxiety, but shut her lips in a thin line and shook her head. "Never mind." She relaxed a bit and smiled faintly. "Happy Christmas, Harry."

Deciding that it was easier to just leave it at that, Harry flashed her a grateful half-smile and murmured, "Happy Christmas to you too, Hermione." He nodded to her and spun away, crossing to Ron and Susan at the gift table to say good night. Hermione watched him leave, nervously tossing his Quidditch gloves as he walked.

Glancing around the Hall, she saw Trelawney shaking hands with Dumbledore, on her way out as well. Looking at Snape, she saw him lounging in a chair off to one side, dark eyes darting around the room. He caught her eye and paused, just staring at her. She felt the urge to smile and forced herself to look away. Briskly, she strode over to the gift table and picked up her mousse.

"Hi, Ron, Susan. Ron, can I talk to you for a second?" She smiled reassuringly at Susan, who suddenly eyed Hermione warily.

"Sure. Be right back, 'kay Susan?" He smiled ingratiatingly at Susan, who relaxed and nodded. Ron and Hermione stepped away and Hermione stifled a smirk as Ron positioned them so her back was to Susan, but he could easily look past Hermione to see her. "What's up?"

Hermione twinkled up at Ron and whispered, "Looks like you two hit it off..."

Ron ducked his head and grinned, rubbing the back of his neck. "Yeah, I guess you could say that."

Hermione reached out and squeezed his arm. "That's great, Ron. Ginny noticed too. We're both happy for you. And you were worried about your Secret Santa gift..." She playfully poked him and he flushed. "Susan seems really sweet. I hope you two have fun." At that, Ron beamed at her.

"Me too!" His gaze shifted suddenly, glancing past Hermione and then back. A sheepish grin surfaced as he said, "Listen, I better get back over there. It'd be rude to leave her all alone for long."

Hermione nodded sagely. "Of course! Go right ahead. Happy Christmas, Ron!"

He gripped her shoulder and squeezed. "Happy Christmas!" And with that, he hurried back over to Susan.

Hermione wandered over to Luna, who was sitting at a table, leafing through her book. As Hermione approached, she was relieved to see that at least it was right side up. "Hey, Luna. Mind if I sit here?"

Luna turned big, solemn eyes on her and gravely said, "I don't mind a bit. Would you like to hear about the platypus? It's a very unique animal..."

Hermione smiled and sat, casting spells on her mousse until it was secure and shrunken enough to fit in her palm. "Sure. I've heard about it before, being Muggle-born, you know. But what does the book say about them?"

Luna turned the book to Hermione, glibly reciting the facts about the animal as she pointed at glossy pictures. Hermione surreptitiously glanced about and noticed that Snape had finally stood, and was crossing to Dumbledore.

Trelawney was long gone, and Snape decided it was time to make good his escape. He stepped over to Dumbledore. "Good evening, Albus. As there are no other events planned for the rest of the party, I shall retire. I daresay the students enjoyed themselves." He inclined his head in a gesture of grudging approval.

Dumbledore grinned jovially at Snape and said, "The students weren't the only ones who enjoyed themselves, Severus! I seem to recall a certain Potions professor who shocked the cast with his unusual gale of mirth..."

Snape lowered his gaze and shrugged sheepishly. "Unusual circumstances warrant unusual results."

Dumbledore laughed aloud at that and clapped Snape on the shoulder again, making Snape blink under the buffeting. "Indeed, my boy, indeed. Well, I suppose I should let you go. I did allow Sibyll to leave already, and you have already participated more than is your wont. Very well then, Severus. Good night! And Happy Christmas." He smiled fondly at the younger man, who inclined his head politely in response.

"Thank you, Headmaster. Good night." Snape spun slightly and saw McGonagall off to one side, watching the dancing students. Raising his voice enough to carry the short distance, he said, "Good night, Minerva."

McGonagall turned to him and nodded. "Good night, Severus. Happy Christmas. I must say that it seemed a holiday miracle to see you not only dress for a party, but enjoy yourself for once! I do hope it is the beginning of a trend." She smiled gently at him.

Snape rolled his eyes, but his lips twitched with suppressed humour. "Perhaps I was carried away with the celebratory spirit of a Christmas without the Dark Lord. I'm sure it was a passing flight of fancy." One corner of his mouth cocked up as he cut a sly glance at her. She burst out laughing.

"Perhaps! We'll just have to wait and see, I suppose." Smiling at him, she nodded again and turned back to the students. At that, Snape spun on his heel and smoothly strode out of the Hall. He contained the impulse to glance back at Hermione.

As he trekked down to his quarters, one thought consumed his being: Hermione will be here soon!

Hermione had listened to Luna waxing enthusiastic about several creatures in her book, and found herself stifling a yawn. Snape had been gone for a while, and she decided that it was time to leave. As Luna hit a pause in her lecture, Hermione cut in. "Luna, I'm really beat. I think I'm going to turn in. Thanks for sharing with me. That's a really interesting book."

Unperturbed, Luna gazed at her. "Sure. I know you like books too. Well, maybe I'll see you tomorrow when I come to play with Seamus."

Hermione nodded brightly. "Maybe! Well, good night!" She stood and stretched before walking toward the doors. Luna waved and then went back to her book. As Hermione passed McGonagall, she offered a cheery, "Good night, Professor!" McGonagall returned the greeting, and Hermione passed by Dumbledore. "Good night, sir. The party was lovely. Thank you."

Dumbledore beamed. "Why, thank you, my dear. I thought it was rather spiffing, myself. I do hope you had a good Christmas."

Hermione grinned broadly and nodded. "Yes, sir. It's been great. Hope yours was, too!"

Dumbledore nodded and chuckled. "Couldn't be better. I haven't had this much fun in years..."

Smiling politely, Hermione ventured, "Well, I'm fair knackered, so I'm going to turn in. Good night!"

"Good night, my dear!" He nodded benevolently at her as she edged away and out the doors.

Once she was in the corridor, she cast one last keen look through to see if anyone was about to exit, and then dashed to the dark alcove where she had hidden the Cloak. Eyes darting about, she grabbed it and hurriedly enveloped herself in it. Finally releasing a deep breath when she was concealed from view, she slowly began her journey down to Snape's quarters. She tiptoed, making as little noise as possible, hoping that she wouldn't run into anyone on the way down to the dungeons. Her stomach roiled with excitement and trepidation. It felt like a Muggle washer on the final spin cycle.

She crept down the corridor, freezing when she heard voices behind her. Backing against the wall, she whirled and saw Draco, Pansy, and Millicent traipsing out of the Great Hall. Breathing shallowly, she waited for them to pass her, hoping they wouldn't hear her or brush against her. Draco was condescendingly droning on about how to do the dance steps properly. Falling into step behind them, Hermione stealthily followed them down the stairs.

When they reached the lower corridor, the three Slytherins branched off toward their common room, and Hermione once again slowed down to carefully pick her way to Snape's quarters, senses alert for Filch, or Mrs. Norris, or any of the ghosts. The trembling in her stomach intensified as she passed the potions classroom. Mentally screwing her courage to the sticking point, she determinedly sidled up to Snape's door. Once there, she paused for a long moment.

Anticipation warred with fear, and she took several deep breaths to calm herself. Shifting the shrunken mousse from one sweaty palm to the other, she swallowed convulsively and lifted her hand to knock.

TBC, of course

I know! Don't hate me, and don't kill me! The whole next chapter will be in Sev's rooms. I'm already writing it! I thought it'd be nicer to give you this in the meantime, rather than make you wait even longer for 2 chapters at once. Was I mistaken? LOL Hope you enjoyed it!

Good_Witch