My heart is breaking for them :( BUT... Voldy DOES use a killing curse (if this fic remains compliant) and so Harry should NOT need the potion... and I know just the person who could use such a potion when the time comes :)I don't think I've ever wished so much for DH compliance LOL

What a beautiful chapter, so evocative of the love and the terrible burdens before them.  Severus' point of view, particularly at the end, his recognition of what that one word "sir" has given him, is heartbreaking.  But it encapsulates their whole relationship, what they're willing to do and give up for each other, even as they hold to their duty.

Can't wait for more.  You write so wonderfully.  Thanks for sharing this.

Oh, I feel so bereft for them.  They do love each other even if neither can find the strength to tell the other.  I wonder if Severus will ever come to realize that her love can only give him strength to survive?Lariope, my dear, once again beautiful.  I am priviledge to have had some small part in your creative genius. Irish

I've not usually been fond of Dumbledore in the past, but this rendition of him makes me feel as if the Avada did not come soon enough! What a foul person he is! And there are those that dare claim Severus was cold and unfeeling ... not in comparison.

Thank you so much for this fantastic update!!!! I absolutely loved this chapter. It not only so clearly showed just how manipulative Dumbledort is, it is no doubt in my mind that he would have found a way to "remove" Hermione if he had an inkling to how close Hermione and Severs had become. I also loved how you allowed Severus to grab some happiness for himself! I have no doubt that this nigth will serve them both with necessary happy memories that will help them through the harsh year they have in front of them!!! And the potion Severus gave Hermione, she will use it at the necessary moment, won't she??? Update again soon, I can not get enough of this story!!! (And I should so have loved if I could have added a couple of stars on the rating, 5 stars hardly seems enough for such a fantastic story!)

You've reduced me to tears.

Nothing else I can add. Perfect.

So sad, but I'm so glad they were able to have this time just for themselves without the war, or Voldemort or Lily, nothing but them and thier needs. I can't wait to see where you will lead this!Livvy

I'm now curious to see if Hermione's faith will bear the trial of Dumbledore's death.

I just read the last 2 chapters, great as always. Loved the emotions are being played throughout. Looking forward to the next chapter. I have a feeling Severus is going to be in a bit of trouble.

The atmosphere of melancholy was so beautiful and yet sad. I know Severus does not shed a tear for all those lost years, but I might!

The description of the Order meetings vs. the DE meetings, "slunk" vs. "strode"- excellent. So many comparisons, then and now.

And the last line? You rock. I love a strong last line. As terrible as this one is (you know what I mean)- excellent.  My favorite story, really. No pressure!

Another amazing chapter. During the lovemaking part. You could feel that were saying good-bye in a way.

Very, very intriguing. But excellent.

There is a reason she's called the most brilliant witch of her age! I love this fic. The interactions between Sev and Hermione are really moving, and the interaction between Sev and Dumbledore and Voldemort are thrilling. Keep up the good work!

Hermione is such an overacheiver! And is that a crack in Sev's facade? Best get the polyfiller on that quick!

I just found this story, and I had to catch up. I'm loving it so far. I like your characterizations; Miss Granger really shines to her full potential in this story, and Snape is well balanced, (not wimpy, but not heartless either). This is a very original take on the 'arranged/forced marriage' premise, and the plot is captivating -- I can't wait to find out what happens next! The pace works for me as well; I'm enjoying how the relationship is building up, (the sexual tension, as well as the trust), rather than rushed. Beautifully done. Five stars, only because I can't give you more! Please don't keep us waiting too long for the next chapter.

It was a big risk for Hermione to take by planting that memory into Severus' head. I hope he now begins to realise how much she is willing to do for him.

Good chapter - I cannot wait to see where all of this goes and what Severus will do to protect Hermione.

Ahh but dear Severus can you not even tell now that she did stay to assure your well being?  I do not think that she became violently ill because the Dark Lord knows of her...I think per-chance that she became violently ill at the memory of Severus' condition when he returned from that particular "appointment".  It makes one wonder why the Dark Lord treated him so? Why did the Dark Lord "punish" him to near death? Well done again Irish

Brilliant!So clever that Hermione...A+  to you Lariope!

I wonder what they will both think when they wake up the next morning. Perhaps Severus will now try to form a pretend relationship with her, so that he can have more information to show Voldemort. Hopefully he realizes that he can't continually push Hermione away.

Their connection is deepening. I'm glad that Hermione had the chance to prove herself to Severus by coming up with such a good plan so quickly. Well done!

While there's a great deal of sexual tension in this story (and not that there's anything wrong with that!), it also conveys Severus' deep frustration very powerfully. Loved the line: "It was harder and harder to believe that he was doing anyone any good." It conveys the desperation so well.

I'm glad she waited for him :) and now... are they going to wake up in a tangled heap together? hee hee

isn't she a clever girl. coming up with this piece of information just in the right moment.

she does all she can to prevent him from harm. pity he can't dare show any arising feelings for her without bringing himself into real touble. she could use some sort of approval.

First, let me say, I've never liked Dumbledore, and I'm happy to see he isn't all "eyes merrily twinkling" in this story. It really pleases me to no end. I feel a rant coming on, so...

Hermione took a big chance with the planted memory, and so hastily. Instinctively, I felt it was the right thing to do, but still. Yikes. This is Severus' life on the line!

Great job again! They are moving along in thoroughly sensible directions, after all, this is war, life and death, and it's not all about lust. (not that I don't love me some lemons, but you know what I'm saying!) I very much enjoy what I feel is the realistic aspect of this story.

As far as the memory: I think that what she saw when she was nursing him really shook her, and that she has a stronger fear of Voldemort than she ever did before--he's less a concept and more a real wizard who really hurts people and that brings her to act hastily to protect him. Although I agree that it was a risk.

Thanks for your review! I'm glad you are liking the story.