Chapter 9

Disclaimer: All these lovely characters belong to JKR!

A/N: I really want to thank my wonderful betas, southern_witch_69 and Meredith. They put a lot of time and effort into my story, and I could never really thank them enough! Smooches, ladies!

Chapter 9

The days began to pass quickly for Hermione, seemingly in a blur. She concentrated on her university work more than ever before, and Severus began to be concerned with her habits. He didn't know that she would be graduating early, as she had decided not to tell him. So, when he saw her begin to study like she had during her N.E.W.T. year, he decided to question her.

"Miss Granger, what, pray tell, are you doing surrounded by all those books, studying as though you are going to take midterms? It is only one week into November, and midterms are not until right before Christmas break."

Hermione looked up at the Professor and debated if she should tell him or not. These were her finals that she was studying for. She would take them when everyone else would be taking midterms. "I am not studying for midterms. But if I were, I would start studying for them now. Christmas break is not that far away," she replied briskly, and then went back to her revising.

"What are you studying for then, if I may ask?"

Hermione sighed. She knew he would not leave her alone until she told him. Ruddy pest! Gives me attention when I don't want it! She was starting to get annoyed at his interruptions to say the least. "I am studying for my final exams. If all goes well, I will be graduating at the end of the semester."

That got his attention. "Why? How did you manage that?"

Hermione glared at him and slammed her book closed. It was obvious that there would be no more studying until she told him everything. "It's simple. While I have been locked up in this bloody castle with nothing else to do and hardly anyone to talk to, I have been concentrating on my university studies. My professors told me that because my work is so far ahead, and with the quality of said work, that I could graduate at the beginning of the new year. I agreed so that I would not have to worry about university work while in the last stages of my pregnancy."

There's the little know-it-all I know and love! "I see. Well, do not overexert yourself, and do remember to eat something. Did you take your vitamin potion at lunch today?"

"Yes, yes, I took it. I take it everyday! You bloody well know that!" Hermione snapped, then sighed. "I am sorry, sir. I suppose I am a little cranky right now. My back is killing me, and these hormones are all over the place," she groused. Not to mention that sleeping in your bed every night and not getting to touch you freely is driving me NUTS!

Suddenly, Severus moved behind Hermione to rub her shoulders. He felt her stiffen momentarily before relaxing under his touch. "Umm, that's nice," she purred. Severus chuckled and moved his hands lower whilst she continued to purr like a Kneazle. He bent forward and inhaled the scent of her hair deeply. She is so intoxicating! With a start, he realized what he was doing and backed away a little. When his hands reached her lower back, he found a very hard knot there and began rubbing it in earnest.

When Hermione had first felt his wonderful hands on her shoulders, she tensed immediately. She wasn't sure if she could handle the physical nearness, but she decided to just relax and go with it. It felt too good to stop him anyway. Merlin! Is he sniffing about in my hair? Why? Hermione stiffened when he hit a sore spot, but she soon relaxed.

They both jumped when a house-elf popped into the room. Severus was annoyed that he had been interrupted and would have to stop touching Hermione. There was nothing else for it since he couldn't ignore the blasted creature.

"Yes, what do you have there?" Hermione politely asked.

"Begging pardon, miss, sir, but I's has these three letters."

"Thank you. Now, if that is all, you may leave!" Severus knew he sounded harsher than he intended, but he was feeling the loss of Hermione under his hands already, even if he had been only massaging her.

Hermione pinned him with a stern look and thanked the house-elf again. She saw that two of the letters were for her and gave the other one to Severus. When she opened the first one, she groaned out loud.

Severus raised an inquisitive eyebrow. "Bad news?"

"No, not really. Mrs. Malfoy is hosting a hen party for Ginny a couple of weeks before the wedding. It appears that there will be a stag party on the same night. This is my invitation. We're to all buy lingerie. I guess you must have your invite there for the stag night?"

"Yes, it appears so. I suppose I shall have to make an appearance to that dreaded thing," Severus spoke as he read the invitation. "Bloody stag night! I suppose Potter likes the name, what with his stupid Patronus!" he muttered. A puzzled expression came over his face. "It is the first Saturday in December. Usually they have such things closer to the wedding, don't they?"

Hermione laughed. "Normally. According to my note here, Ginny told Draco he had to have his at least two weeks early so he wouldn't show up to the wedding looking horrid and having to have had a bit of Sober Up Potion. She wants her special day to be just that, special and perfect."

Severus shook his head. Youth today. He remembered how drunk he and Lucius had gotten for Lucius' stag night. "Will you be attending the gathering for Miss Weasley?" I would like to see you model some of that lingerie, although my pajama top suits you just fine.

"Oh, yes. I am looking forward to it. I just hate to have to be back in Malfoy Manor. I will probably go this weekend and pick something out for her. I think I will call on Luna, Tonks, and Susan to see if they want to make a day of it. Maybe we could even get some lunch out. There is a place in Muggle London, Coco de Mer, that I want to go to."

"Just try not to wear yourself out. I still don't think you have gained enough weight. You can't even tell you are pregnant!" I am anxious to see you round with my child! You will be even more beautiful to me, if that is possible.

Hermione rolled her eyes. "I am only 13 weeks. I will be big as a house and waddling around soon enough, thanks!" Then I will look like some beached whale, and you will hate to look at me. Hermione opened her other letter and smiled. "Minerva wants to me to come to her chambers for tea today. I think I would enjoy that very much. I hardly get to see her here lately."

"Do you think you will be able to put aside your studying a few hours for that?" he asked sarcastically, smirking at Hermione. She is so beautiful when she is riled up, and it is so easy to do so.

"Humph!" She folded her arms across her chest. "Excuse me for taking my education seriously. I really would like to be finished by the Christmas holidays, and this way I can. Then, after the baby comes, I can start looking for someone to do my year of apprenticeship with."

"What is wrong with Professor Flitwick? By the time the baby is born, Mr. Boot should be finished with his apprenticeship."

Hermione stared intently at the professor. Insensitive PRAT! "Because, sir, I would be living in the same place with my baby of whom I can never know, and it would tear me apart knowing he or she was just below me in the dungeons."

With a heavy heart, Hermione picked up her books and put them away before quietly leaving the dungeons for tea with Minerva. She was hoping her mentor wouldn't notice the depressed expression on her face or the sadness in her eyes.

Severus sighed heavily. What was I thinking by suggesting that? I really am a heartless bastard. No, just an insensitive one. I didn't mean to hurt her. It just seemed natural that she'd still be around. I really do need to think about what to do about this contract. He ran his fingers through his oily hair. The only reason that I have to keep up the facade of being cold and wanting to keep things on a business level is to prepare myself for the void in my life when she leaves. Could I handle her working near our child and me? I've always been strong and able to hide my emotions. Why couldn't I concede slightly?

Severus got up to call the house-elves for his own tea and biscuits, as Hermione had gotten him used to the daily ritual. While he was sipping the warm liquid, he began to think.

It is obvious she really does love this child. I should have anticipated this. What harm would really come of letting her be in the child's life? Maybe eventually she could start having true feelings for me as well, and we could become a real family. And if not, then the child would at least be loved by both its parents.

Of course, if nothing happens between us, she will have to eventually marry with the marriage law coming up. Marry and have more kids with another man. A sudden thought occurred to Severus. DAMN! If she has to marry and have another baby, then it's possible the two would attend Hogwarts at the same time! I wonder if she has considered this. Would having another baby with another man place MY child second in her eyes? I won't have my child be pushed aside, especially by its mother!! It is better for the child to not know its mother at all than to be pushed aside by her!

But, Hermione wouldn't do that. She is too loving and giving...too Gryffindor... to do that to her own child. She would love this child. She already loves this child. I can not make this decision lightly. I need more time to think on it.

With another heavy sigh, Severus went to mark some essays. He would not make this decision quickly. He knew one thing, though. Hermione loved his child. He just wondered if she could love him as well.

Maybe I should stop the business nonsense. I am not fooling either of us with that. It's more personal than anything. Maybe we could start out by forming a friendship of sorts and see how that goes. At any rate, I don't have to decide today.

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

Hermione arrived at Minerva's right on time for tea. Minerva already had her Earl Grey prepared just the way she liked it. Hermione sat down and gratefully took the offered cup.

"Hello, Hermione. How are things going with you and Severus? Any luck on renegotiating the contract?" Minerva inquired as she sipped her tea.

"Not too great at the moment. He is more business-like with me than ever before. I swear if I hear 'Miss Granger' come out of his mouth one more time!" She knew she how she sounded, but after that last comment the professor made, she just couldn't stop the bitterness from coming through.

Minerva raised an eyebrow at this. Hermione seemed to be strung very tight at the moment. Hmm, what is going on in those dungeons? Minerva knew Hermione's emotions would be running high right now, so she decided to change the subject.

"Have you had any progress on your room being fixed? It looked really bad last I saw it." It won't be fixed the whole time you are here if we can help it!

Hermione sighed heavily. "No, Mr. Filch says he has a list of things that have to be repaired, and he has to repair them in order of importance. Apparently my room doesn't rate as important. Dumbledore keeps telling me he's working on the magical integrity charms, and while he's started them, they take time.

"I see," Minerva replied. "Well, where have you been sleeping?" Inwardly, Minerva smiled. She knew very well where Hermione had been sleeping.

At this question, Hermione blushed. "I have been sharing a bed with Professor Snape. Don't look at me like that, Minerva! Nothing has happened between us at all!" Not right now, anyway and not by my choice either. "But, the professor says if my room is not fixed by Christmas, he will have to find me another set of rooms close to his."

Oh no! We can not allow THAT to happen! I shall have to speak to Albus at once. "Oh, I am sure it won't come to that, Hermione. Filch will have your room ready before Christmas. What plans have you and Severus made for the holidays? They will be here before you know it."

"Umm, I don't know about him, but I will probably go to the Burrow on Christmas day for a few hours. I have done that for years, even when my parents were alive." Oh, how I wish WE were making plans together!

"Well, I am sure the Weasleys wouldn't mind him going; why don't you invite him along? He usually just sits around the castle anyway." And, it would put you together in a couple situation.

"I don't know, maybe. What do you think of this marriage law Fudge is proposing? It seems a little...outdated...don't you think?" Hermione deftly changed the subject. "I mean, there can't still be arranged marriages in this day and time, can there be?"

Minerva eyed the girl intently, only slightly surprised at the abrupt change of topic. "Hermione, desperate times call for desperate measures. We have got to ensure our world's existence. I think the concept is a good one, although I wish Muggle-borns would not be forced to marry, but I can see where there is no other choice."

Hermione was gobsmacked. She had thought for sure Minerva would agree with her. She couldn't believe what she just heard. "I agree something needs to be done, but this is no better than slavery! And besides, I have read up on Wizarding marriages; they are forever. No divorce! With the fidelity charm, no other lovers as long as you are bound together! Now, what if I had to marry someone like, like...Crabbe or Goyle? What would I do then?" Oh Merlin! What if I DO have to marry someone like those two? Or worse yet, one of those two? This is all becoming too much for me.

"Hermione, calm yourself! Surely by the time the law is passed, if you are not already married, we can find someone suitable for you." Like Severus Snape!

Hermione suddenly changed the subject again. "Are you going to Ginny's hen party?"

Minerva raised her eyebrow at the second quick change in conversation, but she let it pass. "Yes, I received my invitation today. I assume you will be attending as well?"

"Yes, I am going to ask the girls...Luna, Tonks and Susan Bones...to see if they would like to go to Muggle London this weekend. I want to go to Coco de Mer. Would you like to join us if we decide to go?"

"No, thank you, but I can't. It is my turn to chaperone the Hogsmeade weekend, but you girls go and have a good time. I say, it will do you good to get out of those dreary old dungeons once in a while!"

Hermione laughed, and feeling more comfortable, told her favorite professor about graduating early. Minerva was very happy to hear this. She was very proud of Hermione and told her so. Hermione blushed and told her she needed to get back and that she would see her soon.

After Hermione left, Minerva rushed to Albus as fast as she could go.

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

Hermione became so engrossed in her studying, she was barely aware of the passing days. She wanted to get the highest marks possible. She worried that with her being Muggle-born, she would have a hard time finding a Charms master who would apprentice her, so she wanted to make sure that her grades would not be an issue.

As busy as she was, she had noticed subtle changes in Severus. Giving her permission to call him by his first name had been one of them. He had told her it was time to start addressing each other by their given names, and she couldn't have been happier. To her, it was an intimacy coming from him, as he very rarely allowed anyone to call him Severus.

Before long, it was the day of the parties. Hermione was looking forward to going and spending the day with Ginny and her friends, even if she would have to see Lucinda Malfoy. She was just going through her clothes trying to decide what to wear when someone knocked on their door. Who could that be this early on a Saturday?

She heard Severus call, "Enter!" She walked out to see who the visitor was. To her surprise, it was Mr. Filch.

"The headmaster asked me to come down and get Miss Granger's room fixed up, Professor Snape."

Hermione's heart sank. She didn't want to go back to sleeping alone. She rather enjoyed waking up in Severus' arms every morning.

Severus scowled at Filch. "Very well. Get to it then. You know where it is."

It took about half the day for him to finish, but by the time he left, her rooms were in order. Hermione sighed. "Well, Severus, it looks like you won't be bothered by my presence in your bed any longer." She tried to make light of the situation, but her heart was heavy.

Severus didn't know what to make of the expression on Hermione's face. She looked disappointed. "True, although if you start to have nightmares again, do not hesitate to come to me. I don't want you suffering those alone." Any excuse to keep you in my bed.

"Well, to be honest, they usually get bad during Christmas. I am not sure if you remember, but that is the time of year my parents were killed." She hated to admit this weakness to him, but it was the truth.

"I see," he said, and he did. He knew it was costing her to admit this to him, and because she couldn't take her Dreamless Sleep Potion, she would need his help during the holidays. He planned on making it easy for her. And not just for me, he tried to convince himself. "Then perhaps you might consider staying in my bed during the holidays and while you are studying for your finals. I know stress also triggers your nightmares, and I could tolerate one more month, I suppose."

Hermione beamed at Severus. "Are you sure? I hate to put you out any more than I already have." Please say yes; please say yes!

"Certainly. It would put me out more to have to come running to your room in the middle of the night to awaken you from a nightmare."

"Of course, Severus. I didn't think of that." Hermione blushed. "I need to go get my bath and get started getting ready. I don't want to be late. How about you? Are you ready for tonight?"

"I suppose as ready as I will ever be."

"You are truly not looking forward to this?"

Severus sighed. "Hermione, my idea of a good time is not sitting in a club off Knockturn Alley with a bunch of drunken wizards smoking cigars, watching a bunch of witches dance around, and then watching them take off their clothes." He shook his head in disgust. I would much rather be grading papers and watching you study by the fire.

What does he mean by witches dancing around and taking off their clothes? STRIPPERS? I knew Muggles had that tradition, but I didn't expect pureblood wizards to. I wonder if Ginny knows. OH! I wonder if Narcissa Malfoy knows. Molly Weasley? Minerva? Oh well, what do I care anyway what Severus does? A moment later, another voice answered the question. "Because I love him, that's why.

Severus watched Hermione with a contemplative expression on his face. Why, she ALMOST looks...jealous.

"So, those things don't sound like fun to you, Severus?"

He chuckled. Yes, most definitely jealous. "Not really, not like they used to when I was younger."

"Well, I hope you have a good time anyway." I so DO NOT hope you have a good time! "I am off for my bath!"

Severus raised an eyebrow as she bounced out of the room. Very interesting, indeed.

A couple hours later found Severus waiting in the sitting room for Hermione. He wanted to escort her to Malfoy Manor and leave for the party with Lucius. When she walked into the sitting room, her beauty once again stunned him.

She was wearing a Muggle dress that should have been simple, but on her, it was lovely. It was the shade of dark chocolate with an empire waist and a scooped neckline, the hem falling just above her ankles. Anyone who didn't already know it wouldn't be able to tell she was pregnant, but Severus noticed the subtle changes. She looked at him, smiling brightly, and it took his breath away. Her eyes were so expressive and warm; she simply glowed.

Wow, thought Hermione. Severus looks really good. Too good to be going to see a bunch of strippers!

He had on slightly formal dress robes, black of course, but these had little silver and green threads around the collar, cuff and hem. He had that same clasp of the entwining snakes with the emerald eyes, and he had done something she had never seen before. He had his hair tied back with a black leather strap.

Merlin, help me, but he is sexy!

He slightly smiled at her and offered his arm. "Are you ready?"

"Yes, let's go. Don't worry about escorting me home. The girls said they would make sure I returned safely. I want you to have a good time tonight!" But not TOO good!

"Glad to hear it. I have no idea when I shall return, so don't wait up." He inwardly laughed at the sullen expression on her face.

When they arrived at the Malfoys', Lucius was waiting for them in the entranceway. He was ready to get away from all the cackling witches in the parlor. Severus smirked. "Anxious to get away, are you, Lucius?"

Lucius fixed Severus with his steely grey eyes. "Severus, I have been listening to those witches go on and on about weddings, lingerie, and gods know what for the last forty-five minutes! Yes, I am anxious to leave!"

At that, Hermione laughed out loud, a sound that warmed Severus. "Well, then you better go, I say. Have fun you two!" And before she knew what she was doing, she kissed Severus good-bye on the cheek.

Lucius smirked at his long time friend's slight blush. It was something Narcissa had done right before they got there. She had also kissed his cheek. Do they even realize how domestic they look? Severus has it bad for this girl!

Before either of them could say anything, Dippy appeared to take Hermione's cloak. When she tuned back around, Severus and Lucius were gone. With a smile, she headed for the parlor.

Ginny was in the middle of a huge pile of gifts. She was smiling so brightly and looked so in love. It was obvious that she was a very happy woman. Hermione smiled warmly at her best girlfriend. "Hello, Ginny!"

"Hermione! It's so good to see you. Where is Minerva? I thought she would come with you."

"Well, Severus wanted to escort me so that he could meet Lucius here. I expect she will be here shortly."

Lucinda Malfoy raised an eyebrow at Hermione. "Severus, now is it?"

Hermione cringed. Lucinda's voice was like nails on a chalkboard to Hermione. "Yes, Miss Malfoy. He has asked that I call him Severus."

Lucinda stuck her nose up and eyes down. "I see." Okay, this is getting out of hand. I have got to figure out a way to get this Mudblood away from Severus. He was mine FIRST! But until then, I can have a little fun with her tonight.

Hermione started slightly at the evil grin that Lucinda was giving her. What is going through her mind? She looks positively evil!

"Come sit by me, Hermione," Tonks had noticed the look Lucinda was giving her friend, and she didn't like it at all.

"Thanks. So, Ginny, what are the men up to tonight?" Hermione wanted to see if her friend knew what Draco was going to be doing tonight--not to mention if Tonks, Luna, Susan, and the others knew.

"What did Lucius say, Narcissa? That they are going to that men's club right outside Knockturn Alley? I hope Draco enjoys himself." Ginny smiled at everyone in the room.

"Yes, I Flooed the Disrobing Illusions Agency myself and got the girls lined up. They are going to have a harem tonight. Only the best for our men! They should all have a wonderful time, Ginevra."

Hermione was stunned. "You mean to say that you don't mind them being with those strippers? Mrs. Weasley, you don't mind Mr. Weasley going then?"

The ladies giggled, even Tonks. "Hermione, they are not going to be with those ladies. They are just going to watch them strip."

"What makes you so sure? They will be drinking as well. They could get drunk and do something they regret later!" Hermione couldn't believe how calm these ladies were being. Just the thought of Severus sleeping with one of those women made her stomach turn.

Mrs. Weasley looked at Hermione amused. "Hermione, dear, let me tell you what will happen. First of all, we trust our men. The men will go to this club, smoke cigars, drink some Ogden's Firewhisky, and have a good time. When they have been there a few hours, the ladies will arrive. They will do their exotic dances, and then our men will come home where we will reap the benefits of it."

"Yes," Narcissa chimed in, "and without doing any of the work." All the ladies laughed at this.

"Well, all but the single ones of course," Lucinda added. She made sure to stare at Hermione. "Like, for instance, Severus. He may be inclined to take what will be offered since he has no one to go home to."

Hermione seethed at that remark. Well, he didn't take you up on YOUR offer, did he, honey?

Luna, sensing Hermione's distress said, "I would say that is more Crabbe's or Goyle's speed. Maybe even Blaise Zabini's. Definitely NOT Professor Snape's."

Lucinda laughed deeply and loudly. "Don't bet on it. He WILL be intoxicated, and he is a man, after all."

Well, maybe you should go find him, LUCY dear, Hermione thought, that could be your only chance!

"I am ready to start opening my gifts!" Ginny wanted to stop this before it got out of hand.

"Here, darling, open mine first." Narcissa smiled fondly at the woman who brought her son so much happiness. It had been hard at first, not only because of the Malfoys' association with Voldemort, but because everyone knew that it had been Lucius who had given Ginny the diary of Tom Riddle in her first year. Lucius had no excuse for his admittedly reprehensible behavior. At the time, he had every intention of seeing Ginny's demise for his own purposes and had been angry that his plan had failed. When Draco and Ginny had begun seeing each other, neither the Malfoys nor the Weasleys had been happy with the couple's newfound interest in each other.

When it became obvious to everyone that Draco and Ginny were in love and serious about each other, both families attempted to set aside their prejudices and grudges for the sake of their loved ones. Lucius apologized to Ginny and the Weasleys for his actions and after that, the families began to warm to each other. They all had a long way to go, but they were making the effort to get there. They got on as well as could be expected, in any case.

Ginny smiled at Narcissa and took the offered gift. She gasped when she opened the box. It was an emerald green lace nightgown that had an elegant row of sequins near the neckline. It had a split up to the top of the thigh and a low v-neck that came almost to her navel. It came with a beautiful satin robe. "It's absolutely gorgeous!"

"Well," Narcissa told her, "Draco loves you in green."

"Thank you, Narcissa," Ginny said, smiling at her future mother-in-law. She set the gift down and picked up the next box.

"That one is from me," Minerva told her.

"Hello, Minerva. I didn't see you come in."

"Oh, I just got here! I sent my gift ahead to make sure you'd get it when you started unwrapping." Minerva smiled at Ginny and settled herself into a chair.

Ginny opened the box to reveal a sheer red nightgown with shimmering golden thread shot through the bodice. "Oh, this is lovely!"

"Yes," Minerva agreed. "We don't want Draco to forget his wife is a Gryffindor, do we?"

Everyone laughed. It was just the icebreaker they needed, and for awhile, everyone was had a good time gossiping and carrying on as Ginny continued opening gifts. Then, Ginny got to Hermione's gift.

"Oh, Gin, that one is from me," Hermione told her. Ginny opened up the box, revealing an ivory silk gown and robe set.

"Hermione, this is absolutely exquisite!"

Lucinda looked at the gown, rolled her eyes, and smirked. "Oh, isn't that romantic? Here, Ginevra darling, open mine. I saved the best for last!"

"That's a matter of opinion," Minerva said tartly, causing everyone to smile broadly.

Ginny took the gift from her soon to be aunt. She opened the box and gasped with embarrassment. "Umm, thank you, Aunt Lucinda. I don't know what to say."

"Well, darling, don't just sit there! Show everyone," Lucinda demanded.

Hesitantly, Ginny took the items out of the box. The first thing she pulled out appeared to be an oddly shaped vase. Lucinda took that from Ginny and said, "Watch, darling." She whispered, "Vibreo." The vase promptly shaped itself into the form of a man's penis and started to vibrate.

"Now, to stop it when you two are finished using it, you simply say Scourgify to clean things up and then say Vaseo to turn it back to a vase. That way you can leave it on the table right by your bed."

Ginny blushed deeply. It was clear that she'd been embarrassed. Nonetheless, she reached into the box and pulled out matching leather outfits complete with collars, chains, and handcuffs.

"Thank you, Aunt Lucinda," Ginny said with false appreciation before hurriedly putting the items away.

"Where did you get those, Miss Malfoy?" Susan asked. Everyone looked surprised, but Susan only shrugged, saying, "Neville can surprise you sometimes." A bit of laughter ensued, once again lightening the mood.

After a light supper of soup and salad, Narcissa handed each lady there a small box. "These are my gifts to each of you. Please, enjoy them."

Each lady opened a box to reveal a beautiful satin nightgown. Everyone there had a different color. Hermione's was nude.

"Miss Granger," Lucinda purred like a cat with her claws out. "I do hope yours fit you. You look as if you have gained a stone at least. All that rich food at Hogwarts must be getting to you."

"I dare say that Hermione has lost weight since she's been at the castle," Minerva said, glaring at the woman. "Whatever are you scrutinizing her figure for?" Hermione's mouth gaped open. Minerva must have been into that gillywater again! "Taking an interest, are you?"

Tonks unknowingly defused the situation by running up to Hermione with her box. "Wotcher, Hermione! Have you ever seen a bubble gum pink satin nightgown before?" Her Aunt Narcissa obviously knew Tonks well. The nightgown set matched her hair perfectly. "Harry will love this!"

Hermione smiled at Tonks, grateful for the interruption. "Tonks, I am tired, and my back hurts. I'm going to head back to the castle."

"Okay, I'll go Floo after you. I want to go home and be ready when Harry gets there." She wiggled her eyebrows up and down for effect. They both gave their regards to Narcissa and Ginny, then retrieved their cloaks from Dippy.

When Hermione got back, she decided to take a relaxing bath. She couldn't get Severus and those strippers out of her mind. It killed her to think he might have sex with another woman, ANY other woman, when she would so willingly make love to him herself. With a heavy sigh, she left the tub and dried off, then put on Severus' green pajama top.

She decided to go to her own bed that night. I refuse to sleep in the same bed with him if he has been with another woman. She had just closed her eyes when the silent tears fell.

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

Severus Snape was well on his way to becoming very drunk. After a meal of steak and baked potatoes, the group had headed to the men's club. Nothing but the best brandy, whisky, and the finest Cuban cigars would be had there.

However, no matter how much he drank, he couldn't keep his mind off Hermione and those beautiful, expressive eyes of hers. He knew she had been jealous when she found out there would be strippers present. It did his heart good to think she would be jealous over him. Maybe that hadn't been the potion talking all those months ago, after all.

The men had been at the club a good two hours, drinking and talking, when loud Arabian music started playing, and the most beautiful harem girls he had ever seen started dancing on the stage.

All the men moved closer to the stage to get a better view without even realizing it. They were just drunk enough not to be embarrassed by the gyrating hips moving about. Some were unknowingly moving their hips as well. Crabbe and Goyle were drooling.

Lucius looked over to Severus to see if he was enjoying the show. He appeared to be lost in thought and not even watching the girls. Time for a little fun!

Lucius made his way to one of the girls on stage. After whispering something to one of the girls, he made his way over to his long time best friend.

"I hope you are enjoying yourself, Severus. You deserve a fun night out, my friend."

"Thank you, Lucius. This has been a most agreeable evening. It has been a long time."

Lucius chuckled. What else has it been a long time for my friend? "What do you think of the girls? Lovely, I say."

Severus smirked. "Yes, I suppose after tonight several witches at home will have a very pleasant surprise for them when their wizards get there. I hope you told Narcissa to be ready for you."

"Oh, she knows. She is the one who contacted the agency for me. I dare say she was looking forward to it almost as much as I was."

Before Severus could reply, a beautiful harem girl started dancing in front of him. Lucius discreetly moved back to watch Severus in private. He had purposely chosen this girl to see how his friend would react.

The woman mesmerized Severus. She seductively danced up to him and put one of her sheer scarves between his teeth and started slowly dancing backwards, moving her hips in a figure eight motion. Severus watched, becoming somewhat aroused, as she was slowly undressing and watching him with those icy blue eyes. She has icy blue, cold eyes. They are not the warm, expressive brown of Hermione's. She has long, straight, blonde hair; it's certainly not like the brown and curly hair that graced Hermione's head. The flat hard stomach is offensive. It is nothing like the slightly swelled stomach that held his growing child within that was waiting for him at home.

Severus groaned, and the woman took that as a sign he was enjoying her little dance. She put her arms around his neck, put one leg around his, and started moving her hips slowly against his.

"Enough!" Severus gently moved her off of him and stalked away to the bar.

Lucius suppressed his glee as he followed his friend to get a drink. "What is the matter, Severus? Were you not enjoying the dance? I hand picked her for you myself, remembering what your taste in women are."

"Tastes change, Lucius."

"Indeed?" Lucius smirked. "What do your tastes run to now, dear friend? Could it be brown-eyed, curly-haired Gryffindors?"

"Don't be absurd, Lucius! Hermione is only carrying my heir, and that is all there is between us." Not that I would tell you if there were.

Lucius simply smirked at the dark Potions master. "Whatever you say, Severus. Please, enjoy the liquor if not the ladies."

Lucius walked away, and Severus decided to observe the room while he drank his tumbler of Ogden's Old Firewhisky...the best around. He was only slightly amused to see Albus in the middle of two dancers. I hope Minerva is up for this when he returns.

After awhile, all the women were totally nude and dancing, not only on the stage but on the floor as well. A few were even coupling with some of the single men in various corners. The married and spoken for wizards were not having any problems watching and touching either. He was becoming aroused again watching the displays everyone was putting on. He was also more than a little drunk, having consumed nearly an entire bottle of Ogden's by himself.

To his credit, however, he wobbled only slightly as he made his way to Draco to take his leave. He chuckled at the sight when he found him. Draco was sitting in a chair with his hands under his thighs; as though he were trying to make sure he kept them to himself while a naked woman straddled him and moved against him in an intimate way. Severus could tell Draco was enjoying it by the bulge in his pants and his flushed face. Not to mention the heavy panting.

Severus took a moment to see what Weasley and Potter were doing. Pretty much the same thing Draco was doing, it seemed. He could tell this party would end soon, as these wizards wouldn't be able to take much more. He decided not to interrupt Draco, found the Floo powder, and left to his chambers. Albus had opened the grates to Floo for tonight only, anticipating the state they would be in when they left.

When he arrived home, his head was humming, and his groin was aching. He wanted relief. He wanted Hermione. He went to seek her, only to find his bed empty. His first thought was that something had happened to her, but he dismissed that quickly. Someone would have contacted him if that were the case. He very quietly went to her bedroom and saw her lying on her bed.

She looked so beautiful to him, and she still wore his top. As she was lying on her back, he could see the slight swell of her stomach and the curve of her breasts. His groin twitched as he watched her breathe and then sigh slightly. He wanted her so desperately. Ever so gently, he sat down on the edge of her bed, then picked up her foot and started nibbling at her toes. She stirred slightly. "Stop it, Crooks!"

Severus chuckled and licked up her leg to the back of her knee. Hermione sat up at that and looked him right in the eyes, a startled gasp escaping her.

"Why are you not in my bed, Hermione? I thought we discussed this," Severus said, before kissing her leg just above the knee.

"I just thought it would be better if I slept in here tonight." Get a grip, girl! "What are you doing?" What are you doing to ME?

Severus didn't answer her. He simply continued kissing and caressing her leg before setting it down and reaching over for the other. To his pleasure, she groaned softly. "Are you drunk?" she asked.

Instead of answering her question, he simply said, "I want you. Come to my bed, our bed, Hermione."

She didn't know what to say. She had wanted him like this for so long, but he was drunk. If she went to his bed, would he regret it in the morning and blame the alcohol? She even wondered if he had been with a stripper, but she decided it wasn't likely. If he had, he wouldn't be so randy. As she was debating, he set her leg back down, stood, picked her up in his arms, and carried her to the bed.

He gently set her down on their bed, as he now decided it was. She looked up at him with those warm, brown eyes, and he knew he was lost. He settled himself onto the bed next to her and gazed at her full, pouting lips before bending his head to taste her. He hadn't kissed her the last time he'd had the chance, and he decided now that he was an idiot for not having done so. He knew the alcohol had a lot to do with his actions, but at the moment, he didn't care. Hermione wasn't drunk, and that was what was most important. She had full control of her faculties, and she was so far not complaining.

Hermione stiffened at the first touch of his lips to hers. She had wanted Severus for so long, and now that it looked like he wanted her too, she couldn't get past the fact that he was drunk.

"Severus, stop. This isn't right; you're drunk," Hermione whispered.

Severus nibbled her lips a moment longer before moving to her neck. In between kisses, he asked, "Do you want me, Hermione? If you say no, I will stop right now, and you can go back to the other bed. If your answer is yes, then please allow me to continue."

Hermione was torn, but she couldn't really think clearly with his mouth doing all those delicious things to her. He slowly moved down her body, quickly unbuttoned her...his...top, and gently took one breast into his mouth. He laved her nipple, nearly coming undone when she moaned aloud and jerked her hips up to meet his.

"Yes," she groaned.

"Yes, what?" He took her nipple into his mouth again, suckling it, smiling to himself as she cried out.

"Yes, I want you, Severus," she replied.

That was all he needed to hear. As he moved even further down her body, he gently caressed her stomach. That is my child in there. OUR child. Gods, I love you, Hermione!

He went even lower, and as he got to her curls, inhaled her musky scent. He became even more intoxicated, loving her scent. He couldn't wait any longer; he had to taste her. He moved his tongue to her slick folds, groaning at the essence of her. He began thrusting his tongue in and out of her, as his thumb reached up to massage her sensitive nub.

Hermione gasped. She rose up on her elbows to see him, becoming even more aroused at the sight of him pleasuring her. She watched him love her with his mouth until her body began to convulse. She fell back onto the bed just as she came with his name falling from her lips.

That was all that Severus could stand, and he quickly spelled off his clothes, then positioned himself at her entrance. Holding himself up on his elbows so as not to put any weight on her stomach, he caught Hermione's eyes. She nodded at him, giving him silent permission, and he thrust inside her, breaking her barrier with that first smooth stroke.

She grabbed his shoulders and tensed, grimacing at the pain. However, soon the feeling became tolerable, and she nudged his hips with hers. That was all he needed to get started, and he gently began moving inside her.

She felt the tension building and moaned in his ear, "Harder, Severus! Faster!"

He began to thrust in earnest until they were both spent, whispering each other's names as they came. Severus fell to the bed at Hermione's side and pulled her close, kissing her face everywhere, finally meeting her lips. She kissed him back in a slow passionate kiss, her hands on either side of his face. I love you so much.

Soon the tiredness of her day took over, and Hermione drifted off in Severus' arms as sobering thoughts broke through his foggy brain. Have I just complicated things more? Was I selfish in loving her like this? Am I imagining that she really wants me as well? I do not want her to have regrets in the morning. Severus sighed and thought of only one thing as he drifted off. She feels so right in my arms.

A/N: Oh yes, liquor, the liquid courage! They are getting closer and closer, I think! Southern is right, one step at a time!

Southern's Notes: Well, it's about time he does the "right" thing. Pity the liquor had to lead him there. Every little step counts, I suppose! His arse better not pull the stunt he did last time.

Meredith's Notes: I'm still glad I already know the ending.