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Chapter Text

31 July 1996 - Headmaster’s Office, Hogwarts Castle

                  “This can’t go on, Albus. She’s only a child.” The sadness in Dumbledore’s eyes was overwhelming. His shoulders sagged, threatening to betray the doubts swirling around in his mind.

                  “Unfortunately, my dear, in the eyes of the ministry she is a grown woman.”

                  “You can’t possibly agree…” Minerva said in disbelief.

                  Albus shook his head, “no, of course not. But there is nothing more I can do. The ministry is lost, and my power is waning,” Minerva glanced down at his blackened hand. She reached across the desk and took his hand gently. Albus gave her a small smile and squeezed her hand, “he will keep her safe and that is all we can hope for now.”

                  Minerva sighed, “I know. I just don’t know how much more we can ask of the children. They have lost their entire childhood to this, and Severus…”

                  “I know…but we all must see this fight to the end now. There is no other choice.” Minerva nodded and squeezed his hand before leaning back in her chair.

May 2004 – Office of Magical Marriages, Ministry of Magic

                  Hermione sat beside Ron as the ministry witch, Madam MaGee, explained all the magical and legal bonds of marriage. Hermione registered the witch’s Belfast accent, but she couldn't actually take in any of the words. She felt like the walls of the small office were choking her. It was too dark and too bright at the same time, and she was acutely aware of each lump in the old office chair she sat in. Her eyes kept wandering to the circular window to the right. She knew it was charmed to mirror the sky outside but that did not stop the feeling of wanting to jump out of it and escape all of this. In her lap, she fiddled with the silver and emerald ring on her left hand, dreading the thought of having to take it off. A part of her knew that she could stop this is she wanted to, but something held her back. Fear? Loneliness? Expectation? She knew this was supposed to be an exciting day for both her and Ron, but she simply couldn’t summon it. She loved him but she wasn’t in love with him, that ship had sailed long ago. That made her feel even worse because she knew, in his way, Ron was in love with her. She had tried, really tried, but she knew in her heart she was marrying him because it was what everyone expected of them, and she could at least have peace in the fact that she made so many other people happy.

                  Ron looked over at her and grinned. She tried to smile back but she knew it didn’t reach her eyes. Ron didn’t notice, he never noticed. While that might have bothered her when they were younger, she was grateful for it now.

                  Behind them, Harry and Ginny exchanged a worried look. They had come to serve as witnesses but both of them could tell something was off. Harry had been happy when his too closest friends had started seeing one another a few years earlier but he could always tell Hermione wasn’t exactly happy. Ginny had never loved the idea of her best friend and her brother together. She loved Ron and she knew he would be a good husband, but he was not right for Hermione.

                  Ginny bumped her knee into Harry’s and gestured to Hermione’s hands. Over the years, they had noticed Hermione twisting her left ring finger in response to stress or nerves but if there was anything there, they couldn’t see it.

                  Hermione’s eyes wondered back to the window again. She let herself dream for just a moment that this was all a bad dream, and she would wake up back in his arms. An elbow to the ribs from Ron brought that dream to an abrupt end, “huh…oh I’m terribly sorry…”

                  Madam MaGee waved her off with a gentle smile, “not to worry, dear. It happens all the time. It’s perfectly normal to be nervous. Are you ready to start signing?”

                  “Um…okay…,” Hermione’s heart pounded, and a part of her seriously considered bolting. She couldn’t help the urge to vomit as Ron picked up the quill and scratched his signature on the designated line. Gods she hated his handwriting, like a child’s. ‘It was nothing like the neat and thoughtful script of...,’ she stopped herself from letting her mind go there, there was no point. He was gone and he wasn’t coming back. This was the happiest ending possible for her now and as guilty as it made her feel, she was going to take it.

                  Ron cleared his throat and held out the quill to her. She struggled to keep her hand from shaking as she reached for out to take the quill from him. She took a deep breath before putting the tip of the quill to the parchment. She slowly began to sign her name but stopped when she realized that no ink was appearing on the parchment. Hermione looked up at the ministry witch, who’s smile didn’t falter.

                  “Don’t fret, dearies, these quills are very sensitive.” Hermione looked at the certificate, if she wanted to cut and run this was her last chance. Ron nudged her with his elbow again, clearly embarrassed by his hesitation. ‘I love you…always,’ she thought before beginning her signature again.

                  This time when no ink appeared, Madam MaGee’s brow furrowed. Hermione’s heart pounded in her ears.

                  “Ms. Granger, I apologize for what I’m about to ask but often the simplest explanation is the answer… have you ever been married before?” Ron scoffed and spoke before Hermione could answer.

                  “Of course not, that’s impos…”

                  Hermione rolled her eyes and cut him off, “yes, I have.” Ron’s eyes went wide but Hermione ignored him and continued, “but he died. I saw him die six years ago.” Ginny nudged Harry’s leg a ring suddenly appeared on Hermione’s finger.

                  “And you are sure he died?” The witch asked gently.

                  Hermione nodded, eyes brimming with tears, “yes, he…um…he was in my arms.”

                  Madam MaGee gave her a sympathetic look, “Forgive me if that sounded insensitive, dear, but I had to ask. The quill is still reading your bond magic. This can sometimes happen when a bong is very strong but even then, it’s rarely longer than a year. Six years would be unheard of.”

                  I don’t understand,” Hermione slid up to the edge of her seat, “what are you saying?”

                  The witch hesitated a moment, clearly calculating her response, “that, usually, something like this means that a spouse is still alive.” For the first time in five years, Hermione let a flicker of hope creep in, “Ms. Granger, in my opinion, the strength of your bond suggests that your first husband is still alive.” The room around Hermione spun…could it be true? Could he be alive?

                  “I…” she couldn’t find the worlds.

                  Looking around the room at the shocked expressions, Madam MaGee could tell she had just dropped a bomb on the group, “clearly this had been very shocking for all of you. Why don’t I step out and give you a moment alone,” she stood and walked around her desk.

                  The silence in the small office was deafening. Hermione was still looking forward while Ron looked at her, eyes drilling into her profile.

                  Ron finally broke the silence, “WHAT THE HELL ARE YOU PLAYING AT?” he roared. Harry tried to stand but Ginny pulled him back down. Ron was staring daggers at Hermione as she stayed silent, “didn’t you think that I had a right to know that you were married?”

                  This questioned seemed to break through the fog in Hermione’s mind. She whipped her head around to look at Ron, “no, Ronald, actually I didn’t. It was a complicated situation, and it was a long time ago. I thought he was dead,” rage was growing in Hermione, which the rational part of her brain told her wasn’t exactly fair. She was overwhelmed and she was tired of feeling out of control.

                  “So, you never planned on telling me?” he spat.

                  “No, I never planned on telling anyone. I was sworn to secrecy by Dumbledore at the time and after, the ghost of the man I love was supposed to remain only in my head and in my heart.”

                  Ron’s face went as red as his hair,” and who is this ghost that I am apparently a second choice to?”

                  Hermione’s head was spinning, she barely registered his question. She has believed for six years that he was dead and that their life together was to be little more than a memory, but now…not there was a chance, “Sev…” she whispered, forgetting that anyone else was in the room.

                  Harry and Ginny looked at each other in shock while Ron’s eyes went even wider. He leapt from his chair, “SEV?? You mean Severus fucking Snape. My girl was married to the greasy dungeon bat…that traitor.” Ginny squeezed Harry’s thigh again to keep him still, she knew Hermione needed to handle this on her own.

                  Hermione’s eyes narrowed and she stood, stepping up toe to toe with Ron, “first of all, Ronald Weasley, I am not your girl. I don’t belong to anyone. Second, you will not speak about him like that. I married him because it was necessary for my safety. He risked his life to protect me, something you would know nothing about. He was…he is twice the man you will ever dream of being.”

                  Ron took a step back as if she had physically struck him, “you know what…I hope you find him. You two traitors deserve each other. Now, I’m going home to tell my mother that I won’t be getting married tomorrow,” he brushed past her and stormed out of the office, slamming the door behind him.

                  Ginny finally released Harry who was perched on the edge of his seat. He jumped up and caught Hermione just as her knees gave out. He helped her back into her chair.

                  “I’ve got you,” he whispered softly.

                  Ginny squeezed her shoulder, “we’re here, Mione.”

                  Harry knelt in front of her, “can you tell us what’s happening?” Hermione looked up at him and nodded slowly.

                  “Not here.”

                  “Let’s go back to the house, babe,” Ginny said to Harry, “we can put on the kettle and talk.”

                  Suddenly, Hermione’s eyes went wide, “Harry…what am I going to tell Minerva?” Harry’s expression matched Hermione’s. He had been so shocked; he hadn’t thought about having to tell his grandmother.

                  “She must be told. Do you want me to go?”

                  Hermione shook her head, “no, I’ll go. Why don’t I come to yours about 7? I can go see Minerva and then go home for a little bit. I need to…I just need some time.” Harry nodded. Hermione looked up at Ginny, “Gin, I’m so sorry…”

                  Ginny squeezed her shoulder again, “my brother is a git. To be honest, I ‘ve always thought you could do better, and I’ve always known that your heart wasn’t in it.” Hermione hugged her friend tightly.

                  “Thank you.” Ginny nodded before looking over at Harry.

                  “We better go get James from my parents and make sure my mum isn’t destroying anything.” Harry rolled his eyes but agreed. He loved Molly, but sometimes she could be a bit unreasonable.

                  “Mione, we’ll support you always. Okay?” Hermione nodded and hugged him.

                  “Thank you. You guys go ahead. I want to talk to the ministry witch before I go see Minerva.”

                  “Alright. We’ll see you at 7. Tell granny we said hi.”

                  “I will.” Hermione gave them a small smile.

                  “Good luck,” Ginny whispered, giving her a kiss on the cheek. Harry held out his hand and together the couple walked out of the office. Hermione was alone for another moment before Madam MaGee knocked and walked back in.

                  “Are you alright, dear?”

                  “Yes, I’m terribly sorry for wasting your time.”

                  “It’s no bother at all. I hope you can find him. You clearly love him.” Hermione nodded and twisted the ring on her find.

                  “It was a complicated situation, and I didn’t expect to actually find love, but I did. He was killed in the Battle of Hogwarts or at least I thought he was. Wait…you’re an expert in bond magic…is there any way to trace him?”

                  The witch thought a moment, “hmm there is one spell. It will only give you a region or maybe even a country, but I suppose that give you a starting place. The only trouble is that it will only work if he hasn’t…uh been with anyone else.”

                  Hermione’s heart constricted. What if he had a whole new life somewhere?

                  “Let’s try…,” Hermione said more confidently than she felt.

                  “Alright, your wand please.” Hermione pulled out her wand and held it out. Madam MaGee waved her own wand over it. Hermione was not familiar with the incantation, not that she was paying much attention. She was too nervous to focus on anything, not sure how exactly the spell was supposed to work. She jumped as a burst of light shot from her wand. The light shimmered for several seconds before rearranging into a shape. Hermione squinted and tried to make out the lines.

                  “Is that…Germany?” The light faded away and the other witch put her wand back in her robes.

                  “I believe so. I’m sorry I can’t be any more specific.”

                  “It’s okay. I would rather have somewhere to start than have no idea. So, if this spell is tracing him…he is definitely alive?”

                  She nodded, “yes, the spell is tracing his aura. That is one thing in our world that cannot be manufactured, especially in the case of bond magic. Good luck, my dear. I hope you find him.” Hermione gave her a small smile.

                  “Thank you,” she stood and left the office. She quickly made her way downstairs to the floo network and stepped into one of the many fireplaces.

                  “Hogwarts. Headmistress McGonagall’s office.”

Chapter Text

1 September 1996

Headmaster’s Office, Hogwarts Castle

                  Hermione’s heart pounded as she knocked on the headmaster’s door. It was only the first night of term and she had no idea what had earned her a visit to this office so soon, and without the boys.

                  “Enter,” Dumbledore called from inside. She took a deep breath before pushing the door open. She stepped into the massive office and looked up at the desk at the opposite end of the room. The headmaster sat behind his desk and Professor McGonagall sat in a chair across from him.

                  McGonagall saw her hesitate tried to give her an encouraging smile, “come in, dear.” The smile was well intended but it only served to unsettle Hermione even more. She made her way into the office and sat in the chair next to her head of house.

                  It was quiet for a moment before Dumbledore took pity on her and broke the silence, “I’m sure you are wondering why I’ve summoned you here tonight, Ms. Granger.”

                  “Yes, sir. As far as I’m aware the boys and I haven’t had time to break any rules yet.” Albus couldn’t help the fond smile that graced his lips.

                  “No,” he chuckled, “you have not done anything wrong. I do have some troubling news to share however.”

                  “Sir?” Hermione was beyond confused and the worried look on both professor’s faces didn’t help.

                  “I don’t need to tell you, Ms. Granger, that our situation is precarious. You know that the ministry has been lost,” she nodded, “then you are also aware that muggleborns, such as yourself, are in grave danger.” It was starting to make sense in Hermione’s mind now.

                  “What have they done, sir?” she asked, realizing that he was building to something pretty serious.

                  Albus sighed. Sometimes, he forgot just how much these kids had already been through and how grown up they were. He cleared his throat and sat up a little straighter, “a law has been passed, very quietly, that requires every muggleborn witch to marry a ministry approved pureblood wizard by the end of the year of her majority.”

                  The room around Hermione began to spin, “marry…,” she couldn’t formulate any other words. She wasn’t ready to be married and certainly not to a man she wasn’t in love with. She barely registered Minerva taking her hand.

                  “Hermione?” Hearing her name, Hermione turned to look at her mentor.

                  “We have to do something…we have to fight them…”

                  “We have, dear,” Minerva responded carefully, “they won’t be reasoned with and, if I’m being perfectly honest, I believe this law was created specifically to remove you from the fight. You are a powerful witch, and they know it. You’re a threat to them so they are trying to take you from Harry’s side.”

                  “What if I refuse?” She asked defiantly, sounding much braver than she felt.

                  Dumbledore spoke, causing Hermione to look back up at him, “If you refuse, the official policy is that your wand would be snapped and any memories that you or your family have of our world would be obliviated. But...you also know how Lord Voldemort feels about muggles. Hermione’s heart hit the floor. She knew in all likelihood, if she refused, she and her parents would be killed. Minerva squeezed her hand as Dumbledore continued, “Ms. Granger, I am sorry I could not do more, but I think we have found a way to meet the law’s requirements and still keep you safe.”

                  “How so, sir?”

                  “I received an owl today detailing the three men who were approved as suitors for you. According to the law, you may choose which of them to accept.”

                  “Who…a Weasley?” She hoped for a moment, but those hopes were quickly dashed.

                  “I’m afraid not. The Weasley’s are considered blood traitors which, in many ways, is worse than being muggleborn in the eyes of Lord Voldemort. The rules say these men may also keep a pureblood wife for producing ‘legitimate’ heirs, so one of them men is already married.”

                  “Who are they, sir?” Hermione asked, defeated.

                  “Rodolphus Lestrange,” Hermione shuddered, she knew exactly who his pureblood wife was, “Amycus Carrow, and…” Albus paused.

                  “And me,” Hermione turned to see none other than Severus Snape step out of the shadows. She didn’t even know he was in the room.

                  “You…” she met his eyes but where she expected to see contempt, she only saw sorrow. He looked exhausted, like always, but she could tell her carried a new weight.

                  Albus speaking again, pulled her eyes away from the other professor, “Severus has agreed to do this so that you may remain here in the castle under the Order’s protection.” Hermione’s brows furrowed. Why would he be accepted as a pureblood suitor?

                  Her eyes went wide, and she looked back at him. It all made sense. All the years of believing him to be the enemy only to find out that he had been trying to protect them the whole time, “you’re a spy…,” it was more of a statement than a question, but he nodded anyway.

                  “I know that this is uncomfortable, but you have my word…I will keep you safe.” She looked over him, somehow it was as if she was seeing him again for the first time. She turned back to Dumbledore.

                  “I have no choice. I do recognize the kindness that Professor Snape is showing. I will do what I must do to see this fight to the end.” The headmaster nodded.

                  “So be it. I will inform the ministry of your decision. We can meet later in the term to go over the rest of the requirements and the process of carrying out the law. In the meantime, I think it would be best if only those of us present here were aware of these events.” Hermione nodded. She was aware of McGonagall’s grip on her hand and suddenly, she needed to be anywhere but in that room. Seeming to sense her discomfort, Severus took a step closer.

                  “Ms. Granger, this has been a shock, I’m sure. Why don’t I escort you to your dormitory, as it is after curfew?” Hermione met his eyes again and for some reason she had a feeling Severus could understand her in a way that no one else ever could.

                  “Yes, please,” she stood and retreated toward the door, “goodnight, professors,” she said turning back to them before disappearing into the stairwell. Minerva watched her go, face full of concern.

                  “Severus…,” he nodded his understanding.

                  “I’ll look after her,” he bowed his head respectfully before turning on his heal and following Hermione out to the staircase. He took her before the elbow and led her down the stairs, “come with me,” he whispered. She simply nodded and allowed him to direct her toward the dungeons.

May 2004

Headmistress’ Office, Hogwarts Castle

Hermione appeared in the headmistress’ vacant office in a flash of green flames. She was one of the few people in the world with the privilege of direct floo access to that sacred office. Term was, of course, still in session and Minerva was still doubling as transfiguration professor. Hermione was due to full that post at the beginning of the next term. That had been a major point of contention leading up to her wedding, not that it mattered now.

                  “Ah, Hermione, how good to see you!” The portrait of Dumbledore waved.

                  “Hello, Albus. Do you know when Minerva will be back?” she knew her voice was a bit panicked.

                  “She’s in her final lesson of the day, I think. Is everything alright?” He sat up on the edge of his chair.

                  “Could you tell her I need to speak with her immediately, please?” Albus nodded, clearly concerned by Hermione’s behavior.

                  “Of course, dear girl. Have a seat,” he left his portrait quickly. Instead of sitting, Hermione paced the office anxiously. She both excited and terrified to tell Minerva the news, and she really wasn’t sure how to tell her.

                  Finally, after what felt like a lifetime, but was really only about 10 minutes, Minerva burst into the office, “Hermione, dear, what’s happened?” out of the corner of her eyes, Hermione saw Albus standing in his portrait, watching them intently.

                  “He’s alive, Minerva. Sev is alive.” It wasn’t exactly how Hermione wanted to say it but seeing Minerva she didn’t know what else to see but the facts.

                  Minerva’s face turned to stone. She swept past Hermione to stand before her desk, “Hermione, I know that you loved my son, and that the next few days may be difficult for you, but he is dead. Believing otherwise will simply lead to more heartbreak. My children are both gone. I’ve had to accept that, and you need to do the same.”

                  Hermione took a step closer, “Minerva, please listen…” The headmistress held up a hand, silencing her former student.

                  “No,” Minerva snapped. If she were still a student, Hermione would have trembled. Minerva took a deep breath and spoke again, voice a little more even, “my dear, this matter is closed. If you’ve nothing further, I must ask you to leave. Anyway, shouldn’t you be at the ministry?” Hermione wanted to roll her eyes, but she knew better.

                  “That’s what I’m trying to tell you. I’ve been to the ministry… they wouldn’t let me sign a new marriage contract because I’m still bonded.”

                  Minerva’s legs threatened to give out, “that’s not possible…he’s dead,” she nearly whispered, tears welling up in the older witch’s eyes. She had to put a hand on her desk to steady herself, “you saw him die,” she said, search Hermione’s face. The younger witch came to her side.

                  Behind them Albus spoke, “he’s a clever man, Minerva and they never recovered his body. What exactly did they say at the ministry?”

                  “They said that after this many years, if he was dead, the bond would have been broken. They were able to trace him, through our bond magic.”

                  “Where is my son?” Minerva’s voice shook.

                  “Germany. She couldn’t be any more specific, but she said his magical aura is very much alive.” Minerva couldn’t hold back her emotion anymore. Tears rolled down her face as she surged forward and pulled Hermione into her arms. She held the young witch tightly.

                  “I’m sorry, dear…,” Hermione, who was crying too, shook her head.

                  “He’s your son, you have nothing to apologize for.” The two women held each other for several moments before Minerva pulled away, composing herself.

                  “If he’s alive…,why didn’t he come home?” Hermione had been wondering the exact same thing.

                  “Why don’t we find him and then we can go from there.” Minerva nodded and went to sit at her desk.

                  “So, he’s in Germany?”

                  “That’s what the witch from the ministry said. Would sending a patronus work?”

                  “I doubt it. A patronus can find someone in a building even a town with a skilled wizard but I don’t know about an entire country.”

                  Hermione shrugged, “worth a shot. Any idea where in Germany he might go?” Minerva thought a moment.

                  “There are several wizarding communities but for him to have remained undetected all these years,” she shook her head, “I doubt he is in one of them. He would have had to register with the magical Bundestag at some point, and it would have been flagged.”

                  “So, what do we do? Where do we start?”

                  “I think there are some portraits here with frames in Germany. I will ask around and see if anyone has heard or seen anything,” Albus said, before disappearing.

                  “What would you say to a holiday?” Minerva asked with a sly grin.

                  “Not like I’m going on my honeymoon now. When do we leave?” Hermione said dryly.

                  “Final exams are next week. Why don’t you work on securing us some muggle transport for the following week. I will let the Bundestag know we are coming and get our wand permits. Do you still have his wand?”

                  She nodded, “of course.” Hermione had found the wand in the Shrieking Shake when she went back to retrieve his body, it was the only thing she had found left of him.

                  “Bring it. I could be useful.”

                  “Okay...,” she snapped her fingers, “Sev and I had talked about traveling and Germany had come up a few times. I’ll look and see if I still have the notes we made, it might give us some communities to start looking in.”

                  “That would be a good start. I um…I assume Harry was present for this revelation?” Hermione nodded.

                  “Yes, so were Ron and Ginny. I’m supposed to head to Harry’s tonight to give them some kind of explanation. What should I tell them?”

                  “The truth. What went on between you and Severus is no longer a private matter. Please make him understand, no one could know, especially him. It was just too dangerous.” Minerva stood and came back around the desk. She took Hermione’s face in her hands for a moment before pulling the younger witch into another hug, “we’ll find him,” she whispered. Hermione nodded.

                  “We have to…I have to know.” Minerva pulled back.

                  “Know what, dear?”

                  “If it was real.” Minerva looked down and took Hermione’s hand in her own. She brought her hand up and looked at the ring.

                  “He adored Elenor, and this ring was one of the only things he had left of her. He wouldn’t have given it too just anyone. I know the situation was desperate and that neither of you meant to fall in love but that’s how fate and the gods work. You don’t get to choose who you fall in love with,” she glanced at the photos on her desk. One of them was of her and Madam Promfrey dancing around the kitchen of their highland summer home, “I’m going to go to the ministry now and secure our wand registrations. Would you mind going down to the hospital wing and telling Poppy what has happened and that I will be back tonight?”

                  “Of course.”

                  “Thank you. Please give Harry, Ginny, and little James all my love. I will go over tomorrow and talk to them, once they’ve had time to process today.”

                  “Sure. I will look for your owl.” Minerva gave her a small smile and squeezed her hand before stepping away.

                  “We’ll talk in a few days,” she stepped toward the fireplace but turned back, “thank you for loving my son.” Without another word she stepped into the fireplace and disappeared.

                  Hermione took a moment to compose herself before heading out of the office and out to the grand staircase. She decided to take the long way and walk to the hospital wing, despite her access to the castle’s floo network. She felt a strange comfort in the walls of the place she had called home for so many years and in whose walls, her love with Severus blossomed.

Chapter Text

1 September 1996

Snape’s Chambers, Hogwarts Castle

                  Severus led Hermione into his chambers, still holding onto her elbow. Once inside, he gently pushed her down onto the black leather sofa in front of the fireplace. A fire had erupted the moment he opened the door, filling the room with warmth and light. The room was exactly what Hermione would have expected from him. The dark grey stone walls should have made the room feel cold, but strangely Hermione felt rather cozy, or would have given any other circumstances. She looked at the far wall which was a floor to ceiling length window looking out into the depths of the Black Lake. It was oddly peaceful. All the furniture in the room was black with silver accents and there were books piled everywhere. She nearly laughed when it hit her how similar to her own tastes it was. She looked around before looking at him. He had taken off his cloak and draped it over one of the armchairs in front of the fireplace. He had his back to her as he stood before a table against the wall. When he turned around, he had a glass of fire whiskey in each hand. He walked back over to the couch and held out one of the glasses to her.

                  “Here, you’ve earned it.” She gave him a grateful smile as she took the glass from his hand. He knocked his own drink back in one gulp before it refilled with a wave of his hand. He threw himself down on the other end of the sofa. Hermione watched as he pinched the bridge of his nose. She was intrigued by this completely new side of him. Looking away, she took a long drink from her glass, wincing as it burned the back of her throat. She put the glass on the table beside her before turning to look at him again.

                  “Professor?” He looked over at her, his hand dropping from his face to his thigh.

                  “I believe, given the circumstance, it would be appropriate for you to call me Severus…in private.”

                  “Right…Severus,” she tried, and for some reason instantly liked the way his name felt on her lips, “I don’t understand what’s happening. You hate me, I’m the insufferable know-it-all. You hate all of us.” He snorted and drained his glass again before sitting it aside.

                  “I don’t hate you…you are a know-it-all, but I know that you just want to prove that you belong here. I’ve always pushed you to have more knowledge than what’s in your books because it could save your life. And, from what I hear, my urging had been successful. I don’t know of any other Second Years that could have successfully brewed a Polyjuice potion and, on top of that, stolen from my personal stores to do it.” Her eyes went wide.

                  “You know about that?” She was shocked. He could have had them expelled.

                  “My dear, I know everything, including your affinity for arson,” she went red causing him to chuckle, “I was rather impressed actually, even if I needed a new cloak afterwards. You’ve always had so much potential, if you would just get your nose out of your bloody books and trust your own mind,” he paused a moment to let his words sink in, “as for your friends, I don’t hate them either. Mr. Weasley is a dunderhead to be sure, but I have great respect for his parents. And Harry…well that is altogether more complicated matter.” She was confused by the sudden affection in his voice. He had always seemed so angry at Harry but now he just seemed sad at the mention of her friend.

                  “I thought you hated him…because of his dad,” she said carefully, not wanting to anger him.

                  “Ms. Granger…”

                  “Hermione, please…” He nodded.

                  “Very well, Hermione. My life is complicated, to say the least. I’m sure you have many questions, and I welcome them, but please understand that it may take me some time answer them. I am unused to…friendships, if you will.” Hermione looked at him, and saw her own fears reflected in him. It was clear that he was not used to people asking questions about his life or even really caring about him. It made her sad.

                  “I do understand…I appreciate your willingness to share whatever you are comfortable with. I recognize that you are taking an incredible risk for me.”

                  “I’ve spent the last 16 years trying to make up for the things I’ve done. If I can save you, the way I couldn’t save Lily…well then maybe I can find some measure of peace.” He sounded determined. Hermione had heard some of the rumors about Severus and Lily, as well as the role he played in getting the Potter’s killed. She couldn’t imagine the man before purposely trying to get someone killed.

                  “Can I ask what happened between you and Lily? I’ve heard the rumors, but I would rather hear it from you.”

                  “Do you not believe the rumors?” He asked quietly. Clearly, he was used to being judged on them.

                  “Rarely are rumors of any real substance, so no I don’t.” He gave a snort of indignation before taking a deep breath.

                  “It is a difficult story for me to tell, but I will try,” he turned to look at her, face serious as the grave, “but I must impress, the things I am about to divulge to you must remain between us and Professors Dumbledore and McGonagall. You cannot, under any circumstances, tell Harry any of this. His life and the very fate of our world depends on it.”

                  She could not imagine what could be so earth shattering but nevertheless she agreed, “I understand. You have my word.” He took another deep breath, steadying himself. For some reason, she had the oddest sensation to reach out and touch him, to offer him comfort, but she kept her hands in her lap. She was seeing a different side of him, but he was still Severus Snape.

                  “You were correct when you said that I was a spy. I am a death eater, and I did join of my own free will. That decision is the biggest regret of my life. Because of that youthful, reckless choice, I lost someone very dear to me. I have spent every day since, spying for the Order, trying to make some measure of amends for what I’ve done.” It clicked in Hermione’s mind.

                  “Lily Potter…that’s why you’ve always looked after Harry.” He nodded.

                  “Very good…yes. Though my relationship with Lily was not what everyone assumed. I know you don’t believe in them, but what do the rumors say?”

                  “They say…,” she hesitated and looked at him. He raised his eyebrows, clearly waiting on her to finish but showing no signs of anger, “they say that you were in love with her, and you betrayed her because you were jealous of James.” His laugh was dark and pained.

                  “See, Hermione, rumors often do have bits of truth to them, just not always the parts you think. I did betray her but I was never in love with Lily. I hated James but believe me, it had nothing to do with jealousy. Lily was…my twin sister.” Hermione’s jaw hit the floor. She had so many questions but then her brain stopped and focused on one additional fact that this revelation provided.

                  “Your sister…but then…”

                  “Harry is my nephew,” he looked so broken as he said it, “Lily and I were put up for adoption as infants. Her adoption went through a muggle agency, and mine through a magical one. In theory, this should have kept us far away from each other, at least until we started school. Didn’t quite work out that way though. Lily and I ended up living a few blocks from each other, though our lives could not have been more different. For the most part she had a wonderful childhood, the Evans were good people and they loved her. I was adopted by a young witch who was engaged to a muggle man. She knew she couldn’t have children of her own and was happy to have a child to raise. Elenor Prince was an amazing woman, and she loved me, but she had neglected to tell Tobias the truth about herself or where she adopted me from. He found out eventually…”

                  “I assume that he did not react well.” He shook his head.

                  “He did not. In the muggle world she would never have been able to adopt me without involving him in the process but in our world we did not…we do not have any real regulations. It’s a problem that our world has yet to address, sadly. Anyway, Tobias was a bit of drink to begin with but after he found out, it spiraled out of control. He eventually lost his job and started beating my mother. When I started showing signs of magic at a fairly young age, he started beating me to,” he paused and sat up a little, untying his cravat. He was clearly uncomfortable.

                  “We can stop if you want to, I don’t want you to be uncomfortable.” Hermione offered gently. He gave her a small smile.

                  “Thank you but I…I want you to know.” The words hung in the air for a moment before he finally continued, “Lily and I met and bonded over our shared magical abilites. Her sister was not kind to her, and I was a lonely child, so it just worked. We understood each other. When we came to Hogwarts, our parents recognized how close we were. I guess they feared how our relationship would develop, not that it was ever anything beyond friendship. At the start of our third year, they sat us down and told us the truth.”

                  “They were here….at Hogwarts?” He nodded.

                  “They still are.” Hermione’s brow furrowed. A smile tugged at the edge of Severus’ lips as he watched the wheels of her mind spin.

                  “Oh, my gods…Dumbledore and McGonagall are your parents.” It made sense. The pair had always been close in a different way and any children of theirs would be very powerful.

                  “Right again, 10 points to Gryffindor. Yes, they are my parents. They are not a couple anymore; it wasn’t a long-term thing to begin with. My mother had just lost her husband and sought comfort in an old friend. It was a complete accident. They agreed that it would be too dangerous for anyone to know about our true parentage which is why they gave us up for adoption.”

                  “I know Professor Dumbledore has a past fighting dark wizards and that Professor McGonagall is a powerful witch but why was it so dangerous?”

                  “Ah, now that is a story for another time, and it might be better if my mother told you that one.” Her mind was coming up with all kinds of potential stories and reasonings, but another question lingered.

                  “Did they know about your home life?” The question was asked with a bit more venom than she meant. She had always looked up to both professors but the idea that they had knowingly left their son in an abusive environment made her angry.

                  “I’m sure they did…but what could they do? There isn’t exactly a well-functioning child welfare system in our world.”

                  “There should be,” she huffed. A smile tugged at his lips again.

                  “I have no doubt that after we win this war, you can tackle any problem you set your mind to. You will change this world for the better, I know it.” From anyone else she would have thought they were teasing her but the look in Severus’ eyes told her that he was being completely genuine. She didn’t know how to respond, and Severus, thankfully, didn’t let the silence linger, “they were not the only ones who noticed my relationship with Lily. She had a crush on James Potter, beats me as to why but she did. He was jealous of our relationship and, of course, we couldn’t tell him the truth.”

                  “James was a bully.” Again, it was more statement that questions.

                  “Yes, he and Sirius absolutely tormented me. Remus and Lily tried to stop them, but Remus had his own issues, and I was an easy target. No matter what he did though, Lily wouldn’t give him up. She loved trying to fix broken little boys. One day after James has been particularly awful, Lily tried to comfort me, but I just snapped. I called her a mudblood and shoved her,” Severus shot an apologetic look her way when she twitched at the slur, “I didn’t mean to lash out, but I felt like she was always choosing James over me even though he was the one being the…well the arsehole. I still shouldn’t have said it, and I certainly shouldn’t have put my hands on her. When I tried to apologize later, she wasn’t interested in hearing it.” Hermione’s ears were red as she tried to keep her anger at bay. Severus had made a mistake, but he didn’t deserve to be shunned for it, especially when James behaved the way he did. Severus continued, seemingly unaware of her internal battle, “we were in fourth year, and it was about that time that a sixth year befriended me…or so I thought. Lucius and his friends had met the man you now know as Lord Voldemort the previous summer. He was just starting to gain pureblood followers. I was easily seduced by their cause. They offered me a family and, most importantly, they offered me the one thing I had never had before: power. I had spent so much of my life feeling out of control and invisible that I just couldn’t resist. I took the mark as soon as I turned 17.”

                  “Can I…can I see it?” She had seen the mark that had been conjured over the Quidditch World Cup a few years earlier and she had heard Harry describe it, but she had never actually seen a dark mark on someone’s skin before. He thought a moment before standing and removing his frock coat. She watched as he unbuttoned the top two buttons of his white shirt, his black cravat still hanging loosely around his neck. He chuckled, in spite of the circumstance, feeling her gaze on him.

                  “Contrary to popular belief, Hermione, I am, in fact, a man and not a bat,” she blushed, having been caught starting. He unbuttoned the cuff on his left sleeve and rolled it up. He perched on the edge of the sofa, turned toward her so their knees were pressed together and laid his arm out on his leg. She could see the mark and a long, jagged scar through the middle of it. Sensing her question, “I tried to remove it after Lily died.”

                  Hermione reached out slowly and let her fingertips brush over the scar. Severus sat like a stone, an odd look gracing his features. Realizing that she hadn’t asking his permission to touch him, she jerked her hand way in embarrassment, “I’m terribly sorry…,”

                  “No, please…don’t apologize. Would you…would you do that again?” Severus’ watched intently as she placed her hand back on her forearm.

                  “Is everything okay?” She asked after a moment. He looked up and met her eyes, before laying his other hand over hers.

                  “For almost 20 years I have been branded with this horrid mark. One of the things they don’t tell you before you take it is that once you do, it never comes off and you will always be pain. A mark of your servitude to the Dark Lord. After Lily was killed, it eased a little, but otherwise, I have been in near constant pain since the day I took it…until just now.” Hermione watched his face as she wrapped her fingers around his arm, and she could see the visible relief. 

                  “How is this possible?” She was intrigued. Her brain was running through thousands of curses and charms but also it tried to come up with a reason why, of all people, she was the one that could ease his pain.

                  “I don’t know. I didn’t know it was possible for anything to disrupt the dark magic in the mark.”

                  “Well, I’m glad it does,” she said genuinely.

                  “Let me finish my story, you may think differently.”

                  “I won’t but go on,” she countered quickly, leaving little room for argument. "What happened after you were branded?” They both eased back into the sofa, but she didn’t release his arm. He thought about arguing or pulling away but the look on his face made him think better of it.

                  “I became a loyal soldier. Honestly, the first few years were great. It was mostly just gaining and training followers, and a lot of raiding ministry officials, but as no one was getting hurt or if they were I didn’t realize it. I rose through the ranks pretty quickly, largely due to my skills in Legilimency. Lily and I had attempted to mend things but once I took the mark she wanted nothing to do with me. I was just so angry at her and my parents that I took pride in being a part of something that they opposed. It was childish; I was intelligent, not so smart back then. One night, at the Three Broomsticks, I heard a prophecy about Voldemort’s destruction through a keyhole. I immediately went to him with the information, it wasn’t until after that I realized I had condemned my own blood to death.”

                  “Is that why you agreed to spy?”

                  “I came to my father and confessed to everything I had done. I begged him to protect them. He asked what I would give in return, so I offered myself.”

                  “That’s disgraceful,” Hermione said before she could catch herself. He didn’t react outwardly react but she could feel his body tense, “I’m sorry, but you were both his children.” Severus shrugged.

                  “My father has a temper that he keeps well hidden. I love him, but he puts the mission above all things.” Hermione hummed in agreement. She had experienced first-hand, Dumbledore’s commitment to mission over all things. “So I tried my best to protect them. I did everything I could to hid them until that dirty rat betrayed them.”

                  “You hated Sirius so much…you blamed him…”

                  “I believed, like the rest of the world, that it was him who had betrayed the Potters. I was blinded by my hate for him from our school days but I had no reason to doubt that it was him once the ministry put him in Azkaban. I was the one that found Harry that night, after Lily and James were killed. It’s actually the only time I ever got to hold him, my poor nephew. I carried him out to Hagrid, and I swore then that I would do everything in my power to protect him. Gods, he hasn’t made it easy though. He's too much like his father, headstrong and arrogant.” Hermione chuckled.

                  “You know, you say that but you two are much more alike than you realize. You are both very stubborn. Smart too, but once you get something in your heads, even if you’re wrong, there is no stopping you. He is fiercely loyal and would lay down his life to protect another. Truly, he gives everything and keeps almost nothing for himself.” He looked pleased but it quickly turned to  sadness.

                  “I wish I could know him better…as you do, but our relation must be kept a secret, especially from him. Harry cannot control his connection to the Dark Lord, and if the knowledge of Harry’s biological family gets back to him, it could be disastrous.”

                  “So, you really have been protecting us all these years…” she thought about all the times they were in danger and how often Severus was their saviour even if indirectly.

                  “Yes, not that you lot made it easy,” she snorted, “so there it is, the summary of my life. There is much more and perhaps I shall tell you one day but not tonight. It’s been a long day.” She agreed. Talking to him had made her forget their current situation but it came racing back into her mind.

                  “Thank you, Severus…for everything.” Her covered her hand again.

                  “You don’t need to thank me, Hermione. None of this is your fault. If anything, it’s mine. My actions have put this fight on your shoulders,” the clock chimed, announcing midnight. Neither had realized they had been talking for nearly two hours, “I should get you back to your dormitory. You need rest. Are you alright to go back?” She nodded, suddenly sad. She had actually been enjoying his company.

                  “Yes, I’m alright.” She released his arm and saw the tension return to his face, “sorry…” He waved his hand and stood, rolling his sleeve back down.

                  “It reminds me of my mission.” She stood and wrapped her fingers around his wrist.

                  “No one deserves to live in pain, Severus. Not even you, whatever you may think.” She saw the slight upturn of his lips.

                  “May someday, I won’t have to. Come…your friends will be missing you.” She released his wrist, allowing him to retrieve his coat. With a snap of his fingers, his buttons were done and his cravat retied, “ready?” he asked. She nodded and followed him as he walked toward the door.

                  They walked silently, side-by-side, to Gryffindor Tower, careful to keep an appropriate distance between them in case there were any wondering eyes from the portraits along the walls. At the top of the stairs, she finally looked at him.

                  “Can I come back tomorrow?” she asked shyly.

                  “Of course. Meet me in my office after dinner. I’ll show you how to get into my private chambers from there. I know this is an odd situation, but I hope you know that you can consider me a friend.”

                  “And I am your friend,” she gave him a small smile before they approached the Fat Lady.

                  “I apologize for the lateness of the hour. Ms. Granger will be apprenticing with me this term. Please allow her into her common room after hours. I will make sure Professor McGonagall is aware.”

                  “Very well, Professor Snape,” the portrait swung open.

                  “Goodnight, Ms. Granger,” he said, professor mode back in full force.

                  “Goodnight, sir.” She brushed his hand with hers before walking through the portrait hole. He watched her go before the portrait swung shut. He bowed his head politely to the Fat Lady before retreating toward the Dungeons.

Chapter Text

May 2004

Hermione’s Apartment, London

            It was after five when Hermione got back to her apartment. Her refusal to give it up after her engagement has been another source of conflict between her and Ron. She wasn’t ready to give up her own space to live in his childhood bedroom in this Burrow. In the two years they dated, he had never stayed over in her apartment and she rarely stayed over with him. Even after their engagement, she wasn’t sure what she was going to do about the living arrangements because he had no intention of leaving his mothers.

            She walked into the bedroom and sat on the edge of her bed. Their bed. After Severus’ death, everything of his legally belonged to her including his childhood home. She had never been able to go but she paid to keep it up enough to not be condemned. Everything of his that she hadn’t brought to the apartment was still in his chambers in Hogwarts. Unchanged and unbothered, except for a weekly cleaning.

            On the side table next to her was a photo frame. To anyone else, it simply looked like a piece of art but Hermione saw one of the few photographs she had of her time with Severus. Albus had taken it, shortly before he died. They hadn’t even known they were being photographed. Severus was sitting on his sofa while Hermione reclined against him, her head on his thigh. They were lost in each other’s eyes. If only they had known this was one of the few happy days they had left. She gripped the black duvet in her fists. It was the duvet from Severus’ bed and Ron had always hated it, one the many reasons why he didn’t stay over. He didn’t even know where it was from but he sensed it wasn’t for him. The truth was, giving up her flat meant letting Severus go and she wasn’t ready to do that. It wasn’t fair to Ron but she had never fallen out of love with the older man and she didn’t think she ever really would. She had freely given him her heart all those years ago and she didn’t want it back.

            After a shower, she pulled out a pair of jeans from the press before going into the closet and pulling out a t-shirt for one of her favourite muggle bands. The closet was magically expanded and served as both a closet and a small library. She had brought most of Severus’ books and research and stored it here along with her own. In the far corner sat his armchair with a reading lamp and a small table. It was almost embarrassing how many nights she had spent in that chair curled up in one of his cloaks with a book. She walked over and let her hand run along the material of the cloak laying over the chair.

Next to her, 2 of his black frock coats hung, perfectly preset beside her own clothes. She pulled out her wand and tapped one of them. It transfigured into a black bomber jacket just her size. She still loved to wear his clothes, somehow it made it feel like his arms were still around her. After pulling the jacket on, she collapsed back into the armchair. For the first time all day, she stopped and really tried to process the events of the day. For years she had dreamed about some crazy twist of fate that brought Severus back to her but now it wasn’t a dream. She would find him and she would be back in his arms again. The feeling nearly overwhelmed her. For nearly six years she had only existed, going through the motions to get from one day to the next, but now she could live again. She picked up his wand from the box it laid in on the shelf beside the chair.

“Where are you, Sev? Please help me find you.” When nothing happened she sighed and put the wand aside, “I love you so much…come back to me,” she whispered.

May 2004

12 Grimmauld Place, London

                  Hermione didn’t live that far from Harry so she chose to walk and enjoy the fresh evening air. She was anxious to see him. It was going to hurt him that she didn’t tell him the truth a long time ago and she hated to be the cause of any more pain in his life. 

                  Harry opened the door after a single knock.

                  “I was actually a little nervous that you wouldn’t come,” he said giving her a one-armed hug.

                  “So was I for a few minutes,” she responded with a slight chuckle, trying to downplay how truthful the statement was. He led her into the house and down the hall toward the kitchen. It was amazing how much brighter and more inviting the Black family home was now that the Potter’s had it. Harry and Ginny had really turned it into a home. She couldn’t help the twinge of jealousy, but she quickly shut it down. After everything he had been through, Harry deserved the world. They walked into the kitchen where they found Ginny making tea, baby James on her hip.

                  “Hey Gin,” Hermione said, walking up and kissing her check, “how were things at your parents?” She really loved the whole Weasley family and hoped she had hadn’t destroyed her relationship with all of them forever.

                  “It’s okay. My mother was a bit hysterical when we got there. My git of a brother had gone and told her some ridiculous story about you keeping a man on the side this whole time. We told her, what we knew, and that calmed her down.” Hermione grimaced.

                  “I’m so sorry, Gin. I really never meant for this to happen. You know how much I love your family.” Ginny rubbed her arm.

                  “I know. I think we may have to do a bit more explaining with mum but she will get over it. I think she is more disappointed than anything that she won’t be gaining you as a daughter.”

                  “That’s sweet. Do you want me to take him?” Hermione asked, gesturing to James who was happily cooing in his mother’s arms.

                  “Yes, please,” Ginny passed James over to Hermione who smiled brightly at the baby.

                  “Hello, little man,” she bounced James in her arms and he giggled, “Auntie Hermione has missed you so much!” Ginny nearly dropped the kettle, looking over at Hermione as she started laughing.

                  “Oh my gods, Mione. You really are his aunt. Severus is Harry’s uncle and you are Severus’ wife.” Hermione’s eyes went wide and she started to laugh too. She looked over at Harry who’s eyes shined with mischief. He was absolutely going to be calling her Auntie Hermione now too. Hermione shook her head and turned back to Ginny.

                  “Is there anything else I can do?”

                  “No, I’ve got everything in here,” she turned to Harry, “babe, can you put James down.” Harry pushed away from the door frame he was leaning on but Hermione stopped him.

                  “I’ll do it. I haven’t spent enough time with my little guy recently.” In reality, Hermione just wanted another few minutes before she had to get into the real reason she was there. Ginny seemed to understand and just nodded.

                  “I left his sleep clothes on the changing table. Can you make sure his monitor is on too?”

                  “Of course,” she pressed a kiss to James’ forehead, “come on little guy.”

                  After changing James and putting him to bed, Hermione came back downstairs and found Harry and Ginny in the dining room. Hermione watched Harry for a moment. He had his hands wrapped around a mug of tea. She couldn’t help but smile as the image of Severus bent over a steaming caldron, hair tied back with a black ribbon, came to mind. There were little things that should could see in Harry now that reminded her so much of Severus. After the final battle, after seeing Severus’ memories, Hary had learned the truth of his biological family. He and Minerva has become incredibly close and he grieved the uncle that he never truly had the chance to know.

                  She stepped into the room and went to the place that had been set for her. Sitting down, she could feel all eyes on her. The silence did not last long.

                  “Mione, I don’t mean to be rude or anything but what the hell is going on?” Harry asked calmly. Hermione silently thanked the gods for Harry’s blunt Gryffindor delivery.

                  “I don’t even know where to start,” she said with a sigh, “it’s a long story but before I start, there are some things I need you to understand. Severus and I never meant to fall in love. What he did, he did to protect me. He never sought anything in return, I have him my heart and my…my body freely.”

                  “Why didn’t you tell me?” She could hear the hurt in his voice and it made her feel terrible. She knew that she could trust Harry with anything, hell she had trusted him with her life since the age of 11, but she just couldn’t talk about this with him after the war.

                  “At the time, your grandparents swore me to absolute secrecy. After the war, I just didn’t know how to cope. Minerva begged me to tell you but I didn’t know how, so I forced it aside. The man I loved was dead, I guess I thought grieving him alone meant I never truly had to let him go,” she turned her attention more to Ginny, “it was not fair to Ron, and I need to apologize to him. He was a good friend, and figured it was better to have some kind of life with a friend than to drown in my own grief forever. I never ever thought I would have to deal with it. Ron didn’t deserve to be treated as the runner-up.” Harry reached out and took her hand.

                  “No one should have to grieve alone.” She gave him a small smile.

                  “I know and I am sorry I didn’t tell you. I just wasn’t ready to admit he was really gone and telling someone else would have forced me to deal with that. When we first started, he was so convinced that he wouldn’t survive the war. The longer we were together, the more we felt that we might actually have a future. We talked about getting married, for real, in the way we wanted. We talked about the kind of home we would buy and how we would decorate it, where we would travel to, and even having a family someday. But then, in an instant, all of that was gone.” She was fighting back tears. He squeezed her hand before releasing it and leaning back in his chair.

                  “So how did this all happen? It would have had to have been while we were still students.” His voice was tight. As much as he loved his grandfather, he knew how far he was willing to go for the mission and feared what role he played in this story.

                  “We got married just before the winter holiday of sixth year.” Harry’s brow furrowed, the auror in him trying to process.

                  Ginny spoke up in his place, “but you were a student…” Hermione shrugged.

                  “That didn’t matter, I was 17. That is the joy of basically being a year older than everyone else in our year.”

                  “You said he was protecting you…protecting you from what?” Harry asked, finding his voice again.

                  “A marriage law that was passed that summer, after we lost the ministry. It was semi-secret and, as we later found out, only ever meant to be enforced on me. I was given a choice: marry a real death eater, marry Sev, or lose my memory of our world. It was designed to remove me from the fight. Sev was the only ‘pureblood’ from the Order allowed to enter for me. I had no choice and really neither did he. He could not stand to fail me the way he felt he had failed Lily. And he couldn’t not stand to see you lose someone else, not when he could do something about it.”

                  “Why didn’t my granddad fight this?” Rage was building in Harry. His eyes were narrow and his posture was tense.

                  “He tried but the ministry was lost and you know he was already so weak by then. The best he could do was getting Sev on the list of approved men. Trust me…that was a gift.” She could see the question in Harry’s face, “Amycus Carrow and Rudolphus LeStrange.” Fire flared in Harry’s eyes at the LeStrange name but Hermione continued, “he knew what would happen to me with those other men or if I refused. He put himself at risk to protect me…and he paid for it.”

October 1996

Snape’s Chambers, Hogwarts Castle

                  It had been a little over a month since the news of the marriage law had turned Hermione’s world upside down. She and Severus had spent the time getting to know each other and slowly building their friendship. They had quickly discovered that they had a lot in common and that they genuinely enjoyed each other’s company. She spent several evening every week with him. It was easy to get away; Ron had Lavender and Harry had Ginny, plus they were both busy with school and quidditch. She had told them that Snape had agreed for her to apprentice with him. While they were a little surprised, always suspicious of the mysterious wizard, neither really questioned it, happy that she was getting her academic fix without involving them.

                  Hermione sat on the sofa, in what had become her spot. Her feet were tucked under her as she graded first year essays. Since she was supposed to be his apprentice, she thought it would be good of her to actually do some work. Across the room, Severus sat behind his desk. He was hunched over several books, furiously taking notes for a private research project. She looked up at him, watching as his quill hastily scratched on his parchment. His hair was falling down in his eyes, and she had an almost overwhelming urge to reach out and tuck it behind his ear. She had grown rather fond of the gentle touches between them. It surprised her how easy it was to feel safe and comfortable with Severus. If she was honest, despite their ‘arrangement,’ Hermine would have admitted that Severus was everything she had ever wanted in a partner. He was so respectful of her physically and emotionally, it was almost overwhelming at times. He was intelligent and she could share her thoughts with him on any topic without fear or judgement or mockery. As much as she loved the boys, the stimulating conversation that easily flowed between her and Severus was a breath of fresh air.

                  “Those essays must be mind-numbing if I am a more interesting sight,” he drawled without taking his eyes off his notes. She smirked. Severus was incredibly sarcastic and she quickly realized that he loved it when she was snarky back. Her quick witted comments would often tug the edges of his mouth up before he would look away.

                  “Oh, you are infinitely more interesting. Maybe you should teach these children to write before you teach them anything else.” He snorted as he laid his quill aside.

                  “I think I’ve finally got the formula figured out. Would you like to help me with the brewing? You are my apprentice after all.” She perked up.

                  “Absolutely! What exactly are you working on?”

                  “It’s essentially like a vaccine in the muggle world but instead of combating the flu, this would protect against werewolf bits. The Dark Lord delights in using werewolves as a method of torture. Also, if I can create a working vaccine, perhaps it could lead to better treatment or even a cure.” Her heart melted, of course he was working on something like that.

                  “That is incredible. Why has that never been done before? It seems like an obvious thing to me.” He shrugged.

                  “No one has ever tried. As you know well, werewolves live on the fringes of society. I hope this might be the start of improvement for both their physical health and society’s understanding of them. No one deserves to live like that for something that they can’t control and that is often due to being victimized.” Yes, she thought, he was exactly the type of man she had always dreamed of sharing her life with.

                  “It is amazing to know someone feels the same way I do. I know you don’t have the best history with him but it breaks my heart to know what Remus has gone through.”

                  “I don’t disagree. Remus isn’t a bad man. His choice in friends wasn’t the best, but to be fair to James and Sirius, they were loyal to him and helped him when no one else would,” he said as he stood and came over to the sofa. With a click of his fingers, the essay’s in Hermione’s lap vanished and reappeared neatly on his desk. He sat beside her, knee pressed to hers. She reached for his left arm and wrapped her fingers around his wrist. Knowing that her touch interrupted the pain his mark caused, it had become somewhat of a routine for her to seek out his arm when they were sitting together. It made her feel good to be able to take away some of his pain, even if only for a few minutes. He handed her a notebook with his formula and notes.

                  “So what do we need to do to get started?” She asked, as she read over his research.

                  “We’ll have to gather some materials before we start. I’ll get the list together and we can collect them over the next few weeks. Some I can buy but some I prefer to gather by hand. After that we can start brewing. Once we have a batch finished, Lupin is going to test it for me. Generally, a bit from a werewolf would kill something like a pig but if the potion works like I hope, they will be fine.”

                  “You’re in contact with Remus?” Hermione asked a bit surprised. Severus nodded.

                  “I still brew his potion for him. He said it was better than most of the ones he had used before. I’m happy to be able to help him control his condition and he has actually been very helpful with the potion.” He admitted freely.

                  “I’m glad to hear that. Can I ask you something else?” By her tone, she could tell her question was serious.

                  “Of course…”

                  “If the potion works on the pigs, I assume you move on to humans. If it works, what will Voldemort do to the people he has bitten? Won’t he know something is wrong?”

                  “Uh, no. Usually, he tortures them and then he has them bitten while they are unconscious. After that he releases them. Many don’t even know they have been infected until…”

                  “Until the full moon,” she finished for him. He nodded.

                  “They go through their first transformation and go on a rampage. Often their families are the first victims. I’ve heard of several suicides, after they wake up and realize what happened.” She could imagine exactly what these poor people work up to. “Voldemort doesn’t always need to witness torture to get off on it. Just knowing the pain and horror he has inflicted is enough.”

                  “That’s disgusting…”

                  “I agree…it certainly wasn’t the rhetoric I was recruited with, not that I approve of those beliefs either.”

                  “What did get you to join?” She asked genuinely curious. As hard as it was sometimes, she wanted to know about his past. She knew who he was now and didn’t doubt his conviction to their cause. She had witnessed Severus only behave as the perfect gentleman, and knowing about his past just made her proud of how far he had come.

                  “Well…back then Voldemort’s early rhetoric wasn’t exactly unpopular. Even some muggleborns agreed with a lot of his sentiments. He believed that muggle dominance of the world was backwards. Our ancestors who were persecuted by muggles went into hiding, Voldemort believed this was a mistake. Wizardkind, in his view, was the superior being so it was not for us to hide for muggle but for muggles to worship us. That idea of worship later moved to servitude.”

                  “That sounds very much like the way Europeans used to talk about African slaves.” He nodded.

                  “It does but at the time, to a 16 year old that had been beaten most of his life by his muggle father, it made a lot of sense. Mind you, I cared little for the domination or servitude parts. I just didn’t want to have to hide who I was to make others more comfortable.” Hermione shrugged.

                  “I guess I can understand that. I see the way my parents have to tip toe around my education, it would be nice to just be honest sometimes.”

“Exactly. I  understand now why we keep our worlds apart. Truly it is best for both wizard and muggle kind, but at the time I just wanted to feel in control of my own life. I blamed muggles, especially Tobias, for my lack of control.”

                  “So what changed? Did you only leave Voldemort’s service because of Lily?” As the conversation went on, his body continued to tense. Feeling it, she started to rub small circles on his wrist with her fingertips.

                  “Voldemort changed…well maybe not, but his primary directives did. Equality moved to servitude and that moved to full blown genocide. I think the man studied Hitler for his propaganda, because you couldn’t really see the changes coming until it was too late. His sadism was unleashed but by that time I had already condemned the Potter’s.” She squeezed his wrist to ground him. He gave her a small, grateful smile, “I um…can I share something with you?”

                  “Of course…” she was concerned by the clear nerves in his question.

                  “There is another reason…I will understand if it changes how you think of me,” his voice was low. He had finally found a friend in Hermione and he was afraid that telling her this would destroy that but he had to.

                  “Severus…no matter what you tell me, I see who you are now and that’s what I care about. I promise, nothing is going make me leave.” His smirk was pained and she realized what he was thinking, “and not just because of the marriage law, you git.” She squeezed his wrist again.

                  He sighed, “okay…remember I told you when I was young, I rose through the ranks quickly?

                  “Yes, because you are a skilled legilimens.”

                  “That is the main reason but the other is because.. I killed a muggle.” Her eyes went wide but she did not release his arm, “the Dark Lord believes that all muggles should either die or be slaves but that wasn’t always his ‘public policy.’ When I was a young death eater, he issued orders for us to carry out punishments against any muggles that had, as he put it, done harm to a witch or wizard. Again this was not exactly an unpopular opinion across our world. There was no real way for law enforcement from either world to punish a muggle for harming a wizard because of their magic. The way into his inner most circle was to carry out the most severe punishment: death. When I was 20, I got permission to carry out one of these executions. I killed Tobias Snape.” His words hung in the air for a moment.

                  “Why?” She asked softly.

                  “Because he killed my mother.”

                  “Oh Sev…” tears sprung up in Hermione’s eyes. He stared into the fireplace, trying to control his own emotions.

                  “He um…he had been drinking. My mum, she…,” he swallowed hard, “she was using magic to clean, knowing if it wasn’t done when he got home he would be angry. He came home earlier than usual, apparently the pub had cut him off after he started picking fits. When we saw her using magic, he started beating  her and he didn’t stop. The last thing he saw before he passed out, was her beaten and bloody on the floor. I was at school, my sixth year. He wouldn’t let her use an owl but she did occasionally sneak out and send me letters, so it wasn’t unusual for me to not hear from her for several weeks even months. When I went home at the end of term…,” he stopped. His jaw was clinched and she could see his tears reflecting the firelight.

                  “It’s okay. When you got home, you found out she was gone. Right?” He nodded, still looking straight ahead at the fire.

                  “He um…he said she had had an accident a few months earlier and that she had been cremated and he scattered her ashes in the garden. He was drunk of course, and as soon as he passed out, I found his memory of her death. I didn’t know what to do so I just gathered a few things of mums that I knew she had hidden and I left. I stayed with Lucius when I wasn’t at school until I finished and could start making my own money. When Voldemort put out bounties on any muggles that had taken the life of a wizard, I took my opportunity for revenge. I felt so…so powerful in the moment but after…” she sat up and moved sit beside him, wrapping one arm around his shoulders and the other gripping his wrist.

                  “You snapped, Severus. After everything that monster had put you through. I don’t condone violence but the world is better off without him. You are a good man.” He leaned into her side.

                  “I was weak and impulsive.”

                  “Maybe but you were a boy that had become a man very fast. Like I told you before, what you did to Tobias doesn’t change the man I know you are.” She leaned forward and pressed a gentle kiss to his cheek. If the moment hadn’t been so heavy, she would have giggled at the blush that crept up his neck.

                  “Well whatever I am… I will see this fight to the end. Then perhaps I can finally rest.”

                  “You can have a life free of any masters.” He shook his head.

                  “I don’t think that is my future but before I die, I will make sure Voldemort is destroyed.” She wanted to say more but Severus suddenly grunted in pain. He pulled up his sleeve to see the snake in his mark rapidly moving.

                  “Severus…what’s happening?” He stood quickly, pulling her up with him.

                  “He’s calling a meeting and he’s angry.”

                  “What can we do?”

                  “Nothing, I have to go.” She was panicking and he could see it in her eyes. He took her hand, “don’t worry. I’ll be fine. Can you do something for me?”

                  “Anything.” She was grateful for a task.

                  “Use the floo and go to the headmaster’s office. Tell my parent’s that I have been called away and that I will come see them when I get back.” With a snap of his fingers, the fire died down. She nodded.  

                  “I can do that,” without thinking, she grabbed his chin and pressed a gentle kiss to his lips, “come home to me, Sev.” She let go of him and stepped into the fireplace before she could say anything else. For a moment, Severus stood stunned. A new jolt of pain from his arm pulled him back to the reality of his situation. He took a deep breath, locking away his growing affection for the young witch. With a wave of his hand, his clothes transfigured into his death eaters robes. He waved his wand over his face and his mask materialized. Steeling himself, he apparated from the room with a pop.

Chapter Text

October 1996

Snape’s Chambers, Hogwarts Castle

             After informing Dumbledore and McGonagall that Severus had been called away, Hermione went back to Severus’ chambers. A part of her hoped he would be on the sofa waiting for her. Logically, she knew that was ridiculous but her brain was still reeling. They had been having such a pleasant evening, despite the heaviness of their conversation. Then, suddenly, it was over AND she kissed him. She didn’t know what possessed her at that moment but she just couldn’t let him go to whatever awaited him without doing showing him something of the way she felt. She had always had a bit of a school girl crush on him, chalk it up to the dark and mysterious, but it had definitely grown into something more mature and real over the past few months. But, kissing? They had never talk about what, if any, physical intimacy would be required by their marriage bond. The gentle touches that passed between them were almost routine at this point but they had never talked about more.

            Hermione was drawn from her thoughts as the door from his office opened. She looked over from where she had curled up on the sofa, using the cloak he had left behind as a blanket, and saw Minerva standing in the doorway. Unlike Hermione, Minerva couldn’t not use the floo directly into Severus chambers.

            “Ah, Hermione. I’m sorry, dear, I didn’t expect you to be down here,” Minerva said, taken aback by seeing the younger woman so naturally at home in his chambers.

            “Oh…uh I can go if…” Minerva waved her hand and came across the room to collapse in Severus’ armchair.

            “No, no. Please stay.” Hermione settled back into the sofa, not sure what else to say. Luckily, Minerva seemed to be in the mood to carry the conversation, “usually when he gets called away I wait here and Albus waits in his office…just in case.”

            “Are you sure you don’t mind me staying?” Hermione asked. She didn’t want to go. She wanted to be here when he came back, but Minerva was his mother.

            “Of course, dear. I like the company. You and Severus…well you’ve been spending quite a lot of time together.” For some reason, Hermione blushed. She had no idea why. Everything between her and Severus has been perfectly innocent.

            “Yeah, he’s become a great friend. We have so much in common and…he’s brilliant.” Minerva nodded.

            “He always was,” she smiled, clearly a memory playing in her mind. Whatever it was, she didn’t feel the need to share. Hermione looked at the older with and saw exactly what toll this was taking on her. Minerva started speaking again, pulling Hermione from her study, “he has a big heart too, much bigger than he will ever show because it’s been broken too many time." Hermione hummed in agreement.

            “He carries a lot of burdens…and a lot of ghosts,” she added. Minerva nodded, face full of anguish.

            “It’s our fault, mine and Albus. We should have protected him. He blames himself for our failure and it’s not fair on him.”

            “You don’t blame him for Lily’s death,” the words were out of Hermione’s mouth before she could stop them. She grimaced at the way Minerva’s whole body tensed for a few seconds.

            “Severus, did not betray Lily. He heard half of a very vague prophecy and reported it. He had no idea who it was about or what it fully entailed. He tried so hard to keep them safe but then Pettigrew…he was trusted with their safety and he betrayed trust. Ultimately, Voldemort killed my daughter…not Severus.”

            “I’m sorry…”Minerva held up her hand.

            “I’m not upset with you, Hermione. I’m upset with myself and with Albus. Actually, I am grateful to you. For the first time in his life, Severus has someone who sees him.”

            “He loves you, you know, You and Professor Dumbledore. In his own way anyway.” Tears sparkled in Minerva’s eyes.

            “I love him too. So does his father, in his own way,” she added, “Albus was so angry with him when Lily died. But, he’s my son, no matter what. Losing one child was more than enough.”

            “I can’t imagine losing a child and not being able to publicly grieve them.” Hermione said sincerely.

            “It was even worse when I had to leave Harry with those horrid people. Albus insisted it was the right thing to do, and as much as I hate to admit it, I agreed with him. We didn’t know if Voldemort was really gone or who could be trusted. We couldn’t have protected him from the fame either. No one knew where he was except for me, Albus, Severus, Madame Pomfrey, and dear Hagrid, of course.”

            “Did you ever go and see him?” Minerva gave her a sly smile.

            “Albus tried to forbid it, the old fandan. As you know, I am an Animagus so it was easy to go and keep an eye on him. Even give him a little snuggle now and again. I know Severus went to watch over him too.”

            “He didn’t tell me that,” Hermione said, voice dripping with affection.

            “No, he wouldn’t. I don’t think he realizes that I know. I’ve never said anything to him about it.”

            “He really is a wonderful man. I just wish he could see it.” Minerva nodded with a sigh.

            “My son, not unlike my grandson and yourself, has experienced far too much,” she squinted at the fire, trying to decide her next words carefully, “Albus and I had the best of intentions when we gave up the children but I can’t help but wonder…what if…,” she cleared her throat, “I just hope that someday I can see both Severus and Harry free from the burdens they carry. Maybe…we could even be a family again. I would like Harry to know the truth."

            “I know he would be ecstatic, all he’s ever wanted was a family. Though the Weasley’s have done a pretty good job of adopting him,” Hermione said with a chuckle.

            “Very true. I’ll tell you this, Hermione, if I lived another 500 years, I could never repay Arthur and Molly for their kindness.”

            “Well, if all things go to plan, he’ll be their son someday anyway.” Minerva couldn’t stop her grin.

            “Yes, I’ve seen him with Ginny. Is it really that serious?”

            “Oh yes…more than I think even they realize yet. Ron and I have always been there for him but Ginny…she sees him,” she said, using Minerva’s own words, “with her he doesn’t have to be the chosen one, he just gets to be Harry.”

            “That’s good. He deserves to be happy and she is a wonderful young woman. What about you? I always thought you and the youngest Mr. Weasley had an affinity for one another.” Hermione thought for a moment.

            “Honestly, so did I. I do love him and Harry, but not in that way. I don’t think I could spend my life with someone I could not share at least some of my academic pursuits with.”

            “I must confess, I’m glad to hear it,” Minerva said, “he’s a good boy and will make someone an excellent partner someday, I’m sure, but not for you. He, understandably, needs to shine and that would force you to dim your own.”

            “We’ve lost so much of our youth to this fight and we will lose more. For as close as the three of us are, our futures are starting to form and they will take us in separate paths. Harry wants the family life. He wants the monotony of going a to work every day and then coming home to his family every night. Peace and normalcy. Ron wants to recapture at least some of the time we’ve lost. I don’t blame him but I also know you can’t ever really go back.”

            “That is very true. And what is it that you want?”

            “I want to make a difference. I want to help change the parts of our world that give rise to the thinking of people like Voldemort. I want all of this loss to mean something.” Hermione couldn’t quite read Minerva’s face as the older witch looked at her. She wasn’t sure if it was pride or some other mixture of emotions, but it warmed her.

            “I believe you will, my dear. You can do anything you set your mind to.”

            “Severus said the same thing,” she hesitated a moment, “he’s gonna be okay, right” Minerva sighed.

            “He’s strong and he’s clever. He will be fine.” It wasn't hard to pick up on the fact that Minerva was trying to convince herself as much as she was trying to convince Hermione.

            The two women fell into comfortable silence. Minerva picked up the book lying on the side table, a Brontë novel that Severus had been reading in his nearly non-existent free time. Hermione saw his notebook, where it had fallen to the floor, and picked it up. She opened it and read, or at least tried to read through his notes. After 10 minutes of reading the same three lines, she put the notebook down on the table beside her.

            “Professor…can I ask you something?” Minerva closed the book that was curiously still on the same page she had opened it to.

            “Of course, dear…”

            “Severus said that I should ask you…why was it so dangerous for you to keep him and Lily?”

            “Ah, yes, I’m sure you’re curious about that,” Minerva sat the book aside and looked at Hermione, "You’ve been to the Department of Mysteries so you know exactly how many prophecies there are. Some are more closely monitored than others by the Ministry because of their potential seriousness.” Hermione fought the urge to roll her eyes. Divination was a subject, maybe the only subject, she genuinely hated.

            “So many of those prophecies only come to pass because people are trying to prevent them in the first place,” Hermione nearly spat, not bothering to hid her disdain. The corners of Minerva’s mouth twitched up.

            “I don’t disagree. I love Sybill very much but her craft…not so much. Well, there was a prophecy made by the old divination professor here shortly before my first husband died. Severus, told you about him, I assume?”

            “Yes, he said there was an accident and after his death is when your relationship with Professor Dumbledore began.”

            “Elph was an amazing man and I was absolutely heartbroken. I sought comfort in my friend. One thing led to another and I got pregnant. I honestly didn’t think I could, so it was quite the shock. Anyway, this prophecy said that a child of a founder and Merlin would rise to destroy the Ministry.”

            “That could be any number of people. Only some of the founders descendants are known and I don’t know of any confirmed descendants of Merlin.”

            “There are two and they are brothers. As far as the rest of the world is concerned, they are both without children.”

            “You can’t be serious…Dumbledore?” Minerva nodded.

            “His brother Aberforth lives in Hogsmeade and runs the Hogs Head.” Hermione did recall meeting the man at some over the years. She was struck by his resemblance to the headmaster and assumed they were related somehow, but didn’t realize that they were brothers.

            “But then you would have to be descended from one of the founders.”

            “I am descended from two actually. Godric Gryffindor and Rowena Ravenclaw. All legitimate branches of their line died out in the late 18^th century but the last male descendent had an illegitimate child. He fell madly in love with his Scottish maid and after she gave birth to his son, set them up with a good living in the Highlands. Their son, Malcolm was my great-grandfather on my mother’s side.”

            “So, Severus and Lily could have been the subject of the prophecy.”

            “Exactly. If anyone knew…it wouldn’t have just been the Ministry after them. Every dark witch and wizard would have seen them as tools to seize power.”

            “But in trying to protect them from the prophecy…” Minerva nodded.

            “I believe we just saw it come to life. Whether Tom Riddle has the correct ancestry or not, he has the Ministry.”

            “Bloody hell, I hate divination,” Hermione huffed with a laugh. Minerva couldn’t help her dark laugh.

            “Life is a funny thing, Hermione. If you live long enough, you learn that some things are just meant to be…”

            Before either could say another word, green flames erupted in the fireplace and Severus stumbled out. He collapsed in front of Hermione, coughing. 

            “Oh my gods, Severus.” Hermione shrieked, launching herself off the sofa and over to his side. Minerva too was quickly kneeling at his other side.

            “Hermione,” he rasped, as she pulled his arm around her shoulders.

            “I’m here. Can you stand?” He nodded. With her for support, he stood and shuffled the short distance to his chair. He fell back into and Hermione knelt in front of him. She cupped his cheek. Weary eyes met hers. He was covered in mud, soot, and, her stomach turned, blood.

            “Are you hurt?” She used both hands to search him for wounds. He shook his head and stilled her hands, placing her hand on his left arm. She gripped his wrist.

            “The blood’s not mine.” Her tried to clear his throat, clearly having inhaled a lot of smoke. Minerva, who was now standing at his right side, squeezed his shoulder. Hermione saw his slight grimace. He may not have been bleeding but he was definitely hurt.

            “What happened, son?”

            “Raids. I don’t know how many causalities there were. I tried to save as many as I could without being noticed, but Susan Bones, her mother was killed. You can’t say anything until the official notice comes in the morning but I wanted you to be ready.” Hermione could see it in his eyes, more ghosts.

            “I know you did everything you could. I’m just glad you are home,” Minerva pressed a kiss to his temple. Severus was shocked by the gesture but still leaned into his mother’s side as she put her arm around his shoulders.

            “Mother, if I give you my memories could you take them to father? I just…” she shushed him gently.

            “Of course.” He looked at Hermione who still knelt in front of him.

            “Could you get a vial from my desk, love?” The pet name slipped so effortlessly from his lips she almost missed it. She locked eyes with him and squeezed his wrist before standing. She retrieved a vial from the drawer she knew he kept them in and brought it back to him. She watched in awe as he pulled the silver threads from his mind and dropped them into the vial. Theoretically she knew how do perform that spell, but she had never actually seen it done. After putting the stopper in, he handed them to Minerva.

            “I’m sorry I couldn’t do more,” Minerva stroked his dirty cheek, a charm cleaning is face.

            “You risk your life every single day. What that monster does is his fault and his fault alone. You are not responsible.” He could only nod, adams apple bobbing as he tried to contain his emotion, “do you need me to get Poppy?” Minerva had not missed the grimace when she squeezed him.

            “No, I’m just sore. He was in the mood to use crucio. I’m okay…I promise,” he added. Rage flared in Minerva’s eyes but she pushed it down. That would not do Severus any good right now.

            “Alright. I’ll take these up to your father. He’s going to want to see you first thing in the morning.”

            “I’ll be there. Be ready for the notices. She was the only one I can confirm but there could be more.”

            “We’ll be ready. You get some rest, both of you.” She looked at Hermione before leaning down and kissing Severus’ head again, “I love you, son.”

            “Love you too, mum.” Minerva squeezed Hermione’s hand as she walked by before stepping into the fireplace and disappearing.

            “You stayed.” He said as soon as they were alone. She summoned a glass over and filled it with water. 

            “Of course I stayed.” She held the glass out for him before reaching for his left wrist again.

            “You didn’t have to.” The water helped to clear his throat. 

            “Sev, I know that you’ve been on your own for a really long time but you’re not alone anymore. I don’t give a damn about the bloody marriage law, I’m here because I care about you. I was so worried.”

            “I came back like you told me to.” She smiled.

            “Yes, you did. So, please let me be here for you.” He was quiet for a moment.

            “Will you stay?” He spoke so softly that she almost thought she had imagined it. Then he looked up at her. For years, Severus had been this broody figure that exuded power, mystery, and suspicion. She had been both terrified of and amazed by him. But, before her sat a man who was broken, vulnerable, and utterly exhausted in every way a person could be exhausted.

             He would never beg her to stay, but he actually wanted to let someone in. To let her in.

            “There is nowhere else I want to be.” Severus sat the now empty glass aside and leaned forward, wrapping his arms around her waist, “oh, Sev,” she stepped forward and wrapped her arms around his back, stroking it gently. He laid his cheek on her stomach. She could feel his tears through her shirt, and the way his body almost fought for breath, as his emotions finally spilled over. His words played in her mind, ‘I am, in fact, a man.’ She didn’t try to offer any word of comfort, there were none. She simply held him and let him be a man without fear of judgement.

             After a few minutes, he pulled back and sniffled a little, “I’m sorry, Hermione. I’m supposed to be the one taking care of you.” She laid a hand on his check and used her thumb to wipe away some of his tears.

            “Why don’t we take care of each other?” She gave him a small smile that he couldn’t help but return. She took both of his hands in hers, “come on. You need a shower and then you need sleep. I know you’re sore and that’s only going to get worse.” He nodded and allowed her to tug him up out of the chair. Together they walked to the door, left of his desk.

            His bedroom was decorated just like the sitting room. The dark grey stone walls were illuminated by a small fireplace. The far wall was another floor to ceiling window into the Black Lake, framed by dark green curtains. A black wardrobe sat just inside the door to the left, and in the centre of the room was a large black wooden bed. It was covered by a black duvet and dark green sheets. She found the space very Slytherin, but oddly, very cozy.

            “The bathroom is just there,” Severus said, gesturing to the door on the other side of the wardrobe.

            “Go get cleaned up.” She said squeezing his hand. He nodded and opened the wardrobe. He pulled out some clothes before turning back to her.

            “Sleep stuff is in the top drawer. You welcome to use anything.” He was almost shy but covered it by heading into the bathroom, closing the door behind him. She pushed out a breath and stepped up to the wardrobe. She almost laughed at the lack of colour but she couldn’t really imagine Severus in anything else. She opened the top drawer and saw several plain white, black and grey t-shirts. Next to them were a few pair of sleep pants. She picked up a white t-shirt and the top pair of pants, grey and green plaid. She quickly changed, using her wand to shorten the pants. She folded her clothes and laid them neatly on the trunk at the foot of his bed. While she wanted for him to finish in the shower, she walked to the bookshelves near the window and ran her finger tips over the spines. He had so many books it made her a little jealous. One of her dreams was to have her own home where she could have her own private library.

            “This isn’t all of them, I have another room off my office. I’ll show you later,” she jumped at the sound of his voice. She had been so engrossed in the books, she hadn’t heard the shower shut off.

            “That would be amazing. I’ve always wanted a home library,” she said as she came back across the room. He was dressed in a black t-shirt with white and green checked pants. His damp hair hung around his face. If anyone else had seen him, he would no longer be able to be known as the bat of the dungeons. 

            “Are you sure you’re okay with this, we can go back to the sitting room or… you don’t actually have to sta…” she put a finger over his lips to silence him.

            “Get into bed.” He snorted, amused by her audacity but nevertheless complied. He got into the right side of the bed.“See we must be a match made in paradise. We already have sides of the bed figured out,” she teased him as she crawled in beside him. They settled onto their back, side-by-side but not touching. She reached out to find him and wrapped her finger around his wrist. The fireplace dimmed, plunging the room into relative darkness. “Do you want to talk about?” She asked gently.

            “Yes but not tonight. Is that okay?”

            “Of course. I’m here for you, whatever you need.” He was quiet again for several moments. Hermione thought he might have actually fallen asleep until he spoke.

            “Thank you, Hermione.”

            “For what?”

            “Just,” he was trying hard to find the right words but none came to him, “being…you.” She chuckled and rolled over to rest her head on his shoulder, curling around his arm.

            “Anytime. Goodnight, Severus.” He smiled in the dark.

            “Goodnight.” Severus could feel her breath on his neck even out. His body was sore and his mind was heavy but he felt…better having Hermione with him. He rolled his head to the side to see her sleeping peacefully. He pressed a gentle kiss to her forehead. In her sleep, she curled even tighter to him, causing his heart to constrict. No one had ever really wanted to be close to him. He laid his cheek on her head and closed his eyes. For the first time, in a really long time, he slept dreamless without a potion.

Chapter Text

June 2004

            It had been three weeks since the shock discovery at the Ministry. Life had moved like a whirlwind for Hermione. Telling Harry and Ginny the truth about her and Severus, had lifted a weight she hadn’t even known she was carrying, and she made it a point to go over and see them every few days. She and Minerva made their preparations to leave for Germany and she spent time going through her and Severus’ old journals, looking for any clues to where he might have gone. She visited her parents, telling them that she was taking a holiday to Germany with a friend. She had never told them the truth about Severus either but she wasn’t prepared to do that until she found him.

            Finally, it was time to leave. Minerva has insisted on taking muggle transportation since they would be largely avoiding the wizarding communities, but before Hermione met her at the train station, she had one more stop to make.

            She lifted her hand to knock on the faded brown door. She was so nervous to be there but she couldn’t leave without going to see them. When the door opened, she gave the woman inside a small, nervous smile.

            “Hello Mrs. Weasley.” Molly was clearly surprised to see her but didn’t immediately take her head off, which Hermione hoped was a good sign. “Would it be okay if I came in?”

            “Of course…,” Molly said as she ushered her in. They went into the sitting room. It struck Hermione how much of a role this home had played in her own life and it made the guilt gnaw at her even more. “Can I get you anything?”

            “No, thank you. I can’t stay long. I’m getting ready to leave for Germany with Minerva, but I needed to come before I left. I owe you and your whole family an apology. You welcomed me as a daughter and I betrayed that trust.”

            “Please sit down,” Molly offered. Hermione sat on the sofa with the sunken middle because of way too many people piling on to it. Molly sat opposite here in her usual chair, “Harry and Ginny told me a bit of what happened, but Hermione I don’t understand. You’re married to Severus Snape?”

            “I know this must sound crazy. Trust me, it was crazy and confusing living it. Yes, I am married to Severus. I married him shortly after I turned 17. It wasn’t my choice, per say. The ministry, under Voldemort, had passed a marriage law specifically targeting me. He married me to protect me from being given to a real death eater. Somewhere in all of that, I actually fell in love with him.”

            “But you were going to marry my son?”

            “I thought Severus was dead. He died or I thought he died in my arms. But...I never stopped loving him, and that wasn’t fair to Ron. You may not believe me but I do love your son very much. He truly was the only person, I could see myself even remotely happy with. I should have told him the truth though and let him decide if he still wanted to be with me knowing everything. I just didn’t know how.”

            “You’re right…it wasn’t fair,” Molly said sharply, but then she softened, “but then again, nothing that happened to you kids was fair. You did not ask for any of it and you tried to make the best of an awful situation.” Hermione nodded.

            “I am so sorry. I know that Ron will make someone an amazing husband and she will be the luckiest woman in the world to be a part of this family. You all are the only reason I have not lived like a ghost for the past six years.”

            “You are still part of this family, if you want to be.” Hermione smiled through the tears that threatened to fall.

            “Thank you and I would like nothing more than that, but I don’t think that would be fair to Ron.”

            “You’re still my friend, Mione.” Ron’s voice made her jump. He stepped into the sitting from the kitchen. He looked like hell, like he hadn’t sleep properly in weeks.

            “Ron…I’m sorry. I didn’t know if you would want to see me.” He came over and sat on the sofa beside her but far enough away so they wouldn’t touch each other.

            “Of course I want to see you. I’m sorry for how I acted.” She shook her head.

            “You were hurt and in shock. You had every right to be upset. I’m sorry for some of the things I said to you. I was angry and overwhelmed, and I took it out on you.” His brow furrowed.

            “I don’t understand any of this…if you were in trouble why didn’t you come to me, to us. We could have helped.” She shrugged.

            “Dumbledore tried and the best he could do was to get Severus approved. The alternatives were too unspeakable to even consider. But in the end, I fell in love, Ron. I never intended for it to happen. The marriage part was forced on both Severus and I, but giving my heart to him was done freely.” Something in Ron’s face changed, like he had just received some great revelation.

            “We were never going to work,” he looked her in the eyes for the first time, “were we?” She shook her head.

            “Severus or not, no I don’t think so. We tried to force something because it was safe. You and Harry are my absolute best friends and I don’t want that to change. Can we ever go back there?” He smiled, a genuine smile and nodded.

            “I think so. Are you going to Germany to find him?” She nodded. She felt both nervous and giddy at the prospect. He could see it and it settled something inside of him.

            “We are going to try.”

            “I hope you find him. You clearly love him and he is Harry’s family. All I want is for you guys to be happy.” She reached out for his hand, giving him time to pull away. When he didn’t, she took his hand and squeezed it.

            “That’s what I want for you too. You’re a good man, Ron. You deserve to be someone’s first choice.” He squeezed her hand back. The clock chimed, breaking the moment, “I’m sorry I have to get going. Minerva is adamant we travel by train.” Ron chuckled and they all stood. Molly gave Hermione a hug and wished her luck before retreating to the kitchen, leaving her and Ron alone. He pulled her into a tight hug.

            “We’re okay,” he whispered, “good luck.” She had to clinch her jaw to keep from crying again.

            “Thank you. I’ll come see you when I get back. Okay?” Ron nodded and led her to the door. Once outside, she pushed out a long breath, feeling another weight lifted.

            She walked into St. Pancras International Station 15 minutes later. She wheeled a carry-on bag behind her and wore a black backpack, enchanted like her beaded bag. She carried her passport and boarding pass in one hand. Scanning the crowed, she found Minerva seated near the security entrance. She almost didn’t recognize the older woman. In her muggles clothes, and her long braid thrown over one shoulder, she looked younger. When Minerva saw her, she waved a bright smile on her face. She pressed a kiss to Hermione’s cheek when she approached.

            “Are you ready to find our boy?” Despite her nerves, Hermione lit up and she smiled.

            “Oh yeah!”

Chapter Text

October 2004

Snape’s Chambers, Hogwarts Castle

            It had been two weeks since the raid and two weeks since Hermione had spent the night in Severus’ bed. The next morning had been a bit awkward, neither really knowing what to do with their new found intimacy. Finally, she had simply pecked his lips and told him she should get back before all hell broke loose. He had wanted to stay in bed with her in his arms but they both had things to do. Sitting on the sidelines of chaos, was not who they were. When the notices came at breakfast, he performed his role as professor to perfection. Across the Great Hall, Hermione could see it was killing not to be able to truly comfort the students that had lost someone or had a loved one hurt, but she had tried to send him encouraging looks while doing what he couldn’t. They were a team now after all.

            Since then it had been nearly impossible for them to get any time alone. She would steal a few moments here or there at the end of a lesson but that was it. Frankly, she was over it. She missed his company but she also, much to her own surprise, missed his touch. She wanted to kiss him again, to lay on his chest and fall asleep, to feel something other than constant worry.

            She made her way to his classroom for her ‘apprenticeship', and found him at his desk. Engrossed in his work, he didn’t look up when she entered but the sound of the lock sliding into place caught his attention immediately. He silently watched her cross the room like a predator ready to pounce on its prey. He stood, almost defensively, ready to deal with whatever had made her so frustrated.

            “Herm…” she silenced him with a finger over his lips.

            “Kiss me…” He wasn’t sure he had actually heard her right.

            “What?” Her courage faltered for a moment but she quickly plucked back up. She was a Gryffindor, dammit. She took his left wrist in her hand and tugged him closer.

            “Kiss me…please.” His brow furrowed. He had no idea what was happening but he desperately wanted to give in. He pulled his wrist from her grasp and took her face in both hands, searching her eyes for any clue as to what was going on in her head. She wrapped her arms around his neck, her fingers tangling in the hair at the base of his skull. He leaned down and pressed his lips to hers. The kiss started gentle, his hands sliding down her neck and over her shoulders until they came to rest on her hips. She pressed her entire front against him and nipped at his bottom lip. The little gasp of surprise offered enough space for her to slip her tongue forward and deepen the kiss. When she finally pulled back, her face was flush and her lips a little swollen.

            “Uh…hi,” he said with a chuckle. She broke into a fit of giggles and buried her head in his chest. He wrapped his arms around her, hugging her tightly.

            “I missed you,” she whispered into his frock coat.

            “I missed you too. Come on, let’s go to my chambers. I think we should talk.” She nodded. He released her and picked up his cloak from his chair. She took his left arm as they went into his office and then through the enchanted, secret passage that led into his chambers.

            As the fireplace illuminated the room, she saw a tray with tea and biscuits waiting on the side table. He had clearly been anticipating sharing a quiet evening with her. That sent a warm feeling throughout her body. She released his arm so he could throw his cloak, frock coat, and cravat into a pile on his armchair. She kicked off her shoes and sat on the sofa, feet curled under her. He joined her a moment later.

            “I’m sorry I haven’t been available. Father has kept me busy. This last raid set a lot of people on edge,” he hesitated, “there is something I need to tell you.”

            “Sev…” fear gripped her.

            “A few weeks ago, I asked my father to put a guard on your parents. Voldemort is obviously targeting you and I was afraid her might try to go after them. Unfortunately, I was right”

            “No…,” he took her hand and brought it to his lips, kissing her knuckles.

            “They’re fine. They didn’t even know they were in any danger. I put the wards around their home myself but they aren’t safe here, love.” She moved to lean against him, his arm wrapping around her shoulders.

            “What do we do?” Her voice was small. She knew that this war could cost her her life. She had accepted that, but she was not prepared to lose her parents to this madness.

            “I have a plan but you’re not going to like it.” He detailed his plan to use a reversable memory charm to wipe their memories and get them out of the country.

            “When do we do this? Can I seem them first?”

            “Christmas. I have arranged everything with a trusted contact in Australia. They will be safe there and when all this over, you can bring them home.” She could no longer hold back her tears. He held her tightly, kissing the top of her head, “I’m so sorry, Hermione.” She clung to him until her sobs subsided. “ You know I would do anything to make this go away,” he said gently into her hair.

            “I know you would,” she snuggled back into his side, pulling his left arm so she could hold onto his wrist, “thank you.” His throat constricted and he just held her tighter, kissing her head again.

            They sat together in silence for a while before he spoke up again; they had much more to talk about, “sooo…can we talk about that kiss?” Her face went red and she buried it in his shirt.

            “I’m sorry…I should have talked to you first before doing that.” He laughed.

            “It’s alright. I..uh...,” his cleared his throat as his face heated up, "I enjoyed it. I just wanted to make sure we are on the same page.” When she didn’t say anything, he looked down and could tell she was deep in thought, “what’s going on in that beautiful brain of yours?”

            “I…feel like…you are the only person…,” each word was slow and measured, “in the world that…gets me. I can truly be myself when I’m with you. I’m not the mysterious daughter that runs away to boarding school every year. I’m not the brains of the golden trio. I get to just be Hermione for the first time in my life. I don’t feel like I have to prove anything to you for you to want me here.”

            “You don’t have a thing to prove to me. I do want you here because you see me and I see you. And I am daily amazed by what I see. I am happy to explore this friendship in any way you would like and feel comfortable with. You’re in charge here.” It was almost funny using the word friendship. Friends didn’t kiss their friends the way they just kissed. It was quiet for a moment before she looked up at him with a wicked grin.

            “So does this mean I get to call you my boyfriend.”

            “Absolutely not,” he said in disgust, causing her to laugh. Good to know he was still Severus Snape. She settled back against him.

            “Will you come with me at Christmas?” She asked quietly.

            “Well you will be my wife by then, so I suppose I should. Though we probably shouldn’t tell your parents that we're married or the fact that I’m your teacher.”

            “You can be my friend that is a boy but is not my boyfriend,” she teased, “that I met in the village near school. You’re going to need an alias though, they know the names of all my professors.”

            “Sefton Prince…”

            “What?” She looked up at him in surprise at how quickly the name came out.

            “It’s a pseudo name I write under sometimes. And you can still just call me Sev. I can be a potions master you have been working with on an inventive new potion. That’s not actually a lie.”

            “A potions master I sometimes kiss. That works. How is the project coming along?” She asked, distracted by the mention of it.

            “I was able to gather most of what I need. I’m sorry, I couldn’t include you but if I didn’t we would have to wait another month.”

            “No, that’s alright. Are you ready to start brewing?”

            “I will be early next week I think. I am waiting on Pippins to send me one more crate. Come to my office on Monday during your normal potions lesson. I will tell Horace you are doing independent study with me. He knows what I am working on and knows that I will need a trusted second pair of hands.”

            “What do I tell my friends?”

            “Tell them the truth. I am serious when I say I need a second pair of hands that I know are capable. And yours,” he took her hand in his and kissed her palm, “are more than capable.”  She leaned up and pressed a kiss to his jaw. He looked down and they leaned in at the same time. 

June 2004

Eurostar, somewhere between Paris and Berlin

            “So we have a hotel for the next two nights in Berlin then we can just find somewhere to stay as we go.” Hermione said pulling out a notebook.

            “I doubt he’d be somewhere as big as Berlin, especially with the Bundestag there.” Minerva offered. Hermione pulled a folded map of Germany out of the notebook and opened it on the table separating her and Minerva’s seats.

            “I agree. I marked out some areas we had talked about traveling to, but honestly I just don’t know.” They looked over the map. With all Hermione’s circles, it felt even more like an impossible task. How could they find him in a place so big?

            “We’ll find him,” Minerva said much more confidently than she felt. Hermione wanted to be convinced but she was still plagued by one question that couldn’t be answered until he was found: why hadn’t he tried to contact her?

Chapter Text

November 1996

Snape’s Private Potions Lab, Hogwarts Castle

            It had taken a little more time but finally everything the castle started to settle back down. Severus and Hermione worked together on brewing his vaccine. Harry, and even Ron, had been impressed when she told them what they were working on. Both were surprised to hear that Snape would care about something like that but knowing what Remus went through, Harry had no problem expressing his gratitude. When they weren’t brewing, they spent as much time together as possible. Evenings that started with reading or grading assignments, usually ended in heated make out sessions on his sofa. He was careful to make sure it never went any further, but he allowed himself to indulge in her. Severus felt like a teenager again, or what he assumed teenagers must feel like. It both delighted and frustrated him. Every day he spent with Hermione made him want to stop spying and publicly be the type of man he got to be when he was alone with her. He knew he couldn’t, if only to keep her safe, but he dreamed anyway. He started to have a little hope that he could actually have a life after this, may even a life with her.

            “A few more days and we’ll be ready to bottle it,” he announced straightening from where he had been bent over the cauldron.

            “Really? That was much faster than I thought,” she said, coming to his side to peer at the murky grey liquid.

            “Yep. It needs to simmer for 48 hours and then it should be ready. We’ll know when it turns to a cloudy white.”

            “Thank you so much for lettering me help with this. It has been incredible.” He wrapped an arm around her shoulders and kissed her temple.

            “You’re welcome. You were very helpful, I really couldn’t have done it without you. I um…, “ he knew she was not going to like what he had to say,” I have written a better copy of the brewing instructions for you. If something happens to me…”

            “Sev,” she pulled away to look at him.

            “Please, listen.” She crossed her arms but looked at him, clearly listening, “if something happens to me, make sure this gets published and used. If it works, it needs to be produced. Plus it will offer you a good living. I know you will do great things on your own, but it eases my mind to know that I will leave you something. Promise me, you will publish it.”

            “Fine, I promise,” she uncrossed her arms and took his face in her hands, “but nothing is going to happen to you,” she kissed him long and hard. The clock chimed and she sighed, “time to go. I promised the boy I would meet them for lunch today.”

            “I have a meeting with my father anyway. Come down after dinner?”

            “Might be closer to 9 but I will be down. Having the floo access is really handy though.” Minerva had set Hermione up with a private study room/library off her dorm and the fireplace allowed her to get to Severus’ chambers and back to Gryffindor tower quick and unseen.

            “Whenever you can is fine. If I’m correct, this meeting with the headmaster is going to be about the next steps of the marriage law.” Her heart rate jumped. She wasn’t afraid to marry Severus, it didn’t seem quite like the punishment it had a few months ago. She was falling for him, hard. She just hated that they were being forced into this instead of it being on their terms, when they were ready.

            “Whatever it is, we’ll manage. I trust you,” she pecked his lips, “see you tonight.” She transfigured her clothes back into her school robes. Since their relationship had become more physical, she tried not to wear them when they were alone. He gave her a small smile before she opened the door and left. Severus leaned back on the work bench. He was in deep, much too deep. He had agreed to this, in the beginning, because she needed protection. He never dreamed he might actually fall in love with the young witch. He shook his head. Love? Was he in love with her? Would she...could she ever feel the same? Severus shook his head. Those were questions he had neither the time, nor the mental capacity to contemplate.

November 1996

Headmasters Office, Hogwarts Castle

            Severus entered the headmasters office and was surprised to see both of his parents there. The second he entered the room, he could sense that something was wrong. Very wrong. Albus sat behind his desk while Minerva sat in front of it, a scowl etched on her face. Her anger was palpable, rippling off her in a way that made him, even as a grown man, want to flee the room.

            “Ah, Severus, there you are. Come we have much to discuss.” Severus walked across the office and stepped up onto the dais next to his mother. 

            “Sorry I’m late. I was brewing.” Severus glanced at his mother, who was glaring daggers at Albus. Uh-oh.

            “It’s alright. First, I received an owl yesterday from the Ministry. You have been formally approved and may move forward with your marriage to Ms. Granger. We have until the end of the day on the solstice to perform the bond ceremony. As headmaster, I have the authority to perform that rite in the castle.” Albus handed him scroll.

            “Okay. Are there any other conditions or stipulations?” Albus cleared his throat.

            “After the binding, you must consummate the marriage for the bond to be completed. There are no requirements of additional relations after.” Rage burned in Severus’ chest. Not only would she be forced into this binding, but now she would be forced to share her body. While they had been more physical and she seemed happy with that, but having sex was very different especially when you’re on a deadline. He knew that this was the point of the law. It was not meant to make her a wife, it was meant to make her a slave. Not on his fucking watch.

            “I’ll talk to her tonight. I’m assuming that is not the only reason you called an urgent meeting.” Minerva’s face hardened.

            “Why don’t you sit down?” Albus offered.

            “Oh yes because that is going to make this outrageous scheme of yours any less outrageous.” She spat. Severus didn’t sit. Albus waited but realized Severus wasn’t going to budge from where he stood.

            “Very well. I believe that young Mr. Malfoy is progressing with the repairs on that vanishing cabinet of his.”

            “Why aren’t you destroying it then. Hogwarts cannot have a trojan horse for the enemy to just walk in the back door. The whole point of the castle is to be a fortress.”

            “Because I want him to succeed.” Minerva scoffed but said nothing.

            “Are you insane?” It slipped out before Severus could stop it. Fire flashed in Albus’ eyes before he took a deep breath, settling his temper.

            “No, I am not. Draco’s success presents a unique opportunity for you to become the Dark Lord’s most loyal and trusted servant.” Severus balled his fists so hard that his hands shook at his sides.

            “Has it ever occurred to you, ever crossed your brilliant mind that I don’t want to do this anymore?”

            “You don’t have a choice.” Severus and Albus started each other down across the desk, like two beasts circling waiting for the right time to strike.

            “Albus,” Minerva barked, warning him. The older man relented and leaned back in his chair.

            “Severus, I’m dying. You know it,” he glanced at Minerva, “you both know it. What do you think will happen once I am gone? Voldemort will install his most trusted servant as headmaster. I need that to be you. If Draco succeeds, he will bring a number of death eaters into this castle. With them as witnesses, you need to kill me.” Severus was so taken back, his foot actually slipped off the dais and he stumbled down a step.

            “What did you just say?” Severus’ brain could not process the words that he had just heard.

            “Whether by your hand or another’s or this creeping poison,” Albus helped up his hand, the black decay now up past his wrist, “I will die. If you kill me, you secure your position as Voldemort’s right hand. As headmaster, you can protect the students and staff here. Hogwarts can remain a fortress.”

            “And you mark me for life. Even if I survive, I will spend the rest of my life in Azkaban.” In Severus mind, all the hope that Hermione had started to give him started to go up in flames.

            “I will make provisions to clear your name and Minerva is here as a witness.” Severus was still in shock.

            “I know you hate me, father but this is…how can you ask this of me?” A twitch was all that gave away a break in Albus’ stone façade.

            “I don’t hate you, Severus. The reality is that you are the only person that can be trusted to see this mission out.”

            “You do know that I, and your grandson for that matter, are human beings and not chess pieces, right?” Severus spat before turning and storming from the office. Minerva’s look said it all but she decided to put it to words anyway.

            “What did you expect to happen?”

            “Minerva, you must make him see.” Albus pleaded, willing to show more vulnerability to his friend and former lover than anyone else.

            “Must I?” He sighed.

            “I am dying….this is the only chance we have to protect Hogwarts. Voldemort will never name you headmistress, you know that. If it isn’t Severus, who knows who he will put in charge. Please, I wish there was another way but there isn’t.” She stood.

            “For all of your brilliance, you have no understanding of people. I understand the logic behind what you're saying but think about it for a second. You just ordered your son, who already carries the weight of the world, to murder you. Why don’t you trying talking to him like you actually give a damn about him for once.” With that she walked out of the office, leaving Albus alone. The old wizard put his head in his hands and let a tear slide down his cheek.

Chapter Text

November 2004

Snape’s Chambers, Hogwarts Castle

            As soon as, Hermione stepped out of the fireplace she knew something was very wrong. The fireplace did not relight and the room was almost black. She flicked her wand toward the fireplace and gasped as light filled the room. There was debris everywhere. Torn books and paper, smashed bottles and vials all littered the floor. She carefully made her way across the room to his closed bedroom door. She listened for any sound but there was nothing but silence. Fearing that his cover had been blown, she drew her wand ready for a fight. The fireplace did not light as she entered his room either but she could tell it was equally as trashed.

            “Sev…,” she called gently as she scanned the room. She was ready to turn away when a black shape caught her yes. She had almost missed him in the dimly lit room. Leaning against the window, he was wrapped in his cloak on the floor. His knees were pulled up to his chest, like a child trying desperately to protect himself, and his head rested on the glass as he stared blankly out into the lake. Her heart broke when she saw in his reflection, the dried tear trails down his face. She slowly made her way across the room, not wanting to startle him. She put her wand away and sat on the floor in front of him.

            “Tell me how I can help,” she whispered. He didn’t took his eyes away from the depths stretched out before them.

            “Just leave me…” there was no venom in his voice. He was reverting back to what he always knew, being alone in the dark. It was better for everyone, all he did was ruin things. She shook her head and reached for him. When he didn’t pull away she wrapped her fingers around his wrist.

            “Please talk to me…what's happened?” He finally lifted his head from the window and looked at her. He eyes were red and full of more pain than she had ever seen, which was saying something.

            “I can’t do this anymore, Hermione,” her stomach dropped, “my father, just asked me to murder him.”

            “He what??” She nearly yelled. Hermione had to work hard to keep her anger in check. It wouldn’t help him right now.

            “He’s dying. To ensure my position as headmaster, he wants me to kill him in front of a group of death eaters. It would be the ultimate proof of loyalty.”

            “How can he possibly ask that of you?”

            “Because I’m expendable. My life and my soul are acceptable sacrifices to the greater mission,” he laid his head back on the glass, "It would be better if I has just let him kill me when I found out about Lily,” he added quietly.

            “No…Severus,” she sat up on her knees so she could reach his face. She took it in both hands, turning it back to her “I know you have been through more than most people could even imagine but I’m grateful that you are here. You are not expendable. You are the bravest man I have ever known and…I love you.” She knew it was true the moment the words left her lips. In all the chaos, she had fallen madly in love with him.

            “You love me?” Fresh tears were swimming in his eyes. She nodded.

            “Yes I do. While this is not exactly the way I would have wanted our story to start, I think I was always meant to love you.” She grabbed his wrist again and saw the ever present creases of pain in his face relax, “we’ve been searching for an answer to why I can disrupt the dark magic in your mark. Maybe the answer isn’t as complicated as we thought. My soul is tied to your soul, and love is the most powerful magic in the world.”

            “You love me?” He repeated blankly. She wasn’t actually sure he had heard anything after she said those three words. She snorted and smiled.

            “Yes, you stubborn git. I love you.”

            “I love you too…” he whispered, afraid she would run away if he admitted it too loud. She leaned forward and kissed him gently. A promise.

            After a moment, she pulled back, “Come on. Let’s go clean up and then we can talk properly.” He nodded and they stood together. Before he could step away, she wrapped her arms around him and pulled him against her in a tight hug. He buried his face in her hair and let his tears fall again. She held him until his breathing returned to normal and he took a step back, her arms still loosely settled around his waist.

            “Thank you for not leaving,” he said softly. He knew when he got upset, he tended to push people away and they always let him but not Hermione. She loved him. He still couldn’t quite wrap his head around the thought. She leaned up and pecked his lips, with a small smile.

             “I told you, I know you are used to doing things alone but you don’t have to anymore. I want to be here with you, and to help shoulder some of your burdens. We take care of each other, remember?” He nodded and kissed her again before releasing her.

            A little magic and five minutes later, his chambers were returned to their normal perfect state. They changed into some of his sleepwear and settled onto the sofa. Hermione sat up while Severus laid on his side, his head in her lap. Her fingers combed through his hair, further calming him.

            “So what exactly is this ridiculous plan of his?” Severus almost laughed. If there was ever a way to describe what an eye roll sounded like, it was the way Hermione had just asked that question.

            “That he is going to die anyway, so essentially we should make use of it. The poison in his hand is spreading even with my potions and Poppy’s healing charms. We’ve been able to slow it but only by a little bit. Voldemort doesn’t know about this, I’ve done my best to keep it from him. So, in his eyes, whoever kills ‘the Great Albus Dumbledore’ will be the ultimate servant. They could ask for anything.”

            “So you could ask to take his place as headmaster?”

            “Exactly. I could protect Hogwarts until Harry is able to end this for good,” Severus was quiet for a moment, “I know that, logically, he is right. I am the only person embedded deep enough into the enemy’s camp for it to be believable.”

            “You’re still his son. It’s not fair for him to ask this of you.”

            “None of this is fair…either way, once my father is dead, you and Harry cannot come back here.” Her hand stilled. He had just told her he loved her and now he was sending her away.

            “I don’t understand.”

            “Even if I am installed as headmaster, I will not be able to protect Harry. Has he told you anything about what he has been tasked to do?”

            “A bit but I don’t think he fully understands it himself.” Severus rolled oved so he was on his back and could look up at her.

            “That’s not surprising, my father is intentionally vague. On this, I agree with him. Harry’s connection to the Dark Lord makes it hard to let him in on too many details, too early,” he decided then that he was going to let her in on everything he knew and if his father didn’t like it, he could shove it, “do you know what a horcrux is?” She nodded, slowly. 

            “Sort of. I know it’s a piece of very dark magic, the teaching of which has been largely banned. It is a physical object with a piece of one’s soul embedded in it. I don’t know exactly how they are made though.”

            “Murder,” he stated simply, “the Dark Lord wants to live forever so he has split his soul. As long as one of those pieces is alive, he can never truly be destroyed.” Hermione shuttered at the thought.

            “How many are there? I mean, he has killed hundreds.”

            “6 and then the piece within him, as far as I know. The soul can only be split so many times. He is the only person I’ve ever heard of to successfully make more than one. Two have been destroyed and I’m fairly certain that one is the snake, but I have no idea about the other three.”

            “How were two destroyed? What were they?”

            “The diary Harry destroyed your second year and the Gaunt family ring that belonged to Voldemort’s grandfather. My father destroyed the ring over the summer and that’s when the poison started to spread. The only things that I know, for certain, than can destroy a horcrux are the sword of Gryffindor and a basilisk’s fang.” That lifted her spirits a bit. At least they had a way to destroyed them and were head of the mark with two gone already.

            “So we need to get a fang before we leave. I will have to figure out a way to make that happen without telling Harry why. Maybe Ron or Ginny can help,” she mused, her brain already working on plans A-E, "But, where do we even start looking for the other three? Can’t any object or even living being be made into a horcrux?”

            “Technically yes, but Voldemort is too narcissistic for that. They will be items of value, though not necessarily monetary. He would pick things of symbolic value, like the ring of the family he coveted.” She nodded, again already starting to plan. Then it struck her.

            “If I leave, won’t he be angry. The whole point of this law was to cage me.” He shrugged.

            “Probably but it’s a risk we have to take. Harry cannot stay here and he needs you, he won’t be able to do this on his own. I will do what I can to help you from here, but you can’t come back to the castle until Harry can end this for good.”

            “So, you are going to go through with your father’s plan then?” His phrasing made it sound like he had made up his mind.

            “I don’t know that I have a choice. His delivery is awful and I’m angry but his logic is sound. He will not survive the year and then what? If he dies of natural causes, Voldemort could put anyone into his place. The other options are for me to kill him and take his place or destroy the ability for the death eaters to get in, in the first place, which would mostly likely blow my cover. If that happens, I cannot protect anyone, especially you. And I would do anything to keep you say, even if it costs me my soul.”

            “Your soul is safe with me. It is your mind I worry for and your physical safety,” she brushed a strand of hair from his face, “the Order, they will think you betrayed them…and they will hurt you if they get the chance.”

            “My mother is aware of this plan,” Hermione cocked her head to the side causing Severus to chuckle, “Trust me, she’s not on board at all either but at least she can clear my name…after. Whatever that after is.” She brought his left hand up to her lips and kissed his knuckles.

            “I don’t like this at all but whatever you decide to do, I will support you. You never have to be alone again, even if I can only be with you in spirit.”

            “And to that point, my future wife, I have some other news. I have been formally approved to marry you but, per the Ministry letter, we must complete the bonding by sunset on the solstice.” Her heart pounded, but for once she wasn’t sure exactly why. The thought of being married still terrified her, but the thought of being married to Severus sent a delicious shiver up her spine.

            “Do we have to go to the ministry?”

            “No, my father is able to perform bonding ceremonies in the castle. Kind of like a ship’s captain. My mum and Madame Pomfrey can witness.”

            “Madame Pomfrey?” she questioned, "I didn’t realize she was aware of what’s going on.” He nodded. 

            “Who do you think helped my mum when she gave birth? Funny really, now that they are a couple?” Hermione’s jaw visibly fell open.

            “Whoa, what?” He was amused by her stunned expression. He liked that he could still shock her, in a good way anyway.

            “They’ve been together for years. It’s been good for mum and it’s not such a big deal in our world, at least compared to the muggle world.” She scoffed.

            “If only we could make the same progress with tolerance on blood status and even other magical species, we would really be on to something.” He hummed in agreement as toyed with her fingers that now rested on his chest.

            “Someday. So, do you have a preference on when?” She shook her head.

            “There is one other thing,” he said slowly, “we have to consummate the marriage to complete the bonding, also by sunset on the solstice.” He was nervous to tell her this. The last thing he wanted was for her to feel like he was taking advantage of this situation. He already felt guilty for allowing himself to indulge in her as much as he had. She didn’t have a choice in this marriage and he didn’t want her to feel like he was thrilled about this development or that he was using her to get off.

            “Oh…” her face went a little red, “um…okay.” She was flustered and in any other circumstance he would tease her but not about this. He sat up and turned toward her.

            “What is it?” He asked gently, taking her hand. He was not offended by her reaction, in fact he was concerned.

            “I um…I’ve never…” Oh, boy. Of course she hadn’t. She was barely an adult in their world. He started to say something but she pressed on, “It’s not that I don’t want to. I’m just nervous.” Oh…he hadn’t actually considered that she might have thought about it. He pushed his surprise and intrigue aside.

            “I understand and I’m so sorry. I did’t know that this would be part of it until I got the letter today.” She squeezed his hand.

            “This isn’t your fault. I think I just need some time to wrap my head around this.”

            “Of course, why don’t you take a few days and think about everything. We have a little time to decide on a date and how best to handle this.” She leaned into him.

            “Thank you,” she whispered before yawning. He kissed her head.

            “Why don’t we get some rest? It’s been a long day for both of us.” She nodded against his chest.

            “Can I stay?” She asked. She was overwhelmed and being in Severus’ arms helped shut out some of the noise. She loved her friends but she couldn’t even begin to imagine going back to her dorm where the rest of the girls were living, still relatively care free. She couldn’t pretend that she wasn’t distracted or that she wasn’t overwhelmed. With Severus she never had to pretend or hide anything. Even if she wanted to she couldn’t, he always seemed to be able to read her and it wasn’t because he was reading her thoughts. He just got her, the same way she got him.

            “Of course you can.” They made their way into his bedroom and crawled into bed. She laid on her side away from him and he curled around her back. She pulled her arms securely around him, grabbing onto his wrist.

            “I love you, Sev,” she whispered. He pressed a kiss to the area where her neck and shoulder met.

            “I love you too, Mione.” She beamed in the dark at the use of her nickname. She snuggled even further back against him before falling into a peaceful sleep.

June 2004

Berlin, Germany

            Hermione and Minerva had arrived safely in Berlin and checked into their hotel. It had been a day and half since they left London, and they were both exhausted. The excitement that had built on the train, disappeared as soon as they stepped out of the station onto the busy Berlin street. Hermione had no idea how they would find him in one city, let alone when they needed to search the whole country.

            She laid in bed, rolling his wand over and over in her fingers. She wasn’t sure what clue she was looking for but she felt like his wand could help.

            “Where are you?” She whispered. Minerva came out of the loo in her dressing gown. She looked at her Hermione.

            “We will find him. I can see it in your face that you are doubting it, but we will.” Hermione admired Minerva’s belief but she was having a hard time keeping herself convinced. She wasn’t sure that they could find him and even if they did, they had no idea if he even wanted to be found. Six years was a long time to avoid contacting your family. What if he didn’t want to see them…to see her?

            “It could take us years to search every town and village.” She was trying not lose hope before they even really began but the enormity of the task was starting to set in. As she grasped the handle of his wand to set it aside, it began to shake. Hermione yelped and dropped it in surprised. Scrambling up out of bed, she eyed the wand suspiciously for a moment. She inched forward and picked it up again. The wand shook, a little more gently, like a puppy wagging its tail, “can you sense him here?” She felt stupid, it wasn’t as if his wand had grown a voice and could answer.

            “What if we used the map? See if the wand can give us a clue of where to start.” Minerva suggested. Hermione shrugged.

            “It can’t hurt.” She got up and brought his wand over to the desk. Pulling the map from her bag, she laid it on the desk. She picked up his wand again, “please help us.” She laid it in the centre of the map. Nothing happened for several seconds and Hermione was ready to give up when the wand began to shake again. It rolled and spun in a circle until, suddenly, it stopped, pointing to the southwestern part of the country.

            “Oh my gods…”

Chapter Text

December 1996

Snape’s Chambers, Hogwarts Castle

            Hermione was barely out of the fireplace when she was swept into Severus’ arms. She giggled as he spun her around in a small circle.

            “What has gotten into you today?” She asked, her feet still off the ground. He just beamed at her.

            “It worked! The bloody potion worked! I just got word from Remus.”

            “Oh my gods, Sev!” She wrapped her arms around his neck and kissed him hard, “you are brilliant. I’m so proud of you.” He set her feet back firmly on the floor and kissed her again.

            Since the night she had found him in his destroyed chambers, he had seemed even more determined to do as much good as he could. He had gone back and talked to his parents. The decision was made to leave all cards on the table until they knew if Draco would succeed or not. Severus and his father had spent some time together and seemed to come away from it with a little more understanding of each other, though their relationship was still strained. Severus and Hermione had progressed too. Having their feelings out in the open had really helped and they were both trying to communicate better. After so long living in their heads, especially for Severus, it was a new and scary experience learning to be open with another person.

            After taking some time, they decided to get married on the last day of term and then Hermione would go home to her parents. Severus would join her on Christmas eve and spend Christmas with her family. On Boxing Day they would do the memory wipe and send them to Australia. The thought of it broke her heart but she knew it was the right thing to do. They had also discussed a little more about what consummating their marriage would look like and the closer it got the more nervous she got. She wanted to be with him, that wasn’t the problem. She just hated the idea that it would be because of this stupid law.

            She fisted his shirt as they kissed, pulling him closer. His hands squeezed her hips. Their bodies hummed in unison, craving each other’s touch. Hermione broke their kiss and gazed up at him, nervously.

            “Sev, if I felt ready to…explore. How would you feel about that?” His black eyes darkened even more somehow, but he took a step back, putting a little space between them so he could think more clearly.

            “This is as much on your timetable as it can be. Tell me what you want.”

            “I want to see you…touch you. I don’t know how far I want to go tonight but I need more,” she blushed hard, “and I don’t want the first time that we… ya know…to be because a law says we have to.” That, he thoroughly agreed with. He wanted to be with her, as close as possible but because she wanted that too, not because they were told they had to.

            “Anything you want,” his voice was husky and his hands ached to reach out for her but this was her show, she was in charge. She smirked at him and let her bag drop from her shoulder. She pushed him back, until his knees hit the back of the sofa and he was forced to sit. His eyes never left her as she kicked off her shoes and stepped up between his knees. She knelt down on the sofa, knees on either side of him, straddling his hips. He leaned up to try and capture her lips but she pushed his shoulders back. Instead, she moved her hands to the buttons of his shirt. He silently watched her meticulously open each button.

            Hermione was in awe of each new inch of smooth, pale skin. He had a light dusting of black hair on his chest and a tantalizing line of dark hair from his navel to the waistband of his trousers. He held her hips steady and let her explore. With his shirt completely open she could see the scars that littered his body, she knew instantly she wanted to know how he got each of them, and then she wanted to taste each one of them. She noticed a large one his shoulder and pushed his shirt down his arm to see more of the scar.

            “What is this from?”

            “Quidditch. I took a bludger to the ribs and fell through one of the stands. A piece of wood decided to embed itself in my shoulder.”

            “I didn’t know you played quidditch,” she said leaning forward to press an open mouthed kiss to his shoulder. He nodded and did his best to keep his voice steady.

            “4 years starting beater. You would think that might have helped my popularity, but you would be wrong.” He said with a dark laugh. She rolled her eyes at him as she found another scar along the right side of his ribcage. It looked like he had been burned.

            “What about his one?” Her finger tips traced over the marred skin.

            “The Dark Lord delights in torturing his followers almost as much as his enemies,” he could see the fire in her eyes but he pulled her in for a kiss, “not tonight,” he whispered, kissing down her throat, “tonight I just want to be a man with the woman he loves. However, far we go is fine with me, so long as I get to hold you all night.” She had to hold on to his shoulders for support as his hands slipped under the edge of her jumper and drew circles on the smooth skin of her lower back. She leaned back just enough to tug the jumper over her head, leaving her in simple black bra. She could have kicked herself for not changing into something…sexier. As if he could see her thoughts, he leaned forward and kissed the top swell of her breasts, “you are so beautiful.” She smiled at him.

            “So are you,” she ran her hands from his shoulders down his chest, where they came rest over his heart. She revelled in the feel of his strong heartbeat. 

            “You know it’s yours, right?” He asked softly, looking into her eyes, “I don’t claim to have much of heart but whatever happens, it is and will always be yours.” Tears welled up in Hermione’s eyes.

            “I love you, Severus.”

            “I love you, too.” He tugged her back down into a kiss. His hands roamed her body and she let out a shriek followed by a giggle when they slipped down to squeeze her bum through her jeans.

            “I think…we should move this into your room,” she said trembling a little. The sofa simply didn’t offer enough space for what she wanted.

            “Are you sure?” She nodded but he shook his head, “I need to hear a yes, Hermione.”

            “Yes, I’m sure.” Before she could move off him, he slipped his hands under her and stood. She shrieked in surprise, throwing her arms around his neck and clamping her legs around his waist. She was impressed that someone so tall and lean could also be so strong. It was definitely a turn on. He carried her into his room and sat her down gently on the edge of the bed. He stood before her, shirt still handing from his shoulders, “what next?” she grinned at him and pulled him forward by the belt. She kissed a path up his body until she was standing and could kiss his lips. She pushed his shirt down his shoulders, letting it flutter to the floor.

            “Touch me…” she ordered but her voice so was quiet he barely heard her. Barely.

            “I’m sorry, I couldn’t hear you,” he challenged. He knew she was nervous but he also needed her to be in charge of this and every step of the way she had to emphatically consent.

            “Touch me, “ she said louder, looking straight in his eyes.

            “Better.” He took her in his arms, letting his hands touch every inch of available skin before stopping at the clasp on her bra. When she started to nod, he raised an eyebrow.

            “Yes, sir, please take it off,” she sounded almost annoyed with him, but he just smirked. She wanted to kiss that stupid smirk off his face.

            “Thank you,” he popped the clasp and let the garment slip down her arms. At first, she crossed her arms to cover herself, nerves getting the better of her. He turned them around and sat on the bed. He took her hands and placed them around his neck, “stunning,” he whispered against her skin. He kissed her hip just above her jeans before licking a trail to her navel and then back down to her opposite hip. Her hands were in his hair, trying to pull him in the direction she wanted him but he wouldn’t budge. He was following his own map and would not be deterred. He kissed and sucked her skin all the way up to her breasts. He stopped, he mouth hovering close by and look up at her.

            “Yes,” she was breathless and needy. She moaned as he took a perky pink nipple in his mouth, “oh my gods,” her head was thrown back in pleasure. He spent his time paying plenty of attention to both breasts. By the time, he pulled back she was panting and almost painfully pulling on his hair.

            “Come lay down with me,” he whispered, placing a kiss on the top of her breasts. She nodded.

            It took her a moment catch her breath, “trousers off,” she was clear with her demand which caused him to chuckle. There was his brave lioness.

            “Much better.” He released her so she could step back before standing. He was secretly grateful for her latest demand. Whether they actually had sex or not, it was getting a bit too tight in his trousers.

            They watched each other through hooded eyes as they stripped down to their pants and for Hermione is was now impossible not to notice how obviously aroused Severus was. It was both nerve-wracking and exhilarating to know that she could do that to someone. To him. He noticed her staring at him and pulled her to him by her hip, his arousal pressing into her belly.

            “We still don’t have to do anything beyond this. We can touch and explore as much as you want and we can stop whenever you want. There is no pressure here. Okay?”

            “Thank you, Sev.”

            “You don’t need to thank me. This is how it should be and anyone who says otherwise can go to hell.” His growl caused the coil in her lower belly to tighten. While she wasn’t overly experienced, all of the guys she had made out with were very demanding. They didn’t force her to do anything but she had also never felt seen or appreciated by any of them, she had felt very much like an object.

            They both crawled into bed and Hermione’s nerves set in again. She was at the end of her practical experience and wasn’t sure what do to. She was pretty sure she wanted to continue but her courage was starting to fail her. She was laying on her back and Severus was on his side watching her. He could see the struggle on her face.

            “Come here,” he opened his arms to her. She smiled and rolled over into his embrace. She nuzzled his neck while he laid his cheek on her head. He held her tight against him and it helped relax both of them. She placed tiny kisses along any of his skin that she could reach while he just held her.

            “Sev?” She said after a little while.

            “Mmm,” he hummed.

            “Will you make love to me?” She felt silly asking the question like that but could hear his breath catch in his throat. She hoped that was a good sign.

            “I..uh…are you sure?” She slide her hand up to cover his heart again. Something about his strong heartbeat made her feel brave.

            “Yes. I don’t want our first time to be because a law says we have to. I want you and I think you want me.” He laughed so hard, his body shook.

            “Whatever gave you that idea?” She laughed too before settling back against him.

            “This isn’t just because of the law…right?” He hated that she had to ask that but he understood why. This whole thing was fucked up. Yes, he loved her but that love should have been able to develop in its own time when she was no longer his student. It certainly shouldn’t have put timetable on when she had to give her body to someone.

            “No…whatever happens tonight, happens because I love you,” he stroked a finger down her jaw, a grin coming to his face, before he slide from her grasp. He rolled over towards his bedside table and sat up on the edge of the bed. Hearing him open the drawer, she sat up too. She was curious as to what he was doing. They had discussed birth control potions. She had already been taking that for years and it was way more effective than any muggle condoms, “I had intended to give this to you as a, sort of, wedding gift but I have I better idea,” he said closing the drawer and standing. He walked around to her side of the bed where she now sat. She saw a small black box in his hand and immediately started to well up.

            “Sev…” she melted at the thousand watt smile he gave her.

            “When this began, I agreed to it because you needed protection. But now,” he got down on one knee in front of her, “now, I know that I want to spend the rest of my life with you, however long that life is. If I survive this war, I want to,” he laughed, “take you on dates and eventually, I want to marry you again in the wedding of your dreams. I know this is all a little backwards but it doesn’t change how I feel about you, about us,” he opened the box to reveal a stunning silver ring with a princess cut emerald. The entire ring looked branches and leaves twisted together with smaller emeralds and diamonds down either side. “Will you marry me, Hermione?” She could only nod, afraid that if she tried to speak she wouldn’t be able to keep the tears at bay. He was close to tears too so didn’t press her for a verbal answer. He took the ring from the box and slipped onto her left hand.

            She looked at her hand, it was strange to see the ring there but at the same time it seemed like the most natural thing. The ring was stunning and exactly what she would have chosen for herself.

            “It’s stunning,” she was able to get out before starting to choke up a bit again, pulling him up to sit beside her.

            “I hope you don’t mind the Slytherin colours. I didn’t buy it… it was my mum’s. I took it with me when I left home.”

            “Your mum’s ring? Severus…” she looked at the ring again.

            “Is that okay? I can get something else…” He was suddenly self-conscious that he had made a mistake not buying her a new ring. She took his face in her hands and kissed him.

            “It is more than okay. I know what she meant to you and I know you don’t have many things of hers left. I am honoured to wear her ring,” she thought a moment, “wait, how can I wear it? Won’t people ask.” He took her hand and brough it to his mouth, kissing her knuckles.

            “It’s charmed. Only those who know we are married will be able to see it. So, you can wear it…only if you want to obviously.”

            “Of course I want to. It’s beautiful. I love it and I love you.”

            “I love you too. So very, very much.” A new intensity began as they kissed and she felt her nerves melt away. She wanted him, in every way possible. She trusted him, with her life, with her heart, and now with her body. “Let me show you,” he whispered softly, as his lips moved alone her jaw and down her neck.

            “Please,” she answered, already getting breathless again as he sucked and nipped at her skin.

            “Well since you asked so nicely,” he teased. There was that stupid smirk again. She clung to him as he kissed her deeply. His left hand cradled her neck, while his left slipped lower and lower. She was tight with anticipation but he stopped just below her navel.

            “Can I touch you?” He rasped, barely breaking their kiss.

            “Yes, for Merlin’s sake Severus,” she was getting impatient but that just served to make him more smug.

            “Patience is a virtue, my love.” He could sense a retort on her lips but before she could respond, his hand slipped between her thighs cupping her through her black panties, which were soaked through already. She moaned into his mouth as he ran his fingers along her slit. He would have to work hard to remember his own words. He wanted her but he also wanted her to enjoy herself, her pleasure was the most important thing to him.

Breaking their kiss, he slid off the bed and sunk to his knees between hers. He put his hands behind her knees, running them up back of the thighs before leaning forward, mapping a trail of fire with his tongue from her knee up the inside of her thigh. He teased her by skipping over her centre and mirroring his trail back down her other thigh. She huffed and grabbed his chin so she could kiss him.

            “Severus, I love you so much but if you don’t get these pants off me, I will hex you into next week.” He laughed. He loved to see her demanding what she wanted and he was more than happy to oblige. He slide his hands down her sides and slipped his fingers in the waistband. She lifted her hips to help him and a moment later he tossed them over his shoulder.

            “You are stunning,” he couldn’t help but stare in awe at her. A blush crept across her heaving chest. He sat up higher on his knees so he could kiss her, his tongue teasing her. When the kiss broke, he worked his way back down her body again. He sucked on neck, knowing full well it would leave a bruise. It was childish to mark her, especially knowing that it would have to be covered but he couldn’t help himself. He used both of his hands to cup her breasts. She moaned and had to lean back on her hands, as took her left nipple in his mouth. His tongue swirling around the nub had her mind spinning. She was overheating from the inside out and she wanted more of him. He switched to the other nipple, paying ample amount of time to both. After releasing the nipple with a pop, he continued down her abdomen until he reached her centre. He met her eyes.

            “Touch me,” she said pushing out a breath.

            “Lie back.” She complied, resting back on her elbows and trembling with anticipation. He lifted her right leg onto his shoulder and used to his left hand to push her other thigh open wider. He locked his eyes with hers before dipping his head and taking first taste of her. He had just found paradise.

            “Oh fuck,” she whimpered, throwing her head back.

            “Look at me,” he ordered gently. He wanted her to watch her pleasure. She lifted her head and met his eyes again. He ran his tongue up and down her slit a few times teasing her. He pulled back and replaced his tongue with his left hand. His fingertips found her clit and he circled it a few times before slipping lower. She was soaking wet and her body was coiled tight. A part of him wanted to draw this out but…they had all night and right now all he wanted was to see her come undone. He latched onto her clit with his mouth as he pushed one long finger inside her. She gasped fisted the duvet. Swirling his tongue around her sensitive bud, he pumped his finger slowly at first before finding a faster rhythm.

            “More…” she groaned, “please, Sev.” He grinned against her before adding a second finger. He flicked his tongue over her clit, before grazing it with his teeth then lapping at it again. Her moans grow louder as he continued to pump his fingers in and out of her. She couldn’t hold herself up anymore, and laid all the way back. One of her hands, found his head, holding him closer. His steady rhythm and that wicked tongue was driving her higher and higher. Good to know it was useful for more than just sarcasm.

            Severus was relishing in the way her body reacted to him. She was sensitive and eager, and he loved every second of it. He had to use his shoulder to keep her left leg open, as she started to grind against his face. Smirking, he sucked her clit and swirled his tongue around it again and could feel her tighten around his fingers.

            “Fuuuuccccckkkkkk,” she pulled on his hair in a deliciously painful way as the orgasm hit her. She clamped both thighs around his head, as her body convulsed. He continued to pump his fingers, hoping to prolong her pleasure as long as possible. He lapped at her, like worshipping at an altar, unable to get enough of her taste. Finally, after a few moments, she released her vice grip on his head and gently pushed him back. He chuckled and pulled his fingers from her, putting them in his mouth as she watched him. He cleaned his fingers before wiping his chin. “I hate how smug you are,” she said, still panting. He laughed and crawled up the bed to lay on his side beside her, propped up on one elbow. “I also hate that you still have clothes on.” She rolled onto her side and let a hand slide down his chest to the waistband of his boxers.

            “Hermione, as much as I would love for you to touch me, if you would like to…uh do other things, I would suggest you tease me at a later time. I’m already embarrassingly close,” he admitted. It was her turn to look smug. She used his hip to pull herself closer so she could kiss him. It was an interesting thing to taste herself on his lips but she found incredibly sexy.

            “You’re lucky, Mr. Snape. You won’t be so lucky next time.” She let a hand ghost over the front of his boxers. He was able to keep it together, unwilling to let her get the upper hand on him.

            “I hope not,” he matched the challenge in her voice. He pulled her closer, her body pressed to his. They made out for several minutes, their hands roaming each other’s bodies, letting the heat build back again. Finally, he slipped out of her grip and stood. She watched him, licking her lips as he pushed his boxers down. He swallowed hard, his own nerves, coming to the surface. For all his bravado and snark, he wasn’t very experienced either.

            She could see the wheels in his brain turning. She smiled and stood coming over to him.

            “Where did the smug bastard I know and love go?” She asked, her hands sliding up his chest to snake around his neck.

            “I just want to make sure you’re not disappointed.” She giggled and stepped closer so his length was pressed against her belly. He wasn’t enormous but bigger than she expected. It’s always the tall skinny ones.

            “I’m very happy with everything I see.” He could stop the grin that came to his face. He leaned down and kissed her before walking them back to the bed until they tumbled down together in a tangle of limbs. He pushed her up so she was on his pillow, brown hair fanned out around her like a hallo. Her legs spread to cradle him as he settled over her. His smug look was fully back in place as he looked down at her. “You know I fully intend to fuck that smug look right off your face,” she challenged. His wicked smile sent a shot of heat straight to her core.

            “We’ll see about that,” he kissed her hard, pressing one of his thighs into her centre. She groaned and tried to grinned against him but he pulled back.

            “Sev…,” her tone held almost a warning which did not help matters for her. He just smirked and held out his hand. A clear bottle materialized in his hand. He squeezed some of the lube out and rubbed it along his cock. When he was satisfied, the bottle disappeared again.

            “Are you ready?” She nodded and he raised an eyebrow.

            “Yes.” He settled back between her legs and kissed her again.

            “This might be a little uncomfortable but it shouldn’t be painful. If something hurts or you don’t want to keep going all you have to do is say stop. Okay?” She reached up and tucked a few strands of hair behind his hair.

            “I trust you…” he smiled, not a smug smile, but a smile of genuine happiness as he leaned down and kissed her. Propped on one elbow, he reached between them and lined himself up with her entrance. He pushed forward slowly, giving her time to adjust.

            “Breath…” he whispered. She pushed out the breath she hadn’t even realized she had been holding. She grasped as he filled her, her hands gripping his shoulders. The stretch was a bit uncomfortable but she could not put into words how amazing it felt to be so close to him. She felt herself adjust to his size and slide her heel up his calf.

            “I’m okay…you can keep going,” she said looking up at him. He kept eye contact as he rolled his hips back, almost slipping out of her before pushing back in. She had to fight to keep her eyes from rolling back. He felt amazing. His pace was slow, tantalizingly with long strokes. Any discomfort she had was gone and now all she could feel was pleasure. She started meeting his thrust causing him to grin at her. She was a fast learner and he loved it. She wrapped her legs around his waist, not letting him pull out as fair, so he switched to a faster rhythm. Her short nails dug into his shoulders in a way he knew would be probably leave marks and that only drove him higher. He leaned back on one elbow and reached between them so he could circle her clit with his fingers.

            “Shiiiitttt,” she was still sensitive and she knew wouldn’t take much more for her. Severus was usually fairly quiet but he couldn’t help the soft groans against her ear. Her body fit so perfectly with his, he didn’t know it was even possible. He could feel her body tensing, telling him she was getting close again. He speed up his rhythm again, fingers working her clit.

            When he could feel her ready to fall over the edge he put his mouth close to her ear, “cum for me,” he growled and that was all it took for Hermione to see stars. Severus bit her shoulder gently as she shuttered against him. He was pretty sure her nails had actually drawn blood and that thought, combined with the glorious way she squeezed him, sent him tumbling over the edge with her. His thrusts became erratic as they both rode out their orgasms, until finally he stilled. She retracted her nails from his shoulders and her legs fell open again. He laid his head on her shoulder, panting and covered in a sheen of sweat. Her chest heaved against his and her hands were settled on his back, holding him close. He could feel his arms around to give out so he tried to roll over but she held him still.

            “Not yet,” she whispered, not ready for the moment to end.

            “I’m too heavy.” She shook her head and held him tighter. He gave in and rest his weight on her, head on her chest. One of her hands slipped up his back to tangle in his damp hair. She pressed a kiss to his forehead and revelled in the feeling of pure love and trust that passed between them.

            After a few minutes, he tried to roll away again and this time she let him. He was soft as he slipped from her body, immediately missing her.

            “Be right back,” he kissed her and stood. A part of her said she should cover herself but she couldn’t be bothered. She laid, splayed on his bed as she watched him walk to the bathroom. She could see angry red marks on his back from her nails. She knew she should feel bad but she couldn’t manage it. She liked the idea of marking what was hers and he seemed perfectly pleased with it as well.

            He returned a moment later with warm, wet facecloth. He sat down beside her and used the cloth to clean her. Tears sprung up in her eyes, at the love and care. When he was satisfied, he threw the towel in the direction of the bathroom and looked back at her. They both smiled and he leaned down to kiss her. He climbed in bed and she rolled over so he could curl around her back, holding her close with nothing separating them. It was the most alive he had ever felt.

            “Are you okay?” He asked quietly. She hadn’t said a word in several minutes and he was starting to get nervous that he had hurt or that she was having regrets.

            “I’m more than okay, Sev,” she answered with a giggle, “that was amazing, you’re amazing.” He held her a bit tighter and kissed her neck, “I’m glad that my first time was with you. I’m almost sad I can brag to my friends.” He laughed.

            “Why’s that?”

            “Because in all our conversations, none of the girls have ever described anything close to what I just experienced. Difference between a man and a boy I guess.” She said with a slight shrug. He snorted.

            “You mean because I actually care about your pleasure and your consent??” He asked kissing her neck again.

            “Yeah that could certainly having something to do with it.” She snuggled back into him.

            “Are you okay? I saw your back.” He chuckled and found the spot behind her ear that made her gasp.

            “I’m fine. I like a bit of pain…at least in bed and with someone I trust.”

            “Noted.” She would definitely be storing that information away for later. They laid together in a comfortable silence for a while. Hermione had actually thought he had fallen asleep until he spoke.

            “Mione, can I tell you something?”

            “Of course…are you okay?” She started to try and roll over but he held her in place.

            “I’m great. I just started noticing something a few weeks ago…my arm doesn’t hurt, or at least hurt as much, when you’re around.” She furrowed her brow.

            “I know when I touch…”

            “No, I mean the second you enter the room it starts to fade. The closer you get the more it fades and a soon as you touch my skin, it goes away completely.”

            “I don’t understand…”

            “I think you were right. Love is the most powerful magic in the world, no dark magic can stand up to it. Not only the love between partners but the love of family. The love my sister had for her son protected him from death itself. I think as our love has grown, my body’s ability to fight the dark magic has grown as well.”

            “My soul is connected to you soul,” she repeated from the day she confessed her feelings to him, “and now my body is connected to your body.”

            “Saying I love you doesn’t feel like enough. It doesn’t fully capture the way that I feel.” This time she wiggled out of his grasp to roll over.

            “Well you could…show me again,” she gave him a wicked grin.

            “Are you sure?” The question was genuine but his smug grin was a challenge.

            “Yes.” She answered clearly and without any hesitation before surging forward and capturing his lips.

Chapter Text

June 2004

Frankfurt, Germany

            Hermione and Minerva walked out of the train station in Frankfurt. The journey had, thankfully, not been very long and they both were feeling their faith a little renewed by the help of his wand.

            “I think we should try and find a map of the region or maybe even each state in the area. Maybe his wand can help narrow it down even further for us,” Hermione suggested, “In these three states alone, I have over two dozen potential communities, and there are hundreds of other towns and villages.”

            “I agree. I don’t know how long our luck with his wand is going to hold out so we might as well use it as long as we can. Why don’t I go to the hotel to get us checked in and you see if you can find the maps?” Hermione nodded.

            “Sounds like a plan. See you in a bit.” They parted ways. Hermione walked back into the station and up to the ticket desk.

            “I’m sorry, could you tell me where to find a tourism office or bookstore where I could get some maps?” The attendant gave her directions to the nearby tourism office and she set off to find it.

            The tourism office turned out to only be a 5 minute walk from the station. She made her way there quickly, anxious to see if this would provide any additional details on Severus’ whereabouts. When she walked in, she was greeted by an older woman. Her long gray hair looked like the silver tendrils of memories when they were plucked from the mind, an almost impossible colour. She had keen green eyes and a bright smile. Hermione was absolutely positive that she must have been absolutely stunning when she was younger. 

            “Guten Tag Fräulein. How can I help you?” Despite her use of German, she spoke with an unmistakable Brummie accent.

            “I am looking for some maps of the southwest region or of a couple individual states. Would that be something you have?”

            “Let’s take a look. If I don’t have them, I can look one up and print it for you.”

            “That would be so helpful. Thank you.”

            “What states are you looking for?”

            “Uh…Hessen, Rheinland-Pflaz, Baden-Württemberg, and probably Nordrhein just to be safe,” thinking back to the area of the map his wand pointed to.

            “Okay. Give me a moment,” she was clicking on her computer screen, “may I ask what brings you to Germany?”

            “I’m on a holiday with my mother-in-law,” she realized how odd that sounded, “girls trip,” she added with a shrug.

            “Sounds like you have a good mother-in-law. You are very lucky,” she said with a chuckle, “are you looking for anything specific to do while you’re here?” Hermione had to supress a laugh. ‘You have no idea’ she thought.

            “We were discussing a road trip to visit some of the more…off the beaten track parts of the country. That’s why we need more detailed maps.”

            “Many tourists don’t want to leave the city areas so that’s good. You will see a much different side of Germany. It is very beautiful in the smaller towns and villages.” She smiled. She couldn’t imagine anything more beautiful than finding Severus, who had to be in one of those towns.

            “That is what we are hoping to explore.” She smiled.

            “Well, Fräulein, I have a road atlas and I can print you some overview maps of each state. Does that work?”

            “That is perfect. Thank you.” She printed the maps and pulled out the road atlas. While she worked she looked at Hermione’s hands resting on the counter, “that is a beautiful ring. Your husband must have excellent tastes.” Hermione blushed.

            “It was a family heirloom of his. It belonged to a very special woman in his life and I am honoured to wear it now.” She thought about that night, when their engagement officially moved from a solution to the marriage law to just being a happy couple in love.

            When the woman handed her the maps, Hermione handed her 20 euro.

            “Ah there is no charge,” she tried to hand it back to her.

            “Please,” she looked at the name tag on the woman’s blouse,” Elenor, you don’t know how much you’ve helped. Consider it a donation.”

            “Vielen Dank….I hope you find what you’re looking for.” Her smile made Hermione feel like she knew why they were really there. It was a little unnerving. Hermione looked at her a moment but the woman’s smile didn’t change. Finally, Hermione smiled back and took the maps.

            “Thank you again.” She said as she headed for the door.

            As Hermione walked back to the hotel, she couldn’t get the woman’s smile out of her mind. Then it struck her. Elenor. That could not be a coincidence. She turned around and jogged back in the direction of the store. When she reached the door, the sign was turned to closed and the office was dark.

            Hermione burst through the door of their hotel room as soon as Minerva unlocked it. She ran past the older woman, nearly knocking her over, and put the maps down on the table.

            “Minerva, do you know what Elenor looked like??” Her question was rushed and she was almost yelling as she panted. She had run from the tourism office all the way to the hotel. Minerva closed the door and looked at Hermione like she had two heads.

            “Elenor? As in Severus’ adoptive mother?” Hermione nodded.

            “Yes. Do you know what she looked like?”

            “Yes. I mean, I know what she looked like about 40 years ago. But, why? Elenor died when Severus was a teenager.” Hermione threw her backpack onto the bed behind.

            “Are we sure she died?” Minerva put her hands on Hermione’s shoulders.

            “Hermione, dear, you aren’t making any sense. Slow down and tell me what happened?” Hermione took a deep breath.

            “The attendant at the train station gave me directions to a tourism office. I went to it to find the maps. There was a woman inside, maybe a little younger than you. Beautiful silver hair and green eyes. Her name tag said Elenor and she just looked at me like she knew that I was not here for a driving holiday. When I went back to try and talk to her again, the office was closed…” Hermione paused and looked at her ring. It hit her like a brick, “Minnie, she could see my ring. I haven’t taken the enchantment off of it. She shouldn’t have been able to see it unless…”

            “Unless she knew you were married to Severus.” Minerva finished, “well I suppose Elenor could be alive. She had black hair like a raven and green eyes. It makes sense that it would be silver now. Severus, never actually saw her body. By the time he found out that she was supposedly dead, Tobias said he had already had her cremated and scattered her ashes.”

            “I don’t understand. If it is her, she seems like she wants to help but then why be so cryptic.” Minerva sat down on the edge of her bed.

            “I don’t know. It’s hard to know who to trust. Maybe that’s why he’s been hiding all these years.”

            “Are we going to harm him by trying to find him?” It had been on her mind since they got to Germany. If Severus has stayed away all these years, he had to have a reason.

            “I don’t care what his reasons are, I am not going to go back to England without my son.” Minerva stated, no room for argument. Hermione blew out a breath and grabbed her backpack. She pulled his wand out of its special place and laid the map of Hessen out. She laid the wand in the centre. Praying to whatever gods would listen that the wand would still help them. After a full minute,  Hermione released a breath she hadn’t realized she was holding. Minerva patted her shoulder, “that could just mean he isn’t in that state. Let’s try the others.” Hermione nodded, hoping dropping by the second. She laid out the map for Rheinland-Pflaz and put his wand on it. Again, a full minute went by and no movement. She pulled out the Nordrhein map. Nothing again.

            “Minerva…”

            “Just try the last one.” The fear and doubt were starting to creep into Minerva’s voice. Hermione sighed and laid out the Baden-Württemberg map. She laid his wand on the map and immediately it started to shake and roll. Minerva clapped her hands together and wrapped her arms around Hermione’s shoulders. They waited for the wand to stop and give them their next location but it just kept happily bouncing on the desk.

            “So I guess, this is all the more specific it’s gonna get.” Hermione said, a little disappointed.

            “That’s alright. It’s still a lot to search but it’s a lot less than what we started with.” Hermione picked up his wand and put it back in her bag. She pulled out her notebook and looked at the towns she had written down in Baden-Württemberg.”

            “I have 6 towns written down. Why don’t we hire a car and just start searching? I really don’t know any other way.”

            “That sounds good. We are almost there Hermione, I can feel it.”

Chapter Text

December 1996

Hogwarts Castle

            The fall term was finished and the vast majority of the students had gone home for their winter holidays. That also meant the day that both Hermione and Severus had been anticipating had finally arrived. For Hermione, what had originally seemed like a prison sentence, now seemed like a gift. An ill-timed gift, but a gift none the less. It had been two weeks since their first intimate experience and Hermione had been insatiable ever since. Every moment she could get away, she would come to his chambers or even his office just to get her hands on whatever bit of his skin she could reach. Severus was not one to complain either. He was happy to worship at her altar any time and as many times as she wanted. Their talk of the future had also grown. Severus had never believed he would survive this was but now he was starting to think he actually could, more what’s more he wanted to. He wanted to have a real life for himself and he wanted to spend that life Hermione.

            Severus paced his sitting room dressed in his black dress robes. It was nearly 10 and she was late. They had agreed to get ready separately and then meet in his chambers before going up to his father’s office. He was nervous that she was having second thoughts. He knew she loved him, but being forced to marry him due to this law was a whole other thing.

            Green flames pulled him out of the spiral of dark thoughts his mind was headed down. He looked over as she stepped into the room and his jaw visibly dropped. Hermione was dressed in deep purple dress robes with silver accents.

            “Wow…,” she giggled and crossed the room to where he had stopped, “you look beautiful.” The robes were stunning and fit her curves perfectly. Her chestnut hair was in ringlets, tumbling down her back.

            “You don’t look so bad yourself, handsome,” she winked at him, not even attempt to hide the fact that she was checking him out. While seeing him in all black was not out of the ordinary, seeing him in the wizard equivalent of a tux was something totally new, “you definitely should have worn this to the Yule Ball instead of your frock coat.” He snorted.

            “Why is that? You wouldn’t have noticed me back then. If I recall correctly, you were already on the arm of every young lady’s dream block head.” She rolled her shining eyes with a grin.

            “Viktor is a sweetheart and still a good friend, thank you,” she playfully smacked his arm, “but he isn’t you.” He smiled before pulling her too him for a kiss. She leaned up next to his ear and whispered, “and trust me, I would have noticed you then.” She took pleasure in the way her comment gave him pause. She could see his adams apple bob and pressed another kiss to his lips.

            When they pulled apart again, “are you ready to head up to my father’s office?” She nodded.

            “Yeah, the sooner we do that part the sooner we can come back down here and I can make good on a promise from a few weeks ago. You’ve been entirely too smug lately,” she reached around and smack his ass before turning and heading back toward the fireplace. Severus was rooted to the spot. He had no idea what had gotten into her but he wasn’t going to complain. Hermione looked back over her shoulder, pleased with herself, “you coming?” He crossed the room in a few short strides.

            “Before we go, all the jokes and teasing aside…are you okay with this?” The sincerity in his voice nearly brought a tear to her eye.

            “I’ve made peace with this, Sev. This isn’t the way we would have chosen, but so what? I want to be with you and right now that’s all that I care about. I’m not afraid to make vows to you.” He shook his head in astonishment.

            “Even when I think I’ve seen every part of you, you continue to amaze me.” She blushed.

            “I think that’s a compliment.” He took her hand and brought it to his lips.

            “It absolutely is,” he released her hand and offered his arm to her, “ready?” She nodded and tucked her hand in his elbow.

            They stepped into the fireplace and moment later were stepping out into the headmaster’s office. The office’s usual furnishings had been traded for fairy lights and white flowers. Minerva and Poppy sat on a small sofa at the bottom of the dais, while Albus sat at his desk. In front of the desk was an archway of flowers.

            “Ah children, there you are,” Minerva said standing, “what do you think? It’s not a lot but we figured it might make it feel a little more like a wedding.” Hermione looked around in awe.

            “It’s beautiful. Thank you, professor.” Minerva stepped forward and kissed her cheek.

            “You’re marrying my son today, dear, I think in private it would be fine for you to call me Minerva,” she leaned over and kissed Severus’ cheek as well. Hermione looked at the headmaster behind his desk and was surprised by how old he looked. She saw his hands resting on the desk and noticed that he was wearing a pair of gloves to hide the severity of the poison. The old wizard gave her a gentle smile as their eyes met and, despite her frustration with him at times, she returned it.

            “Are you both ready to begin?” Albus called from where he sat, even his voice much weaker than Hermione was used to. Severus looked down at her. She nodded and squeezed his arm.

            “Yes, father,” they walked up to the dais, and passed the archway so they could stand next to Dumbledore’s desk. Hermione saw the piece of parchment that sat there awaiting their signatures. They had talked over the entire process as they prepared for this moment but her heart still raced.

            “This is your marriage license through the ministry. You both understand the agreement into which you are entering, and you both are doing so of your free will, correct?” Hermione fought to roll her eyes. It was a ministry script he had to read but it was also ridiculous, the point of the marriage law was to take away her free will.

            “Yes, I understand and yes, I am here because I want to be,” Severus said firmly, looking down at Hermione again. Four months ago, when she stood sat in the exact same place, she saw pity and exhaustion in his eyes. Now, she saw only love and truth. It was not lost on her why this plan of Voldemort’s had failed. His blind spot was the same now as it was all those years ago in Godric’s Hollow…love.

            “Yes, I understand and I am here of my own free will,” she said, eyes locked with Severus’. Behind them, Minerva and Poppy stood arm in arm, smiling at the young couple.

            “Very well. You may proceed in signing your marriage license,” he held out a quill to Severus. Hermione squeezed his arm again before letting go so he could take the quill. Severus bent down and signed his name on the designated line before standing and turning to Hermione.

            “You are absolutely sure this is what you want?” He knew in his heart she didn’t really have a choice but he still needed to ask. She took the quill from him.

            “Yes,” she smirked at him, knowing how important her emphatic, verbal consent was. He shook his head with a small smile. Hermione took a deep breath and leaned down to look over the marriage license. It was daunting but in her heart she knew that this was the only time she would ever sign a document like that and strangely she was okay with that. She signed her name and felt a small weight lift from her shoulders. There was no going back now and the finality of it all actually made it a lot easier. She handed the quill back to Albus.

            “Thank you. If you two will step away just a moment. I will get the witnesses to sign and then we can proceed with the binding.” Albus said gently. He was tired and the threats looming were weighing heavily on him but he was glad to see Hermione and Severus so happy with each other. They had someone to lean on, something he knew they would both need over the coming months.

            Severus took Hermione’s hand, lacing their fingers together and stepped off the dais. They watched as Minerva and Poppy each stepped up to sign their names on the license. After they had both signed, Albus signed his name and used his wand to seal the parchment. He stood and held the scroll up, where it dissolved into a shimmer of gold dust.

            “Your marriage license has been returned to the Ministry. Now, we may move on to the binding. If you will join me,” Albus rounded his desk and stepped beneath the arch. Poppy and Minerva returned to their sofa, where the deputy headmistress did her best to keep her emotions in check. Severus and Hermione stepped up in front of Albus and waited for his instructions. “Please face each other and hold hands.” They turned to face each other and Hermione placed both of her hands in his. Albus ran his wand over their joined hands. “Today, we come together to unite the souls of Severus and Hermione through the most sacred of magical practices,” silver tendrils wrapped around their hands, “these magical bonds symbolize the strength of your commitment to one another and represent your entwined destinies. With these vows you swear to uphold your love through all challenges and joys that life may bring. If you are prepared to make your vows, you may proceed.”

            “Hermione, my love, my light…I never knew what it was to truly give myself to another person until you. You are my friend, my partner, my lover, and now you are my wife. While the circumstances are not ideal, I am grateful for the chance to call you mine. I cannot promise what may come in these dark days ahead but I can promise this: I will always fight for you, and for us. No matter the circumstances, I will always find you. And most importantly, whatever happens I will love you until the end of time.” Severus’ voice trembled and Hermione was struggling to hold back her tears.

            “Severus…four months ago, I thought my life had ended. In a matter of moments, all my hopes and dreams stole. But what I have discovered is that, four months ago, was actually a new beginning. I have never felt so seen and so understood in all my life. I know we face a storm ahead of us, but I know that together we can get through anything. I swear, no matter what comes, you will never be alone again. Your soul belongs to my soul, so even if we are apart, know that I am always with you. I love you with my heart, my body, and my soul and I know that there is another world out there for us when this fight is over. I promise that however long it takes, I will be waiting for you.” She had stopped fighting the tears and let them flow freely down her cheeks. Albus’ eyes twinkled, tears shinning as he tapped the bands of magic around their hands.

            "Do you Severus Tobias Snape take Hermione Jean Granger to be your wife? Do you promise to be faithful to her in mind, body, and spirit, and to love and protect her all the days of your life?” Severus cleared his throat.

            “I do,” his eyes were locked with Hermione’s.

            “And do you Hermione Jean Granger take Severus Tobias Snape to be your husband? Do you promise to be faithful to him in mind, body, and spirit, and to love and protect him all the days of your life?” Hermione nodded, trying to find her voice.

            “Yes, I do,” she finally was able to say. Albus tapped his wand again and the silver strings of magic tightened around their hands until they faded into their skin and disappeared.

            “As headmaster of this castle, I pronounce you husband and wife. You may kiss your bride.” Severus pulled Hermione too him by her hip and kissed her deeply. Her arms wrapped around his neck pulling him closer. When their kiss broke, Severus rested his forehead against Hermione’s, existing in their own little world for just a moment. 

July 2004

Baden-Württemberg, Germany

            Hermione and Minerva had been driving around the southern German state for close to three weeks with absolutely no luck. They started with the six communities Hermione had pulled from their journals but all of them were a bust. From there, they had simple stopped in every village or town along the way searching for any trace of him. For most of that time, Hermione had the eery suspicion that they were being watched.

            “Minerva, we need a new plan. Even with only one state to search, we could be here until Christmas and still have not searched every town and village.” Minerva sat across the café table from her with a cup of tea.

            “I know, dear, but what else can we do? His wand hasn’t made a move or sound since Frankfurt.”

            “I feel like we’re close, I just don’t know where close is,” Hermione huffed. She took a sip of her own tea. She was frustrated and she was trying hard not to take it out on Minerva. She knew the older witch was trying to maintain her optimism because she was just trying to stay sane but it was on her nerves. She just needed to feel like she wasn’t alone in her growing dread. Minerva reached across the table and covered Hermione’s hand.

            “I know you think I’m naïve or blind to the reality of what we’re up against, but I’m not. We had no hope and now we have some, however small or fleeting. He’s alive and that is more than we had a few months ago.” Minerva patted her hand and went to pull away but Hermione grabbed her hand and held on. The younger woman was close to tears, the emotions and stress of the last 2 months threatening to spill over. Minerva had to blink away her own tears, “why don’t we take a break tonight? Let’s go back to the hotel and regroup. I know you haven’t been sleeping well.” Hermione gave a snort of indignation, releasing Minerva’s hand to lean back in her seat.

            “That’s been a problem for more than 6 years. It’s never quite been the same after sharing a bed with him.” Minerva gave her a sad smile.

            “I remember that feeling. After Elph died, I was a mess. I slept in his clothes for months but it didn’t really help.” Hermione blushed and absentmindedly tugged at the lapel of her leather jacket, “that’s his isn’t it?” Hermione nodded.

            “I transfigured one of his frock coats. I feel insane sometimes, but I just couldn’t let him go.”

            “You love him…maybe your soul knew he was out there somewhere. What was it that you kids used to say?”

            “Your soul belongs to my soul…,” Hermione felt a warmth radiating from inside her jacket and looked down into the inside pocket. Severus’ wand started vibrating, “shit…” Hermione jumped up and pulled some cash out of her pocket and dropped it on the table. Minerva nearly dropped her cup.

            “Hermione, what’s…”

            “We have to go,” Minerva’s eyes went wide as Hermione laid her hand over where she knew Severus’ wand was.

            They all but ran back to their hotel and up to their room. Once inside, Hermione pulled out his wand and laid it on the desk with the maps and her journals. They both stood in front of the desk stiff with anticipation. The wand sat silent and still once again, and Hermione’s shoulders deflated.

            “I don’t get it…”

            “Say it again…what you said before the wand responded,” Minerva offered. Hermione took a deep breath and picked up his wand.

            “Your soul belongs to my soul,” she nearly whispered it, begging any gods that were listening for something to happen. The wand began to vibrate and a shimmering golden glow shot from the end. In front of them, the glow arranged itself into the shape of a crescent moon.

            “A crescent moon…what does that mean?” Minerva asked looking at Hermione. The image dissolved and the wand went quiet again. Hermione shook her head.

            “I don’t know. Maybe something to do with the history of a place or a coat of arms. It has to be a symbol related to where he is. Maybe the local library will have some information.” Hermione sat on the end of her bed. Rolling the wand in her fingers, “what is happening?” Minerva took the wand and looked over it.

            “I think Severus made provisions for every case scenario,” she handed the wand back to Hermione, “do you want to find the library today?” Hermione tucked his wand back into her jacket.

            “Yeah, I won’t be able to rest until we do anyway.” Minerva nodded in agreement. Hermione tucked Sev’s wand back into her jacket before they headed back downstairs. The front desk attendant gave them directions to the library and just as they stepped outside, someone moved to stand in front of them. Hermione gasped.

            “It’s you…”

Chapter Text

July 2004

Tübingen, Germany

                  Minerva and Hermione stood rooted to the spot staring at the figure in front of them.

                  “That’s not possible,” Minerva breathed out, mouth agape.

                  “Hello, Minerva,” Elenor said with a small, nervous smile. Hermione stared at the same woman who had helped her in the travel office several weeks earlier. It was a relief to know that she hadn’t entirely lost all sense.

                  “You’ve been following us.” It wasn’t a question but Hermione’s statement was accusatory.

                  “Maybe we should sit down and talk,” Elenor offered, shuffling her feet a bit.

                  “Not until you answer a question,” Elenor gave Hermione her full attention, ready to answer whatever she asked, “do you know where Severus is?” The older woman shook her head.

                  “No, I've searched for him for years. I was hoping you might be able to find him. That is way I’ve been following you.”

                  Minerva finally found her voice again, “you were dead…”

                  “That’s what Tobias told everyone but he um…he head me committed for believing in witchcraft.” It felt like a punch to the gut for Hermione and softened her instantly. She had been warned many times about how it would sound to muggles if she accidentally mentioned anything about their world, she could imagine what that must have been like 20 years ago, especially with an abusive husband.

                  “We have a lead on where he might be. You are welcome to join us and then after we can all sit down and talk.” Minerva looked over a bit surprised but didn’t say anything. “Does a crescent moon mean anything to you?”

                  “No, there is obvious symbolism in our world but he doesn’t seem to be in to our world, and how it might connect to a specific location, I have no idea.”

                  “We were just going to head to the library to see what we could find out. Please come with us.”

                  “Thank you,” Elenor looked over at Minerva, “are you sure you’re okay with this?”

                  “He is our son. It’s time to bring him home. Of course you are welcome to join us.” The two older women shared a hug, “it’s really good to see you.” Minerva whispered to her friend.

                  The three women made their way to the library. None of them spoke again, uncertain of what else to say until they heard Elenor’s full story. The library in Tübingen was huge, connected to the library university, one of Europe’s oldest. That was one of the reasons she had been drawn to the city and if not for the task at hand, she would have loved to get lost in all the books.

                  At the circulation desk, a middle-aged man greeted them with a smile.

                  “Gutan Tag, meine Damen. Wie kann ich Ihnen helfen?”

                  “Hallo,” Hermione spoke,” sprechen Sie Englisch?” He nodded, smile still on his chubby face.

                  “Yes, I do. How can I help you, Madam?”

                  “We were wondering if there was any connection between a crescent moon and any of the towns or villages in Baden Württemberg?"

                  “I believe there are a few towns that use a crescent moon in their crests but I’m not sure off the top of my head. I can do a little research and get back to you.”

                  “Yes, that would be perfect. I am happy to pay for your time, sir.” He waved his hand.

                  “This is a library, research is what we do. Could you come back tomorrow? Around this time.”

                  “Yes, of course. You have no idea how much we appreciate this.” Hermione was trying to keep herself calm. It just felt like they were so close.

                  “I am happy to help. May I ask what this research is for?”

                  “We’ve uh…lost something and we are hoping that this clue might help us to find it again.” He smiled.

                  “Very well. I will see what I can find for you. My name is Hans, just ask for me when you come in tomorrow.”

                  “I’m Hermione and this is Minerva and Elenor. We’ll see you tomorrow.”

                  “Good day, meine Damen!” The three women headed back out into the town. The work day was coming to a close and the town’s night life was beginning to come to life.

                  “Let’s go find somewhere to eat and I don’t know about you both, but I could use a glass of wine,” Hermione said with a chuckle. Minerva and Elenor agreed emphatically.

                  They found a quiet restaurant and were able to get a private table where they could all talk. Silence had fallen over the group again as they took their seats and ordered. As soon as the wine was on the table, Hermione wasted no time in jumping head first into her questions.

                  “Okay, so what the hell is going on?” Elenor nearly spit out her wine, trying to hold back a laugh.

                  “I can see why Severus fell in love with you. He said you were spirited. As I told you earlier, I don’t know where Severus is. When I was released from the muggle asylum, the war was already in full swing. I was able to get word to him…”

                  “He knew you were alive?” Minerva asked.

                  “I got out of the hospital in early April. I sent him an owl as quickly as I could. We met at Spinner’s End and he asked me for my help. He said that something big was coming and that I was the only person that could help him because no one knew I was alive.”

                  “You’re the reason we never found his body…” Hermione said, taking a sip of wine.

                  “Yes, he had the plan all laid out. He feared that Voldemort would try to kill him but he said that he had vows to keep,” she looked directly at Hermione, “he said he had something to fight for, something to live for.”

                  “But then why didn’t you come to one of us years ago?” Minerva was trying to give Elenor a chance to explain but she was having trouble keeping her anger down.

                  “I couldn’t. He made me swear. He was afraid that if things didn’t go well, any of us could be manipulated into locating him for the enemy or even our side. He said if we won, you, “ she motioned to Minerva, “would clear his name and then when the time was right, he would come home.”

                  “But he never did…” Hermione‘s shoulder’s sank, “so what does that mean?”

                  “Something must have happened after I sent him away. Something he didn’t account for.”

                  “So why did you start following us?” Minerva asked, more calm than before.

                  “When you made it to Germany, the magic of my vow lifted, but I didn’t know how to approach you. I had nothing I could add to your search, and I thought you would be angry with me.”

                  “What exactly was his plan?” Hermione was pissed and not at Elenor. She had seen him that night and he hadn’t said a word to her about any of this.

                  “He gave me a pack of potions and told me to stay hidden. No matter what, I was to let Voldemort do whatever he was going to do. Then I could use the potions to help him before apparating him away. I didn’t know where I was sending him, he didn’t tell me. He simply said that his wand would know what to do. He told me to leave his wand and that you,” she nodded to Hermione,” would find it. If anything happened, he said that his wand and his ring were the keys.”

                  “His ring? You mean his wedding ring?” Hermione absentmindedly twisted her own ring.

                  “Yes, he had it on a chain around his neck.”

                  “We never found a ring in the Shrieking Shack. I always assumed it was with his body.”

                  “I’m afraid I can’t tell you. All he said was his wand would led the way and his ring could restore anything that was lost.”

                  “Cryptic son of a bitch,” Hermione muttered before looking up at his mother’s, “sorry.” Minerva patted her hand.

                  “It’s alright, dear. He could certainly speak in riddles, just like his father.”

                  “So, where does this leave us?” Hermione asked.

                  “I think,” Elenor responded, “we find him and then go from there.” Hermione nodded before another question popped up in her mind.

                  “Why did you decide to approach us today?”

                  “I saw the way you jumped up at the café. I thought you might have hit a big lead. Looks like I may have been right.” She looked down at Hermione’s hand resting on the table, her ring glimmering in the light, “he loves you so much. It radiated off of him when I saw him before the battle. All he wanted was to be with you.” Hermione had to look away as the tears came.

                  “He’s all I’ve dreamed of for six years…how did I not know he was out there somewhere?”

                  “You did, my dear,” Minerva said gently, “you said yourself that you could never truly let him go. Your mind might have tried to move on but your heart and soul couldn’t. They know your story with Severus wasn’t done.” Hermione nodded.

                  “I don’t know how to thank you, Elenor. He is alive because of you. I’m glad that you’re here with us.”

                  “So am I,” Minerva added, “I can’t imagine what you went through all of those years.”

                  “I would have don’t anything to protect, Severus. Tobias was evil and I regret every day that I kept my boy in that place.”

                  “Severus’ life is the failing of many people, you are not to blame. Let’s just get our boy home,” Minerva said reaching for Elenor’s hand.

June 1997

Snape’s Chambers, Hogwarts Castle

                  Since their wedding and the relocation of her parents, Severus and Hermione had thrown themselves into war preparations and each other. Severus has been able to successfully use his werewolf vaccine to good effect, as Voldemort started calling him away more and more. Each time, Hermione would be there in their bed waiting to hold him, and to help keep away his demons, even if just for a little while. The weight on Severus’ shoulders grew as his father continued to weaken, all but completely withdrawing from public life. Draco had also continued his work on the vanishing cabinet, completing a perfect test run a few weeks earlier. The end was fast approaching and Severus knew it. Each night, he held Hermione a little tighter, kissed her a little deeper, and tried to pour everything he felt into her every time they made love.

                  Severus had been called away once again and instead of coming to her when he returned, he had sent a patronus saying he was safe, but he was going straight up to his father. She knew something was wrong the second he entered his chambers after meeting with the headmaster. His shoulders drooped and when his eyes met hers, they were red and filled with pain.

                  “Sev…” he dropped to his knees. Hermione was at his side in an instant, “my love, what’s wrong?” He clung to her as the sobs wracked his body. She held him, fingers combing through his long hair, “I’ve got you.” She kissed his temple, “I’ve got you,” she whispered against his skin.

                  After several minutes, he leaned back slightly out of her embrace. She used her thumbs to wipe away his tears as she searched his eyes from an answer.

                  “Tomorrow. The attack will come tomorrow.”

                  “What?”

                  “That’s why Voldemort called the meeting. He is sending a small force through the cabinet around midnight. The mission is simple: kill my father.”

                  “Does he want you to do it?” He shook his head.

                  “No, Draco has been given the task but you know what my father expects of me.”

                  “Severus…you can’t. He’s your father, it will destroy you.”

                  “I don’t have a choice now. If Draco fulfils the order, Lucius will most likely be made headmaster. That cannot happen.”

                  “So what do we do?” He looked up sternly.

                  “You do nothing. The order is to kill my father, maybe vandalise a bit but nothing else. Tomorrow isn’t your fight.”

                  “But Sev…”

                  “No,” he barked sharply with more force than he meant. His head fell at her shocked expression, “I’m sorry, I…” She put a finger under his chin and raised his head.

                  “Don’t shut me out, Severus.”

                  “I’m not. Please believe me. I know you are more than capable in a fight, but do not ask it of me. I can’t do what I need to do if I’m worried about you. I have to lose everything tomorrow, Hermione.” Tears started to well up in his eyes again. She leaned forward and kissed them away.

                  “Shhhh… you will never lose me. Even if we are apart, I will always come for you.” She kissed him, “let’s go to bed. You can tell me the whole plan, and then we can decide what is best.” He nodded and allowed himself to be pulled up from the floor.

                  Once they were settled into their bed, skin to skin, Severus began to relax a bit. Hermione sat up against the headboard while he leaned back against her. His hand stroking up and down her bare thigh.

                  “My father is going to take Harry on a mission tomorrow to find a horcrux. Then around midnight, Draco will sneak in about a dozen death eaters. My father will be waiting for them on the astronomy tower. I have to kill him in front of them. Then I’m going to lead them out. The goal is not to fight. There is something, some weapon the Dark Lord is missing so he won’t try a full scale attack. Not yet.” She dropped a kiss on the top of his head, “you have to stay out of sigh. Bellatrix LeStrange would take great pleasure in torturing you.”

                  “I can’t just do nothing.”

                  “Please, my love, there is nothing you can do. Not tomorrow anyway. The day after, go to the Room of Requirement and destroy that fucking cabinet. Mother, will send all of you students home that afternoon. Go to the Burrow with Harry and the Weasley’s and you stay there until Harry turns 17. I’ll try to get word to you if I can.”

                  “ I don’t think I can do this, Sev… we have no idea where to look. We may never find the other pieces of his soul.”

                  “You will. You and Harry can do this, and I will help however I can,” he rolled over and she slid down to rest her head on his pillow. He rested his chin on her belly, “can I ask you something?” Her fingers combed through his hair.

                  “Of course…”

                  “How do you feel about children…someday?” She smiled.

                  “I would like a couple, especially if they have your eyes.” He snorted. “What about you?”

                  “I never thought about being a father. I’ve not exactly had the best role models, but I want to do everything in this life with you.” He pressed his lips to the skin just below her navel, “someday, when this world is safe and we are ready.”

                  “You’re going to be an amazing father, Sev,” her mind wandered to a vision of him standing in a nursery cradling a small, sleeping baby boy in his arm. The scene melted her heart.

                  “Where did you go?” He asked, after she had gone quiet, pulling her from the vision.

                  “Just picturing you holding our son. That’s our future, Severus. I know it.”

                  “I love you, Hermione, more than I ever thought it was possible to love another person. I don’t know what I did to deserve something so good, but I am grateful.”

                  “I love you too. You deserve everything good in this world, my love.”

                  Neither slept that night. They held each other through the night, mostly in silence. She found comfort in the sound and feeling of his heartbeat and he found comfort in her steady breath across his neck. When morning came, it was time to go back to the real world. Before she stepped into the fireplace to go back to her dorm, he took her hand and pulled her to him.

                  “When Harry goes to my father, come down. If we only have a few hours left in this castle, I want to spend them with you.” She nodded and kissed him.

                  “I’ll see you tonight.” They shared a final kiss before she stepped into the fireplace and disappeared.

                  Severus sighed and stepped into the fireplace a moment later, stepping out into his father’s office.

                  “Severus…,” Albus called weakly from the sofa in the small alcove next to the left of his desk.

                  “Father,” Severus came and knelt at his side. Minerva sat on the opposite sofa, close to tears.

                  “My darling boy,” Albus cupped Severus’ cheek, “ I am so sorry for everything. I have failed you in so many ways, and now I must fail you again. Please believe me, if there was any other way… but there isn’t.”

                  “I know, father. I’m not happy about this but I understand.” Albus patted his cheek.

                  “There is something else…worse. Something you must tell Harry only when the time comes.” Severus furrowed his brow.

                  “Why would he believe anything I have to say?”

                  “Because by the time he is told…he will understand.” Minerva sat up, unsure of exactly where this conversation was going but clearly unhappy with its current direction.

                  “What is it, father?”

                  "After all the horcruxes are destroyed, Lord Voldemort must kill Harry.” Severus stood so quickly it made him dizzy, and backed away in disgust.

                  “What?”

                  “Neither can live while the other survives and Voldemort can never be killed while Harry lives. He is the seventh horcrux…the one that was never supposed to be made.” 

                  “Noooo….,” Minerva howled. Severus clinched his jaw, trying his best to contain his rage. He put a hand on his mother’s shoulder, offering what little comfort he could, before turning back to his father.

                  “You’ve raised him like a pig for slaughter. He is your grandson,” Severus hissed. 

                  “Do you think I don’t know that? That I want this? I have lost my sister and my daughter to dark wizards. I killed the man I loved to save our world. I have asked my son to murder me and now I have to make sure my grandson dies at the correct time or the world will fall into darkness. This is not what I want, it is not a calculation. It is a fact. Voldemort will never stop hunting him and Voldemort cannot be killed if Harry is alive. If I could take his place I would, in a heartbeat.” Albus was clearly in pain physically and emotionally.

                  “Why didn’t you tell me? You let me believe that there was a chance for us to be a family someday.”

                  “You weren’t ready to know. You still aren’t but I’ve no time left. I’m so sorry, both you.” Tears ran down Minerva’s face and Severus stood in total disbelief.

                  “Why me? Why am I the messenger? He hates me and after tonight he would sooner kill me than speak to me.”

                  “Because you are his uncle and, while he doesn’t know it yet, he will need your strength in the end. You’re the bravest of us all, Severus, and a much better man than I. Whether you believe me or not, I am proud to call you my son.”  Tears fell freely down Severus’ face.

                  “I love you, father. I don’t particularly like you, but I just wanted to tell you once.”

                  “I love you too, my son, and I’m so sorry. Truly, I am.”

****

                  At six, Hermione arrived in Severus’ chambers. She was shocked when a table lit candle sat in place of the sofa. He stood beside the table, a small smile gracing his tired features. 

                  “What is all this?” She asked, dropping her bag to the floor. He pulled her to him by the hip and kissed her.

                  “It’s not out in public, but I wanted to take you on at least one proper date.” The table was set with a delicious looking dinner and two glasses of wine.

                  “It’s beautiful. Thank you, Severus.” He kissed her again before pulling out her chair. She sat and watched him take his seat across from her.

                  “I hope you like everything. I’m pretty sure the house eves were annoyed with me cooking in their kitchen.”

                  “You cooked?” She asked in genuine surprise causing him to laugh.

                  “Are you that surprised I can cook for myself? I am 37 years old and until seven months ago I was single.”

                  “That is true. I suppose I never really thought about you cooking because all the meals here are provided,” she took a bite of the pasta and moaned, “mmmm, that is delicious.” He smirked, he loved her making those sounds, though maybe not over his cooking.

                  “I’m pleased that you like it,” he took a bit from his own plate, “I assume Harry left with my father?” He asked, a bit more serious. She nodded.

                  “Yes…Sev, he’s not going to understand why you have to do this.”

                  “He will…someday,” pain gripped his heart. His father had sworn him to secrecy about his final message to his nephew and it was hard for him not to tell Hermione the truth. “For now, he can’t know. You know that. It’s better that he hates me.”

                  “I know…I just know it will be hard on you, and him even thought he doesn’t understand why.”

                  “I just hope he will be able to forgive me.” She reached across the table and squeezed his hand, letting her fingers run across his wedding band.

                  “He will.”

                  They ate the rest of their meal quietly before he took her hand and led her to their bed. They made love slowly, memorizing every inch of each other’s skin. She held him so tight that she drew blood on his back, which only served to drive him deeper and harder. They laid together after, silently begging the gods to slow time. He spooned her from behind, the entire length of her backside pressed against his front. They both listened to the tick of the clock and felt the dread begin to close in. By the time, the clock struck ten, they were both physically and mentally exhausted. At some point, they had changed position and she now rested with her head on his chest, listening to his heartbeat.

                  “We should shower,” she announced into the quiet room, “I need to clean you back up and well…I need to wash.” Despite the upcoming horror, he smirked.

                  “One thing is for sure…when we are ready to start our family, we will have had plenty of practice.” She laughed

                  “Well practice does make perfect,” she kissed his chest before sitting up, “how long before I see you again?” He sat up too and rested his chin on her shoulder.

                  “I don’t know, sweetheart. But just because I’m not with you physically doesn’t mean I’m not there.” She nodded, and tried to slow her racing heart. She didn’t have to let him go just yet.

                  They made their way into the bathroom and into a scalding hot shower. They washed each other, unwilling to waste any of the time they had left not touching each other. They both knew it would be a while before they saw each other again, let along had any amount of privacy to be intimate.

                  At 11:30, they stood in front of the fireplace. Time was up. Her hands rested on his chest where his wedding ring now hung on a chain next to his heart.

                  “Stay in Gryffindor Tower until we’re gone. Please promise me.”

                  “I promise. I wish I could be there with you.” He covered her hand with his own.

                  “You will be. I carry you with me every second of everyday. I will contact you as soon as I can.” He leaned down and kissed her hard, “you are the best thing that ever happened to me. I love you so much.”

                  “I love you, Severus. This isn’t goodbye.” He shook his head.

                  “No it isn't…I will find you.” They shared another kiss, this time gentler, “it’s time.” He started to let her go but she took his face in her hands and pulled him down for one final kiss.

                  “Your soul belongs to my soul.” He gave her a small smile that he hoped was encouraging.

                  “Always.” With a final kiss, she released him and stepped into the fireplace. With a flash she was gone and something in Severus broke a little. He wiped his face, and steeled his mind. He had a job to do and it was about keeping her and Harry safe for as long as he could. He took a deep breath and stepped into the fireplace.

                  “The astronomy tower.” In a flash of green, he was gone.

Chapter Text

July 1997

The Burrow

                  It had been almost two months since Hermione’s world had fallen apart. Albus was dead, her parents were gone, and she had not heard from Severus once. She knew it was dangerous, the Order had a price on his head, but it was still hard to be without him after the past year. To make matters worse, it was the day of Bill and Fleur’s wedding. Hermione was so happy for them but her heart ached for her own husband. After he had killed Albus and fled the castle, Hermione had gone to his chambers. She had planned to pack a few things when she saw an envelope on the mantle. Of course, he knew she would come back.

                  She laid in her bed at the Burrow and read over the words again, though she could recite them by heart at this point:

My darling wife,

I know I have told you a million times that I love you but I don’t think I could ever tell you enough. I have made so many mistakes in this life but the one thing I know for certain I got right is you. I know it is hard right now but please trust that this will not be forever. You’ve made me believe a future is possible and I will do everything possible to make it happen for us.

As I told you earlier, you and Harry cannot return to Hogwarts until it is time to end this. You must be ready to go on the run. To this end, I have prepared some supplies for you. On our bed you will see a small beaded bag. In it is books, supplies, potions, and anything else I could think of that you might need. Keep it with you and be ready.

I will find you when I can but know that even when we are apart, I am always with you. My soul belongs to your soul and my heart belongs to you.

                                                                                          Be safe, my love. S

                  She gripped the small bag as it laid beside her. He had thought of everything really, even sneaking in a photo of them. She remembered the night, but could not actually recall the photo being taken, the only thing she had seen in that moment was Severus. She tried to stop the tears, afraid to wake Ginny. She wanted so much to confide in someone but she couldn’t. Her only solace was that Minerva was coming to the wedding and hopefully she would be able to steal a few moments alone with the older woman.

****

                  When Minerva arrived, she surprised Hermione, Harry and Ron by bringing items that Dumbledore had left to them in his will. They were confusing items that made no real since to Hermione, but she was sure they had purpose and it would eventually be revealed to them. After Minerva had discharged her official duties, she asked to speak with Hermione privately. As soon as they were along, Minerva wrapped the younger woman in a tight hug.

                  “How are you holding up, dear?”

                  “I’m okay. Have you heard from him at all?” Minerva shook her head.

                  “No, it’s too dangerous with the Order price on his head. The Ministry still hasn't named a headmaster.”

                  “But, he’s okay…surely?”

                  “I’m sure he is,” she looked at the bag, hanging across Hermione’s body, “I see you got his gift.”

                  “He thought of everything. Do you really think we’ll have to go on the run?” Minerva pushed out a long breath.

                  “Well you can’t go back to Hogwarts and the Burrow won’t be able to protect you forever.” Hermione sighed and leaned against her mother-in-law.

                  “I miss him, Minerva. I can’t believe I’m saying it, especially after the way this all started, but I just want to be back in his arms.” Minerva wrapped an arm around Hermione’s shoulders. They sat together in silence, no words would be able to fix the hole in both of their hearts, so they simply took comfort in each other’s presence.

****

                  The wedding was beautiful and Hermione was trying her best to enjoy herself at the reception. Not wanting to dance, she stuck to the edges of the tent. She watched the happy couples, and  let her mind wander to what her own wedding might look like when she and Severus could publicly marry. A flicker of blue light caught her eyes in the nearby tall grass, pulling her from her musings. The nose of a doe stuck out. Severus. Hermione looked around to make sure she wasn’t being watched before going to the doe. It led her a short distance away where she was shielded from view of the party goers.

                  “Severus…,” she crashed into him as he stood in the small clearing waiting for her. He caught her mid-air, hoisting her up until her legs wrapped around his waist. She kissed him deeply, her arms around his neck. He indulged for a few moments, he had missed her desperately as well, before pulling away enough to set her back on her feet and rest his forehead against hers.

                  “My love, we don’t have long. You have to get out of here. You and Harry have to go.”

                  “Why? What’s going on?”

                  “They’re coming. They knew you’re here. Plus the whole Order. Everyone is drinking and making merry, it’s the perfect time to attack. You and Harry have to go. You have the bag?” She nodded, “and you saw the tent and everything you need to hide out?”

                  “Yes, you thought of everything.”

                  “I just wanted you to be ready. I put some of the werewolf vaccine in as well. Please use it, and my darling, be careful.”

                  “Where should we go? We were able to destroy the locket at Hogwarts with a basilisk fang but we have no leads for the others.”

                  “For tonight, go to Grimmuald Place. Harry still has the trace and they won’t be able to get to you there. I’ve reinforced the wards myself.” She nodded. She rubbed her forehead against his and kissed his cheeks.

                  “Are you okay, love?”

                  “I’m fine. I’ll better knowing you’re away from here. He’s told me tonight that I may return to Hogwarts tomorrow as headmaster. I will help you from there any way that I can. Is my mum here?”

                  “Yes…,”

                  “Tell her to go home. She’ll be a target too. Tell her I’ll see her tomorrow,” he kissed her, “I love you.”

                  “I love you too. You’ll find is out there, right?”

                  “Always,” she pulled him back down to her by the back of the neck and kissed him deeply. “Go,” he whispered when they broke apart. She held on to his hand as long as she could before having to release him. As soon as she did, he disappeared with a pop. She took a few deep breaths before making her way back to the big top tent. She found Minerva at a table, eyes full of concern. She had seen Hermione wander off.

                  “I saw Severus,” Hermione whispered quietly, “he said a raid is coming. He told me to tell you to go home, you’re a target. He said that he will be back to the castle tomorrow as headmaster.” She grasped Hermione’s hand.

                  “What about you and Harry?”

                  “Harry still has the trace. He told us to go to Grimmuald Place, at least for tonight.”

                  “Very wise. Go get your bag and I will bid the newlyweds goodbye. Send word when you can.” Hermione nodded and Minerva kissed her check, “good luck, dear.”

                  Hermione nodded again and released the older witch. She ran into the house and grabbed her bag from her bed and transfigured her clothes into something better for traveling. A commotion outside caught her attention.

                  “Shit,” she ran downstairs, death eaters already firing on the tent. She searched for Harry and Ron.

                  “Mione!” Harry called to here. He and Ron were engaged in duel with a death eater. It was Crabbe Sr based on the mask. Severus had taught her each other them so she could always identify her opponent and so she would know him, if he was in his robes.

                  “Harry, we have to get out of here. If we go, they’ll leave,” a spell came from behind them and knocked out Crabbe. Hermione looked back and saw a hazy figure through the smoke. She could feel a slight pressure on her mind. Knowing exactly who it was she let him in.

                  “I’ll cover you. Get out of here!”

                  “Be safe, my love,” she thought back to him. She felt him leave her mind and turned to the boys.  She grabbed they both by the arm, “we have to go. Ron, Harry still has the trace on him so we have to do all the casting.” A spell flew past them and stopped an incoming death eater. She kept talking to keep their attention on her, “we need to go to Grimmuald Place.” Ron nodded and grabbed onto Harry’s arm. They disappeared just as Severus cast a not so errant spell at another death eater. He rushed out of the smoke, and paralyzed Arthur Weasley who was engaged in a dual with Lucius. None of the other death eaters had noticed him take a few of their own out in the chaos.

                  “They’re gone,” he called over the sounds of fighting and fire.

                  “What?!?” Lucius said in a panic.

                  “I tried to disarm them but they did a side-along apparation.

                  “Fuck…”

                  “Let’s break off and hope the boy is stupid enough to cast a spell. He still has the trace on him.” Lucius nodded. He disapparated and Severus quickly followed, not before lifting his curse on a very confused Arthur, “sorry, mate,” he said before disappearing. Following them, one-by-one all the death eaters disappeared into the night.

July 2004

Tübingen, Germany

                  Hermione, Minerva, and Elenor stood outside the library. They had tried not to be there ridiculously early but they were all impatient to go and see if Hans had found anything.

                  “Are we ready?” Hermione finally asked at quarter to 4. She had barely slept the night before despite trying incredibly hard. Her entire body was buzzing with the possibility of a solid lead after so many weeks of aimless driving. Both women beside her nodded. She took a deep breath and pushed open the door. As soon as they walked in, they found Hans already at the desk, seemingly waiting for them.

                  “Good afternoon, ladies. I had a feeling you might be a bit early.

                  “Sorry, Hans. We are just eager to hear if you’ve found anything. You have found something, haven’t you?” He chuckled and nodded.

                  “Yes, I did some research and I believe that your crescent moon may be leading you toward the town of Müllheim. It is the only town or village I could find in the state with a crescent moon in its crest. There are many placed around the country that have moon symbolism in their legends but if you’re looking in Baden Württemberg, then I would say this is your best bet."

                  “Müllheim…where is that?” Hermione could not recall it on any maps.

                  “It is a town along the French border. It’s not very big, maybe 15,000 people in the town and surrounding villages. We aren’t that far from it actually. It is a two and half, maybe three hour drive.” Hermione’s throat constricted. Three hours…he was only three hours away.

                  “Could you help us with directions? We have a car,” Minerva asked, realizing Hermione was struggling to speak.

                  “Of course. Let me print out directions for you.” He went to the circulation computer, leaving the women on their own for a moment.

                  “Hermione, dear, are you alright?” Minerva took her hand.

                  “Are we really this close?” Hermione was close to tears.

                  “Yes, I think we are,” Minerva couldn’t contain her smile, “just breath.” Hans returned to them a moment later with a few sheets of paper in his hand.

                  “Here is a map and I wrote a few directions. I hope this helps.” Elenor took the map.

                  “It will. Thank you so much!” He smiled.

                  “You’re welcome. Good luck, ladies, I hope you find what you are looking for!"

Chapter Text

March 1998

Malfoy Manor

                  Severus did his best to keep his face neutral as he strode through the door of Malfoy Manor. Lucius had sent for him, saying that he believed that Harry had been captured, but he needed his help to be sure. Lucius could not risk being wrong and summoning the Dark Lord, another screw up would cost him his life.

                  “What is the situation?” Severus asked cooly as soon as he was inside.

                  “We’ve captured three teenagers in the Forest of Dean. One is the Weasley boy and, one is that little bitch you married,” Lucius tossed the beaded bag to Severus, “it’s empty.” Inside Severus wanted to ripe the other man’s throat out but he simply rolled his eyes, indifferent to Lucius’ obvious panic.

                  “What does this have to do with Potter?”

                  “The third boy we found with them is deformed. Draco couldn’t be sure who it was and I can’t tell if he’s been hexed or poisoned. Bella has tried to get the girl to talk but she won’t do anything but scream.” Severus’ temper flared but he stamped it down quickly.

                  “Being the girl to your study.”

                  “Can’t you jus…” Severus’ look shut him up. Lucius needed his help and he knew it, “right away.” Lucius scurred away. Severus tried to slow his racing heart as he made his way into Lucius’ study. He sat her bag on the desk and paced until he heard footsteps outside. Taking a few deep breaths, he steeled himself for them to enter. Despite preparing his mind, he was not prepared for what he saw. Hermione was thin, much too thin, and pale. Her face was covered in cuts and bruises, and the way she cradled her left arm, he knew she was hurt. Her eyes rose slowly to meet his.

                  “Leave us,” Severus hissed. When Lucius started to protest Severus glared at him, “when last I checked, this girl is my property. I said get out. I will question her how I see fit.” The evil grin that crossed Lucius face turned Severus’ stomach.

                  “My apologies,” he shoved Hermione toward Severus, causing her to stumble. It took every ounce of Severus’ self-control not to reach out and steady her. Lucius pulled the door shut as he left but Severus held a finger to his lips. He quickly cast several spells, setting wards around the room to ensure that they were not being spied on. As soon as he put his wand back in his robes, she collapsed into him.

                  “Oh my love,” he picked her up, cradling her against his chest. Carrying her over to the small sofa, he sat her down gently before kneeling in front of her, “can you look at me?” She lifted her red, swollen eyes to meet his.

                  “Sev…,” she rasped, her voice weak from what he suspected was screaming.

                  “I’m here, sweetheart,” he stroked her cheek,”…what happened?” She began to sob and shake. He pulled her into his arms, “shhhh, I’ve got you,” he stoked her hair, realizing how thin and brittle it was. She wrapped her arms around him and buried her head into his neck. He held her, trying to make her feel as safe as he could in these few fleeting moments they had together.

                  When she finally pulled back a little, he could see the blood seeping through the sleeve of her jacket. He reached for it but she pulled her arm away, cradling it close to her body.

                  “It’s disgusting,” she whispered. He growled, he was going to tear Bellatrix limb from limb. He didn’t even know what she had done yet but she had hurt Hermione and that was enough to make him want to destroy her.

                  “Please let me help you, my darling. Whatever she has done, it's not your fault.” She hesitated but finally relented and held out her arm to him. He gently rolled up her sleeve. It took every bit of strength he had not to vomit. The bloody, crudely carved slur marred her otherwise smooth skin. The cuts were an angry red, and clearly infected, cursed or both.

                  “I’m going to destroy her,” he said so calmly even Hermione was a little afraid, “what did she use to do this?”

                  “That silver dagger she carries.” Severus sucked in a breath, that scared Hermione even more.

                  “That knife is cursed. It is designed to keep the wound open and rancid.”

                  “Can you do something?” He nodded and looked into her eyes.

                  “It’s going to hurt…worse than it did when she made it.” Fear flickered through Hermione’s eyes but she quickly steeled herself.

                  “What do we have to do?”

                  “I’m going to have to cut out the mark. It’s going to scar badly, but I can’t heal anything until the cursed skin is gone. I can do everything if you have the potions I packed.”

                  “Everything is in my bag. I was able to set the glamor before they took it but you should be able to see through that.” He cupped her cheek and pressed his lips to hers before standing and going to the desk to retrieve the bag.

                  “How did you get caught?”

                  “We were in the Forest of Dean. Snatchers came on us when we were tearing down camp. They had Greyback with them and he sniffed us out.”

                  “And you hexed Harry?” He asked, pulling out all the supplies he would need. She nodded.

                  “I thought it might buy us some time.”

                  “You were right. They won’t summon the Dark Lord until they are sure. As soon as I get your arm taken care of, I’m going to go get some help.”

                  “Severus, you could get caught.”

                  “If you and Harry die here, my life means nothing anyway.” He pulled out the potions knife from the kit in her bag, “are you ready?”

                  “No,” she laughed darkly.

                  “I’m sorry, love, if there was any other way…,” she stood and silenced him with a kiss.

                  “I know…I trust you.” His heart was in his throat as she sat at sat in Lucius’ chair and laid her arm across the desk. With a flick of his wand, ropes appeared and tied her arm down. He couldn’t risk her moving while he worked.

                  “I will be as fast as I can,” he leaned over and kissed her, “I love you.”

                  “I love you too…please get this off me.” He nodded and picked up one of the potion bottles. He poured it along the wound, causing he to wince in pain.

                  “This is to clean the infection that has formed. As soon as I remove the skin, I will be able to use some pain relief potions as I work on healing the wound. Unfortunately, it will not work before I remove the curse.” She nodded and he picked up the knife, “ready?” She looked into his eyes and nodded again. “Just look at me,” he took a deep breath, steadying his hands.

                  Her screams would haunt him for the rest of his life. He wasn’t sure that even his wards could contain them. Tears streamed down her face and she struggled against her bonds as he cut away the cursed flesh. As soon as he pulled the knife away she relaxed a bit. He handed her a vile.

                  “Drink…,” she threw back the potion without a second thought. The instant relief that spread across her body helped so much she immediately went slack against the desk. He went to work with his wand and potions, healing the large gaping wound, “I’m so sorry, my love,” he whispered, having a hard time containing his own tears. He knew that it was not his fault that she was hurt, but it still killed him to that he had to cause her even more pain that she had already been through.

                  “S’okay now,” her slight slur told him that the pain potion was working. He worked quickly, finally wrapping a clean bandage around the nearly closed wound. He released the ropes and went to her side.

                  “Sweetheart?” The potion should have started to wear off.

                  “I know we don’t have long, but for just a few minutes, can you hold me?” She asked quietly.

                  “Of course.” With a wave of his wand, the mess of his healing efforts was gone and he led her back to the sofa. He laid down with his left leg outstretched on the sofa and his right foot flat on the floor. She sat back against his chest and stretched out both legs. He wrapped his arms around her and rested his check on her shoulder. “I’m sorry, Hermione.”

                  “It’s okay. It’s already feeling better. Thank you being strong enough to do what had to be done.”

                  “I still hated to be the one to cause you pain.”

                  “You weren’t. She left you no choice. It’s done now anyway.” He nodded and kissed her neck.

                  “When Lucius takes you back, be ready for help to come. They will take you to Shell Cottage, Bill Weasley and his wife are there. You are going to need to rest and to recover for at least a week.”

                  “What about our supplies?”

                  “I’ll take it with me. I will come to you tomorrow night with fresh potions to help your healing. I think I may have a lead for you as well, but I need to verify a few more things. We can talk about it tomorrow.”

                  “Thank you for the supplies you have been sending,” she yawned, her body already exhausted from trying to heal.

                  “I told you I would help anyway I could,” he looked at the clock on the wall, “I’m sorry, my love. Time is almost up.” She pulled his arms tighter around her.

                  “I miss you…,” she whispered, bringing one of his hands up to her mouth and kissing his knuckles.

                  “I miss you too, but I will come to you tomorrow. I won’t be able to stay the night but we will have more time.” She nodded and leaned back into him.

                  After another minute, they pulled apart and stood. He put her bag into the pocket of his cloak, and tugged her to him by her hip.

                  “I love you so much. Be ready, help will come swiftly.” She nodded and kissed him hard. He made sure her sleeve covered the bandage before dropping the wards.

                  “Lucius!” He called. The door opened and the man entered with the most sinister grin. Her screams had clearly broken through, “take the bitch back,” he pressed his hand into her lower back gently, an apology for his language, “the only thing I could get out of her was the hex she used. I have to go get a few potions but as soon as I return, we will know if you have succeeded."

                  “Excellent. Anything special you want done with her?”

                  “She is not to be touched again. I will manage my own property, once I’m back. Is that clear? I don’t want her…spoiled.” Lucius grin curled up even further. Severus bit back his bile at the images he knew were swimming around the other man’s mind. 

                  “Very well. I will tell Bella hands off. When will you be back?”

                  “10 or 15 minutes. I know what I need.” Lucius nodded and took Hermione by the arm.

                  “You’re a lucky girl…or maybe not,” Severus looked utterly bored as he apparated away.

                  Lucius shoved her back in the cage.

                  “Enjoy your few remaining moments,” his sinister laugh echoed around the room as he slammed the door closed, and walked back up the stairs.

                  Before the boys could ask anything, a small pop signalled the arrival of someone else into their cell.

                  “Hello, Dobby has come for Harry Potter and his friends, and he brought these,” he held out their wands.

                  “Dobby,” Harry was delighted, though his deformed face could not show it, “how did you find us?”

                  “Professor McGonagall sent me. Dobby knows this house better than anyone. Now we must go before we are spotted. Hold on to, Dobby.” They huddled together around the house elf and Dobby apparated them out of their prison.

                  A moment later, Severus descended the stairs to see, with relief, that cell empty.

                  “Well where the fuck are they?” He yelled, wheeling around to glare at Lucius. Lucius opened the cell and frantically looked around.

                  “They were just here. I locked the gate myself.” Draco came running down the stairs.

                  “Father, their wands are gone.” The panic in Lucius’ face gave Severus a large amount of pleasure.

                  “Did you check them? Take away any belongings?”

                  “We took their wands and the bag off the girl.” Severus put on his best furious act.

                  “You blood imbecile!” he roared, “Potter has an invisibility cloak. He could have snuck out when no one was paying attention to get their wands.” Lucius paled. “This is on you. You better hope the Dark Lord doesn’t get wind of this. I’ll be at Hogwarts if you need me.” Severus turned on a heel and walked back up the stairs.

****

                  The group landed on the beach near Shell Cottage where Bill and Fleur were already sprinting toward them.

                  “Mistress McGonagall said Harry Potter and his friends must stay here for at least a week. You will be safe.”

                  “Thank you, Dobby. How are things at the castle?”

                  “Very delicate, sir, but things are okay for now. Dobby must return. Good luck, Harry Potter.” The elf disappeared just as Bill reached them.

                  “Harry, we just got word from Professor McGonagall that Dobby was bringing you to us.” Bill hugged Ron, “alright, little brother?”

                  “Yeah…how did McGonagall know where to find us?”

                  “No idea, but I’m grateful she did. Come on, let’s get you three inside and warm.”

                  The following night at ten to eleven, the whole cottage was dark and quiet. Hermione could sense Severus outside and lowered the wards around the cottage enough to let him in. She raised secondary wards around her room.

                  As soon as he was inside, she had her hands on him. Neither said a word as they undressed and fell into bed. Their love making was hard and fast, both needing to feel something other than worry, and needing to hold the other with nothing between them. After, she laid with her head on his chest, listening to the sound of his heart.

                  “Are you okay, love?” He asked, stroking her back gently.

                  “Better now,” she snuggled further into him. It had been months since she had felt truly safe but now she could relax.

                  “I need to check on your arm and change the bandage.”

                  “Shhhh,” she kissed his chest, “I want my husband to hold me without the rest of the world getting in the way, just for a moment.” He held her a little tighter and kissed her head. They laid in each other’s arms in silence for an hour until he finally spoke again.

                  “I’m sorry, sweetheart. I’m going to have to leave soon. If I’m away for too long the Carrows like to take a little too much liberty with discipline.”

                  “I know…we both have jobs to do,” she kissed his neck, “but I don’t want to let you go.”

                  “I don’t want to let you go either but this won’t be forever. We’ve found each other every time these past seven months and we always will. Why don’t you let me tend your arms and I will tell you what I know about the horcruxes.” After a kiss, he climbed out of bed and tugged on his boxers. She sat up, wrapping the sheet around herself.

                  “I restocked your bag for you. Some fresh supplies and potions. I was glad to see you still had a basilisk fang, the first thing the Carrows did when they arrived was destroy the beast's carcass. Clearly the Dark Lord, knows how you’ve been destroying the pieces of his soul.”

                  “I’m glad we took a few extra. Any idea where the sword of Gryffindor is?” He shook his head as he pulled her bag from his cloak and started grabbing items from it.

                  “It disappeared after father’s death. Bellatrix has boasted about having it in her vault at Gringotts but I doubt that. You’ll be able to find out for sure when you break in.”

                  “Have you totally lost it?” She asked playfully as he sat beside her, pulling her arm into his lap.

                  “Hardly. She has been intrusted with something from the Dark Lord. Some kind of cup related to Helga Hufflepuff. Now he isn’t one for trinkets.”

                  “You think it’s a horcrux?” He nodded, unwrapping the bandage.

                  “This looks much better. I’m going to clean it and put a fresh bandage on it. Do the same thing every day for the next week and it should be totally closed.” She leaned over and kissed his shoulder.

                  “Thank you…so this cup. Sev, how do we break into Gringotts?”

                  “There is Polyjuice potion and a vile with some of Bellatrix’s hair. Tell the boys she revealed a clue to you and that it gave you an idea.”

                  “Getting in I get but those things won’t work once we are down in the vaults.”

                  “I’ll send help. Wait here until I send world. We have to make sure Bellatrix doesn’t stroll in while you are there. You need rest anyway, all of you do. How is my nephew?” It was killed Severus that he couldn’t talk to Harry himself.

                  “He’s exhausted and so frustrated.” Severus’ shoulders slumped.

                  “I wish I could talk to him, help him somehow.”

                  “You do help and someday he will know where all the help came from,” she grimaced as he cleaned her arm.

                  “Sorry…,” he worked quickly before wrapping a fresh bandage around the shrinking wound. When he finished, he kissed her bandaged arm, “ I feel like all of this is about to break open. The calm before the storm.” She leaned into him.

                  “Normally, I would argue about taking a break but not this time. We need to breath for a few days.”

                  “I will be nice to know that you are actually safe, at least for a little while.”

                  “I feel safe right now, “she moved to straddle his hips, “will you come back?” He nodded and slid his hands up her back.

                  “I will try.” She kissed him deeply, wishing they had more time but knowing they did not.

                  “Will you stay until I fall asleep?

                  “Of course. Come to bed.” They laid down and he spooned her, holding her as close to him as possible. He allowed himself to find peace and comfort in her touch. His wedding ring hung on the chain around his neck, pressed into her back.

                  “Severus…”

                  “Yes, my love.”

                  “I am grateful to Voldemort for one thing.”

                  “What’s that?”

                  “Through all of this, I get to be your wife.” He smiled against her shoulder.

                  “And I get to be your husband. Making vows to you was the proudest moment of my life.”

                  “I love you, Sev.”

                  “I love you too. Now,” he kissed her neck, “sleep.” She kissed one of his hands before snuggling back into him. It wasn’t long before he felt her breath even out. He waited a few more minutes before untangling himself from her. He dressed quickly and sat her bag on the bedside table. He pulled out a black ribbon, one he used to tie back his hair, from his pocket and tied it around her wrist. He draped his cloak over her and kissed her forehead.

                  “Sweet dreams, my love.” Lowering the wards around her room, he crept through the cottage to Harry’s room. He could sense the boy’s restless sleep. Taking a deep breath, he put his head gently on Harry’s head. He could see the nightmares in his mind and quickly banished them. He found some of Harry’s happiest memories and allowed those to fill his world of dreams. “Sleep, darling boy,” he whispered.

                  As he left the cottage, he double checked the wards, making sure they were safe to have the proper rest they all needed.

July 2004

Müllheim, Germany

                  Hermione parked the car in the centre of town, beside a small café. She, Elenor, and Minerva had left for Müllheim early in the morning, unable to wait any longer. The car was a mixture of excitement and nerves.

                  “Sooo…now what,” Elenor asked from the backseat.

                  “Well it’s not a large town. Why don’t we go into the café. We can get a little lunch and ask around. Severus, is a fairly imposing figure. I’m sure that if he’s here, someone will know where,” Minerva offered. Hermione nodded, it wasn’t easy to hid all 6ft 2 of Severus.

                  They walked into the café and Hermione was immediately taken aback by it. It was a beautiful little place full of bookshelves and plants; the kind of place she would have been more than happy to get lost in normally. They found a table and ordered before Hermione began looking through the books on the end of the table. They were mainly in German but the one at the bottom of the stack caught her eye. It was English: The Dragon Queen by…

                  “Oh my gods,” there was a loud thud as the book fell from Hermione’s hands onto the table.

                  “Hermione…,” Minerva’s face was full of concern, “dear, what is the matter?” Hermione pushed the book toward her. Minerva picked it up and read, “The Dragon Queen by…Sefton Prince.” Elenor took the book, looking over the cover.

                  “Sefton Prince, that was my father’s name. That is curious. I can’t imagine Sefton is a common name anymore.”

                  “Severus used it as a pseudo name to write under.” Hermione’s heart pounded. She took the book back and opened it. On the inside cover was a dedication written in a familiar handwriting.

                                    Der Büchergarten,

                                          Thank you for always supporting my work. I hope your patrons enjoy the book!

                                                                                          Sefton Prince

                  “This is his handwriting,” Hermione whispered, her finger tips ghosting down the page. The waitress approached with their meals.

                  “Is that Herr Prince’s book you are admiring?” She asked when Hermione didn’t look up as she placed her plate on the table in front of her.

                  “Yes…he signed it for the shop? He must really enjoy your place.”                 

                  “Ja, he usually comes in a few times a week. Are you fans?” She said as she placed the other plates down.

                  “Uh…no. This is the first time I’ve seen one of his books. I just thought it was sweet that he signed a copy for the café.” 

                  “He is a very fine man, very polite. He actually owns a little bookshop of his own just down the street,” Hermione’s eyes shot up.

                  “He lives here.” The waitress eyed her strange behaviour but continued anyway.

                  “Ja, but I think he is away until tomorrow afternoon. There was a book signing in Freiburg, our owner, Herr Müller is there too.” Hermione choked up.

                  “How lovely,” Minerva said happily drawing the young waitresses attention away from Hermione, “we are in town for a few days. Perhaps we will have time to go in and meet him, if he does return before we leave.” The waitress smiled.

                  “You can buy a copy of his book or any of the other display books at the counter. Enjoy your meals.”

                  “Thank you.” The waitress nodded and walked away. Hermione’s eyes were locked back on the dedication page, especially his signature.

                  “Tomorrow…he’s going to be here tomorrow,” she whispered. Minerva and Elenor each took one of her hands before holding on to each other. Tomorrow.

Chapter Text

May 1998

                  It was time to return to Hogwarts and Hermione knew exactly what that meant, the final battle was upon them. The fate of their world would rest on the next 48 hours. With Severus’ help, they had found and destroyed Helga Hufflepuff's cup and confirmed the sword in Bellatrix’s vault was a forgery. They had returned to Shell Cottage after their ordeal with the dragon guard of Gringotts to heal and regroup. It wasn’t long before Severus came back and told her that he believed the last horcrux was in the castle. Every founder had been represented somehow except for Rowena Ravenclaw. Her diadem was the only known artifact of hers to have survived but it was believed to have been lost in the castle centuries earlier. This information is how they found themselves finally back at Hogwarts after a year on the run.

                  After Harry has made himself known and Minerva “dueled” Severus, conveniently taking out the Carrows, Severus has fled. While Harry went to talk to the Grey Lady and Ron greeted his family as they answered the Order’s call, Hermione snuck off to the headmasters office. There she found Severus waiting, knowing she would come for him.

                  “Sev…” she rushed to him, hugging him tightly. Using Shell Cottage as a homebase the past 2 months had offered Hermione and Severus more opportunities to see each other that the tent had but their time was still very limited.

                  “This is it. Voldemort is on his way. Hogwarts is where we must make our final stand.”

                  “We always knew that would probably be the case. You’ll stay here and fight with us won’t you.” She searched his eyes.

                  “I can’t. There is still a bounty on my head. Besides, you’ll need intel and someone has to get to that fucking snake.” He could see the tears glistening in her eyes. “Hey,” he cupped her cheek, “this is almost over. You can punish me for the rest of our lives if you want.” She couldn’t help but laugh

                  “Trust me. I can guarantee I will.” He smiled and kissed her.”

                  “I can’t wait. I love you so much. Be careful.”

                  “You too. I love you, Severus.” They shared a final kiss before he apparated from the room.

****

                  When Nagini launched herself at Severus, Hermione had to cover her mouth to keep from screaming. She watched in horror as blood poured from his neck. When Severus crumpled to the floor, Voldemort stood over him.

                  “You betrayed me, Severus,” he hissed, “I should have known that you were weak. Come Nagini, let’s leave this disappointment to tie a traitor's death.”

                   As soon as Voldemort was gone, Hermione rushed into the small room followed by the boys who were a bit confused, both by Severus being attacked and by Hermione’s reaction.

                  “Severus…,” she pulled him into her lap, trying to get a grip on the large wound in in his neck, “Harry in my bag there is anti-venom and blood replenishing potions..” Harry started to dig for them, pulling out a blood replenishing potion, but a croak from Severus stopped him from grabbing anything else.

                  “Harry…,” Severus held out a bloody hand which Harry reluctantly took, “I’m so sorry,” he lifted his wand with his other hand and pulled out several silver tendrils of memories, “take them, please.” Harry nodded.

                  “Okay, but you have to take this,” he tipped the potion into Severus’ mouth. He tried to drink it but ended up coughing most of it and even more blood up. He weakly taped his wand over the now empty vial, depositing the memories inside. He dropped his wand beside him, “go. Save the world,” Severus rasped. Harry looked at Hermione sadly.

                  “Go to the headmasters office, he has a pensive. I’ll catch up. Ron go with him.”            

                  “I’m not…,” Hermione shot them both a look that would have frightened braver men. Harry laid his hand, which was now covered in blood, on Severus’ chest.

                  “Thank you,” Severus tried to smile.

                  “It won’t make sense right now but…I love you, my boy,” Harry furrowed his brow but Severus just patted his hand, “go now.” He shoved Harry away. Harry looked at him with a strange mixture of pride and anger before getting to his feet and running from the Shack, Ron hot on his heels. Finally alone, Hermione tried to reach for her bag but Severus stopped her.

                  “Stop…there is nothing you can do now.” Tears streamed down her face.

                  “Sev…you promised. You have to let me try.”

                  “I know and I’m sorry. Please…just hold me. I’m not afraid when you hold me.” She cradled him against her chest, kissing his head.

                  “You can’t leave me…,” she whispered.

                  “I never will. My soul belongs to your soul, remember,” he panted, his breath shallow, “I left letters in the top drawer of my desk,”

                  “I’ll get them.” He reached a shaky hand up and stroked her cheek.

                  “Thank you for being my wife.”

                  “Thank you for being my husband, for seeing me,” he smiled though his mouth was full of blood now. “I love you."

                  “I love you too, forever,” he let out a long breath before his eyes closed and his arm fell limp at his side. Hermione let out a bone-chilling scream as all her hopes and dreams died with him.

July 2004

Müllheim, Germany

                  It had been the longest 26 hours of Hermione’s life. She had tried not to be impatient and cranky but they were so close. She had bought his book at the café and had passed the time by reading, noting the similarities between herself and the story’s heroine. She and Severus’ mums had also made a plan, deciding that she would go see him first, as to not overwhelm him. It was going to be a big day for everyone.

                  The sun was beginning to set as she cradled his book in arms, walking down the now familiar cobblestoned path toward his shop. After their lunch at the café the day before, they had walked down the shop. A note on the door told them what the hours of the shop would be upon his return from Freiburg and she hoped that the shop would be empty so close to his closing time. Hermione teared up when she saw how much of his tastes were clearly in the décor of the shop. The black wood sign with silver letters and emerald accents was Severus exactly. Even from the window, she could tell how dark, yet cozy the shop was.

                  Unlike her previous visit, the sign on the door was flipped to open and she could see lights on inside. She didn’t see him but she could feel that he was nearby, a feeling she had not had in six years. It nearly overwhelmed her.

                  She took a deep breath and grasped the handle of the door. She pushed it open and stepped inside, a small bell ringing to signalled her entrance.

                  “Be right with you…,” she froze halfway between the door and the counter. She never thought she would hear that voice again. A moment later, he stepped through the small doorway behind the counter. He was dressed in black trousers and a black button up with the sleeves rolled up to his elbows. His long hair was tied back in a low ponytail with a black ribbon like the one around her wrist. He was there before her in the flesh, it didn’t seem possible.

                   A thud pulled her from her thoughts. Without realizing it, the book in her hands had fallen to the floor. He came around the counter quickly and went to retrieve the book, just as she knelt down to do the same. Their hands met and fireworks erupted under Hermione’s skin. He must have felt it too because he jerked his hand away in surprise, looking up at her. When his eyes met hers, her heart shattered. He didn’t know who she was. He reached out and picked up the book and they both stood.

                  “Here you are…,” he said softly. She took the book from him, careful not to touch him again.

                  “Thank you. I’m sorry, I’m so clumsy.” He smiled and her knees went weak.

                  “It’s okay…,” he looked over her, like puzzle he was trying to work out. She knew that look well, “um…sorry. Welcome to my shop. Are you here to browse or is there something specific you are looking for?

                  “Oh…no. I uh…I found your book at the café and it was…,” she was struggling not to cry, “it was really great. One of the waitresses said this was your shop so I just wanted to stop in and uh…meet you.” His smile grew and he glanced back at the book in her arms, realizing that it was, in fact, his.

                  “How kind. Please…,” he led her up to the counter, “I’m Sefton Prince,” he chuckled a bit nervous, “but I guess you know that,” he said more to himself, “most people just call me Sev though."

                  “Hermione…,” he looked at her curiously.

                  “Have we meet before? You seem very familiar to me.” Hope.

                  “We may have. Where are you from?” He leaned his hip against the counter.

                  Honestly,” he said with a hollow laugh, “I have no idea. Clearly I’m English but I was in an accident some years ago. I was brought to the hospital in Frankfurt as a John Doe. Spent 8 months in a coma and when I woke up, one of the few things I could remember was my name.”

                  “How terrible...,” her mind was spinning with what could have caused his memory loss,” I can’t imagine.” He shrugged.

                  “I’m alive and I’ve built a life. I suppose it could be worse.” She nodded.

                  “Of course,” she looked around, searching for something to say, “your shop is charming, very cozy. It reminds me of the sitting room my late husband and I shared,” the last part slipped out before she could stop herself. He raised an eyebrow.

                  “Late husband?” she nodded.

                  “Long story, but I really do love the shop.” He looked around with a content smile.

                  “Thank you. It has afforded me a nice living and given me time to write.”

                  “You certainly have a talent for it. I loved Helen. She is such a powerhouse woman.” It was easy to gush over his book, it was truly a masterpiece.

                  “Yes, she was a lot of fun to write. You know…I hope you don’t find this strange, but you are exactly what I pictured when I wrote her.” Another punch to her gut.

                  “I think that is a compliment. Thank you.” He smiled at her again and looked down to where her book was still cradled against her stomach.

                  “Would you like me to sign your copy?”

                  “Oh, yes please. That’s very kind,” she went to hand him the book and their fingers brush, fireworks erupting again. This time he did not pull away and when there eyes met, something flickered in his. She wasn’t sure if she imagined it but she felt like somewhere in him, he knew, or at least knew that he should know.

                  “Are you sure we haven’t met?” He asked, laying the book down on the counter.

                  “Perhaps…long ago.” He opened the book and picked up a pen from the counter.

                  “To my dear, Hermione,” he narrated as he wrote causing her heart to constrict,” thank you for being my Helen brought to life.” After he signed his name he closed the book and sliding it back across the counter to her, “so how long are you in town?”

                  “Only a few days. I’ve been on a driving holiday with…,” she had to stop and think about how to describe Minerva and Elenor, “some girlfriends. We’re teachers so we’ll have to be heading home soon to get ready for the new term.”

                  “A very noble profession. What do you teach?” This was an answer she was prepared for. Living partially in the muggle world required her to have the muggle equivalents for all magical subjects.

                  “Science. Mainly physics and chemistry.”

                  “I love chemistry or at least reading about it. Maybe it was part of my life before.” She simply nodded, not trust herself to speak. “Hermione, I hope that this isn’t too forward but could I take you to dinner tomorrow?” She was taken aback by the question. Every ounce of her body screamed to say yes, but a part of her brain held her back. This wasn’t her Severus anymore.

                  “I uh…,”

                  “I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to make you uncomfortable. I mean, we are strangers…” She couldn’t stop herself. She reached over and laid her hand on his that was resting on the counter.

                  “You didn’t,” she said gently, “it’s me. I just split up with someone a few months ago. He was the first person I had dated since I lost my husband. I guess I’m just a little rusty at being asked out,” she said with a chuckle that didn’t feel as forced as she thought it would.

                  “I understand…I’ve not been on a date since my accident. There is just something about you…” his eyes went wide at his own statement, “I’m sorry I must sound like the biggest weirdo.” She shook her head.

                  “No, it’s flattering. Dinner would be lovely.” He grinned…how she loved that grin.

                  “Okay. Where should I pick you up?”

                  “I’m just at the Inn next to the Book Garden.”

                  “Perfect. How about I meet you outside the Inn around 7 tomorrow?”

                  “Sounds good,” she heard the bell jingle and looked over at a couple coming in. They waved, clearly familiar with Severus. She squeezed his hand before releasing him, “I should let you get back to work.” He looked like he wanted to argue but stopped himself when one of the patrons, waved him over.

                  “Yes, unfortunately I’ve been away for a few days. Some of my regulars are in almost every day and they are not used to my being gone. I am looking forward to tomorrow though.”

                  “Me too. I’ll see you then.”

                  “See you then.” She gave him a small smile before picking up her book and heading for the door. As soon as she was out of sight, she took off running, tears flowing freely down her face.

Chapter Text

July 2004

Müllheim, Germany

                  When Hermione entered their room, Minerva and Elenor knew something wasn’t right. Instead of being elated and having Severus trailing after her, she was alone and her eyes were red, tears still streaming down her face.

                  “Hermione, dear, what happened? Where is Severus?” Minerva asked, jumping out of her chair. Hermione sniffled as she met the older woman’s eyes.

                  “He doesn’t remember…”

                  “What?” Elenor gasped.

                  “He doesn’t know who he is or about our world. He doesn’t know me.”

                  “I don’t understand,” Minerva stumbled back and fell back into her chair. Hermione sat on the end of the bed closest to her, her legs couldn’t hold her up anymore. She recounted her “reunion” with Severus and showed them the book he had signed.

                  “Well clearly there is something there,” Elenor offered, patting Hermione’s hand, “he knows you, he just doesn’t know that he does or why. That means he is in there somewhere.”

                  “How do we get him back?” Minerva asked.

                  “I don’t know. It’s hard without knowing what is causing the memory loss,” Elenor answered.

                  “He wants to go to dinner with me tomorrow. He sort of asked me out on a date.” Minerva laughed through her tears.

                  “Of course…his brain doesn’t remember but his heart and soul do. Albus always said you children were fated for each other.”

                  “I don’t think I should go, Minerva. It feels like I’m lying to him. This isn’t my husband.” Elenor shook her head.

                  “He asked you because somewhere in him he knows you and he knows what you mean to him. You haven’t seen him in six years, whether he remembered you or not, you have to get to know each other again. Here is your chance to fall in love all over again, without a war or a marriage law hanging over you,” Elenor sounded so optimistic, it was hard not to be infected by it.

****

                  Hermione stood in front of the floor length mirror in their room. She was dressed in a pair of sensible black heels, dark skinny jeans, and a flowy purple blouse. She had transfigured her backpack into a small, leather crossbody bag. Her chestnut hair fell in ringlets down her back.

                  “You look lovely, dear,” Minerva said from where she sat behind her.

                  “I don’t know why I’m so nervous. For gods sake, I’m married to the man.”

                  “Well you didn’t exactly get to date before you married him,” the older woman offered. Hermione hummed in agreement and looked at her left arm. The jagged, almost rectangular scar was long faded but it still made her self-conscious at times. She had decided years ago that she would not use a glamour on it. It was a testament to what she had survived and to Severus’ strength...to the strength of their love.  Minerva could see her wheels turning, “you have never hidden your scars before, don’t start now.” Hermione smiled back at her mother-in-law.

                  “Thank you,” she glanced at the clock, it was 20 to seven, “I should go down. Do you want to come down and see him?” Minerva took a deep breath before nodding, “Elenor?” They both looked over to the other women lounging in her bed.

                  “Of course!”

                  The three women made their way downstairs and out the front door. Hermione had to stifle a laugh as she spied Severus pacing just down from the Inn. He looked up a little startled to see her, a blush creeping up his neck.

                  “You caught me, I’m a bit early.” She smiled.

                  “It’s alright. Me too.” He suddenly realized that she wasn’t alone and turned his attention to the other women.

                  “Forgive me, I’m Sefton or Sev if you like,” he held out his hand to Minerva. She was  trying her best to control her face as she was falling apart inside. All she wanted was to hug her son but that simply wasn’t possible so she just took his hand.

                  “Minerva.” He smiled.

                  “Like the Roman goddess of wisdom and war. It’s nice to meet you,” he turned to Elenor.

                  “I’m Elenor,” she said taking his outstretched hand.

                  “Meaning shining light in the Greek. It’s a pleasure.”

                  “They’re the friends I was telling you about being on holiday with,” Hermione explained.

                  “Ah yes…I hope you don’t mind me stealing Hermione away for the evening.”

                  “Not at all, son,” Minerva said, “she deserves a night out with someone other than us old ladies.”

                  “Especially a handsome young man,” Elenor added with a smirk. Severus blushed again.

                  “Well, I will have her back to you at a reasonable hour,” he was ever the gentlemen. It reminded Hermione of the first few times she visited his chambers, back in the early days.

                  “Oh please, take your time,” Elenor linked her arm through Minerva’s and pulled her toward the café, “have fun children!” She called back over her should. Severus looked at Hermione and chuckled, extending his arm to her.

                  “Your friends seem like a lot of fun,” she laughed and tucked her hand in the crook of his elbow.

                  “You have no idea, but they are my family. We’ve been to hell and back together.”

                  “It’s good to have people you can rely on.” She caught the twinge of sadness in his voice. She filed that away for later.

                  “So, where are we headed?” He smiled over at her cheery tone.

                  “If you like French cuisine, I was thinking of this little restaurant I like on the other side of the river.”

                  “That sounds lovely. I’ve never really eaten a ton of French food but I’m always happy to try something new, especially if you can help me pick the good stuff.” He laughed.

                  “Not to worry. They also have a great wine selection. I have quite the affinity for French wines.”

                  “I have an affinity for cheap wine so in this again, I will put my faith in your expertise,” she said, with a laugh that mirrored his.

                  “You’re in good hands.” Her throat tightened a bit. She knew exactly what hands she was in and she wanted them on her in a way she could never explain to this stranger. They settled into a comfortable silence as they walked, simply enjoying the beautiful weather and peaceful company.

                  “Thank you for inviting me out,” she said as they walked across the river. He smiled down at her.

                  “Thank you for saying yes. I am aware that I must have come off very odd.”

                  “Not at all, it’s quite flattering actually.”

                  “I don’t mind saying, I was stuck by you. I know I keep saying it, but you are just so familiar to me. I swear we’ve met.” Her blush was luckily hidden by their arrival at the restaurant door.

                  “Perhaps in another life,” she said quietly as she released his arm so he could open the door for her. His hand against the small of her back sent flames licking up her spin. How she had missed those hands.

                  “Ah Monsieur Prince, Bonjour!”

                  “Bonjour, Henri!” Hermione tried to listen as the two men spoke but she had no idea what they were saying. Her French was beginner at best but he spoke it as if he had been speaking it all his life, which she knew he had. Elenor had begun teaching him French very young and it was a practice he kept up with most of his life. So he could remember that he spoke French but not that he was a wizard. Interesting.

                  They were seated at a table in a quiet corner, away from the makeshift dance floor.

                  “Is this okay? It’s my usual table. I tend to stay away from the dancing…I’ve never brought a guest with me.”

                  “It’s perfect,” she melted as he smiled.

                  He ordered a bottle of wine for them and helped her pick out a meal, ordering for both of them in French before settling all his attention back on her.

                  “So, Monsieur Prince,” she teased him, “how did you come to be in Müllheim? She had been curious as to how he ended up so far from Frankfurt with only a name.

                  “When I woke up in hospital, one of my few possessions was a bankcard and the business card for a solicitor here in Müllheim. Apparently, I had brought the shop and come to Germany to open it, or that’s what we assumed.” She furrowed her brow. He had clearly made a backup plan but why hadn’t he shared any of it with her?

                  “What kind of accident were you in? If I can ask…” she really wanted to try and figure out what exactly he remembered without being weird about it.

                  “I have no idea,” he answered with a slightly laugh, “the doctors said I appeared, almost out of thin air in Frankfurt,” he pulled the collar of his shirt aside to reveal a large, jagged scar. It was faded now, after years of healing but in Hermione’s mind she only saw his neck shredded open. After a moment, he covered his neck and spoke again, “I’m sorry, I know it’s not very sightly.”

                  “Uh…,” she was trying to pull her mind out of the memory of his ‘death,’ “oh no…I’m not bothered by scars,” she held out her left arm. Like his neck, the long uneven scar was long healed but still very present. Without thinking, his hand came across the table and he ran his fingertips along the edges of the scar. She sucked in a breath, his hands would never not affect her.

                  “I’m sorry, I should have asked first,” he went to pull away but she grasped his hand and laughed. He smiled, confused, “what?”

                  “The first date,” she used the term loosely, “I had with my husband, I did something similar to him. You remind me so much of him,” she second part slipped out before she could stop herself.

                  “He must have been a great man to have won your heart.” There was no hint of jealously in his voice.

                  “He was the best man I have ever known and that is saying something. He was so brave, and loyal to a fault.”

                  “Can I ask what happened to him?” He took a sip of win with his free hand, happy to continue to hold hers in his other.

                  “He always put everyone else ahead of himself, especially his family. He traded his life to save his nephew’s.” She tried to gage his reaction but he clearly had no memory of what she was saying.

                  “How noble. I can understand him though. That is the one thing the still bothers me after all these years. I wonder if I left any family behind…but,” he shrugged, “no has come looking for me so…” She squeezed his hand.

                  “Maybe they have or they want to, they just don’t know where to look.” He gave her a small smile.

                  “Perhaps your right.” Their waiter arrived with their meals a moment later. Looking over their plates in front of them, they dug in.

                  “So…Hermione,” he wiped his mouth with his napkin, “where do you teach?”

                  “It’s a boarding school in Scotland. Very exclusive,” she wiggled her eyebrows at him and giggled.

                  “My apologies, I did not realize I was in the presence of a VIP,” he teased back, causing her to snort.

                  “Hardly,” she looked at him and couldn’t help but smile. He caught her expression.

                  “What is it?” She shook her head.

                  “I can just tell you’re special.” He blushed and hid behind his wine glass.

                  “How can you tell that, you hardly know me?”

                  “I just know it. Call it intuition.” He grinned and raised his glass to her.

                  “Well then, here’s to special people…and new beginnings.” She tapped her glass to the side of his.

                  “To new beginnings.”

                  After their meal, Severus stood and offered her his hand.

                  “Would you care to dance?” Internally, she was trying to calm her racing heart, as the memory of her and Severus slow dancing together in front of the fireplace the night of their wedding played in her mind.

                  “I would love to,” she took his hand and let him lead her onto the dance floor. L’Amour Existe Encore began to play. Hermione didn’t know what the words meant but somehow they felt profound. He wrapped one arm around her waist while her free hand rested on his shoulder. They swayed together, so focused on each other and the places their bodies touched, that nothing else existed. Her could only see her and she could only see him. She took a small step into his embrace, her hand sliding across his shoulder blade, and rested her head on his chest. His heartbeat filled her ears, a sound that she had committed to memory but never thought she would hear again. He brought their joined hands to his chest and held her closer. He had so much he wanted to say, to ask, but he was afraid to break the spell around them. He couldn’t figure out how but in his heart, he knew this woman meant something to him. From the second their hands brushed in his shop, something in his heart said she was his. It was during this train of thought that he noticed the emerald ring on her left hand. He knew that ring…an image of Hermione in purple robes flashed through his mind. She was looking up at him with a bright teary smile, ‘you’re soul belongs to my soul, so even if we are apart, know that I am always with you.’

                  “Sev…,” she said gently, pulling him back to the present, the restaurant flooding his senses. A new song was just starting to play but he had gone completely still, “are you alright?” He looked down at her.

                  “You…you’re my wife…,” he said it so quietly that she thought she might have imagined it. She looked into his eyes and saw the smallest flash of recognition, but it was fleeting.

                  “I…maybe we should go somewhere and talk.”

Chapter Text

July 2004

Müllheim, Germany

                  They walked back to his shop hand in hand. The feel of her skin against his helped to ground him as the flashes of memories he couldn’t put into order, threatened to overwhelm him. Hermione clung to his hand; afraid she was going to lose him again. She didn’t know how to even begin to tell him the story of his life or of their life together. She also tried to keep the glimmer of hope from growing too big. Just because he had a flash of memory didn’t mean he was her husband again.

                  He led her to a side door which opened to a set of stairs.

                  “My flat is just above the shop,” he offered. They made their way upstairs and into his sitting room. It was scary how much it looked like his Hogwarts chambers. He turned on a few lamps and took off his blazer, tossing it over a chair, “please make yourself at home.” She took her bag off and laid it on the side table next to the sofa. Kicking off her heels, she sat on the sofa, knees curled under her. He unbuttoned his top 2 buttons and rolled up his sleeves. She hadn’t been looking at it the day before but now she could see his left arm, it was free of the dark mark, bearing only the scar from where he had tried to remove it. Instead of sitting beside her, he walked to a small table against the back wall. She couldn’t help but chuckle as he pulled out a bottle of whiskey and two tumblers.

                  “What’s funny?” A small, confused smile tugged at his lips.

                  “The first time we ever,” she considered her words, “hung out…you did the same thing.” He chuckled and filled poured the amber liquid into the glasses. He came over and sat beside her, holding out one of the glasses. “Thank you,” she said quietly taking it. She emptied the glass in a single gulp, grateful for the burning sensation. Gone was the girl who had first come to his chambers, here was a woman who had been to hell and back. He watched her sit the glass on the coffee table before emptying the contents of his own glass and sitting it next to hers.

                  They were both quiet for several minutes, both of their minds working overtime. Finally, he turned toward her, his knee pressing slightly against hers. He wasn’t sure why touching her calmed him so, but she didn’t seem to mind.

                  “Hermione…who am I?” He whispered the question, like he was afraid to ask it. She took his left hand in hers and ran her thumb over where his wedding ring should have sat.

                  “The love of my life,” she whispered back.

                  “I don’t understand…I have these flashes of memories, but I can’t make any sense of them. I’ve dreamt of you and a world that seems impossible for six years. I thought it was all in my head, something I made up, but here you are.”

                  “I don’t even know where to begin…”

                  “What about starting with my name?” He offered, it seemed like the most basic and safest place to start.

                  “Severus…Severus Snape. Sefton Prince was your grandfather’s name, and a pseudo name you used to write under sometimes.” She leaned over and opened her bag. She pulled out his wand.

                  “A wand... you are joking right?” he raised an eyebrow at her like she had gone insane.

                  “Your wand. You may not remember it, but it will remember you. Take it.” He looked skeptical but complied anyway. His hand shook as he reached for the black wood. As soon as he wrapped his fingers around the handle, a warm glow filled the room, and happy red sparks shot from the end causing him to jump. She couldn’t help but chuckle, “someone certainly missed you.”

                  “This is crazy. I’ve lost my mind,” he sat the wand down on the coffee table in front of him, eyeing it suspiciously. He had felt a power surge through him that both frightened and exhilarated him. It was something so strange, yet so familiar.

                  “No…Sev. You’ve lost your memories, not your mind.”

                  “So, what am I? A wizard?” She nodded.

                  “A very powerful one,” she decided the best thing to do was just to tell him the truth, “sweetie, you…almost died helping to defeat the darkest wizard in history.”

                  “Saving my nephew?” She nodded again, glad that she seemed to connect her words from dinner. 

                  “Harry was fated to save the world, and you watched over him every step of the way. When the Dark Lord found out you were a spy he tried to kill you.”

                  “Harry…,” green eyes and a mischievous grin flashed through his mind. Hermione rubbed his arm as she watched the frustration play out on his face.

                  “We’ll figure this out, Sev. Between your mums and I…” His head shot up. Shit.

                  “My mums?”

                  “Uh yeah…your biological mum and your adopted mum. They are both here in Germany. You met them today.”

                  “Your friends are my mother's?” She nodded. “What are you all doing here?”

                  “Looking for you,” he looked at her, eyes wide but she pressed on, “you said earlier that no one had come looking for. You’re right, but only because we didn’t know to come looking. We thought you were dead. As soon as we found out you were alive, we started searching for you.”

                  “Dead…,” he was trying to process her words, “and how did you find out I was alive?”

                  “I tried to get married,” she said with a dark laugh, “I settled for a man I could never truly love and when I tried to sign my marriage license…I couldn’t. In our world, marriages are sealed with magic. Our bond was too strong for you not to be alive.”

                  “Six years…I thought I was all alone.” She shook her head and brought his hand to her lips.

                  “No…never alone. You have so many people that love you.” The though made him feel warm but then his face fell.

                  “People I can’t remember…”

                  “We’ll figure it out. Whatever happened that night, we can find your memories. You’re not alone, Sev.” He looked over at her and she shrugged, “and, in the meantime, we can get to know each other again. We didn’t exactly get to date properly the first time,” she said with a slight chuckle. He raised an eyebrow.

                  “Why not?” She smiled and opened her arms to him.

                  “Come here…let me tell you a story.”

****

                  They had ended up falling asleep, wrapped in each other’s arms on Severus’ sofa somewhere in the wee hours of the morning. They had laughed and cried as she recounted how they fell in love and everything that they had been through. He had nearly had a heart attack when she told him about the scar on her arm, that he was actually the one that had given it to her. He had marveled at everything she had been survived. She had finally fallen asleep, half on top of him, wrapped securely in his arms. He had watched her for a long time, letting his fingers comb through her hair. He didn’t know her but in the quiet of the night, he knew she belonged in his arms. He finally allowed himself to rest, the first dreamless sleep he had had in years.

                  When he woke a few hours later, Hermione was still asleep, her breath hot against his neck. Clearly, she had not slept properly in a long time. He couldn’t help the pang of guilt that he was to blame for that. He considered untangling himself from her but couldn’t bring himself to do it. He was not ready for the night to end, though the coming sunlight would inevitably force them back into the reality of their situation. Instead, he simply held her tighter to him and relished in the comfort her touch brought.

                  When Hermione woke, she was confused by heat and firmness under her. On the rare occasion that she and Ron spent a night together, they never really cuddled. Cuddling wasn’t really his thing, and he was not the man she wanted to hold her. Severus. The previous night came racing back, smashing into her, causing her to gasp. Severus who has been watching her quietly, reacted quickly, holding her tighter so she didn’t roll off the sofa.

                  “Hermione?? Are you alright?” She looked up at him with wide eyes before relaxing. She wrapped her arms around him and buried her face in his neck. Her could feel her tears and didn’t know what else to do except run his hands up and down her back, “shhh…I’ve got you. You’re okay.” He panicked as his words only seemed to increase her tears, so he shut up and simply held her.

                  After a few minutes, she pulled back enough to be able to speak, “I thought it had all been a dream. I was afraid for a few minutes that I was back in London and…” she didn’t really care to talk about Ron to Severus. Luckily, he seemed to understand.

                  “You thought you were back with you ex?” She nodded.

                  “We rarely shared a bed but when we did…it just felt off. He wasn’t you.” He pressed a kiss to her temple. He wanted to tell her that he was there, and he wasn’t going anywhere but he stopped short of actually saying it. He didn’t want to say anything that might not be true. He knew deep in his soul that he loved this woman, but he didn’t know her, and he wasn’t sure he was prepared to give up the life he did know. Was it really possible to go back after so long?

                  “What do you say to some breakfast? I can make us some eggs and pancakes.” Hermione caught the slight avoidance but let it drop. Severus had had to absorb a lot the night before and she wasn’t ready for the conversation she knew they needed to have. For just a little while longer, she just wanted to be with him.

                  They untangled themselves and got off the sofa. Realizing she was still her clothes from the night before, Hermione pulled out her wand and transfigured them into something more comfortable. Severus watched in awe as her jeans and blouse transformed into a pair of grey sweatpants, a white vest and a matching zip-up jumper.

                  “Wow…can I do that?” She chuckled and nodded.

                  “Yes, you can do that. You can do a lot more than that too. You are one of the most powerful wizards in the world. I can show you a few spells, if you like. Maybe it will help jog some memories.” He doubted it but he didn’t want to spoil the bit of hope he could hear in her voice.

                  “That would be great,” he smiled before making his way into the kitchen. She followed.

                  “Is there anything I can do to help?” He shook his head.

                  “No, I’ve got it. I don’t mind the company though.” She beamed and hoped up onto one of the counters to sit and watch as he began gathering things from the fridge.

                  They talked as he cooked, sharing things about their lives over the last 6 years, getting to know their lives as they were not as they had been in the past. When their food was ready, he led her over to the small table.

                  “So, after we eat, I can show you a few spells and then I should get back to the girls.”

                  “Yes, I’m sure they are worried. I shouldn’t have kept you out all night.” She laughed.

                  “Sev, love, they knew we are married. Whatever the situation, my being out with you all night wouldn’t worry them.”

                  “Right…sorry.” She looked at him as he nervously took a bite of his eggs.

                  “You don’t have to apologize. I know this is as hard for you as it is me, even if it is different.” He looked up with a small, grateful smile.

                  “I know, logically, that you are my wife, and I know that I love you, something inside just knows it…but…” She took his hand.

                  “But you don’t know me.” He nodded and wrapped his fingered around her hand.

                  “I want to…but I don’t know how to go back in time, Hermione. I know for you, you’ve gotten me back but I’m not, who I was.” She squeezed his hand.

                  “I know…I said that to Minerva last night when I was getting ready. Look, why don’t we just get to know each other as we are now. I’ll have to head back to England in a couple weeks anyway. Then we can just see where we are.” He nodded and looked at her. Again, he wanted to reassure her that everything would be okay and no matter what, they were together, but he just couldn’t. The thought of going to England when he couldn’t remember anything terrified him. He wanted to be with her but he didn’t know if he could do it, if it meant going back to a world that was no longer his.

Chapter Text

August 2004

Müllheim, Germany

                  Hermione sat between Severus’ legs, her head resting back against his shoulder. His cheek rested against her head, as they both watched the river rush along. They had eaten a picnic lunch and decided to relax and enjoy the summer sun at the park on the riverbank.

                  For the past 3 weeks, they spent at least a few hours together nearly every day. A few days after finding him, Minerva and Elenor had returned to England. Minerva had to get ready to begin the new school term, and both she and Elenor needed time to process everything that had happened. They were both eager to begin researching how to restore Severus’ memories. Hermione, on the other hand, just wanted to spend as much time with Severus as she could. Getting to know each other again was a difficult process, more difficult that they had initial thought it would be. They were so drawn to each other that the tension was palpable, yet they were effectively strangers. When things got awkward, Hermione would fill the space by teaching him new spells. Severus, of course, took to magic like a duck to water. His brain had to relearn the words, but his body knew exactly what to do. All in all, things were going as well as could be expected despite the circumstances, but nothing could stay the same.

                  “So..,” Hermione started slowly, “I got an owl from Minerva last night,” her head rolled to the side to look at him.

                  “What did she say?”

                  “I have to go back to England. Term starts in a week, and I’ve got to ready for my first term of teaching.” His intake of breath made her nervous. She wanted him to come with her so badly, but she didn’t know how to ask or if he would even be willing to. She knew they has both been comfortable, too comfortable in their routine, and now it was time to go back to the real world.

                  “Right…when do you go?”

                  “On Friday,” she sat up so she could fill turn to look at him properly, “I know we haven’t really talked about it but, would you…come with me?” His wide eyes, and clear hesitation to give an answer, served as a kind of answer, “I see…”

                  “I…I don’t know, Hermione. I know that was my home, but I don’t know it now.”

                  “You have people there who love you.”

                  “People I don’t know. Let’s be honest, from what you’ve told me, most people would hate me or at least would be incredibly suspicious. I don’t know how to exist where people judge me as a man I can’t remember being.” She jumped up.

                  “We are going to restore your memories.” He softened and stood in front of her. He reached out and caressed her cheek.

                  “I know you believe that, and I love you your determination, but…what if you can’t? My mum’s aren’t any closer and after six years, I just don’t know that anything can be done. I have a life here, Hermione, a really good life.” She recoiled from his touch, eyes brimming with tears.

                  “So, you won’t come?” Her voice trembled.

                  “I’m not saying no… I just don’t see how this is going to work. I don’t want you to give up your life, but I’m not sure I’m prepared to give up mine either,” he could feel his heart crack at the pained expression on her face. Her loved her and it physically hurt to be the reason for any of her sorrow.

                  Hermione’s world spun and she found it hard to breath. She could tell her was hurting too but that only served to bring her rage to the surface. The longer the silence stretched between them the angrier she got. Her tears stopped and her face twisted in disgust.

                  “This was your plan to the whole time,” she spat. His brow furrowed.

                  “My plan?” His voice trembled with effort to stay steady, his own anger starting to seep through, “what exactly do you think I had planned, Hermione?”

                  “Six years ago, you disappeared, apparently with this huge backup plan that you failed to tell anyone about. You never had any real intention of staying after the war. You had a bit of fun and then you found a way to go on with a new life where you were free.” Fire burned in his black eyes. There was a time Hermione would have cowered at the sight, but that time was gone. She stared back defiantly.

                  “If that’s what you think of me…then why the hell are you still here?” His words were cold and hard, “If you think that I could do that to someone, then you aren’t missing anything by going home.”

                  “What else am I supposed to think?” She threw her arms open, “you left me and now you want me to go away again.”

                  “You aren’t supposed to think I used you as a cheap sex toy,” their raised voices were starting to attract attention. He took a deep breath and spoke quieter, “I don’t know why I didn’t tell you about whatever plan I had, but I know it wasn’t to escape some future with you. What you should think is that I, an imperfect man, made a plan to protect you but I messed up, and something I didn’t account for happened,” his mouth melted into a hard line as he weighed his next words, “I’m not going to fight with you, Hermione. You can think whatever you want, but this isn’t what I wanted. I love you; I don’t need my memories to know that, but I also know that sometimes you just can’t go back. Your life is in magical Britain and mine is in muggle Germany. I can’t give you the life you want or deserve. If we are being honest, I probably never could. These past few weeks have been the most amazing dream, but it’s time to wake up, “tears ran freely down his face, “I’m so sorry, for everything I’ve done to hurt you. I have nothing else to say except that I am sorry.”

                  “So am I….,” she hesitated a moment before taking off her wedding ring and holding it out to him, “I’ll have the magical divorce papers sent to you.” He opened his mouth to argue before closing it again and simply nodded. It was for the best…he had to let her go. He took her hand that held his mother’s ring. She gripped his hand, “was any of it real?” He pulled her to him, into a tight embrace. She curled into his chest, and he buried his face in her chestnut locks.

                  “Of course it was. I love you down to my very soul, but sometimes some obstacles are just too big overcome.” He could feel her tears against the skin of his neck, and he did nothing to hide his own. Somehow, they both knew it was the right thing, but that did little to lessen the pain.

                  After a few minutes, they pulled apart. He looked at the ring now in his hand and held it out to her.

                  “This belongs to you. It was given in love, and I would never dream about giving it to anyone else. If you truly don’t wish to keep it, please give it back to my mum.” She hesitated a moment before reluctantly taking the ring and putting back on her finger.

                  “I am sorry for what I said, I know you meant your vows and that you wanted the future we planned.”

                  “I have no doubt I did. Gods knows I still want you, but I just can’t live a life I only know through someone else’s eyes, so I must let you go. You have so many great things still to do, so go do them. Change the world,” his voice was breaking. She stepped forward and cupped his cheek.

                  “I will always love you, Severus.”

                  “And I will always love you, Hermione. No matter what happens, there is always someone in this world rooting for you.” She sniffled and took a step forward. She pressed her lips to his, snaking her arms around his neck. He gripped her hips, holding her close to him. For a moment, they both savored each other, memorizing everything they could. When their kiss broke, he pressed his forehead to hers, “be happy. That’s all I’ve ever wanted.” She nodded and pulled back, stepping out of his personal space.

                  “Goodbye, Sev.” And with that, she was gone.

Chapter Text

August 2004

                  Hermione arrived with a pop into her hotel room. Tears ran down her face as she snapped her fingers and her belongs began to arrange themselves into her case. With everything packed, she shrunk the case down and tucked it into her back pocket.

                  After checking out of the Inn, she found a private place and apparated to a magical neighborhood near the channel. In her mind, she knew she should have gotten a portkey or taken muggle transportation, and she knew apparating across the water was dangerous but she all she wanted was to be back in England.

                  She stumbled, exhausted, as she landed at the apparation point closest to her flat. She has successfully made it back, but she could have dropped where she stood. She took a few steps before leaning against the stone wall and taking a deep breath. After a few moments, she steeled herself and started toward her flat. When she reached the building, she looked up at the 3^rd floor window that she knew belonged to her spare room. It suddenly struck her that the last place she wanted to be was in her flat. For 6 years, it had been her refuge, the place where Severus lived on. It was a shrine to their life and the love they shared. She had entombed him there, but Severus was alive and well, he needed no tomb. Life had happened to them and now, finally, it was time to let him go.

                  In all her life, she had only felt truly at home in a few places and now all of them reminded her of Severus. The thought of going to Hogwarts made her stomach twist in unpleasant knots. She couldn’t face Minerva when she herself was still so raw. She also wasn’t ready to face any of her friends or their questions, least of all Harry.

                  She made up her mind and turned back to the street, hailing a taxi.

                  “Where to Miss?” She provided him with an address before relaxing back into the seat. When things his rock bottom there really was only one place to go.

****

                  As soon as Jean saw her daughter standing in the doorway, she knew something was terribly wrong.

                  “Mum…,” Hermione managed to choke out before collapsing into her mother’s arms from sheer exhaustion and emotional turmoil.

                  “Oh my goodness…,” Jean held her daughter close, “Andrew…come here!” She called over her shoulder. Hermione’s father came into the hall quickly, shocked to see his daughter, sobbing in her mother’s arms.

                  “What on earth…,” her parent’s helped Hermione to the sitting room, concern etched into their faces. After the war, when Hermione had brought them home and restored their memories, she had not told them the whole truth about what had happened. She told them about going on the run and the final battle with as few details as possible. She had told them about how Sefton had helped her to protect them, but she had never told them the truth about his real identity. She had told them that she and Sefton had been romantically involved but that he had been killed in the final battle. Now it seemed that she had no choice but to reveal everything and a part of her really wanted to.

                  On the sofa, Jean held her close as she continued to sob. Andrew sat on her other side, stroking her back gently. Neither had ever seen Hermione in such a state, but they also knew that there were many details of her life that she had kept hidden. They supposed it would all come out someday, and it appeared that that day had finally come.

                  After 10 minutes, Jean kissed her daughter’s temple and pushed her back just a bit.

                  “Hermione, darling, can you tell us what’s happened?” Hermione sniffled, her eyes read and puffy.

                  “I have so much I need to tell you…I hardly know where to begin.” Andrew held out a handkerchief, which Hermione gratefully accepted and wiped her face.

                  “Why don’t we start with the reason you cancelled your wedding and took off to Germany,” he offered gently. Hermione had called to tell them that the wedding was off and that she would be spending the summer in Germany. They had not spoken to them since, only sending postcards every few days so they didn’t worry.

                  She leaned back against the sofa and pushed out a shaky breath, “so…the reason I called off the wedding is because….I’m already married and I went to Germany to try and find my husband.” Jean gasped when the emerald ring suddenly glimmered on Hermione’s finger.

                  “I don’t understand….,” Jean said softly, eyes on the ring.

                  “The man you met that Christmas, Sefton, his real name is…Severus Snape.”

                  “Snape, as in your potions teacher?” Andrew asked with confusion and growing anger.

                  “Yes, he is my husband. Before you get angry, he didn’t force me or anything like that. It was to protect me from Voldemort.”

                  “But you loved him. That was clear enough when you were here.” Hermione nodded, tears beginning to form again.

                  “Yes, more than anything. I still love him.” She took a deep breath, “let me start at the beginning so it makes a bit more sense. The first night of my 6^th year….”

****

                  By the time Hermione finished recounting the whole story to her parents, she could barely keep her eyes open.

                  “Come on, my dear. Let’s get you to bed and we can talk more in the morning,” her mother said, talking to Hermione as if she were a child again. A part of her wanted to argue but she was too tired and too heartbroken. She simply nodded and leaned on her dad as he took her upstairs to their guest room. One thing Hermione was grateful for was that her parents had moved into a new house a few years after coming back from Australia. Their house was one place that truly held no memories of Severus. Her parents tucked her into bed, and she was asleep within minutes.

                  Downstairs, Jean put the kettle on and made 2 cups of tea. She and Andrew went out to the garden to enjoy the warm August sunset and talk over Hermione’s revelations.

                  “So…what do you think?” Jean asked, taking a sip of her tea. Andrew frowned.

                  “I think…our daughter has been in a lot of pain for a long time and felt like she had to keep it all locked away…even from us. I feel like we failed her. I know there are things about that world we can never understand but this…they used children to fight a war. They married our 17-year-old to her teacher, and we were unaware of any of it.” Jean reached over and took his hand. “My little girl was…,” tears sprung up in his eyes, “tortured by a psychopath and I had no idea.”

                  “Well, we know now and when things hit bottom she came to us. We always knew there was more to it than what she had told us.” He nodded and took a long drink of his tea to help steady him.

                  “Let’s let her sleep for now…only she can decide what happens next. We can talk about it in the morning.” Jean agreed and leaned into her husband’s side.

                  The next morning, Hermione woke with a start. She looked around frantically, taking in her surroundings until the memories of showing up at her parent’s came flooding back. She slowly up and used her wand to transfigure her clothes into something clean. She padded down the stairs and found her parent’s sipping tea and eating scones in the garden. Before she could say anything, her stomach growled, loudly announcing her presence.

                  “Ah good morning, darling.” Jean came over and kissed her cheek.

                  “Hi mum,” Hermione looked down embarrassed, “I’m sorry for just showing up like I did…” Jean pulled her daughter into her arms, silencing her.

                  “We are your parents and this is your home. You never have to apologize for coming to us.” Hermione struggled to keep fresh tears at bay. Jean kissed her head before releasing her,” let me get you a cup of tea and some breakfast. You must be famished.”

                  “Thanks mum.’

                  “Of course, darling girl. Go relax with dad, I’ll be just a moment.” Hermione nodded and when to sit out at the small table with her dad who watched her overtop of his newspaper.

                  “Morning dad.” He folded his paper and laid it aside.

                  “Good morning, love.  Did you sleep okay?”

                  “Better than I have in a while actually.”

                  “Good. You look a bit better.” She looked at her dad, unlike her, he looked like he had slept a wink.

                  “I’m sorry, dad. I know I should have told you both the truth, the whole truth, after I brought you back from Australia. I just couldn’t cope. I couldn’t stand to see anyone, especially you, look at me with pity.”

                  “I don’t pity you, Hermione. You are a strong and capable young woman. I am so proud of everything you did for both of our worlds, but I’m still your dad. I will always want to protect you, even when I knew that it’s not really possible.”

                  “You raised me to stand up for those who cannot stand up for themselves. That’s what I did. Trust me…I fared better than may.”

                  “I know and I wouldn’t have you any other way. As a parent thought, I hate it,” she chuckled, “it’s the absolute worst contradiction in the world, parenthood.” Hermione took his hand.

                  “I love you, dad.” Her smiled and squeezed her hand.

                  “I love you too, my brave girl.” Jean appeared a moment later, carrying tea and breakfast.

                  “Here we are.” Hermione gratefully accepted the food. She spent the rest of the day with her parents, talking about anything and everything except with war and Severus. But at dinner, her father finally asked the burning question.

                  “So…what will you do know?” She sighed.

                  “I took a job, and I intend to do it. It’s time to move on and giving up my dream job won’t help achieve that. I will go to Hogwarts tomorrow and tell Minerva what’s happened. That’s all I can do for now. I will get settled in and then go from there.”

                  “Sensible,” Jean said, “it’s too raw to make any rash decisions that you may come to regret. You know you are always welcome here though.”

                  “I know…thanks mum. I have a few months until my lease is up on the flat. I haven’t decided if I’ll keep it or not. I’m not ready to go through my things there yet though.

                  “Take your time…Rome wasn’t built in a day,” Andrew patted her hand. Hermione nodded and looked at her wedding ring. Everything was about to change.

Chapter Text

December 2004

Shrieking Shack

                  Hermione pulled her coat tighter around her as she stepped into the small broken-down shack. It was the first time she had been there since that fateful night all those years ago. The dried blood stain on the floor turned her stomach. She was glad she had finally convinced Minerva it was time to tear it down.

                  When Hermione had returned to Hogwarts and told Minerva what happened between her and Severus, the older witch was devastated but not exactly surprised. Elenor, who had taken a job the bookshop in Hogsmead, was also not surprised. Neither of the women was upset with Hermione and neither blamed Severus either. It was a difficult situation all the way around and life had to go on. So, Hermione moved into her new quarters and began her first term of teaching. The days were busy, so it was easy to forget but at night, all the pain came rushing back. She had decided to stop wearing her wedding ring on her finger. She had intended to give it back to Elenor like Severus had suggested but she found that she just could not part with it, so she instead wore it on a chain around her neck. She had also not gone to the ministry to begin the divorce proceedings. When she had said it to Severus that day, she had been angry, but she couldn’t bring herself too actually do it. It was too final. She would never love again, the way she loved him so what did it matter if they were married or not? She would never marry again either way.

                  When the older students began making their trek to Hogsmead, she heard the whispers of trying to sneak into the Shrieking Shack. This is what set her on her current path. A talk with Remus had explained the original purpose of the Shack but, thanks to Severus’ potion, that purpose no longer existed. Most students had been protected by the werewolf vaccine and those who hadn’t, had ben cured by Hermione’s reworking of the original potion. There was no need for a space for students to transform during the full moons. With Remus’ help, she convinced Minerva that keeping a place like that was doing more harm than good. Minerva, like herself, had always seen the Shrieking Shack as a kind of memorial to Severus but now it was time for it to go. She decided to visit the Shack one last time. While Severus did not die in that place, the life she might have had, the life they might have had together did. It was time to say goodbye.

                  She walked around the dingy room, looking at the broken furniture and tattered curtains. She couldn’t help but chuckle at the broken bed, remembering Severus being flung into it. Truly, she should have known that night that Severus was different than what he seemed. The was he protected them was not the way of a villain, but so many things had happened and so many more were still to come.

                  She walked over to the large blood stain on the floor, now covered in a layer of dust. She knelt and put her light close to the stain. A glimmer to the right caught her eye. She furrowed her brow and moved a little closer. She saw the glimmer again. She pushed a few pieces of dirty, broken wood out of the way and that’s when she saw it.

                  She fell to her knees and reached out, grasping the silver ring. It was covered in dust, dirt, and long-dried blood but there was no denying that this was Severus’ ring. Under it, she saw the remnants of the silver chair that he had worn it on, broken and shredded by the snake’s fangs. She cast a spell, instantly cleaning the tarnished metal. She rolled it between her thumb and forefinger, tears springing up in her eyes.

                  “Oh Sev…,”

                  Minerva was waiting for her at the end of the tunnel under the Whomping Willow.

                  “Are you sure about this?” Hermione nodded and Minerva raised her wand. Hermione could hear the Shack come down in the distance and another moment later, the tunnel collapsed in. It should have been a relief but instead, her mind raced as she held the ring in her palm so tight it would leave an indention in her skin.

                  “It was time, Minerva. He doesn’t need tomb.” Minerva nodded before looking at Hermione’s stiff posture and clinched fist.

                  “What is it?” Minerva had not necessarily disagreed with Hermione and Remus about destroying the Shack, but she had not understood why Hermione felt the need to go back there before they did. After a moment, when Hermione didn’t answer, Minerva tried again, “Hermione, dear, what’s wrong?”

                  “I found… his wedding ring,” she raised her hand and opened it, the ring in her palm.

                  Minerva gasped, “oh my god. Where did you get that?”

                  “I found it under a broken table. The chain must have been broken when Nagini attacked him. I thought maybe he had it somewhere, but I guess it’s been here this whole time.”

                  “Are you going to give it back to him?” Minerva asked, hoping that she would say yes. She understood where they both were coming from when Hermione left Germany, but in her heart, she didn’t believe that their story was finished. Hermione shrugged and closed her hand around the ring again.

                  “I don’t know. You know how we left things in Germany. I don’t know if dredging it up again would help either of us.” They fell into step as they started back up the hill to the castle.

                  “My dear, you can’t dredge up something that never went down. You haven’t filed for divorce, and I know you are still wearing your ring around your neck.” Hermione looked at her, mouth agape. She made sure that the ring was always tucked into her robes.” Minerva linked her arm through Hermione’s, “for what it’s worth, I think you should give it to him. It should be up to him, if he wants to keep it or not.”

                  “I’ll think about it. Anyway, I can’t go anywhere until we send the student’s home next week.”

                  “You could post it…that was there is no pressure on either of you.”

                  “Good point…” And that is how Hermione found herself in a nearby muggle village posting a small parcel bound for Germany.

****

                  A week later, Severus picked up his post as saw the small box. He knew by the handwriting where it had come from. Her shoved the box into his pocket and thanked the postman before heading out the door. Snow had come to southwest Germany, and he was anxious to get home to his fire.

                  The past few months without Hermione has been hard but he simply couldn’t see a way around their situation. It had been a dream to pick up where they left off but eventually, they had been forced to wake up. That didn’t mean he wasn’t miserable. 

                  Inside his flat, he sat the box on his coffee table before stripping off his coat and tending the fire. Finally, with the room warm, he sat on the sofa and picked up the small parcel. Tearing off the wrapping, he found a black velvet ring box and a note.

                  Sev,

                  First let me say that I am sorry. I was angry that day and I said many things I never should have said. Please believe me when I say that I understand why you could not come back with me. I had been so amazed to actually find you that I never gave a thought to how coming back to a world you’re a stranger in would feel. It was a dream, nothing more. As hard as it has been to be without you, knowing that you are alive and well, and living a life that makes you happy, helps to sustain me.

                  Minerva and I decided that it was time to demolish the Shrieking Shack, the place where we thought you had died. You don’t require a tomb, and that place was so full of ill memories for so many, it was time for it to go. Before the demolition, I did a final walk through, and I found this. I send it with no hope or ulterior motives. Simply that it was made for you, and I thought it was only right that you decide what happens to it.

                  Whatever happens, you will always have my friendship and my love.

                                                                                                            Happy Christmas,

                                                                                                                                                H.

                  Severus opened the velvet box to find a silver ring inside. He knew it was his wedding because she had described it to him. He couldn’t help but smile as he took it out of the box. As he read the engraving, a tear rolled down his face. They really had loved each other, and they always would. He just wished it were enough. He didn’t know what he intended to do with the ring but just wanted to have one memory of wearing it. He took a deep breath and slid the ring onto his left hand. His eyes flew open and then suddenly everything went black.

Chapter Text

December 2004

Hogwarts Castle

                  With the students away, all was quiet around Hogwarts. Christmas was only a few days away and Hermione still was trying to mentally prepare herself to join all her friends for the holiday. Her parents had offered to take her on a trip somewhere, but she knew she had to face the music at some point so what better time than Christmas. Harry had been happy to include her parents in their celebrations, so she was grateful to at least have them there. Her 2 worlds had been separated for far too long.

                  It was after dinner and Hermione really should have been in her quarters getting ready for bed, but she was trying to get some last-minute planning done for the new year. As she worked, a patronus sauntered in and jumped onto her desk. The tabby cat opened its mouth and Minerva’s voice emerged.

                  “Hermione, dear, we need to talk. Can you meet me in Severus’ old chambers please?” The patronus disappeared without waiting for a reply. Hermione furrowed her brow. It was odd for Minerva to ask to meet like this and certainly to meet there. That could only mean one thing, she was wanting to have the discussion Hermione had been dreading. It was time to clean out his chambers.

                  Hermione stood with a sigh. It would do no good to ignore the headmistress’ summons. That didn’t mean that she couldn’t prolong it by walking down rather than using the floo network. As she walked, every memory of her life in these rooms with Severus played out in her mind. Every kiss, every tough, every laugh, every tear. However short it had been, it had been the realist thing she had ever known.

                  As she approached, she was surprised to see light shining from under the door. She raised her hand to the handle, but the door swung open before she could grasp it. The light and warmth of the fire enveloped her immediately, and it was clear that great care had been taken to clean. It was almost like the first time she had ever come down here with him.

                  “Minerva?” She called when she didn’t see the older witch. Hermione stepped in further and the door swung shut behind her.

                  “Hello, my darling,” Hermione stopped in her tracks as Severus stepped out of their room. She looked at him but couldn’t believe her eyes. Her heart thundered in her ears, and she had trouble forming a coherent thought.

                  “Sev…what are you doing here?” He held up his hand which bore his wedding ring back in its rightful place.

                  “I remember…I remember everything. It was all here locked away in my ring.” Tears were already forming in her eyes.

                  “You remember?” He smiled and nodded, unable to speak through his own tears. After another moment of paralysis, it was like a fire was lit under Hermione. She sprung into action, taking off and slamming into him. He caught her in mid-air and kissed her hard. Their mouths and tongues fought for dominance as their hands clung to any part of the other, they could reach. She could not touch enough of him, be close enough of him. He picked he up and her legs instinctively wrapped around his waist. His hands slid up and down her back, coming to rest on her ass. He carried her to the closed thing he could process: his desk. With a swipe of his arm, everything that had been neatly placed crashed to the floor. He sat her on the edge of the desk and slid his hands all the way up her body until they cupped her face.

                  “I’m so sorry, my love. If I would have told you,,,, “ she silenced him with a kiss.

                  “I can and will punish you for the rest of our lives but right now. Kiss me.” He stepped forward between her knees and smashed his lips to hers. It was certainly not skillful kissing and they would both probably have bruises later from their sheer desperation to touch each other again, but it was worth it. Her hands worked quickly on the buttons of his shirt, opening it so she could get her hands on more of his skin. Seeing the scar on his neck made her brain slow for just a moment, she tugged him closer so she could run her hot tongue from his collarbone up just below his ear. That was the wound that nearly took him from her and now she had claimed it. She wanted to spend all day reacquainting their bodies but right in that moment she had a much more pressing need. She sunk her teeth gently into his neck, causing him groan, before she soothed the area with her tongue.

                  “I want you inside me,” she demanded causing his mouth to hang open. Gone was the girl from all those years ago, before him was a woman who had been to hell and back. She knew what she wanted and she was ready to take it.

                  “Are you sure?” She pushed him back enough so that she could slip off the desk. With a flick of her wrist, they were both naked. Apparently, she was sure. He took her by the hips and pulled her to him, his erection pressing into her belly. He kissed her deeply before smirking and turning her around so that his front was pressed to her back. His hands wrapped around her, tracing every bit of skin they could reach, while his mouth led an assault on her neck. She wrapped an arm behind him to hold on his neck as her other grasped one of his hands and slid it up to her breast. He rolled her taunt nipple between his fingers. Satisfied, he went to work on the other, while his now free hand slid down to circle her clit. There was nothing teasing about his actions, he was desperate to feel her come undone. He worked her hard and fast until she came all over his hand with a strangled cry. She turned her head and pulled him down for a kiss as his unrelenting fingers continued. Finally, after a moment, she pushed his hand away.

                  “Now, Severus…” she growled, grinding her ass on to his hard cock. He smirked again and bent her over the desk. He let his fingers slid through her slit.

                  “So ready….,” he said, sucking the fingers into his mouth. He positioned himself and without another word, pushed into her. She moaned his name as he filled her completely. It was deliciously uncomfortable to be so full, she couldn’t get enough.

                  Even in the haze of lust and 6 years of longing, Severus has enough self-control to pause and allow her to adjust to his size. He was not so secretly in need of a moment to compose himself lest he come undone like a fresh-faced schoolboy. He trailed open-mouthed kisses along her neck and shoulders, burying his nose in her long curls.

                  “Gods, I’ve missed you,” he breathed against her shoulder.

                  Turning her head to the side, she challenged him, “show me.” He smirked and slipped a hand under her thigh. He lifted it until her knee rested on the desk, before pulled out and immediately slamming back into her, even deeper.

                  “Oh fuck, “she braced hands on the desk as he set a relentless pace. The kisses on her back turned to bites, enough to sting but not to draw blood. His hands slipped from her hips up to her breasts while each thrust of his cock caused her clit to grind against the edge of the desk. Every movement, every sound, every breath by him severed only to drive her higher, she never wanted it to end. But she could feel the coil in in her belly tightening, ready to explode.

                  Behind her, Severus was fighting hard ot hold back his release, wanting to prolong this moment for as long as possible. He could feel her tightening around him, knowing she was getting close too. He ran his tongue up her neck to her ear.

                  “Cum for me, baby,” he growled before sinking his teeth into the skin where her neck and shoulder met. His voice alone was enough to push her over the edge but the way he claimed her with his mouth caused her eyes to roll back into her head. A few more deep thrusts and Severus spilled himself deep inside of her, movements becoming erratic. As she shuddered, Hermione’s body collapsed against the desk, her shaky arms unable to hold her weight anymore. With the little strength he had left, Severus lowered them both to the floor and summoned a blanket with the wave of his hand. He covered them before pulling her against his chest and wrapping his arms tightly around her.

                  They laid silently for several minutes, catching their breaths and just taking the moment in. Hermione listened to the sound of his steady heartbeat while Severus mindlessly drew shapes along her back with his fingertips.

                  “Are you alright?” He finally asked. With the haze clearing, he was afraid he had been too rough. She nodded, pressing her lips to his chest.

                  “I can’t believe you’re really here,” she whispered, afraid she was going to wake at any moment. He kissed her forehead.

                  “I’m home, Hermione…for good.” She looked up, eyes full of tears.

                  “You mean it? You’ll stay?”

                  “Of course, I’ll stay. I loved my life in Germany, but it was because I didn’t know I was missing anything. My life,” he leaned down enough to press a gentle kiss to her lips, “is right here in my arms. I wouldn’t give this up for anything. I love you so much.”

                  “I know we still have a lot to talk about, but I love you too, Severus. Whatever it takes, we will figure it out. I won’t let you go again.” He captured her lips and moved to cover her body with his own.

                  “What do you say we move this to our bed? I have 6 years to make up for?” She smirked.

                  “I don’t know…do you think you have the stamina after all these years?” she teased him. He laughed.

                  “Oh, I think I can manage,” she shrugged.

                  “Let’s see then.” They both descended into giggles as he stood and scoped her up into his arms.

Chapter Text

December 2004

                  The room was still fairly dark when Hermione woke, the dim rays of the mornings first light just starting to penetrate the lake's murky waters. Severus was sleeping soundly on his stomach, snoring lightly. She was curled around his back, half on top of him. She knew he had to be utterly exhausted. They had made love into the wee hours of the morning, both unable to get enough of the other. They only stopped when they were both too physically spent to continue. It obviously didn’t make up for the past 6 and half years but it was certainly a good start.

                  She looked over the smooth, pale skin of his deceptively muscular back. She pressed an open-mouthed kiss to his shoulder blade and started to extract herself from the tangle of their limbs. He began to stir and mumbled something urgently.

                  “Shhhh,” she kissed his skin again, “sleep. I’m right here,” she combed her fingers through his hair, calming him. He drifted back to sleep and after another moment, she crawled out of the bed. With a snap of her fingers, she summoned her panties from where they had been discarded in the sitting room. She slipped them on before opening his wardrobe to find his clothes hanging neatly. She couldn’t help but smile, he really was home, and it appeared that he intended to stay. She tugged a black button up off its hanger and slipped it on. The fabric stopped midthigh, more of a dress than a shirt, but it felt so right to wear his clothes again with him in the bed next to her and not as some kind of memorial.

                  Walking into the sitting room, she blushed at the mess on the floor around his desk. She had been so overcome with want of him she didn’t even register the destruction. With a wave of her hand the desk and everything that had been on it tied themselves. She looked at her hand, where her ring sat back in its proper place.

                  Severus’ head rested on her shoulder. They were both panting trying to regain their breaths when he reached up and picked up the ring from where it rested against her chest.

                  “You kept it…” It wasn’t a question.

                  “Of course, I was angry and hurt that day, but I could never get rid of your ring. Not even by giving it back to your mum. I wanted to keep wearing it but I didn’t know if I had the right.” He sat up, tugging her with him.

                  “Of course you have the right. Whatever happened…I gave you this because I loved you and I wanted you to know how much I cared. How much I still care…” She leaned over and kissed him.

                  “Will you put it back on me then, where it belongs?” He looked up with a genuine smile.

                  “Of course…,” without a word, the chain the ring hung out disappeared. He picked up her left hand and slid the ring back into place before bringing it to his mouth and kissing it, “I love you, Hermione.”

                  “I love you too,” she took his face in her hands and pulled him forward for a kiss and they were off to reclaim their lost time again.

                  Making sure that the sitting room was tidy again, she summoned a house elf.

                  “Good morning, professor!” Winky greeted her with a cheery smile.

                  “Good morning, Winky. How are you today?”

                  “Winky is very well. Professor Granger is very kind for asking. How can Winky help?”

                  “I know it’s early, but I wonder if Professor Snape and I might have some tea and scones, maybe a bit of fruit?” The elf lit up.

                  “Professor Snape has returned to Hogwarts? Winky is so glad to hear it. Professor Snape was always kind to Winky and the other elves. Winky would be pleased to bring breakfast to the professors.”

                  “Thank you.” Before Hermione could say anything else, the elf was gone. She chuckled. She knew Severus treated the elves kindly, but she didn’t know that any of them were so taken with him. She couldn’t stop the flutter in her chest. Severus, her Severus not the one he was forced to be in the world, was home. The war was over, and he was free…they were free.

                  A moment later, Winky returned with a pop. She carried a tray with two cups of tea, a plate of scones and piles of all kinds of forest berries.

                  “Where would Professor like this?”

                  “Just there on the coffee table will be fine. Thank you, Winky.”

                  “Professor Granger is very welcome. Please give Professor Snape Winky’s best wishes.”

                  “I will. I’m sure he will be pleased to see you when he is up and about.” If it was possible, the elf’s eyes grew even larger, and she appeared as if she was ready to cry.

                  “Professor Granger is very kind. Please call for Winky again if Winky can be of service.” With that, the elf was gone again. Hermione picked up the tray and carried it into the bedroom. She sat it on the trunk at the foot of the bed and crawled back under the sheets. She started at the base of his spin, kissing her way up Severus’ back, until she stopped just behind his ear.

                  “Mmmm this is a wake up I could get used to,” his voice was rough with sleep.

                  “I have breakfast,” she said kissing his neck. He rolled over so fast it caught her off guard and allowed him to pin her beneath him.

                  “Or I could have you for breakfast,” his hand ran up her bare thigh under his shirt. She giggled and squirmed.

                  “But you already had me for an 8-course dinner plus a midnight snack.” He smirked, clearly please with himself.

                  “And yet I’m still famished,” he leaned down and trailed kisses down her jaw.

                  “Mmmm as much as I would love to continue, we both need actual food…and we should talk.”  The mood shifted with her words, turning much more serious.

                  “You’re right…as usual,” not wanted him to misinterpret her want for conversation, she pulled him down to her for a long kiss.

                  “Good morning,” she whispered against his lips. He grinned.

                  “Good morning, my darling.” They adjusted themselves so they were sitting against the headboard but summoning the tray up to them. After a few moments, they each had a cup of tea and a plate full of scones, cream, and fruit.

                  “So…,” she sounded very serious but unsure. Finally, she sighed, “Sev, why didn’t you tell me you had a backup plan?” He took a sip of his tea before sitting it back on the tray.

                  “I was afraid that whoever won, I would have to flee. I wanted a safe place to go, where you could follow when the time was right. I was afraid that if we did win, I would probably be tried and executed. If we lost, Voldemort would have certainly had me killed. I wanted you and my mum to be able to honestly say you had no idea where I was. Something happened the night my father died. I didn’t realize how much of myself had become attached to my ring and I certainly didn’t anticipate that fucking snake.”

                  “So, you were trying to protect me?” He nodded.

                  “I was trying to protect us. Of course, I was going to tell you about the plan, but the final attack come so quickly. I wasn’t ready, loathed as I am to say it.”

                  “None of us were,” she agreed. They each contemplated a moment, lost in their own thoughts and memories of that time. “I’m sorry, Severus.” His eyes narrowed and he looked at her, confusion written across his face.

                  “What could you possibly have to be sorry for. This was my mistake.”

                  “I nearly married someone else. I…I gave up on you.” He waved his hand, and all the dishes returned to the tray and the tray landed back on the trunk.

                  “My darling, you didn’t know. You couldn’t possibly have known. No one would ever blame you for living…,” he stroked her cheek, “least of all me.” Tears filled her eyes.

                  “I never…ever stopped loving you. I just didn’t want to be alone for the rest of my life.”

                  “I know that Hermione. I’m not angry or hurt,” he smirked, “I might be a little jealous.” She couldn’t stop the laugh that rumbled through her chest. She curled into his chest. He wrapped his arms around her, and they slid further back down into the bed. He dropped a kiss on her forehead, “we’re okay.” She nodded.

                  “Yeah…we’re okay. Where do we go from here though?”

                  “Well…I’ll tell you what I would like. I would like to see my family and get to know them, and then I would like to date you.”

                  “We never did get to do that did we?” She said with a snort.

                  “No…and, when we’re ready, I want to marry you again. I want to give you the day of your dreams. And I want to recommit myself to you and the life we are building together.”

                  “I want all of that too. Do you want to stay at Hogwarts?”

                  “We will go and stay wherever you want. I would follow you anywhere. We’ve long enough to share this life. Your work is here so I’m here. I can do research, write, and brew. I’ve got plenty to keep me busy.” There was something unspoken there. He had a lot of people he needed to get to know again, and he needed to ask a lot of people for forgiveness.

                  “I’m supposed to go to Harry’s tomorrow for Christmas Eve with James. Everyone, including my parents, will be over Saturday for Christmas day.” He sucked in a breath.

                  “I won’t lie; I’m terrified of seeing him.  I don’t even know what to say to any of them, especially to Harry. What he must think of me.”

                  “Baby, he loves you. He wants to know you; all you have to do is let him.” He thought a moment before smiling down at her.

                  “So, Christmas with the family?”

                  “Sounds perfect!”

Chapter Text

                  Severus paced the sitting room, unable to calm his racing heart as he waited on Hermione to finish getting ready. Every nerve in Sev’s body was firing, telling him to flee. He tried his best to stamp it down but that didn’t stop his hands from shaking. When Hermione walked out of their room, she watched him pace, muttering quietly to himself. She hated seeing him in such a state but at the same time she was grateful he didn’t feel the need to hide his real feelings with her. She knew Harry would be over the moon to see Severus, but getting Sev to believe that was a whole other thing. Her big, strong warrior was, in some ways, still the scared little boy that had first met Lily as a child.

                  “Baby…,” she said gently, not wanting to startle him. He looked up from where he had been staring at his shoes, counting his steps in an attempt to refocus his mind. She came over and wrapped her arms around his neck, stilling him.

                  “Are you sure this is a good idea? I don’t know that I should show up…unannounced.” She combed her fingers through his black locks, her nails scraping gently along his scalp.

                  “My love, I wish you could believe how loved you are. Harry will be overjoyed to see you.” His Adams apple bobbed the way it always did when he was anxious. Finally, he nodded and squeezed her hip.

                  “I’m sorry I’m such a mess, sweetheart.” She pulled him down by the back of the neck for a kiss.

                  “You have nothing to be sorry for. I understand why you’re nervous, but I need you to trust me.”

                  “I do trust you…and I trust him,” he took a deep breath, “okay, let’s do this.” She smiled and kissed him again.

                  “I’ll give you a reward for being so brave when we get home,” she said with a wicked grin. He smirked and pulled her closer, so her body was flush against his.

                  “I’ll hold you to that,” his voice was husky as he leaned in to nip at her ear. It briefly crossed her mind to simply drag him back to their bed and have her way with him…again, but she cleared her head with a gentle shake.

                  “Family first, then we can get back to practicing making our own.” He was left slack jawed as she pecked his lips and pulled away. Sometimes he forgot just how different she was now. She has been through more at 25 than any person should in a lifetime but had still managed to keep her kind heart. Before she was out of reach, he grasped her hand and turned her back to him. She smiled at him, “what?” she asked not quite sure what to make of the look on his face.

                  “I just love you so much. I am utterly amazed by you every single day.” Her cheeks flushed, endearing him further. He took her face in his hands and kissed her breathless. When he pulled back, he grinned, “let’s go meet my nephew.” She took his hand, and they talked around the sofa and straight into the fireplace.

                  “Number 12 Grimmauld Place,” Hermione called out clearly before the green flames consumed them. When the flames cleared, they were in the sitting room of the Potter’s home. Severus’ mouth fell open as he stepped out of the fireplace. The room was bright and spacious. It was nothing like the dirty, dingy hole it had been the last time he was here. Clearly, Harry and Ginny had worked very hard to turn the decrepit old house into a proper family home.

                  Having heard the sound of the floo, Ginny came strolling in from the kitchen.

                  “Hey, Mione, would you…” she froze, mouth half open when she saw Severus standing at Hermione’s side, “Babe….come here,” she called quickly. Severus’ heart raced. On one hand, Ginny had not immediately thrown him out, but on the other she hadn’t said anything.

                  “Gin…are you…,” Harry came up to her side quickly, having heard the urgency in her voice, but stopped when he saw Severus, “holy shit.” Severus wanted the floor to swallow him, but he felt Hermione’s hand on his back, giving him a gentle nudge. He took a tentative step forward, not really sure how Harry was going to react.

                  “I’m sorry…,” he started slowly, “…I didn’t give you any warning. I’ve only just…,” Severus was cut off as Harry crossed the room in a few long strides and nearly tackled him in a bear hug. It stunned the older man for a moment before he wrapped his arms around his nephew’s back. Both men openly wept as the clung to each other, years of emotions spilling forward. Hermione came to Ginny’s side, wrapping her arms around her best friend. Tears rolled down their faces as they watched their husbands reunite, really meeting for the first time.

                  Severus kissed the top of Harry’s head before pushing back on his shoulders just enough to see his face.

                  “I can’t believe you’re really here, and you remember?” Severus nodded

                  “Yes, I remember. I’m sorry, dear boy, so very sorry.” Harry shook his head.

                  “Don’t apologize. You saved us so many times. I could never have done any of this without you….you said that it wouldn’t make sense to me then but that you loved me…,” it was a question, sort of.

                  “I loved you from the moment I first held you. I knew that I would give my life your yours. I couldn’t bring Lily back, but I could protect you.”

                  “You did, Uncle Sev.” Severus cupped the boy’s cheek before pulling him back into a hug, “I love you too,” Harry whispered into the embrace. Severus couldn’t stop another round of tears from falling as he laid his cheek against Harry’s head. He had waited so long for this moment, it was almost unreal that it was finally here. He would never be able to forgive himself for Lily’s death, but he felt like, after all these years, he could really start to make peace. Harry’s forgiveness coupled with Hermione’s belief in his decency gave him hope.

                  When they pulled apart, Harry wiped his eyes. Severus did too, before they chuckled at each other.

                  “I’ve waited a really long time for this moment,” Severus said softly, “I always hoped…but never dared dream.”

                  “I’m glad you’re here. Would you like to meet your great-nephew?” Severus beamed and nodded.

                  “I would love to.”

                  “I’ve dreamt about today, but even in my dreams, it was never like this,” Severus said still amazed by how perfect the day had been. He and Hermione were curled up in bed, her head resting on his chest and a leg thrown over his thigh.

                  “I told you he loved you. He’s been dreaming about this day for a long time too. And James…he is already so taken with you.”

                  “I never dared hope, Hermione. All I’ve ever wanted was a family.” She kissed his collarbone.

                  “You and Harry are alike in that. Now you both have one and you have each other.”

                  “Thank you,” he whispered.

                  “For what, my love?” He looked down and found her eyes.

                  “Until you, I never saw any future for myself. I wanted to get to know my nephew, but I was sure I would die in the fight to end the Dark Lord. Hell, I wanted to die. I felt like I deserved it. Why should I live, when my sister and so many others didn’t get the chance? You changed all of that. I know how we started, but I meant my vows. I didn’t want to die for Lily, I wanted to live for her and for you.” She smiled at him and moved to straddle his hips.

                  “You survived, Sev and we get to live this wonderful like together. I think Lily would be happy for us and I think she would be so incredibly proud of you…I know I am.” Tears filled Severus’ eyes, and he leaned forward to press his lips to hers.

                  “I love you, my darling.”

                  “And, I love you….” She stopped for a moment, seeming to think before looking back at him with a grin, “how would you feel about a summer wedding?” He snorted.

                  “As long as it’s you and me at the end of that aisle, I will marry you any time, any place.” As she leaned forward to kiss him, she heard the clock tower chime. It was Christmas.

                  “Happy Christmas, love,” she whispered against his lips.

                  “Happy Christmas.”

Chapter Text

It had been two and half years since Severus’ return to the wizarding world. His return was marked by surprise, intrigue, and a measure of distrust. Even though he had been cleared of all charges and his role as a spy had been revealed shortly after the end of the war, his apparent resurrection had raised a lot of eyebrows. This was quickly overshadowed by the news of his and Hermione’s relationship. Rather than wait on the rumor mill and gossip columns to begin their speculation, they decided to write their story, or at least an outlined version, and publish it on their own terms. There were many who were still disappointed that Hermione and Ron had not ended up together, their perfect fairytale ending for the ‘Golden Trio,’ There were others still who found their story romantic and admired the danger Severus put himself in to keep Hermione safe. Their clear love and devotion won over even the most closed minded. With Hermione, Harry, Minerva, and even the Weasley family’s very public support, it wasn’t long before Severus was fully accepted back into society.

Despite his mother’s insistence, Severus decided not to return to Hogwarts as a professor. Instead of teaching, Severus devoted himself to the research and development of new potion, particularly for medical use. With his successful creation of the werewolf vaccine and later cure for the condition, he had more contract offers than he could ever dream of fulfilling. Elenor, a skilled potions mistress herself, took over as his research assistant, continuing to make her home in Hogsmead. Severus and Hermione made their home at Hogwarts during the school term, expanding improving his old dungeon chambers. Wishing to also have a family home of their own, they purchased a small estate in the muggle area just outside of Inverness. Neither of them wanted to live full time in the magical community, nor did they want to stay around London. The young couple delighted in the space, fresh-air and peace of their highland home.

For the first time in their lives, Severus and Hermione settled into a normal, almost mundane existence. They were content to work and live and let their love flourish in a way they had been denied all those years ago.

In the summer of 2005, six months after Severus’ return from Germany, the couple decided it was time for the wedding they had always wanted. Despite the expectation of a large society wedding, they chose to have a simple ceremony in the back garden of the Granger’s home. It was a small affair with only friends and family, even though the Daily Prophet had named it the wedding of the year. Unlike their first wedding, they wanted to share this occasion in the light of day with the people they loved most. The day also served to finally mend old wounds. While Harry served as his uncle’s best man, Severus asked Remus to stand as a groomsman. Hermione shocked everyone, even Severus, when she extended an invitation to Draco and his wife. Even more surprising was when they accepted. The sun had shined beautifully as the couple reaffirmed their love and commitment to one another. It was everything Hermione had ever dreamed of.

With their wedding came another series of big decision for Severus. He decided that it was time to be rid of his abusive father’s home. Instead of simply selling it, he had it demolished. He didn’t nor did he want money from anything to do with Tobias Snape. After working with a local organization, he donated the land and enough money to build a new domestic violence shelter meant to serve muggles and wizard kind alike. Giving women and children a safe place to go to get away from abuse was the biggest fuck you he could think to give the memory of that monster. More than the house, Severus also decided he no longer wanted to bear the name of the man who had hated everything that he was. After serious deliberation, he went to the ministry and requested to change his name to Prince, Elenor’s family name. As much as he loved his parent’s, Elenor had raised him, and he wanted to honor that. He also had no interest in carry the weight of the legacy and expectations that came with either the Dumbledore or McGonagall name. Hermione has also decided not to change her name after their wedding, which Severus whole-heartedly supported. Her work in their world deserved to be recognized with her own name.

So, the Prince-Granger household settled into a peaceful and content life. The couple worked, and traveled, and tried to make the world a better place, a world that they would someday want to bring their own children into.

June 2007 – Hogwarts Hospital Wing

Severus stood by one of the large windows looking out over the grounds of Hogwarts. He thought about his life and everything that had happened in and around the castle; both good and bad. An unconscious smile graced his lips as he thought about the greatest thing that had happened to him in the castle. He looked over his shoulder to where Hermione slept peacefully in one of the beds. He couldn’t help the warmth that spread through his chest. Even after almost 8 years, just being close to her still made his heart flutter like a schoolboy’s. Every day, he thought he couldn’t possibly love her more, and every day he was proven wrong, none more than today.

He looked down at the bundle in his arms, his heart feeling as if it might burst. Little black eyes stared back at him in wonder, dim candlelight reflecting in them. They had a son. He had a son. It still didn’t seem possible.

When Hermione had told him she was pregnant, he had been over the moon. He was absolutely terrified, but he wanted a family with Hermione. He wanted to break the generational trauma from both his biological and adoptive fathers.

 “My little prince, you have no idea how loved you are already,” he whispered softly, not wanting to wake Hermione, “you have to many people that can’t wait to meet you.” Sefton was only a few hours old, and other than a midwife checking on mum and baby, the young family had been left alone. That wouldn’t last come morning, not that Severus was complaining, but for just one night, he wanted his family all to himself, “your mummy and I have been so excited for you to get her,” he paused a moment, and looked back at Hermione again. Satisfied that her eyes were still closed, he turned back to the window, “I’ll tell you a secret, I’m so scared. I have no idea how to be a dad. I’m so afraid that I’m going to hurt you and your mum, but I’m going to try my best.”

Behind him, Hermione opened her eyes, having woken a few minutes earlier. She watched and listened, feeling like an intruder to the moment between father and son, but unable to look away. She has tears in her eyes, listening to Severus. He had shared his fears with her throughout her pregnancy but hearing him make promises to their son was something she wasn’t exactly prepared for. As she watched, she was also struck by a sense of déjà vu. She had been in this moment before, but she couldn’t figure out how or why.

Unaware of his audience, Severus continued whispering to his son, “you and your mum are the most important things in the world to me. I made vows to her a long time ago and now I’ll make you a promise too. I will always be here for you. No matter what you’re going through, you will always have someone in your corner. Until your mum, I didn’t really have anyone. I was lost. I promise you, you will never have feel that way.” Tears continued to roll down Hermione’s face as he spoke, “you know you’re a luck little guy. I might be a complete screw up, but your mum is the most amazing woman in the world. I have no idea what she sees in me, but I’m so grateful for her. She gave me a future, and now she’s given me you. I love you so much, son,” his voice was thick with emotion. Her leaned down and pressed a kiss to Sefton’s tiny forehead.

When Severus turned back it struck Hermione why the scene felt so familiar. She had seen it before. All those years ago when she pictured Severus with their child, it was this exact moment. It hadn’t been a hypothetical scene or a dream; it had been their future.

“Hey,” he said softly with a smile, “what are you doing up? You should be resting,” he crossed the room, Sefton yawning in his arms. Hermione returned his smile and wiped her tears away quickly.

“Just missed my boys.”

“He was sleeping but he woke up and started to get a bit fussy. I didn’t want to wake you,” he carefully handed the baby to her.

“Come here,” once she had the Sefton positioned in her arm, she took Severus’ hand and tugged him down. With the wave of his hand, the bed grew wide enough for both of them. He laid back, pulling her into his arms and pressing a kiss to her temple.

“Thank you,” he whispered against her skin.

“For what, my love?”

“For seeing me. For trust me. For loving me.” She snuggled into him and nuzzled his neck.

“You saved me, and you saw me too. Love you was the easiest thing I’ve ever done. Our souls were always meant to lead us here.”

“I never knew I could be so happy. I have my mums, my nephew. I have you, and now I have him. I have a family…,” he started to choke up, “I’m not alone anymore.”

“Never.” She leaned back and pressed a soft kiss to his lips, “it was always you, Sev. From that first night, it was always you.”

“I love you, Hermione. I can’t wait to spend the rest of my life showing you just how much.”

“I love you too. Forever.” She curled into his side, her head resting on his chest while she held Sefton against her own. He held her tighter, content to just to have his little family in his arms.

After everything they had been through, they had the future they had always dreamed of…finally.