Unexpected Obsessions | By : jillianw Category: Harry Potter > General > General Views: 2626 -:- Recommendations : 0 -:- Currently Reading : 0 |
Disclaimer: I do not own Harry Potter, nor any of the characters from the books or movies. I do not make any money from the writing of this story. |
A/N: This story is written four years after the trio has graduated from Hogwarts. It should be about twenty or so chapters when finished, and should be updated at least three times weekly. I have been smart this time and wrote most of my story before posting. Please review and let me know what you think. It's survival depends on your reviews.
Pairing: SS/HG
Rating: NC-17.
Unexpected Obsessions
Chapter 1: Returning Home
Hermione Granger slowly made her way up the road from Hogsmeade to Hogwarts. She was elated to be returning to the only place she'd ever felt safe. It was on her ride home that she realized she truly didn't want to leave Hogwarts. It had been her home for seven years and she couldn't fathom the idea of not living there anymore. As fate would have it, four years later she would once again be able to call it her home.
Headmaster Dumbledore had written her about Madam Pince's retirement, and he felt she was the most qualified replacement. She had spent more time in the library than any other student and learned it's shelves very well. After graduation, she worked at Flourish and Blotts' and managed to get a part time job transcribing ancient tomes for the Ministry. She'd been promoted to manager at Flourish and Blotts' a week before she received the offer however, she didn't need any time to think about her answer. She'd felt out of place since she left Hogwarts, and she hoped that by returning there, she'd feel at home again. She quickly accepted the position, and a week later she found herself right back where she belonged.
The leisurely stroll reminded her of the letters she'd written to her former professors. One, in particular. Her thank you letter to Severus Snape. He had been the hardest on her. Always criticizing her work, making vicious comments about her appearance, and always calling her an insufferable know it all. Only in the last month before she graduated did she finally realize what he was doing to her. He made her strong. He made her realize that she needed to make subtle changes in her life to find the true Hermione. He brought out the worst in her, but as she grew older, he brought out the best in her. He taught her things that no books nor courses covered. He taught her how to live, how to fight for what you believe in, and unbeknownst to him, he taught her the meaning of unconditional love. She thought at first it was a school girl crush, but as the years went on and she never settled down, she realized it was much more.
Ron and Harry had both gotten married after the destruction of Voldemort. Ron married Lavender after a very short courtship which resulted in a little red headed boy named Demitri. They had a rocky beginning, but after a few months, they were more in love than anyone she knew. Of course everyone knew Harry would marry Ginny, and they were right. They had a lovely wedding at Godric's Hollow after Harry rebuilt the estate. Because of the money left by his parents, they were very rich. Although, you'd never know it. Harry never bragged about how much money he had, unlike the Malfoy's. He worked part time testing prototypes for numerous broom developers, and Ginny wrote a weekly column in the Daily Prophet. They currently were expecting their first child, and Harry hadn't ever been happier in his life. And then, it was Hermione. Alone for the first time in a really long time.
She dated Seamus Finnigan for a while, but he was always too much into Quidditch. After him, she had a few dates but always ended up wondering what it would be like to be on a date with Severus. Or what it would be like to be held by Severus. Or what Severus was doing on his summer vacations. All her thoughts came back to one man, Severus Snape. She felt she had to tell him even if the feelings weren't mutual. It was the only way she would truly be able to move on. Either with him, or without. Her return to Hogwarts gave her the opportunity she had been seeking for a long time. She'd often thought about inviting him to tea, or to dinner, but never did because of fear he would reject her.
She had memorized his reply to her letter word for word, and still could recite it to this day. "Damn memory." She thought to herself.
Dear Ms. Granger,
I'm writing you to say thank you for the kind words in your letter. No student, nor anyone for that matter has ever said anything half as nice about me. I'm glad that my harsh words, and often misunderstood teaching techniques have assisted you in becoming a truly remarkable young lady. Alas, you are a grown witch now aren't you? You are by far the best student I've ever had the pleasure of teaching. I must say that if given the opportunity, you could become an excellent potions master, given you master the technique of quieting your tongue. I have discovered that you aren't trying to be a know-it-all as I first had presumed. You are obsessed with learning, and that it a characteristic far too many students are lacking.
I hope that this letter finds you well, and that you are successful in whichever path your life chooses for you. I've never written such a letter before, nor such kind words. Consider yourself very fortunate. I doubt it ever will happen again. If not for being completely unprepared for your letter, I doubt this reply would be so nice. I had no idea I could write pleasant things, and am rather shocked that I can.
If you ever need a recommendation, don't hesitate to owl. I personally know that no former student has a letter of recommendation from myself. Take care.
Respectfully yours,
Severus Snape
It was truly a shock to her to receive such a reply. She never told anyone though. It was something special that she didn't want to share. She was very excited to see the school and her old professors. It would be strange calling them by their names, but she would adjust. She was greeted at the Entrance Hall by Minerva, and was led to her quarters. They were behind a portrait of Nicolas Flamel in the Library. She was astonished at the size of them. She had only lived in a one bedroom flat in Hogsmeade since graduating, and found this very satisfactory.
"Hermione, it is a great pleasure to have you back here at Hogwarts. I have missed you. Not one student has been half as bright as you since you left." Hermione blushed a bit, as Minerva showed her where her bedchamber was and the bathroom. In all, she had four rooms. It was very nicely furnished, and seemed very homey. Hermione wondered how she ever lived in that small flat after being here in her rooms. They put down her things, and made their way to the Great Hall. It was nearly dinner time, and they were expected to eat with the rest of the faculty.
So far, she hadn't seen a trace of Severus, but that wasn't uncommon. He was never found if wer were looking for him. But if you didn't want to find him, he'd be the first person you ran into. She took her place at the table and noticed that he would be sitting right next to her. Well, she assumed since he was the only one not there and there was only one place left. Albus introduced her to the staff, but only three professors were new. Madam Hooch was replaced by a witch name Madam Andrea Baldwin. Professor Binns was now replaced by a young wizard named Professor Gregory Linderham. And the usually new Defense Against the Dark Arts professor was a witch named Catherine Vanderhoose. They all greeted her cordially, and she took her seat.
"I trust you had a pleasant trip Hermione?" Albus asked her.
"Very much so sir. I enjoyed the walk from Hogsmeade. It was very refreshing. However, it did bring up long forgotten memories of my days here as a student."
"All pleasant I hope. And your rooms are satisfactory?"
"Oh yes. They're very nice. Thank you." They began to eat their dinner, and she was disappointed as she realized that Severus must be spending his summer holiday away from Hogwarts. She felt a gentle breeze of air, and looked up just as Severus took his seat. He smelled of a muggle cologne. Hermione recognized the familiar scent, but couldn't remember what it was called. It was rather nice.
"Ms. Granger I presume, or has it changed over the past four years?" His voice was silky smooth as she remembered, and her heart ached as she realized that it had been four years since she'd heard it.
"It is still Granger. I haven't married." She wondered if that was too much information, and then quickly remembered her resolution for this year.
"Welcome back."
"Thank you Severus." This caught him off guard for a moment, and he quickly remembered she was a colleague now. Not his student. Severus leaned over her to take a roll, and she breathed him in again. Just being this close to him was maddening. His smell was intoxicating.
"Excuse me Ms. Granger." He turned his face to hers as he spoke, and she felt his breath breeze across her face.
"You can call me Hermione. After all, we are on the same side of the desk now aren't we?"
"True. As you wish, Hermione." She thought she saw a twitch at his lip, but he quickly resumed his usual stone cold gaze. She chatted with the professors, and he quietly kept to himself. She didn't know that he was admiring her. Breathing her scent, memorizing her hands as she ate. He'd missed her terribly. No one interrupted his classes like she did. He didn't have anyone to yell at for helping all the Longbottom's that followed their class. Catching students out past curfew wasn't as fun as it once had been when she was still a student here with Potter and Weasley. He was ecstatic when Dumbledore announced he was considering her for a replacement for Madam Pince. However, he didn't act at all like he approved of her. He insisted she was too young. That she hadn't gained enough knowledge yet to properly portray a librarian. Even, he himself couldn't believe that. He knew she'd spent more time reading while a student then her whole house combined. If anyone knew that library, it was Hermione Granger.
She hadn't changed much since she left. Her hair was much longer, however her face was still the same. The perfect white teeth behind beautiful sensual lips, the brown eyes that always reminded him of his favorite confection- chocolate frogs. Her sumptuous chest and luxurious backside made him squirm in his seat. His pants were suddenly tight, constrictive. It had been far too long since he'd felt this way. Since he could actually say he felt lust for someone. Her arm gently brushed against his as she reached for her mug of juice, and they both felt a bit of fire travel through their bodies. She looked deep into his eyes, and smiled, resisting the urge to apologize. She didn't want to seem too eager, but didn't want to act as if she despised him either. One by one the other's left, until it was just Hermione, Severus, and Albus.
"I do hope you will be happy here Hermione." Albus said with a twinkle in his eye.
"I know I will sir."
"Please, call me Albus. You are no longer a student here."
"Thank you. It will be hard at first calling you all by your first names."
"I trust it shouldn't be much of a challenge for you." Severus joined in the conversation. "I must say that coming at the end of term should benefit you nicely. You should find ample time to organize the new purchases for the library."
"Am I to understand that Madam Pince placed an order before she retired?"
"Of course dear. She wouldn't dream of leaving you completely unprepared." Said Albus, as he finished his dessert. "They should be arriving by the end of the week. If there are any more books or materials you would like, don't hesitate to put them on the school's account."
"Thank you Albus." She blushed as being so informal with her former Headmaster.
"I am afraid I shall have to leave you two. Hagrid insists that I come and see the newest recruits for Care of Magical Creatures. However, I doubt I will be as happy as he is."
"Good evening Albus." They both said in unison.
"A very good evening indeed. Perhaps you would like to walk around the lake in a bit, Hermione?"
"I'd like that very much Albus. We could discuss Harry a bit."
"Oh, I will be far too busy this evening. However, I know Severus doesn't have anything scheduled this evening. He can fill you in on the changes made since you left here." Hermione didn't notice the scowl that crossed his face.
Severus knew Albus was baiting him, and like always, he'd fall for it. "I don't want to impose on you. We can wait for another time." She really wanted to say "Yes, and then perhaps a nice snog afterwards," but she didn't.
"You will not be imposing Hermione. I really do have nothing planned for this evening. I will be more than happy to tell you about the changes here. Although one thing is still apparent- Albus feels compelled to meddle in other people's business. That will never change."
Albus ignored his remark, being quite used to it after all these years. "Splendid. I shall see the both of you at breakfast tomorrow. Nine a.m. sharp." With that said, Albus made his exit, leaving her alone with Severus for the first time in many years. There was an uncomfortable silence between them, and Hermione wondered what he was thinking.
"Do you need to get anything from your quarters before we go?" He asked, knowing it was far too hot for a cloak, or even robes. The early June sun was unbearable as usual. No professor wore robes on days like these. They were by far the hottest of the entire summer.
"No, do you?" He shook his head, and stood, pulling her chair out from the table for her. She was surprised at his courteous behavior, but quickly realized she would expect nothing less from a man such as Severus. They made their way out the front entrance, and out to the lake. There was a beautiful sunset on the horizon, and Hermione remembered it was one of the things she missed most about Hogwarts. The stunning sunrises and sunsets. There wasn't a place on earth that was more beautiful than here.
"I am sorry if you had other plans." She said after a long silence.
"I didn't as usual. I was only going to prepare some potions for Poppy. But they can wait. I have all summer to restock her stores for her."
"I could help you if you wish. It has been a while since I prepared any potions, but I doubt I have forgotten everything you've taught me." He smiled at her for the first time in her life. He had a pleasant smile, his teeth weren't yellow like they had been while she was a student here. "Forgive me for asking, but your teeth look completely different than they used to."
"Ah, yes. I use a concealment charm on them. I think it adds to my character. You cannot very well be a slimy git with these pearly whites I was so fortunate to inherit." She laughed at him, and he smiled again. She knew she'd never tire of seeing him smile. It took years off his face. He looked so young, almost as young as she was. They made their way out to the dock and she couldn't resist the urge to remove her sandals and dangle her feet in the water. She sat down on the edge, and he joined her.
"Hermione, what are you doing?" He hoped she wasn't going for a swim. Not that he wouldn't love to see her wet in that sundress she had on, but he didn't think he could quite withstand the site. Looking and not touching never did agree with him much.
"Oh, I just want to get my feet wet. So, what changes are there." She could see his flushed face and knew she was getting to him.
"Well for starters, Hogsmeade visits include Sundays now as well. And we now allow second years to attend. The Forbidden Forest is still forbidden, and there is a start of the term dance, on Friday following the Welcoming Feast. Leave it to Albus and Minerva to come up with yet another opportunity to embarrass the students. As if they aren't nervous enough."
Hermione really enjoyed this lighter side to Severus. He was almost humorous. Almost. She dangled her feet in the water a bit longer, until the squid realized he wasn't alone. She pulled her feet out, and rested her knees against her chest. "What are you thinking about Hermione?" She'd trailed off into the unknown, and Severus wanted to know what got her attention.
"Oh, I'm just wondering what you would say if I told you I wished that we could have become friends before I left Hogwarts. Then maybe, I wouldn't have spent the past four years alone." He was taken aback by her honesty, and thought she deserved an honest reply "W "Well, I doubt you would have wanted me as a friend back then. I was a very bitter man. I didn't have friends, and still don't to be honest with you. I have colleagues and acquaintances. No friends."
"What about Albus? He seems to care for you so deeply.
"
"Ah, well, he is more of a father than a friend. Always has been."
"Well, I vow that by the end of two weeks you will consider me your friend." He was elated she was so determined to make him her friend. Perhaps they both have been very lonely these past few years. "You of all people should know how determined I can be."
"Yes, there's little doubt you aren't determined." She reached over and embraced his hand in hers. He froze. She had willingly touched him. He couldn't believe it. No one ever willingly touched him. Not ever. “What are you doing Hermione?"
"I'm just seeing how much larger your hands are than mine. That's all Severus." She wasn't though. She wanted to see if that spark returned. Her hypothesis was correct, it returned, and was stronger than before.
"I think we should be getting back now. It's nearly nine and I have a busy day ahead of me. If you still are offering your services, I think that I could use them. They are basic potions, nothing challenging."
"Yes, I will. I must unpack in the morning, but I can be there after breakfast. I still am in the habit of being an early riser."
"As we all are around here. After breakfast will be fine." He helped her up, and led her back to the castle. Inside the entrance they said their goodnights, and Hermione commented on what a lovely companion he had been. They agreed to meet after breakfast, and she was off to the library. She turned around to see him already down the corridor to the dungeons.
She'd been in her room, reveling in the memories of the evening, when she heard a faint knock on her door. She was dressed in a revealing cotton nightgown, but didn't care. She was too tired to care. Whoever decided to disturb her at this hour was in for a shock. She opened her door to find Severus standing there, in his dressing gown, holding a single orchid.
"Severus, I wasn't expecting to see you until morning." She was breathtaking. He tried hard to remember what he'd came for. "Professor Sprout gave me this orchid this morning, and I wanted to give it to you. Consider it thanks for the letter you wrote to me."
"You have already thanked me for the letter."
"Well, you deserve a proper thank you. Not just a reply in a letter. Here, take this. You must put it in water immediately or the anti-wilting charm she placed on it will expire."
“Come in Severus. We can discuss your gratitude a bit more if you like. And why I felt compelled to write you the letter to begin with."
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