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The Headmaster's Wife	By : Mrs_HH Category: Harry Potter > Het - Male/Female > Snape/Hermione Views: 96938 -:- Recommendations : 1 -:- Currently Reading : 23
Disclaimer: I do not own Harry Potter, nor the characters from it. I do not make any money from the writing of this story.

Chapter List
- 15
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- 17
Well I declare

There wasn't much in this world capable of rendering Hermione Granger speechless but what she saw before her was one of them. She was stood in the middle of the largest of the Prince family libraries and all she could do was look around her, mouth agape, trying to take it all in. No words, no utterances could find their way past her lips.

It was the tallest room and centre point of Severus' mansion at 3 storeys high. The bottom half of the walls were oak panelled and the top half was a rich dark green. Half of the room was set out more like a reading room with space for both study and relaxation. For such a large space it could only be described as cosy. Two huge sash windows and a set of french doors in between overlooked the terrace leading to the rose garden. Each of these were dressed with dark green velvet curtains with gold ties. The floor, as it was throughout the house was oak and covered with a large plush rug which matched the curtains and wall colour. Beautiful leather topped desks with reading lamps, quills and parchment stood ready for action. Large leather wing back chairs, a sofa and dark oak occasional tables sat around a magnificent marble fireplace set between two three storey high book shelves full of leather bound first editions of both muggle and wizarding literature. Above the fireplace was a huge mirror which nearly filled the entire chimney breast and reflected the other half of the library tantalisingly.

The other part of the library was separated into three floors all accessible from two spiral stair cases. Each floor had two single sided and 8 double sided mahogany book shelves which extended to the far wall. Each aisle was carpeted to match the rug and Hermione also noted curiously that the lighting was electric in this section. But this was the reference section. This was the study section. Severus wasn't going to let naked flames near this precious lot.

Hermione handed Severus Yet Unnamed Cat, as Severus kept referring to him, and walked almost trance like towards this part of the library. She gingerly and reverently extended her hand so she could gently caress the spines of the books before her. There were tomes of ancient magic, dark magic, wizarding history, magical theory and there was even a restricted section full of ancient dark texts that exuded powerful magical traces. It was as if they were clamouring for her touch and were trying to seduce her. "Oh to be seduced by a book" she thought but didn't realise she was projecting.

"My we are feeling kinky today aren't we?" Severus thought back to her as he sat perched on the arm of one the chairs stroking Yet Unnamed Cat just above the eyes and smiled as he heard her giggle.

The texts on potions were the most extensive she had ever seen. There was a mix of the ancient and the modern, dark and obscure, light and popular. She was transfixed as was Severus. She had no idea that the way she lightly fingered the spines of the books as she licked or bit her lip or stood there with her moist lips slightly parted was turning him on. He loved Hermione and he loved books...this was bibliophile porn at its finest. He never fancied Madame Pince...she was a shrivelled shrew but the thought of Hermione dressing up as a sexy librarian, hair up, glasses, tight white blouse, short skirt, stockings...obviously...and heels kneeling in front of him in the aisle before he ended up taking her against the book shelf was...'that's one for later Sev...down boy!' he told himself.

He looked Yet Unnamed Cat in the eye and whispered "I'm just going to talk to your mistress. I'm not hurting her so I would appreciate it if I can remain scratch free. Understand?" and with that Yet Unnamed Cat licked Severus' nose. Severus chuckled "I'll take that to mean we have an accord" and another lick was proffered.

Hermione was so engrossed in the books she didn't realise Severus was now stood behind her. He had his hands behind his back and leaning forward whispered in her ear "Am I going to lose you?"

"Of course not but it's amazing Sev," she said breathlessly.

Severus gathered her hair up at the back before planting soft kisses on the back of her neck. "I'm glad you approve. Anything in this library is yours".

Hermione turned around and wrapped her arms around his neck "Are you mine then?" she asked quietly.

Severus arched an eyebrow "I believe I am yours more than ever,” and covered her lips with his as he gently pushed her up against the book shelf. "Do you have any idea what I want to do to you right now?" he growled.

Hermione exposed her neck and throat to him. "I should imagine it involves the violent loss of my knickers and..."

Severus chuckled as he kissed her again before running his fingers through her hair and looking at her. "Quite right but I will restrain myself in this instance as I've already played today and I'm saving myself until later."

"You are a tease," Hermione giggled as she stood on tip toe to kiss him.

"I most certainly am," Severus said sincerely before taking her hand and asking, "Now if I can drag you away from here for a couple of hours would you like the tour or shall we go and see Grandmother?"

"Oh I have to meet your Grandmother!" Hermione said playfully her eyes twinkling.

Severus sighed. "I somehow thought you'd say that. Promise me you won't gang up on me"

"I don't think anyone could ever gang up on you sweetheart," Hermione said kissing his cheek.

"If only that was true," Severus muttered as he took her hand and led her from the library. Yet unnamed Cat jumped down from the chair and followed behind watching his mistress and master carefully...yes he had decided to adopt Severus too.

To get to the portrait of Severus' grandmother, the couple walked through the entrance hall and up the stairs to the smaller of the two ballrooms. The grand ballroom was on the ground floor to the right of the library. This time Hermione took in her surroundings more. The entrance hall itself had the two grand staircases on either side and she suddenly stopped dead in the middle of it.

She looked at the oak floored space with oak panelled walls. The stairs were carpeted in rich green with ornate oak balustrades adorned with snake forms and where the walls were bare they were a rich dark blue colour. Severus smirked as she muttered "WOW" under her breath and with a quick squeeze of her hand he inclined his head to the right hand staircase. Family portraits adorned the walls going up the stairs which led to the first floor. Severus was definitely more of a Prince than a Snape going on the familiar features she saw in the portraits.

When they reached the first floor they turned right into a warmly lit corridor with the large double doors of the smaller ballroom on the right and seven doors on the left of the corridor before it turned right. A large window looking out over the lake stood at the end of this section of corridor. As they approached the double doors Severus motioned for the doors to open to reveal an ornately decorated room with silver and green décor. Sumptuously upholstered chaise lounges and chairs were set against the walls and five huge windows each with upholstered window seats that looked out across the extensive front lawns and tree lined approach of the manor.

The lower panel of the walls were ornately carved reliefs which were covered in silver leaf with the remainder of the walls painted green. The ceiling was adorned by five crystal chandeliers and a large marble fireplace dominated the end wall. Above that was a large mirror in which Hermione could see reflected a large portrait of an incredibly beautiful and elegant woman with black eyes and raven black hair which sat proudly on the opposite wall.

Hermione was about to turn around to look at it more closely when she heard. "Severus Tobias Snape. Do you think it is acceptable to be in this house for an hour before you come to see me? And where are your manners boy? Am I not to be introduced to this girl of yours?"

"Good afternoon Grandmother,” Severus sighed.

"Stop delaying the inevitable Severus," Lady Eleanor Prince, Eileen Prince's mother drawled. Hermione knew that inflection well. So this was where he got it from.

"Apologies Grandmother. I was showing Hermione the library. She is, I am pleased to say, as much as a bookworm as myself," Severus said reverently.

"Oh so her name is Hermione is it? That's nice to know Severus," the portrait snarked and then looking at Hermione she said. "Ah 'A Winter's Tale'...your parents knew the Shakespearian work I presume girl?" Eleanor asked haughtily.

Hermione inclined her head to the portrait as reverently as Severus had and said, "Indeed they did my Lady..."

Severus was impressed that Hermione had worked out the best way to his Grandmother's heart was to grovel. "I was named after that Hermione although I believe I would have preferred to have been called after a less tragic heroine"

"Indeed although it could be worse...you could have been called Juliet and I would have been forced to call my grandson Romeo" Eleanor's eyes lit up as she saw Hermione's spring into life at this comment. "As it is," she sighed "I shall have to continue calling him Severus"

Hermione looked up at Severus and noticed something very strange. He was almost subservient. She squeezed his hand which made him look at her. Giving her an imperceptible smile, the look in his eyes was almost that of a pleading little boy. He was suddenly snapped out of this when his grandmother said, "Severus leave us. I wish to speak with Hermione alone. Go and amuse your new cat. It is an intelligent beast and believes himself satisfied with his choice."

"I beg your pardon? I chose the bloody cat," Severus snarked but his features indicated that he was bemused by this comment.

"Language Severus. That is such a living way of thinking. Now Hermione...are you still here Severus?" the portrait trapped witch barked at him.

Hermione smiled up at him and indicated that she would be alright. He squeezed her hand and still looking lost he turned to the cat and who was waiting by the door for him and said “Come on. We know when we're not welcome.”

As Severus closed the door, Eleanor turned to look at Hermione and continued "You are Muggleborn as I understand it from Albus"

"I am ma'am," Hermione answered respectfully.

Eleanor was pleased to note that there was no hint of embarrassment at her blood status and even picked up a hint of pride. "I also understand you are as powerful a witch as my grandson is a wizard."

Hermione looked embarrassed. "I am not as powerful as Severus..."

"No but you are 18 years younger than him so in relative terms you are," Eleanor interrupted.

"When you put it like that..." Hermione conceded.

"Good so my great grandchildren will be strong regardless of their blood status. I, of course, never held with such elitist clap-trap but there is still prejudice. Of course as headmaster he has the ability to crush such notions and with you at his side you will provide a beacon of hope for all Muggleborns. Of course I am also grateful for the beacon of hope you have extended to Severus. He needs a strong woman and I am glad he has seen fit to choose you."

"Pardon me ma'am but you seem to know a lot about our relationship," Hermione said maintaining her tone of respect.

"Of course. Albus has told me a great deal but my dear what you wear on your wrist speaks volumes. Do you recognise what is on my wrist?" Eleanor asked.

Hermione looked at the portrait and then at her wrist. "It's the bracelet Severus gave me". She looked up at the witch and whispered with a wistful smile "He gave me your bracelet".

"Actually my dear to be more accurate he gave you one of the Prince heirlooms and to be precise one of the four pre-engagement heirlooms,"

Hermione gasped.

Eleanor looked at the young witch kindly. "He hasn't told you of its significance has he my child?"

Hermione shook her head in disbelief.

"As you may now be aware many wizarding traditions pertaining to love and marriage comes in sets of five. The declarations of intent, the declarations of engagement, the declaration of marriage are all sets of five. I am not sure if you have engaged in the first of those but he has certainly initiated the second. Although with this declaration he does not have to reveal his intentions and yet I am surprised that he has not."

"So am I," Hermione said quietly.

But Eleanor could tell she was annoyed. "I am sorry if this has upset you Hermione. Do you not wish to be so engaged?" she asked softly.

"I do but I wish he'd told me. Does he know what it means? Perhaps he just thought he was giving me a present," Hermione said trying to make sense of why Severus hadn't told her.

"No. He knows because I gave him all the important pieces of jewellery personally before I died. According to the Prince statutes the only piece he doesn't have to give you is the engagement ring," and she pointed to the ring on her left hand, "which is the final part of the declarations. He could have one designed for you but you will both wear the family wedding rings."

Hermione looked at the engagement ring Eleanor was wearing. It was a huge square cut ruby with diamond shoulders set in platinum. If that was to be her engagement ring she couldn't have asked for anything more beautiful. But she couldn't help feeling an increased sense of annoyance at Severus for not telling her the meaning behind the bracelet. He hadn't lied to her but she felt rightly or wrongly a little manipulated.

"Hermione, do not be too hard on him. Knowing him there will be a number of reasons why he didn't reveal the meaning behind the bracelet. The main one will be a fear of rejection. He is a proud but often impulsive man despite his mask of control. And until he is used to his new found freedom I believe he may act more impulsively than he ever has. Remember Hermione since the day that poor boy was born he has never been his own person. The infernal man that trapped my daughter into marriage and ruined her also ruined Severus. He needs stability my dear. Be his rock."

Hermione suddenly felt a question rise. "Pardon me my Lady..."

"Oh please call me Eleanor, my dear," she interrupted.

"Thank you...Eleanor. Why didn't you protect your daughter or even Severus? Why didn't he know about his inheritance? You could have kept him safe."

Hermione did not feel like mincing her words especially when she had to defend Severus...she was still annoyed with him though.

"A perfectly valid question Hermione. You see his father turned our daughter from us. They disappeared. He took her wand. She was not a powerful witch but she had spirit until it was taken from her. Severus' intelligence and cunning appears to come from his father's side unfortunately and without an outlet to perform magic Eileen's trace failed. The last time I saw Severus and my daughter together was when he was 3 years old. He exhibited when he was just 2 and it was a terrible year for my daughter. Severus' power drove her to distraction and her husband even further. But I always kept his room here just as it was the last time he came to visit."

Hermione detected a tinge of sadness in the witch's voice.

"The only saving grace was that Hopkins had family near Cokeworth. We knew very little about Severus' father but after a few years of investigation we found he was from Manchester originally and our suspicions that they had moved back there were confirmed when Eileen was seen with Severus when he was about 6.

"As parents we did not know what to do for the best. All of her spark had been knocked, quite literally, out of her and it was obvious her life was miserable. Severus was her only ray of light. The heartbreaking thing for me, as a mother, was to know my daughter was so unhappy when she professed to be quite the opposite. Sometimes I used to think Tobias was actually a wizard who had her under the Imperius. Severus even made a similar comment a few weeks ago.

"Rightly or wrongly we maintained our distance allowing Hopkins' family to provide updates on Severus. As squibs they could see his magic more readily but they also reported on his academic prowess and his keen mind. They also told us how he had found a Muggleborn witch to be friends with. This information proved a great comfort to us although I suppose the mention of Lily must be difficult for you my dear after what she did to him"

Hermione interrupted. "I don't think either of them painted themselves too well."

"Maybe not" Eleanor conceded "and had what Severus said not been said in hurt, anger and confusion then yes maybe she could have been forgiven for her actions. I believe the letter still exists that Severus wrote to me when they split up. One should never have to read a letter with that many of your grandson's tears spilled onto it"

This intimate detail almost shocked Hermione. This was a part of Severus that happened before she was born. How was she ever supposed to comprehend it.

"Maybe though it was not entirely Lily's fault...please don't think I am apportioning more blame onto Sev. But he has discussed the possibility of us being soul mates and I don't know if he has attempted to explain to you this mysterious bond that the Founders appear to have imposed on us," Hermione said stoically.

"He has mentioned it and perhaps the girl's actions and even Severus' were influenced in that way. But I had a distraught grandson and that was my only concern," Eleanor said sternly.

"I understand. I get rather protective of him too," Hermione said pensively.

"The point is Hermione, as you will hopefully find out one day, being a parent and a grandparent is full of difficult decisions. I suspect strongly that we let both of them down but then I have to ask myself would The Dark Saviour have done what he did if we had wrapped him up in luxury? You have to understand though that Severus was never due this inheritance."

Hermione looked bemused.

"Has he explained the Prince statutes of inheritance to you?" Eleanor asked.

Hermione shook her head.

"Well, this will affect any children you may have together if Severus cannot get the Ministry lawyers to accept the changes he wishes to make. Currently our inheritance follows male primogeniture..."

"Oldest male inherits all," Hermione said quietly.

"Indeed. My husband had a younger brother. When my husband died the inheritance passed to him and his son rather than our daughter. But during the first war they were both killed and so Severus as the eldest surviving male...actually the only survivor in the Prince line inherited.

“He was most uncomfortable about it because as far as he was concerned he was a nobody. Ironically a very talented nobody! He was brought up by a man who did not want him to be part of our world and who brought his family to the point of destitution. He felt utterly out of place. And then suddenly he found himself to be one of the richest bachelors in the wizarding world. Things like that do not sit well with Severus. But he is a Prince in every sense Hermione. He battled against the odds to become a shining example for our world. He just needs to realise that sometimes and he needs you I believe"

"Now I do know, from speaking to him yesterday, he wants to change the statute to a per stirpes basis so that your children will get equal shares," Eleanor said scanning Hermione's face for her reaction.

"I'm glad. He can do what he wants except when it comes to our children," Hermione said smiling cheekily.

Eleanor laughed. "He has met his match I see. I hope to welcome you to the family formally very soon Hermione."

"Thank you. I...I hope so too," Hermione blushed.

"Now my dear. I wish to have a quiet word with Severus. Have you seen your bedroom yet?" Eleanor asked her eyes twinkling as much as Dumbledore's would.

"No not yet. Sev promised me he would show me the library first...it is amazing!" Hermione said completely in awe again.

"Severus has worked hard restoring it. I used to believe apart from potions and the dark arts that his biggest passion was books. I think he has a greater passion now though," Lady Prince remarked. "Summon your house elf and then send in my grandson."

"Winky," Hermione called as she smiled up at Eleanor.

There was a pop as Winky apparated to Hermione's side. She curtsied to Lady Prince and then to Hermione. "Mistress calls Winky. How can Winky be of service?"

"First of all Winky, Severus passed on your message," Hermione said kindly.

"Master is so kind to us house elves," Winky grinned shyly.

"I know and I would be happy for you to become my personal house elf but you are to remain free as long as you serve myself, Severus and any of our family"

''Mistress is kind and Winky is happy to serve," Winky said excitedly.

"Thank you. Now can you walk me to the bedroom I will be sharing with Severus?” Hermione asked.

"As Mistress wishes," Winky said. "Come mistress, follow Winky"

"Hermione come and see me again before you leave and if ever you need a chat about my grandson or anything else for that matter do come and see me either here or in his office," Eleanor said sincerely.

"Thank you Eleanor. I will," and with that she and Winky walked out into the corridor.

Hermione smiled at Severus as she left the ballroom but was once again she was hit by a feeling of annoyance at him over the bracelet and unfortunately she could not hide it. He saw in her face something was wrong and he reached out to touch her but she recoiled slightly leaving Severus standing there almost in shock. He gave her a questioning, hurt look and was about to speak but Hermione said, "Your Grandmother..."

"Severus Snape come here now," a voice bellowed.

He turned to where the voice came from and said apprehensively, "Sweetheart is everything..." but he didn't finish this sentence.

He turned to look at her and she had gone along with Yet Unnamed Cat. He felt torn between going to find her and speaking to his grandmother. But then if anyone knew why Hermione was upset it would be the last person she spoke to you and besides he noted her orb wasn't too agitated so she was still in the house.

"What did you say to her?" Severus said in a calm, measured but intimidatory voice.

"I am not one of your first years my boy and more to the point what did you not say to her?" his grandmother retorted.

"I am unaware that I have been lacking in my communication with Hermione," Severus drawled.

"So you explained your reasoning behind giving her that bracelet?" Eleanor asked.

Severus was about to respond but then realised he hadn't explained it to Hermione. He had intended to give her the bracelet tonight after the first time they made love but she had moved him so completely the other day that he felt compelled to give it to her then. A sudden realisation hit him about how she might be feeling.

With panic lacing his calm demeanour he asked his grandmother "Did you explain the significance? Did she give any indication she was displeased?"

"So you are flappable my boy. That is good to know," Eleanor said raising an eyebrow at her grandson.

"Is she upset?" Severus pushed for an answer.

Diplomatically Eleanor said "She appeared disappointed with your lack of transparency"

"Oh gods. Merlin alone knows what she's thinking?" Severus said rubbing his hand over his face.

"Just talk to her. I believe she enjoys a reasoned discussion," his grandmother said with a hint of mirth in her voice.

"Reasoned, unreasoned and heated. She can discuss you into oblivion," Severus drawled quietly.

"She has spirit Severus. She is powerful, intelligent, beautiful and she is also highly protective of you. She is a true Gryffindor and maybe it is about time The House of Prince or as you seem determined to make it The House of Snape, had a lioness to guard the snake pit. You have my blessing Severus. Now don't mess this up. Go to her," Eleanor said glaring at him.

Severus nodded curtly and excused himself from the room before thinking to Hermione Where are you?

Hermione was looking out of the window of the master bedroom suite in amazement. The grounds at Malfoy Manor were extensive but these were huge. The Malfoys didn't have a lake for starters.

And the bedroom was beautiful. The back wall was oak panelled and the walls were actually a deep red. The irony was not lost on Hermione. The pink marble fireplace and the plush rugs before it looked particularly inviting. The huge four poster bed was adorned with red velvet drapes and matching bedspread but the bed linen was crisp and white and Hermione had a sudden sense of panic as she realised that this was, more than likely, where she was going to lose her virginity. This was their bed.

Oh gods...white sheets she thought to herself but then was comforted by what Ginny had told her about the first time her and Harry had sex. There was no blood. Harry hadn't cared but Ginny had worried so she spoke to Poppy Pomfrey who reassured her that with all the trauma and physical exertion their bodies had undergone during the war it was unlikely her hymen was still intact. That didn't mean it didn't hurt the first time but all she had to get used to was the feeling of invasion. Ginny said she was relieved the second time was painless. If this was the case with her would Severus be alright with it? Would he believe he was her first? Would he care? Deep down she knew the answers were Yes, Yes and No but she still worried.

She walked over to the en-suite bathroom and stood in amazement. Her bathroom at Hogwarts was huge and she rather enjoyed the bath in it especially when Severus joined her. His bathroom was nice although rather more practical but his shower was fun! But this bathroom seemed to combine the two. It was the biggest bathroom, apart from the Prefect's bathroom she had ever seen. As she sniffed the bottles of bath oils and shampoos she felt him ask Where are you?

Our bedroom she replied absent mindedly playing with her bracelet. Yes he would have some explaining to do and she knew he realised this as she heard the knock on the door. He didn't fling the door open. In fact the sight of Severus Snape treating a door gently was one to behold.

"So did my grandmother chew your ear off?" Severus asked trying to lighten the mood.

"She seems lovely," Hermione said casually.

"Were you ganging up on me?" he said looking at the floor with his hands in his back pockets. His hair fell over his face, rather sexily Hermione thought, but she resisted all urges to go and kiss him.

"Feeling paranoid are we?" Hermione asked making sure he saw her playing with the bracelet.

Severus walked over to one of the window seats and sat down before holding his hand out to her. Hermione walked over and sat down without taking his hand...an act that cut Severus more deeply than she realised.

Severus cleared his throat and tentatively reached out for her hand. With an audible sigh of relief, as she allowed him to take it, he stroked the back of it with his thumb.

"I haven't been entirely honest with you Hermione and I think you know that." This was a difficult admission for him.

"I understand there is something you should have told me," Hermione said quietly studying her boyfriend's face.

Severus' other hand lightly brushed the bracelet on her wrist. "I have to admit I expected you to have removed this. I wouldn't have blamed you if you had.” He smiled ruefully as he looked at her.

"Why didn't you tell me?" Hermione asked softly.

Severus swallowed hard. "Two reasons. The first was I got caught up with the emotion of the other day and I gave this to you impulsively. I wanted to give it to you tonight after we...well after we made love as in many respects that would have been the most appropriate time to do it. I will understand of course if you don't want that to happen now"

Severus scanned her face desperately seeking her reaction but she was looking at the floor.

Still unsure of how she felt he continued, "Once I'd given you the bracelet I realised the timing to declare my intentions wasn't right and I am ashamed to say I took the coward's way out and decided not tell you the significance at that time.

“This first piece of jewellery is always seen more as a token rather than anything binding but it is given to say you are, in effect, more than just my girlfriend, if you will. I hate the terms girlfriend and boyfriend. They sound transitory; although they are marginally better than lover or partner I admit. Although partner is possibly more appropriate in our case.

“You don't have to wear it if the intention behind it feels inappropriate to you. I can just buy you something else if that makes you feel more comfortable."

Hermione sighed and shook her head at Severus' words. "You will do no such thing. You know I love it and I love the sentiment behind it. And it's a sentiment I share with you. You are more than just my boyfriend too you know. I'm happy to wear it...actually no I'm honoured to wear it.

“I know you were emotional the other day when we discussed being soul mates so I can understand events overtaking you. And I can understand that as the moment was lost you decided not to mention it. But in future if things mean something to you...to us...tell me. I don't bite," Hermione giggled.

"I know...except when I ask of course," Severus said jokingly but he was still hanging his head. He was now embarrassed at his indiscipline the other day.

"You'll be pleased to know I have to actually ask you if you will accept the other pieces of jewellery when I offer them to you," he said chuckling softly.

"I can't wait," Hermione said as she sat closer to him putting her arm through his and resting her head on his arm.

"So what was the second reason?" she asked softly.

Severus went very quiet and muttered almost inaudibly, "I didn't want you to reject me."

Hermione looked up and turned to face him. She took both his hands and said "I appreciate that there probably isn't much room left in your brain, Professor, but if you could try and fit this teeny weeny piece of information in, I would be grateful. I love you and as such the risk of rejection is negligible."

Severus noticeably relaxed. "I'm sorry 'Mione. Can you forgive an old fool?"

Hermione smirked. "Stop saying you're old and kiss me please," she said as she brushed his hair away from his face.

"With pleasure," Severus said but as he leaned in to kiss her, Yet Unnamed Cat jumped onto his lap. Resisting the urge to swear at the fluff ball Severus simply asked Hermione, "And what name are we too bestow upon this animal?"

"Leo," Hermione stated before chuckling. "I was thinking we could call him Lucius but decided against it,"

"Lucius?" Severus snarked.

Hermione's cheeks burned. "Yes well I thought by calling him that it would be the closest Lucius would ever get to my..."

"I get the picture," Severus interrupted and claimed her mouth. "I really don't want to think of Lucius anywhere near your...cat darling! I approve of Leo...very apt for my Gryffindor Princess' familiar. Let's hope he doesn't fight with Obsidian! And...," addressing Leo, "do you approve of your given name?" to which his and Hermione's hands both got a nuzzle before Leo jumped off Severus' lap and lazily walked across the room and lay by the fire.

"I think we can take that as a yes," Hermione said smiling as she watched Leo stretching out before testing his claws on the rug.

"Leo please don't do that or else I will turn you into a bathmat," Severus warned him. Leo turned towards him and then proceeded to clean himself paying particular attention to his arse.

"I believe he is telling you to kiss his arse Sev," Hermione giggled.

Severus scowled. "He'll have my boot...," but before he could finish his sentence Hermione put her hand over his mouth.

"Behave Severus and as for you Leo when Severus asks you to do something do it. I will not have my boys being disrespectful to each other," Hermione berated them.

Severus started to grumble about being told off with a cat but Hermione giggled and cut him off again but this time with a kiss.

Dinner had started off as a fairly relaxed affair. But as the meal went on their conversation became less and less forthcoming. They'd gone from their usual sarcastic teasing, to a more serious conversation about how they would handle their relationship from the start of the new school year, to occasional comments about how nice the food and wine was.

During dessert Hermione had the sudden realisation of what would be happening after dinner, at some point, and was suddenly overcome by nerves. The blush on her skin hadn't gone unnoticed by Severus.

The atmosphere in the smallest family dining room in the house...the one that could only seat twelve...had changed. Neither of them probably realised that they were both emitting a higher level of magic than usual but that was how their sexual tension presented itself and it was being ramped up as every minute passed.

It started off slowly. Severus couldn't help but watch the way Hermione was licking cream off her spoon. She couldn't help but notice that he was biting his bottom lip and was starting to pick at his food. He then noticed how her breathing was deepening and how her chest was rising and falling more deliberately. She noticed how he shifted awkwardly in his seat and how his black eyes were burning into her. He noticed how she returned his gaze, licking her lips subconsciously.

Nerves had now stolen their appetites and their conversation. Suddenly Severus called Missy, his chief house elf, and whispered something in her ear. Missy practically gave an excited squeal as she apparated away.

"Are you alright?" Severus asked Hermione quietly as he vanished his dish. Hermione just nodded.

He took a couple of seconds to compose himself before he spoke again. "You know we can wait if..."

"Why don't you want to?" Hermione snapped a little too sharply.

Severus' eyes softened. "Of course I do...I want you so fucking much. But I don't want you doing anything because you think it's what I want. I don't want you to think..."

Suddenly Hermione's nerves left her.

"Your problem is you think too much," she said seductively as she stood up and walked over to Severus.

"Well thinking too much kept me alive for quite a long time," Severus said breathlessly as she wrapped herself around him.

"And for that I am eternally grateful," Hermione said as she nuzzled his neck. A soft moan left his lips and he wrapped his arms around her, pulling her round so that she was straddling him.

He looked directly into her eyes. "I had to stay alive for you"

"You had to stay alive for you," Hermione said surprised by what he had said.

Severus eyes became fierce. Not threateningly so but passionately.

"No you don't understand Hermione. I had to stay alive for you because..." he trailed off. "You are literally the reason I survived and although I would have accepted death to take away all the pain I was in, you were the reason I wanted to see the other side of the war. Ever since I first felt something for you, everything I did was for you. The light was a noble cause but you were my raison d'etre. You forced me to stay alive.

“Don't you think I could have given in? Walked away? Because I had times when I begged Dumbledore to release me. But I would look at you and I couldn't walk away. I knew if I died I had done enough to hopefully keep you, and Harry, alive. I just hoped that I would live long enough to see you safe and not just die hoping."

Tears were forming in Hermione's eyes. She felt exactly the same way about him. She understood now that it had always been him. She wanted him to live...she willed him to live and not just to breathe another breath. She wanted him to have a life and be able to live it. Now it was time to show him.

She gently stroked his cheek and looked deep into his eyes. He never wanted to make her cry; he hated it when he did. He hated it when he made her cry when he was teaching her and now, unless they were joyous tears, he hated it even more. Except she always looked so beautiful when her soft brown eyes glistened with tears. But that was never a good reason to do it.

He just wanted to take her to bed now. He wanted to make her his. He wanted to give himself to her.

He swallowed hard before running his fingers through her hair, pulled her in for a kiss. He had never kissed anyone with such a sense of anticipation. Everything happened so slowly from the gentle licking and teasing of each other's lips, to the gloriously languid exploration of each other's mouths. The gentle softness of their tongues rolling over each other gave way to greater depths of passion. And as their passion increased so their hands explored each other. Severus could feel her heat as she could feel his hardness.

He knew it was nearly time. She knew it was nearly time and she uttered the words that would take them to point of no return. "Make love to me Severus"

"Your wish is my command," he said kissing her almost reverently. Now all he had to do was get her to the bedroom. Apparating would have killed the mood this close to eating. So he decided the good old fashioned way would be the most appropriate. Without saying a word or breaking their kiss, he scooped her up in his arms and wandlessly flung open the door, carrying her up two flights of stairs to their bedroom.

As the bedroom door opened Hermione noticed the changes in the bedroom immediately. The whole room was bathed in candle light and she giggled as Severus said, "I know I am a romantic fool...what have you done to me woman?"

It was at this point Hermione was glad of her foresight to have already put on the underwear she had bought for the occasion because she didn't want anything to interrupt this moment.

Severus lay her on the bed and lay down beside her. He cupped her face in his hand and gently covered her lips with his. Their kiss had reverted back to the slow anticipatory level it had before. In some respects Hermione was surprised he hadn't just ripped her clothes off but Severus was determined that this was not going to be rushed. This was the first time either of them had made love. He'd had sex but he'd never done this and he was going to remember and savour every response that his ministrations elicited.

And yet slowly they began to undress each other and as their skin was revealed they would gently stroke and kiss every inch of it as if to lay claim to it. These simple acts brought an immeasurable sense of closeness and when they were eventually just in their underwear and Severus had voiced his ardent approval of the lacy black set she'd bought, they again reverted to slow, languid kisses. The only difference was that their touching was becoming much more intimate and Severus had pulled Hermione on top of him. She sat up and undid her bra just as Severus sat up and pulled her in close to him. He wanted to feel her skin against his.

This was like nothing else he'd ever experienced with her. He wanted to crawl inside of her...all of her. He wanted to consume her and he wanted to be consumed.

Hermione arched backwards as Severus tongue and mouth explored her breasts. She would never tire of this. She would never tire of how he made her feel. She felt so ready for him. She felt the ache of wanting him to fill her...to complete her.

She climbed off him and lay on her side facing him, slowly running her hand over his boxers. She loved how he felt and as he breathed into her ear that it was all for her, she could feel her arousal pouring out of her. Severus wasn't one for respecting her knickers usually but tonight was different. He slid his hand under the lace and gently ran an exploratory finger over her. He could tell she was ready but he didn't want to just rip this pair off. He wanted her to wear these again.

Hoping Hermione would remember that on this occasion she had to start the final declaration herself, he gently nipped her earlobe and whispered, “I want you so much”. He just didn't want to break the mood by saying "so is there something you want to say to me?"

Severus was so close to being where he knew they both wanted to be. As Hermione gently pushed down his boxers and caressed his length, he prayed she would say those words soon.

He asked permission to remove her knickers and with a nod of her head she pushed her hips up to make the task easier for him. A moment later Severus lay down beside her and kissed her as their hands explored their naked bodies. It was the first time they had been completely naked together and Hermione was mesmerised by how this felt as their bodies became entwined.

Severus gently touched between her legs. She was aching for him but he just needed a little self indulgent taste to make sure. Slowly moving down her body he felt her quivering and relished the shudder as his tongue and fingers brought her to orgasm over the next few minutes.

He looked up at her and his eyes told her now was the time...he couldn't wait. And neither could she. He trailed kisses back up her body as her orgasm began to fade and reached between them to gently position himself and let her feel him against her for the first time. Her body automatically arched against his and brought another wave of arousal to her core. There was no going back.

She ran her fingers through his hair and looked deep into his eyes. There was no deep breath. There was no steeling of her nerves. She simply kissed him and punctuating every phrase with another kiss she said breathlessly, "Severus Tobias Snape I am yours and I willingly give you my body, my devotion and my love, always"

Severus looked into her eyes and stroked her hair before gently kissing her lips and responding, "Hermione Jean Granger, I am yours. I willingly claim your body with my own and willingly give you my body, my devotion and my love...always"

As the final word of the declaration fell from his lips a sudden burst of magic, like a white light enveloped them. Their eyes were burning into each other and Severus whispered "I love you," before with one swift thrust he joined their bodies completely for the first time. In that moment they both knew there would never be anyone else. They both knew that they had found The One.
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The Headmaster's Wife