Adult-FanFiction.org : Harry Potter

Book One - Master Mine: A Lesson in Submission	By : Lissa & snowblind12 Category: Harry Potter AU/AR > Threesomes/Moresomes Views: 58471 -:- Recommendations : 0 -:- Currently Reading : 8
Disclaimer: I am not affiliated with JK Rowling or The Harry Potter franchise in anyway. I make no money off my stories.

Chapter List
- 20
- 21
- 22
Chapter Twenty-One
Dear Miss Granger,
If it will work for you, I would like to retrieve you from your home for dinner at 6:45 this evening. Please let me know your thoughts and your address. Casual attire would be appropriate. If you are so inclined, I would like to walk out doors a bit, as well. Warm outerwear would be required, of course.
Sincerely,
Severus Snape
Dear Severus,
6:45 this evening works perfectly, and a walk outside sounds lovely. I will be prepared. I live in Muggle-London. The Apparition point is in Speed Garden, you’ll cross Silk Street and walk up Milton Street to Milton Court. Address added below. Please buzz flat 8C so I can let you up. If I don’t hear from you again, I’ll expect my suggestions are acceptable.

I’m very much looking forward to tonight, Severus.

Affectionately,
Hermione

22 Beaufort Court
Admirals Way, Canary Wharf
London, E14 9XL
Hermione was mid-cooldown stretch when the floo lit up with green light and made a rumbling sound. Realizing someone was coming, she stood and grabbed the remote. Just as she pushed pause, her best friends stumbled through – Harry just before Ron. The boys brushed themselves off as Hermione grabbed her hand towel and wiped the sweat from her face, neck, and arms. Ron’s eyebrows reached for the ceiling as his chin dropped to the floor at the sight of her. His eyes roved up and down her body, clad in muggle workout attire, lingering a bit inappropriately on her chest.
Hermione threw her towel, hitting him in the face. “Really, Ron! It’s nothing you’ve never seen before. Honestly!”
Ron let out a slow breath and looked to the bookshelves as he smiled and rubbed the back of his head. “Geez, Hermione! Give a bloke some warning will ya?” Hermione laughed, and Harry rolled his eyes, clearly less affected by seeing Hermione in a sports bra and yoga shorts.
Grabbing her water bottle and taking a large swallow, Hermione recalled it was the middle of a work day and this visit was highly unusual. “So, what’s up? Coming by to ask me to lunch?”
Harry looked slightly uncomfortable as he shot Ron a quick glance before looking back at Hermione. Hermione cocked a signature Slytherin brow as an innocent expression washed over Harry’s deceiving be-speckled face. “Actually, we just wanted to stop by and say hello. Ya know, we haven’t seen you since Christmas…and you blew us off for New Year’s.”
Hermione walked into the kitchen and put the kettle on, raising her voice so she could be heard. “I didn’t blow you off. I merely had other plans and I’m thrilled to see you! I’m always happy to see my two best friends.”
She walked back into the living room to find her friends looking at each other, a silent communication taking place between them. When they both looked at her with matching innocent smiles, the gig was up. “Ok, enough. What’s going on?” she demanded.
Ron’s voice, a bit higher pitched than normal, squeaked out an innocent, “Nothing! Can’t we just stop by to say hello?”
Hermione crossed her arms, not being one to suffer fools gladly. “Do you really think that after almost twenty years of being your best friend, I can’t tell when you two have something on your minds?” The boys shot each other nervous glances and Hermione looked to Harry expectantly.
She could actually see him give himself a pep talk before he spoke. He walked towards the sofa and took a seat. “Well, we heard a rumor about you, and if it’s true we felt that as your friends, we should talk to you about it.”
Hermione gingerly rested her sore bottom on the chair facing him with as much poise and calm as possible. She could feel the blood drain from her face while internally her heart started pounding as heat flooded to her ears. They know! They know I’ve been going to The Dungeon and they know what I’ve been doing there. She was completely unprepared for this conversation and her mind raced with how to respond.
Clearly losing his patience and wanting to know if it was true, Ron interjected, “We heard a rumor that you are dating Snape.”
There was an awkward silence as Hermione absorbed what he had asked. She felt instant, beloved relief and the giddiness of not having her greatest secret revealed left her feeling light as a feather. She couldn’t contain a chuckle that led into a full-blown laugh. A laugh and feeling of mirth that somehow wasn’t hindered by her frustration with her blabber-mouthed friend, Ginny Weasley!
Ron let out a loud sigh of relief. “Thank Merlin!” He collapsed on the sofa next to Harry and playfully slapped him on the arm. “See, I told you she would laugh at the ridiculousness of it! I knew Ginny was taking the Mickey on you.”
Harry took off his glasses and rubbed his eyes. “I can’t believe she did this to me. I might have to spank her for this prank! I didn’t sleep a wink last night.”
“Oi! That’s my sister you’re talking about, you perv.”
Suddenly, feeling like she was in an alternate universe, Hermione had a vision of Ginny bent over Harry’s lap as he rained deserved smacks on her bare bottom. Smacks that frankly Hermione herself would like to deliver. A nice introduction to the cane and little miss blabbermouth would never blabber again. Maybe I do have a touch of Top in me, she mused before dismissing it entirely. Focusing back on her friends, Hermione contemplated how to proceed. “Uh, boys. I wasn’t laughing because of the absurdity of dating Severus Snape. I was laughing at your absurdity.”
Harry froze, peeking at her between his fingers as Ron went completely pale. The whisper could barely be deciphered as it left Ron’s lips. “Wait, what?”
Hermione’s tone was a touch incredulous, realizing this was her best approach. “What is wrong with Severus Snape?” She looked at Harry, pointedly. “You named your son after the man!”
Ron’s mouth was gaping open like a fish. “Wait, wait, wait, wait…Hermione, for the love of Morgana, a straight answer, please!”
Hermione let out an exasperated sigh as she shook her head. “Yes, I have a date with Severus…tonight.”
Harry’s hand dropped to his lap. “Why…How? I mean I, that is we, really want to see you happy, Mione. And we know things haven’t been the easiest for you, you know, on the dating front, but Snape?”
Ron leaned forward. “Look, we know the man’s a hero and we respect the hell out of what he’s done, but he doesn’t seem like dating material. At least not for you!”
Harry looked contemplative, “Yeah, Morticia Adams…Joan Jett, or even Chrissie Hynde, but not Hermione Granger.” Visions of the female rock legends danced in her head and she smiled at the subtle nudge at her and Harry’s shared Muggle upbringing. It was a singular connection that Hermione and Harry enjoyed, a connection that their other close friends would never understand.
Ron shot Harry a confused look before he turned back at Hermione, a touch of desperation to his face. “Look, I know you. I know what you need to be happy. You need a man who will talk to you, treat you with affection and tenderness. A man who likes to talk about books and stuff…and frankly, a man who will let you rule the roost, so to speak.” He shook his head. “I don’t think Snape is that man, Mione.”
She shook her head with bemusement, trying not to laugh. “Oh, Ron.” Letting out a heavy sigh, Hermione threw down the gauntlet. Her tone was factual and no-nonsense. “Here’s the deal. I don’t really know Severus and the simple truth is you don’t either! When we knew him, he was our teacher and was living a precarious and impossible life as a double agent. Now, he’s free of all that and we are all adults!” Her gaze landed on Harry as she continued. “What I do know about him warrants further exploration. He’s insanely smart, he’s honorable, he’s mysterious, he’s sexy, and he has a voice that makes me want to howl at the moon.”
Hermione was about to continue but paused at the frozen look of incredulity on their faces. Looks of incredulity that morphed to a look of pity on Harry’s face and a look of nausea on Ron’s. Ron swallowed heavily, whispering sideways to Harry. “It’s so much worse than we thought… Should I floo St. Mungo’s?”
As Hermione put the finishing touching on her make up that evening, she replayed her audacious conversation with her best friends that afternoon in her mind. She had to try and not laugh out loud as to not smear her mascara as she remembered abruptly kicking them out after St. Mungo’s was mentioned. She promised them she would be careful and owl them over the weekend to let them both know how the date had gone. Idiots, she thought lovingly just as her buzzer rang. Butterflies exploded in her stomach as she dashed across her apartment.
Snape knocked lightly on her door only a few moments after she buzzed him up. He was precisely on time, of course. Punctuality was important. He was also very nervous, which was a highly unusual emotion for him.
“I’ll be right there!” Hermione’s voice could be heard from behind the door. A few seconds later, she pulled the it open with a wide smile on her face. That smile, the one he had wished she would bestow on him only weeks before, beamed brightly because of his arrival. He let his lips twitch in greeting.
“Good evening, Miss Granger.” His deep baritone rolled through the silence of the room and he was amused to see her eyes go a little glassy and her expression become distant for a second. Even more pleasing was how the air crackled around them. Whatever this attraction was, it was still as intense as the very first day they had rekindled their acquaintance.
Hermione felt an actual change in the atmosphere the minute the wizard entered her apartment, almost like an electric pulse. Then again, the man always did know how to make an entrance. Dressed in his usual black, Hermione noticed the touch of aubergine from the scarf tucked into his cloak and found the color suited him very well. Even more noticeable was the fact that his hair fell to his jaw. It wasn’t more than two months ago it had been cropped short. She’d have to ask him about that, later. She found she preferred it long and was glad he was growing it back out – obviously using magic to help it along.
“Hello, Severus! Please come in.” She pulled the door wide and gestured for him to enter. Snape stepped in around her, scanning the space. The flat was nice, but not as extravagant as he expected someone of her means to live in. The white walls were covered with photographs and there were dark, built-in bookshelves that took up two solid walls, all of which were crammed with books. The floor was a black granite and was covered by a large black and grey area rug that provided warmth. A white leather davenport, where one end extended out like a chaise lounge, took up a large portion of the space and a cute little lavender chair that was oddly shaped sat next to it. He turned back to the young woman who was watching him take in her space.
“It’s not much,” she shrugged with a small smile, “but it’s just me, and it’s home. So, it’s enough. I don’t spend a lot of time here.”
“It’s lovely,” he assured her. “I brought this for you.”
Snape watched with satisfaction as her eyes widened and her lips parted in surprise as he held out the long-stemmed flower. “Is that…” She trailed off as she reached for it. “An asphodelus? Is it magical?”
“It is,” Severus replied, pleased. He wasn’t surprised she recognized the blood red flower. “It’s a Nocturnal Asphodelus, I have been experimenting with these flowers for the last couple of years, their magical properties are quite vast. This one has been bred for its healing benefits. When dark, it emanates a very low glow and releases a healing tranquility into the air. If cared for appropriately, it will last months.”
“It’s beautiful, Severus,” she whispered, bringing the bloom to her nose. “Thank you.”
“It’s my pleasure,” he assured her. Reaching into his pocket, he pulled out a small paper package. “Room temperature water and a teaspoon of powdered snake weed each week will keep it healthy. Here is some snakeweed to get you started.”
Hermione took the package, looking at him shyly from under her lashes. “Thank you,” she said again. “I have just the vase. Please make yourself comfortable. I’ll get this in water and then I just have to put on shoes. I’ll be right back.”
Snape watched her disappear into the kitchen, unable to keep his eyes from watching the sway of her hips and the roundness of her bum encased in denim. He heard her rummaging around in her cupboards.
“You have quite the book collection, Miss Granger.” Snape raised his voice, so she could hear him after perusing her collection for a few minutes. Making small talk was something that had always been painful for him. He hoped they’d fall into easy conversation quickly enough. “Though I’m hardly surprised.”
“I suppose you wouldn’t be.” Hermione let out a husky laugh and he looked away from the bookshelves to see her leaning up against the jamb of a doorway.
Snape couldn’t help but let his eyes trail down her petite form once again. She looked lovely. Casual for her was still quite sexy in his opinion. She wore a cable knit sweater that looked like she had wrapped herself into it. The deep cerulean blue color looked stunning against the tone of her skin, and there were two black wooden buttons that drew attention to her subtle cleavage. Her thick, curly hair was loose and fell down her back and over her shoulders. She had on a pair of dark blue jeans that were almost completely obscured by her “shoes” – a pair of black suede boots that ended two inches above her knee and hugged the curve of her leg. He swallowed before meeting her eyes.
“You look beautiful tonight, Miss Granger,” he drawled.
A lovely flush rose to her cheeks and she dropped her eyes. “Hermione,” she said. “Please call me Hermione. And thank you, you look very handsome, yourself.” Her voice was trembling.
Severus couldn’t help but wonder if she was as nervous as he was, even as he internally scoffed at the word handsome. “It’s nice of you to say so, Hermione.” Saying her given name was still very much a novelty for him. Had he ever actually said it to her face before? He wasn’t sure. “Are you ready to go? We have reservations for seven fifteen.”
“Yes, of course!” She pushed herself away from the wall and gathered her cloak and purse.
They arrived at what Hermione guessed was the nearest Apparition point to restaurant he had chosen after a short walk back to Speed Garden. She couldn’t help but muse that their silence was…a bit uncomfortable. She wasn’t disappointed, though. They had the whole evening ahead of them and things were bound to be a bit awkward. For pity sake, you slept with the man before even knowing what his middle name was… Fuck, you don’t know Lucius’ middle name either! She shook her head at her internal conundrum. Time to start getting to know your sexual partners, Hermione. Since when have you been a total slag? You’ve been a bit of a slag for years – but not a total slag. She snorted.
“Care to share what’s amusing you so?” Snape’s voice was a lazy drawl that sounded both guarded and curious.
“Ha,” she let out a dry laugh. “I’m just berating myself.”
“About…?”
Without asking, nor with any warning, Snape took her hand in his and looped it through his elbow. This pulled her closer to him and suddenly, she was utterly at ease. She leaned into him slightly as he continued to direct their stroll to the restaurant. She was starving and hoped it wasn’t too far.
“Well, it’s a bit crass, but if you really want to know…?” She trailed off, then continued when he nodded. “I was musing that this was starting off awkward.” She quickly continued when Snape’s face fell slightly. “No, no. I’m awkward – you’ve been perfect,” she assured him. He let out a low chuckle.
“Oh, Gods,” she laughed. “I’m making it worse. Okay – we’ve known each other for years and years, but we don’t know each other,” she paused, and he nodded again. “I was just thinking we did this backwards, you know? Falling into bed before I even asked you what your middle name was. I’ve never gone to bed with someone before knowing their middle name.”
Snape raised an eyebrow. “Is that your only prerequisite, Mis – Hermione?” She let out a little giggle when he caught himself on her name.
“Of course not.” She could feel a blush rise to her cheeks. “Apparently, it’s not something that’s necessary at all anymore. I realized I don’t know Lucius’ middle name either.” She snorted, it was so very un-ladylike, and her cheeks grew hotter.
“Ah,” he smirked at her when she looked up at him. “Do you feel your morals are a little loose these days?” he teased gently.
She couldn’t stop the surprised guffaw when he caught on so quickly. “A bit, I guess. I’m having too much fun to care, though. Well, to care too much.”
They dropped into a comfortable silence and continued their brisk walk. Hermione side stepped just a bit to press herself closer to him and wrapped her other hand around his elbow, as well. Snape smiled down at her when she looked up, his eyes were lit with...satisfaction? Contentment? Whatever it was, it made her breath catch.
“Tobias,” he said softly.
Hermione’s brow crinkled in question. “I’m sorry?”
That sexy smirk curved his mouth again. “My middle name is Tobias.”
“Oh! Oh, I like that very much.” She paused before trying it out. “Severus Tobias Snape. That’s very nice.”
Snape gave a bit of a sarcastic grunt.
“What?” she asked. “You don’t like your middle name?”
“Well, it was my father’s name,” he explained. She noted the bitterness as his eyes rolled.
“You don’t have a good relationship with your father?” Hermione questioned.
“Let’s just say we didn’t much care for each other. It no longer matters, he died many years ago. Ah – here we are.” Snape pointed across the street to a small bistro. This is when Hermione noted they were still in Muggle-London.
“There?” she was surprised.
“Yes,” he returned. Then his voice grew hesitant. “Do you like Italian? I should have asked, Hermione, I’m sorry.”
“No, no!” she said assuredly. “I love Italian – I’m just surprised we’re still in Muggle-London.”
“I see.” He visibly relaxed. “I thought that after you and Draco ended up on the front page of The Broom Cupboard, you might like the anonymity?”
Her shoulders sagged with relief and she found herself oddly touched by his thoughtfulness. “That was very sweet of you,” she said kindly. She dropped his arm with one hand while sliding the other down to curl her fingers through his, effectively lacing their hands together.
The gesture seemed to bring Snape up short, and he looked down at their entwined fingers with an unreadable expression on his face. Finally, he said, “No one’s ever accused me of being sweet before.” She wasn’t sure if he was joking.
“Well, I’m not just anyone,” she said coquettishly, raising a brow.
They had reached the door by then. Not letting go of her hand, he opened it and used his chin to gesture her inside. “Indeed, you’re not,” Snape returned once they entered. He bent low, so he could murmur it quietly in her ear and found himself wickedly happy when the maneuver caused a visible shudder to run down her spine.
The teasing was double backed on him, however, and he found his placket tightening when she turned lust-darkened doe eyes on him. Snape’s heartbeat tripled at the sight and his gaze fell to her perfect lips. She recognized the gesture and gave a slight nod. Even though he knew he should wait (The kiss was supposed to come at the end of the night, right?) he couldn’t seem to help himself as he dropped a light, chaste kiss down on her upturned mouth.
They broke their gentle kiss when they heard someone clearing their throat. Looking up, they found the hostess smiling at them indulgently. “Do you have reservations?”
Snape gave a short cough before nodding. “Yes, two for Snape.”
She marked something on her clip board and then gestured for them to follow. “Right this way!”
Hermione loved the restaurant. It was absolutely perfect for a first date. Her eyes darted every which way as they followed the hostess, never letting the other’s hand go. The walls were brick and hung with portraits that had everything to do with wine and fat Italian chefs. There were wooden shelves laden with decorative bottles of oil and wine, and grapes. The lighting was low, and every table had a candlelit center piece encircled with grape vines. The tables were covered with white table clothes and red checkered overlays and set with forest-green plates and wine glasses. Dark green cushioned booths were set into the walls and Hermione was delighted when they were led to a tiny, two-person booth that was almost entirely secluded. It was shaped like a half circle and set into the brick wall. She gave a momentary pause when she saw it was not a comfortable green cushioned bench like the other booths, however. It was a thick wooden bench they would be sitting on.
Uh-oh, that wooden bench is not going to feel so good. She felt a bit disheartened. How was she going to concentrate on conversation when her arse was going to feel like it was taking another beating?
Snape gave her a very dashing smile and gestured for her to slide into the booth first. She did hesitantly and carefully but was unable to stop the wince and soft hiss as her sore bum slid across the unforgiving surface.
Unmistakably there was a low chortle and then the seat beneath her bum grew squishy. Her eyes flew to meet his – he had cast a wandless cushioning charm for me? Hermione knew she was blushing – does he know about my punishment from last night? How mortifying.
He followed her into the booth, and they made themselves comfortable side-by-side while the hostess poured them iced water. “Wine?” she suggested.
“Red?” Snape asked Hermione with a raised brow. When she nodded, he continued, “Bottle of the 2008 Caparzo, please.”
“Very good, sir.” The hostess apparently approved, if her tone of voice was any indication. “Your waiter will be with you momentarily.”
“I am sorry about your backside, Miss Granger,” he said softly and the smirk on his face was devil-may-care. She pouted.
“How do you even know?” she muttered, a bit annoyed. Did Snape and Lucius share everything? She wanted to understand the depths of their friendship.
“How? I was the one who told Lucius, of course.” He said it like it was no passing matter which made Hermione’s instant anger bubble hot.
“You mean you’re the reason my bum looks like I took a nasty spill on the ice?!” she snapped quietly, not wanting to draw any attention to them.
“No.” His tone had taken on a darker edge, but he was watching her face with kind eyes. “You are the reason your bum is bruised. You broke a rule, and you were caught and punished. However, I am the one who told Lucius.
“There is something you should know about Luc and I, Hermione. We talk like brothers and pretty much tell each other everything. We watch out for and help each other monitor our affairs. This includes our interests around the club, submissives especially – collared or not.” Here he reached and gently brushed the silver chain of her collar which looked like a simple locket today. “My friendship with Lucius currently trumps our…burgeoning relationship.”
Hermione’s heart gave a painfully excited flip when he classified what they had as a relationship. Burgeoning or not – it excited her.
He continued, “However, even if we go in the direction I am hoping for…” He stopped talking and Hermione watched him curiously. He seemed to decide something before starting to talk again, his voice firm and sure. “The rules will be vastly different when we are together like we are now versus when we are…playing. When you are my submissive – you will obey my rules at the club. And don’t think you can get away with any shenanigans. There are many people at The Dungeon who will watch you and report to me if you don’t behave. It’s a courtesy amongst most Dominants.”
She bristled at the word shenanigans, it did not describe her at all. “For the record, I wasn’t up to any shenanigans, as you so eloquently put it. Jonathan was having a bad day and was in need of some comfort. I was just being a good friend. I have expressed to Lucius my displeasure about that rule – it is too broad. It needs to be narrowed down to more acceptable parameters. He is thinking about it.”
If Snape was surprised, he didn’t show it. “Be that as it may, you now are very aware of how the inter-workings of the club are handled. It’s too bad you had to learn the hard way.”
She understood what he was telling her – there was no “sneaking” at the club. Not that she had been sneaking. What he was telling her, however, was that as a collared submissive she would be watched, and people would let her Dominant know if she misbehaved. That was … actually that was kind of terrifying. She would have to make sure she was always on her best behavior. However, the words that really played havoc with her psyche were “when you are my submissive”. Bloody buggering hell, I’m going to swoon. Did it get hot in here?
“I understand,” she murmured after a few seconds. “I’m sorry if I came off a little hot headed, I’m not really mad at you. Especially now that a new dynamic of the club scene has been explained. I deserved the punishment I received. I guess I was more taken off guard that you would admit to being a tattletale.”
Snape’s hackles had risen immediately when her tone suggested she was upset with him. He had felt guilty enough about his decision to tell Lucius she had behaved indecently with Jonathan. Her being angry had brought that feeling back momentarily, even though he knew he had done the right thing. He was able to calm himself during his defense but relaxed completely when her teasing voice called him a tattletale. He wasn’t sure whether he should be affronted or find it funny. He chose the latter and gave her a small sneer of amusement.
“I’m not tattletale, Hermione,” he argued, leaning in so his breath tickled her hair. “I am a good friend and a good Dom. I am sorry he didn’t heal you, though. That’s odd for Lucius, he usually heals his subs after a severe punishment. All though he did warn me last night that you might have a sore bum for our date. Perhaps I shouldn’t be too surprised.”
They were interrupted for a moment when their waiter came with their bottle of wine. He pulled the cork and poured a bit for Snape to test. Snape gave his approval and their glasses were filled. “Are you ready to order?”
“A starter,” Snape answered. “We would like the vitello tonnato alla piemontese, fagiolini e capperi. We’ll order our meal when the starter comes out, we need more time to look at the menu.”
Hermione’s eyebrows shot up as the words were spoken without pause or hesitancy in his rich voice. The deluge to her knickers was almost instantaneous and she bit her lower lip. Holy fuck, please talk to me in Italian all day and night, she begged silently. I don’t have to understand – tell me about your dirty socks, for all I care.
When the waiter left, Snape returned them to their conversation. “Where were we?” he questioned before answering himself. “Ah, yes. I was surprised Lucius didn’t heal you.”
When she didn’t answer immediately, Snape moved his eyes from the menu he was still contemplating to her face. Her look was distant, and she was chewing on that delectable lower lip of hers. He almost growled and it took all his will power not to lean over and suck that lovely, pouty lip into his mouth. He closed his eyes for a moment. Pull yourself together, Snape. You’re going to go slow with this one, there’s too much at stake. “Hermione?” he probed.
“Huh? Oh, I’m sorry.” He was curious about the blush that rose to her face. “I didn’t hear what you asked.”
“Why didn’t Lucius heal you?” Snape watched as she took a large gulp of her wine.
“He wanted to, I wouldn’t let him,” she explained after she swallowed.
Snape almost choked on the sip of water he was taking. What?! “Why ever not?”
She gave him a bashful look before turning her eyes down to the table. “After he explained what my transgression meant to him, I felt terribly guilty. I would never, ever purposefully disrespect someone that. I deserved the punishment I received, and I wish for the marks to heal on their own. I still feel guilty for my actions and the discomfort and bruising help remind me that I’ve been forgiven.”
The silence that fell between them was absolute. Snape felt like he had been sucker punched by her words – they were incredible. Dominants in the magical world often offered healing after significant punishment scenes, it was very rare for new or training submissives to opt for what Hermione had. Only more experienced subs tended to react this way, and even they were few and far between. “I am sure that pleased Lucius immensely,” Snape told her in a gruff voice.
Hermione searched his face, relieved to find him sincere. “It did,” she whispered before opening her menu. She paused momentarily in surprise, the entire thing was in Italian. While she spoke passable French and a little Russian (courtesy of Viktor Krumm), she knew little to no Italian. She raised her brows and turned to face him fully. “You speak Italian?” Of course he does, you dolt. He just rattled off the starter with no problem.
“Fluently. My maternal Grandmother was Italian, and my mother’s Italian was better than her English,” he shared, not looking up from his menu.
Hermione closed her eyes, it was going to be a very long night if she had to listen to him speak much more Italian. “You’ll have to tell me what’s on the menu.”
He let out a low chuckled. “Would you object terribly if I ordered for you?”
Hermione paused. She wasn’t a picky eater, but there were certainly somethings she didn’t care for. “Uh, sure…?”
“You don’t sound so sure.” A full laugh left him that time and Hermione’s brain turned to mush. Merlin’s pants, girl, pull yourself together!
“Promise me a few things,” she said after taking a moment to clear her jumbled thoughts. He looked at her expectantly. “No squid or octopus, no raw meat, and nothing super spicy.”
“I can do that.” Snape looked utterly amused
Hermione’s ease continued to grow as they fell into easy conversation, she spoke briefly about Harry and the Weasleys while he elaborated on the Potions research he did on the side when the club wasn’t keeping his focus. They were interrupted by the waitress first taking their orders and a second time to deliver the roasted veal tonnato with green beans and caper berries. Each time they picked up their chatting right where they had left off, occasionally stopping to take bites of the appetizer (which was delectable). After a time, the conversation veered back to her friends and family. Being Snape had taught them all or served with them in the Order, it was a good common ground topic that he seemed comfortable enough with.
“They’re both pregnant? Luna and Ginny? At the same time?” Snape sounded a little queasy at the thought and Hermione snorted into her wine glass.
“They were pregnant with their first children at the same time, too. They’re tolerable until the last six weeks or so.” She laughed again. “To be honest, I can barely remember a time in the last seven years when at least one of the Weasley wives wasn’t pregnant,” she scoffed, then gave a little wistful sigh. She wondered if she should ask him now, it was an appropriate segue. “Do you…” She whispered it, and then paused to take another sip of her wine. Nope, too soon. She wasn’t tipsy enough.
“Do I what?”
Crap, he heard that. She steeled herself before looking him dead in the eye. “Do you want a family, Severus?”
She had to give him credit. He didn’t blanch; he didn’t even blink. He just took a deep breath and answered her. “I’ll be honest with you, until recently I hadn’t given it much thought.”
Silence. Just ask! “And recently?” Hermione’s voice was very tiny, and she was holding her breath.
“Let’s just say I’ve met this witch who makes the idea very intriguing.” His tone was soft, and her heart fluttered madly when his hand slid gently over her thigh, resting just above the top of her boot.
“That was a very good answer,” she found herself murmuring, and then knew without a doubt her entire face was going crimson.
Merlin’s balls, she was beautiful. When she blushed like that, he just wanted to see how dark he could make it. He knew if he started any form of dirty talk, they’d both be a mess by the end of the evening, though. This wasn’t a D/s scenario, so any form of humiliation was out right now, as well. He needed to stay on safer topics. Not missing more than a beat, he returned the question. “Do you want a family?” He already knew she did, but he wanted to hear it straight from her.
“Yes,” she said firmly. “Very much so. I know this is a heavy topic for a first date, but I just had to know if it was something you were open to. I don’t want to waste your time.”
The conviction and certainty of her answer took Snape aback, but he had to admire her tenacity. Leave it to Hermione Granger to not want to waste more than one date with someone who might not want something she did.
“Tell me how your training is going,” Snape requested, smoothly shifting the topic of conversation.
“What do you already know?” Hermione asked, easily scooping up the last bite of their starter. She paused shortly before raising it to her mouth and offered it to him instead. He had to chuckle as he gestured for her to eat it. He appreciated her appetite, too many women he knew ate like birds.
“Luc’s been pretty quiet on the matter,” Snape waved his hand. “Which means he’s very pleased. I’d like to know your side of things.”
Just then the waitress arrived with their main dishes. A large shallow bowl of ravioli with a creamy sauce that was speckled with what she assumed were mushrooms was set in front of her, it looked amazing. She glanced to Severus’ plate to find maccheroncini with a ground meat sauce. His dish looked equally delicious, she wondered if he’d be willing to share.
“What am I about to eat?” she questioned with a smile, waiting to resume their other topic of conversation after the waitress finished refilling their wine and water.
“Ricotta stuffed ravioli with a black truffle sauce,” he smirked. “Mine is a bolognese ragu. The food here is very good, quite authentic.”
She cut into her ravioli and was immediately bombarded with the rich taste of the garlic cream sauce and tang of the sharp, ricotta cheese. She hummed her approval while she watched Snape prepare his own first bite. They ate silently for a few minutes, it was only after the waitress had come and gone to leave a basket of buttery breadsticks and ask how their first few bites were that she felt safe answering his question.
“Lucius is a good teacher and he’s been patient. I believe I’ve learned all the positions he cares for me to know at this point. I’ve been taught how to behave in the club in so far as presenting myself, positioning myself, how I’m to address (or rather not address) other people, how I’m to move through the club, etc.
“I’ve been briefed on orgasm denial – which was a very frustrating week,” Snape snickered, “and introduced lovingly to a flogger, a strap, the spreader bar, the strappado position, the ball gag, and some very arousing spankings. I’ve had one full suspension that was…wow. Really, there’s no other words. I’ve been not so lovingly introduced to a crop – for inattentiveness while at the club and not answering properly when back at the Manor on New Year’s when some dirty talk left me a bit speechless – but I think he was more amused then upset. I currently thoroughly dislike wooden paddles.” This caused another appreciative sound of mirth to leave her date. She raised an eyebrow and said in mock-seriousness. “I don’t think it’s funny.” Snape tried to school his features but was unsuccessful and then they were both laughing gently.
When they calmed, she continued, “More than anything, though, I’m learning a lot about myself. What I like and don’t like, how situations make me feel. The emotions involved can be very, very overwhelming.” She stopped talking while she took a few more bites, Snape waited for her to continue.
After she took a sip of wine to wash down her food she looked up and started speaking again. “I feel like a puzzle piece I didn’t know was missing has been found. Like this essential part of myself is finally being satisfied. It’s been a rocky road, but an extremely satisfying one. I know I’ve only really had three official ‘training’ sessions, but – it all feels right.”
Snape couldn’t help the excitement that was growing in him. It sounded like she truly believed this would be something she would continue with for many, many years. That was an important aspect in a potential partner for him. As much as Hermione may think she was the one conducting an … interview (for lack of a better word), he was doing the same as well. So far, it seemed they were both getting the answers they had hoped for. It was all made so much more satisfying by the continual presence of that intriguing electric current that connected them.
They ate quietly again for a while, and Snape could tell she was contemplating something. “Sickle for your thoughts?”
“Oh,” she seemed surprised and he watched her rip a piece from a breadstick and swirl it in her pasta sauce before letting it sit to soak in the flavors. “I have an odd question about Lucius, but I don’t wish for you to feel obligated to answer.”
“Well, spit it out,” Snape said shortly, and he grimaced. He couldn’t help it, he was a little disgruntled she was thinking about Lucius while sitting here with him.
“It’s actually something that has been bothering me for the last few days, but I didn’t feel comfortable asking Draco about it,” she started, seemingly ignoring his prickly tone. She popped the now soaked piece of bread into her mouth and chewed and swallowed thoughtfully before the words came out in a rush. “I spent the night with Lucius New Year’s,” she said quickly. “And in the morning, after breakfast but before I left, he was already drinking a glass of whiskey. It was barely noon. I just – I find myself concerned. So many of us who fought in the war struggle with different vices and coping mechanisms and...” She trailed off, her train of thought dissipating with the guarded look on Snape’s face.
“I’m sorry,” she murmured, abashed. “I shouldn’t haven’t said anything, it’s an inappropriate turn of conversation. We should be getting to know each other. I shouldn’t be talking about Lucius.”
“No, Hermione.” Snape felt a twinge of guilt even as part of him warred with not only concern for his friend – he hadn’t seen the man drink before evening in years – but jealousy. She had stayed the night with Lucius? And it caused Luc to have a drink before noon the next day?
Snape’s gut was screaming that his friend was getting in deeper than he had anticipated, which caused a weird combination of distrust and sadness in his heart. Shame came with the distrust. He wanted to trust Lucius – he did trust Lucius – but if the Malfoy patriarch were to turn up the charm and fight for the chance to be with Miss Granger himself? Snape would lose. Hands down. The beauty and money of the Malfoy men always got the girl – he wasn’t stupid by any definition of the word. The sadness came from his worry for his friend. Deep down he knew Lucius would not do that to him, that his friend wanted him to be happy – thus, the worry. Lucius had lived the last almost nine years barely existing. Narcissa had meant the world to him, losing her had cost him a huge chunk of his heart. If anyone deserved the happiness a good woman could bring, it was Lucius.
Hermione watched Snape with wary eyes. Had she just fucked everything up? She shouldn’t have said anything. She should have talked to Draco instead. Stupid, stupid witch, she berated herself. Horrified, she felt tears prickle her nose, her stomach dropped and the large dinner she had been enjoying immediately started to feel like a lead balloon in her stomach. He had been quiet far too long. She folded her hands in her lap and started twisting the napkin that was laying there.
“Severus?” she asked quietly after another moment, no longer able to stand the silence.
Snape seemed to pull himself back from somewhere far away. He took in her expression, she looked insanely worried and regretful and there was a sheen of what suspiciously looked like tears in her eyes. “I apologize, Hermione,” he answered gently. “I did not mean to upset you with my silence, I was just contemplating. You were right to bring this up, and I will talk to him. Your observation concerns me some, as well.”
Her shoulders sagged with relief even as a flash of worry crossed her face. “I’m sure it’s nothing to be overtly worried about,” Snape assured her. “I’ll talk with him though.”
“Thank you,” she murmured, reaching out to touch the side of his face. “You two are obviously very close. You’re lucky to have each other.”
Snape couldn’t help but lean into her touch. He wasn’t often touched like this, not in many years, anyway. It was nice to feel…cared for. He reached up to snatch her hand in his and pressed a soft kiss to her fingertips before letting her return to her meal. They continued in comfortable silence for a bit, and Snape was subtly amused to see her eyeing his plate.
“Would you like to try this?” he asked, raising a brow, and indicating his dish with a jerk of his head.
She laughed. “Am I that obvious?”
“Yes,” he teased, and she laughed again, “but I have to admit, I’d like to try yours, as well. That dish is new on the menu since I was here last, but this is my favorite. I haven’t been here in many months, so I couldn’t pass up ordering an old favorite.”
“Well, here!” She cut a ravioli, so it was more bite sized and placed the two halves on top of each other to stab with her fork. She raised the bite, cupping her other hand underneath to catch any sauce that may drip and held it out to him.
Smirking wickedly, he very slowly opened his mouth and allowed her to place the bite inside. It took effort not to laugh when her breathing shortened at the sensuality of the moment. It was almost too easy to rile her up. Snape pulled the bite off the utensil and closed his eyes. It was very good, and he let out an inarticulate noise of appreciation. The meatiness of the mushrooms really paired well with the sharpness of the cheese. When he swallowed and opened his eyes he found his curly-haired seductress staring at him with her mouth slightly ajar and her hands frozen in midair where she had served him the bite.
Snape glanced down to find a bit of the sauce had dripped into her hand. Without thinking, he grasped her wrist and pulled her soiled fingers to his lips, using his tongue to clean her skin.
“Unnnh.” Was the only sound that left her as her eyes grew exceptionally wide and her jaw opened further. He never removed his gaze from hers and his bloody cock sprang to attention so fast he was surprised the button was able to hold it back. The no sex part? That was going to fucking suck.
Hermione ceased breathing as his hot, wet tongue sucked her fingers. Was he trying to make her turn into a pile of goo? If he continued, she’d be utterly useless for the rest of the night. Between his mouth and that wicked smile that preceded his actions, she was a mess. He bloody well knew it, too.
Coming to her senses, she shook her head and tugged on her hand, so he’d release it. Face set with mock-indignation, she shook a finger at him. “You’re not helping the situation, here, Professor.”
For a second, he looked stunned by her scolding tone, his old moniker, and the finger wagging in his face, but then his eyes crinkled at the corners and he mused, “Ah, but you’re making it too easy, Miss Granger.” He winked. Fuck – he just winked? What the hell was she doing to him?
She laughed loudly and fully – from her belly. It made his toes curl and his grin broaden. “Come here,” he curled a finger at her and she slid over, eyes on his expectantly. He didn’t disappoint, dropping a kiss to her lips for the second time that evening. First date etiquette – who bloody cares? he thought as his fingers skimmed her jaw. She pulled away with a happy smile on her face. He could hardly believe how easy the night had been so far. His joy rose further when, instead of scooting away from him again to return to her food, she pulled her plate and wine glass closer and stayed next to him letting her thigh rest against his own.
He switched his fork to his left hand and slipped his arm around her waist, pulling her closer while gathering a bite of his meal onto a fork for her to try. “No more funny business.” She grinned when he raised the bite to her lips.
“No promises.” Snape shot right back. Their banter was entertaining, he was having…fun. He slipped the forkful of pasta into Hermione’s mouth, watching with his cock straining against his trousers as she closed her full lips around it and – deliberately slowly – pulled back. Her lips curled up at the ends and her eyes were glowing. How in the world had he lived forty-six years without this feeling?
“Mm,” she hummed, lifting a finger to swipe away a bit of sauce from the corner of her mouth before using her napkin to clear it away. Pity – he would have taken care of that for her.
Pull back on the reigns, man. You’re already going to have a massive case of blue bullocks at the end of this night.
“I can see why that’s a favorite,” she told him, then quickly switched topics. “Can you eat with your left hand?”
“I can, I’m very ambidextrous,” he admitted.
“Good.” She proceeded to shock him again, snuggling herself fully against his side to continue the meal. Snape had no objections.
They chatted about her work while they ate, and a little bit more about his Potions research. When their plates were cleared, they continued to sit comfortably in each other’s arms while sipping their wine. “Dessert?” he asked her.
“I’m stuffed,” she groaned lightly. “I couldn’t eat another bite. Another time?” Hopeful eyes sought him out.
“Most definitely,” he promised. “Are you still up for a walk? I know it’s dark and cold, but I enjoy walking outdoors after a large meal.”
She patted her bag, which was on her other side and nodded. “I brought my gear and we can cast warming charms if needed. I would very much enjoy a walk as well.” Reluctantly, she pulled away from him as he shifted.
“I’m just going to pay the bill,” he told her.
“Thank you for dinner, Severus. It was delicious – it’s nice to try new places.”
“I’m very happy you liked it.” His voice was sincere as he slid out of the booth and picked up the bill folder.
“I’m going to use the loo, I’ll meet you by the door?” she asked. Snape agreed, but couldn’t help watching her as she moved towards the bathrooms. Part of him felt the whole evening was too good to be true and he was worried she was going to disappear. A beautiful witch, wonderful conversation, a good meal, and a charged atmosphere – could anything be better?
The answer was no.
He paid the bill while she was in the loo, and in doing so noticed a small display of tiny bouquets behind the register. Daisies, aster, some long stemmed roses, but it was a bouquet of teacup roses in a sunset orange that caught his eye. They reminded him of her warmth and fire. “I’ll take that bunch of flowers there as well,” he told the woman who was helping him.
“Of course, sir,” the perky blonde answered, plucking them from the display and handing them to him. The whole bouquet was no larger than a Remembrall with a small bunch of stock stems tied with a white ribbon. He tucked it carefully out of sight and waited for Hermione to join him. She did after a few more minutes, pulling on gloves. She had her thick grey cloak on and buttoned over her outfit with a crimson scarf at her throat, her gloves and hat matched the scarf. What really set the ensemble off, however, was when she pulled the hood of the cloak up her face was trimmed in a lighter grey fur. He swallowed – certainly he was living some other man’s life tonight. What on earth did a woman twenty years his junior see in him?
“Ready?” she asked with an anticipatory smile.
“Yes,” he held out a gloved hand. Black, she noted, the same as the hat he wore. Literally the only pop of color was the deep purple of his scarf. She couldn’t help the twitch of a smile at one corner of her mouth. Hermione took his hand.
Ten minutes later they were strolling through St. James’s Park, after Apparating to the point just behind the public restroom by Marlborough gate. Once on the path, she spoke. “I’d like to play a game – if you’re up for it?”
He looked wary but nodded for her to continue.
“I’ll ask a question, you answer it, then I answer it. Then you ask the question. Simple, one-or-two-word answer questions.” It was basically an ice breaker game that she had participated in during her years at university and when she went to conferences, but it would be a good way to get to know each other.
He deliberated for only a moment. “Your favorite color?”
“Lavender.”
“Deep purple.”
His answer took her aback. She laughed. “I honestly thought you’d say ‘black’,” she mused. He grinned.
“That does seem to be the general consensus.”
“Favorite food?” It was her turn.
“Spaghetti.”
“Pizza.”
“Both Italian choices, excellent.” He released her hand and wrapped an arm around her shoulders, pulling her into his side for the millionth time that evening. It seemed they could not get close enough to each other. She rested her head on his shoulder and looked over the water as they walked slowly. The evening was lovely – it was cold, in the negative single digits Celsius – but there was very little wind and the sky was clear.
“Favorite school subject?” He smirked.
“Charms,” she replied.
He pretended to be offended and sniffed. “Potions.” She laughed.
“Favorite flower?”
“Daffodils,” he answered without pause. She thought she might trip him up with that one. Men didn’t tend to think about flowers much.

“Roses,” she answered, then gasped when a small bouquet of pretty orange blooms appeared in front of her face.
“Lucky guess, hmm?” he smirked before continuing in the same breath. “Favorite animal?”
She was momentarily stunned as she took the tiny bouquet of delicate flowers from him and held them to her nose.
“Cats,” she answered absentmindedly.
“Birds.” She blinked.
“Favorite holiday?” he prodded, attempting to keep their conversation on track.
“Christmas.”
“New Year’s.”
“Favorite…” And on they went as they did a partial circle of the lake. He watched with satisfaction as the pretty brunette lifted the small bouquet of flowers to her nose more than a dozen times, a silly smile on her face that only marked her more beautiful in his eyes. He had never been on a date like this, and he hated for it to end, but it was getting late.
It seemed she was reluctant as well, when fifteen minutes later she let them into her building. “Would you like a cup of hot chocolate?” she asked.
Did he ever, but he could not go to her apartment with her – he didn’t trust himself. “Very much, Hermione, but I cannot,” he said softly. She looked at him, confused. “If I follow you up to your apartment, there will be no hot chocolate. You know this as well as I do, witch. I’m pretty sure we wouldn’t even make it to the bed. We are both aware as to why that cannot happen – not yet.”
The crimson that rose to her already pink-from-cold cheeks was lovely. Hermione hid her smile by bringing her nosegay to her face again. “You’re right, of course,” she chuckled softly. “I had such a wonderful time, Severus.” She raised her eyes to his, searching for something. Snape hoped she found what she wanted, because he had never had such a perfect evening in all his life.
“As did I, princess,” he answered as he took her chin in his fingers and leaned down to kiss her. He meant it to be a gentle kiss, but that damned electrified energy that lurked around them at all times blazed to life. The next thing he knew, her arms were around his neck and he had backed her into the nearest wall as he deepened the kiss.
Hermione whimpered delectably when his tongue sought out her own and he was pretty sure he groaned as well. Snape forced himself to keep the kiss slow, but deepened it just a touch more, reveling the way her nails bit into his neck. As quickly as it started, he slowed it and brought it to an end. “Can I see you again?” he all but begged as he rested his forehead against hers.
“You had better,” she whispered back.
“I’ll owl you,” he promised and dropped another, chaste kiss to her lips. “Good night, Hermione.” He disentangled himself from her and gave a short bow.
“Good-night Severus,” she murmured in return. He smirked at her one last time before turning to head towards the door.
Snape didn’t allow himself to look back at her after he turned away. He knew all would be lost if he did. Because of this, he missed the way Hermione looked after him longingly as he left.
Snape signed off on the week’s ledgers as he kept an eye on the monitors. It was after nine and he knew she would be arriving any minute. She would head to their usual spot and he needed to intercede before she got there.
As he watched, his mind drifted to the night before, as it had done multiple times throughout the day. The date with Hermione had gone perfectly. It had felt…easy. Much easier once they arrived at the restaurant and fell into conversation. She was bright and warm and soft. Her laughter was intoxicating and her smile a balm to his soul. And that kiss. If he could have devoured her on the spot, he would have. It had taken every bit of will power he possessed not to accept her offer for hot chocolate. He would not have been able to resist her if he had followed her back to her flat. Even if she had tried to resist and obey her Master, Snape had no doubt he could have talked his way into her panties and into her bed…and there was no question he would have.
Thinking on the task ahead of him tonight, he questioned if he was making a mistake. It’s not like he was going to give up submissives and sex completely while he waited for her. After all, it would likely be months before Hermione would be in his bed. Maybe he was putting the cart before the thestral. He shook his head internally. No, Severus. As he had done every other time he questioned himself, he dismissed his doubts immediately. He knew he was doing the right thing. You need to do this tonight. It’s time.
He tapped his wand on the ledger causing it to fold and levitate into the cabinet in its appropriate folder. Standing from his desk, he refastened the buttons around his collar and then straightened his cuffs. A flash of red hair on the screen grabbed his eye. Ah, there she is.
He left his office in a swift stride and walked into the main room. The crowd was starting to build, and he had to weave his way through the Friday night masses to get to her. He came upon her quickly. “Britt, come. We need to talk.”
Turning back towards him, she bowed her head. “Yes, sir.”
He placed his hand on her mid back and led her upstairs towards his private chambers. He opened his door and indicated for her to go inside, gesturing towards the sofa. “Please make yourself comfortable. Can I get you something to drink?”
There was a slight look of confusion on her face which caused Snape to let out a sigh. “Yes, I know this is unusual. I need to talk to you about…us. Our arrangement.”
“Our arrangement, sir?”
“Please, have a seat.”
She looked from him to the leather sofa. As she sat down, she crossed her legs, causing her short skirt to hike up and leave her long tanned limbs on display. Her green eyes looked up at him, a subtle and expectant smile on her face.
Snape suddenly realized this was going to be harder than he had anticipated. He knew that look. It was the look she bestowed when she knew she had done well and was about to be rewarded. Clearly, she was in for a surprise.
He sat down in the chair opposite her, suddenly not sure where to begin. “Britt, you are certainly aware I have sought you out more than any other submissive in this club…and frankly…outside of it as well.”
Her smile grew ever so slightly as she kept her eyes down and her expression demure. “Yes, sir.”
“You are an exceptional submissive and a beautiful woman. I have been very…fortunate to have your submission and your…affection, all those years ago.” His words were not meant to flatter, Snape meant every one of them. There was a time when he had cared about this woman enough to date her exclusively. If Voldemort hadn’t returned, it’s possible things could have developed into something more permanent with her. Voldemort had returned, however, and Snape had broken things off for her safety. After the war, he simply wasn’t interested in dating. He’d only wanted submissive companionship, nothing more. Not until recently, that was, and not with this witch.
“Sir, may I speak?”
“Of course, Britt. You needn’t ask. You are not submitting right now.”
Her eyes shot up to his boldly. “I have enjoyed submitting for you, but I’m ready when you are to take things further. I was happy when we were…more to each other.”
He shook his head slightly, his voice soft and slow. “Britt, I’m not asking you for more. I have no wish to hurt you, but the reason I need to speak with you is to thank you and to let you know that I will not be seeking your submission anymore. It’s time our unspoken arrangement draws to a close.”
Her face grew pale. “What? Why? Have I done something wrong?” After a second’s pause, she flung herself to the floor at his feet and bowed low before him. Her voice was pleading and soft. “Forgive me. Forgive me for whatever I’ve done. Please, sir! Tell me what I’ve done to earn your displeasure.”
Snape felt sick, this was his fault. He’d known she cared about his blackened soul more than she should. He’d not whispered significant words of affection, but his continued use and praise and Dominance of her had led her to believe she was his. It was never said, but it was a silent understanding between the two of them. Yes, he had scened occasionally with other witches, but he always came to her after. He could not fault her for her reaction.
“Britt, please. You’ve done nothing wrong. Get up from the floor.” He reached down and gently touched her shoulders, urging her up. “This has nothing to do with you. It has to do with me and…another woman.”
Britt immediately looked up at him, hurt etched in the subtle lines around her eyes. Her response came out slightly choked, “What?”
He gestured towards the sofa. “Please, have a seat so that I can explain.”
She slowly stood and made her way back to the sofa. He watched her transform before his eyes from demure and pleading to reserved and proud. She sat down stiffly, sitting up straight with squared shoulders. She looked him head on, her eyes now slightly distant and accusatory.
He swallowed heavily. This was not an expression he was familiar with from this witch. “I don’t blame you for feeling…betrayed. For, while we had no official agreement, we certainly have behaved as though we did, and I regret that it has led to … disappointment.”
He stood and walked towards the bar, raking a hand through his jaw length locks. “I need a drink. Can I offer you one?”
Her voice was crisp and impersonal. “No. No, thank you. I intend to scene tonight and therefore should not partake.”
He nodded to himself and laughed internally without humor. She probably thought she was hurting him with those words and he was certain that had been her intent. He swallowed the fire-whiskey down and turned back towards her. “I don’t blame you if you are upset. I just can’t in good conscience continue to scene with you here at the club as I date her outside of it. It doesn’t feel fair to either one of you.”
Snape watched the redhead as she stood and stepped towards him. She reached up and delicately buttoned a button he had missed, her eyes on her task as she spoke calmly. “I think we both know you’ll be back. No witch can meet your needs as well as I can. Question is, will I be waiting?” She dropped her hands and looked up at him, her expression flat and without a hint of emotion. “Goodbye, Severus.”
He watched in surprise as she turned away from him and walked out of his flat. He didn’t know what he expected, but somehow that hadn’t been it.
He collapsed into the chair and let out a heavy breath.
Was Britt correct?
No.
Britt was exceptional, but Hermione was exquisite.
However, if things didn’t work out with Hermione, he would likely regret giving up the redhead. He would miss her submission and would be lucky to find a replacement. But there lay the issue – Britt wasn’t what he wanted. If she was, he wouldn’t be pursuing Hermione. If things didn’t work out with Hermione, he would still be lacking the true companionship he desired. He knew in his heart Britt would never be the one, and he also knew that being the one was exactly what Britt had wanted to be. She had wanted it ever since he sought her after the war. It had been selfish of him not to end things with her sooner and to continue giving her false hope. Snape was a selfish man, though, and he would be the first to admit it.
Of course, now that he’d ended things with Britt, he would be back to random submissives again. The hungry Dominant within was always anticipating his next meal. He could only hope Lucius wouldn’t take too long to relax his reins on the Gryffindor. Heat and desire flooded him to the core with visions of her naked little body writhing beneath him. Soft, pleading caramel eyes looked up at him, desperate for his touch. He swallowed heavily. Get it together!
Rubbing his eyes, he stood and exited his flat. Lucius was training Hermione tonight and therefore, Snape had the floor. He needed to get back to work. Entering his office, he glanced at the monitors. He knew he shouldn’t have been surprised yet somehow, he found he was. In less than fifteen minutes, Britt had already ensnared herself an all too willing Dominant.
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Book One - Master Mine: A Lesson in Submission