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Years of Burden	By : Polypectron Category: Harry Potter > Het - Male/Female > Snape/Hermione Views: 6695 -:- Recommendations : 0 -:- Currently Reading : 1
Disclaimer: I do not own Harry Potter and SSHG is not canon. This is a work of fiction. I am not profiting from it. All characters, places, objects and realities belong to J K Rowling and the Potterverse.

Chapter List
- 5
- 6
- 7
Disclaimer: None of these characters belong to me, they belong to J K Rowling and if you don't know that they you must be really confused when you read these fanfiction stories. (to be taken in jest) The events happening during the tale are either made up of taken from the book or the movie and may or may not be in chronological order depending on the story's needs.

WARNING - mentions of fellatio (hey! don't get too excited)

Polyplectron

CHAPTER SIX - KEEP YOUR HANDS TO YOURSELF

Contrary to what Severus Snape believed, today was a perfect day - Perfect for Quidditch. The winter sun was shining brightly and slowly warming the Castles exterior. Birds chirped their morning greetings and the fresh scent of morning dew wafted across the Quidditch pitch. The breeze was refreshing - nippy - but refreshing. Hoards of bundled up Gryffindors, Hufflepuffs, Ravenclaws and even a few Slytherins wandered down towards the pitch, wrapped in warms jackets and sporting pink noses. All were eager for an exciting game of Quidditch.

Hermione was bundled in her thickest Gryffindor red jumper, blue wash jeans, scarf and her favour woollen beanie her mother had knitted for her 14th birthday. It was one of the possessions she had salvaged after their relocation. She had made sure they were surrounded by their belongings to make the unconscious transition easier for her beloved parents. The beanie had become a little loose over the years but Hermione decided not to improve it with magic. Some things were best left the muggle way.

Walking down the cobble pathway towards the Quidditch pitch, Hermione turned back to see her companion bending over the foot path to inspect something hidden from view. She called to her.

"Luna, what on earth are you doing? We are going to be late for the game."

Despite the perfect day and the cheery dispositions of the eager Quidditch fanatics making their way to the stands she found herself less than enthusiastic. In reality it did not matter at all to her if they were late, her fascination for Quidditch was none existent and her attentions were focused on something else entirely. Thoughts of Professor Snape had been eating away at her all morning. With the help of Dreamless Sleep she had slept soundly but after waking up she felt completely and utterly exhausted while her wrist felt as if it had been bludgeoned. Hermione knew she should visit Madam Pomfrey but she did not want to risk running into Snape. Hermione shivered and wrapped her arms around herself to help fight the chill.

Professor Snape is a nasty brute. Plain and simple. There was no reason for him to be so cruel to me even if I did sneak into his private ward, he deserved the slap I gave him. There is no reason for him to hate me so much he barely knows me!

Hermione's relationship with Snape was antagonistic from the moment they met. From her very first day at Hogwarts he had been nothing but dismissive and unkind to her because she was in Gryffindor and affiliated herself with Harry Potter. Snape saw her as an Insufferable-Know-It-All and Hermione was conditioned by Ron and Harry to see Snape as a Greasy Git and Overgrown Bat of the Dungeons which he lived up to exceptionally . But as Hermione got older she gradually developed an unsettling fascination. He possessed a high intelligence, an abundant knowledge of potions and spells and applied himself with strict discipline. These personal attributes were traits she admired in a person so logically she understood why she would find herself drawn to the enigmatic man but it did not explain her continued awareness of his habitual behaviours and sporadic benevolence.

Last year before term started she recalled watching Snape coming in and out of Number Twelve, Grimmauld Place while the Order meetings were in session. Seeing him out of Hogwarts made her really re-evaluate him as a person, he was not just her teacher but a man, a man aiding in the fight for light at great personal risk. The first time their paths crossed was one evening after the boys had gone to bed, she had come down to fix herself some tea. Snape appeared out of nowhere and scared the living daylights out of her, spilling tea all down her night gown, 'Evening Miss Granger', he had said, 'Appears I am less than punctual.' and before she could respond he used Tergeo on her spoiled nightwear and disappeared without a moments hesitation. He must of been late for an Order meeting and his tardiness had caused her to barely sleep a wink that night.

The second time was when she was visiting Mr Weasley will recovering from Nagini's bite. Snape had come in to enquire about his health, an act that completely befuddled Hermione because Snape appeared nothing but contemptuous towards the Weasley family. It was moments like this that made her ruminate about her complex Professor. Snape's abstruseness at first intrigued her but now left her utterly frustrated. Especially now after seeing him wandering around the classroom half naked, threatening students and above all his barbarous attack on her persons.

Snape was inside me, inside my head, I felt him perusing through my memories like I was a public archive and I have never felt so violated. I can only imagine what he must of been thinking after watching me defend him in front of Harry and my poor excuse to visit the Hospital Wing - he must think I am a complete nincompoop. "Preserve your pity for someone who wants it" No one ever wants pity you horrendous git but you sure as hell need it. I wonder what he was going to say to me before Madam Pomfrey came in. . . . probably going to ask for another bucket. Ungrateful.

Grinding a hole into the ground with her shoe Hermione released a long sigh that was lost in the sound of excitement and nature. Luna was still bent over the pebble path but had raised her arm in acknowledgement. Usually it was her waiting for Harry or Ron to hurry up not the other way around. How was she going to explain her wrist to Harry? There was no conceivable way she could confide in her friends but she knew that keeping it bottled up would cause it to manifest into something toxic.

Maybe I should get a second opinion. I couldn't possibly tell Harry or Ginny about Snape they would take it way out of proportion and Ron is completely out of the question. . .

Hermione studied Luna, the girls dirty blonde hair was whipped wildly around her face and her dirigible plum earrings swayed back and forth in the wind. Luna had this ability to unsettle people with her eccentricity and dottiness. Over the years Hermione had found it difficult to get along with Luna, the girl received well above average grades and was actually quite astute but she possessed a misdirected intelligence that frustrated her to the point of a mental breakdown. Regardless she found herself walking with Luna today because they were under similar circumstances. Lacking friends. As coincidence would have it today was the day that Hermione would start seeing Luna as less than an awkward acquaintance and more of a potential companion.

Luna looked up from inspecting a mud patch and walked casually over to Hermione, "Oh sorry - I thought I saw Crumple-Horned Snorkack tracks. Although that does seem a little fatuous this is hardly the climate and the soil is too moist," her little pink nose poking out over the top of a massive blue scarf wrapped tightly around her neck, "There is something bothering you I can tell. Your breathing is louder and your nose is flaring"

"It's nothing really," sighed Hermione sadly.

"Have you injured your wrist? You seem to be nurturing it. You know Nargle pus is good for sprains but it is terribly toxic to humans but should you ever find yourself otherwise it will be good for you to know."

"Uh ok, thanks Luna."

Shouts of excitement gradually grew louder as the neared the pitch. Some younger students pushed past Luna and Hermione, knocking Hermione's book bag off her shoulder and spilling its contents, hitting her wrist in the tussle. Quickly they both scrabbled to regain her sprawled parchment and books while Hermione tried her best to shield her wrist. Sighing angrily, Hermione shoved the items back into her shoulder bag and thanked Luna softly for the items she had gathered.

"How rude! First years seem to get more and more self-absorbed every year."

"I blame the wrackspurts"

"What on earth is a 'wracksport?"

"Wrackspurt. They are invisible. They fly into your ear and make your brain go all fuzzy. Is your wrist alright?"

Hermione looked down at her hand and tried to move it, "I think so. Aches a bit"

"Why not use Ferula until it heals?" offered Luna helpfully taking Hermione's shoulder bag from her and putting her arms through the strap. The strap dug into her neck pushing her head forward and the bag pouncing against her bottom as they walked, she looked ridiculous.

Oh I am so stupid of course I should use Ferula!

Hermione produced her wand and cast Ferula at her wrist. Bands emanated from her wand and wrapped tightly around her wrist to form a small splint.

"Good idea Luna, that feels much better"

Continuing their journey to the quidditch stands, they made their way around to the correct one and started their ascent. Their conversation had been rudely interrupted by the bumbling first years but Hermione still felt a need to confide in Luna. The top was already bustling with Gryffindor's and Ravenclaws alike and they took two vacant seats near the front, between Neville and Parvati. Neville smiled at them in greeting but was in deep conversation with Colin Creevy, who was asking advice for an up-coming Herbology test. The game had already started and Hufflepuff was in front. She could see Harry and Ron flying overhead. Ginny waved lightly at her then fully absorbed herself in the game.

"Luna I injured my wrist in the Hospital Wing," leaned in Hermione, indicating to her splintered wrist, "and yes I am aware of the irony."

Nodding to acknowledge her, Luna took a 'Go Harry' sign out of her pocket, charmed it to grow twice its size and hung it over the edge of the stand. To Hermione's amusement it was bright purple and sported glittery yellow text that shone distractingly in the sunlight. A small illustration of a snitch bounced around the boarder of the sign.

"I went for a Head Cure Potion because I had a terrible headache and I saw Professor Snape had been admitted. I decided to see if he was alright and I went to his cot and he . ." Hermione seemed to drone off and Luna, much to Hermione's surprise, grabbed her hand and squeezed it.

"Perhaps this is not the place, nor the time for such a conversation", suggested Luna lightly, "your brow is perspiring. Here," Luna offered her a pink doily as a handkerchief. Hermione accepted awkwardly and dotted her brow with it.

"Well Luna, I would still really like to tell someone about it. Would you like to come to my dormitory tonight for some peppermint tea? Hogsmeade weekend is tomorrow so Professor McGonagall would not mind another house member stayed over so late."

Luna's face looked bewildered and tucked her wand behind her ear. Her silvery grey eyes piercing Hermione's hazelnut, "Have a slumber party like friends do? I have never been to a slumber party before."

"Not really a slumber party Luna", she smiled awkwardly at Luna who deflated a little, "but we can Engorgio my bed and eat sweets if you like."

"Ok! I will bring my father's newest issue of the Quibbler even you will find this issue engaging. There is a whole spread on Wrackspurts and I'll bring my spectrespecs so you can see them."

Hermione smile was a little forced but found herself excited at the prospect of some quality 'girl time', after all she did spend majority of her time with Harry and Ron. There was only so much a girl could take when surrounded by boys constantly. Lost in the moment of newly sprouting friendship, she made the mistake of looking across the Quidditch pitch and her joyous mood was quickly dampened. Like a bucket on an open fire.

Two orbs of darkness stared menacingly in her direction.

Professor Snape.

~O~

The staff stand was surprisingly full. Snape had only managed to just squeeze his way grudgingly past Professor Sprout who attempted to smile at him. He ignored her, irritated by her lack of loyalty this morning and sat himself on the edge of the stand next to Professor Vector. Several of the professors shouted at Snape's arrival. Patting him on the back and welcoming him to the game. Snape flinched under their petting and tried desperately to avoid scrutiny.

"Thank you for the gift Severus!"

"Most generous of you!"

"I will be opening this one tonight I have a pile of essays to mull over and it will complement them nicely!"

Snape nodded gruffly in acknowledgement but refused to look at anyone directly.

Dumbledore isn't even here. Meddlesome old fool. Is this the real punishment? Forcing me to sit idly twiddling my thumbs while my cohorts thank me 'graciously' for my 'considerate' gifts. I'd throw myself over the edge if it wouldn't leave such a horrible mess. Still it would be wise not to leave, no doubt Minerva and Pomona would inform Albus of my desertion.

After leaving Dumbledore's office he decided against heading to breakfast and instead made a beeline for his quarters. Besides, he had specifically told Albus he was no longer be taking his meals in the Hall. Upon entering his quarters he felt an immediate emptiness and after rummaging for a good half hour and leaving nothing unturned he failed to find any alcohol. The Headmaster would have looked in ever nook and cranny, except for his hope chest. The anglo-saxen carved chest was resting ominously where he left it and not even Albus would be able to open it without his consent. Snape was fortunate that the Headmaster had not confiscated it for dark magic was woven into the grain. Standing in front of the chest it had urged him to open it but he refused. Inside the box lay possessions that held no place in the life he lived, like muggle records, photographs and his chiengora sweater. The tempted to retrieve his forgotten garment was where he drew the line. Stubbornly he carried the chest into his bedroom, pushed it under his bed and left the room. Perhaps it was best that he attend the Quidditch game and stayed away from his lodgings for as long as he could.

Vector greeted him kindly and moved to sit closer to him, invading his personal space. "Nice of you to join us Severus, it is not often we see you attending a match that is not Slytherin" she purred

"Well Septima it seems I find myself here by forcible 'request' rather than of free will."

"How droll, lose a bet? No matter, coming to these games can have their benefits."

Snape seemed to have something nudging his leg. Not moving a muscle he allowed his gaze to lower and found Vector butting something against his knee. Before he could ask her what the hell she was doing a booming voice echoed around the pitch announcing the start of the game. Several players flew onto the field and rose in the air. He could see Potter serpentine between the Hufflepuff beaters.

Yes today is a rotten day. . .

Wrapping his robes around him more tightly he seethed at Vector.

"Keep your hands to yourself Septima I am in no mood for frivolities." He whispered furiously at her, not in the mood to draw unwanted attention, having had quite enough of it this morning in Dumbledore's office.

"I have no idea what you mean Severus" Vector looked innocently at him and applied more pressure on his leg, "perhaps you are imagining things."

Looking down he could see a miniature bottle of Moscato with a small note attached. At first he stared at it cautiously for a moment, completely baffled at the woman's gesture. Then he masked his face and swiftly ripped off the note and pocketed the bottle. Resuming his position of looking bored beyond recognition he risked a side glance at Vector and raised an eyebrow.

"Thank you for your generous offering of Firewhiskey Severus I had no idea you valued me as a fellow staff member, how delightfully touching." smiled Vector, changing the subject.

"Well by all means feel grateful Septima and do not allow me to hinder your precious feelings"

"Don't you worry about that," Vector who smirked at him, "I'll feel quite content with some liquid courage. Unfortunately I find myself relying more and more on the sweet nectars of life ever since my husband passed so your gesture is appreciated."

Snape had never had much to do with Septima Vector. She was at least fifteen years older than himself and had never attending Hogwarts while he was at school. Arithmancy was her subject of choice and although that came hand and hand with potions he had never needed assistance with it for he was more than capable. He admitted she was quite well put together for a woman in her late forties.

"My condolences"

"Thank you. Ambitious fool was slain in a Leprechaun prank gone wrong, not so lucky after all. But not to worry drinking cures the pain, perhaps when I open your gift you would like to join me?"

"Septima!" A snippy voice interrupted the exchange, "Severus is engaging in sobriety and you should lead by his example instead of drowning your sorrows! How is it that we have so many alcoholics at Hogwarts? This is not Alcoholics Anonymous!"

The couple turned to see Professor McGonagall frowning down at them. Luckily she had not seen the exchange of contraband but had heard Professor Vector's confession of dependence.

Snape sneered at her, "Unsympathetic as always Minerva, it is most certainly not anonymous considering you are outing Septima in public. Do you have an inane desire to be the centre of attention or do you so crave domineering over others who need no conditioning what-so-ever that you simply cannot help yourself?"

That seemed to ruffle some feathers. McGonagall stamped her foot and extended her hand forward, pointing at them and attracting the attention of several professors. "Now see here Severus! There is no need for such cheek, I was merely expressing my concern for Septima, really dear you should know better. Perhaps when you next feel the urge you should come enjoy my company in the staff study. I know the sadness of losing a husband all too well and it would be wise not to drown in a pot of your own sorrows. Giving out alcohol like it were sweeties was not the best idea you have ever had was it Severus?"

"Hardly my idea you spiteful crone as you are well aware." he spat noxiously.

Apparently Minerva is seeking person retribution for attacking her precious Gryffindor.

Vector decided to throw water on the flames before it got too out of control. Minerva looked ready to draw her wand.

"Minerva that is a touching offer and I would love to join you in the study one night. I was merely thanking Severus for his gift. It is very courageous of him to give up an addiction in his adulthood. It comes harder to let go with age," said Vector through gritted teeth and flashing Snape a reassuring smile. No doubt he was dubious and was now re-evaluated the sincerity of her own gift.

Snape had now lost interest and glared vaguely out into the pitch, clutching the letter in his hands tightly. He was plagued with an overwhelming desire to read it but did not want to risk McGonagall confiscating it considering she was now breathing down the back of his neck. No doubt Dumbledore has instructed her to eye him like a vulture. Waiting for him to die before she swept in to pick at his remains.

Hufflepuff was ahead by four points which eased his temper because that mean Gryffindor was losing and if Gryffindor was losing that made for a sad Potter. A sad Potter made a happy Snape and a happy Snape was essential for his survival today. It would be the cherry on top if Gryffindor won so he metaphorically crossed his dexterous fingers they lose. Running his watchful gaze over the hundreds of animate faces, he landed on a very obnoxious looking sign. Seething he threw daggers at it.

Go Potter? More like Fuck Potter. Hope he falls off his broom. . . . actually no, I'll have to jump in and save him. Like some guardian - Who on earth would design such a monstrosity?

Raising his eyes, he found the culprit, or in this case, culprits. Miss Lovegood and Miss Granger.

Miss Granger – the cause of my current frustrations. If she had not stuck her nimble nose in my business I might be enjoying some well-deserved Ogden's by the fire at this very moment.

Pushing the blame however could not deny the fact that perhaps he had been incongruous towards her persons. She appeared indubitable in her concern for him. Upon closer inspection it seemed that her wrist was in a splint. The sight of her bandaged wrist made Snape feel strange. Did he feel remorse? It was not his fault he injured her, he had acted during a surge and had no visible control. No amount of lying could make him believe that and in all honesty she had not really deserved his brutal assault. Briefly an image of her underwear danced across his mind and he mentally shook himself.

That is less than appropriate but does add to the humiliation of it all.

From across the pitch, he stared long and hard at her, taking in her bushel of hair that whipped wildly under the confines of her woollen beanie. He scoffed. No doubt the young girl's concern for him was a product of Gryffindor pride. Being above all others and needing to justify themselves by helping the helpless and helpless he was not. Neither did he appreciate her gesture of good faith. Hopefully his actions would stop her from attempting reaching out to him.

Hazel eyes caught his own black orbs and on impulse he scowled. The girl seemed visibly stricken by their connection and looked away quickly, visibly pained.

Perhaps an apology on my part might be in order.

He lowered his gaze and his stomach growled. The untimely contraband hidden in the confines of his robes seemed to burn a hole through his pocket.

"Thank you Septima" he muttered low enough for no one to hear him.

Vector did hear. She smiled at no one in particular while McGonagall continued an onslaught of complaints.

~O~

Gryffindor had won the match. Harry had caught the snitch but it was Ron's performance that seemed to have won everyone's attention. Post-match, Luna and Hermione had made it down to the changing room to congratulate the boys and the atmosphere in the room was exuberant.

"Congratulations Harry" smiled Luna, giving him a small hug, Harry blushed at their contact, his glasses slightly a skewed and his hands awkwardly patting her back.

"T-thank you Luna, good of you to accompany Hermione to the game"

"Hey you lot! Party in the common room!" gleamed Cormac McLaggen, leering at Hermione. "You can come too you gorgeous minx, shall I escort you?" extending his arm for her to accept. Hermione gave him a glare that exuded hostility and he backed away, "saucy one you are. I'll see you up there then" he winked at her and left the change room in a mass exodus of rowdy and over excited students.

Once alone, Harry turned to address Hermione, "How come you have a splint on your wrist Hermione?"

Hermione appeared unprepared for questions but Luna interjected, "She was pushed over by some first years on the way to the Quidditch pitch, isn't that right Hermione?"

Harry looked at Hermione questioningly, his eyebrow rose, "Really?"

Trying her hardest to look sincere she agreed with Luna's alibi, "Yes but I am fine really," forcing a smile, changing the subject "shall we go up to the party then?"

As they walked out of the room, Hermione noted Ron's absence but did not enquire to where he was, she was so sick of him at the moment and he was most likely wrapped around Lavender at the party.

I hope to Merlin he isn't, that is the last thing I would like to see right now

~O~

Back in the common room, the party was in full swing when they arrived. Renewed cheers and shouts exploded upon their entrance. Several girls swooned on Harry asking for a moment of his time and handing him butter beer. Ginny quickly came over and shooed them off and welcomed the trio to a free lounge. Crookshanks had appeared out of nowhere and mewed at Hermione's feet. Harry seemed to be searching the room.

"Looking for Ron?" smirked Ginny, sitting down in between Luna and Harry. "He is over there locking lips with Lav-Lav, disgusting if you ask me"

Harry looked towards the corner she was indicating, as did Hermione from underneath her hair. She had bent over to pick up Crookshanks and now pat him in her lap. There in full view was Ron and Lavender, locking lips so hard that it appeared that they were eating each other. It was quite a sight..

I guess it was bound to happen, I just wished I didn't have to witness it.

"Looks like he is eating her face doesn't it?" sighed Luna whimsically, "Is that normal or is Ron cannibalistic in nature?" She absent-mindedly accepted Crookshanks into her lap and stroked his back. He arched it in delight and Hermione stood from the lounge, her eyes down cast.

"Well he has to improve his technique somehow doesn't he? Good game Harry." Ginny grabbed Harry's arm in passing and wandered off to collect more butter beer. Harry stared at her fading figure then turned to address Luna and Hermione, only to find Luna smiling softly at him.

"I think she needs some time to herself", offered Luna, scratching the top of Crookshanks head, "Shall we partake in some butter beer?"

The suggestion seemed to be the smartest thing Harry heard all day. Nodding he rose and went to fetch them both a goblet each. From the corner of his eyes, Harry could see the portrait hole closing and a bush of brown hair passing through it.

~O~

Hermione ran out into the corridor hiding back tears. Finding an unlocked classroom she flew inside and slammed the door shut. She stood with her hand on the door for a few moments collecting herself. Unable to fight it any more, she shut her eyes tightly and turned around to slide slowly down the door to the floor. A heavy sob echoed around the empty room as she pulled her knees tightly towards her.

I feel so alone. . . How could he just stand there and kiss that harlot in public

Taking out her wand, she muttered an incantation and several yellow birds erupted from her wand and flew about the room. She smiled sadly to herself when she heard chirping, indicating her spell had worked. Looking up, the birds greeted her with fancy flight work. Bobbing between and evading each other.

Taking in a deep breath, Hermione rose from the floor and made her way over to a teacher's desk and sat behind it, the birds following her as she walked. With her wand, she commanded the birds to land in front of her on the table. There were six of them. All were identical and had the appearance of shiny plastic. Something she could improve on. Concentrating, she changed the colour of them from yellow to pink to red and then decided on black.

Six little black birds standing in a row, it sounds oddly poetic.

The birds chirped and bounced around the table. Enjoying their new shade and engaging with each other appreciatively. Two of the birds started to dance around each other, as if engaging in some kind of courting ritual while the others began to play fight by attempting to peck at each-others legs.

If only I could be a bird. Life seems simpler and all they do is eat and fly around. . . .But I hate flying. I would make a terrible bird. . .

Hermione was interrupted from her thoughts when she heard the latch on the door seize open. Muttering finite incantartum,the birds disappeared in a puff of black smoke and she crawled down underneath the desk and hid from view. She heard two people enter the room and shut the door, hushed giggles and soft nothings were exchanged. Chairs scrapped across the floor indicating they had sat down.

"This room is empty Ron-Ron, now how about you show me that big wand of yours."

Lavender. That was definitely Lavender and Ron. 'Ron-Ron'. They thought the room was empty and Merlin knows what they were going to get up to in here. Hermione cringed at the awkwardness.

"Uh ok Lavender"

A fumbling of a zipper and a small gasp could be heard.

"Oh Ron-Ron its SO BIG!"

Hermione visibly blanched at hearing this. She remembered seeing the boys accidentally in the shower once and Ron was definitely not large enough to encourage such wanton behaviour. Not liking were this going she decided to act. Wiping back tears she had not realised were still pouring freely, she went to confront them but suddenly the door slammed open and the couple screamed. Hermione crouched back under the desk and sat further back and listening, her heart beat wildly in her chest.

~O~

Snape walked down the corridor towards Ravenclaw tower. He had considered drinking the bottle given to him by Vector but found Dumbledore's words echoing through his head. ~For the remainder of the school year you will be nothing less than sober~ which had prompted him to leave the game before it finished. Gryffindor had been far enough ahead that their victory was inevitable and he couldn't stand to watch it for he would have most likely opened the bottle and consumed the whole thing in one swig. So he decided to leave the bottle in Vector's portrait and avoid her in the process.

Taking Vector's letter from his pocket he unfolded it to read her message:

Severus

Thank you so much for your gift. It means a lot to me even though I know you did not send it yourself. Only a fool would mistake Dumbledore's handwriting for your own. You were quite the talk at breakfast and consider yourself lucky you were absent. The entire faculty (and myself) were welcomed to the High table with a bottle of Ogden's sitting on our seats. The note attached reads as such:

*Please accept this token of gratitude my valued colleague I am engaging in sobriety. Yours sincerely S. Snape

I can only imagine what you must have done to prompt this extravagant high-jinks. Considering Ogden's is seven galleons a bottle I assume they were from a personal collection and I will further that assumption that you are an alcoholic. The Headmaster does have unusual bigotry towards addicts. I myself have been commanded to pull in my head but not quite to the point where I find my belongings gifted to people I actively avoid daily.

The Moscato is not much seeing as you as more than likely a hard-liquor man but let it be the start of your new collection. Should you ever like to associate with a fellow addict, Rolanda, Aurora and I meet in my quarters every Sunday evening for guilt-free gambling. Feel free to ask Edgar Strougler for Guilfrey Gambly.

Watch out for Trelawny, she took the note and gesture quite personally.

Kind Regards,

Septima Vector

His predatory prowl slowed as he finished the sentence and read the letter over twice before shoving it into his pocket. The note had come as a surprise to him; it was awful nice of Septima to offer him the Moscato, that gesture alone was more than necessary. The woman knew straight away of the Headmasters handy work and her instinctive reaction was to award Snape with alcohol. Obviously she was not swayed by the Headmasters authority and the idea of Vector standing in front of Dumbledore chain smoking and downing bottle of firewhisky brought a sinister smile to his face. Scaring some children in their passing.

Thankfully she had written the absurd note Dumbledore had attached to the bottles, at least now he could place a context to the thank you's and congratulations that were smothering him where ever he roamed. How dare he put him in such a position after he complained that he was standing out too much. Now he was virtually in the spotlight. The entire faculty knew of his sobriety and should he choose to drink he would no doubt be scalded and receive ample disappointments. Not that their opinions mattered he would just prefer no one to talk to him. Ever.

Passing several children he perked his ears to find an excuse to yell at them.

"Come on the party has already started!"

"I'll catch up I just have to get Ethan from the library where about is it?"

"Gryffindor tower, alright I will meet you out the front."

A party in light of Gryffindors victory was the last thing he wished to see so he decided it was high time he made his way back to his quarters. He could sit and stare at his new acquisition and write a list of all of the bottles he would purchase once Dumbledore relinquished his hold. Turning to head towards the stair case he heard a classroom door slam loudly. Curious he quickened his steps and came upon a classroom that was not being utilised for lessons this year. It used to be Flitwicks classroom until he moved into his larger one. Putting his ear to the door, he heard the recognisable sound of a zipper being pulled and a girl melodramatically sighing in appreciations

"Uh ok Lavender!"

What the devil?

"Oh Ron-Ron its SO big!"

For this I will not put!

Without missing a beat Snape latched on to the door handle and thrust himself into the room. Slamming the door behind him he found Lavender Brown bobbing up and down between the freckled legs of the Weasley boy who was leaning backwards over one of the tables. The sight blinded him with disgust, on impulse he withdrew he wand and aim it at the couple.

"Don't curse us!"

"What is the meaning of this?!" shouted Snape furiously.

"Ah-shit let go Lavender"

"Explain yourselves!" he barked.

"W-well you see-"

"I was-"

"we were-"

"Cease your blubbering!" The couple stopped stuttering and looked at him ashamed, "What a disgusting display of carnal lust. Pull your trousers up you stupid boy and you wipe your face you silly girl. Do you think this is acceptable behaviour for students? One hundred points from Gryffindor, each. I should not have to sacrifice my leisure finding students with their trousers down their ankles and harlots hanging off their unmentionables."

"I am not a Harlot!" screeched Lavender, "I happen to be his girlfriend!"

"Regardless of your self-imposed status you still had your mouth stuffed with impropriety. We are not an institute for illicit behaviour and hormonal exploration –"

"At least I'm getting some." bit Ron angrily and Snape swore he heard a gasp from somewhere else in the room. A peeping-tom perhaps.

"What was that Mr Weasley? If that is what getting some is I consider myself lucky to be lacking. A month's detention with Filch shovelling Thestral manure should suffice for your audacity. Perhaps you should join him Miss Brown. No doubt I will have to consume forty galleons worth Forgetfullness potion to alleviate the horrors I have just been unfortunate to witness. You should be ashamed of yourselves. Now the both of you get out of my sight. Get out!"

The couple quickly composed themselves and made a beeline for the door. Ripping it open and slamming it behind them Snape could hear them careening up the corridor towards Gryffindor tower. He allowed a selfish grin to cross his face. Turning his attention back to the room he noticed a familiar outline of curly brown hair standing defiantly from its owners hiding place behind the teacher's desk. Approaching it slowly, he readied himself to deduct her for hiding in an abandoned classroom but decided against it for he found himself feeling pity for her.

Recalling his youth he remembered himself in a similar situation. It was almost a life time ago when he found Lily locking lips with James Potter in a nook not too far from the Slytherin common room. He believed Lily to be perfectly oblivious to their position and placed the blame on Potter, that he had intentionally chosen that exact place to cavort so he would see them. And he did. Breaking what little of his heart he had left. Lily had barely even noticed him. . .

Clenching his fists at the memory he approached the front of the desk and leant over it. The girl was curled up under the desk, her hair in disarray and sniffling as if she had been crying.

"Miss Granger."

The girl froze but did not look in his direction.

"Miss Granger?" His voice sounded stronger, more persistent.

Cautiously the girl crawled out from under the desk and stood up. Snape stared at her expectantly with his arms crossed and his eyebrow raised.

"Enjoying the theatrics were you?"

"No Professor, I was not" sniffed the girl.

The girl brushed down her robes and Snape took in her appearance. Her red jumper appeared ruffled and dark stains blemished her jeans, no doubt the floor was filthy. He must remember to inform the house elves. She was holding a small woollen beanie.

"May I enquire as to why you are hiding under a desk and eavesdropping on your friend's less than sanitary activities?"

Wiping her nose, the girl plonked herself defeated into a chair behind the desk and held her face in her hands.

"I didn't mean to Professor" she sobbed hard, letting it all out, "I was in here practising charms and they both stormed in here. I hid under the desk, I don't know why! I have just had the most horrible day . . . . I do not know why he likes that stupid twit and not me! What is wrong with me?"

Snape found himself gawking at her openness.

I do not care for this. Did I not just yesterday assault her-has she completely forgotten who I am? Regardless she has abandoned all logic and is bawling on a tangent about boys, girls and god knows what-else but they are things I neither care or need to know about. Maybe I should leave her to wallow and walk out.

Crying was a weakness he had grown to despise. It was something he frowned upon when displayed in public and should he find himself in a position with a crying student he would avoid the issue by sending them to a female staff member like Minerva. But that seemed less than appropriate for this particular situation. At a young age Snape had been drilled with the notion that crying was solely for girls. Whenever Snape would cry Tobias would discipline him by forcing him to stand outside in the busy street until he stopped. One day he had been locked outside in the rain for complaining about his mothers absence. Tobias was watching him from an open window and would shouting obscenities at him. Eventually his tears mixed in with the rain and it all seemed a little pointless. Unbeknownst to Snape, Tobias took his quick composure as a direct result of his less than stellar parenting skills and never improved on them.

The unique discipline he received from Tobias did little to control his need to weep. At Hogwarts all he ever did was cry and that did wonders for his social life. From the moment he boarded the Hogwarts Express his destined nemeses Potter and Black coined the nickname Snivellus, that caught on quickly and stuck with him for the remainder of his schooling. Slytherin was very intolerant of weaknesses and as he grew older Snape was pressured to bottle in his feelings if he was ever going to survive in the snake pit. Just as well, for if he had not learnt to control his emotions his survival during his servitude with the Dark Lord would have been dubious. Now in his adulthood, he was much wiser and cunning and every now and then when it was assured he would be uninterrupted he would lock himself in his quarters, drink himself into oblivion and weep until his throat was hoarse and his eyes bloodshot. Snape could not stand the sound of crying and he would not tolerate Miss Granger's bawling for another second.

"Stop crying this instant!"

The girl stopped her crying and looked up into his face. Her eyes shimmered with the tears that flooded them amplifying her pupils and illuminating the flecks of gold throughout her chest nut irises.

"It is unfortunate Miss Granger that you found yourself in such an unsavoury situation. Perhaps forcibly listening to such vile is sufficient punishment in itself."

"You are not going to t-take points from me Professor Snape?" she sniffed wide-eyed, wiping her face with her sleeve.

Snape looked down his large nose at her, his eyes were dark and void of any insight into his inner monologue.

"It is not warranted. Besides, I have taken copious points from Gryffindor this evening and I would surely regret giving your Head of House a conniption," no I wouldn't,"You should be grateful for the opportunity Miss Granger"

Hermione's eyebrows furrowed and she regarded him questioningly, "What do you mean Professor?"

"You should take this opportunity to invest your friendship in someone else worthy of your intellect. Clearly Mr Weasley was the wrong choice and I would advise against Miss Brown."

Before she could answer he turned and left the room but not without his signature swagger. He faintly heard her whispers of gratitude as he closed the door softly behind him, allowing the girl a much deserved moment of privacy.

~O~

Hermione sat dumbstruck in an empty classroom.

Worthy of my intellect? Hermione blushed at the thought, I think I will Professor.

Absorbing the much desired approval of a teacher, Hermione gathered herself and sashayed through the empty classroom towards the door. Remembering she had promised Luna a sleep over and she had left her to entertain Harry alone. Without another thought towards the events that transpired she left with a small smile on her face.

She made a mental note to never ever enter this classroom for as long as she was at Hogwarts.
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Years of Burden