All things and characters in the Harry Potter world belong to JK Rowling. The storyline is mine.

The truth: Brilliant, educated and versatile people can also be ridiculous and obstinate. Hermione and Severus are in a battle to see which of them can be the most ridiculous and the most obstinate. We will have a ringside seat to watch the implosion and what comes after. AU/OOC/M.

Making The First Move

Hermione looked up from what she was doing to see Severus speaking to that sexy, blonde witch yet again. Hermione had waited on her one time and that one time had been enough. She reminded Hermione of Lavender Brown. All flirt and no mental substance. Hermione knew she was being mentally rude, but the witch most certainly rubbed her the wrong way.

Hermione was also irritated to see miserable git Severus smiling and fawning over a customer when he had nothing but frowns and growls for the rest of the world. He was disgusting.

The blonde couldn't possibly need the things she bought unless she was a Sorceress intent on hexing the whole of London. Hermione felt herself redden. She was being totally facetious. Obviously in this day and age, there weren't any Sorcerers still around the Wizarding World. With that said. If she wasn't a Sorceress, then the witch had to have an ulterior motive for visiting the shop as often as she did. There was absolutely no way she needed to be in the building three times a week asking to be shown rare and exotic plants, potions and flowers. Not even the most experienced Potions Masters or Brew Masters in Britain visited the shop as often as this witch.

"As if those well manicured nails had ever brought any mix to a boil," Hermione huffed to herself in annoyance.

After the witch's first few visits, the reason she was at the shop so often had become apparent. She was interested in Severus. And he in her. They stood far too close to each other and smiled much too often to be transacting business.

Initially, Hermione couldn't believe the foul tempered git would allow any woman to get close to him. But as the weeks passed and their interactions became more pronounced. Hermione recognized what was happening. She wanted to walk right over to vomit on the both of them.

Hermione laughed at the mental picture of her vomiting all over Severus' well shined shoes. She had obviously laughed a bit too loud because she glanced up in time to see Severus give her a scathing look.

Hermione bristled over the look Severus had given her. However, instead of her normal tit-for-tat she continued about her business mumbling unkind things about the owner of Snape & Longbottom.

Suddenly someone tapped her on the shoulder. Hermione had turned to find Michael Corner smiling at her.

"Hello love. I decided to stop by to see if you wanted dinner before going home."

"How thoughtful of you Michael. Thank you. I…" Hermione hadn't been able to finish her thought.

As though he could hear across the room. Severus called out that the Erulian Lilies were still sitting out back waiting to be sorted.

Hermione was aware the lilies had arrived. They had been in their warehouse all of fifteen minutes. Hermione knew Severus meant for her to end the conversation with Michael by intimating she was allowing a fragile delivery to sit too long. She didn't want to get into a battle with Severus. At least she didn't want to get into a battle in the middle of the shop. Hermione didn't have any hesitation in bringing a battle to him. She just wouldn't do it now.

Michael gave Hermione a defeated smile. "It seems I cannot win for losing. Whenever I stop by you are inundated. Is it silly of me to ask if I should come back in a bit? Or shall I just give it up as a bad job?" Michael leaned in a bit closer to Hermione's ear to whisper a private thought. "You are an amazing witch. I have not thought about anything else since our time together. If I may be a bit frank, I along with my dick want you back in my bed. Before you go all Granger on me. It's not just my dick that wants you. I want you. And not just after a night of drunken festivities. I think we would make an outstanding couple. All you need to do is give me a chance."

"You have such a way with words Mr. Corner," Hermione answered sarcastically. "I don't understand why all the witches in London haven't fallen into your bed."

Michael leaned in even closer so his lips were touching Hermione's ear.

Suddenly Severus was in front of her. She hadn't even realized he'd moved from his place across the room. Hermione hated when he did that.

"I hope I'm not interrupting any of your well laid plans Mr. Corner, but Hermione has Erulian Lilies to see to. They won't see to themselves. Perhaps you can eat her ear some other time at some place other than Snape & Longbottom's."

"Duly noted," answered Hermione's would be suitor. "I hope my presence hasn't offended you."

Showing himself to be in a foul mood. Severus had answered sharply. "I would have to have a reason why your presence offended me. At this moment in time. I have none. You may chew Hermione's ear off any time you like. Except when the Erulian Lilies are in need of care. If you will excuse me. I am being summoned."

With a flip of his navy blue (he now wore navy blue in place of black) robes, Severus headed over to assist the blonde who he now considered one of their more prominent customers.

Hermione's eyes bore into Severus' back as he walked across the room. He was being an absolute shite.

Michael chose this moment to remind Hermione he was still there. "There seems to be a bit of dissension between you and Severus. I hope my being here is not the cause. Shall I meet you somewhere later so we can finish our discussion? You name the place. I'll be there."

Hermione took a deep breath and turned back to Michael. "I think we can do that. I'll need a few minutes to stop by the house to make myself beautiful. How about Lucia's for 8:30?"

"Glancing around to check on Severus' whereabouts. Michael made a quiet comment. "I can stop by yours if you like. We'll be able to arrive at Lucia's together."

Hermione shook her head. "Perhaps I'll invite you over after we've done more than have one drunken shag. For now. Let's meet at Lucia's at 8:30."

With a sigh of defeat, Michael resigned himself to meeting this gorgeous witch in a public place when all he wanted was to get her naked in his bed. "Right then. I'll see you at 8:30. Until then."

Hermione watched him walk out the door as had a very annoyed Severus Snape.

Hermione caught Severus' eye as she glanced across the room. He had glared at her and she had glared right back.

How dare he, thought Hermione. Perhaps he should keep his mind on the blonde slag who is trying her best to rub up against what I can only assume is a rock hard dick and keep his nose out of my business.

/*/

"I'm on my way to see about the Erulian Lilies," Hermione called out loudly. "Perhaps you will do well to remember these particular lilies will remain fresh for up to twenty four hours in their crates."

Severus threw another glare her way as he continued to talk with his customer.

"Bastard." Hermione mumbled to herself. One day soon she was going to leave this shite hole of a shop to establish her own premises.

Hermione sighed. She was talking bull shite. She had signed a three year contract with Snape and Longbottom. Her term wouldn't be up for another year. Until then she would have to put up with the overbearing Severus Snape.

On her way to the back, Hermione chanced to look back at Severus in time to see the blonde run her finger down his cheek.

"Bloody, hypocritical bastard."

/*/

Hermione worked diligently unpacking and setting up the Erulian Lilies which were also known as Runecaster Lilies. They were beautiful flowers from West Africa whose beauty was only rivaled by their medicinal properties. Neville had been lucky enough to secure an entire crate of plants along with a box of twenty bulbs.

Although she was loathe to admit it. Severus had been right. She should have gone right to the back to see about the shipment instead of wasting time with her one night stand. Although Michael had been quite the one off. Hermione wasn't sure if she wanted more from him. Auror Michael Corner had acquired something of a reputation. It was a fact that some wizards should be kept to nothing more than a one night stand. As should some witches.

/*/

Hermione was thinking about the sexy time she'd had with Michael when Neville came through the back door.

"Hello Hermione. What's good?" he asked giving her a quick hug. "Glad to see you and Severus haven't blown up the shop. I worry when I have to leave you two alone."

Hermione grinned at the gentle partner. "I'd leave before it came to that. Severus is all bluster. I just seem to rub him the wrong way."

"As if he didn't rub you the wrong way as well. As vile as Severus was while we were at Hogwarts. I marvel at the latitude he now gives you."

"Latitude? The man doesn't let up. I thought he was going to have a stroke earlier. He was apoplectic because I was chatting with Michael Corner while the Erulians sat out back unattended. He obviously felt I was wasting time when I should have been out here doing Noah or Ethan's job."

/*/

Neville wasn't getting in between Hermione and Severus. He knew better. He did what he had learned to do best. He changed the subject. "I will be in the shop for the next several days. There are several things I'd like to discuss with you and Severus. There is a plant I think will be an excellent addition to our stores. In addition, I think we should give the BeastBee a hard look. The uses for this particular insect seem promising. About the meeting. I know you declined to sit in on our last meeting. This go round we'd like your input. Both Severus and I value your opinion."

"Thanks Neville. I'll think about it. I just don't know if I can take Severus' miserable and overbearing manner in an enclosed space."

"Alright Hermione. I'll leave it up to you. I hope I'm not speaking out of turn when I say this. You are wasted here. You are brilliant. You should be in the labs every day. For some reason, you have let Severus knock you off your game. If it's not working out for you here, perhaps you should take up another career or find a similar position elsewhere."

/*/

Neville's words had stung Hermione. But he was correct. She had thought working beside the renowned Potions Master Severus Snape would be a dream job and had jumped at the chance to work with him. The first months had been delightful. She and Severus had worked seamlessly together. They discussed. They collaborated. They went out to dinner. They had been comfortable in each other's company. Then out of the blue Severus had become cold and distant. He became dismissive when they worked together. Working with him became so uncomfortable, Hermione chose to research and brew alone.

Maybe the best way to go would be to sit down with the surly bastard. They would either get it sorted or she could ask to be let out of the contract. In truth. The last thing she wanted to do was ask to be released. But if it came to that. She would insist on it.

/*/

"If you have something to discuss with me, come to me. Why stand about in the back room discussing my character with Mr. Longbottom."

Neither Hermione nor Neville had heard Severus enter the room. But there he was. After an awkward silence, Neville made a hasty retreat to his office mumbling about work he had on his desk.

Hermione turned to Severus without responding to his question. "May I help you with something Severus?"

Severus had heard what he'd heard. He wasn't about to let up. "Why would you volunteer to help me Hermione? Did I not just hear you say how miserable and overbearing you find me?"

Hermione blushed. She had made the remark but did not intend for Severus to hear her talking badly about him to Neville. She still had a modicum of manners.

Her silence seemed to anger Severus who didn't waste any time getting to the point. "Perhaps you think me miserable and overbearing because I'm not one to mince words. I find your gaggle of visitors annoying. You have duties. The time you spend holding court would be better spent in the lab. In the future, I would appreciate it if you kept your paramours away from the shop. Save your romantic interludes for times other than work."

"Gaggle? Paramours?" replied Hermione in a deadly voice. "At least I have paramours. You seem to have nothing but Knockturn Alley slags who come in to pretend they are interested in our products. The only thing your slag is interested in is ….."

Hermione caught herself. She would do well to remember she was speaking to the owner of this establishment. Especially since she was the one who had been caught making disparaging remarks. Hermione tried being a little less defensive which didn't work out as well as she hoped. "Perhaps things would work better if you didn't comment on the wizards who stop by to visit me. In return, I won't comment on the slags who stop by to see you."

"By slags are you referring to the female customers who come to this shop to purchase goods? Clients are what keep this shop going. I have noticed that the stream of wizards who come through to chat with you never seem to purchase anything. You're not doing our shop, yourself, or your reputation any favors. Your latest conquest has the reputation of a beast in rut. You must be so proud and so very busy."

Severus realized what he had just said and was horrified. Hermione was so infuriating. She had the innate ability to make him lose all control. Heaven only knew why he had agreed to a three year contract. She was such a…a.

Severus let a breath out through his nose. He knew why he had hired Hermione. She is brilliant. The problem. Along with the brilliance came her obnoxious, know-it-all, I'm never wrong manner. All this was in addition to her string of admirers who had the tendency to act like slobbering beasts while jockeying to be first at her feet.

"I was wrong to make those comments," said Severus quickly. "I apologize. I absolutely crossed a line."

A red faced Hermione refused to listen. "You fucking think to speak to me as though I'm one of those Knockturn Alley witches you let under your robes and think an apology will do," she had screamed in his face continuing to berate him. "Think again you bastard. I'm happy to know what you really think of me. Perhaps that's why you've been so dismissive and demeaning towards me. How could I have dated you? I was so stupid. Take me before the Magistrate because I won't remain in your employ another day."

Intentionally shoving Severus as she slammed out of the room, Hermione went directly to her office to collect her wand, bag and extra sets of robes. She slammed around her office in a frenzy looking for her wand which wasn't where it was supposed to be. She searched through her desk drawers, under the desk and behind the door as well. The wand wasn't anywhere to be found. Plopping down in her chair her fury spent, Hermione deflated. She couldn't leave without her wand.

/*/

Suddenly Neville was standing in the doorway. "Are you looking for this?" he asked holding up her wand. "The minute I heard you scream at Severus I removed your wand. I didn't want to see him hexed beyond recognition."

Hermione was embarrassed. In her fury she had forgotten Neville was in his office. "I'm sorry you had to hear that Neville. I'm at the end of my tether. I have to get away from here."

"You think you feel foolish? Not thirty minutes ago I suggested you find other employment. Now I have to reverse myself. I don't want you to go. Severus and I need you here."

Hermione started to argue, but Neville stood his ground by holding up his hand for silence.

Hermione complied.

No one was more surprised than Neville when Hermione remained silent. So he pushed on. "I didn't mean to eavesdrop. But I heard what I heard. I think there is more going on here than meets the eye. May I suggest you and Severus take the time to calm down."

Hermione started to huff, but Neville had found his confidence.

"For Merlin's sake Hermione. Hear me out. I am asking you to sit down with Severus to get this sorted. You and Severus are more alike than you think. You are both brilliant, stubborn and overbearing. So cut the shite. Take a day to calm down. Then sit down with Severus to work things out. A discussion won't hurt anything. In fact, it might help. If it fails, at least you tried. Now I'm going to take my life in my hands by asking the same of Severus.

Hermione smiled at Neville then got up from her chair to hug him. "Thanks Neville. For your sage advice as well as for taking my wand. I will see you in the morning."

Hermione left through the back of the shop. She didn't want to see Severus if she didn't have to.

She would sit down with Severus as Neville had asked. The problem was all the talking in the Wizarding World wouldn't straighten out the bad feelings between herself and Severus. Things had gone too far.

/*/

When Hermione landed at home, her Wonder Witch Watch showed 7:00 pm. She and Neville had talked for over an hour and a half.

Hermione sat down on the side of her bed with her head in her hands. She had just finished a bloody, awful day which had included cursing at Severus. Rubbing her forehead, Hermione realized Michael would be waiting for her at Lucia's. There was no way she was going to make small talk with Michael Corner while she was sober. All she wanted was a bath and bed.

It really wasn't good form to accept an invitation then cancel, but that was what she did. Pulling out her wand, she sent a Private Patronus to Michael which would find him no matter where he was.

I cannot make our dinner appointment tonight. I apologize for canceling with such short notice, but it is necessary.

Hermione didn't ask to reschedule. She and Michael had had a great one off, but it was probably best if she left it right there. She really wasn't into Auror Michael Corner. The one off wasn't something Hermione had sought out. Michael happened to be around after Severus had given her an exceptionally bad time. She had soothed her ruffled feelings by drinking too much and ending up in Michael's bed.

Severus' words suddenly materialized in the back of Hermione's mind. Your latest conquest has the reputation of a beast in rut. You must be so proud and so very busy.

While Severus' words had been vile. He had been on point. She had heard rumors that MC (as he was called) was quick to let down the zipper on his trousers for a variety of witches.

Too much wine sometimes made a witch do strange things.

On her way to the bathroom, Hermione waved her hands about her head as if her movements would push the thoughts of having shagged Michael Corner out of her mind. The movements hadn't helped.

/*/

After Hermione left the shop, Neville took in a deep breath and headed out to speak with Severus. He realized this conversation could potentially be dangerous to his health as well as his partnership. But he wanted some peace. No. He needed peace. Theirs was the top Potions, Brewer and Herbologist shop in London. He wanted to keep it that way. To do that he had to get Severus and Hermione back on the same page.

Neville looked around the front of the shop. Noah and Ethan the shop assistants were each with a customer with several more waiting for service. Severus was nowhere to be seen.

Neville headed straight for the labs.

Whenever Severus was out of sorts he headed for the labs where he went into a brewing frenzy.

This conversation might not go anywhere near what I have in mind, thought Neville as he headed downstairs. "Shite."

He had hit the nail on the head. Severus was down to his shirt sleeves with straggly pieces of hair hanging in his face as he moved among three cauldrons. If he had heard Neville enter, he didn't acknowledge his presence.

"Shite! Shite!" Neville mumbled softly before clearing his throat.

Severus still didn't acknowledge his presence.

I'm fucking dealing with an overage child thought Neville. Stepping closer to his partner, Neville threw caution to the wind. He simply spoke up. Bad attitude be damned.

"I would like a word Severus."

"As you can plainly see Neville. I have three cauldrons on boil. Can this wait?

"No Severus. It cannot wait. If it could wait, I wouldn't be down here."

Severus spun around dramatically to face his partner. "My brews will be off boil in five minutes. I assume you can wait that long."

"We are grown wizards as well as colleagues and partners Severus. As such, I did not come down here to find myself at the wrong end of your temper. I would like to speak to you when your brews are off boil. I'll be in my office. Thank you."

"Ah," muttered Severus. "It would seem Mr. Longbottom has a BeastBee in his trousers."

/*/

Ten minutes later, Severus entered Neville's office. Without preamble he began to speak. "You are correct Neville. We are colleagues, grown men, partners and equals in a well established business. It was not my intention to act in a manner which implied otherwise. What can I do for you?"

Now that Neville had the floor. He was a bit unsure on how to proceed. To hell with it, he thought. I'll just jump right in. "Hermione has thoughts of leaving our company."

"I'm aware of that fact Neville," replied Severus without any show of emotion. "Hermione made herself perfectly clear this afternoon."

"Are we just going to let her walk away? She's part of this company. We have discussed making her our third partner."

"She obviously doesn't want to be here," Severus replied arbitrarily. "What are we to do about that? If she wants to go, I am amenable to letting her out of her contract. One cannot keep a witch if she doesn't want to stay."

"Severus. There is blame on both sides. Neither of you are innocent in this. I've asked Hermione as I am asking you. Please sit down together to sort this misunderstanding out. Your differences might very well be solved if you would just have a reasonable discussion."

"I appreciate your concern Neville," Severus answered in an even voice. "What it all comes down to is Hermione and I simply cannot get along. She has to have a long line of admirers at her feet. Where I only want what is best for Snape & Longbottom's.

Neville put his own temper on display. He was exasperated with both Hermione and Severus. At this point he didn't care how it came across. "Do you hear yourself Severus? What does Hermione's admirers have to do with you? As long as they aren't shagging her in the middle of the shop, it isn't our business who she sees. She is a single, beautiful witch with a lovely personality. There should be a line of wizards around the door to see her. She is an amazing Potions Master and Brewer. Nearly on par with yourself I might add. To date she has mixed more new potions than you and I together and she is well versed in Research and Development as well. I do not want to lose her. Please sit down with Hermione. I believe we can get this resolved. Hermione is willing."

"Is she now?" asked Severus a bit dramatically. "I thought she could not bear to be anywhere near me. I obviously repulse the girl."

"Severus. You are being condescending. Hermione is not a girl. She's a perfectly lovely woman. Are these the things you say to her on a daily basis? It's little wonder she's so upset with you. It seems others see her as a woman. Didn't you say she has a line of admirers?"

Severus moved from his chair so fast Neville thought he was about to be hexed. "Enough talk," he growled. "If Hermione wants to have a discussion, I'll concur. We shall have a discussion. I imagine you and she have set a time for this. When will we meet?"

"Please sit down Severus."

Severus returned to the chair without comment.

Neville did a Muggle thing before replying to Severus. He had taken a deep breath then counted to ten. "Hermione and I have not set a time. I had to be sure I could get you both to talk to each other. Shall we plan for mid-morning? You know I would not have stepped into this if I thought this feud would be settled amicably. I just do not want Hermione to leave us."

Severus stood once again. On his way out the door he mumbled more to himself than to Neville. "Hermione will not be leaving us. She will be leaving me."

Neville leaned back in his chair. Had he heard right. Had Severus just said Hermione wouldn't be leaving us? She would be leaving me.

/*/

As Neville watched Severus stride from the room, certain things crystallized in his mind. It was as if someone had turned on a wand to its brightest setting. How had he missed it? The arguing. The comments about admirers and slags. How in Merlin's name had he not recognized what was right in front of his eyes? Those two stubborn, opinionated, temperamental gits were attracted to each other with neither wanting to be first to make a move.

Neville laughed out loud. Two of the most confident people he knew were afraid of making the first move. They'd rather fight with each other than admit they had feelings for each other.

Neville laughed out loud once again. Then he sobered up rather quickly. What if he was wrong? Perhaps they really couldn't stand each other. Perhaps they really thought badly of each other.

He began to chuckle. No way. Now I've recognized what's going on. It's as clear as day. I went through this exact thing with Luna. I was too frightened to admit my feelings only to find out Luna had the same feelings for me.

Neville reflected for several more minutes before making the rounds to ensure everything was locked up tight. Doors were locked. Wards were up. It was time for him to get home to sweet Luna.

Neville called out to Severus without getting a response. Severus would probably be brewing until all hours as he tried to work out his frustrations. Neville didn't bother going down. They would talk in the morning before the discussion.

With one last chuckle, Neville Apparated home.

/*/

When Neville shouted his goodnight to Severus, he was shouting to an empty room. Shortly after his conversation with Neville, Severus had stored his brews, cleaned up and left for the evening. Severus should have wished Neville a good night, but he had too much on his mind to bother with simple sentiments.

Severus found himself at the mouth of Knockturn Alley. He just stood there looking into the black hole. Hermione was right. There were witches down the Alley who would be glad to go under his robes. They were good at sucking every last drop from a wizard. Still he hesitated. Severus remained in that position for quite a while. Even as his emotional state called for relief for his very stiff dick.

He had agreed to have a conversation with Hermione. Why? She didn't want to hear anything he had to say. What would they accomplish? Because Neville had asked, he would try to have a rational conversation. For as much as he argued with the witch, he preferred it when they got along. He would prefer to be back to those days when they appreciated each other.

The thought hadn't firmly materialized in Severus' mind good before he whirled into Apparition.

/*/

When Severus landed outside the cute, little cottage, he had second thoughts. How would she react to him appearing at her door? What did it matter? He was already at her door. He wasn't going to waste another night. If she wanted to talk, they would talk.

A piece of information he had heard that morning suddenly penetrated his thoughts. Hermione had a date with that despicable Libertine Michael Corner. He would be making his appeal to an empty house. Severus had taken two steps away from the house when the door opened. He quickly turned back to find himself staring down the end of Hermione's wand.

For several second they were both speechless.

"Remembered your way then?" asked Hermione sarcastically. "What do you want Severus? Have you come to chastise me over the long line of wizards I am shagging? I've had enough for today. Please leave me in peace."

As Hermione turned to go back inside, Severus called out in a soft, even voice. "I apologize. I made some ugly statements. None of which apply. Neville informed me you want to talk. Rather, we should talk in order to sort out our differences. Will you allow me that?"

A very surprised Hermione turned back to face Severus. "I'd forgotten how it sounds to hear you speak in a reasonable voice. You may come in. However, if you raise your voice or step one toe out of line, I will hex you."

Severus breathed a sigh of relief. He had gotten past the first hurdle. As Severus followed Hermione into the house, he wondered how many more hurdles there would be.

/*/

Initially, Hermione was not going to stand on ceremony. However, she had allowed Severus into her home, so she should be hospitable. "Would you care for some dinner or a drink?"

"If it isn't too much trouble, I'd like some of both. Thank you."

Hermione put her hands on her hips in response to Severus' statement. "If it was too much trouble, I wouldn't have asked Severus."

Hermione realized it was she who had taken a tone. This was supposed to be neutral ground of sorts. She rephrased. "It's not too much trouble. You have your choice of beef stew accompanied by garlic bread or cold chicken left over from last night. Which will it be?"

Another hurdle passed thought Severus. "I will have the beef stew. I'm afraid it was a spur of the moment decision to come here. Therefore, I've come empty handed. I cannot even offer a bottle of wine."

Hermione managed a small smile. "I still have a few bottles left from previous times."

Hurdles three and four had fallen. She had smiled at him and spoken without rancor about previous times. Severus had every hope their discussion would go well.

/*/

As Severus sat waiting for his stew, he began to build a case of nerves. Should he only discuss work or should he address what he'd come there to address? Perhaps he should stick to the work topic. He could discuss other matters another time.

Hermione stuck her head out from the kitchen. "The stew will be ready in a couple of seconds. Why don't you hang your robes before you eat?"

"Thank you Hermione. I believe I will shed some of this clothing." Realizing how that might have sounded, Severus cringed. Then he let out the breath he had been holding in. Hermione hadn't thought anything of the remark.

Severus knew he was acting the timid mouse which was way out of character for him, but this was important. He didn't want to get into a shouting match with Hermione because of his tone or timbre.

A minute or so later Hermione called him to the table.

The stew smelled heavenly. Severus felt a bit awkward for the first few mouthfuls. After that, he had happily tucked right in. He and Hermione ate in silence, but it hadn't been an uncomfortable silence.

Halfway through the meal Hermione startled him when she suddenly jumped up from the table. All Severus could think was he was in danger of being hexed. It turned out Hermione had forgotten to set out the wine.

Severus smiled to himself over his continuing case of jitters as he poured wine for them both.

After the meal, Hermione waved her wand to clean up the kitchen, leaving the wine on the table between them.

/*/

Hermione had been the first to speak. "I believed we would be holding our discussion at S & L. I agreed to have a conversation because it has come down to we clear the air and learn to respect each other or I am leaving. I do not want to leave. I absolutely love what I do, but work has become a battlefield which is something I won't stand for. I've had enough of listening to your remarks. You can be very cutting and hurtful."

"I recognize the problem as well Hermione, but you do give as good as you get. Your remarks are often just as cutting."

Hermione continued without acknowledging the truism Severus had just spoken. "As I mentioned earlier today. Perhaps we can refrain from insulting each other. After that we can practice not commenting on our choices in dates."

"I'm not dating anyone Hermione." Severus had been quick to reply. "You assume I am panting over any witch who crosses the threshold. I'm not. There is much to be said for greeting a customer with a smile as opposed to a frown."

"Please Severus," huffed Hermione. "That blonde sl… witch is all over you. She's in the shop every other day. You criticize me for holding conversations while you allow her to run her hand down your cheek in full view of the entire shop. Those romantic gestures are better suited for home. Don't you think?"

Severus tried maintaining his composure, but with her every word Hermione made it almost impossible to do so. Her and her supercilious attitude.

Without realizing it. Severus' voice had crept higher. "If we are going toe to toe over gestures, should we discuss the nauseous Mr. Corner practically devouring your ear. It was disgusting."

Hermione jumped up. "Michael is a prat. He doesn't know any better. But it is not for you to comment on. And you will lower your voice in my home."

An exasperated Severus shot back crisply. "As you wish Hermione. Feel free to have him devour your entire face. I will say this though. Until you become a partner or take your leave, I prefer you tell your visitors to keep the foreplay to a minimum."

"Foreplay? You arse Severus Snape," she screamed summoning her wand.

Severus who was also on his feet waved her wand away with a quick twist of his hand. "So it's come to this then?" He asked angrily. "You would draw your wand against me over words? You cannot be childish enough to think I would stand by and let anyone hex me. I'll get my robes. I've upset you enough for one day. I know this because you always have to be right. You are always the innocent. Nothing but pearls of wisdom ever fall from your lips. So let me do this. I will stay away tomorrow. That will give you time to collect whatever is yours. There is no need to waste the time of a Magistrate. I will not hold you to your contract. Good luck."

Hermione knew she had acted a fool drawing her wand on a colleague. A colleague who was not only Severus Snape, but her boss as well. "Severus. Please don't leave. I apologize for drawing my wand. You are right. It was childish. Please come sit back down."

"I don't think I will Hermione," Severus snapped. "There's really nothing more to be said. I came here tonight hoping we could talk not about work, but about us. Yes. Us. I've since changed my mind. It would be an exercise in futility. You will always believe what you want. I will not stand by again and watch you take up with any wizard who looks your way because you're sure I'm having relations with some unnamed witch. You spoiled it the first time and made me out to be the villain. Do you think I haven't heard you complaining about how cold and distant I became? How I ruined our friendship. Never once have I heard you explain your part. Thank you for dinner. I'll see myself out."

Hermione sat on the couch teary eyed and feeling all hard done by. Severus had come to work things out and she had acted the fool once again. Why was she so insecure when it came to him? She didn't know. After a serious bit of soul searching, Hermione made a decision.

/*/

It was after 10:30 when Hermione landed at Spinner's End. She would have Apparated directly into the house, but wasn't sure she still had permissions. After the night she'd had, being squeezed to death by wards that didn't recognize her wasn't very appealing. She used her wand to unlock the front door. Unfortunately, Severus has set a Caterwauling charm on the door. All hell had broken loose when she stepped into the house.

For several seconds it was pandemonium, until Severus turned off the charm. He had stood there glaring at Hermione forgetting how he must look in only his boxers and a tee shirt.

"What now Hermione? It would have been very awkward if I had been entertaining one of my unnamed witches."

"I deserve that Severus. I do. The thought never crossed my mind that you would have a witch here with you."

"Really? So now you believe I am not messing about with every witch who comes through the shop?"

"Well yes that. But even the famous Severus Snape couldn't find a witch, bring her home and get her into bed in thirty minutes."

Severus smiled. It wasn't midnight yet. Perhaps this day would end well after all.

/*/

Severus invited Hermione to help herself to wine while he stepped away to make himself more presentable.

By the time Severus returned to the living room, Hermione had removed her outer cloak. She had made herself comfortable and was sitting on the couch in her baby doll nightdress with a glass of wine in her hand.

"Are you here to tempt me into giving your position back?" Severus asked uncertainly.

"First. I haven't given up my position. Second. I'm here to do what you were willing to do. Get everything straightened out. If my state of dress or undress bothers you, I will gladly put my cloak back on."

"You may leave the cloak where it is," answered Severus hopefully. "I believe I've been cautious enough. From here I will be brutally frank. Will you listen for once?"

"I will listen Professor Snape. Please proceed."

Severus cast a small eye roll in Hermione's direction. He hadn't been a professor in years. She could be so annoying. Severus spoke his piece anyway.

"During the time we were together, I came to believe you were ashamed of our relationship. I was angry you would entertain me in your little cottage, but refuse to acknowledge our relationship in public. I am the first to admit I should have come to you with my concerns. Instead, I gave you the impression I did not care when I wanted nothing more than have you stand up to claim me. I am a wizard, but I am also a man. I want to be wanted in public as well as in private. Because I acted the arse, you began acting the arse. The dates you accepted made me want to curse both you and the wizard. The final straw was Michael Corner who is a male whore. His over inflated Auror ego has led him to believe he should bed every witch in London. I am livid you would let yourself become one of a number."

After a brief period of silence, Severus softly remarked. "There you have it."

Hermione held out her hand gesturing for Severus to sit next to her. "I wish you had come to me with your concerns Severus. We could have easily worked it out. You were under the impression I didn't want to claim you. I was under the impression you thought me too young to be a serious interest. I was good enough to shag, but no where near impressive enough to be on your arm. We can fix this you know," said Hermione as she threw one leg across Severus's hips.

Even though Hermione had on knickers and he light pajamas, Hermione's position was causing all kind of havoc with Severus' self control. He groaned loudly as Hermione ground her magical box against his fully erect dick. The heat and moisture radiating from Hermione's pussy combined with her sensual movements quickly had Severus' dick leaking pre-cum.

Wrapping both of his arms around Hermione's arse and pushing her down against his hard bone, Severus hoarsely asked how she hoped to fix their situation.

Grinding her overly wet pussy against Severus' lap, Hermione whispered in his ear. "For someone so intelligent, you really have no idea what's what. The solution is simple. I am asking you to be my wizard in private and in public. What is your answer Severus Snape?"

"I am yours exclusively. I have been yours from the first time we shared a bed."

With a loud groan, Severus made a slight adjustment freeing his massive dick of its constraints. He moved again and his dick tried to push itself through Hermione's knickers.

Each moved frantically against the other.

Hermione spread her knees wide on either side of Severus' hips and moved as though he was inside her.

Severus came without even entering Hermione. "My apologies for not being able to hold on. It's been so long Hermione. I'll make it up to you."

"Of course you will Severus," she whispered with her lips against his neck. "You're my wizard. Making it up to me is your job. Please take me to bed. I've climaxed once through sexual friction. I want you inside me. I need you to make me come through penetration."

Pushing Hermione up off his lap, Severus carried her to the bedroom placing her gently on the bed. Several seconds later he had Hermione out of her night dress and very wet knickers.

"We will observe the niceties later," groaned Severus. "Right now I want to give us what we need. Tomorrow we will come out as a proper couple. Those in the Wizarding World who matter will be made aware that I am the only wizard Hermione Granger will be dating."

Hermione cried out. "My wizard," as Severus pushed in as deeply as he could.

"That I am," Severus responded with a thrust and a grunt. "That I am."

/*/

Lying naked in each other's arms, Severus and Hermione talked. They didn't shout. They didn't argue. They talked.

Severus ended the conversation by lifting Hermione from the bed and lowering her onto his fully erect dick. Gazing directly into Hermione's eyes, Severus rubbed his thumbs across her nipples as he pushed himself up into his witch.

Throwing her head back Hermione savored her wizard's touch as she moved up and down his rigid pole. They made love frantically with Severus shouting as loud as he ever had when Hermione swiveled around so her arse was in his face. Bending over she had taken his swollen balls in her mouth which sent him crashing into climax. Severus was still shooting a stream of cum as he flipped Hermione and pushed his entire face between her legs making her cum once again.

As Severus fell back onto the bed, he uttered a very prophetic sentence. "If Corner ever comes near you again, I will curse his arse so badly even Harry Potter won't recognize him. Have I made myself clear on this matter?"

Hermione pulled herself up so she was lying in the crook of Severus' arm. Dropping several light kisses across his chest before pulling his face around so they were looking at each other, Hermione answered his question. "You have made yourself perfectly clear Severus. We have made our peace. We are together. The way you feel about Michael is the same way I feel about your blonde admirer. It will probably be best if you assign either Ethan or Noah to wait on her from now on? As you are aware. I too know how to use a wand."

A smiling Severus took Hermione's face between his hands kissing her passionately on the lips. As they broke apart, Severus whispered against Hermione's mouth. "Consider it done love."

Hermione settled herself against Severus and closed her eyes. A small giggle escaped her lips as she began to drift off.

"What is it you find funny?" asked an equally drowsy Severus.

"I was thinking of Neville. Won't he be surprised?"

Severus rose up on one elbow to reply sleepily. "Surprised? I think not. I believe Mr. Longbottom knows much more than he lets on. We must get some sleep. Tomorrow is only fifteen minutes away."