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Written for; NOTP Drabble Competition - A dancing lesson.

A Fantastic Rut

"I still don't understand why this is necessary," he huffed, rolling his eyes at her as they walked into the Muggle community centre.

She sighed, tightening her hold on his hand slightly. "I don't want to fall into a rut. We need a bit of... variety in our dating life, Severus. I don't want you to get bored of me."

He slowed to a stop, reaching down to caress her cheek. "I could never get bored of you."

"It's just two hours," she pleaded, her eyes begging him to accede to her wishes.

He nodded. "For you."

She pouted slightly at his wince, murmuring her apologies. He waved her off silently, inwardly wishing he could cast a numbing charm on his abused toes. Hermione and dancing were apparently a rather dangerous mix.

"I don't understand why you have to lead... just because you're the man."

"It's not just because I'm the man, Hermione. It's also because I'm taller. The taller of a same sex dance couple will usually lead. Besides, until you learn the steps, there's really no difference between leading and being led."

"And then you'll let me lead?"

"...ah..."

Severus hobbled through the corridors of Hogwarts, Hermione under his arm, her arm wrapped around his waist.

"I guess it wasn't a very good plan," she admitted, biting her lip. "I'm sorry I hurt you."

She helped him into his favourite chair, yelping when he pulled her onto his knee.

"You should know by now that I would suffer a thousand broken toes to make you happy," he whispered against her ear before he nuzzled her neck. A contented sigh escaped her as she leant into him.

"I love you, Severus. Maybe our rut is a good rut?"

"Our rut is a fantastic rut, Sweetheart. I love you too."