A Surprise Ending

Hermione collapsed on a bench outside trying her hardest not to allow her sniffles to turn into sobs. Why did they have to be so egotistical?

"Miss Granger-" A silky voice startled her.

"Professor!"

"What are you doing out here?"

"N-nothing." Oh please, not you too. Just leave me alone, I'm doing any harm…

But instead of admonishing Hermione, Snape asked, "Where is your… date?"

Hermione shrugged. "I don't know."

"And Potter, Weasley?"

"In the hall, acting like idiots as usual." She sniffed once more, hoping he would just disappear as unnoticed as he had appeared.

He remained and raised an eyebrow. "I thought you usually stick up for them."

"Only when they merit it." Hermione went back to staring at the grass. Why was he being so inquisitive?

Hermione was surprised when Snape sat down beside her instead of leaving.

"Professor?"

"Do you think it was a success?"

"The Ball?" Needless to say, Hermione was rather taken aback. "Yes… on the whole, I think it was very successful." She paused. "Do you think it was?" It was odd to have such a civil conversation with him.

"No." Was his simple answer.

"I- I thought you'd say that." Hermione braved. "Why not?"

"Nothing is ever a success unless everyone involved is… happy with the outcome."

Hermione slowly turned her head. "You mean me, sir?"

Snape looked back at her but said nothing in reply. He then stood up. "Good evening, Miss Granger."

"Good… good evening, sir." She whispered to his retreating back.

…………….

Well, this started out as a 100 word drabble but I just couldn't condense it. Hope you enjoyed it, and no there will probably not be more of this. All comments appreciated.