Prologue

'We can't do this Severus. I'm your student. We are supposed to be spying on the Dark Lord. It's too dangerous for us to be together.' I said looking out the window, to the grounds below. I didn't dare look for if I did, I would have done anything he asked. He put his hand on my cheek and made me look at him.

I gasped when he kissed me roughly. I dug my fingers into his soft black hair and I moaned as he pulled me closer. 'For the smartest witch of your age, you can't see what's staring you right in the face. I love you, Hermione Granger.' He said softly as he kissed my forehead and rubbed his thumb over my cheek..

I let out a soft sob and buried my head into his chest as I had done many times after he'd found out that I'd become one of Voldemort's mistresses. 'I couldn't bear it if he kills you Severus. I love you too much. Please don't ask me to watch him kill you and pretend to be indifferent as it kills me inside.' I was sobbing openly now.

I bit back a groan as a sharp pain shot down my spine. 'He's calling for me. Bella must not have satisfied him.' I whispered quietly. 'Don't.' He said as he grabbed for my hand. 'I must. He'll kill me if I don't.' I said as I slid my hand from his. I kissed him one more time before I grabbed the black and green velvet cape that he'd had given me, and threw it over my shoulders.

'Please. Be careful.' He said as I left the room. I turned back, tears in my eyes. 'I always am.' I said quietly as I closed the door behind me and headed for the gates of Hogwarts, my brain screaming at me to go back with every step I took.