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Title: Love Is In The Air
 Professor Severus Snape, Potions Master at Hogwart's School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, sat staring into a blazing fire in his private quarters in the dungeons of the school. The following day would bring the arrival of the students for the new term after their summer break. Although Snape would never admit to being eager for their return he did feel a twinge of what might be called relief. The reason for this decidedly uncharacteristic feeling was the circumstances of the past week. Every year, the week before students arrived for a new term, any teachers not already at Hogwart's made their way to the school to prepare for the students arrival. This meant the usual catching up, gossiping, and other such socializing that Snape detested. He usually managed to avoid the better part of it and his colleagues respected his wishes. Usually the week passed by without much attention from Snape and then the students were back and it was business as usual. This year had been different however. This year had brought yet another Defense Against the Dark Arts professor. Snape had marveled along with the others that Dumbledore had been able to find anyone willing to take the position after all. Then She had arrived. Roselynd Wylder. She was tall. Lean and muscular but curvy. She had long, silky auburn hair and soft blue/green eyes. Time hadn't changed her much other than giving her an air of confidence and authority. Snape had been on his way from the Great Hall back to the dungeons when the front doors had opened and she strode in. He caught his breath. He was instantly transported back to his own school years at Hogwart's. She was a Ravenclaw in his same year. She was bright and popular. And she took no notice of him. Which meant at least she wasn't like the others who had teased and picked on him. Although he wasn't sure that would have been worse. As it was he had felt like he was beneath even her notice. So he had watched her all through school, though he was careful lest Potter and his gang discover his secret and use it against him. Eventually he had forgotten her, after they left school and he no longer saw her. Now, years later, and here they were - both back at Hogwart's. Snape fingered his wand thoughtfully as the fire popped and crackled in front of him. After their initial meeting in the entry hall (He had stammered something unintelligible and fled to the dungeons) he had spent the week lurking in shadows around the castle. Roselynd seemed to fit in among the other staff effortlessly. Snape watched as Professor Flitwick enchanted her with his fairy collections. He watched as she assisted Professor Sprout in repotting the Venomous Tentaculus. He watched as she had tea with Hagrid and went flying with Madame Hooch. He watched as she strolled the grounds deep in conversation with Albus Dumbledore. He watched as she laughed at stories of students' exploits with Minerva McGonagall and Poppy Pomfrey. As he watched, he felt himself being drawn to her. And yet...his mind rebelled against the very possibility. The idea that Roselynd Wylder could ever love him, Severus Snape. It was impossible. It was ludicrous. He was left feeling thoroughly out of sorts. "Damn her!" Snape snarled, sending a bolt of energy from his wand to explode the logs in his fireplace. It was a rather impressive display though it did little to ease his tension. In the Gryffindor Common Room the evening of the first day of classes Harry, Ron, and Hermione were working on the heap of homework that had already been assigned and discussing the day. "I can't believe we've got this much homework already! At this rate we'll never get caught up!" Ron exclaimed surveying his substantial if somewhat battered stack of textbooks. Hermione rolled her eyes but Harry nodded mournfully. "I know. And was it just my imagination or did Snape seem particularly moody and vindictive?" Hermione laughed. "You mean more than he always is?" Ron grinned. "Do you mean because he took 10 points away from Gryffindor because you gave him 'a look'? Or was it the 20 points for Neville dropping a jar? Maybe it was the 50 points because Hermione got all the answers on his pop quiz correct?" "Actually I was thinking about the 10 points he took off Slytherin because none of them got all the answers right!" They all laughed for a minute before Harry said seriously, "We're in for a very long year if he stays in that mood." They were silent for a moment before Hermione brightened the mood saying, "On the other hand there's our new Professor Wylder. Isn't she fantastic?" "Yeah," Ron answered dreamily, his eyes had taken on a glazed sort of look at the mention of her name. Harry grinned broadly, "She's definitely a change from our previous Dark Arts teachers." Hermione rolled her eyes, "I'm sure she'll have your rapt attention. Whether you'll actually learn anything besides not to actually drool on your desks is another matter," she said sarcastically. "Anyway, I hear she's fabulously talented. She worked for the Ministry of Magic researching counter-curses and other stuff that was classified." Roselynd Wylder stood at the bedroom window in her tower quarters at Hogwart's carefully running a comb through her silky hair. Her long green satin nightgown was a perfect compliment to her auburn tresses and made her eyes shine and sparkle as she gazed pensively out over the grounds of the school. Her life had been a whirlwind of activity ever since she had received the first owl from Dumbledore asking her to take up the position as the Defense Against the Dark Arts professor. She had been apprehensive, of course. Rumors had been flying around the Ministry that the position was cursed. She trusted Albus Dumbledore, though. Besides, how could she pass up the chance to get away from the Ministry with its increasing bureaucracy and corruption and come back to Hogwart's? So arrangements had been made at the Ministry and with her landlord and in no time she was arriving at the school. Now she thought back to that first day when she walked through the huge front doors into the entry. For a moment she felt as if she had taken a step back in time and was a student again. In her reverie she had nearly run into a dark imposing figure making his way out of the Great Hall. He mumbled something she didn't quite catch and she watched as he quickly retreated in the direction of the dungeons. It was only then she realized who he was. Severus Snape. They had been in the same year as students here at Hogwart's. She had heard that Dumbledore had made him the Potions Master despite his once being a Death Eater. He seemed to have come a long way from the scrawny, disheveled boy she remembered. What was it those Gryffindors had nicknamed him, Snivellus? She'd always thought they'd been unfair to him and many times took things too far. She had often wondered what he had done to provoke them, but as far as she had been able to find out all he had done was provide the other boys with an easy target. He had been shy and hadn't really had any friends that she could see. His appearance was always sloppy and unkempt. She also remembered noticing how intelligent and exceptionally talented he was. Of course, kids will be kids, and she bowed to peer pressure and kept her distance even though she felt bad for him. The last week had been a blur. Reuniting with her former professors and getting reacquainted on new terms, meeting others for the first time, preparing for her classes. It had been fun and interesting. She really felt welcome, like she fit in with the other teachers. She had managed to spend at least a little time with each of them during the week. Except Severus. She had inquired after him to Minerva and Poppy who laughed fondly. "Oh, Severus is rather antisocial. He absolutely hates this week - all the fondness and gossiping I expect. Once the students arrive and he has classes to terrorize he'll setttle back into his usual snarky self," Minerva smiled. "He tries very hard to make us all dislike him, and he probably thinks we do, but the truth is we're all used to his foul moods. Besides, things just wouldn't be the same around here without his sarcastic humor. Don't worry about him dear, just let him have his space," Poppy added patting her on the shoulder. She had noticed him watching her, however. She'd seen him in the shadows around the castle or in a window as she strolled the grounds. She was pretty sure he was unaware that she was aware of his presence. It was Sunday evening after the first week of classes and most of the students were huddled away in the library or their dormitories trying to finish the homework that would be due the next day. Albus Dumbledore stood in his tower looking down over the grounds of his school. Below he could see young Professor Wylder walking with Minerva McGonagall through the courtyard. That seemed to be becoming a regular occurrence, often they were accompanied by Poppy Pomfrey when the nurse wasn't tending to student illnesses and injuries. Albus was glad to see the new teacher fitting in so well. He had expected that she would. She was young, talented, bright, not to mention beautiful. She had easily won over every member of the staff, as well as the students. Indeed, Albus was pleased with his choice. Although it seemed to have brought with it one interesting occurrence. Albus shook his head as he looked down at his Potions Master skulking in the shadows of a large tree in the courtyard watching the women as they passed. Severus Snape had been particularly moody this term, which was a feat given his normal disposition. Albus thought he knew the source of the other man's distress, but preferred to let the situation work itself out as it would. He smiled to himself. Turning to Fawkes, the Phoenix, he said bemusedly, "I wonder how long it will take before Professor Wylder decides to take matters into her own hands." Fawkes cooed a response and Dumbledore chuckled. Once again as they so often did these days Roselynd's thoughts strayed to the perplexing situation of Severus Snape as she prepared for her day's classes. He had continued to lurk in the shadows around the castle watching her and yet refused to come face to face with her. Even their unavoidable contact at the head table in the Great Hall was a forced politeness as he did his best to pretend he didn't notice her existence. What many people didn't know about Roselynd was that she was a gifted Empath. Many Empaths had limited control over their gift and were constantly flooded by any strong emotions and feelings of those people around them. Roselynd had a fair amount of control over her gift and was able to tune in and out the various people around her. She had frequently found this gift to be of use in her work for the Ministry. Here at Hogwart's she hadn't found much need for it, as her peers had been so open and welcoming to her. Then she had noticed Severus following her. At first she had reached out towards him out of simple curiosity. Soon however she felt herself being drawn deeper and was intrigued by the complex depth of emotions she found there. As she delved deeper beyond just the surface emotions he presented to others, she found herself falling for the outwardly harsh and arrogant man. As Snape stalked among the worktables in the potions classroom with a menacing glare on his face discouraging students from actually asking him any questions, his mind wandered as it did so often recently to Roselynd. She was a frequent topic of discussion among the students who all adored her. He wasn't sure how much more he could take of hearing Professor Wylder this, Professor Wylder that, in the hallways, in the dining hall, in class (until he furiously forbid talking in his class other than to do work). On the one hand, he wanted to hear, to know everything about her. On the other hand it grated on his nerves. He was brought back to reality as he passed Neville Longbottom's table. The boy was a walking disaster. Snape took particular pleasure in tormenting him. It was the way he shook and cringed, and the look in his eyes - hurt, terror, embarrassment, pleading. If Snape had been one to analyze his treatment of Neville he might have found the reason for targeting the boy was that he recognized that look. He remembered the way it felt to be persecuted and terrorized. And he took delight in inflicting this pain on Neville because it wasn't him on the other end of that cold glare anymore. Snape wasn't one for self analysis though. So he stopped and glared down at Neville who shrank back from him instinctively. "Longbottom, the Exelo-Growth Potion should be clear and green by now. So how is it that yours is frothy blue?" Snape sneered down at the boy. Snape cut him off as he stammered incoherently. "No answer, Longbottom? 10 points from Gryffindor," he barked. "A further 50 points will be taken off if Longbottom can't sort things out by the end of the class period." With that declaration Snape whirled and strode up to his own desk where he sat and began marking essays with a flourish. Hermione watched him a moment then quietly leaned over to Neville who was looking pale and panicky. "It's alright Neville. Don't let him get to you. He's just a big bully. Take a deep breath, that's it." Hermione proceeded to give him instructions on rescuing his potion. Neville smiled at Hermione gratefully, looking relieved. "Thanks, Hermione. You're the best." She smiled back. Professor Wylder had just dismissed the Defense Against the Dark Arts class and as Harry and Ron reluctantly gathered their books and started for the door Hermione hung back hesitantly. "You two go ahead. I want to ask Professor Wylder about something for our essay. I'll catch up." Ron rolled his eyes and Harry shrugged but they made their way to the door. Hermione overheard Harry ask quietly on the way out, "Do you think Hermione's been acting strangely the last couple of days?" "I never know what's going on with Hermione," Ron answered as they disappeared out the door. Hermione made her way to the front of the classroom and stopped in front of her teacher's desk. "Um, Professor? Can I talk to you about something?" she asked somewhat timidly. Roselynd looked up at Hermione Granger, her top student fidgetting nervously by her desk. "Of course, Hermione. Is it about the essay?" she asked mildly. Hermione blushed slightly and looked down at the floor. "Well, no. It's actually more of a personal kind of question I need advice on." "Alright," Roselynd said, "Why don't we go into my office? It's more private and certainly more comfortable than here." With that she got up and made her way to her office. She started to wonder why Hermione would be asking her for advice then realized that the girl didn't seem to have many close girlfriends and Roselynd being the youngest of the female staff was an obvious choice as a confidant. "Don't mind the mess, things have been a bit chaotic getting settled in. Make yourself at home. Would you like some tea?" Hermione surveyed the office. It was lined with bookshelves filled with every sort of book and many magical artifacts and devices. One end of the office held a large writing desk stacked high with more books and parchments threatening to spill over. At the other end of the room was a large fireplace faced by two cozy armchairs. There were even more stacks of book and parchments surrounding one of the chairs, presumably the one Professor Wylder preferred to sit in while reading by the fire. The décor had been done in the Ravenclaw blue and silver. The whole effect was somewhat cluttered, but lived in and cozy. Hermione moved to a chair by the fire." Tea would be nice." She sat down and wasn't surprised as she sank into the plush upholstery that it was supremely comfortable. Roselynd poured tea from a pot on her desk into two blue mugs she had retrieved from the back of a shelf. She crossed the room and handed one of the mugs to Hermione before settling herself in her chair. With a vague wave of her wand a softly spoken, "Ignito," the fire crackled to life. Roselynd sighed, "Ahh, that's better. Now what would you like to talk about?" Hermione took a sip of her tea. It was nice and warm and had a faintly orange flavor. Now that she was here she wasn't sure how to go about asking her question. Where did one begin with this sort of thing? Seeing the girl struggling with herself Roselynd took mercy on her and started, "You said it was something personal. Does it have to do with Harry and Ron?" This seemed to break the spell because Hermione looked up. "No. it's actually someone else. I was just wondering, I mean, well, say a girl likes a certain boy and she thinks that boy might like her back but she doesn't really know and he isn't really doing anything about it but he's not really the type of boy who would do anything so she isn't sure what he really thinks and, well," Hermione sort of trailed off and looked back down at her teacup. Roselynd understood Hermione's dilemma instantly. "So you're wondering what you should do about the situation." Hermione nodded. "Do you mind if I ask who this young man is?" Roselynd asked curiously. Hermione blushed and looked down at her tea cup then said quietly, "It's Neville Longbottom." Roselynd looked thoughtful for a moment and then replied, "Yes, I can see the two of you making a good match. But you were wondering how to proceed. My suggestion is that if you really do have feelings for him then you ought to pursue it. What's the worst that can happen? I don't see Neville as the type that would make a big deal out of it even if it turns out he doesn't feel the same. Perhaps you could get together for some extra study sessions?" Hermione looked much relieved at these suggestions. "Thank you, Professor, that makes sense. I think I will do that. Thank you so much. Well, I'd better get going, I've got loads of homework." "You're quite welcome, Hermione. Come to me anytime," Roselynd called as the girl hurried out of the office. Later that evening Roselynd sat at her desk grading essays but she was having trouble focusing on the student's work. Her mind kept wandering. She had helped Hermione with her question about Neville, she smiled at the thought of the two students hooking up, they would make a nice pair. Now the question remained - What to do about Severus Snape? Getting up from her desk quickly, Roselynd decided to put an end to the nonsense here and now. She would head down to the dungeons, find Severus, and... what? She shook her head, best not to think about it. It would be better to just go with the flow and see what happened. Determined now, she opened her door and started down through the castle, knowing if she delayed any longer she would change her mind. Reaching the potions classroom Roselynd paused, took a deep breath and steeling herself, stepped inside. Professor Snape was standing at one of the work tables with his back to the door and thus to her. Though she was sure she had made no sound entering the room he must have sensed her presence for without turning he demanded in a low, silky growl that made her knees go weak, "Did you need something or were you planning to stand in the doorway all night?" Roselynd was momentarily at a loss for a response. Now that she was here, she had no idea what she was doing. Snape had been working on brewing various antidotes in the potions classroom when he felt more than heard a presence behind him. He wondered which of the students was brave enough, or foolish enough, he amended, to consult him after hours. He waited a moment but whoever had entered the room made no sound. Annoyed, he asked rather rudely, "Did you need something or were you planning to stand in the doorway all night?" When this elicited no response he whirled around wondering if the recent stress had driven him to imagining things. He had expected a student to be there, or as a remote possibility Dumbledore, come to inquire after his recent surliness. He had not expected Roselynd to be standing silently in the doorway studying him. He nearly forgot to breath. There was an interminable moment when their eyes met and time seemed to pause before he caught himself and clearing his throat he asked, "Professor Wylder, Is there something I can help you with?" She smiled softly at him, a smile that reached all the way to her eyes. "Good evening, Severus. Classes have been in session for nearly 3 weeks now and I've spoken to everyone but you. I'd almost think you're avoiding me. And do call me Roselynd." Snape turned back to what he'd been doing and said sardonically, "I see. You had nothing better to do so you thought you'd come cross me off your list." Not wanting his bitterness to get the better of her at their first meeting, having been forewarned of his moodiness by Minerva and Poppy, and perhaps in an attempt to keep him off guard she replied, "Something like that. Actually, I was feeling restless and I haven't been able to get you off my mind since I saw you my first day here. Yet you seem to be doing everything to avoid me." Snape's mind reeled. This simply couldn't be happening. Was she implying what he thought she was? Of course not. Impossible. She was merely toying with him. "I've been quite busy," he answered shortly. "Perhaps you're not too busy at the moment to retire someplace more comfortable where we can chat?" She asked this in an offhand way, though he sensed it was far from casual. Nearly dropping the jar he was holding he caught it just before it hit the table and gently set it down before replying, "I suppose I might spare a few minutes." He paused only briefly before leading her towards his office rather than his private quarters. He was still on unsure ground and didn't want to make the wrong presumption. Roselynd followed the dark brooding form of Professor Snape into his office, noting the choice of locale. So she had managed to catch him off guard. As they entered the office Snape turned to lock the door which brought him face to face with her, close enough she can breathe in his scent, musky and earthy. She looked up into his dark eyes. They stared at each other not daring to speak lest the moment be broken, each trying to judge what the other is thinking. Slowly, not taking her eyes from his, Roselynd leaned up and brought her lips to his. The kiss was long and sensual. Around them the office, the school, the world disappeared and the earth seemed to spin faster beneath their feet. When they finally broke apart they were both breathing hard. In a moment of heated passion Snape grasped Roselynd by the shoulders and pushed her back against the office door and pressed himself against her. His lips met hers then trailed down the hollow of her neck. He breathed in her scent which was a heady mixture of floral and exotic spice, like rose petals and amber. As her back arched with pleasure at the sensations running through her body, Snape felt a sharp prickle in his sinuses. He pulled back and quickly turned away to sneeze harshly. "Arrissshhhh! Rishhhhahh!!" He pulled a black handkerchief with elegant embroidered serpents around the edge and wiped at his nose. "Pardon me," he said, a faint blush creeping into his pale cheeks. "Blessings," Roselynd said quietly. She reached out and pulled him back to her running her hands through his jet black hair that despite its somewhat greasy appearance felt like silk at her touch. She ran her tongue playfully over his left ear then nibbled gently with her teeth just on the tip of his ear lobe. He caught his breath and moaned softly deep in his throat so that it came out more like a growl. Roselynd pulled out her wand and with a deft flick the lights dimmed. Her eyes flashed as if daring him to make the next move. Pulling his own wand free of his robes Severus commanded, "Des'Habiller!" and their robes vanished. Roselynd wrapped her arms around his neck and pulled his now naked body against her own smooth flesh. Their groping became more frantic as his attentions moved down her throat to her porcelain breasts. He began to trace circles around her nipples with his tongue when the tingling sensation returned to his sinuses. He fought to suppress the building urge to sneeze but his breath began to hitch. Unable to resist any longer he spun to the side and gave in to a short but forceful fit. "Ahhharrishhhahh! Tishhahhh! Hresshh! Heh...Arshooo!!" Blushing noticeably now, he reached down to retrieve his handkerchief from discarded robes. He blew his nose softly and wiped at his streaming eyes. Dropping the cloth back onto his robes he turned back to Roselynd saying, "I do apologize. I can't imagine..." Severus didn't get the opportunity to finish his statement, however, because Roselynd forcefully pulled him back and after a murmured, "Blessings," she kissed him fiercely. Then panting slightly she looked into the bottomless depths of his dark eyes and whispered, "Please. I want you." He hesitated slightly, wondering at her sudden urgency, however his own rising need quickly made his decision. He slid into her easily. She moaned in pleasure, her fingernails biting into his back. They moved slowly together in harmony. Severus ran his hands through her thick auburn hair which glinted in the low lights. As he did, it released more of her perfume into the air around them. Roselynd watched as his expression changed from one of amorous affection to one of distracted desperation. His eyes began to water and his breath hitched. He started to pull away from her but she held him tightly close to her. He gasped, "Ros, I...eh...I have..." Not able to hold them back any more he let forth an explosive set of sneezes. "Harrissshhh! Rishhhhahh! Ahhharrishhhahh!" "Merlin, I'm so," he began apologizing but trailed off as Roslynd cried out, "Oh, Severus!!!!!" It's at this point he became aware again of what they had been engaged in because her muscles tightened around him in a most arousing way and a moment later he followed her into ecstasy. They leaned against each other panting and trembling slightly. Severus leaned down to kiss Roselynd. The kiss was cut short as he pulled quickly away, turning to the side and gave in to another fit. "Arrisshhh! Harrissshhh! Hresshh! Ahhharrishhhahh! Heh...Arshooo!!" "Blessings," Roselynd said as he turned back to her and she brushed his hair from his face. "Merlin, I think I must be allergic to you," he said blushing. "That would indeed be tragic. Do you suppose you could endure the discomfort or would we be forced to desist with our activities?" she asks, her eyes twinkling. "If indeed that turns out to be true I might be persuaded to endure. That is of course if you can endure the effects. However I think it more likely that it is your perfume that is having such an influence on me." "An interesting thought to perhaps be pursued at a later time. And either way I can most definitely endure the consequences. However, I think for now it's time to say good night." With that Roselynd picked up her wand, gave it a swish saying, "Habiller" and was instantly back in her robes. She leaned up giving Severus a peck on the cheek and was out the door. He stood staring at the door in a daze for a moment before he realized that he was standing stark naked in the middle of his office at 9 o' clock at night. He picked up his wand and re-robed himself then walked over to his desk and sat down. The next evening after dinner in the Great Hall Roselynd made her way down to Snape's office. As she stood in the doorway she saw him pacing behind his desk but he turned abruptly when he felt her presence. She felt his nervousness turn to relief as he breathed her name, "Roselynd. I wasn't sure..." His words trailed off. She smiled her radiant smile at him. "Yes, I came." They just stood looking at each other over the desk for a moment before he remembered himself and asked, "Would you like a drink?" "That would be nice," she answered walking over to one of the chairs and settling into it. Severus poured their drinks into pewter goblets with snakes twined around the rims and brought them over and handed one to Roselynd before settling himself into the other chair. They sat sipping their drinks for a few moments before Severus spoke. "About last night. That was..." Again he trailed off. Roselynd finished for him. "Amazing?" Again she felt his relief. "Yes, Amazing. Extraordinary. I had no idea you felt that way for me. May I confess I've had feelings for you since we were in school together." Roselynd looked suddenly serious. "I know Severus. Listen, if we're going to have a relationship there's something I think you should know about me. One of the reasons the Ministry valued me so highly. Severus, I'm an empath." He stood suddenly as if he'd been shocked. He began to pace slightly behind his chair. "You...you're...an empath? You mean you know what I'm feeling? Right now? And when we? And before? How much do you know? How much can you tell?" She felt the waves of betrayal, fear, and distrust coming off him. "I'm sorry Severus. I should have told you before. I'm very accomplished as an empath - that's why the Ministry valued me. I'm in almost complete control. I can and do block out everything except the vaguest impressions of feelings. I don't know what you're thinking. If I wanted to I could read you're deepest feelings - know what you feel deep down inside when you go to sleep at night - but I don't do that. I did that when I had to for the Ministry but it causes me a lot of emotional turmoil so I block out as much as I can. I get vague feelings, like you're nervous, sad, happy, or excited. But that's it. And I'll never use that against you. Please trust me, Severus." He looked at her with interest now. "What is it like when you read someone's deepest feelings? To know someone that completely?" She thought for a moment. "It's rather confusing. For a while I forget where I leave off and the other person begins. It all sort of gets jumbled together, which can be fairly frightening, if you're not used to it, or expecting it. It takes a lot of concentration to keep myself put together. It's not something to undertake lightly. I think that's why a lot of empaths go mad. "So you knew I had feelings for you all this time?" Severus asked accusingly. She smiled at him again. "I knew you had some interest in me, but I could have told that by the fact that you were following me around since my arrival here." He blushed looking suitably sheepish. "I kept waiting for the Great Severus Snape to make his move. Finally I got tired of it and thought I'd come see what the problem was. I must admit I didn't expect...that. But now it's late and I should be off to bed," she said joining him where he now stood by the fireplace. He put an arm around her waist and pulled her to him. "Will you join me for tea before breakfast tomorrow?" She gazed up into his dark eyes. "How can I refuse?" she asked before kissing him tenderly on the mouth and slipping from his grasp and pausing at the door added, "Good night, Severus." A rare smile creased his hard features as he replied, "Good night, Roselynd." It was Saturday afternoon and as usual Hermione was spending her time in the library while Harry and Ron had skived off to play Quidditch. Today however she was rather distracted from her studies as she found herself continually glancing up to watch another figure who had also found it preferable to spend this beautiful day indoors. Finally plucking up her courage she gathered up her books and walked over to the table where he was seemingly engrossed in his own studies. "Hi Neville." Startled he looked up at her from round face and dark eyes. "Oh, uh, hi Hermione." Taking a seat across from him at the table Hermione continued, "I was just wondering, maybe, if you could help me out with the essay for Herbology? I mean I know you're really good at that sort of thing and I'm just not sure I understand all the properties of self-fertilizing shrubs." Neville just stared at her with a look of disbelief for a moment before stammering, "Oh, um, sure. Of course. I was just working on my own essay." The two of them settled in and were soon enthusiastically scribbling away. After a time Hermione set down her quill and looked at Neville. "I don't suppose you'd like to go to the Halloween party together?" Neville actually dropped his quill as he looked up at her. "I, Hermione, yes. I'd like that a lot." They smiled at each other just as Ron and Harry came bustling up to the table. "There you are. You should be outside enjoying this gorgeous day instead of cooped up in here," Ron said giving the Library a distasteful look. Hermione gave him a withering look, "Yes, well we're actually getting our homework done. I bet you haven't even looked at yours," she said accusingly. "Hey come on," cut in Harry, "We promised to go see Hagrid." Hermione stood and gathered her books. "Oh, alright. See you later, Neville." As they exited the library Hermione glanced back with a smile and a little wave to see Neville smiling back. Having attended the Halloween party together Hermione and Neville's relationship had progressed to the point where they could frequently be found sneaking off to the Astronomy Tower after hours to make out. It was one such night when they had just returned to the base of the tower when they heard footsteps. Neville grabbed Hermione's arm and pulled her behind an old suit of armor. Quietly they watched as Professor Snape and Professor Wylder came around the corner hand in hand and smiling ascended the steps to the tower together. They waited a few more moments in silence before turning to look at each other in disbelief. "Did you just see what I saw?" asked Neville. Hermione nodded. "That was Snape. And Professor Wylder. I don't believe it. Although it does explain Snape's unusual good mood lately." Neville was gaping up the steps of the tower. "Right, but Professor Wylder! I thought she had more sense than that! Why would she pick Snape? She could have anybody!" Neville blushed then looking at Hermione. Hermione smiled at him. "Well, you can't explain a woman's heart. We'd better get back to the dorm before Filch or his cat come sneaking around. Besides, we've got to tell the others!" With a quick hug they headed in the direction of Gryffindor tower. Up on the Astronomy tower Roselynd was saying, "Oh, Severus. It's a perfect night! Not a single cloud. Look at all the stars." Snape took her by the waist and pulled her close whispering, "And none of them as beautiful as you." She laughed lightly, leaning up to kiss him. "How uncharacteristically romantic of you, Severus. I think you're just trying to seduce me." He smiled back down at her, "Is it working, then?" Instead of answering she kissed him again, this time moving her tongue into his mouth. At the same time she raised a knee to caress him between his legs. After a moment of this they broke apart breathing hard. "I take that as a yes?" Snape asked sardonically. "Perhaps we ought to take some precautions." With that he turned and pointed his wand at the door to the tower and they heard the locks click. "We wouldn't want to be interrupted by any students with rule breaking on their minds." Then he backed her up against the edge of tower and continued his ministrations. He began to unbutton her robes and push them back over her shoulders, trailing kisses down her neck. She ran her hands through his hair and whimpered as his lips reached her breasts. Moments later he pulled away breath hitching. "Roselynd...Heh...Harrissshhh! Hresshh! Ahhharrishhhahh! Heh...Arshooo!!" He turned back to her wiping at his streaming eyes and nose. "You're wearing that perfume," he said accusingly. She looked back at him eyes shimmering with something that might be taken for lust. "I'm sorry Severus. I couldn't resist. See there's just something about you, the man who's always in absolute control, to see you lose a little bit of that composure and control for an instant, it's just incredibly sexy." Snape looked at her with a curious expression. "I had no idea that could be such a turn on for you. Although I'm not entirely comfortable with the prospect, I would of course do anything for you." With that he promptly resumed where he had left off. After a moment he paused and taking her by the waist he picked her up and lightly set her on the edge of the tower wall. Making sure her position was secure he worked his way back down and continued lower until he was met with her warm and already wet bush. He ran his tongue in along her delicate folds and she shivered with pleasure. As her hair tickled his already sensitive nose he pulled back and turned to the side to let loose a volley of wet sneezes. "Harrissshhh! Rishhhhahh! Ahhharrishhhahh! Excuse me." He blushed looking at her but she only giggled and he resumed what he'd been doing, darting his tongue in and out of her. He took his time, going slow, making circles around her clit, softly suckling it as it grew hard. It wasn't long before she was crying out in pleasure as she came. As this first wave of heat passed she said in an almost moan, "I want you in me." Snape rose and they kissed and she tasted herself on his lips as their tongues flicked in and out of each other's mouths. His own member was almost painfully hard and erect. He slid easily into Roselynd. They started moving together in harmony, keeping the pace slow at first. Roselynd looked up at Snape with a wicked grin, "Kiss me." He cocked an amused eyebrow at her but obediently began trailing kisses down her neck, knowing what this would lead to. Sure enough as their pace quickened he felt a tickle building at the back of his sinuses. "Roselynd, I have to sn...sneeze," he warned her, breath hitching. She grinned at him again saying, "Wait, hold it back." He was surprised by this request but again did as she asked and tried to fend off the growing tickle by concentrating on their love making. This worked for a while as they moved faster and faster but just as he felt Roselynd beginning to climax it came back full force and he turned his head to the side to let forth a set of explosive sneezes. "Harrissshhh! Hresshh! Rishhhhahh!" Roselynd cried out as the fire of orgasm rushed over her. A moment later Snape came as well with an almost feral growl. When the spasms passed they were left embracing each other breathing hard. Roselynd laid her head on Snape's shoulder. "That was amazing." After a moment Snape stepped back. "You're shivering. We should go inside." Roselynd laughed. "Or at least get dressed." She pulled her robes back on as he did the same. He used his wand to unlock the door and they headed back down from the tower together smiling. It was the end of November and already the school was a buzz of excitement with talk of the Jule ball. This evening Roselynd had decided to broach the subject with Severus. "I just think it's time we stop sneaking around. Someone is bound to find out sooner or later, so why not make it on our terms?" She sat next to him on the couch in his sitting room. Putting out a hand she brushed a stray lock of hair from his face. She felt him pulling away, turning inward. "Severus, I love you. I know this isn't easy for you. I know your past..." She trailed off as he suddenly looked at her with such black rage she actually pulled back from him. His voice was a low snarl she hadn't heard from him before when he spoke. "How can you possibly 'love' me? You don't know me. You know nothing of my past!" As he stared directly into her eyes she was suddenly flooded with feelings and images. Snape as a child beaten by his father, teased and tormented by other children. Snape as a young man both tortured by the Dark Lord and torturing others for the Dark Lord. Carrying out hideous acts that he now regretted. Images of darkness and destruction. Feelings of self loathing, regret, fear, emptiness, despair, hatred, loneliness, and pain, and pain, and pain. Suddenly it broke off and she realized she was sitting alone on Snape's couch sobbing uncontrollably. She looked up to see him standing by the fireplace facing away from her. Still sobbing she got up from the couch and fled from his quarters all the way to her own rooms in the tower. Still facing the fireplace Snape heard Roselynd get up and flee from his rooms. He slammed a fist into the wall grazing his knuckles on the rough hewn stone. He stared dumbly at the blood welling up. What the Hell was wrong with him? He'd just driven away the one person that could maybe understand him better than anyone else and ruined his one chance at a normal sort of relationship and life. Roselynd collapsed onto her bed and cried until sleep finally overtook her in the wee hours of the morning. When she awoke pale and shaky the next day she made her way across the castle and up to Dumbledore's office. As she went her weakened defenses were battered by the emotions of the castle's inhabitants through closed doors and she was glad much of the school remained asleep. Dumbledore immediately ushered her in at her knock. She was overcome as Dumbledore's emotions, going from gladness to worry at her appearance, swept over her in a wave. Tears once again came to her eyes as she fought for control over the depth of kindness that surrounded her. Finally grounding herself she managed a weak smile. "Good morning, Albus." "Good morning. My dear, what ever is the matter? Can I help?" Dumbledore asked in his kindly tone. He started to put a hand out to her but seemed to think better of this and stepped back. As she felt his feelings of concern, compassion, and understanding she wanted to tell him everything. How she loved Severus, how she thought he loved her back, how he had deliberately hurt her. Despite what he'd done though she still respected his wish for privacy. "I'd rather not discuss it. I just came to ask if I can be let out of my teaching duties today." Dumbledore studied her closely before answering. "As you wish. I can fill in for your classes today. If there is anything else I can do for you, please let me know." She turned to go when he spoke again. "Roselynd, May I tell you something to be taken for what it's worth?" She turned back to him. "There are people in this world like you who deal with emotions of every type every day. Because of this exposure you've learned to face emotions and deal with them head on. There are other people who have only experienced life's negative emotions for so long and have spent so much time fighting or running away from them that when faced with one of life's positive emotions the only way they know how to react is to fight or run away. I think that with your experiences you may, in time, be able to teach someone like that how to face their emotions instead, although it could be emotionally stressful for you." Roselynd wasn't actually surprised that he knew. Dumbledore seemed to know everything that went on both in the school and in the wizarding world in general. She was also rather relieved that he knew and in fact seemed to be giving his support. "So you think there's still hope?" she asked. He smiled his most fatherly smile at her. "My dear, there is always hope." Snape strode purposefully into the classroom and snapped, "There will be no more discussion. Today we will continue the potion we started yesterday. I expect it ready to turn in by the end of the period." The students all began gathering their items and ingredients with the normal chatter they had grown accustomed to in the past few curiously relaxed weeks in Snape's classroom when a sharp reprimand came from the front of the room. "I said there would be no more discussion. And if Miss Granger so much as looks at Longbottom's potion I'll take 20 points from each of you." There was an uneasy silence as students eyed each other questioningly. Ron leaned over to Harry and whispered, "I guess the Snape we all love to hate is back!" Snape's head whipped back up from what he was concentrating on at his desk and he demanded, "Did you have a problem with my instructions, Weasley? 50 points from Gryffindor!" When the rest of the period passed without incident Ron, Harry, Hermione, and Neville were grateful to escape the dungeons and head off to Defense Against the Dark Arts. It was much to their surprise however that when they made their way into the classroom they found Dumbledore at the front of the room rather than Professor Wylder. Harry found himself asking before he even sat down, "Sir, where is Professor Wylder? Is she alright?" Dumbledore smiled at the students fondly and made calming gestures with his hands as the rest of the class took up the chorus of, "Yes, where is she, is she ok?" "Now, class. If you'll all just take your seats. Yes, that's right. Thank you. Professor Wylder is just fine. She had some personal business to attend to, so I'm filling in for her for the day. Now, who can tell me where we are at?" Hermione leaned over to the boys and whispered urgently, "I bet that's why Snape was in such a foul mood. I bet he's done something to her." The boys looked outraged at this thought and Harry said in a menacing voice, "If he's hurt her, I will find a way to make him pay for it." Ron quickly agreed, "I'm with you there, mate." Neville added his support but was cut off by Hermione saying, "We don't actually know what he's done. She is very experienced with the Dark Arts and can probably take care of herself pretty well." Looking gloomy it took the group all of their will power too concentrate on Dumbledore's lesson for the rest of the period. As the other students filed out Harry, Ron, Hermione, and Neville stayed behind. Harry stepped up to the front of the room where Dumbledore still stood. "Sir, are you sure Professor Wylder is alright? What I mean is, did you actually see her, at all?" Dumbledore studied the small group of worried students before asking, "Is there some reason you suspect she might not be alright?" They all looked at each other as if the answer might be written on one another's faces before Hermione answered. "No, it's just that we noticed that she wasn't at breakfast, and now to miss classes, we were just worried." Dumbledore gave them all looks as if he knew this wasn't the whole story but replied, "In that case you'll be happy to know that I saw Professor Wylder this morning and she'll be quite alright. As I told the class she had some personal business to attend to but she should be back with us tomorrow. I'm sure she'll be touched by your concern for her well being." As they made their way up to Gryffindor common room Hermione said reluctantly, "You noticed he said she would be fine, not she is fine? I guess we have to trust Dumbledore though, he said she would be back tomorrow." The others murmured their assent and Harry added, "Maybe then we can find out what's really going on." Roselynd had spent the day resting and trying to reground herself to no avail. There were just too many people in too close a proximity that she kept getting bombarded with fleeting emotions and couldn't concentrate on repairing her defenses. It had after all taken her years of training to build those defenses. Now she thought ruefully how they could be shattered by one man in an instant. Finally in the evening she decided to walk out to the Forbidden Forest where perhaps she wouldn't be disturbed. She made it out of the castle unseen, a good sign she thought. She made her way to the forest but didn't dare go too far in as it was nearing dark. She found a clearing just into the trees and settled down to meditate. She spent time reestablishing her self, and building her barriers against the intrusion of unwanted emotions. When she finished it had indeed grown dark so she made a light with her wand and started back out of the forest. As she came out of the trees she nearly ran into Hagrid. "Oh, hello, Hagrid!" "Miss Wylder, what are you doin' out here? I saw the light and thought it might be some students messin' about so I come to investigate. Are you alright? You look right pale. We missed you at meals today." The big man looked down at her with concern on his kind face. "I'm alright. Thank you Hagrid. I just needed some space to think and breathe. There were just too many people, too much going on up there," she nodded over her shoulder. "Aye, know what ya mean. I like bein' out in the forest. Just me and the animals all peaceful like. Can be right comforting. Don't have to worry about what everybody's thinking and feeling. " She smiled softly up at him. "You know Hagrid, you're a very wise man. Now I'd better be getting back up to bed. Good night." Looking a little perplexed he called after her, "Good night, Professor." The next day was long and wearing for Roselynd. At meals she could barely stand to look at Severus. The wound he'd left her with was still raw and she could feel his emotions of shame, grief, and anger at himself resonating around him. Everyone else was exuberant in welcoming her back. In class Harry, Ron, Hermione, and Neville seemed particularly relieved to see her back and in good health for some reason. She'd had to reassure the group twice that, yes, she was perfectly alright. Finally that evening she escaped to her rooms and put on some music to calm her nerves. As she listened to the words:
Her thoughts kept drifting back to Severus. As Dumbledore had implied the man had not had an easy life. That much was obvious from the deep contact he'd forced upon her. There was more to him though. He wasn't all darkness and hatred. He had after all turned to Dumbledore, and he regretted the things he had done. Beyond the surface of moodiness, surliness, anger, and pain that he projected she had felt that there was a goodness and a kindness. The question was - could she be the one to bring it to the surface? Was she tough enough to stand by him because it wouldn't be an easy road. Finally she thought what it really came down to was that she loved him. Despite it all - she did love him. Wearily she got up off the bed and started to make her way down to the dungeons. Not finding Severus in either the Potions classroom or his office she paused outside his own door. Taking a deep breath she knocked softly. After a few moments the door opened to reveal Snape in a black silk dressing robe. He paused when he saw her then said, "Roselynd, I was just turning in." She looked solemnly into his eyes, reading the pain there. "I'm sorry Severus. May I come in? I'd like to talk." He opened the door further to admit her and she entered his living room. "Listen, Severus. About what happened. I want to put it behind us. I want to move on." She turned to look at him. His expression was one of disbelief. "Severus, I know you haven't had much experience with love in your life, but this is it. And if you can except it and me, I think you'll find it's not so frightening as you think." Snape just stood there, the full meaning of what she'd said slowly registering on his face until a single tear fell. "Come here," Roselynd said softly and he went to her. She took him in her arms and they both cried silently for a while before wiping tears from each other's faces. "It's late. I should be off to bed," Roselynd finally said. Snape looked down at her. "Please stay with me." Roselynd was surprised that he would ask. Perhaps things would work out after all. "Of course, I'll stay." She followed him into the bedroom. It was the evening of the Jule Ball which Snape had reluctantly agreed to attend with Roselynd. They had arranged to meet in the entrance hall and Snape was nervously adjusting his dress robes before making his way upstairs. Finally deciding it couldn't be put off any longer he headed out of the dungeons. He stopped in the entrance hall just in time to see Roselynd making her way down the staircase and he caught his breath. She was wearing a strapless gown in a shimmering teal green. It was form fitting through the bodice and then flared out at the skirt. As she reached the bottom of the staircase and found him staring at her she performed a little pirouette and he saw that it also had a cut out revealing the curve of her back. She turned back and looked up at him for his reaction. His eyes roved over her form from her bright auburn hair pinned up with tiny white flowers, to the sparkling diamond pendant at her breast. He let out the breath he'd forgotten he'd been holding. "You look absolutely stunning." She beamed at him and then leaned up to kiss him. "Shall we go in then?" she asked taking him by the arm. Snape took a deep breath and arm in arm they entered the Great Hall. It was magically decorated to look like a winter wonderland. The center of the hall was a large dance floor. At the front of the hall were tables with refreshments. Along the left side were tables and chairs for sitting and chatting and enjoying the refreshments. Along the right side of the hall were more casual seating areas. As they made their way through the crowd of students towards the front of the hall where the other Professors were clustered they were met with stares and whispered comments as students turned to look at them. Feeling Snape's tension mounting Roseylnd gripped his arm more firmly and continued to steer him towards the small group of their peers. After a seemingly endless journey through the hall they reached the other staff who were staring at them with looks mimicking those of their students. Except for Albus Dumbledore who grinned at them broadly. Minerva McGonagall looked back and forth between the two of them and exclaimed, "Roselynd, you've been holding out on us!" Filius Flitwick reached up and slapped Snape on the arm. "Snape, you old dog. How long has this been going on? You've stolen her right out from under all of our noses!" Snape flinched slightly at the contact. He was uncomfortable with the attention and unsure of what to say. He was saved as Roselynd spoke up. "We wanted to keep things quiet until we knew how things would go. And things are going...well." She smiled up at Snape and as a slow song came on over the magically enhanced sound system she pulled at his arm. "Come dance with me." He hesitated a moment but then followed her out onto the floor. He held her close, placing his hands on the bare part of her back, feeling her warm, soft skin. As they moved together slowly to the rhythm of the music she glanced up at him and laughed softly. "Will you relax and stop trying to glare people down. Just ignore them. They'll quit looking eventually if you do. Try and enjoy yourself." He closed his eyes then looked down at her. "Right, just ignore the fact that we are the main spectacle for the whole room." She reached up and patted his cheek. "Relax." As they danced Snape began to relax and forget that the whole school was watching their unlikely courtship. They danced for a while longer then joined the staff and chatted and enjoyed some of the excellent refreshments provided by the castle's house elves. They danced some more. Eventually the evening wound to a close and Snape escorted Roselynd upstairs to her rooms. They paused at the door and embraced. They stood and held each other that way with Roselynd's head on Snape's shoulder for some time. He laid his own head on top of her head nestled in her hair. She shifted slightly and one the little flowers she had twined into her silky locks tickled at his nose and he pulled away to sneeze. "Hiiishh!" She grinned at him and slapped his arm. "Don't you start that now. I'm exhausted and I'm going to bed." With that she leaned up and kissed him and turned and let herself into her rooms. As she was shutting the door, he called after her, "You were beautiful tonight. I'm glad we went." She smiled and shut the door. He stood there a moment before smiling to himself and heading back down to the dungeons. Harry and Ron were in the Gryffindor common room the next morning when Hermione and finally Neville joined them. They were engaged in a game of wizard chess and Ron looked up at Hermione after one of his knights bashed one of Harry's bishops. "So, what time did you two finally drag yourselves in?" he asked rather accusingly. "You don't have to take that tone with me just because you didn't enjoy yourself. It's your own fault you know." Hermione glared back at him. Harry cut in to forestall any further argument between the two, "How about Snape and Professor Wylder? They were definitely enjoying themselves. And it's really true - she's going out with him. Who would have thought?" Ron flopped back in his chair. "Your telling me mate! It makes me feel like she's a traitor." They sat there in silence for a bit before Hermione said hesitantly, "She seems happy though. And Snape seems, at least, a little less horrible. So maybe it's a good thing." They all pondered this before Neville spoke up. "It's rather hard to get used to the idea but I don't suppose it's really any of our business." Harry and Ron looked outraged at the idea that it might not be their business but Hermione shushed them saying, "He's right, and I think we should leave well enough alone." Ron and Harry looked rather unhappy about this but reluctantly agreed. Moving on to brighter topics the group decided to wander down to Hagrid's since it was a bright, clear day out. It was the end of January and the initial uproar their coming out about their relationship had caused had died down. There had been wild rumors about Snape having put the Imperius curse on Roselynd in order to get her to date him, and Roselynd really being a spy for the Ministry trying to find out if Snape was still a Death Eater. There was giggling and whispering every time they were seen together. Peeves, the school's obnoxious poltergeist, had come up with a little song that he sang at the top of his voice every time he came across one or both of them in the halls. "Sevie and Rosie sitting in a tree. K-I-S-S-I-N-G" He would then make rude lip smacking sounds. If his targets stuck around rather than retreating or if he had a big enough audience he would continue the song. "First comes love, then comes marriage, then comes the baby in the baby carriage." At which point the would launch into a very convincing baby's bawl. Finally however, after over a month of this treatment, the excitement had died down and they were being left alone. Roselynd was in Snape's rooms one evening discussing the situation. "I told you they'd forget about us and move on." Snape looked at her sulkily. "It certainly took them long enough!" Roselynd gave him a coy grin and slid closer to him on the couch. She reached out and patted his cheek. "But wasn't it worth it?" He shook his head at her antics and reached over to grab her and pulled her close to kiss her. She pulled away and slyly said, "Let's play a game." He looked at her suspiciously. "What sort of game?" She grinned at him. "You'll see." With her wand she produced a black silk blindfold. "Then again maybe you won't. Do you trust me?" He looked from her to the blindfold and back again. There was a mixture of trepidation and curiosity in his eyes, and she could feel both nervousness and excitement coming from him. "Of course I trust you," he answered. As she slipped the blindfold over his eyes she said, "Any time you want to stop, just say Chocolate frogs." The edges of his lips quirked up and he murmured, "Chocolate frogs, huh?" She led him to the bedroom where she undressed and directed him to lay down on the large four poster bed. She then used her wand to produce four black silk straps which she used to tie his wrists and ankles to the bed posts. She then undressed herself and standing naked at the foot of the bed used her wand to remove Snape's blindfold. Snape's breath quickened as, bound hand and foot, the blindfold slowly slid off and he saw Roselynd standing before him naked. She slowly walked towards the bed and kneeling on the end started to crawl towards him. As she positioned herself over him and softly kissed his lips he longed to touch her but was prevented from doing so by his bonds and this only heightened his arousal. She sat back and reached for an ice cube from a glass left on the abandoned on the bedside table. She took it and placed it on first one then the other of his nipples which instantly hardened as he took a sharp intake of breath. She then placed the ice cube in her mouth and knelt before him taking him in her mouth. She watched as his face contorted at the sensations of her hot mouth and the cold ice dripping over his sensitive member. She alternated between sucking at his full length and concentrating her tongue around the sensitive head. She continued in this manner until she felt him nearing climax and then she pulled back releasing him. He groaned and she flashed him a wicked smile. Moving to a position where she was sitting on his stomach she once again reached for the bedside table, this time picking up the quill that had been resting on a piece of parchment. It was made from a large bright green feather with wispy tendrils trailing from the edges. She took it and trailed it down his chest watching him squirm at the ticklish feeling. As she ran it over his thighs and around his cock she watched his erection jump at the stimulation. Running the feather back up Snape's chest, she then flicked it's downy tendrils beneath his nose. This provoked an outburst from the man. "Roselynd! What are you doing now?" He asked this turning his head to the side to avoid the feather. Roselynd removed the feather but with her other hand slapped him lightly across the face. "I didn't tell you to speak. And I most certainly didn't give you permission to move." She looked at him with one eyebrow raised to see his reaction. Instantly there was rage in his eyes, but that was quickly followed by curiosity and lust. It was obvious that he had never been dominated before and though unused to the idea once his initial reactions passed he seemed to like it. Sufficiently cowed Snape closed his mouth and looked straight at her without moving. She again ran the feather under his large hooked nose. He had no choice but to breathe in it's wispy tendrils which tickled the inner membranes of his nostrils terribly. He wanted to rub at his nose but of course he couldn't being tied to the bed as he was. He could feel the tickle building and all he wanted to do was sneeze but it wasn't quite there yet. His eyes were watering now and he opened his mouth to protest again, but still feeling the sting on his cheek shut it. He blinked to clear his eyes and saw Roselynd watching him with an almost feral look of anticipation. Suddenly the sneeze was upon him, forcing him upward, straining against his restraints. It was followed immediately by a second. "Rishhhhahh! Ahhharrishhhahh!"Roselynd removed the feather and kissed him deeply, toying with him with her tongue. Then she slowly raised her body until she hovered over him and just as slowly lowered herself back down onto him until he was fully inside her. She moved slowly up and down so that at one moment his shaft was completely buried in her and the next just the head at the opening of her vagina. It didn't take long before Roselynd increased the pace and strength of her movements, riding Snape fast and hard. Unable to touch her, to stroke her hair, or fondle her perfect breasts, he instead concentrated his attention on watching her face. Watching the various expressions cross her beautiful face as she was caught up in the throes of passion while not being able to touch her was incredibly erotic. Just as he felt himself losing control he watched her face open into an expression of purest pleasure as she cried out and then he was gasping as he shot his juices into her. Breathing hard she slid off him and gently undid his bonds before snuggling up against his side with her head on his shoulder. Flexing his arms he ran his hands over her body at last whispering, "That was quite a game." She leaned up to kiss him again. "Surprised you, didn't it?" He smiled, stroking her hair. "You certainly know how to keep me guessing." They drifted off into a peaceful slumber in each other's arms. It was Valentine's Day and Roselynd awoke to find Snape sitting in the armchair beside her bed. She sat up rather surprised at his presence, "Severus, what are you doing here?" He smiled at her, "Happy Valentine's Day. I brought you these." With a flick of his wand he produced a large bouquet of red and white roses. Their aroma instantly filled the room. She looked even more surprised and stammered, "Severus, you didn't need to, you shouldn't have, what I mean is, they're beautiful! But they make me -" Her words trailed off as her eyelids fluttered and her breath hitched. "Ehhhh...Etschoo! Eschoooo! Hetschooo! Huhhhh....Tcschooo!" Snape watched entranced. He was beginning to see what she found so arousing about the whole loss of control thing. She was almost bewitching, caught up as she was in the act of sneezing. Suddenly her voice cut into his thoughts. It was a bit husky with congestion. "Severus? Would you mind, getting rid of those? Hatschhhhhhhh! Hetschooo!" He glanced from her to the flowers he was still holding. "Oh, right, of course." With another flick of his wand they disappeared. "Rosalynd, I'm sorry. I didn't realize you were allergic. That was obviously not the start I had planned for today." She smiled getting up from the bed and moving beside him. "Hetschooo! Ehhh...Etschoo! Don't worry about it. Good morning. I take it you have more in store for me?" Snape leaned up from the chair to kiss her before answering. "I thought we'd walk into town for awhile. If that's all right with you?" Roselynd got up and headed for her wardrobe. "Sure, that sounds like fun. I'll just get ready." When she was dressed and ready to go the pair made their way out of the castle and into Hogsmeade, passing various students with the same idea on their minds. Once in town Roselynd was surprised when rather then leading her into The Three Broomsticks, Snape continued further along and guided her instead into Madame Puddifoot's Tearoom. The place was rather overdone for the holiday. There were streamers and hearts everywhere. Over each table floated a cupid that sprinkled confetti down upon the occupants. Snape led Roselynd to a table at the back and they ordered tea. They sat and chatted for awhile but she could tell he wasn't really comfortable there. He seemed particularly edgy for some reason. He kept fidgeting with his napkin and he couldn't seem to keep still. She could feel his feelings of excitement and nervousness but she couldn't figure out what they were about, no matter how she prodded him in their conversation. Finally she said, "Why don't we get out of here. It's a bit stuffy." He looked at her almost gratefully. They gathered their coats and headed outside. "So what shall we do now?" she asked once they were free of the confetti and cherubs. Snape looked around as if contemplating this thought, "We could just go for a walk. It's a beautiful day." Still wondering what on earth the man was up to she agreed and hand in hand they started off. It was in fact a beautiful day. It had snowed the day before and the sun glinted on the freshly fallen blanket of white. The air was crisp and fresh but it wasn't unbearably cold. Soon they found themselves down by the lake and the stopped by one of the willows. "I always like looking out over the lake after it snows. It looks so peaceful," Roselynd remarked looking at Snape. Snape glanced out over the lake and curiously asked, "What's that out over there?" Roselynd turned to look but not finding anything asked, "What? Over where?" Not getting any response she turned back to find Snape kneeling in the snow holding a small box with a ring. The ring has a decently sized diamond in the center with a ruby on each side. Roselynd gasped as Snape softly asked, "Roselynd, Will you marry me?" Tears flowed down Roselynd's face as Snape slipped the ring on her finger. She helped him to his feet murmuring, "Yes, yes." They ran their hands through each other's hair and kissed and Roselynd whispered, "This is the perfect Valentine's Day. I love you, Severus." Snape whispered back for the first time, "I love you, Roselynd." They embraced under the willow tree by the lake in the snow. | |||||
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