This is a very well written story. I am deeply touched by it because on 12-12-12 i left 24 years of sadistic abusive hell. I understand Hermione's thinking no one will ever love her. I understand her nightmares and fears. I am happy she has her Severus. I am blessed with my own. His name is Ben. I am still shocked that he loves me. We will marry sometime in 2018. The additonal joy is I will be Mrs. Ben Potter, yes I am serious. Thank you for writing this. You are talented and your writing is full of passion and real emotion. Blessings to you
This made me cry. I also thought I would never enjoy sex, but oh I do. Making love, to be sappy, is NOTHING like being forced and hurt and humiliated. I can never have a baby which breaks my heart,too much damage and no magic. Again thank you,this story was am unexpected gift
One nitpick is that I feel using Severus as the one who helps the recovery is borderline-believeable given the situation.
Once getting over this issue, I'd love to see some more treatment about how Hermione (as well as the people in her support circle) develops and realizes Severus is really a right partner. Given the story as written, while no one would argue Severus is not Lucius, he might still be a healthier-yet-remaining-problematic version: an all-encompassing-lover-and-father-figure for the orphaned Hermione.
Lastly, I think the story would be even more interesting (and challenging-to-write) if Lucius discovers that Hermione has a submissive side (e.g., getting off with certain pain, humiliation, etc.). In such a plot, while Lucius would still be the villan, Hermione would remain be a victim, but one with more gray area. Furthermore, it'd be even more challenging during recovery, how to deprogram (from being dependent on Lucius) while allowing Hermione to retain her natural submissive.
My one and only compliant is that some of your words are combined or cut off. I have noticed it in other stories so it could just be a formatting thing.
I cant wait to read more of your stories.
"svr, svr, Severus"
It's odd.