There's No Place Like Hogwarts *COMPLETE*

Chapter 4- London With Severus

Hermione had just finished braiding her hair when there was a knock on her door. After one last look in the mirror, she left the bedroom. She opened the door and found Severus waiting for her.

“Good Morning. You ready?” He smiled.

“Yes, just let me grab my purse,” She nodded.

Hermione turned and grabbed her purse from the sofa. After closing and locking her chambers, she and Severus left the castle arm-in-arm. The two apparated from Hogwarts to Diagon Alley.

“Well, where to first?” He asked.

“I need to run into Gringott’s really quick and then we can get started,” She answered.

Severus waited while Hermione got some money from her vault. After they both exchanged some of their wizarding money to muggle money, they headed toward the shops. The two spent the morning laughing and gathering a few potions supplies. Hermione even talked him into saying hi to Fred and George. After promising to visit the twins again before school started, the couple left Diagon Alley and entered muggle London.

“Severus, what are we doing here?” She asked.

“I thought we could have lunch. I know this great Chinese place. That is if you like Chinese,” He answered.

“I love Chinese,” She smiled.

“Then you’ll love this place,” He replied as they entered the restaurant.

“Ah, Mister Severus. Long time no see,” the hostess greeted.

“Hello Ming Le. This is my friend Hermione. Hermione, meet Ming Le,” Severus smiled.

“Nice to meet you,” Hermione grinned.

“Nice to meet you too. I have perfect table for you,” Ming Le beamed.

Hermione was a bit surprised when she felt Severus place his hand possessively on the small of her back as they followed Ming Le. They were seated near a window that overlooked out onto the Thymes River.

“Severus, this is wonderful,” She said.

“I came here quite often during the summer. I’m glad you like it,” He grinned.

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For two hours they sat at the restaurant. Hermione told him stories of her childhood. He was surprised to discover Hermione had been a figure skater as a child. “Why did you stop?” He asked.

“I didn’t really. I just stopped competing when I started Hogwarts. I still skate when I get the chance,” She answered.

“I would love to see you skate,” He smiled.

“Well, my old coach still coaches at the ice rink. Perhaps after lunch we can stop by the rink,” She suggested.

“Sounds fun,” He agreed.

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After a wonderful lunch, Hermione and Severus hailed a taxi and headed for the ice rink. As they rode in silence, Severus studied Hermione as she looked out the window. ‘What would she say if I asked her out? I hope she says yes,’ He thought as they pulled up in front of the rink.

He paid the driver and followed Hermione inside. The rink was large. Banners hung on the wall for hockey and ice skating championships. On the ice, a class of novice skaters was practicing.

“There he is. Come on,” Hermione smiled.

“Remember, focus on your movements,” A man called out.

“Still teaching I see,” Hermione grinned.

The man turned and faced her. “Oh my goodness. Hermione Granger,” he laughed.

“Hello Jake,” Hermione beamed.

Severus smiled as Hermione hugged her former coach. The man was in his late forties with salt and pepper hair. Despite his age, he had a youthful face and still in good shape. “You sure have grown. The last time I saw you, you were eleven. I hope you haven’t given up skating,” Jake said.

“I haven’t. I may not compete anymore, but I still skate and choreograph my routines. Oh Jake, this is Severus. He’s a friend and co-worker. Severus meet Jake Green,” Hermione replied.

“Nice to meet you,” Severus nodded as he shook Jake’s hand.

“Same here. So, what brings you by?” Jake asked.

“Well, I was hoping you would allow me to show Severus what you taught me,” She answered.

“You got it. This class will be over in ten minutes. Jillian is in the office and she can find something for you to wear and I’m sure you have a song in mind,” Jake stated.

“I have the perfect song. Thanks Jake,” Hermione said.

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Jake and Severus sat in the bleachers as they waited for Hermione. Jake told Severus that Hermione had been one of his prized students. Jake had no doubts that Hermione could have made it to the Olympics had she not gone off to school. Just then, the beginning notes of Keep Holding On by Avril Lavign began and Hermione skated onto the ice.

Severus watched the vision of cream and ice blue move across the ice. Transfixed he watched Hermione effortlessly glided over the ice and right into a triple axel, immediately followed by a triple loop.

“Wow, she’s improved. When I trained her, she had raw talent. Now she’s even better,” Jake said proudly. All Severus could do was nod.

He watched in astonishment as Hermione moved elegantly across the ice. She easily moved from one element into the next. As the final notes of the song died, Hermione fell still. She gave a bow before skating to Severus and Jake.

“You’re better than ever,” Jake beamed as he hugged her.

“Thanks. Well Severus what did you think?” Hermione asked.

“Absolutely breathtaking,” Severus answered with a smile.

“Why thank you. Well, I’ll go change really quickly,” Hermione grinned.

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Ten minutes later Severs watched as Hermione left the dressing room. After saying bye to Jake and Jillian, the couple left the ice rink. “How did it feel being back on the ice?” Severus questioned.

“It felt great. I’m surprised I didn’t fall. I haven’t done anything like that in nearly five years,” Hermione laughed.

“Well you looked beautiful out there. I hope you’ll skate for me again,” He replied.

The couple spent another hour in London before returning to Hogwarts. As Severus walked her to her chambers he composed himself to ask her out on an official date.

“I had a great time Severus,” She said as they stopped at her door.

“So did I. Hermione, I know we said we’d go to Harry’s birthday party together, but I was wondering if you would go out with me next Friday night?” He asked.

“On a real date?” She inquired.

“Yes,” He answered.

“I’d love to. Pick me up at 7:00,” She beamed.

“Severs it is then. I’ll see you at dinner,” He nodded.

Before she entered her chambers, he leaned down and kissed her gently. Hermione returned the kiss before entering her chambers.

T.B.C