Love Square

Chapter Four: The Marriage Law

Alas, all of the Potterverse belongs to the great JKR. And you’ll just have to come up with your own reasons as to why Ron and Hermione got together, as people will flame me if I go into it. And yes, I realize that Ron is a little OOC is this chapter, but remember how jealous he gets and it justifies his actions. There, I warned you, don’t flame me about it.

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Ron finally clamored down the stairs, half asleep, when Hermione assaulted him. “Ronald Weasley is this why you proposed to me?” she asked incredulously, holding up the paper.

“What are you on about, ‘Mione?” he asked sleepily.

“The Marriage Law. Is that why you proposed?”

“I proposed because I love you. What’s the Marriage Law?”

“You wrapped my ring in it, you should know.”

“You know I never read the paper.”

“I know… You really should. The Marriage Law is a new law that was passed saying all Purebloods between the ages of 18 and 54 MUST marry a Muggle-born or half-blood in the next month.”

“Bloody Hell… Do they say why?”

“Apparently Pureblood marriages have been producing too many Squibs.”

“That’s incredibly stupid. I can’t wait to rub that in to Malfoy.”

Hermione laughed, kissing him. “I have got to go tell Severus about this.” Ron had long since accepted that Hermione and Severus were just friends. He nodded, kissing her again. “And I’ve got to show him this! He’ll be so excited for us,” she said, indicating her ring. Ron smiled at her.

“I had a great time last night. Maybe we can do that again sometime?”

She smiled at him back. “Definitely. Severus is gonna scold me for that, though.”

Ron shrugged. “So don’t tell him. He doesn’t need to know everything.”

“Haha, he’ll know. I’ve never been able to keep anything from him. Next to Harry, he’s easily my best friend. I hide nothing from him.”

“Suit yourself. I’m going to go down to breakfast. Will I see you there?”

“I don’t think so. Severus will probably want to talk. I wonder if he proposed to Tonks.”

“Wow, imagine having to call Tonks Snape. It would drive me mad!”

Hermione laughed. “Well, I’d better be going.” She kissed him again and left the Common Room. She skipped all the way to Severus’ chambers. “Wolfsbane,” spo spoke the password. His door opened and she walked in. He was just kissing Tonks goodbye. “Whoops, didn’t mean to interrupt anything,” she giggled.

“Nah, I was just leaving,” Tonks said. She kissed Severus goodbye and left.

“I was wondering when you would come by. I assume you know about the Marriage Law?”

“Of course. Did you propose?” she asked, walking over and sitting in her favorite chair by the fire. Severus took the one across from her, lighting the fire with his wand.

He sighed. “Yes. I’m doomed. I meant to break up with her a year ago, but now it looks like I’m stuck with her. Maybe I’ll luck you and be paired with someone by the Ministry.”

“Have anyone in mind?” she asked quietly.

He grinned devilishly at her, but didn’t answer. “Is that a ring I see on your finger?”

She sighed, wishing he would answer. “Yes, Ron proposed last night.”

“Indeed. And did you celebrate?”

She blushed. “I knew I couldn’t keep that from you. Yes, we made love. It was wonderful!”

He smirked. “Wish I could say the same about Tonks. You know, I always secretly hoped it would be me that took it from you,” he said quietly. She had to strain her ears to hear him.

“I always hoped that, too. But it’s too late for us. We could have been great, you know. I’m eighteen now.”

“But you love Mr. Weasley.”

“I do, but you know a part of my heart will always rest with you.”

“Indeed.”

“So how are you going to survive being married to a woman you can’t stand?”

He groaned. “With any luck I won’t have to go through with it. But, alas, when has my luck ever been good? She’ll probably still live in London and I won’t have to see her anymore than I already do. Which is too much.”

Hermione laughed. “Poor Severus,” she mocked. “Poor little Severus has to marry someone he doesn’t love.”

He glared at her. “This coming from Miss It-Would-Be-Like-Banging-My-Brother?” he said, archins eys eyebrow.

Hermione laughed again. “Well, occasionally I still think of him as such, but for the most part I look past that.”

He leaned back in his chair, considering her. “Are you happy with him? Be honest, I’ll know if you’re lying.”

She opened and closed her mouth several times before continuing. “Sometimes. Other times my heart is just… elsewhere. But then I push those thoughts from my mind, and I’m happy again. Those thoughts have been coming less and less these days. What about you?”

“My thoughts seldom change, you know that. But I’m fairly skilled at pushing things from my mind. Do you want to go to breakfast? Dumbledore said he had some kind of announcement to make. He didn’t go into details, but he said it involves you, me, and your two friends.”

“Hmm. I told Ron I wouldn’t be joining him, but now it looks as if I will be. Walk me there?”

“Of course,” he said, standing up and holding out his arm, which she gladly took. “And HermionShe She looked up at him. He leaned down and kissed her lips gently. She was surprised, but kissed him back. “I’m happy for you.” She looked at him skeptically. “No, really, I am. I’m a little sad for me, but I’m happy that you’re happy.”

“Thank you.” They walked the rest of the way to the Great Hall in silence. Severus walked her to her table. Ron looked like smoke would billow out of his ears at any second when he saw that he had his arm on her. “Hey, baby,” she said, kissing his cheek.

“Why was he touching you?” Ron spat.

“What? Oh, he was just being polite. You should take note of that.”

“I wouldn’t do anything like that giant overgrown bat,” he said venomously. Hermione narrowed her eyes and didn’t talk to him for the rest of breakfast. When they finished eating, Dumbledore rose and began to speak.

“As many of you now know, the Ministry has passed a Marriage Law. We have three students here that are of legal age. Unfortunately, the Ministry has picked who shall marry whom.” Hermione and Ron’s eyes widened. “Harry Potter is betrothed to Cirrena Baggins.”

Harry looked shocked. “Who’s she?” he asked no one in particular.

Ron answered. “Sheboutbout Tonks’ age. She’s dead gorgeous. Good on you, mate!” Harry grinned. “Hey, ‘Mione, I bet we’ll be engaged.”

“Ronald Weasley will marry Nymphadora Tonks.” Ron’s eyes widened. Severus looked like he was about to jump out of his seat with joy. “And Hermione Granger will wed Severus Snape.” Hermione sat there in shocked silence along with the rest of the Hall. Ron was the first to find his voice.

“Bloody Hell!” he screamed, standing. He drew his wand out and rushed towards the staff table. “You bastard, you did this!” He pointed his wand at Severus. Severus rose and drew out his wand. Hermione beat him to it, though.

“Expelliarmus!” she cried.

Ron’s wand flew from his hand. He turned to face her. “Just what Hel Hell do you think you’re doing?” He raised his hand to slap her, but Severus had already stepped in. He threw Ron to the floor, fuming.

“Lay one hand on her and I’ll hex you into oblivion, Weasley,” he snarled in his most dangerous voice. Ron got up and faced him. With no wand, he had only one option. He made a fist and connected it to Severus’ face. This time it was Severus’ turn to react. “Serpensortia!” A giant black snake crawled out of his wand and attacked Ron. Ron Ron’s face contorted in pain.

“Severus! Stop it! You’ll him him!” screamed Hermione, falling to the ground to try and wrestle the snake off of him. When she realized she could do nothing, she fell away and sobbed. Only did her sobs bring Harry to the rescue.

Harry jumped out of his chair and started speaking in Parseltongue. “Let go of him! Attack the man with greasy black hair!” Immediately, the snake turned on Severus.

“Oh, Harry, no! That’s not any better! Call him off!”

Harry obliged grudgingly. “Curl up onto the floor and hurt no one.” The snake did as it was told. Severus immediately got rid of it. Ron crawled up from the floor with thde ode of Hermione. For a while, everyone was too stunned to speak. As always, Severus had something to say.

“Two hundred points from Gryffindor and one month of detention with Filch, Weasley. Now get to the infirmary.”

“Not without Hermione. Come on,” he said, tugging at her. She looked livid.

“Ro Wea Weasley, I wouldn’t go with you if you were the last man on earth. And you can take THIS back,” she threw the ring at him. She walked over to Severus and took his arm. “I’ve got a fiancé who would NEVER raise his hand to me now. Get out of my sight.” Severus smirked. Ron looked like he was about to scream.

“So this is what it comes down to? You’re just loving this, aren’t you?” he said, shooting daggers at Severus.

“Well, Mr. Weasley, I do fit rit rather amusing, yes. Now, do as your ex-fiancé told you and get out of her sight and mine.” Ron didn’t move. After a while, Harry walked up to him and led him away. Finally the combination of losing Ron, gaining Severus, and Harry speaking Parseltongue got to Hermione. She promptly fainted, knocking her head on the ground. Severus picked her up and carried her from the Hall, carefully avoiding all the widened eyes.

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Hermione woke, hours later, in Severus’ bed, wearing nothing but her knickers and one of his button down shirts. She rubbed the sleep from her eyes and sat up. Severus was watching her from the corner. He walked over to her and sat down.

“How are you feeling?” he asked gently.

“Well,” she began bitterly, “I just lost the love you told me I should have, I watched a snake attack the man I have always loved, and I watched Harry save you both. And I knocked my head pretty hard. How would you feel?”

He pushed a strand of her bushy hair behind her ear and took her hands in his. “I can only imagine how terrible you must feel. I’m so sorry about Ron. Has he hit you before this?”

“Not often, but yes. There was that night we almost slept together. Then there was another time he thought I was cheating on him with Harry. Then there was the time Viktor Krum sent me a letter. I think that’s it, though. He can’t help it; he’s got a fiery temper.”

“Love, you will never meet someone with a hotter temper than me, but I would never hit you. I promise you, he will pay for every time he hurt you.”

“No, it doesn’t work like that. I don’t want him hurt. I do love I’m I’m just not in love with him,” she leaned forward and rested her head in his lap. “I’m in love with you.”

He leaned down and kissed her head. “I love you, too.”

“And I’m of age, now, so it’s not wrong.”

“But you are still my student. That alone makes it wrong.”

“Theistristry says we have to get married within the month. And we’ll have to consummate it.” She sat up and he took her in his arms. “Will it be wrong then?”

He kissed her lightly. “Terribly. But we can’t very well go against what the Ministry says, no can we?” he asked sarcastically.

“No, we can’t,” she smiled. “Did you put me in these clothes? Or should I say lack of clothes?” He nodded. “You’re a dirty man, Severus Snape.” He smirked and nodded. “Have you been watching me this whole time?”

“Mostly, but I went to the Owlery earlier.”

She looked at him inquisitively. “What for?”

He grinned devilishly. “I sent an Owl to Molly informing her of this morning’s events. I suspect a certain redhead will be getting a Howler tomorrow morning.”

“I have GOT to see that. I can’t believe our luck.”

“I don’t think it was luck. I think it was Dumbledore.”

“Dumbledore? What does he have to do with the Marriage Law?”

“I think he may have intervened on my behalf.knowknows how I feel about you. And he knows how I don’t feel about Tonks. If you still want to be with Ron, however, I’m sure I can have the law changed so I marry Tonks,”shudshuddered.

“Well, I do love Ron, but he’s just too fiery for me. With him it’s up and down, I never know how he’s going to feel. And he hates you.”

“I assure you, the feeling is mutual,” he said bitterly. “I don’t know how you can love a man that slaps you. Why didn’t you ever tell me?”

“I think that’s obvious. You would have killed him.”

“Damn right I would have – no one beats on the woman I love and gets away with it.” She straddled him, pushing him back on the bed. He looked up at her in shock. “Why, Miss Granger, a little pushy aren’t we?”

“Yes, Professor Snape, sir. Subtly is not one of my redeeming qualities,” she said. She leaned down and kissed him. She sat back up and undid the buttons on his vest. Next she undid all the buttons on his shirt, exposing his chest. He sat up and shrugged off his clothes and threw them aside. Next he undid the buttons on her shirt and threw it as She She was left in the racy red thong he loved so much.

“Do you wear that thing just to turn me on?”

“Of course,” she smiled. She leaned down and unbuttoned his pants. He stood up and dropped them along with his silver silk boxers. Next he pulled down her thong and trailed kisses all the way up her body, sending shivers down her spine. “Severwillwill you take me now?” He didn’t respond, just grinned devilishly and tossed her on the bed and climbed on top of her. “So how do you want to do this?”

“Well, with Ron he was on top and I liked that. But go slow, okay? I’ve only done this once before.”

Severus face darkened. “He better not have hurt you. Did he?”

“Well, yes, but not intentionally. It was his first time, too, so he didn’t really know what he was doing.”

“Well, it’s not my first time, so I’ll go slower than he did, ok?” She smiled up at him. “Last night did you take a contraceptive potion?” She nodded again. “Good, don’t want any accidents.”

“Well, we are supposed to be making babies…”

“I refuse to make a baby with someone as young as you. You’re too young to be a mother.”

“I agree. But no more talking. I’ve been waiting for this for a long time,” she said seductively. He smirked at her. He thrust his tongue into his mouth and she plunged hers into his. He ran his hands all along her sides. He moved his hand to her chest and caressed hey gently. He kissed the sensitive spot on her collar bone and moved his mouth down to her chest. Hekledkled her gently, caressing her other mound with his hand. He heard her moan is pleasure and he smiled. He kissed down her stomach and stopped when he got to her wet folds. He looked up at her for signs of approval. She nodded at him feverishly. He moved his hand away from her breast and rubbed her bud. He slipped his tongue inside of her and heard he moan in pleasure. He moved his fingers and began thrusting into her and licked her bud greedily. It didn’t take long for her to arch her back in pleasure. She finally screamed out his name and he pulled himself up and kissed her hungrily. She could taste herself on his lips and this only aroused her further. “Take me,” she panted.

He smirked again. He kissed her passionately as he entered her for the first time. She winced a little bit, so he went slower, though he didn’t stop. As soon as she smiled into their kiss he sped up. Soon he was going full speed and she pushed his pelvis forward to meet his thrusts. She was the first to reach ecstasy, he soon followed. He rolled off of her and she rolled over and rested her head on his chest. He pulled the covers over them and he cuddled her in his arms.

“So, was it good for you?” she asked him, looking up. He didn’t answer, as he so often didn’t, but just smirked and nodded. Hermione giggled and he looked at her inquisitively. When he giggling subsided she said, “You’re soooo much better than Ron!” He smiled at her. She crawled on top of his and kissed her passionately. “That was very nice. I’ve been waiting for that for a long time. I love you.”

“I’ve been waiting, too. And I love you, too. But that was very very wrong. We shouldn’t have done that,” he said worriedly.

“Oh, don’t worry so much. I doubt anyone would care. We are engaged after all.” He smiled at her, accepting that. “So, are you going to get me a ring? I kind of got rid of the one Ron gave me.”

“Let him give it to Tonks. I’ll give you the one I gave her.” She smile at at him and kissed him again. “Feisty aren’t we.” She smiled and moved her hand down to his member. “Now, now, I’m not as young as I used to be. It’s very seldom that I can go twice in a row. Most men my age can’t.” She whimpered at him, puffing out her lower lip. “You can look at me like that all you want and it won’t change things.”

“Can’t you take a magical Viagra or something?” He looked at her questioningly. “It’s a Muggle pill that helps older men get hard.” He scowled.

“I hardly think there’s a magical one of those. And I wouldn’t take it if there were.”

“You’re no fun,” she pouted.

“Maybe later. Well, definitely later. Right now you need to get to lunch. You already missed your morning classes, as did I. Dumbledore’ll hit the roof.”

“It’s Saturday, honey. We don’t have anything better to do than lie in bed.” He smirked at her and she rest her head against his shoulder. He stroked her hair gently.

“How about I send a house elf down to the kitchen and have lunch for two brought up here?” Hermione glared at him. “Oh, right, S.P.E.W. I thought you would have given up on that by now.”

“I will never give it up. Not until house elves are paid fair wages and given clothes.”

“Thou wou will be waiting for a very long time.” She glared at him. “Would you eat if I went down to the kitchen personally?”

She thought about it for a moment. “I suppose so. I really don’t think I could face the Great Hall right now. And I like the idea of more alone time with the man I love.”

“And of Mr. Weasley?”

She sighed, looking sad. “I miss him. I think part of me will always love him, but I’m in love with you. I wish there was a way for me to have you both.”

“Well that, my love, is never going to happen. I don’t like to share. Maybe we’ll luck out and he’ll fall in love with Tonks. Why anyone would is beyond me.”

She playfully smacked his chest. “Oh, you’re terrible. Tonks is not that bad.”

“It’s not that she’s bad, it’s that she doesn’t give me any space. And she talks nonstop--”

“She’s just being friendly--”

“And she’s so overly-enthusiastic about everything.”

“I can see how that would be a problem for you.” Her stomach growled. Severus laughed. “Maybe you should go get lunch now. Where are my clothes?”

“Trust me, you won’t be needing them,” he winked. Hermione blushed crimson. Severus got up from under her and grabbed his button down shirt and put it on her and buttoned it up. “You have no idea how sexy you look in that.” She stood up and pulled on her knickers and walked over to him. She threw her arms around his neck and kissed him lightly. He slipped his tongue into her mouth. After a few minutes he pulled away. “I’ll go get lunch now. Make yourself at home.” He turned to walk away, but Hermione pulled him back. “Yes?”

“You’re not wearing anything,” she laughed. He scowled and quickly dressed. He came back about ten minutes later with a big plate of food. While he was gone an owl left him a letter.

“When did this come?” he asked.

“Just now. It looks important. What is it?”

“I’m about to find out.” He broke the seal and opened it. “It tells me that I have to marry you and consummate the marriage at least once a month until you are with child,” he frowned.

“Once a month? That’s it? Are they nuts? I couldn’t go a month without you,” she said exasperatedly.

He looked at her sternly. “Hermione, this is no laughing matter. You’re only eighteen. You can’t have a baby now.”

“Why not? It wouldn’t be born until after I’ve graduated.”

“And where will you live? In case you haven’t noticed, there’s a warng ong on. Having a child and being friends with Harry Potter is in no way a good combination.”

“But surely Voldemort--”

“Do NOT say that name in my presence,” he said in his most dangerously silky voice. She looked about to cry. He reached out and touched her face. “I’m sorry love. I didn’t mean to scare you. But you have to understand the effect that name has on people.”

She looked up at him. “I know. I’m just so used to Harry saying it that it’s rubbed off on me. I won’t it ait around you, I promise.” She leaned up and kissed him lightly, a sign of forgiveness.

“Thank you. Now what was it that you were saying?” he asked, dropping his hand.

“Surely You-Know-Who wouldn’t hurt the wife and child of one of his servants? Not if he thinks he or she might be a Death Eater in the future.”

To her surprise Severus laughed. “He doesn’t care about his servants any more than most wizards care about house elves. Though we are all useful in our own ways, he thinks of us an expendable.”

Hermione frowned. “I wish you never got involved with him. Why did you?”

Severus’ face flushed. He walked over to the table and sat down, followed by Hermione. “I told you, I was obsessed with the Dark Arts as a boy. I joined up with him fresh out of Hogwarts. It was a mistake, one it will take a lifetime to correct. With some of the things I’ve done, I should be locked in a cell in Azkaban.”

“And why aren’t you?” she asked, taking a bif hef her sandwich.

“Dumbledore vouched for me. I switched sides just before the first war ended.” He began eating himself.

“What kinds of things did he make you do?”

“Terrible things that I never discuss with anyone,” he said darkly.

“Have you ever killed anyone?” she asked quietly. He dropped his sandwich and glared at her. “I’m sorry. You don’t have to answer that.”

He sat backing his chair, considering her. “Do you really want to know the answer to that question?”

She thought about it for a moment before answering. “I don’t know. Part of me already knows the answer. Part of me doesn’t want to accept that. Yes, I think I want to know.”

“The answer is yes. But you must promise to repeat that to no one, not even Harry Potter.”

“I wouldn’t dream of it. Can I ask how you did it? Was it painful?”

“I wouldn’t know. But I was never known for torturing my victims. Other Death Eaters were. Like Lucius Malfoy. He’s been known to torture his victims into insanity before killing them off. I was always quick and clean. Avada Kedavra was all I had to say. But this was a long time ago. During the first war, before I switched sides.”

Hermione gaped at him, aghast. When she finally found her voice, it was meek and low. “And if he asked you to now?”

“That’s a question I ask myself everyday. So far we haven’t conducted any raids.” Hermione looked at him questioningly. “A raid is where invade a Muggle town and…” he trailed off.

“Kill it’s inhabitants?” she offered.

“You really are too smart for your own good. Yesat’sat’s what a raid is. I’ve never talked about this to anyone but Dumbledore before. You won’t say anything to anyone, will you? Not even the members of the Order know that I took part in raids. I suspect Black knew, though the subject never came up.”

“Of course I won’t tell anyone. Is killing someone the worst thing you know how to do?”

“You ask too many questions, love.”

“I’m not called a Know-It-All for nothing. If I ask anything you don’t want to answer, don’t.”

“No, killing someone is not the worst thing I know how to do. But I choose not to let people suffer, as I wouldn’t want to suffer myself.”

“You’re tice ice to be a Death Eater. You’re not as jaded as the rest of them. I can only imagine how much Lucius Malfoy loves raids.”

“He does tend to relish them, yes. And it’s only to you that I’m nice. I assure you, I’m as much of a bastard as they come. You happen to be the only student that has ever walked through those doors that can stand me. I imagine your fellow Gryffindors are all feeling pretty sorry for you right now, having to spend the day with the dreaded Potions Master.”

“Ha, if they only knew!”

He smirked. “They’ll know soon enough. I know Draco Malfoy has his suspicions. He’s asked me more than once if you were anything other than my apprentice.”

“And what do you tell him?”

“I tell him to keep his Slytherin nose out of my business. This, I imagine, only makes him more suspicious. A month ago Lucius Malfoy showed up, warning me of the dangers of associating with ‘mudbloods’ as he so elegantly put it.”

“I HATE that word. It’s vile and disgusting. And complete bullshit. I could take on Draco Malfoy any day.”

“Yes, I seem to remember that in third year you did,” he smirked.

“He’s just lucky I didn’t hex him into oblivion, as you put it this morning.”

“If you ever want him hexed, just say the word. I’d be more than glad to take care of that little worm,” he said darkly.

“Much as I would love to make you happy, I can’t do that to anyone. He wouldn’t stand a chance against you. I don’t think even Harry could hold his own if you got really angry.”

“While Mr. Potter has proved he is more than capable, I have to agree with you.”

“That’s the nicest thing you’ve ever said about him.”

“Again I ask you not to repeat it. It’s within my best interest for him to think of me as a greasy git and a bastard.”

“I assure you, your secret dies with me. Do you hear that?” she asked, referring to a banging sound coming from the other room.

“I think someone’s knocking. Actually, it sounds like two people. I’ll go get it.”

“I’ll come with you.” They walked to the door and Severus took down the wards and opened it. A blue haired Tonks and Ron were standing there.

“Bloody Hell, Hermione, what are you wearing?” Ron asked incredulously.

“This? This happens to be one of my future husband’s shirts,” she said, glaring at him.

Severus turned to her. “Love, as good as you look, I think a skirt is in order. Your clothes are in the bathroom.” She kissed his cheek and went to change. She came back to find them all sitting in chairs by the fire, Severus occupying the couch. She walked over and sat down next to Severus, taking his hand in hers. She saw Ron’s eyes narrow and scooted closer to him. He put his arm around her. “Mister Weasley, as you are in my private chambers, I must ask you not to glare at my fiancé.”

Ron’s face reddened, but Tonks quieted him. “Now, Ron, don’t go losing your temper. We’re here to fix things.”

“Actually, Tonks, I don’t think anything is broken. I’m perfectly happy,” piped Hermione, resting her head on Severus’ shoulder. She saw Ron’s hand tighten on his wand in his pocket.

“But, Hermione, last night--” Ron began.

“Last night was a mistake. You know the conditions under which we entered our relationship. You knew I was in love with Severus. Now, I do love you, but more like a brother. I hope you can accept that--”

“Accept that? ACCEPT THAT!” he shouted. Severus released Hermione and pulled out his wand menacingly. “How can you expect me to just roll over for this git? I love you.”

“If you love me, why do you hit me?”

“Oh, don’t give me that wat was seldom if ever, and I was always sorry.”

“Severus has never laid a hand on me--”

“Like Hell he hasn’t – you’re wearing his clothes.”

“--in a bad way.”

“And I never would,” Severus added.

“Hermione,” Ron pleaded. “He’s a Death Eater! You can’t trust him.”

“Ron, you’re digging yourself into a hole,” Tonks whispered feverishly.

“I’m IN a hole Tonks! The woman I love is in love with that!”

“Watch what you say about him, I happen to love him, too,” Tonks spat.

“And that’s anotthinthing, ‘Mione. He’s a player. He’s probably got even more girls that you don’t know about.” Severus eyes flashed dangerously and Ron recoiled. “Well, maybe not, but he’s playing poor Tonks here.”

“Well, Ron, I don’t think he’s playing me, I mean he did propose.”

Severus shifted uncomfortably. “Actually, I need to talk to you about that. Since I’m betrothed to Hermione here, I’ll be needed that ring back.”

“Oh, honey, surely you don’t take this Marriage Law thing seriously? I mean, it will be repealed, I’m sure of it. Perhaps I could have a word with Cornelius-”

“Have either of you even bothered to ask us if we want to marry each other instead of you?” Hermione asked.

Ron looked a little flustered. “But, sweets, you said last night that you loved me and wanted to marry me.”

“And we broke up. How many s iss is that now? Seven? And you expect me to keep running back to you?”

“Well… I didn’t want to break up.”

“Then you shouldn’t have tried to hit her,” Severus snapped.

“Don’t be so grumpy, Sev. I’m sure it won’t happen again,” added Tonks.

“You’re right, Tonks. It won’t happen again. I’m not going to give him another chance. You’re engaged to him. Let him beat on you for a while,” Hermione said viciously.

“I never ‘beat on’ anyone. I slapped you lightly a few times. And I’m extremely sorry. Hermione, I love you. What more do you want?”

Hermione sighed. “I want to go back to the way we were before we went back in time. I want to just be friends.”

Ron looked crestfallen. He slouched in his chair and buried his face in his hands. When he finally removed his hands, his face was red and tear streaked. He sighed loudly. “Hermione, I can’t just stop loving you.”

“And I just can’t stop loving you, Severus,” Tonks added.

Severus opened his mo but but Hermione silenced him with a meaningful look. “Ron, Tonks, if you really loved us you would want to see us happy. And I’m happiest when I’m with Severus. I’m sure he feels the same way.” Severus nodded in agreement. “You know, you two are engaged. Maybe you’ll find happiness with each other.”

“No offense, but Tonks is a little old for me.”

“And I could never love a child.”

“I am NOT a child,” Ron sneered. “Hermione’s knows that. I proved it last night,” he smirked.

“Actually, Ronald, you proved that you were a child. Severus here,” she patted his chest, “is a man.” Ron’s eyes narrowed again.

“Yes he is,” Tonks said dreamily.

“You slept with THAT?” Ron spat furiously.

Tonks seemed to snap out of her reverie. “You did WHAT! She’s a child, a student! Is this the woman who owns your heart that you’ve been telling me about?” she shouted.

“I can’t believe you, Hermione Granger. You really did bang the first body you could find. And don’t lie and tell me didn’t. You’re wearing his clothes, clutching his chest. I hate you.”

Tonks was really furious now. “You slept with him! MY man! The man who proposed to me last night! How could you! I thought you were my friend! You’re nothing but a conniving little slut!” Tonks jumped at Hermione, both of their wands flying, useless, to the floor. Tonks grabbed a fistful of Hermione’s hair and flung her to the ground. “You bitch! I’ll kill you!” She punched Hermione in the face, then in the ribs. Hermione rolled over so she was on top of Tonks. She scratched her face, leaving four trails of blood.

Tonks rolled out from under her and jumped up, pulling Hermione with her. She, too, scratched Hermione, though on her arms. Hermione grabbed a chunk of Tonks’ hair and ripped it from her head, leaving Tonks screaming in pain.

Severus moved forward to stop it, but Ron pulled him back. “No, don’t. I want to see who wins.” Severus glared at him, but was intrigued as well. Hermione gained the advantage and punched Tonks hard in the nose. Tonks immediately screwed up her face to get rid of the swelling. This gave Hermione the chance she needed. She jumped up and grabbed her wand.

“He is not only not YOUR man, but he’s MINE! Bat Bogey!” Giant flying bats sprung from her face and attacked her. “Impedimentia!” Tonks flew against Severus’ fireplace, cracking it.

“Hermione, stop!” Severus shouted, but his cries fell on deaf ears. Hermione continued to yell out every curse she could t of. of. “Love, you’ve given me no choice! Petrificus Totalus.” Hermione fell, stiff as a board, to the floor. He then did the same to Tonks. Ron rushed to Hermione’s side, but Severus sent him a death glare and he went to release Tonks. “Finite Incantatem.”

Hermione was livid. “What the Hell did you do that for? I was winning!” she cried angrily.

“Love, Tonks is a fully trained Auror, I assure you, she would have won.” Hermione glared at him.

Once the Bog Bogey hex had been removed, Tonks rounded on Hermione. “You’d better listen to him, little girl,” she said, raising her wand.

“Expelliarmus!” Severus shouted, furious. Tonks wand shot into his hand. He rounded on Hermione. “SIT!” Tonks sniggered and he turned to her. “You, too. NOW!” Both girls flopped into their seats. “Mister Weasley, this concerns you, too. Take a seat,” he said venomously. “You two are behaving like children!” he began. “Tonks, I love Hermione. You are just going to have to accept that. And Hermione, hexing people is in no way acceptable, especially not in my private chambers. I’m ashamed of you.”

“But, she attacked me!”

“Shut up,” he said, narrowing his eyes. Hermione glared at him. “There is no excuse for attacking someone without a wand. I should snap your wand in half for that.”

“You wouldn’t dare,” she spat.

“Oh, yes I would. Fifty points from Gryffindor.”

“That’s totally unfair!” yelled Ron.

“Fifty points for yelling at a professor. Remember that. I am a professor and you will both treat me as such.”

“You’re not my professor,” Tonks said angrily.

“No, I’m not. So this doesn’t really concern you. You are dismissed. Don’t let the door hit you on the way out,” he added venomously. Tonks got up to leave. “Aren’t you forgetting a few things?”

“Oh, right. Give me back my wand,” she said, holding out her hand.

“Give me back my ring.”

“You gave it to me, I should be allowed to keep it.”

“I am not going to marry you,” he said in his most dangerous silky voice, his eyes slits. “Now give it back.”

Tonks ripped it off her finger and threw it at him, grabbing her wand in the process. “Fine! Take it! I never wanted it any way. I don’t know what possessed me to love a monster like you!” she screamed, rushing out the door.

Severus rounded on Hermione and Ron. “And as for you two, you are no longer children. Do not expect to be treated as such. Hermione, I could have you hauled off to Azkaban based on how you just behaved. I won’t simply because I don’t want to see you there. And Mr. Weasley, I assure you, if you lay one hand on my fiancé in a negative way, I will personally hand you over to the Dementors to be kissed.” Ron and Hermione shuddered. “Now I believe you two have things to discuss.”

“Yes, we do. Could you excuse us?” Hermione asked.

“Leave you alone with him?” he spat. “I think not. Anng yng you have to say to him you can say in front of me.” He sat down in Tonks’ chair and crossed his arms, looking outraged.

Ron glared at him before addressing Hermione. “Are you okay?” he asked quietly.

Hermione sighed exasperatedly. “I’m covered in blood, I lost my boyfriend, gained a fiancé, got into a huge fight, got yelled at, and had fifty points taken away form Gryffindor. Oh, and apparently my fiancé wants to have me hauled off to Azkaban. How do you think I feelhen hen Ron didn’t answer, she continued. “I feel like crap! That’s how I feel. And I’m tired of pretending to love you. I thought I did, honestly, but I was only kidding myself. I have always, and will always, love Severus. You’re just going to have to live with that.” She paused. “How are you?”

It was a long time before Ron spoke. When he did he was quiet and dejected. “I love you, ‘Mione. I can’t stand the thought of losing you. I’m sorry for being such an arse, but you know how jealous I get. The thought of his hands on your just drives me over the edge. But I do love you, and if you give me another chance I’ll be better, I promise.”

“You’ve said all of this before. And every time you never change. I just can’t trust you anymore.”

He sighed deeply. “I know, I know. What can I say to make you take me back?”

“That’s another one of your problems. You try to make me do things, you never just ask.”

“Okay… Will you please take me back?”

“Even if I wanted to, I can’t. The Ministry says I have to marry Severus. And hav have to marry Tonks. You don’t have a choice in the matter.”

Ron regarded her sadly. “Do you really expect me to love Tonks? She’s like six years older than me.”

“And Severus is twenty years older than me. You can’t hide behind numbers.”

“That’s just another reason why you two shouldn’t be together. He’s old enough to be your father.”

“Like I said, you can’t hide behind numbers. I love him, and that’s what matters.”

“Did you ever love me? Or was it all a joke?”

She sighed sadly. “It wasn’t a joke, Ronald. I love you, but I’m not in love with you. I love you like a brother. I do hope we can go back to just being friends.”

“I don’t think I can do that.”

Hermione let a single tear fall down her cheek. “Then maybe you’d better go.”

“Is that what you really want? If I walk out that door now, I’m never coming back. It’ll be over for us for real.”

“I don’t want to never see you again, but I can’t be in a relationship I don’t want. I’m sorry.” Without another word Ron got up and walked out the door. Hermione finally turned to face Severus. “Shouldn’t you be smirking right now?”

He looked at her, his eyes blazing. “Now is hardly the time. I’m furious with you. How DARE you attack someone without a wand! Not even I would stoop that low. That’s how Death Eaters play. Lucius Malfoy is known for that. Is that how you want to end up?”

She let another tear fall before answering him. “No, that’s not how I want to end up. I’m sorry, okay? What do you want me to say?”

He walked over to the couch and sat next to her. “I want your word that it will never happen again.”

“I promise.”

“Good. If it does, we’re over. That’s one thing I won’t tolerate,” he said seriously. She let another tear slide down her cheek. He rolled his eyes. “What have I told you about crying?”

“Sorry. It’s just been a long day. Can we just go to bed no
“
“I’m hardly in the mood for that, Hermione,” he snarled.

She glared at him. “I meant that I was tired and wanted to sleep. Believe me, if I never have sex again, it will be too soon.”

“Fine. We can go to bed if you want. Eventually, you’re going to have to go back to Gryffindor Tower.”

“I know, but not tonight. I’m too tired to walk there, to be honest.”

He wrapped his arms around her and kissed her forehead. “It’s been a long day. Do you want the ring?”

She smiled. “Of course!” He slid it onto her ring finger. “It’s gorgeous. I love it.” She kissed him lightly. “Let’s go get some sleep.” They walked to the bedroom in silence and promptly fell asleep in each other’s arms.