The Chocolate Frog Cards of Love

The next morning, breakfast was very terse. I couldn\'t look at either of them without remembering what had transpired last evening. As for them, the only words spoken were those normally associated with breakfast.

Once classes started, everything was back to normal. Severus took a large amount of house points, from all houses, and Hermione awarded almost as many. There were several complaints, so I decided to talk with them both.

I started with Severus. He was sitting at his desk, looking over some papers. \"What do you want old man?\"

I chuckled. \"I wanted to speak with you about the house points situation. Is there a problem?\"

He looked up at me. \"The only problem I have is with these demons that you called students. If there was a way to hex them without the Ministry finding out, I would do it.\"

I watched him frown as I shook my head. \"Professor Granger wouldn\'t agree. It seems that she has given almost as many points as you have taken.\"

The look on his face was priceless. \"It does not concern me what so called \"Professor\" Granger does. If she feels any affection for the hell spawn, that is of her concern.\"

I didn\'t waste the opportunity. \"The children are not the only things she feels affection for.\"

I didn\'t even wait to see his face.

In Hermione\'s office, I watched as she finished talking with one of the students.

\"I don\'t care what the other students think of you. Those type of hand gestures made in the direction of a Professor are highly inappropriate. Now, that will be 25 points and two night detention with Filch. You are excused.\"

The young man stood and gathered his things. He gave her another glance and sighed. As he left the room, he greeted me and I heard him say as he walked away. \"A body like that and the personality of Snape.\" I chuckled to myself.

\"Professor Granger. Could I have a word?\"

She looked up. \"Of course Headmaster. Have a seat. Would you like some tea and biscuits?\"

I declined and waited until she was settled. \"Are you and Severus in some sort of competition?\"

She frowned. \"Not that I know of. Why do you ask?\"

I explained the situation. She chuckled. \"I hadn\'t even noticed. Well, in the beginning, I did award house points just to spite him. Then I learned that no matter what amount of points are awarded, it is all a spite to him.\"

\"That\'s true my dear. Severus is a very hard person to deal with. Once you find away around the barriers and defenses he puts up, he is fiercely protective and loyal to his friends.\" I shook my head. \"I suppose that\'s why he has so few.\"

Hermione sighed. \"He is a hard person to learn. I think that\'s what puts people off him. He\'s funny, witty, and very intelligent. Anyone who would take the time would see that for themselves.\"

I nodded. \"True, true. Not many people will truly appreciate the man that is Severus Snape.\" I stood. \"If you\'ll excuse me, I have some important matters to attend to.\" I looked back at her from the doorway. \"And do try to keep personal feelings out of points rewards.\"

She smiled as I exited her room. I only hoped that I had gotten through to her. Severus needed her and she needed him.

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Sorry it\'s so short and there\'s not much action. Think of it as a transition chapter. The fireworks start fizzing from here on. Thanks for reading!