"What on Merlins earth is going on?" The old witch screeched in fury, something Severus never thought he would witness. "Minerva, I know what you're thinking but I can assu.." he began to explain desperately before Professor McGonagall cut him off abruptly..

"I do not need to hear it, I've seen more than enough! Do you realise what you have just done? Engaging in inappropriate activity with a student in front of the whole school!?"

"Please, you must understand... I love her, and she loves me to. It was you who said that I should go for it... Minerva if only you could see how Hermione has suffered recently.."
Snape pleaded to the witch he looked up to like a mother figure.

"Professor, I know how it looks.." Hermione tried, squeezing Snape's hand behind his back.
The old witch sighed and cut in,

"I'm pleased that you have helped support Miss Granger over recent months Severus, but you must understand that there is a fine line between helping someone overcome depression and having a relationship with them.. I wish nothing but happiness for you both, and if it was kept a secret maybe.. just maybe i could turn a blind eye. When you told me of your feelings towards Miss Granger I didn't think you'd start something while the girl remains a student at this school."

She wanted nothing more than to see Severus finally find some happiness, but not at the cost of the schools well earned reputation.

"Professor, I know that Severus shouldn't have made such a public display... believe me when I say that I'm just as surprised as you are but please don't take any unnecessary actions against him. I beg you!" Hermione cried.

"I have no choice in this matter, if I had caught you both canoodling in a corridor I could pretend that I did not see it but the whole school is now aware of the situation! Honestly Severus, do you ever think before you act?"

"Minerva, calm down dear..." a familiar voice piped out in exasperation from a painting on the office wall.. Dumbledore.
"I know you must file a report, but surely there must be something they can do to prove their relationship is acceptable."

"Albus, Miss Granger is a student! How in Merlins name will the ministry find it acceptable?" McGonagall scowled towards her old bearded friend.
"If they can prove that their love is genuine, I don't see why it would be such an issue. After all, Miss Granger is an 8th year and if you take into account her use of a time turner...."

"Very well, I have to report you both but I will try my hardest to convince the ministry. You do both realise that I cannot promise you anything?" McGonagall asked sadly.

"Yes, we do understand Minerva." Snape sighed, pinching the bridge of his nose with worry.

〰〰〰〰〰

"I don't understand what her bloody problem is!" Snape hissed when they returned to his chambers. "It's not as though you are under the age of consent!"
"Sev, calm down. It's not her fault. Anyone can see adores you like a son. She wants you to be happy.." Hermione smiled, "Yes, she wants me to be happy on her terms."

"On the ministry's terms..." Hermione corrected. Snape glared at the witch and threw a book across the room.
He tensed as he felt a hand on his back, his witches loving hand.

"I'm sorry.. you have enough on your mind." He purred, relaxing a little and pulling her into his arms. "Sev, I'm here for you as much as you are for me. We will get through this.. all of it." She insisted, reaching up to place a kiss on his weathered cheek.

"What did I do to deserve you? Hmm? I really do love you." He smiled, as his lips grazed her forehead. "Likewise." Hermione scoffed.

"You're still an insufferable little shit though..." he mumbled playfully, causing her to laugh out loud.
"I'm Your insufferable little shit."