Dearest

Hermione and Harry sat by the fire in the Gryffindor common room, the warmth making them relaxed and content. It was Valentine's Day but neither of them had felt the need to participate in the mass hysteria of candied hearts and false sentiments that the rest of their classmates seemed to enjoy. They had been chatting all night and it was that train of thought that eventually brought their conversation to their Potions Master, Severus Snape.

"Why do you suppose Snape just doesn't go out and find someone to love?" Harry asked and turned back to the crackling fire.

Severus had left the Valentine's Day feast early, earning him a few glares from the rest of the staff. It was no secret that he hated Valentine's Day, which was why his colleagues would most likely find it strange that he was walking through Hogsmeade with a bouquet of lilies tucked under his arm.

He pulled his collar higher in an attempt to block the wind and made his way across the street for one more stop.

Hermione thought for a long while on Harry's question. Professor Snape was not the easiest man to get along with but she had seen him in the Order; his quiet bravery was not something to be ignored. In fact, she found it quite attractive.

"What?" Harry asked, looking at Hermione as her face turned red.

"I was just thinking about Professor Snape. Your question, I mean," she clarified when he looked at her funny. "I can see why people don't like him. He can be a bit abrasive."

Harry chuckled. "They say there is someone for everyone. Even greasy gits."

"Harry!" Hermione chided.

"Well, he is."

The card had turned out better than he had thought. He loathed having to order one, but art had never been his forte. The serpent on the front slithered in tight coils, creating an intricate but noticeable heart shape.

He admired the craftsmanship a few moments longer and after quickly tucking the card away, Apparated.

Severus found himself standing next to a large tree, his love awaiting him at the top of the hill. "Sorry I'm late," he whispered. "I could not get away any sooner."

Hermione frowned and crossed her arms over her chest. She'd had enough of Ron and Harry's teasing of Professor Snape. The man deserved more.

"As I was saying, Harry," she paused to make sure she had his attention and was silently pleased when she saw she had startled him. "He can be a bit abrasive but he still deserves someone. Look at all he has done for the Order; for you!"

Harry was taken aback by the passion in Hermione's voice and held up his hands in submission. "I didn't mean any real offense. I know what he has done, what he continues to do. I just meant that it's weird he hasn't found someone. You know, ever."

Hermione nodded and they sat in silence for a few minutes. Harry didn't think Hermione was still annoyed with him but she suddenly stood in a flurry of robes and began to go upstairs.

"Where are you going?" Harry asked.

"Upstairs and then to the Owlery. I am going to send him a valentine."

Harry looked surprised but didn't say anything, the look of determination on Hermione's face enough to keep him quiet. "Okay then, I'll see you in the morning. G'night, Hermione."

"Goodnight, Harry."

Severus arrived home later than usual. He took off his cloak and was about to sink into his favorite chair by the fire when his attention was drawn over to his desk. A scroll had been left there, wrapped in red ribbons. "A valentine?" he whispered as he turned it over in his hand. He walked back over to his chair and sat down heavily.

A valentine.

He looked at it a moment longer before throwing the unopened scroll into the fire. He Summoned a bottle of wine and settled in for a long night.

Severus Snape hated Valentine's Day.

On top of a hill a card was left leaning against a gravestone surrounded by white lilies. The card was charmed to stay closed in case of prying eyes, but Severus was sure his message would be received.

Dearest Regulus,

I miss you.

Love,

Severus