Crossing the Line

Part 1: Back to the Beginning

Author's Note:

Third Person: Hermione's POV- For all chapters in Part 1

No horcruxes

This story will contain 4 parts. Part 1 and 2 and all chapters in each part will depict how Hermione and Snape started to fall for one another. Part 3 and 4 will be about their romantic relationship.

The beginning of summer was where it all began.

July 8th

"Professor Snape is a very busy man and though he will never admit, he could use some assistance with brewing this summer if you are willing to brace it?" Headmaster Dumbledore asked as he talked to Hermione Granger outside of the library of 12 Grimmauld Place.

The house was currently being used by the Order of the Phoenix as a Headquarters despite it being the ancestral home to Sirius Black. It was the summer of 1996. Hermione had just finished her sixth year and would soon be entering her final year of Hogwarts along with her best friends Harry Potter and Ron Weasley. As long as the ongoing war against Lord Voldemort didn't get in the way of her graduation of course. With the Ministry of Magic admitting to his revival, it made it easier to publicly oppose the man. But it didn't seem enough to stop him. Therefore, the war was still in full effect and the order was working full steam ahead. The majority of them were staying at Headquarters full time for convenience. It was easier for everyone to work together if they were all within reach of one another. Hence why Professor Snape was living underneath Sirius Black's roof. At the insistence of Dumbledore of course. An idea that is revolted by both men. If it wasn't for the war and Professor Snape's role as a spy he wouldn't be caught dead here.

"And is Professor Snape aware of this position you are offering?" Hermione asked, readjusting the books in her hands. She was just bringing them back to the room she was sharing with Ginny when she was intercepted by the Headmaster. She never had many conversations with the man let alone private ones so she was quite intrigued. Especially once he stated his proposal.

"Not particularly. I fear I am not only asking you to brace the workload this summer but also his temper," the Headmaster admitted with a small smile. Despite his apparent remorse, he held a twinkle behind his glasses.

"I managed for the last six years I think I can manage for the next two months," Hermione said, ensuring the Headmaster of her capability to bear the upcoming storm. It was clear that he believed this job to be of importance if he was coming to her personally for help. It was an honor and huge responsibility. How could she possibly refuse even if it meant spending time with a man who despised her and her friends? Not that she could blame him. They did cross him many times over the school years. Including when she set him on fire in her first year. Which he no doubt was already aware of.

"I think this may be a little different."

"If you don't mind me asking but why come to me?" She was honoured by his faith in her abilities but also confused on why he would choose her. Many other individuals were staying here this summer who no doubt have more experience with potions than her since she was still only a student.

"You are very skilled in potions if my recollection of your second year is any indication. And well to be quite frank out of everyone in the order and those staying here this summer. Well, I wouldn't say he likes you best," Dumbledore trailed off trying to find the correct words to describe the man's feelings towards her.

"But out of everyone he dislikes he mostly finds me indifferent," Hermione said with a knowing look. She knew full well that the only redeeming quality she had in the Potion master's eyes was her outstanding schoolwork. Her being in Gryffindor though left her without any praise and susceptible to his disdain. But there were others he disliked more than her. Harry Potter for example. Dumbledore was trying to diffuse an already growing hostile environment.