I so love this story! When I read a Snape/Hermione fic I am usually looking for something complex, interesting and involving. Your story ticks all those boxes, and gives us a heartbreaking portrayal of Snape and Hermione; altered... yet still their unalterable selves. Pieces of puzzle are scattered through the narrative, allowing us to solve the characters separate mysteries. The ending functions as a beginning, bringing us full circle. My hat is off to you.