Lucuis sat reading a leather bound book when Sadler one the half dozen house elf's apreaded who quicklyy went to dusting and fluffing the cushions.

"What are you doing?"

"I's getting ready for your guest." Stealing a glance to the mantle holding the clock he learns it was a minute to the arrival.

"Fluff this one too!" Lucius snaps raising from the seat and quickly exiting. He hears the sound of not one but two voices, one a female. Well it's about time! That thought disbands quickly at the sight.

"Ah hello there Severus. It really has been much too long."

He extends his hand which is accepted in a firm shake.

"Yes it has. I trust you remember Hermione Granger?" Lucius nods, trying to hold back a slur.

"Of course I do it's lovely to have you here as well."

"Thank you Lucius." It sounded like filth coming from her muggle lips. Perhaps they were working together, one of Severus secret projects that seemed to consume him, there just had to be an acceptable explanation.

"Dinner." Sadler announces. Lucius received his answer watching Severus lay a hand on the young woman, her smile spoke louder than anything else ever had.