Perhaps in the fanfiction, there is a magical curse that binds Hermione to follow Snape's orders. This curse could be part of a larger plot by some dark forces. As she submits to Snape, they have to work together to break the curse. During this time, Hermione discovers new aspects of Snape's character, like his hidden kindness and the great burden he has been carrying all along.
One possible plotline could be that Hermione is forced to work under Snape in a special project. She initially resists his strict methods but gradually comes to understand his perspective and submits to his more experienced guidance in potions or some other area of magic. For example, Snape might be in charge of a top - secret research project and Hermione, with her brilliant mind, is chosen to assist. Through their interactions, she realizes that his seemingly harsh demands are actually aimed at achieving the best results.
Maybe Hermione is injured while exploring some dangerous magical ruins. Snape is the only one around with the knowledge and power to heal her. As he heals her, they start to have deep conversations about magic, life, and their respective pasts, which in turn builds a connection between them.
Perhaps in this fanfiction, Harry submits to Snape in order to gain access to some important information. Snape might be in possession of secrets about Harry's family or his own powers that he refuses to share unless Harry shows complete obedience. So, Harry decides to submit to Snape's demands in order to uncover these mysteries that are crucial for his journey as a wizard.
Perhaps in a fanfiction, Snape's fists are a part of a memory. For example, Hermione discovers a memory of Snape's past where his fists were involved in a fight related to something that would later impact his relationship with her. It could be a way to explore his character's backstory and how it ties to Hermione.
One possible plotline could be that Hermione discovers a hidden side of Snape during her research in the library. This could lead to a series of conversations where Snape starts to see Hermione in a different light, not just as another student. Another could be that in a dangerous situation, Hermione and Snape are forced to work together, and through this experience, they develop a newfound respect for each other.
One possible plotline could be that Hermione discovers a way to time - travel and goes back to Snape's childhood. She decides to raise him in a more positive environment to change his future. Maybe she teaches him about love and friendship from a young age, which alters his personality and his relationship with others at Hogwarts later on.
Perhaps Snape is under a spell that makes him act this way towards Hermione. He starts to give her special attention in class, praising her more than usual and even asking her to stay after class for 'private tutoring'. Hermione, on the other hand, tries to figure out if this is really Snape or if there is some dark magic at play. She may start to investigate, which could lead to an adventure of sorts as she tries to break the spell if there is one.
One plotline could be that they are victims of a prank by some mischievous students using a new, untested spell. They then have to figure out how to break free and also how to deal with the fallout of being in such an embarrassing situation together.
There could also be a plotline where Hermione discovers some of Snape's past traumas and in trying to help him, they form a bond. Snape, out of gratitude and a newfound respect for her, starts to take care of her like a mentor. He shields her from the harsh judgments of other Hogwarts professors and students alike, and together they work towards a better future for the wizarding world.
One plotline could be that they got married secretly to protect each other. Maybe Snape has some dangerous enemies and Hermione wants to help him, so they tie the knot in secret. Another could be that they fell in love while working on a very complex magical project together and decided to marry without anyone knowing because they feared the reaction of others.
A common plotline is an alternate universe where Snape is not as bitter and Hermione befriends him more easily. They could be involved in a battle against a new dark force, and their combined intelligence and magic powers are crucial for victory. Also, there could be a plot where Hermione accidentally enters Snape's mind through some experimental magic and discovers his deepest secrets, which then changes their relationship.