Severus Snape sat, silent and still, on the very edge of the bed in a revolting Muggle inn, Draco slumbering behind him. He could hear the boy occasionally moan and twitch, but could not find it within himself to pity him or wake him. Nor to blame him, for even if it was for Draco's sake that Dumbledore was now dead, it was his own actions years ago that had drawn him into this – this – his mind fell silent once more, refusing to contemplate…
An annoying hum started up and Severus Snape looked around the room in disgust. It had been a simple matter to sneak past the Muggles and into a room being cleaned by some sort of maid – who was easy to take care of with a quick Obliviate - and cast Muggle-Repelling charms once safely inside. He had wanted to report straight to the Dark Lord, but Draco had pleaded with him, and Snape could see the child was exhausted in every trembling line of his body. His house and the Malfoy Manor were much too obvious, so he fell back upon these Muggle places his father (his lip unconsciously curled up in a sneer) made him aware of. Filthy Muggles. He, of course, reported quickly to the Dark Lord, after he left Draco sleeping. He was half expecting Crucio for failing to come immediately, but after killing Dumbledore, the Dark Lord had smiled with cold indulgence, and asked that he 'bring the young Malfoy boy, after dark tomorrow."
Eyes downcast, he had murmured, "Yes, my lord," and bowed himself out of the room. He had no illusions what would befall the boy for not completing his task and also not promptly appearing in front of the Dark Lord. However, he had several bottles of Crucio remedy, which would alleviate slightly the pain of it, but still allow the general idea to permeate the boy's head.
Severus Snape smiled bitterly, half wishing that the Dark Lord had cast an Unforgivable that may have burned away the rotting feeling that pulsed behind his ribs. The feeling sparked when Dumbledore gave him his last, unimaginable, command and flared into full ravenous anguish when that Potter boy had caught up to him.
Coward!
How he loathed Potter for reminding him. The whining brat did have a point, though; the scene had replayed in his mind thousands and thousands of futile times. He could have disobeyed Albus! There were so many things he could have done to save him, even if it resulted in an end to his own unpleasant life. However, that would eliminate his very much desired use for the Order. Although he didn't see how he could approach them, considering the circumstances. He snorted at the irony of it all.
Draco stirred behind him, mumbling, "Father…?"
Snape opened the drapes shutting out the unconscionable light with the flick of his wand, smirking slightly when Draco winced and sat up.
"Rise and shine, Draco," he said, his voice harsh.