The Language of Animagi

by Grym

Snape's been practicing his animagus transformation, but not his ability to remain cautiously unreadable. Pre-McGonagallSnape. Brief drabble.

The Language of Animagi

A/N: Written for the HP100 LiveJournal Community Challenge – Superstitions. I've never cared much for Snape as a surprise animagus, even though there are numerous enjoyable fics out there that explore the possibilities. This challenge made me do it, despite that. :) Feedback always appreciated.

She felt his stare. While she basked in the sunlight, he sat stiffly in shadow, his glittering amber eyes unblinking. The hot, musky scent rising off his coal-colored fur was tainted with the lingering spice of wormwood. When she returned his gaze, arching her whiskers to better read him, his tail tip flicked irritably, signaling indecision and interest in ways his pale human face never did.

What did muggles say about black cats? McGonagall always thought such superstitions misinformed, but as the younger animagus padded toward her, his smooth movements calculating and surprisingly sensual, she suddenly wasn't so sure anymore.