Author's Note: This is where I will post any short, mostly unedited drabbles (350 words or less) I may write for the HPFC forum that take place in the Separate, Together series.

The first one was written for Schermionie's Summary Game in the 3rd anniversary party. This takes place in Harry's first year at Hogwarts, which is also Snape's first year teaching. Pairings: Severus/Sirius (implied).

The Question

"Um, Professor Snape?"

Severus fought the urge to roll his eyes as he turned around. These students, always asking questions! Was it just because he was new, or did they do this to all the teachers? He'd have to ask Minerva about that later.

"Yes, Mr. Weasley?" Merlin knew which Weasley it was, though. He could never keep their names straight. In fact, he wasn't even sure how many there were.

The boy squirmed a little, but didn't answer. Apparently Severus's dark stare was scaring him. A small sneer formed on Severus's face. Sirius had suggested that sneering was an ineffective way of interacting with the students, but then, Sirius wasn't the one spending eight hours in a classroom every weekday, was he?

"I do not have unlimited time."

"Are you gay?" the first-year squeaked.

Severus stared at him for a long moment. Then he stepped forward until his full height was towering over the child.

"You should know, Mr. Weasley, that that is an inappropriate question; however, I will humor you." He bent down until his face was level with the boy's, staring into wide brown eyes. "With whom do I always sit at meals?"

"Um, that man – er –" Weasley stammered.

"Mr. Black," Severus supplied.

"Yes, him."

Severus raised his left hand in front of Weasley's face. "And this?"

"Er, a wedding ring?" the boy guessed.

"Very good, Mr. Weasley." Severus lowered his hand and raised an eyebrow. "Do you have the answer to your question?"

Instead of replying, Weasley scampered away. Perhaps he was too embarrassed to comment when he realized how perfectly idiotic his question was – not to mention Severus had been quite serious when he said it was also inappropriate.

With a sigh, Severus turned on his heel and stalked away towards his office to complain to his husband about insufferable children.