Summary: Snape has to take on a young ward soon after defecting from the Death Eaters and raise them as his own. This story shall, hopefully, weave through all seven books. The reason is I rather do one good story that is focused on the themes I wish to present. It begins right after the Potters death in this prologue and will continue when the infamous Trio begin their first year at Hogwart's.
Rating: T for now.
A/N: The reason I have put it as a Snape and Hermione fanfiction is because they will be the main focus of the OC interactions. I don't want to give too much away and I am hoping that this prologue generates interest. Reviews welcomed, especially as to how I can improve. This is my first Harry Potter fanfiction, but not my first fanfiction in general. I own none of the characters thus far. Just playing with them!
Prologue
November 1st, 1981
"What more could you possibly ask of me?" Severus said, his voice barely a whisper. Whatever raw emotion that he possessed had consumed him at Godric's Hallow, after confirming with his own eyes that his beloved Lily Potter was dead. "Have I not agreed to enough?"
Deflated as Snape was, Dumbledore couldn't have overlooked the biting defiance that was sewn within those words. And still, the Headmaster could not get their eyes to join since this meeting had started within his office. "The boy is safe with his family. And will continue to be until he is of age."
Snape visibly winced, knowing exactly what would inflict Harry Potter at the hands of Petunia Dursley, Lily's sister, but there was no other choice. It had to be that muggle family, but the thought of the boy's Aunt and Uncle and their complete disregard to magic - he was effectively being sent to prison for the next eleven years. It was a disgrace that Lily's son would have to endure the hypocrisy of that household. Severus knew the depths of Petunia's jealously and spite all too well.
"However," Dumbledore's words brought Snape out of his musings and eyes ever so subtly flickered upwards but didn't quite meet the twinkling eyes that still searched for contact, "There's another that requires your assistance until the boy can come to Hogwart's."
Dark eyes flickered back and forth, outlining the stone floor to piece together what the Headmaster was referring to. In a moment of panic, eyes finally snapped forward and met Dumbledore's head on. A barely noticeable smile creased the older wizard's face. "Surely you do not mean the Longbottom boy? The prophe-"
"No Severus." He was interrupted immediately by Dumbledore that waved his hand, almost shooing that train of thought away. "Neville is quite safe with his parents. What I refer to is another who has been hidden for a time. Few at the school know of her existence."
"Her?" The word was like acid on his tongue.
"Yes," his smile broadened. "A remarkable witch who's talents would flourish if -"
"No!" He had found his voice. It was fueled by fear, but Snape could finally argue passionately. "For the boy... I would have but that has become impossible."
"This is no different."
"It is not her child!"
"So any child is automatically not worthy of your time and compassion because they are not related to Lily Potter?" he asked gently. Severus had no answer, except for the slight narrowing of his eyes, clearly indicating the truth of the words. "That is a harsh declaration, my boy. Still..."
Inhaling deeply, the Headmaster clasped his hands in front of his robes and smiled as eyes brightly twinkled over the rim of his spectacles. "You said anything."
He knew the promise made to Dumbledore was paired with a burden when he begged him to save the Potter's life. To spy against the enemy, to protect Lily's son - he had presumed that it was enough of a penance thrust upon him in order to make amends for what happened to the Potter's. Clearly he underestimated his sentence. "Yes." Head lopped forward as black strands of hair obscured Snape's visage, though there was no mistaking how overwhelmed he appeared in stance and voice. So meek he stood there, the pains in his heart threatening to crumble what little control he had before the Headmaster. "I did."
Snape was unaware that Dumbledore had moved, let alone come close enough to put both of hands upon the former Death Eater's shoulders. "Severus," he began, tightening his grip but Snape was too suppressed to find strength in raising his head, "Look at me."
"I can't." The answer had nothing to do with the question, and Dumbledore felt his weakness as Snape's body shivering under the intensity of his commitment. "It would be unfair."
"To her, I presume? Severus." The Headmaster chuckled lightly, "Oh dear, Severus. You are far from undeserving of a child's affections, but you are also the proper choice in raising her."
"That is a most ludicrous statement. Surely Professor McGonagall makes a far more competent choice. Or any of the numerous members of the staff here." He was no father and there was little emotional substance left within his heart to allow a child to prosper. As he said, it would be unfair to the girl.
Dumbledore finally let his grip slide from Snape and laughed. "I'm quite certain that Filch would finally go mad and have to be admitted to St. Mungo's if this was thrust into his lap. No. I considered all viable options. You remain my choice."
And I have none, Snape thought, sighing in resignation to the decision. Dumbledore was patient, but there was that infuriating tone that was recognized as resolution in the Headmaster's voice. Snape would not win. "Then at least let me be privy as to why me."
"In due time, Severus," said the wizard as he sat down behind his desk, indicating that this meeting was over. "It will become clear in due time."