Good News
Albus Dumbledore was smiling as he walked into his portrait in the Headmistress's office. It was late in April, and he had some information.
'We have news from the Potters.' He said, very quietly, yet all the apparently sleeping professors woke up at once, their full attention on him.
'It's a boy, born yesterday,' He said, eyes twinkling behind half moon spectacles. 'He hasn't got a name yet, but as soon as I know, I will inform you all.' He finished, slightly louder, to be heard over the outbreak of conversation.
Some weeks later
'I've more news about Harry's son, Severus,' Dumbledore said quietly, so that only Professor Snape could hear. At least, the others all pretended that they couldn't hear.
'And why would I care about that?' Sneered Snape, glaring at Dumbledore.
'I just thought you might be interested. He has a name now, you see.'
'That's nice.' Replied Snape, boredom etched into his voice.
'I take it you don't want to know what he's called then?' Asked the older man, a small smile on his lips.
'Why don't you just tell me, you will whatever I say,' Snape's eyes were cold as he stared at Dumbledore's. His, in contrast, were shining with pleasure – he almost looked excited.
'On the contrary, Severus. If you really do not wish to know, I will keep the news to myself. ' He continued, enticing Snape into asking the question.
'Fine. What's it called?' Snape gave in, sighing.
'He is called Albus Potter.' Dumbledore said serenely.
'I should have guessed,' muttered Snape, 'Of course Potter would name his son after you – Albus Dumbledore – 'The greatest headmaster that ever lived'' He sneered.
'Oh don't sound so bitter, Severus. I think his full name might interest you more.' Dumbledore paused, as though waiting for Snape to speak. However, he just glared in a stony silence. 'He is called Albus Severus Potter' He continued. Snape's expression changed. What was once a sneer became a look of confusion, then sadness, anger, hopefulness, pride. He settled with a look of confusion.
'But, why?' Severus asked, his voice barely more than a whisper.
'Because, according to Harry, he is names after the two greatest Headmasters of Hogwarts, and one of them was the bravest man he ever knew' Dumbledore replied, staring pointedly at Severus. Snape looked down, his usually lifeless eyes suddenly full of embarrassment and emotion. Dumbledore looked away tactfully. When he glanced back, he saw Severus – dry eyed again – staring back.
'Harry's right you know. You deserve a lot more credit than you got.' Dumbledore said softly, as the door opened, and the Headmistress walked in. Out of the corner of his eye, Dumbledore saw Severus, deep in thought, a small smile playing on his lips.
A/N: What do you think? I love the idea that Snape gets all emotional about it :')
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