The next morning, Severus still seemed grateful for what I had done. I questioned everything within the past day or so, wondering if it was real or all a dream. It didn't seem like a real possibility that he loved me.

Severus was already gone to breakfast when I awoke. I dressed and went to the Great Hall. When I sat down, I looked up and saw him watching me again as yesterday.

I shook my head. I was still in shock as to why he would be so kind. The Potions Master was never cruel to me before. I was not bad in his class either. I made straight Outstandings. I wondered if he only hated the students who failed at potion making.

Severus sighed, looking down at me from his seat next to Dumbledore.

"I noticed you have taken a particular interest in Miss Wainwright, Severus." Dumbledore stated, looking down at me as well.

The Potions Master turned to the Headmaster. "This would be best spoken in private, Headmaster."

"I trust you will speak to her first, Severus. I am certain you will handle the matter with care." Dumbledore smiled knowingly.

I grew nervous seeing the exchange between the two up at the High Table from my seat.

I saw Severus sigh again before he left his seat and make his way out of the Great Hall. When I was finished, I left also and went to meet him before class. Severus was in his storeroom with his back turned to me as I entered the classroom.

He turned around with a few ingredients ready to brew something. "Miss Wainwright, I did not expect to see you so soon."

"Are we back to the formalities so soon?" I raised an eyebrow. "Professor."

Severus sighed deeply. "Cordelia, I am extremely grateful to you for everything you have done for me. I have thought this situation out in my head volumes of times." He gave me a crestfallen look. "I wish to be with you. I love you. I do not know what else to do. The Headmaster already knows."

"Does he know that I saved your life?" I pressed.

He sighed loudly. "Not yet. But he will." Severus placed the ingredients down on a table next to the cauldron. "Would you do me an enormous favor and brew some Amortentia? It is for a class and I am going to speak with the Headmaster now."

"Yes, of course I will." I promised.

He must have sensed my discomfort because he swooped down and kissed me deeply. I didn't want to break the kiss. Severus cupped my face as he pulled away.

He took a deep breath and let it out in a heavy sigh. "I shall return."

"Calm down." I smiled. "Don't be so tense before you go to see him. Here." I came up behind him and massaged his back as he breathed. "Inhale."

Severus complied and inhaled deeply.

"Exhale."

He sighed the air out of his lungs.

"Better?"

Severus turned and pecked my lips quickly before giving me an appreciative look. "Yes, much. Thank you, Cordelia."

I beamed at him. "It'll do your heart wonders."

Severus opened the door and left to meet Dumbledore.