He nodded.
"Well! Look who's turned into a lamb! I guess I'll have to thank Minerva too."
His mouth twisted into something that only approximated his trademark sneer. "I am feeling... magnanimous, Poppy. Enjoy it while it lasts."
She smiled at him and shook her head. "Porridge then, dear?"
"Yes."
"I'll add a little honey to it, shall I?"
"Thank you."
Pomfrey headed for the door just as McGonagall stepped in the room.
"How is he? Is he awake yet?" McGonagall said.
"As a matter of fact, he's waiting for you."
McGonagall eyed the mediwitch for a second. "Why are you looking at me like that?"
"I have to get his breakfast... I'll be right back." Pomfrey tittered and left.
McGonagall went to Snape's bedside and sat down. "Severus."
"Minerva."
"You seem better."
"I am," he said. "I have you to thank for that. I remember the spell you used... Very interesting. I never imagined such an... archaic incantation would actually work."
"Our illustrious predecessors viewed their magic as miraculous interventions. I think they were right. And if anyone had been in need of a miracle lately, it was you."
He smirked, and his expression grew somber. "I've never had reason to believe in such things." He looked away and said, "I know, Minerva. My hands."
"Severus, I'm sure that..."
"No. Don't try to comfort me, I assure you there's no point. I accept my fate. I earned it. They're not hurting me at present, but I know they're-" He swallowed. "Ruined. Beyond repair."
McGonagall sighed. "Severus, I'm so sorry."
"You don't have to apologize. You've already done more for me than I've ever done for you."
A smile wavered on McGonagall's lips. "It wasn't the first time I'd stayed up all night going through piles of books."
"That's not what I mean, although I am grateful for that as well. You saved my life. In Hogsmeade. I was dying."
