The war has ended and now 12 students return to Hogwarts to finish their education as 8th Years. Severus, having survived Nagini's bite, will also be returning. Now free from his former masters, he hopes to redeem himself in his new role and repair broken relationships. But the children of the war are damaged, none more so than Harry, and healing will take some time. SS/HP mentor.

What if Lupin had been unable to teach Harry the Patronus charm, and the job had instead fallen to Snape? How would their relationship have grown as Snape came to care for Harry and discovered the secrets of his home life? Alt 3rd year, Snape mentor/guardianship, slight Dursley neglect/abuse.