"Please, call me Albus," Dumbledore said with a warm smile as he sat down.

"Alright," Allosia nodded. She was nervous, nervous that this was about the scene in the hallway today, or her class with the 6th years, or specifically about her and Severus.

As if reading her thoughts, which she realized was Dumbledore's typical mode, he said, "I know how difficult Severus can be, he's like this with everyone."

Allosia gave him a look.

Dumbledore chuckled. "Alright, I know you two have a complicated past. I do still remember things from time to time. It's difficult for him, to have you here."

"Clearly."

"You are a most tangible link to his past, Allosia, and to him, your first years here, probably seem like several lifetimes ago."

"Don't they to everyone?"

He smiled sadly then. "These have been interesting times."

"I miss him, you know, somewhat."

"But he's right here."

"No, not really. I knew someone different than most everyone else."

"You need to look closer, although, I realize, with all that hair and the cloak, it's a little challenging."

At this, Allosia laughed.

"Don't worry so much, especially about your classes."

"I'm really sorry about that, it's just - "

Dumbledore held his hand up and smiled. "Tomorrow is, I believe, another day."

Allosia sighed, "One would hope,"

"Have you spoken to Constance?"

"Not since right after the funeral, no."

"She doesn't blame you, you know."

"I worry more that she blames Gage."

"This was what he signed up for. As did you, as did her. This was a risk. You always knew that." Dumbledore leaned forward and patted her knee then. "You haven't grown tired of being the exception to the rules yet, have you?"

"I suppose not."

"Why don't you get some rest? I suspect you're going to need it."

"Oh, good way to fill me with dread!" Allosia laughed then.

Dumbledore just smiled.