A/N: just so everyone knows, this story will have slight romance in it. I also don't own Harry Potter.
Airiala arrived at Dumbledore's office, as she did every morning, only this time she was in a much better mood.
It was nice talking with Snape yesterday. He knew a lot about potions and it was nice to have a conversation with someone other than Dumbledore.
Airiala entered the office and blinked in surprise. Dumbledore was there waiting for her.
"Hello," she said with a smile. "What are you doing up so early?"
Dumbledore didn't smile back, and there was no twinkle in his eyes as he answered. "I'm waiting for Severus."
"Professor Snape?" Airiala said narrowing her eyes in curiosity. "Where is he?"
"He was called away to a meeting and hasn't returned yet."
Airiala sighed. "Is he usually gone for long periods of time like this?"
"No, Voldemort believes he is spying on me and doesn't want me to become suspicious."
Airiala sat across from Dumbledore. "You must care a lot about him to be worried so much."
Dumbledore sighed. "Yes, I suppose I do. He's like a son to me and whenever he goes off to these meetings it worries me."
Airiala smiled at Dumbledore. "Don't worry, I'm sure he's fine. He's all grown up and able to take care of himself."
Dumbledore sighed before standing. "I guess you're right. If he isn't here for the start of classes, I'll take over."
"You better hope he shows up," Airiala said with a smile, "from what I heard about his classes, one doesn't want to substitute. He doesn't even like teaching them."
Dumbledore smiled. "Severus over exaggerates. The students are simply terrified in his presence and cannot perform well."
Airiala laughed. "Terrified of him? He is hardly someone to be afraid of. He is simply stubborn and rude."
Dumbledore headed toward the door. True, but you have never been taught by him. Brilliant though he is, he has no practice in people skills. I hope someday he is able to overcome it and find someone to spend his life with."
"I agree," Airiala said causing Dumbledore to pause at the door and turn back to her. "He would probably be a very loving person once he is able to break down all the walls he has constructed to protect himself. Once the war is over, I'm sure he'll be able to find someone who can put up with that temper of his and still be a match for his brilliance."
"Indeed," Dumbledore said to himself before bidding Airiala good luck and heading off to the Great Hall for breakfast.
It wasn't until dinner that Airiala heard any news of Snape. He was still missing.
Airiala was beginning to worry. Dumbledore has said that Snape would never be missing from Hogwarts for too long because of his position as a spy.
Her eyes widened as she dropped the book she was reading. Was it possible his double agent status had been revealed? Could it be he was injured or even…dead?
Airiala looked up at the small clock. It was almost time for curfew and students would be in the halls heading back to their houses.
"Damn," Airiala said to herself. She stood and began to pace. She couldn't leave to check Snape's quarters until she was sure all the students were in bed.
After nearly two hours of pacing, Airiala left Dumbledore's office quickly and quietly. Anyone she ran into now would be a ghost or a staff member and neither would matter if they say her.
She reached the dungeons quickly and found Snape's quarters after searching every door and picture down there. The wards were still up and, by using the wind, she learned that no one was in there. "Unless he's dead," she thought to herself. She shook that thought from her head as she headed for the entrance to Hogwarts.
If he wasn't in his quarters, perhaps he would be nearby.