Severus couldn't go home. Even though he didn't want to, he kept thinking over Minerva's suggestion of Legilimency. He knew he shouldn't be even tempted, and at first he wasn't. Now, a few hours later, he knew it was the only option left. But he still wasn't sure if it was something he was willing to do.
He knew if he even tried it, she'd know. She'd just know. She wasn't practiced in Occlumency, but she'd still know.
When he finally reached his house, he stood outside the door for a moment. He knew what he had to do. He was ready.