One Shot: How She Fell in Love with the Potions Master
Introduction:
This is a collection of 25 scenes from Friendship with the Potions Master in Y/N's POV but written in third person. It shows how she slowly falls in love with the Potions Master.
It's a request from nicoleette_gale on Wattpad. Thank you for your request!
Y/F/N means your father's name, Y/M/N means your mother's name and Y/O/N means your owl's name.
I hope you enjoy!
Published: 7/26/2022
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Author's note
It's FINALLY here! This took me around 12 hours or so to write. One shots usually only take me 1-2 hours to write, so...
Sorry for the very long delay, I hope it was worth the wait.
This one is REALLY long, so grab some snacks before you read!
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Word count: 15.4k
Warning: Age gap (Y/N is 18 years old in year 7), blood, fire, mentions of death, marriage against one's will, torture (Cruciatus), snakes and venom
The First Time She Saw Him (Year 1 Part 1, chapter 1)
Y/N Y/L/N is walking through the halls of Hogwarts with her fellow first-years. They are following Minerva McGonagall, the Deputy Headmistress. They are about to enter the Great Hall to get sorted.
Y/N is nervous, really nervous. She's afraid to disappoint her father if she isn't sorted into Slytherin like he and her mother were. Even if her mother isn't among them anymore, she still wants to make her proud.
As they enter the Great Hall, she's amazed when she looks at the ceiling. She hears a girl behind her explaining to another girl that the ceiling is enchanted. Apparently, she read it in 'Hogwarts: A History'.
That intrigues Y/N. Maybe she should read that book, too.
When she finally looks around, she internally panics. She knew there would be a lot of people, but she didn't know there would be THAT many people. She's really shy and doesn't like to be surrounded by a lot of people she doesn't know.
She takes a deep breath. She can do this.
Professor McGonagall asks them to stand in front of her. As they all do so, she calls each first-year to be sorted at a time.
The first one is Hermione Granger. Y/N notices that's the girl who explained the ceiling. Cheers can be heard as she's sorted into Gryffindor.
The next one is Draco Malfoy. Y/N has heard that last name before - her father works with Lucius Malfoy. That must be the boy's father.
She's quite impressed when he's sorted into Slytherin, the hat barely touching his head. The boy looks proud, smirking as he confidently walks over to the Slytherin table.
Y/N notices a man by the staff table clapping. He didn't clap when Hermione Granger was sorted.
She takes a good look at him. He has black shoulder-length hair, onyx eyes, a crooked nose and wears all black.
She wonders if that's his favourite colour. She also wonders what subject he teaches.
Her train of thoughts is interrupted as the next one is sorted - Ronald Weasley, another Gryffindor.
McGonagall then calls a name that makes the entire room go quiet - Harry Potter.
Y/N can't help but feel sorry for him. You-Know-Who killed his parents and tried to kill him as well. She hopes that he's living with a nice, loving family.
The Boy Who Lived is sorted into Gryffindor, just like the girl before and the red-haired boy.
Y/N is almost startled when McGonagall calls her name. Fidgeting with her hands, she slowly walks over to the stool, avoiding eye contact with people.
As she sits down and the Sorting Hat is placed on her head, she prays inside her head that she will be in Slytherin.
Somebody must have heard her as her wish comes true - Slytherin! She shyly smiles as she heads over to the Slytherin table where everyone is clapping.
She looks behind her, noticing that the man in black is clapping as well.
Once she's at the table, everybody reaches out their hand for her to shake. She shyly does so, not wanting to be rude.
As she sits down, she notices who's in front of her - Draco Malfoy.
He smiles at her. "Hello, my name is Draco Malfoy. My father is Lucius Malfoy. I see you were sorted into the right house, Slytherin is the best" he states.
He then reaches out his hand. Giving him a shy smile, she shakes it.
"Nice to meet you. My name is Y/N Y/L/N. I believe that my father works with yours" she tells him.
"That could be, my father works with a lot of people. The Ministry?" he questions. She nods, confirming his question.
She can't help but look at the man in black again.
"Do you know who the man dressed in all black is?" she asks, wondering if he knows. He's a first-year like her, so he probably doesn't.
To her surprise, he nods. "Of course, that's Professor Severus Snape. He teaches Potions and is our Head of House. My father personally knows him" he informs.
That intrigues Y/N. She's interested in Potions and Herbology as she would like to be a healer when she's older. She wonders how Professor Snape is as a teacher.
--
Their First Potions Lesson (Year 1 Part 2, chapter 2)
Y/N is walking towards the Potions classroom in the dungeons. Today she's having her first Potions lesson. She's really excited, she has been reading her Potions book every day and taken quite a few notes.
She was in the library the day before. So was Hermione Granger - the girl kept talking to her, telling her about everything she knows. Y/N merely nodded, too shy to say anything to her.
It was interesting to hear about her knowledge, but she just wanted to read her book. She prefers to read in silence. And alone, but she can't kick people out of the library.
As she enters the classroom, she tries to find an empty seat. She suddenly hears someone call her name.
"Psst, Y/L/N. There's an empty seat here" Draco Malfoy says, patting the empty chair in front of him.
Giving him a grateful smile, she quickly sits down on the chair. "Thank you-" she says just as the door bursts open.
She sees Professor Snape entering the room, his cloak billowing behind him. He doesn't acknowledge the students before he's at his desk.
He immediately starts his speech - his voice is really special. It's so velvety and silky. She has never heard a voice quite like that before.
"... However, for those select few..." the professor says as he looks at Draco who smiles.
He then looks at Y/N as well. That shocks her. Does he believe that she could be gifted in potion-making? She shyly smiles at him, appreciating that he has standards for her.
He continues his speech, explaining to them what he can teach them. Y/N is in awe. His speech is really interesting.
He suddenly yells at Harry Potter for not paying attention. When he asks him a few questions about Potions, the boy has no idea how to answer.
Granger immediately puts up her hand, clearly knowing the answer. Y/N knows the answers too - however, she can tell that the professor is only interested in Potter's answers, not anyone else. Therefore, she decides not to put her hand up.
All the Slytherins laugh when Professor Snape snaps at Granger for putting her hand up. The Gryffindor girl looks really embarrassed.
Y/N doesn't laugh - she doesn't want to make her feel more embarrassed than she already is. Besides, she's sure that the girl just wanted to show the professor that she knew the answers.
After a while, the professor dismisses the class and tells them that they need to read up on Cure for Boils. Y/N already knows how to brew the potion, but she will read it again and take extra notes.
As everybody leaves the room, some even running, Y/N is a little shocked that nobody wished their teacher a good day or thanked him for their lesson.
She wonders why no one did that.
Before she leaves, she turns toward him. "Thank you for the informative lesson, professor" she tells him, shyly yet politely.
She immediately leaves the room, not expecting him to thank her. He doesn't need to - but someone needed to thank him.
--
Potions Master on Fire (Year 1 Part 4, chapter 4)
At breakfast, Y/N is reading her Potions book. She has forgotten about the meal in front of her - that sometimes happens when she's reading.
She suddenly feels herself being surrounded by a few presences - it's Malfoy and his friends.
She shyly smiles at them. "Hi" she merely says.
Malfoy smiles as well. "Hi, Y/L/N. I was wondering if you would like to sit next to me during the Quidditch game tomorrow? You can't miss it, it's Slytherin against Gryffindor!" the boy states, sounding excited.
She can't help but chuckle. "Of course, Mr. Malfoy" she says, accepting his offer.
He snorts. "Please, Mr. Malfoy is too formal. You may call me Draco" he tells her.
Looking surprised, she quickly smiles at him. "You may call me Y/N, then" she says.
"Well, Y/N, I think this is the start of a wonderful friendship" he says, looking happy.
She's looking happy as well. "I think so too, Draco" she agrees.
She then notices Professor Snape walking over to the Gryffindor table. He's telling Potter something before he walks away. Well, limps about.
Y/N can't help but feel worried for her Head of House. She hopes that he's okay. She wonders if the troll attacked him.
The next day, it's the Quidditch match. Y/N is sitting next to Draco as they observe the game. The boy growls when Gryffindor gains points. He however smirks when Slytherin gains points as well.
He huffs as he sees Potter on his broom, waiting to find the Golden Snitch. "Saint Potter... Thinking he can join the team just because he's the Chosen One. Well, he might be the Chosen One - to lose a bunch of house points" he says, making fun of Potter.
Y/N can't help but laugh at his joke. Harry Potter does seem to lose a lot of house points. Draco smirks at his friend.
Out of the blue, Potter's broom starts acting weird.
Y/N gasps. "What do you think is happening?" she asks, feeling worried for the Gryffindor.
"No idea, but I hope he falls off his broom" Draco says, laughing.
As Y/N looks over at the staff tribune, she notices Professor Snape muttering something under his breath. A spell - he's saving him!
She however widens her eyes when she sees his cloak on fire. What happened? Did somebody try to stop him from saving the Boy Who Lived?
Snape quickly stomps on his cloak, stopping the fire. Y/N then notices that his spell must have worked - Potter can control his broom again!
The game ends with Potter catching the Snitch, much to Draco's dismay.
"No! I can't believe it!" the boy groans, burying his face in his hands.
Y/N gently comforts him. "Don't worry, Draco. We will win next time" she assures him.
As they leave the Quidditch Stadium, she can't help but wonder who tried to harm the Gryffindor. And was it the same person who set fire to Snape?
--
Their First Talk (Year 1 Part 5, chapter 5)
Y/N is in the library, reading. She's spending Christmas at Hogwarts since her father is working. She sighs. He's always working.
She misses when she was younger - he always made sure to have a bit more time for her.
She's startled when she hears a velvety voice greet her. She shyly smiles when she sees who it is - her Potions Master.
"Hello, professor" she politely says.
When he asks her to come with him, she gathers her belongings and follows him to the Potions classroom. She sits down on the chair he levitates in front of his desk.
He tells her that the other teachers have been worried about her, though they are happy that she's sitting next to her fellow Slytherins now.
She gives a bright smile when he tells her that she reminds him of himself when he was a student - he prefered being alone and reading a book. She wants to chuckle when he mutters that he still does.
"By the way, I was wondering... How come you didn't go home to celebrate Christmas with your family?" Professor Snape slowly questions.
Her smile immediately drops as she's reminded of her father working all the time as well as her mother's death. She sighs as she explains it to him.
She laughs when she mentions her father's jealousy of Lucius Malfoy. Her father is so silly.
Snape clears his throat. "If you do not mind me asking... How did your mother die?" he slowly asks.
She explains to him that she's not sure since her father won't tell. The only thing she knows is that it was an accident. She wonders what type of accident, though.
She suddenly notices it's almost curfew. As she's about to leave, he tells her that she may always come to him if she wishes to speak to him.
It surprises her, but in a good way. She gives him a bright smile. She thanks him and wishes him a happy Christmas.
Before she leaves, she looks at him. "Professor, I just want you to know that I look up to you and that I respect you just like the other professors, if not more. You are a great man" she tells him before she shyly waves.
While walking towards the Slytherin common room, Y/N is in deep thought. She doesn't understand how the students from the other Houses dislike him - he's such a nice man and a great teacher.
--
End of Her First Year (End of Year 1, chapter 6)
None of the Slytherins can believe it - Gryffindor just won the House Cup! The Headmaster decided to delegate extra points to Harry Potter, Hermione Granger, Ronald Weasley and Neville Longbottom at the last minute. It just happened to be enough for them to win over Slytherin.
Y/N looks at Draco, worried. The boy is devastated. She tries to cheer him up.
"It's okay, Draco. They only won because of the Headmaster - we are the real winners" she tells him, offering a smile.
It seems to help a little. Only a little, though.
As she looks at the staff table, she notices that her Head of House is irritated that they lost. She understands both Draco and Professor Snape - Slytherin was supposed to win, they did in fact have most points until Dumbledore gave the Gryffindors points.
One of them was for a game of Wizard Chess... That dumbfounded her. Was that a joke?
She sighs as she eats her meal. They will be going home tomorrow... She will miss her new friends. She will miss the Potions lessons, too.
The next morning, all the students are ready to enter the Hogwarts Express. Y/N is walking through the halls, looking for Draco. She spots him talking to their Head of House. She approaches them and wishes them a good summer.
Draco tells her that he's sure his father will be fine with her coming to Malfoy Manor during the summer - the two of them have become really good friends, so the boy offered her to stay at their home.
She's really grateful for that - when she first came to Hogwarts, she didn't expect to get any friends. Thanks to Draco, she now has five.
Draco clears his throat. "Anyway, would you like to sit with Pansy, Blaise, Crabbe, Goyle and I in the Hogwarts Express?" he asks, looking hopeful.
Y/N looks quite surprised - she honestly expected to sit all alone like she did when she got here. She was sure they wouldn't want to sit next to her for that many hours - she's afraid she will bore them to death.
As she gets eye contact with the professor, the man gives her an encouraging nod. That gives her enough confidence to accept Draco's offer.
The two students wave at their Potions Master before leaving the castle. They enter the Hogwarts Express and sit together with Pansy, Blaise, Crabbe and Goyle.
She calls the two big boys for their last name as the others do as well - perhaps they prefer it that way.
The five of them chat and play games together, having fun. The hours quickly pass by as they approach King's Cross Station.
"Aw, we are already here. See you in September!" Pansy says as she waves before finding her family.
The others find their families as well. Draco's and Y/N's just happen to be near each other.
"Father! Mother!" Draco exclaims as he hugs them.
Mr. Malfoy chuckles. "We missed you too, Draco. Calm down" he tells the boy. He however huffs when he looks at Y/N's father. He huffs back, ignoring the man.
That confuses Y/N - do they not like each other? She wonders if that has anything to do with her father's jealousy, or if it's something else.
She slowly approaches her father. "Hi, Father" she says, smiling at him.
Sighing in relief, he kisses her forehead. "Hi, Y/N. I missed you. And someone else missed you too" he tells her.
Something suddenly flies on top of her shoulder. She giggles.
"Oh, Y/O/N! I missed you! Next time, you have to come with me" she states. Hooting happily, the owl nuzzles her cheek.
"You may bring him with you next time... He might not nibble me all the time, then. Now, come on, let's go home" her father mutters.
As they bypass the Malfoys, Y/N shyly waves at Draco. The boy smiles, waving back. The father and daughter then apparate to Y/L/N Manor.
--
The Duelling Club (Year 2 Part 3, chapter 9)
All the second-years are gathered in the Great Hall in front of a duelling stage. Because of the recent petrification events, all students have to learn how to defend themselves.
Unfortunately, their teacher is Professor Lockhart...
The self-satisfied man is in front of them, explaining to them what will happen. He suddenly takes off his cloak and throws it to the female students.
Y/N looks at them in disbelief - how can they like him? He's so annoying, and he doesn't teach them anything! He has to be a fraud.
But would Headmaster Dumbledore really hire him if he was?
"Let me introduce my assistant - Professor Snape" Lockhart announces.
Hearing the mention of her Head of House, Y/N looks in the direction. Snape emerges on the stage, walking towards their Defence Against the Dark Arts teacher.
"He has sportingly agreed to help me with a short demonstration. Now, I don't want any of you youngsters to worry - you'll still have your Potions Master when I'm through with him. Never fear" Lockhart explains, sounding quite confident.
Draco snorts at his comment while Y/N tries her best not to laugh. Well, they might not have their Defence Against the Dark Arts teacher once the Potions Master is through with him.
The two professors bow to each other before preparing themselves. Y/N can't help but look at her Head of House in awe when he elegantly spins around, ready with his wand.
Snape immediately fires the Disarming Charm against Lockhart - the man doesn't even block it and flies across the room.
Y/N knows this was too easy for Snape, but she's still really impressed. He definitely makes her feel proud as a Slytherin.
Later that day, it's nighttime. Everybody is asleep. Well, everyone except for Y/N. She's reading in a Defence Against the Dark Arts book that isn't written by Lockhart. She desperately wants to learn something now that their teacher isn't doing his job.
She's under the duvet, light from her wand. She doesn't want to disturb the others' sleep.
She's startled when the duvet is being pulled away.
"Y/N? That's the fourth time" Pansy mutters, rubbing her eyes.
"S-sorry, Pansy. I just really wanted to read..." Y/N whispers, her cheeks red from embarrassment.
"You can read tomorrow, silly. Go to bed" Pansy says as she yawns, returning to her bed.
Sighing, Y/N turns off the light from her wand. When she's sure that Pansy is sleeping, she sneaks away from the dorm and walks down the stairs to the common room.
She however doesn't get far as she hears a chuckle.
"Did Pansy catch you reading again?" Draco asks, an amused look on his face.
Y/N's cheeks turn red once again. "Well, yes-" she says just as he interrupts her.
"You know, Professor Snape told me to let you know that you should get some rest. He doesn't want any of his Slytherins falling asleep during class" he states, smirking as her cheeks turn even redder.
"Professor Snape told you that?" she questions, feeling embarrassed. She would never fall asleep in class, especially not in his.
The boy nods. "Yeah, so go to bed. You look tired after all" he tells her, gesturing for her to go back to her dormitory.
Sighing, she reluctantly does so. "Okay, okay... Good night, Draco" she says, giving him a tired smile.
"Good night, Y/N. See you tomorrow... Well, in a few hours" he says as he laughs, returning to his dorm that he shares with Blaise, Crabbe and Goyle.
As Y/N returns to her bed, she can't help but smile. Professor Snape must be worried about her... How can anyone dislike that man?
--
Offering Him Help (End of Year 2, chapter 10)
Y/N is sitting under a tree by the Black Lake. She's reading her Defence Against the Dark Arts book as always.
She's startled when Professor Snape approaches her, expressing his worry about her sitting down on the cold ground. She assures him that it's not so bad and that her coat is keeping her warm.
As he's about to leave, she decides to ask him something.
"By the way, professor, I have noticed that the potion shelves haven't been organised for a few weeks. I was wondering if you need some help with that?" she hesitantly asks.
She has noticed that the shelves have been looking rather unorganised lately. She suspects that he's probably really busy with grading papers. She has also noticed that her fellow students don't seem to put the items back where they belong.
Her Head of House accepts her offer and tells her that he would appreciate the help right now. Nodding, she follows him to the Potions classroom. She organises the shelves while he grades papers.
He seems to really appreciate her help. In fact, so much that they make a deal. She organises the shelves, he teaches her Defence Against the Dark Arts.
She's really enjoying her one-on-one lesson. Not only is he a skilled Potions Master, but he's also excellent at defending against the Dark Arts. She's really impressed. She's so grateful that he wants to teach her - she's learning so much from him.
Around five months later, it's the end of the school year. Y/N is waiting with an impatient Draco. The boy is waiting for his Godfather to show up so he can say goodbye to him.
He recently told Y/N that he's Professor Snape's Godson - she's the only one who knows, though. The man probably doesn't want anyone to know, which is why Draco doesn't tell anyone about it.
The man in black spots them. Of course, Draco immediately demands that he shows up at Malfoy Manor this summer. Y/N can't help but giggle, especially when Snape rolls his eyes at the boy.
As Draco turns to leave, Y/N assures him that she will be there soon. She then faces her Head of House, thanking him for teaching her Defence Against the Dark Arts. She offers to keep helping him with the shelves even though they will receive a new Defence Against the Dark Arts teacher after the summer. He seems really surprised by her offer.
She smiles. "I have noticed how tired you have been lately, so I think it's only fair that somebody helps you. Besides, you are my favourite teacher- you are my Head of House" she quickly corrects herself, blushing.
She really hopes that he didn't notice her slip-up - she has thought about it lately, and there's no doubt. Severus Snape is definitely her favourite teacher. He honestly has been this whole time.
Snape smirks at her. "Favourite teacher, huh? I must say I'm honoured, Y/L/N. Just don't tell the other teachers - that would be rude after all" he states.
Giggling, she nods before waving him goodbye. As she enters the Hogwarts Express and sits next to Draco, she realises that not only does she consider Professor Snape as her favourite teacher, but she also considers him a friend.
--
Her Boggart (Year 3 Part 2, chapter 12)
Today they are learning about Boggarts. Professor Lupin has just brought the students in front of a closet. Y/N can't help but feel nervous - what will her Boggart show?
The first one is Longbottom. Y/N can't help but chuckle to herself when she sees it - Professor Snape. How can anyone find him scary? He's such a nice and caring man. Well, Longbottom does seem to cry whenever they are having Potions lessons, so perhaps it's not that strange...
Everybody in the room bursts out laughing when the boy uses Riddikulus. Professor Snape is now wearing an old woman's clothes and a hat with a vulture on top.
She feels a bit bad for laughing, but she just can't help it. He looks really funny.
"Ms. Y/L/N?" Professor Lupin calls.
Y/N tries to calm down as she slowly steps in front of the closet. When Lupin opens it, the Boggart enters the room.
She's surprised to see it taking the form of her father. He looks at her in disbelief. "Why did I have to have a daughter like you? You aren't good enough, you never were. I have never loved you. Your mother would be so disappointed had she still been alive" he says, laughing evilly.
Y/N runs out of the classroom with tears in her eyes.
"Y/N!" Draco calls, she however ignores it.
Once she's alone, she starts crying. Could that really be how her father feels about her? She knows it's just a Boggart, but she can't help but feel insecure. Does her father not love her?
Lupin emerges to make sure she's okay. He tells her that she may take a walk if she needs to. Thanking the professor, she turns around and walks away.
Not too long after, she's surprised to see Professor Snape.
"Oh, hi, professor" she says as she gives him a sad smile, her eyes red from crying.
He asks her to follow him. She decides to do so as they enter the Potions classroom. He questions what happened in Defence Against the Dark Arts. Sighing, she explains what happened with her Boggart.
When he tells her that he's sure her father loves her and her mother would be proud of her, she starts crying.
She internally scolds herself. Why is she crying?! This is silly! She wonders what he thinks about her now...
She immediately stops crying and instead blushes when he crouches down and gently grabs her hand.
Why is she blushing? It must be her hormones... Why else would she be blushing? She can't help but find comfort in him holding her hand, though.
He however quickly lets go, apologising. He then hands her a handkerchief. Once she's done drying her eyes, she thanks him and tries to hand it back to him.
He shakes his head. "No need to. You may keep it, if you wish to" he tells her.
She looks at the handkerchief. It's green with the initials 'S.S'. She smiles before nodding.
"Thank you, I will keep it close" she says, admiring the item in her hand.
When he asks her about the other Boggarts, she can't help but giggle as she tells him about Longbottom's. He growls at that, probably irritated that the students saw him wearing women's clothing.
She suddenly notices how late it is. "I should probably go back to class now. Thank you so much for cheering me up, sir. You always manage to put a smile on my face" she admits, looking at him shyly. She waves him goodbye, leaving the classroom.
As she walks through the halls, she can't help but admire the handkerchief once more. She will definitely keep it close - it's from her favourite professor after all.
--
Christmas Dinner at Hogwarts (Year 3 Part 5, chapter 15)
It's Christmas at Hogwarts. Almost all students have left to celebrate with their families. Y/N is the only Slytherin student left.
They are currently in the Great Hall, waiting for the Christmas Eve feast to begin. As there are so few people left, the students and teachers are all sitting at the Gryffindor table, sitting close to each other. Y/N is sitting next to Granger. She wonders if Draco is having fun with his family.
She suddenly notices one teacher missing - Professor Snape.
Before she can wonder where he is, he emerges out of the blue. He decides to sit next to her. She tries not to blush at that.
She shyly smiles at him. "Hello, professor. Happy Christmas" she says.
Snape nods. "Happy Christmas, Y/L/N" he replies, quickly taking a sip of his drink.
Before the feast starts, the students receive packages and letters from their family. Y/N tries not to show her disappointment when she reads her father's letter. It's rather short, which is so him. Short and to the point.
She's not really disappointed that he didn't give her a present, she just wishes that the two of them could celebrate Christmas together like they used to when she was younger...
--
His Injured Arm (End of Year 3, chapter 16)
Y/N is headed towards the common room as it's curfew soon. She however widens her eyes when she sees Professor Snape with an injured, bloodied arm.
She hurries towards him. She asks him with worry in her voice if he's fine. She's really worried about him - what happened?
He tells her that he's fine and that she shouldn't worry. However, she can tell that he's lying. He's not fine. She begs him to let her help him, looking at him with her doe eyes.
Sighing, he lets her. She gently grabs his left arm that isn't injured and guides him to the Potions classroom. She makes him sit down on his chair and rolls up his sleeve. She gasps when she sees the wound. It looks like something with claws attacked him.
"It isn't that bad, at least I still have my arm" he mutters as he rolls his eyes.
She ignores his comment as she starts healing him. She gives him an apologetic look when he hisses in pain.
After she has bandaged his arm, she questions if it was Lupin who did this. It is full moon after all. He confirms it as he explains that he was going to give Lupin a Wolfsbane Potion. However, it was too late. That's when he attacked him. He lets her know that the Headmaster knows of this.
He suddenly reminds her that it's almost curfew. Widening her eyes, she wishes him a good night before hurrying to the common room.
--
Visiting Malfoy Manor (Year 4 Part 1, chapter chapter 17)
Y/N is in Malfoy Manor, visiting Draco. She's quite excited - Professor Snape will show up soon. She has missed him during the summer.
She thinks about him whenever she reads her Potions book or looks at the handkerchief he gave her. She honestly thinks about him so much that it's unhealthy - is something wrong with her? She doesn't recall missing someone this much. Except for her dead mother, but still.
She wonders what his reaction will be when he sees her here.
Just then, she hears his velvety voice answering Mr. Malfoy. When he notices her, he raises an eyebrow. He's probably surprised to see her here.
She just hopes that he still wants to stay. She doesn't want him to leave because of her - maybe he would feel annoyed by being near his students when the new school year hasn't even started.
She shyly smiles, greeting him. He clears his throat. "Hello, Ms. Y/L/N. What a... nice surprise to see you here" he says.
Draco laughs as he explains that her father finally let her come here. He also explains that they are going to watch the Quidditch World Cup together.
Snape hums. "I see. Why did he have a sudden change of heart?" he questions.
Mr. Malfoy tells him that he convinced him, looking smug about it. Y/N internally chuckles. That's not completely true...
The only reason her father let her come is because he begged Draco's mother to help find a dress for his daughter. Mr. Malfoy told his wife that she should only help if he let his daughter come to Malfoy Manor... It seemed to work.
Y/N is still not sure why she needs a dress, but shrugs it off. She might know at some point.
Narcissa asks Professor Snape if he wants to stay for dinner. As he looks at Y/N, she shyly smiles at him. She hopes that he will stay a little longer.
She's happy when he accepts. As Narcissa leaves and Mr. Malfoy shows Draco his new broom, Y/N and Snape are alone in the living room. He joins her by the couch.
As they are talking about what he has done this summer, she remembers something.
"Did you get a new book yet?" she questions.
He told her that he has had trouble finding a book he hasn't read yet. She has had a book in mind that she wants to give him for his birthday. Draco told her that his birthday is on the ninth of January.
"I'm afraid I haven't. I honestly don't have the time to go book shopping" he says as he sighs.
She gives him a sympathetic look. Hopefully he hasn't read the book she wants to give him.
Once dinner is over, Snape greets the four of them goodbye before he leaves.
--
The Slytherin Dance Practice (Year 4 Part 3, chapter 19)
All the Slytherins are gathered in an empty classroom. They are sitting down on the chairs, waiting for their Head of House to show up. Most of the students look bored - they probably already know how to dance and find this a waste of time.
Y/N is sure that their Head of House finds this silly and a waste of time, too.
"Who do you think he will choose to demonstrate with? Oh, it must be so awkward for them" Pansy says, almost looking sorry for the student.
That confuses Y/N. She almost made it sound like it would be a bad thing to demonstrate with him. She thinks that person is lucky. She's even feeling a bit jealous - she wonders what it's like to dance with Professor Snape... He's probably good at dancing.
Draco smirks. "Who knows? We will find out soon, though" he says as he shrugs.
Y/N wonders if he has an idea who the professor might choose. Could it be him? He is after all his Godson, maybe it won't be so awkward for them. Or perhaps it would be even more awkward for them...
Snape then enters the room and faces his Slytherins.
"As you all know, the Yule Ball is coming in less than two weeks. I have got the displeasure of teaching you how to dance. Now, I know that most of you already know how to do this, but the Headmaster insisted that I still teach you. Before we begin, I will need a volunteer" he says as he looks at them.
Y/N is shocked to hear who he chooses.
"Ms. Y/L/N, if you will?" he asks.
Her face is bright red. She was not prepared for this, she thought she would only be able to daydream about doing it...
As Draco nudges her with his elbow, she stands up and shyly approaches the Potions Master. He tells her to put a hand on his shoulder, and he will put his hand on her waist...
Please don't blush, please don't blush...
Unfortunately for her, her cheeks turn even redder than before. As the others start to laugh, he quickly demands them to be quiet.
They slowly start to dance to the music, doing each step slowly so they can keep up with them. She's really nervous as they do so. What if she accidentally steps on his feet?
He suddenly gives her hand a gentle squeeze and tells her it will be over soon. She lets out a breath she didn't even know she was holding. She honestly doesn't want this to end... She likes dancing with him.
As the practice comes to an end, Y/N is the only student left. She's still standing there, deep in thought. As they were dancing, she started to realise something - she has a crush on Professor Snape.
She has tried to deny it, but she can't do that any longer - he's such a brilliant, caring, nice, understanding, smart man. He's also really funny with his sarcasms, and she won't deny that he's good-looking...
Thankfully, the man in question gains her attention before she can continue with her inappropriate thoughts about him.
She finally realises that he's apologising. He apparently thinks that he was making her uncomfortable. She shyly smiles at him, reassuring him that she wasn't uncomfortable.
As he nods and they bid each other goodbye, she can't help but be deep in thought as she leaves the room. The crush will go away soon, right?
--
The Yule Ball (Year 4 Part 4, chapter 20)
It's time for the Yule Ball. Y/N is currently dancing with Draco as he's her partner. She notices that he keeps looking at Pansy. The girl is clearly jealous - his plan worked.
Y/N can't help but chuckle at that. Pansy probably regrets saying yes to Marcus Flint now.
As they are dancing, Draco suddenly whispers something to hear. "Hey, Y/N... Do you fancy Professor Snape?" he suddenly asks.
Y/N'a cheeks turn bright red. It reminds her that a couple of days ago, the professor asked her who she fancies. Her face was so flustered. She obviously couldn't tell him... He would be disgusted with her.
She hesitantly looks at Draco. "Yes..." she admits, whispering.
The boy smiles. "Don't worry, I won't tell a soul" he promises.
"Thanks, Draco" she says as she smiles back.
An hour later, Professor McGonagall approaches Y/N. "Ms. Y/L/N, I apologise for interrupting, but I have a favour to ask" she tells her.
Y/N smiles. "Of course, professor. What is it?" she questions.
"I need Professor Snape to have fun... He never joins the parties. He seems to be on good terms with you, so I figured it would work if you dance with him. Don't worry, the Headmaster approves" she states.
Y/N smiles as she nods. She would love to dance with him again. She's however sure that she will be redder than a tomato with so many people surrounding them...
The two of them approach the Potions Master. He reluctantly agrees. The girl wonders if he's uncomfortable dancing in front of this many people... Or perhaps it's her? Maybe he's afraid of what people will say?
The two of them join the dance floor and start dancing. As they do so, he apologises if he's making her uncomfortable. She assures him that he isn't. In fact, she admits that she's having fun.
He suddenly questions what Draco asked her. Y/N blushes.
"Um, well..." she starts, thinking about what to tell him.
To her luck, Ronald Weasley saves her in time by exclaiming that the Potions Master can dance.
Just as Snape is about to say something, he's looking somewhere. He then sighs, telling her he needs to make sure that no students are misbehaving.
She shyly smiles. "It's okay, sir. I had a good time, thank you for the dance" she tells him.
He nods. "My pleasure" he says before leaving.
As he does so, Y/N smiles to herself. She really had fun tonight thanks to him. Or well, thanks to Professor McGonagall, but still.
--
A Book for the Potions Master (Year 4 Part 5, chapter 21)
Y/N is walking through the halls, heading towards the Potions classroom. Today is a really special day - it's Professor Snape's birthday. She bought the book she decided to give him. She just hopes that he hasn't read it already.
As she's walking, she can't help but think back to the Yule Ball. The thought makes her blush - when she was about to go to sleep, she accidentally told him that he's good-looking. What was she thinking? Why did she have to blurt that out?!
Thankfully, he just chuckled at her. He thought that she only said it because she was tired. She might have been tired, but it's the honest truth. The Potions Master is good-looking.
She shakes off the thought and knocks on the door. She enters when he tells her to. Noticing the big stack of papers on his desk, she assures him that it won't take long. She then hands him his present.
"I have in fact never read this one. Thank you, Y/L/N. You didn't have to" he says as he grabs the book, looking intrigued.
"Of course I had to. You do so much for us, but nobody ever does anything for you" she explains to him.
He does indeed do so much for them, yet nobody ever does anything for him. She has never noticed anybody thanking him for the lesson or wished him a good day. It seems like people only make his job more difficult.
Before he can answer, she remembers that she promised to help Draco with Herbology. She bids him goodbye and leaves the classroom. She really hopes that he will enjoy the book.
--
You-Know-Who Is Back (End of Year 4, chapter 22)
Y/N is walking through the halls, internally panicking. She can't believe it - Cedric Diggory is dead! And You-Know-Who is back! She can't help but feel bad for Potter. He had to witness it after all.
As she's walking, she suddenly notices Professor Snape. He's grabbing his left arm in pain.
She quickly approaches him. "Are you all right, sir?" she asks, looking concerned.
"Yes, I'm fine, Y/L/N. Don't worry. I must have injured my arm" he tells her.
Nodding, she offers taking him to the Hospital Wing. He denies the offer and assures that he will go there by himself. He asks if she's okay after what happened to Diggory and reminds her that she may always talk to him if she wants to.
She bids him goodbye as he tells her to go to her fellow students. While she's walking away from him, she can't help but feel worried. What happened to his arm?
Not too long after, the students are sent home. Y/N's father sent her a portkey as he couldn't pick her up at King's Cross Station. She frowned at that. Is he really working now?
She stays up all night until he finally returns home. She doesn't let him know that she's awake, of course. He would probably tell her to go to bed immediately.
She's surprised when he keeps muttering 'the Dark Lord' under his breath. You-Know-Who? Does he already know about that?
She takes a peep at him in the living room. He's sitting on the couch while drinking firewhiskey. She tries her best not to gasp when she notices something on his left arm - the Dark Mark. He's a Death Eater?!
She immediately flees to her room. She lies down in bed and buries her head in her pillow, sobbing. Is he really working for him? There must be a good explanation! But what could it be?
Her brown owl gives a concerned hoot before grabbing the green handkerchief with his beak, handing it to her. She smiles as she thanks him before drying her eyes. The handkerchief and her owl cheer her up.
She however can't help but wonder - who else is working for You-Know-Who?
--
She Wants To Be a Healer (Year 5 Part 1, chapter 23)
Today is the day where all the students have their mandatory talk with their Head of House. They have to discuss what the student wants to do once they leave Hogwarts.
As Draco tells her it's her turn, she enters the Potions classroom. She shyly smiles at her Head of House as she greets him. He gestures for her to sit down on the chair in front of his desk.
When she does so, he asks her what she wants to do after Hogwarts. She tells him that she wants to become a healer. She has for quite some time - she would like to help save people. That way, fewer people will lose the ones they love.
"I think that would suit you, Y/L/N. You do have what it takes. Potions and Herbology do seem to be your favourite subjects, and both will be quite useful in that profession" he tells her.
Y/N suddenly notices that he seems to be deep in thought about something. She gives him a concerned look and asks him if he's all right.
He assures her that he's just stressed about grading papers. When she offers to help, he states that she doesn't need to, that he understands if she would rather spend time with her friends.
Draco and the others can wait, they usually don't mind.
"I would love to help you, sir. You are after all my-" she says just as she stops.
She was about to call him her friend. She stopped herself in time as she's afraid he would find it weird. Well, she also has a crush on him - that would be even weird to tell him.
She corrects herself and tells him she meant that he's her Head of House. Which he is, so he should believe her. He thankfully does.
They each grade half and finish in no time. She leaves once she notices the time.
As she leaves, she smiles to herself. She could tell that he felt relieved when all those papers were graded. She loves helping her Head of House.
--
Their Friendship Is Official (Year 5 Part 2, chapter 24)
They are currently having Potions lessons. Draco has agreed to help her with her potion as she can't do it herself - all thanks to Umbridge.
Her hand still hurts after her first detention. She has tried everything, but it seems like it won't heal!
"Ms. Y/L/N, a word?" Professor Snape asks once the lesson is over, though in a more demanding tone.
She sighs, nodding before telling Draco that she will meet them in the common room. When he asks her to sit down, she hesitantly does so. He then questions what happened to her hand.
She touches it as she replies that nothing happened. Just as she says it, she internally winces. Her hand is bandaged, he can obviously see that something is wrong!
He tells her that he noticed Draco did the potion for her because of her hand. She doesn't reply when he repeats his question.
When he demands to see her hand, she sighs before letting him do so. She however winces when he removes the bandage. He immediately apologises.
He widens his eyes when he sees the words engraved into her hand, demanding who did this.
She sniffles as she tells him what happened during Umbridge's lesson, a few tears leaving her eyes. He wipes it away with his thumb which makes her blush.
"That toad. That fucking toad! She is going to wish she had never been born! I swear, Y/N, if she hurts you again-" he says in anger, gritting his teeth.
Y/N is absolutely shocked - did he just call her by her first name? He looks shocked as well.
She shyly smiles at him, asking if that means they are friends. She's biting her lip nervously. She would love to be his friend - officially his friend, and not just in her head.
"No, I call all my students by their first name... Of course we are friends. That is, if you agree?" he questions, looking at her curiously.
She says yes, asking if she may call him Severus. Severus... She loves to say that name. It's so beautiful.
She blushes when he grabs her hand again. She explains that nothing seems to work... Maybe she shouldn't become a healer. He tells her that she will become a fantastic healer, and that she should apply for volunteering at St. Mungo's Hospital the week before Christmas.
He suddenly grabs a vial. When he tilts it and the liquid touches her wound, it immediately disappears. Her hand is fine. She's in disbelief - what was that?
He explains that it was tears from a phoenix.
When she notices that he's still holding her hand, she blushes. He immediately lets go and clears his throat, questioning if other students have had detention with Umbridge. She nods, telling him that Harry Potter was the first one.
She thanks him for healing her hand, waving at him before leaving. As she does so, she can't help but smile. Severus, Severus... She will definitely get used to saying that.
--
A Nice Christmas (Year 5 Part 4, chapter 26)
Y/N is on her way to the Potions classroom. Draco told her that Severus wants to tell her something. She wonders what it is.
As she's walking, she can fill the Christmas present that's inside the pocket of her robes. She has bought Severus a new scarf - she noticed that he's not wearing his old one anymore. Perhaps he lost it.
She feels really bad for him, he could easily catch a cold! Therefore, she decided to buy this for him.
It's black, of course. She's sure that he wouldn't wear it if it was any other colour.
She enters the classroom and greets her Head of House. He suddenly hands her something. It's a present! She's lost for words. What could it be?
When he tells her to open it, she eagerly does so, revealing a small black box. Inside it is a silver necklace with a small cauldron pendant.
She keeps admiring it, forgetting about everything else. She absolutely loves it. She will wear it every day and never take it off.
"I can take it back if you don't like it" Severus says, sounding unsure.
Y/N's eyes immediately divert to his. He must have thought that she doesn't like it. She quickly shakes her head, assuring him that she loves it. She offers him a shy smile.
Without thinking, she runs towards him and gives him a hug. She can feel him stiffen which worries her. Was it too much? He however slowly returns the hug.
"What have you got in there?" he questions, looking at her robes curiously.
Smiling, she hands him his present. Her smile immediately fades away when she notices a tear leaving his eye.
As she quickly tells him that she can return the scarf and help find his old one, he states that he loves it.
Could he like it so much that it made him cry? Now, that's an achievement.
She asks him to help her put the necklace around her neck. He immediately does so, securing it in place.
"It suits you" he mutters. That makes her blush.
She suggests that he tries on his scarf. She can't help but admire him. It really suits him. She repeats his words, smiling as she does so.
Draco then knocks on the door and enters. He makes a comment about the scarf which Severus rolls his eyes at, warning him about detention.
The boy huffs before asking him if he would like to spend Christmas with them.
Y/N internally facepalms at that. She totally forgot to ask him herself!
The two of them decided to ask him now that Draco is staying at Hogwarts this Christmas. His parents had to attend something important. The boy isn't sure what it is, but Y/N just shrugged that off. Maybe they didn't want him to know what they had to do.
As Severus looks at her, his expression seems to soften. "I would love to" their Head of House tells them.
He calls for a house elf and requests for a Christmas feast for the three of them as well as hot chocolate. They eat it once it arrives. It's absolutely delicious.
After dinner, they play Wizard Chess. Y/N smiles when Severus laughs, having fun with his two Slytherins. His laugh suits him.
They end the day by observing the snowfall by a cauldron fire.
Y/N can't help but laugh when she looks at Draco - the boy fell asleep and is currently snoring.
Y/N looks at Severus as she smiles, wishing him a happy Christmas. The corner of his lips turns upwards as if he's about to smile.
She wishes he would actually smile, she's sure that it would look beautiful on him.
As they enjoy the snowfall in comfortable silence, Y/N smiles to herself. She can't remember the last time she had this much fun on Christmas. She hopes that Severus had fun, too.
--
A Hug (End of Year 5, chapter 28)
Y/N knocks on the door to the Potions classroom. She's absolutely shocked right now - Draco just told her that his father is in Azkaban.
He didn't tell her what he did, though. She wonders what he could have done to end up in such a place.
When she enters, she greets Severus and tells him what happened to Draco's father. She also tells him that the Ministry has announced that You-Know-Who is back. They had denied it for a year, so that was surprising to hear.
He assures her that You-Know-Who is only after Potter before grabbing her hand, giving it a gentle squeeze. That makes her blush.
She then tells him how concerned she has been - he has been wearing the scarf ever since she gave it to him. He just recently took it off. She was honestly afraid he was going to get a heat stroke.
He must really like it - that makes her happy.
He rolls his eyes, telling her that Professor McGonagall was worried too. She was the reason he took it off - she probably begged him to.
He then mentions the necklace he gave her. Y/N smiles as she touches the jewellery around her neck.
"I wear it every day and plan on never taking it off. I truly love it" she admits, blushing a bit. She hopes it didn't sound too weird.
He congratulates her on her good grades just as there's a loud knock on the door.
"Y/N, hurry up! The train will leave soon!" Draco yells from the other side of the door.
Y/N widens her eyes and quickly turns to leave. She however stops in her tracks before facing the Potions Master. She thanks him for his lessons and hesitantly asks him if she may hug him. He blinks a few times before nodding.
She slowly wraps her arms around him, resting her head on his chest. It feels really nice and soothing to do so. She can feel him hugging back a bit tighter.
As they hug, she thinks back to five months ago when she saw Potter running out of the Potions classroom. When she entered the room, she saw Severus completely lost in thought. He looked so furious.
She put a comforting hand on his shoulder which must have alerted him. He immediately spun around on his heels, grabbing her wrist tightly. It hurt a bit, she was however more surprised by the action.
He let go when he noticed she was in pain. He apologised and caressed her wrist which made her blush. He was being so gentle.
He told her that Potter was the cause of his anger - the boy was getting extra Potions lessons and failed. Severus had to put an end to the lesson.
She feels sorry for her Head of House - he shouldn't be giving extra lessons if the student doesn't want to follow through. He doesn't deserve to waste his time like that.
He chuckles. "You should probably go now, Y/N. Unless you wish to stay at Hogwarts the entire summer" he reminds her, looking amused.
She blushes as she reluctantly lets go of him. She smiles, waving at him before hurrying to catch the Hogwarts Express. She catches it in time and sits down next to Draco, Pansy, Blaise, Crabbe and Goyle.
"What took you so long, Y/N?" Blaise questions, raising an eyebrow.
Draco smirks. "Oh, she forgot to say goodbye to Professor Snape" he tells him, looking like he's trying his best not to laugh.
Y/N's cheeks turn red. She almost missed the train! Well, it was worth it. She got to hug Severus.
As they head towards King's Cross Station, she can't help but smile. She will miss him during the summer.
--
The Leaky Cauldron (Year 6 Part 2, chapter 30)
Y/N has just arrived in Diagon Alley. Today is Thursday, which means she's going to meet up with Severus at the Leaky Cauldron.
She's really excited - she has missed him so much, even if it's only July. They are going to meet since she wrote him a letter and invited him here.
Draco gave her his address - he encouraged her to ask Severus to meet her as he knew that she missed him. She promised not to tell Severus that it was the boy's idea - Draco believes that as long as Severus thinks it was Y/N's idea, he won't be punished.
At least he hopes he won't.
As she heads towards the pub, she can feel the butterflies in her stomach. She hopes that he hasn't changed his mind - will he show up? Is he already there?
When she enters, she immediately spots her Potions Master. She smiles at that. He showed up!
She immediately approaches him. "Hello, Sev- Professor Snape!" she quickly corrects herself as they are in public. He smirks and gestures for her to sit down, thanking her for the invitation.
Just then, the waiter shows up at their table. "Hello and welcome to the Leaky Cauldron. What would you two lovebirds like?" he asks, waiting patiently for their answer.
Y/N blushes while Severus coughs a few times. He immediately explains that she's his student and they are here to discuss the next term.
As he orders a firewhiskey for himself and asks her if she wants a butterbeer, the flustered girl merely nods, too shy to say a word.
She can't believe that the waiter thought they were here together as a couple... It would only happen in her dreams. She's sure that her Head of House could never see her as more than a friend, not even once she's out of Hogwarts.
He's probably really uncomfortable and disgusted right now.
The waiter quickly apologises and hurries to the bar. Once he's gone, Severus apologises for the embarrassment and says he hopes that she still wants her drink.
She blinks a few times. He's the one who's apologising? Of course she still wants to stay and have her drink with him.
She gives him a reassuring smile, telling him that she does. She second-guesses her outfit. Perhaps she shouldn't have worn a dress today.
She blushes when he shakes her head and praises her outfit.
When the waiter returns with their drinks, they continue talking. She explains to him that she tried to brew Felix Felicis, but it didn't turn out right. It's almost as if the instructions in the book were wrong. That surely can't be right.
Severus suddenly writes something down on a piece of parchment. It's a different method on how to brew the potion.
As she reads it, she can immediately tell that this method is better. It makes so much more sense! She wonders why this isn't in the books. She thanks him and smiles gratefully.
They talk for a few more hours, enjoying each other's company. Y/N however notices that it's almost dinner time. She has to go home so her father doesn't get mad, nor question where she has been.
As she's about to pay, he stops and insists that he does it. She asks him if he's sure about that. It was after all her who invited him.
"Absolutely, see it as a gift for blessing me with your presence" he says, the corner of his lips turning slightly upwards.
She gives him a bright smile and thanks him for blessing her with his presence as well. She then waves him goodbye and leaves the pub.
As she leaves, she's still smiling. Today was a really good day, all thanks to him.
--
Arranged Marriage (Year 6 Part 3, chapter 31)
Today is a special day - it's Severus' first lesson as the official Defence Against the Dark Arts teacher. Y/N is really happy for him. She knows that he has always wanted to teach this subject. She hopes that no one will cause him trouble.
Unfortunately, she can't seem to focus today... Just like any other day these days. Ever since her and Draco's fathers told them about their arranged marriage, the two teenagers have been devastated.
Draco loves Pansy, and Y/N... Well, she has a crush on her former Potions Master. She can't exactly deny that.
But she knows that she and Severus can't and never will be together, for legal reasons. At least not until she turns eighteen, but even then it would be impossible. She knows he could never like her back. Which is why she feels sorry for Draco and Pansy the most - their relationship has been a bit tense ever since the news.
She sighs to herself. She can't marry Draco, she just can't. She doesn't want him to be miserable. And the boy is very miserable right now, so is she.
They are currently having their Defence Against the Dark Arts lessons. Y/N is rather distant as Severus starts the lesson. When he asks her a question, probably to test out if she's listening, she blinks a few times before answering.
An hour later, the lesson comes to an end. Y/N doesn't realise that, however. She's not mentally here. She's startled when Severus calls for her.
She refers to him as 'professor', thinking the lesson isn't over. She can tell that he's trying his best not to smirk as he tells her she may call him Severus.
When she finally notices that they are alone, she apologises, feeling embarrassed. She explains to him what has happened. He looks rather surprised to hear that.
She tells him that their fathers arranged it because they went to the Yule Ball together. Which she doesn't find logical at all - didn't Draco tell them that he only went with her to make Pansy jealous? His parents know how much he loves her!
As a few tears leave her eyes, he wipes them away with his thumb and shushes her. He assures her that he will talk to Draco's father and talk him out of it if he gets out of Azkaban.
She really hopes that it will help, but she doubts it.
"Now that we are talking about... love, I know for a fact that your first lesson with Slughorn was about Amortentia. What did you smell?" he suddenly questions, looking curious.
Y/N widens her eyes. "U-umm... I'd preferably not tell, if that's okay" she mutters, her cheeks bright red. She can't tell him... He would just be disgusted with her.
He tries again, promising her he won't judge if it's a Gryffindor. That makes her snort. She assures him that it's not a Gryffindor.
Who does he think she likes, Potter? Weasley? Longbottom? The thought almost makes her burst out laughing.
She congratulates him on now being the Defence Against the Dark Arts teacher. She tells him that Professor Slughorn is good, but he's not him. Nowhere near as good as him. He smirks at that, telling her that her potion will be the best that Slughorn has ever seen.
He then clears his throat. "By the way, I have been wondering... Does your owl always nuzzle people's arms? It has done so each time it has delivered your letters to me" he says, sighing.
That makes her giggle. She tells him that Y/O/N only nuzzles people that he likes. He nibbles her father rather harshly.
She's so glad that he allowed her to keep him. Her owl makes her so happy.
As she's about to leave because of how late it is, Severus tells her that she may always come to him if she's sad, even if he's not the best at cheering someone up.
Well, he always manages to cheer her up, so that's not exactly true. She blushes when he puts a comforting hand on her shoulder.
Before she leaves, she shyly offers him that she can still help him with cleaning the classroom and grading the papers even if he teaches a different subject now. He says he would love that which makes her smile.
She then leaves the classroom and heads towards the common room to cheer Draco up. She really hopes that they can somehow stop their arranged marriage.
--
He Was Bullied (Year 6 Part 5, chapter 33)
Today is Severus' birthday. Their lesson has just ended, and Y/N is now waiting for her owl to bring the present she will give to her Head of House.
The brown owl flies inside the classroom. She thanks her companion before petting him, making him hoot happily.
She faces Severus and hands him the present. He opens it and inspects the cauldron filled with potion ingredients.
"This is indeed the perfect present. Thank you, Y/N" he says, looking at the cauldron. He seems to be admiring its good quality. That makes Y/N smile. It was worth it finding such a fine piece for him.
The brown owl flies onto the professor's desk, nuzzling his arm. He raises an eyebrow while Y/N giggles.
"I think that's his way of saying happy birthday to you" she says, trying to stop giggling. He mutters "Thank you" to the owl.
As her owl nuzzles her cheek, she tells Severus that his instructions were much better. However, Potter somehow knew about the instructions as well.
The information seems to make him deep in thought. He assures he's okay when she asks him that. He then tells her that Draco apparently wanted to go to Slughorn's party - the boy showed up without an invitation.
That makes Y/N feel bad - if Draco had asked her, she would have gone there and brought him with her.
Severus seems to notice the guilt on her face as he assures her it isn't her fault, it's Draco's. She agrees with him. He's right, she couldn't have known unless he asked.
She suddenly notices the time. She waves him goodbye and tells him she hopes that he will have a great birthday.
A few weeks later, Y/N is walking through the halls. She suddenly spots Severus carrying Draco towards the Hospital Wing - he's unconscious.
She hurries towards them, asking him what happened as she follows them inside. Severus puts Draco down on one of the beds before explaining that it was Potter. He attacked him in the bathroom.
She offers help, he however shakes his head and tells her he already used the counter curse. She questions what curse Potter used. That makes Severus look around the Hospital Wing before looking at her seriously. He tells her to promise not to tell anyone what he's about to tell her.
"Very well. You see, when I went to Hogwarts, I used to write down better methods in my Potions books. Apparently, Potter has gotten his hands on one of them. I had written down spells I had created myself. One of them is Sectumsempra - a very dangerous one. If used, it's like you slice your enemy with an invisible sword. The counter curse is called Vulnera Sanentur" he explains.
She widens her eyes. She hesitantly asks why he created it if it was dangerous. Was he trying to defend himself from something?
He takes a deep breath. "You see... I was bullied when I went to Hogwarts. I created the spell to be able to protect myself" he tells her.
Her expression immediately shows sadness as she hugs him tightly.
"Who would ever bully you?" she asks in disbelief, tears in her eyes.
She can't imagine what monsters would do that to him. Why would they even do that?! They were probably jealous of him. She's sure that he was a bright student, and he must have been good-looking in his teen years as well.
He wipes away her tears as he explains it was a group of popular boys. They made sure others watched as they tormented him. She can tell that he's trying not to cry while thinking of the memories.
The thought about those boys makes her sick - what did they do to him? Did they hurt him physically?
She promises him that she won't tell anyone. He can trust her. His secret is safe with her.
--
He's Not a Monster (End of Year 6, chapter 34)
Y/N is hurrying towards the Defence Against the Dark Arts classroom, hoping to find Severus there. She just heard the news - he killed Headmaster Dumbledore.
That puzzles her - why would he do that? She's sure that there's a logical explanation to this. She refuses to believe that he did it in cold blood.
When she's outside the room, she knocks a few times. No answer. Sighing, she slowly opens the door. She immediately spots him on his chair. She can tell that he's shaking.
She slowly approaches him and puts a comforting hand on his shoulder. That makes him slightly jump in his seat. He however doesn't turn around to face her.
"Severus?" she gently asks. She's fine if he grabs her wrist again - she needs to find out what has happened and if he's okay.
He finally looks at her. "Y/N?" he whispers.
She assures him that everything is going to be all right. A few tears leave his eyes.
"Don't you know what I just did?" he whispers, voice cracking.
She tells him that she does. She tells him that she's sure there's a logical explanation to this. She also tells him that she could never hate him - and that's the truth. She retrieves the green handkerchief to gently wipe away his tears.
"You... You still have that?" he whispers, looking shocked. She nods as she shyly reminds him that she would keep it close.
That seems to be too much for him as he falls down to his knees, hugging her and bringing her down with him. All while he's sobbing. Y/N hugs him tightly and shushes him, crying as well.
"I'm sorry, I'm sorry" he says over and over. That makes her hug him tighter. She assures him that he has nothing to apologise for. He takes a deep breath.
"Before I show you something... Do know that everything I did was a part of Headmaster Dumbledore's plan" he says before bringing a shaky hand towards his left arm, pulling up the sleeve.
She then sees it - the Dark Mark.
He explains everything to her - how Dumbledore asked him to kill him because he was dying of a curse anyway, how he had been a spy for him and pretended to be on You-Know-Who's side.
He even reveals that it's the feared wizard's fault that she and Draco are going to get married - he did it to punish their parents.
He also reveals that Draco and his parents are Death Eaters as well. He tells her that he made an Unbreakable Vow in order to keep Draco safe - the boy was supposed to kill the Headmaster, not him.
Y/N is feeling sad and scared. Poor Draco, and Poor Severus...
When he's about to mention her father, she quickly tells him that she knows. She saw the Dark Mark on him when he returned home late at night on the day Cedric Diggory died.
Severus shushes her, having calmed down himself a bit. "I guess we have both hidden secrets from each other, huh?" he says, chuckling. It's however a sad chuckle.
Y/N nods. "You have no idea" she quietly mutters. She really wants to tell him how she feels, but she can't.
He also tells her that You-Know-Who killed her mother because her father was going to leave their side. As tears fall down her cheeks, he immediately wipes them away with his thumb.
She thanks him for telling her everything as she rests her head on his shoulder. He rubs her back soothingly.
"I must leave now. The future is uncertain, however, I will promise you one thing - I will never let anything happen to you. All these years, you have shown me something I never expected from anyone - kindness, respect, appreciation. I truly thank you for that. You have made my days here more than tolerable - you have made them enjoyable. Our friendship means a great deal to me" he admits.
"Our friendship means a great deal to me as well. Hogwarts has been amazing - because of you. Thank you for that, Severus. And I promise not to tell anyone about anything you told me tonight. If you see Draco, please tell him I'm here for him. I'm here for both of you. I can only imagine how scared he must be. Both of you have my support, and you both always will" she tells him, grabbing his hand as she squeezes it.
Severus hugs her tightly, a strangled sob leaving his lips. He suddenly kisses her forehead. That makes her blush more than ever - is this a dream? Did he just do that?
He then tells her he has to go. Before he leaves, he seems to notice that she's deep in thought. He asks if there's something she wishes to tell him.
She opens her mouth before closing it again. She doesn't have the courage to tell her how she really feels.
She clears her throat before begging him to be careful. She doesn't want him to get hurt. He promises her as he leaves.
As she looks at his cloak billowing behind him, she can feel her tears leave her eyes. She might never see him again.
--
Worried About the Headmaster (Year 7 Part 3, chapter 37)
Y/N has been worried about the new Headmaster - Severus. She started noticing that he didn't seem to be eating anything. Which is why she quickly asked the house elves in the kitchen to make sure he gets breakfast, lunch and dinner.
She's sure that he didn't want to eat among all the students, his colleagues and the Carrows - he probably felt like he was getting suffocated, like he couldn't breathe knowing everyone in there dislikes him. Well, everyone except for her and Draco.
She's currently heading towards the Headmaster's office. She wants to talk to him... She needs to talk to him. She really wants to make sure that he's okay.
She has sent Y/O/N up there to check on him. Her brown owl hopefully cheered him up whenever he nuzzled him. She can only hope, at least.
As she's right outside the entrance to the office, she notices the Carrows. That scares her - how can she get past them?!
They immediately spot the Slytherin girl. The two siblings stare at her. "What do you want?" Amycus Carrow demands.
"I was hoping I could talk to the Headmaster" she hesitantly says.
"You can't talk to the Headmaster, he's busy. Why don't you be a good Slytherin and go back to your common room?" Alecto Carrow suggests, sounding irritated.
"I just want to make sure he's okay. It will only take a second" Y/N pleads.
Mr. Carrow gives an evil laugh. "Isn't that adorable? She's worried about the Headmaster. Well, let me tell you, you are the only one. Everybody else hates him. You know what? Sure, you can talk to him... But first," he says as he retrieves his wand.
Y/N widens her eyes - what is he going to do?
"Cru-" he starts just as somebody stops him. It's Severus.
"That's enough. You do know this is Y/L/N's daughter, right? I'm sure the Dark Lord wouldn't want you to harm a fellow Death Eater's child" Severus says, glaring at the siblings.
"My, my. So protective of your Slytherins" Ms. Carrow taunts. Severus ignores her.
"Both of you, leave" he orders.
Huffing, the Carrows do as he says. As they pass Y/N, Mr. Carrow whispers in her ear.
"The Dark Lord should have killed you and your father as well. Y/F/N has been utterly useless" he whispers, smirking evilly.
That makes Y/N shake with fear. Satisfied with the girl's terrified look, he follows his sister.
Sighing, Severus motions for her to follow him to his office. Once they have walked up the stairs, Y/N shyly asks him how he is, fidgeting with her hands.
He tells her that he's fine - he's obviously lying. Before she can ask how he really is, he asks her the same question.
She sighs and tells him that neither she nor Draco is doing too good because of their arranged marriage. They will get married when the war is over and You-Know-Who has won.
He assures her that he won't win, he will make sure of that.
When he asks how the lessons are going, she tells him what's going on in the Defence Against the Dark Arts lessons. They have to practice the Unforgivables on first-years... Severus gets angry when she tells him that the Carrows hurt her because she refused.
She still remembers when they used Cruciatus on her - it was horrible. She has never experienced such horrible pain before.
She gently puts a hand on his, making him blink a few times as he was lost in thought. He tells her that she needs to let them know if they ever hurt her again.
He then tells her that he appreciates the company of her owl. Y/N smiles, now knowing that Y/O/N cheered him up.
When Y/N finally realises that her hand is still on his, she blushes before slowly retrieving it. He might not want her to hold his hand...
He suddenly asks her what her Patronus is. As she's about to answer, one of the guys in the paintings interrupts them, telling them it's curfew soon.
Y/N widens her eyes. "Right! I should probably leave now if I don't want to get punished. It's so good to see you again, Severus" she says, giving him a bright smile.
As she's trying to leave, Severus suddenly hugs her. A bit shocked by his action, she hugs him back, enjoying his embrace.
"You should go now" he whispers.
They tell each other to be careful before she leaves the Headmaster's office. As she does so, she can't help but wonder why he wanted to know what her Patronus is. She also wonders what his is.
--
Saving Him (End of Year 7, chapter 39)
Y/N is doing the best she can to help save her fellow students and her teachers' lives. They know that You-Know-Who will show up soon - he has sent creatures and people to attack Hogwarts.
She's startled when she feels her owl land on her shoulder. "Oh, Y/O/N! Where have you been?" she asks her companion in a worried tone. She would be devastated if he died.
The owl gently nibbles her clothes. She immediately understands - he wants her to follow him! Could someone be in danger?
She follows her owl through the madness. He's taking her to the Shrieking Shack. She wonders who needs her help there.
As she enters, she brings a hand to her mouth, shocked by what she sees.
Severus... He's bleeding from his throat. He seems to be unconscious.
She hurries to his side, tears falling down her cheeks. "No... Severus..." she whispers.
Wiping her eyes dry with her sleeve, she inspects his throat. She notices a few snake bites... Wait a minute, snake bites. Could it be the same snake that attacked Arthur Weasley two years ago?
She immediately retrieves something from her pockets - the antidote she got from volunteering at St. Mungo's Hospital. She still can't believe they were just going to throw it out!
Not wasting any time, she quickly makes Severus drink the liquid. "Come on, come on..." she whispers.
As she hears him breathe, she cries in happiness. He's alive!
"Y/O/N, can you get Professor McGonagall? I can't carry him myself" she pleads to her owl. Nodding his head, he immediately flies away from the Shrieking Shack.
As she's waiting, Y/N rests her head on Severus' chest, listening to his heartbeat.
"Please make it... Please don't die..." she whispers. He might be breathing, but he needs medical attention in the Hospital Wing.
She sighs as she looks up at him. "I love you..." she whispers, wrapping her arms around him. She decides to kiss his cheek. She might never see him again...
Professor McGonagall suddenly appears with Madam Pomfrey right behind.
"Severus!" the Head of Gryffindor exclaims.
Y/N looks at them, pleading. "Please help him, he's not-" she starts, wanting to tell them he's on their side. However, McGonagall beats her to it.
"Don't worry, dear. We know. Potter has defeated him" she states.
Y/N widens her eyes - You-Know-Who is dead? And they know that Severus wasn't on his side?
"We need to get him to the Hospital Wing. Quick!" Madam Pomfrey tells them.
Nodding, they help each other with carrying an unconscious Severus. When they enter the Hospital Wing, they quickly lay him on one of the beds.
Madam Pomfrey inspects him. "You did an amazing job, Ms. Y/L/N. Thanks to you, Professor Snape is going to be okay" she states, smiling at the girl.
Y/N sighs in relief, smiling. He's going to be okay!
A few hours later, Severus wakes up. Y/N is hurrying towards the Hospital Wing - she just heard the news.
When she sees him, she runs towards him, hugging him tightly. She's making sure not to hurt him, of course.
"Severus!" she exclaims, nuzzling his chest to avoid his throat.
"I thought it was too late..." she whispers, a few tears leaving her eyes.
"Y/N..." he whispers, his arms around her protectively. He sighs in relief.
He asks her how he's alive. She tells him that her owl found him. She gave him the antidote to the venom just in time.
"You saved me... Thank you" he whispers, looking grateful.
"Of course I did. I couldn't let you die" she whispers back, trying to blink away her tears.
She tells him that her and Draco's arranged marriage is getting cancelled now that You-Know-Who is dead. She also tells him that the Malfoys won't go to Azkaban - all thanks to Draco's mother who lied to the feared wizard.
She asks him what he will do now. He tells her that he will retire. When he asks her the same, she tells him that she will apply for an internship at St. Mungo's Hospital once she has finished her NEWTs.
She suddenly remembers to mention Draco and Pansy's wedding in three months. He's invited, so is she.
"Thank you for letting me know. When will your wedding be?" he asks, smirking as her face turns bright red.
"Oh, I'm not getting married..." she says, trying to let her cheeks calm down.
Severus raises an eyebrow at that. "You aren't? I thought you fancied someone?" he questions.
She sighs. "I do, but... Let's just say it's complicated" she decides to say. She can't tell him the truth.
McGonagall enters the Hospital Wing. "I'm sorry to interrupt, but your father has come to take you home, Ms. Y/L/N" she states, looking between the two.
Nodding, Y/N turns to Severus. She then hugs him. "Promise you will write to me?" she asks, sniffling.
Severus hugs her back, protectively.
"Of course. Perhaps, if you would like, you could visit me during the summer?" he questions.
"Always. Just let me know when you want to see me" she replies, chuckling.
She reluctantly leaves him. As she's leaving, she sighs. She already misses him. She hopes that they will see each other again soon.
She immediately spots her father outside. When he spots her as well, he hurries towards her and hugs her.
"Oh, Y/N! I'm sorry, I'm so sorry!" he says over and over, hugging his daughter tightly.
She offers him a reassuring smile as she hugs him back. "Don't worry, Father. I know you didn't wish for this to happen. Let's go home" she tells him.
Nodding, he kisses her forehead before he apparates them to Y/L/N Manor.
As she's in her room, she looks at the green handkerchief in her hand. She smiles as a tear leaves her left eye.
"I miss him already..." she whispers.
Her owl lands on her shoulder, nuzzling her cheek to cheer her up. She chuckles at that, thanking her companion as she pets him. He hoots happily at that.
She's deep in thought as she does so. When will she see Severus again?
--
He Loves Her Back (Three
Months Later, chapter 40)
Y/N is standing outside Severus' door in Spinner's End, her owl on her shoulder. As she knocks on his door, she can feel the butterflies in her stomach. This is the first time she will be alone with him in his home.
She had thought about telling him how she feels, but keeps deciding against it. She knows he won't feel the same, knows that he will be disgusted with her...
When he opens the door, she smiles at him. "Severus! I missed you so much!" she exclaims, hugging him tightly. She has truly missed him, they haven't seen each other for three months.
Her owl flies off her shoulder just in time, hooting happily.
Severus chuckles as he hugs her back, telling her that he missed her too.
When he suddenly sighs, she looks worried. What's wrong?
She feels even more worried when he says he needs to tell her something. What does he want to tell her? Does he not want to see her again? Is he ending their friendship?
"I love you, Y/N. I love you so much, with all my heart. I have for such a long time. And I don't mean as friends, I mean as... more. I know this is inappropriate, considering not long ago you were my student, and also the fact that I am twenty years older than you, but I do. I really do love you. I understand that you don't love me back as you love someone else, I understand if you are disgusted with me right now. But please know that I just had to tell you, I would go insane if I didn't. If you agree, we can stay friends... If you wish to never see me ever again, I promise I won't ever bother you..." he confesses.
"I don't love someone else, Severus. You are the one I love. You are what I smelled in the Amortentia potion. I was just afraid to tell you since you were my teacher. I was afraid you would hate me" she admits.
He lets his tears fall after hearing that. She wipes them away with the handkerchief he gave her.
"My Patronus changed... into a brown owl. And I smelled you in an Amortentia potion as well" he confesses.
Now it's Y/N's turn to let her tears fall down her cheeks. He wipes them away with his thumb before resting his forehead on hers.
He grabs her hands, slowly bringing them to his lips before kissing them. That makes her blush yet also smile more than ever.
As they look at each other, she notices the scar left on his neck after the snake bite. It's a sign that he survived. His scar makes him even more handsome than he already is.
They lips then meet. Y/N is feeling overwhelmed with emotions. She's so happy - she gets to kiss him! She's on her tiptoes as they kiss slowly and passionately.
They reluctantly pull away when they need air. They are flustered and breathing heavily. She gives him a bright smile. His pink cheeks suit him.
She rests her head on his chest as he rubs her back, giving her a forehead kiss. She cherishes the moment - she has dreamed about this. She however never thought in her wildest dreams that it would become real.
Severus smiles, his lips still on the top of her head. "I believe this means we can be together... If you wish to give it a chance" he tells her.
"I would love to. I would love to spend the rest of my life with you, Severus Snape" Y/N says, smiling as well.
"And I with you, Y/N Y/L/N" he says as he kisses her right cheek.
The owl hoots happily, seeming thrilled to have witnessed this.
They suddenly hear someone yell outside the door. It's Draco. Severus wandlessly opens the door, revealing Draco, his parents and even Professor McGonagall. The new Headmistress of Hogwarts greets them. Y/N shyly greets back, she and Severus still holding each other.
Mr. Malfoy explains that Draco and Narcissa had bet with his money about Y/N and Severus - Draco won. Even McGonagall had bet with Dumbledore.
That's interesting... Was it that obvious?
When Draco asks them when their wedding will be, Y/N and Severus look at each other. The man in black then suggests that they have a double wedding - they will get married in Malfoy Manor on the same day as Draco and Pansy's wedding. They agree to that.
A week later, it's time for the wedding. Severus has just finished helping Draco and Pansy with their wedding vow. It's now his and Y/N's turn to get married. Draco's father has agreed to perform their marriage ceremony.
"Will you, Severus Tobias Snape, take Y/N Y/M/N Y/L/N as your wife?" Mr. Malfoy asks as he looks at his friend.
Severus doesn't hesitate at all. "Yes, I do" he says, caressing Y/N's hand with his thumb.
"And will you, Y/N Y/M/N Y/L/N, take Severus Tobias Snape as your husband?" Mr. Malfoy asks as he looks at Y/N.
She smiles. "I do" she states.
"I hereby pronounce you husband and wife" the blonde-haired man declares as a golden light covers their hands, sparkles evolving them.
Y/O/N hoots happily, basking his wings in excitement.
As everybody cheers, Y/N notices that her father is cheering as well. He has tears in his eyes. That makes her smile - he's happy for her.
She smiles as she looks into her husband's eyes.
"I love you, Severus Snape" Y/N says, giving him a bright smile.
"And I love you, Y/N Snape" he says, his forehead resting on hers.
As she and Severus kiss to seal their marriage, she can't help but smile into the kiss. She definitely doesn't regret falling in love with the Potions Master. It's the best decision she has ever made in her life.
What started as friendship between the Potions Master and his student ended up being love for a lifetime. And she's going to cherish him and their bond every day for the rest of her life.
THE END
———————————————
Author's note:
The next one shot "Daughter's Boyfriend" will be published on 8/23/2022!
