A/N: I don't own Harry Potter

This is for the Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry

Assignment #8 History of Magic - Task #2 - Basil Flack (1752)- Write about someone resigning/quitting their job

Word Count: 406

"I'm done! I am done dealing with these dunderheads. I am done being insulted behind my back. I am done listening to their inane chatter about who snogged who!" Severus shouted. Minerva raised an eyebrow.

"Are you quite finished with your rant, Severus , or would you like to complain about the dampness of the dungeon as well?" she asked.

"I am finished," he admitted. "Minerva, please. I've been teaching for so long as a spy for Albus. I never had a chance to pursue much else."

"You're quitting."

"Yes, in a way. Think of it as an early retirement," Severus stated staring at Minerva. She met his eyes and nodded slowly. With a sigh, she summoned a sheet of parchment. He stared at her. "You knew."

"I knew you were not happy here, Severus. I know you're thinking about proposing to Miss Granger." Severus' eyes widened. Minerva sighed. "Not much escapes my notice, Severus. I've seen the two of you in the hallway when no one is looking."

"You never said anything."

"Why should I have? She's a teaching apprentice, not yours, so there is no real conflict of interest. Also, she is an adult. I have little say in people's personal relationships. Now, about you quitting, Severus. What would you do?"

"I'd travel, finish my research finally. Take Hermione anywhere her heart desires."

"This form releases you from your duty to the school, in both teacher and head of house capacity. Since it is nearly end of term, you will be required to finish the term however."

"And I will not be forced out of retirement like Slughorn?"

"I doubt wild thestrals could force you to do anything against your wishes, Severus. I do honestly hope you've already gotten a replacement lined up?"

"Obviously, my teaching assistant, Miss Bulstrode will be happy to take my place if you will have her?"

"It looks like you've covered everything," Minerva commented as Severus picked up a quill and scribbled his name across the parchment. He felt her watch him as he left her office. He knew he had made the right choice, he'd have to finish the term, but the idea that he could spend the summer not making lesson plans brought a slight smile to his face. He could hardly wait to tell Hermione at dinner and start planning a real vacation for the first time. Maybe somewhere tropical, with her wearing a bikini?