Severus stared in horror at the still-as-stone form of Minerva McGonagall. She had been found petrified, on the third floor by Professor Sprout, thankfully before any of the students could awake and find her. Severus sobbed quietly as he took her cold frozen hand. He had not loved anyone like this since Lily Potter. Always closing himself off, though many a-woman had tried to seduce him, his true love lay in the petrified woman before him.

Madame Pomfrey, who was standing with Dumbledore and Professor Sprout, turned and walked out to give them some privacy. Sprout and Dumbledore followed her. "Minerva, Minerva," Snape cried, "Why have you left me like this? I have loved you for quite the time and yet, I know you do not feel the same. I'm so sorry, Minerva." With that, he got up and walked out, unable to stand being near her still-as-death form. Dumbledore pulled him aside, as Professor Sprout and Madame Pomfrey hurried in to take his place.

"Severus, why do you cry so? Pomona and Poppy shall see to her and have her back to 'life' before you know it." Dumbledore said, soothingly.

"Albus, I do not think you understand," Snape began, "I love that woman so much. But I know that she does not love me back. She despises me as any Gryffindor would. Albus, please you must know that I weep for her being Petrified, but also for the hate she will spew on me upon her return to 'life' as you so put it."

"Perhaps, perhaps she loves you and is afraid of you not loving her back." Dumbledore stated wisely.

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Alright, here it is! Second chapter. Thank you to everyone who's reviewed and favorited it. I'm not sure what will happen next, so if you have any ideas, bring 'em forth!