The Lights Will Guide You Home

by Genuine-Discord

When Neville begins self-harming, who will come to his rescue but his dreaded Potions Professor? On the way, the way, Neville finds that maybe he isn't so different, and there is hope for him. Snape/Neville mentor/apprentice relationship. TRIGGERING.

2. Getting Help

-ooOoo- Chapter 2: GETTING HELP

When they entered the staff room later that evening, Snape said silkily, "You may do your homework while you wait." He jerked his chin over at a small couch against the far wall.

Neville nodded and practically skipped over to the couch, plopping down and taking his Charms essay out. The other members of the faculty watched suspiciously as Snape sat calmly. The meeting flew by quickly, and when it was over, Snape asked McGonagall and Dumbledore to stay.

"Mr. Longbottom, if you would kindly show the Headmaster and Professor McGonagall your left arm." Snape drawled.

Neville rolled his sleeve up and shyly revealed the recently healed cuts. A gasp came from the Transfiguration professor, whose eyes widened. "Mr. Longbottom!" She cried, voice thick with horror.

"Minerva!" Snape growled, voice low and velvety. "Do not ever use that tone with a student going through this."

Neville felt heat rise to his cheeks at Snape's protection. "Today in class I noticed Mr. Longbottom having trouble with adding ingredients. And his sleeve slipped, and I saw the cuts. I healed them and at his request, left the scars."

Albus nodded. "Professor Snape holds mini-conferences with some of his Slytherins and some of the other house members that have problems with depression. You may attend, Mr. Longbottom." The old man said.

Neville smiled. "Thank you, Professors."