A/N Yeah I know it's been a while. Hasn't been beta checked so be kind.
"""
Albus shook his head, still unsure of something. "How did Voldemort know we were lovers?"
Severus was a man very much in control of his emotions. A blink was the only indication he gave of his shock and … was it something akin to admiration that Albus detected in his eyes?
"I don't know that he did. He certainly never mentioned it."
Albus didn't understand. "But then why Minerva?"
Severus regarded him intently, no doubt astounded at his lack of insight. "You trusted her enough to make her your second-in-command at the school. Wouldn't it seem only natural to assume that you would also confide in her about other things?"
Like that the professors depart Hogwarts the same day as the students, that was an entirely obvious idea that had never occurred to Albus. In so many ways lately it seemed that they – no, he was merely playing catch up. Voldemort never left him time enough to think ahead or contemplate the larger picture.
"I owe a great debt to you, Severus. You have put yourself at immense risk on Minerva's behalf. I offer you whatever protections I can. We will go to the Ministry. I shall vouch for you there and then we can get you into hiding."
Severus shook his head. "Hiding will do no good. I am marked. If the Dark Lord wishes to find me, he will. I must return to him."
"Severus, once Voldemort learns that Minerva is alive he will realize that you have betrayed him. To return is folly!"
Again Severus shook his head. "The Dark Lord will no doubt suspect me. To attempt to run would be tantamount to a confession. I have…another plan. Besides, you will have trouble enough protecting McGonagall. The Dark Lord has never been one to leave survivors. He will not take well her being alive. He will do all that he can to find her to rectify the situation."
Knowing the young man's words to be true, Albus allowed him to leave. Severus had managed to keep himself alive this long, Albus would have to trust him to continue doing so. Besides, Severus was correct, Albus would have his hands full trying to keep Minerva safe. And as he departed to resume his vigil at her bedside, he was all too aware that that was a task at which he simply could not fail again.