I own nothing (just Eva) , please don't sue.
6. New Horizons.
It was August 31st. The next day Severus would return to Hogwarts for his sixth year. The thought of leaving Spinner's End brought a wave of relief. He had already informed his mother he would be staying at the castle for Christmas, preferring Hogwarts over the tensions in the Snape residence. Though she didn't like it, Eileen understood his reasons.
Severus had everything packed and ready. The next day was going hectic. Normally he would travel with Lily to London, but since the events from last spring, it was no longer the case. The pain of the loss still stung whenever he thought of her. He had a train at 5:30 am, the earliest one possible, a decision made to avoid any unnecessary encounters.
Two weeks ago, when he went to Diagon Alley to purchase additional school supplies, he had secretly hoped to run into Evangeline, but she was nowhere to be seen. He did receive a few letters from her during the rest of the summer, describing her time in New York and her excitement for the new term. Those letters had been a rare comfort. Most of the other letters he received were from Avery or Mulciber, filled with talk of the Dark Lord, trying to convince him to join, or from Rosier, discussing dark magic.
Around six o'clock that evening, there came a knock at the door. Eileen asked her son to get it. As he opened the door, Eva stood there, smiling.
"Hey Sev! Have a nice vacation?" she asked cheerfully.
"It was…tolerable." Severus replied, caught off guard. " What are you doing here?"
"We're heading to London tonight," Eva explained. "My parents are leaving for a magic summit at the Bayou in New Orleans tomorrow. We were up near York visiting my grandfather, I wanted to know if you would like to come with us."
"Really?" Severus asked, still processing the sudden offer.
Before Evangeline could reply, the figure of Henry Easgriff appeared behind her. He was just as Severus remembered him. A tall and imposing man dressed in lavish robes. He looked down at Severus with a polite nod. "Good evening, Severus. I hope you're prepared for the start of the school year."
"Good evening, sir," Severus responded
Evangeline continued "As I was saying, I know I have a thing for jokes, but not for something like this. So, do you want to come with us? I asked my parents to stop here so I could ask you."
Severus hesitated for a moment. "I already have a ticket for the train tomorrow. My mother bought it already."
Henry's brow furrowed slightly, his tone carrying a hint of dismissal. "A train ticket? Surely that's unnecessary. We'll take you directly to London. It's far more suitable than mingling with Muggles on a train. Wouldn't you agree?"
Evangeline looked slightly uncomfortable at the muggle comment. Eileen, who had been listening from the kitchen doorway, stepped forward. He looked at his mother, who, despite her tightened grip on the dishcloth, gave him a reluctant nod.
"You won't be imposing, Severus," Evangeline chimed in, her voice softening. "I asked them to stop here for you."
Henry, clearly unaware of the Snape's concerns, waved a hand dismissively. "It's nothing. Consider it a small expense for the convenience and comfort we can offer. I insist."
Severus could see the practicality in the offer, it was generous. A direct trip to London would certainly be easier, and maintaining the Easgriffs' goodwill might be wise. Even though the thought of accepting made something twist in his chest, his pride perhaps, he forced himself to speak.
"If it is truly no trouble, I accept."
"Great. Let me help you get your stuff." Evangeline said with a smile.
The pair went upstairs to Severus's room. Eva noticed how stark and somber the space was, with dark colors on the walls and dim lighting.
As they made their way back downstairs, Henry stepped forward with a swift, motion of his wand. "Allow me," he said, and the trunk floated down the stairs.
Once all his belongings were at the entrance, Henry signaled for the carriage to appear in front of the house. As was the case last time, the carriage appeared as a vintage Muggle car to the non-wizards. He placed Severus's belongings inside, next to Evangeline's.
Eva approached Severus noticing only his mother was going to see him off "Where's your dad? Doesn't he want to say goodbye?"
Severus took a deep breath, talking about his father was not something he was prepared to do "It is of little concern to him."
Alexandrina and Henry who overheard his response shared a look of concern. They started to wonder what the dynamics of the Snape family were.
Evangeline sensing the tension, softened her tone "Oh, I'm sorry. I sense you don't like to talk about it."
"You are correct."
"Another day perhaps." She suggested
"Perhaps." He replied, ending the conversation.
With the carriage all ready, they set off to London.
The journey was uneventful, filled with light polite conversation. Eva informed Severus they would be staying in a wizard hotel about ten minutes from Kings' Cross, and an easy access to Diagon Alley. She added that he could take one of the beds while she slept on the couch since there were only two bedrooms. He kept insisting that he would take the couch, already feeling like a burden, but Eva firmly refused. She reminded him that he was her guest, and she wouldn't hear of him sleeping on a couch.
When they arrived at the hotel, the Easgriffs decided to upgrade their accommodations. The suite was spacious, with enough beds for everyone. Severus noted the understated elegance of the place, with its polished wooden floors and rich, deep-colored fabrics.
After settling in, they headed to a nearby restaurant in Diagon Alley for a quick meal. The restaurant was cozy and bustling with witches and wizards going about their evening. The meal was brief but pleasant.
Later, back at the hotel, Severus found himself in a comfortable bed, appreciating the privacy and quiet after a long day. Evangeline's parents reminded them to be up by eight-thirty to have breakfast, so they could get to platform 9 without rushing.
Eva woke up at seven, and decided to give Severus an early wake-up call. She snuck into the room noticing how peaceful he looked while sleeping. A mischievous grin spread across her face as she approached the bed, but before she could act, Severus's voice cut through the silence.
"Don't you even think about it." he warned, his eyes still closed but his tone unmistakably firm.
Eva paused, her grin fading slightly. "I wasn't thinking about it… much," she said "but since you're awake. Come on get up and get dressed."
"It's seven in the morning." Severus grumbled, his eyes barely open.
"And your point is?" Eva said, crossing her arms. "It gives us plenty of time to get ready and have fun." her smirk returned "Now, get up, or I'll drag you out myself."
"You wouldn't dare." Severus replied, his eyes narrowing.
"Try me." she challenged.
Severus immediately regretted his words. Without hesitation, Eva grabbed his feet and dragged him out of bed. Determined not to be bested, Severus quickly grabbed her arm and pulled her down with him. They tumbled onto the carpet, laughing, before ending up in a playful wrestle. Severus managed to pin Eva to the ground, holding her wrists firmly.
"Ok, ok you win I give up!" Eva conceded with a laugh. "Now get up before my parents hear us and come in."
Severus nodded, he knew it would look awkward if her parents walked in.
After dressing and ensuring everything was in order, Severus made his way to the main sitting area of the suite. Breakfast was set on the table, brought in by the elves of the hotel. Eva was completely absorbed in her morning routine, unaware of Severus's presence. In one hand, she held a small pastry, the other her powder brush. She was taking bites between touches of her makeup. With her makeup finished, she took another bite of the pastry, and with a sudden burst of energy, she did a little dance, clearly enjoying the taste.
Severus observed silently for a few moments, before speaking up.
"Do you often dance while eating?" he asked.
Eva turned around, slightly startled. "Merlin Severus! How long have you been standing there?"
"Long enough to witness your unique dance moves." He replied.
"Unique? Now that's the nicest thing you've said this morning." Eva shot back, her voice laced with sarcasm. She then pointed to the table, changing the subject. "Hungry? There's plenty of breakfast."
Severus glanced at the table "Umm sure why not."
By ten o'clock, they had finished eating and assembled their belongings. Eva's parents, who had taken their breakfast on the balcony, joined them, helping to ensure everything was in order. Together, they made their way to the station. When they arrived at Platform 9, Henry and Alexandrina assisted with loading the luggage into the compartment before giving their daughter a warm goodbye.
"Now, have a good year," Alexandrina instructed her tone firm but warm. "Work hard, and do try to keep the detentions and pranks to a minimum."
"Sure, Mother," Eva replied, though her grin suggested otherwise.
"We mean it, darling," Henry, with an air of authority, added, "Two months' worth of detention in three weeks last year, Evangeline. That is hardly becoming behavior for someone of your lineage."
"I remember, Father." She responded, "The Howler was quite... memorable."
With a sigh, her parents pulled her into a quick but firm embrace. Alexandrina, noticing Severus's unease, reached out to include him in the hug, though her touch was as formal as it was affectionate. Severus stiffened, clearly unused to such gestures.
"Please make sure she doesn't do anything reckless," Alexandrina added.
"I cannot guarantee it, madam, we are not in the same house," Severus replied.
"True," Henry interjected, with a small, almost imperceptible smirk, "but I have no doubt your influence will be beneficial. You're a sensible young man, after all."
"Thank you, sir," Severus replied.
"It's alright, in class watch over her. She lost Ravenclaw most of their points last year, and the year before that," Alexandrina continued.
"Mother, he doesn't need the inventory," Eva protested.
Alexandrina let out a small giggle, before placing a kiss on her daughter's forehead.
"Now, we must be off," Alexandrina declared, adjusting her perfectly tailored robes. "The Portkey departs in two hours, and I refuse to subject myself to the Ministry's dreadful coffee any longer than necessary. It's astonishing that Grace tolerated such conditions."
With a final, brief hug for their daughter and a polite nod to Severus, the Easgriffs departed. As they left, Severus turned to see Lily getting on the train, saying goodbye to her parents. He chose not to mention it to Eva. They looked at the time, it was already ten-forty.
As they boarded the train, Severus scanned the platform but didn't spot any of his Slytherin friends. Eva, noticing his hesitation, gestured for him to follow her. "Come sit with me," she suggested. "Your friends can find you later if they show up." They found a nice compartment in the middle of the train. It wasn't long until David poked his head in and came to sit with them. David was a tall, lanky Ravenclaw with tousled brown hair, brown eyes and, always ready with a quick comment or joke.
"Hey Eva, Severus, right?" David said, stepping inside.
"Yes," Severus replied curtly, still adjusting to the unfamiliar environment.
"So, how was your holiday?" David asked,
"Great time," Eva answered, glancing at Severus with a smirk. "Severus here came over one day, and we had quite the adventure."
"Really?" said David turning to Severus. "Tell me, did she make you play the piano? I always get that."
Severus shook his head. "No, we played cards. I won."
Eva rolled her eyes. "Only because you refused to play more rounds. But we did have a water duel, and Severus acted like it was a matter of life or death."
David laughed, his eyes twinkling with amusement. "Sounds about right. She's always dragging people into her schemes."
Soon, the compartment filled up as the rest of Eva's friends arrived. The train then started; they were finally on their way to Hogwarts.
As the trolley passed, they stocked up on Chocolate Frogs and other wizarding treats. Severus found himself enjoying the easy conversation. These Ravenclaws were more inviting than Lily's friends. The group discussed their upcoming classes, speculating about Potions, Defense Against the Dark Arts, and the looming NEWTs. The conversation then turned to Quidditch, and Severus noticed Eva's excitement as she talked about the new team that had to be assembled.
"Do you think you'll get the captain's spot?" David asked, leaning forward with interest.
Eva shrugged, "I hope so, haven't heard anything this summer, but last year the captain backed out so it was relegated. If so, my main goal is to sack Lockhart from the team once and for all."
Grace, a petite girl with wavy chestnut hair and warm hazel eyes, nodded in agreement. " Lockhart's got too big of an ego and not enough skill to match it. Lockhart's actions were... questionable."
Mariana, tall with sleek brown hair and piercing dark eyes, rolled her eyes dramatically. "Questionable? They were downright disastrous. If you don't get the captaincy, Eva, I'll personally stage a protest."
As the train started to approach Hogwarts, David suggested he and Severus head to the restrooms to change into their school robes, while Eva, Grace, and Mariana stayed behind to change in the compartment. Once they were done, Severus began making his way back to the compartment when he found himself face-to-face with the Marauders.
" Oh, look who it is: Snivellus" James Potter sneered, "New robes? What are you trying to do, Snape? Impress someone for once?"
Severus narrowed his eyes. "Get out of my way, Potter." he hissed, his hand already inching toward his wand.
"Touchy, touchy," Sirius Black said, leaning in with a smirk. "Upset about messing up your chances with Lils?"
"Yeah," Peter Pettigrew chimed in, eager to be part of the taunting. "Who would want you, Snivellus? You've got nothing going for you."
"Never have and never will." James added.
"I said shut up Potter!" Severus drew out his wand, pointing it at James, but the other member drew theirs as well.
"Look at him, Prongs. He's shaking,", where are your friends now Snivelly?"
Right here, Black. So back off!" Evangeline Easgriff stepped forward, her wand already out and pointed directly at Sirius.
Sirius's smirk faltered, and for a moment, he looked genuinely taken aback. "Are you serious Evangeline? You're defending this git?"
Peter Pettigrew opened his mouth but Eva silenced him with a glare. "Don't you even start Pettigrew, you've got nothing. You follow them around like a puppy! At least Severus has the guts to stand up for himself and make new friends!" She then turned her attention to James and Sirius. "You Potter, I have no idea what Evans sees in you! And you Black you're the worst of all. You all act like a bunch of immature children! Come on Severus, they're not worth it."
Severus, though still boiling with anger, was surprised by how fiercely Eva defended him.
However, she was not finished. "He is my friend. Get that through your thick skulls. You won't hurt him, hex him, jinx him, or anything else. I promise you, it won't end well for you if you do."
James rolled his eyes. "Why should we be scared Evangeline?"
"Because, Potter" she replied coldly. "I know people very well-placed who can get you expelled before we get to Hogwarts."
James scoffed. "And that's supposed to scare me? It doesn't."
"One day it will, and one day all your bullying will come back to haunt you, and we'll be there to see it. Face it, Potter you act all tough and strong in front of your friends, but deep down you're a coward."
Potter seemed momentarily taken aback, his sneer faltering. Eva seized the opportunity, taking Severus by the hand and leading him away from the Marauders.
They could both hear Sirius yell "You're dreaming, Snivellus! You'll never be good enough for her! Wait until Lils hears this!"
Just before they entered the compartment, Severus pulled Eva to the side, his face a mix of anger and frustration.
"What were you doing back there?" he demanded
"Defending you," Eva replied, her tone steady as if it were the most natural thing in the world.
"I didn't ask for your help," Severus shot back, his eyes narrowing. "I could've handled them on my own."
"Really?" Eva retorted, crossing her arms. "Three against one? You might be good at Potions, Severus, but I doubt even you could brew your way out of that."
"That's not the issue, I could handle them." Severus turned away slightly, his jaw clenched. He hated appearing weak and feeling like he needed help. "I'm not some charity case," he muttered.
Eva softened a little. "I know you're not," she said quietly. "But that doesn't mean you have to fight every battle alone. Sometimes it's okay to let someone stand by your side."
Severus didn't respond immediately. He wasn't used to this. His mind briefly flickered back to Lily, the last person who had tried to stand up for him in front of the Marauders, and how that had ended. He wasn't sure he wanted to risk something like that again.
The rest of the journey was calm. When they arrived at Hogsmeade that evening, they pulled out their luggage, which was promptly taken by the house-elves. Severus scanned the crowd, looking for any sign of his Slytherin friends or Lily, but neither were in sight. Lost in his thoughts, he didn't notice that Eva and her friends had already boarded a carriage.
"Hey, Sev!" Eva called out, snapping her fingers to get his attention. "Are you riding with us or not?"
Severus blinked and nodded, quickly getting into the carriage and taking a seat next to Eva. As the carriage started moving, he caught sight of Lily in the carriage behind them, looking at him with a confused expression.
They talked as the carriage brought them to the castle. When they arrived, everyone got down and headed towards the Great Hall for the Sorting Ceremony. Eva's friends moved ahead to join their table, but she held Severus back for a moment.
"You going to be ok?" she asked.
Severus raised an eyebrow. "I see no reason why I shouldn't be."
"Just checking, see you around Severus Snape."
"See you Evangeline Easgriff."
She gave him a smile, fighting desperately the urge to hug him, but gave in. Severus froze, his eyes widening in shock. Physical contact wasn't something he was accustomed to. Hesitantly, almost awkwardly, he began to return the hug, feeling out of his element.
Eva giggled softly. "Now what?" Severus asked, his voice tinged with discomfort.
"Nothing." She broke the hug, stepping back with a playful grin. "See you tomorrow."
Eva walked off towards the Ravenclaw table, leaving Severus standing there for a moment, still processing what had just happened. He quickly snapped out of it and went to the Slytherin table, sitting by Avery, who seemed to have noticed his absence earlier.
"Look who finally decided to grace us with his presence." Avery said, eyeing Severus.
"I didn't realize my whereabouts were of such great concern to you, Avery." Severus replied.
Mulciber, who was sitting across from them, smirked and joined in. "Call it curiosity Snape. We didn't see you on the train. Where were you?"
Severus's expression hardened. "It's none of your concern, Mulciber."
Avery exchanged a look with Mulciber, his interest clearly piqued. "Was it Easgriff? I thought I saw you two talking over there. Quite a display, if you ask me."
Severus's eyes flashed with irritation. "It was nothing. Just a conversation."
"Right. Just a conversation. But just so you know, a few people saw it too. Including the Mudblood. She didn't look too happy about it."
Severus's jaw tightened at the mention of Lily. "Wonderful" he thought. If it was the Marauders, they wouldn't let him forget it, and he dreaded to think how much Lily had seen.
The Great Hall doors opened letting in the first-year students. The Sorting Hat sang its familiar song, full of cryptic wisdom and warnings, before the sorting began. Severus watched with only mild interest, his thoughts elsewhere as the ceremony continued.
Once the last of the new students had been sorted into their respective houses, Professor Dumbledore rose from his seat, his eyes twinkling as he addressed the students.
"Welcome, welcome to another year at Hogwarts." he began "I would like to say a few words before we begin our delicious feast. Another year of full of magical education awaits you, some for the first time. I would like to remind you all, that the Dark Forest is of course strictly forbidden to all students. May this new year, be the opening to success in OWLs, NEWTs, and exams for all. May it also be the beginning of new friendships. Now let the feast begin."
The feast proceeded smoothly, with the usual array of delectable dishes appearing on the tables. As the evening wore on and the feast came to an end, the students began to make their way to their respective dormitories. Severus, caught a few glances from the students, who witnessed the hug between him and Eva. He ignored them, heading for the Slytherin common room when he suddenly heard hurried footsteps behind him. Turning, he saw Eva, slightly out of breath and holding a small package.
"Here." she said, a little winded. "I…forgot… to give this to you earlier, it's from…when I was in New York."
Severus took the package, his expression carefully neutral. "You didn't have to," he muttered, already feeling a bit uncomfortable.
Eva smiled lightly. "I wanted to. And don't worry, I didn't expect anything in return. The hug was enough for me."
Severus hesitated, then nodded stiffly. "Thank you."
Eva gave him one last smile before turning and hurrying back towards the Ravenclaw tower. With curfew approaching, she didn't want to risk losing points for her house so early in the term. Carefully, he unwrapped it to reveal a small book titled Roea & Leraze: The Guide to American Potion Making. A rare, almost imperceptible smile tugged at the corners of his mouth. He wasn't used to such gestures, but perhaps… this time, he could make an exception.
~~~~~~~~END OF CHAPTER~~~~~~~~
I hoped you liked this chapter, don't forget to review please. Thank you for reading this and following it as well.
Again thank you for reading this.
Until next time *Looks at DADA book* "Page 394."