Severus Snape's usual composed demeanor faltered as he stood before the blackboard, attempting to instruct his fourth-year students on advanced potion ingredients. A sharp, searing contraction struck without warning, and Severus was forced to clutch the edge of his desk, his breath catching as he struggled to maintain control despite the intense pain.
"—and remember, the effectiveness of the potion depends greatly on—"
Another contraction came, sharper and more relentless than the last. Severus's breaths came in ragged, uneven gasps, and his normally steady hands trembled as he fought to stay upright. His face, usually pale, flushed with the effort of holding himself together, his body wracked with pain that threatened to break his focus.
"Professor Snape, are you alright?" a concerned student asked, their gaze flicking to his rigid posture and pale complexion.
Severus forced a tight, strained smile, his voice low and clipped. "I'm fine. Continue with your work."
Despite the effort it took, he managed to finish the lesson, though every step toward the dungeons felt like an arduous journey. His movements were slow and pained, each contraction forcing him to stop, his body trembling as he steadied himself with deep, laboring breaths. When he finally reached his quarters, he collapsed into a nearby chair, his face contorted with discomfort.
Harry Potter, having received Severus's urgent message, hurried into the dungeons. The moment he entered, he noticed Severus's obvious distress, the professor's usually stern expression now replaced with visible pain.
"Professor Snape! What's happening?" Harry asked, his voice filled with concern.
Severus glanced up at Harry, his usual composure shattered by the strain of his condition. "Harry... I need—" He was cut off by another powerful wave of pain, his body trembling as he gripped his abdomen and gasped.
Before Harry could react, Lucius Malfoy arrived, his calm, composed presence a stark contrast to the urgency in the room. He quickly assessed Severus's condition, taking immediate control of the situation. "Severus, let's get you settled somewhere more comfortable."
Harry, deeply concerned, rushed to assist. "Professor, just hold on. I'm here with you."
Together, Lucius and Harry helped Severus to a nearby cot. Severus's breathing came in shallow, rapid bursts as he lay back, his face slick with sweat. His entire body trembled with each contraction, and his usually controlled expression was now marred by the strain of the labor.
Lucius, his voice calm and soothing, began preparing for the delivery. "You're doing very well, Severus. Just focus on your breathing."
The contractions came one after the other, each more intense than the last. Severus groaned with each wave of pain, his body wracked with the effort. Harry remained close by, offering soft words of encouragement and a steadying hand. "You're incredibly strong, Professor. Just keep breathing. We're almost there."
The hours dragged on, each contraction more grueling than the last, Severus's exhaustion palpable. He gripped the edges of the cot, his knuckles white with the effort to stay grounded. Lucius worked with practiced efficiency, his focus unwavering as he supported Severus through each painful surge. Harry remained a constant, his gentle presence a source of comfort as he helped where needed, never straying far from Severus's side.
Finally, after what seemed like an eternity, a particularly strong contraction brought Severus to the edge. The sound of a newborn's cries filled the room, and Severus, drained and spent, exhaled in relief. The pain slowly ebbed away, replaced by the quiet joy of the baby's arrival.
Lucius gently placed the newborn into Severus's arms, his face reflecting satisfaction and care. "It's over, Severus. Congratulations."
Severus, exhausted but overcome with emotion, gazed down at the tiny, swaddled baby in his arms. His usual stern expression softened into something tender, a rare smile crossing his face as he marveled at the new life in his arms. Harry, standing nearby, looked on with a mixture of admiration and relief. "You did it, Professor," he said softly, his voice warm with support.
The room, once heavy with the tension of labor, was now filled with a peaceful calm. Severus, holding his newborn, allowed himself to relax for the first time. Harry stood close by, ready to offer any further assistance, embodying the caring, supportive presence of a big brother as he stood watch over Severus in the quiet aftermath of the experience.