Unexpected Fate (Severus Snape x Reader)

𝟎𝟒 - 𝓢𝓮𝓬𝓻𝓮𝓽𝓼

The news spread through the castle like wildfire: Harry Potter was in the hospital wing after an encounter with Voldemort. The students buzzed with speculation, their whispers echoing through the halls. As I made my way to breakfast, the atmosphere in the Great Hall was electric with tension and curiosity.

I took my seat at the staff table, noting the somber expressions on my colleagues' faces. Professor McGonagall looked particularly troubled, her usually stern demeanor tinged with worry.

"Good morning, Minerva," I said softly, sitting down next to her. "Is it true? About Harry?"

She nodded, her lips pressed into a thin line. "Yes, (Y/N). He and his friends went down the trapdoor to stop You-Know-Who from obtaining the Philosopher's Stone. It's a miracle they survived."

I felt a chill run down my spine. "I can't believe it. Those children are incredibly brave, but they shouldn't have had to face such danger."

"Indeed," McGonagall agreed. "Dumbledore is with Harry now. He's expected to make a full recovery, but it was a close call."

As we talked, I noticed Severus Snape's empty seat across the table. My curiosity piqued, but I decided to focus on the present conversation.

"(Y/N)," McGonagall continued, "you've done remarkably well since joining us mid-year. I can't imagine how challenging it's been to step in so suddenly."

"Thank you, Minerva," I replied, appreciating her kind words. "It's been an eventful term, to say the least."

After breakfast, I headed to my classroom, reflecting on how quickly the year had flown by. My students were excited for the summer holidays and the final festivities, but the day's earlier news had cast a shadow over their usual exuberance.

That afternoon, as I was preparing for my final lesson, Neville Longbottom lingered at the door, looking anxious.

"Professor (L/N)" he said hesitantly, "can I talk to you?"

"Of course, Neville," I replied, beckoning him inside. "What's on your mind?"

"It's Professor Snape," Neville admitted, wringing his hands. "I'm still terrified of him. Every time I'm in Potions, I feel like I'm going to mess up, and he'll... well, you know."

I nodded, understanding his fears. "Professor Snape can be intimidating, Neville, but he's also an excellent teacher. He wants his students to succeed, even if he has an unusual way of showing it."

Neville looked doubtful. "I wish I could believe that, Professor."

"I know it's hard," I said gently. "But try to focus on the subject, not the person. And remember, you're not alone. If you ever need help, don't hesitate to ask."

"Thank you, Professor (Y/L)" Neville said, managing a small smile. "I'll try."

As the day progressed, the excitement for the end-of-year feast grew. The Great Hall was resplendent with decorations in the colors of the four houses. The atmosphere was festive, yet there was an undercurrent of suspense as everyone awaited the announcement of the House Cup winner.

Dumbledore stood and raised his hands for silence. "Another year has come to an end," he began, his voice carrying through the hall. "And what a year it has been. We have seen acts of bravery and friendship that remind us of the true spirit of Hogwarts."

The students listened intently, their eyes fixed on the headmaster.

"And now, for the House Cup. In fourth place, Hufflepuff, with 352 points. In third place, Ravenclaw, with 426 points. In second place, Gryffindor, with 452 points."