The Assistant || Severus Snape x Reader ||

Chapter 43: The Confession

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A/N: I'm so so so nervous for this chapter. BEFORE SOMEONE ASKS, THIS ISN'T THE END. There were a million ways I thought about writing this and I'm still not certain with how I'm going to approach this (which is why this is so long). Any and all feedback is encouraged and welcome because it can definitely inspire me. Also, yes, I changed the story cover. I'm no graphic designer by any means, but I just thought this one was a little better on the eyes.

*Smut ahead*

"I guess I need to go then."

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The tone in the room was unbearable and uncomfortable. Severus was sure that his awkward shifting was giving him away to everyone at the table. Several harsh seconds passed without another word being spoken. Every set of eyes in the room were currently boring holes into Severus' frame, anxiously awaiting an answer for different reasons.

"Miss [L/N] is...a model student. She's very skilled at Potions and has never given me any real trouble." Severus told as cooly as possible.

He wasn't showing it on his hard exterior, but he felt like he was crumbling on the inside. His heart was pounding with every pump of blood and he was sure that he'd break out in a sweat if he didn't try to keep his composure. The way that Lucius was glaring at him made Severus sick to his stomach. Severus had been backed into a corner and he wasn't sure if he'd be able to get out unscathed.

"It's my understanding that you and [Y/N] have spent some time together." Cornelius went on.

Severus' glance fluttered to Dumbledore, who gave a reassuring nod to prompt Severus to go on.

"We have. Albus assigned her to me at the beginning of the term." Severus remarked with full honesty.

Being truthful was what Severus was going for. He knew that lying had only gotten him into trouble in the last few months. Severus knew that any fib he had told had hurt you, and he had made a solemn swear to himself that he'd never do that again. But he'd rather lie and keep you around than tell the truth and never see you again. You were worth too much to him.

On the other side of that coin, he was afraid you'd be disappointed in him for lying just save your skin. And having to deny his love for you? That hurt worse than anything he could ever dream up.

He didn't know what to do. Using a Forgetfulness Charm crossed his mind for a moment, but Obliviating a large group of people rarely ever went right. As long as Draco Malfoy was around, Severus might end back up in the situation time and time again.

"When you say 'assigned'..." Cornelius acquired, asking for some elaboration.

Severus sat up even straighter, clearing his throat before speaking again.

"I was having difficulties keeping up with all of my responsibilities. Albus suggested that she become my assistant until I could get a grip on things again." He went on.

McGonagall, Sprout, and Flitwick were all watching and listening intently. Something told Severus that they had no idea why this meeting had been put together.

"So it was a temporary arrangement?" Cornelius asked.

Severus was holding his breath, hoping that maybe he'd pass out and they'd put this off until further notice. Truth be told, Cornelius Fudge hadn't the slightest idea of who you were. He wouldn't have known who you were if you were standing in the middle of the table with a sign on your head. However, the accusation had been brought forth to him, and it was his job to see it through.