In Need

CHAPTER 24

NOTES:

Hello, my dear reader.

It's been a long time coming, I know and I apologize. Adult life came to spit in my face and prevented me from writing for five whole months. Besides, I sort of got stuck in this chapter. I knew how I wanted to continue, but words just didn't flow and nothing made sense.

Finally, though, it's here! Chapter 24.

Without further delay, enjoy!!

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"Severus?" Harry asked, and for a split second Severus was surprised to see how attuned he was to his moods and changes, "what's wrong?"

Severus turned around, the letter still in his hand, and he swallowed. Just one word, just one, and it sent his world crumbling down at his feet.

"Rosie."

.

Severus's jaw cracked and he pressed his teeth together, trying to not make a sound. His eyes never left the short letter, written in sloppy handwriting.

Rosie.

A sudden hand on his shoulder made him jump out of his skin, and he set his eyes in front of him, where Harry was, concern showing on his face.

"What happened?" he asked.

Severus shook his head, and without a word, he passed him the note. All colour drained from his face, and he imagined he looked the same.

"We need to go," Harry said, "you need to be there when... it happens."

"You're coming?" he asked in a reedy voice.

"Of course I am," Harry answered, his tone soft. He didn't say more, but he didn't need to either.

Severus took another look at the note. He read it once, and then again, his eyes going fast through the words.

Severus,

I'm afraid I don't have good news, my boy. I feel weak and tired. I know it's a lot to ask on such short notice, but I would like to see you tonight. I have some things to tell you.

Hoping to see you and Harry soon,

Rosie

He folded the note, placed it in his pocket with the utmost care, and then made for the door, with Harry right behind him.

No words were necessary as they walked the flights of stairs they had just descended, and crossed the Front Gate and the school grounds. They walked, side by side and in silence until they were on the outside of the apparition wards.

Severus couldn't stop thinking about the note. It was written in cramped and tidy handwriting, although uneven, and he knew it had taken Rosie a huge effort to write it. His fingers curled around the piece of paper in his pocket, and for a second he wished, more than anything, to go back in time.

"Ready?"

Harry's voice took him out of his musings. He nodded, grabbing his offered hand.

Severus swallowed when he felt Harry's fingers interlacing with his, showing him silent support. He felt his affection and warmth through their contact and was thankful for that.