The star, his moon and their comets

CHAPTER 30 The Mystery of the Petrified Cats

In the quiet of the Slytherin common room, Emma couldn't shake the feeling that she needed to make amends with her godfather, Severus Snape. She knew that her outburst in Potions class had not only cost her house points but had also strained their relationship. As she sat in the dimly lit room, the emerald-green decor casting an eerie glow, she contemplated the best way to approach him.

After some moments of reflection, Emma decided that a personal visit to Snape's office might be the most sincere way to convey her apology. She knew it wouldn't be an easy conversation, but she needed to make things right. With that determination in her heart, she quietly left the common room and made her way to the dungeons, where Snape's office was located.

As Emma stood outside Severus Snape's office, fidgeting with the necklace he had given her, memories of their shared moments flooded her mind. She remembered the times he had helped her with her studies, his quiet encouragement, and the genuine care he had shown for her the past year. The necklace, a symbol of their bond, hung around her neck like a reminder of their connection.

Her fingers traced the pendant's intricate design, a delicate piece of craftsmanship that held sentimental value beyond its beauty. It was a testament to the complex relationship they shared—teacher and student, godfather and goddaughter.

Emma took a deep breath, her determination bolstered by the memories of their closeness. She knew that apologizing to Snape was the right thing to do, not just to mend the strained bond but also to preserve the special connection they had.

She paused for a moment, gathering her thoughts and summoning her courage. She raised her hand and knocked gently, waiting for his response.

The door to Severus Snape's office creaked open, revealing the dimly lit room inside. The professor stood there, his dark eyes fixing on Emma as he silently regarded her. His expression was inscrutable, as usual, but there was a hint of curiosity in his gaze.

"Miss Potter," Snape finally spoke, his voice low and measured. "To what do I owe the pleasure of your visit at this late hour?"

Emma began tentatively, "I wanted to ask... Are you still upset about the flying car incident?"

Snape regarded her with his usual inscrutable expression for a moment before responding, "I am disappointed, as any guardian would be, that you and your brother put yourselves in danger and violated school rules. However, that matter has been addressed, and there is no need to dwell on it further."

Emma persisted, her concern evident in her voice. "But, Godfather, you've been acting... different. Is everything truly alright between us?"

Snape sighed softly, his features softening just a fraction. "Emma, you are a bright and perceptive young witch. It is true that recent events have left me with some... complexities. However, that does not change the fact that I care for your safety and well-being. I only wish to see you succeed and avoid unnecessary risks."

He paused, as if choosing his words carefully. "You are not a child anymore, and I understand that you will make your own decisions. My role as your godfather is to guide and protect you to the best of my ability, even if it means showing my concern in unconventional ways."

Emma nods, "I truly am sorry Godfather, and I have missed you."

Emma's sincere apology and admission of missing him seemed to touch a chord within Snape. He nodded in acknowledgment, his dark eyes softening with a hint of warmth.

"Apologies accepted, Emma," he replied quietly. "And I have missed our discussions as well."

Trying to lighten the mood, Emma decided to cheekily bribe her godfather as she smiles and flutters her eyelashes, "Is there time for a cup of chocolate milk?"