Bound by Potions | Snarry

/ Finding Common Ground

Over the next few weeks, Harry and Snape made a concerted effort to understand each other. It was awkward and challenging, but they both knew it was necessary if they ever hoped to break the bond. Their interactions were still strained, but there were moments when they managed to find common ground.

One such moment occurred during a particularly stormy evening. Harry was in the library, pouring over ancient texts and grimoires, when Snape appeared, a stack of books in his arms. He sat down across from Harry without a word, and they both continued their research in silence.

After a while, Harry looked up and asked, "Professor, can I ask you something?"

Snape raised an eyebrow but nodded. "Go on, Potter."

"What made you decide to become a Potions Master?" Harry asked, genuinely curious.

Snape seemed taken aback by the question. He hesitated for a moment before answering. "Potions have always fascinated me. The precise nature of the ingredients, the delicate balance required to create a successful potion... it's a discipline that requires both intellect and intuition."

Harry listened intently, surprised by Snape's passion. "Did you always want to teach?"

Snape's expression darkened slightly. "No. Teaching was not my first choice. But it allowed me to continue my research and ensure that future generations understood the importance of potions."

Harry nodded, feeling a new respect for Snape's dedication. "I never really thought about it that way. Potions always seemed so... complicated."

Snape's lips twitched in what might have been the beginning of a smile. "They are. But they are also immensely rewarding when done correctly."

Harry couldn't help but smile back. "I guess I never gave it a fair chance. Maybe I should try harder."

Snape regarded him with a mixture of surprise and approval. "Perhaps you should, Potter. You might find that you have a talent for it, after all."

Their conversation drifted to other topics, and Harry found himself learning more about Snape than he ever thought possible. He discovered that Snape had a deep appreciation for literature and had a particular fondness for Muggle poetry. It was a side of Snape he had never seen before, and it made him realise just how little he truly knew about the man.

In return, Harry shared stories about his time at the Dursleys, his struggles with fame, and his fears about the future. He was surprised by how easy it was to talk to Snape once the initial barriers were broken.

As the evening wore on, they continued their research together, the atmosphere between them markedly more relaxed than it had ever been. Harry began to see Snape not just as his harsh Potions professor, but as a complex individual with his own struggles and passions.

One night, as they were walking back to their respective quarters, Harry hesitated at the door to Snape's office. "Professor, I just wanted to say... Thank you. For trying to make this work."

Snape paused, looking at Harry with an unreadable expression. "We both have much to gain by breaking this bond, Potter. But... you are welcome."

Harry nodded, feeling a sense of gratitude. "Goodnight, Professor."

"Goodnight, Potter."

As he made his way to Gryffindor Tower, Harry couldn't help but feel a sense of hope. They were making progress, however slow and tentative. It was a far cry from the animosity that had once defined their relationship.

The following day, during a rare free period, Harry found himself back in the library, this time with Hermione and Ron. He recounted his conversation with Snape, feeling a strange mixture of pride and disbelief.

"That's incredible, Harry," Hermione said, her eyes shining with enthusiasm. "You're really making progress."

Ron looked sceptical but supportive. "Just be careful, mate. Snape's still Snape."

Harry nodded. "I know, but I think there's more to him than we realised. And if it helps break this bond, it's worth it."

Hermione smiled. "You're right. Keep at it, Harry. We'll find a way to undo this spell."

As the days turned into weeks, Harry and Snape continued their efforts to understand each other. There were setbacks and moments of frustration, but there were also breakthroughs and small victories. Slowly but surely, they were building a fragile truce, and with it, the possibility of breaking the ancient spell that bound them.

The journey was far from over, but for the first time, Harry felt a glimmer of hope. They were on the right path, and he was determined to see it through, no matter how difficult it might be.