Bound by Potions | Snarry

/ Secrets and Revelations

The uneasy truce between Harry and Snape continued to develop over the next few weeks. Each day brought new challenges and discoveries as they navigated the complexities of their forced bond. Despite their differences, they found themselves talking more and, unexpectedly, beginning to respect each other.

One evening, Harry found himself in Snape's office again, working on a potion Snape had suggested. It was a particularly complex concoction, requiring precision and patience—qualities Harry was learning to develop under Snape's watchful eye.

"Stir counterclockwise, Potter," Snape instructed, his voice softer than usual. "And ensure the flame remains steady."

Harry followed the instructions carefully, his concentration unwavering. As the potion simmered, he glanced at Snape. "Professor, can I ask you something?"

Snape looked up, raising an eyebrow. "Another question, Potter? Very well, proceed."

Harry hesitated for a moment. "Why did you join the Death Eaters?"

The question hung in the air, heavy with implications. Snape's expression darkened, but he didn't immediately dismiss the inquiry.

"It was a mistake," Snape began, his voice low and controlled. "A grave error born out of youthful arrogance and misguided beliefs. I sought power and recognition, foolishly thinking it would bring me respect and validation."

Harry listened intently, sensing the depth of Snape's regret. "What made you change your mind?"

Snape's eyes met Harry's, and for a moment, Harry saw a flicker of vulnerability. "Lily," he said simply. "Her death was a turning point. It made me realise the true nature of the path I had chosen. I vowed to do everything in my power to atone for my actions and protect her son."

Harry felt a lump in his throat. "Thank you," he said softly. "For protecting me, even when you didn't have to."

Snape's gaze softened ever so slightly. "I swore an unbreakable oath, Potter. It was my duty, but it was also my penance."

They lapsed into silence, the potion bubbling gently between them. Harry couldn't help but feel a newfound respect for Snape's sacrifices and the burden he carried.

As they continued their work, Harry began to notice small changes in their dynamic. Snape's criticism became less biting, and his instructions more patient. In turn, Harry found himself more willing to listen and learn, appreciating Snape's vast knowledge and expertise.

One afternoon, while searching for more clues in the library, Hermione approached Harry with an excited look on her face. "Harry, I think I've found something that might help."

Harry looked up from the dusty tome he was reading. "What is it, Hermione?"

She held up an ancient-looking scroll. "It's a detailed account of magical bonds and how they can be broken. According to this, the key to severing a forced marriage contract lies in a mutual act of trust and sacrifice."

Harry frowned. "What kind of sacrifice?"

Hermione's expression grew serious. "It's not entirely clear, but it suggests that both parties must willingly give up something of great personal value. It's a way of proving their commitment to breaking the bond."

Harry nodded, deep in thought. "I'll talk to Snape about it. Maybe we can figure out what we need to do."

That evening, Harry made his way to Snape's quarters, the scroll tucked under his arm. He knocked on the door and waited, feeling a mix of anticipation and anxiety.

"Enter," came Snape's voice.

Harry stepped inside, finding Snape seated at his desk, surrounded by books and potion ingredients. He held up the scroll. "Hermione found this. It talks about how to break the bond."

Snape took the scroll, his eyes scanning the text. After a few moments, he looked up, his expression thoughtful. "A mutual act of trust and sacrifice," he mused. "Interesting."

"What do you think it means?" Harry asked, sitting down opposite Snape.

Snape leaned back, considering. "It suggests that we must each give up something we hold dear, as a demonstration of our commitment to severing the bond. This will require careful thought."

Harry nodded, feeling the weight of the task ahead. "Do you have any ideas?"

Snape was silent for a moment, then spoke. "I have something in mind, but it is not an easy decision. This bond has forced us to confront aspects of ourselves we would rather avoid. Perhaps that is part of the test."

Harry looked at Snape, feeling a strange sense of kinship. "We'll figure it out together. We've come this far, haven't we?"

Snape's lips curved into the faintest hint of a smile. "Indeed, Potter. We have."

As they began to discuss their potential sacrifices, Harry felt a sense of determination. The path ahead was still uncertain, but he knew they were closer to breaking the bond than ever before. They just had to take the next step, together.