Bound by Potions | Snarry

/ Unspoken Truths

The summer holidays had begun, and Hogwarts was quiet without the bustling presence of students. Severus Snape found solitude both a relief and a burden. It gave him ample time to reflect on the past year, especially the unexpected bond with Harry Potter.

As days turned into weeks, Snape realised something that both shocked and unsettled him: he had developed feelings for Harry. The realisation hit him during one of his late-night brewing sessions, the thought creeping in as he worked in silence.

Snape tried to dismiss the notion at first, attributing it to the lingering effects of their forced bond. But the more he thought about it, the more undeniable it became. He had grown to respect Harry's courage, intelligence, and surprising maturity. These feelings, however, were complicated by the vast difference in their ages and their shared history.

One evening, unable to sleep, Snape sat at his desk, quill in hand, and began to write a letter. He poured his heart into the words, knowing that he might never have the courage to send it.

Dear Harry,

There are moments in life when the clarity of our feelings reveals itself in the quietest of times. This summer, as I find myself surrounded by silence, I have come to a realisation that I must put into words, if only for my own sanity.

Our time bound by that cursed contract was a trial I did not welcome. Yet, through it, I discovered aspects of you that I had been blind to for so long. Your strength, your compassion, your unwavering sense of justice – these qualities, which I had dismissed as youthful arrogance, have come to earn my deepest respect.

It is not an easy admission for me, but I find that my feelings towards you have grown beyond the bounds of mere respect. There is a fondness, a regard, which I had not anticipated. It is something I have struggled with, considering our past and the significant difference in our ages.

I do not expect you to reciprocate these feelings, nor do I intend to act upon them. It is enough for me to acknowledge their existence and to express my gratitude for the understanding we have reached. You have shown me a different path, one where forgiveness and acceptance are possible, even for someone as deeply flawed as myself.

Know that whatever the future holds, you have a steadfast ally in me. Should you ever need guidance, support, or merely a confidant, I will be here.

Yours sincerely,

Severus Snape

Snape read the letter over, feeling a strange mix of relief and vulnerability. He folded it carefully and placed it in an envelope, sealing it with his personal crest. He then locked it away in his desk drawer, unsure if he would ever have the courage to give it to Harry.

The rest of the summer passed in a blur of routine and reflection. Snape found himself thinking about Harry more often than he cared to admit. He wondered how Harry was spending his summer and whether he had found peace after the tumultuous events of the past year.

As the start of the new school year approached, Snape prepared to return to his role as Potions Master. The thought of seeing Harry again filled him with both anticipation and dread. He knew he would have to navigate his feelings carefully, ensuring that his duties as a professor remained his primary focus.

On the first day of term, Snape stood in the Great Hall, watching as students filed in. His eyes scanned the crowd, searching for a familiar face. When he finally spotted Harry, talking animatedly with Ron and Hermione, a strange sense of warmth spread through him.

Harry caught Snape's gaze and gave a small, respectful nod. Snape returned the gesture, a silent understanding passing between them.

As the evening wore on, Snape found himself lingering outside the Gryffindor common room. He told himself it was merely to ensure everything was in order, but a part of him knew he was hoping to catch a glimpse of Harry.

To his surprise, Harry stepped out of the common room, seemingly lost in thought. When he saw Snape, he smiled.

"Professor Snape," Harry greeted, his tone friendly.

"Potter," Snape replied, inclining his head. "I trust your summer was restful?"

"It was, thank you," Harry said, his eyes searching Snape's face. "And yours?"

"Productive," Snape answered, a hint of a smile tugging at his lips.

They stood in companionable silence for a moment before Harry spoke again. "I'm glad we can start this year on better terms, Professor."

"As am I, Harry," Snape said, his voice softening.

As Harry turned to leave, Snape felt a pang of longing. He considered, for a fleeting moment, giving Harry the letter. But he knew it wasn't the right time. Perhaps, one day, when the complexities of their relationship had been fully navigated, he would find the courage to share his true feelings.

For now, he was content with the knowledge that they had forged a bond of mutual respect and understanding. It was a foundation upon which they could build, one step at a time.

And so, with a heart both heavy and hopeful, Severus Snape returned to his quarters, the letter safely tucked away, waiting for the right moment to reveal the unspoken truths it contained.