Unconditional Love

Chapter 5

As I headed back to my dorm, Harry Potter was waiting outside. He opened up about his feelings for me, but instead of rejecting him, I simply said, "Well, okay."

Harry seemed relieved and our friendship grew stronger. He became more affectionate towards me, which I appreciated. However, I couldn't shake the feeling that Snape might be jealous, though I brushed it off since he didn't seem to like me.

Days passed with Harry and I spending more time together, exploring the castle grounds and studying together in the library. Snape's classes continued as usual, but I couldn't help noticing his occasional glances in my direction during Potions lessons.

One evening, after a particularly engaging class, Snape approached me as I was packing up my things. "Ms. Radilo, a word if you please."

I looked up, surprised by his request. "Of course, Professor Snape. What can I do for you?"

He hesitated for a moment, his gaze searching mine. "I've noticed you spending quite a bit of time with Mr. Potter lately."

I shifted uncomfortably, unsure where this conversation was heading. "Yes, Professor. We've been studying together."

Snape's expression darkened slightly, though he quickly composed himself. "Be cautious, Ms. Radilo. Potter has a tendency to attract trouble."

I frowned, not expecting Snape to express concern about my friendship with Harry. "He's my friend, Professor. I appreciate your advice, but Harry's been nothing but supportive."

Snape's jaw tightened, but he nodded tersely. "Very well. Just... be mindful."

With that, he turned and swept out of the classroom, leaving me bewildered by the unexpected exchange. Was Snape genuinely concerned about me, or was there something more to his warning?

Something was bothering me, and I couldn't sleep. Snape's constant watchfulness was getting under my skin. I decided to take a walk to clear my head. As I wandered through the dimly lit hallways, I felt like something was following me. The shadows seemed to move, and I got scared. My heart raced as I started to run, but in the darkness, I bumped into someone.

"Watch where you're walking! it's late. Why are you here?" snapped Snape angrily.

"What's your problem?" I shouted, my fear turning into frustration.

"Watch your tone, Miss," Snape growled. "And where is your boyfriend, Potter? Didn't he teach you how to show some respect to your teachers? Of course, he's just like his father."

"Don't talk about Harry like that! You're the one with the attitudes. I Know now why his mother like you, Yes, I know the story. Harry told me."

Snape's face twisted with anger. "You think you know everything, do you? You and Potter are both insufferable."

I stood my ground. "I know enough. And I know that Harry's been nothing but kind and respectful, unlike you."

Snape's eyes flashed with something I couldn't quite identify. Was it hurt?

"You have no idea what you're talking about," he muttered.

"Maybe not," I shot back, "but I do know that Harry deserves better than your constant insults."

There was a tense silence before Snape spoke again, his voice lower and more controlled. "Get back to your dormitory. It's past curfew."

I didn't argue. As I turned to leave, I glanced back at him. For a moment, he looked less like the menacing professor and more like a lonely, bitter man. I hurried back to my dorm, my mind racing. Why did Snape have to be so harsh? And why did it bother him so much that Harry and I were happy?