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Chapter 9

The Courtyard, Resolve

As the days passed, your hurt and disappointment transformed into a steely resolve. If Snape wanted to play games, then you were more than willing to continue. He had started this, and you would see it through, no matter the cost.

He can't just brush me off like that, you thought, the determination hardening within you. I'll make him see that he can't control everything.

You began to probe his mind whenever you had the chance, using the advanced Legilimency techniques he had taught you. It wasn't easy, and you often faced resistance, but you were determined to find his weaknesses, to understand what made him vulnerable.

The Great Hall buzzed with the usual morning activity, students chatting and laughing over their breakfasts. You sat with the Weasley twins, your laughter mingling with theirs as you flirted openly. Fred and George were more than willing participants, their mischievous grins matching your own.

"Y/N, you should come to our next Quidditch practice," Fred said, winking at you. "We could use some good luck."

"Yeah," George added, leaning in closer. "And maybe you could bring some of that magic to the pitch."

You giggled, aware of Snape's eyes on you from the teachers' table. "I'll think about it," you replied, giving them a playful smile.

Snape's Perspective

From his seat at the teachers' table, Snape watched the interaction with a mixture of irritation and something else he couldn't quite name. Your laughter, the way you leaned in towards the twins, and their obvious enjoyment of your attention all grated on his nerves.

She's doing this on purpose, he realized, his jaw tightening. She's trying to provoke me.

But even as he recognized the game you were playing, he couldn't deny the pang of jealousy that stabbed at him. He had made his decision, but seeing you with the Weasley twins, so carefree and happy, made him question it.

The Library, Probing Minds

During your free periods, you took to the library, practicing your Occlumency and Legilimency skills. You were determined to probe deeper into Snape's mind, to find the cracks in his formidable defenses.

One afternoon, as you sat with a book open in front of you, you closed your eyes and focused, reaching out with your mind. You found Snape in his office, grading papers as usual. You pushed gently at first, testing the waters, then pressed harder, seeking entry.

What are you hiding, Professor? you thought, feeling a thrill of excitement as you sensed his presence.

Snape's defenses were strong, but you could sense his frustration, his inner turmoil. You glimpsed fleeting images—memories of his past, moments of vulnerability, and a deep, abiding loneliness.

Confrontation

That evening, as you made your way to the Slytherin common room, Snape intercepted you in the corridor. His expression was stern, his eyes flashing with a mix of anger and something else—something deeper.

"Miss Y/L/N," he said, his voice low and controlled, "a word, if you please."

You nodded, following him to a secluded corner. The corridor was dimly lit, the flickering torchlight casting long shadows on the walls.

"You have been prying into matters that do not concern you," Snape said, his tone cold. "Your actions are reckless and dangerous."

You met his gaze, unflinching. "You started this, Professor. You can't just expect me to sit back and do nothing."