Entitled

Chapter 21

The Request

The sleepless nights had returned, and with only two days left until you could leave campus, you found yourself in desperate need of a sleeping draught. There was only one person who could help you—Professor Snape. Despite the recent tension, you made your way to his office, your mind heavy with exhaustion and anxiety.

You knocked softly on the door, and after a moment, Snape's voice called out, "Enter."

You stepped inside, feeling the familiar weight of his gaze. "Professor Snape, I need a sleeping draught," you said, your voice betraying your fatigue.

He looked at you for a long moment before nodding. "Sit down. I'll prepare it for you."

You took a seat, watching as he moved with practiced efficiency, mixing the ingredients with a precision that spoke of years of expertise. When he handed you the vial, his eyes held a hint of concern. "How are the whispers?"

You sighed, taking the vial. "Intense. They never really stop."

Snape's expression darkened. "You must be vigilant, Y/N. The whispers are a sign that he is still reaching out to you."

You nodded, feeling the weight of his words. "I know. I'm doing my best to block them out."

He studied you for a moment longer before asking, "And the summer intern program? Do you think it will be a good opportunity for you?"

You looked away, considering his question. "It could be. It's a chance to get away from here, to gain some experience and maybe... find some peace."

Snape nodded, his eyes softening slightly. "I agree. It might be exactly what you need."

A silence stretched between you, filled with unspoken words and lingering tension. Finally, Snape broke the silence. "You're dismissed, Y/N. Get some rest."

You stood up, clutching the vial tightly. "Thank you, Professor."

As you turned to leave, he called after you, his voice softer. "Take care of yourself."

You paused for a moment, feeling a flicker of the connection that had once been so strong between you. "You too, Severus."

As you walked back to your dorm, the vial of sleeping draught in your hand, you couldn't shake the feeling of unease. The whispers were a constant presence, and the future was uncertain. But for now, you had a moment of respite, a brief reprieve from the chaos.

You took the draught that night, feeling the heaviness in your limbs as it took effect. As you drifted into a deep, dreamless sleep, you knew that the challenges ahead were far from over. But you were determined to face them, armed with the knowledge and strength you had gained.

And somewhere in the back of your mind, you knew that Severus was watching, protecting, and waiting for the day when trust and understanding could bridge the gap between you once more.

The Encounter

As you made your way back to your dorm room, a sudden impulse led you to the third floor. The memories of your previous harrowing encounter there were still vivid in your mind. 

Approaching the corridor, you noticed the Golden Trio—Harry, Hermione, and Ron—cautiously making their way towards the door where you had barely escaped from months earlier.

"Hey, what are you three doing here?" you called out, your voice echoing slightly in the dimly lit corridor.

They turned to face you, a mixture of surprise and determination on their faces. "Nothing," Harry said, trying to sound casual but failing to hide the tension in his voice.