Entitled

Chapter 46

Defense Against the Dark Arts

As you sit in Severus' chambers, enjoying a rare moment of peace with Mary and Barry nestled comfortably on your shoulders, a sudden knock disrupts the tranquility. An owl flutters in, delivering a letter to Severus. He reads it, his expression becoming unreadable.

"It's from Lucius," he says, his voice measured. "He wants to see us in his office. There's something he needs to discuss."

You feel a surge of annoyance. "We don't have to go. We're not beholden to Lucius just because he summons us."

Severus glances at you, a hint of resignation in his eyes. "He may have information about the school board's decision regarding the Defense Against the Dark Arts position."

Reluctantly, you nod. "Fine, we'll go. But I'm not happy about it." You make sure to adjust your sleeve, ensuring the new Dark Mark on your arm is well concealed. You've been hiding it as best as you can, not wanting anyone to know.

The walk to Lucius' office is tense, filled with unspoken concerns. When you arrive, Lucius greets you both with a somber expression.

"Severus, Y/N, thank you for coming," Lucius begins, his tone unusually subdued. "I regret to inform you that the new Defense Against the Dark Arts position has been filled by Remus Lupin."

You exchange a puzzled look with Severus. The name means nothing to you, but you see a flicker of pain cross Severus' face. His disappointment is palpable, and it cuts through you.

"I'm sorry, Severus," Lucius continues, his voice softening. "I know how much this position meant to you."

Severus' jaw tightens, and he nods curtly. "Thank you for informing us, Lucius."

As you stand there for a moment, curiosity gnaws at you. "Who is Lupin, and why do you dislike him so much?" you ask, trying to understand Severus' visible discomfort.

Severus sighs, his expression darkening further. "Remus Lupin is a former classmate of mine from Hogwarts. He, along with his friends James Potter, Sirius Black, and Peter Pettigrew, made my school years a living hell. They bullied me relentlessly because I was superior to them magically. They couldn't stand that I excelled where they failed."

Lucius nods sympathetically. "I did my best to get Severus the position, but my vote doesn't carry much weight currently." He pauses, his gaze shifting to you. "How are you feeling since you woke up?"

It becomes clear to you that Severus hasn't told Lucius about the limbo state you were in or the Dark Mark branded on your arm by Voldemort. You muster a smile. "I'm fine, Lucius. Feeling much more myself, thank you."

Lucius nods, seemingly satisfied. "That's good to hear. Congratulations on the aid position, by the way."

Inside, you can't shake the feeling that Lucius wanted to speak with you privately but couldn't find an excuse to do so. His eyes linger on you for a moment longer than necessary before he turns his attention back to Severus. "If there's anything else I can do, don't hesitate to ask."

Severus merely nods, his thoughts clearly elsewhere. As you leave the room, you can't help but feel the weight of the secrets you're carrying, and the unspoken tension between you and Lucius.

Once you're back in at Spinners End, he lets out a deep breath, his frustration evident. "Lupin will be insufferable," he mutters. "I can't believe Dumbledore would bring him here."

You sit down beside him, concern etched on your face. "Severus, why didn't you tell Lucius about my experience with the Dark Lord?"

Severus looks at you, his expression softening. "It is your choice who finds out, and I didn't want to divulge something that was traumatizing for you. It's your story to tell, not mine."