Always (Severus Snape x Reader)

Chapter Eight: The_Quill

Back at Hogwarts, it seemed like an ordinary day, except for one notable change: Severus seemed to be with you all the time. The two of you walked together through the halls, prompting curious glances and whispers from students. Many speculated that you were in a relationship, though the truth was that you were simply growing closer, enjoying each other's company more than either of you had anticipated.

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As you walked through the halls, the soft glow of the torches cast gentle shadows on the stone walls, creating a warm and comforting atmosphere. The rhythmic sound of your footsteps echoed softly in the corridor, mingling with the faint rustling of your robes. You two were on patrol shift tonight. Looking out for students in this late night.

Your gaze drifted down to the floor, focusing on your steps. The midnight blue shoes you wore were simple yet elegant, their deep color reminiscent of a starless night. Along the edges, thin bands of orange and blue wove together, adding a subtle touch of vibrancy. The shoes moved with a delicate sway, the colors blending harmoniously as you walked.

As you approached the moving stairs, you noticed Severus's shoes beside yours. His were sleek and polished, black as night, with each step measured and deliberate. The soft leather creased ever so slightly with each movement, a testament to the years they had seen.

You couldn't help but smile as you observed the way his steps matched yours, falling into a natural rhythm. It was as if, without words, the two of you were in sync, moving together with a quiet grace. The contrast between your bright, playful shoes and his dark, somber ones seemed to mirror the differences in your personalities, yet here you were, walking side by side.

As the stairs began to shift beneath you, you glanced up at Severus, who was already looking at you. His expression was unreadable, but there was something in his gaze—an acknowledgment of the connection between you, subtle yet undeniable.

Your heart warmed at the thought, and as the stairs carried you both upwards, you felt a sense of ease and contentment. The world around you seemed to fall away, leaving just the two of you, your steps perfectly aligned, moving together through the ever-changing maze of Hogwarts.

"I really appreciate your presence, Severus," you said as you looked around to where the stairs were leading to the two of you.

Severus glanced at you, a rare softness in his eyes. "I find your company quite... comforting," he admitted. "It's a pleasant change from my usual solitude."

You smiled, feeling a warm glow at his words. It was clear that you both valued these moments, even if neither of you had yet to define what they meant.

-----

As you continued up the stairs, lost in the comforting rhythm of your synchronized steps, the stairs suddenly began to shift again. This time, the movement was unexpected, and you were caught off guard. The floor beneath you tilted, and you instinctively reached out for something to steady yourself.

Before you could react, you felt a firm grip on your waist, steadying you. The warmth of the hand against you sent a jolt of surprise through your body. You looked up, your breath catching in your throat as your eyes met Severus's. His expression was calm, but there was an intensity in his gaze that made your heart race.

His hand remained at your waist, holding you securely as the stairs continued their slow, deliberate movement. The world around you seemed to blur. The only thing in sharp focus was Severus. His dark eyes searched yours, and for a moment, neither of you spoke, the air between you thick with unspoken words.

He didn't release you, his hand still firm yet gentle against your waist. The closeness between you felt electric, the space shrinking as you became acutely aware of every point of contact. His other hand came up to gently brush a stray strand of hair from your face, his touch light as a feather. The gesture was simple, but it sent shivers down your spine.