Entitled

Chapter 102*

The next day, you find yourself still trapped in the aftermath of the Ministry's chaos. The memory of everything that transpired keeps replaying in your mind, and the weight of it all feels unbearable. You stay in bed most of the day, your body heavy with exhaustion and a sense of defeat.

In the late afternoon, your enchanted journal glows faintly, signaling a message from Severus. You reach for it with trembling hands, opening it to see his familiar handwriting.

Violet, how are you holding up? How is your neck?

His concern is palpable, even through the written words. You touch the tender spot on your neck where the glass shards were embedded, wincing slightly at the memory.

It's healing, but it's still sore, you write back, your hand shaking slightly as you continue. It's not just the physical pain that's getting to me, though. It's everything else, Severus. Everything feels so heavy.

A few moments pass before his response appears, his words carrying the weight of his own concerns.

I understand. I've spoken with the Aurors who were present, as well as members of the Order of the Phoenix. I told them about your situation—that you had no choice, that you were following orders for your own safety. They seem to understand, but you need to be cautious. The Ministry isn't entirely off your back. They're watching everyone involved very closely.

You feel a knot form in your stomach as you read his words. The realization that you're still being watched, that the Ministry hasn't fully let go of their suspicion, is suffocating.

What about Lucius? you ask, already fearing the answer.

There's a pause before Severus replies, the tone of his words reflecting his own unease.

Lucius is being brought up on charges for his role in the battle. The Ministry wants to make an example of him, and it's not looking good. He's holding out, but I don't know how much longer he can resist before they force him to name names. You need to stay hidden, Violet. Don't give them any reason to come after you.

The guilt and fear rise up in you again, nearly choking you. Lucius, someone who had always been like a mentor to you, was now facing the consequences of a plan that was never really his to begin with.

I hate this, Severus, you write, the words coming out jagged and raw. I hate feeling like I'm just a pawn in all of this. I never wanted any of this, and now it feels like everything is spiraling out of control.

His reply comes quickly, as if he knew exactly what you were feeling.

I know, Violet. But you're stronger than you realize. You'll get through this, and I'll be here to help you every step of the way. Keep your head down for now, and we'll figure this out together.

You close your eyes for a moment, letting the comfort of his words wash over you.

You take a deep breath, feeling a small measure of reassurance. Lucius would never give me up, you write back. I believe that with all my heart. He's loyal, and he understands what's at stake. But I hate that he's in this position because of me.

Severus's response comes swiftly, his words a steady anchor in the storm of your thoughts.

Lucius is strong, and he's been through worse. He knows the risks we all face, and he's prepared to handle them. Trust in his resolve, but don't let guilt consume you. This is bigger than any one of us.

You nod to yourself, though Severus can't see it. His words make sense, but the guilt still gnaws at you. I just wish I could do something to help him. I hate feeling so helpless, like I'm just sitting here while everything falls apart around us.