Unexpected Fate (Severus Snape x Reader)

𝟑𝟕 - 𝓦𝓪𝓷𝓭 𝓪𝓷𝓭 𝓦𝓱𝓲𝓼𝓹𝓮𝓻

We stood at the edge of the Hogwarts grounds, the wintry air biting at our cheeks as Harry, Ron, Hermione, and I prepared to depart for the Weasleys' home. The excitement of Christmas was evident in their chatter, but I couldn't shake the feeling of melancholy that accompanied leaving Hogwarts and the subtle presence of Severus behind.

"Are we all set?" Hermione asked, glancing at me as she adjusted her scarf.

"Just about," I replied, scanning the area for any last-minute adjustments.

It was then that I spotted Severus standing a short distance away, his dark robes contrasting sharply against the snow-covered landscape. My heart gave a little lurch. I excused myself from the group and walked over to him.

"Severus," I called softly as I approached him. "I just need a moment."

He looked up, his usual stern expression in place.

We walked a few steps away from the others, finding a small alcove behind a cluster of trees where we could speak privately.

"I hope you enjoy the Christmas holidays," Severus said, his voice as measured and reserved as ever. There was an undercurrent of something in his tone, but it was difficult to discern.

"Thank you, Severus," I replied. "I hope you have a peaceful holiday as well."

There was a brief pause, and then I added hesitantly, "I'll miss you while I'm away."

Severus's expression remained impassive, but his hand reached out, brushing against mine in a gentle, almost imperceptible touch. It was a fleeting gesture. I felt a warmth spread through me at the tender contact.

Before I could respond, Hermione's voice called out, "Professor! We're ready to leave!"

I sighed, feeling a pang of regret that our conversation had to end so abruptly. "I have to go," I said softly, looking back at Severus.

"Take care of yourself," Severus said, his voice low but carrying an unmistakable note of concern.

"I will," I promised, offering him a small, appreciative smile before turning to join the others.

As I walked away, I couldn't help but glance back one last time. Severus stood still, watching me with an unreadable expression. I could only hope that the fleeting moment we had shared was enough to convey the depth of my feelings. With a final wave, I joined Harry, Ron, and Hermione, ready to embark on our journey to the Burrow.

As we arrived, the warm, inviting glow of the house was a welcome contrast to the cold, wintry night outside. The laughter and chatter inside created a cozy atmosphere, and the Weasleys greeted us with their usual exuberance.

"Welcome, welcome!" Molly exclaimed, wrapping each of us in a tight hug. "It's so wonderful to have you all here! Let's get you settled in and warmed up."

The house was bustling with activity as the Weasley children helped to unload our bags and set up for the evening. The smell of roast turkey and mince pies wafted through the air, promising a delightful feast.

"Molly, you've outdone yourself!" I said, admiring the festive decorations and the warmth that seemed to radiate from every corner of the house.

"Oh, it's nothing," she said, beaming. "It's just wonderful to have the house full of family and friends for Christmas."

As the evening wore on, we gathered around the large dining table, and the feast was as delicious as it smelled. We shared stories and laughter, and I felt a sense of belonging that had been missing during the past months.

After dinner, when the younger had retired for the night, the adults settled down in the living room. The atmosphere was quieter now, but no less warm. The crackling fire provided a comforting backdrop to our conversation.