Devotion (Snape × Student OC)

11

The months passed, and the cold weather gave way to the warmth of spring. Although it wasn't unbearably hot, there was a pleasant feeling in the air. I found myself missing the cold and icy weather of winter though. After the final exams, the students, relieved that the studying was over, gathered in the school yard, enjoying the break from academics.

Some of them engaged in different activities, happy to be freed from the confines of their books. The courtyard was alive with a mix of chatter and laughter as the students basked in the sunshine and relaxed after the intense exam period.

Ron and Harry were stretched out on the grass, relishing the moment of respite. Hermione, meanwhile, sat under a tree nearby, engrossed in a book as usual. George spoke slowly, his voice filled with a sense of resignation, "Tonight is the night we'll find out who wins the house cup." Ron, not hiding his dissatisfaction, responded with a frown, "Even though we saved the Sorcerer's Stone, they'll probably announce Slytherin as the winner."

I listened to their conversation attentively, my fingers gently caressing Teddy. Ron's words hung in the air, and I couldn't help but silently agree with him. The trio had risked their lives the previous week, venturing to the dangerous floor where they'd faced Fluffy. I let out a sigh and looked at them, my expression more serious.

"You should be happy that you all made it out safely. That night, Harry was seriously in danger..." Neville nodded in agreement, a hint of frustration in his voice. "I tried to caution them, telling them it wasn't worth putting our house's reputation at risk. But they didn't listen..."

I shrugged "That's true. But they did something remarkable, saving the Sorcerer's Stone." I turned my gaze towards Harry, a playful smirk tugging at my lips. "You see, it wasn't Professor Snape who was after the stone. It was Professor Quirrell all along!" Harry's eye roll spoke volumes of his annoyance and dissatisfaction. "You're right," he concurred, his tone tinged with irritation.

"We wasted months suspecting Professor Snape, but in the end, he was utterly innocent. However, it's crucial not to forget that he despises every single Gryffindor, so nothing has changed in that regard." Hermione sighed in frustration, clearly not having as strong negative emotions towards Professor Snape. "To be fair," she began, attempting to be the voice of reason, "Professor Snape is simply a strict teacher who holds high standards for his students. It's not exactly fair to say he hates all Gryffindors."

I nodded, expressing agreement with Hermione's viewpoint. "She's right," I affirmed. "Professor Snape is just a strict teacher who maintains high expectations. It's not fair..." Ron, however, interrupted with an eye roll, exclaiming, "Don't be ridiculous, Sue! Not a single student likes that grumpy man."

Harry chimed in, sighing in agreement. "It's true. Just because he saved you that night doesn't mean he's a good person. And let's not forget, it was his own idea to lead us into the Forbidden Forest!" I frowned slightly, a mixture of determination and conviction in my eyes. "You're mistaken, Harry. I don't defend him solely because he saved me. From the beginning, I never disliked him. Sure, I'm afraid of him sometimes, but..."

Harry sighed with a touch of irritation, clearly frustrated with my unwavering defense of Professor Snape. "But what, Sue? He's a terrible man, and all he cares about are his beloved Slytherins." Hermione rolled her eyes, trying to interject some reason into the conversation. "Stop it now. Why are we arguing about Professor Snape?" Hermione attempted to interject, her voice calm and reasonable. "Let's not judge him so simply. He may not be the most likeable person, but there's more to him than meets the eye."

I sighed and nodded, acquiescing, and Harry also ceased arguing. They are wrong. He's much more than they realize... I chose to keep my thoughts private. Harry has his valid reasons to despise him, and I knew it would be futile to try and convince him otherwise. Yet, for me, it was a different story.

As the night arrived, we made our way to the Great Hall for the final ceremony of the year. The hall was adorned with Slytherin flags and snake symbols, a testimony to the house's triumphant win this year. Dumbledore began his customary speech, poised to unveil the winner of the house cup. The students donned their hats, their attention fixed on the headmaster.

Dumbledore continued, his voice carrying a tone of wisdom. "Before we partake in the sumptuous feast, I implore you to lend your ears to this old man. Another year has elapsed, and your minds have become more insightful. During the summer, take the time to clear your thoughts, preparing yourselves for the knowledge that awaits in the coming academic year."

A murmur of both excitement and anticipation rippled through the hall, as the students eagerly awaited the announcement of the victorious house. Dumbledore chuckled slightly, his eyes twinkling behind his half moon glasses. "And now, to reveal the winners of the house cup."

Dumbledore perused the list, his gaze steady as he announced, "In fourth place, Gryffindor, with three hundred and ten points. In third place, Hufflepuff, with three hundred and fifty two points. In second place, Ravenclaw, with four hundred and twenty points. And in first place, Slytherin, with four hundred and seventy two points." The Slytherins erupted into cheers, their voices blending into a chorus of triumph. Cups thumped loudly against the table as they celebrated their victory.

Meanwhile, Ron rolled his eyes, a frown etching his features. Dumbledore held up his hands, beckoning for quiet. "Indeed," he affirmed, a smile playing on his lips. "Well done, Slytherin. However, we must take recent events into account." The atmosphere in the hall grew tense as all the students exchanged glances, awaiting Dumbledore's next words.

Dumbledore recapitulated the heroic deeds of the Golden Trio, praising Hermione's intellect that allowed her to navigate the flames, commending Ron's strategic skills in the game of chess, and heaping praise upon Harry's unparalleled courage in facing Professor Quirrell and the ominous You Know Who.

Finally, he recognized Neville's unwavering loyalty and bravery in standing in front of his dear friends. And at that very moment, as if by magic, the scoreboards shifted and the Gryffindor points surged higher than Slytherin. A chorus of cheers erupted from the students, drowning out any other sounds in the hall. It seemed as if the Great Hall itself was on the verge of bursting, the sheer volume of celebration nearly deafening.

Students yelled and clapped, their excitement infectious. My gaze inadvertently landed on Professor Snape, who wore a forced an smile on his face. He shook hands with Professor McGonagall, his expression betraying his frustration. I couldn't help but smile widely as I cheered alongside my housemates, rejoicing in our unexpected victory.

As I joined in the festivities, a hint of wistfulness crossed my mind. I wished I could also contribute significantly in the future years. ....... Hagrid stood nearby, making sure that all students were safely aboard the train. I settled in for the journey home. A plethora of emotions swirled within me, excitement, a hint of sadness at the thought of being apart from Hogwarts for two months, and reminisces of the wonderful times we spent studying, sneaking about the castle, and then.. that snowy day. But there was a glimmer of happiness too knowing that I would see Miss.Gentiana again.