Devotion (Snape × Student OC)

12《season two》

On the day of my birthday in August, I was lazily lying in bed when I heard the sound of the front door opening downstairs. I excitedly leaped up and hurried downstairs to greet Miss.Gentiana. I enveloped her in a warm hug, her arms loaded with the things she had purchased. With a kind smile, she greeted me, "Good morning."

I loosened my embrace and glanced at the shopping bags in her hands, curiosity piqued. "What's in those?" She glanced at the shopping bags, her smile gentle and knowing. "How about we bake a delightful birthday cake together, my dear Sue?" she inquired, her voice ever calm and contemplative. I nodded enthusiastically, "Of course, it sounds wonderful." Her eyes sparkled with amusement as she continued, "And for dinner, I've planned pizza, along with some extra chicken for Teddy."

A wave of excitement washed over me. Could this possibly get any better? We were in the kitchen, and Teddy was merrily exploring the space, creating a playful mess. I stood upon a small stool to reach the kitchen table, diligently stirring eggs or fetching fruits from the refrigerator as needed. Miss.Gentiana broke the comfortable silence as she mixed the cake batter, inquiring, "You mentioned one of your friends also resides in the muggle world. Would you care to invite him over tonight?"

I pouted and nodded my head, a hint of disappointment in my voice. "I've sent him a few letters, but there hasn't been any response. He lives with his aunt, and he described them as.. not very nice people. I think they probably won't let him respond." Gentiana nodded sympathetically, her eyes filled with empathy. "Poor thing.." My gaze locked onto her siren-like green eyes, contemplating whether I should ask my lingering question. But ultimately, I shrugged it off, setting it aside for now.

Gentiana and I continued our work in the kitchen, occasionally speaking about trivial topics. The only other interruption was Teddy, who was still causing a delightful mess as he explored the surroundings. Eventually, she finished making the cake batter and poured it into the baking pan. After placing it in the oven, she turned her attention back to me, her eyes warm and kind.

She always fixated her gaze on me, as though she held unspoken words within her. Why is she always so quiet, yet so kind? Time crept forward, and before we knew it, night enveloped us. Delicious treats adorned the table, alongside a steaming pizza and a vibrant strawberry cake adorned with candles. Even Teddy, who usually roamed like a playful tornado, surprised us by sitting politely on one of the chairs, his eyes wide as he marveled at the flickering candles on the cake.

The soft glow from the candle flames danced in my yellow eyes, casting a warm and mesmerizing reflection. Gentiana leaned closer and whispered gently, "Make a wish, dear." My mind spun, swirling with countless wishes, making it challenging to decide which desire to voice first. To uncover the truth? To improve as a student? To contribute more like the others? Or perhaps, refrain from ruining someone's birthday... Before I could settle on a singular wish, she gently cupped my chin, drawing my attention towards her.

With an unwavering intensity in her gaze, she whispered fervently, "I would like to share my wish for you, my dearest. May your smile remain upon your lips as long as you live, and may happiness always accompany you." Her words struck a chord within me, and my eyes sparkled as I took a moment to absorb the heartfelt sentiment behind them. The words hung in the air like a promise, and for a brief moment, a sense of profound understanding passed between us.

Her eyes held a depth and wisdom that seemed almost otherworldly. With a voice tinged with emotion, I managed to reply, "I'll try my best to keep that smile as much as possible.." but how could I promise something like that? I fixed my gaze on the candles and closed my eyes, silently wishing for a wonderful year, particularly as I prepared for Hogwarts once more. Then, with a gentle puff, the candles were extinguished. Teddy, unabashed and nonchalant, then settled on the table and started eating his food without a care in the world.