Devotion (Snape × Student OC)

24

Time passed as we indulged in our conversation, the train suddenly jolting and the lights flickering before the cabin sank into darkness. A gusty cold wind permeated the air, and the window began to frost over as we peered outside in confusion and fear. Then, out of nowhere, a dark, spectre like figure floated into our compartment.

The creature's path was clear; its focus fixated solely on Harry. It moved closer and closer, as if determined to reach him. Before any of us could react, Harry suddenly collapsed, rendered unconscious by its ominous presence.
However, just as fear gripped our hearts, Professor Lupin awoke, whipping out his wand and pointing it at the creature. The bright light from his wand forced the creature to retreat, momentarily breaking the terror that had engulfed us.

With Harry slumped next to me, worry etched deep on my face "Professor.." I asked, my voice laced with worry, "what happened to him?" Both Ron and Hermione stared at Professor Lupin, their eyes filled with a similar mixture of confusion and concern.
Professor Lupin took a moment to gather his thoughts before responding, his voice filled with both gravity and understanding. "What you just witnessed.." he said, his gaze fixed on us "was a dementor."

We exchanged a confused glance, and then I voiced my question "But why were they here?" Ron chimed in, his eyes now wide with realization. "I think it's related to that escaped prisoner, Sirius Black." he suggested, connecting the dots. Harry stirred slightly, regaining consciousness. He groggily sat up, rubbing his head in a daze.

"What happened?" I responded "Just a dementor... looking for someone..."
Professor Lupin smiled reassuringly at Harry and handed him a chocolate bar. "Here, eat this; it will help you feel better." he said before leaving the compartment. The sky outside the castle windows darkened, and before long, rain started to pour down. I found myself back in the Great Hall, a familiar setting for the start of the year.
Just before taking my seat, my gaze unwittingly drifted towards the professors' table.

My heart skipped a beat as I looked at him the man with the black eyes. I couldn't help but smile, even though he didn't notice me. Dumbledore's speech started, but a slight frown formed on my face when I processed his words. We were warned to stay away from dementors, as they would be present on campus, searching for an escaped prisoner. Each word felt like a reminder of the danger lurking within the school grounds.

After the feast concluded, most students headed towards their dorms. However, I had a different destination in mind, the dungeons. Having already grown accustomed to the route during the previous two years, I continued stealthily down the stone corridor. Doubts crept into my mind, uncertainty gnawing at me. What if he didn't appreciate my unannounced visit? Would he get mad at me for coming down here?

Summoning my courage, I raised my hand and lightly tapped on the sturdy wooden door of Snape's office. The door swung open before I could even catch my breath, revealing Snape's imposing figure towering over me. His dark and cold eyes met mine, and for a moment, I could detect a hint of shimmer within them. With an unmistakable air of condescension, he asked "You, again? Did you come here to simply say 'hi'? Am I correct?"

His firm stance in the doorway made it clear that he had no intention of letting me enter. I gathered my courage and nodded, a small smile playing on my lips. "You're right," I admitted. "I did come to say 'hi'. And.." I paused for a moment, my mind racing, "I practiced potions and did all my assignments over the summer, just as I promised. I've been working on improving my skills."

Snape leaned in, his eyes scanning me intently, seemingly sizing me up. "And I suppose you expect a gold star for your efforts?" he asked, his tone still laced with sarcasm. I felt a warm blush spreading across my cheeks as I found myself lost for words. Deep down, I would secretly love a golden star from him, a part of me yearned for his praise, but voicing that desire seemed too childish.