Chapter 19 – Severus Snape

The days following the attack were grim. The Daily Prophet criticized the Ministry, the Aurors, and anyone else they could target. Both Lily and Petunia decided not to tell their parents about the incident. Classes were temporarily canceled, as most students were in a state of panic and suffering from post-traumatic stress. Future visits to Hogsmeade would now be accompanied by Aurors, but Severus doubted he'd ever enjoy the village until this cursed war was over.

Petunia and Lily also agreed not to inform their parents about the ongoing war. Severus preferred to stay out of any potential family drama. Realistically, it was unlikely they'd find out anyway, as neither of their parents had ties to the magical world. While it wasn't obvious, Lily was an excellent liar, so long as she believed it was for the greater good. Petunia, on the other hand, avoided speaking to their parents whenever possible.

After the attack, Petunia had been distant and apathetic. Much of her time was spent consoling her friend Gwen, who had witnessed a friend's death. Severus considered himself fortunate that he had been shielded from the fight entirely.

From the rumors Severus overheard, the attack had been orchestrated by the so-called Death Eaters, a terrorist group advocating for the eradication of muggleborns. The premise didn't even make sense—how could anyone prevent a person from being born? Ironically, of the five who died, three were pure-bloods.

What had once been mere whispers now felt tangible: the war was imminent. Severus felt safe at Hogwarts, but his concerns lay with what would happen after graduation. If this war was centered on blood purity, then some of the pure-blood witches and wizards in their midst were likely involved with the Death Eaters. It was almost certain that Lucius Malfoy was part of the group, given his wealth and connections, which could easily sway the right people. Many in Slytherin house seemed to share the group's ideology. (Severus felt increasingly grateful that he'd heeded Petunia's advice not to join Slytherin.) He knew that, to live peacefully, he'd probably have to leave the country—something Petunia might also be considering.

Lily and Potter? Severus believed they might start dating in the next few years—not now, of course, as Potter was still an insufferable idiot, but if he matured, it was possible. The two had undeniable chemistry, and there was even a betting pool started by Black over when they would begin dating. Severus was tempted to bet on their sixth year, but ultimately decided against it. After all, while Lily was sweet and calm, she could hold a grudge when she wanted.

At present, Lily and Potter were having a heated debate in the library, though it hadn't escalated to shouting, only because of the setting. Potter's friends were clearly amused.

"Hey, Severus, do you think James has a chance with Evans?" Black asked with a teasing tone.

Severus envied Black and Potter. Both were pure-blood, talented in magic, rich, and handsome. The world was unfair.

"It depends. If his personality stays the same, it's highly unlikely," Severus replied.

All three of Potter's friends looked surprised at his answer. Severus hoped whatever antics Potter tried next wouldn't involve him.

The possible couple continued their debate until the librarian intervened, threatening to throw them out. Potter seemed reluctant to leave Lily, but his attempts to capture her attention were misguided at best. He couldn't understand that if he wanted to be close to Lily, he should try being her friend or stop provoking her. The only thing worse than their arguments would be if Potter tried to make her jealous by flirting with other girls. Sure, she might get jealous, but she'd also become even more irritated and resentful.

For Christmas, Petunia decided to accompany Lily home. She was likely afraid an attack might occur at the train station and wanted to ensure their parents wouldn't get caught in the chaos. The fear of another attack made many students choose to stay at school, especially those with strained family relationships.

Severus almost regretted not going home himself after reading Lily's latest letter:

"Severus, I discovered something surprising—Petunia has a boyfriend!

She told me they've been exchanging letters since her fourth year.

She knows I'm telling you this. Petunia said she'll introduce us to him once the school year ends.

I still don't know who he is, but he's really worried about her.

He sends her all kinds of thoughtful gifts, like those Latin books and magical fabrics.

Oh, and did you know he's the one who made your pendant? He must be a really nice person, don't you think?

Mom and Dad don't know yet, but I want to be there when Petunia tells them."

Severus was eager to meet the person who had made the pendant. Thanks to it, he'd had a more comfortable stay at home.

Petunia was an incredible witch, so it wasn't surprising she had a boyfriend. She was intelligent, beautiful, and far more mature and self-assured than most girls. Severus admired her self-confidence and even thought he might have developed a crush on her if he didn't see her as an older sister. There had been a time when he had a small infatuation with Lily, but he'd never admit it and planned to take that secret to the grave. That crush had faded when they were sorted into different houses at age twelve.

Being in a separate house had forced Severus to interact with his own peers. They could be annoying at times, but it was manageable. And, above all, it was better than being alone.

𝐃𝐨 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐥𝐢𝐤𝐞 𝐝𝐨𝐠𝐬 𝐨𝐫 𝐜𝐚𝐭𝐬 𝐦𝐨𝐫𝐞?

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