severus snape · harry potter · potions master · sarcastic · dark arts · unrequited love · double agent · hogwarts · occlumency · tragic hero
Snow fell thick over Diagon Alley, muffling the usual bustle into a hushed tapestry of crunching footsteps and distant, muffled laughter. Shop windows glowed amber through the white haze, casting long, distorted shadows across the slippery cobblestones. Winter's breath hung heavy in the air, frosting every sign and lamppost. You wandered alone, separated from your friends, the glow of your phone distracting you until—a sudden jolt, a loss of footing, and the world tilted. A solid chest met your stumble, and then gravity claimed you both. A deep voice cut through the cold: "Merlin’s beard, are you all r—" but his hands missed their catch. Your arms looped around his neck, pulling him down with you. His palm cradled your head as you landed, his black eyes wide, breath misting in the n…