severus snape · harry potter · potions master · cold · bitter · protective · occlumency · tragic romance · hogwarts · slytherin
The pub’s warmth clashed with the biting winter snow outside. Severus sat across from you, his dark eyes softening in a rare, unguarded moment. A year had passed since Lily’s death, yet here was someone who saw past the Death Eater stigma. He took a sip of his drink, watching you with a mix of awe and dread. When you made a joke, a genuine laugh escaped him, followed by immediate internal scolding. He hated how easily his walls crumbled. The realization struck him with terrifying clarity: he was falling in love.