Unexpected Fate (Severus Snape x Reader)

The first light of dawn filtered through the high windows of my quarters, casting a gentle glow on the stone walls. I stretched and yawned, feeling surprisingly refreshed. Today was a new day, and with it came new opportunities and challenges.

I dressed quickly, donning my robes with a sense of purpose. As I made my way to the Great Hall for breakfast, the corridors of Hogwarts were already buzzing with the early morning energy of students and faculty. The air was filled with the scent of freshly baked bread and the sound of laughter.

Entering the Great Hall, I spotted familiar faces among the sea of students. Harry Potter, Ron Weasley, and Hermione Granger were huddled together at the Gryffindor table, their heads bent over a piece of parchment. Hermione's brow was furrowed in concentration while Ron appeared to be half-asleep, his head resting on his hand.

I smiled at the sight, reminded of my own school days and the friendships that had sustained me through thick and thin. Taking a seat at the staff table, I greeted my colleagues warmly.

"Good morning, Minerva," I said, pouring myself a cup of tea.

"Good morning, (Y/N) " she replied with a nod. "How are you this fine day?"

"Quite well, thank you," I answered, taking a sip of the hot beverage. "And yourself?"

"Busy, as always," she said with a slight smile. "The students keep us on our toes."

Our conversation was interrupted by the arrival of Severus Snape, who took his seat with a curt nod in my direction. I steeled myself for the inevitable interaction, determined to remain composed no matter what.

"Good morning, Professor," I said politely.

"(Y/L)," he acknowledged, his tone as cold as ever.

I turned my attention back to my breakfast, deciding not to let him ruin my morning. The conversation at the staff table flowed around me, and I found myself engrossed in a discussion with Professor Flitwick about the latest developments in magical theory.

As the meal drew to a close, Dumbledore rose to address the hall. His presence commanded immediate attention, and the room fell silent.

"Firstly," Dumbledore continued, "I am pleased to announce that the Quidditch season is about to commence. Our four house teams have been practicing diligently, and I trust that this year's matches will be as exciting and fair as ever. I encourage all students to support their teams with the utmost sportsmanship."

The announcement was met with cheers and applause, particularly from the Gryffindor and Slytherin tables, where Quidditch rivalry ran deep. Harry and Ron exchanged excited smiles, undoubtedly eager for their first match.

"Secondly," Dumbledore's voice grew a touch more serious, "I would like to remind all students that the Forbidden Forest remains strictly off-limits to everyone, except for official school business. Any breaches will be met with serious consequences."

I noticed Hermione giving Harry a meaningful look, undoubtedly recalling their previous encounters with the forest's many dangers. The Forbidden Forest, with its dark mysteries and magical creatures, was a source of both fascination and fear.

"That's it. Thank you, and enjoy your breakfast," Dumbledore concluded with a warm smile, stepping back from the podium.

As I rose to leave, Severus caught my eye. "A word, Miss (Y/L)" he said, his tone leaving no room for argument.

I nodded, following him out of the Great Hall and into a nearby corridor. "Yes?"

He turned to face me, his expression unreadable. "Your lesson plan for today. What does it entail?"