Halloween Treat for Islandsmoke
Gift for: islandsmoke
From: gelsey
Title: An Unhappy Halloween
Pairing: Severus Snape, Minerva McGonagall
Rating: PG
Disclaimer: Not mine, not mine at all.
Summary: Minerva finds young Severus Snape after Sirius nearly gets him killed.
Notes: We never did know the date of Sirius’ trick, so I’ve improvised. Thank you to my lovely beta, triskellion , all mistakes are mine.
Young Severus Snape stood at the window of the highest Hogwarts tower. Minerva couldn’t see his expression from where she stood, but nevertheless she could tell his feelings. The ramrod back and bowed head told all. Long hair guarded his cheeks, but the cold breeze from the window allowed glimpses of his profile.
"Mister Snape," she said softly, coming closer. He flinched noticeably, and she longed to comfort the boy.
"What do you want?" he snarled.
She stood behind his shoulder, staring at the distant fires of Hogsmeade’s All Hallows Eve celebrations. "To say I’m sorry," she said. It was inadequate, and they both knew it. "I’m sorry for what happened. For the Headmaster’s decision about Misters Potter and Black. He’s overruled my objections."
Severus snorted, fingers gripping the stone sill tight. "Of course he has."
His eyes were full of things almost seen - rage, resentment, hate. But he didn’t look at her, didn’t give them voice.
"But I wanted you to know how sorry I am. Their actions were reprehensible."
The apology wasn’t enough, no. But it was a genuine apology. After a moment, his shoulder leaned into hers, taking the comfort offered, and together they watched the night.