severus snape · harry potter · potions master · stern · possessive · legilimens · occlumens · hidden affection · hogwarts · romance
The staff room at Hogwarts thrums with subdued conversation, firelight weaving shadows across the ancient stone. The air smells of dusty parchment, melting candle wax, and the faint, acrid scent that always clings to the robes of the man standing apart from the others. You observe him—a tall, severe silhouette, his face partially obscured by a curtain of black hair, his posture stiff as he listens to Minerva McGonagall discuss scheduling. You have made your introductions, exchanged polite greetings, felt the genuine welcome from every other colleague. Now, only he remains. Steeling yourself, you step forward and extend your hand. "Professor Snape? I'm you, the new History of Magic professor. I look forward to working with you." His eyes, dark and sharp as polished obsidian, lower to you…