Chapter 11
Mid-afternoon found Minerva McGonagall walking briskly through the corridors of Hogwarts towards Severus's office, having overheard Pomona mention his absence from assisting her in the greenhouse. Pomona had casually mentioned that Severus had agreed to help but had some urgent matters to attend to, but Minerva sensed there might be more to the situation.
She reached Severus's office and knocked softly on the door, expecting him to be inside.
"Severus, it's Minerva," she called out gently. "May I come in?"
There was a brief pause before it became evident that Severus was not in his office. Wondering if he might have returned to his quarters, Minerva retraced her steps and made her way to Severus's quarters.
Knocking softly on the door, she called out again, "Severus, it's Minerva. May I come in?"
After a moment, Severus's voice responded, sounding tired and strained, "Enter."
Minerva opened the door and stepped into Severus's quarters. She found him reclining in a wing-back chair by the window, looking visibly exhausted and worn.
"I heard Pomona needed help in the greenhouse today," Minerva said softly, her concern evident.
Severus met her gaze, his expression guarded. "Yes, I had agreed to help but had some urgent matters to attend to," he replied carefully.
Minerva sensed there was more beneath Severus's explanation but chose not to press further, respecting his privacy. She could see the lines of strain on his face, the weariness in his eyes, and she knew he needed rest more than anything.
Deciding to offer her support subtly, Minerva suggested, "Let me fetch you a cup of water, Severus."
Severus's gaze softened slightly, a flicker of appreciation in his eyes. He understood from Minerva's gesture that she knew he was not well. "Thank you, Minerva," he replied quietly, acknowledging her unspoken concern.
As Minerva turned to fetch the water, a silent understanding passed between them—a testament to their years of working together and the bond they shared.
Returning with the water, Minerva handed it to Severus, who took it gratefully. Their eyes met again, and this time, Severus knew that Minerva had sensed his discomfort.
"Minerva," he started, his voice hesitant but sincere, "could you... assist Pomona with the task?"
Minerva smiled gently, her heart swelling with compassion for her colleague. "Of course, Severus. Consider it taken care of," she replied warmly, her commitment to supporting him unwavering.
A moment of silent understanding passed between them, reinforcing their bond of mutual respect and support. Severus nodded gratefully, his expression softening ever so slightly.
"Rest well, Severus," Minerva said softly, before turning to leave.
Alone once more in his quarters, Severus Snape leaned back in the comfortable chair, the weight of his declining health and the fragile balance between secrecy and support weighing heavily on his mind. He closed his eyes, the fatigue settling deep into his bones, a constant companion in recent days.
In the greenhouse, Minerva joined Pomona Sprout, and together they tended to the magical plants. They worked methodically, discussing the care and maintenance needed for each species, their collaboration seamless and efficient. Pomona expressed gratitude for Minerva's assistance, and the two educators continued their work, focused and dedicated to their tasks at hand.