Chapter 12
Severus sat quietly in the infirmary, the soft glow of candles casting flickering shadows on the walls. Poppy Pomfrey, the Hogwarts matron, approached him with a gentle demeanor, her wand at the ready for a thorough check-up.
"Severus, let's do a quick check-up, shall we?" Poppy said kindly, guiding Severus to sit more comfortably on the infirmary bed.
Severus complied silently, allowing Poppy to perform her healing magic. She gently placed her wand on his chest, murmuring incantations as she listened intently to his heartbeat.
"How have you been feeling lately, Severus?" Poppy inquired softly, her eyes studying his face for any sign of discomfort.
Severus hesitated, his thoughts momentarily drifting to Minerva. "Fatigued," he admitted quietly. "But manageable."
Poppy nodded understandingly, though she sensed there was more he wasn't sharing. "It might help to confide in someone you trust," she suggested gently.
Severus glanced at her briefly, considering her words. "There is someone," he confessed in a low voice.
Poppy's expression softened with empathy. "Minerva," she stated quietly, more as an understanding than a question.
Severus nodded slightly. "Yes," he affirmed, a mix of longing and resignation in his eyes.
Poppy regarded him thoughtfully. "She cares deeply for you, Severus. Perhaps it's time to let her in, even if it's just a little," she encouraged gently.
Severus took a deep breath, his decision forming in his mind. "Perhaps," he murmured.
After Poppy finished her examination and assured him of his health status, Severus thanked her quietly. As she left to attend to other duties in the infirmary, Severus remained deep in thought.
Later that evening, as the castle settled into its nightly rhythms, Severus found himself in the quiet solitude of his chambers. He reflected on Poppy's words and the thoughts of Minerva that occupied his mind.
With a heavy sigh, Severus pushed his thoughts aside and focused on the present moment. He resolved to cherish the remaining time at Hogwarts, to appreciate the fleeting moments of peace and connection, and to hold Minerva's image close in his heart.