Chapter 14
As the end of term celebration at Hogwarts unfolded, Minerva McGonagall caught fleeting glimpses of Severus Snape amidst the festive throng. He appeared pale and weary, but he managed to maintain his composure as he mingled with the staff and students. Despite her best efforts to approach him, Minerva found herself continuously distracted by the demands of other colleagues and students who sought her attention.
It wasn't until after the celebrations had ended and the students had departed for the summer break that Minerva's thoughts returned to Severus. A casual mention of his absence sparked a pang of concern in her heart. She excused herself quietly from the remaining staff members and made her way through the deserted corridors of Hogwarts to Severus's quarters.
When she arrived, a sinking feeling gripped her chest. Severus's quarters were deserted, save for a faint trace of his presence—a half-empty vial of potion on his desk and an open book with a bookmark slipped between its pages. Beside them lay a note, neatly folded.
Minerva's hands trembled slightly as she reached for the note, her heart racing with apprehension. Unfolding it carefully, she read the words written in Severus's unmistakable handwriting—a brief farewell, expressing gratitude for their shared moments and apologizing for his sudden departure.
Tears welled up in Minerva's eyes as she realized Severus had quietly slipped away, leaving behind only memories and unanswered questions. She clutched the note to her chest, feeling a mixture of sorrow and a longing for answers. She stood in Severus's deserted quarters, silently reflecting on their shared moments and the impact he had on her life.
In that moment, Minerva vowed to cherish the memories of Severus, wherever he may be, and to hold onto the hope that she might one day uncover the reasons behind his departure.