Chapter 16
Minerva arrived at St. Agatha's Hospital late in the evening, guided by the faint glow of the entrance sign amidst the quiet hum of the suburban street. The hospital, with its clean, modern facade, stood as a stark contrast to the ancient halls of Hogwarts. Inside, the reception area was bathed in a soft, sterile light, where Minerva approached the desk with urgency in her step.
"I'm looking for a patient, Severus Snape," Minerva said to the nurse behind the desk, her voice steady despite the rising anxiety within her.
The nurse glanced at the screen in front of her, then back at Minerva with a sympathetic look. "He's in room 213," she replied softly. "You're the first visitor he's had since he was admitted."
Minerva's heart sank at the nurse's words, her worry deepening. With determined steps, she made her way down the quiet corridor, passing doors labeled with numbers until she reached room 213. She paused for a moment, gathering her strength before gently pushing the door open.
Inside, the room was dimly lit by a bedside lamp casting a warm glow over the sterile surroundings. Severus lay still on the hospital bed, his usually stern countenance softened by the ordeal he was enduring. His complexion was pallid, and his features seemed more relaxed in sleep, though the lines of pain and weariness were etched upon his face.
Surrounded by a tangle of medical equipment, Severus appeared vulnerable and fragile, his breathing shallow and labored. An oxygen mask covered his face, providing vital support, while IV lines dripped fluids into his veins. Monitors beeped softly, displaying his heart rate and oxygen levels.
Minerva approached the bed quietly, her footsteps barely making a sound on the tiled floor. She reached out, taking Severus's hand in hers, her heart breaking at the sight of him in such a vulnerable state. The room was filled with the soft hum of machines, adding to the sense of uncertainty that hung in the air.
"I'm here, Severus," Minerva whispered softly, her voice trembling with emotion. "You're not alone. I'm here now."
She sat beside him, her presence a silent promise of unwavering support, hoping against hope that somewhere within his unconscious mind, Severus could sense her love and care.