Hi Kristeh. Thank you for your lovely review. I appreciate that you picked up on many of the subtleties in the chapter.

Yes, this part was rough but there are a few reasons why these events happened (not just Anthony) and they will become evident further down the road. In reference to the way Harry has decided to handle his grief, essentially- avoiding it by keeping busy, is definately not something I condone. He's just a teenage boy at this point, looking to the adults around him, trying to find a way to handle everything.

As anyone knows that has dealt with the loss of a loved one, grief is a process: shock, denial, anger, acceptance. JKR visited this scenario in Order of the Phoenix, where we see a bitter Harry. We visited the 'shock' phase in this chapter and will touch on the others in the next couple of chapters. But, Helena is still around and things will start to look up.

And yes, I love the fact that Severus, who has been so closed off, for so long, literally had Harry's love march itself right into Sev's heart and subconscious and 'camp out' while he was unconscious. That love left its mark and awoke within Severus an awareness.  I've always thought that Severus Snape, being so intelligent and having the ability to be a double agent, would obviously be an individual capable of discernment and insight. I which to develop these attributes.   

And finally, the fact that Harry CAME to Severus for guidance was a major step, a 'Turning Point' if you will in their new relationship. Severus didn't send the boy on his way but instead reached out (as best he could) and tried to help. He even felt concern when Harry's comments hinted at his own mortality. 

 Thanks so much for sharing your thoughts. Hugs, SHaria