My dearest Harry,

As I sit here watching you sleep peacefully in your crib, I can hardly believe that you will be reading this letter in the future.

Today marks a special day, my love, your eleventh birthday. And as a wizarding child, it is a day that will forever hold a special place in your heart.

I know that your father and I are no longer with you, and that you are now in the care of my sister, Petunia. She may not understand or appreciate the magical world you are about to enter, but I am writing this letter to share everything with you that she may not have told you.

Please always remember that your father and I love you deeply and will always be with you in your heart, even when we are not physically present. In the darkest moments, know that our love will be a guiding light for you.

You will soon learn about a prophecy that is said to involve you. I want you to know that it is simply a prediction of what may happen, and it is not set in stone. Please try to stay out of trouble and always listen to your professors while at school.

If fate allows it, you may come across a friend of mine who has become a professor of potions at Hogwarts. His name is Severus Snape and if you ever need help, don't hesitate to seek him out.

I must end this letter now, as you are starting to stir in your crib. Just remember, my darling boy, that your father and I love you more than anything in this world.

Love always, Mom

P.S Don't forget to eat your vegetables!

Harry set aside the letter, brushing away the tears that had formed in his eyes with the back of his hand. He then reread the letter, sighing deeply. The thought of what his life might have been like if his parents had survived was beyond comprehension. With a heavy heart, Harry gently folded the letter and tucked it away inside a book, ensuring its safekeeping from prying eyes, especially from those of his relatives.

The letter had seemed to materialize out of thin air, landing softly in Harry's lap. It was almost like magic, and as he read through his mother's message, he couldn't help but believe that it was. There was no other explanation for how it could have appeared so suddenly in his cupboard beneath the stairs.

Harry secured the book and then reclined, placing his hands behind his head. His gaze fixated on a spider as it wove its intricate web under one of the stairs. A seed of doubt began to take root in his mind, causing him to wonder if this was all just a cruel joke orchestrated by his relatives. Could it be possible that he was meant to be rescued by wizards, only to find out that it was all a false hope and that he was doomed to a life of misery in this cupboard? As much as he wanted to believe that he was a wizard, the reality of his situation seemed to suggest otherwise. He couldn't help but feel that he was destined to spend the rest of his life here, in this place of solitude and despair.

Harry shifted slightly to alleviate some of the pain from one of his bruises, a reminder of his failure to dodge a flying frying pan. That had been a painful experience, but it paled in comparison to the horrors that had unfolded later that night. He tried to shake off the unpleasant thoughts and refocus his attention on the letter, imagining what his parents must have been like. Was his mother really as loving and compassionate as her words depicted her to be? These were the things that he longed to know, and the letter was the only connection he had to the parents he never got the chance to meet.

It was a while before the door to his cupboard was roughly yanked open, and a meaty hand reached in to drag him out by the collar. Harry braced himself for the worst, wondering what he had done or not done this time to incur the wrath of his guardians.

Harry recoiled as he saw his uncle's face turn bright red with rage. "What is the meaning of all these letters, BOY!?"

The young boy shook his head in bewilderment, "What letters?"

"You don't know?" his uncle barked, advancing towards Harry. "Explain yourself! How can you not know about these damned letters?"

Harry felt a knot form in his stomach. He frantically searched for an explanation, his eyes falling on the pile of letters by the door. He noticed his name on one of them and stammered, "I-I don't know how they got here. I haven't seen them before now."

"Your name is all over it, BOY! You better tell whoever is behind this to stop, or you'll live to regret it! Now, get back in that cupboard, and stay there!"

Harry was pushed into his tiny room with a jolt, and he was left to ponder about the strange events that were unfolding around him. He couldn't comprehend who could be sending those letters, and he wished they would cease. Could they be from his deceased parents? The thought was both frightening and exhilarating. He couldn't grasp how it was even possible. The sound of his Uncle's footsteps grew distant as the man locked the door from the outside, leaving Harry trapped until morning.

As Harry adjusted himself, the ache from the bruises reminded him of the rough treatment he had received. He couldn't help but sigh as he rubbed the tender spots. He often wondered why he was subjected to such mistreatment. Despite the pain, he tried to make himself comfortable, but the events of the day continued to weigh heavy on his mind.

However, Harry was determined not to dwell on the negative and instead tried to push the thoughts to the back of his mind. He shifted onto his side, trying to find a comfortable position to sleep in. As he drifted off, his mind turned to more hopeful musings. He dreamed of escape, of finally breaking free from the oppressive life he was currently living and finding a brighter future.

he next time Harry woke, he was abruptly yanked out of his cupboard by his Aunt. This wasn't uncommon - every morning, she would drag him out of his makeshift room and into the kitchen. However, this time, she didn't give him a chance to even fully awaken before roughly pulling him out. Her brisk movements indicated that she was upset about something, but Harry had no idea what could have caused her anger.

Harry trudged into the kitchen and began preparing breakfast for his aunt, uncle, and cousin. They would enjoy a full English breakfast, while he would only be allowed a cup of tea. More often than not, there were no leftovers for him to eat. As he worked, he couldn't help but wonder what tasks his uncle had in store for him that day. During the summer months, Harry was given an overwhelming list of chores that were nearly impossible to complete within the designated time frame. The result was always the same - punishment and an early bedtime, only to repeat the same cycle the next day. Summer was a dread for Harry, a never-ending cycle of little food, hard work and abuse.

Just as Harry had anticipated, he was given very little food to eat. His cousin had left him only a slice of tomato and a handful of mushrooms, because he didn't feel like eating anything nutritious that day. Despite the meager portion, Harry was grateful for the sustenance, happy to have anything to fill his empty stomach.

His uncle then handed him a list of chores and as a reminder to not misbehave, he delivered a sharp blow to Harry's ear. Dazed, Harry rubbed his sore ear and set about completing the tasks. First, he washed the dishes, then went outside to mow the lawn while the weather was still cool.

The remainder of August followed the same pattern. Mysterious letters continued to arrive, and Harry was punished and given a huge amount of work to complete while he was still hurting from the previous day's abuse. On August 31st, the situation reached its breaking point for Harry. A flood of letters poured in through the mail slot and chimney. Before Harry could even lay his hands on one, his uncle had burned them all and proceeded to beat him mercilessly. The punishment left Harry bruised and bloody.

The abuse had gotten so severe that Harry was certain his ankle was broken. His aunt, who had never shown any concern for his well-being before, even provided him with a mild pain medication. Harry guessed that she couldn't tolerate his pained cries whenever he accidentally moved the wrong way while he was locked away in the cupboard under the stairs.

The next day, the mysterious letters suddenly stopped appearing. He couldn't figure out what had happened, but his uncle appeared to be quite pleased about the change in circumstances. Harry felt discouraged, assuming that whoever was trying to reach him had given up. His mood plummeted to a new low.

That evening, Harry lay in his cupboard, tears streaming down his face as he mourned his wounds and feeling of abandonment. No one was coming to save him and he heard his Aunt talking earlier that they had even decided to keep him from going to school the following year. Harry was trapped and had no options. The thought of attempting to escape during his next yard work crossed his mind, but he had nowhere to go. Eventually, his emotions subsided, and exhaustion took over, allowing Harry to fall into a fitful sleep.

Harry was suddenly awoken by the piercing sound of screams coming from the living room in the early hours of the morning. The darkness outside made it impossible for him to determine the time. As he prepared himself for the worst, he feared another round of physical abuse from his uncle. His body was already battered and bruised, unable to endure another beating. However, when the door to his cupboard was thrown open, he was not met with violence, but instead, he felt a presence kneel beside him and a comforting touch on his back. A gentle voice spoke words of comfort in his ear, though Harry was too far gone to understand.

The hand continued to provide comfort, rubbing circles into Harry's back and speaking softly into his ear. Harry gradually relaxed, allowing himself to believe the voice that assured him he was safe and okay. He longed to believe that he was being rescued, but he couldn't imagine who would know of his situation. After all, the letter writer had seemed to have forgotten all about him.

As Harry's mind started to calm, his focus shifted to the voice speaking to him. It was a man's voice, softly whispering reassuring phrases like "You're alright" and "I've got you now." Despite not fully understanding the words, the soothing tone was enough to bring a sense of comfort to Harry. No one, besides the nurse at school, had ever shown such kindness towards him before. This thought sparked a deep longing within Harry, making his heart ache with hope. Could this man be here to save him? Was this what it was like having someone who cared about you?

Harry mustered up the courage to open his eyes and take a look at the man who was rubbing his back. He was taken aback by the stranger's appearance; with long dark hair that reached his shoulders and an all-black outfit consisting of a suit and a robe, the man exuded a foreboding aura. Despite this, Harry couldn't ignore the kindness that the man was showing him. He mustered up the courage he had to ask, "Who are you?"

"I am Professor Snape, and I teach at Hogwarts. I came here because you didn't respond to your letter inviting you to attend school, and I was sent to fetch you. Can you tell me why you're in this cupboard?" Severus had deduced from his surroundings that this was the boy's room, but he still wanted to hear the explanation directly from him.

Harry hung his head, ashamed. He took a deep breath and spoke, "This is my room. I am burden and don't deserve a real room."

Severus was boiling with anger, grateful that he had stuck Petunia and her overweight husband to the ceiling so he could find Harry. He had heard that kind of talk before from some of his Slytherins. He was sure it had been drilled into the boy's mind. Petunia was never kind, but he never imagined she would treat a child with such cruelty.

Without revealing his emotions, Severus stood up and helped Harry out of his cramped space. He looked sternly at the boy and declared, "I'm taking you away from this place. This is not a suitable environment for a wizarding child or any child for that matter."

Severus then fixed his gaze on Petunia and her husband, who were still hanging from the ceiling, silenced by his spell. He aimed his wand at them, ready to cast the next incantation. "Someone will be coming to deal with you. If it were up to me, you would be sent to Azkaban and given the the dementors kiss." He then cast a mild, stinging hex on them, causing them to feel a bit of discomfort, but not enough to leave any permanent marks. They were lucky that was all he did.

He then turned to Harry, who was standing beside him. "Take only what is most important to you and leave everything else behind. You will not be returning to this place, I can promise you that."

Harry nodded and turned to pick up the book with the letter, a few broken toy soldiers, and an old, worn blue blanket that he had apparently cherished for a long time. As he prepared to follow Severus and leave the place, Harry glanced upstairs. "What will happen to my cousin?" he asked.

Severus appreciated the boy's concern, despite the fact that this family had never shown him any kindness. "Don't worry, someone will arrange for him to be taken care of," he replied.

Harry still looked worried. "But where are we going? Can't Dudley come with us?"

Severus sighed. He was eager to get out of there and bring the boy to the Hospital Wing for a check-up. "We're going to Hogwarts, Harry. You're a wizard, and you need to learn how to control your magic. Your cousin is not a wizard, so he can't come with us. But I'll show you how to owl people so you can write to him."

With a reassuring grip, Severus led Harry out of the house and down the street, where he noticed the boy limping heavily. Sensing the boy's difficulty, Severus slowed his pace so Harry could keep up. They turned the corner and arrived at a secluded spot behind a tree.

"Hold on tight to my hand, Harry," Severus instructed. "We're going to use a portkey to get to the school. It's a magical device that will transport us directly to our destination."

Harry reluctantly followed the man's guidance, holding on to his hand tightly. Despite the throbbing pain in his foot, he remained quiet, not wanting to cause any issues. This was his opportunity for a fresh start, and he was not going to let anything jeopardize it. He tightly closed his eyes as they felt a sudden, peculiar sensation of movement. When he opened his eyes again, he was in a strange new world, surrounded by unfamiliar sights and sounds. Suddenly, he felt his stomach churning, and he found himself on the ground, it's small amount of contents gone, with Severus kneeling beside him, trying to comfort him with gentle, circular motions on his back.

The calming words had a soothing effect on Harry, but he was unsure if he could stand up. His ankle was in a lot of pain, making it difficult for him to put weight on it. With his eyes tightly closed, Harry leaned into the comforting body of the man who was knelt behind him.

Severus spoke to Harry in a gentle tone, "Do you think you can stand, Harry? We only have a short distance left to travel."

Feeling the pain in his foot, Harry was hesitant to say anything but ultimately shook his head, reluctant to admit his weakness.

Severus frowned but nodded, sensing that Harry was at his limit. To ensure that no rule breaking students would see his uncharacteristic act of kindness, he cast a notice me not spell around them. He couldn't risk ruining his reputation as a strict professor. "It's alright," he said comfortingly. "I will carry you."

The man carefully picked the child up in his arms and began to make his way to the castle gates. He swiftly carried the child to the hospital wing.

Upon arrival, he shouted for Poppy and tenderly placed Harry on a nearby bed. "Stay here for a moment," he said. "I'm going to fetch the school nurse and will return shortly."

Harry nodded and watched as the man entered an office-like room. He was relieved to have arrived at what appeared to be a small hospital. He gazed at his worn-out shoes and sighed deeply. The past few hours had been a whirlwind of events. He figured that the letter he received must have indeed been from his mother. He quickly retrieved the letter from the book and scanned it, searching for the name of the person he was supposed to meet. That's when he saw it: Severus Snape. Could this man he just met be the same person?

Harry looked up as the man returned to the room with a nurse by his side. They approached Harry as he hid the letter away again, with the nurse wearing a friendly smile and the Professor wearing a scowl.

The nurse was the first to speak. "Hello, Harry. I'm Madam Pomfrey. Professor Snape here says that you've been limping and might have hurt yourself. Can you tell me where it hurts?"

Harry nodded silently and lifted his pant leg to reveal his swollen ankle, which was tightly constrained by his shoe. Madam Pomfrey bent down to examine it and noticed some bruising on his lower leg, but decided to focus on his ankle first. She gently prodded it and then looked up at Harry. "Would you mind if I take off your shoe?"

Harry shook his head, and Madam Pomfrey carefully untied the shoe and removed it, trying to cause as little pain as possible. She then rolled down the worn-out sock to reveal a badly broken and swollen ankle that looked extremely painful.

Concealing her worry, Poppy put a cheerful expression on her face and looked at Harry. "Let's get started. I need to get some potions and salves to treat your injury. In the meantime, would you mind if Professor Snape helps you into a hospital gown? It'll be more comfortable while I treat you."

Harry nodded slightly, wondering if the nurse had noticed the other bruises on his body and realized he had suffered injuries elsewhere. Nurses had a way of being intuitive like that. Before he knew it, Poppy had left the room and Professor Snape had drawn the curtain around the hospital bed, enclosing Harry and himself.

The man held the hospital gown in his hand and looked down at Harry with a gruff but gentle expression. Harry was starting to understand that this was the man's way of trying not to look too intimidating.

In a soft voice, Severus approached Harry and inquired if he needed help putting his belongings on the bedside table and then removing his shirt. Harry placed his items on the table, but looked down and Severus stepped forward, offering the hospital gown. He assisted Harry in taking off his shirt and carefully placed the gown over him, securing it at the back. The sight of Harry's bruises and injuries scattered all over his body made it difficult for Severus to maintain his composure. He took a deep breath to calm himself. He didn't want to scare or alarm him in any way.

Severus felt a white-hot anger boil within him at the thought of someone mistreating a child. The idea of Harry's relatives being stuck to the ceiling brought a small satisfaction, but he knew that eventually he would have to intervene and set them free. He was determined to confront Albus about this and let him know the full extent of what had happened to Harry. If the old wizard was lucky, he wouldn't find himself on the receiving end of Severus' fist.

Severus suppressed his anger and focused on the task at hand. "Do you need assistance with removing your pants and sock?" Harry looked away, unsure of what to do. Without a second thought, Severus pointed his wand and Harry's pants disappearing them, leaving him in just the hospital gown, his shorts and one sock. Gently, the man bent over and removed the remaining sock as well.

"All done," he said with what Harry thought looked like his version of a smile. "That wasn't too difficult, was it?"

Harry shook his head, expressing his thanks. "Thank you."

On the other side of the curtain, Poppy had collected the necessary supplies and called out to see if they were ready for her. Severus acknowledged her, pulling back the curtain to let her in. When she approached the bedside and set down her armful of supplies, Severus looked at Harry and asked if he would like him to stay or give them some privacy.

Harry glanced at the nurse and then back at Severus. "Would you mind staying?"

The man nodded and walked over to the visitor's chair on the other side of the bed. He sat down and helped adjust Harry's position so he was fully sitting on the bed and no longer hanging off the edge. He took Harry's hand in his and gave it a gentle squeeze. "I won't go anywhere."

Severus dreaded his visits to the hospital wing. He was accustomed to assisting Poppy with his snakes, but this boy was a future Gryffindor, even though he had yet to be sorted. This was also the first time that he had rescued the boy from his abusive relatives.

Poppy efficiently set up the potions and positioned herself at the bedside, placing a pillow under the boy's foot. She then cast a diagnostic spell over his foot, sighing at the results. "When did you hurt your ankle, Harry? And do you remember how?"

The boy looked away and shrugged. "I think it was a few weeks ago."

Poppy nodded, her expression serious. "It looks like your tibia and talus are badly broken. I'll need to vanish the bones and regrow them for a proper healing. Can I also perform a full deep diagnostic on you, Harry? I want to make sure you're fully healed."

Harry unconsciously tightened his grip on the Professor's hand and reluctantly nodded. He didn't want to admit it, but he was feeling very scared. No one, not even his school nurse, had fully understood everything he had endured. Although she had suspected, she had never truly known and the thought of someone knowing of it was frightening.

Severus noticed the fear in Harry's eyes and squeezed his hand a little tighter. "It's all right, Harry. Madam Pomfrey is here to help you, she just wants to make sure you're healed properly."

Poppy cast a deep diagnostic spell, scanning Harry's entire body. Her expression grew increasingly serious as she observed the results. "Oh, my," she stifled a whisper. "Harry, it looks like you've got a few old broken bones that have never been properly healed and other more recent wounds. I'm going to have to clean and heal all of these."

Harry nodded, feeling overwhelmed and scared. He looked at Severus, seeking comfort from the Professor's presence. He had been so kind so far, unlike anyone else in his life. "It's going to be all right, Harry," Severus reassured him. "Madam Pomfrey is going to make sure you're healed, and you'll feel much better once she's done."

Poppy turned to Harry and gave him a reassuring smile. "To make the healing process less painful, I'm going to give you a potion that will make you sleepy, it is called dreamless sleep. This will allow your body to focus all its energy on healing, without you having to feel any of the pain. Do you understand, Harry?"

Harry shook his head, looking confused. "It's a potion? Dreamless sleep?"

"It's a potion, a kind of medicine, that will make you fall into a deep sleep, without any dreams or nightmares," Poppy explained. "While you're asleep, your body will be able to heal much faster and with less pain. And you'll wake up feeling much better."

Harry looked at Severus, who nodded in agreement. "It's perfectly safe, Harry. Madam Pomfrey knows what she's doing, and I'll be here the whole time to make sure you're all right."

With a deep breath, Harry finally nodded, allowing Poppy to give him the dreamless sleep potion. In no time, he was in a deep and peaceful slumber, his breathing slow and steady.

Severus tenderly placed Harry's hand back on the bed and then put his head in his hands, letting out a sigh as he did so. He felt like he was on a never-ending emotional rollercoaster, unable to comprehend the suffering that Harry had endured. Poppy, noticing her colleague's distress, approached him and placed a comforting hand on his back. She knew that Harry would be sleeping for a while and saw this as an opportunity to offer Severus some comfort.

A few moments passed before Severus gently brushed Poppy's hand away and sat upright once more. He nodded gratefully to the nurse, then watched as she got to work, spelling potions into Harry's stomach and applying balms to his bruises to help speed up the healing process.

After Harry had been tucked into bed and received as much care as possible for the moment, with his bones still needing time to regrow, Severus gently brushed the hair away from Harry's face and stood up from his chair. Turning away from Poppy, he let out a sigh, still gazing at the young boy lying in the bed. "I must inform Albus of everything that has transpired," he said.

The nurse simply nodded and placed a comforting hand on his shoulder. "Remember, Severus, I am here for you if you need me. If you ever want to talk," she said, repeating the same offer she had made countless times before. Although she knew that he had experienced more than most people, he had yet to confide in her. She hoped that one day he would find someone to talk to and unburden himself.

Severus ignored the nurse's offer and remained focused on Harry. "He's so small," he muttered. "I expected him to arrive at Hogwarts full of himself, just like his father. But when I found him in that cupboard, it reminded me that he's just a child. Lily's child. What would she say if she were here?"

He paused for a moment, lost in his own thoughts. "I cannot imagine," he finally whispered. "Probably words that couldn't be repeated in front of others, but I do know that she would have wanted me to protect him, no matter the cost." He let out a sigh, shook off the nurses hand, and then massaged his temples, feeling the stress of the past few hours starting to take its toll on him.

Just then, a gust of wind swept through the room, causing Harry's book to fall off the bedside table. A letter spilled out and landed just beneath the bed. Severus bent down to retrieve it and froze as he recognized the handwriting on the envelope.

"Lily," he whispered, his voice filled with both surprise and sadness. He carefully picked up the letter, feeling a sense of both dread and excitement as he wondered what it could contain. He stood there for a moment, clutching the letter in his hands, before finally making the decision to open it, disregarding the fact that he was invading Harry's privacy.

Poppy peered over his shoulder as he read the letter and then noticed that he had become still, as if frozen in place. His face was unreadable as he carefully refolded the letter and placed it back into the envelope. He then put it back into the book and returned the book to its place on the bedside table. The man was filled with confusion. Where did that gust of wind come from? How did Harry come into possession of the letter from Lily? And why did she instruct her son to seek out Severus after so many years of estrangement?

Poppy watched as Severus continued to stand there in silence, but then she again rested her hand on his shoulder to try to bring him back to the present. "Severus, you alright there?"

The man nodded and again shook her hand off of him. He was not a touchy feely person and he wished she would keep her hands to herself even though a small part of his did in fact appreciate the contact. With one last look at the boy in the bed Severus then turned and started walking to the door. "I need to speak with Albus."

The nurse watched as the man walked through the door and let out a sigh of her own. What a complex man, she spent more time worrying about him than anyone else in the castle.

She knew that there was so much more to Severus Snape than what met the eye.

Despite his cold demeanor and sharp tongue, she could see the deep pain and hurt that he carried within him. She also knew that he had a soft spot for Lily, Harry's mother, and it was clear to her that the letter he had just read had affected him deeply. Poppy didn't know what had transpired between Severus and Lily all those years ago, but she could see the internal struggle that he was going through.

With a heavy heart, she returned to her duties, determined to keep a close eye on Harry and support him in any way she could. She had a feeling that it was going to be a long and difficult road for all of them, but she was ready for the challenge.

Severus stood before the entrance to the Headmaster's office, a look of annoyance etched upon his face as he gazed at the gargoyle guarding the staircase. He muttered the password, "Lemon Drops," under his breath, and with a grudging movement, the statue stepped aside, revealing the steps leading up to the office.

With a flick of his wrist, Severus billowed his black robes behind him and began making his way up the staircase. His expression was grim, betraying the urgency of his mission. Despite his reluctance, he knew that he had to have this conversation with Albus Dumbledore. He didn't want to have it with anyone, but he was determined to see this through. With a heavy sigh, Severus pushed open the door at the top of the stairs, bracing himself for what was to come.

With a warm smile, Albus motioned for Severus to take a seat in the plush armchair, the same one he had occupied just a few hours prior. "I hope that retrieving Harry went smoothly," Albus said, his eyes twinkling. "We should have him sorted so he can be in his dormitory by tomorrow evening."

"Harry is safe now," Severus replied, his tone tight. He struggled to keep his emotions in check, feeling the urge to lash out at the headmaster. He was not sure how much Albus knew about the boy's upbringing, but he had a feeling that the headmaster was fully aware of the situation. Despite his reservations, Severus refrained from making any judgments, not wanting to jump to conclusions before all the facts were known.

Albus, who had known Severus for many years, could tell that something was bothering him. He wondered what could have caused this reaction and if his actions had played a part. He hoped that he hadn't been too hard on Harry and that by sending him to retrieve the boy, he could show him that he was also Lily's son and hopefully establish a better relationship.

Rising from his seat, the solemn man approached the window and gazed out at the inky black sky dotted with twinkling stars. He wondered if Lily was among those stars, keeping an eye on him and her son. Taking a deep breath, he resumed his tale of the events of that night, leaving nothing out except perhaps the fact that the Dursleys were still suspended from the ceiling. That information could be shared at a later time. After all they had inflicted upon the child, being stuck to the ceiling was the very least they deserved.

After listening to Severus's account, Albus felt as though he had aged a hundred years. He could never have imagined that Petunia was capable of treating a child in such a manner. She had promised him that she would raise Harry as her own if he left them in peace until it was time for him to attend Hogwarts. "I never thought that they would harm him," Albus said with a sigh. "I had hoped that by keeping him away from the spotlight, he would have a chance at a normal upbringing."

Severus shot the headmaster a piercing, unyielding gaze. "He must never go back there," he stated firmly.

Albus sighed deeply and nodded in agreement. "The blood wards are some of the most powerful protective spells out there, but I can see your point. Harry would not be safe in that house."

Severus nodded, his gaze fixed on the night sky. Albus rose from his chair and stood beside him, also looking out the window. The two remained silent for a moment, before Severus finally spoke. "You really didn't know."

Albus let out a deep sigh and shook his head. "When they agreed to take Harry in, I had to make a promise not to interfere with how they raised him. I thought they just wanted privacy, but now it's clear there was something more behind their request."

Severus cast a glance towards the man and could clearly see the evidence of age and defeat etched upon his face. Despite Dumbledore's reputation for being all-powerful, Severus remembered that he was just a person like everyone else and had his own flaws. Albus's main flaw, Severus thought, was his tendency to trust others to follow through on their promises. With a sigh, he turned his gaze back towards the window. "This isn't a simple mistake that can be easily corrected," he said. "His life will be forever marked by his childhood experiences and he will need years of support from a mind healer and a stable, reliable home environment. You cannot bounce him from family to family."

Albus nodded, but when he placed a hand on Severus's shoulder, Severus immediately shrugged it off. Why was with everyone trying to touch him tonight? "I understand, Severus," Albus said. "Let's discuss this further in the morning and find a suitable family for Harry to live with. We need to act fast before the Ministry gets involved. You know they've been trying to place him with a influential family since that night."

"We'll address it in the morning. By the way, the Dursleys may be stuck to their ceiling. You should probably release them." Severus said, before turning towards the door with his robes flowing behind him. He strode down the stairs, leaving Albus standing there with his eyes closed and taking a deep breath. After processing the last thing Severus said, Albus opened his eyes and raised an eyebrow as he looked to where Severus had left. He then let out a sigh and reflected on what had transpired that evening.

For once in his long life, he was uncertain about what to do. The blood wards were powerful and he had even considered casting a spell to protect Harry from harm by muggles. However, that would only protect against physical wounds, not the emotional toll of being overworked or mistreated, so he discarded that idea. He also thought about the Weasley family, but they already had so many children and taking on another would be difficult. Perhaps a good night's sleep would bring some clarity to the situation, but first he supposed he needed to release the Dursleys. Albus resolved to release the Dursleys and rest, hoping to find a solution in his dreams. Before retiring to his chambers for the night, he made a quick firecall to Kingsley Shacklebolt.

Severus, however, did not follow Albus's advice to get some rest. Instead, he went to check on his newly acquired snakes to ensure that they were all safely settled in for the night. After making sure everything was in order, he headed back to the hospital wing to keep watch over Harry as he slept.

In the early morning hours, after a few hours of rest, Madam Pomfrey made her way out of her quarters to check on her patient. As she entered the hospital wing, she observed Severus sleeping soundly, his head propped up in an awkward position that would have undoubtedly resulted in a stiff neck. She couldn't help but smile as she retrieved a thick, warm blanket and carefully draped it over the slumbering man, tucking it in around his feet. Knowing how important it was for him to rest, she transfigured the straight-backed chair he was sitting in into a comfortable recliner and adjusted it to support his back. Satisfied that he was now in a better position, she moved over to Harry's bed and began her examination.

Ensuring that the boy was still in his dreamless sleep, Madam Pomfrey carefully checked his vital signs and monitored his progress. She knew that he had a long way to go in terms of recovery, but she was optimistic that he was on the right path. She anticipated that he would slumber for the remainder of the night and well into the morning, giving his body the time it needed to heal.

Meanwhile, Severus and the boy slept soundly, their bodies working hard to recover from the trauma they had endured. When Severus finally awoke, he found himself enveloped in a warm, comfortable recliner, the blanket still wrapped snugly around him. Rolling his eyes in amusement, he recognized it as Madam Pomfrey's handiwork, but he was grateful for the care she had shown him. He shrugged off the blanket and sat up, looking down at the boy who still lay in a deep sleep. With a tender touch, he brushed back the boy's hair and watched in awe as the magic worked to regrow his bones. It was a slow and delicate process, and it would take several days for the bones to fully heal.

Confident that the boy was on the road to recovery, Severus rose from the recliner, which he promptly transformed back into a chair. He folded the blanket neatly and placed it on the seat, grateful for the warmth it had provided him during the night. After taking a few moments to freshen up in the bathroom, he made his way to the Great Hall to grab a quick breakfast and to discuss Harry's placement with Albus. There was also the matter of the boy's sorting ceremony to consider, and Severus knew that they needed to come up with a plan that would allow Harry to settle in and feel at home in his new surroundings.

As Severus made his way into the Great Hall, he couldn't help but notice how quiet it was without the bustling energy of students filling the space. He saw a few early-rising Professors in their seats and some students milling around, but the room was mostly empty. Severus made his way to the head table and took a seat next to Albus. He cleared his throat and turned to the Headmaster.

"Good morning, Albus. I hope you slept well."

"As well as can be expected, Severus," replied Albus with a small smile. "I trust our young patient is recovering?"

Severus nodded, "It'll take a few days for his bones to fully heal. I believe Poppy will have a full report for you on your desk sometime today like she normally does with these kind of cases.

"Yes, I will expect it, but not look forward to it." Albus sighed and pushed his eggs around his plate.

Overhearing the conversation, Minerva gave Albus a sharp look and Severus a curious one. "What patient are we discussing? I noticed that a certain famous wizard was absent last night. Is he the patient you're referring to?" asked Minerva, her eyes darting between the two men.

Albus acknowledged her question with a nod, his eyes downcast as he pushed his eggs around his plate. "I sent Severus to retrieve him when he didn't respond to any of our letters or show up yesterday as expected. He's currently in the hospital wing and will be sorted later this morning. I'd prefer to keep the matter private for now, out of respect for his privacy."

Severus leaned in, his voice hushed. "And what about his placement, Albus? We need to discuss how we're going to handle it."

Albus let out a sigh and ran his hand through his beard. "Yes, we do. I'm still uncertain about where to place him, but we'll have to make a decision soon before the Ministry decides to step in. Poppy will delay filing her report as long as possible, but once she does, the floodgates will open."

Glancing at both of them, Minerva spoke through gritted teeth, "So he'll need new living arrangements? Albus, I warned you about them. I told you they were not good people." Her tone was menacing, and Albus was fortunate that others were present. If they had been alone, she might have bit his head off. Albus would have to watch his back around her for a while or she was likely hex him.

Severus could feel the tension in the room and decided to intervene. "Minerva, as much as I agree with you about his family, we need to focus on finding a solution. We can't change what's already happened, but we can change what will happen going forward. I suggest we start discussing alternative living arrangements for the boy."

Albus grinned wryly, breaking the tense silence, "Says the man who stuck them to their ceiling last night. Kingsley mentioned this morning that it was quite challenging to get them off the ceiling, and I think he regretted helping them in the first place," he finished darly.

Minerva arched an eyebrow and turned to Severus. "Perhaps we should discuss some plans at a later time."

Albus quickly interjected, holding up his hand. "I shouldn't be privy to any of those plans."

The two younger professors exchanged a conspirising look and then turned back to Albus who had finally had a bite of his food. Severus broke the silence, "Here's an idea to consider. What if we were to approach a few muggle-born parents and see if they would be willing to take him in, after thorough screening of course. He would be out of the public eye, wouldn't have any political motives, and he would be in an environment more similar to what he is used to, rather than a wizarding home."

After swallowing a bite of his food, Albus nodded in agreement. "That's a valid idea worth exploring. This year, there are at least five families who are muggle-born that we can consider reaching out to."

Minerva nodded in agreement, relieved that they were making progress. "I'll start making a list of potential families, and we can begin the screening process as soon as possible. We'll need to be thorough to ensure his safety and well-being."

Severus leaned back in his chair, crossing his arms. "We'll also need to think about how to present this to the Ministry. They're going to want to know where he's going and who he'll be living with."

Albus nodded, his expression serious. "I'll handle the Ministry. I have a few contacts that can help smooth things over."

The three of them chatted a bit longer until the other students started to arrive for breakfast. They arranged for Albus to spend the morning with Harry, as he had no classes to attend, and to help him get sorted into a house. Later in the afternoon, when Minerva was free from classes, she would take over so that Harry was never alone. Although Severus wanted to be with Harry all day, he resigned himself to the evening shift as he had to teach and he discreetly smelled himself noting that he was also due for a shower.

After bidding farewell to his colleagues, Albus made his way to the Hospital wing first stopping to retrieve the sorting hat from his office. Upon entering, he noticed that Harry was still sleeping soundly in his bed. The poor boy must have been utterly exhausted to sleep for so long. Albus wondered when the last time Harry had felt truly safe and felt immense guilt for placing him in harm's way for all those years. He regretted not having heeded Minerva's warnings all those years ago.

Placing the sorting hat on the bed next to Harry's, Albus shushed it as it began to sing, alerting Poppy who emerged from her office with a raised eyebrow and her hands on her hips. Albus offered an apologetic shrug and took a seat beside Harry, studying the boy's diminutive form. Despite being eleven years old, he looked much younger.

As Poppy finished checking over Harry, Albus observed her with a smile. The woman was incredibly hardworking and he noticed that she was still wearing her night clothes from the previous night. It was clear she had not slept at all.

As she finished, Albus placed a gentle hand on hers. "You must be exhausted, Poppy. I can keep watch over him while you freshen up and take a nap. I'll wake you if anything happens."

Poppy looked at Albus skeptically. "You entrusted him to their care. Can you be trusted with him?"

Albus cast his gaze down in shame and looked at Harry lying in the bed. "I was misguided. I thought that since he was family, they would take care of him. His aunt assured me that if the wizarding world kept out of their lives, she would treat him like her own."

Poppy's expression softened as she heard the regret in Albus's voice. She knew he had made a mistake, but she also knew that he was genuinely concerned for Harry's well-being. "Very well, Albus," she said with a sigh. "I could use a nap. But please, wake me immediately if anything happens."

Albus nodded, grateful for her trust, and watched as she shuffled off to her quarters. As he settled into the chair next to Harry's bed, he couldn't help but feel a deep sense of sadness and regret. He had failed Harry by placing him in a house that was not a home, and now he couldn't undo the damage. All he could do was move forward and try to repair his failure as best he could.

Albus sat there for a while before Harry began to stir in his bed. He looked to the nurses door, but opted to wait a few minutes before waking her so she could have a bit more rest and he could introduce himself. Slowly the boy woke and reached around for his glasses. Albus gently handed them to the boy and when he put them on his face Albus met him with a smile.

When Harry finally looked up and met his gaze, Albus greeted him with a warm smile. "Good morning, Harry," he said kindly. "How did you sleep? It's such a lovely morning." Despite the weight of his regrets, Albus couldn't help but feel hopeful that he could help Harry find the safety and security he deserved.

With a gentle hand, Albus assisted Harry in propping himself up on the pillows. He had to be careful to avoid any risk of injury, knowing that Madam Pomfrey would be furious with him if Harry was hurt under his care. Once Harry was comfortably settled, he nodded shyly and asked, "I slept for a long time, didn't I? Where is Professor Sn...?" His words trailed off as he struggled to remember the kind man's voice. So much had happened, and he was finding it hard to keep track of everything.

Albus leaned forward and smiled kindly at Harry's question. "Ah, you mean Professor Snape? He's not here at the moment, but he did stop by to check on you earlier, and he'll be by later. And yes, Harry, I am Albus Dumbledore, the headmaster of Hogwarts. It's a pleasure to finally meet you," he said, his voice full of warmth.

Harry's eyes widened in surprise as he realized who he was talking to. "You're...you're the headmaster?" he asked, his voice tinged with worry. "Are you here to send me home because I don't really belong here?"

Albus's heart ached at the fear in Harry's voice. He knew that the boy had been through so much and that he needed reassurance. "No, Harry," he said, his tone gentle but firm. "You are exactly where you belong, and I'm here to make sure that you're safe and cared for. You have a home here at Hogwarts, and we will do everything we can to make sure that you're happy and healthy."

Although Harry nodded in response, his doubts lingered. He was still struggling to come to terms with the fact that someone actually cared about him. "Where is Hogwarts?" he asked, wanting to know more about the place he was now supposed to call home.

"We're in Scotland," Albus replied. "Hogwarts is a school for young witches and wizards. It's a very special place, Harry, and I'm certain you'll enjoy it here." He paused for a moment and looked intently at Harry. "Were you told anything about what we teach here at Hogwarts?" he asked, curious to know what kind of information Petunia had shared with the young boy.

Harry shook his head, his eyes fixed on the floor. "No, I don't really know anything about it," he admitted, his voice barely above a whisper. He felt embarrassed for not knowing and didn't want to appear foolish in front of the headmaster.

Albus smiled gently at Harry's answer. "That's perfectly alright, Harry. You're here to learn, after all," he said reassuringly. "Hogwarts is a place where you'll learn all sorts of magical things that you never thought possible. You'll make friends and have experiences that will stay with you for the rest of your life."

As the young boy gazed at the book resting on his nightstand, he remembered the letter his mother had written to him. In it, she had revealed that he was a wizard, and just the previous night, the nurse had utilized spells and potions to mend his injuries. He could still perceive the faint radiance emanating from his mending bones. Doubts crept into his mind, and he pondered whether it was all a figment of his imagination. To reassure himself, he covertly pinched his own flesh, confirming that it was indeed real.

Picking up the book, he placed it on his lap and flipped to the section where the letter was located. With delicate care, he withdrew the letter and unfurled it. Then, he addressed his new headmaster, "This letter just showed up, and it claims to be from my mother. Is that possible?"

Albus smiled warmly and said, "May I take a look, Harry?" The man took the letter from the boy in a gentle manner and perused its contents, nodding as he did so. "The handwriting is indeed your mother's. It appears that she must have cast a spell for it to materialize at a specific time." He then returned the letter to the boy, who carefully folded it and placed it back in the book.

Harry's eyes widened with curiosity as he looked up at Albus. "You knew my mum? What was she like?" he asked eagerly, hoping to hear more about his parents.

Albus smiled warmly, his eyes sparkling with fond memories. "Yes, Harry. Your mother and father were some of my brightest students. They were both brilliant and kind-hearted, always striving to do what was right. Your mother had a fierce spirit, always fighting for what she believed in, while your father had a quick wit and an insatiable curiosity about the world."

Harry had always wanted to know more about his parents and was grateful for the opportunity to hear Albus's stories. "I'd love to hear more about them," he said, his eyes shining with anticipation.

Albus nodded, "I will tell you all I can, Harry, but for now, I think need to go and fetch Madam Pomfrey." He noticed Harry wincing in agony, clutching his hand to his ribs, and realized that the pain potion was wearing off. "She can give you something to help with the pain."

Harry's head hung low as he reproached himself for causing yet another problem. Despite his attempts to conceal his agony, he had failed to do so effectively. He couldn't help but wonder if any further mishaps would lead to his expulsion from Hogwarts or leave him stranded on the streets.

Albus noticed the distress etched on the boy's face but decided to focus on alleviating his pain for the time being. He made his way to the nurse's office and gently knocked on the door. The nurse promptly opened it and hurried to tend to her patient, paying no attention to the headmaster. She knew that Albus had not informed her immediately upon awakening, and she planned on scolding him for it later.

Setting those thoughts aside, Poppy quickly examined Harry and retrieved the necessary potions. She administered a potion to soothe his stomach and another to relieve his pain, then summoned a house-elf to bring him some food. Within minutes, Harry was feeling considerably better, and he was on his way to enjoying a truly full stomach, a rare experience for him. Magic was amazing.

As Harry savored the last bite of his meal, he reluctantly set the plate aside. Albus and Poppy shared a concerned glance at the sight of the barely touched food. Albus gently placed his hand over Harry's and asked, "Are you sure you can't manage another bite, Harry?"

Harry shook his head and let out a heavy sigh. His stomach had been deprived of food for so long that even the little bit he had consumed felt like an indulgence. He really wanted to eat more, but he feared the consequences of overindulging.

Poppy immediately sprang into action. She reached for a small vial and handed it to Harry. "Nutrition potion. I'm going to give you a supply of these, Harry. I want you to have one after every meal for at least two weeks to help rebuild your strength."

The boy nodded and downed the potion. He was beginning to trust these potions since they had been making him feel so much better.

After Poppy had cleared away the empty plate, she cast a final glance over Harry to ensure he was comfortable. She then made her way back to her office, pausing only to remind Albus to keep the conversation light and to make sure Harry took a nap if he grew weary.

Albus gave the boy a kind smile and asked, "Feeling better now, Harry?"

Harry nodded, grateful for the kindness he had been shown. However, his curiosity soon got the better of him, and he turned to Albus with a hesitant expression. "When will I be sent back to my relatives, sir?"

Albus patted Harry's hand gently. "You're not going back to your relatives, Harry. I'm finding you new arrangements with a family that will treat you much better, the way a child should be treated."

Not really believing the older man, Harry nodded anyway. He wondered when they would give up on him, but he figured he should go along with this whole thing until then. Until they figured out he wasn't really a wizard, just a freak.

Albus noticed the boy's mood sink and tried to change the subject to cheer him up. "Have you learned about Hogwarts and how everything works around here?"

The boy shook his head and looked at him curiously. He did wonder about the school, even if he wasn't really going to attend. He could always imagine what it would be like.

"Well," Albus continued, a twinkle in his eye. "Hogwarts is the finest school of witchcraft and wizardry in the world. It has a long and fascinating history, with secrets and wonders waiting to be discovered around every corner. The classes are taught by some of the most skilled and knowledgeable witches and wizards of our time, and the students are sorted into four houses - Gryffindor, Ravenclaw, Hufflepuff, and Slytherin."

Harry listened intently, his curiosity piqued. He had never heard of anything like this before, and the thought of a magical school filled with mysteries and adventures was almost too much to believe.

Albus continued his explanation, gesturing towards the ancient and tattered Sorting Hat. "This is the Sorting Hat, one of Hogwarts' most treasured artifacts. It has been sorting new students into their respective houses for centuries, and it does so based on the qualities that it discerns in your mind. The Sorting Hat will place you into Slytherin known for its cunning and ambition, Hufflepuff for loyalty and hard work, Ravenclaw for wit and wisdom, or Gryffindor for bravery and daring, and that will be your home for the next seven years."

Harry listened with fascination, wondering what kind of house he would be sorted into if he were a real wizard. He couldn't help but feel a twinge of jealousy for the kids who really got to attend Hogwarts and live in the wizarding world. Maybe he would be lucky and be able to spend a few days here to see what it was like.

A smile formed on Albus's face as he noticed the wistful expression on the boy's face. "I brought the Sorting Hat here today so that we can sort you and determine which Hogwarts house you belong to. Would it be alright if I place it on your head, Harry? Don't be startled if it begins to sing, it has a tendency to do so."

Harry nodded, feeling a blend of anticipation and apprehension. The idea of a magical hat delving into his mind made him slightly uneasy.

Albus placed the Sorting Hat on Harry's head, and at first, nothing happened. Harry waited, holding his breath, until finally, the hat began to move. It felt as if something was crawling around on his head, and he resisted the urge to reach up and pull it off.

Then, the hat began to sing. Its voice was deep and sonorous, filling the room with a rich melody. As it sang, Harry could feel it delving into his mind, sorting through his thoughts and feelings.

After a few moments, the singing stopped, and the hat spoke in a gruff voice. "Well, well, well. What have we here? A boy with a strong sense of justice, a fierce loyalty to those he cares about, and a deep reservoir of bravery. Yes, you will do very well in... GRYFFINDOR!"

Harry flinched at the hat's loud voice, but as it was being removed, he heard it whisper to him, "Yes, you do belong here, Mr. Potter. Don't doubt that."

Harry's heart skipped a beat as he heard the Sorting Hat's words. He had never felt like he belonged anywhere, let alone in the magical world. But something about the hat's assurance made him feel like maybe, just maybe, he could find a place where he belonged. It made him wonder, could he really be a wizard after all?

Albus's twinkle in his eye brought Harry out of his thoughts. "That was the house both your parents were in," he said, "I'm not surprised you have the same traits and talents they did." He then clapped his hands to summon a house elf.

As he appeared, Harry jumped, his eyes widening with surprise at the sudden appearance of the small, wiry creature. Despite his initial shock, he watched with fascination as the house elf bowed low to the Headmaster, its large eyes fixed on Albus. Harry realized that he hadn't noticed the creature who had popped in before, preoccupied with feeling the effects of the potions that Poppy had given him.

"Yes, Headmaster Dumbledore?" the house elf squeaked, its high-pitched voice filling the room. Harry couldn't help but feel a twinge of sympathy for the creature, who looked both nervous and eager to please.

"Would you be so kind as to prepare a bed and some basic items in the first-year dormitory of Gryffindor Tower for Mr. Potter?" Albus asked the house elf with a gentle smile, and the small creature bobbed up and down in a show of obedience before disappearing in a flash.

Harry was stunned by the sudden display of magic, and he turned to Albus with wide eyes. "What was that, sir?" he asked in awe, still trying to process what he had just seen.

Albus gave a small chuckle at Harry's question before explaining, "That, my boy, was a house elf. These are magical creatures that have been bound to serve wizards and witches for centuries. They're known for their incredible loyalty and hardworking nature, and they excel in tasks like housekeeping and cooking."

As he spoke, Albus noticed that Harry's eyes were drooping with exhaustion. He placed a comforting hand on the boy's shoulder and spoke in a gentle tone, "You've had quite a day, Harry. It's time for you to rest now. Professor McGonagall will be here to check on you once you wake up, and she'll ensure that you're comfortable."

Harry gave a small nod, feeling grateful for the headmaster's care. As much as he wanted to keep talking and learning about the wizarding world, his body was begging for rest. He couldn't believe how much his life had changed in just one day.

"Professor Snape will be here this evening as well," Albus said, his eyes twinkling mischievously. "He's asked for frequent updates on your health, so I think it's safe to say that he's taken a shine to you. And let me tell you, that's quite an accomplishment, Harry. Professor Snape isn't known for being the friendliest of people."

Albus chuckled softly, but Harry could tell that he was serious about Snape's reputation. Despite his tiredness, Harry's curiosity was piqued, the man had been nothing but kind to him. He would have to figure that out later though as his eyes were starting to droop.

Harry allowed Albus to help him lean back on the pillows and then he closed his eyes and allowed himself to be lulled into a deep sleep by the soothing hum of the magic around him. As he drifted off, he couldn't help but wonder what his life would be like in this new world and really wished they would let him stay when they discovered he was just a freak.

When Harry woke up again, he was experiencing a considerable amount of discomfort due to his healing bones. They felt unbearably hot and restless, as if he had to constantly move them, even though sharp pains shot through his body every time he did so. Additionally, he felt an uncomfortable pressure in his bladder that required urgent relief. Although he was unaware of it, his face was twisted in a grimace.

Someone placed a gentle hand on his shoulder and spoke kindly into his ear. He couldn't understand the words, but the next moment the warm touch vanished, replaced by quick footsteps retreating in the opposite direction. After a few moments, he felt the soothing touch of cool hands helping him swallow potions that quickly eased his discomfort and pain. As he opened his eyes, he recognized the blurred figure of the nurse and another woman whom he didn't know. She must be the other Professor the headmaster had mentioned to him.

The new woman handed Harry his glasses, and he quickly put them on, blinking as he adjusted to the clarity of his vision. Suddenly, he felt a familiar sensation, causing him to blush with embarrassment. "Excuse me, ma'am," he muttered. "I need to use the loo."

The nurse nodded in a professional manner and pulled back the covers to assist him. "I'll help you to the restroom, Mr. Potter."

With the nurse's support, Harry made his way to the restroom and was relieved to find some privacy. After finishing up, he was grateful for the nurse's assistance in returning to his bed. As he sat down, he noticed another woman in the room, who greeted him with a warm smile and introduced herself.

"Hello, Mr. Potter, my name is Professor McGonagall. I'm the head of Gryffindor House," the woman said with a friendly tone.

"Nice to meet you, Professor," Harry replied, feeling a bit embarrassed, but glad the woman had been there when he woke so she could get the nurse.

Once the nurse had finished tucking him back into bed and left the room, Professor McGonagall turned her attention back to Harry. She explained that she had heard about his recent arrival at Hogwarts and that she was delighted he had been sorted into her house.

"Professor Dumbledore told me that you might need some new clothing and other essentials to get you started," she continued. "I thought that once you've been released from the hospital wing, we could take a trip to the nearby village of Hogsmeade. Would that be all right with you, Mr. Potter?"

Harry gave a nod, but shifted his gaze to his lap. "I don't have any money," he confessed.

The professor responded with a smile. "Not to worry, Mr. Potter. You needn't concern yourself with that."

The boy looked shyly through the hair that had fallen in his face. "But who..."

The professor anticipated Harry's question and answered it before he could finish. "There really is no need to worry there are certain funds available for students, Mr. Potter. You are not the first student who has found themselves in a similar situation, nor will you be the last unfortunately."

Although Harry nodded to acknowledge the professor's words, he couldn't help but feel a sense of shame for needing charity. He felt like a burden on everyone, and the idea of accepting help without being able to pay them back made him uneasy. Perhaps he could offer to work and repay the funds he received.

Lost in thought, Harry was snapped out of his reverie by the professor's gentle voice. "Mr. Potter, is everything alright?"

Startled by the professor's question, Harry looked up and apologized. "I'm sorry, Professor. I was just thinking," he explained.

The professor nodded, then listened as Harry suggested that he could work off the funds by offering his skills in the kitchen. "I'm quite handy in the kitchen, Professor," Harry said. "Maybe I could work in the school's kitchen or cafeteria to pay back what I owe."

Minerva sadly smiled at the boy. His family had done a number on him. No child should worry about how to pay for their basic needs, let alone feel shame for needing help. "Mr. Potter, there is no need for you to feel embarrassed or ashamed about accepting help," Minerva said, her voice gentle but firm. "It is Hogwarts duty to help when you need it."

Giving a quick nod Harry couldn't shake off the feeling of unease that was gnawing at him. He didn't know what he was feeling, to be honest. There were so many conflicting emotions balled up inside of him - fear, anxiety, sadness, anger, and more. Minerva saw those emotions flicker through his eyes, and she sighed inwardly. She knew that a simple conversation wouldn't be enough to ease Harry's worries, but she hoped that actions would make him feel safe and secure.

Harry's head of house placed a comforting hand on Harry's shoulder and looked him in the eye. "Harry, I know that you have been through a lot, and it's understandable that you may feel uncertain or uneasy. But I want you to know that you are safe here at Hogwarts, and we will do everything we can to ensure your well-being."

Harry looked at Minerva and forced a small smile, but he couldn't help feeling like he was alone in his struggles. He didn't want to burden anyone with his problems, but he didn't know how to cope on his own either. "Thank you, Professor," he said, his voice barely above a whisper.

Minerva could sense the boy's apprehension and wanted to do more to help him feel at ease. "Harry, if you ever need to talk to someone, please know that I am here for you. You are not alone in this, and we want to support you in any way we can. Whether it's through counseling, mentoring, or just a friendly conversation, my office is open to you."

The professor took a deep breath, hoping to bring a little levity to the tense atmosphere. "Did you know, Mr. Potter, that your mother was one of the best students I ever had the pleasure of teaching?" she asked with a fond smile. "And your father, well, he was quite the rule-breaker. I hope you don't follow in his footsteps," she added with a mischievous grin and a wink.

With newfound curiosity, Harry looked up at Professor McGonagall. He had always wondered what his parents were like, but he had never dared to ask because when he had asked his relatives he had just been smacked. Now, he felt a spark of hope that he might learn more about them from someone who knew them well. For a moment, he forgot all about their earlier conversation and felt a sense of excitement.

"Really?" Harry asked, his voice tinged with interest.

A small smile crept on Minerva's face as she spoke about Harry's parents. "Your mother was an exceptional student, Harry. She always had top marks in Transfiguration," she said, admiration clear in her voice. "Your father, on the other hand," she shook her head slightly, "was quite the prankster. He had a knack for mischief and was known to play tricks on his fellow students. In fact," Minerva's eyes twinkled with mirth, "he once turned Professor Dumbledore's hair bright red, much to the Headmaster's chagrin."

A soft chuckle escaped Harry's lips, much to the delight of Minerva. "Thank you, Professor," he said, feeling grateful for the momentary diversion from everything that had happened in the last day.

Minerva's eyes gleamed with warmth and admiration as she spoke of Harry's parents. "Your parents were some of the most exceptional people I have ever had the pleasure of knowing. They were brave, kind, and fiercely loyal to those they loved," she said, her voice gentle and earnest. "I can see those same traits in you, Mr. Potter, and I have no doubt that you will thrive here at Hogwarts and in Gryffindor."

She continued, "Please know that my door is always open to you, should you need someone to talk to or simply a listening ear. And if ever you wish to hear a story about your parents, I would be honored to share them with you." Minerva smiled at Harry, hoping that her words would give him some comfor.

As Harry smiled in response to Minerva's kind words, he couldn't help but feel a sense of relief. Perhaps he had found a place where he could fit in and be accepted for who he was. However, his inner doubts still lingered, threatening to undermine this newfound sense of belonging.

With a gentle smile, Minerva noticed Harry's thoughts were drifting again and she wanted to bring him back to the present. She took out her wand and cast the Tempus spell to check the time. "I see it's lunchtime. Are you feeling hungry, Harry?"

Harry's stomach grumbled in response to Minerva's question, causing her to chuckle. "Yeah, I am actually quite hungry, Professor," he replied.

Minerva's smile widened as she snapped her fingers, summoning a house-elf to her side. "Excuse me, would you mind bringing us some tuna sandwiches and two mugs of tomato soup?" she requested, glancing over at Harry for his approval. He nodded in agreement, and the house-elf quickly disappeared with a pop.

Moments later, the elf returned with their meals and positioned a tray of food on the bedside table for Minerva. As for Harry, he placed his tray directly in front of him on the bed before the elf disappeared, leaving the two to eat their meal.

Minerva savored her soup as she observed Harry nibbling at his sandwich and sipping his soup with caution. She couldn't help but feel a little disappointed when he finished quickly, but she didn't let it show on her face. Instead, she gently urged him to take a few more sips of his soup, hoping to encourage him to eat a bit more.

Harry complied and took a few more sips of the warm tomato soup, feeling the heat spread throughout his body. He felt a sense of comfort and warmth in his stomach, which was a welcome change from the constant feeling of anxiety and fear he had been experiencing since...well since a long time.

He finished quickly, feeling full and a bit tired. He set the remaining food aside and leaned back into the bed. Minerva noticed that he seemed a little exhausted and made a mental note to keep an eye on his eating habits. She was sure that Poppy was already monitoring him, but an extra pair of eyes wouldn't hurt.

With a soft smile, she put her hand on Harry's shoulder and said, "You should get some rest now, Harry. We can continue our conversation later. I'm glad you're feeling better."

Minerva helped him get comfortable in bed by adjusting his pillows and took his glasses, which she put on the table. She watched him close his eyes and settle in for a nap, while she finished her lunch and thought about her new charge. She was furious at Albus, but her main concern was Harry.

As soon as Minerva had finished her meal and was certain that Harry had fallen asleep, she made her way to Poppy's office for a chat. She needed some help sorting out her thoughts and she wanted to tell the nurse her observations.

Several hours had passed, and another visitor had taken a seat next to Harry's bed in the hospital wing. This time, as his vision slowly came into focus, Harry was relieved to recognize the blurry, dark figure as the man who had saved him the previous night. With a gentle hand, the man passed Harry his glasses and placed a book he had been reading on the nightstand. As the world around him became clearer, Harry turned his gaze towards the man and offered him a grateful nod of thanks.

Severus leaned in and asked in a soft, concerned tone, "How are you feeling, Harry? I hope Madam Pomfrey's been taking good care of you. She mentioned that your bones are healing nicely, and you should be able to head back to your house tomorrow afternoon."

"I'm doing okay, sir," Harry nodded in response, although he couldn't help feeling a bit nervous at the thought of moving to a new dorm. With that transition would come the end of his brief reprieve from his relatives, and the return to a life of uncertainty and fear. Despite the hope he had gained from being sorted into Gryffindor, he couldn't shake the anxiety that gnawed at him, threatening to steal away the brief moments of peace he had found.

Severus sensed Harry's anxiety, but he didn't want to add to the boy's burden by prying. Instead, he decided to try and lighten the mood. "I heard you were sorted into Gryffindor, just like your parents," he remarked with a small smile. "You'll do well there, but beware of those brave, dunderheaded lions. Although, I suppose you're not so much of a dunderhead yourself. Don't let them change that," he added with a mischievous wink.

Harry couldn't help but chuckle at Severus' lighthearted jab at the Gryffindors. The teasing banter between the two was unexpected, but it was a welcome distraction from his worries. "Thanks, sir," Harry replied, feeling a bit more hopeful than he had just moments before. "I'll do my best to keep my wits about me."

Severus gave Harry a warning. "I'll be straight with you, Harry. I'm the head of Slytherin house, and we're rivals with Gryffindor. So don't be surprised if I'm not always friendly. I have a reputation to keep up, you know. But don't take it personally if I call you a dunderhead. I will have to play my part as the hated dungeon bat."

With a sly grin on his face, Severus leaned in closer to Harry. "But between you and me, I have to admit that Gryffindors can be quite admirable. They're known for their bravery and daring, after all. But don't let that get around, or I might lose my reputation as a Slytherin. Rest assured, though, I'll always keep a close eye on you, no matter what house you're in."

Harry nodded, but felt a bit uncertain about the rivalry between the houses. He made a mental note to learn more about it later. He hoped that his new Professor and savior wouldn't be too harsh on him, although he knew he would probably make mistakes and deserve some name calling.

Severus changed the subject once again. "I brought one of your school books so you can get a jump start," he said, handing over the book to Harry. Harry was surprised by Snape's unexpected act of kindness. He had never expected his potions professor to be so thoughtful.

"Thank you, sir," Harry said, taking the book from him.

Severus nodded, his expression unreadable. "Don't thank me yet, Mr. Potter. It's only the beginning of the term. You'll need all the help you can get if you want to keep up with my class."

Harry swallowed nervously, feeling a knot form in his stomach. He had a feeling that Potions was going to be one of his toughest subject if he did get to attend this school.

"Why don't you read the first chapter and then I'll answer any questions you have. When you're finished I'll fetch us some dinner?"

Harry nodded, grateful for the distraction. He opened the book and began reading, his mind quickly becoming absorbed in the world of magic and potions. As he became engrossed in the book, Snape noticed how focused he was and decided to leave him to his reading. Before he left the room, he gestured to Harry that he was heading to Poppy's office.

With a gentle knock on the door, Snape waited for a response before entering. Upon hearing the confirmation, he pushed the door open and was met with the sight of a weary nurse, who smiled at his arrival. "Are you satisfied that he's alright?" she asked him.

Snape let out an exasperated sigh, "Perhaps he is physically fine," he said, before his expression turned serious. "But do you truly believe he's prepared to join the dormitory tomorrow? Shouldn't he be given time to acclimate to this new and unfamiliar world before being thrust into the midst of a crowd?"

Poppy gave Snape a calculating look. "I think Harry still has some doubts about whether he truly belongs here or not. Placing him with the other students might help alleviate those fears. Albus and Minerva have already reassured him that he's welcome here, and I believe you have as well. Perhaps making some friends would help those reassurances sink in."

Severus raised an eyebrow, considering Madam Pomfrey's words. "I see your point, but we can't ignore the fact that he's had a traumatic experience. We must take care to ensure his well-being and not overwhelm him."

Madam Pomfrey nodded in agreement. "Of course, Seveerus. But we must also consider the importance of socialization and peer support in a school setting."

Sighing, Severus realized the truth in her words. "Very well, we will allow him to join his dormitory tomorrow. But we must keep a watchful eye on him and step in if needed," he replied. "We have a staff meeting scheduled for later this evening, do we not?"

"Yes, that's correct," Poppy confirmed with a nod.

"Good," Severus replied, turning to leave. "I'll make sure to bring up Harry's situation during the meeting."

As Severus made his way towards the door, Poppy stepped closer to him and rested a gentle hand on his shoulder. "And how are you holding up?" she asked with concern.

Severus shrugged her hand off and continued walking towards the door. "I'm fine," he grumbled, not bothering to turn back.

"Severus, you don't need to hide from me," Poppy called after him, watching him leave the room. She saw him give a small nod but sighed, knowing how stubborn he could be. She would never stop trying to get him to open up to her.

Returning to Harry's bedside, Snape observed that the boy had completed the first chapter and was now engrossed in the second. He couldn't help but feel a sense of satisfaction knowing that Lily's intelligence had clearly been passed on to her son.

As he approached the bed, he summoned a house elf and requested that they bring dinner for both himself and Harry. The elf promptly disappeared with a nod, leaving Snape to resume his observation of the young wizard.

"Do you understand what you've read so far?" he asked, curious about Harry's comprehension. "Do you have any questions?"

As he spoke, a house elf appeared and set up a tray with supper for both of them. One tray was placed at the foot of Harry's bed, while the other was set on the bedside table for Severus.

Harry looked up from the book and nodded. "Yeah, it's fascinating. I have a few questions though," he said, gesturing to the book. "Can you explain what this ingredient does? And what about this spell? How does it work?"

Severus sat down in the chair next to the bed, reaching for the tray of food on his table. "Of course, ask away." He took a bite of his food, savoring the flavor before turning his attention to Harry's questions. Together they discussed the intricacies of the potions and spells described in the book, with Severus answering Harry's queries in detail.

As they ate and talked, the room grew quiet, the only sounds coming from the turning of pages and the occasional clink of utensils on plates. Severus felt a sense of contentment settle over him, as if, for this moment, everything was as it should be and that was something to ponder on later.

The following morning, Harry awoke in the hospital to the sound of loud snoring. He gradually opened his eyes and searched for his glasses on the nightstand. After finally locating them, he put them on and glanced over at the source of the snoring. He spotted the same shadowy figure that had been present when he drifted off to sleep, except now he was sitting in a recliner with a thick quilt covering him.

Last night, Harry had overheard some students talking about how odd it was to see the "dungeon bat" sleeping like that in the infirmary. They had made a few more unkind remarks about him before the nurse arrived to treat their minor spell accident and scolded them for disrespecting a Professor.

This incident left Harry wondering about the true nature of the dark figure. Although the man had been incredibly kind to him over the past few days and had been his savior, Harry couldn't help but wonder if his kindness was genuine. Was it possible that the man was just pretending and would soon reveal his true intentions and betray Harry?

Pushing aside those thoughts, Harry felt the urge to relieve himself as the pressure in his bladder grew stronger. Fortunately, he was feeling much better than the day before as the spells had almost finished their healing magic. He effortlessly slipped out of bed and, out of habit, proceeded to neatly make the bed he had just slept in before walking towards the bathroom. It was then that he realized it was still dark outside and he wondered what time it really was.

As Harry stood in front of the bathroom mirror, his mind was a swirl of thoughts and emotions. He gazed at his reflection, his hands wet from the warm water flowing from the faucet. Mentally preparing himself for the day ahead.

With a deep breath, Harry couldn't help but wonder what his new dormitory and fellow students might be like. He had never had the opportunity to make friends before, and he hoped that this new chapter of his life would bring positive experiences. However, he couldn't help but worry that he might be treated the same way that his cruel cousin Dudley and his friends had treated him. He shook his head, trying to banish those negative thoughts from his mind.

Harry's thoughts then turned to Dudley, wondering where he was and if he was okay. Despite the bullying and abuse he had suffered at his cousin's hands, Harry couldn't help but feel a sense of concern for his future. Perhaps it was his innate kindness and empathy, or maybe it was simply the fact that Dudley was the only family he had left. Either way, Harry couldn't shake the feeling that something bad might happen to his cousin. He hoped that Dudley was safe and happy, wherever he might be.

Harry let out a contented sigh as he stood in front of the bathroom mirror. He splashed cool water against his face, washing away the grime and sweat that had accumulated during his days of being bedridden. It had been a long time since he had been allowed to freshen up like this, and he relished in the feeling of cleanliness.

After patting his face dry with a towel, Harry lifted his shirt to examine his injuries. To his amazement, all of the bruising had disappeared, and there was only a slight ache where his broken bones had once been. It was a miracle. The thought of magical healing amazed him, and he couldn't help but think that he could get used to this kind of magic if he were allowed to stay.

As Harry adjusted his shirt, there was a sudden and urgent knocking on the door, startling him. He made his way over to the entrance, his heart pounding with fear and anticipation. He opened the door tentatively to see a stern-looking professor glaring back at him.

"Mr. Potter?" the voice on the other side asked, its tone heavy with authority.

Harry peered out to see a stern-looking professor staring back at him. "Yes, sir?" he replied, feeling a sense of trepidation.

Severus Snape's shoulders visibly relaxed upon seeing Harry in the bathroom, relieved that the boy was safe and sound. Despite looking disheveled, he tried to put on a small smile to avoid worrying the young wizard. It was a rare moment of vulnerability for the typically stoic and unapproachable potions master.

When Severus had woken up and noticed Harry's bed empty and made, he had panicked, thinking that something might have happened to him. He was relieved that he had the sense to check the bathroom before searching the castle. He looked Harry up and down to ensure that everything was as it should be, and he relaxed further when he saw the slightly tousled wet hair, evidence that the boy had just freshened up.

Trying to hide his earlier concern, he asked, "Would you like to go down to the Great Hall for breakfast or eat here?" His voice was calm and collected, but there was a hint of kindness. "I spoke with Madam Pomfrey last night, and she agreed that you could go as long as you return here to rest a little more before Professor McGonagall takes you to get your supplies."

"I think I would like to go to the Great Hall, sir," Harry said, his curiosity piqued and his excitement, but also nervousness, growing at the prospect of meeting some other students. But then, he looked down at his pajamas and realized he didn't have any other clothes to wear.

The Professor observed Harry's eyes wandering over the pajamas he was currently wearing and realized his predicament. Without a word, Severus summoned the clothes that Minerva had provided for him to wear that day. Although the house elves had selected a decent outfit for Harry from the lost and found, Severus was certain that Harry would be happier in his own clothes.

Severus nodded in acknowledgement as he handed the bundle of clothes to Harry, giving him the gift of privacy by quietly closing the door behind him. Harry's eyes widened in amazement as he carefully examined the clothes, marveling at how soft the fabric felt against his skin. He couldn't believe that he had never owned such luxurious clothing before. Even though they were secondhand, Harry didn't mind at all, as he had never received anything new in his life.

Gently unfolding the clothes, Harry was pleasantly surprised to find that they might actually fit him well, a welcomed change from his usual baggy and ill-fitting attire. He took his time dressing, savoring the feel of the soft material against his skin. Once he was fully dressed, Harry stepped out of the bathroom, his old pajamas neatly folded in his hands.

To his surprise, he found that Severus had transformed the recliner back into a straight back chair and had cleaned up a bit himself. Harry walked over to the bed and gestured to his pajamas, asking politely, "Where should I put these, sir?"

Severus motioned towards the end of the bed. "You can place them there, and the house elves will take care of cleaning them."

Following Severus's instructions, Harry placed the clothes at the foot of the bed. He couldn't shake off the unusual feeling of having someone else clean his clothes for him. Previously, he had always washed his clothes by hand using the hose outside. His Aunt's fancy washer and dryer were off-limits to "freaks" like him unless he was washing their clothes.

Pushing those thoughts aside, Harry perched onto the edge of the bed. "Is it still early?"

Severus checked the time and nodded. "Yes, it's currently 5:32 in the morning. Do you typically wake up early?"

Harry confirmed. "Yes, I always make breakfast for my relatives. By the way, do you know what happened to them? Dudley?"

Severus let out a quiet breath as he confirmed the current situation of Harry's relatives, "The Dursleys are presently in the custody of the Aurores. They are being held until a legal case can be established in the Muggle world. Your uncle tried to flee after he was freed from the ceiling, which led to their classification as a flight risk."

He paused for a moment before continuing, "Your cousin, however, has been placed in a reputable boarding school where he will receive an education that instills values such as respect for others - something that your aunt and uncle clearly lack."

Harry's interest was piqued when he heard the term "Muggle" and he asked for clarification. "Muggle is a word used to describe non-magical individuals," Severus explained. "The Aurores, on the other hand, are the magical equivalent of the police force. They are responsible for enforcing laws and maintaining order within the wizarding community."

"Harry nodded, recalling, "You mentioned that you could teach me how to use an owl to write to Dudley, didn't you?"

Severus agreed, "Yes, I can certainly teach you how to use an owl to correspond with Dudley."

"However," he continued, "let's focus on getting you settled into school and your classes first. Once that's taken care of, I'll be happy to show you how to use an owl. Is that acceptable to you?"

Harry nodded gratefully, "Thank you, Sir."

Harry's expression was apologetic as he spoke to Severus, "I'm sorry if I disturbed your sleep, Sir. I didn't mean to. If you want, you can go to your room."

Severus offered Harry a small smile and reassured him, "Don't worry about it. Breakfast is served from six o'clock onwards. Would you like me to accompany you to the Great Hall?"

"Thank you, Sir. I appreciate it," Harry replied gratefully.

"Very well," replied Severus, rising from his seat and gesturing for Harry to come with him. He escorted Harry out of the hospital wing and began guiding him through the corridors and down the stairs. Along the way, Severus pointed out various classrooms and the locations of teachers' offices.

Harry listened attentively and tried to commit the information to memory. He couldn't help but feel a sense of awe as he walked through the castle. It was all so different from the cramped little cupboard under the stairs that he used to call home.

As they turned the corner, Harry and Severus came across a group of students making their way towards the Great Hall.

"Good morning, Professor Snape," one of the students said politely. Then, as they noticed Harry, they whispered among themselves, "Who's that with him? Is that Harry Potter? It can't be!"

Harry's discomfort and awkwardness grew as he heard their whispers. He didn't want to be the subject of gossip or speculation, especially not on his first day.

Sensing Harry's unease, Severus gave him a reassuring nod. "Don't worry about them, Mr. Potter. The students here are just curious. They'll get used to seeing you around soon enough."

Harry nodded, but he wasn't entirely convinced. He knew from experience how cruel children could be. He just hoped that he could find a place where he belonged in this new environment.

"How did they know my name?" he asked, turning to Severus. He couldn't imagine how the other students would know who he was.

Severus Snape stood motionless as he gazed down at the young boy before him. No one had informed him about his history and how his parents, Lily, had died, and he wasn't entirely sure how to proceed. He cleared his throat, hoping to mask any awkwardness that might have been apparent.

"Well," he said in a low, measured voice, "in the wizarding world, you're quite the celebrity, Mr. Potter."

The boy's eyes widened in surprise. "What? Why?"

Severus hesitated for a moment, considering how best to explain the situation. After a moment, he decided it was not his place to reveal the truth. "I don't believe I am the best person to tell you that information. Perhaps you should speak to your head of house about it later. She will be better equipped to explain the matter to you."

"Oh," Harry responded, his mind racing with a million different thoughts and questions. What did Severus mean by calling him a celebrity? Was it something to do with his parents? Was it because of how his parents had died?

Severus paused outside the doors of the Great Hall, his expression pensive as he considered his words carefully. He knew he had to be careful with what he said next - Harry was new to the wizarding world, and he didn't want to overwhelm the boy with too much information at once.

"Harry, it would be in your best interest to keep a certain distance from me. I say this not to hurt you, but rather to protect you from the judgment of others. I have a certain reputation among the students, particularly those in your house, and I don't want them to treat you poorly for being associated with me. You must understand that our houses are rivals, and some might view your friendship with me as a betrayal."

Harry's eyes fell to the floor as he absorbed Severus' words. "I understand, Professor," he murmured softly, reaching for the doors to the Great Hall. However, before he could open them, Severus placed a gentle hand on his shoulder, stopping him in his tracks.

"Harry, you misunderstand me," Severus said in a gentle but firm tone. "You are not a burden, and I am always here to support you. But given the circumstances, it may be wise to keep a low profile for the time being."

He paused for a moment before continuing, "If you ever need my help or advice, don't hesitate to come to me. You can always find me in my office, or you can send me a message through one of the house elves. I promise to do everything in my power to assist you."

Harry looked up at Severus, feeling grateful for his words, but still feeling confused. "Thank you, Sir. I appreciate it."

Severus gave Harry a small smile. "You're most welcome, Mr. Potter. The Gryffindor table is located on the left-hand side. I encourage you to have a balanced meal, and I'll be keeping a watchful eye on you." He then opened the doors to the Great Hall and gestured for Harry to enter before him.

Severus lingered for a moment, observing as Harry made his way towards the Gryffindor table. Once he was sure that Harry had settled in, Severus strode into the Great Hall with his robes billowing behind him. He headed to the front of the hall, where the professors sat at their table. The early hour meant that only a few students and professors were present, which was a relief to him.

As he sat down at the table, Severus cast a brief glance towards Harry, who was engrossed in his breakfast. He silently hoped that Harry would be able to navigate his way through the challenges that lay ahead, and that he would never have to experience the full force of the dangers that lurked in the world and possibility within the walls of Hogwarts. He had thoughts of a particular three headed dog on the third floor.

Harry sat at the table, feeling a tad self-conscious despite his growing appetite. As he filled his plate with eggs, bacon, and toast, he began to relax a bit. However, he couldn't shake off the unease that had settled in him after his conversation with his professor. He didn't want to cause any trouble, but at the same time, he didn't want to lose the person who had saved his life. He was also puzzled by Severus' comment about his reputation and couldn't help but wonder about the other students and what they had said in the hospital wing the night before.

As Harry finished his breakfast, more students began to stream into the hall, and the peaceful ambiance quickly gave way to a lively and bustling one. A boy with red hair and a voracious appetite settled down beside him and introduced himself as Ron. Harry couldn't help but be fascinated by his his insatiable hunger. Across from them, a girl with brown curly hair voiced her objections to Ron's messy habits, but despite the bickering, Harry felt a small, warm sense of belonging beginning to form within him. For some inexplicable reason, he was starting to feel like he belonged at Hogwarts.

Harry began to ponder if Hogwarts was indeed his rightful place. He hoped that he had the magical abilities to prove it. Although he still worried that he might not, the pleasant exchange with Ron and Hermione was making him feel more at ease.

Ron inquired about Harry's absence from the feast on the first night and where he had been all day, but Harry was skilled at diversion. He informed Ron that his letter had been delayed, and since he was raised by non-magical guardians, they didn't know how to contact the school. Harry thought he had managed to dodge the question smoothly, but Hermione, the curly-haired girl sitting opposite him, seemed to see through his lie, although she didn't comment on it. Harry recognized the look she was giving him.

Ron readily accepted Harry's excuse and went on to introduce him to his large family. Harry was impressed by the sheer number of siblings Ron had and couldn't help but feel envious. He had always been alone in the world.

As the students started to get up to head to their first class of the day, Harry timidly inquired if Ron knew how to get to the hospital wing. Ron shrugged and admitted that he wasn't yet familiar with the castle layout, but he pointed out his brother Pursey and requested him to guide Harry. "Pursey can show you the way. Are you okay, mate?" Ron asked with concern etched on his face.

Harry nodded. "Yes, I'm just starting to feel a headache, and I hear there is a potion for that."

Ron nodded and called out to his brother Pursey, asking him to lead Harry to the hospital wing. As they walked through the corridors, Pursey asked Harry about his background and why he had missed the first night's feast. Harry repeated his excuse about the delayed letter and living with muggles who didn't know how to contact the school. Pursey seemed to accept his explanation, and they chatted about Hogwarts until they reached the hospital wing.

Pursey left him at the door, and Harry entered the hospital wing to find the same bed he had slept in the night before. However, he noticed that the pajamas he had left there were gone and in their place was a clean pair. Harry was amazed even if it was something so small.

Taking a deep breath, Harry sat down on the edge of the bed and realized that this was the first moment he had been truly alone since arriving in the magical world. He closed his eyes and leaned back on the pillows, trying to process everything that had happened so far, but his mind kept coming back to Severus' advice to distance himself. After a few moments, he opened his eyes and reached for the book he had taken from the Dursleys. Opening it, he took out the letter and read it over two more times before carefully folding it and tucking it back into its safe spot.

Lying there on the hospital bed, Harry's mind wandered to his mother's association with Professor Snape. How could he have gone from being her close companion to being subjected to ridicule by students? And how he did become famous? Lost in contemplation, Harry dozed off lightly.

The sound of the nurse entering the ward brought Harry back to consciousness. She made some disapproving noises as she checked up on him, but eventually lifted the remaining spells. During the examination, Harry kept his eyes shut, desiring to be left alone with his musings.

However, his solitude was interrupted when he felt the bed shift as the nurse sat down next to him and placed a gentle hand on his shoulder. "I can tell that something is troubling you and that you are awake. Maybe I can help you through your troubles?" she offered kindly.

Harry opened his eyes, but avoided meeting the nurse's gaze. "Professor Snape told me to keep my distance from him. He said that his reputation might have a negative effect on me with the other students. But I don't understand what he meant," Harry explained, turning his gaze to the nurse who let out a weary sigh and smiled sympathetically.

"You see, your professor is a complicated man. Most folks see things in black and white, but he's more of a gray area. He's a good person, despite what others may say, and I think he was just trying to look out for you when he advised you to keep some distance."

Harry's eyes widened in surprise. "Protect me? How could his reputation harm me?"

The nurse hesitated for a moment before answering. "Professor Snape has a reputation for being a strict and demanding teacher, and some students perceive him as unfriendly or even cruel. Regrettably, this has caused some students to show him disrespect. It's possible that if they see you spending too much time with him, they might direct their dislike towards you as well."

Harry nodded slowly, trying to process what he had just heard. "But he's my teacher, and he's helped me a lot already. I don't want to distance myself from him."

The nurse gave him a sympathetic smile. "I understand, Harry. And I'm sure Professor Snape does too. But sometimes, in order to protect the people we care about, we have to make difficult choices."

Harry sighed, feeling a mix of confusion and gratitude towards Professor Snape. "Thanks for explaining it to me, Madam Pomfrey."

She patted his shoulder gently. "Anytime, Harry. Now, get some rest. Professor Mcgonagall will be here around noon to fetch you to get your school supplies."

Harry fell into a fitful sleep, feeling conflicted about Professor Snape. When he woke up a few hours later, he found someone gently shaking his shoulder. He opened his eyes and saw that it was Professor McGonagall. Harry hadn't planned on sleeping for so long, so his glasses were still on his face and askew from sleeping in them. He adjusted them and sat up as McGonagall withdrew her hand.

"I'm sorry to wake you, Mr. Potter, but we need to get to Hogsmeade soon so we have enough time to get your supplies before dinner. We can stop to grab some lunch while we're there."

Harry nodded and swung his legs off the bed. As he stood up, he stretched his arms and yawned. "Yes, of course. I'm ready whenever you are, Professor."

The Professor gave a small nod and smiled at Harry. "I wanted to let you know that I spoke with Professor Dumbledore about your accounts. Your parents left you a vault of your own to cover your schooling. However, your Aunt was listed as the custodian of the account, and it is currently undergoing legal processes to transfer ownership to you. Until then, the account is inaccessible. But don't worry, as I mentioned before, the school has a fund and will cover this outing."

Harry nodded and cast his eyes downward to his shoes. "Don't worry, Professor. I'll make sure to pay it back."

Minerva gently lifted Harry's chin with two fingers so that he was looking directly into her eyes. "Harry, there's no need for you to repay the school. I understand that you've been worried about money, but I want to reassure you that once the legal processes are resolved, you'll have complete access to your account. Your parents didn't leave you without means. In fact, quite the opposite."

Harry looked at her quizzically, "What do you mean, ma'am?"

Minerva smiled kindly at Harry. "Your parents left you a significant inheritance, Harry. So, don't worry about all of this. It will be sorted out soon."

Harry's eyes widened in surprise. He had no idea that his parents had left him anything, let alone a sizable inheritance. "Wow, I had no idea," he said, still processing the information.

"Yes, well, your parents were very well off," Minerva said. "And they wanted to make sure that you would always be taken care of, no matter what happened to them."

A lump formed in Harry's throat. It was difficult for him to picture his parents, having only heard tidbits about them and read his mother's letter. The realization that they had planned for his future even after their passing was both heartwarming and overwhelming.

Initially, she intended to inform him about the other vaults he could access once he became of age, which his relatives had not been able to interfere with. However, observing his growing anxiety, she chose to postpone that discussion. Furthermore, she refrained from disclosing the extent of money that his relatives had embezzled from him throughout the years. It was going to be paid back slowly over time anyway.

Harry spoke in a quiet tone, "Is that the reason for my fame?"

Minerva's expression turned solemn as she replied, "No, Harry. Your fame comes from surviving an attack by the most feared dark wizard of our time, The Dark Lord." She paused and took a steading breath, "He killed your parents but for some reason, when he turned to do the same to you he was unable to. You are known as the 'Boy Who Lived'."

Harry asked, lost in thought, "So they didn't die in a car crash?"

"No, Harry," Minerva said gently, "Your parents were murdered. Your parents died protecting you from He Who Must Not Be Named. "

Harry sat in silence, trying to process all the information. He felt a wave of sadness wash over him as he imagined his parents' last moments. He wondered what they were like, what they would have thought of him, and what kind of life they would have wanted for him. He was also angry at his relatives for lying for him for all those years.

Minerva patted his shoulder reassuringly. "Harry, know that your parents loved you very much and wanted the best for you."

He then looked up at his professor, "Thank you for telling me."

Minerva gave Harry a small sad smile and pointed to the few items on the bedside table. "Is this what you brought with you?"

He nodded and she waved her wand and they vanished. "I just sent them to your dorm, don't worry about them. They'll be safely on your bed when we return."

Harry nodded and she patted his shoulder gently, "Come on now, let's get going! Do you like fish and chips?"

As they walked together, Harry shook his head. "I don't know. I've never had them before."

Minerva nodded in understanding. "Well, we'll have to change that. The Three Broomsticks serves some mighty fine fish and chips."

As they strolled into the village, the two chatted about small things. Minerva couldn't help but notice that Harry seemed to be relaxing as they walked, and she was glad to see him feeling more at ease.

Upon arriving at the village, Harry took in all the new sights and sounds around him, fascinated by the wizarding world's unique charm. Minerva accompanied him to various shops, ensuring he acquired the necessary textbooks and school supplies. After finishing the bulk of their shopping, they headed to the Three Broomsticks.

Once they were seated, Minerva ordered fish and chips for each of them along with two butterbeers. Harry savored the taste of the butterbeer, enjoying the sweet and creamy flavor. He looked around the pub, noticing the various witches and wizards enjoying their meals and drinks. It felt surreal to be in a place like this, surrounded by magic and wonder.

Minerva noticed his wonderment and smiled. "It's quite a different experience from the muggle world, isn't it?"

Harry nodded, taking another sip of his butterbeer. "Yeah, it's amazing. I never imagined there could be so much magic in the world."

Minerva chuckled. "And there's still so much more to discover, Harry. The wizarding world is full of surprises and mysteries."

Harry was grateful for Professor McGonagall's suggestion of fish and chips as it quickly became his new favorite meal. As they finished their food, Minerva paid the bill and led Harry to the clothing store. She instructed him to choose ten new casual outfits while she arranged for someone to measure him for his school uniform and robes.

Feeling a bit overwhelmed by the variety of clothing options, Harry nervously kept an eye on the price tags and picked out the least expensive outfits. He didn't want to be a burden on the school with any additional expenses. However, as he continued browsing, he couldn't help but notice how much nicer and more comfortable the more expensive clothes looked and felt. Shopping was a new experience for Harry, as he had never had the opportunity to choose his own clothing before.

Upon returning to Harry's side, Minerva was filled with a sense of sadness as she saw the limited selection of clothes he had chosen. She understood that he needed sturdier and warmer attire, especially with the colder months approaching at Hogwarts. Drawing from her experience of working with children in similar situations, she realized how overwhelming it could be to shop for oneself and regretted not helping Harry from the start. With skillful guidance, Minerva helped Harry choose higher quality clothing that would provide both comfort and warmth. To spare him the stress of the costs, she discreetly hid some of the price tags.

Once Harry had selected ten more suitable outfits, Minerva brought the pile of clothes to the counter and led him to the fitting station. A female employee swiftly measured him and placed an order for his new school uniform and robes which would arrive in his dorm in a few days.

Realizing they had forgotten about shoes and boots, Minerva guided him to the corner of the store that held footwear. She assisted him in selecting a pair of durable shoes and a nice set of winter boots that would keep his feet warm and dry.

Harry was surprised at how comfortable the new shoes felt on his feet. He had never owned shoes that fit him properly before. He was grateful for Minerva's help in choosing everything and for her kindness in making sure he had everything he needed for school.

After everything was chosen, Minerva went to the counter and settled the bill. Once finished, she waved her wand and sent all the new items to Harry's dorm room to join his books and school supplies. Turning to Harry with a smile, she finally took notice of his glasses.

"When was the last time you had your eyes checked?" she asked casually.

Harry shrugged. "Checked? My aunt gave me these one day. A teacher had been complaining that I couldn't see the board."

Minerva hummed thoughtfully before leading Harry to one last store, the optometrist's. "Let's see if they have a walk-in appointment. If not, I'll schedule something for you."

Harry nodded and followed his professor into the office. They were greeted with a smiling woman behind a desk who beckoned them over. The two adults talked for a few minutes while Harry looked around at all the different glasses on the wall.

Minerva noticed Harry's hesitation and encouraged him to try on a few pairs to see if there was anything he liked. They had a few minutes before they could see the doctor, so Harry went over to the kids section and looked at all the different options. He was amazed by the variety of glasses available, but he felt nervous about trying them on, worried that he might break something.

Soon the doctor called them back with a smile and seated Harry in a chair so she could test his vision. The doctor asked Harry to read the letters on the chart in front of him. Harry squinted and struggled to read the smallest letters at the bottom of the chart. The doctor made a few notes on a clipboard and then had Harry try on different lenses to see which ones improved his vision.

Finally, the doctor settled on a prescription and gave Harry a sample pair of glasses to try on. Harry put them on and blinked a few times, amazed at how clear everything looked. He could see details he had never noticed before, like the individual leaves on a nearby plant.

With a smile on her face, Minerva was glad to see Harry finally receiving the attention he deserved. She escorted him back to the waiting room and assisted him in choosing a stylish pair of dark blue glasses. Afterwards, she scheduled an appointment for Harry to pick up his new glasses and have them properly fitted in a few days. They left the store together and made their way back to Hogwarts.

As they neared the castle gates, Harry couldn't help but feel a sense of gratitude towards Professor McGonagall. He had never experienced such kindness before, especially from a teacher. He looked down at his new shoes and felt a sense of comfort that he had never felt before. They fit him perfectly and felt so much better than the worn-out shoes he had been wearing for years.

Feeling a surge of courage, Harry looked up at his professor and said, "Thank you so much, Professor. I don't know how to repay you for everything you've done for me."

McGonagall's expression softened, and she placed a hand on his shoulder. "As I said earlier you don't need to repay me nor the school, Harry. It's my duty as your teacher and as the Head of your House to ensure your well-being. I'm just glad I could help."

Harry nodded and allowed Professor McGonagall to guide him through the gates and into Hogwarts. Along the way, she talked animatedly about the courses he would be taking the next day and the professors he would meet. Harry listened attentively, eager to learn more about his new school.

As they arrived at the Great Hall, Professor McGonagall turned to him and instructed him to eat well before joining his classmates in the dormitory afterwards. She assured him that she would check on him later to ensure that he was comfortably settled in.

Just as he was taking in his surroundings, the professor turned to him and spoke, "Harry, make sure you eat well before heading to the dormitory. It's a long night ahead, and you need your energy." Harry nodded, feeling grateful for the advice.

He scanned the room and saw the same two students who had sat with him at breakfast that morning. They waved to him, beckoning him over to their table. As Harry walked over, he felt relieved to see friendly faces.

As the three students enjoyed their meal, Minerva made her way to the staff table. She sat down between Severus and Albus, who greeted her warmly. However, Severus gave her a curious look, prompting him to glance over at the boy she had walked in with.

Minerva could see the look of concern on Severus's face as he gazed at the new student sitting among the others. With a reassuring smile, she nodded her head and said, "He's alright, Severus. We've taken care of everything for him - supplies, clothing, and even new glasses. You need not worry about him."

The dour professor nodded, his eyes still fixed on the boy, but then he turned to Albus, his concern for the boy still evident. "What about his living arrangements? Have you found a place for him to stay when he's not at school?"

With a small smile on his face Albus looked over at his colleagues. "Yes, and actually, it appears that he has made friends with their daughter," he said, gesturing towards a curly-haired girl at the Gryffindor table. "I spoke with the he Grangers earlier today, and they have kindly agreed to take him in. They are dentists and are used to seeing children from less fortunate backgrounds, so they were more than happy to help. Plus, they thought it would be good for their daughter to have a friend who understands the magical world."

Severus leaned back in his chair, a faint sense of relief washing over him, pleased to hear that the boy would have a safe and welcoming home outside of Hogwarts."I'm glad to hear that you've taken precautions to ensure his safety," he said, his voice low and measured.

Albus nodded, his eyes twinkling with the familiar light of his boundless optimism. "Indeed. We've taken every possible measure to ensure that there will be wards that are strong and impenetrable. The area itself is quite remote, with few magical beings or artifacts nearby. It should provide ample protection for young Harry."

Minerva glanced over at the group of young friends, watching them laugh and joke together. "I agree," she said with a small smile. "Harry has already shown such resilience and bravery, and with the right support and guidance, he will undoubtedly flourish into a remarkable young man."

Albus cleared his throat, his blue eyes glinting behind his half-moon spectacles. "I must say that the Grangers have been most gracious in their offer to take in young Mr. Potter. They have only one request: that we provide him with a Mind Healer to talk to."

Minerva arched an eyebrow in surprise. "A Mind Healer? That's rather unusual. Is there a particular reason why they want him to see one?"

Albus hesitated for a moment before answering. "The Grangers believe that Harry needs someone to confide in and help him sort through his emotions. They want him to have a safe space to talk about everything he's been through and to work through any trauma he may have experienced."

Minerva nodded slowly, understanding the importance of emotional support for someone who had gone through as much as Harry had. "I see. Well, I agree with their request. It's crucial that Harry has someone to talk to and process his feelings with. Do we have any potential Mind Healers in mind?"

Making a thoughtful noise Seveurs glanced over at the older man. "I know someone who is knows how to keep quiet," he said. "I realize security will be a concern." He looked down and away before quietly adding, "He aided me to get past my days as a spy."

Discreetly placing a hand on his Minerva whispered, "I'm relieved that you've sought help." She paused and then continued, "Poppy has been concerned about you."

Severus withdrew his hand, shaking hers off. "Yes, well, it's my issue to handle," he replied before turning to Albus. "If it's agreeable, I can contact him tonight," he offered.

Minerva's gesture of comfort did not go unnoticed by Severus, and he felt a small pang of guilt for pushing her away. He knew that she, too, had his best interests at heart, but he was stubborn and hesitant to open up to anyone. It had taken a while for him to even speak to the Mind Healer. Many visits were spent in silence in the beginning. Nevertheless, he appreciated her concern and was grateful to have her as a colleague and friend.

Sadly smiling Albus nodded at Severus. "Yes, thank you, my boy. If you don't mind please coordinate with Poppy."

Severus stood up from the table, signaling that the conversation was over. "I will tell the boy where he will reside and if there's nothing else, I have some work to attend to," he said, and without waiting for a response, he left the Great Hall.

Minerva watched him go, a worried expression on her face. "He still has a long way to go," she said to Albus. "I'm glad he's found a connection with Harry. Hopefully that will help them both."

Albus patted her hand kindly, "I know, my dear."

As the conversation came to a close, the last of the students trickled out of the Great Hall. Minerva said her goodbyes to the Headmaster and made her way to the Gryffindor common room to check on her first-year students and ensure they were settling in well.

Minerva walked into her office, but before she could sit down, there was a sudden knock on the door. Turning around, she opened the door to find Severus standing there. "Severus, is there something you need?" she asked.

Shaking his head, he entered her office. "No, I just wanted to speak with Mr. Potter if that's all right."

Minerva smiled warmly and agreed to let Severus speak to Harry. Before leaving the room, she decided to sit in the chair next to him and asked, "Were you able to contact the Mind Healer?"

Severus nodded silently in response, but Minerva sensed there was something more on his mind. She probed gently, "I appreciate your concern for Harry. I know it can't be easy for you, considering how much he resembles his father."

Severus met Minerva's gaze with a solemn expression. "But he has his mother's heart," he replied softly.

Minerva smiled understandingly, but she felt there was more to discuss. "I'm glad you reached out for help from a Mind Healer, Severus. Remember that we are all here for you too, if you ever need us."

Severus took a deep breath, his eyes closing momentarily. "Thank you, Minerva. I appreciate your concern, but I have everything under control. You all know that I'm not one for all that emotional nonsense, so please respect that. Right now, my focus is on Mr. Potter and his needs."

"Very well, Severus. I apologize if I was prying too much. I'll go fetch Harry now," Minerva said as she stood up and headed towards the door leading to the Gryffindor common room. Before leaving, she turned back to look at Severus, who was still watching her.

"Severus, please hear me out," Minerva continued. "I know you well enough to understand that you tend to take on problems and consume yourself with finding solutions. But while you're taking care of Harry, please don't forget to take care of yourself too. Can you agree to that?"

Taken aback by Minerva's words, but his mask still in place, Severus nodded in agreement. "I understand, Minerva. Thank you for your concern. I will try to look out for myself."

Minerva nodded in agreement and opened the door to tend to her young Gryffindors. Even though she was still worried about Severus, she knew that she had to put her concerns aside for the moment so she could focus on Harry and his needs.

She walked through the common room and made her way to the first-year girls' dormitory, checking in on each of them to make sure they were all settling in well and there were no signs of homesickness. Then she made her way to the first-year boys' dormitory.

Gently knocking on the door, she waited for them to call out before entering. Inside, she saw Harry and Ron Weasley sitting on Harry's bed, looking through a Quidditch magazine. She couldn't help but smile at the wonderment on Harry's face as he watched the people move around on the page. It was always so special seeing someone experiencing magic for the first time.

After greeting the boys, Minerva checked on each of them individually to make sure they were all adjusting well to life at Hogwarts. Once she was satisfied that they were all doing okay, she turned to the boys on Harry's bed and commented on the Quidditch team they were reading about.

"The Chudley Cannons, eh?" Minerva said, a smile spreading across her face. "That's a fine team." She watched as the boys looked up at her, grinning with excitement.

"Mr. Potter, you have a visitor waiting for you in my office," Minerva informed the young boy. His expression shifted to one of concern, so she quickly reassured him, "Don't worry, it's nothing bad and you're not in trouble."

Harry looked relieved at Minerva's words and quickly put away his things and followed her to her office. As they walked, Harry couldn't help but feel a sense of curiosity about who might be waiting for him.

When they arrived at the office, Harry was surprised to see Severus sitting there. "Professor Snape?" he said, his voice laced with confusion. Had something happened? What had happened about keeping distance?

Severus stood up from his chair and greeted Harry with a nod. "Mr. Potter, thank you for coming," he said.

Minerva gave them both a nod and left the room, giving them privacy to talk. Harry took a seat next to Severus and looked up at him with curiosity. "Professor?"

Severus responded with a gentle smile. "How are you adjusting? It seems you have made some friends?"

Harry nodded with a small smile. "Yes, Ron and Hermione. They're great! Ron has a big family, and Hermione comes from a muggle family like I do. Well, not exactly like me, since she still has her parents who love her." His expression turned somber as he looked away, still grappling with the recent revelation about his parents' true fate.

The older man took notice of Harry's mood change and placed a gentle hand on his knee. "Alright there?"

"I'm fine, sir. Just lost in thought," Harry replied, turning his attention back to his Professor. He forced a fake smile, causing Severus to be grateful for the Grangers' recommendation to have a Mind Healer for him.

Severus chose to disregard the insincere grin for the time being and focused on why he had come. "I've been informed of your living arrangements for when you're not at Hogwarts."

Harry nodded with interest. "Oh?"

"Yes, it seems you'll be staying with the Granger family for the summer," Severus said, watching Harry closely for any reaction.

Harry's eyebrows furrowed in concern. "You mean Hermione and her parents? I don't want to inconvenience them. Maybe I should just go back to my relatives."

Severus frowned, noticing Harry's reluctance. "But you just made friends with her, didn't you? Is there something else bothering you?"

Harry looked down, feeling embarrassed. "Well, yes, she's a great. It's just that Ron warned me that some dark wizards might still be after me, and I don't want to put the Grangers in danger. I've been safe at my relatives' place so far, and I can just go back there."

Severus sighed in frustration and gently lifted Harry's chin with two fingers so that their eyes met. "Harry, I found you locked in a cupboard, beaten and starving. You were not safe. Do you understand? You will not be going back there. The Headmaster has already made arrangements with the Grangers to ensure your safety, and they will be protected by spells. If there is some other reason why you're hesitant to stay with them, you must tell me. But your safety and theirs are being taken care of."

The professor released Harry's chin, and the boy blushed. He hadn't anticipated such a strong reaction from the professor. No one had ever cared about his well-being before. It had just been a part of his life to be hurt. Part of him felt relieved that he would never have to go back to the Dursleys, but he still worried about the Grangers. Despite Hermione's apparent happiness, he wondered if her parents would treat him like family or like a slave like the Dursley's had.

Seeing Harry was lost in his thoughts Severus sighed, "Are you amenable to stay with the Grangers?"

As Harry gazed at the man, he nodded in agreement. Perhaps this would turn out to be a positive experience. Despite being slightly overbearing, Hermione was a kind individual. In contrast, the blond-haired boy he had encountered in the corridor, Draco, was far from pleasant. He had made a derogatory comment about Harry's friend Ron, insinuating that he was not the right kind of person to associate with.

The boy gazed at his professor with curiosity and asked, "Excuse me, sir, do you happen to know a boy named Draco? He claims to be in your house."

Severus raised an eyebrow and replied, "I am acquainted with Draco. Have you spoken to him?"

Harry nodded and added, "But why is he so unpleasant? He was very unkind to Ron and even called Hermione a Mudblood. What does that term mean, sir?"

The professor's expression turned serious as he responded, "That is a vile word that you should never utter. He was implying that Mrs. Granger has impure blood because she comes from a family of Muggles. I will be having a serious conversation with him about his behavior."

Harry looked troubled by this revelation, and Severus continued, "As for why Draco is so unpleasant, well, he has been brought up with certain beliefs about blood purity. His family has a long history of supporting the Dark Arts and the idea that pure-blood wizards are superior to those with Muggle or mixed heritage. It's a sad and misguided view, but unfortunately, it is deeply ingrained in him."

Severus paused for a moment, then added, "However, I would caution you not to judge him too harshly. We all have our flaws and weaknesses, and Draco is still young and has much to learn. It is important to try to understand where he is coming from and to show him kindness and compassion, even if he does not always deserve it."

"Did he contribute to your decision to keep your distance from me?" Harry pondered before asking.

"To some extent, but primarily for the reasons I've already mentioned. I don't want others to form opinions about you based on our association. However, as I mentioned earlier, we can still arrange private meetings in my office or here anytime. Simply send me an owl, and I can give you a 'detention'. I am here for you Harry."

As Harry nodded thoughtfully, a sense of gratitude overwhelmed him. He surprised Seveurs and himself, by leaning forward and embracing Snape. The Potions master was caught off guard at first, unsure of how to respond to such a display of affection. However, he soon reciprocated the gesture by placing his arms around the boy and patting his back.

For a moment, they remained in the embrace, a silent understanding passing between them. However, their tender moment was soon interrupted as Minerva silently entered the room, closing the door behind her. A small smile formed on her lips as she observed the two, reassured that everything would turn out alright.