Work Text:
As the golden sun dipped below the horizon, casting a warm glow over the tranquil black lake, you found yourself nestled on a worn blanket, carefully intertwining delicate daisies to create a whimsical crown. Each slender stem was skillfully manipulated to interlace with the next, creating a beautiful adornment. With the impending return to school looming, you cherished these final moments of solitude within the walls of the castle.
As you neared the completion of the flower crown, a soft rustling of leaves signaled someone's approach. Pausing in your task, you glanced backward to behold Severus standing near, his gaze tender and understanding. Settling beside you, he graced the ground with his presence.
After a tranquil pause, you inquired, "What brings you here at this hour?" With a gentle smile, he replied, "You were alone out here; the darkness will soon descend." Your response was playful, punctuated by a light kiss on his cheek. "I suppose I'll need my knight in shining armor to guide me back," you teased, a smile gracing your lips.
His faint smirk was accompanied by a gallant gesture as he rose, extending his hand to assist you. As you rose to your feet, the fragile flower crown slipped from your head. With graceful ease, Severus retrieved it and placed it upon your crown, eliciting a charming blush. Hand in hand, he led you back to the castle, the heavy doors closing behind you with a resolute thud.
In the comfort of Severus's quarters, a warm cup of tea beckoned, and he engaged you with a thoughtful reading. Reclining upon the generous expanse of his L-shaped couch, you found solace in his embrace, his arm a reassuring presence around you. Drifting into a peaceful slumber, you were gently lifted and nestled on his plush mattress, where he remained close through the night.
..
Months passed, and the bustling energy of the students' return filled the corridors once more. Amidst this flurry of activity, you longed for those stolen moments with Severus during daylight hours. The yearning to be near him was palpable, yet the castle's expanse meant your closeness was often limited, he residing in the depths while you resided in the heights.
As you diligently prepared your classroom for the next day ahead, a firm knock at the door drew your attention. Welcoming Severus's entrance, you eagerly enveloped him in an embrace, finding comfort in his presence. Inquiring about his purpose for seeking you out, he expressed a desire to accompany you for dinner, prompting a smile and a gesture to join him shortly.
Linked together as you descended to the Great Hall, your conversations were a blend of intimate conversation and lighthearted banter.
..
Later, as you gathered the eager third-year students for their much-anticipated excursion to Hogsmeade, a delightful surprise awaited. Spotting Severus in the courtyard, adorned with a scarf and gloves, your face lit up with delight, you weren't expecting him to come. His reason for appearing soon became clear - it was to spend the day by your side, a heartwarming gesture that spoke volumes.
..
You found yourself in the lush greenhouses, standing in for Professor Sprout while she was away for the week. Your commitment to keeping her plants thriving and in good health was unwavering. After carefully repotting the second out of the ten plants on your list, you turned around and were startled by the unexpected presence of Severus at the door.
Your heart leaped in surprise, and you couldn't help but playfully chide him. "Could you not have given a gentle knock or some kind of warning before sneaking up on a defenseless woman?"
As laughter bubbled up from within you, you moved on to the next pot, feeling a sense of amusement lingering in the air.
He confidently approached you and planted a gentle kiss on the top of your head. "What's keeping you busy?" he inquired.
"Pomona requested me to look after her plants while she's away for work. I still have around seven plants to repot and four plants that need their leaves trimmed," you explained. Without hesitation, he made his way to the clippers and observed the notebook you were referencing.
He carefully pruned the lifeless leaves from the specified plants. You turned to him, smiling at his unspoken offer to assist. Not long after, both tasks were completed, and you proceeded to the other greenhouse areas.
..
Once more, you found yourself on the couch with him, but this time you both simply relished each other's company. You didn't need words to convey your feelings; being in close proximity was enough to express everything.