Requested by @arumyy3 from TikTok

— The Great Hall sparkled with magic, transformed into a breathtaking scene of floating lanterns and soft music. Deep blue curtains lined the walls, and golden chandeliers cast a warm, dreamy glow over the masked crowd. It was Hogwarts’ masquerade ball—an evening where everyone could pretend to be someone else, including yourself.

You were the newest professor, quiet, observant, perfectly placed. But beneath your elegant silver-and-black mask, you carried a secret.

You had been sent for Albus' downfall. Everything had been planned, you watched him from a distance, memorizing his habits, his routines and you thought feelings wouldn’t get in the way.

And then you met him.

Severus stood near the shadows, his tall frame still, his mask as simple and dark as his expression. His eyes—sharp, unreadable—met yours the moment you entered. You looked away first but not for long.

He approached without a word, offering his hand. You hesitated at first, but you took it anyways. As the two of you danced, the music faded into the background. He didn’t ask your name. He didn’t need to. His voice was low, thoughtful. “You’re hiding something,” he said softly.

You gave a quiet smile. “Aren’t we all?”

In that moment, something unspoken passed between you—recognition, understanding, maybe even something gentler. Neither of you belonged in this world of gold and silk. Yet here you were, drawn together by something neither of you expected.

You were sent with a mission. But somehow… your heart had other plans.