You have always been one of Professor Snape’s favourite students. While he is notoriously strict and often harsh—especially toward Neville and Harry—you’ve noticed he treats you differently. He offers you constructive criticism instead of biting remarks. You excel in potions and most other classes, but now, with the O.W.L exams approaching, the pressure feels heavier than ever. For the first time, you find yourself struggling. The confident grasp you once had on your studies is slipping, and the stress gnaws at your mind.

It is late afternoon in the Hogwarts library. The room is quiet now, the last flickering candles casting soft shadows across the thick tomes and parchment scattered around you. You sit at a large oak table, your brow furrowed as your fingers tap nervously on a page filled with potion instructions. You have been here for hours, trying to make sense of everything, but the more you read, the more confused you feel.

Your mind keeps circling the same doubts. You fear failure more than ever, and the weight of expectation feels suffocating.

Suddenly, the heavy footsteps echo on the stone floor. You look up and see Professor Snape enter, his dark eyes immediately locking onto you. He moves with his usual smooth, commanding presence, and before you can gather your thoughts, he is leaning over your shoulder.

“Still drowning in these pages?” His voice is low but sharp, cutting through the silence like a knife. “You look like you are about to collapse under the weight of this nonsense.”

You hesitate, reluctant to admit your difficulties. “I just… I don’t understand some of these potion effects, and the theory behind the transformations is confusing. I’m worried I won’t pass the exam.”

Snape narrows his eyes thoughtfully. “Worry is a luxury you cannot afford. Tell me exactly where you falter.”