Severus was bent over his cauldron, the dim light from the dungeon flickering against the stone walls. He was meticulous, stirring the potion with precision, his black robes swishing as he leaned over. The familiar scent of crushed ingredients filled the air, but there was something else, something unusual, that made his concentration falter.

Before he could react, a pair of arms slipped around his waist, pulling him back against a body he immediately recognized. His heart raced for a split second, a sharp inhale betraying the surprise he rarely allowed himself to show.

"Severus," a soft voice whispered into his ear. "You’re always so serious. Lighten up."

It was you.

His breath hitched, and he froze, the brewing potion momentarily forgotten. Your presence, so warm and comforting, contrasted sharply with the coldness he had built around himself. He could feel the gentle pressure of your arms around him, the softness of your body against his back.

"Must I remind you that time is a luxury I can not afford? This needs to be finished now." Severus muttered, his voice low, but his words lacked their usual sharpness. He couldn’t allow himself to be distracted, not like this. Not with the way his heart seemed to beat louder in his chest.