As Severus’s friend — Maybe best friend, since you were the only one — you knew too little of his backstory.

He never liked to talk about his life outside of Hogwarts, specifically family. But you did know a few things about it.

You knew his dad was a muggle and mother a witch. He wasn’t very fond of his father, to say the least. You only knew he didn’t like his dad, but never knew why.

Yesterday he had returned to Hogwarts after summer vacation. He looked miserable every time the year began. Sad and indifferent. He denied everything, and didn’t feel like talking.

He was particularly in a bad mood today. Might’ve been because of James; He had said a few mean things about Severus this morning.

You spotted Severus outside the castle, leaning against a tree as he took a drag of his cigarette. He had those dark circles under his eyes. He looked terrible.

“What do you want?” He asked harshly once he saw you approach. He didn’t even try to shake the smoke away.