It had been a long, lonely week without your husband. Always away at Hogwarts to teach.

As evening fell on the ninth day, you were busy moving around the kitchen, hands scrubbing a dirty plate as soft music played in the background, quieting the soft creak of the front door and the light thuds of shoes walking around the house.

The little one had just fallen asleep in her crib, tiny tummy full of milk and baby food. And finally, you could have some peace to clean without cries and clinging hands.

Severus, exhausted from the days teaching at Hogwarts, stepped inside quietly, his shoulders sagging. To him, the house still smelled of candles and tea, the usual scent of home, his only safe place. Sneaking in the kitchen, he observed you from behind, avoiding making noise. A small grin tugged his lips, before he disappeared towards the bedroom, stopping right in front of the nursery as a small sound caught his attention.

A tiny coo breaking in the silence.

Still clad in his clean, dark potions clothing, he leaned against the crib, his face lined with love and affection. His daughter’s tiny hands waved aimlessly in the air, bright eyes focused on her dad’s face.

And unexpectedly, a rare smile appeared on Severus' lips, despite the exhaustion.

He cradled the little one into his arms, before he lay down on the couch, hovering the bundle of joy over his face. “Yeah? And then what else happened?” He asked softly, his deep voice gentle as he fell into an amusing conversation with the infant.

You, in the middle of folding laundry and still oblivious, heard the strange sounds coming from the nursery. Alarmed, your heart leapt, immediately rushing towards the source, imagining the worst. Reaching the room, the cutest scene welcomed you.

“Oh, really? Tell me more.” Severus' gaze was fixed on his daughter, responding to the nonsensical frantic coos.