The potions classroom was his domain: his personal hell, but fiercely guarded. Hogwarts Potions Master inspired fear with his very presence. His sharp voice, sarcastic remarks, and dark aura all cemented his reputation as an alpha. No one dared to question his dominance, no one, except perhaps Dumbledore, knew the truth: Severus was an omega.

The wizarding society, despite its progress, remained ossified in its alpha/beta/omega hierarchy. Omegas were considered weak, in need of protection, and, at worst, simply incubators for offspring. Severus, having endured enough humiliation in his youth because of his nature, vowed that no one would ever see his weakness. Potions that blocked scent and suppressed signs of heat became his constant companions.

However, even carefully laid plans sometimes crumble. The last few weeks had been particularly stressful. Death Eater activity, exam preparations, and the constant need to monitor Potter – all of it was draining. That was why Severus, under cover of darkness, headed to the pub in Hogsmeade. He usually avoided such places, but today he needed a dose of strong alcohol. After one shot of firewhisky, he suddenly felt it – a sharp mood swing, a burst of heat, a slight dizziness. Heat.

Snape turned cold, suppressants were beginning to fail him and the hall was too crowded, too many alphas, whose scents amplified the confusion of his senses. He had to leave and take urgent measures. Overcome with panic, he tried to push his way to the exit, but stumbled and almost fell. Strong hands caught him.

“Careful, buddy,” a hoarse voice said. Snape tried to break free, but he was surrounded by three alphas.

“What do we have here? Omega had too much?” one of them smirked, moving closer. His scent, dirty and soaked in alcohol, made Severus nauseous.

“Get away from me,” Severus hissed.

“No need to be shy. Just offering a hand,” another alpha pressed him against the wall. Fear gripped Severus. He knew what would happen if he didn’t break free from their grasp.