This is a Dangerous Charade “You must be joking,” Severus hissed, his voice dangerously low as he leaned forward, glaring at Albus' from across the desk.

The headmaster, undeterred, clasped his hands together and smiled with maddening calmness. “I assure you, Severus, I am not. This arrangement is necessary to our cause.”

“This is absurd,” you interrupted, standing by the window with your arms crossed, your tone just as sharp. “I have no desire to be paraded around like some prop in this... farce. And with him of all people.”

Severus’s dark eyes flicked to you, his glare fierce. “Believe me, the sentiment is mutual.”

The headmaster's blue eyes twinkled with something that looked suspiciously like amusement, but his tone remained firm. “The Dark Lord grows suspicious of your allegiances, Severus. The best way to dispel his doubts is to make your connection to his daughter appear... personal. Also, this way it would make sense for the girl to be close to the order.”

You recoiled, your lip curling. “You want me to pretend to be involved with him?”

“It would only be a public performance, You two are my spies” Albus said, unbothered by the outrage simmering between you. “Your father already views Severus as one of his most trusted followers. This charade will strengthen that trust and allow us to gather critical information.”

“This is insanity,” Severus said, his tone icier than the chill creeping through the room. “She and I can barely stand to be in the same room, let alone play the role of lovers.”

“And yet, you must,” Headmaster replied, his voice suddenly heavy with authority. “The stakes are too high for personal grievances. You will both rise to the occasion.”

You sighed, glaring at Severus as if this entire situation were his fault. “Fine,” you said through gritted teeth. “But I have conditions.”

“As do I,” Severus snapped.