☞ 𝐒𝐮𝐧𝐝𝐚𝐲, 3𝐫𝐝 𝐨𝐟 𝐒𝐞𝐩𝐭𝐞𝐦𝐛𝐞𝐫, 1996

Sunday evening arrived in a flash. Monday morning is when the academic school year really begins. In preparation for my classes tomorrow, I decided to read the first chapters of my Charms book and Potions book, as those are the only lessons I have written on my schedule.

With my favourite blanket wrapped around me and the pages of the book only illuminated by the firelight, I huddled up in the Slytherin common room, soaking in the peace. Different from previous years, peace has been somewhat scarce since my social life has skyrocketed. I'm grateful to no longer have to dread walking through the common room, afraid Parkinson is waiting to dig her claws into me. However, I am not so grateful for the number of people who've never given me the light of day before and now are all over me. Not in a weird way.

"Snape. A word." A cold voice commanded from the silence of the Slytherin common room. I look up to find myself surrounded by the snakes. Nott stood tall behind Zabini and Malfoy, who sat on the sofa opposite me. And Riddle was sitting beside me. I glare at the group and continue to read.

"I'm busy." I mumble as I lick my finger to turn the page. Malfoy groans and leans back, clearly annoyed. I struggled not to smile to myself as I glanced up to take in the annoyance plastered on his face.

"Please, Snape? Draco mentioned you grew up in Hogwarts. That must mean you know many secrets." Zabini inquired. With a huff, I place my book marker and slam my book shut, as it was evident I wouldn't get much more reading done.

"What of it, Zabini?" I slowly lean back, my arms crossed, as I examine the boy. He looks at Nott, then at Malfoy, and finally at Riddle. Following his gaze, I turned to look at Riddle, who was already looking at me. His dark eyes reflected the warm flames beside me, and he wore his usual soft grin.

"Well..." Zabini continued, forcing me to pry my eyes off Riddle. "We want to know if you know of any secret passageways that—" Before Zabini could finish his sentence, I cut in. I had a feeling they needed something from me, and this notion burned my skin with anger.

"Why would I tell you? Why should I help any of you?" I began, and they all sat silently, shocked. "None of you have ever treated me with an ounce of respect in your lives. You don't deserve my help or my knowledge. Not now. Not ever." I fumed. Malfoy looked down in what seemed to be in shame... but it was most likely all an act. Same for the sadness Riddle showed as he looked at me hopelessly. I stood up and gathered my books. "The audacity you all have is astounding." I mumble to the group, and I left.

My foot stepped on the first step leading to the dormitories when I felt a soft grasp around my wrist. I turn my head and see Riddle standing there, seemingly shocked by his own actions. "Y/n, please. I- we need your help." His eyes twinkled with desperation and hope as he whispered this to me. It is truly an unusual sight since Riddle has always held an emotionless gaze.

I sigh, his sorrowful, soft eyes pulling on my heartstrings. "Perhaps..." I began, already feeling regret sink in. "Perhaps you can earn my help."

Riddle smiled softly. "Thank you, so much." I don't need to hang around anymore, so as soon as Riddle's grasp fell, I scurried up the stairs and under my sheets.

My mind raced, trying to comprehend what happened. I was trying to figure out their intentions behind their quest for this specific set of knowledge while trying to dissect my own actions and thoughts. As if they could ever repay me for the years of torment they've put me through in a matter of days. I'll be expecting nothing but the best behaviour from each single slithering snake. I shall not fall for their charms or any mind manipulation. I'd be willing to help them if, for once, they are kind.

My mind thinks back to Riddle. His soft skin and gentle touch, down to his glowing smile and his rosy cheeks. Under the firelight, he was a pleasant sight to admire. Far too pleasant for comfort. I could've easily dove and drowned in his dark eyes. These thoughts are far too sweet and far too endearing to dwell on.

As my consciousness started to slip, only one person was on my mind. That one person is bound to be trouble. That one person will surely haunt my thoughts for a while.