Now you see me

Severus Snape

Professor Snape strode down Privet Drive, his cloak billowing behind him like a shadowy spectre. He stopped in front of Number 4, where the Dursleys resided, their meticulously kept lawn a stark contrast to his dark demeanour.

As he rapped sharply on the door, it swung open to reveal Petunia Dursley, her thin lips pursed in disapproval. "What do you want?" she snapped.

Snape's lip curled in disdain as he looked her up and down. "I am here on official business from Hogwarts," he announced curtly. "I am here to collect Harry Potter."

Petunia's eyes widened in disbelief, but she quickly composed herself. "Him? What nonsense is this?"

"It is no nonsense," Snape replied icily. "The boy belongs in the wizarding world, not in this dismal Muggle existence."

Before Petunia could protest further, a low rumble echoed down the street, drawing both their attention. A massive motorcycle thundered into view, driven by none other than Rubeus Hagrid, Keeper of Keys and Grounds at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry.

Hagrid brought the bike to a stop with a flourish, his wild hair and beard blowing in the wind. "Sorry I'm late, Snape," he boomed cheerfully. "Had a bit of trouble with some pesky hunters along the way."

Snape scowled at Hagrid's nonchalance before turning back to Petunia. "You see? The wizarding world is not without its dangers. It is imperative that the boy comes to Hogwarts immediately."

With a resigned sigh, Petunia retreated into the house to fetch Harry, who emerged moments later, a mix of apprehension and excitement on his face.

"Come along, Potter," Snape ordered briskly, his black eyes boring into Harry's. "We have much to discuss."

As Harry followed Snape out the door, he spared a glance back at the Dursleys, wondering what lay ahead in this new chapter of his life.

Harry followed Snape cautiously, his curiosity piqued by the mysterious surroundings. In a corner of London that many would overlook there was a pub, a small place called 'The leaky cauldron' they made their way through the bar (not giving anyone the time of day to recognise him)  Suddenly, Snape stopped in front of a seemingly solid brick wall. With a flick of his wand and a muttered sentence that Harry couldn't decipher, the bricks began to shift and rearrange themselves, revealing a hidden entrance to a bustling magical marketplace.

"Welcome to Diagon Alley, Potter," Snape announced in his usual stern tone, gesturing for Harry to follow him through the entrance.

As they stepped into the vibrant street, Harry's eyes widened in wonder at the sights and sounds surrounding him. Witches and wizards bustled about, shopping for magical supplies and exchanging gossip in hushed tones.

Snape led Harry through the crowded thoroughfare, his pace quick and purposeful. They stopped in front of a towering building with a sign that read "Gringotts Bank" in ornate lettering.

"This is where we'll need to go first," Snape explained, his voice brooking no argument. "We need to retrieve some funds from your family vault."

Inside the bank, Snape conducted their business with a curt efficiency that left Harry feeling slightly intimidated. After securing the necessary funds, they exited the bank and continued their journey through Diagon Alley.

They visited various shops, Snape guiding Harry through the process of purchasing his school supplies with a no-nonsense attitude. Despite Snape's stern demeanour, Harry couldn't help but feel a sense of gratitude towards him for guiding him through this unfamiliar world.