Severus Snape: The Half Blood Prince

*(83) Deaths and Betrayal

"You Know Who," Severus said somberly, his brow furrowing with worry.

Sophie jolted out of bed, the sheets cascading around her memories. With a sense of urgency, she reached for her wand and elegantly waved it over her body, a soft incantation leaving her lips. Her disheveled hair smoothed into a neat bun, and her attire magically transformed into something pristine, befitting the occasion.

A radiant glow emanated from her as if the uncertainty she felt moments ago had momentarily given way to a newfound resolve.

"Explain it to me," she implored, her voice clear but tinged with determination and anxiety. Her eyes, usually filled with curiosity, now held an intensity that seemed to search for answers hidden in the depths of Severus' words.

~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~

Severus settled himself on the edge of the bed, his eyes fixed on Sophie as she stood before him. The morning light filtered through the curtains, casting a soft glow on their faces. "First off," he began, his voice calm and composed, "Igor Karkaroff was captured earlier this year by Moody, who in turn had been apprehended with-"

Sophie interjected, her knowledge evident, "Apprehended with Antonin Dolohov, I know, keep going."

"More recently, Rosier and Wilkes were both killed. It was by Aurors, and we know who did it as well... it was Moody again. I'm unsure if he will keep turning a blind eye to me. Even though he knows of my role, he may eventually turn his back on me... none of them know about you yet, so let's keep it that way," Severus said, a hint of weariness in his voice.

Sophie watched him closely, sensing that there was something more on his mind. "Is there anything else? You seem to have deeper trouble on your mind," she asked, her eyes filled with concern.

Severus paused, his gaze locking with hers. "Peter. Pettigrew," he finally revealed, his voice tinged with anger and frustration, "has become a spy. He is feeding information to the Lord."

Sophie took a moment to process the information, her mind racing with thoughts of betrayal and deception. Trying to find a lighter tone, she quipped, "Well, his animagus is a rat. I guess it's suitable for his nature."

Severus couldn't help but crack a smile, the tension momentarily easing. Sophie's solemn smile in return made him wonder if she felt the weight of the situation as he did. He couldn't help but question whether she might inadvertently betray them, now that she realized she had the power to alter their future.

"I guess we shouldn't make it too obvious since he is residing in the same residence as us, as of now," Sophie suggested, her words carrying a hint of caution as she began to make her way out of the room. Severus hesitated momentarily, then watched her leave, choosing to sit on the bed to gather his thoughts before facing the guests who awaited them in the house they were staying in.

~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~-~

"Good morning Mrs. Snapeeeeeeee," Lily chimed, her voice exuding a sense of warmth and affection as she playfully dragged Sophie into the breakfast nook area. The room was adorned with elegant tapestries and fine furniture, hinting at the grandeur of the Black family house, which now served as a haven for the Order of the Phoenix.

Sophie took in the lavish surroundings, her eyes grazing over the intricate patterns on the tapestries and the polished silverware gleaming under the morning light. She sat at the table, where Lily placed a plate of perfectly cooked eggs and toast in front of her.

"Thank you, Lily. It is quite foolish for a bride to faint after she becomes a wife," Sophie quipped with a touch of humor, her words laced with the sense of camaraderie shared among the Order members.