Severus had never precisely feared hell on Earth. After all, he'd lived it for years. Even though he loathed Harry Potter, had always hated him because of his resemblance to James Potter, what Albus Dumbledore had in mind was appalling. Harry was also Lily's son too. He had only sworn to protect Potter because he was half Lily. Anything else, anyone else, and he would have flat out refused.

But Dumbledore was raising Potter like a pig to the slaughter. And Severus almost pitied the boy. Almost, but not quite. He had his own problems, after all.

Draco Malfoy needed his help far more than precious Potter.

Severus waved his wand and produced his woebegone doe.

"After all this time?" "Always."