How far would you go to protect the ones you love? How much of yourself would you be willing to sacrifice? How much would you deny yourself to ensure their safety?

Severus Snape knows exactly how far he would go, and there was still no turning back. Not until his mission was truly finished. James Potter and Lily Evans were the center of Severus’ world. If losing them both on the same night wasn't devastating enough, the realization that the Dark Lord wasn't dead continued to eat at his spirit. The Dark Lord would return, forcing Severus to play his part once again.

It’s been eleven years since the Dark Lord disappeared, and much to Severus' chagrin, Harry Potter has finally come to Hogwarts. Nothing would prepare Severus for pushing the last thing he had left of James and Lily away. As Severus struggles to face his mistakes, a young Draco Malfoy falls victim to a similar fate. For the love of his best friend, Narcissa Malfoy, Severus is driven to help Draco navigate the dark legacy that has been forced upon him.

As the Dark Lord rises again, Severus will do anything to ensure Harry and Draco's survival, even if it means burying his heart deeper to do it.

One-shot story set after So Close and before Far From Perfect. Severus and Harry are caught by surprise by a delegation of Gryffindors and teachers coming to terms with their new dynamic.