#thread:pen

Pen had helped him get ready, coming over earlier that day and by the time they'd apparated here, he was uncomfortable and stiff - a sign they had done a good job. He fiddled uncomfortably with his cufflinks as he sat at the table, frowning at the empty plate, wondering how long he would have to stay after they served dinner.

He pushed past Penny as she opened the door, hardly sparing a glance and only listening to where Pen was - she would understand. Rounding the familiar corner to the library, he froze in the doorway as he saw them. Pen. They were back. They looked…. bad, if he were being honest. But they were back. Severus cleared his throat, coming closer.

“I'm sorry, I….” He furrowed his brow, not sure it was the right thing to say. But he kept going anyway. “I took this.”