Christmas carols had never sounded more melancholy. Severus listened to the carolers as Filius put them through their resentful, sullen paces for a school that knew neither peace on earth nor goodwill toward men. Toward him, especially.

He sat, still as stone, listening to songs of hope and rebirth, and all he could think was, let it be over soon. Please.

On Boxing Day, he delivered what he assumed would be his parting gift to Lily's son. Discharging his last duty gave him no peace or comfort.

Six months later, alone in a dusty Shack, his soul felt its worth.