Oops! I'm sorry that Severus' decision to retreat upset you so much. I know it seems like the boys are going backwards here, but I promise you they aren't. Severus wouldn't be Severus if he didn't freak out and react ridiculously badly to these sort of things. Sev's dramatics serve another important purpose too: they give Harry the opportunity to show off his caring side in a big way, and that, more than anything will draw Severus to him. ;)

I know you're upset right now, my friend, but have some patience with the boys. They'll figure this out. I promise.

Thanks, as always, for taking the time to both read and review another chapter of this story, teryarel. Your comment was greatly appreciated. :D