Severus leaned casually against the tall shelves of the Eleonorin Library, his dark eyes sparkling with mischief. The library was bathed in soft light, the ancient wooden beams and high, arched windows casting long shadows on the floor.
Evreux stood near a table piled high with old books, his expression as cold and unreadable as ever. He was engrossed in a dusty tome, seemingly oblivious to Severus's presence.
Severus sighed dramatically, making a show of crossing his arms. "Oh, come on, Evreux," he said, his voice dripping with playful annoyance. "You didn't come to my birthday party. I expected you to be there, at least to make things interesting."
Evreux glanced up from his book, his face remaining cold. "I had other obligations," he replied in a flat tone, not bothering to hide his lack of interest.
Severus pouted, taking a few steps closer. "Obligations? Really? You could have made an exception for my birthday. It's not every day I turn another year older, you know."
Evreux raised an eyebrow but said nothing, returning his attention to the book in front of him. Severus continued his theatrics, dramatically clutching his chest as if wounded.
"You're breaking my heart, Evreux," Severus said with a theatrical sigh. "I thought we were friends. You didn't even send a card or a gift. Do you know how lonely I felt without you there?"
Evreux's lips twitched slightly, though it was unclear if it was a sign of amusement or irritation. He finally looked up from his book, meeting Severus's gaze with a hint of curiosity.
Severus grinned, his eyes twinkling with a mix of challenge and affection. "Come on, admit it. You missed me, didn't you?"
Evreux's expression remained stoic, but there was a slight shift in his demeanor as if Severus's antics were starting to chip away at his aloof exterior.
Severus continued to watch Evreux with a playful smirk, noticing the faintest crack in the other's stoic facade. He leaned in closer, lowering his voice to a conspiratorial whisper.
"Admit it," Severus said, his tone teasing. "You missed the chance to see me embarrass myself with that ridiculous dance. I even had a hat with feathers on it. How could you resist?"
Evreux looked up again, his gaze steady. For a moment, it seemed like he might respond, but instead, he simply closed his book with a soft thud and stood up. His movements were deliberate, his expression unreadable.
Severus raised an eyebrow, following the subtle shift. "Are you actually going to acknowledge my presence now?" he asked, almost gleefully.
Evreux finally spoke, his voice as cold as ever. "You make a lot of noise for someone who claims to be heartbroken. Perhaps you should learn to enjoy your own company."
Severus laughed, the sound bright and warm in the quiet library. "Ah, but where's the fun in that? You know, you could've at least pretended to be excited for me. I promise, I wouldn't have minded the pretense."
Evreux's eyes narrowed slightly, but a trace of something—maybe an annoyance, maybe something softer—flickered in his gaze. He sighed and turned back to the table, his shoulders slightly tense.
"Fine," Severus said, still grinning, "I'll forgive you this time. But you owe me a proper birthday toast. I expect you to make it up to me."
Evreux didn't look up as he began to rearrange the books on the table, but the corner of his mouth twitched almost imperceptibly, hinting that maybe, just maybe, Severus's persistence was starting to win him over.
Evreux simply replied " Drinking liquor is prohibited in Eleonorin"
Severus grin widened, clearly unfazed by Evreux's dry response. "Ah, but you see, Evreux," he said, walking over to the table, "I was counting on your presence to make the toast, not actually partaking in the drinking. You wouldn't leave me high and dry, would you?"
Evreux's eyes met Severus with an unreadable expression. He reached for another book, deliberately ignoring Severus's continued teasing. "The rules are clear," he said, his tone firm. "We don't break them for celebrations."
Severus sighed dramatically, shaking his head. "Rules, rules. Why are you so stubborn about this? Just once, could you let loose and enjoy the moment?"
Evreux's expression remained unchanged, but his fingers tightened around the book, revealing a hint of irritation. He finally looked up, his gaze steady but cold. "Some of us prefer to adhere to principles rather than indulge in parties."
Severus's playful demeanor faltered slightly, though he quickly recovered with a lighthearted shrug. "Well, I suppose it wouldn't be as fun if you joined in. You're always so serious."
Evreux's gaze softened ever so slightly, but he said nothing, returning his focus to the book in his hands. Severus studied him for a moment and took a step closer, leaning on the edge of the table Evreux was using.
"You know, it's not just about the toast," Severus said, his voice lowering to a more earnest tone. "It's about you being there. You always manage to avoid the fun stuff. Why do you have to be so… detached all the time?"
Evreux's eyes flicked up briefly from his book, but his face stayed impassive. "Detached?" he echoed, his voice flat. "I merely prefer not to engage in unnecessary distractions."
Severus's expression softened, though he still carried a hint of playful annoyance. "It's not about distraction; it's about being a part of something. You're missing out on the moments that make life a little less dull."
Evreux closed his book with a deliberate motion, his eyes meeting Severus with a hint of frustration. "Not everyone finds value in constant celebration."
Severus shrugged, his tone light but with a trace of sincerity. "Maybe not a constant celebration, but just once in a while. I bet if you give it a chance, you might find it more enjoyable than you expect."
Evreux's gaze was steady, but his shoulders relaxed slightly. "I've managed without it for this long."
Severus's eyes twinkled with a mix of exasperation and affection. "And yet, here you are, indulging my complaints. Surely that means something, right?"
Evreux's lips twitched, but he quickly masked it with his usual stoicism. "I suppose I've yet to see how your demands for attention warrant such a response."
Severus sighed theatrically. "Well, I suppose you could say it's my special talent. But seriously, I just want to share those moments with you. You might find them less of a nuisance and more of a… well, I'm not saying a joy, but perhaps an interesting distraction?"
"..."
Severus straightened up from the table, his gaze fixed on Evreux with renewed determination. "Alright, enough about the toast. How about this instead, to make up for your absence on my birthday, why don't you join me for a walk by the Eleonorin River?"
Evreux looked up from his book, his expression still guarded but with a hint of curiosity. "A walk by the river?"
Severus nodded enthusiastically. "Yes! It's a beautiful spot, and it'll be a nice change of pace. I promise it won't be a party or any sort of celebration—just a quiet stroll and some fresh air. It's my way of making amends and a chance for you to enjoy something a bit different."
Evreux's eyes narrowed slightly, and he remained silent for a moment. "And why should I agree to this?"
Severus's grin widened, his tone earnest. "Because you're always so serious, and I think you might actually enjoy it. Plus, it's an opportunity to get away from all these dusty books for a while. It's peaceful out there, and I think it would be a nice break."
Evreux glanced at the stack of books on the table and then back at Severus. "You think a walk by the river will change my mind?"
Severus shrugged, his eyes bright with hopeful optimism. "It might not change everything but it's your chance to experience something new."
Evreux seemed to weigh the suggestion, his expression still neutral but his demeanor less rigid. "You're persistent"
Severus laughed lightly. "I know. But seriously, what do you say? Just one walk. If you don't like it, I won't bother you again about these kinds of things."
Evreux's gaze softened slightly, and he finally closed his book with a decisive motion. "Very well. I suppose I can spare some time for this walk."
Severus beamed with genuine delight. "Great! Let's go then. I promise it'll be a refreshing change from this place."
"Hmm"
Severus's face brightened with a warm smile. "Great! Let's head out now. You'll see; the Eleonorin River is just what you need to clear your mind."
Evreux nodded, his previously guarded expression softening a bit. "Alright, lead the way."
As they left the room, Severus kept up his cheerful chatter. "You're going to love it. The view is amazing, and there's always a nice breeze. It's the perfect place to unwind."
Evreux glanced at Severus, curiosity showing in his eyes. "You seem really excited about this."
Severus laughed. "I am! It's not every day I get to share a place I like. Plus, it's a chance for us to chat without any interruptions."
When they reached the river, Severus's excitement was evident. "See? I told you it would be worth it."
The river stretched out before them, glistening in the sunlight. Evreux looked around, and a small smile finally appeared on his face.
"This is…actually quite nice," he admitted, sounding less formal.
Severus grinned. "I'm glad you think so. Let's walk along the river. There's a great spot a bit further where we can sit and talk if you want."
Evreux nodded, appearing more at ease. "Lead the way."
As they walked along the river, Severus continued his playful teasing. "You know, for someone so serious, you seem to be enjoying this more than you admit. Are you secretly a nature lover?"
Evreux's face stayed impassive, though his gaze lingered on the shimmering water. "I wouldn't say I'm a fan, but I can appreciate the calm."
Severus laughed. "So you do have a soft spot for scenic views? Maybe I should call you 'Nature Lover' instead of something else'"
Evreux looked at Severus. "Tsk."
Severus grinned, clearly enjoying the exchange. "Alright, 'Nature lover' it is. But it's nice to see even a little relaxation from you."
Evreux raised an eyebrow. "You seem determined to make me smile."
Severus chuckled. "Well, if I can't get you to laugh, I'll settle for a smile. It's still progress, right?"
As they walked, Severus pointed out various sights along the river, trying to get more reactions from Evreux. "Look at these weeping willows. They're supposed to be quite soothing."
Evreux glanced at the willows but remained stoic. "They're...pleasant enough."
Severus sighed, pretending to be disappointed. "You're a tough one to crack. I was hoping for a bit more enthusiasm."
Evreux's lips twitched slightly, but he quickly regained his composure. "Enthusiasm isn't really my style."
Severus gave an exaggerated pout. "Well, I tried. At least you're not as stiff as you were before."
Evreux gave a faintly amused look. "I suppose that's true."
They soon arrived at a shaded area with benches. Severus pointed to one of them. "Here we are. Feel free to sit and relax."
Severus and Evreux sat on a bench in the shaded area, the rustling leaves creating a peaceful atmosphere. Severus looked at Evreux thoughtfully and asked, "So, Evreux, would you consider us friends?"
Evreux met his gaze with a neutral expression. "I'd say we're just acquaintances."
Severus surprise. "Acquaintances? After all this effort to get you out of the library, I was hoping for more."
Evreux managed a faint smile. "Your effort is appreciated, but building a friendship needs more than a walk by the river."
Severus's face brightened with a playful grin. "Got it! Then I'll just have to try a bit harder."
Evreux raised an eyebrow. "And how do you plan to do that?"
Severus leaned back with a grin. "If you're not ready to call me a friend yet, I'll keep annoying you until you do. It's a reliable method."
Evreux's expression became slightly wary. "Annoying me isn't exactly a path to friendship."
Severus laughed. "It can be fun! Think of it as a challenge. If you can handle my persistence, you might end up liking me more."
Evreux sighed. "You're quite relentless."
Severus's grin widened. "I know! But that's part of my charm. I promise I won't be too annoying."
Evreux gave a resigned nod. "Alright. Do your worst, if it makes you feel better."
Severus clapped his hands excitedly. "Great! Let's start with some friendly banter. I'll tell you a joke, and you can rate it."
Evreux looked at him, unimpressed. "Go ahead."
Severus cleared his throat theatrically. "Why did the scarecrow win an award?"
Evreux waited for the punchline.
"Because he was outstanding in his field!" Severus said with a twinkle in his eye.
Evreux's expression didn't change. "I'd give it a two."
Severus laughed. "A two, huh? I'll take it! I've got plenty more jokes, and I'll keep going until I see you smile more."
Evreux shook his head slightly but didn't argue further.
Severus continued with his jokes. "Alright, next one! What do you call a fake noodle?"
Evreux sighed, clearly uninterested. "I don't know. What?"
"An impasta!" Severus said with a big grin.
Evreux's lips twitched slightly but quickly returned to a neutral look. "I'd give that one a three."
Severus clapped his hands. "A three! I'll take it as a win."
Evreux looked at Severus with a touch of curiosity. "Is this how you always interact with people? With jokes and nonstop cheerfulness?"
Severus shrugged. "Pretty much. I find humor helps break the ice. It's more fun than being serious all the time."
Evreux's expression softened a little. "It's definitely an unusual method."
Severus leaned in, eyes twinkling. "Unusual? I'll take that as a compliment. If annoying you a bit helps, then I'm all for it."
Evreux shook his head slightly, still maintaining a calm demeanor. "You're quite persistent."
Severus grinned. "I prefer to call it determined. It's good to see you engaging, even if you're not exactly smiling."
Evreux's expression remained thoughtful. "Your persistence might be getting through. There could be something to your method."
Severus grinned widely. "That's the spirit! I knew there was a softer side to you. It's just a matter of time before you admit we're friends."
Evreux looked at Severus, his tone steady. "We'll see about that."
Severus, still cheerful, jumped into another joke. "Alright, here's one: Why don't skeletons fight each other?"
Evreux raised an eyebrow but kept his expression neutral. "Why?"
"Because they don't have the guts!" Severus said with a chuckle.
Evreux's lips twitched slightly but soon went back to a neutral look. "I'd give that one a two."
Severus clapped his hands. "Four! I'm making progress!"
Evreux looked at Severus with some curiosity. "Do you ever get discouraged by low ratings?"
Severus shook his head, smiling. "Not at all. I see each joke as a chance to brighten things up. Plus, four means there's room to improve!"
Evreux nodded slightly, his gaze thoughtful. "That's one way to look at it."
Severus pressed on with another joke. "Okay, how about this: What do you call cheese that isn't yours?"
Evreux sighed. "I don't know. What?"
"Nacho cheese!" Severus said with a big grin.
Evreux's expression stayed the same. "I'd rate that one a four as well."
Severus laughed. "Another four! I guess I'm on a streak. But I'm glad you're still listening."
Evreux glanced at Severus with a hint of curiosity. "Do you ever stop telling jokes?"
Severus shook his head, still smiling. "Nope! It's part of who I am. I like to spread a little cheer, even if it means getting a lot of 'twos' and 'threes'."
Evreux looked thoughtful. "You're quite dedicated to this."
Severus nodded eagerly. "Absolutely! Even a small reaction is a win. It's good to see you responding, even if it's just a little."
Evreux's expression stayed serious, but his gaze softened slightly. "Your persistence is impressive."
Severus's grin widened. "That's the spirit! I'll keep at it. Who knows? Maybe one day, I'll get a laugh out of you."
Evreux's tone was steady. "We'll see about that."
Severus chuckled. "Fair enough. For now, I'll keep the jokes coming. It's all in good fun."
As Severus and Evreux sat on the bench, continuing their lighthearted banter, Severus told another joke. "Alright, here's one: Why did the bicycle fall over?"
Evreux, despite his usual neutrality, looked slightly intrigued. "Why?"
"Because it was two-tired!" Severus said with a broad smile.
Evreux gave his usual response. "I'd rate that one a four."
Severus chuckled. "Another four! At this rate, I'll need to step up my game."
Suddenly, Severus felt a sharp, unexplained pain in his chest. He froze for a moment, a pained expression crossing his face. It was a brief, intense feeling that made him clutch his chest instinctively. He blinked rapidly, trying to shake it off.
Evreux noticed the sudden change. "Severus, are you alright?"
Severus forced a smile, though it was strained. "Yeah, I'm fine. Just a bit of a… sudden ache."
Evreux's expression grew more concerned. "You don't look fine. Should we get some help?"
Severus shook his head. "No, it's probably nothing. It just came on suddenly."
Evreux eyed Severus with suspicion. "You seem uncomfortable. Are you sure you don't need anything?"
Severus took a deep breath, trying to steady himself. The pain began to recede, but it left him feeling unsettled. "I appreciate your concern, but I'm okay. Let's just keep going."
Evreux didn't look entirely convinced but nodded. "Alright. If you need anything, let me know."
Severus forced himself to continue with a joke, though his heart wasn't in it. "Okay, how about this one: What do you call a fish wearing a bowtie?"
Evreux raised an eyebrow. "What?"
"Sofishticated!" Severus said, but his smile was more strained than usual.
Evreux looked at Severus, sensing the shift in his demeanor. "You don't seem like yourself. Are you sure everything's okay?"
Severus took another deep breath. "It's just a fleeting discomfort. I'm fine, really."
Evreux studied Severus for a moment, then sighed. "If you say so. But don't hesitate to speak up if you need anything."
Severus nodded, trying to regain his usual cheerfulness. "Thanks, Evreux. I'll be alright. Let's just enjoy the rest of the day."
As Severus tried to shake off the lingering discomfort, Evreux's concern grew. Despite Severus's reassurances, Evreux decided to act. He placed a hand gently on Severus's chest, passing a small amount of his own energy.
Severus flinched at the unexpected touch, his eyes widening in surprise. "What are you—"
Evreux's face showed worry. "I can sense something's wrong. Let me try to help."
Severus, initially taken aback, felt a soothing warmth spread from where Evreux hand rested. The sharp pain began to ease, though Severus still felt unsettled.
Evreux's gaze remained serious as he withdrew his hand. "The pain seems to have lessened. But you should see a healer. This isn't something to ignore."
Severus nodded, grateful but uneasy. "I appreciate it, Evreux. It's just… a bit unusual. I didn't expect this."
Evreux's expression softened but stayed serious. "Whatever it is, don't ignore it. Your health matters."
Severus forced a reassuring smile. " Yeah, don't worry. For now, let's just enjoy the time we have here."
Evreux studied Severus for a moment before nodding. "Alright, but promise me you'll get help if it happens again."
Severus nodded earnestly. "I promise."
With that, they continued their walk along the river. Severus tried to focus on the peaceful surroundings, but the strange sensation lingered. He glanced occasionally at Evreux, who seemed to be keeping a watchful eye on him.
As the sun set, casting a warm, golden light over everything, Evreux and Severus decided it was time to head back to the palace. The walk by the river had been refreshing, and although the earlier discomfort had been unsettling, Severus was glad to feel more like himself.
They walked back through the palace grounds, the fading light creating long shadows and a calm atmosphere. The cooler air and the evening breeze carried a hint of the day's warmth.
Severus glanced at Evreux, who looked thoughtful. "You know, despite the things that had happened earlier, today has turned out pretty well."
Evreux nodded, still focused ahead. "I'm glad you're feeling better. The river is a good spot to relax."
Severus grinned, feeling my cheerful return. "See? I told you it was worth it. Sometimes a change of scenery is all you."
As they approached the palace entrance, He felt re-energized. The earlier pain had completely vanished, replaced by his usual upbeat mood. Severus decided to share another joke to keep the mood light.
"Alright, here's one for the road: Why don't scientists trust atoms?"
Evreux glanced at him, raising an eyebrow. "Why?"
"Because they make up everything!" he said, laughing.
Evreux's lips twitched slightly, but he kept his composure. "I'll give that one a five."
"A five! I'm on a roll today," Severus said, laughing.
They entered the palace, and he turned to Evreux with a playful glint in his eye. "So, how about we call it a day? Unless you want to stick around for more jokes?"
Evreux raised an eyebrow but didn't comment. "I think I've had my fill of jokes for today."
Severus chuckled, feeling satisfied. "Fair enough. Maybe next time I'll aim for a laugh instead of a rating."
Evreux nodded, a hint of amusement in his eyes. "We'll see about that". he said before turning his back away from him.
Severus smiled while looking at his back. 'What a nice day'