Oh, I loved this. Great work. It's scary-close to some of my family gatherings, though, which is both hilarious and a little unnerving. But it made the whole description and picture of it seem all the more real. I really felt like I was there, hearing all the cross-conversations and the chaos and the politics. It's so charming to me that even despite his family, Severus still shows up for holidays.
I love the machinations of the family and how they brought Harry and Severus together. Otherwise, they both would have been gray and feeble before Harry realized it (or Severus admitted it). I also love how the title of the story is woven throughout the narrative, but particularly in the ending. Full circle moments FTW.
Two standout lines for me: “It might,” Severus answered, then took a sip of his wine. (LOL!) “If he’s not in love with you yet, he’s well on his way.” (*melts*)
P.S. I am about 99% sure I know who wrote this, too. ;-)