what a beautiful, hot holiday romance! so much to love about this... the characters develop really believably. Your Harry is smart and capable, and he knows when to take charge, and when to let go, so I guess he's gained more than a little wisdom along the way. Snape reads like the repressed victorian he'd almost have to be, after what he's gone through, and his fears seem reasonable even as I am cheering for him to push past them. I think I know who you are, dear writer, but we'll see. But whomever, thank you for the lovely story. Happy New Year, Harry and Severus. May you have many, many more.