This is truly wonderful! I never thought I could like Filch, but I do now so much. And Snape and little Severus were just so perfect. I love especially how Prof. Snape started out so Snape-like and horrible but gradually became even sort of lovable to his little self. And I don't know if you intended it, but there's such a wonderful echo here from Stephen King's Dark Tower series--I'm just glad that Prof. Snape decided not to let go (unlike Roland)! This is definitely one of my favorite stories from this season's fests. Such lovely characterization, such an interesting plot, and altogether such excellent writing, mystery author. I do look forward to learning who you are because I already want to read more of your work (and I just spent the last couple hours on this one!).