I remember the first time I read DH, thinking to myself, 'Oh, the poor castle!' That's where the idea began. I'm so pleased too to hear that I successfully deceived you (not often I get to type that phrase!); that was the hardest part of the story--striking the balance so that readers didn't wonder about Harry's life or suspect Severus' dilemma. Angst was my genre, but I didn't want it to overpower the strength of their relationship.
Thanks so much for reading; I appreciate your comments!