Classes went on as usual that day, but Will felt that Snape was unhappy with him too. That was rare enough, and now both Snape and Sylvia seemed displeased with him.
"Behrens, pay attention. I'm teaching. Perhaps Grand Wizard Behrens, having received the Order of Merlin, thinks he no longer needs to study Potions? Is that why you aren't listening?" Snape sounded as though Will had only just started school.
Most of the class was baffled. Everyone knew Will was Snape's favorite student. Malfoy, sitting beside him, looked as shocked as if he'd seen Bald Two-Hole Socket Man dancing ballet.
Harry and Ron were even more confused. Snape usually saved his venom for Harry, yet today he had barely noticed him. They watched as Snape walked over to Will.
Ron suddenly sniffed. Why did this potion smell sour?
"Look at this. Such a perfect potion." Displeasure edged Snape's voice. "Perhaps every potion Mr. Behrens brews meets this standard? Perhaps you should replace me as Hogwarts' Potions professor. Ah, and perhaps you could replace Madam Pince as well and move into your beloved library."
Will acted as though he hadn't heard the mockery. His manner remained gentle and respectful. "Professor, you're the truly great potioneer, a master who will always stand at the pinnacle of Potions. How could I compare? As for reading, please forgive this little hobby of mine. I only want to learn. I mean nothing else by it."
Will knew exactly why Snape was upset. Snape had made it clear: Will had recently helped Lupin and Black, received the Order of Merlin for it, and gone to the Black family's home to look for books.
And while flattering Snape, Will had made it clear that he only wanted knowledge. There were no personal feelings involved. He doubted Snape