Harry might be angry at first. He could feel that Snape is being unfair and overstepping his bounds. So, he might storm off and sulk in his room, refusing to talk to anyone.
On the other hand, Harry could also see it as an opportunity for self - reflection. He might realize that he has made a mistake and use the time of being grounded to study more about magic, especially if he wants to prove Snape wrong in the long run. He could spend hours in the library, poring over old spell books.
At first, Harry is likely to be angry. He might feel that Snape is being unfair and targeting him. Harry has a strong sense of justice, and when he believes he's being wrongly punished, he'll be resentful.
Snape could be initially shocked. He's used to seeing Harry as a rather tough and rebellious student. So, seeing Harry cry might take him aback for a moment. Then he might become a bit more guarded and try to figure out if Harry is faking it or not.
At first, Harry would be confused. He has always seen Snape as a complex figure, and the idea of being rejected as a son would be a shock. He might start to question his own self - worth, thinking that if Snape doesn't want him, there must be something wrong with him. As time passes, he could grow bitter towards Snape, but also use this as motivation to become stronger. He might focus on his friends and the positive relationships in his life, trying to move on from Snape's rejection while still carrying the pain deep inside.
Snape could initially be skeptical. Given their long - standing enmity, he might not believe that Harry's apology is sincere at first. He might respond with a cold glare or a sarcastic comment, like 'Potter, your apologies are as empty as your head.'
One possible reason could be that Harry breaks a major rule in the wizarding world within the fanfic. Snape, being a strict and by - the - book person, grounds him as a form of punishment. For example, if Harry uses dark magic without permission, Snape would surely take strict action.
In the fanfic, Snape's reaction could be multi - faceted. He might start by investigating the abuse more deeply. He could use his skills as a Potions master and a former Death Eater to find out who is behind the abuse. And then, he might take steps to ensure Harry's safety. This could involve enlisting the help of other teachers or even trying to get Dumbledore more involved. He may also start to teach Harry some extra skills or give him potions to help him deal with the emotional and physical trauma of the abuse.
Snape might be initially taken aback. He could hide his surprise behind his usual stern facade and perhaps try to maintain order, but secretly be a bit worried.
Harry might be shocked at first. After all, being hit by a teacher, especially Snape, is unexpected. He could immediately get angry and want to retaliate, but hold himself back because of the situation.
Harry might initially be shocked and angry. He would probably struggle against the restraints and demand to know why Snape is doing this. He could yell at Snape, asking for an explanation and protesting his innocence if he believes he has done nothing wrong.
Harry might react with defiance. He has always been a brave character, so he could look Snape straight in the eye and not show any fear, even though he is in a vulnerable position.