Severus notices Harry is abused in family fanfiction. How does Severus react?

Severus might initially be shocked. He could then feel a sense of protectiveness over Harry. He might start to secretly look out for Harry, like making sure he has enough to eat at Hogwarts and is safe from further harm.

James might be shocked at first. He could then feel a sense of protectiveness towards Severus. Maybe he starts to see Severus in a new light and tries to find ways to help him, like keeping an eye on those who abuse Severus.

Severus is a very observant character. He may notice that Harry has a lack of certain basic skills or knowledge that a normal - cared - for child would have. For instance, Harry might not know how to handle simple social situations in a healthy way or might be overly defensive. This could lead Severus to suspect that Harry's home environment, where he should have learned these things, is not a healthy one and that he might be suffering abuse.

Harry could be initially quite nervous. He's used to Severus being his strict professor. But as they explore Diagon, he may become more curious. He might start asking Severus a lot of questions about the different shops and the history of the place. And if Severus shows any kindness or protection, Harry could gradually warm up to him.

One way is through mentoring other students in a way that indirectly benefits Harry. For example, Severus could teach a group of students, including Harry, advanced defensive magic techniques. This not only gives Harry the skills to protect himself but also makes it seem like a normal class activity. Additionally, Severus could leave anonymous notes of advice or encouragement for Harry in places he knows Harry will find them, like in his Potions textbook. This provides support without direct family involvement.

First, Severus would probably try to gain Harry's trust. He would do this by being less harsh on him in class and showing a bit of kindness. Then, he would try to find out more details about the abuse without scaring Harry away. He might enlist the help of some of the more trustworthy students, like Hermione, who could also keep an eye on Harry. Severus would also make sure that Harry has access to any resources he needs at Hogwarts, such as a warm place to stay during holidays if he doesn't want to go back home.

He would become more nurturing. Usually, Severus is seen as cold and aloof, but with Harry in his care, he'd have to show more warmth. He might still be strict, but it would be out of love for Harry's well - being rather than just being his usual harsh self.

Harry might be extremely hurt. He could initially feel a sense of shock and disbelief. After all, he may have started to develop some feelings of trust or kinship towards Severus. Then, he might turn to anger. Anger at being rejected, especially if he doesn't understand the reasons behind it. He could also feel a sense of loss, as if he has been deprived of a chance at a real family connection.

Harry might be deeply hurt. He may initially be in denial, not believing that Severus is rejecting him. After all, he may have felt a strong connection. So, he could try to reach out to Severus multiple times, hoping to change his mind.

Harry's reaction could be a mix of fear and defiance. He's faced Voldemort multiple times, so he won't be completely helpless. He may try to understand Severus' psyche, remembering that Severus has always had a somewhat ambiguous relationship with him. He might try to appeal to Severus' better nature if he believes there is one. Harry would also be thinking about how this situation affects the overall fight against the Dark Arts and Voldemort. He might see it as a setback or an opportunity, depending on how he can turn the situation around.