One way is to have them collaborate on a project that is not related to the typical Slytherin or Hogwarts business. Let's say they both have an interest in ancient magic artifacts. As they research and try to find these artifacts, they have to rely on each other's skills. Snape's knowledge and Malfoy's connections would be put to good use. This shared interest could bring them closer in a way that is unexpected. It could also lead to them having deep conversations about the history of magic and their own place in the wizarding world, which would further develop their relationship.
Their relationship could develop uniquely if Malfoy were to see Snape's vulnerable side. For example, Snape might have a moment of weakness after a particularly difficult encounter with the Order of the Phoenix. Malfoy, instead of using it against him, could show empathy, which would change the dynamic between them.
In a fanfiction, their relationship could develop uniquely if Snape were to protect Malfoy from his own family's dark expectations. Snape, having been through a similar situation in his youth, could understand Malfoy's struggle. He could start to subtly guide Malfoy towards a different path, away from the pure - blood supremacy his family promotes. This would be a complex relationship as Malfoy would be torn between his family loyalty and the new perspective Snape offers, and this internal conflict would add depth to their developing relationship.
Their relationship could develop through a shared love of potions. Harry discovers he has a natural talent for it, much to Snape's surprise. Draco, being a traditional Slytherin, also excels in potions. They start to compete in a friendly way, which then turns into a mutual respect for each other's skills. This could lead to them working together on a special potion project that requires both Gryffindor - like boldness (from Harry) and Slytherin cunning (from Draco).
Their relationship could be portrayed uniquely by having Snape be a mentor to Lily Luna Potter in the art of Occlumency. Since he was a master of it, he could pass on his skills to her. This would create a bond based on trust and the sharing of secrets. Lily Luna Potter, in turn, could show Snape a new perspective on life in the post - Voldemort wizarding world, something he never got to experience fully.
One interesting aspect in Severus Snape and Draco Malfoy fanfiction is how Snape often acts as a mentor to Draco. Snape, being a complex character, has his own reasons for looking out for Draco. In many fanfictions, he tries to protect Draco from the darker aspects of the wizarding world that he himself has experienced. For example, he might shield Draco from the influence of Voldemort's more extreme followers. This relationship can be explored in different ways, such as through Snape teaching Draco some of his more advanced potions skills or giving him advice on how to deal with the politics within Hogwarts.
Realistically, their relationship could develop through a series of events that force them to rely on each other. For instance, if Hermione were to get into trouble with some dark magic experiments (maybe trying to replicate some of Snape's more advanced potions), Snape would be the only one who could help her. He would be initially angry but then realizes her potential. As for Hermione, she could start to see Snape not just as a strict teacher but as a person with his own traumas. She could offer her friendship in a very understated way, like leaving him a book she thought he might like in his office. Over time, through these small gestures and shared experiences, their relationship could develop into something more complex and interesting.
A unique way to develop their relationship could be through a magical accident that makes Snape relive some of Harry's memories and vice versa. Snape sees Harry's pain of losing his parents and Harry sees Snape's difficult childhood. This deepens their understanding of each other. They then start to communicate more openly, with Snape giving Harry more advice based on his own experiences and Harry showing Snape that there is more to him than just a Gryffindor student. They form a bond that is based on mutual understanding and respect that was not there before.
In many fanfictions, Severus Snape and Narcissa Malfoy's relationship is complex. Some fanfictions might explore their childhood connections if they had any. They both come from Slytherin, which could be a basis for a deeper bond in these fictional stories.
A possible way to develop their relationship is through a magical owl - related research project. Hermione, being the studious one, is eager to participate, and Snape is in charge. As they work on the project, they exchange ideas and arguments. Over time, Hermione starts to respect Snape's vast knowledge, and Snape begins to appreciate Hermione's fresh perspectives. This could transform their relationship from a hostile one to a more amicable one.
Their relationship could develop uniquely if Rachel takes on a teaching role for the younger glee club members under Will's guidance. This role reversal would force them to see each other in new lights and create a deeper bond.
A unique way to develop their relationship could be through a series of challenges. For example, they are trapped in a mysterious dimension together and have to rely on each other to escape. In the process, they discover each other's strengths and weaknesses, and Kurama realizes that Kushina is not just Naruto's mother but a powerful ninja in her own right. This mutual respect and reliance would strengthen their relationship.
Their relationship could be developed uniquely by having them start as enemies in a sense. For example, Sephiroth could be on a mission that Aerith unknowingly gets in the way of. But instead of killing her immediately, he's intrigued by her. This initial encounter could spark a series of events where they keep crossing paths. Each time, they learn a bit more about each other. Maybe Aerith starts to see the pain behind Sephiroth's cold exterior, and Sephiroth begins to respect Aerith's strength and determination. Over time, this could lead to a complex relationship that is part friendship, part something more, as they both struggle with their own destinies and how the other fits into it.