James Sirius Potter tried hard to look innocent, but Professor Longbottom had known him far too long for that look to have any effect. "What's that in your hand?" he asked, gently but firmly. It was only his first day back since he'd taken time off for his parents' funeral, and he was tired and dispirited and wanted nothing more than his comfortable bed and Hannah's loving arms around him. But he had responsibilities, and Merlin help him, Jamie was one of them.
"Oh, this? Um, nothing...just a bit of parchment I was, um..."
"Give it here, Potter." Sheepishly, the boy handed it over.
Professor Longbottom peered at it. Just an odd-looking piece of blank paper? Or... "What are you?" he asked out loud.
Words appeared suddenly on the paper.
Messrs. Padfoot, Brushtail, Prongs and Moony would like to express our condolences to Professor Longbottom on his recent loss. If it's any comfort, our old dormmates Frank and Alice have arrived safely here, are in their right minds again, and would like it to be known that they love their son dearly, and are very, very proud of him.
Mr. Prongs would also like to apologize for whatever his scapegrace grandson has gotten into this time.
Mr. Brushtail does NOT apologize for his nephew, who is only carrying on the family tradition. But he asks that you send his love to George and the rest of the family, and tell young Fred to behave a little less, he's got a name to uphold.
Professor Moony wants Professor Longbottom to know that he, too, is immensely proud of him. You've come a long way since that lesson with the Boggart.
Professor Longbottom drew in a long breath. I don't know who Padfoot is, but I can definitely guess the others..."Thanks for everything, Professor Lupin," he said softly. "Especially that lesson. Tell Mum and Dad I love and miss them, too. And Fred, you shouldn't worry, all of your nephews and nieces are forces of chaos, but your namesake is by far the worst..."
Good.
You're welcome.
We will.
He handed the paper back to James. "I won't confiscate it this time. But do try not to get caught again, hey, Jamie?"
"Yes, Uncle Nev...I mean, Professor Longbottom."