AN: This is loosely based on the epilogue at the end of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, which I do not own. Please feel free to review and I love constructive criticism! I should have a second chapter out shortly, so until then!
First Year
Remus Lupin nervously hugged his teary-eyed mother goodbye on Platform 9 ¾. "Remember to write, Remus. At least every couple of weeks," she said, gently brushing his hair into place with work-worn fingertips.
"I will. Do you promise not to be upset if I'm not in Hufflepuff like you?" Remus looked up at his mother, eyes young and wide and innocent, but also strangely haunted.
Mrs. Lupin laughed lightly, kneeling down so that she was eye to eye with her son. "Remus, I'll be proud of you no matter what house you're in. Now," she said as she stood. "It's time for you to go. Don't be shy, Remus. I want you to make at least one friend this year."
Remus looked at his mother, then down to the ground. "What if nobody likes me?" He spoke quietly, so that only his mother would hear.
"And why wouldn't they?" his mother asked, placing her hand beneath his chin, tilting it upward so that his eyes met hers.
"You know, because I'm a—"
"But they don't know, do they Remus?" said Mrs. Lupin, cutting off her son before he could finish what he'd intended to say. "Your condition is nothing to be ashamed of. It's like any other illness; it's just a different type." The train whistle blew, the scarlet train next to them heavily blowing out steam.
"Alright, it's time to go. Your father wanted me to wish you luck, he's sorry he got pulled in to work today." Mrs. Lupin smiled at her son, who was watching the train apprehensively. "You'll be alright, just owl me as soon as you get there, okay?"
Remus nodded, hugging his mother once more before hopping on the train. "Bye Mom!" he called out a window, waving wildly as the train began to gather speed.
Mrs. Lupin smiled again, a little sadly, waving back as her son headed for one of the biggest adventures of his life.