Disclaimer: I don't own Harry Potter. If I did, then I would be rich and I wouldn't have to make up stories to entertain myself.
A/N: This is a Lupin/Tonks story and it takes place right after Dumbledore is killed. In later chapters there will be spoilers of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows. So, if you haven't read that yet, and you don't want to have spoilers then please don't read any further.
Too Old, Too Poor, Too Dangerous
Chapter One
"I got your message, Nymphadora."
Tonks turned to see Remus Lupin standing in the doorway, a wary look on his face. In a flash, she was beside him, hugging him tightly.
"You're all right! I was so worried when I heard someone was hurt…I thought…I thought…"
"I'm fine," he said softly. "Or as well as can be expected, given I've made no headway with the werewolves."
She snuggled in closer, drawing strength from his nearness, even though he didn't wind his arms around her in return. "Don't think about that now. I'm just glad you're okay."
There was a pause. "I thought we talked about this?"
"Talked about what?" she asked distractedly as her nostrils filled with the scent that was purely Remus. She drew in a deep breath and held it.
His reply didn't directly answer the question, but she knew immediately what he meant. "Your new Patronus is interesting."
Tonks stiffened, exhaling slowly as she raised her head to search his face. It bore the same expression it had the first 623 times they had discussed this particular subject; frustration mingled with affection, with a hint of vulnerability in the way his eyes crinkled at the corners.
"Nothing can happen between us. You deserve someone better. Someone like-"
"Don't say Bill!" she interrupted, pulling away. "I've heard enough from Molly."
He gave her a wintry smile. "Actually, I was going to suggest Charlie. I thought you might appreciate the variety."
Despite herself, Tonks smiled back. "Maybe one day I'll make it past the Weasleys." Then her expression grew serious again. "I can't help how I feel about you."
"Try."
She threw her hands up in exasperation. "I'd find it easier if you gave me a proper reason why!"
"I've given you proper reasons," Remus argued. "I'm too old,too poor,too dangerous. How many reasons do you need?"
"I need the real reason," she stated, fixing him with a glare. "Not the ones you give because they're convenient."
"They're not-" he stopped and gave a weary sigh. "Nymphadora, I'm a werewolf."
"Really? I thought my new Patronus was a Pygmy Puff." Tonks rolled her eyes and received another irritated look.
"You know where I've been recently. Being there, seeing them prepare to attack - it's reminded me of the damage I could do. Would do, without the potion. And I won't risk hurting you. You're…you're too important to me."
It was the closest he had ever come to an admission, and the words hung in the air for a moment.
"I don't care that you're a werewolf!" Tonks blurted at last. "It doesn't matter to me at all!"
Remus smiled at her sadly. "Unfortunately, it matters to me." He looked at the clock, missing her pleading look. "I have to go. My mind's made up, Nymphadora. I'm sorry."
As he turned away, Tonks tried once more. "Molly thinks you're being ridiculous."
He paused only briefly to glance over his shoulder. "Molly also thinks you and Bill would make a lovely couple."
A/N: This is only the first chapter! More is to come soon! I hope you like it! And please review!
-Joanna