A/N: Hey, Kids. I decided to try my hand at a fiction. Its very AU, so if you don't like: BEWARE. Also, I was really inspired by Jane Eyre, so if/when you see similarities- that's why. This idea has actually been floating around in my head for a while, this is just the first time I'm putting pen to paper. This will be a Remus/Hermione fiction. I find that there are not nearly enough of them out there. Please review and let me know what you think. I won't hold chapters ransom, but I do appreciate feedback!

Disclaimer: I don't own anything but my thoughts. Get it? Got it? Good.

"The Most Ancient and Noble House of Black seeks a governess to play a crucial role in the rearing and education of a talented, bright, and confident young boy. Competitive pay. Must like dogs."

Sirius Black sat at the center of a long kitchen table with three stacks of post. One stack consisted of mail that hadn't yet been read. Another stack was full of possibilities. And the third stack consisted of letters that would make great kindling. His mission: find his cousin (technically his cousin's son, but who's counting?) a governess.

The boy was living with his father and Sirius at the Black's ancestral home: Grimmauld Place. His mother had died unexpectedly the year before, a casualty in a subversive war that had been being waged since before Sirius was born. The boy's father was an operative in this war. He was away on mission frequently but when he wasn't, he stayed at Grimmauld Place with his best friend, Sirius, and his son, Teddy.

Sirius ran a frustrated hand through his hair as he discarded another letter to the rubbish pile. He loved Teddy tremendously, however knew next to nothing about raising children. This was why he was torturing himself with this seemingly impossible task of finding a suitable governess. He needed someone intelligent, flexible, patient, and with a firm hand to rein in Teddy's rebellious nature. The boy was four years old and missed his mother terribly. An oft-absent father, ex-convict guardian, and miserable house-elf were not suited to caring for a young child. No, a woman's touch was most needed if Teddy were to have any hope of turning out somewhat normal. Sirius sighed and sat back in his chair as he charmed a letter to read itself aloud to him. He leaned back so his chair was balanced on two legs, and closed his eyes to imagine the young woman reading to him.

To Whom It May Concern:

I came across your advertisement for a governess in The Daily Prophet and would like to tell you a bit about myself and why I think I'm the best candidate for the position of governess with your family.

My name is Hermione Granger. I'm a recent graduate of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. I earned top marks in all of my exams, graduating with honors. During my last year of schooling, I also completed an apprenticeship with the school's mediwitch. This apprenticeship not only helped to develop my skills in first aid, but also in counseling and interacting with younger students. In addition to my apprenticeship, I tutored regularly in the subjects of Charms, Ancient Runes, and Arithmancy. I also have extensive experience babysitting.

In reference to the requirement of liking dogs, I must say that I do enjoy the companionship of canines. My parents had a pet German Shepard when I was growing up, of which I only have the fondest of memories.

I'd like to thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to speaking with you soon regarding this opportunity.

Sincerely,

Hermione Jean Granger

The letter folded itself up neatly and floated down to the surface of the table. Sirius smiled to himself and decided he would owl the girl to set up an interview. She may be young, but her letter sounded confident. If she presented herself well, Teddy might not be the only one to benefit from her services. Sirius grinned wolfishly at the thought.

Suddenly, Sirius felt a small hand tug on his sleeve, knocking him off-balance. His life flashed before his eyes as he toppled to the floor unceremoniously. Upon realizing that he had survived the tumble, he looked up into the mischievous, laughing eyes of Teddy Lupin.

"Uncle Sirius, I'm hungry."

Oh, if only Miss Granger knew what she was getting herself into...