You used to adore me, laughed at all of my jokes.
- So, you've decided that it would be a good idea, haven't you?
- Not exactly: I've decided, that it would be a genius idea. The plan was as much beautiful, as it was simple.
- Damn it, Sirius, can you stop showing off for like two seconds?
- I don't see the point of having this conversation at all. So, this dumbass will stutter a bit more for a couple of weeks, so what…
- And what about Remus?
Sirius laid back ostentatiously, giving Lupin an expressive look: "C'mon, Moony, say that it's ok, and we will leave it all behind", but the help arrived from unexpected direction:
- Guys, the whole thing kinda sorted itself out – what are we talking about, anyway… - said Peter from the corner of the Shank in a trembling voice.
- I don't recall asking for your precious opinion, - James didn't even turn around to Wormtail – he kept looking at Sirius from above his height, obviously expecting the latter to start apologizing. Apologizing wasn't the plan for the Black family heir in exile. More than that – he didn't feel guilty – it was very funny indeed: Severus walking through the tunnel, not knowing that there is wolf approaching him. But hell to the no, James needed to create an entire act of saving if not a beautiful maid, than an unattractive teenager, with a bit of a drama in the end. Sirius wasn't feeling up to participating in that – especially by playing the part of the accused.
- It's not my problem, that you want to be the defender of all oppressed, - he muttered, almost unnoticeably nodding at Remus. – especially considering that I've given you two chances to do that: you've rescued Snivellus from the big bad wolf and defended Moony in front of Dumbledore, - Sirius threw hands up, - You're welcome.
Perhaps saying that was a mistake, because the opponent wasn't influenced by that argumentation. Leaving the problem behind wasn't an option. As far as Sirius understood, it was a matter of pride: James was self-aware as the leader and the center of the Marauders. Admitting his mistake would have meant giving those positions up. And while Remus was acting all offended, the morals were on James's side.
- So, we should be thanking you, is that it?
- I would be satisfied with that, yeah. Anyway, try to climb from your white hippogriff down here on earth and stop making it look like we all owe you a big deal.
James's hand pulled to his wand, which was sticking out his back pocket, but Remus, who rose from his seat, managed to catch him by the shoulder. "Finally he moved" – thought Sirius.
- Look, it really isn't worth it, - Lupin said looking at James. For a few seconds they stayed in that position. At last James breathed out and nodded at Remus, turning to him. Werewolf's face lighted up with a smile for a moment.
- Oh, if the hero of the story has spoken, we've definitely had enough, - Sirius stood up from the floor, being sure that this is where the conversation ends. – Listen, Prongs, we've passed this… - James's fist knocked his jaw before he could finish.
- Go to hell, Padfoot, that's it.