Sirius shuffled nervously in the hallway. Taking a calming breath, he went inside the boy's dormitory and stood beside James.

"Can we talk? About us?" James gave a quizzical look but Sirius went on. "There's so much that I want to say, but maybe I love you says it best?"

James closed his eyes wearily. "We were kids. It meant nothing. Don't let this hurt us, but my mind's closed about that part of my life."

"It doesn't hurt." Sirius shut the door as he left. Downstairs, Remus knew as he opened his arms and Sirius fell against him crying.