August 21, 1998

"Lupin."

"Severus."

"You look like hell." A snort.

"Tea, Severus?"

"That'll do."

Silence.

"So it's sunny again."

"Yes."

"But it's still cold..."

"Yes."

"Care to join me in the hot tub?"

"Not particularly."

"Well if you won't, Sev, I will! Hullo, Moony!"

"...morning Sirius."

--

"Ahh...isn't this nice, Sev?"

"Somewhat. Where is Tonks?"

"Dora? She went to get Albus."

"Why?"

"It is only proper that we invite him to stay with us for a day, it is his villa."

"Oh, of course."

"Hm! That reminds me! Excuse me now, gents. I have to go and talk with Minerva!"

"Wait—now?"

"Aw, don't look so distressed, Sev, I'll be back before you know it!"

"..."

"So."

"So."

"Sirius sure seems happy."

"So he does."

"Is he treating you well?"

"..."

"What's wrong, Severus?"

"Nothing."

--

"Severus! Remus!"

"Headmaster."

"Hullo, Albus!"

"Where is Sirius?"

"Talking with Minerva, Dora."

"'Dora'? My, my...have you two gotten together?"

"Um...well..."

"Yep, Remus and I are as happy as can be!"

"Good, good! And what about you, Severus? Are you enjoying yourself?"

"As much as you can expect, Headmaster."

"Excellent! What say we all go out for a stroll? The weather is lovely!"

--

"Lemon pie? You shouldn't have, Severus!"

"I—"

"Oh don't be modest, Sev! What do you think about my love's pie, Albus?"

"Delicious! Your cooking is superb, Severus! You must be proud to have such a partner, Sirius!"

"Of course!"

"Pie, Remus?"

"Thank you, Dora."

"Haha, I feel a bit out of place between you two young couples! Most excellent!"

--

"Black?"

"Yes, Sev?"

"Why are you in my bed?"

"Why can't I be?"

"Leave this instant."

"No, you look like you need some company..."

--

"Remus, where have you been?"

"Tonks...I don't know if I can do this anymore..."

"What?"

"Sirius...he's—"

"Nonsense, Remus! Toughen up!"

"But he and Severus—"

"Shh...everything will be fine, trust me."