The One Left Behind

by matrixaffiliate

My version of the Sirius Black and Marlene McKinnon story, told through a series of chronological one-shots starting end of 6th year. Everything follows Marauders' era cannon, except that I've moved Marlene's death from before Harry's first birthday to after it. I had a lot of fun working on this, and I hope those that read it enjoy it! Rated T for language and sexual content.

10. Chapter 10

"You owe me 2 sickles!" Marlene laughed sitting down next to Sirius at breakfast.

"What?" Sirius looked perplexed.

"Guess who I just saw sneak inside the kitchens hand in hand?" Marlene looked smug and Sirius found this a very attractive look for her.

"Filtch and his mangy cat?" Sirius laughed.

"No, none other than James Potter and Lily Evans!" She smirked at the face he made. She loved keeping him on his toes.

"Wait! What?!" Peter exclaimed.

"You heard me Pettigrew." Marlene laughed. "James and Lily were all cozy as they ducked into the kitchens."

Peter's expression grew pained. "You haven't already talked to that Ravenclaw you offered to set Lily up with last night have you? See we've been dealing with this drama for years and now that it's over I'd rather not introduce a wildcard."

Marlene smiled. "You're a good friend Peter. Don't worry. There's no Ravenclaw. I made him up to mess with James."

"What?" Sirius exclaimed. "You made that bet with me right after James went to bed last night. I only took it because I thought this fictitious Ravenclaw would be in the picture!"

Marlene shrugged. "I can't control what you think Black. You lost the bet and owe me 2 sickles."

Remus chuckled softly. "You're a manipulative woman Marlene."

"No Remus, I just know how to get what I want. Now Black, if you'd don't have the money with you then I'll collect my winnings this evening."

"Here." Sirius pushed two coins into her hands. "We should meet up tonight."

"I've got an essay to finish. If you're still game when I'm done, sure."

He winked at her as she grabbed an apple and a croissant before heading to class.

"So when are you going to admit you're dating Marlene?" Peter said nudging Sirius in the ribs.

"I'm not dating Marlene." Sirius said taking a bite of his bacon. "We have casual sex on occasion and we talk motorcycles. That's it."

Peter shook his head. "You do know that after she turned down Diggory everyone took that to mean you two were dating. The whole school looks at you as the two bad assess of our year. That's why no one flirts with either of you anymore, they're scared of the repercussions, and I'm positive that neither of you have noticed that fact."

"Pete, you're one of my best friends, but you really don't know what you're talking about here."

Peter shook his head. "Merlin Sirius, you're in deep aren't you?"

"Leave it alone Pete. He's not ready." Remus chuckled, a knowing smile on his lips.