Disclaimer: If you don't know by now…

A/N: IMPORTANT! I know, all the last author's notes have been important, but that's because I don't think people will read them if I don't say so, and you guys should 'cause they are important. Okay now… I'M SORRY! I know that it's taken me forever to update (to defend myself I should point out that there are plenty of good authors who wait a month or more between chapters). Cut me some slack! I was doing the show and their just wasn't time. Tech week (aka 'hell week' - the time when you put the show together on the actual stage) was all last week till nine o'clock every night, and I was pretty shot running up and down stairs in high heels, and belting my guts out, and dying on stage before getting eaten by a carnivorous plant. On top of it, I got a bit of a head cold. It didn't affect my performance, it was just annoying. But the show did go fantastically. And then on top of it, you guys left a zillion reviews! I'm certainly not complaining, but wow! The story had less than a hundred reviews before chapter eleven, and now look at it! I will, of course, respond to the reviews, which means that there's going to be a lot of stuff at the beginning of this chapter. I'm sorry, but I really didn't want to put it at the end because you guys are so important. And some of you write really long reviews! Which is wonderful, but maybe I should respond to some of you by email 'cause I'm sure it annoys some people that the responses are so long. I was also glad to get so many new readers! Welcome one and all to my crazy world!

And for all of you who asked: The definition of a Mary Sue – The Mary Sue started (as all things in fanfic did) back in Start Trek fics because they were the first. In this type of story a woman would board the Enterprise and the whole crew would meet her. And she is beautiful, kind, talented (she can literally do anything – cooking, martial arts, phaser fire, act, sing, dance, meditate, just anything…), literally perfect in every way. And all the men fall in love with her. And then at the end of the story she gets to choose which man she rides off into the sunset with… Sickening, isn't it? That's why so many people won't read OC fics – they think that they're all Mary Sues. But I'm determined to make it stop! So that's why you're reading this story… well, one of the reasons… There are also male versions of the Mary Sue, but they're not as common.

Also, I posted another story that's based on a segment in OotP (it's set in Marauder Era… 'cause it's me…). Some of you already read it, and I would like to thank you profusely and let you know that I will respond to your reviews on that when I write the companion piece and post it. If any of the rest of you are interested in reading it, I would love to know what you think. It's called Finding A Place. Thanks!

Please note that some of the content in this chapter might be considered a little racy. I didn't think it merited an R rating, though, so I kept it at PG-13. If this bothers or offends anyone, let me know and I will change it. Thank you.

Bell: You must wait at your computer 24/7. How you're always the first one to review befuddles and astounds me. You're awesome! Oh dear, I made a lot of people angry and sad for Remus, didn't I? Yes, he is a silly boy, but he will come to his senses eventually. He just needs to get smacked upside the head. I should have McGonagall do that… But anyway, I was glad to see that you were so affected by it, as that means that I must be doing something right. In the other review you left you mentioned another website I could post this story at. I think I might know the site you're talking about, and it sounds like a great idea, you absolutely have my permission! Thank you for being so considerate!

nycgal: Hi! Yeah, I'm pretty sure I will do the sequel. I'm glad that you'll read it, that makes me happy! The sequel would be about the next year, 'cause I always feel that sequels about children end up really corny unless they're babies and not the main focus of the story. I hope you like this chapter!

Rjk2005: I thought it best to tell you before you saw the rest of the responses… unfortunately some people gave me really long reviews or several reviews, so I don't think this'll be the longest response this time… tear… but that doesn't make you any less special! You're still gonna be my beta reader! And you're in England right now, so be happy! I really like Joseph and His Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat. I got to see it on stage when Donnie Osmond was still doing it. Did you see it live or on video? I'm glad we agree, mental wounds are far worse then getting beaten, etc. I think mainly because they take longer to heal from. Actually Ivy's going to have one or two episodes in the sequel where some of those injuries come back to haunt her. But shh! It's a secret! I'm happy that you liked the first bit in the chapter. I needed something cute to start it because of all the heavy blows that happened later. Yeah, I guess I felt that they needed to talk about Sirius, and that would be the logical time to do it. It would obviously have hurt them both deeply. Yes, Harry did speak! And he'll speak a lot more before the end, I promise. And there's some cute R/H stuff before the end too. Oh yes, Remus is a moron, and Sirius kicks butt. Well, I couldn't make it that easy, could I? hehehe…  About the Remus not being convincing to Ivy when I said he was - It's more the idea that Remus is convincing to Ivy at first, but after she leaves, she realizes the truth. After all, one of the reasons he's so convincing is because he catches her unprepared. In the end, she does ultimately understand him better than he realizes, which also makes it more painful. Don't worry, I fix everything now. Yea! Read on!

Liz: Good, I'm glad it was frustrating and that you were yelling at Remus! That was exactly what I intended! I think you'll like how everything turns out, though. Have fun!

Jae: Yeah, it is sad. But it doesn't stay that way for long, I promise!

magical me: I think you get an extra special award, 'cause if I counted right, you have review #100! Yea! I'll throw you a little party and make a cake! Anyway, thank you for not abusing me! I am eternally grateful! Yes, I promise a nice fluffy ending with happy people. I hope you like this chapter and that it will make up for how much I saddened everyone!

EbonyQuill: You gave me a cookie? Thank you! I love cookies, and you are very nice! I'm glad you liked chapters 10 and 11, and hopefully this next one will meet to your satisfaction.

Ivy Crane: I'm glad you likes Sirius confronting Remus, that was one of my favorites parts to write in that chapter. God, I love Sirius. You're right, it would have been if Remus had blown up too, I guess I just felt that he was too out of it top get that upset. He's kind of in a daze at this point. But maybe I'll have some scenario later where he does that… Another thing - you read my mind! I thought about White Wedding too! That makes you the coolest person in the world. I was thinking about that because of the 'little sister' references, and the fact that you know Sirius would love Billy Idol. The only problem, and the reason I can't use it is because Sirius was in prison during the 80s, so he wouldn't know any of that music. It sucks, but I still give you super brownie points for thinking of it, you're awesome!

Lindsay: Thank you! Here's the next chapter!

Kelly: Thanks! I hope you like this chapter!

Butterquifly: Oh, I'm sorry I made you cry! Still, it's great to know that you were so affected by it. I'm so glad that you loved this chapter so much, it was important to me that everyone understand all the gaps and this chapter was so important to all of that. I'm happy that you liked it when Sirius and Severus confronted Remus. I thought it was an interesting idea to get the two of them to team up like that. And I'm glad that you were satisfied with the way that Ivy and Remus realized there feeling for each other. Yes, this chapter was very hard to write, especially the part where Remus pushed her away, so I'm happy that you thought it worked so well. You're absolutely right, no matter what Remus does he will always come back to the conclusion that he belongs with Ivy, which is why this story has a happy ending J I'm also going to tell you that I think I'll be writing a sequel to this, so don't be worried about the end being so near. I'm truly flattered that you think I should continue writing in different forms as well, it's very encouraging. Thank you for your wonderful reviews, I hope to hear from you again soon!

Taym G.: I understand your point about the contradiction, the problem was that I didn't express myself clearly. The idea that I wanted to convey was that Remus fell asleep easily when he was upset and burdened, which would have happened a lot in his childhood, but that it didn't happen if other people were talking and he was uncomfortable. Peter on the other hand, could fall asleep any time, any place. I should have been more specific. Thank you for pointing that out, it's very helpful. And make sure you let me know when your fic is up, I can't wait to read it!

Ohana: I promise something good will happen in the last chapters. This story does have a happy ending! I'm glad that you were able to cope with Dumbledore's death all right. It just had to be done in this story for numerous reasons. Oh, I love Lilo and Stitch too! It's one of my favorite movies! It's nice to have someone comment on the title. I actually got the idea from a movie quote. The title works by itself, but if you know the quote it can have two meanings. It comes from Gladiator (I know, the last movie you'd expect considering this story). When Maximus is about to lead his soldiers into battle he tells them, "What we do in life echoes in eternity. I thought that idea was interesting, and I also thought that it made a good title. I'm glad you thought Remus was creepy in ch. 11. That was the intention, and it was important if everyone was to understand what separated them. Sorry about the computer problems and stuff. And don't worry, there will be plenty of fluff to smooth things over;) Thanks again, and I hope you like this chapter!

leigh: Yeah, and if Snape's wizening up, you know Remus better get it together soon! Don't worry, he can't let her get away again, and he won't. The show went great, thanks for asking, and I hope you like this chapter as much as you liked the last one.

Sarah: This is going to be a long response… Oh please don't feel bad about leaving really long reviews. I can honestly say that long reviews are the most rewarding things in the world, and I thank you for taking so much time to give me your thoughts. Good! You didn't think the singing was corny. That was my biggest worry with incorporating the songs, but I thought that if I had them be musical people it would work. I understand your movie-esque point about the first song, unfortunately that was just the way it came out (like I warned, the first two chapters were a little corny;)). But I was happy to hear that you didn't find it cliché and that the wedding and the infirmary songs worked (especially the infirmary – I was really worried about that part). I had so much fun writing the rehearsal scenes, so I'm glad that you liked them. You listened to Jekyll and Hyde? Yea! I wonder which version you listened to. Because there are three versions and two of them are good, but a friend of mine and I combined the two versions to make 'the ultimate version'. Yeah, we're dorks. But we liked the way the Broadway guy sang the pretty songs, and the off-Broadway guy was infinitely creepier. And the off-Broadway version had a lot of songs that didn't appear in the Broadway version. And the chorus was better in the Broadway version. And I could go on and on about why we combined them, so I'm just gonna stop now. Sorry… You have very good taste in musicals, though. Let me think of other ones you might like. I don't know what you've listened to, but some of my favorites are Little Shop (of course – thank you for your and congrats and luck by the way!), The Man of La Mancha (original Broadway cast – actually, you should always listen to the original Broadway cast, unless it didn't start on Broadway…), Into The Woods, Sweeney Todd, The King and I (the movie is good), Cabaret, Jesus Christ Superstar, The Rocky Horror Show (well, really you should see the movie if you haven't 'cause it's great), Peter Pan (oh, who hasn't seen that, though?), Hair, Once Upon A Mattress, Mama Mia (surprisingly fun, even if you don't like Abba), The Full Monty (believe it or not, I liked it better then the movie), The Producers, The Lion King (everyone should see that! It's incredible!), Martin Guerre (the song Don't came from that one as I said, and if you like Les Mis, you'll probably like that 'cause it's by the same guys, but it's hard to find it), The Scarlet Pimpernel (by the guy who wrote the music for J and H), Urinetown, oh I could go on forever, but I think that's enough to start you out with;). Maybe I should get off musicals now… Oh, good you liked the way I wrote the kiss! I agree, I hate it when people write things like that in a general way. If it's a romance story the first kiss had better be important and sweet! And I'm glad you're not going to beat me up about Albus' death like some people were. I figure if it's probably going to happen anyway then there's no harm in my doing it, and I needed to for some things that are going to happen later. And I'm so flattered by your comments on my character interactions! And you're absolutely right, the perfect way to describe Remus is 'so sweet, so stupid'. As for Ivy, your analysis was perfect, and I love the fact that you were analyzing in the first place! That just lets me know how much you really are enjoying the story. Sorry it took so long to update, high pressure and all. As far as the Mary Sue thing is concerned, I don't know if you caught it, but I put the definition in with the authors note because you weren't the only person to ask that. And then you left another review! It's really nice to have you analyzing the story so fully 'cause it helps me a lot and it's nice to have someone notice all the little things I put in. You're right it was a pretty big thing for Remus and Ivy to put to the side (being the episode that causes them to stop speaking for 16 years), which I why I have their entire relationship show a history of leaving things unresolved. Just an interesting character interaction that I thought was original and different. I'm glad you offered your criticism, and I understand what you mean. Anything with war is hard to write, and I assumed that it wouldn't be my strongest section, but I'm glad for your input. I was also happy that you enjoyed moment with Remus holding Ivy as he's recovering from the silver poisoning. That was such an important moment for me to write, and I always wanted to be sure that people found it appropriately touching. After all, those are the moments that count. I hope you enjoy this chapter and that the story continues to live up to your expectations! Beware of the One Ring, look out for You-Know-Who, and May The Force Be With You!

angelface58: Sorry it took so long to update, but things were crazy, as I said. I know, it was sad, but I couldn't make it too easy for them, could I? Otherwise it wouldn't really be a romance story. Thank you for your compliments and I hope that this chapter makes up for everything!

Chunky Chihuahua: Welcome! Wow, you left a lot of reviews! I was so thrilled as you got through the story and I read your reactions. And your compliments were far too generous (I'm blushing just thinking about them!)! I'm so happy that you love Ivy and that you feel I portray Remus and the rest of the Marauders well (by the way, I put the Mary Sue definitions in with the authors note 'cause a few people asked about it). I have to say the carrot prank was one of my favorite ideas, so I was glad that you liked it enough to bring it up. I was also was happy that you found the themes of the plays I used to be valid, and that you liked Jekyll and Hyde, and the crazy things I did to poor Remus and his emotions. And you noticed how I kept changing from their real names to their character names! That made me so happy because you're the first one to really pick up on it, and I did that very deliberately. And you think it's funny! Yea! I hope your parents don't take away the computer, though. I know how that works and it sucks. So be sneaky! Although I probably shouldn't encourage you ;) I thought it was funny that you compared this story to Virus 'cause I have read some of that. I haven't had the chance to read all of it, but now that you mentioned that, I'll have to find the time. I'll check out Their Room too. As far as the Hawaii stuff, my mom's sister married a Hawaiian man, and she lived on the islands for over 40 years before moving back to the mainland just a year ago. I lived in Hawaii myself for two years, so I learned a lot from them, and just being there. The eastern traditions I know because it interests me, and my mom and I are really into eastern methods of healing. Yeah, I too wish that there was a way to get fanfic published sometimes, even if it wasn't for profit, 'cause it's so much fun. Sometimes I think people should make fic magazines for different stories and movies, where you put in a chapter every issue or just a one-shot. It would be cool. Oh, you've never had to wait for a story to be finished? Wow, I'm sorry. It's funny that you're mixing this plot up with the real books. Really it's the best compliment I could receive because it means that it's so real to you. And I'm also flattered that you think I have a similar style to JKR! Thank you so much! Yeah, I'm really scared that by the end Remus, Snape and Dumbledore will be dead. Since HP is a modern myth like Stat Wars and LOTR, I think JKR is going to do what is usually done, which is kill off the old generation so the new one can rise. It makes me sad, but she probably will do it. And Dumbledore has to die 'cause he's the 'wise guide' character and it's tradition in myths for those characters to die. I would never kill Remus! I love him far too much! Oh, have you no faith in me? I could never kill him, he's my favorite, my baby, my cuddly werewolf! Wow, I sound like a freak! But rest assured, it would be impossible for me to write that, physically and mentally impossible. My brain won't allow it. Professor Binns' disappearance will eventually be explained (thank you for reminding actually, I'd probably have forgotten otherwise) at a later time. Unfortunately ff.net won't allow you to post web addresses (don't know what the deal is with that) so I can't give you the address to the fanart site I was talking about. But if you go to google.com and look up The Marauders Map you will find a site that comes up under the title 'Up To No Good'. That's her site, and her name is Tina Lynn, but you don't want to search her name or you'll come up with her online journal. And thank you for reviewing my LOTR fic! I know what you mean by the names, but it was honestly just written for a bit of fun. But don't rent Jekyll and Hyde. We all love Moulin Rouge, but the only recorded version of Jekyll and Hyde is with David Hasslehoff playing Jekyll and Hyde. That man should never do musical theatre, least of all an incredible role like that (shudder). Just thought I'd warn you… Thank again a million times over for giving me such thorough, wonderful comments, and I hope you like this chapter so I can hear from you again soon!

Aleaha Delance: Yea! You're special and I talked to you like a week ago! Well, now I've met you, and you already knew the whole lowdown on when I'd be able to update and stuff, so it's really funny to be writing this now. I'm really glad that you've been enjoying the story so much, though. Maybe I'll run into you after I post this chapter and we can talk about it. I hope you like it, and I'm sure your broken heart will be mended!

Claire: Thank you! Yes, I promise they will be together by the end, don't worry. I hope you like this chapter!

Lj: You're absolutely right, I believe I happy endings, and this is just another obstacle for them to get through. Now everything will get resolved - I hope you like it ;)

aquastar: Thank you so much! I hope you like it!

HarryPotterFreak1234: Yeah, Remus is being a stupid git. But don't worry, he can't be stupid for much longer. I'm glad that you thought the chapter worked, and I hope your Internet craziness won't prevent you from being able to read this chapter. I'm also glad that you like what I did with Snape. He can be a jerk sometimes, but we all know that there's a lot more to him than we've been told, so I wanted to add another layer. Maybe I will do something with him I the future, thanks for the suggestion. Enjoy!

LotR-FaNAtiC: Yea! You are encouraging. Thank for your support it's been so nice to hear from you. Yes, Remus is very dense, but I promise this story has a happy ending. I couldn't keep them apart, I love them far too much. But you're right all good love stories need angst to keep them interesting. Oh, Chewie… I still miss him. I was so shocked when it happened. And when Anakin died I was like, "no, they can't do it again, not another one". It's mostly 'cause it's Star Wars. We like to think that all the dying was done in the movies, and now everyone can be happy. Boy, did they have other things in mind for us… And of course, Sirius was just horrible. I mean, I kind of knew it was going to be him 'cause of all the information that JK gave us on him, but I still cried like a baby. It's just so wrong. And don't worry, I won't abandon this story. I think a lot of people would kill me if I did;) Anyway, thanks again for all of your encouragement and compliments, it's truly inspiring and wonderful. I hope you enjoy what comes next!

George is hot-MrsMoony: Oh, I totally approve of the addition to your name. Very stylish. Thanks a bunch, and enjoy!

JenJen: Yea! Someone else who likes the musicals! That always makes me happy J Thank you very much for your praise, I am honored. Yeah, I did intend for the projector to be magical, and I should have mentioned that. Thanks. If you notice anything else let me know. Enjoy the next chapter!

deathbycookie15: Thank you so much for such lovely compliments! I hope this part meets your satisfaction! And don't worry about Ivy and Remus - everything will be fine ;)

greenfairie: I love your name… Don't' worry, they'll be together. And soon ;)

Elrenia: Sorry it took so long, but here it is. (grins sheepishly) I hope you like it!

Dreamwarrior: Well, I emailed you the info on the song, and I hope you got it. I'm glad that you thought the background for Remus and Iv worked. Yeah, Remus is being really stupid, but he'll get it soon, don't worry;) But I hope your eyes are okay from staring at the screen like that! Thank so much for reviewing and I hope you continue to enjoy the story!

Tine: Thank you so much! It's always wonderful to get new readers. I'm glad you're enjoying the story so much. Don't worry, Remus and Ivy will get it eventually ;) And there's probably going to be a sequel to this. I'm going to ask when I p0st the last chapter, and if I get enough support I'll do it. So they'll be more to read! Enjoy!

Jennie: Thank you! Yes, I know I'm evil sometimes (hehehe)… but it's all for a god cause! I hope you like this chapter!

bluemoon: Please have a little faith in me! The point of this fic is to not make the same tired mistakes that everyone else makes. I promise they will end up together and happy. So read and enjoy… I know you will ;)

LarLar Binx: Thank you very much! Your compliments were very encouraging, and I hope you enjoy the rest of the story!

kantomon: Oh, I saw your review for my other story too, and I wanted to thank you! I'll write a more specific response to it when I write its companion piece. Thanks for your encouraging comments! Another person asked about the fanart site too actually. The problem is ff.net won't let you post web site addresses, so hears what I told the other person to do - if you go to google.com and look up The Marauders Map you will find a site that comes up under the title 'Up To No Good'. That's her site, and her name is Tina Lynn, but you don't want to search her name or you'll come up with her online journal. There you go - find the site, you'll love her pictures, I guarantee it. She's incredibly talented. Enjoy the chapter!

BlueFeather11: Thank you so much! Yes, they will be together, never fear. I'm glad you like the duet they did. I love that song. And I'm so happy that you like Ivy 'cause I've had so much fun writing her. I hope this chapter makes up for all the sadness that has happened. Enjoy!

Ava: AH! You found me again! Yea! That makes me so happy! I was sad that I wasn't getting to hear from you and RavinRemus and the rest anymore. Yeah, WWR messed up big time. And now they're reposting my fic, but they're doing it at snail-slow speeds. They need to get more beta readers or they have to give up on the beta reading 'cause no one wants to wait a month for one chapter of their story to be uploaded. I'm so happy that you came looking for me! I'm just jumping up and down in my seat with happiness. And it was annoying 'cause some of you guys asked me questions in your last reviews at the WWR, and I never got to respond to them. Were you the one who asked me how old I was? I don't remember… I'm glad that you were able to adjust to Snape, I just wanted to give him a fair shot because there's so much to him. And I'm also really happy that you still like Sirius even with what's happened in OotP (I'm still trying to recover from it - I actually kind of have to push it to the side in order to write this story). I was very flattered that you found him to be like JKR's Sirius (uh-oh, blushing again). Yeah, Remus and Ivy. I kind of smacked you guys in the face with that one, didn't I? I'm gald you got angry with Remus. I needed to show him in a different light. He's just not thinking, and we all want to yell at him with Sirius. And I'm glad that you know the importance of cliffhangers. Everything will end up all right, after all, so I've got to keep everyone waiting for it. Thank for your congrats, the show was great and fun, and I had a fantastic time. I got your other review on WWR, and I hope that ff.net was just being temperamental, and that you'll be able to log on again. Now read and enjoy! I'm so happy to have you back!

Lily: Sorry about the updating. As for Remus… well, read already!

Wow, that was six pages worth! (shrugs sheepishly) Sorry…

And now, on with the show!

^*^

Chapter Twelve - Explanations, Forgiveness, and Confessions

NOW

The school had never been so silent. Everyone waited and watched. All eyes were on Remus Lupin, standing at the window. Standing at the window as his life slipped through his fingers.

He was reminded of a similar image that he had seen from his own window several weeks ago. 'I looked out my window and watched her go, knowing full well that I might never get the chance to see to her again…'

But isn't that the point? She has to find someone else…

…She hasn't found someone else. Not in sixteen years. Why? …Wait a minute…

"What am I doing?" Remus said softly.

From behind him, Remus heard Sirius' voice, a faint glimmer of hope now coming through in it. "I don't know, Remus. What are you doing?"

Remus stepped back from the window slowly, turned sharply on his heel, and flew down the staircase to the front doors. He could hear footsteps thundering behind him, but he paid no mind. None of them mattered right now. He charged through the doors, feeling a cool blast of early summer air as he started to race down the path. He came closer and closer to her, finally coming up right behind her, slightly out of breath.

"Ivy!"

She didn't stop. She didn't even slow.

"Ivy, wait!"

He ran in front of her and turned around to face her, blocking her path. He saw her eyes. They regarded him coldly, without any feeling. He felt that his heart might break at that look. She hated him now. And she was cynical. She had never been cynical before. What had he done?

"Yes, Remus?" She raised an eyebrow at him in an unconcerned way, and tilted her head as if she simply were waiting for him to step aside.

"Ivy, you can't leave now. We need to talk."

She shook her head. "We already did talk, Remus. You told me everything I needed to hear. I understand now, it's all right. You don't have to explain."

Remus reached out to grab her shoulders, but she pulled back. He wondered briefly if her reaction was due to what had happened sixteen years ago. Due to what he had done to her when she had gotten close. He knew he could never harm her that way again. The thought of causing her physical pain made him feel sick.

He gazed at her helplessly, hoping that it would provoke a reaction. It did not. "I don't just want to explain. I have things to tell you. Things that I should have said a long time ago. Please, Ivy, you must understand what happened sixteen years ago. I need you to know. If you don't like what I have to say then you can still leave. I won't make you late for the train, I promise. But I need to get this out, or you'll never understand, and I will feel guilty for the rest of my life for not telling you."

Ivy snorted in disdain. "Why do I care if you feel guilty? You certainly haven't cared about how I've felt for the past sixteen years."

Her words stung him more than she could fathom. Every feeling that welled up inside him was pressing to get out. He wanted to touch her. Maybe that would make her understand. He wanted to reach for her hands, he wanted to pull her into his arms, he wanted to kiss her. Words would take too long, wouldn't show how he truly felt. But if he tried that, she would only pull further away. He knew her well enough to know that. He would have to find a way to say it.

"No, Ivy, that was just the problem. I did care."

There was a flicker of confusion in her eyes. That was all that he needed to give him hope.

"I cared about your future, and what it would be like. You had everything ahead of you, but I was certain that my life was doomed. You couldn't stay near me. If you did you would end up alone like me, or die, or not live your life the way I thought you were supposed to. You deserved something so much better than that, Ivy. So much better than me

Ivy blinked. What had he just said to her? Better than him… No, Ivy, you can't let him do it again. You're just setting yourself up. Just let him talk and get it out of his system, but remember that he doesn't mean it.

"So I made you leave. I know now that I hurt you in ways that I never imagined possible, but that was not my intention. I thought that after getting away from me, you would find a better life. You would be happy. When you came back to Hogwarts this year, I expected you to tell me that you were married to somebody wonderful, that you had five children, that you were ridiculously content… But you weren't. Not at all. You were exactly the same as when you left all those years ago, only more tired, and worn, and distant. I never wanted that to happen - I truly believed that I had done the right thing. That was why I pushed you away. That was why I tried to make you hate me. Only now, I realize that it was much more complicated than that. I was also trying to bury my own emotions. I'm used to doing that. Used to it because of my condition, so I never thought twice about it. I let myself believe that it was primal, and selfish, and unreal. I was wrong."

Ivy's stern façade was fading. Something in her had broken ever since she had found out about Albus' death. She couldn't feign strength anymore. Not now, especially not for herself. She felt tears coming to her eyes, but now she wouldn't hold them back. She would let him see.

Remus saw the change in Ivy's face. She was so sad. He couldn't bear it. Had he really done so much damage?

Ivy snapped back to her senses. No, he doesn't mean it, remember? He's just trying to lift the weight off of his conscience. She began to walk toward Remus, fully prepared to shove him out of the way, but he grabbed her arm lightly. Ivy immediately paused. His touch was so mild. That was not how it had gone before. No, he had been cruel and frightening… and he hadn't had that look in his eyes.

"Ivy, you can't go. I need you to stay."

He needs me to stay? Yeah, right… "Why? What do you need me for?"

Remus sighed. There were so many things. How could he say it? Surely, he would sound ridiculous and overly sentimental. But he had to say something.

He kept his eyes locked with hers, honest, open, and caring. "Sanity, guidance, compassion… your fierce temper, your irrational justifications… your smile…" He let his words trail off. He could not find the strength to continue.

Ivy turned slightly, making him let go of her arm. She stared him dead in the face. If he was trying to tell her something, she would not draw conclusions. He had to tell her outright. "Why would you need me here for all that?"

Remus felt his throat tighten. He couldn't back out now. He wouldn't.

"Because… I love you…"

Ivy shook her head.

Remus could no longer breathe. "What's wrong?"

Tears streaked down Ivy's face without warning. Her voice shook with stifled sobs as she stared at the ground. "You can't do this, Remus. You can't do this again. You've already pushed me away twice. I can't handle it one more time. Don't say it. Don't say it unless you mean it. Unless you won't go back on it."

Remus grabbed her arms, shaking her gently, forcing her to look at him. "I do mean it. With all of my heart." How could he be any more blunt? She had to understand. "Please don't tell me that I've finally realized my mistake, only to lose you now…"

Ivy bit her lip. "You promise me that you're telling me the truth. You promise that you won't feel guilty, and make up another story tomorrow to get me to leave. You promise that you won't ever hurt me like this again."

"I promise."

Ivy took in a deep, shaky breath and let it out slowly. She gazed at him in disbelief. "You love me?"

He nodded. "I'm sorry that it's taken me so long to say it… Truthfully, I didn't understand it until yesterday, and then I got scared again." He tilted his head. "What do you think?"

Ivy thought for a long moment. "I'm wondering what we're supposed to do now."

He smiled. "I think you already know the answer to that."

Remus wrapped his arms around her waist. If she still doubted him, he knew that he could show her how he felt now. Ivy's hands grasped his arms on impulse, but she didn't immediately realize what he was doing until she caught the look in his eye. He lowered his face to her slowly, just barely letting his lips brush over hers. Ivy began to feel dizzy, and her knees buckled. She felt Remus' light chuckle against her as he held her tightly to keep her from dropping to the ground. Ivy thought she heard children cheering and catcalling in the distance, but the noise was quickly ignored. Remus' lips were on hers, making her tingle, making her forget everything around her. She deepened the kiss, wanting to meet the passion that she felt rising in him. Remus kissed her tenderly, not wanting the moment to end, wishing that Ivy would melt into his arms and stay there for all eternity.

Ivy understood now. She knew that Remus would never hurt her again. And everything was perfect. And while they could not change the mistakes of the past, they now had their future to share.

They would not waste any more time.

*        *        *

If he doesn't kiss her, I swear I'll…

Sirius watched as Ivy shook her head at Remus. No. What did you say, Remus? You better change her mind, you stupid git!

Remus took Ivy by the shoulders, pleading with her. Ivy still didn't seem to believe him. Come on, Ivy! You were always more sensible than him. Don't ruin everything now!

Remus said something to Ivy, and she looked up at him questioningly. Remus started talking again, explaining. Then Sirius saw him tilt his head the way he always did when he was asking a question. Ivy's shoulders rose and fell under Remus' hands. She spoke to him. Remus smiled warmly and slipped his arms around her. Ivy appeared to be jarred, but didn't move.

Sirius could hear the students holding their breaths. A majority of the school had joined him outside to witness what was about to happen. The students peered over each other's heads, tried to push their way forward to see what was happening, while still not daring to get too close. They watched intently as Professor Lupin leaned in to kiss Professor Dumbledore, but the students became nervous. They still didn't know how Professor Dumbledore would react, after all.

The tension in the air grew. Students wrung their hands, bit their lips, clenched their teeth. The silence encompassed everyone. They all waited with anticipation…

And she kissed him back.

A great cheer erupted from the group. The boys began to catcall, and the girls started to scold them while they gossiped with each other. Sirius felt his heart swell. James, Lily - I wish you were here to see this…

He looked behind him and found Harry, Ron, and Hermione all smiling as they looked on their professors. Harry, in particular, looked incredibly relieved. Sirius then looked next to him, where Professor Snape and Professor McGonagall were standing. Snape nodded curtly in approval before turning on his heel and walking back into the school. Professor McGonagall had tears in her eyes. When she saw Sirius staring at her, she quickly swept them away and spoke very evenly. "Well! Now that that's all settled…"

Sirius laughed at how poorly she was covering her emotions. She glared at him. "Mr. Black, would you please tell Ms. Dumbledore that I need to speak with her whenever she has the chance."

Sirius nodded as Professor McGonagall turned away and attempted to round up the students to get them back inside. Harry looked to him. "Are you coming back in with us?"

"No, I'll catch up with you later, Harry."

Harry nodded knowingly and followed Ron and Hermione back into the castle.

Sirius waited at the doors for several minutes before Remus and Ivy came back up, talking with their heads close together, both of them beaming. Remus had one arm around Ivy, while the other carried one of her suitcases. Ivy held the other suitcase, her footsteps dragging lazily as if she truly didn't want to go back inside. They both stopped when they saw Sirius, and stared at him bashfully.

Sirius smiled at them. "Oh, please! You don't get to be coy now! Not after the mad, passionate snogging session that the whole school saw just a few minutes ago!"

He watched in satisfaction as Remus stared uncomfortably off to the side and Ivy blushed furiously.

Sirius folded his arms in mock superiority, and walked over to them. "Well, well, well… What was it that you both tried to tell me during the year? If I recall correctly, both of you seemed to tell me that you weren't in love." Sirius watched as they rolled their eyes at him. He gave a melodramatic sigh. "Well, I hate to say I told you so…"

Ivy waved her free hand at him. "Oh… piss off, Sirius," she said nonchalantly.

Sirius pretended to be offended. "Well, then! I suppose I just won't tell you that Professor McGonagall told me that she wants to see you when you have the time!"

Ivy looked at him puzzled. "She wants to see me? What about?"

Sirius shrugged. "Don't know, she didn't say. Here-" He took Ivy's suitcases from both of them, and motioned with his head back to the doors. "-I'll get the house elves to take these upstairs for you. You go talk to McGonagall."

Ivy nodded thankfully and headed for the doors, pausing to make sure that Remus was behind her. They both walked into the castle, leaving Sirius alone to contemplate how much longer he was going to tease them about kissing in front of the entire student body…

*        *        *

Ivy stopped at the door to Professor McGonagall's office. She had no idea what Minerva wanted to see her about, and it was making her uneasy.

"Stop being nervous," came a voice next to her ear.

Ivy felt her insides flutter at the sound. It was so beautiful. "Stop reading my mind," she whispered, glancing back over her shoulder into a pair of hazy gray eyes.

Remus smiled. "I don't have to read your mind - I can smell it on you."

Ivy laughed. "That's right, I forgot about your superhuman senses." She raised an eyebrow at him. "What else can you smell on me?"

Remus cleared his throat and stared innocently up at the ceiling.

Ivy smirked. "I guess that's a discussion for some other time…"

She slipped her hand into his, and knocked on the door in front of her. A voice on the other side told her to come in, so she opened the door and stepped into the office, still holding Remus' hand. Professor McGonagall looked up at both of them and smiled. She motioned for them to have a seat, but Ivy shook her head.

"Well, Ivy, I assume now that you won't be leaving us?"

Ivy smiled and shook her head. "Not unless you've found a new professor to teach History of Magic already."

Professor McGonagall eyed her closely, thinking hard. Ivy's smile faded as she realized that Minerva was trying to work up the nerve to tell her something important. "Ivy, I won't mince words with this.… You know that with Albus gone, my position as Deputy Headmistress allows me to recommend to the Ministry, who will replace Albus." She looked up at Ivy and held her gaze. "I would like to recommend that you become the headmistress."

Ivy's jaw dropped. "Me?" She watched in disbelief as Professor McGonagall nodded. "But, Minerva… I can't… I mean… shouldn't you become the headmistress?"

Professor McGonagall laughed. "Me, my dear? I think not. For one, I would not like to recommend myself to the Ministry. Secondly, your name and abilities will make it much easier for us to keep Hogwarts running the same way it did when Albus was headmaster. Thirdly, my passion is for educating. I have no desire to run this school, and deal with all the politics and administrative authority that go with it. I am perfectly happy teaching Transfiguration and being the head of Gryffindor House."

"But… what makes you think that I could run this school? I've never had a job like that. I wouldn't know where to begin!"

Professor McGonagall held out her hands beseechingly. "You have years of teaching experience. That was all that any of the heads of Hogwarts ever had. No one was ever trained to run this school."

Ivy shook her head. "The Ministry will never go for it. They'll want someone with more experience, someone who's been at the school longer-"

"You graduated from this school. The governors will agree with me. You are a wonderful teacher, and you've gained every student's trust and respect. They will be relieved if you take the position."

Ivy sighed. She looked back at Remus, hoping that he would back her up. He gave her a small, sympathetic smile and squeezed her hand gently. He was there to comfort and support her, but he wanted her to make the decision on her own.

"Can you give me some time to think about it?"

Professor McGonagall nodded in temporary defeat. "Yes, but try to get me your answer quickly. We can run this school without a head till the beginning of the next school year, but I know that the Ministry really wants a new head instated by graduation."

Ivy thanked her and slowly backed out of the room. Remus closed the door behind them and glanced at her. "You all right?"

Ivy nodded and sighed. "Yes, I just… I just can't believe that she would think of me. Me, of all people! I mean, you know that I could never run this school."

Remus reached out and brushed Ivy's cheek with his hand to get her to look at him. "I think that you could do anything," he stated assuredly. He drew her into him, and gave her a soft kiss. It was still a shock to him, still a miracle to be able to touch her and hold her this way. It was so new, yet she was so familiar.

Knowing that students could be lurking around any corner, he did not let the kiss last as long as he wanted it to, but instead pulled back and gazed at her lovingly. "What do you say we find Sirius, go down to the kitchens, and get you both some breakfast? I'm assuming that you both missed it."

Ivy smirked at him. "Oh, I don't know. You know how much it takes to get Sirius to miss a meal."

Remus laughed. "Yes, I suppose. Shall we?"

Ivy nodded, and they both set off to find Sirius, mentally preparing themselves for more teasing at his hands, wondering how the students would react to seeing them at dinner that evening, and knowing that they would hear whispers follow them around every corner.

*        *        *

The day had gone along rather well. Most of the students held their tongues, simply smiling whenever they saw Remus and Ivy. Sirius was so thrilled that he actually forgot to tease them throughout the day. Hermione had gotten all teary-eyed, and gave Ivy a hug when she saw her in the hall. They had become rather close due to the time they had spent together while Hermione had fulfilled her duties as Ivy's assistant.

Harry was smiling genuinely for the first time in months, though he was rather perturbed at the fact that while Remus and Ivy were around, Ron and Sirius kept glancing at each other and snickering. He assumed it had something to do with the talk they had had a week or two ago when Harry and Hermione had gone to bed and left them in the common room. He wasn't sure that he wanted to know.

At dinner, Professor McGonagall made announcements about exam schedules and assured the students that a new head would be found soon, all the while looking pointedly at Ivy. Ivy pretended not to notice.

That night, Remus walked Ivy back to her rooms, while they took some time to talk to each other. There was a great deal to discuss.

"What do you think you're going to say to Minerva's offer?"

Ivy shrugged. "Oh, I don't know… I just can't believe her bringing it up at dinner like that. I mean, she stared right at me the whole time! What happens if I say no? Oh, that's fine, the students can just get the wrong message and hate me!"

Remus gave a light laugh. He had always found it endearing whenever she broke into tirades like that. It was incredibly amusing to see someone who was usually so collected get so flustered. "Don't be ridiculous. That would never happen, and you know it. Besides, I don't think anyone even noticed her staring at you."

They had reached Ivy's door and stepped into her chambers. Then, much to Remus' surprise, she closed the door behind him. Both of them went silent for a moment. Remus had sudden flashbacks to similar tensions that they'd had all through school when they were younger. But they were adults now, and Remus wouldn't let the discomfort get to him. He knew how to handle it.

Remus stepped back to the door. "I should be leaving. I'll see you tomorrow morning."

He started to turn, but stopped when he felt a hand on his arm. He slowly glanced back to see Ivy staring at him in confusion.

"Why do you have to leave?"

Remus thought it was rather obvious why, though he wasn't quite sure how to put it into words. "Er… because I… Well, I shouldn't…"

He was unable to finish when Ivy suddenly stepped into him, and gave him a deep kiss. Remus wanted to respond, but his mind was holding him back. No, this is exactly why you have to leave!

Remus pulled away from Ivy, and stared at her. She looked a little hurt, her blue eyes gazing questioningly into his own, while she subconsciously licked her lips and pressed against him. He held her loosely, trying to make her understand his dilemma.

He sighed. "So soon?"

Ivy blinked hard, then smiled at him, almost laughing. She cocked an eyebrow. "Are you kidding?"

Remus had to admit that were he on the outside, he would laugh at himself too. Yes, he had known her since he was fourteen years old. Yes, he had wanted this for a long time. But he had just realized this yesterday, and he had only let her know a few hours ago. And then there was that nagging voice that was still there in the back of his head, the voice that had almost made him lose her again…

"Ivy, I… I don't think you quite realize what you're asking. I'm only saying this because I'm worried about you. I can get quite… aggressive… quite rough… I just lose control of myself. I'm ashamed to say it, but it's impossible to force down, especially with the moon right now… I just… I think we should wait."

Despite how amazed Ivy was to hear him speak so openly, she was not about to let him off the hook that easily. They had said everything that needed to be said, and now this was the only barrier between them. The only thing that needed to be resolved. "We women are told from a very early age that all men are animals. I should know - I dated a few of them in the time that I was gone," she teased. "I doubt that there is much you could do that would shock me."

Remus shook his head and stepped back from her, letting her go. "Yes, there is… Ivy… I could hurt you… It wouldn't be the first time something like that's happened… You have to understand what little control I have over it…. If I started, I don't think I'd be able to stop."

Ivy could see that she was not getting through to him. She came closer to him and placed her hands on his shoulders. He looked back at her, seemingly disgusted with himself. Ivy squeezed his shoulders gently. "Remus, I love you, and I need you to understand something." She watched as he nodded to her, ready to listen. Ivy took a deep breath. "I didn't fall in love with part of you, I fell in love with all of you. I know what the wolf is, and I'm not afraid. I love that part of you too. Do you understand?"

Remus sighed. She couldn't love that part of him. She was perfect - how could she love a monster? It wasn't possible. He would frighten her, and she would run away.

"I don't think you understand."

Ivy gave him a small smile. "Why don't you try me?"

She leaned forward and kissed him lightly, dipping her tongue into his mouth. Remus staggered back a few steps, but she stayed with him, wrapping her arms around his neck. Remus could feel the wolf clawing at the edge of his mind. It was overjoyed, it… knew. Through the years it had been mildly amused with the others it had conquered, but it knew that this one was different. The wolf knew that it was with its mate.

Remus let himself go a little. He couldn't help it. Truthfully, he wanted to see what would happen. His hands flew to her arms, gripping her tightly, and he pushed her forcefully up against the wall. He kissed her harshly, never letting her stop to take a breath, as his hands traveled down to her hips to pull her closer to him. A low growl rose in the back of his throat. He felt Ivy grip his neck tighter, and pulled away to look at her.

She smiled seductively at him, her eyes half closed. "Hello, Mr. Hyde…" she whispered enticingly in his ear.

Remus gave a soft chuckle and shook his head. Ivy leaned back in his arms, and undid the clasps of her robe, letting it fall to the ground, revealing her to be wearing a sleeveless blouse and black skirt. Her hands then moved to the clasps of his robe, which she undid with agonizing slowness. She pushed it off his shoulders, letting her eyes take in his white button-down shirt and brown trousers.

Ivy started to undo the buttons of his shirt as Remus brought his lips to hers again. She wondered what he was thinking, if he was still nervous. She hoped that he was relaxing, that he was really opening up to her. To herself she admitted that she was actually a little bit nervous, but it wasn't because of him - she wasn't sure of how well she was responding to it all. It had been so long since she'd been filled with such ardor, and the fact that Remus was causing it made her head spin with frantic urgency.

Remus' fingers had traveled down to Ivy's waist and found the bottom of her blouse. He slipped underneath it. All thoughts left Ivy's mind as she felt Remus' hands on her bare skin. It was a wonderful, dizzying sensation. She gasped as he stroked her stomach and tickled her back, now pressing his hips into hers.

But Remus had to make sure that Ivy really knew what she was getting into. As she gasped, Remus moved his mouth to her jaw line, her ear. He traveled down till his lips reached the sensitive skin between the neck and shoulder. Remus took the skin between his teeth and let the wolf's instincts take control. He bit down hard.

And Ivy moaned in pleasure.

Remus snapped his head back up to look at her. His eyes held disbelief. Ivy smiled when she saw his face, and she started to laugh.

"You should never assume anything, Remus."

And with that, she grabbed his hands and pulled him into her bedroom. They stopped alongside Ivy's bed, but when she tried to pull Remus in to kiss her again, he held her back.

"Ivy, what if someone hears us?"

Mentally, he scolded himself. Way to be ever practical, Remus. You're standing here, panting for air, wanting nothing more than to throw her down on the bed and start making mad, passionate love to her, and you have to start thinking soberly!

But Ivy was not so easily deterred. She pulled Remus' wand from his belt, and held it out in front of him, smirking. "I assume that you know how to do a simple Silencing Spell?"

Remus almost sighed in relief, but he stopped himself, not yet wanting to show Ivy how much of a hold she had on him. He took the wand from her and muttered the incantation, hearing a brief buzz in the room as the charm went into effect. Then he walked around Ivy and placed his wand on the bedside table, feeling her eyes on his back. He turned to her, and Ivy pulled him back quickly, lacing her fingers through his soft hair as she kissed him fiercely.

Remus' desire increased, and he felt his senses slam into overdrive. He could taste her in his mouth, driving him to the brink of insanity. He could hear her breaths coming faster and faster, perfectly in rhythm with the blood pounding through his veins. He could feel her smooth skin under his fingertips, so delicate, so flawless. Her scent. Her scent permeating the air, rousing him, exciting him.

As if she were reading his mind, Ivy broke their kiss, and managed to speak as she gasped for air. "You never told me what else you could smell on me."

Remus took some time to catch his breath before smiling slyly and leaning into her, purring in her ear, "Lust and heat."

Normally, he would have been mortified at how blatant and tactless he had just been. But at the moment, he was unable to restrain himself, a lifetime of repressed yearning crashing inside of him. He heard Ivy give an alluring laugh as she grabbed him by the collar of his shirt, and sank down onto the bed, pulling Remus down on top of her.

He paused over her, looking into her sparkling, contented eyes one last time before losing himself within her completely.

*        *        *

Everything felt a little fuzzy…

Remus slowly came back to consciousness, feeling the warmth of the sun heating his neck. He didn't want to wake up. He felt inexplicably exhausted, and he'd just had the most wonderful dream. A dream worth staying asleep the rest of his life for. He had told her, and she had believed him. They had spent the entire night making love. It was beautiful, it was pure, it was perfect. He had felt whole for the first time in many years… A dream that he never wanted to wake up from…

But he was suddenly aware of weight at one side. Soft breaths whispering against his skin. Pressure of the rise and fall of someone's chest. The steady pulse and throb of a heartbeat. The tickling of hair underneath his chin. Something velvety and warm beneath his fingertips. Such a wonderful dream. He would have to wake up sometime, though. He opened his eyes…

And there she was.

The golden highlights of her dark auburn hair glimmered in the first rays of sunlight that streamed through the windows. Her cheek rested on his chest, one of her arms lying across his stomach, the other around his shoulder. She was intertwined with him, her full, pink lips slightly parted as he watched her sleeping. She was radiant.

He was so lost in the feel of her that he didn't even notice when his hands started caressing her back, which he had been holding rather tightly when he had woken up. She began to stir in his arms, taking deep breaths and tiny stretches. As she started to move, she suddenly became aware of what was beneath her, and her grip tightened on him, as if she wanted to be sure that he was real. Ivy looked up, blinking through the sleep in her eyes, into his face. She smiled abashedly.

"Hi."

"Hello."

There was a short silence before Ivy began to laugh lightly, perplexing Remus.

"What is it?"

Ivy shook her head, her nose rubbing into his chest. "Nothing, it's just… it's just such a relief… After so many years, I mean. So much release after so much time… I guess I just feel a bit overwhelmed by it all…"

Remus smiled. Yes, 'overwhelmed' does quite describe the feeling… He instinctively and subconsciously brought his hands down to her lower back, and started to massage it gently. Many more questions began to surface in his mind, and he stared at her with concern. "How do you feel?"

Ivy hoisted herself up onto her hands, and pushed forward so that she was leaning above Remus. The hair fell from her shoulders, creating a brilliant red curtain around him. "I feel wonderful," she whispered. There was no seductive quality to her voice. She spoke sincerely and lovingly, lowering her lips to meet his, drinking him in. He was delicious, savory and sweet. And he loved her.

Though their kiss had not been particularly deep or powerful, Ivy still found herself out of breath when she pulled away. She let her lips linger close to his mouth, feeling his breath washing over her at a quickened rate. It was so marvelously confusing. "How can we affect each other like this?"

Remus brought a hand up to her cheek, needing to touch her, to make sure she wouldn't vanish. "I don't know… It doesn't matter. All that matters is that yesterday was real, and last night was real." He raised a teasing eyebrow at her. "It was all real, wasn't it?"

Ivy smirked mischievously. "Yes, Remus, last night was definitely real…"

Remus chuckled and began trailing his other hand down her side, reveling in the heat that came off of her bare flesh, the softness against his fingertips. With the hand still on her cheek, he pulled her towards him, this time kissing her more passionately than before. Ivy turned slowly onto her back, and he followed in suit, pulling himself up onto his elbows and pressing his mouth to hers, crushing her into the pillows. Ivy brought her hands around his shoulders, but Remus pulled back to look at her with a hesitant expression.

"Should we get up? It might be bad if we're absent from the Great Hall this morning."

Ivy's eyes widened in mock exasperation. "You think that my mind can even grasp the concept of breakfast at a time like this? Can yours?"

Remus thought for a moment. He smiled. "No…" Truthfully, he couldn't. "I just wanted to make sure that you were… recovered."

"Oh, that's what you were doing!" Ivy drawled teasingly. "Well, Remus, you worry too much. As you can see, I am quite undamaged."

She laughed melodically, and Remus met her lips again, drowning out the sound. They parted briefly, and Ivy caught a roguish, primal glint in his eye as he whispered against her lips, "Something I shall have to remedy, I suppose…"

*        *        *

Ultimately, Sirius Black had one horrific downfall - curiosity. It was the bane of his life, the character flaw that had given him his 'troublemaker' reputation to begin with. So at first, when he noticed that two professors had not shown up for breakfast in the morning, he chuckled and tried to shrug it off so he could concentrate on eating his eggs, biscuits, and bacon.

About halfway through his meal he felt the demon creeping up on him. He tried to ignore it, but that was like telling a dog not to scratch its fleas. No, he couldn't make it leave him alone. He really wanted to know what had happened last night. Well, it wasn't a perverse inquiry, after all. At least, not to him. Though one person in particular was bound to think it was.

Sirius had come to a realization a long time ago, that Remus was not as open as James. It was something that he'd gradually come to accept as they had gone through school together. Occasionally it had frustrated him, since Sirius always wanted to know how his friends were feeling, but eventually he had learned not to take it as an insult. It was just the way Remus was. He never wanted anyone to know everything he was thinking. He liked to keep to himself about certain things. And when Sirius had finally started to back off, he found that his friendship with Remus became stronger.

In some ways it was easier for Sirius to understand now. Before, he had shared everything with James. There was a person in his life that knew all of his secrets. But now James was gone. And now he didn't want to talk about everything. Just as he didn't want to talk about Azkaban, he could see why Remus didn't want to talk about specific aspects of his life. Some things were just too personal.

But on that day, he wasn't about to be shut out. He had been far too involved with the plot to bring them together, not to find out. It was his right, god dammit! And Remus could huff and puff all he wanted, but he was going to demand answers! Besides, it would be funny to get Remus all shocked and brassed off. He hadn't done it in far too long.

Sirius knocked on the door to Remus' chambers, but got no answer. At first it confused him, but then he began to connect the dots. Well, that makes sense. He was probably being the gentleman, walking her back to her quarters, and that's where it happened…

He began to laugh to himself as his Marauder grin appeared. He had an idea. In a flash, he was down in the kitchens. There, he ran into his godson.

Harry looked up from a table covered in food. He seemed relieved at the sight of his godfather. "Hi, Sirius!"

Sirius took a seat on the other side of the table and looked at all of the food strewn out before him. It was almost enough to make him hungry again. "What are you doing down here all by yourself?"

Harry knew that he wasn't being scolded, but an expression of guilt settled on his face, nevertheless. "Ron and Hermione are studying for the N.E.W.T.S. in the library. I haven't had breakfast yet, so I thought I'd come down and get some."

Sirius smirked at the thought of Ron and Hermione sitting in the library, trying to study. Trying being the key word. He had been noticing the stares between them even more often lately. "What do you think is going on in the library right about now?" he asked teasingly.

Harry rolled his eyes. "They're probably arguing about something stupid, as usual. It's getting really ridiculous. It's like they argue to get something impassioned to happen between them. Ron can't figure out how to express himself any other way, and Hermione is mad at him for it."

Though he felt it was pointless at this stage, Sirius had to be sure. "Are you okay with the two of them? You don't feel awkward, do you?"

Harry shook his head. "No, I just wish they would wake up. They're my friends. I want them to be happy."

As Harry started to dive into his food, Sirius found himself awestruck. The boy was so mature for his age. Of course, who wouldn't be with all he had been through? I hope you can see him, James. You'd be so proud. He's so much like you.

At that moment, he felt a tug at his leg. He looked down into the huge eyes of a house elf. "Can we be getting anything for you, sir?"

Sirius remembered why he had come down. "Yes, if you could send some food and tea up to Professor Dumbledore's chambers? And make sure that the front door is unlocked, I want to surprise them."

The house elf nodded and scampered away to fulfill his request. Sirius pulled his eyes back up to find his godson staring at him, a small smile playing around the corners of his mouth.

"Are you sure that's a good idea, Sirius?"

He gave Harry his best 'what are you implying?' look. "Well, I won't be barging into her bedroom, Harry! I just thought I'd pay them a little visit. Besides, they'll be grateful, I'm sure they're positively famished…"

Harry laughed, shrugged, and went back to his food. Sirius found his thoughts wandering back to what his godson had said earlier, and realized that he had missed something. "Why didn't you go down to the Great Hall for breakfast?"

Harry paused and started playing with his fork. He gazed blankly at the plate in front of him. "I didn't want to be in there. Everyone stares at me."

Sirius' back stiffened. Oh, no… "What do you mean, everyone stares at you?"

Harry kept his eyes fixed on the plate. "Well, they always used to stare, but now it's different…"

Sirius leaned forward and placed his hands on the table, willing his godson to look up at him. "Different how?"

"It's kind of hard to explain. I suppose that before, when I would defeat Voldemort, it was like a test. I was a hero to everyone, but I had to keep proving myself over and over, because he kept coming back, and that's what people expected of me. That wasn't the real reason I fought him, but that's what it felt like sometimes." Harry reached under his glasses to rub his eyes. "But now he's gone… really gone. And now I feel like I'm being revered. Worshiped as if I'm unreachable, almost… feared. I hate it."

Sirius got up from the table and moved around it, so he could sit down next to Harry. He put a comforting hand on his shoulder, but still, Harry wouldn't look at him. "Of course, people are going to look up to you, Harry. Though you didn't intend it, your deeds have made you a hero."

Now Harry looked up at Sirius, distress written in his features. "But I don't feel like a hero, Sirius. I don't feel special or extraordinary. I just did what any normal person would have done under the circumstances. Why can't anyone see that? I'm more lost and confused than any of them. What do I do when I leave Hogwarts? What am I supposed to do with my life? This school is practically all I know about my world. What am I going to do now?"

Sirius could feel his heart breaking with every word. He had never considered all of the insecurities that his godson had to be feeling. Without thinking, he reached out his arms and drew Harry into a hug. He wasn't sure if the boy was too old for such things, it just seemed like the right thing to do. Eventually, he heard Harry taking deep breaths as he tried to control himself, Sirius knowing that the boy never let anyone see him cry. Harry thought that his actions were the deeds of a normal person, but it simply wasn't true. Sirius wished that he could make him realize that, but he knew that it wouldn't help him now. He squeezed him tighter, and Harry finally wrapped his arms around his godfather, hugging him back with all his might. At least it was a start.

Sirius let go when he felt Harry's arms slacken. Placing both of his hands on his godson's shoulders, Sirius shook Harry gently to get him to look at him. "Now, you listen to me. Don't you worry about all of that. You're going to be fine, I promise. After school, I'll get a house or something, and you can come and live with me. Or you can do whatever you want. You'll find a job, something you'll love to do, and one day you'll find a nice girl and settle down somewhere. Or you can move to the mountains, and become some sort of strange mystic. Or you can even wander off into the woods, build a hut out of sticks, and feed off of large insects for the rest of your life, just like I told my parents I was going to do when I was five. Anything you like."

His words elicited a small laugh from Harry, which gave Sirius some hope. "Everything will be all right. You've got so many people who care about you, who you can go to whenever you need them. If you have a problem, don't hesitate to come to me, or Remus, or Ivy, or Ron, or Hermione. We're all here for you. There are so many people looking out for you. Don't give up yet, all right?"

Harry nodded, looking much more confident than he had a few moments ago. He stopped to consider something. "You should get up there. The food's probably there already."

Sirius stood up. "Yes, I'm sure you're right. But before I go, here's another piece of advice - Don't avoid people. If you don't want them to think you're a saint than you've got to show them how human you are. They can't see that if you're locked away all the time."

Harry stared down at his hands. "Yes, I suppose so."

"So, I'll see you at dinner tonight, right?"

Harry nodded resolutely. "Right."

Sirius winked at him. "Good." And with that, he left the kitchens, and started to make his way to Ivy's chambers.

When he reached her door, all thoughts of bothering and questioning his two friends were back in full force. He'd let them know about Harry later, he didn't want to worry them now. With a sly grin on his face, he opened the door and stepped inside.

Looking around, everything seemed to be peaceful and quiet. Sirius felt briefly panicked at the idea that Remus might have messed everything up again, but he quickly shook the idea away. No, he wasn't in his chambers. He had to be here.

Either they're still asleep or they used a Silencing Spell. Tricky bastards… Sirius sat down in a soft chair that was in front of the coffee table where all of the food had been placed. He casually poured himself a cup of tea and waited.

He had only been sitting for a few minutes when the bedroom door opened. Ivy stepped out in her bathrobe, smiling and giggling, and turned around to face Sirius. She gasped slightly at the sight of him before giving him a cunning smile and pulling the door to her back, so that it was only open a few inches. Sirius smiled back at her, wiggling his eyebrows. Ivy shifted her eyes to the front door as if she were silently telling Sirius to get out. Sirius continued to smile at her, ignoring the warning.

He spotted a hand coming from the behind the bedroom door, reaching out to grab Ivy's wrist and pull her back into the bedroom. Ivy saw it too, and her eyes widened. "Hello, Sirius!" she said rather loudly.

The hand quickly froze in place for a few moments before disappearing again. The door shut behind Ivy. She folded her arms across her chest and glared at Sirius. "What are you doing here?"

Sirius shrugged, placing his teacup back on its saucer, and balancing it on his lap. "Thought I'd come check up on you kids. You know, make sure you were being good… Though I'm obviously too late for that…"

Ivy looked like she was about to respond to Sirius' inappropriate remark, when the bedroom door opened again. This time Remus stepped out, also wearing a bathrobe. Sirius had to hand it to the house elves. They definitely noticed every change within the castle walls.

Remus leaned against the doorframe, one eyebrow raised. "Why are you here, Sirius?"

Ivy rolled her eyes, and leaned back into Remus. "He's come to be an annoyance."

"Ah, of course," Remus said as he slipped an arm around Ivy's waist, smiling at her warmly.

Sirius knew that now really wasn't a good time to be intruding on them. But hey, if they start going at it again, I can always leave…

"I got the house elves to bring up some breakfast for you."

"Oh, really? Wasn't that nice of you!" Ivy drawled sarcastically, as she and Remus went to sit down on the couch that was on the opposite side of the coffee table.

Sirius simply chortled into his tea as his friends started to sift through the contents of the tray. Remus poured them both a cup of tea, and Ivy quickly snatched a biscuit off of one of the plates. She seemed to be very hungry. Remus began to sip his tea quietly. No one was speaking.

Sirius wasn't about to let them get away with that. He smirked at both of them, even though they weren't looking at him. Time to make Remus uncomfortable…

Sirius cleared his throat. "You know, I have to wonder, so I might as well ask - who is the aggressor in this relationship?"

Remus choked on his tea. Ivy covered her mouth with a hand to stifle her laughter. When Remus managed to stop coughing, he looked up at Sirius, wide-eyed.

Sirius wasn't expecting Remus to say anything. He had his own predictions anyway. He raised an eyebrow and glanced at Ivy. "It's Ivy, isn't it? Nothing to be ashamed about, Remus, we know how she can get. And strong women are good to have in your life…"

Still, Remus refused to say anything. In fact, he wouldn't even look at Sirius. He seemed a bit nervous, going back to sipping his tea.

Sirius looked at Ivy. "Come on, Ives, tell me the truth. It's you, isn't it? We all know that Remus isn't sure enough of himself. He's probably too scared of what would happen. I'm right, aren't I?"

Ivy smirked and shot Remus a sympathetic glance. That wasn't fair. Besides, Sirius was wrong, anyway. She wasn't about to let him get away with being so blatant and insulting. She would dish it right back to him. As if Remus isn't insecure enough already…

"Actually, Sirius, he went down on me pretty rough last night, if I recall correctly. You would've been shocked. He's not so shy and quiet when you get him in bed and let him growl…"

Again, Remus started choking. He glanced up to Ivy in shock before dropping his gaze to the carpet, and letting it fixate there.

Sirius was torn between gaping open-mouthed and grinning madly. He had known that Ivy's inability to handle it whenever he teased Remus would be his greatest asset in getting information, but he had not expected such a shameless, overbold response. And to top it off, she'd left him with a very valuable piece of information…

Sirius stared at Remus with a smirk plastered on his face, until his friend finally looked up at him. Remus' eyes darted to the corners of the room, trying to find some way to escape the upcoming assault. Sirius' eyes flashed jovially. I should have to pay to have this much fun…

"If she lets you growl, eh, Moony?"

Remus rolled his eyes helplessly, and went back to his tea as if Sirius' comment was unimportant. But that didn't stop Sirius from noting the color rushing to his cheeks.

"You know, Ivy, you now have precious insight. I can't tell you how many rumors go around about what werewolves are like in 'intimate situations' - you could write a book about it and make a fortune!"

"That's quite enough, Sirius!" Remus exclaimed as he set his teacup down on the tray with a clatter. "Why must you insist on pestering everyone about their personal lives whenever you get the chance! How curious can you possibly be?"

Sirius chuckled at his friend's exasperation. "Very curious, Remus. After all, I've been waiting to have this discussion with you two for years."

Remus was about to start yelling at him again, when he registered what Sirius had said. He paused for a moment and tilted his head. "What do you mean, years?"

Sirius spread his arms. "What do you think? We'd been trying to get you two together since Ivy transferred to Hogwarts in fourth year! Lily, and James, and I worked forever to get you both to admit how you felt, but you never took any of the bait!"

Remus and Ivy looked at each other in confusion for a moment before looking back at Sirius. Remus was blinking hard. Ivy opened and closed her mouth a few times.

"All four of you? Since school?"

"Of course! And it continued long after that. Like at Lily and James' wedding, when the brunette girl was talking to Remus. That was all James and Lily."

Ivy gaped. "What? They did that on purpose?"

"Sure! They were trying to make you jealous!"

Ivy pursed her lips together and narrowed her eyes. She looked positively furious. "Well, they did a damn good job of it! All that time I'd been so upset about what happened! They did it on purpose!"

Now it was Remus' turn to smirk. He'd never imagined that she'd been jealous that night. But now that he thought of it, it made perfect sense. And it was also quite endearing.

"That's why I goaded you into the drinking competition! Lily and James had been hoping that you would go over and get upset with Remus, and that it would somehow trick you into telling how you felt. But you weren't buying it, and I knew that Remus would've ended up dating that girl if I hadn't tried to distract him using you."

Ivy turned to Remus. "I'm beginning to realize that the purpose of having friends is to have people in your life who will constantly meddle in your affairs, and annoy the hell out of you."

"For your own good!" Sirius protested.

"And without any regard for your sanity!" Remus shot back.

"True, true…" Sirius muttered dejectedly. He blinked up at Remus with his best puppy dog eyes. "So, I take it that I'm not going to find out anything else from you?"

Remus smiled and gave a singular nod. "That's right, Padfoot."

Sirius sighed and stood up from his chair. "Well, in that case, as much as I hate to do this, I believe you both have N.E.W.T.S. to give in the afternoon, and I must steal Mr. Moony so he can take the Wolfsbane potion that's been prepared for him in the dungeons."

Remus nodded and went back into Ivy's room to put on his clothes. As soon as he shut the door, Sirius turned his gaze to Ivy.

"He's really the aggressor?"

Ivy gave her typical quirky smile and nodded.

Sirius laughed and shook his head. "Well, bloody hell… How do you feel, by the way? I assume you had a wonderful night…"

Ivy rolled her eyes, though her grin was still in place. "Yes, we had a lovely night, and I feel fine. I am intact, as you see."

Sirius was about to comment when Remus stepped out of the bedroom in his normal clothing. He looked back and forth between them briefly, before fixing a friendly glare on Sirius. "Shall we go?"

Sirius shrugged. "Yes, I suppose…"

Ivy got up from the couch and went over to Remus. She wound her arms around him and placed a long, tender kiss on his lips. "I'll see you soon," she whispered into his ear. Remus leaned his forehead against hers, smiling.

It was too sweet for him not to make a smart-ass remark. Sirius opened his mouth.

"Shut up, Sirius," Remus said lazily, his eyes still focused on Ivy's enchanting face.

Sirius abruptly closed his mouth, and waited for Remus to let go of Ivy's embrace. When he finally did, they both headed down to the dungeons.

*        *        *

As Sirius was walking down to dinner that evening, he ran into Harry for the second time that day. The young man smiled at him.

"So how did everything go when you went to see Professor Dumbledore and Professor Lupin?"

Sirius gave a small smile and blinked his eyes innocently. "What makes you think that they were both up there? After all, Remus might have decided to be gentlemanly, and allowed Ivy her dignity until the school year was out. That would be the proper thing to do, now wouldn't it?"

Harry raised an unimpressed eyebrow. "You know, Sirius, just because I've never had a real girlfriend, doesn't mean I'm completely clueless."

Sirius laughed. "Yes, you're right. Well, they both seemed to be fine. More than fine. Though they weren't really anxious to discuss anything, much to my dismay. I only got a small amount of information from them. I was thoroughly disappointed." Sirius stuck out his lower lip like a pouting child. Harry laughed and shook his head. Then Sirius remembered the other events of the day. "How did your N.E.W.T.S. go today?"

Harry shrugged. "Fine, I guess. Defense Against the Dark Arts was good. Professor Lupin seemed more… relaxed today than usual." He and Sirius both exchanged a look. "Potions wasn't wonderful yesterday, but then, it never has been. I'm not expecting much there."

Sirius nodded. "Good. I'm sure you'll do fantastically. What's for tomorrow?"

They started rounding a corner as Harry spoke. "Care of Magical Crea-"

Harry ran headlong into someone as he turned the corner. A tangle of black and orange-red hair fell to the floor, books flying up in the air and landing after them. Harry tried to mumble an apology, but the wind had been knocked out of him. He pulled himself into a sitting position, and slowly started feeling around for his glasses, which had been knocked off.

The frames and cracked lenses were quickly thrust into his palm by a soft hand. Harry put his glasses on to find himself looking into the bright brown eyes of Ginny Weasley.

"I'm sorry, Harry! I just wasn't paying attention, I guess. I went to put my books back upstairs before dinner, and I suppose I'm just too hungry to be thinking clearly, or something. I didn't hear you or see you."

Harry shook his head and smiled. "S'alright, Ginny, I wasn't paying attention either."

Ginny suddenly noticed the condition of his spectacles. "Oh, your glasses are broken! Hang on…" Ginny took out her wand, and pointed it between his eyes. "Oculus Reparo!"

The cracks in the lenses immediately mended themselves. Harry laughed to himself. She had to have learned that one from Hermione… He pulled the glasses forward to absentmindedly inspect their condition, before smiling at Ginny. "I always forget that one," he exclaimed, tossing her a lighthearted wink.

Ginny smiled back and laughed. Harry got to his feet, and immediately reached down to help her up. As soon as she was steady, they both started gathering her books from off of the floor, bumping heads occasionally, and apologizing again.

Sirius watched with amusement. Somewhere in the back of his mind a memory had been triggered from long ago…

"What happened to your glasses, James?"

"Oh, slight run-in with Snape… I don't suppose you know how to fix it?"

"Well… if you're going to continue pranking in the hallways, I see no reason to encourage your juvenile behavior…"

"Please, Lily? Princess Lily? Queen Lily? Goddess Lily?"

"Don't grovel, James. It is quite unbecoming to your character."

"Please?"

"You're whining, James. You better think of something to say that will put me in a better mood, or you can go through the rest of the school year like an old blind man."

"…I love you, Lil."

"Oh… fine! Oculus Reparo!"

Sirius chuckled. He definitely hadn't noticed this before. But staring at the intelligent, spirited, unarguably sweet young redhead, he couldn't understand how he hadn't. Though they were both obviously unused to each other's company, there was something comfortable about them that they didn't seem to realize. Like father, like son…

Harry handed Ginny her last book and she thanked him. "Well, I better get all of this upstairs. I'll see you at dinner, Harry."

He watched her as she started down the hall. "See you, Ginny."

Harry turned back around to find his godfather staring at him with a ridiculous smile. "What?"

"Ginny Weasley's a nice girl."

"Yeah, she is."

"She's in sixth year, right?"

"Um-hm."

Sirius started walking again. "And she's the only girl in Ron's family?"

"Besides her mum, yeah. I actually feel kind of sorry for her sometimes, being stuck with so many brothers."

"I'm sure that's tough."

Harry nodded. "But she handles it really well."

Sirius shrugged. "Well, she has to." He was trying to make some sort of small talk, hoping for Harry to say something that would indicate feelings of any kind, romantic or otherwise. He said nothing. Sirius sighed inwardly. Move from my friends to my godson. It will never end…

When they got to the Great Hall, Harry sat down next to Ron, and Sirius made his way over to the staff table. He took a seat next to Remus, and started serving himself dinner. However, he couldn't hold it in for long.

He leaned forward at the table, so he could see Ivy better from where she was sitting on the other side of Remus. "I've got some interesting news."

Remus rolled his eyes. "If it's about your plan to bring Buckbeak from my cottage so he can trample Draco Malfoy during the graduation ceremony, then I don't want to hear about it."

Sirius waved an impatient hand. "No, Remus, I was walking down here with Harry a few minutes ago, and guess who he ran into. Literally ran into."

Remus glanced up from his plate. "Who?"

Sirius smirked. "Ginny Weasley."

He saw Ivy smile, but Remus seemed unimpressed. "Yes, Sirius, and I'm sure he sees her every day. Why is that such interesting news?"

Sirius raised his eyebrows. "I think he likes her."

Remus immediately shook his head. "I doubt that Sirius. I heard other students when I taught Harry in third year saying that Ginny used to have a crush on Harry, but he never seemed to notice her."

"Trust me, Moony - he notices her now."

Remus glanced over at Ivy and shook his head. He turned back to Sirius with a disapproving look. "You never stop, do you?"

Sirius smiled. "No, never. It's my job."

Ivy stared up at the ceiling thoughtfully. "Sirius Black - Matchmaker Extraordinaire…"

She narrowed her eyes and concentrated hard for a moment.

"Nah."

*        *        *

"I can't believe you even need time to think about this! It's ridiculous! You should have told her yes immediately after she asked you!"

Ivy leaned back against the wall in her chambers in between a bookcase and a chair. She hoped that if she surrounded herself he would get the point and go away. She glanced briefly to where Remus sat on the couch reading a book, pretending not to hear the argument that was playing out over his head. That was where she wanted to be. Why wouldn't he leave her alone?

"Sirius, I just don't know if I feel ready to run an entire school! I don't think it's a good idea to give such an important job to someone who has only been teaching here for a year!"

Sirius threw his arms up in the air exasperatedly. "You went to school here! Your great-granduncle was the Headmaster for nearly half a century! I think that gives you every right and all the experience you need! If you don't take the job, it'll probably be Severus Snape sitting up in that office! Ivy, you have to see reason! McGonagall asked you over a week ago, she wants an answer soon!"

Ivy banged her head against the wall, and glanced over to the couch again, this time for assistance. "Remus, tell him to leave me alone!"

Remus kept his eyes on his book, holding his hands up in the air helplessly. "Don't look at me, I have absolutely no control over him."

Ivy closed her eyes, and tried to speak in her most controlled voice. "Sirius, I have a lot of things to figure out right now. I don't think I need the added aggravation of running a school to go along with it. I need some time to focus on my own life."

Sirius stamped his foot on the floor. "You'll have all summer for that! Stop being ridiculous! I won't stand by and let you…" Sirius glanced down, and suddenly his gaze shot back up to Ivy. If he had been frustrated before, now he was completely enraged. "Why didn't you tell me? I don't believe you! You let me stand here ranting like this, and didn't say anything! I have a good mind to hex you!"

Ivy's brow furrowed. She couldn't figure out what had made his transition so abrupt. "What are you talking about, Sirius?"

Sirius' eyes flashed furiously. "What do you mean, what am I talking about? I'm supposed to be your friend! You're supposed to tell me things! Not…" Sirius started to mumble incoherently and again shifted his gaze down, before turning around and stalking to the other corner of the room.

Ivy looked down at herself, trying to figure out what Sirius had been going on about. Something caught her gaze. She held up her left hand to her face and found a gold band neatly resting on her finger. She looked more closely. The band had a square cut ruby in the center, and ivy leaves and vines engraved all the way around it.

Ivy clamped her right hand over her mouth. She looked across the room to find Remus edging his way to the door. Ivy quickly crossed the floor and stood in front of it, blocking his exit. He looked up at her timidly, biting his lower lip.

Ivy took a deep breath. She was determined not to squeal like a little girl. After all, she didn't even know what was going on yet.

"Remus?"

She watched as he sighed, trying hard to look her in the eye. "I realized I was too nervous to ask, so… I just put it on while you slept…. I had hoped that you would notice it when you woke. In fact, I wondered why you didn't."

Ivy stared at her hand again. The ring was light and beautifully crafted. It fit her perfectly. That was why she hadn't noticed. It felt like it had always been there. Ivy wanted to tell him that, but she couldn't find the words… She couldn't find any words at that moment.

Remus stared at her nervously. "I don't want you to think that I'm rushing you. I just thought that after all we'd been through, there was no point in waiting any longer." He paused to stop himself from rambling, and waited for her to say something. She didn't. Instead, she stared back at him, wide-eyed and openmouthed. He took another deep breath, summoning courage he no longer had. "What do you think?"

Ivy gave a small gasp for air. He wants me to say something. Oh God, what do I say? Say something, you idiot! Say something perfect… Or at least intelligible!

Remus watched as Ivy's eyes darted around the room. Oh no, I moved it too fast. Now she's going to be upset and unsure, and everything will be awkward. Great idea, Remus! I might as well go drown myself in the lake right now! I am-

But his thoughts were interrupted as Ivy rushed to him, flinging her arms around his neck as she laughed joyfully. He held her tight, feeling her heart pounding against his chest. Relief flooded him, accompanied by a complete adoration for the woman he had in his arms.

"I love you," she whispered in his ear.

And Remus held her tighter.

"So, I'll take that as a yes?" he said in a tone far more lighthearted and casual than he truly felt.

Ivy leaned back in his arms, smiling. "Of course!" she exclaimed, moving forward to capture him in a kiss.

Remus lingered on the sweetness of her lips, ignoring the sound of Sirius cackling on the other side of the room. He wanted this moment burned into his mind, his senses, for all time. He needed to be able to look back on it and always remember this feeling of being loved with such abandon, by a person who was so divine, so breathtaking, so sublime. It was hard to feel all of it at once, but he had to try.

When they finally parted, Sirius' laughter could still be heard on the other side of the room. They both looked at him. Sirius clapped his hands together and smiled at them.

"Well, as soon as Ivy decides to be headmistress, we'll only have one more thing to clear up."

Ivy rolled her eyes. "And what is that, Sirius?"

Sirius held up a hand and started counting on his fingers. "Well, when's the wedding, who's invited, where's it going to be, what color are the flower arrangements, how many people will be in the procession, what kind of cake are you going to have…"

Sirius continued on, while Remus leaned over and whispered in Ivy's ear, "Who's going to be walking down the aisle on a leash…"

Ivy laughed, to which Sirius blinked at her quizzically, only making her laugh harder. Remus soon joined her, and they both decided to withdraw from Ivy's quarters, leaving Sirius alone to figure out what had been so funny.

^*^

Okay… so? Did that make up for all my meanness? I hope so… I'll try to get the next chapter up ASAP. But what did you think of this one? Too fluffy? Not fluffy enough? There's more to come, don't worry. One more chapter (tear). After all, they have to get married, don't they? And I'll have an important question in the author's note, so make sure you read it! Anyway, review and I'll feel happy!