After many requests, I've finally written a oneshot that not only features Remus' part at James and Lily's wedding but also one of your favorite characters for him to interact with. There are about four different names for James' parents so I just chose the one I liked most. I apologize for any difference from canon with the wedding. Thank you all for continuing to read.

19

Father of the Bride

Potter Manor had been a somber place since Fleamont and Euphemia Potter had passed within days of each other of Dragon Pox. What had only been six months ago felt like ages now though. Now an entirely different feeling lingered in the air because today was different. It marked the start of something new. Potter Manor was the venue of a very important wedding. The wedding of Lily Evans to James Potter.

November 1979 marked many things for Lily and James. The third day of November Lily discovered that she was pregnant. The fourth day after telling James, she found herself engaged to him. An affair that was being saved for Christmas, which James Potter decided he could no longer wait for. The fifth day after announcing both their pregnancy and engagement to The Order of the Phoenix members, the newlyweds Frank and Alice Longbottom revealed that they too were pregnant and due at also the same time as Lily and James. The eighth day, James and Lily decided on a wedding date of November 29th and the venue of Potter Manor. A place they would sell shortly afterwards to relocate to a safer location in the quaint, but homey Godric's Hollow. Only four blocks away from Remus and Sirius' flat.

Today, it seemed as though everyone's day to day roles were swapped.

James Potter who had been slowly dissolving his flirtatious, bachelor persona to become dutiful boyfriend, stood taller and smiled brighter. Today he was assuming the role of loving and faithful husband and father to be. He'd known for years this was the man that Lily Evans would make of him and he didn't miss an aspect of his former self. This was a promotion to him.

The troublemaker and notorious lady's man Sirius Black was slightly more sentimental today. A little more serious(pardon the pun) too. He was the best man and soon to be godfather. Remus had noticed his maturity level spike as of late.

Peter Pettigrew was no longer the meek and pandering follower, trailing behind his friends. Today he wore dress robes and stood proudly alongside Sirius as a groomsmen. It was almost as if this was the affirmation he needed from James all along to assure him that he was their equal, not their servant.

Albus Dumbledore was father of the groom, even if he didn't realize it. Though something told Remus he was aware by the way James kept beaming proudly whenever Albus acknowledged how beautiful Potter Manor looked for this occasion or remarked how happy he was for him and Lily.

Minerva McGonagall served a similar role. Both mother of the groom and bride. Where James' mother was deceased, Lily's mother was simply not in attendance. After Petunia's refusal to go to Lily's wedding she decided it was best to distance herself from her family now anyway. Times were increasingly dangerous and the only way to keep her family safe was to disappear. However heartbroken she was a week ago about possibly never seeing her family again, all of that had vanished now. She was gaining a new family and Minerva McGonagall's presence further reassured her of the fact she would never be without a mother.

Alice Longbottom for instance, was now her 'Petunia.' Her Maid of Honor. Nothing about Alice had changed today except for the length of her dimpled smile at her elation for this union.

And finally, there was Remus. Normally the faithful companion of both Lily and James, today he was many other things. First off, he was the wedding planner. Who better to plan an organized event and quickly than Remus Lupin? Alongside Lily they had been an unstoppable force of preparation. In addition, he was a groomsmen, though currently absent from the party of Marauders on the ground floor of the mansion. He'd just left them after making sure they were in their places for the ceremony.

Now he was upstairs ready to assume the duty he was most proud of.

Surrogate Father of the Bride.

He knocked on the door he recognized to be the guest bedroom. Behind it he heard the soft voices of Lily, Marlene, Dorcas and Alice.

"Who is it?" called Marlene.

"Remus."

"Come in!" Lily's voice came. "We're all decent!"

An eruption of laughter became louder as Remus opened the door. Lily sat at the vanity with Alice perched on a stool beside her, chatting. Dorcas stood behind Marlene zipping up the back of her lavender dress. Each girl wore some soft shade of purple though the dresses were all different in shape. Marlene's was short and very fitted with a plunging collar. Doe's was tea length and cap sleeved. Alice's was floor length and gently fell off her shoulders.

"It's ten minutes to start. Just coming to tell you all to take your places," Remus said, hands in the pockets of his dress robes.

"I love it when you're bossy," grinned Dorcas.

The corner of Remus' mouth quirked up as he held open the door and nodded his head outside. Alice stood and hugged Lily from behind, whispering soft words Remus assumed were of encouragement and comfort in her ear. He couldn't quite see Lily's face but he could tell she was smiling by the way her cheek appeared lifted.

"Bye, Lily! You look stunning," Marlene said squeezing Lily's bare shoulders.

Dorcas gave her a firm hug.

"We'll see you in a few," added Doe walking past Remus and pecking him on the cheek.

"You look lovely," he said softly to her.

"Thanks," Dorcas blushed leaving the room.

Marlene and Alice followed suit leaving just Lily and Remus in the room. He shut the door as soon as they had all exited. Lily turned around in her chair, hands folded in her lap. Remus smiled warmly at her. She was beautiful. Her green eyes were complimented by a shimmering gold shadow, long lashes curled. Her fiery hair was full and wavy, swept up in a low bun with a white lily tucked behind her ear.

"Wow," Remus said. "Breathtaking. You look just breathtaking, Lily."

She grinned back at him, eyes watering slightly.

"You clean up well too, Remus."

"Not about me today," he replied shaking his head and taking a seat on the stool where Alice had sat.

Lily looked back in the vanity and let her hands trace the lacy, sweetheart neckline of her ivory dress.

"Thanks for walking me today, Remus."

The memory came back to him. The foot race he and Peter had lost to Sirius giving him the title of 'Best Man.' James suggesting they all go out for drinks but Remus refusing, not wanting to tempt the fate of his stomach with the full moon just one day away. Peter, James and Sirius had departed Potter Manor for drinks at the local pub leaving Lily and Remus in the kitchen with a pot full of tea.

"More tea, Remus?" asked Lily.

Remus nodded.

"Yes, please. That foot race. Merlin, it was exhausting. I'm parched."

Lily began pouring tea into a cup, arching a brow at Remus and glancing at him skeptically through her lashes. He cocked his head to the side innocently.

"What's that look?"

"Oh, please," scoffed Lily, handing Remus his steaming cup of tea. "You big fibber."

"I'm not a fibber!" Remus laughed. "You know how sore I get the day before-"

"Mmhm, I also know how much faster you are right now. Seventh year you told me that it felt good to stretch your legs and run before a moon."

Remus took a sip of his tea.

"Don't know what you're talking about…"

"Oh, I'm just a frail, aching werewolf. I can't run fast right now. You win, Sirius! Ah!" Lily mocked sitting at the dining room table.

Remus snickered leaning back against the counter and eyeing Lily.

"Well, the title of best man doesn't mean nearly as much to me as it does to Sirius. I don't need it," shrugged Remus.

"I s'pose it's a good thing you didn't win," she mused.

"Dodged a curse, did I?"

"It'd be hard for you to be both best man and escort me down the aisle."

Remus slowly looked at a grinning Lily. Her elbow on the table with her head propped up on her palm.

"Erm, what?" Remus asked. "Your… your father, Lily?"

"My father won't be in attendance. None of my family will."

"Lily, we already made the guest list-" Remus exhaled thinking back to three nights ago when they'd finalized who was invited.

"I need to distance myself from them. At least until the war is over," said Lily somberly. "Besides, they're hardly pleased with my being pregnant out of wedlock."

"I'm still telling you, they'll move past it, Lily. They will hardly-"

"Remus, will you accept? Will you be walking me down the aisle?" she smirked.

Remus took another sip of his tea and stroked his jaw. What was this honor? Why was it his? He was very close with Lily, but walking her down the aisle? The job of her father. Why him? Surely, she didn't consider them just as close he did. He had no friends outside of the Marauders, the Order (at least some of them) and Lily; for obvious reasons.

"Lily, are you sure you don't want to ask someone like, I dunno, Albus or-"

"Albus Dumbledore didn't walk with me down dark corridors and talk all night. He didn't let me cry on his shoulder when Severus was mean or when James and I quarrelled. He didn't teach me how to play a song on the piano or take me for tea at Madame Puddifoot's. He didn't listen to me complain for hours on end," Lily said with a stern but amused look.

Remus' smile tipped a bit higher and he felt his eyes prickle with tears.

"Lily, you don't need to feel obligated to-"

"I don't. This is what I want."

Quickly, he swiped away the two tears that had fallen with his knuckle. Lily stood from her seat and crossed to Remus.

"Yes, of course. I'd be honored," he beamed.

Lily bum rushed Remus, nearly knocking the wind out of him. He cringed at how the impact shot through his tense muscles but tenderly returned her embrace, kissing the top of her head. After a moment longer the two separated.

"Alright, let's talk about erm, food, for the reception which I'm assuming will also be held here? The parlor it's...it's rather large," Remus said clearing his throat and sitting at the table.

Lily joined him, sitting opposite.

"Neither of us is bad in the kitchen so we can cook together the day before. Charm it to stay fresh till…"

After another hour of planning, against his better judgment, Remus agreed to a splash of Irish cream in his tea. Lily considered it a 'favor' saying he was drinking for the both of them.

"Everything is set. Everyone is in place. Frank's a little nervous about marrying you both but I'm sure he'll be fine as soon as it all starts," Remus remarked, his cheeks flushing. "How are you feeling?"

"I'm excited, also a little nervous. I know that's only to be expected, but I feel a little guilty for being anxious."

"No, you were right the first time. That's totally natural," Remus corrected.

Lily sighed and fiddled with a loose tendril of her hair.

"Any pointers? On how to deal with this sort of feeling? How do you ease your nerves?" babbled Lily.

Remus chuckled, looking at her with a smirk.

"Well, I'm not sure if it'll work for you but if you really want my advice?"

"Yes, please."

"Three unregistered animagi and sometimes a bottle of Firewhiskey," he smiled wryly.

Lily laughed to herself and turned to Remus with a grateful smile.

"Well, I can't have alcohol and my three unregistered animagi are currently occupied elsewhere," Lily stated.

"Ah, well, in that case," Remus said with serious expression. "I'd prescribe a few deep breaths, remembering how much you love James and a werewolf. How's that sound?"

"Perfect."

The two shared a warm smile. Remus' hand found Lily's and he squeezed it comfortingly. Lily sniffed, holding back tears so as not to ruin her makeup.

"I'll walk you down the aisle at you and Doe's wedding someday," Lily offered.

Remus looked at his scuffed shoes.

"Well, I dunno if we'll go that far, me and Doe. She knows my feelings about legally tying herself to me and-"

"Remus," Lily said seriously."I'll walk you down the aisle at your wedding."

"Today isn't about me, Lily. Alright? Save your insistence on werewolf matrimony till after your honeymoon."

Lily nodded with reluctant resolution. Remus took Lily's hands in his and inhaled through his nose.

"Lily, thank you so much for doing me this honor. It's been a privilege being your friend all these years," he said softly. "I never imagined you'd still want to be my friend after that night in the Astronomy Tower where I had to nonchalantly discuss James' Quidditch fitness regimen with you."

Lily laughed at the memory of a stammering Remus trying to casually brag on James in an obvious effort to impress her. He'd groaned immediately afterward and tried desperately not to look at her until she started laughing. Then he started laughing. Then he'd discussed things with Lily about James that actually impressed her. How James was paying careful attention to the books she read and was attempting to read them himself. How he'd suddenly taken an interest in muggle music because she liked it.

"And remember, no matter what happens at this ceremony, nothing will be worse than Sirius' best man speech."

She laughed again at this and nodded.

"He'll probably attempt to flirt with Marlene throughout the whole thing."

"I've heard one or two lines of it and some of it is actually very thoughtful," Remus remarked. "That said, there are one or two things he has to say about the way Marlene looks in her dress."

Beneath them came the muffled sound of Elvis Presley's 'I Can't Help Falling In Love.' Remus turned his tawny eyes to Lily.

"Ready?" he asked quietly.

With one last glance in the mirror, Lily looked back at Remus with a teary-eyed smile.

"Yes, I'm ready."

Remus stood and extended his hand to Lily. She accepted, her fingers shaking slightly; but as soon as Remus gave them a comforting squeeze the trembling subsided. As Remus and Lily descended the stairs they made out the backs of Alice and Sirius heading down the aisle. They were next. Remus looked at Lily one more time who was inhaling and exhaling steadily. He looped his arm through hers and grabbed the bouquet of roses off the buffet table by the bottom of the steps. He handed it over to her.

"You love him," Remus whispered with a kind smile.

Lily relaxed again and turned her eyes forward. They began their slow march down the aisle.

All the members of the Order (the whole of the guests) stood, their eyes fixed on Lily. Her eyes were on James though. As were Remus'. James was smiling broadly and his eyes were glistening with tears. Remus couldn't help but grin a little bigger himself. James didn't look happy or elated. He looked excited. Exultant. He radiated joy. Remus' eyes shifted to Sirius whose jaw was open just slightly as he smiled at Lily and Remus. He elbowed James and murmured something in his ear.

They reached the end of the aisle. Remus and Lily faced one another, holding hands. Remus placed a kiss on her cheek and they embraced one another tightly.

"Love you," Lily said quietly.

They pulled apart and Remus blinked back the tears brimming his in eyes. He couldn't remember the last time he'd been this happy for someone. He couldn't remember ever feeling this way actually.

"You too," he nodded.

Lily took her place opposite James, and Remus walked to the end of the line of groomsmen. The exchanging of vows seemed to happen in a flash. Maybe it was because the situation was so surreally joyous in this time of turmoil or because Frank Longbottom was so nervous he was speeding through the words.

It didn't matter as soon as he said the words 'you may kiss the bride.'

The guests erupted into applause as Lily and James exchanged a very uncensored kiss.

"What can I say about James Potter? My mate since first year. My roommate for all seven. A man who became my brother."

Remus tuned out for part of Sirius' speech as he took in the scene. The smiling faces of the usually tense Order members. The warm lights. The smell of home cooked food. The loving energy that was practically tangible in the room.

"...Marlene, I'm not pressuring you to catch the bouquet, but I'm not encouraging you either, darling…"

Remus recognized this as the first of two references to Marlene in his speech. His eyes flickered to Dorcas who was watching Sirius with an entertained smile. She looked from Sirius to Remus and shook her head. Remus smiled back at her and shrugged.

"...I don't want to make things uncomfortable…"

There was the second Marlene joke. The rest of the speech was very heartfelt and sweet. Sirius was a completely different person for a few minutes. He was Sirius, godfather and best man.

"Please, raise your glasses to Lily and James Potter," Sirius finished.

Everyone echoed Sirius and took drinks of their champagne. The glasses refilled themselves after being set down.

There was a touching speech from James about how long he'd waited for Lily and how she'd made him a better man.

A heartwarming speech from Alice as to how in the absence of having an actual sister, Lily had filled that void.

Lily's own speech closed it all out with a very eloquent and thoughtful word on love and expressing it for those closest to you in times of darkness.

It was time for the part everyone was looking forward to. The reception. Food. Drink. Dancing. Things they hadn't had time for since their graduation party seventh year.

"You look beautiful tonight, by the way," Remus remarked as he and Dorcas swayed to the crooning voice of Dean Martin. "Do your parents know you're on a date with a werewolf, young lady?"

Dorcas rolled her eyes at his teasing.

"I'm a grown woman. I can make up my mind for myself, thank you."

Remus pressed his lips to her forehead as they continued in slow circles.

"I have to say, you look good in dress robes, Lupin."

"Thank you, Meadowes. Formal wear suits you well, too," chuckled Remus.

There was a small silence where Dorcas looked up at him hopefully.

"Maybe, soon, I'll see you in a pair again? Standing similar to where James was today?"

Her voice was quiet and timid. Two words not often associated with Dorcas Meadowes. Remus swallowed, eyes darting about the room.

"Doe, you… you know how I feel about that," Remus murmured. "Let's not discuss this now, okay?"

"I only thought that… I mean after you saw how happy everyone was you might change your mind…"

This one hit Remus right in the heart. He inhaled trying to cool the fire in the pit of his stomach. She was a mind reader, Dorcas was.

"Can we just-"

"I'm sorry," Doe interrupted, offering a grim smile. "Let's be in the moment."

Remus nodded, still not looking at her. Dorcas' eyes danced about the room, she gave a small grin.

"These decorations? It was all you and Lily?" she inquired.

Remus looked at the floating candles and twinkling lights. The cream colored ribbons adorning the various chairs of all shapes and designs.

"Lily told me what she wanted. I only acquired it and helped her set up."

"You may have career as a wedding coordinator," mused Doe.

"No, no, no," Remus cut off. "Far too much of a sap to do this full time. Besides, what if someone scheduled their wedding on a full moon? What do I say? Hey, can you reschedule for a day that I'm not werewolf because that's my day off."

Dorcas laughed and rested her head on Remus' chest.

"I suppose I could tell them I'm always available with the exception of the full moon's zenith. I can still be around as security for your wedding. Do you have reinforced chains in yours garage?"

Another well solicited giggle from his girlfriend. Remus was blushing now.

"This is how you'll advertise yourself. Remus Lupin, wedding coordinator slash bodyguard-full moon rates will apply."

"Yep. Stamp that on a business card and call me an entrepreneur."

"It'll be your Christmas present. I was going to buy you a month's worth of wolfsbane, but I'll just invest in your future business. More profitable for the both of us-"

"Whoa, Doe," Remus said slowly. "Are you serious? A month's worth? That's… that's a lot of money."

"Not as expensive if you brew it yourself."

"That's a complicated potion, Doe. And not your responsibility."

"I've got help," she said simply. "Speaking of Potions, did Lily not invite Snape?"

"Oh, Merlin, if I told you the truth there you'd think I was lying."

"Try me."

Remus took a deep breath and bowed his head so he was closer to Doe. What he was going to confess was not something that needed to circulate.

"Lily actually wasn't convinced inviting him was a good idea after that last row with James. The one right at the end of seventh year. Remember?"

"No one in Gryffindor could forget that."

"Okay, so after that incident, Lily decided that Severus hated James too much to enjoy the occasion and she couldn't enjoy his presence if he was miserable all the while. This is where it gets interesting," Remus mumbled looking out of the corner of his eye. "I turn over the guest list to James and he asks why Snape isn't on there. Lily explains and James then offers to go 'work things out with Severus.' He said he would personally invite him and make sure there were no hard feelings."

"So Lily told him not to?" Dorcas asked curiously.

"I don't know actually!" he hissed. "Because Lily said she'd have to think about it. So I went home for the night and I thought better than to ask about it again. I was hoping I'd get an answer but Severus is just as unlikely to come without an invite as he is if James had offered an olive branch."

They continued to dance. Remus could see the thoughts swimming in her head. So very Dorcas. For all her compassion and wit, she was very nosy. It was a good quality to have in a time of war in which you worked for a resistance.

"Hm, that is a puzzle."

"I guess we'll never know," shrugged Remus.

"No! You have to ask!"

"I'm not going to ask!" he laughed.

"You have to! You've went and got me curious."

"Tell you what, if it comes up, which with Peter's lack of tact no doubt it will, you'll be the first person I tell the answer to. Deal?"

He held his hand out to Doe as the music faded. She shook it with a smirk. The music became upbeat and a slightly drunk Sirius was all too eager to begin the traditional 'Persephone Lope' dance featured at most wizard weddings. While Dorcas dove right in, Remus confessed that his limbs were a little stiff with the next week's approaching full moon and he needed some air. James insisted he just relax and take a seat, but Remus said the fresh air would do him good and it couldn't hurt to do a quick patrol of the Potter's grounds.

Slinging his robes over his arm and loosening his tie, Remus exited the house with wand in hand. He began a lazy stroll through the dark lawn. The moon above was getting large, but nothing could spoil this night.

As Remus reached the front of the house where he could see the parlor of dancing guests he realized that he wasn't the only one watching. A cloaked figure stood beneath one of the many pear trees, looking straight ahead. Remus drew his wand and began striding over quickly.

"Remove your hood. I'm armed," Remus said aiming at the mysterious figure.

Instantly, they removed their hood to reveal a rather annoyed but still very greasy, Severus Snape.

"First your the father of the bride and now you're the bodyguard," drawled Snape. "Seems like a demotion to me."

Remus released a sigh of relief and tucked away his wand, posture relaxing.

"Severus, I didn't know you were coming," Remus said crossing to stand beside him. "You're a little late but Lily-"

"I'm not late," he snapped. "How else would I know she had a werewolf subbing in for her father? I've seen the whole thing."

Remus blinked, shoving his hands in his pockets and following Snape's gaze into the parlor.

"Well feel free to go on in. Lily will be happy you're here."

"Is a symptom of lycanthropy stupidity, Lupin, or do you just not listen?"

Remus turned his head to look at Severus who was staring at him with raised brows.

"I'm really not certain how to answer that question," smirked Remus.

"I've been here the whole time. If I intended on going in don't you think I would have by now? And you'd do well not to try and convince me to enter, Remus. James already attempted to do that two weeks ago and I'll give you the same answer I gave him. No way in hell."

Remus' eyes widened.

"That was...a lot of information," Remus nodded. "I'm glad we've grown close enough that we can have these little talks, Severus. I feel like you really trust me."

"Why wouldn't I trust you, Lupin? You only tried to kill me."

"In my defense, you followed me. I did not invite you."

"No, that was all Sirius."

Remus cringed at the memory. The memory of the longest fight he'd ever had with his friends. Peter had forgiven Sirius instantly. James had taken a few days to warm back up to him. Remus had ignored Sirius for over a month. Apology after apology, Remus continued to ignore his friend. Until after six weeks Sirius had gave perhaps the most desperate beg for forgiveness Remus had ever witnessed. Then, almost as instantly as Peter, Remus forgave his friend.

"I really don't understand why you remained friends with that arrogant arse. Still not sure why you forgave him."

"Well, as you are always so keen to remind me, Severus, I'm in no position to be picky with my friends, for one," exhaled Remus. "And second, his intention was not to get you killed. In all honesty, I don't know how you forgave him."

"I haven't and don't plan to presently."

"At least you're consistent, Snape."

A silence transpired between them. Through the parlor window Remus could make out the laughing Dorcas dancing with Sirius. No doubt she was stepping on his feet. Her words suggesting marriage echoed in his head. Doe knew what she was doing. She knew that she could tip him over the edge if she talked about it enough. It would be easy too considering he actually wanted to marry her. However, he was obligated to decline.

"Aren't you worried the wizarding world's most self proclaimed playboy is having a dance with your girlfriend?"

Remus snorted back a laugh and shook his head.

"If anything I'm worried for his feet. She's lovely but can't dance to save her life."

A barely perceptible smile graced Snape's lips. He peered at Remus out of the corner of his eye, noting the deep and angry scars marking his pale skin. His face, so young, was offset by a pair of very old, wise eyes. As much as Severus Snape enjoyed indulging in self-pity there was no denying that Remus Lupin had life just as hard as him. Where was Severus was blessed with good health, Remus was blessed with friendship. Where Severus was cursed with loneliness, Remus was literally cursed. So why weren't they friends? Snape remembered why as two new figures appeared in the window.

An ivory clad Lily and absolutely glowing James.

Severus scowled briefly. He was jealous, sad and angry. Envious of James. Sad for obvious reasons. Furious with Remus for never taking his side.

"You've said that you don't hate me on numerous occasions, Lupin."

"I have," confirmed Remus.

"So why did you let them do it? Torment me for all those years. You had the power to do something and you didn't. That's just as bad as helping them, you know-"

"We've been over this, Severus," he grimaced. "I don't want to chase off what little friends I do have and-"

"And I've been over this with you. Obviously they would never stop being your friend. Never. They like you far too much. And what do you think for? Certainly not for being a werewolf. Definitely not because of your knack for pranks," Severus said the last word like it tasted bad on his tongue.

Remus raised a brow at Severus.

"Oh? Then whatever for? I sense a compliment oncoming."

Severus clenched his jaw shut as the corner of Remus' mouth hitched up. He decided not to press Snape. No good would come of that. Snape would rather die than tell a 'Marauder' there was something worth liking about them.

"My point is, you should have said something. You should have realized-"

"Come off it, Severus. I was scared," Remus said in a low voice. "You of all people should understand that."

"And what's that supposed to mean?" snapped Severus.

"Why are you out here? Why? You've been invited. Lily would love to see you. James has agreed to let bygones be bygones. You don't care about what anyone else in there thinks, supposedly," Remus said incredulously. "So what are you doing outside?"

At this, Snape stiffened. It was true. He was afraid to go inside. To confront the finality that he would never be with Lily Evans. It was humiliating, heartbreaking and… he was scared. Remus tried not to look smug. He wasn't after all. He didn't enjoy the pain he'd inflicted on Severus with that brutal truth.

"So, I suppose you're next in line then?" Snape said, clearly changing the subject. "Are you going to catch the bouquet and make half breed, mutant, werewolf babies with Meadowes?"

Now it was Remus' turn to be uncomfortable.

"Why is everyone so bloody invested in my relationship?" grumbled Remus.

He rubbed the back of his neck, biting back more words of frustration. Severus' head snapped in his direction, dark eyes glinting with curiosity.

"Are you seriously not going to marry her? After all this time?" Snape said in a tone that vaguely reminded Remus of his father. "You've spent years with her and with Voldemort on the rise people are marrying off left and right. You've been with Dorcas about as long as James and Lily. What's the bloody hold up?"

"Because I can't. I can't let her do that to herself," Remus said simply.

Why was it so easy to say these things to Severus?

"Oh, do what, you miserable martyr?" Snape groaned.

Remus looked at Severus, surprised at his sudden anger that reflected slight enthusiasm.

"Do you have the faintest idea how rare it is for someone like you to find someone who doesn't care about you being a werewolf?"

"How could I not know with how often you remind me?" snorted Remus. "Besides, a moment ago you insinuate that being a werewolf had nothing to do with people's opinions of me."

"Romance and friendship are two different things. I ought to know," he replied bitterly. "Dorcas doesn't care about the stigma or that you'll probably die long before her…"

"Barrel of laughs, you are, Severus…" Remus said, rolling his eyes.

"...so marry the bird before she comes to her sense."

"It's not that simple, Severus."

"It is."

"No, not really."

"Yes. It is."

"No, Snape," spat Remus.

Snape looked a bit startled. It was rare to see Remus Lupin angry. Regardless, he couldn't show his concern. So instead he said…

"Do explain, Lupin."

Sighing...

"If she marries me, the next logical step is finding a suitable place to live and all I can afford is a hole in the wall with Sirius. After that it's children and I am highly discouraged by the Ministry to breed and for good reason. Then it's growing old together, which you so kindly pointed out, isn't an option. I can't check off a single box on the 'things you need to do when you're a husband' list," Remus said in a rush of words.

Snape regarded that he'd thought about this a lot and most likely, hadn't felt like disclosing it to his friends. The way Remus saw it, he probably wouldn't be disclosing, he'd be 'burdening.'

"To be honest, I dunno if I'll make it through the war what with my mission and considering how stubborn Doe is that might be the only way to break it off with her."

Severus almost choked. He looked over at Remus whose expression was calm and contemplative.

"Merlin, Remus… You are so poor at ending relationships that you have to die to get out of them?"

Remus grimaced and shrugged nonchalantly.

"I'm deep in it now, Severus. You don't even know," he sighed. "The things they do… The things I've done. If Greyback finds out what I'm really doing there he'll-"

"Lock you up in a kennel?"

Remus chuckled, recognizing Snape's attempt to add some element of levity. It didn't go unappreciated, and knowing this made Severus' imperceptible smile return. Eventually, the wary look resurfaced on Remus' face. He tilted his head watching the way Sirius held Doe and dipped her. The smile on her face that made her nose crinkle. Someone like Sirius could make her happy. This did not go unnoticed by Severus.

"So, what? Black is next in line for Dorcas' hand? Don't be daft. She's far too stubborn. Would probably end up trying to summon you into a ghost so she could continue to date you," Snape said amusedly. "You however, are much more malleable. I have confidence you'll give in and have a small, very private wedding then go on to make a pup or two."

"Nah," Remus added, shaking his head. "Besides, I'll be too preoccupied helping Sirius look after his godson. Godric knows he'll need help."

Snape flinched. Remus looked at him with wide eyes. Did Severus not know Lily was pregnant? Remus' mouth opened and closed as he struggled to find the right words to confront the situation.

"I...erm...you knew about that, right?"

After what seemed like ages, Severus nodded.

"James told me when he was trying to convince me to come to this… function."

"Ah, and… how are you?" inquired Remus genuinely.

He knew that this probably felt like the final nail in the coffin of solitude for Severus. He paused before turning his stare from the dancing guests to his feet.

"I'm alright. How far along is she? James said they'd only just discovered it."

"Almost a month. She found out only three days later. They couldn't wait to tell everyone either. We were due for a bit of good news."

"That's very quick…" Snape grumbled

. "Well, you know, Lily. She told me she felt something 'just wasn't right' and went and brewed some sort of detection potion with that small apothecary she keeps in the hall closet," he said with a good natured smile.

"Sounds like her… When did you find out?"

Remus couldn't tell the truth. That he'd known before James. He'd promised Lily he wouldn't tell a soul. Instead he simply said…

"When they told Sirius and Peter."

"I see."

A wave of pity hit Remus. Here was Severus Snape watching the only woman he ever loved be perfectly happy without him in her life. She was legally bound to his enemy and carrying said enemy's child. Remus couldn't imagine what Snape was feeling, though if he could it was something similar to how he felt after a full moon. Severus' dark eyes gave nothing away. Remus decided to try once more.

"What if I asked Lily to come outside? You could see her in private. No one would ever know you were here and-"

"I won't spoil this for her."

"Severus, she'd be happy to-"

"Look at her, Remus," snarled Severus. Softer then, "She doesn't need me to be happy."

"She wasn't able to invite her parents and Petunia refused to attend. I-"

"No, Lupin."

"Do you get some sort of pleasure out of interrupting someone who is talking to you?" inquired Remus quizzically.

"Only when they're a know-it-all werewolf."

"Okay, well, you don't have to call me a 'know-it-all.' Just 'werewolf' would suffice," Remus said raising his shoulders.

"Yes, but I'd hate to come off as simply speciesist."

"You just want to come off like you hate me?"

"Lupin, I don't quite hate you so much as I'm irritated by you."

"Sorry about that then. What can I do to fix this?"

Snape swallowed, refusing to look at Remus.

'You could stop being so nice to me for one. It makes it difficult to dislike you,' he thought.

"Well, you could start by recognizing how lucky you are and-"

"I know how lucky I am," muttered Remus.

"And," Snape said giving Remus a knowing look, "take advantage of the fact that you've got plenty of friends and a girl who loves you warts and all."

"And by take advantage, you mean…"

"Marry the bird, Lupin," Severus scoffed. "For Merlin's sake, she's brewing you one of the most complicated potions. A month's worth of it."

Remus turned to Severus, confused. How did Snape know about that?

Remus remembered what Doe had said inside when he'd pointed out how expensive and difficult Wolfsbane was to make.

'I've got help. Speaking of potions, did Lily not invite Snape?'

Remus' jaw threatened to drop but he kept it in check. Snape peered at him out of the corner of his eye and drew his cloak closer around himself.

"So, am I to assume that you're the 'help' Dorcas had enlisted to make the Wolfsbane?" Remus questioned quietly.

Severus rolled his eyes, doing his best not to show his embarrassment.

"The girl is rubbish at potions. She's paying me to assist her and purchased all the supplies herself. It's easy money, werewolf. It's not a good deed," he said flatly. "Besides, one month without you demolishing the Shrieking Shack and scaring the poor villagers is practically me performing a public service."

"Mm, so it's not out of the goodness of your vacant, little heart? Or the fact that we're such good mates?" Remus smirked.

"Lupin, we are not…"

"...not friends. How could I forget?" he nodded. "So you're in it for the money? My aching heart. I'm touched."

'I'm doing this to alleviate my guilty conscience for sicking Lucius Malfoy on you our seventh year, you prat.'

Lily and James disappeared from sight, exchanged for Peter and Hestia. Snape sighed and pulled his hood up.

"Leaving?"

"I've seen all I need to see," Severus said softly. "You'll have a full batch of Wolfsbane by the end of December's full moon. You'll need to start taking it nightly the very next day."

Snape stole one final glance at the window and exhaled before turning to Remus. Remus tore his gaze from his dancing friends to Severus and offered a wry smile.

"You know, Remus, you're parents doomed you to be a werewolf."

Remus raised his brows, smirking.

"Yes, I'm aware of my father's transgr-"

Severus waved a hand dismissively. "I know that story. It's not what I'm referring to."

"Oh?"

"Remus Lupin. Remus after the Roman tale of Remus and Romulus. The brothers raised by wolves. Lupin is Latin and basically means 'wolfish.'"

Remus' brows furrowed and an amused smile played on his lips. Snape fought off one of his own.

"Your name is essentially Wolf Wolf."

Laughing, Remus nodded at Snape. He ran a hand through his hair.

"I've analyzed that myself a few times," he added. "It seems we agree that it was destiny that I be cursed."

"Better you than me, werewolf. Goodnight."

"Night," Remus acknowledged.

Snape disappeared with a loud crack, leaving Remus standing alone on the lawn. The ghost of a smile etched on his face. It will always be a mystery as to if his grin would have broadened had he known that though Dorcas had provided the supplies, Snape was brewing the Wolfsbane gratus.

-Got another one halfway written and on the way!

Hillstar- Thanks for continuing to follow this series! I had so much fun writing that interaction and am slightly ashamed of myself because I definitely laughed at my own joke. I was super psyched to write Newt and Remus' oneshot just because I had been imagining for a while what that would be like.

Guest- Your friend sounds like the spawn of Satan. Normally I don't dislike Slytherins because I admire their disregard for what others think, but thinking Remus Lupin is evil? That's crossing the line…. Thanks for reading!

QUESTION: What is your favorite one shot in this series? Who is your favorite character for Remus to interact with? What's your favorite tone? Favorite topic? I write to serve!