Another one down! This story is drawing to a close (finally). I meant for
the action to start a little bit sooner. My plan is for it to come out
next chapter, but the beginning of it may take longer than expected, so
please bear with me. I hope you enjoy!
~~~~~~~~~~
Harry struggled against Malfoy's hold. "Let me go!" he yelled in vain.
"Lets see Potter, my lord tried to kill you, he failed. My son tried to kill you, he failed. It's my turn now, and I never fail."
Harry kept struggling against the hold, but Malfoy wouldn't let go. He pointed his wand at Harry and muttered, "crucio."
In seconds Harry was writhing in pain on the floor of the corridor screaming like mad, but no one seemed to hear him, no one came. After about two minutes of that torture Mr. Malfoy took the curse off him. Harry wanted to get up off the floor and run away, but he couldn't find the energy, he was drained.
"Well that got boring fast, didn't it Potter. It looks like its time for the grand finale, don't you think?"
"No, please, no," Harry muttered. But he saw Malfoy raising his wand again. Harry flinched like he had the day before, thinking this was total de ja vu. He just hoped it would end the same way. It did.
When Harry had had his eyes squinted shut for 5 seconds, he realized nothing was going to happen. Slowly he opened his eyes and peered down the hall. Malfoy was lying flat on his face, much like his son had the previous day. Standing behind him were Ron and Hermione, both panting wildly. Harry looked down in shame.
Ron stepped up and knelt in front of his friend. "Are you okay, Harry?"
Harry bit his lip and shook his head. "I'm so sorry."
Ron just nodded and helped Harry to his feet. Hermione then stepped closer, tears in her eyes. She pulled Harry into a hug and started bawling into his shoulder. He wrapped one arm weakly around her back and then leant back into the wall. Slowly he slid down to the floor, technically he collapsed, but it was slower than that. Hermione pulled away when he did this and knelt down beside him.
"Please get Sirius," he muttered to Hermione. She nodded and ran off towards the defense against the dark arts room. Ron stayed behind and tried to keep Harry focused, fearing that he would pass out.
Hermione quickly reached the defense against the dark arts room and ran into the middle of the classroom, making quite an entrance. The whole class was staring at her in awe.
"Sir-Professor Black! You have to come with me!"
"Hermione, what's going on? Why are you late? And do you know where Harry and Ron are?"
Hermione nodded emphatically. "You have to come with me now! It's an emergency! It's Harry!"
Sirius dropped the book he was holding on the floor and ran out of the room. He doubled back quickly and yelled, "Neville, you're in charge!" and then was back out the door.
He then followed Hermione around a corner and found a man lying on the floor and his godson leaning against the wall, looking like he was going to pass out. Ron was holding him up by the shoulders.
Harry looked up when Sirius skidded to a halt in front of him and then he passed out. Sirius quickly dropped to his knees and held Harry's face in his hands. He slapped him gently, but got no response. Fearing the worst, he took Harry's pulse and found that it was still there, beating strong. He sighed in relief and fully sat down on the floor. He turned to Ron and Hermione.
"What happened?"
"I don't really know, we were late and rushing to get to your class when we heard him scream, so we went this way and saw Mr. Malfoy pointing his wand at Harry. He already did something to Harry though, but we don't know what."
Sirius looked at his godson. His face was very pale. Sirius placed the back of his hand on Harry's forehead and noted that it was ice cold, yet Harry was sweating bullets, a sure sign that the Cruciatus had been performed. Sirius's heart caught in his throat. Harry had been tortured and he hadn't been there to save him. He really wasn't safe anywhere.
Sirius stood up and drew his wand. "What did you do to Lucius?"
"Stunned him," Hermione said quietly.
Sirius then stunned him again and kicked him against the wall.
"You two come with me, I'm bringing Harry to the hospital wing and then I'll talk to Dumbledore. He's not going to like this too much, but I have to do what I have to do."
Hermione and Ron didn't say a word as they were sincerely worried about what Sirius might do. He looked thoroughly pissed off that Harry had been attacked twice in two days within the confines of Hogwarts. He was about ready to take Harry, as well as Remus and go back home, thinking it would be safer for everyone there.
Sirius hunched down and picked Harry up in his arms, though it was evident that he was a little too heavy for him. He made it all the way to the hospital wing though and dropped him off in a bed before running through the wing in search of Madam Pomfrey, he found her and dragged her to the bed Harry laid unconscious in.
"What happened to him now?" she shrieked shocked.
"Lucius Malfoy attacked him. Please help him! I have to go now. You two stay here," he said to Hermione and Ron and then left the room, just as another voice was heard.
"Sirius? Sirius what's going on?" Remus was yelling from his bed as soon as he recognized his friends voice. When he didn't get a reply he decided to see for himself. He unsteadily got out of bed and started walking towards the sound. He made it halfway into the middle of the room, so that Hermione and Ron could see him and then fell.
"Remus!" Ron exclaimed.
Madam Pomfrey turned and literally growled. "Mr. Lupin! What in the world do you think you are doing?"
"Something happened with Sirius and I want to know what, now will you tell me...or help me?"
Madam Pomfrey chose to ignore him and turned back to Harry. Ron and Hermione then walked over to Remus and helped pull him to his feet. He put an arm over each of their shoulders and they guided him to a chair next to Harry's bed.
"What happened?" he asked.
"Mr. Malfoy attacked him in the hall. I think he was trying to do what Malfoy couldn't," Ron said.
"Oh my God, no wonder Sirius sounded so upset. Poor Harry, he just can't get a break."
Ron looked a little uncomfortable and then turned to Remus and asked, "Do you know what last night was all about?"
Remus shook his head, "He wouldn't tell me anything, but I imagine Sirius got something out of him eventually. But if I know Harry, and I think I do, it wasn't a personal thing, he was probably trying to protect you."
"How can he protect us by hurting us?" Hermione asked, sounding pretty upset.
"Trust me, it's possible. You'll have to talk to him about it though."
They nodded and then watched Pomfrey's examination for a while. After what seemed like an eternity she stepped back from the bed.
"This boy has been put under the Cruciatus curse. For quite a long time if my calculations are correct. A little over two minutes. People have been known to die after being under it that long. He's a lucky boy."
"He's anything but lucky," came a voice from the door. Sirius had shown up just in time for the diagnosis.
"I guess you're right about that Mr. Black," Pomfrey mumbled and then left the area. Sirius walked in further and sat on the edge of Harry's bed. He stroked Harry's head meticulously for a while and then turned beat red and looked like he was going to punch something.
"Ron, Hermione, why don't you go to class, Harry will be fine. You can see him later," Remus said sternly, acting nothing like the helpless man they had just helped off the floor. They listened to him and left Remus alone with Sirius.
"What happened, Sir?"
"Malfoy got away...we stunned him twice and he got away!" Sirius yelled, hitting the mattress so hard Harry shook. Sirius leaned his elbows on his knees and rested his head in his hands. "I failed him again, Moony."
"No you didn't Sirius. You brought him here today, you saved him yesterday...when have you ever failed him?"
"I just did! He got attacked when I basically told him he'd be safe for a while, and then I let his attacker get away!"
"Sirius, you didn't fail him, okay? Now calm down."
Sirius tried, but he couldn't calm down. He put his hands behind his neck and leaned forward, trying to cool off, but he couldn't. Remus carefully got up and turned around so he was right next to Sirius and he put his hand on Sirius's back, rubbing it for support.
"God! I hate this Moony! Why can't anything just go right for a change? Why?!" Sirius stood up and started kicking beds, chairs and tables.
"Sirius! Sirius stop! Please stop!" Remus yelled, he looked terrified, like he was about to cry. A result of his term in Azkaban.
"I'm so sorry Moony," he muttered, coming back to sit next to his friend, his voice was dripping with sadness. He hugged his best friend tightly and tried his hardest not to cry, he succeeded.
After he had calmed down a bit he pulled out of the hug and turned back to Harry. He just watched his godson sleep, shaking his head in shame. Remus moved carefully back to his chair and watched as Sirius became transfixed staring at Harry. He then laughed when Harry woke up suddenly scaring the hell out of Sirius and causing him to fall off the bed. Harry smiled too, but it didn't last long as he was obviously still in pain. Sirius quickly got off the floor and helped Harry sit up.
"What happened, Harry?"
Harry sighed and tried to look away, but Sirius grabbed his chin and forced him to look at him.
"Tell me Harry," he said sternly.
"Fine, I was running to get to your class and I ran straight into Mr. Malfoy. He grabbed my wrist and told me he was going to finish the job, that Voldemort and his son couldn't finish. First he put me under the Cruciatus curse and then he was going to finish me off...but Ron and Hermione stopped him, some how. God! I wish I could just crawl under a rock and die...then I wouldn't have to deal with all this!"
"Harry! How can you say that? You don't really mean that do you?"
Harry shrugged. "I don't know, I kind of wish I could to be completely honest. I mean, it would be so much easier than constantly having to worry about somebody pointing there wand at me, someone always trying to kill me...someday they're going to you know."
Sirius grabbed each of Harry's hands and looked him firmly in the face. "No they're not, Harry. You're going to be fine. Stop talking like this, have a little hope. Please."
"I can't do it anymore, Sirius," he mumbled in exhaustion.
Sirius didn't know what more to say, it sounded like Harry was finished, ready to do what he wished and crawl under a rock to die. But Remus hadn't had his turn yet. While Sirius stood up and started pacing the room Remus again switched seats and sat by Harry. Sirius didn't even seem to notice this as he was so lost in thought.
"Harry, this isn't the end, it's nowhere near it. I know you're having a hard time right now, and I can't even begin to imagine how it must be, but you forget you're not the only one who's had hard times. Look at Sirius, he spent 12 years in Hell and he's fine now, he never gave up. Same for me, I've been to hell and back, what with my lycanthropy, the death of your parents, my own term in Azkaban. I made it through. And I've been where you are right now. Ready to give up, but I didn't, Sirius didn't. You can't either. Please, Harry, don't give up. Keep fighting."
Harry bit his lip and shook his head, "I'll try, but I don't know how much more I can take."
"Good Harry, you need to keep trying, you can't wimp out."
Harry nodded with a sigh.
"You're an awesome kid Harry."
"Not because I want to be," Harry said in a depressed tone.
"I know, Harry," he muttered, pulling Harry into a tight hug. He noticed that Harry was shaking like mad.
"Are you okay, Harry?"
"I hurt really bad...all over, from the curse."
"You're shaking like crazy...do you want some pain reliever?"
Harry shook his head, "I'm immune to that stuff, I've had to use it a bit too much."
Sirius by that time had come back and sat next to Remus on the bed. There were tears in his eyes. "I'm so sorry Harry, I wish I could just take you and leave all this...all this pain. That's my job, that's what I should be able to do...but I can't. I'm so sorry I can't..."
"It's not your fault Sirius. No one could do that for me, it's my life, that's the way it is."
"But it shouldn't be like that. Your parents wouldn't want it like that."
"Sirius, his parents would want you doing exactly what you're doing now. You do everything in your power to make Harry feel better, and that's enough!" Remus said emphatically.
Sirius shook his head in disagreement, "No, it's not enough."
"Sirius, it's more than enough, you help me so much," Harry said. "I can't imagine how bad it would be if you weren't here to help me."
"It's still not enough. I should be able to do more."
"But you can't Sirius, and that's okay, I don't mind. There's nothing anyone can do about it. Just let it go," Harry begged.
Sirius nodded, trying hard not to let the tears in his eyes out. "I have to go," he said suddenly and strode quickly out of the room.
"Sirius wait!" Harry called, but Sirius didn't listen.
Harry turned to Remus and gave him a look as if to say, "What do we do now?"
"He'll be okay, Harry. He thinks he has to do everything for everyone and is never happy until he's done it all. But he'll deal with this. He's just frustrated because it's something he can't do. Sirius escaped Azkaban, he can do pretty much anything, but he can't make your life easier and it's killing him."
"Maybe I should just die then, it would make it easier on Sirius too."
"Stop talking like that Harry. If you died, it would kill him too. He loves you that much. He would feel so guilty, even if it had nothing to do with him, that he would just die with you. If not physically than mentally."
Harry shuddered at the thought and Remus put his hand on his shoulder. "But if you're alright he's alright."
"No, he's not alright now, is he? Who knows where he just ran off to. I wish I could go to him, but I feel like I can barely lift my arm...I hope he's okay."
"He is, don't worry about it. Go back to sleep, Harry, you need rest. Sirius said that Hagrid's funerals going to be tomorrow. I'm going...you're going. So we need rest."
"It's tomorrow," Harry said, in a very depressed tone.
"Yup, tomorrow."
"I can't deal with this, Remus, I can't."
"Yes you can Harry. I know you can, you're strong. You'll get through this."
Harry just helplessly shook his head.
Remus felt nothing but pity for him and wrapped him in a hug, the only thing he could think of that would make him feel better. It didn't seem to help, though, so Remus released him and tried to push him back against the pillows.
"Go to sleep Harry."
Harry nodded, but didn't immediately close his eyes. Eventually, however, Remus saw his eyelids flutter shut and he heard his breathing even out.
"Wow," Remus thought to himself. "Harry was so happy before I left...even when he came to visit he was in such better shape. The poor kid. He's been through so much, why can't everything go easy for him. Already he's had the worst life I've ever heard of. Maybe he's right, maybe he would be better off dead."
Remus wanted to kick himself the minute he thought that, but didn't have the energy to. Rather he forced himself to forget about Harry's problems. He then fell asleep in the chair too.
Hours later he woke to the sound of whispers around him. Sirius was back, sitting on the edge of Harry's bed, whispering in his ears. Harry was still asleep, and it seemed Sirius wanted it to stay that way. Remus leaned forward a little and noticed that there were tears running down Sirius's face. He didn't even notice that Remus had awoken.
"Padfoot...?" Remus whispered, not wanting to scare him. He failed. Sirius whipped around and stared into Remus's concerned face. He then relaxed again and continued to let the tears fall.
"Padfoot, what's up?" he asked in the same soft tone.
"Harry says he can't deal with this...well...I don't think I can either, Rem. There's so much...so much...shit going on and its so hard. Why can't everything just be easy...Harry asked me that the other day. I didn't really know what to say so I gave him some bullshit answer. There's nothing I can do for him anymore, Remus."
"Of course there is Sirius. He needs you support if nothing else. I'm sure just having you sit next to him like you are now helps him immensely. I think you help that kid more than you'll ever know. You need to accept that you're not superman, Sirius."
He just continued to shake his head as the tears continued to fall. "Remus, Harry almost died two days in a row. He's suffering. His life sucks! I'm responsible for that life!"
"Sirius! Listen to me! There's nothing you can do and it's not your fault. Understand. It's everyone's fault but yours. All you've ever done is your best. Am I right?"
"Yeah, I've always done my best, but my best isn't good enough."
"No one's is Sirius, and that's not your fault. You're doing your best and that's all you need to do. You could be doing much worse, you know."
"I guess," Sirius muttered, trying unsuccessfully to wipe his tears. "I just feel so...helpless."
"You're not though Padfoot. Harry needs you to keep doing what you do. Getting all blubbery isn't going to get you anywhere. So cheer up man."
Sirius laughed lightly at the American tone in Remus's tone as he said cheer up man. He wiped his eyes dry and hit Remus on the back friendlily. "Thanks Rem."
"Anytime Sirius. Hey, do you think you could help me get back to my bed?"
"Sure, but how'd you get over here to begin with?"
Remus turned a little red, "Well I tried to do it on my own, but I fell over. Ron and Hermione had to help me. I'm really tired and want to go to sleep."
Sirius nodded putting on his worried face. He stood and helped Remus and then helped him hobble across the room. "You're getting better Moony, I can see it."
Remus smiled sadly. "Yeah, but do you realize what's coming up this weekend?"
Sirius's face fell, "Full moon...you haven't really recovered yet. Hey, but maybe Snape can get you some Wolfsbane potion. He's been nice lately, if you'll believe that." Sirius then helped Remus climb into bed.
"I'm surprised but I will believe it. Think you could ask him for me?"
"I'd be happy to Rem. Sleep well 'man'."
"Oh shut up!" Remus joked throwing a pillow at Sirius.
"See you Moony."
"Bye Padfoot."
Sirius walked back over to Harry's bed and watched him sleep for a while. Remus had helped him a lot, he no longer felt so responsible. He thought about all the things that happened that day, and along with Remus's words of wisdom, he saw it at a new perspective. He just knew he couldn't get Harry to see things the way he did.
Soon he was asleep too.
Sirius slept until dinner that night when he was awoken by bickering between two of his favorite students, Ron and Hermione. They were apparently fighting over whether or not to wake up Harry. They didn't notice that they had woken Sirius up in the process.
"I suggest you let him sleep, or he may really want to stop being your friend," Sirius joked, making Ron and Hermione jump.
"Oh sorry, professor, didn't mean to wake you up," Hermione said immediately remorseful.
"It's okay Hermione. I'm sore enough from this chair as it is, longer in it would only prolong the pain," Sirius replied standing and stretching.
"Is he alright?" Ron asked.
"I think so. He's pretty upset, but I think he'll be fine. I hope so at least."
"How long has he been asleep? Has he been up at all since we left?" Hermione asked.
Sirius nodded solemnly, "Yeah he was up for a little while there. I think he's still in a lot of pain, and he shakes a lot...but like I said, he's going to be fine," Sirius said forcefully, as if he was trying to convince himself of it.
"Think he'll be up soon?" Ron asked. "We really want to talk to him."
"About yesterday?" Sirius asked nodding. "I'm surprised he hasn't gotten up yet actually. I guess it wouldn't hurt him to get up now. Why don't you step out for a minute though in case he's not feeling up to par."
The two nodded and walked outside the hospital wing where they waited patiently.
Sirius then leaned over Harry and shook him gently, saying in a soft voice, "Harry, wake up bud. There are people who want to talk to you. Please wake up bud."
It took a while, but Harry slowly opened his eyes and became alert.
"Hey sleepyhead, how are you feeling?"
Harry shrugged indifferently, making Sirius sigh.
"Is there any less pain?"
"I guess," Harry said with a yawn.
"Are you hungry?"
"What's with the twenty questions?!"
Sirius was slightly taken aback. He just stared at Harry, somewhat hurt, but trying not to show it.
Harry stared back hard for a while, but then his face softened realizing he had just made an ass out of himself in front of the person who cared the most about him.
"Sorry..." Harry said looking down. "Did you want something? Why did you wake me up?"
"Your friends wanted to talk to you. They saved you Harry. I think you need to talk to them."
It was obvious that Harry didn't want to, but he agreed to anyways. Sirius went to the door and motioned for them to come in and then he wandered off. Ron and Hermione wandered in like they were visiting someone on their deathbed. They stood side by side at the foot of his bed and just stared at him. Not sure what grudge Harry may still hold. It soon became clear that Harry was going to have to be the first to speak.
He sighed when he realized this and mumbled, "I'm...sorry about yesterday. I was trying to do what I thought was right. Everything I do...touch seems to be in immediate danger. I didn't want to put you guys in anymore danger. Look at Hagrid, that could happen to you guys and it would be all my fault. I wanted to keep the number of people with ties to me at a minimum. I'm sorry that I hurt you...but it hurt me too. I could barely keep up that act long enough to get you out of there. I could never have held it out...I should have figured that."
Hermione looked instantly ready to forgive him but Ron looked pissed.
"You had no right to do that Harry! If we felt unsafe being friends with you then it was our decision! Not yours! Do you think you're God or something Harry? You're not!"
"Ron, I don't think I'm God...I just feel so guilty, about everything. I didn't mean to hurt you. I thought I was doing the right thing. Obviously I was wrong, and I'm sorry. Will you please forgive me?" Harry pleaded. He had lost his friends the day before on his own will, but he wanted them back, and was afraid that this time he was going to lose them for real.
Ron looked at Harry calculatingly and Harry really thought he had decided to ditch him, but then Ron nodded. Harry sighed in relief and smiled. Ron smiled back.
"I'm really sorry Ron, Hermione."
Hermione was moved to tears and quickly hugged each of her friends, managing to turn each of them a shade of red.
"Thanks you guys...for stopping Malfoy...I owe you my life now."
"It was our pleasure," Ron said lightheartedly. "How are you feeling?"
"Eh, so-so. I hurt a lot, but I've been in worse pain."
"Do you want anything?" Hermione asked.
"A back rub would be nice," Harry joked. "No, I'll be fine. How about some exploding snap? I think there's a pack in that drawer over there."
Ron wandered over to the drawer and dug around, sure enough finding a pack of exploding snap cards. Kids exploding snap cards so they wouldn't injure the injured, but it would keep them occupied nonetheless.
After ten minutes of the game Sirius wandered back in. It looked like he had come from Remus's spot in the room, but no one knew for sure, and they didn't bother to ask. He joined them for a while and when seven o'clock rolled around he kicked out Ron and Hermione.
They were to meet Sirius in the entrance hall early the next morning to go with Sirius, Remus and Harry to the funeral. The whole school wasn't allowed to go, just those who knew him well. Harry for one was greatly relieved about that.
Once his friends left he turned to Sirius and said, "Thanks...I'm sorry I was a little...er...moody earlier. I didn't mean it, it was purely circumstantial."
"Circumstantial, huh? It's okay Harry, I understand. I know it's early, but you're an injured man! You look like you need to get some rest."
"I do...but that's never going to happen in this hospital bed."
"What are you talking about?" Sirius asked sarcastically. "Those beds have the finest mattresses I have ever slept on! They're very high-quality cardboard."
Harry smirked at Sirius and shook his head, trying not to laugh.
"You want me to smuggle you out?"
"Think I could make it?"
"That's up to you bud."
"I'd like to try. Too bad Remus can't get out of here too. He must be some sick of these beds also."
"Harry he's been sleeping on rock for the past three months. For him my description is one hundred percent truthful."
Harry smiled sadly. "Can we go?"
"Sure, but Madam Pomfrey's going to kill me. We'll have to leave a note, though, or she may think you've been kidnapped."
"As long as she doesn't come hunt me down."
"She won't, trust me, I think she's had it with the three of us."
"Nah, she still loves me," Harry joked, until he realized exactly what he had just said. Sirius caught why though. He knew very few people who really loved him and it wasn't a word he tended to use lightly. Sirius decided not to call him on it and went to write a note. He then helped Harry up and dropped the note on the bed. Then they slowly walked to Sirius's room. Harry had no problem moving his legs, they just didn't want to hold him up, so Sirius had to practically drag him. Needless to say they were both huffing and puffing by the time they reached the teachers hallway.
Snape passed them on their way and gave them a curious look but didn't give his usual scowl. Sirius caught that and decided now was a good time to ask him a favor.
"Snape, I was er...wondering...the full moons coming up and Remus still hasn't really recovered. Do you think you could brew him some Wolfsbane. He could die if he doesn't get it."
"Black, we are not friends. I still greatly dislike you and your werewolf friend. Why would I do this for you?"
"Severus," Sirius said with clenched teeth. "We've been through a lot. You know what's been going on. We just need a little help. Can't we finally put our petty differences aside to help a suffering man?"
Snape considered this for a while. "I'll think about it. Good evening." He walked off stoically towards his room and slammed the door shut.
"That went well...I think," Sirius said. Harry gave a short laugh to the statement, thinking he was probably right, it could have been much, much worse. They made there way into Sirius's room and Sirius dragged Harry to the couch and sat him down.
"You get the bed again tonight, bud," Sirius said yawning.
"No, Sirius, that's okay, I can take the couch."
"Uh-uh no, you are injured, you need the utmost comfort, and you won't be getting that on the couch. You are sleeping in my bed and I am sleeping on this luxurious couch."
"Fine, Sirius," Harry resigned.
"C'mon," he said, helping Harry up again and bringing him to the room. He sat Harry on the bed and helped him get down to his boxers and then tucked him away under the covers.
"Night, bud, I love you."
"Love you too, Sirius, night."
Sirius didn't leave immediately, though. He inconspicuously started brushing Harry's hair back with his hand and then sneakily brushed his fingers over the scar. No visions. Harry was telling the truth. It had come to the point where Sirius never knew what to believe when Harry was talking about his health. He had already lied about it a few too many times. Sirius sighed and stood up to leave the room.
He got the couch ready for bed and also stripped down to his boxers. He then just laid on the bed, looking up at the ceiling. He must have been doing that for at least an hour when there was a knock on the door. He jumped off the couch and looked out the peep hole. It was Severus Snape. Curious as to why he'd be showing up at his door, Sirius opened it. He didn't say a nice 'hello' or a rude 'what do you want'. He just stared at him.
"I've come to a decision," Snape said.
"What's that?"
"I'll make the potion."
"I thank you for that. He really needs it this time."
"I'm not doing it for him, and I'm not doing it for you. I'm doing it for the safety of everyone in this school."
Sirius nodded, slightly annoyed by the comment. The last thing Remus was, was dangerous. He took great caution with his lycanthropy.
"I still thank you," Sirius said, but not as meaningfully as he had previously.
Snape looked like he was going to leave, but then asked, "How's the boy? I heard what happened."
Sirius was taken aback. He knew something had changed, though he still didn't know what happened or how. "He's okay. He was pretty depressed earlier, but I think I snapped him out of it. Tomorrow's another day though, and it will be just as depressing. We'll play it by ear. See how things go."
"Indeed," Snape said. He put on a sour face, like he had to drink a foul potion and added, "I do hope he's alright."
Sirius's mouth dropped open. He soon recovered from the shock and said, "Thanks Severus, thanks a lot."
Snape nodded and then left the room. Sirius shut the door behind him with a puzzled expression.
"He has definitely taken a liking to Harry," Sirius thought to himself, "I would really like to know why, though. I would really like to know."
He tried to forget about Snape, but the only other thing he could think of was the next day, and he didn't have good thoughts about it. He knew very well that nothing about tomorrow would be good. Funeral's are supposed to bring closure, but for he and Harry it was only going to bring reality. Reality was the last thing either of them needed.
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Another one down! I'm going away this weekend, but I'm going to try very hard to get the next one out before then. I have no school Friday, so that could be an opportunity to get things done. Anyway, I'm looking forward to ending this story, although I'm sure most of you aren't. I have a new idea already in my head for the next story, it'll be a L/J with a twist. Told from the view of Peter Pettigrew, it will chronicle how the two fell in love, bumps along the way, and how exactly Peter went from being a fat happy kid to an evil deatheater. Does this sound good? I can't wait to start writing it, so tell me what you think and if you'd be apt to read it! Thanks and please don't forget to review!
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Harry struggled against Malfoy's hold. "Let me go!" he yelled in vain.
"Lets see Potter, my lord tried to kill you, he failed. My son tried to kill you, he failed. It's my turn now, and I never fail."
Harry kept struggling against the hold, but Malfoy wouldn't let go. He pointed his wand at Harry and muttered, "crucio."
In seconds Harry was writhing in pain on the floor of the corridor screaming like mad, but no one seemed to hear him, no one came. After about two minutes of that torture Mr. Malfoy took the curse off him. Harry wanted to get up off the floor and run away, but he couldn't find the energy, he was drained.
"Well that got boring fast, didn't it Potter. It looks like its time for the grand finale, don't you think?"
"No, please, no," Harry muttered. But he saw Malfoy raising his wand again. Harry flinched like he had the day before, thinking this was total de ja vu. He just hoped it would end the same way. It did.
When Harry had had his eyes squinted shut for 5 seconds, he realized nothing was going to happen. Slowly he opened his eyes and peered down the hall. Malfoy was lying flat on his face, much like his son had the previous day. Standing behind him were Ron and Hermione, both panting wildly. Harry looked down in shame.
Ron stepped up and knelt in front of his friend. "Are you okay, Harry?"
Harry bit his lip and shook his head. "I'm so sorry."
Ron just nodded and helped Harry to his feet. Hermione then stepped closer, tears in her eyes. She pulled Harry into a hug and started bawling into his shoulder. He wrapped one arm weakly around her back and then leant back into the wall. Slowly he slid down to the floor, technically he collapsed, but it was slower than that. Hermione pulled away when he did this and knelt down beside him.
"Please get Sirius," he muttered to Hermione. She nodded and ran off towards the defense against the dark arts room. Ron stayed behind and tried to keep Harry focused, fearing that he would pass out.
Hermione quickly reached the defense against the dark arts room and ran into the middle of the classroom, making quite an entrance. The whole class was staring at her in awe.
"Sir-Professor Black! You have to come with me!"
"Hermione, what's going on? Why are you late? And do you know where Harry and Ron are?"
Hermione nodded emphatically. "You have to come with me now! It's an emergency! It's Harry!"
Sirius dropped the book he was holding on the floor and ran out of the room. He doubled back quickly and yelled, "Neville, you're in charge!" and then was back out the door.
He then followed Hermione around a corner and found a man lying on the floor and his godson leaning against the wall, looking like he was going to pass out. Ron was holding him up by the shoulders.
Harry looked up when Sirius skidded to a halt in front of him and then he passed out. Sirius quickly dropped to his knees and held Harry's face in his hands. He slapped him gently, but got no response. Fearing the worst, he took Harry's pulse and found that it was still there, beating strong. He sighed in relief and fully sat down on the floor. He turned to Ron and Hermione.
"What happened?"
"I don't really know, we were late and rushing to get to your class when we heard him scream, so we went this way and saw Mr. Malfoy pointing his wand at Harry. He already did something to Harry though, but we don't know what."
Sirius looked at his godson. His face was very pale. Sirius placed the back of his hand on Harry's forehead and noted that it was ice cold, yet Harry was sweating bullets, a sure sign that the Cruciatus had been performed. Sirius's heart caught in his throat. Harry had been tortured and he hadn't been there to save him. He really wasn't safe anywhere.
Sirius stood up and drew his wand. "What did you do to Lucius?"
"Stunned him," Hermione said quietly.
Sirius then stunned him again and kicked him against the wall.
"You two come with me, I'm bringing Harry to the hospital wing and then I'll talk to Dumbledore. He's not going to like this too much, but I have to do what I have to do."
Hermione and Ron didn't say a word as they were sincerely worried about what Sirius might do. He looked thoroughly pissed off that Harry had been attacked twice in two days within the confines of Hogwarts. He was about ready to take Harry, as well as Remus and go back home, thinking it would be safer for everyone there.
Sirius hunched down and picked Harry up in his arms, though it was evident that he was a little too heavy for him. He made it all the way to the hospital wing though and dropped him off in a bed before running through the wing in search of Madam Pomfrey, he found her and dragged her to the bed Harry laid unconscious in.
"What happened to him now?" she shrieked shocked.
"Lucius Malfoy attacked him. Please help him! I have to go now. You two stay here," he said to Hermione and Ron and then left the room, just as another voice was heard.
"Sirius? Sirius what's going on?" Remus was yelling from his bed as soon as he recognized his friends voice. When he didn't get a reply he decided to see for himself. He unsteadily got out of bed and started walking towards the sound. He made it halfway into the middle of the room, so that Hermione and Ron could see him and then fell.
"Remus!" Ron exclaimed.
Madam Pomfrey turned and literally growled. "Mr. Lupin! What in the world do you think you are doing?"
"Something happened with Sirius and I want to know what, now will you tell me...or help me?"
Madam Pomfrey chose to ignore him and turned back to Harry. Ron and Hermione then walked over to Remus and helped pull him to his feet. He put an arm over each of their shoulders and they guided him to a chair next to Harry's bed.
"What happened?" he asked.
"Mr. Malfoy attacked him in the hall. I think he was trying to do what Malfoy couldn't," Ron said.
"Oh my God, no wonder Sirius sounded so upset. Poor Harry, he just can't get a break."
Ron looked a little uncomfortable and then turned to Remus and asked, "Do you know what last night was all about?"
Remus shook his head, "He wouldn't tell me anything, but I imagine Sirius got something out of him eventually. But if I know Harry, and I think I do, it wasn't a personal thing, he was probably trying to protect you."
"How can he protect us by hurting us?" Hermione asked, sounding pretty upset.
"Trust me, it's possible. You'll have to talk to him about it though."
They nodded and then watched Pomfrey's examination for a while. After what seemed like an eternity she stepped back from the bed.
"This boy has been put under the Cruciatus curse. For quite a long time if my calculations are correct. A little over two minutes. People have been known to die after being under it that long. He's a lucky boy."
"He's anything but lucky," came a voice from the door. Sirius had shown up just in time for the diagnosis.
"I guess you're right about that Mr. Black," Pomfrey mumbled and then left the area. Sirius walked in further and sat on the edge of Harry's bed. He stroked Harry's head meticulously for a while and then turned beat red and looked like he was going to punch something.
"Ron, Hermione, why don't you go to class, Harry will be fine. You can see him later," Remus said sternly, acting nothing like the helpless man they had just helped off the floor. They listened to him and left Remus alone with Sirius.
"What happened, Sir?"
"Malfoy got away...we stunned him twice and he got away!" Sirius yelled, hitting the mattress so hard Harry shook. Sirius leaned his elbows on his knees and rested his head in his hands. "I failed him again, Moony."
"No you didn't Sirius. You brought him here today, you saved him yesterday...when have you ever failed him?"
"I just did! He got attacked when I basically told him he'd be safe for a while, and then I let his attacker get away!"
"Sirius, you didn't fail him, okay? Now calm down."
Sirius tried, but he couldn't calm down. He put his hands behind his neck and leaned forward, trying to cool off, but he couldn't. Remus carefully got up and turned around so he was right next to Sirius and he put his hand on Sirius's back, rubbing it for support.
"God! I hate this Moony! Why can't anything just go right for a change? Why?!" Sirius stood up and started kicking beds, chairs and tables.
"Sirius! Sirius stop! Please stop!" Remus yelled, he looked terrified, like he was about to cry. A result of his term in Azkaban.
"I'm so sorry Moony," he muttered, coming back to sit next to his friend, his voice was dripping with sadness. He hugged his best friend tightly and tried his hardest not to cry, he succeeded.
After he had calmed down a bit he pulled out of the hug and turned back to Harry. He just watched his godson sleep, shaking his head in shame. Remus moved carefully back to his chair and watched as Sirius became transfixed staring at Harry. He then laughed when Harry woke up suddenly scaring the hell out of Sirius and causing him to fall off the bed. Harry smiled too, but it didn't last long as he was obviously still in pain. Sirius quickly got off the floor and helped Harry sit up.
"What happened, Harry?"
Harry sighed and tried to look away, but Sirius grabbed his chin and forced him to look at him.
"Tell me Harry," he said sternly.
"Fine, I was running to get to your class and I ran straight into Mr. Malfoy. He grabbed my wrist and told me he was going to finish the job, that Voldemort and his son couldn't finish. First he put me under the Cruciatus curse and then he was going to finish me off...but Ron and Hermione stopped him, some how. God! I wish I could just crawl under a rock and die...then I wouldn't have to deal with all this!"
"Harry! How can you say that? You don't really mean that do you?"
Harry shrugged. "I don't know, I kind of wish I could to be completely honest. I mean, it would be so much easier than constantly having to worry about somebody pointing there wand at me, someone always trying to kill me...someday they're going to you know."
Sirius grabbed each of Harry's hands and looked him firmly in the face. "No they're not, Harry. You're going to be fine. Stop talking like this, have a little hope. Please."
"I can't do it anymore, Sirius," he mumbled in exhaustion.
Sirius didn't know what more to say, it sounded like Harry was finished, ready to do what he wished and crawl under a rock to die. But Remus hadn't had his turn yet. While Sirius stood up and started pacing the room Remus again switched seats and sat by Harry. Sirius didn't even seem to notice this as he was so lost in thought.
"Harry, this isn't the end, it's nowhere near it. I know you're having a hard time right now, and I can't even begin to imagine how it must be, but you forget you're not the only one who's had hard times. Look at Sirius, he spent 12 years in Hell and he's fine now, he never gave up. Same for me, I've been to hell and back, what with my lycanthropy, the death of your parents, my own term in Azkaban. I made it through. And I've been where you are right now. Ready to give up, but I didn't, Sirius didn't. You can't either. Please, Harry, don't give up. Keep fighting."
Harry bit his lip and shook his head, "I'll try, but I don't know how much more I can take."
"Good Harry, you need to keep trying, you can't wimp out."
Harry nodded with a sigh.
"You're an awesome kid Harry."
"Not because I want to be," Harry said in a depressed tone.
"I know, Harry," he muttered, pulling Harry into a tight hug. He noticed that Harry was shaking like mad.
"Are you okay, Harry?"
"I hurt really bad...all over, from the curse."
"You're shaking like crazy...do you want some pain reliever?"
Harry shook his head, "I'm immune to that stuff, I've had to use it a bit too much."
Sirius by that time had come back and sat next to Remus on the bed. There were tears in his eyes. "I'm so sorry Harry, I wish I could just take you and leave all this...all this pain. That's my job, that's what I should be able to do...but I can't. I'm so sorry I can't..."
"It's not your fault Sirius. No one could do that for me, it's my life, that's the way it is."
"But it shouldn't be like that. Your parents wouldn't want it like that."
"Sirius, his parents would want you doing exactly what you're doing now. You do everything in your power to make Harry feel better, and that's enough!" Remus said emphatically.
Sirius shook his head in disagreement, "No, it's not enough."
"Sirius, it's more than enough, you help me so much," Harry said. "I can't imagine how bad it would be if you weren't here to help me."
"It's still not enough. I should be able to do more."
"But you can't Sirius, and that's okay, I don't mind. There's nothing anyone can do about it. Just let it go," Harry begged.
Sirius nodded, trying hard not to let the tears in his eyes out. "I have to go," he said suddenly and strode quickly out of the room.
"Sirius wait!" Harry called, but Sirius didn't listen.
Harry turned to Remus and gave him a look as if to say, "What do we do now?"
"He'll be okay, Harry. He thinks he has to do everything for everyone and is never happy until he's done it all. But he'll deal with this. He's just frustrated because it's something he can't do. Sirius escaped Azkaban, he can do pretty much anything, but he can't make your life easier and it's killing him."
"Maybe I should just die then, it would make it easier on Sirius too."
"Stop talking like that Harry. If you died, it would kill him too. He loves you that much. He would feel so guilty, even if it had nothing to do with him, that he would just die with you. If not physically than mentally."
Harry shuddered at the thought and Remus put his hand on his shoulder. "But if you're alright he's alright."
"No, he's not alright now, is he? Who knows where he just ran off to. I wish I could go to him, but I feel like I can barely lift my arm...I hope he's okay."
"He is, don't worry about it. Go back to sleep, Harry, you need rest. Sirius said that Hagrid's funerals going to be tomorrow. I'm going...you're going. So we need rest."
"It's tomorrow," Harry said, in a very depressed tone.
"Yup, tomorrow."
"I can't deal with this, Remus, I can't."
"Yes you can Harry. I know you can, you're strong. You'll get through this."
Harry just helplessly shook his head.
Remus felt nothing but pity for him and wrapped him in a hug, the only thing he could think of that would make him feel better. It didn't seem to help, though, so Remus released him and tried to push him back against the pillows.
"Go to sleep Harry."
Harry nodded, but didn't immediately close his eyes. Eventually, however, Remus saw his eyelids flutter shut and he heard his breathing even out.
"Wow," Remus thought to himself. "Harry was so happy before I left...even when he came to visit he was in such better shape. The poor kid. He's been through so much, why can't everything go easy for him. Already he's had the worst life I've ever heard of. Maybe he's right, maybe he would be better off dead."
Remus wanted to kick himself the minute he thought that, but didn't have the energy to. Rather he forced himself to forget about Harry's problems. He then fell asleep in the chair too.
Hours later he woke to the sound of whispers around him. Sirius was back, sitting on the edge of Harry's bed, whispering in his ears. Harry was still asleep, and it seemed Sirius wanted it to stay that way. Remus leaned forward a little and noticed that there were tears running down Sirius's face. He didn't even notice that Remus had awoken.
"Padfoot...?" Remus whispered, not wanting to scare him. He failed. Sirius whipped around and stared into Remus's concerned face. He then relaxed again and continued to let the tears fall.
"Padfoot, what's up?" he asked in the same soft tone.
"Harry says he can't deal with this...well...I don't think I can either, Rem. There's so much...so much...shit going on and its so hard. Why can't everything just be easy...Harry asked me that the other day. I didn't really know what to say so I gave him some bullshit answer. There's nothing I can do for him anymore, Remus."
"Of course there is Sirius. He needs you support if nothing else. I'm sure just having you sit next to him like you are now helps him immensely. I think you help that kid more than you'll ever know. You need to accept that you're not superman, Sirius."
He just continued to shake his head as the tears continued to fall. "Remus, Harry almost died two days in a row. He's suffering. His life sucks! I'm responsible for that life!"
"Sirius! Listen to me! There's nothing you can do and it's not your fault. Understand. It's everyone's fault but yours. All you've ever done is your best. Am I right?"
"Yeah, I've always done my best, but my best isn't good enough."
"No one's is Sirius, and that's not your fault. You're doing your best and that's all you need to do. You could be doing much worse, you know."
"I guess," Sirius muttered, trying unsuccessfully to wipe his tears. "I just feel so...helpless."
"You're not though Padfoot. Harry needs you to keep doing what you do. Getting all blubbery isn't going to get you anywhere. So cheer up man."
Sirius laughed lightly at the American tone in Remus's tone as he said cheer up man. He wiped his eyes dry and hit Remus on the back friendlily. "Thanks Rem."
"Anytime Sirius. Hey, do you think you could help me get back to my bed?"
"Sure, but how'd you get over here to begin with?"
Remus turned a little red, "Well I tried to do it on my own, but I fell over. Ron and Hermione had to help me. I'm really tired and want to go to sleep."
Sirius nodded putting on his worried face. He stood and helped Remus and then helped him hobble across the room. "You're getting better Moony, I can see it."
Remus smiled sadly. "Yeah, but do you realize what's coming up this weekend?"
Sirius's face fell, "Full moon...you haven't really recovered yet. Hey, but maybe Snape can get you some Wolfsbane potion. He's been nice lately, if you'll believe that." Sirius then helped Remus climb into bed.
"I'm surprised but I will believe it. Think you could ask him for me?"
"I'd be happy to Rem. Sleep well 'man'."
"Oh shut up!" Remus joked throwing a pillow at Sirius.
"See you Moony."
"Bye Padfoot."
Sirius walked back over to Harry's bed and watched him sleep for a while. Remus had helped him a lot, he no longer felt so responsible. He thought about all the things that happened that day, and along with Remus's words of wisdom, he saw it at a new perspective. He just knew he couldn't get Harry to see things the way he did.
Soon he was asleep too.
Sirius slept until dinner that night when he was awoken by bickering between two of his favorite students, Ron and Hermione. They were apparently fighting over whether or not to wake up Harry. They didn't notice that they had woken Sirius up in the process.
"I suggest you let him sleep, or he may really want to stop being your friend," Sirius joked, making Ron and Hermione jump.
"Oh sorry, professor, didn't mean to wake you up," Hermione said immediately remorseful.
"It's okay Hermione. I'm sore enough from this chair as it is, longer in it would only prolong the pain," Sirius replied standing and stretching.
"Is he alright?" Ron asked.
"I think so. He's pretty upset, but I think he'll be fine. I hope so at least."
"How long has he been asleep? Has he been up at all since we left?" Hermione asked.
Sirius nodded solemnly, "Yeah he was up for a little while there. I think he's still in a lot of pain, and he shakes a lot...but like I said, he's going to be fine," Sirius said forcefully, as if he was trying to convince himself of it.
"Think he'll be up soon?" Ron asked. "We really want to talk to him."
"About yesterday?" Sirius asked nodding. "I'm surprised he hasn't gotten up yet actually. I guess it wouldn't hurt him to get up now. Why don't you step out for a minute though in case he's not feeling up to par."
The two nodded and walked outside the hospital wing where they waited patiently.
Sirius then leaned over Harry and shook him gently, saying in a soft voice, "Harry, wake up bud. There are people who want to talk to you. Please wake up bud."
It took a while, but Harry slowly opened his eyes and became alert.
"Hey sleepyhead, how are you feeling?"
Harry shrugged indifferently, making Sirius sigh.
"Is there any less pain?"
"I guess," Harry said with a yawn.
"Are you hungry?"
"What's with the twenty questions?!"
Sirius was slightly taken aback. He just stared at Harry, somewhat hurt, but trying not to show it.
Harry stared back hard for a while, but then his face softened realizing he had just made an ass out of himself in front of the person who cared the most about him.
"Sorry..." Harry said looking down. "Did you want something? Why did you wake me up?"
"Your friends wanted to talk to you. They saved you Harry. I think you need to talk to them."
It was obvious that Harry didn't want to, but he agreed to anyways. Sirius went to the door and motioned for them to come in and then he wandered off. Ron and Hermione wandered in like they were visiting someone on their deathbed. They stood side by side at the foot of his bed and just stared at him. Not sure what grudge Harry may still hold. It soon became clear that Harry was going to have to be the first to speak.
He sighed when he realized this and mumbled, "I'm...sorry about yesterday. I was trying to do what I thought was right. Everything I do...touch seems to be in immediate danger. I didn't want to put you guys in anymore danger. Look at Hagrid, that could happen to you guys and it would be all my fault. I wanted to keep the number of people with ties to me at a minimum. I'm sorry that I hurt you...but it hurt me too. I could barely keep up that act long enough to get you out of there. I could never have held it out...I should have figured that."
Hermione looked instantly ready to forgive him but Ron looked pissed.
"You had no right to do that Harry! If we felt unsafe being friends with you then it was our decision! Not yours! Do you think you're God or something Harry? You're not!"
"Ron, I don't think I'm God...I just feel so guilty, about everything. I didn't mean to hurt you. I thought I was doing the right thing. Obviously I was wrong, and I'm sorry. Will you please forgive me?" Harry pleaded. He had lost his friends the day before on his own will, but he wanted them back, and was afraid that this time he was going to lose them for real.
Ron looked at Harry calculatingly and Harry really thought he had decided to ditch him, but then Ron nodded. Harry sighed in relief and smiled. Ron smiled back.
"I'm really sorry Ron, Hermione."
Hermione was moved to tears and quickly hugged each of her friends, managing to turn each of them a shade of red.
"Thanks you guys...for stopping Malfoy...I owe you my life now."
"It was our pleasure," Ron said lightheartedly. "How are you feeling?"
"Eh, so-so. I hurt a lot, but I've been in worse pain."
"Do you want anything?" Hermione asked.
"A back rub would be nice," Harry joked. "No, I'll be fine. How about some exploding snap? I think there's a pack in that drawer over there."
Ron wandered over to the drawer and dug around, sure enough finding a pack of exploding snap cards. Kids exploding snap cards so they wouldn't injure the injured, but it would keep them occupied nonetheless.
After ten minutes of the game Sirius wandered back in. It looked like he had come from Remus's spot in the room, but no one knew for sure, and they didn't bother to ask. He joined them for a while and when seven o'clock rolled around he kicked out Ron and Hermione.
They were to meet Sirius in the entrance hall early the next morning to go with Sirius, Remus and Harry to the funeral. The whole school wasn't allowed to go, just those who knew him well. Harry for one was greatly relieved about that.
Once his friends left he turned to Sirius and said, "Thanks...I'm sorry I was a little...er...moody earlier. I didn't mean it, it was purely circumstantial."
"Circumstantial, huh? It's okay Harry, I understand. I know it's early, but you're an injured man! You look like you need to get some rest."
"I do...but that's never going to happen in this hospital bed."
"What are you talking about?" Sirius asked sarcastically. "Those beds have the finest mattresses I have ever slept on! They're very high-quality cardboard."
Harry smirked at Sirius and shook his head, trying not to laugh.
"You want me to smuggle you out?"
"Think I could make it?"
"That's up to you bud."
"I'd like to try. Too bad Remus can't get out of here too. He must be some sick of these beds also."
"Harry he's been sleeping on rock for the past three months. For him my description is one hundred percent truthful."
Harry smiled sadly. "Can we go?"
"Sure, but Madam Pomfrey's going to kill me. We'll have to leave a note, though, or she may think you've been kidnapped."
"As long as she doesn't come hunt me down."
"She won't, trust me, I think she's had it with the three of us."
"Nah, she still loves me," Harry joked, until he realized exactly what he had just said. Sirius caught why though. He knew very few people who really loved him and it wasn't a word he tended to use lightly. Sirius decided not to call him on it and went to write a note. He then helped Harry up and dropped the note on the bed. Then they slowly walked to Sirius's room. Harry had no problem moving his legs, they just didn't want to hold him up, so Sirius had to practically drag him. Needless to say they were both huffing and puffing by the time they reached the teachers hallway.
Snape passed them on their way and gave them a curious look but didn't give his usual scowl. Sirius caught that and decided now was a good time to ask him a favor.
"Snape, I was er...wondering...the full moons coming up and Remus still hasn't really recovered. Do you think you could brew him some Wolfsbane. He could die if he doesn't get it."
"Black, we are not friends. I still greatly dislike you and your werewolf friend. Why would I do this for you?"
"Severus," Sirius said with clenched teeth. "We've been through a lot. You know what's been going on. We just need a little help. Can't we finally put our petty differences aside to help a suffering man?"
Snape considered this for a while. "I'll think about it. Good evening." He walked off stoically towards his room and slammed the door shut.
"That went well...I think," Sirius said. Harry gave a short laugh to the statement, thinking he was probably right, it could have been much, much worse. They made there way into Sirius's room and Sirius dragged Harry to the couch and sat him down.
"You get the bed again tonight, bud," Sirius said yawning.
"No, Sirius, that's okay, I can take the couch."
"Uh-uh no, you are injured, you need the utmost comfort, and you won't be getting that on the couch. You are sleeping in my bed and I am sleeping on this luxurious couch."
"Fine, Sirius," Harry resigned.
"C'mon," he said, helping Harry up again and bringing him to the room. He sat Harry on the bed and helped him get down to his boxers and then tucked him away under the covers.
"Night, bud, I love you."
"Love you too, Sirius, night."
Sirius didn't leave immediately, though. He inconspicuously started brushing Harry's hair back with his hand and then sneakily brushed his fingers over the scar. No visions. Harry was telling the truth. It had come to the point where Sirius never knew what to believe when Harry was talking about his health. He had already lied about it a few too many times. Sirius sighed and stood up to leave the room.
He got the couch ready for bed and also stripped down to his boxers. He then just laid on the bed, looking up at the ceiling. He must have been doing that for at least an hour when there was a knock on the door. He jumped off the couch and looked out the peep hole. It was Severus Snape. Curious as to why he'd be showing up at his door, Sirius opened it. He didn't say a nice 'hello' or a rude 'what do you want'. He just stared at him.
"I've come to a decision," Snape said.
"What's that?"
"I'll make the potion."
"I thank you for that. He really needs it this time."
"I'm not doing it for him, and I'm not doing it for you. I'm doing it for the safety of everyone in this school."
Sirius nodded, slightly annoyed by the comment. The last thing Remus was, was dangerous. He took great caution with his lycanthropy.
"I still thank you," Sirius said, but not as meaningfully as he had previously.
Snape looked like he was going to leave, but then asked, "How's the boy? I heard what happened."
Sirius was taken aback. He knew something had changed, though he still didn't know what happened or how. "He's okay. He was pretty depressed earlier, but I think I snapped him out of it. Tomorrow's another day though, and it will be just as depressing. We'll play it by ear. See how things go."
"Indeed," Snape said. He put on a sour face, like he had to drink a foul potion and added, "I do hope he's alright."
Sirius's mouth dropped open. He soon recovered from the shock and said, "Thanks Severus, thanks a lot."
Snape nodded and then left the room. Sirius shut the door behind him with a puzzled expression.
"He has definitely taken a liking to Harry," Sirius thought to himself, "I would really like to know why, though. I would really like to know."
He tried to forget about Snape, but the only other thing he could think of was the next day, and he didn't have good thoughts about it. He knew very well that nothing about tomorrow would be good. Funeral's are supposed to bring closure, but for he and Harry it was only going to bring reality. Reality was the last thing either of them needed.
~~~~~~~~~~
Another one down! I'm going away this weekend, but I'm going to try very hard to get the next one out before then. I have no school Friday, so that could be an opportunity to get things done. Anyway, I'm looking forward to ending this story, although I'm sure most of you aren't. I have a new idea already in my head for the next story, it'll be a L/J with a twist. Told from the view of Peter Pettigrew, it will chronicle how the two fell in love, bumps along the way, and how exactly Peter went from being a fat happy kid to an evil deatheater. Does this sound good? I can't wait to start writing it, so tell me what you think and if you'd be apt to read it! Thanks and please don't forget to review!