Disclaimer: See the first chapter....
WARNINGS: Just to remind you, there's going to be Remus/Sirius slash! Jealousy abounds with the return of Snapey! And some very stuffy relatives come to visit!!!
~*~*~*~*~
Year 9 - College, Housework, and Other Challenges
~September 20, 1983 - London College of Advanced Magical Study~
Many interested glances were directed towards a long-haired young man in a leather jacket who was leaning against a tree, unconcernedly examining his fingernails. Nor were all of these glances from girls.
Another young man, this one with light brown hair and warm hazel eyes, stepped out of the building, slinging his bag over his shoulder. His eyes scanned the college's front lawn, and stopped on the long-haired man. A smile spread across his face and he hurried over.
Sirius looked up and saw Remus walking towards him. He smiled, and when Remus reached his side he bent to kiss his lover's cheek. Have a good day, Moony?
Yes, very good, Remus replied, taking Sirius by the hand. How was work?
Sirius shrugged.
What else is new? Remus said, rolling his eyes and making Sirius laugh, but then his mate assumed a serious expression (no pun intended).
Snapey hasn't been bothering you, has he?
Remus was attending London College of Advanced Magical Study this year. He had finally decided that he really *did* want to be a professor, and as Defense Against the Dark Arts had always been his best subject, it seemed like the perfect subject for him to teach. But he had been less than enthused to find out Snape was taking the same classes as he was, also training to be a professor. It was quite unnerving to be in class and having to ignore the piercing stares of his biggest enemy, who was quite obviously still furious over everything that had happened between them at Hogwarts. Remus supposed his being engaged' to Sirius didn't help the situation any. Well, of course he hadn't said anything about that to Snape, but the gold band on his left hand was just a little too obvious to ignore. He considered Sirius' question.
he said at last. He's not bothering me.
Sirius raised a skeptical eyebrow. You sure?
Sure as sure, Remus replied softly, giving his hand a squeeze. I swear it's okay.
Okay then, Sirius shrugged, and changed the subject. What do you want for dinner tonight? I could pick something up from a restaurant-
No, no, no, Remus said sternly, shaking his head. You've been trying to worm your way out of cooking for me ever since we moved in together. I've been cooking for you for months - now it's your turn.
Sirius gulped. But Remmie! I can't cook! I don't know how!
Anyone who can read can cook, Remus said. That's why cookbooks were invented.
I don't think we have any, Sirius said.
Yes we do. Mum felt it somewhat necessary to give me a whole pile of them. Perhaps she knows something I don't.
Sirius said weakly. Okay, I'll try, but I'm not promising anything.
Thank you, Remus said. Mr. Stubborn.
~*~*~*~*~
Sirius wandered into the kitchen around five that afternoon. A tad early to eat, but as he figured it, it was going to take him forever to figure out what he was doing.
He closed the door behind him and studied the rack of cookbooks which sat on the counter, just where Remus said they would be (Dang, there goes my first excuse,' he thought). Hmm. Modern French Cooking'. Charm Your Own Cheese'. Classical French Dishes'. Enchantments In Baking'. He gulped. What was this? Why wasn't there a book called Cooking For Hopeless Morons Who Don't Know What They're Doing'?
With a sigh, he picked the thinnest cookbook from the rack. Delicious, Easy Recipes', the title read.
Okay, if you say so, Sirius said to the book, and opened it. Baked Cod', the first recipe was. No, they had no cod. No fish at all, actually. String Bean Casserole'. The picture looked disgusting. Pork Rolls' - pork rolls? Turkey Soup'..... Lasagna'.... this wasn't easy!
He flipped through the book in desperation. he shouted, coming upon a simple recipe : baked chicken breast. He scanned the recipe. This had to be easy. There were only three steps.
1. Preheat oven to 380 degrees. Cover chicken in Italian salad dressing and bread crumbs.
Fine, I will, Sirius said, taking the chicken out of the refrigerator and doing as he was told.
2. Put chicken in oven.
*That* was obvious, Sirius mumbled.
3. Bake 20 minutes or until toothpick comes out clean.
Toothpick, eh? Sirius said, and shrugged.
Well, the chicken baked for twenty minutes. Sirius extracted it from the oven after the timer beeped, and examined it closely.
Well, it *looks* like chicken, he said, prodding it gingerly. It has to be good. Where's the toothpicks?
He seized one and poked the chicken. It wasn't bloodstained when he pulled it out. Everything looked good so far. Hm, I think I did it, he muttered. Guess I'm not as hopeless as I thought.
He dished everything out and carried the plates proudly into the dining room, where Remus sat waiting.
Oh! This looks good! Remus said as Sirius put his dinner down in front of him. Chicken. I should have guessed. It's your favorite.
Sirius watched anxiously as Remus cut a piece of chicken and popped it into his mouth. Remus chewed thoughtfully, then a frown creased his brow.
What is it? Sirius asked. Is it okay?
Remus swallowed. Ehrm - love - what did you put on this?
Italian dressing. Just like the recipe said.
Remus took another bite. Might I ask - where did you get the dressing?
The refrigerator. It was in one of those glass bottles you keep the leftover dressing in.
Remus spluttered with laughter. He put down his fork and continued to laugh, shaking his head.
What? What did I do? What's so funny? Sirius asked.
Remus said, wiping his eyes, Remember the shrimp bisque I made for us the other night?
Sirius said, his heart sinking horribly.
Well that wasn't Italian d-dressing - that was - the - he stopped and sniggered - That was the - c-clam broth I had leftover from making the bisque! And Remus put his head on the table and howled with laughter.
Sirius moaned. Oh, Remmie! It isn't funny!
Remus calmed down and kissed his cheek. I'm sorry, dear. I shouldn't laugh... it was my fault. I should have warned you. But I had no idea you'd try and make me Italian chicken. Don't fret, I still like it. The broth gives it an interesting taste.
Sirius sighed, cutting a bite of chicken and trying it. Remus was right. It did taste different. Whether it was a good different or a bad different Sirius couldn't tell, but since he knew Remus hated to waste food it was better for him just to eat it.
After they finished the meal and were washing the dishes, Sirius said, Remmie? Can I ask you a favor?
Anything, dear.
Next time, put a label on the bottle?
~October 1 - 7:00 AM~
Remus loved watching Sirius when he was asleep.
He was just beautiful (well, Sirius was *always* beautiful.....). A few strands of his long hair were just beginning to come out of the braid Remus had put it in the night before, and he looked just so sweet, so peaceful. Nothing in his face that would make anyone believe this lovely, sleeping angel was anything but just that - nothing to indicate this angel' was fond of practical jokes, arguing with his parents, and leather leashes with choke chains.
Actually, Remus should have been getting up. His first class was at nine, and he had to shower and eat and all... but he was content to stay where he was, lying on his side and watching his lover sleep.
Sirius snorted and rolled over. Remus had to grab his arm to keep him from falling off the bed. Most unfortunately, he wasn't quick enough, and found himself being pulled off the bed as well. He landed on Sirius, who grunted, and woke up. He blinked up at Remus, who was fighting back a giggle. Wha' happened? he asked sleepily.
You fell off the bed, Remus chuckled. I tried to stop you, but it just added to the avalanche.
Sirius sighed. And I was having such a nice dream, too. We were on the beach. He paused. I hate the cold.
I know you do, Remus said, kissing him on the nose and getting off him. Come now, get up. Things to do, you know. You don't want to be late for work, do you?
No, Dad'd kill me, Sirius grumbled, heaving himself up off the floor. Should I make breakfast?
If you make cold cereal.
Sirius glared at him, but Remus just giggled as he went to the wardrobe for his clothes. I'm sorry.
That's better, his mate mumbled, pushing the blankets and pillows back onto the bed. I can't help that I'm culinarily challenged.
That isn't even a word!
It is now.
Remus shook his head as he headed for the bathroom. Sometimes Sirius could be quite odd.
After breakfast had been eaten, the dishes done, and the bed made, Remus packed up his books and got ready to head off to school.
Would you like a ride, or are you going to Apperate? Sirius asked him (Sirius had to drive to work every day; his father's Muggle employees wouldn't be too happy if he kept popping up out of nowhere).
You can drive me, if you have the time and don't mind, Remus said.
I should mind driving my lover around? Sirius asked, and rolled his eyes. Remmie, you know I don't mind.
All right then, Remus said softly, and leaned up to kiss him. Thank you.
The college wasn't far from their home; they got there after three songs (Sirius always measured a car trip's length in songs - today it had been Love Me Do', Dancing Days', and Iron Man'). Remus slung his bag over his shoulder and kissed Sirius goodbye.
Have a good day, love. See you soon, Sirius said.
All right. Don't annoy your father. Love you.
Love you too.
Remus got out of the car and waved as Sirius drove away, then adjusted his bag and headed up the steps. Before he could get to the top, he was accosted by none other than Severus Snape.
Hello, Lupin, Snape said rather stiffly. Remus sighed. For some reason, Snape never left him alone, even though Remus suspected Snape hated him after a fashion. And it was no good trying to avoid one another; they were in all the same classes.
Hello, Severus, he said. How are you today?
All right, I suppose, Snape grumbled in his usual cranky way. I take it *you're* doing well.
I'm fine, thanks for asking, Remus said, trying his best to keep the sarcasm out of his voice as they entered their classroom.
Snape couldn't help his attention from wandering that day. His gaze kept being drawn to Lupin like a moth to a flame. The old longing was still there, and so was the bitter, poisonous flow of hatred and jealousy for Black. What wouldn't I give to have Lupin?' Snape thought. I'd give absolutely anything to have him. I'd kill Black, even. Not a good idea. I'd be in Azkaban and Lupin would waste his time crying over Black. Even though I'd more likely win the Order of Merlin, First Class for murdering the dastard.'
~October 15~
The doorbell rang at nine o'clock that Saturday morning. Sirius and Remus were awake, but they were not out of bed yet. In fact, they had been in bed since three o'clock yesterday afternoon. Not all of those hours were spent sleeping.
Love, would you mind getting that? Remus asked sweetly.
Sirius grumbled, but got out of bed and pulled on his jeans. He trudged to the door and yanked it open to reveal two very stuffy-looking people standing there, frowning severely at him. One was a scrawny, tight-lipped woman with light brown hair pulled back into a severe bun. The other was a tall and equally scrawny man with white hair and square spectacles.
They stared at one another for several seconds. Sirius could feel the air of disapproval growing as the man and woman surveyed him from head to toe, taking in his long, uncombed hair, his earring, his skin-tight jeans, and his bare feet. They raised their eyebrows in identical looks of surprise.
Er - love, I think it's for you, Sirius called, still staring at the two strangers.
Remus shuffled into the room a few minutes later, wearing his favorite old pair of slippers and buckling his belt. He stopped, and blushed. Uncle Nicholas... Tante Beatrice.... er.... hello...
There you are, Remus, the woman said stiffly, striding into the room and giving her nephew a hard little peck on the cheek. Your mother said we'd find you here.
Didn't you know we were coming? his uncle said, walking past Sirius as though he were a hat stand. Your mother said she owled you about our visit.
Er - Remus glanced at the pile of mail from yesterday. He had been meaning to read it once he got home from school, but then he and Sirius had gotten involved and he had forgotten all about it....
Of course I did, he lied quickly. I must have just gotten the dates confused. I'm sorry...
His aunt, however, was eyeing Sirius again. Your mother said you were living with someone, she said. Where is she?
Beg pardon? Remus asked.
The girl you're living with! Where is she?
Remus blanched. Er - actually..... I'm not living with a girl. I'm living with my boyfriend....
Summoning all the dignity he could despite being half-dressed, Sirius smiled timidly and held out his hand. Er - bonjour?
It was so quiet one could have heard a pin drop.
Remus' aunt raised an eyebrow at him. Your - boyfriend? she asked, pointedly ignoring Sirius' outstretched hand.
Didn't Mum tell you? Remus asked, fighting the urge to faint.
No. She just said you were living with someone, His uncle said. She never mentioned who it was.
Of course she wouldn't have. Remus knew very well his aunt and uncle would never have come to visit if they had known who he was living with. He glanced at Sirius, who was looking out the window and blushing beet-red under his curtain of hair. No help there.
Er... well.... Sirius and I are living together.
His aunt and uncle exchanged looks, then looked from Remus to Sirius with some skepticism. Remus saw that Sirius had stopped blushing. Bad sign. He prayed Sirius wouldn't lose his temper. He was dangerous when he did.
Instead, Sirius said quietly, Excuse me for a moment, please, and headed into the bedroom. To neaten up a bit and put on a shirt, Remus figured, but he sighed and turned to his aunt and uncle.
Let's not have a blazing row over this, he said tiredly. You're acting the very same way my parents and Sirius' did when we told them about us. And you know, I'm really tired of it. I love Sirius and nothing anyone can say will keep me from him. Now, if you can live with that, I'll put a shirt on and start some tea. If you don't, then you can go back to Mum and tell her things aren't working out. All right?
Beatrice and Nicholas looked at each other. Their nephew had never spoken to them like this before; in fact, they had thought he never spoke to *anyone* that way. But Beatrice forced a smile.
Well, Remus, dear ... does he know about - your condition?
Remus answered, detesting how everyone called it a condition'. That was such a stupid word. But he didn't say anything about it. Yes, he knows.
Then what - his aunt began, but her husband laid a hand on her shoulder and shook his head slightly at her.
It looked as though the embarrassing questions were over, so Remus had his aunt and uncle take seats on the couch, then he excused himself and hurried into the bedroom, where Sirius was fiddling nervously with his hair.
It's safe to come out now, Remus teased, opening the wardrobe and pulling out one of Sirius' flannel shirts. He pulled it on and began buttoning it up.
Sirius sighed. Remmie, why do I always get the feeling half your family wants me dead? he asked.
Remus fastened the last button and went to hug his mate. I'm so sorry, love. It's just a new thing to the family, I guess. How shall we handle the gay werewolf and his boyfriend?' He kissed Sirius' cheek. They'll get used to it in time. I promise.
All right. said Sirius. Where are your relatives now? Here, or fleeing?
Here, that's why I put a shirt on. Come on, before they get suspicious.
That's one of *my* shirts, I see, Sirius said, putting his own slippers on.
I like wearing your clothes. They smell like you. It's... I dunno, like a security blanket.
Should I be pleased? Sirius asked as they left the room.
Yes, very much so, Remus said, kissing him again.
The rest of the afternoon was rather pleasant. Remus could sense his aunt and uncle steadily thawing towards Sirius - very slowly, it was true, but better than nothing. Beatrice seemed most eager to question Sirius about his job and the house and ask all sorts of questions that Remus thought were very nosy questions indeed. But Sirius didn't seem flustered and fielded them all quite calmly. As Remus was pouring more tea for them all, his uncle asked, You haven't seen Serena around, have you?
Mum didn't tell you about her either?' Remus asked, shooting a glare at Sirius, who looked as though he might burst out laughing at any minute (as he always did whenever Serena was mentioned these days). She got married.
Beatrice gasped. She's not leaving school, is she?
Not at all, Remus said. I mean, it will be a bother for Gru- I mean, Gregory, to have her gone for a year, but she wants to finish up at Hogwarts. What she's going to do afterwards, I have no idea.
Who did she marry? Beatrice asked.
Grub - oops - I mean, Gregory Jointly, Remus said.
His uncle frowned. Isn't he George Jointly's son?
I think so. He must be, it's not a common name, Remus said, kicking Sirius under the table.
Terrible lot, that family, Nicholas grumbled. Why did Serena marry one of them?
I wouldn't know, Remus said, handing around the plate of biscuits.
Do you have her address? Beatrice asked. I should like to see her.
I think so. Siri, be a love and fetch the address book for me, Remus said, and Sirius obeyed, smothering a chuckle. Remus couldn't really see what was so funny, but then Sirius found a lot of things funny that most other people wouldn't.
Sirius returned with the book, parchment, quill, and ink, and Remus looked Serena's address up and wrote it down for his aunt and uncle. They left a few minutes later, wanting to go and see Serena before they had to catch the Knight Bus back to France.
Goodbye, dear, Beatrice said, giving her nephew another hard peck on the cheek (she was not fond of kissing people). Come visit us sometime, all right?
We'll try, Remus promised, shaking his uncle's hand.
Nicholas and Beatrice shook Sirius' hand as well (he was surprised), then Disapperated.
See, they aren't as bad as all that, Remus said as he and Sirius began clearing away the tea things.
No, they aren't, said Sirius, following him into the kitchen and putting dishes in the sink. He paused, and said, You know, Remmie, they *did* interrupt something this morning...
Oh, you, Remus giggled. Aren't you ever satisfied?
Sirius responded, sweeping Remus into his arms and carrying him to their bedroom.
~November 10~
Mrs. Black's voice floated into the kitchen, making her son and his boyfriend jump. They rushed into the living room to find Mrs. Black's head sitting in the fireplace. She was looking very excited.
What is it, Mum? Sirius asked as he and Remus knelt on the hearth.
You're an uncle! Mrs. Black beamed.
Sirius' eyes widened, and so did his smile. No! Really? Lyra had the baby?
Just now, his mother said proudly. Stanley Michael White, born at three o'clock on the dot.
Oh, lovely! said Remus happily. Might we come and visit?
Yes, yes, of course, Lyra is asking for you both right now, Mrs. Black said. You'd better hurry, she's getting quite cranky.
All right, we'll be right along, Mum, Sirius said, already crawling under the couch in search of his boots. He found them, and crawled out, dust in his hair. Just imagine, Remmie. I'm an uncle!
I pity the child, Remus said, and laughed at the look on Sirius' face. I'm only kidding.
You'd better be, Sirius groused, pulling on his leather jacket. Let's Apperate, we'll get there faster.
So Apperate they did. They appeared in the Blacks' living room, and hurried up the stairs to Lyra's room, where everyone else was already gathered, including the midwife, a wizened old witch who had presided over the births of Lyra and Sirius as well. Her name was Madame Koume, and her wrinkled face lit up when Sirius entered the room.
So here's the uncle! she croaked. My, you've gotten big since I've seen you last. (She had last seen him when he was born - that was almost twenty years ago.)
H'lo, everyone, Sirius said cheerfully, plunking down at the foot of his sister's bed. All right, sis. Where's my nephew?
Right here, Lyra said, holding out a bundle of blankets to her brother. Don't drop him, you stupid prat.
Aw, he'll land on a nice soft bed, Sirius said, and took the baby.
Stanley looked much more like his father than his mother. He had a fluff of blonde hair and Brad's chiseled, aquiline nose (quite a big nose for such a small kid, Remus reflected), but he also had the same stormy, midnight-blue eyes as his mother and his uncle. The kid looked just as Ken-doll-ish as his father. But as far as Remus could tell, the rest of the family (Sirius included) seemed to think Stanley was just adorable.
Sirius grinned and tapped the baby's nose. Fascinated, Stanley tried to grab hold of Sirius' finger, but as his depth perception and hand-eye coordination weren't too good yet, he couldn't manage it, and began to scream.
Okay, okay, back to your mum you go! Sirius yelped, handing Stanley back to Lyra. Gods, that kid is *loud*!
You were the same way, his mother said fondly. You used to scream just for the sake of hearing yourself scream. She turned to Remus. Remus! Have you ever seen Sirius' baby pictures? They're ever so adorable!
No, I haven't, Remus grinned.
And you never will! Sirius yelled. Mum, don't show him! They're embarrassing!
But you were so cute! Mrs. Black protested. You and your teddy bear -
Sirius overruled her, and Stanley screamed again. Ooops. Sorry, kid.
Stanley stopped screaming and gave Sirius a decidedly mischievous look. How much mischief could you get into when you weren't even a day old yet? Sirius wondered, but before he could pursue that thought further, he realized his mother and Remus had vanished. From downstairs he heard Remus laughing, and his mother saying, There's Sirius at two... his grandmother was giving him a bath in the kitchen sink...
MUM! REMMIE!!! Sirius wailed, and ran downstairs to put a stop to it. But Remus' wild giggles made it all too clear that his mother had reached the diaper-changing section of the photos.....
~December 13 - The Leaky Cauldron~
What's the thrilling news, Jim? Sirius asked, as he and Remus took seats across from James and Lily, who had insisted that they meet in the Leaky Cauldron as soon as possible, because they had thrilling news'. Peter and Grace were there as well, looking equally curious.
James's cheeks were faintly pink. Well.... Lily and I... we went to the doctor awhile ago. And... well...
I'm pregnant, Lily cut in, her eyes shining.
There was a stunned silence for a few seconds. Then Sirius threw back his head and let out a yell that scared half the pub's patrons, and seized both James and Lily into one of his trademark bear hugs. Grace burst into tears of joy and joined in on the hug too, and Remus and Peter managed to hug and kiss James and Lily as well. When their excitement had been put under control (the landlord, Tom, was watching them warily from behind the bar, looking as though he wanted to put a Muting Charm on them), Sirius ordered drinks for them all (Lily and Grace took hot chocolate instead of liquor) and toasted his friends.
To Jim, Lil, and the kid, he said, grinning. Hopefully it'll be as much of a hell-raiser as its old man.
I'll drink to that, James laughed. And Siri drinks to anything.
Shut up, his best friend replied cheerfully. How long have you known and kept it a secret?
Since the end of October, Lily said.
That's so lovely, Grace sniffed, dabbing at her eyes with her hanky. You're so lucky.
I sincerely hope the kid's nothing like my nephew, Sirius said. I love him, but he is *evil*.
How can a one-month-old kid be evil? Peter asked him skeptically.
He is! Sirius insisted. Tell them, Remmie! Remmie's a witness!
He spits up and needs changing quite often and won't sleep for more than an hour at a time, Remus told them. So, he's just like every other baby. He's not evil, Siri's just exaggerating.
No, no! He bites me! It hurts! Sirius said.
He doesn't even have any teeth! How could it possibly hurt?!
Sirius grumbled something about insensitive wankers', and Remus shook his head and looked back at Lily. Don't worry. Your child will be an angel, I'm sure.
I just hope I'm ready for it, James said, finishing his drink. I mean, it's going to be tough... our first kid and all.
That's why you have countless family members to call on for advice, Grace laughed. At least, that's what all my sisters do. They come running to Mum for help nearly every day.
And we can leave the kid with Sirius if we need a break, James teased, poking his best friend in the shoulder.
Yes - but only if Remus is home as well, Lily added, earning herself giggles from the others and a scowl from Sirius.
I'm not completely hopeless, you know, he said, pretending to be insulted.
D'you know which end of the baby is up? James giggled.
Depends. Has it been a good baby or a bad baby?
Oh. Then the head's right way up.
I don't plan on spanking my child, Lily said firmly. Hitting him or her won't make a whit of difference.
I suppose you're right, Sirius shrugged. I got spanked all the time, and look how I turned out!
~December 26 - Nice, France~
Remus was sitting up in bed, reading a heavy book on the history of local witchcraft in Nice. Sirius was sleeping beside him, knocked out completely by the nine glasses of wine he had downed the night before. It was nearly nine in the morning but Remus saw no reason to get out of bed; nearly everyone else had downed as much wine as Sirius (Remus and his mother seemed to be the exceptions) and most likely wouldn't be getting up today.
Remus' grandmother had invited the entire family, including Sirius and Serena's husband Grub (whom Remus was still not entirely comfortable being brothers-in-law with), down to France for Christmas. It had been a well-anticipated visit, as the Lupins hadn't been to France in nearly ten years, and there had been lots of catching-up going on. Remus' grandmother was totally unsurprised to find her grandson had a boyfriend and her granddaughter was married; Remus suspected his aunt and uncle had already given her the news. But it was a relief not to go through all the trouble of telling her himself.
No, the main problem of the visit was the language barrier. Remus was amazed at how well he could remember French even after so many years of not needing it; but Sirius could only say three things in French- hello, goodbye, and cheese omelette. He could speak fluent German (his mother had taught him), but that was no help. Remus' grandmother was as equally unskilled at English and German as Sirius was at French; and so Remus was appointed the translator. It didn't look like he was doing any translating today; when Sirius drank enough, he was apt to sleep all the way through to the next day. It was good that way, actually. He never had a hangover because he slept right through it.
Almost an hour later, with a yawn, Remus marked his place in the book and got out of bed. His rumbling stomach would allow him to stay in bed no longer. He pawed through his suitcase for his favorite pair of jeans and an old, faded, blue plaid shirt (formerly Sirius', but Remus had ended up making it his own), and headed off into the bathroom for a shower. His grandmother's house was simply vast; each bedroom had its own adjoining bathroom.
Stifling another yawn, Remus turned the water on as hot as he could take it, undressed, and climbed under the spray. He had just begun to wash his hair when the bathroom door opened, closed, and Sirius peeked blearily around the shower curtain.
Oh. It's you, Remmie.
Who else would be showering in our bathroom? Remus asked, rolling his eyes. And it's a good thing it *is* me. Couldn't you have just asked? he inquired as Sirius withdrew his head. How's your head?
I hate it when you ask me three questions in a row, Sirius yawned, slipping off his boxers and brushing the shower curtain aside again. Push over.
Can't I ever take a shower in peace? Remus sighed to himself; but three hours later, sprawled out on the bed with Sirius beside him, he had to admit he didn't mind the company. Despite the fact he now had to take another shower.
Sigh.
~*~*~*~*~
Serena shrieked, tumbling headfirst into the snow as she tripped over Gill's leg. Gill, you jerk!
I didn't try to trip you up on purpose, Gill said, helping her up, and yelping in surprise as a snowball, thrown by Grub, hit him in the back of the neck. That's COLD!
What did you expect it to be? Sirius asked, throwing a snowball at Grub and expertly dodging another thrown by Henri (whose main mission in life, ever since last year it seemed, was to bug his brother's boyfriend whenever possible).
Gill stuck his tongue out at Sirius and scooped his sister up. Sometimes I wonder what asylum you escaped from, Black.
Aww, shut up, Sirius said, dodging another snowball and lobbing one back at Henri. Take *that*, minou.
Remus was sheltered behind a tree, watching the snowball fight and giggling, but he didn't join in. Grub was quite fond of throwing ice-balls, and he could throw hard and fast. A snowball fight with Grub Jointly usually meant losing a fair amount of blood. It wasn't pleasant. But he couldn't resist throwing a snowball at Sirius once in a while. He did so just then.
Don't think I don't know who's throwing those, Remmie! Sirius yelled over his shoulder, and yelped as Henri and Grub hit him at the same time. It's sabotage! Everyone's against me!
Remus giggled again and would have gone to help despite Grub and the ice-balls, but at that moment his owl, Rose, fluttered down onto his shoulder with a note bound to her leg.
H'lo, Rose! Remus said in surprise, stroking her and taking the letter from her. It was from Lily.
-Dear Remmie (and Siri if you're not sleeping off a hangover),
Remember Grace telling us last year that Peter's been acting strange? Well, I think it's getting worse for her. Just yesterday she was telling me Peter's still vanishing for hours at a time, and he seems to be acting *very* strangely... talking to people who aren't there, being quite secretive, jumping at small noises... D'you think something could be wrong? Jim and I can't think of a single thing to explain his behavior. It worries me a bit. And I think Grace might be having second thoughts about marrying Peter.... well, tell me if you have any ideas....
Hope you're having fun in France, and the baby's doing fine so far!
Love,
Lil-
Remus shook his head and carefully tucked the letter into his pocket. He was beginning to get worried about Peter as well.
What's wrong, love? Sirius asked, coming up behind him and giving him a hug.
I don't know. That's the problem.
~December 29 - Hogwarts~
Albus Dumbledore paced around his study, his brow furrowed in thought. His pet phoenix, Fawkes, watched him in concern as the headmaster sat down behind his desk and sighed. Things were not going so well these days. For quite a while now, a powerful, ambitious Dark wizard, Lord Voldemort, had been growing in power. It seemed he wanted to purge the world of all but pure-blood wizards, and Dumbledore knew he had a score of followers, the Death Eaters, who rallied behind him and would do anything to aid Voldemort's cause.
But the more serious problem in Dumbledore's mind right now concerned the Potters. Dumbledore knew very well that James and Lily were two of the very best witches and wizards Hogwarts had ever turned out, and he also knew Voldemort was keen to get their powers on his side. But James and Lily were too close to Dumbledore to ever consider going over to the Dark Side.
Dumbledore got up and went over to Fawkes' perch. He stroked his pet, thinking deeply. Voldemort would stop at nothing to either recruit the Potters, or have them killed. What was to be done?
He looked out his window at the cold winter sunset. What to do?..... Every day, more people became hypnotized and enchanted by Voldemort or his followers, and it was difficult to tell who was being honest and who was being controlled......
~January 19 - London College of Advanced Magical Study~
So you see, a vampire's aversion to garlic is more of an allergy than a fear..... its sharp scent can be sensed by a vampire from several miles away.....
Remus scribbled madly as Professor Brown droned on. The mid-term examinations were fast approaching, and he wanted to have his notes as exact as possible for his studying.
The bell rang for break and Remus packed up his things, then headed outside. He had a few errands to run today, and it was best to take care of them now. He didn't want Sirius finding out what he was up to, because he was making plans for Sirius' birthday, which was coming up in about two weeks. It was a tad early to do anything, but Remus was a firm believer in being prepared. And his first errand brought him to a stationary store, where he browsed around until he found invitations. Then came the hard part, for which he was grateful for having two weeks to do it. He had to pick out a birthday card.
This was always hard. In the past, Remus, James, and Peter had always gotten Sirius the funniest cards they could find (most of James' were a little risque, and he and Sirius would chuckle over it for months afterwards and tell it to anyone who would listen), but Remus was not sure that joke cards were appropriate to give your significant other, especially when he was so important to you. But on the other hand, he didn't want too sound mushy and flowery and girly, because Sirius would not be happy about that either. And so, picking a card was *hard work*.
He glanced at his watch and saw he didn't have much time left. He'd have to try this again tomorrow. He paid for his invitations and headed back up to the college. On the way, he was waylaid by Snape.
Hello, Severus, Remus said warily.
Hello, Lupin, Snape said stiffly, falling in step with him (to Remus' displeasure). He noticed the paper bag tucked into a pocket of Remus' schoolbag. What's that?
Remus said evasively. I'm getting ready for Sirius' birthday.
Snape winced mentally at the implications of this, but merely replied, I see. When is this honorable' occasion?
Remus frowned at the sarcasm in Snape's voice, but didn't comment on it. January thirtieth.
Snape said as they climbed the front steps of the school. And I suppose you're having a party.
What's wrong with that? Remus sighed. Why do you always act like Sirius has no goal in life except to try and murder you?
He *did* try to murder me, if I might remind you, Snape growled softly.
He did not. You were the one stupid enough to listen to him -
I'm the stupid one? He was daft to even mention it in the first place -
He didn't mean to, you were the one provoking him!
They realized they had been standing almost nose-to-nose and shouting. People were staring at them. Remus shook his head and lowered his voice. Severus, it was an accident. Just let it go.
Snape glared at him, but Remus ignored the look and headed to his next class.
~January 30 - Sirius' 20th birthday~
Wake up, love. Happy birthday.
Sirius opened one eye to see Remus smiling down at him and playing with his hair.
he grumbled, pulling the blankets up further. Remmie, I'm not ready to get up yet.
Sure you are. It's half-past nine.
No, I'm not. I -aaah! Sirius gasped as Remus ran a rather mischievous hand lightly over his thigh. Okay. So I *am* ready to get up.
Remus giggled at the unintentional double-entendre of that sentence. Good. And just so you know, your party starts at two.
Remmie, that's four hours away. There's nothing lovers can do that can take four hours - he gasped again as Remus nibbled at his earlobe. Er - I stand corrected. Perhaps we'll need more than that......
~*~*~*~*~
Well, they could have gone over their time limit, but Remus insisted they get out of bed at twelve.
We still have showers to take, and food to put out, and music to choose -which you didn't do *last* night like I asked - and we should try to neaten up this pigsty at least a little....
Sirius sighed and reluctantly climbed out of bed. Okay, I'm getting up. I'm not happy about it, but I'm getting up.
The time they had before the party whizzed by - it seemed to Remus he had only just gotten out of bed when James and Lily Apperated into the living room.
Happy birthday, Siri, James grinned, as Lily gave Sirius a birthday kiss. The big two-oh! You're getting up there, old man!
Eh, shut up sonny, or I'll whack you with my cane, Sirius grumbled.
I brought deviled eggs, Lily announced. Where do I put them, Remmie?
Oh, here, and would you mind giving me a hand with the rest of this?
Not at all, Lily said, handing her coat to James and going to help Remus.
There were two more *pop!* noises as Peter and Grace Apperated just then. Happy birthday, Siri, they chorused, and Grace went to give Remus and Lily a hand. Sirius lugged the coats into the guest room (it was closer) and tossed the coats on the bed, then went back into the other room and beckoned to James and Peter.
Jim, Pete, your assistance, please, he said, leading them over to the stereo cabinet. He knelt and opened the doors, revealing a very large record collection. James knelt beside him and began picking through the titles.
Honestly, Siri, I think you're the only male in the *world* who has all the Beatles' albums, he said, shaking his head.
Sirius pretended to be insulted. Whatever's wrong with that?
Nothing. It's just weird.
Sirius shook his head and plucked Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band and Abbey Road from the row of Beatles. Well, we're having Beatles at my party. What else?
James responded, plucking Breakfast In America from the shelf. And..... Elton John?!
Not mine! Sirius said.
Moony! You listen to *Elton John*?! James wailed as Remus entered the room, balancing teetering stacks of plastic cups.
Yes, I do! Remus said, blushing. What's wrong with that?
Nothing, if you like piano-playing poufs, James said, rolling his eyes and sliding Elton back into the cabinet.
I decree we must have Sabbath, Sirius said, plucking Black Sabbath's Master of Reality and out of the collection.
I want the Moody Blues and the Bee Gees, Peter said, adding a few more records to the pile.
Choosing records was a hard thing, as it turned out. They ended up with half of Sirius' collection piled on the floor, and James had Apperated home to fetch some of his own albums.
We don't need that much! Remus protested, as he and Lily separated the plastic cutlery into separate plies. It's only a birthday party, not a week-long coronation celebration, or something like that!
But it's my birthday and I need my very favorite songs, Sirius said sweetly, adding three Brian Slade albums to his pile.
Rolling Stones, James said, Apperating back and flipping through the pile of records in his arms. Deep Purple, Led Zeppelin, Iron Maiden -
I'm going to have a headache tonight, Remus sighed, mentally cursing whatever gods had given his friends and lover an insatiable taste for loud heavy-metal music.
Sirius and James had finally been persuaded to narrow their choices down, and were putting the extra records away, when the doorbell rang. Remus yelped and ran for the door. They're here!
The first few guests had arrived. It was Rose McDougall, formerly of the Ravenclaw Quidditch team, and her boyfriend Augustus Periwinkle; and Chad Jones, a friend of James', and his date - Bertha Jorkins. Both Sirius and Remus gulped and thanked their lucky stars they had neatened the place up before Bertha arrived; they could see her looking round the room, taking stock of everything. It was all certain to join the gossip pool tomorrow, Remus was sure.
Right on Chad and Bertha's heels came Sara Josephson and Izzy Jordan, and Remus hurried to start showing everyone where to put the presents and food they had brought, while Sirius dashed to the guest room, dropping coats and purses on the bed, and hurrying back to the door to welcome more guests. Lily's friend Debbie Johnston arrived with her date, Joe Smith (captain of the Gryffindor Quidditch team for the first few years James had been on the team) and Joe's younger brother John, who happened to be bringing Jane Goodwind.
Jim! The music! Sirius called, running off to the guest room with more coats. James saluted, marched over to the record player, and put on Abbey Road.
Over the next fifteen minutes, the guests arrived in dribs and drabs. Most were friends of Sirius' and Remus' who'd been in their year at school, or on the Quidditch teams, though a few of them brought dates (some of whom were Muggles. Remus was glad there wasn't anything magical lying around).
Through it all, Bertha Jorkins prowled through the living room and kitchen, poking around to see exactly what Sirius and Remus' house was like. She often tried to sneak down the hallway to get to the master bedroom (who knows what she was looking for - ecchi!), but after being caught several times and reminded that all the rooms down the hall except the bathroom was off-limits, she remained by Chad Jones' side, looking sulky. Remus tried not to giggle at the sight of her face. She was obviously very irritated about not finding out all the juicy details' that came with two wizards living together.
Bertha just seemed to be summoning up her courage to chance another dash down the hall when Remus called, Time for the cake! Come on, gather round!
Remus and Lily hoisted the rather large chocolate sheet cake up to the table. They had put trick candles on it (the kind that always relight themselves), lit in the kitchen with a quick Incendio Charm when no one else was around.
Go ahead, love, make a wish, Remus said. Sirius closed his eyes and thought for a moment, then held his hair out of the way and blew out the candles, which immediately relit themselves. Sirius rolled his eyes and blew them out again, and they all sniggered when the candles relit themselves a second time. Giggling, Remus and Lily carefully plucked the candles from the cake and dropped them into a cup of water. Sirius cut the cake and once everyone was served, he and Remus tried to feed each other, which didn't go too well, as Remus started giggling and couldn't hold still, the result being they had chocolate all over their faces.
A disaster, James teased them. You can't even feed each other right.
Izzy Jordan sniggered, If you two got married and had to do it again. In front of your parents.
Aww, shut up, Sirius grumbled.
~*~*~*~*~
The party lasted until nearly two in the morning, until the food ran out and everyone was exhausted from dancing. After seeing the last guests out, Sirius and Remus collapsed onto the crumb-strewn couch and breathed identical sighs of relief.
Have a nice birthday, love? Remus asked.
Yes, very nice, Sirius said sleepily, planting a sloppy, alcohol-tasting kiss on Remus' lips. Thank you, precious.
We'll have a spot of cleaning to do tommo- er, later today, Remus yawned as they got up and straggled down the hall to their bedroom.
Grah. Don't remind me, Sirius said, pulling his t-shirt over his head and tossing it on the floor.
You're only *contributing* to the mess, Remus pointed out as Sirius' jeans joined his shirt.
I know. Don't care, Sirius said. It's my birthday and -
Remus said warningly. Don't you *dare*. You know I hate that song!
All right.........
~February 9 - Chronos~
Where is he? Lily asked, craning her neck to try and catch a glimpse of the door. It's not like Peter to be this late.
I'm going to go see if he's home, Grace said nervously, throwing down her napkin and getting up. Does Setsuna allow fireplace calls?
Yeah, but you've gotta ask her first, James said. She's got it set up in her apartment over the place.
All right, I'll be right back, Grace said, hurrying away. James, Lily, Sirius, and Remus exchanged glances.
You know, I'm starting to get a little worried, James said slowly. Pete's been acting strangely ever since we left Hogwarts - strange for *him*, I mean. What d'you suppose he's up to?
If we knew, there wouldn't be a problem, now would there? Sirius sighed, picking at his roast beef.
Grace came hurrying back, looking harassed.
His mother says he's not home! she said, flopping back into her chair with a sigh. I *wish* I knew what he was up to. With things being the way they are and all...
The other nodded in glum agreement. They knew all too well about Voldemort and his followers, and the problems it was causing for the Ministry. All in all, life had become rather depressing these days.
Their worry steadily increased until Peter finally arrived, almost an hour late, out of breath and looking quite pale. He waved off their anxious inquiries, saying, It's nothing, I'm sorry to have kept you waiting. Let me see a menu, I'm rather hungry....
Grace wrung her napkin nervously between her hands. But Peter... we were so worried... I mean, you could have been in trouble...
As Grace said that, Remus fancied he could see a rather frightened sort of look in Peter's eyes, as if Grace had rightly guessed what was wrong. But a second later, he was sure he had imagined it, because Peter just smiled and shook his head.
Really, dear, I'm fine, he insisted. It's nothing to be upset over, trust me....
~February 28 - London College of Advanced Magical Study~
K.... L.... M...... ah. Magical Creatures of The Fifteenth Century', Remus murmured, pulling a heavy book down from the shelf. He opened it and scanned the index quickly, then nodded, satisfied. The information he would be needing for his essay paper on dragon breeders was in here. He lugged the heavy tome back to the table he was working at. Just as he flipped to the page he needed, an all-too-familiar voice asked, Might I sit here, Lupin?
Yes, Severus, Remus sighed, shifting his books and rolls of parchment around so Snape would have some room. He went back to his work, hoping Snape wouldn't want to start up a conversation. Conversations with Snape were not all that enjoyable.
Wishes don't come true as often as we'd like to believe.
You're serious, are you? Snape asked.
Remus paused in his writing and looked up, frowning. I beg your pardon?
Snape pointed to Remus' left hand, which gripped his quill. His golden promise ring glittered in the early-afternoon sun slanting through the high windows. You're serious about this? Marrying Black and being a timid schoolmarm all your life? How do you sleep at night, I wonder, lying next to a murderer?
You're not still on about him, are you? Remus asked in disgust. Severus, what does it take to make you *see*? Sirius is *not* a murderer - he never meant for anything to happen to you. It's in the past! Why can't you just forget it?
Because I can't stand to see you waste your life on *him*! Snape hissed, and glanced around quickly to be sure they were unobserved. They were the only people on this side of the library, so he barreled on. I can't stand to see you with someone as worthless, as dense, as - he struggled to find the words he wanted. As - as - *uncouth* as Black. You deserve someone better! Don't you know that?!
Remus had lost his interest in his essay entirely. Just what are you saying? he demanded.
I'm telling you I still love you, and I want you to be with me, Snape said softly, a desperate look in his eyes. Please, Remus, I -
With a shake of the head, Remus held up a hand to silence him.
Severus, I don't think you understand, he said quietly. Listen to me. I know you know what I am. And surely you must know- his voice dropped even more - -that a werewolf mates for life. I *can't* leave Sirius. He and I have been mated for almost two years now. I love him more than anyone or anything else on this planet, and I can't let go of him. And I know Sirius loves me just as deeply. You have to *see* that, Severus. He and I are together for... for eternity. And nothing - nobody - can change that. He quickly gathered up his work, feeling a twinge of guilt at having to be so blunt, but knowing it was the only way to get his point across. He stood up and shouldered his bag. Goodbye, Severus, he said, even more quietly, and hurried out of the library.
Snape stayed where he was for a very long time afterwards, not doing anything, just sitting with his head in his hands. He completely ignored the curious looks of the students who occasionally drifted over to browse through the shelves. Lupin's comments had hit home, to be sure. Why couldn't I have seen it coming?' Snape thought bitterly to himself. A part of his mind berated him for being so stupid; he knew perfectly well what happened once the werewolf chose its mate; he had read up on werewolves until he knew more about them than any other Dark creature, at one time hoping he would need the knowledge to help him enjoy a long life together with Lupin. But now that dream was shattered; like so many other things in life - having a proper father, for one, - it was gone forever.
Slowly, Snape got up from the table, not noticing that nearly three hours had passed since Lupin left. The librarian looked up as he left, the last student to go, and was frightened by the look on his face.
It wasn't sadness or jealousy or angst. It wasn't even precisely anger.
It was pure rage and rising hatred.
~April 5 - the Potters' house~
You what? Lily asked, flabbergasted.
I - I - I called off t-the engagement, Grace sniffled, then burst into another flood of tears.
James asked her, alarmed. He had never seen Grace so distressed. Actually, no one ever had. Grace was normally a very cheerful, upbeat girl. This storm of misery was completely unlike her - as unlike her as Peter's strange behavior was unlike him.
I can't marry him, Grace sniffed, after getting herself under some semblance of control. I really can't. Lately, it's been such a strain on me. Even my parents aren't too fond of him. They used to love Peter - but now they get very wary whenever someone as much as mentions his name. And I really will not abide being married to him, and sitting up every night, worried sick, waiting for him to come home. I just couldn't do it! I won't!
She started crying again, and Lily hugged her tightly (if a tad awkwardly; her big belly made hugging people unusually difficult). Grace lifted her face imploringly to James, Sirius, and Remus.
It's too late to try and save our relationship. But would you talk to him? The lot of you? You're his closest friends. He'll listen to you. He'll tell you anything, won't he? Would you please try to find out what's wrong? Just so I know if it's - drugs, or a-a-another woman, or - or - s-something else.
Of course we will, dear, Sirius murmured, kissing her forehead. We'll go find him right now.
We'll try and talk some sense in him, James promised as the three men rose and put on their cloaks. We might not be able to save your romance, but perhaps your friendship will escape unscathed.
Thank you, Grace whispered tearfully. They kissed her once each, and Apperated to the Pettigrews' home.
Neither Peter or his family seemed to be home when they arrived. James poked around the first floor, Remus went upstairs, and Sirius headed for the back garden, calling Peter and his parents the whole time.
Remus asked, knocking on Peter's bedroom door. There was no reply, so he opened the door and looked around. The room was spotlessly neat (Mrs. Pettigrew was a fanatic when it came to cleaning) and empty.
Pete? Mr. Pettigrew? James called, peeking into the den. Nobody there but Peter's father's collection of Bertie Bott's Every Flavor Beans boxes (it was a collection of boxes dating back almost a hundred years; James couldn't see why anyone would *want* really old boxes of Every Flavor Beans, but to each his own, he supposed).
Mrs. Pettigrew? Aunt Helga? Sirius asked, going into the greenhouse. Nobody there. He bent down to peek under the benches (though it seemed highly unlikely Peter or his family would be under there). With a sigh, he straightened up and headed back into the house, and joined Remus and James, who were waiting in the living room.
I take it you didn't find anyone, Sirius sighed when he saw them.
James said, running a hand through his unruly hair.
Where could they be? Remus sighed unhappily. Pete always tells us if they go anywhere; it's like they vanished or something.
I hate to go back to Grace and tell her we can't find Pete, Sirius said, nervously biting his bottom lip. It'll only worry her more, you know.
But then what are- James began, but the sound of a door opening and closing upstairs cut him off. Footsteps sounded on the stairs, and Peter appeared. He stopped in surprise.
Er - hello, guys. What are you doing here? Peter asked.
Now this wasn't right. Remus had checked *all* the rooms upstairs - all of them! - and there had been no one there, unless Peter had been hiding in the laundry chute or something.
Actually, we're looking for you, Sirius said, looking as confused as Remus felt.
We've been calling you, mate. Where've you been? James asked curiously.
Right upstairs, Peter said, but it was a lie; Remus could see it in Peter's eyes, and besides, he had *checked* up there less than ten minutes ago. No one could have gotten past them without being seen, either - unless they Apperated directly to the second floor.
By the looks James and Sirius were giving each other, Remus knew they realized this as well. But no one made a mention of it. James just shrugged and changed tack. I think we all need to have a talk, Pete.
We do? Peter asked, and for a moment, Remus thought he caught a shred of pure fear in his friend's eyes. No, it couldn't be. What would Peter have to hide from his best friends?
It's about Grace, Sirius said sternly. Pete, d'you know what you're *doing* to her?
Where is she now? Peter asked anxiously, ignoring Sirius' question.
At home with Lil, crying her eyes out, poor thing, James said, as he and Sirius seized Peter by his upper arms and steered him over to the couch. They sat him down and seated themselves on each side of him (Remus was left to try and make himself as comfortable as possible in Aunt Helga's horrid rocking chair with the lumpy cushion).
What's this we hear about Grace breaking off your engagement? James began.
Peter shifted uncomfortably. Well, I - er, well, she's been awfully upset lately and I don't know why -
You know perfectly well why! Sirius said loudly, but lowered his voice at the look on Peter's face. Sorry, Pete. But you've got to talk with Grace. Tell her what's going on. Hell, I'd like to know what's going on, myself.
He's right, Remus spoke up. It's really bad for her, Pete. The least you can do is tell her what you're up to. What is it, anyway?
Peter didn't answer right away. They waited, exchanging glances over Peter's bowed head. Remus was about to repeat his question when Peter said softly, It's nothing, really. Absolutely nothing. I - I just don't think I'm - I'm ready to - you know, get married. I love Grace and all, but I don't know what it will be like to be married to her for the rest of my life....
Well, a plausible excuse. Remus could understand what Peter was getting at - he loved Grace, but wasn't *in love* with her. Remus supposed that was the first clue that a relationship was falling apart. And all this secrecy... perhaps... perhaps he really did have another girlfriend on the side. It was a sad idea, but things like this happened.
He could tell just by looking at James and Sirius that they didn't fully believe this explanation; but try as they might, they couldn't get anything else out of Peter. After about fifteen minutes of further interrogation, James shook his head, and he, Remus, and Sirius stood.
All right, Pete, James said, sounding a trifle sad and more than a little disappointed. If you don't want to tell us, it's okay... but remember to talk to Grace, all right? She really cares for you, and this is killing her.
Okay, Jim, Peter said softly. I promise.
~May 14 - Dumbledore's office~
Dumbledore put down the letter he had been reading. He rubbed gingerly at his temples, where he could feel a rather large headache coming on.
The letter was from one of the people he had spying on Lord Voldemort - a very useful, honest person. (I don't need to mention their name here, but if I did, you'd know it.) According to this letter, Voldemort was becoming steadily more powerful by the day, and he was determined to either force James and Lily Potter over to the Dark Side, or kill them in the attempt. This did not bode well with Dumbledore, who was beginning to realize the options were severely limited. And to make matters worse, his spy had informed him that Voldemort was getting quite a lot of information on the Potters - more than he could have gotten without help. This increased Dumbledore's worries. There was only one possibility there - someone, someone *very* close to James and Lily, was acting as an informant for Voldemort. But the question was, who? Sirius Black, Remus Lupin, and Peter Pettigrew were the Potters' closest friends, so it must be one of them. But Dumbledore really could not guess which one. Sirius was James' oldest, best friend and fiercely loyal; Remus adored both James and Lily, and since he lived with Sirius it was hard to believe he could hide something like this from James' most trusted friend; and Peter looked up to James like a big brother, someone who had always protected and defended him.
Fawkes fluttered down from his perch to sit on his master's knee, cooing softly. Dumbledore absently stroked the bird's crimson head, thinking deeply. He touched his wand to his head and began extracting thoughts one by one, and placing them in the Pensieve, which sat before him on his desk.
~June 28 - Serena's Graduation Day - Hogwarts~
I'm so proud of you, darling! Mrs. Lupin sobbed onto her daughter's shoulder. Oh, my babies are growing up so fast!
Sirius sniggered appreciatively as Serena, Remus, Henri, and Gill blushed simultaneously.
they all said in unison, and blushed even deeper. Sirius sniggered again, but cut himself off with a yelp of surprise and pain.
he scolded, looking down rather sternly at his nephew (Lyra and Brad claimed they needed a vacation and had dumped Stanley on Sirius that morning, over his arguments he had a graduation to go to), who smiled sunnily up at him. How many times do I have to tell you - you don't bite Uncle Siri! He doesn't like it!
Stanley just giggled and blurbled happily. Sirius rolled his eyes and dumped the baby into Remus' arms. Hold the kid. He thinks I'm a chew toy or something.
He's not that bad, Remus said, touching his nose to Stanley's and smiling when the baby giggled. See, he's not biting me.
Sirius grumbled, and shot a look at Grub, who was chuckling by Serena's side. At that same moment, Serena waved wildly and called out to some of her giggly friends, who dragged their parents over to talk. After some introductions, Remus and Sirius wandered away before all that giggling could give them headaches.
Remus switched Stanley to his other hip as they reached the Quidditch field. I don't see what you think is so bad with Stanny, he said. He doesn't bite me.
Because you don't look like a sweet to him, I suppose, Sirius grumbled (Stanley seemed to be awed by Sirius' skin, tanned a lovely caramel-gold colour - though Remus seriously doubted it was the same interest he had in it himself).
Don't complain, Remus teased. You know you don't mind. His voice softened. You make a wonderful uncle. And you're going to be a wonderful godfather, I know it.
James and Lily had asked Sirius not long ago if he would be their baby's godfather; the baby was due in early August. Sirius had been quite flattered and accepted without a pause, but he was nervous about it. He smiled at Remus. You really think so?
I know so, Remus said, and leaned up to kiss Sirius, who was already bending down to kiss him, so they ended up meeting halfway. It was a lovely kiss, interrupted only by Stanley, who squirmed and whined in protest at being squished between his uncles. Sirius laughed, took Stanley from Remus, sat him on his shoulders, and kissed his lover again, his worries lessened now.
You're going to be just fine, Remus said after they broke the kiss. He took Sirius' hand and squeezed it. Maybe... someday... you'll be a father, too. He blushed when he said it, knowing it was only a dim possibility (the magic that could help them have a child of their own was quite difficult and risky and very, very few people dared to try it), but Sirius smiled and put his arm around him.
You're good at cheering me up, Remmie, he said.
You're very welcome, Remus said, and they headed back to join the rest of the family, unaware that they were being observed by Dumbledore's calm blue gaze as they crossed the lawn.
To Be Continued.....
(Coming Soon : Year 10, the third Post-Hogwarts year! Sadly, all the treason and lies and deaths and all the other unlovely things we don't want to hear about will happen in this chapter. Suspicion worms its way into Sirius and Remus' relationship, and Snapey becomes even stranger and more mysterious. But on the happier side, James and Lily become parents, and Sirius becomes a godfather!)