The Twelve Days of Christmas
By deemarie
Chapter 11. January 3rd
It was after midnight when their plans were finalized. They packed their few belongings and Harry bid Jane and Remus good night. He left to spend the night in Jacob's quarters. He did not want to intrude. This would be their last night together. They needed to say good-bye.
Remus and Jane sat on the couch, holding on to each other. The warmth of the fire was pouring over them. Jane was tucked in Remus' arms. She leaned her head on his shoulder. His lips were caressing her ear. His breath drawing shivers of desire up her spine. She tilted her head back for his kiss. Instead he let her go and stood. Then he picked her up and carried her into the bedroom.
He set her down next to the bed. Her arms never left his shoulders. Their kiss was deep, inviting pleasure from both of them. He undid the belt to her dressing gown and removed it from her shoulders, letting the fabric caress her skin instead of his hands. It fell to the floor. His hands trailed up the skin of her arms. He took her face in his hands and kissed her, his tongue seeking entrance. His arms slid around her. Their tears mingling.
He stepped back to look at her. Remus' eyes went wide.
"Jane," he whispered. "Look," he pointed to the mirror. She turned. The person in the mirror stared back at her, eyes wide with wonder. Ginny wasn't standing there. A woman, dark of hair and eyes stared back at her. Remus came up close behind her and wrapped his arms around her.
"Jane, you are the most beautiful creature I have ever seen."
"But how..." her words were cut short as their image in the mirror was replaced by the face of Ix Chel.
"It is my gift to you, little one," she said.
"My Lady!" Jane breathed.
"You will return to me soon, child. You have been brave. The lost one will be returned to her warrior. She is grateful to you, as am I. For this night only, I can let you make memories with your love that will last forever, little one." Ix Chel's eyes went to Remus.
"Beast who is a man, I do not know if you are worthy of her, but she is precious to me. Do not hurt her. Love her, as she needs to be loved. Show her forever." Ix Chel smiled at Jane. Then her image faded.
Jane turned in Remus' arms. She was afraid to look up at him. He took her chin in his hand. Hazel eyes met obsidian.
"I love you, Jane. I'll love you till time ends. Come love, let me show you eternity."
The Great Hall was a sea of black robes and children's faces. Normally there would have been laughter and talk. But today as the four travelers entered to make their farewells, the sound of the students was muted. Everyone was a little taken aback; Snape was at the staff table. Then the hall stilled as the students realized Harry Potter was entering. Hundreds of pairs of eyes watched as Harry and his party entered the hall. They stopped as they reached the place where Ken and Alex sat. Jane kissed Ken's and Alex's cheeks. She whispered a quiet thank you and good-bye. Harry shook Ken's hand and kissed Alex's cheek.
"Keep your brother out of trouble," he said smiling at Alex. She nodded, a brilliant smile on her face. "I don't relish the idea of the Quidditch cup belonging to another house this year, Ken. You remember all those plays we talked about?"
"Yes, Harry," he said boldly. "That cup belongs to us!"
The travelers made their way to the staff table. Harry shook hands with McGonnagal.
"Thank you, professor. Thank you for everything." She nodded to Harry. Jane took her hand after Harry let go.
"I'll never forget your kindness, thank you professor." She turned to Snape. He had not looked up. "Can I say thank you now, Professor Snape?" Their eyes met. She could not tell what he was feeling, his face a stoic mask. But he took the hand she offered and shook it. Remus has come to stand behind Jane.
"Severus," he said gratitude evident in his voice.
"Lupin," Snape returned. Jane and Remus backed away. Harry stood before him now.
"Lily's son thanks you for her," he said.
"For Lily," was all Snape replied.
The family was gathered in the Burrow's parlor. They were held rapt by the story Jane, Remus and Harry told them. Then each, in turn bid Jane good-bye. Hermione hugged Jane tightly. She couldn't say anything. They looked into each other's eyes, it was all that needed to be said. Jane kissed Ron's cheek.
"I really do wish you were my brother," she said. Ron blushed, and then gently kissed her forehead. Jane turned to Molly and Arthur. "I couldn't have asked for two more wonderful people to be my parents. Ginny is a fortunate girl." Molly hugged her, tears coursing down her face.
"We'll miss you, Jane," Arthur said. "If I had another daughter, I wish it could have been you."
The journey to the temple took most of the rest of the day. They Portkeyed to a small wizarding village in the Yucatan. They dined with the headman of the village. He had arranged their transport and supplies. Jacob and he had talked for a while. They knew each other and Jacob had translated for their small party. It was mid-afternoon when they left the village and took the old jeep on their trek into the jungle. It was slow going and a rough ride. The nearer they got to the temple the more tension built up around them. The sun was setting when they reached the point the jeep could take them no farther.
"We can make camp here," Jacob said as he began to pull supplies from the jeep. "We'll continue on in the morning. You all look exhausted." Jane had jumped down from the jeep. She went to the beginning of the foot trail.
"How long will it take us to walk there?" she called over her shoulder.
"Provided we get an early start, no more than a couple of hours," Jacob said.
"No, I mean now. If we left now, how long would it take us to get there?" The three men had stopped unloading the jeep and stared at her.
"In the twilight?" Jacob said. "Then dark? Are you sure?"
"Yes."
"At least three hours. We wouldn't get there until near midnight. It's treacherous going."
"Look, you're all wizards, aren't you?" Jane said to the men before her. "Can't you do something to make the way easier?"
"To a point," Jacob said. "There's some powerful magic around that place. No one knows what would happen if we used it."
"Nothing would happen," Jane replied. "I know it. She's waiting for me. She'll keep me safe." Jacob was shaking his head.
"She's right," Remus said. "I can feel it. We'll be safe, all of us." He walked over to Jane. "Are you sure you want to do this now?"
"Yes, Remus," Jane turned to the path. "She's waiting." Then she turned back to Harry. "Ginny's there. I know it. She's waiting for you." The three of them turned to Jacob.
"I think you're outvoted on this, Jacob," Harry said. "I believe her. We'll be fine."
"All right. Can we at least eat first? I'm starving." They all laughed easing the tension that had built. They ate quickly, Jacob muttering something about it not being enough. They grabbed their packs and lighting torches magically they began the trek to the temple of Ix Chel.
The trail was rough going despite the magic they used to make the way easier. Jacob led the way, using his wand to cut through the brush that had grown here since his last visit. He was uneasy about this. His first visit to the area hadn't been a pleasant one. He had used magic then to make his way. About 3 kilometers from the temple one of his spells had backfired and he had suffered for it. He walked with a limp for months afterward. That was the first time he realized he wasn't the youth he had been anymore. It was then that he had focused more on educating others to take his place and cut back on his fieldwork. Of course that hadn't been an entirely bad decision.
He had ended up at a Muggle university. He taught Mesoamerican archaeology and had more time to put his research into the written word. He'd also met Brooke, a lovely graduate student in the Theatre Arts department, and a witch to boot. Fancy that, he thought. They had developed a relationship of sorts over the years. She was currently performing on Broadway in New York. If he lived through this, that's where he was heading. It's time to settle down. Yes, he definitely loved her. It was time to take it further. Wait a minute? What was he thinking? They must be getting close to the temple. This had to be the first stirrings of the magic. The place they were approaching was a place used to enhance the Mayan experience of love. Get yourself under control man. He wondered how the others were faring. This was powerful stuff.
Remus followed Jacob. He saw Jacob shake his head as if to clear his thoughts. Remus' own thoughts wandered. He looked back on all that had happened in his life. He had suffered so much until James and Sirius had come into his life. His parents had tried, but even they were afraid of him. They had recognized this in themselves and could find no way to get past it. His mother had died first; mostly from guilt at the way she had treated him. His father didn't know how to cope and he died a short time later. Remus was only 16. Thank goodness for James and Sirius. They kept him from sinking into depression. Then Lily had become part of their group. Her acceptance of him had given him hope that he could find someone to share his life with. But then she had died with James, and Sirius as to blame, or so he thought.
So much had happened since then. Now all these years later he had finally found love. But he was going to loose it again. Did he have the strength to go on? Jane had stumbled behind him and staggered into his back. Her touch set his skin on fire. He turned quickly to her, gathering her in his arms.
"Are you all right?" She nodded. He didn't want to let go. He wanted to keep her here, in his arms. He wanted to take her away, to kiss her, to love her forever.
"Remus, let me go." He opened his arms. Yes, he had to let her go. He sighed, turned and started to walk again. It was this place. He could feel the magic begin to gather. It was a heady feeling. It was leading his thoughts where they should not go. Steeling himself, he walked on.
Harry watched as Remus held Jane. In all the time since she had turned up in their lives, Harry had felt many things. Jealousy hadn't been one of them. Until now. It shouldn't be Remus holding her, looking into her eyes. That was his place. She was his. The magic was seeping into his soul. He welcomed it, knowing at the end she would be his once more.
He remembered the night he had made love to Ginny. She was incredible. Everywhere he touched her was responsive. He had savored the taste of her lips, her skin. He had merely to brush his fingers along the outside curve of her breast and she had shuddered, moaning erotically, moving beneath his fingers in time to the rhythm he had set. He had touched her first bringing her to ecstasy before he took her, letting her know what it would be like when he would join with her. Their eyes were locked and he saw her go over the edge. His desire to be buried inside her was overwhelming. He needed her so badly. His breath was coming rapidly.
They broke into a clearing. The temple loomed before them. This was where he had lost her all those years ago. This was where he would find her again. He needed to find her. He needed her.
"Now!" he shouted. The others turned to Harry.
"Harry!" Jane shouted. The sound of her voice brought him back to his senses. He shook his head to clear his mind.
"Sorry," Harry said. "It's this place. The magic. It's hard to control my emotions." They looked around, their torches shifting the shadows.
"If I can remember where the entrance is," Jacob began. His normally photographic memory clouded by the magic. Remus watched the firelight play over Jane's face. Her eyes scanned the wall of the temple in front of her. Suddenly a serene look passed across her face.
"It's this way," and she started walking. The others followed. She headed directly to a patch of vines swaying slightly in the breeze. She pushed them aside and disappeared. Harry and Remus looked at one another then followed Jane inside, Jacob close behind them.
The torches reflected off the walls. The lichen had encroached more. The small of stagnant water tickled their senses. Jane had stopped in the entry. She was looking around. A frisson of fear crept up her spine. Images flashed before her. She saw herself bound to the altar. Her skin was beginning to go cold. She was hyperventilating. Remus sensed her fear and put his arms around her.
"He's not here. He's not going to hurt you. I'm here love. For as long as you need me."
"I'm here too, Jane," Harry said and he took her hand. "Remus and I will protect you."
"These are old ghosts, Jane," Jacob said. "Just light and shadow. They cannot harm you. You are protected." The ghost of a whisper echoed off the walls.
"Welcome back, little one." Jane took a deep breath and walked up to the altar. The others followed behind her.
"I need to prepare," Jacob said. "It's time for you to say good-bye. Take as long as you need, Jane." Jacob walked around the altar and removed his pack. Jane hadn't moved. He looked at her. She was staring at him intently. "Jane?"
"Go to New York, Jacob." His eyes widened. "She's what you need."
"How do you know?"
"My Lady told me, I heard her just now. Go to New York. She needs you as much as you need her." Jacob broke out his most brilliant smile.
"All right, Jane. And thank you."
"Jacob, it is I who should thank you." Jane turned and walked down from the altar. Harry and Remus were waiting for her. Jane walked up to Harry.
"I'm sorry for the pain you suffered, Harry. I never meant to hurt you."
"I know that, Jane." Harry took both of her hands in his. "What you have done means the world to me. Because of you, Ginny is still alive. She'll come back to me. I couldn't ask for more than that. I only wish that you didn't have to suffer because of it.
"You've given Remus a reason to go on. I've never seen him as happy as he's been these last few days. Don't worry about him. I'll make sure that your memory stays with him." There were tears sparkling in her eyes. "Don't cry, Jane. I don't want to see you cry. I will always remember your smiles. The joy you gave to all of us. The hope you gave to me. That's what I'll keep here," he pointed to his heart. "Ginny and I will always be grateful."
"Oh Harry," she raised her hand to his cheek. "Dear, brave Harry. I can see why Ginny loves you so. It's your heart. So giving, so loving. You care for others before yourself. Ix Chel was right you are a warrior. You fight for happiness.
"I know you will take good care of him. He will be sad for a time, don't let him slip away, Harry. Keep him safe."
"I will." He opened his arms and she stepped into his embrace. They held on to each other sharing their love for the man who would be forever alone.
"Good-bye, Harry."
"Good-bye, Jane."
Remus had moved off, back to the entrance. He stared out into the night his heart was breaking. He could feel it being torn asunder. Why was life so cruel? To have found his soul in Jane's gentility, in her love, and then to loose it so quickly. He promised he would stay. It would be a difficult promise to keep.
"Remus," her voice was music. He turned to her.
"Jane," he whispered.
"Remember your promise," she said.
"I will."
Had it been only this morning when he had caressed her, loved her, brought her pleasure so intense she had wept with joy? She had been asleep. Her dark hair spread across the pillows, like stormed tossed waves in a sea of foam. Her cheeks were still flushed from the love they had shared earlier. He wanted to show her how he felt, what she meant to his heart. With soft kisses he made her sigh in her sleep. He whispered words of love against her skin, making her body move against his lips. He stroked her, kissed her, and savored her. Somewhere along the way she had woken calling his name. What he was doing made her tremble with pleasure. She was drowning in sensation. Moaning, the heat building until she thought she would die in the flames of passion he had roused in her. And then her world burst with pleasure, she called out his name and his lips stopped her cry. And he found his release in her. He wiped away her tears.
"Don't cry, Jane."
"These aren't tears of sorrow, Remus. Never in my life have I felt this way before. No one has ever given me such joy."
"I feel the same way, love."
"Stay here, Remus."
"I'm not leaving you. I'm going with you. I'll be with you until you return to her."
"No, that's not what I meant." He raised himself off her.
"What do you mean, Jane?"
"I know you'll think about it again. Don't do it. You can't." He sat up on the edge of the bed.
"This is so hard for me, Jane. It's not easy changing my ways. When you go, when I know I'll never hold you in my arms, never feel you in my soul again. I know I'll think about it..." Jane rose to her knees behind him and wrapped her arms tightly about him.
"I won't be gone, not if you remember me, not if I'm locked in your heart. Remus, promise me you'll stay. Promise me you'll try to find someone else." He broke from her standing by the window.
"No!" he shouted. "I'll never look for someone else. There's no one who could take your place. I don't want to search again." She was at his side.
"For me, Remus, not even for me?" He looked into her dark eyes. "I couldn't bear it if I knew you were alone. You have so much love to give. You could make someone very happy."
"I won't let anyone take your place in my heart!" She caressed that scar that marked his heart.
"Do you think anyone could? Do you think I want you to forget me? No, Remus. What we have is unforgettable. I will always be right here. But there are empty places that need to be filled. You need to be complete. Don't hide from life, Remus.
"You can find happiness. Do it for me. Do it for Harry. He wants you to be happy, Remus. That's why he's been so noble about all this. He loves you. You are his father, his family. Don't leave him." Remus was crying.
"I don't know if I can, Jane." She stroked his cheek.
"You can, I know you can. Don't be alone, Remus. Grab on to love where you can find it. Let Harry help you. Let the Weasley's help you. They all love you, you know. There is enough love there to fill your heart. Promise me!" He snatched her into his arms and promised her with his kiss.
He would keep his promise. It was the hardest thing he had done, but she wanted it. For her he would do anything.
"I will keep my promise, don't worry, dear heart." He took her in his arms and lowered his lips to hers. The saltiness of their tears mixed with the sweetness of her mouth. The love they shared became palpable. They felt the magic bind their souls, wrapping their hearts.
Harry and Jacob watched as they shared their kiss. A light began to glow all about them. The colours of the rainbow shifting, moving, enveloping them.
"It's the magic, Harry," Jacob said. "This is what love is, light and peace and joy. This is what this place is for. The Mayans wanted a place where they could make sure what they felt was true. Ix Chel, though a goddess of the underworld, was also one of love. So much of the Mayan culture revolved around death and forever. This is where they came to see if their love was a forever thing. Jane and Remus are a forever love."
"Then whatever lies beyond this existence, beyond death, they will be together again?"
"Of that, my dear boy, I am absolutely sure." A smile curled the corners of Harry's mouth.
Remus broke their kiss. He stared into her eyes. Then stroked her cheek. She smiled up at him.
"It's not really good-bye, you know," he said.
"I know, just farewell."
"I love you, Jane."
"And I you, Remus." This moment was eternity to them.
"It's time," she said. Holding hands they went to the altar.
By deemarie
Chapter 11. January 3rd
It was after midnight when their plans were finalized. They packed their few belongings and Harry bid Jane and Remus good night. He left to spend the night in Jacob's quarters. He did not want to intrude. This would be their last night together. They needed to say good-bye.
Remus and Jane sat on the couch, holding on to each other. The warmth of the fire was pouring over them. Jane was tucked in Remus' arms. She leaned her head on his shoulder. His lips were caressing her ear. His breath drawing shivers of desire up her spine. She tilted her head back for his kiss. Instead he let her go and stood. Then he picked her up and carried her into the bedroom.
He set her down next to the bed. Her arms never left his shoulders. Their kiss was deep, inviting pleasure from both of them. He undid the belt to her dressing gown and removed it from her shoulders, letting the fabric caress her skin instead of his hands. It fell to the floor. His hands trailed up the skin of her arms. He took her face in his hands and kissed her, his tongue seeking entrance. His arms slid around her. Their tears mingling.
He stepped back to look at her. Remus' eyes went wide.
"Jane," he whispered. "Look," he pointed to the mirror. She turned. The person in the mirror stared back at her, eyes wide with wonder. Ginny wasn't standing there. A woman, dark of hair and eyes stared back at her. Remus came up close behind her and wrapped his arms around her.
"Jane, you are the most beautiful creature I have ever seen."
"But how..." her words were cut short as their image in the mirror was replaced by the face of Ix Chel.
"It is my gift to you, little one," she said.
"My Lady!" Jane breathed.
"You will return to me soon, child. You have been brave. The lost one will be returned to her warrior. She is grateful to you, as am I. For this night only, I can let you make memories with your love that will last forever, little one." Ix Chel's eyes went to Remus.
"Beast who is a man, I do not know if you are worthy of her, but she is precious to me. Do not hurt her. Love her, as she needs to be loved. Show her forever." Ix Chel smiled at Jane. Then her image faded.
Jane turned in Remus' arms. She was afraid to look up at him. He took her chin in his hand. Hazel eyes met obsidian.
"I love you, Jane. I'll love you till time ends. Come love, let me show you eternity."
The Great Hall was a sea of black robes and children's faces. Normally there would have been laughter and talk. But today as the four travelers entered to make their farewells, the sound of the students was muted. Everyone was a little taken aback; Snape was at the staff table. Then the hall stilled as the students realized Harry Potter was entering. Hundreds of pairs of eyes watched as Harry and his party entered the hall. They stopped as they reached the place where Ken and Alex sat. Jane kissed Ken's and Alex's cheeks. She whispered a quiet thank you and good-bye. Harry shook Ken's hand and kissed Alex's cheek.
"Keep your brother out of trouble," he said smiling at Alex. She nodded, a brilliant smile on her face. "I don't relish the idea of the Quidditch cup belonging to another house this year, Ken. You remember all those plays we talked about?"
"Yes, Harry," he said boldly. "That cup belongs to us!"
The travelers made their way to the staff table. Harry shook hands with McGonnagal.
"Thank you, professor. Thank you for everything." She nodded to Harry. Jane took her hand after Harry let go.
"I'll never forget your kindness, thank you professor." She turned to Snape. He had not looked up. "Can I say thank you now, Professor Snape?" Their eyes met. She could not tell what he was feeling, his face a stoic mask. But he took the hand she offered and shook it. Remus has come to stand behind Jane.
"Severus," he said gratitude evident in his voice.
"Lupin," Snape returned. Jane and Remus backed away. Harry stood before him now.
"Lily's son thanks you for her," he said.
"For Lily," was all Snape replied.
The family was gathered in the Burrow's parlor. They were held rapt by the story Jane, Remus and Harry told them. Then each, in turn bid Jane good-bye. Hermione hugged Jane tightly. She couldn't say anything. They looked into each other's eyes, it was all that needed to be said. Jane kissed Ron's cheek.
"I really do wish you were my brother," she said. Ron blushed, and then gently kissed her forehead. Jane turned to Molly and Arthur. "I couldn't have asked for two more wonderful people to be my parents. Ginny is a fortunate girl." Molly hugged her, tears coursing down her face.
"We'll miss you, Jane," Arthur said. "If I had another daughter, I wish it could have been you."
The journey to the temple took most of the rest of the day. They Portkeyed to a small wizarding village in the Yucatan. They dined with the headman of the village. He had arranged their transport and supplies. Jacob and he had talked for a while. They knew each other and Jacob had translated for their small party. It was mid-afternoon when they left the village and took the old jeep on their trek into the jungle. It was slow going and a rough ride. The nearer they got to the temple the more tension built up around them. The sun was setting when they reached the point the jeep could take them no farther.
"We can make camp here," Jacob said as he began to pull supplies from the jeep. "We'll continue on in the morning. You all look exhausted." Jane had jumped down from the jeep. She went to the beginning of the foot trail.
"How long will it take us to walk there?" she called over her shoulder.
"Provided we get an early start, no more than a couple of hours," Jacob said.
"No, I mean now. If we left now, how long would it take us to get there?" The three men had stopped unloading the jeep and stared at her.
"In the twilight?" Jacob said. "Then dark? Are you sure?"
"Yes."
"At least three hours. We wouldn't get there until near midnight. It's treacherous going."
"Look, you're all wizards, aren't you?" Jane said to the men before her. "Can't you do something to make the way easier?"
"To a point," Jacob said. "There's some powerful magic around that place. No one knows what would happen if we used it."
"Nothing would happen," Jane replied. "I know it. She's waiting for me. She'll keep me safe." Jacob was shaking his head.
"She's right," Remus said. "I can feel it. We'll be safe, all of us." He walked over to Jane. "Are you sure you want to do this now?"
"Yes, Remus," Jane turned to the path. "She's waiting." Then she turned back to Harry. "Ginny's there. I know it. She's waiting for you." The three of them turned to Jacob.
"I think you're outvoted on this, Jacob," Harry said. "I believe her. We'll be fine."
"All right. Can we at least eat first? I'm starving." They all laughed easing the tension that had built. They ate quickly, Jacob muttering something about it not being enough. They grabbed their packs and lighting torches magically they began the trek to the temple of Ix Chel.
The trail was rough going despite the magic they used to make the way easier. Jacob led the way, using his wand to cut through the brush that had grown here since his last visit. He was uneasy about this. His first visit to the area hadn't been a pleasant one. He had used magic then to make his way. About 3 kilometers from the temple one of his spells had backfired and he had suffered for it. He walked with a limp for months afterward. That was the first time he realized he wasn't the youth he had been anymore. It was then that he had focused more on educating others to take his place and cut back on his fieldwork. Of course that hadn't been an entirely bad decision.
He had ended up at a Muggle university. He taught Mesoamerican archaeology and had more time to put his research into the written word. He'd also met Brooke, a lovely graduate student in the Theatre Arts department, and a witch to boot. Fancy that, he thought. They had developed a relationship of sorts over the years. She was currently performing on Broadway in New York. If he lived through this, that's where he was heading. It's time to settle down. Yes, he definitely loved her. It was time to take it further. Wait a minute? What was he thinking? They must be getting close to the temple. This had to be the first stirrings of the magic. The place they were approaching was a place used to enhance the Mayan experience of love. Get yourself under control man. He wondered how the others were faring. This was powerful stuff.
Remus followed Jacob. He saw Jacob shake his head as if to clear his thoughts. Remus' own thoughts wandered. He looked back on all that had happened in his life. He had suffered so much until James and Sirius had come into his life. His parents had tried, but even they were afraid of him. They had recognized this in themselves and could find no way to get past it. His mother had died first; mostly from guilt at the way she had treated him. His father didn't know how to cope and he died a short time later. Remus was only 16. Thank goodness for James and Sirius. They kept him from sinking into depression. Then Lily had become part of their group. Her acceptance of him had given him hope that he could find someone to share his life with. But then she had died with James, and Sirius as to blame, or so he thought.
So much had happened since then. Now all these years later he had finally found love. But he was going to loose it again. Did he have the strength to go on? Jane had stumbled behind him and staggered into his back. Her touch set his skin on fire. He turned quickly to her, gathering her in his arms.
"Are you all right?" She nodded. He didn't want to let go. He wanted to keep her here, in his arms. He wanted to take her away, to kiss her, to love her forever.
"Remus, let me go." He opened his arms. Yes, he had to let her go. He sighed, turned and started to walk again. It was this place. He could feel the magic begin to gather. It was a heady feeling. It was leading his thoughts where they should not go. Steeling himself, he walked on.
Harry watched as Remus held Jane. In all the time since she had turned up in their lives, Harry had felt many things. Jealousy hadn't been one of them. Until now. It shouldn't be Remus holding her, looking into her eyes. That was his place. She was his. The magic was seeping into his soul. He welcomed it, knowing at the end she would be his once more.
He remembered the night he had made love to Ginny. She was incredible. Everywhere he touched her was responsive. He had savored the taste of her lips, her skin. He had merely to brush his fingers along the outside curve of her breast and she had shuddered, moaning erotically, moving beneath his fingers in time to the rhythm he had set. He had touched her first bringing her to ecstasy before he took her, letting her know what it would be like when he would join with her. Their eyes were locked and he saw her go over the edge. His desire to be buried inside her was overwhelming. He needed her so badly. His breath was coming rapidly.
They broke into a clearing. The temple loomed before them. This was where he had lost her all those years ago. This was where he would find her again. He needed to find her. He needed her.
"Now!" he shouted. The others turned to Harry.
"Harry!" Jane shouted. The sound of her voice brought him back to his senses. He shook his head to clear his mind.
"Sorry," Harry said. "It's this place. The magic. It's hard to control my emotions." They looked around, their torches shifting the shadows.
"If I can remember where the entrance is," Jacob began. His normally photographic memory clouded by the magic. Remus watched the firelight play over Jane's face. Her eyes scanned the wall of the temple in front of her. Suddenly a serene look passed across her face.
"It's this way," and she started walking. The others followed. She headed directly to a patch of vines swaying slightly in the breeze. She pushed them aside and disappeared. Harry and Remus looked at one another then followed Jane inside, Jacob close behind them.
The torches reflected off the walls. The lichen had encroached more. The small of stagnant water tickled their senses. Jane had stopped in the entry. She was looking around. A frisson of fear crept up her spine. Images flashed before her. She saw herself bound to the altar. Her skin was beginning to go cold. She was hyperventilating. Remus sensed her fear and put his arms around her.
"He's not here. He's not going to hurt you. I'm here love. For as long as you need me."
"I'm here too, Jane," Harry said and he took her hand. "Remus and I will protect you."
"These are old ghosts, Jane," Jacob said. "Just light and shadow. They cannot harm you. You are protected." The ghost of a whisper echoed off the walls.
"Welcome back, little one." Jane took a deep breath and walked up to the altar. The others followed behind her.
"I need to prepare," Jacob said. "It's time for you to say good-bye. Take as long as you need, Jane." Jacob walked around the altar and removed his pack. Jane hadn't moved. He looked at her. She was staring at him intently. "Jane?"
"Go to New York, Jacob." His eyes widened. "She's what you need."
"How do you know?"
"My Lady told me, I heard her just now. Go to New York. She needs you as much as you need her." Jacob broke out his most brilliant smile.
"All right, Jane. And thank you."
"Jacob, it is I who should thank you." Jane turned and walked down from the altar. Harry and Remus were waiting for her. Jane walked up to Harry.
"I'm sorry for the pain you suffered, Harry. I never meant to hurt you."
"I know that, Jane." Harry took both of her hands in his. "What you have done means the world to me. Because of you, Ginny is still alive. She'll come back to me. I couldn't ask for more than that. I only wish that you didn't have to suffer because of it.
"You've given Remus a reason to go on. I've never seen him as happy as he's been these last few days. Don't worry about him. I'll make sure that your memory stays with him." There were tears sparkling in her eyes. "Don't cry, Jane. I don't want to see you cry. I will always remember your smiles. The joy you gave to all of us. The hope you gave to me. That's what I'll keep here," he pointed to his heart. "Ginny and I will always be grateful."
"Oh Harry," she raised her hand to his cheek. "Dear, brave Harry. I can see why Ginny loves you so. It's your heart. So giving, so loving. You care for others before yourself. Ix Chel was right you are a warrior. You fight for happiness.
"I know you will take good care of him. He will be sad for a time, don't let him slip away, Harry. Keep him safe."
"I will." He opened his arms and she stepped into his embrace. They held on to each other sharing their love for the man who would be forever alone.
"Good-bye, Harry."
"Good-bye, Jane."
Remus had moved off, back to the entrance. He stared out into the night his heart was breaking. He could feel it being torn asunder. Why was life so cruel? To have found his soul in Jane's gentility, in her love, and then to loose it so quickly. He promised he would stay. It would be a difficult promise to keep.
"Remus," her voice was music. He turned to her.
"Jane," he whispered.
"Remember your promise," she said.
"I will."
Had it been only this morning when he had caressed her, loved her, brought her pleasure so intense she had wept with joy? She had been asleep. Her dark hair spread across the pillows, like stormed tossed waves in a sea of foam. Her cheeks were still flushed from the love they had shared earlier. He wanted to show her how he felt, what she meant to his heart. With soft kisses he made her sigh in her sleep. He whispered words of love against her skin, making her body move against his lips. He stroked her, kissed her, and savored her. Somewhere along the way she had woken calling his name. What he was doing made her tremble with pleasure. She was drowning in sensation. Moaning, the heat building until she thought she would die in the flames of passion he had roused in her. And then her world burst with pleasure, she called out his name and his lips stopped her cry. And he found his release in her. He wiped away her tears.
"Don't cry, Jane."
"These aren't tears of sorrow, Remus. Never in my life have I felt this way before. No one has ever given me such joy."
"I feel the same way, love."
"Stay here, Remus."
"I'm not leaving you. I'm going with you. I'll be with you until you return to her."
"No, that's not what I meant." He raised himself off her.
"What do you mean, Jane?"
"I know you'll think about it again. Don't do it. You can't." He sat up on the edge of the bed.
"This is so hard for me, Jane. It's not easy changing my ways. When you go, when I know I'll never hold you in my arms, never feel you in my soul again. I know I'll think about it..." Jane rose to her knees behind him and wrapped her arms tightly about him.
"I won't be gone, not if you remember me, not if I'm locked in your heart. Remus, promise me you'll stay. Promise me you'll try to find someone else." He broke from her standing by the window.
"No!" he shouted. "I'll never look for someone else. There's no one who could take your place. I don't want to search again." She was at his side.
"For me, Remus, not even for me?" He looked into her dark eyes. "I couldn't bear it if I knew you were alone. You have so much love to give. You could make someone very happy."
"I won't let anyone take your place in my heart!" She caressed that scar that marked his heart.
"Do you think anyone could? Do you think I want you to forget me? No, Remus. What we have is unforgettable. I will always be right here. But there are empty places that need to be filled. You need to be complete. Don't hide from life, Remus.
"You can find happiness. Do it for me. Do it for Harry. He wants you to be happy, Remus. That's why he's been so noble about all this. He loves you. You are his father, his family. Don't leave him." Remus was crying.
"I don't know if I can, Jane." She stroked his cheek.
"You can, I know you can. Don't be alone, Remus. Grab on to love where you can find it. Let Harry help you. Let the Weasley's help you. They all love you, you know. There is enough love there to fill your heart. Promise me!" He snatched her into his arms and promised her with his kiss.
He would keep his promise. It was the hardest thing he had done, but she wanted it. For her he would do anything.
"I will keep my promise, don't worry, dear heart." He took her in his arms and lowered his lips to hers. The saltiness of their tears mixed with the sweetness of her mouth. The love they shared became palpable. They felt the magic bind their souls, wrapping their hearts.
Harry and Jacob watched as they shared their kiss. A light began to glow all about them. The colours of the rainbow shifting, moving, enveloping them.
"It's the magic, Harry," Jacob said. "This is what love is, light and peace and joy. This is what this place is for. The Mayans wanted a place where they could make sure what they felt was true. Ix Chel, though a goddess of the underworld, was also one of love. So much of the Mayan culture revolved around death and forever. This is where they came to see if their love was a forever thing. Jane and Remus are a forever love."
"Then whatever lies beyond this existence, beyond death, they will be together again?"
"Of that, my dear boy, I am absolutely sure." A smile curled the corners of Harry's mouth.
Remus broke their kiss. He stared into her eyes. Then stroked her cheek. She smiled up at him.
"It's not really good-bye, you know," he said.
"I know, just farewell."
"I love you, Jane."
"And I you, Remus." This moment was eternity to them.
"It's time," she said. Holding hands they went to the altar.