CHAPTER 10
RELATIONSHIPS ARE HARD
Sirius's arm ached; he had been casting the same spell for almost two hours. He watched as the same blue flash emitted from his wand, forming just a small part of the jigsaw puzzle that was to be just one, of the numerous wards placed around Hogwarts. He looked over and saw Moody and Hestia along with Snape and Mcgonagall casting the same spell as he was, the same fluorescent blue flash shooting from their wands, shining momentarily then fading into an invisible force field that should repel Voldemort and his forces. Seeing his colleagues working hard gave him the strength he needed to continue, the thought of all the children at Hogwarts he needed to protect dulled the ache in his arm, the picture of his friends and family renewed his determination and he started casting the spell once again, over and over, not leaving a single inch unprotected, pausing only to drink his potion on the hour every hour.
He barely noticed as the seventh years made their way across the grounds to the Herbology greenhouses and didn't even flinch when Harry and Ron walked past shooting him venomous looks.
"Don't know why Dumbledore trusts that idiot, can't he see what he's doing to Sirius.'' Harry said as he saw Professor Hounding shooting another blue flash from his wand tip.
"He must have his reasons, it looks like he's pretty good at casting the spells for the wards around the school.'' Ron said, cringing incase Harry had another go at him for even thinking about defending Professor Hounding.
"Well I think the mans an idiot, he must've known Destiny was taken.'' Harry said loudly.
"To be fair Harry, from the way you describe it, Destiny wasn't exactly fighting him off if you know what I mean.'' Ron said reasonably.
"Yeah well, she would never have had to if he just kept his slimy hands off her.'' Harry said, the tone in his voice indicating that the subject had come to a close. They walked in silence to the Herbology class, finally catching up with Hermione who had rushed ahead with Susan Bones, eager to get the best spot to see the Hysmacarls that Professor Sprout had promised to show them that day.
"That was an interesting lesson wasn't it?'' Hermione said as she walked up to the castle with Harry and Ron. "Very informative.'' She stated as Ron grinned and pulled her closer to him, his arm draped casually around her waist.
"Yeah Mione, who knew there were actually plants that could bite, scratch and shoot poisonous liquid at you all at the same time.'' Ron said sarcastically. "Really, interesting and deadly.'' He grinned as she slapped him playfully; he loved how she was interested in practically everything, and adored her hunger for knowledge. He watched as Ginny rushed over to meet them and Harry picked her up and swung her around, before kissing her hard on the lips. "How about we go back to our room during dinner and have some time alone.'' Ron said, raising his eyebrows suggestively.
"Ronald Weasley offering to miss dinner, for me. I'm honoured.'' Hermione said sarcastically, placing her hand over her heart, pretending to be shocked. He looked at her with his puppy dog eyes and she couldn't help but smile. "Alright then, what did you have in mind.'' His eyes lit up as he took her hand and started walking quickly towards the castle with renewed purpose.
As they had just walked through the main doors, Ron turned back and saw that Harry and Ginny were still kissing; they hadn't even noticed that they were now alone. He smiled, good, all the more time alone with Hermione without any interruptions. His good mood was soon over however, when Antony Goldstein, the new Head boy approached them both. Hermione greeted him with a warm smile and a friendly wave, whereas Ron just grunted and nodded his head.
"Hi Hermione.'' Antony said cheerfully as he strode up to them both, "Alright Ron, sorry to interrupt but I was wondering if I could ask a favour.''
"Sure what is it?'' Hermione asked pleasantly.
"Well, earlier on there was a bit of magic going on in the corridors and well the long and short of it is that in place of the floor there is now a gigantic swimming pool.'' Antony explained shooting Ron a dirty look when he laughed out loud at the predicament they were in. "Anyway, I was wondering if you wouldn't mind helping me keep the younger students away from it while Mcgonagall looks up the counter spell.''
"Where are the prefects?'' Hermione asked.
"They are helping to guard it too, but it's that big we need all the help we can get.''
"She can't.'' Ron said quickly. "She has to…. to…help me do my Transfiguration essay.'' Ron stated uncertainly, looking at Hermione pleadingly, this was supposed to be their alone time.
"Oh that can wait Ron, I can't let them struggle, I'll go and help, it won't be for long.'' Hermione said, as she reached up and kissed Ron lightly, squeezing his hand reassuringly before she left, discussing the situation earnestly with Antony Goldstein, Ron sighed, interested in everything that one. He felt a pang of jealousy in his heart as he realised instead of the romantic time she was supposed to be spending with him, she was going to be spending it with Antony. He shook those thoughts from his head, and focused on what Hermione told him, and remembered that Hermione was with him because she loved him, and nobody else.
He was at a loose end now, he couldn't very well go back out to Harry and Ginny, and watch as they practically devoured each other, or even worse whispered soppy and romantic words to each other all the time. He decided to go to the Library and do some research for the Herbology essay he had just been assigned.
Ron sat down at one of the dark wooden tables, surrounded by a pile of books that even Hermione would be proud of, he opened the first one and sighed, this research business wasn't going to be as easy as Hermione made it out to be. Just as he was getting into the extensive pages about Hysmacarls and their useful properties, he heard muffled sobs coming from behind one of the tall shelves of books. He walked over to see who was crying and saw a girl, she must've been around fifth or sixth year, she was sitting on the floor in the foetal position her head resting on her knees, her shoulders shaking with stifled sobs. He walked over to her, and placed his hand on her shoulder, and speaking in the softest voice he had tried to comfort her.
"Hey, what's the matter, don't cry, a pretty girl like you shouldn't be crying.'' He said softly as the girl looked up into his eyes, he saw that her hazel eyes were red and bloodshot, her dirty blond hair was tangled, she smiled weakly, and tried to wipe some of her tears on the sleeve of her robe.
"You're…. you're Ginny's brother aren't you?'' She asked as she smiled feebly, tears still falling from her eyes.
"Yeah.'' Ron said quietly, there was a time when he would've run a mile from a crying girl but now, he just wanted to make her tears go away, he hated to see people upset. "How'd you know?''
"It's the red hair.'' She said as she giggled nervously.
"Well I can't have you calling me Ginny's brother all the time can I? My name's Ron, and yours is?'' Ron asked tentatively, noticing that the girl still hadn't stopped crying.
"My names Morgan…Morgan Richards.'' She muttered softly.
"Well Morgan, do you mind if we go and sit back at my table, this floor isn't half hurting my knees.'' Ron said jokingly as he guided the still visibly distraught girl over to his crowded table. She sat opposite to him, trying in vain to stop the flow of tears falling from her eyes. "So why are you crying?''
"I don't want to talk about it.'' She said firmly.
"I know you must think that I'm just being nosy, but seriously you'll feel better after talking about it.'' Ron urged her.
"Fine. My boyfriend just finished with me, are you happy now?'' She snapped.
"No, I'm not happy, why did he finish with you?''
"He said that it wasn't working out anymore and he thought that we spent too much time together, he said he wanted to see other people.'' She said quickly, fresh tears falling down her already tear stained face.
"Well if you ask me he doesn't know a good thing when he has one. It's his loss, believe me not yours.'' Ron said, as she looked up at him, a flicker of a smile playing on her lips. "You're a pretty girl, you deserve better than someone who doesn't appreciate that, don't cry for him.''
"But…but I love him.'' She whispered sadly. "Guess he obviously doesn't feel the same way about me.''
"He's a fool, forget him and move on.'' Ron said comfortingly.
"Could you do that, I mean if you were really in love with someone and they finished with you, you couldn't just forget about them and move on could you?'' She asked, Ron sat back and thought about how he would feel if Hermione walked up to him right now and told him she wanted to start seeing other people, he'd be devastated, heartbroken, torn.
"No, I guess not.'' He said slowly. "But you can't spend all your time brooding about it, it's happened now and you have to be strong.''
"I know. I'm going to be. I already feel a lot better about myself just by talking to you.'' Morgan said shyly. "Your girlfriend is a very lucky girl.'' Morgan said as she placed her hand on Ron's arm, and stood up from her seat. "Thank you.'' She said as she hugged him.
Hermione walked into the Library looking for Ron, thinking it was the only possible place he could be after the Great Hall, their room, the common room and the Quidditch Pitch, and sure enough as she walked through the doors to the Library she saw a flash of his bright red hair through one of the shelves, she walked silently over to where he was, thinking that she would surprise him, but when she walked around one of the shelves, she saw a sight she didn't want to see, Ron hugging some blonde girl, and patting her on the back, whispering something to her. Hermione turned on her heel, and stormed out of the Library, knocking several books of their shelves as she went.
Hermione lay on the bed in her room, in total darkness, waiting for Ron to walk through the door, she had skipped dinner in the Great Hall, preferring to get some food from the kitchens rather than have to look Ron in the eye. She wanted to wait to see him face to face when they were alone, when she wouldn't run the risk of being publicly humiliated in front of the entire school, she didn't want everyone to know that Ron was cheating on her.
She heard Ron walk into the room and curse as he stumbled over a shoe that she had 'accidentally' left in front of the portrait hole; she felt a grim satisfaction as he cursed, before he finally switched the lights on. Ron turned and saw Hermione laying on the bed, her arms folded and her expression grim. He gulped, what had he done now?
"Hey Mione.'' He said feebly, trying to figure out exactly what mood she was in.
"Hello Ronald.'' He cringed, this was it, and she was in a first class temper. "Where've you been?''
"In the Great Hall with Harry and Ginny.'' Ron replied truthfully.
"Oh, what did you do today? You know when I had to help Antony.'' She questioned coolly.
"I went to the Library, I wanted to start researching for our Herbology essay." Hermione grimaced, she knew then that he was lying, he hadn't planned on researching, he was meeting his little bit on the side in there. She wasn't stupid, why would Ron start researching? The essay didn't have to be done until next week, he usually left it until the last minute and copied off her.
"Oh, did you find anything interesting?'' She asked steadily.
"No not really……….'' Ron said, but Hermione interrupted him.
"I was there Ron, I saw you and that…that…girl.'' Hermione spat. "Why Ron? Why did you have to do it? Aren't I enough for you? Why do you want more?''
"Shhhh Mione, what are you talking about?'' Ron said as he walked over to Hermione who had got up off the bed and was shouting loudly at him, her hands balled into fists at her sides.
"Don't touch me.'' She screamed. "You know what I'm talking about, you and that blonde, hugging in the Library, I saw you Ron, and I know you've been cheating on me.''
"Oh my God, she was upset, I hugged her, she's one of Ginny's friends for God's sake.'' Ron shouted back at Hermione, who know had tears streaming down her face, although whether from anger or hurt Ron didn't know.
"Well Ginny's not too young for Harry so why would she be too young for you.'' Hermione shouted back, angrily brushing away her tears.
"You know what, I can't even believe that you think I would even contemplate cheating on you. Who's jealous now Hermione?'' Ron said as he grabbed a sheet off the bed and started heading towards the portrait hole, he looked hurt and upset.
"Ron wait.'' Hermione called softly, seeing the hurt look on his face, knowing that he looked exactly how she felt when he had accused her of flirting with Antony. "You…you said she was upset, why?'' Ron rolled his eyes, before turning back to Hermione; she really was interested in absolutely everything.
"She had just split up with her boyfriend, and she was upset because she loved him and she knew he was never going to come back to her, because he wanted to see other people. I guess I just sympathised with her because I know how I'd feel if you left me for someone else." Ron said quietly.
"I'm sorry, I believe you, and I should've known that you'd never cheat on me. It's just this jealousy thing really gets to you doesn't it. It makes you abandon all common sense and just see things that aren't really there. I'm sorry" Hermione said humbly, falling into Ron's arms. "Lets make a deal, lets never be jealous again.''
"Deal. Ron said. "We know we love each other, that's all that counts right?''
"Right.'' Hermione whispered as she kissed his cheek lightly.
Tonks stood in the Great Hall, all the tables had been cleared out of the way, and in their place stood one long platform, this would be where they would demonstrate the battle moves that all students would need to know. She heard the low rumble of Kingsley's voice, talking to Dumbledore explaining that evening's lesson. Her stomach was doing somersaults, she could hear the students chattering and laughing in the Entrance Hall outside, and she knew that in five minutes, they would all be stood in front of her waiting for her to explain the fine art of battle to them all.
The doors opened but instead of the huge mass of sixth and seventh year students pouring in, a solitary man entered the room, a man with kind amber eyes, and tattered robes. A man that could, with one glance, send her into a total meltdown. He didn't know he had this power over her, and up until now no one else had. Sure there had been other men, but no one who could make her feel as though she would explode after a simple smile, she relished the time that they spent together and every second was special to her, she'd never met anyone like him before, he was kind, compassionate, handsome but most of all the most intelligent man she had ever had the pleasure of talking to. The age difference didn't bother her, it was only fifteen years, what did it matter in the end? The only problem was getting him to feel for her the way she felt about him.
He looked over at her and smiled, a reassuring, comforting smile, and mouthed, 'I'll see you later.' That was all she needed, suddenly she was filled with the courage that she needed to teach the class, and she would do a damn good job of it too, For Remus.
The door opened and the mass of students filed into the Hall, she scanned the crowd and saw Harry, Ron, Hermione and Ginny standing in a group. Kingsley cleared his throat and started to talk.
"Welcome sixth and seventh years, to Battle class. Over the year you will learn how to fight, both bare handed and with a weapon, you will learn how to duel, and successfully render a person unconscious without using a Stupefy spell which wear off after awhile, unless performed by a very powerful witch or wizard." Sirius, who was standing close to the back, in his Professor disguise winced, he had spent month's unconscious because of a Stupefy spell from his deranged cousin Bellatrix. It was Tonk's turn to talk now, and as she waited for the excited whispers to fade away, she caught Remus's eye and saw that he blushed when she caught him staring at her. Maybe there was a chance that he liked her. 'No you idiot' she told herself. 'You probably have something in your teeth.'
"Now as exciting as all that sounds, I'm afraid your all going to have to start with the basics.'' A small groan echoed through the crowd, but she carried on regardless. "I know, but until you have mastered the basics, you won't be able to do anything. So for today we are going to be learning Elementary wand safety and fighting stances.'' She looked over to Moody, who had joined them and saw that he was pleased that nobody had forgotten elementary wand safety. "All split up into groups of two and recite the ten rules of wand safety that you should've learned by now to each other and then we can move on, and don't try cheating because there is an anti-cheating spell around the Hall.'' Tonks said and watched with amazement as everybody listened to her. She started circulating the Hall with Kingsley listening to the pairs reciting the rules.
Tonks passed close to where Remus was standing and smiled shyly at him. He caught another scent of her coconut perfume, she smelt exotic and mysterious, and he was embarrassed of himself for thinking some of the things that he started thinking as she moved on, her hips swaying under her robes.
At the end of the lesson, the whole of the sixth and seventh years had learned all the rules of Elementary wand safety and had also mastered the different fighting stances, along with the importance of agility, awareness and movement in battle situations.
Lupin walked over to where Tonks was sitting alone, on the edge of the platform, swinging her legs back and forth, lost in thought. He jumped up and sat next to her, the dark shadows under his eyes becoming ever more prominent, the full moon was approaching and he was starting to feel its effect, the acrid taste of the Wolfsbane potion still burned his mouth.
"Oh Hi Remus.'' Tonks said distractedly as he sat down next to her.
"Sickle for your thoughts.'' He said noticing the distant look in her eyes. She smiled at him, a smile that warmed his heart but at the same time made him feel empty, why couldn't he see that smile everyday? Why did he have to go to sleep each night knowing that when he woke up, he would be alone, not seeing her beautiful face beside him?
"I was just thinking that it's terrible that we have to teach these kids how to fight. They think it's just for fun, they don't realise that in the end they may have to fight along with us.'' Tonks answered thoughtfully. "I hate Voldemort.'' She spat bitterly. "If it weren't for him then… Never mind.'' She said realising that she had been thinking out loud.
"No tell me.'' Lupin insisted gently.
"If it weren't for him, my father would still be alive. He died in the first war, he was tortured when the Death Eaters came to our home, he died trying to protect me and my mother.'' Tonks said sadly. "That's why I want people to call me Tonks, in memory of my father.'' She said her voice cracking, "I loved him so much.'' She said as she started to cry.
"Shhhh, don't cry, it's alright, I'm here for you.'' Lupin said as he pulled her into his arms.
"Oh God look at me.'' Tonks said, smiling through her tears. "You must think I'm so stupid, that happened years ago.''
"I don't think you're stupid, I've never thought that about you. I still cry when I think about everyone I lost in the first war.'' Lupin admitted, noticing but not caring that he still had his arm wrapped around Tonks.
"Who…who…''
"Who did I lose?'' Lupin stated, asking the question that she could not. "My best friends, Lily and James, Harry's parents. We were at school together, did everything together? And my girlfriend.'' Lupin said as he felt a wave of sadness sweep over him, drowning him, opening all the old wounds. "We were so in love, but she was taken away from me, stolen, there's been no one since.'' Lupin admitted forlornly.
"Do you still miss her.'' Tonks asked tentatively.
"Everyday.'' Was the reply she got.
"I miss my dad everyday too. Can I ask you something?'' Tonks asked after a moment's silence.
"Anything.''
"Why hasn't there been anyone else?''
"I guess I just felt too guilty. I promised myself to her and only her, and I just didn't want to betray her like that, I should be faithful to her, to her memory, it's just…so, so hard sometimes.''
"I'm sure that she would've wanted you to be happy Remus. She wouldn't have wanted you to lock your heart away and never experience love again. I bet she's watching over you now wishing that you were happy with someone, you deserve to be.'' Tonks said softly turning Remus's face towards hers. "You really do.''
"Thanks Tonks.'' Remus said gently. "You do too.'' Their faces moved closer together, he could feel her breath ragged against his face, he wanted her more than anything, she was right Bethany would've wanted him to be happy. But as their lips were a millimetre away from each other, there was a loud cackle and Peeves swept into the Great Hall, flicking ink pellets at them both. They pulled apart swiftly and ran out of the Great Hall taking cover in a nearby classroom. But the moment was lost and in its place was an awkward silence, punctuated only by Peeves inane cackling.
"Well…. I'd…I'd better be going then.'' Tonks said awkwardly. "I'll see you Remus.'' She said as she walked out of the empty classroom, tripping over the leg of a chair on her way out.
Remus sank to the floor where he was standing and buried his head in his knees, and sighed audibly. 'Great' he thought, 'now she hates me, she's going to avoid me now at all costs and I don't even blame her. Why would she want an old fool like me? She's fifteen years younger than me, I'm almost old enough to be her father.' And with these thoughts filling his head Lupin slowly and dejectedly walked up to his room, where he would take another draught of Wolfsbane potion, that would briefly take his mind off the beautiful woman, with shocking pink hair that had only minutes before been held in his arms.
He walked passed Sirius on the way to his room and didn't even bother to comment when Sirius said 'There's nice and coconuty you smell Moony.' He reached his room and locked the door, not wanting to talk to anyone after the fool he had just made of himself.
Meanwhile Tonks was in her room, changing into her pyjamas, talking out loud to herself.
"Who am I fooling? Why would Remus be interested in me? I'm young enough to be his daughter. He probably thinks I'm some silly girl with a crush. I'll bet he was relieved when Peeves came and stopped the kiss. I bet he's never been so embarrassed in his life. He'll avoid me now, for sure!'' And with that Tonks crawled into her bed and dimmed the lights, knowing that she wouldn't be able to get to sleep, not when thoughts of her making a fool of herself and practically throwing herself at Remus were flashing through her mind. She cringed and pulled the pillow over her head as though it would protect her from the images in her head, it did nothing, it was going to be a long night.
Harry and Ron stood outside the Magical Maintenance class with the other seven boys in their class, it was the first lesson that they would have since Harry caught Professor Hounding and Destiny kissing. Harry was not looking forward to the lesson, it was hard enough refraining from beating the man into a pulp whenever Harry saw his smug, self satisfied smile, but how was he going to go a whole double lesson in the same room as the man, who was ruining his godfathers life.
Professor Hounding opened the door of his classroom and the nine boys filed in, and at behind their desks, instead of their usual seats at the front of the classroom Harry and Ron sat right at the back. Professor Hounding started to talk, explaining what they were going to be doing in today's lesson, but Harry and Ron having a rather loud conversation in the back of the classroom about Quidditch distracted him. Professor Hounding cleared his throat and looked pointedly at Harry and Ron, he had to work exceptionally hard to suppress a grin at what his godson was doing, it would've made James proud.
"Mr Potter, Mr Weasley, when you've quite finished.'' He said sternly, signalling for them to top talking.
"Oh thanks for waiting.'' Harry said pleasantly and he continued talking to Ron loudly about the drawbacks of the new Diantes broomstick, the whole class turned to stare open mouthed at Harry and Ron, who were directly disobeying the teacher, not caring that they were being rude and not bothering to have the manners to shut up and listen to the teacher. This was so unlike Harry and Ron, usually they stopped talking as soon as they teacher looked at them, but today they were answering back and not paying attention. When Harry had finished talking about the broomstick he turned back to Professor Hounding and said. "You can carry on now.''
Professor Hounding opened his mouth as though to shoot back some retort at Harry, but he thought better of it and simply carried on teaching. By the end of the lesson however he had had enough, Harry and Ron had done the exact opposite of everything he had said that lesson so when he told the class to go and start their practical work of learning how to make a Portkey, Harry and Ron just sat in their seats and played a leisurely game of Wizards Chess. But Professor Hounding was on to them and when he told the class to sit in their seats he knew that Harry and Ron would automatically stand up and that's how he left them until the end of the lesson.
"Right then boys you can all go now.'' Professor Hounding said as he opened the door of his classroom, and checked his watch; he smiled only eight minutes left until the potion would wear off. Just as Harry and Ron walked to the door he shut it in front of them. "I don't think so boys, I've tolerated you and your games for long enough, it's time I teach you a lesson in manners.'' He said coldly. "Sit Down!'' He shouted starting to feel the familiar prickling that told him the potion was wearing off.
Harry and Ron gulped and backed into two chairs, they had thought that Professor Hounding was a push over, that they would get away with messing around in his lesson, they had thought that he would be so terrified at the thought of being beaten into a pulp by Sirius that he would let them get away with anything, they were wrong. Harry noticed Professor Houndings eyes start to change from a sapphire blue to a deep dark brown, glinting mischievously. He nudged Ron, but Ron had already noticed that their Professor's skin had started to crawl, the blonde hair was darkening and growing longer and thicker, the clean-shaven face started sprouting stubble at an alarming rate. Harry and Ron's eyes widened as they watched their teacher transform before them and they were powerless to do anything. He broke out into a large grin and Harry gasped.
"Sirius?" he asked incredulously.
"The very same.'' Sirius replied happily.
"Oh my God, you frightened the shit out of me.'' Ron said, a little of the colour coming back to his cheeks, that had paled at the sight of his teacher transforming before him.
"That'll teach you both to mess around in my lesson.'' Sirius answered happily.
"So…. so…. you've been here all along?'' Harry asked unbelievingly.
"Yep, It's a favour to Dumbledore.''
"Why didn't you tell me?'' Harry questioned, upset that his godfather didn't trust him.
"Dumbledore thought it'd be safer not to tell anyone, even you. If you were talking about me and someone overheard, that'd be it, I'd be straight back in Azkaban.'' Sirius said sadly.
"Then why are you telling me now?'' Harry asked cautiously.
"I can't have you two messing up my lessons all year can I? And Destiny was really upset when you caught us and thought that she had cheated on me, she hasn't come near me since, and I'm starting to miss her.''
"Oh, I'm so sorry.'' Harry said, "She must think I'm such an idiot.''
"She thought that anyway. No I'm only joking, she understands how you would feel protective over me, especially since you caught her telling some stranger that she loves him." Sirius said laughing.
"So are we allowed to tell Hermione and Ginny that you're here?'' Ron asked quietly.
"Yes, but no one else, and makes sure no one over hears you.'' Sirius said. "Now if you'll both excuse me I have to go and inform Destiny that it is alright for her to talk to me again.'' Sirius explained as he gulped down the potion and started towards the door. He was just about to leave when Harry ran over to him and hugged him.
"I'm glad you're here.'' Harry said gruffly, pulling away.
"Yeah me too.'' Sirius said grinning and patting Harry on the back, before walking out into the corridor winking slyly at Tonks who was walking past. She just looked at him strangely and carried on, determined to avoid any awkward questions about why she hadn't been at breakfast or dinner.
That night as Sirius walked across the castle to Destiny's room, where he would finally be able to spend the night with her, not needing to worry what Harry would think if he caught them, he spotted Tonks walking along the corridor leading from Remus's room. She had been there trying to apologise for the other night, but she couldn't even bring herself to knock on the door, so she turned around and started walking dejectedly back to her room, alone. She was staring at the floor and didn't even notice as she almost collided with Sirius.
"Well, well, well here's the lucky lady.'' Sirius said as he put his arms out in front of him to stop Tonks ploughing right into him.
"What are you on about Black?'' Tonks said angrily, not in the mood for Sirius games.
"The lucky lady who has attracted the attentions of Remus Lupin.''
"Again what?'' Tonks said, confused, had Lupin been talking about her to Sirius, making fun of her, laughing at the way she threw herself at him, no he wouldn't do that, he was too nice to do that to her, but then what was Sirius talking about?
"So tell me how long have you two been together?''
"What do you mean?'' Tonks asked dubiously.
"And since when have you been…you know? Sirius asked, somewhat uncomfortable talking about sex with his cousin, but this did not deter him he wanted all the information.
"No, I don't know what.'' Tonks said, she had a fair idea but it couldn't be, she hadn't even kissed Remus, Sirius couldn't be talking about sex, she must be mistaken.
"Since when have you two been sleeping together?'' Sirius said, as though he were stating the obvious.
"What?!'' Tonks screeched.
"It's alright I know all about it, don't worry.'' Sirius said comfortingly.
"I HAVE NOT BEEN SLEEPING WITH REMUS LUPIN.'' Tonks shouted loudly, as she slapped Sirius across the face, lowering her voice into a dangerous whisper she continued ignoring his whimpers of pain, she hadn't been made an auror for no reason, she was tough. "How dare you, I am not that kind of girl, I don't just jump into bed with anybody, and you can tell Remus from me, if he is pathetic enough to lie about something like that then I don't want anything to do with him ever again.'' Tonks said, she was red faced and angry, but she had tears pouring down her face, how could Lupin say that about her, didn't he respect her at all? Or did he just see her as a quick shag that he could lie to his friends about.
"But…he…. didn't…I" Sirius stuttered, angry with himself for jumping to conclusions.
"Save it Sirius, I don't want to hear it, I can't believe I ever liked him. What does he think he's playing at? What did he expect to happen after telling you that he slept with me? He probably thought it'd make him look good, shagging someone fifteen years younger than him, that'll make him a God in some peoples eyes. But the worst thing is that I thought he was different, I thought he actually cared about my feelings, but no he's just like the rest of them. I hate him!'' Tonks spat as she stormed off down the corridor, in a rage.
Sirius just stood and watched her leave, now Lupin wasn't going to get a chance to experience love again, and it was all because of him. The worst part of it was that Lupin hadn't even said anything like that; he wouldn't ever say anything like that. Tonks had the correct impressions about him, he was different to other men, and he didn't go bragging about his sexual conquests and lying about the women he slept with. Tonks had admitted that she liked him, but now she said that she hated him, and it was all Sirius's fault.
It was going to be the full moon tomorrow and Sirius cringed, Lupin was going to have to transform, knowing that the woman that he had come to love hated him, and knowing that his best friend had been the one to cause that hatred.
(A.N Thank you to everybody who has been reviewing, I worked extra hard to get this chapter out sooner for you all, I hope you are impressed with it. I appreciate all of your reviews and encouragement, it really means the world to me and inspires me to write more. Hopefully the next chapter will be up soon. Please Review, love you all millions x x x x x x x x x x x x x x)
RELATIONSHIPS ARE HARD
Sirius's arm ached; he had been casting the same spell for almost two hours. He watched as the same blue flash emitted from his wand, forming just a small part of the jigsaw puzzle that was to be just one, of the numerous wards placed around Hogwarts. He looked over and saw Moody and Hestia along with Snape and Mcgonagall casting the same spell as he was, the same fluorescent blue flash shooting from their wands, shining momentarily then fading into an invisible force field that should repel Voldemort and his forces. Seeing his colleagues working hard gave him the strength he needed to continue, the thought of all the children at Hogwarts he needed to protect dulled the ache in his arm, the picture of his friends and family renewed his determination and he started casting the spell once again, over and over, not leaving a single inch unprotected, pausing only to drink his potion on the hour every hour.
He barely noticed as the seventh years made their way across the grounds to the Herbology greenhouses and didn't even flinch when Harry and Ron walked past shooting him venomous looks.
"Don't know why Dumbledore trusts that idiot, can't he see what he's doing to Sirius.'' Harry said as he saw Professor Hounding shooting another blue flash from his wand tip.
"He must have his reasons, it looks like he's pretty good at casting the spells for the wards around the school.'' Ron said, cringing incase Harry had another go at him for even thinking about defending Professor Hounding.
"Well I think the mans an idiot, he must've known Destiny was taken.'' Harry said loudly.
"To be fair Harry, from the way you describe it, Destiny wasn't exactly fighting him off if you know what I mean.'' Ron said reasonably.
"Yeah well, she would never have had to if he just kept his slimy hands off her.'' Harry said, the tone in his voice indicating that the subject had come to a close. They walked in silence to the Herbology class, finally catching up with Hermione who had rushed ahead with Susan Bones, eager to get the best spot to see the Hysmacarls that Professor Sprout had promised to show them that day.
"That was an interesting lesson wasn't it?'' Hermione said as she walked up to the castle with Harry and Ron. "Very informative.'' She stated as Ron grinned and pulled her closer to him, his arm draped casually around her waist.
"Yeah Mione, who knew there were actually plants that could bite, scratch and shoot poisonous liquid at you all at the same time.'' Ron said sarcastically. "Really, interesting and deadly.'' He grinned as she slapped him playfully; he loved how she was interested in practically everything, and adored her hunger for knowledge. He watched as Ginny rushed over to meet them and Harry picked her up and swung her around, before kissing her hard on the lips. "How about we go back to our room during dinner and have some time alone.'' Ron said, raising his eyebrows suggestively.
"Ronald Weasley offering to miss dinner, for me. I'm honoured.'' Hermione said sarcastically, placing her hand over her heart, pretending to be shocked. He looked at her with his puppy dog eyes and she couldn't help but smile. "Alright then, what did you have in mind.'' His eyes lit up as he took her hand and started walking quickly towards the castle with renewed purpose.
As they had just walked through the main doors, Ron turned back and saw that Harry and Ginny were still kissing; they hadn't even noticed that they were now alone. He smiled, good, all the more time alone with Hermione without any interruptions. His good mood was soon over however, when Antony Goldstein, the new Head boy approached them both. Hermione greeted him with a warm smile and a friendly wave, whereas Ron just grunted and nodded his head.
"Hi Hermione.'' Antony said cheerfully as he strode up to them both, "Alright Ron, sorry to interrupt but I was wondering if I could ask a favour.''
"Sure what is it?'' Hermione asked pleasantly.
"Well, earlier on there was a bit of magic going on in the corridors and well the long and short of it is that in place of the floor there is now a gigantic swimming pool.'' Antony explained shooting Ron a dirty look when he laughed out loud at the predicament they were in. "Anyway, I was wondering if you wouldn't mind helping me keep the younger students away from it while Mcgonagall looks up the counter spell.''
"Where are the prefects?'' Hermione asked.
"They are helping to guard it too, but it's that big we need all the help we can get.''
"She can't.'' Ron said quickly. "She has to…. to…help me do my Transfiguration essay.'' Ron stated uncertainly, looking at Hermione pleadingly, this was supposed to be their alone time.
"Oh that can wait Ron, I can't let them struggle, I'll go and help, it won't be for long.'' Hermione said, as she reached up and kissed Ron lightly, squeezing his hand reassuringly before she left, discussing the situation earnestly with Antony Goldstein, Ron sighed, interested in everything that one. He felt a pang of jealousy in his heart as he realised instead of the romantic time she was supposed to be spending with him, she was going to be spending it with Antony. He shook those thoughts from his head, and focused on what Hermione told him, and remembered that Hermione was with him because she loved him, and nobody else.
He was at a loose end now, he couldn't very well go back out to Harry and Ginny, and watch as they practically devoured each other, or even worse whispered soppy and romantic words to each other all the time. He decided to go to the Library and do some research for the Herbology essay he had just been assigned.
Ron sat down at one of the dark wooden tables, surrounded by a pile of books that even Hermione would be proud of, he opened the first one and sighed, this research business wasn't going to be as easy as Hermione made it out to be. Just as he was getting into the extensive pages about Hysmacarls and their useful properties, he heard muffled sobs coming from behind one of the tall shelves of books. He walked over to see who was crying and saw a girl, she must've been around fifth or sixth year, she was sitting on the floor in the foetal position her head resting on her knees, her shoulders shaking with stifled sobs. He walked over to her, and placed his hand on her shoulder, and speaking in the softest voice he had tried to comfort her.
"Hey, what's the matter, don't cry, a pretty girl like you shouldn't be crying.'' He said softly as the girl looked up into his eyes, he saw that her hazel eyes were red and bloodshot, her dirty blond hair was tangled, she smiled weakly, and tried to wipe some of her tears on the sleeve of her robe.
"You're…. you're Ginny's brother aren't you?'' She asked as she smiled feebly, tears still falling from her eyes.
"Yeah.'' Ron said quietly, there was a time when he would've run a mile from a crying girl but now, he just wanted to make her tears go away, he hated to see people upset. "How'd you know?''
"It's the red hair.'' She said as she giggled nervously.
"Well I can't have you calling me Ginny's brother all the time can I? My name's Ron, and yours is?'' Ron asked tentatively, noticing that the girl still hadn't stopped crying.
"My names Morgan…Morgan Richards.'' She muttered softly.
"Well Morgan, do you mind if we go and sit back at my table, this floor isn't half hurting my knees.'' Ron said jokingly as he guided the still visibly distraught girl over to his crowded table. She sat opposite to him, trying in vain to stop the flow of tears falling from her eyes. "So why are you crying?''
"I don't want to talk about it.'' She said firmly.
"I know you must think that I'm just being nosy, but seriously you'll feel better after talking about it.'' Ron urged her.
"Fine. My boyfriend just finished with me, are you happy now?'' She snapped.
"No, I'm not happy, why did he finish with you?''
"He said that it wasn't working out anymore and he thought that we spent too much time together, he said he wanted to see other people.'' She said quickly, fresh tears falling down her already tear stained face.
"Well if you ask me he doesn't know a good thing when he has one. It's his loss, believe me not yours.'' Ron said, as she looked up at him, a flicker of a smile playing on her lips. "You're a pretty girl, you deserve better than someone who doesn't appreciate that, don't cry for him.''
"But…but I love him.'' She whispered sadly. "Guess he obviously doesn't feel the same way about me.''
"He's a fool, forget him and move on.'' Ron said comfortingly.
"Could you do that, I mean if you were really in love with someone and they finished with you, you couldn't just forget about them and move on could you?'' She asked, Ron sat back and thought about how he would feel if Hermione walked up to him right now and told him she wanted to start seeing other people, he'd be devastated, heartbroken, torn.
"No, I guess not.'' He said slowly. "But you can't spend all your time brooding about it, it's happened now and you have to be strong.''
"I know. I'm going to be. I already feel a lot better about myself just by talking to you.'' Morgan said shyly. "Your girlfriend is a very lucky girl.'' Morgan said as she placed her hand on Ron's arm, and stood up from her seat. "Thank you.'' She said as she hugged him.
Hermione walked into the Library looking for Ron, thinking it was the only possible place he could be after the Great Hall, their room, the common room and the Quidditch Pitch, and sure enough as she walked through the doors to the Library she saw a flash of his bright red hair through one of the shelves, she walked silently over to where he was, thinking that she would surprise him, but when she walked around one of the shelves, she saw a sight she didn't want to see, Ron hugging some blonde girl, and patting her on the back, whispering something to her. Hermione turned on her heel, and stormed out of the Library, knocking several books of their shelves as she went.
Hermione lay on the bed in her room, in total darkness, waiting for Ron to walk through the door, she had skipped dinner in the Great Hall, preferring to get some food from the kitchens rather than have to look Ron in the eye. She wanted to wait to see him face to face when they were alone, when she wouldn't run the risk of being publicly humiliated in front of the entire school, she didn't want everyone to know that Ron was cheating on her.
She heard Ron walk into the room and curse as he stumbled over a shoe that she had 'accidentally' left in front of the portrait hole; she felt a grim satisfaction as he cursed, before he finally switched the lights on. Ron turned and saw Hermione laying on the bed, her arms folded and her expression grim. He gulped, what had he done now?
"Hey Mione.'' He said feebly, trying to figure out exactly what mood she was in.
"Hello Ronald.'' He cringed, this was it, and she was in a first class temper. "Where've you been?''
"In the Great Hall with Harry and Ginny.'' Ron replied truthfully.
"Oh, what did you do today? You know when I had to help Antony.'' She questioned coolly.
"I went to the Library, I wanted to start researching for our Herbology essay." Hermione grimaced, she knew then that he was lying, he hadn't planned on researching, he was meeting his little bit on the side in there. She wasn't stupid, why would Ron start researching? The essay didn't have to be done until next week, he usually left it until the last minute and copied off her.
"Oh, did you find anything interesting?'' She asked steadily.
"No not really……….'' Ron said, but Hermione interrupted him.
"I was there Ron, I saw you and that…that…girl.'' Hermione spat. "Why Ron? Why did you have to do it? Aren't I enough for you? Why do you want more?''
"Shhhh Mione, what are you talking about?'' Ron said as he walked over to Hermione who had got up off the bed and was shouting loudly at him, her hands balled into fists at her sides.
"Don't touch me.'' She screamed. "You know what I'm talking about, you and that blonde, hugging in the Library, I saw you Ron, and I know you've been cheating on me.''
"Oh my God, she was upset, I hugged her, she's one of Ginny's friends for God's sake.'' Ron shouted back at Hermione, who know had tears streaming down her face, although whether from anger or hurt Ron didn't know.
"Well Ginny's not too young for Harry so why would she be too young for you.'' Hermione shouted back, angrily brushing away her tears.
"You know what, I can't even believe that you think I would even contemplate cheating on you. Who's jealous now Hermione?'' Ron said as he grabbed a sheet off the bed and started heading towards the portrait hole, he looked hurt and upset.
"Ron wait.'' Hermione called softly, seeing the hurt look on his face, knowing that he looked exactly how she felt when he had accused her of flirting with Antony. "You…you said she was upset, why?'' Ron rolled his eyes, before turning back to Hermione; she really was interested in absolutely everything.
"She had just split up with her boyfriend, and she was upset because she loved him and she knew he was never going to come back to her, because he wanted to see other people. I guess I just sympathised with her because I know how I'd feel if you left me for someone else." Ron said quietly.
"I'm sorry, I believe you, and I should've known that you'd never cheat on me. It's just this jealousy thing really gets to you doesn't it. It makes you abandon all common sense and just see things that aren't really there. I'm sorry" Hermione said humbly, falling into Ron's arms. "Lets make a deal, lets never be jealous again.''
"Deal. Ron said. "We know we love each other, that's all that counts right?''
"Right.'' Hermione whispered as she kissed his cheek lightly.
Tonks stood in the Great Hall, all the tables had been cleared out of the way, and in their place stood one long platform, this would be where they would demonstrate the battle moves that all students would need to know. She heard the low rumble of Kingsley's voice, talking to Dumbledore explaining that evening's lesson. Her stomach was doing somersaults, she could hear the students chattering and laughing in the Entrance Hall outside, and she knew that in five minutes, they would all be stood in front of her waiting for her to explain the fine art of battle to them all.
The doors opened but instead of the huge mass of sixth and seventh year students pouring in, a solitary man entered the room, a man with kind amber eyes, and tattered robes. A man that could, with one glance, send her into a total meltdown. He didn't know he had this power over her, and up until now no one else had. Sure there had been other men, but no one who could make her feel as though she would explode after a simple smile, she relished the time that they spent together and every second was special to her, she'd never met anyone like him before, he was kind, compassionate, handsome but most of all the most intelligent man she had ever had the pleasure of talking to. The age difference didn't bother her, it was only fifteen years, what did it matter in the end? The only problem was getting him to feel for her the way she felt about him.
He looked over at her and smiled, a reassuring, comforting smile, and mouthed, 'I'll see you later.' That was all she needed, suddenly she was filled with the courage that she needed to teach the class, and she would do a damn good job of it too, For Remus.
The door opened and the mass of students filed into the Hall, she scanned the crowd and saw Harry, Ron, Hermione and Ginny standing in a group. Kingsley cleared his throat and started to talk.
"Welcome sixth and seventh years, to Battle class. Over the year you will learn how to fight, both bare handed and with a weapon, you will learn how to duel, and successfully render a person unconscious without using a Stupefy spell which wear off after awhile, unless performed by a very powerful witch or wizard." Sirius, who was standing close to the back, in his Professor disguise winced, he had spent month's unconscious because of a Stupefy spell from his deranged cousin Bellatrix. It was Tonk's turn to talk now, and as she waited for the excited whispers to fade away, she caught Remus's eye and saw that he blushed when she caught him staring at her. Maybe there was a chance that he liked her. 'No you idiot' she told herself. 'You probably have something in your teeth.'
"Now as exciting as all that sounds, I'm afraid your all going to have to start with the basics.'' A small groan echoed through the crowd, but she carried on regardless. "I know, but until you have mastered the basics, you won't be able to do anything. So for today we are going to be learning Elementary wand safety and fighting stances.'' She looked over to Moody, who had joined them and saw that he was pleased that nobody had forgotten elementary wand safety. "All split up into groups of two and recite the ten rules of wand safety that you should've learned by now to each other and then we can move on, and don't try cheating because there is an anti-cheating spell around the Hall.'' Tonks said and watched with amazement as everybody listened to her. She started circulating the Hall with Kingsley listening to the pairs reciting the rules.
Tonks passed close to where Remus was standing and smiled shyly at him. He caught another scent of her coconut perfume, she smelt exotic and mysterious, and he was embarrassed of himself for thinking some of the things that he started thinking as she moved on, her hips swaying under her robes.
At the end of the lesson, the whole of the sixth and seventh years had learned all the rules of Elementary wand safety and had also mastered the different fighting stances, along with the importance of agility, awareness and movement in battle situations.
Lupin walked over to where Tonks was sitting alone, on the edge of the platform, swinging her legs back and forth, lost in thought. He jumped up and sat next to her, the dark shadows under his eyes becoming ever more prominent, the full moon was approaching and he was starting to feel its effect, the acrid taste of the Wolfsbane potion still burned his mouth.
"Oh Hi Remus.'' Tonks said distractedly as he sat down next to her.
"Sickle for your thoughts.'' He said noticing the distant look in her eyes. She smiled at him, a smile that warmed his heart but at the same time made him feel empty, why couldn't he see that smile everyday? Why did he have to go to sleep each night knowing that when he woke up, he would be alone, not seeing her beautiful face beside him?
"I was just thinking that it's terrible that we have to teach these kids how to fight. They think it's just for fun, they don't realise that in the end they may have to fight along with us.'' Tonks answered thoughtfully. "I hate Voldemort.'' She spat bitterly. "If it weren't for him then… Never mind.'' She said realising that she had been thinking out loud.
"No tell me.'' Lupin insisted gently.
"If it weren't for him, my father would still be alive. He died in the first war, he was tortured when the Death Eaters came to our home, he died trying to protect me and my mother.'' Tonks said sadly. "That's why I want people to call me Tonks, in memory of my father.'' She said her voice cracking, "I loved him so much.'' She said as she started to cry.
"Shhhh, don't cry, it's alright, I'm here for you.'' Lupin said as he pulled her into his arms.
"Oh God look at me.'' Tonks said, smiling through her tears. "You must think I'm so stupid, that happened years ago.''
"I don't think you're stupid, I've never thought that about you. I still cry when I think about everyone I lost in the first war.'' Lupin admitted, noticing but not caring that he still had his arm wrapped around Tonks.
"Who…who…''
"Who did I lose?'' Lupin stated, asking the question that she could not. "My best friends, Lily and James, Harry's parents. We were at school together, did everything together? And my girlfriend.'' Lupin said as he felt a wave of sadness sweep over him, drowning him, opening all the old wounds. "We were so in love, but she was taken away from me, stolen, there's been no one since.'' Lupin admitted forlornly.
"Do you still miss her.'' Tonks asked tentatively.
"Everyday.'' Was the reply she got.
"I miss my dad everyday too. Can I ask you something?'' Tonks asked after a moment's silence.
"Anything.''
"Why hasn't there been anyone else?''
"I guess I just felt too guilty. I promised myself to her and only her, and I just didn't want to betray her like that, I should be faithful to her, to her memory, it's just…so, so hard sometimes.''
"I'm sure that she would've wanted you to be happy Remus. She wouldn't have wanted you to lock your heart away and never experience love again. I bet she's watching over you now wishing that you were happy with someone, you deserve to be.'' Tonks said softly turning Remus's face towards hers. "You really do.''
"Thanks Tonks.'' Remus said gently. "You do too.'' Their faces moved closer together, he could feel her breath ragged against his face, he wanted her more than anything, she was right Bethany would've wanted him to be happy. But as their lips were a millimetre away from each other, there was a loud cackle and Peeves swept into the Great Hall, flicking ink pellets at them both. They pulled apart swiftly and ran out of the Great Hall taking cover in a nearby classroom. But the moment was lost and in its place was an awkward silence, punctuated only by Peeves inane cackling.
"Well…. I'd…I'd better be going then.'' Tonks said awkwardly. "I'll see you Remus.'' She said as she walked out of the empty classroom, tripping over the leg of a chair on her way out.
Remus sank to the floor where he was standing and buried his head in his knees, and sighed audibly. 'Great' he thought, 'now she hates me, she's going to avoid me now at all costs and I don't even blame her. Why would she want an old fool like me? She's fifteen years younger than me, I'm almost old enough to be her father.' And with these thoughts filling his head Lupin slowly and dejectedly walked up to his room, where he would take another draught of Wolfsbane potion, that would briefly take his mind off the beautiful woman, with shocking pink hair that had only minutes before been held in his arms.
He walked passed Sirius on the way to his room and didn't even bother to comment when Sirius said 'There's nice and coconuty you smell Moony.' He reached his room and locked the door, not wanting to talk to anyone after the fool he had just made of himself.
Meanwhile Tonks was in her room, changing into her pyjamas, talking out loud to herself.
"Who am I fooling? Why would Remus be interested in me? I'm young enough to be his daughter. He probably thinks I'm some silly girl with a crush. I'll bet he was relieved when Peeves came and stopped the kiss. I bet he's never been so embarrassed in his life. He'll avoid me now, for sure!'' And with that Tonks crawled into her bed and dimmed the lights, knowing that she wouldn't be able to get to sleep, not when thoughts of her making a fool of herself and practically throwing herself at Remus were flashing through her mind. She cringed and pulled the pillow over her head as though it would protect her from the images in her head, it did nothing, it was going to be a long night.
Harry and Ron stood outside the Magical Maintenance class with the other seven boys in their class, it was the first lesson that they would have since Harry caught Professor Hounding and Destiny kissing. Harry was not looking forward to the lesson, it was hard enough refraining from beating the man into a pulp whenever Harry saw his smug, self satisfied smile, but how was he going to go a whole double lesson in the same room as the man, who was ruining his godfathers life.
Professor Hounding opened the door of his classroom and the nine boys filed in, and at behind their desks, instead of their usual seats at the front of the classroom Harry and Ron sat right at the back. Professor Hounding started to talk, explaining what they were going to be doing in today's lesson, but Harry and Ron having a rather loud conversation in the back of the classroom about Quidditch distracted him. Professor Hounding cleared his throat and looked pointedly at Harry and Ron, he had to work exceptionally hard to suppress a grin at what his godson was doing, it would've made James proud.
"Mr Potter, Mr Weasley, when you've quite finished.'' He said sternly, signalling for them to top talking.
"Oh thanks for waiting.'' Harry said pleasantly and he continued talking to Ron loudly about the drawbacks of the new Diantes broomstick, the whole class turned to stare open mouthed at Harry and Ron, who were directly disobeying the teacher, not caring that they were being rude and not bothering to have the manners to shut up and listen to the teacher. This was so unlike Harry and Ron, usually they stopped talking as soon as they teacher looked at them, but today they were answering back and not paying attention. When Harry had finished talking about the broomstick he turned back to Professor Hounding and said. "You can carry on now.''
Professor Hounding opened his mouth as though to shoot back some retort at Harry, but he thought better of it and simply carried on teaching. By the end of the lesson however he had had enough, Harry and Ron had done the exact opposite of everything he had said that lesson so when he told the class to go and start their practical work of learning how to make a Portkey, Harry and Ron just sat in their seats and played a leisurely game of Wizards Chess. But Professor Hounding was on to them and when he told the class to sit in their seats he knew that Harry and Ron would automatically stand up and that's how he left them until the end of the lesson.
"Right then boys you can all go now.'' Professor Hounding said as he opened the door of his classroom, and checked his watch; he smiled only eight minutes left until the potion would wear off. Just as Harry and Ron walked to the door he shut it in front of them. "I don't think so boys, I've tolerated you and your games for long enough, it's time I teach you a lesson in manners.'' He said coldly. "Sit Down!'' He shouted starting to feel the familiar prickling that told him the potion was wearing off.
Harry and Ron gulped and backed into two chairs, they had thought that Professor Hounding was a push over, that they would get away with messing around in his lesson, they had thought that he would be so terrified at the thought of being beaten into a pulp by Sirius that he would let them get away with anything, they were wrong. Harry noticed Professor Houndings eyes start to change from a sapphire blue to a deep dark brown, glinting mischievously. He nudged Ron, but Ron had already noticed that their Professor's skin had started to crawl, the blonde hair was darkening and growing longer and thicker, the clean-shaven face started sprouting stubble at an alarming rate. Harry and Ron's eyes widened as they watched their teacher transform before them and they were powerless to do anything. He broke out into a large grin and Harry gasped.
"Sirius?" he asked incredulously.
"The very same.'' Sirius replied happily.
"Oh my God, you frightened the shit out of me.'' Ron said, a little of the colour coming back to his cheeks, that had paled at the sight of his teacher transforming before him.
"That'll teach you both to mess around in my lesson.'' Sirius answered happily.
"So…. so…. you've been here all along?'' Harry asked unbelievingly.
"Yep, It's a favour to Dumbledore.''
"Why didn't you tell me?'' Harry questioned, upset that his godfather didn't trust him.
"Dumbledore thought it'd be safer not to tell anyone, even you. If you were talking about me and someone overheard, that'd be it, I'd be straight back in Azkaban.'' Sirius said sadly.
"Then why are you telling me now?'' Harry asked cautiously.
"I can't have you two messing up my lessons all year can I? And Destiny was really upset when you caught us and thought that she had cheated on me, she hasn't come near me since, and I'm starting to miss her.''
"Oh, I'm so sorry.'' Harry said, "She must think I'm such an idiot.''
"She thought that anyway. No I'm only joking, she understands how you would feel protective over me, especially since you caught her telling some stranger that she loves him." Sirius said laughing.
"So are we allowed to tell Hermione and Ginny that you're here?'' Ron asked quietly.
"Yes, but no one else, and makes sure no one over hears you.'' Sirius said. "Now if you'll both excuse me I have to go and inform Destiny that it is alright for her to talk to me again.'' Sirius explained as he gulped down the potion and started towards the door. He was just about to leave when Harry ran over to him and hugged him.
"I'm glad you're here.'' Harry said gruffly, pulling away.
"Yeah me too.'' Sirius said grinning and patting Harry on the back, before walking out into the corridor winking slyly at Tonks who was walking past. She just looked at him strangely and carried on, determined to avoid any awkward questions about why she hadn't been at breakfast or dinner.
That night as Sirius walked across the castle to Destiny's room, where he would finally be able to spend the night with her, not needing to worry what Harry would think if he caught them, he spotted Tonks walking along the corridor leading from Remus's room. She had been there trying to apologise for the other night, but she couldn't even bring herself to knock on the door, so she turned around and started walking dejectedly back to her room, alone. She was staring at the floor and didn't even notice as she almost collided with Sirius.
"Well, well, well here's the lucky lady.'' Sirius said as he put his arms out in front of him to stop Tonks ploughing right into him.
"What are you on about Black?'' Tonks said angrily, not in the mood for Sirius games.
"The lucky lady who has attracted the attentions of Remus Lupin.''
"Again what?'' Tonks said, confused, had Lupin been talking about her to Sirius, making fun of her, laughing at the way she threw herself at him, no he wouldn't do that, he was too nice to do that to her, but then what was Sirius talking about?
"So tell me how long have you two been together?''
"What do you mean?'' Tonks asked dubiously.
"And since when have you been…you know? Sirius asked, somewhat uncomfortable talking about sex with his cousin, but this did not deter him he wanted all the information.
"No, I don't know what.'' Tonks said, she had a fair idea but it couldn't be, she hadn't even kissed Remus, Sirius couldn't be talking about sex, she must be mistaken.
"Since when have you two been sleeping together?'' Sirius said, as though he were stating the obvious.
"What?!'' Tonks screeched.
"It's alright I know all about it, don't worry.'' Sirius said comfortingly.
"I HAVE NOT BEEN SLEEPING WITH REMUS LUPIN.'' Tonks shouted loudly, as she slapped Sirius across the face, lowering her voice into a dangerous whisper she continued ignoring his whimpers of pain, she hadn't been made an auror for no reason, she was tough. "How dare you, I am not that kind of girl, I don't just jump into bed with anybody, and you can tell Remus from me, if he is pathetic enough to lie about something like that then I don't want anything to do with him ever again.'' Tonks said, she was red faced and angry, but she had tears pouring down her face, how could Lupin say that about her, didn't he respect her at all? Or did he just see her as a quick shag that he could lie to his friends about.
"But…he…. didn't…I" Sirius stuttered, angry with himself for jumping to conclusions.
"Save it Sirius, I don't want to hear it, I can't believe I ever liked him. What does he think he's playing at? What did he expect to happen after telling you that he slept with me? He probably thought it'd make him look good, shagging someone fifteen years younger than him, that'll make him a God in some peoples eyes. But the worst thing is that I thought he was different, I thought he actually cared about my feelings, but no he's just like the rest of them. I hate him!'' Tonks spat as she stormed off down the corridor, in a rage.
Sirius just stood and watched her leave, now Lupin wasn't going to get a chance to experience love again, and it was all because of him. The worst part of it was that Lupin hadn't even said anything like that; he wouldn't ever say anything like that. Tonks had the correct impressions about him, he was different to other men, and he didn't go bragging about his sexual conquests and lying about the women he slept with. Tonks had admitted that she liked him, but now she said that she hated him, and it was all Sirius's fault.
It was going to be the full moon tomorrow and Sirius cringed, Lupin was going to have to transform, knowing that the woman that he had come to love hated him, and knowing that his best friend had been the one to cause that hatred.
(A.N Thank you to everybody who has been reviewing, I worked extra hard to get this chapter out sooner for you all, I hope you are impressed with it. I appreciate all of your reviews and encouragement, it really means the world to me and inspires me to write more. Hopefully the next chapter will be up soon. Please Review, love you all millions x x x x x x x x x x x x x x)