.................................
Blanket of Stars
.................................Remus woke to find the morning bright, the smell of coffee hovering in the air, and the sound of birds twittering outside. However, the werewolf didn't care! He rushed hurriedly to the bathroom and emptied last night's contents in the harshly white toilet.
He sighed and sat down beside the toilet. After years of transforming he was used to the sickness that came hours before his transformation was to begin. However, Remus smiled faintly. When he and Harry left Grimmauld Place he knew the exact location of where he wanted to take his mate. It was a beautiful place, and he knew that Harry and Shadow would enjoy it.
Harry walked into the bedroom to find it empty of the werewolf. His brow creased slightly until he heard someone retching and cringed. He walked into the bathroom to find Remus groaning beside the toilet. He walked over pulling Lupin's hair back for him and running his hand up and down the small of his back, soothing him gently.
"Are you ok Moony," He asked with concern leaking into his voice, "Do you need anything, medicine, water?"
Remus shook his head, "No, Harry, I'm fine."
At the unsure look on Harry's face the werewolf patted his hand, "I always get sick hours before transforming, don't worry, love." Remus rang a digit gently down the side of Harry's face, but had to quickly turn away to vomit some more. He really hated Harry seeing him like this, but at the moment he couldn't help it.
Harry winced for Remus and pulled the dampened hair out of his face for him. He felt terrible for his mate and when Remus seemed to stop for a moment he placed a kiss on the back of his head.
"You know its love when you see your boyfriend throw up and you stick with him." He teased sympathetically. He stood up and made a glass of water placing it by the toilet for when Remus had stopped. He knew how unpleasant it was to have that taste in your mouth.
"How long does this usually last." He asked whilst stroking the sweat dampened hair.
Remus shrugged, "It varies, but most of the time it doesn't last the entire day, so I should be all right in a few minutes." ("Hopefully.") He thought, "And just remember that remark about sticking with your boyfriend after you see him throw up, because I will remind you the next time you are sick."
The werewolf's stomach was definitely feeling a little better from the fact that he was joking. Harry laughed and rubbed Remus's back to sooth away any lingering discomforts.
"Well the last time I threw up was when Mr. Weasley was attacked so I can safely say I'm not as frequent as you. Besides, like I'd let you come in and watch me hurl." He teased and handed Remus the water where he took a sip, gurgled a little, and spat it into the toilet.
"Disgusting." He croaked and took another sip, this time swallowing the fresh water.
Harry smiled at him soothingly and lent forward to flush the toilet then helped Remus up and led him back to the bedroom sitting him in the bed.
Remus sat on the bed and watched Harry, the taunt muscles rippled slightly as he went and dressed in fresh clothes. The werewolf was once again reminded of the age difference, and the fact that Harry was so physically young and full of energy, while Remus was tired pretty much all of the time.
The man shook his head and hoped that Harry hadn't sensed his feelings; he had become better at that since they had mated.
Harry stopped in his movements and looked over at Remus in confusing. He lowered the shirt that he was shaking the creases out of and his brow furrowed a little deeper.
"What's the matter?" He asked inclining his head slightly to look at Lupin from the corner of his eye,
"Why did your mood just switch dramatically?"
Remus smiled, "Oh, I was just thinking about tonight." He lied, and hoped it didn't show on his face, for he had never been particularly good at it.
Harry looked at him searchingly and continued to stare then slowly turned his attentions back to the shirt in his hands, scowling at it slightly.
"I don't like to be lied to Lupin." He stated flatly, "You tell me whats really wrong when you're better ok?" He said looking back over. He wasn't going to think about it today, not with Remus ill.
Remus winced, and met Harry's eyes. The werewolf managed a nod but he didn't miss the anger that Harry tried to push down. With a sigh Remus went over to his mate and put his arms around him, "I'm sorry, Harry, I seem to ruin the good times we have together."
Harry sighed and felt his annoyance slipping from him at the look on Remus's sincere face. He placed his arms on top of the ones wrapped around his stomach and stroked them slightly.
"No you don't, I just get wound up easily, always have." He turned and pretended to scowl at the werewolf.
"And you shouldn't be out of bed, go in, in you get." He pointed to the bed and frog marched Remus back under the covers where he tucked him in. He sighed again and looked into the amber eyes.
"Just......If you ever have doubts Moony tell me please. We're a couple now; we should be able to talk to one another. Never be afraid to voice what you're feeling and I'll promise to try and not go off on one." He gave a small smile and stood again to tidy the room slightly, picking up discarded clothes and throwing them into a laundry hamper.
Remus smiled as he watched Harry work around the room. This is something he was really beginning to enjoy. Remus loved the way Harry moved. It was so poised, and the werewolf knew why the boy was a seeker.
However, as much as Remus enjoyed watching his mate sleep was crowding into his exhausted mind and camping out. With a yawn Remus turned over and fell into a dreamless sleep.
Harry looked over from his tidying and smiled affectionately when he saw Lupin curled up under the feather duvet. He walked over and placing a small kiss on his forehead he pulled the covers up to the chin of the elder.
Walking as stealthily as possible out of the room he went downstairs and found Bill and Ron already sitting at the table.
"Morning Ron, Morning wind up." He said whapping Bill lightly upside the head which only drew a chuckle from the man.
"Sleep well young Harry?" Bill asked innocently with an arched eyebrow. Ron gave a cough that sounded a lot like a laugh and shook his head at the two men.
"William dear, you and I both know I didn't sleep at all, courtesy of the best orga..."
"AHH Stop Please!" Ron cried with a laugh and clapped his hands over his ears whilst Bill doubled over laughing.
"Alright you win Harry." Bill said still laughing and Harry found himself joining in.
"Damn straight, you keep firing then Bill and I'll keep knocking them down." He said with a cheeky smirk and patted Bill's still shaking shoulder. "Besides, I thought you were straight, why do you care so much Mr. Flirt-to-agitate-a-werewolf?"
"I am, I just love winding Lupin up, He's always commenting on my hair and the fact mum wants to be rid of it." He waved a hand briefly to the chair between him and Ron as an invitation but Harry shook his head slightly and pointed to the coffee pot.
Harry made himself a weak black coffee and settled himself onto the counter, swinging his legs a little. He sipped gently and blew every now and again on it. Ron stood and settled for leaning against the counter beside him.
"You still have to tell Hermione you know. I wonder how she'll take it, she loves Lupin." He said watching Harry and smiled slightly. "So your gay huh, must have been a shocker?" Harry smirked and whapped him lightly on the arm.
"Not really, I thought about it and I'm not really attracted to other men, Just Moony. There was always something there." He answered with a happy look in his eyes which caused Ron to smirk more.
"Probably why you liked him so much in your third year....wow wouldn't it be weird to go and tell thirteen year old you that he's going to be the mate of his favorite teacher." He said musing aloud.
Harry quirked an eyebrow and looked at Ron in amusement. "Strange where life takes you huh." he agreed.
Mrs. Weasley bustled into the room, "Really, where is life taking you Harry?"
The Gryffindor just about choked on the coffee in his mouth, "What?"
The red-head rolled her eyes and moved about the kitchen, mumbling about men being such a mess, "I mean, what do you plan on doing when you graduate? This is your last year."
Harry nodded, "Well I've always wanted to be an Auror but right now all I seem to do is fight Dark Wizards. I don't know something safe for a while might keep Remus's mind at ease. I was thinking actually, I saw briefly a Department of Magical creatures and Part Wizard humanitarian Rights and I quite fancied that. I could undo what that wench Umbridge did against Werewolves for one thing." He sighed slightly. "I'm just a little tired of fighting evil right now."
At this moment it was Remus' turn to make his appearance in the kitchen, sleep still evident in his eyes, "Did someone say evil?"
Harry looked up and a gleeful grin spread onto his face. Remus looked like a recently woken child, fists balled up and rubbing his eyes as he shuffled into a chair near Harry. Harry placed the coffee he'd made for himself in front of Remus and added a few spoons of coffee to strengthen it.
"We were just talking about future career paths." Ron said reaching for another cup for Harry to make a fresh cup in. "Looks like your lover boy here is rooting for you." He chuckled and Harry frowned at him.
Remus stifled a yawn with a large mouthful of strong coffee slightly sputtering when he brought the mug down, "Whew, one too many scoops there, Harry." He said and elbowed Harry in the process.
"Now, what's this about career paths, and Harry rooting for me?" The blonde's hair was tousled and his cheeks still flushed from the warmth of his bed, Harry drunk in the site hungrily, but still wished he could kick Ron for opening his big mouth.
"Oh I was just saying how I'd like to be and Auror, that's all." He placed the second cup he had made for himself in front of Remus making sure this time he added the right amount of teaspoons. Ron watched amused at the willingness Harry gave up his drink and reached once again for a fresh cup.
Harry avoided Remus's eye briefly and continued to make another coffee for himself, picking up the pot and settling himself in a chair beside Remus. He didn't want to tell Remus his future choice as he had wanted it to be a surprise but he wasn't going to lie to him either as he didn't appreciate it himself.
Remus didn't miss the attitude change in Harry, but he knew that if the Gryffindor wanted him to know or tell him something he would in his own time. Letting it slip Remus just nodded his head, and took another sip of the coffee, "Ash, perfection."
Ignoring the warning in Molly's eyes Remus leaned over and gave Harry a sweet kiss, "Thank you."
Harry blushed at the frown he was receiving from the woman and grinned from the kiss he'd just received.
"That's ok, figured it might make you feel a little more with it. How are you feeling anyway?" He placed his hand upon the still slightly warm forehead of his boyfriend and gave him a quick look over.
When he couldn't find anything else wrong he placed a hand on the others knee and returned to his drink.
Remus smiled, "It's ok, Harry, I promise I won't fall apart at the kitchen table." With another gulp of his coffee the werewolf rose from the table, "Well, I have to go pack."
Harry rose as well and politely excused himself. He followed the werewolf back upstairs and they entered the room again. Harry made Lupin sit on the bed while he went to find an overnight bag big enough for both of them.
"Right your going to need clothes obviously, maybe a blanket to keep you warm after." Harry continued to mutter to himself mentally ticking off necessities when a thought struck him.
"Hey Moonchild, where are we going anyway?" He asked looking at Remus curiously.
Remus smiled, "'Tis a secret!" At Harry's arched eyebrow the werewolf laughed, closely resembling a bark, "Just trust me, my Shadow, you'll like it."
After Harry had finished packing they wiled away the hours, reading, snogging, and sleeping. When darkness had finally fallen on the outside world the two men stood, "Alright Harry, let's go."
The werewolf took his mate's hand, and they apparated into a lush forest that hummed with night life. The shadows were great, but when the two emerged they were in a clearing where roses and blue bonnets grew, reminding Remus of a muggle song he had once heard.
-'I wanna sleep on the hard ground
In the comfort of your arms
On a pillow of blue bonnets, and a
Blanket made of stars' -
"And here we are."
Harry was rendered speechless and he walked forward in awe. He lightly trailed his fingers over the enchanting flowers and closed his eyes breathing in the sharp fresh smell of the evening air.
He turned happily towards Remus but stopped at what he saw. Remus was shaking uncontrollably and his limbs quivered violently. A desperate look was growing in his eyes and he bent forward to clutch his stomach.
"Change....now." He managed to croak out and feel to the floor biting back an anguished scream.
Harry ran to the man and crouching before him, tears slightly shining in his eyes at the pain he was witnessing, he pushed against himself and in his place stood Shadow. He leant forward to lick Remus's face soothingly.
Remus fought back the urge to scream in pain as his back bone cracked with a defining sound, he could feel himself doubling over as his back bone re-grew into the right shape. Tears leaked from his eyes as his jaw bone cracked and took the form of a wolf's muzzle, and finally his ears painfully flattened and then it was over.
Moony stood and stretched, sighing at the muscles as they unkinked themselves.
Shadow purred intently to get the wolfs attention and took a tentative step forward. Although this was Moony it was still a wolf and the Harry within Shadow remembered what to do.
He lifted his head to bare his neck in submission and rolled over onto his back, acknowledging who the dominant male was and whined as best he could in his cat throat. Moony sniffed his neck vigorously and Shadow couldn't hold back the purr that escaped him.
Moony growled lovingly at the cat's apple fragrance before stepping back. The feline stood and the two butted heads, the Remus part of the wolf was definitely showing through. After giving Shadow a playful nip Moony bounded off ready for a game of tag.
Shadow purred and leapt at the canine causing them to both roll and Moony yelped playfully.
("Show me where you go, Show me your world.") Shadow conveyed through his green gaze. Harry felt wildly free, he just wanted to run beside the wolf for a century, there was no prophecy here. It was just Moony, himself and the moon.
Moony just sat for a moment and looked at the moon. In this form the moon was beautiful and sacred, but enough of that he had a feline to show around! With a little yelp to tell Shadow to follow, Moony lead the large cat through deep forests, and hills completely covered with flowers. The two ran for what felt like ages, and both knew that they would never forget that night.
From inside Shadow Harry laughed. Moony seemed ageless, like an overgrown puppy and he wondered how anyone thought him dangerous. He loved it here with its freedom to love despite age, to run around and not be watched and most importantly to be with Remus. Always to be with Remus, His Moony, His Moonchild.
. . .
Shadow blinked against the blinding light and looked up to watch the low sunrise. He turned his head downwards and purred gently at the vision before him.Remus was curled up against him as they both lay nestled in a patch of moss. He draped himself a little more over the naked body to keep him warm and lightly began to lick at the salty skin to soothe away any pain. He cleaned up fresh wounds from the transformation, licking then and giving a disgruntled grunt at the brief tang of dried blood from a small cut.
The man woke, and yawned humming at the warm body of fur that was draped over him. With a tired smile he opened his eyes and stroked Shadow's head. As Remus stared into the feline's green eyes the animal contracted, shimmered, and then he was staring into the green eyes of Harry.
"Well, what did you think?"
"It was.......I can't think of anything to describe it. I've never felt so alive." He said looking deeply into the amber eyes of the other man.
"I'm shocked you tried to stop me accompanying you, Moony's beautiful........well, Shadow thinks he's gorgeous to say the least." He chuckled and leant forward to rest his head upon the werewolf's brow.
"You cold?" He asked and removed his cloak spreading it over the two of them. "What happened to the overnight bag?" He mused and looked around spotting it in the corner. He smiled amused as he say the contents strain over the floor around it, like a mischievous puppy had played with it. He turned back to the other man with a grin.
"After last night I'm never going to understand why people hate werewolves so much, there one of the most enchanting things I've ever seen." He purred and curled up again around Remus.
Remus placed a kiss on the top of Harry's head, and tiredly began pulling out clothes, "People hate werewolves because not all of them are like Moony. Remember I still had the Wolfs Bane potion which left me in my right mind."
The pale wizard stood and stretched, wincing as some of the muscles groaned from abuse.
Harry watched him thoughtfully. "But that isn't really fair of them when you think about it. A wolf will attack the human on animalistic instinct, it has nothing to do with the person wanting the victim dead, and yet they punish the wolf. But a wizard with a high class status will willingly choose to be a Death Eater, will murder countless families for power and if he later says he didn't mean to do it because he was 'supposedly' under the Imperious then the Ministry will let it slide because the wizard wasn't in his 'right mind'". Harry shook his head and sighed.
"Remind me again Remus why I'm fighting for such a prejudice, snot nosed world?" He slowly began to rummage around for some clothes and quickly threw on a pair of khaki cargo trousers and a black t-shirt.
Remus smiled and wrapped his arm around Harry's slim waist, drawing his mate to him with a gentle kiss. "Because you don't like to see people suffer." He placed a gentle kiss on Harry's forehead, "Because you have a big heart." After placing a kiss on Harry's lips he drew back, "And because you still want to kill Voldemort, you don't want Sirius, James, and Lily's death to be in vain."
Harry sighed but smiled, "Sometimes I think you know me too well."
He smiled and ran his hands across the older face and just watched him for a few moments.
"How do you do it Remus? After everything everyone's said and done to you how do you not hate them? Sometimes I can't help but feel spiteful but you....you always keep smiling."
The werewolf shrugged, "I just put myself in other people's shoes." When Remus yawned again and Harry smiled, "Alright, time to get home." The tired wizard gladly agreed and apparated them back.
When they arrived back in Remus' room at Grimmauld Place the werewolf sighed, "Ah, nice to be back in our room." With a graceful flop Remus was nestled into the pillows and pulling the covers up around him.
Harry came and sat beside him, one arm leaning over the other mans body. He tenderly toyed with the silver streaked hair and smiled down at the man.
"Anything you do after your transformations? Anything you eat or take?" He ran his hands in a soothing massage across Remus's neck and collarbones, drawing little circles and symbols sub-consciously. He felt Shadow purring within him at the sight of his mate and couldn't fight back the smile breaking out onto his face.
("You gave me a beautiful gift last night Moony"), He thought, ("And I'll find a way to repay you.")
Remus shook his head and took one of Harry's hands, kissing the young man's fingers. "No, now I just lie around for a little bit and sleep."
The older man slipped an arm around his young mate's waist, "Care to join me?"
Harry laughed gently and shoeing off his trainers he climbed under the comfy duvet and wiggled until he was nestled with Remus's head against his chest. He breathed out a content sigh and placed a kiss upon the werewolf's head.
He stayed awake until he heard Remus's even breathing and then he lay looking at the ceiling, looking at his lover every now and again. Right here, in the silence of the room and the warmth of the body curled against his, life was perfect.
. . .
The two men lay there and slept for hours and would not have woken had it not been for Mrs. Weasley pounding on the door to tell them that she had supper ready. With a yawn Remus stretched and although some of his muscles were still screaming in protest he smiled at the refreshed feeling that cleared his mind and put peace around his soul like a blanket.
"Let's go, Shadow, I am about to starve!" Once again Harry saw the playfully moony in Remus as the man jumped from the bed, straightened his hair, and made for the door.
Harry laughed and stood from the bed following the bounding man.
"Hmm seems Moony is still alive and active despite the whole thing." He reached up and kissed the man gently and lead him downstairs. They both bundled into the kitchen and answered to the collective 'good afternoons'.
"How was it last night?" Mr. Weasley asked having arrived the evening before after the two had left.
The conversation drifted around everyone and Harry smiled happily over his mug of tea. He suddenly remembered the slight disagreement the night before where Remus held back what was wrong with him. He looked over at his spouse who was talking animatedly to the elder Weasleys and he found he couldn't bring himself to ruin everything they had recently shared.
He decided to leave it a little while longer.
. . .
In Remus' opinion supper was excellent! He had eaten two helpings of baked ham, mash potatoes, green beans, yams, and rolls. After words coffee was brought out and the Weasleys, Harry, and Remus sat around talking. Mr. Weasley about happenings at the Ministry, Mrs. Weasley gave updates on Order news, and Harry and Remus shared a little bit about their night.
The group was definitely interested in hearing about Shadow. Harry didn't tell them too much, and Remus was glad. Shadow and Moony were special, and something for just the two of them to share. When eyelids began to drop the group called it a night, and Remus was glad.
He just wanted to get back upstairs with his mate.
Harry stood and held out a hand for the man, patting Ron's shoulder and muttered a night. He led the way upstairs, pushing Remus in front of him gently as he snuffed out some torches in the hallway leaving the rest to the Weasleys.
He entered the room a few minutes after Remus and clicked the door shut, stretching slightly and moving to crawl onto the bed next to Remus settling beside him.
When the two were settled for once they weren't lying wrapped up in each other. Remus was in his usual place by the wall, and Harry lying in his place. "I have to say that Mrs. Weasley may be a slight invasion of our privacy, but Merlin, she can cook!"
Harry laughed and stretched on the bed in contentment looking like the large cat that he was. A small purr escaped him and he let out a short laugh at the noise.
"I'll have to agree with you there my dear wolf." He muttered happily and toyed with the folds on Remus's trousers at the knee. Harry watched his fingers briefly before resting his head back and looking upside down at Remus.
"Hey Moony...about the other day, when I snapped at you for lying. I'm sorry for that." He said with a sincere smile and returned to his thumbings.
Remus shrugged, "Don't apologize, I shouldn't have lied." The werewolf placed a simple kiss on Harry's forehead, directly on the cursed scar.
Harry's eyes fluttered closed at the tingling sensation that traveled through him from the scar. He smiled wistfully before opening his eyes again.
"You ready to tell me what was upsetting you or would you rather not?" He asked a little timidly now and added quietly, "I'd like to help."
Remus looked sheepish for a moment, "I think it was just the emotions that come before transforming, but while I was sitting on the bed watching you move through the room ... Harry you are so much younger than I am, not that I care, but you will always be more energized than me. I just don't want to slow you down."
He finished with a small smile. Harry looked over at him with both an amused and exasperated look he school his head affectionately. He moved so he was kneeling on the bed and Remus's head was cradled in his chest.
"Moony, My moonchild, you will never slow me down. You always make yourself out to be this withering old man but believe me when you have proven time and time again that you have just as much energy as me. I mean the other night how exactly did you get your back to do that thing-.."
"Point taken." Remus said with a hint of embarrassment. Harry smirked down at him.
"You are perfect for me Remus and I don't want you to ever doubt that, your my soul mate Moony." He finished with a kiss on top of the sunny hair.
Remus beamed and rolled over so that he was lying between Harry's legs, "Speaking of that back thing..." With a shy smile he moved up and placed a passion filled kiss on Harry's lips, "Thank you, Harry, for Shadow, Moony would be lost without him."
Harry smiled and rested his hands upon the elder's chest. He returned the kiss and pulled back.
"And thank you Moony, both Shadow and I would be nothing without you, both of you, all of you."
He leant forward again and smiled into the kiss.
When Harry's lips met Remus' the werewolf drawed his tongue slowly over Harry's bottom lip, before sliding his tongue into the Gryffindor's mouth. When the kiss ended the two broke apart and panted for air.
"Love you, Harry." Remus said huskily.
"Love you too Moon." Harry replied and pulled away briefly to switch on the Wizard wireless where a slow paced rock song drifted into the room.
-"I'm an ocean in your bedroom," -
Harry smiled in an enchanting seductive way. "Some mood music I feel is in order." He said huskily.
-"Make you feel warm, Make you wanna reassume" -
Harry moved in a smooth grace back to the now wide eyed Werewolf and gently pushed him onto the bed.
-"Now we know it all for sure,"-
He moved to straddle his hips and began to remove the mans shirt, slowly and deliberately.
-"I'm a dance hall dirty break beat," -
Harry Pushed it off the mans shoulders and kissed the newly revealed flesh, sucking and nipping slightly.
-"Make the snow fall up from underneath your feet," -
He now began undoing his own shirt and pulled it off in the same teasingly slow manner.
-"Not alone, I'll be there," -
He finally removed it and moved forward again to stroke and lick the bare chest before him.
-"Tell me when you want to go," -
Harry pulled back and smirked a lust filled smile whilst listening to the labored breathing of his lover.
"There's a love that knows the way."
(AN Lyrics form Red Hot Chilli Peppers "Don't forget me")
Remus growled softly at Harry's administrations and with a smirk he rose from the bed, smiling at Harry's scowl of confusion. With the dominance of Moony Remus gently pushed Harry down on the bed and ran his hands over his mate's chest. "It's mine turn to be on top." He said huskily, and the only thing that came from Harry's lips was a soft moan.
. . .
The morning light didn't seem as imposing as it warmed the back of Harry's head. He stretched with a purr and rolled over to find Remus watching him silently. He smirked and stretched again.
"Surprised myself bending like that last night." He said cheekily and kissed the laughing blonde. "Good morning."
He leant over for another battle of tongues and got from the bed to retrieve any discarded clothes. A confused look crossed his face briefly as he struggled to remember exactly which direction Remus threw his trousers. He even flicked his hand in an imitation of Remus throwing it in the hopes of working out where it could've landed. He smiled as he saw it messily lazing in the corner of the room and moved towards it.
Remus chuckled as Harry went around the room searching for his clothing. "Next time you'll have to fold them and put them away nicely before things get heated." The werewolf teased.
Harry rolled his eyes, "Yeah, I see that happening. I can't keep clothes on around here...About the time I get some on you take em' back off." The Gryffindor teased back, while picking up Remus' clothes and placing them in a hamper. "Come on, you stink let's get a shower."
Remus raised an eyebrow, "Me? Stink? Pffff..I think you just want me wet and naked."
The Gryffindor laughed and stood in the doorway to the bathroom, looking back over his shoulder with an arched eyebrow, "Dear, I have already had you wet and naked. If my memory is correct it was just last night."
The werewolf blushed a dark red, "A-a-alright now, there is no reason to get all into that." The shy submissive side of Remus was definitely back, and Harry smirked as the man climbed from the bed and walked into the bathroom.
Harry turned the water on and stepped under the running water. He ran his hands threw his hair so it slicked back, occasional bangs falling into his face and his eyes seemed to sparkle with mischief, deepening the shade of green within them.
"Well, care to get wet again?" He growled in a husky voice and hastily pulled the blonde into the shower with him.
Remus placed a kiss on Harry's shoulder and sucked at the water that had fallen on his mate's skin. The slightly taller werewolf moved behind Harry and wrapped an arm around him, pulling Harry's body to his, while he nibbled on the young man's neck.
Harry pulled on a green button up shirt to accompany his black cargos and was silently gloating at the fact that Remus was still watching him.
"Mmmm clothes, I'd forgotten what they felt like." He said and Remus smirked pulling Harry to him by the belt loops of his jeans before placing a small kiss on them.
"Don't get too used to them." And Harry gave him a small whap before picking up his wand.
"Well we best do some more to this house, plus have a meeting later with the Order in the Kitchen don't you?" Harry picked up Remus's wand and placed it in the others hand, letting his fingertips linger on the sensitive palm a while longer.
Remus nodded and wrapped his fingers around his wand, "You know what the topic will be don't you?"
At the shake of Harry's head the werewolf sighed, "Dumbledore is going to inform the Order about you being my mate. I can just imagine how pleased they will be when they find out." The older man's voice dripped with sarcasm. Something uncommon for the Dark Art's professor.
Harry frowned and took the werewolf's hands in his own.
"Well give them a message from me then......."
. . .
" ...........And Harry says if you have any problems you should go talk to him as well so he can, and I quote, 'Tell you to stick out of his business and from there he will promptly jump into a childish display of sticking his fingers in his ears and not listen to you.' End quote." Remus sat back down and was pretty sure he could feel Harry laughing from his room.
Kingsley stood up, "I know what it means for a werewolf to have a mate, but there is a way to have this reversed and I think it should be reversed. Mr. Potter is only 16, not yet of age! He has so much to do, to prepare for so that he can be able to fight the Dark Lord; he doesn't have time to minister to the needs of a werewolf." The man shifted his gaze to Remus, "No offense, Lupin."
Dumbledore sat with his fingers in a small arch cradling his chin as he surveyed the reaction around the room. He cleared his throat quietly but it served to get everyone's attention.
"Yes Harry carries an important burden, and he will receive his training, but he is in love Kingsley. You say this 'reversing the mating' as though it will solve everything. He is broken more than most here can comprehend, none of you saw him after Sirius's death but I did. He didn't want to be human anymore, he hated the body he is trapped in and it broke my heart."
He turned his gaze over to the still form of Remus Lupin and smiled kindly.
"And then he fell for you Remus. There is such happiness there that it is contagious. He loves you Remus and something tells me even you doubt just a little the fact that although he is 16 he can feel so strongly so. You all say he is a child but you are wrong. In order to be a child you need to have had a childhood and that was ripped away from him when he was a baby. Now," Dumbledore shifted slightly to lean back and gaze at the whole table, "Tell me, do you all want to take away the one thing that is keeping Harry alive, rather than just existing?"
Most of the members dropped their heads in a guilty fashion, but it was Kingsley who spoke up, "I once read in a book that love was marked as one of the greatest powers. In the past Harry was at his strongest when protecting somebody he cared for, so maybe this will be an advantage for him."
Knowing that that was all Remus would get as far as acceptance, Dumbledore smiled, "Good, now, it is obvious that Harry will not be able to go back to live with his Aunt and Uncle because of mating reasons, so I therefore suggest that we make Remus Harry's legal guardian."
The Headmaster looked around the room at the few ministry members that they had. All of which nodded in agreement.
"Good well it's settled then, Remus you are officially responsible for Harry's welfare and it is also agreed that each member will teach Harry in the process of training him to become who he truly is, to help him become the powerful and kind wizard that he is. I believe we can call this meeting to a close." He clapped once and some members began to rise, others settling for dinner.
Some of the members were walking out the door when Harry came in and sat down beside of Remus, "How did it go?"
Remus turned with a serious face, "I'm sorry, Harry, but .. You'll be stuck ... with this old man for the rest of your life." When he finished the werewolf grinned to let Harry know that he was joking.
Harry whacked him lightly and chuckled lightly.
"I'm taking that as it went well then?" He said with a beaming grin on his face. He leant forward and throwing caution to the wind and ignoring any looks he was receiving he placed a sound kiss on Remus's velvet lips.
Remus eyes fluttered shut as Harry's lips met his. Again he would never get over the feeling that Harry gave him. Forgetting where they were the two were getting rather wrapped up in each other when Dumbledore loudly cleared his throat, causing the two to break apart, "Ehm, not at the table." He scolded with a smile and a twinkle in the eye.
Harry smiled back whilst Remus blushed around muttering apologies at the various members.
"Sorry, forget where I am sometimes." He said leaning his hand into his chin and winking at Remus cheekily.
Tonks snorted into the bowl of cereal she'd made herself and she put her hand out to give Harry a high five, which he of course readily gave back.
"Tonks, only you could have cereal in the evening." He stated and took Remus's hand in his, stroking his wrist with his thumb.
The woman snorted, "Nothing like a good bowl of Lucky Charms to spruce up the day." She then looked at Harry and Remus and winked. "So are you two going to get married, bond, or what?"
Harry visibly started in excitement and whipped his head round to face Remus. He'd never thought about something like that. Marriage.....to have Remus as his husband. A slow smile spread across his face and no matter what he couldn't get rid of it.
"Ok, I missed the meeting so I think I have to be filled in a little." He nudged Remus a little and smiled again.
Remus took Harry's hand and rose from the table, "Come with me, Harry." The young man looked questioningly at Tonks who avoided his eyes and looked down, intently at her cereal.
With worried eyes Harry followed the serious, quiet, Remus, his smile slowly fading.
The werewolf led his mate out of Grimmauld Place and deep into the woods were there was a small clearing and a warn circular path. "This is where I come to talk to Sirius. As you see I walk when I talk, but today I have something special to say to Sirius. Have a seat right here."
Harry did as told, "Are you sure, Remus?"
Remus smiled, "Just watch."
The werewolf went out into the middle of the circle and cast his eyes upward. All shyness gone, only his love for Sirius showed on his face as he began to speak, "Sirius, my first mate and my first love. I haven't come here in a while, but today is .. Important. You see, a while back you chose Harry as my mate .. "He smiled and looked upward again, "I don't think I ever thanked you, but you know how I am. You knew that Harry was perfect for me, and I love him. Now I know you and you can't keep anything to yourself, you make sure to tell Lily and James about this." The man then turned with a smile and motioned for Harry to come. The Gryffindor joined Remus in the circle and could feel tears prickle his eyes when the werewolf went down on one knee, "You don't seem to care that am I older than you, you've seen me transform, and you've seen me cry. Harry you have seen me at my best and at my worst. Will you say yes and be forever mine?"
Harry raised one hand to his mouth in shock and with a slow smile creeping onto his face, let out an almost inaudible sob of happiness. He felt a tear roll slowly down one tanned cheek and he shakily lowered himself to his knees.
"Yes," He croaked but cleared his throat to clear it, "Yes! Oh god Remus." He cried happily and all but threw himself into an embrace with his werewolf, both laughing as they toppled over.
"Are you serious? Is this for real?" Harry said happily as they got back onto their knees. Harry didn't wait for an answer and they both raised ever so slightly as they kissed, Harry never wanting to let this day go, he was engaged to his love, his soul mate.
Remus laughed and his arms encircled Harry, his eyes flying upward to once again thank his lost love for the new love that he had found.
"Now, Harry, I'm pretty sure that since I asked you .. You should be the one walking down the isle to "Here comes the Bride"." The werewolf smiled cheekily.
Harry pretended to give a mock angry pout and slapped Lupin's arm. But he couldn't keep it up as a smile broke across his features once more as he thought about the wedding.
"I love you Remus." He said quietly in a awe struck voice and leant forwards again to kiss his spouse.
"I'm going to be Harry Lupin," he said, he's cheeks beginning to hurt from grinning too much, "......Or is it Remus Potter?" He laughed suddenly, "Your going to be my dads Son-in-law!" He cried before falling into fits of laughter when he saw Remus start in shock then grinned shyly.
Remus stuck his tongue childishly out at Harry and grinned when the Gryffindor returned the gesture. The werewolf growled at his mate and pulled him into his lap placing a hungry kiss on the younger man's lips. After they had to break for air Remus smiled, "So, do you want to be a Lupin or shall I become a Potter?"
Harry thought about it for a few moments and settled on the heels of his feet. He looked skyward and briefly smiled just in case Sirius could see him.
"I quite like Lupin. I think it'll be a little weird for you to take on you best friends name. But on paper I think it'll be hyphened. But otherwise I'm happy joining the Lupin family." He said and placed his arms around the mans neck in contentment.
Remus positively beamed down at his mate before placing a soft kiss on his forehead. "Come on we have to go back up to the house or we'll have Molly trying to track us down." He stood, picking up Harry and setting him down on his feet.
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Written by: Heather and Callie