Thank you everyone for your great reviews, you have pushed me to keep going! Also, sorry for the long time in updating, heh. My bad! I've been so busy .! Well, I think this chapter is kinda..equally as dull! XP I'll let you all decide, enjoy!

Chapter: 3/??

Disclaimer: I don't own anything except Wynter Darkholme. Everything else belongs to the great J. K. Rowling!

Two Sides Of The Same Coin

"Wynter? Wake up Wynter!" A familiar, perky voice rang through young Wynter's delicate ears.

"Wha…?"

Unfurling her limbs from their fetal position she idly sat up on her bed, prying heavy lids open to peer at her unwelcome visitor.

"Morning Wynter. I just thought I'd wake you to say we're off to Hogsmeade now and ask if there is anything you'd like us to get you while we're there?"

It was Hermione. Bright, spirited and all too damn happy for the morning… Bringing a limp hand to fight disheveled locks, Wynter nodded to Hermione and attempted a spoken response.

"Anything from, uh, Honeydukes or whatever. You know what I like, Hermione. Thanks"

"Not a problem Wynter. See you later!" Hermione waved her goodbye and retreated with Parvati from the dorm.

Taking a moment to comprehend her surroundings, Wynter rose from her bed; realizing she was the only occupant of the dorm.

"Great. Alone once more" Still fatigued from her late night reading the unkempt Wynter traipsed to the showers. Emerging fully clothed thirty minutes later and picking up her colossal pile of books along with parchment and quill, Wynter proceeded downstairs to the common room to begin her pile of homework.

A low groan escaped her lips upon seeing the common room this Saturday morning… Of course. The first and second years were not allowed to visit Hogsmeade. So the room was flooded with boisterous and highly irritating youngsters – the occasional elder student was present, obviously the novelty had worn off too for them.

"Library it is then…" Fighting past a group of high-spirited girls, Wynter stepped through the Gryffindor entrance closing the portrait behind her with an exaggerated sigh. She reinforced her grip on the books she held and advanced down the dim corridor, lit only by a few humble candles. Rain pounded hard onto the elaborate castle windows, causing an unwelcome decline in temperature this morn. A decline in her mood was also evident…Not the one of her best beginnings to a day.

After a fairly extensive walk through the vacant corridors, stairways and landings Wynter finally reached the library. A slight smile of relief appeared on the young girl's face upon seeing that no other occupied the library. Silence to labor through a freight of homework.

Finding a solitary table at the rear of the library Wynter settled down. Books were spread and parchments unrolled…

"Right. Transfiguration first" A royal blue textbook entitled "Advanced Transfiguration" emerged from the mound before her.

"Okay, what's it about?" Wynter ceased her page turning for a brief moment to read the instructions for her essay-

'Write about the complications arising when learning to be an Animagi'

Quill in hand, poised over parchment, Wynter set her thoughts in gear. Animagi… Sirius… He was an Animagi, mused Wynter inwardly finding her thoughts rapidly changing course.

He was also Harry's godfather, the closest thing he had to a 'real' family. The Dursley's certainly didn't fall even close to that category. But now, he's gone…gone forever. Not only was he Harry's godfather and close friend, he was Remus' devout friend since the age of eleven. Losing Sirius dealt a major blow to both young Harry and Lupin. And she could see why – Sirius was the dutiful friend and loving godfather through and through. Wynter had known him only a short space of time, but the stories Remus and himself told them during the summer made her feel as though she had known him forever. Tales of the young Marauders and their escapades along with frightening accounts of Sirius' years spent in Azkaban. Wynter's respect for the enigmatic Sirius grew by the day. He was like an elder brother – and just as moody. Being one of the youngest adults at Grimmauld Place, all the children felt closer to him –and Remus. Wynter noticed how her sided with the younger occupants more – instantly gaining their up-most adoration. Maybe he was trying to find his lost youth once more? Due to being in Azkaban from the age of twenty, he had lost out on fun, happiness and life…And on knowing this, she was always so amazed by his strength. Even having survived twelve years in prison for something he did not do… And Losing three of his closest friends in the one night - one to death; one through betrayal; and one through their unknown misconceptions. Sirius was still here, very much alive…and this new found vivacity and smile was brought by the revival of a cherished friendship; gaining of new and being united once more with his godson, Harry. But as swiftly as Sirius had recaptured his youth once more it was cruelly taken from his grasp. Along with everyone and everything he most dearly beloved. He died.

Summer was a grave occasion. The mood throughout twelve Grimmauld Place was continually cast in the shadow of Sirius' death… Harry even wished for there to be no large celebration for his birthday (Harry had decided to return to Grimmauld Place early that summer along with Wynter and Hermione). Tears were shed throughout, Harry crying during many a night…She could hear his muffled whimpers, and see his silent fits of grief… One evening held fast in her memory though…

It was one night where Wynter found herself unable to settle to sleep. Taking the opportunity for a midnight stroll around Grimmauld Place, she was diverted to one particular room… A resounding crash brought her attention to the floor above where the adults and visitors slept. Stepping lightly up the winding staircase she reached the scene of the crash, finding it was Sirius' bedroom. A dim light was streaming through the door left slightly ajar and loud sobs emitting from within. She cautiously proceeded forward to the open door, daring to glance inside and identify its occupant… Wynter couldn't see anyone from the angle she stood at, guessing they must be hidden from view. She motioned to step inside but abruptly halted her movements. Belongings consisting of table lamps and tattered books fell with a second, equally resonant crash. Distraught sobs came from inside again… Wynter felt herself that she was going to break down in heartbroken cries upon hearing what was said next…Fully understanding who was inside…

"I love you Sirius…"

Harry. It must have been… Wynter knew of how much love Harry had for his godfather – the closest thing to family he had. Classing him his number one. Admired him in everything he did… Deciding it best to let the young Harry grieve, Wynter made back for her room.

A gentle sight escaped the young girl's lips upon recalling the memory… If only Harry could open up, talk to them. He wouldn't need to hurt alone… Realizing it futile to continue with her Animagi essay right now, Wynter turned her attention to Defense Against the Dark Arts, a gentle smile finding her sheen lips; this essay would be a complete breeze.

"Okay… Patronus –"

"Are your protectors. Only able to be summoned by concentrating on your most happiest of memories. They are conjured by the incantation Expecto Patronum"

Wynter's heart skipped a beat upon being cut off mid sentence by a familiar, courteous voice. Lifting eyes in the direction of the voice, she found herself gazing upon Remus… Hands loosely tucked inside the pockets of his worn robes. Worn they may be, but his stance was as though he wore them with pride. A twinkle was present in his gray teal eyes, accompanied by a genuine smile.

"Morning Wynter"

Spirits were instantly lifted upon the arrival of her Professor; this was certainly a welcome wakeup call.

"Morning Professor. What are you doing here at this early hour?" Inquired the younger of the two.

"I can't sleep past seven am. It's part of the trials and tribulations of being a werewolf. We're early risers" Remus had pulled up a chair and sat opposite his student, resting clasped hands before him on the table.

"Shouldn't I be the one asking why you're here? Especially on a Hogsmeade morning. I thought you would have been going?"

Placing down her previously poised quill, Wynter transferred her attention to the one before her; noticing how serene he was whenever he was in her vicinity. His warm gaze was fixed upon her, analyzing, awaiting a response.

"Too much homework really. I want to get it out of the way. I mean, three essays, two rolls of parchment each!" Declared Wynter with an avid wave in the direction of her studies. Lupin leant further onto the table, an airy laugh escaping past his pale lips.

"Well seeing as I have added to this immense amount of homework, I do apologize for putting a damper on your weekend Wynter. I of course, still being a marauder at heart would prefer for my students to spend their weekends doing anything but school work. But" Loosening his hands free he trailed nimble fingers through chestnut locks, tinged with premature silver hairs- another mark of the werewolf within. "In saying that, I must seem like an appalling teacher! Encouraging my students to neglect their studies, indeed"

Gentle smiles were exchanged, along with buoyant laughter from both parties.

"Maybe in the eyes of adults, but throughout us students you're seen as a blessing, Remus"

She could have sworn the elder one before her had discolored his cheeks with a pale hint of blush upon registering what she had said. And her suspicions were indeed confirmed as the alluring dance of the candle before them graced his young face.

"Thank you, Wynter… It's great to hear that from- from you…"

"You're welcome professor" Spoke Wynter, finding her eyes tracing the contours of his elegant face.

"I told you already, Wynter. It's Remus" In reinforcing his desired familiarity with the young Wynter, Lupin hoped he was not beginning to scare her away…But in seeing that divine smile spread across her face once again he didn't feel the need to back down. "Say Wynter, do you want to come back to my office and I can go through the finer points of you patronus essay over a spot of tea? If anything I'll be some company for you" In waiting for her reply, Remus, unaware, held his breath for a moment.

"I'd love to" She was slightly taken aback at his invitation for tea. Never before had he requested her company so out of the blue.

"Great! Now, let me help you take your things back" Each gathering a handful of Wynter's studies they headed for the library's exit. Still as vacant as it was when she had arrived.

Frivolous chatter was exchanged between the two during their journey towards Lupin's office, neither really knew what to say… Questioning looks were sent in their direction from the odd student passing by, but most merely disregarded their presence. They reached Remus' office after a fairly lengthy walk through the many corridors and stairways of Hogwarts castle. Wynter stepped through the door held open by the chivalrous professor, his other arm retaining their grip on her texts.

"Take a seat" Remus lay down the younger ones books and tapped the kettle sitting on the desk with his wand. It whistled instantly, sending hot steam shooting from the spout. "Milk? Sugar?"

"Milk, one sugar thanks" Emerald eyes observed her professors office, taking in how he lacked in the belongings area. Shelves were almost bare, except for his teaching books and a few empty tanks to keep such dark creatures as Grindylows. The desk before her told much the same story, except strewn across it were discarded and half-written rolls of parchment. Then something caught her eye… Sat amongst the clutter on the desk, held inside an ornate frame was a photograph of Sirius and Remus… It had been taken it seemed, in Grimmauld place. Sirius was embracing the elder from behind, arms draped over Lupin's shoulders, sleek midnight tresses flowing free around his gracious features. Joyous smiles were present on both, which soon turned to gleeful laughter upon an attack of the tickles from Sirius to his friend still tight in their embrace. Wynter watched the scene with interest, finding that looking upon the face of Sirius once more brought forward a wave of sorrow…Seeing how close Lupin and Sirius were, Wynter was surprised at how well he had coped with the death of his friend. His strength must rival no other…

Hearing the shuffle of chair legs and the clatter of cups, she assumed her professor had joined her, bearing their warm tea.

"Right then, shall we go over the essay just now?" Lupin's voice was joyful and bright, he seemed very spirited this morn. Taking a sip of his tea he awaited Wynter's reply. She found his words hadn't fully registered- her thoughts were still fixated on Sirius, eyes though were caught in a warm gaze with Lupin's. Seizing the chance now they were alone and able to talk freely, Wynter found the courage she had been looking for to finally question Remus…

"D-do you miss him?"

Lupin's smile faded in sudden realization of whom young Wynter was questioning about. Once twinkling amber eyes lost their glint…

"If you mean Sirius, of course I do. He was my dearest friend for many, many a year" Whatever mirth, which laced the young professor's voice, was gone. It was replaced by a gentle whisper. Words spoken with what could only be described as pain… He didn't look Wynter in the eye no more, except rested his sullen gaze on the table before him. An uncomfortable silence lingered in the air around them. Wynter felt impelled to simply reach forward and draw the anguished Professor before her into a comforting, tender embrace. But upon hesitation, her nerve dwindled and instead she inched a small hand towards the one before her…Daring to hold his strong, talon hands warmly…

"Why do you ask?" There was an air of hostility in his words, which cautioned Wynter to withdraw her hand, returning it to her lap.

"I-I just- it's just, I haven't seen you ever cry, or grieve over him…And I just wanted to let you know that-"

"Your concern is appreciated Wynter, but I'm fine. Just because I'm not sitting here everyday crying over him does not mean I don't care" Remus was now once more gazing at his student, eyes stern, voice following suit.

"I didn't mean it like that Remus, I wa-" Her eyes grew large, pleading for him to listen- but to no avail.

"I already told you Wynter, I'm fine. Now, can we please leave it." Fingers met in a renewed grasp as he leant forward on his elbows. His words were still void of anything but hostility…

"No Remus, I want you to listen to me! I want to help and comfort you…I know how you feel, I cared for him too…" She dropped her voice to a threshold whisper, hoping her gentle tones would bring the professor round.

"You know how I feel? Do you really?" Lupin challenged Wynter, demoting his gaze to a hard stare.

"Of course I do" Slightly taken aback by Remus' sudden change in demeanor, Wynter momentarily paused before she spoke. Searching his cold eyes for an answer to the change.

"No you don't, Wynter. You don't have a clue. Now, if you wish to continue trying to 'help' me I ask that you leave" His voice now dangerously rising, approaching a dull rage. Wynter was startled and she felt intimidated by her Professor. His usual gentle, amber eyes were tinged with a fearful anger…

She had to leave.

"Very well… That's the last time I offer you any sympathy, Professor. You're not worthy of it anyway" She still spoke in a hushed whisper, trembling as she spoke…

"I said, LEAVE!" As sharply as Remus had voiced his resounding order, he stood from his seat sending the chair flying backward to the floor below. Hands slammed to his desk, making Wynter jump once again in alarm. And with that she turned on her heel, trembling almost violently with fear and left, leaving behind an angered, unstable Remus.