Disclaimer: For the disclaimer, warnings, etc., please see the first chapter.

Black

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Chapter 8 - Bloodstains

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When Sirius awoke the next morning, it was nearly noon. He sat up and stretched, and as soon as he moved, he gasped in pain, stiffening. His back hurt tremendously - it felt like someone had driven a railroad spike down his spine. He grabbed at it and hissed. His right arm was sore, as well - what had he been doing last night?

His eyes wandered over to his clothes, thrown in an untidy heap on the floor. There were dark patches on them, some looking still wet. Too curious to care about his back, Sirius slid off the bed and picked up his t-shirt.

Eurgh. It was still wet. He dropped it in disgust, then froze when he saw the wet patch had left red smeared all over his fingertips.

Blood.

Whose blood?

No time to worry about that now. Sirius wiped his fingers clean on a blood-free patch of shirt, then rose awkwardly and hobbled over to his wardrobe to pull on new jeans. Then he scooped the messy clothes up, trying to keep the bloodstains folded in, and hurried downstairs.

The house was silent. His father was at work, his mother off probably shopping, and Regulus was at school. Thanking God silently for small miracles, Sirius hurried to the cellar to toss the clothes in the wash. While the machine ran, he went upstairs and took two aspirin with a swig of brandy to dull the pain in his back. Then he slowly made his way back to his room, examining the walls and floor closely. Thankfully, there was no trace of blood anywhere, and Sirius flopped back on his bed with a sigh.

He remembered arguing with O'Shea, who had obviously just returned from a pub. They had been fighting about Remus. And then, everything went fuzzy. Sirius supposed he had killed O'Shea, but that didn't explain the terrible pain in his back. He didn't think he would have pulled a muscle just raising a knife... He closed his eyes. His encounter with Williams had been this way, too. He could remember up to a certain point, but then everything became blurred. Trying to force himself to remember hurt Sirius' head after awhile, so he gave it up and went downstairs to put his clothes in the dryer.

The police would be paying him another visit, that was for sure. O'Shea dying the very same day he had told the police on Sirius and Remus? A little too much of a coincidence, wasn't it? He'd have to come up with a good cover story. And Remus... he'd have to lie to Remus again. Sirius groaned softly at the thought. He didn't want to lie to Remus. He loved Remus... but he couldn't tell the truth, either. The truth would horrify his lover.

The aspirin and brandy began to kick in and Sirius closed his eyes and slumped into a chair. He put his hands over his face and wondered dully what was happening to him.

---

The headlines screamed the news across England - Another Teenage Boy Murdered! Police Fear Serial Killer!'

Remus put the paper down with shaking hands, swallowing hard. First Williams... now O'Shea... it seemed like everyone who had ever tormented him was in danger of dying. Why was this happening? What did it mean? Did Sirius know about this?

He gnawed nervously on a fingernail, staring across the room, and didn't hear his mother calling him until she waved her hand in front of his face.

Remus? Remus!

He looked around at her, feeling slightly dazed. Yes, Mum?

Sirius is here to see you. He's at the door.

Remus hastened to answer it. His lover was standing outside the house, hands deep in his pockets and a cigarette in his mouth. He looked troubled. As soon as Remus came to the door, Sirius beckoned to him. Come with me.

Where are we going? Remus asked.

I need to talk to you. Privately. Can you get away?

Remus replied, perplexed. He snagged his coat and stuck his head in the parlour. Mum, I'm going out with Sirius. I'll be back soon.

Okay, lovey, Mrs. Lupin replied, and Remus bounded down the front steps, slamming the door behind him.

So where are we going? he repeated, falling into step beside Sirius.

The park. I think we need to talk. Sirius said shortly. Neither said a word until they reached the small grove of trees in the park where they had met the other day. They sat down on the grass, and Remus looked expectantly at Sirius, but Sirius still didn't look like he was ready to talk.



The police are going to come talk to us again, Sirius said flatly. I know you've seen the papers. O'Shea is dead. And this is going to mean trouble for the both of us. You understand this, right? Wouldn't it look suspicious to you? O'Shea dying the same day he accuses us of murdering his best friend? I can't believe the police aren't swooping down on us right now.

But I didn't - I - I was home all night, we had company, they couldn't - and you -

I know you didn't. Sirius put an arm around Remus' shoulders. But you can see it from an outsider's point of view, can't you?

Remus sighed unhappily, burrowing his head against Sirius' neck. Yes, I see. Siri, what are we going to do?

What were they going to do? Sirius had no idea if he had left any evidence behind or not. In fact, he couldn't remember doing much of anything at all. The paper claimed O'Shea's body had been found near the park - nearly three miles from the alley in which Sirius remembered meeting him. At least that explained the pain in his back - while he was... when he didn't know what he was doing, he must have moved O'Shea's body... anyone could have seen him...

In any case, sooner or later someone was going to figure it out. When that happened, what would they do? And what would he tell Remus? At some point, he was going to have to admit the truth. He was going to have to confess that it was he who killed Williams and O'Shea. What then? Would Remus stay with him? Or would he run to the police, terrified that Sirius might kill him next?

He kissed Remus' temple. I don't know, my love. I just don't know.

---

It was four days later when Mrs. Lupin returned home from a church fundraiser with the news that Mrs. Black was ill - she hadn't been seen at the fundraiser, which was surprising, as she was always a big part of those sorts of events. Mrs. Lupin looked troubled when she gave Remus the news.

The poor dear, she works too hard... Remus, why don't I make a bouquet for her, and you can bring it to her for me?

Remus nodded. His mother pulled on her gardening gloves and reached for her clippers, going out into the garden to cut some stems from her beloved rose bushes. It would be an excellent opportunity to finally meet Sirius' family, Remus figured, though he was genuinely sorry that Mrs. Black was ill. If Sirius wouldn't tell him anything, he'd just have to find out for himself. He had thought Sirius would have told him a few things the other day, when he admitted not knowing anything was driving him mad; but then the whole thing with O'Shea had happened, and thrown everything into turmoil.

Moustache and Sideburns had visited again, just as Sirius predicted they would; however, they didn't seem to think there was a large possibility Remus was involved this time, even without assurances from his parents, his sister, and their guests that Remus had never left the house. Sideburns mentioned they had been discovering a lot of people who held grudges against O'Shea or his family; they weren't very popular around London, as they were mostly hot-tempered, arrogant people who were hard to get along with. Remus supposed they must have questioned Sirius as well, and resolved to ask what had happened.

Mrs. Lupin finished wrapping the bouquet in delicate tissue paper, tying a bright ribbon around the stems. Here you go, lamb. Tell her I hope she gets better soon - the church just isn't the same without her!

Yes, Mum, Remus said obediently, taking the flowers and leaving. By now he had memorized the way to Sirius' house, and hurried along his way, unable to stop a joyful grin from spreading across his face. Despite all his worries, Remus couldn't help but feel upbeat. He liked any excuse to see Sirius, and rather hoped he'd be invited to stay for dinner, just so they could be together a little longer - maybe, even, he could sleep over. The heat rose in his face at the thought and he knew he was blushing, feeling a pleasurable squirm in the pit of his stomach.

He reached the Blacks' townhouse and knocked on the door (the bell had been broken for several months). No one answered, so he knocked a little louder. Still no answer, and it looked like no one was home. Disappointed, Remus started to turn away, but then caught the sounds of two voices from inside the house. He couldn't make out what was being said, but when he tried the doorknob, it was unlocked. He entered cautiously.

Excuse me - um, hello? Sirius? Mrs. Black?

The voices were coming from the kitchen - he recognized one as Sirius'. The other was much deeper, probably his father. Remus crept down the hall way. As he got closer, the voices grew louder - almost to the shouting point. Remus stopped to listen.

Goddamn good-for-nothing brat - you don't do anything, you don't even have a frigging job - skiving off school almost every day, you never help your mother - useless witch - smoking fags, shagging boys, and I know you've been into my liquor!

A mumble, which must have been Sirius replying.

What? Speak up, dammit. Have you been using it to get your little boyfriends drunk, so they don't know what you're doing to them?

Shut it, Da. Louder.

There was a sudden smacking noise that made Remus jump. It had sounded like a slap.

Don't you dare tell me to shut it, laddie. I'm your father! Another loud smack. Remus winced, moving closer to the kitchen door in an attempt to better hear what was going on inside. The door was slightly ajar, and he could see Sirius and a huge man he assumed to be Sirius' father, facing each other. Mr. Black's hand was still raised; Sirius was looking back at him defiantly, his cheek blazing red. So his father had slapped him.

Remus covered his mouth with one hand as he put two and two together. The bruises... his father had put those on him? Sirius was being beaten by his father? Perhaps that was why Sirius didn't want him to meet his parents, or why he never answered questions about them? Remus berated himself silently. He was so stupid not to have seen it earlier...

And you never answered me about the other day. You know how your mother and I feel about that kind of thing - your mother would never be able to show her face again at that church if everyone knew her worthless son was gay - he smacked Sirius again. As if I don't have enough problems at work - he hit Sirius in the arm. Sirius didn't make a sound, but his face contorted in pain and he rubbed his arm. Remus' eyes filled with tears. How dare he, how dare that horrible man beat his own child like this. As Mr. Black continued to rant and rave and hurt Sirius, Remus wiped his eyes on his sleeve and took a deep breath before throwing the kitchen door wide open.

Stop it, you're hurting him! he cried, dropping the flowers and running to his lover's side. He put his arms around Sirius' neck and glared at Sirius' father.

Remmie - Sirius protested weakly, but he was cut off by a loud laugh from his father.

Your bitch came to your rescue? Let me tell you, lad - this is my son. If he's acting up, I've got to set him right!

You can't hit him! Remus replied fiercely. He had never been as scared as this in his life, but he was determined to stand up to this bullying git. You're the one who's been putting all those bruises on him, aren't you?

Remmie - Sirius said again.

Don't interrupt him, Mr. Black said. He was smiling, though his moustache was bristling and a vein in his temple was pulsing alarmingly. Let him say what he wants to say. I'd like to hear it. His hostile black eyes fixed on Remus' wide, fearful hazel ones. You don't want me to hit him? Why? Too afraid he won't be able to play anymore?

Remus swallowed hard. The man standing across him was dangerous, possibly mad; he felt a strong urge to turn tail and run. He didn't. He merely tightened his hold on Sirius, trying his best to shield him from his brute of a father. Just having his arms around Sirius made him feel stronger; it was like he was absorbing strength from his lover just by touching him.

No. I'm afraid you might kill him! You... you nearly have! Nothing gives you the right to hit your own children!

Shut up. Mr. Black's face had gone an ugly shade of purple. You're just a stupid kid! What do you know about my rights? I won't listen to what you think I can and can't do!

Remus stood his ground. Leave him alone!

Remmie, stop it - Sirius growled in his ear.

No! I won't! I love you, and I don't want to see him hurting you! Remus cried.

SMACK.

Remus gasped in pain as Mr. Black's hand met his cheek; he staggered and would have fallen if Sirius hadn't been holding him up. Almost immediately, Remus' cheek turned numb and his eyes watered. He felt numb all over, actually. He had never thought Mr. Black would retaliate -

Sirius growled. He gently pushed Remus away from him, striding towards his father with a steely glint in his eyes. I'll kill you for that. Don't you dare ever lay a hand on Remus!

You couldn't kill me, Mr. Black sneered. He didn't seem the least bit perturbed; on the other hand, he looked excited, pleased. Like he wanted Sirius to put up a good fight. You can't do it. I'd kill you first.

He had a point; he was at least three inches taller than Sirius and outweighed him by over a hundred pounds. He looked solidly built, his arms bulging with muscle. But Sirius didn't blink an eye. We'll see who kills who in the end, then, he said coolly, turning away from his father and tugging Remus from the room.

He snagged his coat and cigarettes on the way out, but didn't say a word until they reached Baker's Sweet Shop. There, Sirius slumped against the wall of the building and sighed, lighting a cigarette. Remus cringed, expecting Sirius to blow up at him, but was totally amazed when his lover smiled at him.

Thanks, Remmie.

W-what for? Remus asked, biting his lip.

Sticking up for me. You're the first person who ever has, you know. My mother will step in, but only after I'm practically senseless. And Regulus doesn't do anything at all. I don't blame them. If they stop Da from hitting me, he'll just hit them instead. His smile had faded. He took a deep drag on the cigarette and shook his head. But still - you shouldn't have butted in - you're lucky you just got off with a slap...

I'm fine, Remus said, and it was true; his cheek was still smarting, but he ignored it. I... I couldn't stand to see him doing that to you... his voice faltered. I... I'm sorry, I didn't mean to interrupt at all. My mother heard your mother was ill - she asked me to bring over some flowers, to cheer her up... no one answered the door, but it was unlocked, and I-

Sirius dropped his cigarette and squished it. It's nothing. But now, we've got a bit of a problem.

Which is?

I can't go home tonight. Can I stay with you?

Of course, Remus murmured softly.

---

It was no problem at all with Remus' parents. They accepted Sirius' excuse that he wanted to give his mother some peace and quiet without question. Sirius was an excellent guest, insisting to help Mrs. Lupin clear the table after supper, laughing at all of Mr. Lupin's stories (which his own children had heard far too many times to find funny anymore), and even sitting with Serena and Remus as Remus helped his sister with her homework - though he wasn't much help with it.

Ancient Saxon battles just aren't my thing, he admitted, sprawled out on the floor beside the coffee table where Remus and Serena were working.

But it was with an uneasy feeling still in the pit of his stomach that Remus got into bed that night. Sirius was on the floor in a sleeping bag that had once belonged to Remus' father, and he had taken off his shirt. His left side was still a sunset of bruises, all purple and red and green and yellow. Tears stung Remus' eyes at the sight. It was no good. He'd have to ask... ask why Sirius never left his home, why he and his mother and brother just didn't leave and get away from the torment of living with his father. Remus looked down at his lover and drew a deep breath. Siri -

He was interrupted as a knock sounded on his door and his mother poked her head in. Good night, lads. If you're going to stay up for a little while, keep it down, all right? I don't want you to keep Serena up.

Yes, Mum, Remus agreed, and she beamed at them and left, closing the door softly behind her.

As soon as her footsteps faded downstairs, Sirius struggled out of the sleeping bag to join Remus in his bed. What were you going to say?

Remus leaned against his mate, and sighed. I want to know why you never... never told me about your family.

Sirius hugged him. I'm sorry, love. I... I was ashamed, I suppose. He slipped his arms around Remus' waist and pulled him close. I... didn't want you to know. I thought... I thought you would be... disgusted. That you'd think it was sick that I'd let him do that to me, and never ask for help. He had tears in his eyes.

It was the first time Remus had ever seen Sirius even close to crying. Startled, he squeezed Sirius' hand. Siri, I could never...

I don't like it, Sirius choked out. I can't... I can't let you get involved. I've got to... if I want him to stop, I've got to handle it myself.

I know, Remus murmured, stroking his lover's long hair. I know, my love. He kissed Sirius gently. But... if you ever need me... to just be here for you... for anything... I will be.

Thank you, Remmie, Sirius whispered. He rested his head against Remus' shoulder, letting the tears flow. Remus cradled him in his arms for a long time, comforting him, until they fell asleep in each other's arms.

And that was how Mrs. Lupin found them in the morning, lying together in Remus' bed, entangled in the blankets.

---

After Sirius and Remus had left the house, Cépheus Black slumped into a chair and poured himself a glass of whiskey. He ground his teeth angrily over the rim of his glass. Who did that punk think he was? Who was he, to threaten his own father? Worthless good-for-nothing... and the gall of that little brunette snob, trying to tell Cépheus what he should or shouldn't be doing. He had a shrewd suspicion his son was already shagging that little rich kid, and the thought made him growl and take a sip of his whiskey. Kids like that had no respect for their elders, no idea at all how the real world worked. If one of his family members stepped out of line, it was Cépheus' job, as head of the household, to put them in their place.

He finished his drink and got up to pour himself another. His mind was racing, his insides boiling with anger. One thing was for certain - as soon as that brat set foot back in the house, he wouldn't be able to leave it again for a month. Maybe even two months. Mr. Black smiled to himself. He would make sure of it. And if Adhara or Regulus tried to butt in, he would be more than happy to let them take some of the punishment, as well.



He wrenched his hand out of the liquor cabinet. His finger was bleeding; he had pricked it on something. He stuck his finger in his mouth and bent down to peer inside the cabinet. Something silvery glittered behind the bottles. Cépheus moved some of the bottles out of the way and pulled out the object. It was a knife.

And it was smeared with blood.

For a long time, Cépheus just stared at the blade in his hands. He stood, frowning. What was this doing here? How could a bloody knife have found its way into his home? In his liquor cabinet, no less?

A glimpse of an old paper lying on the table caught his eye as he stood contemplating this. The headline screamed up at him - Another Teenage Boy Murdered! Police Fear Serial Killer!'

A murder. A bloody knife... in the liquor cabinet?

A truly evil smile spread across Cépheus' face as he put two and two together. It had to be him. He killed those blokes, didn't he? He hid the knife back behind the bottles and poured himself another drink. Finally, a way to rid himself of the son he so loathed. He raised the glass in silent celebration, and spoke one word.



To Be Continued....

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(A/N: Some of you seem to like these small chat sections. I'm surprised you even read it, let alone like it, but I suppose I'll take the opportunity to answer some of your questions. First, the two I wanted to address the most:

THIS IS NOT GRAVITATION. I have only read the first five volumes of Gravitation, and never seen the anime, so how would I know how the whole story goes? I do love Gravi, but I am not trying to copy it. Not on purpose, anyway.

A few of you have pointed out the similarities to Velvet Goldmine'. I love that movie! Curt Wild and Brian Slade are my idols. - And yeah, Siri is a little bit glam, but more of a Goth. Did they have Goths in 1970's London? I don't know, my British history is a little rusty. I also didn't try to intentionally make this story like VG either, but I love the idea of the Marauders and Lily all in tight clothes and glitter. Yum, yum. (Except for Peter. Lousy rat.)

Secondly, a couple of questions I got in reviews:

To Chibi-Ravenclaw and Kativa-Chan:Yes, the mollusk/sea cucumber joke was from Finding Nemo. I am no good at jokes, and having rewatched Nemo a few days before, I stole the joke. Shamelessly.

And to Lyowyn - no, I am not in art school. I haven't the money. Not to mention I can't find a college that teaches how to draw manga for a living. Sigh.

A final note (will I ever shut up?) - I saw Prisoner of Azkaban the day it came out, and.. ohhhh, so bloody good! More on that next time, though, I've babbled enough....

Any questions you have, just ask in your reviews. I'll have to remember who asked what....)