Disclaimer: Not mine. JK's. nod
Author's notes: I don't think I had time to properly depict Arthur, but I also don't feel there is time to in this chapter. I think of him as a very serious man, despite his amusing musing about muggle items. I also think he's horribly perceptive.
He is hiding something. I can feel it deep down in my bones. But I don't give away I know something is bothering him. If I do, he will become silent and cold like the rest of this damnable house.
I suck an ice cube into my cheek, licking off the remaining alcohol. If I pretend nothing is wrong, so will he. Then we can sit in our uneasy silence, and eventually, he will wear out and tell me.
I remember when he first told me loved Sirius...Yes. Like THAT. I can't say that I was terribly surprised. I can't say that I think it's right or wrong. As my Molly would say, 'Love is love, in all forms. Remember that and love WILL conquer all.'
My Molly. She is so wonderful to me and the kids.
The kids. I never had wanted a small family. Had I anticipated it being this large? No. Does that mean I am disappointed? In ways, I must admit to a yes. There are times I would love it to be just me and Molly and one or two of the rascals. Then again, I couldn't see living without every single one of them.
Aren't they wonderful?
His brow creases. I watch out of the very corner of my eye. Lips move to form words, but can only make the motions, losing sound along the way.
"Arthur." It was quiet. I nearly didn't recognize it as my name.
"Hm?"
"You've kept up contact with the Magical Creatures Regulations Bureau, yes?"
I nod. I've had to. Remus isn't a young wizard anymore. He'd getting to the point of Loss. Loss of what? Sanity? Humanity? Life? I don't know. I still can't get that out of Dennis. I will soon.
"How...How old was..." it fades like a sad lullaby.
I know what he's trying to ask and it takes me minutes before I can respond, my throat dry as dust. "The oldest was..." Merlin, don't say it. Don't say it! Lie, just this once, Arthur...lie. For his sake and yours... "Forty-two."
"Oh."
He is nearly forty years old himself. I'm so sorry, Remus. I'm so sorry.
Then I know what is bothering him. The Loss is upon him.
Oh Merlin. Remus, I'm sorry. I'm so sorry.
I am silent as I watch him stand, and refresh his drink with trembling hands.