All credit and deepest apologies to Ms. J.K. Rowling.
"I'm just (cough cough)....not feeling (hack hack)....very well (sniffle)....I don't think (COUGH COUGH)......I'm going to be able (deep shaky sigh)...to come into work tonight (pathetic little snuffle)."------(
I should be ASHAMED of myself. I am WAY too good at lying to get out of going to work. In my own defense, it's only my 2nd job to pay off my student loans faster, and I'm TIRED!
**An astute reader has pointed out that in the previous chapter, I made a mistake in that Sirius at least did not know Snape was a Death Eater, as he says as much in GoF. She's quite right. I will go back and re-work that when I have time, for the moment, go with it.
Chapter 10- Plans and Confessions (And a Bit of Romance)
After the meeting, nobody had been very talkative. Everyone seemed to be lost in his or her own thoughts as most of the witches and wizards took their leave. Those who were staying at Avalon made half-hearted attempts at conversation before declaring that they were exhausted and really ought to be turning in. They had some idea of the enormity of the thing they had committed to that night.
James awoke early on Sunday morning. He was managing to sleep again, and he felt wonderfully rested. He was in no great hurry to get up, the house was silent and he imagined everyone would sleep late. He folded his hands behind his head and watched a small crack of sunlight start on the ceiling and grow brighter as the sun rose.
He thought about Dumbledore's plan- The Order of the Phoenix- it sounded so noble. For him, it was a relief to have a solid plan, something to do, something to focus his energy. He could stop feeling so useless and completely helpless. They could sidestep the Ministry's constant hesitation and do something. James could finally channel his energy and anxiety, and yes, anger, into something that would actually make a difference. He had thought that's what he would do as an Auror, but now he could really put the skills they had taught him to some kind of use.
"What are you thinking about?" Lily asked softly next to him. He hadn't realized she was awake.
"Just, you know, everything." He said, vaguely, knowing she would understand anyway.
"What do you think about it?" She questioned.
"Well, I think it's brilliant, of course. Finally, something is going to get done. Dumbledore is just the man to do it. It was really never going to work for the Ministry to defeat Voldemort, right, because they're too big and cumbersome, too many questions and too much second- guessing. A small group of talented witches and wizards, that will do it. Voldemort operates in secret, and so must we. It all fits."
"Yes, but what he said, that he couldn't promise no lives would be lost." She reminded.
"Lives have already been lost." Said her husband softly. "There's no way of knowing how many more will be before he's defeated. But think of it Lily. Think of after he's gone."
She tried, but she had come of age in a world that was torn by this war. From the time she had entered the wizarding world there had been whispers of Voldemort, growing louder until she found herself in the middle of a full out magical war. If you had told me when I was ten this would be my life, she thought, I would have laughed, I would have thought you mad.
"It will be brilliant, then, everything." He turned, wrapping an arm around her waist. She ran a hand through his messy hair and, though she found it hard to imagine, indulged in his fantasy.
"We'll have children then?"
"Oh lots. Or none, if you prefer. But we should have some, because between the two of us they'd be bloody good looking."
She laughed, messing up his hair even further. "And what shall we do, when we're done saving the world?"
"Ill be Minister of Magic. Or a star quidditch player. And you can be whatever you like. Anything."
"Perhaps I'll be a film star." She realized James would not understand that muggle concept. "Or maybe I'LL be Minister of Magic. Or maybe I'll just stay home and look after our children. That would drive Petunia mad, as she's always harassed me about how she's going to be a "proper wife and mum" and not have a job. We can name one of our kids after her."
"Hell, name two after her! Our first will be James Jr. though, of course."
"And if our first is a girl?"
"Then SHE will be James Jr! And I'll hex anyone who teases her! Bloody fine name, James."
Lily laughed again, and slipped her arms around him. "I love you Potter."
"I know Evans." He chuckled, and kissed her. "I love you too. Now, about that James Jr."
******
Sunday was clear and bright, the mist around Avalon lifted and the brilliant blue sky seemed to make other colors brighter. The grass seemed a brilliant green, the forest a warm mix of complimentary greens and browns, and even the grey stone of Avalon seemed cleaner and sharper.
The clarity and brilliance almost hurt James' eyes as he set across the park with his three best friends. They had not planned it to be the old Marauders, it had just turned out that everyone else was otherwise occupied when Sirius, insisting that it could not be that far, only just beyond the forest, suggested they walk to the beach. Feeling released not only from the oppressive weather, but from the drama of the past few days, they talked about nothing of importance as James and Sirius idly tossed a quaffle back and forth.
"This is brilliant, the Marauders together again." Said Peter enthusiastically.
"Hear hear!" Agreed Sirius heartily, though they knew his enthusiasm would last only as long as it took a pretty girl to walk across his path.
"Oy, I forgot to tell you all!" Peter grinned widely at all of them. "I met someone the other night when you lot were too busy to go out!"
Sirius paused in mid-throw, causing the quaffle to drop to the ground at his feet. There was a moment of silence, then-
"You MET someone? D'you mean, like, A WITCH?! Bloody hell boys, our little Peter has finally discovered the opposite sex!"
Sirius grabbed his chest and staggered around dramatically before collapsing on the warm grass. "I've fainted from the shock of it." He informed them all, in case they were unsure.
James meanwhile, was making a great show of pretending to weep. "Our little Peter is....all......grown......up!!" He wailed, wiping away imaginary tears.
"Come on you gits." Remus said, "accidentally" kicking Sirius in the ribs, hard. "I think he's serious. Go on then Pete, what's she like? Tell us about her."
He waited long enough for the two of them to stop howling at their own jokes.
"Go on then Wormtail, tell us, who is she?"
"Well, her name is Abby Buchanan. She says she was in Hufflepuff but I don't remember her, and you'd think I would because-" He trailed off because Sirius, who was picking himself up off the grass, looked distinctly troubled. "What's wrong?"
"Is she by chance related to Conall Buchanan?"
Peter shrugged. "Dunno. Does it matter?"
"Not really...well, I don't know. It might. I don't know about your girl, mate, but the Buchanans I'm thinking of...well, they're not a very good family."
"I don't care about all that pureblood stuff!"
"Neither do I!" Protested Sirius, his face darkening with anger. "And you know it! I meant they've got a bad reputation for being deep into the dark arts."
"Well, you would know, wouldn't you?" He shot back.
Remus grabbed the back of his robes to keep Sirius from jumping on Peter.
"That was out of line Pete." James said quietly.
Peter picked up the quaffle, apparently going to give Sirius the silent treatment. Remus released his hold on his friend, and without speaking they moved on, an uncomfortable silence now hanging over them. When it was finally becoming unbearable, Peter muttered "You don't even know her."
There was a pause, and they were all surprised when Sirius spoke politely. "You're right mate, I don't, and I'm sure she's smashing. All I'm saying is if she's related to Conall Buchanan, watch yourself, all right?"
Surprised by how reasonable he sounded, Peter nodded, and then tossed him the quaffle. "All right Padfoot." But Sirius kept a strange closed look on his face, and Peter seemed a little awkward around him after that.
******
Remus could often not sleep as it neared the full moon. Werewolves were nocturnal, and besides his senses were sharpened, so that the smallest sound or bit of light woke him. It was not very late, but everyone had gone to bed early because they meant to leave early Monday to get to work on time. He found Morgan alone in the kitchen, her feet resting on the table, leaning her chair back precariously on two legs, staring moodily into the fire. On the table sat a large bottle of rich amber colored liquid that that was reflecting the flames, making it look as though it was shot through with red and gold. She had a large cut crystal glass of the same liquid in her hand. He picked up the bottle and read the label "40 year." He put it back down and looked at her swirling it carelessly in her glass. "Expensive stuff."
"Nothing but the best." She shrugged and tossed back the rest of the drink.
"Maybe you should slow down." He suggested quietly, wondering how much she'd already had. Probably not too much if she was managing to balance her chair like that.
"Maybe you should mind your own business." She replied rather sharply, still not looking at him. "You're not my father."
Given the conversation he had witnessed her having with her father's portrait the other night, he rightly guessed that was dodgy territory and avoided it.
"I don't want to be your father. I also don't want to be the guy holding your hair back while you're embracing the loo half the night."
The corners of her mouth twitched before she looked highly affronted.
"I am a Scot." She said precisely, in clipped tones. "I can hold my liquor."
He looked at the bottle doubtfully. "Morgan, a mountain troll couldn't hold that much liquor."
"He seems to be hinting at something." She said aloud, as though there was someone else in the kitchen. "What could that be?" She turned and finally looked at him, and grinned. "If you want to join me, just ask."
******
The next morning they all arrived downstairs at about the same time, having to be at work at the Ministry on time. Sirius and James and Lily, followed closely by Frank and Alice, came into the kitchen to find Morgan and Remus both with their heads resting on the table, either asleep or passed out. Given the large, almost empty bottle of scotch, the latter seemed pretty likely. They all hesitated, then Sirius began to grin, wickedly.
"They are both going to be so hung over." He whispered to the others. He crept into the kitchen, and, as they all watched in confusion, picked up one of the heavy chairs at the end of the table. He held it high over his head, and he dropped it. With a crash.
Remus jumped up, going for his wand, Morgan just opened a bloodshot eye, and muttered "oh bloody hell".
Sirius spoke in an unusually loud voice. "GOOD MORNING, YOU TWO!"
They both winced, Morgan hissed "Sod off Sirius" and buried her face in her arms. Remus sat back down, looking dazed.
"BRILLIANT MORNING IT IS TOO!" He boomed, pulling aside the curtains so that sunlight flooded the table. Morgan moaned softly.
"NOW, ABOUT BREAKFAST! WHAT WILL WE HAVE? EGGS? (They knew from experience at Hogwart's Morgan could not tolerate eggs) BACON? A BIG STICKY, GOOEY, SUGARY DOUGHNUT?
"Oh Merlin. Excuse me." Morgan pushed back her chair and rushed from the room. Remus opened a bleary eye at Sirius.
"That was harsh Mate. You know doughnuts make her sick."
Sirius grinned wickedly. "I know."
******
They all left shortly after that, except Remus and Morgan, who had to recover, and Peter, who had no particular wish to get back to his rather boring job as a cashier at Flourish and Blots. Remus felt slightly better after showering and changing, though still rather tired and achy. He knew that might be a hangover, but was also probably the upcoming full moon. Morgan had not reappeared after Sirius offered her a doughnut, so he went looking for her when he and Peter were ready to leave. After searching a good bit of Avalon, he found her in the library, surrounded by large books.
"Morgan? Peter and I are getting ready to leave. Don't you have to be at work today?"
She shook her head absently. "I called in sick. Not much of a lie either." She smiled ruefully. She looked fine though, dressed in muggle jeans and a heavy sweater, her hair still damp, falling to her waist in dark curls. She seemed totally focused on whatever she was doing. He came closer, pulling a chair over.
"What is all this?"
"Account books." She hated numbers. He remembered her cursing arithmancy the year she had taken it at Hogwart's, but she seemed to understand these columns. "A lot of work goes into running an estate the size of Avalon." She explained to him. "Usually I let my lawyers run it, but I thought I'd have a look and make sure it's all in order." She looked up. "You and Peter go along though. I'll be back in London later today."
"I can stay, if you like."
She shook her head. "No need, this is nothing, just some checking. I'll be fine."
"Are you sure? It's no trouble. I'm late anyway."
She finally took her attention away from the books, looking him dead in the eyes, and he saw her temper flickering there, and thought maybe he should not press her when she was hung over. "Remus, I'm not a child. I don't require a babysitter."
"I don't think you require anything. I thought you might like some company." He replied evenly.
She sighed and rubbed her temples. "Hell, I'm sorry. There's no reason to be tetchy with you. But really, go on, I won't be far behind."
She finished rubbing her eyes and looked up, and he realized with some shock how close he was sitting, having leaned over to look at her books. There was a moment that seemed to last a long time, and the Remus did what he would always regard as one of the stupidest, and most brilliant things he had ever done in his life.
He kissed her. Morgan made a small sound that might have been surprise, but then she shifted slightly, moving toward him and deepening the kiss slightly, erasing any apprehension he might have felt. He put a hand on her arm so that he could pull her closer, awkward as it was on the hard chairs. One of her hands came up to the side of his face, the other gripping his arm as though afraid he would move away.
It was several minutes before they finally parted, if only to catch their breath. Morgan was speechless, and he was studying her face as though he had never seen her before.
"I.I don't know-" She didn't know what to say.
"Yes." He kissed her again, and she sighed, unable to hold onto a coherent thought.
The sound of a door opening was as loud as an explosion in the room, as was Peter's saying "Remus, are you- Oh bloody hell!"
They sprang apart so quickly several of her books tumbled to the floor. There was a loud silence that seemed to last a long time, and then, when Remus spoke, his voice was brisk and businesslike.
"Yes. We'd better be going. Let's go Peter, Morgan has some things to square away here. Don't stay too long then Morgan."
"No." She murmured, dazed. Remus seized Peter's arm, he was standing in the doorway, still gaping at scene he had walked in on, and dragged him out.
__________________________________________________________
A note from Ms. CE- Hey y'all, I just wanted to add that while I write this entirely for my own enjoyment and relaxation, it makes me VERY happy when people like it, so reviews are much appreciated, whether positive, or "this sucks". While I much prefer the former, the latter are acceptable provided you identify the source of the sucking, so I can work on it.
Also, a question for anyone more computer savvy than me (which is essentially everyone)- When I write all this in Microsoft word, certain things are bolded or italicized for emphasis, however it does not show up that way when I post it on here....what's the deal with that? If anyone could clue me in on how to remedy that I'd be eternally grateful.
"I'm just (cough cough)....not feeling (hack hack)....very well (sniffle)....I don't think (COUGH COUGH)......I'm going to be able (deep shaky sigh)...to come into work tonight (pathetic little snuffle)."------(
I should be ASHAMED of myself. I am WAY too good at lying to get out of going to work. In my own defense, it's only my 2nd job to pay off my student loans faster, and I'm TIRED!
**An astute reader has pointed out that in the previous chapter, I made a mistake in that Sirius at least did not know Snape was a Death Eater, as he says as much in GoF. She's quite right. I will go back and re-work that when I have time, for the moment, go with it.
Chapter 10- Plans and Confessions (And a Bit of Romance)
After the meeting, nobody had been very talkative. Everyone seemed to be lost in his or her own thoughts as most of the witches and wizards took their leave. Those who were staying at Avalon made half-hearted attempts at conversation before declaring that they were exhausted and really ought to be turning in. They had some idea of the enormity of the thing they had committed to that night.
James awoke early on Sunday morning. He was managing to sleep again, and he felt wonderfully rested. He was in no great hurry to get up, the house was silent and he imagined everyone would sleep late. He folded his hands behind his head and watched a small crack of sunlight start on the ceiling and grow brighter as the sun rose.
He thought about Dumbledore's plan- The Order of the Phoenix- it sounded so noble. For him, it was a relief to have a solid plan, something to do, something to focus his energy. He could stop feeling so useless and completely helpless. They could sidestep the Ministry's constant hesitation and do something. James could finally channel his energy and anxiety, and yes, anger, into something that would actually make a difference. He had thought that's what he would do as an Auror, but now he could really put the skills they had taught him to some kind of use.
"What are you thinking about?" Lily asked softly next to him. He hadn't realized she was awake.
"Just, you know, everything." He said, vaguely, knowing she would understand anyway.
"What do you think about it?" She questioned.
"Well, I think it's brilliant, of course. Finally, something is going to get done. Dumbledore is just the man to do it. It was really never going to work for the Ministry to defeat Voldemort, right, because they're too big and cumbersome, too many questions and too much second- guessing. A small group of talented witches and wizards, that will do it. Voldemort operates in secret, and so must we. It all fits."
"Yes, but what he said, that he couldn't promise no lives would be lost." She reminded.
"Lives have already been lost." Said her husband softly. "There's no way of knowing how many more will be before he's defeated. But think of it Lily. Think of after he's gone."
She tried, but she had come of age in a world that was torn by this war. From the time she had entered the wizarding world there had been whispers of Voldemort, growing louder until she found herself in the middle of a full out magical war. If you had told me when I was ten this would be my life, she thought, I would have laughed, I would have thought you mad.
"It will be brilliant, then, everything." He turned, wrapping an arm around her waist. She ran a hand through his messy hair and, though she found it hard to imagine, indulged in his fantasy.
"We'll have children then?"
"Oh lots. Or none, if you prefer. But we should have some, because between the two of us they'd be bloody good looking."
She laughed, messing up his hair even further. "And what shall we do, when we're done saving the world?"
"Ill be Minister of Magic. Or a star quidditch player. And you can be whatever you like. Anything."
"Perhaps I'll be a film star." She realized James would not understand that muggle concept. "Or maybe I'LL be Minister of Magic. Or maybe I'll just stay home and look after our children. That would drive Petunia mad, as she's always harassed me about how she's going to be a "proper wife and mum" and not have a job. We can name one of our kids after her."
"Hell, name two after her! Our first will be James Jr. though, of course."
"And if our first is a girl?"
"Then SHE will be James Jr! And I'll hex anyone who teases her! Bloody fine name, James."
Lily laughed again, and slipped her arms around him. "I love you Potter."
"I know Evans." He chuckled, and kissed her. "I love you too. Now, about that James Jr."
******
Sunday was clear and bright, the mist around Avalon lifted and the brilliant blue sky seemed to make other colors brighter. The grass seemed a brilliant green, the forest a warm mix of complimentary greens and browns, and even the grey stone of Avalon seemed cleaner and sharper.
The clarity and brilliance almost hurt James' eyes as he set across the park with his three best friends. They had not planned it to be the old Marauders, it had just turned out that everyone else was otherwise occupied when Sirius, insisting that it could not be that far, only just beyond the forest, suggested they walk to the beach. Feeling released not only from the oppressive weather, but from the drama of the past few days, they talked about nothing of importance as James and Sirius idly tossed a quaffle back and forth.
"This is brilliant, the Marauders together again." Said Peter enthusiastically.
"Hear hear!" Agreed Sirius heartily, though they knew his enthusiasm would last only as long as it took a pretty girl to walk across his path.
"Oy, I forgot to tell you all!" Peter grinned widely at all of them. "I met someone the other night when you lot were too busy to go out!"
Sirius paused in mid-throw, causing the quaffle to drop to the ground at his feet. There was a moment of silence, then-
"You MET someone? D'you mean, like, A WITCH?! Bloody hell boys, our little Peter has finally discovered the opposite sex!"
Sirius grabbed his chest and staggered around dramatically before collapsing on the warm grass. "I've fainted from the shock of it." He informed them all, in case they were unsure.
James meanwhile, was making a great show of pretending to weep. "Our little Peter is....all......grown......up!!" He wailed, wiping away imaginary tears.
"Come on you gits." Remus said, "accidentally" kicking Sirius in the ribs, hard. "I think he's serious. Go on then Pete, what's she like? Tell us about her."
He waited long enough for the two of them to stop howling at their own jokes.
"Go on then Wormtail, tell us, who is she?"
"Well, her name is Abby Buchanan. She says she was in Hufflepuff but I don't remember her, and you'd think I would because-" He trailed off because Sirius, who was picking himself up off the grass, looked distinctly troubled. "What's wrong?"
"Is she by chance related to Conall Buchanan?"
Peter shrugged. "Dunno. Does it matter?"
"Not really...well, I don't know. It might. I don't know about your girl, mate, but the Buchanans I'm thinking of...well, they're not a very good family."
"I don't care about all that pureblood stuff!"
"Neither do I!" Protested Sirius, his face darkening with anger. "And you know it! I meant they've got a bad reputation for being deep into the dark arts."
"Well, you would know, wouldn't you?" He shot back.
Remus grabbed the back of his robes to keep Sirius from jumping on Peter.
"That was out of line Pete." James said quietly.
Peter picked up the quaffle, apparently going to give Sirius the silent treatment. Remus released his hold on his friend, and without speaking they moved on, an uncomfortable silence now hanging over them. When it was finally becoming unbearable, Peter muttered "You don't even know her."
There was a pause, and they were all surprised when Sirius spoke politely. "You're right mate, I don't, and I'm sure she's smashing. All I'm saying is if she's related to Conall Buchanan, watch yourself, all right?"
Surprised by how reasonable he sounded, Peter nodded, and then tossed him the quaffle. "All right Padfoot." But Sirius kept a strange closed look on his face, and Peter seemed a little awkward around him after that.
******
Remus could often not sleep as it neared the full moon. Werewolves were nocturnal, and besides his senses were sharpened, so that the smallest sound or bit of light woke him. It was not very late, but everyone had gone to bed early because they meant to leave early Monday to get to work on time. He found Morgan alone in the kitchen, her feet resting on the table, leaning her chair back precariously on two legs, staring moodily into the fire. On the table sat a large bottle of rich amber colored liquid that that was reflecting the flames, making it look as though it was shot through with red and gold. She had a large cut crystal glass of the same liquid in her hand. He picked up the bottle and read the label "40 year." He put it back down and looked at her swirling it carelessly in her glass. "Expensive stuff."
"Nothing but the best." She shrugged and tossed back the rest of the drink.
"Maybe you should slow down." He suggested quietly, wondering how much she'd already had. Probably not too much if she was managing to balance her chair like that.
"Maybe you should mind your own business." She replied rather sharply, still not looking at him. "You're not my father."
Given the conversation he had witnessed her having with her father's portrait the other night, he rightly guessed that was dodgy territory and avoided it.
"I don't want to be your father. I also don't want to be the guy holding your hair back while you're embracing the loo half the night."
The corners of her mouth twitched before she looked highly affronted.
"I am a Scot." She said precisely, in clipped tones. "I can hold my liquor."
He looked at the bottle doubtfully. "Morgan, a mountain troll couldn't hold that much liquor."
"He seems to be hinting at something." She said aloud, as though there was someone else in the kitchen. "What could that be?" She turned and finally looked at him, and grinned. "If you want to join me, just ask."
******
The next morning they all arrived downstairs at about the same time, having to be at work at the Ministry on time. Sirius and James and Lily, followed closely by Frank and Alice, came into the kitchen to find Morgan and Remus both with their heads resting on the table, either asleep or passed out. Given the large, almost empty bottle of scotch, the latter seemed pretty likely. They all hesitated, then Sirius began to grin, wickedly.
"They are both going to be so hung over." He whispered to the others. He crept into the kitchen, and, as they all watched in confusion, picked up one of the heavy chairs at the end of the table. He held it high over his head, and he dropped it. With a crash.
Remus jumped up, going for his wand, Morgan just opened a bloodshot eye, and muttered "oh bloody hell".
Sirius spoke in an unusually loud voice. "GOOD MORNING, YOU TWO!"
They both winced, Morgan hissed "Sod off Sirius" and buried her face in her arms. Remus sat back down, looking dazed.
"BRILLIANT MORNING IT IS TOO!" He boomed, pulling aside the curtains so that sunlight flooded the table. Morgan moaned softly.
"NOW, ABOUT BREAKFAST! WHAT WILL WE HAVE? EGGS? (They knew from experience at Hogwart's Morgan could not tolerate eggs) BACON? A BIG STICKY, GOOEY, SUGARY DOUGHNUT?
"Oh Merlin. Excuse me." Morgan pushed back her chair and rushed from the room. Remus opened a bleary eye at Sirius.
"That was harsh Mate. You know doughnuts make her sick."
Sirius grinned wickedly. "I know."
******
They all left shortly after that, except Remus and Morgan, who had to recover, and Peter, who had no particular wish to get back to his rather boring job as a cashier at Flourish and Blots. Remus felt slightly better after showering and changing, though still rather tired and achy. He knew that might be a hangover, but was also probably the upcoming full moon. Morgan had not reappeared after Sirius offered her a doughnut, so he went looking for her when he and Peter were ready to leave. After searching a good bit of Avalon, he found her in the library, surrounded by large books.
"Morgan? Peter and I are getting ready to leave. Don't you have to be at work today?"
She shook her head absently. "I called in sick. Not much of a lie either." She smiled ruefully. She looked fine though, dressed in muggle jeans and a heavy sweater, her hair still damp, falling to her waist in dark curls. She seemed totally focused on whatever she was doing. He came closer, pulling a chair over.
"What is all this?"
"Account books." She hated numbers. He remembered her cursing arithmancy the year she had taken it at Hogwart's, but she seemed to understand these columns. "A lot of work goes into running an estate the size of Avalon." She explained to him. "Usually I let my lawyers run it, but I thought I'd have a look and make sure it's all in order." She looked up. "You and Peter go along though. I'll be back in London later today."
"I can stay, if you like."
She shook her head. "No need, this is nothing, just some checking. I'll be fine."
"Are you sure? It's no trouble. I'm late anyway."
She finally took her attention away from the books, looking him dead in the eyes, and he saw her temper flickering there, and thought maybe he should not press her when she was hung over. "Remus, I'm not a child. I don't require a babysitter."
"I don't think you require anything. I thought you might like some company." He replied evenly.
She sighed and rubbed her temples. "Hell, I'm sorry. There's no reason to be tetchy with you. But really, go on, I won't be far behind."
She finished rubbing her eyes and looked up, and he realized with some shock how close he was sitting, having leaned over to look at her books. There was a moment that seemed to last a long time, and the Remus did what he would always regard as one of the stupidest, and most brilliant things he had ever done in his life.
He kissed her. Morgan made a small sound that might have been surprise, but then she shifted slightly, moving toward him and deepening the kiss slightly, erasing any apprehension he might have felt. He put a hand on her arm so that he could pull her closer, awkward as it was on the hard chairs. One of her hands came up to the side of his face, the other gripping his arm as though afraid he would move away.
It was several minutes before they finally parted, if only to catch their breath. Morgan was speechless, and he was studying her face as though he had never seen her before.
"I.I don't know-" She didn't know what to say.
"Yes." He kissed her again, and she sighed, unable to hold onto a coherent thought.
The sound of a door opening was as loud as an explosion in the room, as was Peter's saying "Remus, are you- Oh bloody hell!"
They sprang apart so quickly several of her books tumbled to the floor. There was a loud silence that seemed to last a long time, and then, when Remus spoke, his voice was brisk and businesslike.
"Yes. We'd better be going. Let's go Peter, Morgan has some things to square away here. Don't stay too long then Morgan."
"No." She murmured, dazed. Remus seized Peter's arm, he was standing in the doorway, still gaping at scene he had walked in on, and dragged him out.
__________________________________________________________
A note from Ms. CE- Hey y'all, I just wanted to add that while I write this entirely for my own enjoyment and relaxation, it makes me VERY happy when people like it, so reviews are much appreciated, whether positive, or "this sucks". While I much prefer the former, the latter are acceptable provided you identify the source of the sucking, so I can work on it.
Also, a question for anyone more computer savvy than me (which is essentially everyone)- When I write all this in Microsoft word, certain things are bolded or italicized for emphasis, however it does not show up that way when I post it on here....what's the deal with that? If anyone could clue me in on how to remedy that I'd be eternally grateful.