Summary: Tonks sees the two faces of Lupin. Who's the one at her flat?

NYMPH vs WOLF
Strategic Moves

Nymphadora Tonks sat on a low wall surrounding the courtyard at the Ministry of Magic and yawned. She had served her first round of guard duty for the Order last night. Of course, the night before that she had been at the lighthouse at Wolf Rock, so she began the day a bit sleep deprived, but her low level of energy came from her professional duties.

A squib had reported sighting Sirius Black in London last night. Rufus Scrimgeour, Head of the Auror offices at the Ministry, had sent Tonks to verify the eyewitness account and question Muggles and Wizards about this in the local area. In the meantime, her more esteemed colleagues mapped out the sweep that would be made in London tonight. Then, in spite of all her foot work, Tonks had been summarily excluded from the Aurors who would do the raids tonight. Several of her older male colleagues decided they wanted a chance at glory in being the one to nab the notorious villain.

What they didn't know was that Tonks had also spent her day setting the decoys that Kingsley Shacklebolt would conveniently find as evidence that Sirius Black had fled the London and the British Isles to boot.

"You owe me one, Sirius," she murmured to herself. She thought she'd drop by number twelve later to check on her cousin, but then, he had Lupin.

Tonks leaned her head back and let her eyes drift closed. She'd been too busy today to even think about her recent discoveries about the Professor. She murmured, "Water nymph."

Lupin realized she was a woman, but was that a good thing? It wasn't as if she found him particularly attractive, he was simply too tall. But his hands were truly beautiful and his eyes made you forget about his long nose. Even the scars across his face faded away when you looked into those eyes. He was--older.

Tonks sighed. Was she developing a school girl crush on the Professor? And how did Lupin really see her? Water nymphs were rather flighty creatures of little substance, forever young, forever immature. And if Sirius thought of her as a little sister, what would Lupin see? Was Lupin also playing at Big Brother?

The young Auror sat quietly on the wall with one leg swinging loosely. It wasn't a very mature pose, but the hedge blocked her from sight of others entering the courtyard. Then Tonks dully registered footsteps entering the courtyard. Her heart began to race when she recognized the voices: Remus Lupin and Kingsley Shacklebolt.

"...so I've gotten to know her better during the past year, but what did you think of Tonks after your little run in with her?" Kingsley's deep voice was easy to recognize.

"Run in is an understatement. I don't think I've met a clumsier girl since I was at Hogwarts. I assume she was a constant plague to her teachers there, too."

Lupin's voice was not indulgent. In fact he sounded quite annoyed. Tonks sat up in alarm and wrapped her arms around her knees as she sat still. She held her breath as she continued to listen in.

"She does have her quirks," agreed Kingsley.

"Quirks? No, I'd say she's rather immature." Lupin's tone was vehement. "I still find it hard to believe she met the criteria for Auror training; she seemed easily distracted to me. I suppose with work she'll become a competent Auror, but I don't envy your having to work with her. I found Tonks to be annoying and reckless myself."

Tonks was so stunned that she peered through the branches of the hedge to confirm that it was indeed Remus Lupin talking. Although he had his back to her, she'd recognize his tall frame anywhere. Kingsley was saying something in her defense, but she didn't register it. She quietly left the bench and took the side exit.

The three men in the courtyard never knew she was there. "Lupin, once again you're showing how poorly you judge someone's qualities," said Rufus Scrimgeour once Kingsley had his say. He had been standing such that his presence was blocked from Tonks' view by the other two men. Scrimgeour continued, "Tonks has proven herself very adept as an Auror. However, youth can embrace passing whimsies with a lot of passion and little foresight. I'd hate to have our investment in her training wasted by her getting involved with Dumbldedore's fantasies or one of your frivolous campaigns.."

"I don't see Werewolf Rights as frivolous." Lupin then relied on his ability as an Occlumens to embellish again, "But I assure you that I wouldn't recruit someone that flighty and unreliable."

"So you just happened to be at Kings Mall the other morning when Tonks was dealing with Alastor Moody?" asked Scrimgeour. He had become concerned when Tonks' report of the incident had mentioned assistance from Remus Lupin.

"I was out for my morning walk and recognized Moody, so of course I offered to help," replied Lupin smoothly. "Frankly I'm surprised you sent the girl to deal with the man. Moody can be dangerous in his paranoia. So is this what your summons was about?"

"Yes, and to tell you that Umbridge's proposal has gone through. We'll need registered werewolves to submit to silver screening."

"That's inhuman," said Lupin. "That legislation requires that werewolves be tested for susceptibility to silver poisoning by being stabbed with a silver knife. It's nothing more than torture."

"Aurors will be performing the procedure given its dangerous nature," said Scrimgeour while Kingsley frowned behind his back at the news.

"But it's nothing but Muggle nonsense. Silver has no effect on real werewolves," insisted Lupin.

"Do you know for certain? Have you ever been stabbed with silver?" asked Kingsley.

"And if I have and felt no ill effects other than from the stab wound, would that convince the Ministry not to implement this--this screening procedure? I didn't think so," said Lupin as Scrimgeour shook his head. "Tell me, how can werewolves be assured that some poison won't be slipped onto the silver blade that will be used for this screening?"

"You'll be notified of the schedule," said Scrimgeour as he left without answering the question.

Lupin and Kingsley stood silently for a moment, then the Auror moved them further into the courtyard and cast an imperturbable charm around them so they could speak freely. Kingsley put a hand on Lupin's shoulder. "I'm sorry, mate."

"Will you do it?" asked Lupin. "I won't trust anyone but you."

"I won't like it, but I'm not going to leave you in a vulnerable position," replied Kingsley. He looked cautiously at Lupin. "But if I'm not available, you need a backup. How much of that tirade against Tonks was real?"

Lupin took a deep breath before murmuring softly, "None of it, but we can't afford to get Scrimgeour suspicious of her activities for the Order. I'd trust Tonks with the knife, but I'd hate to put her in that position. Of course, it might be suitable payback for her."

"Payback?" asked Kingsley. "Nothing, just thinking odd thoughts. I better inform Dumbledore about this new development. Maybe he can find a way to postpone this ridiculous excuse for torturing the innocent."

"One more thing, Remus. I'm leading a sweep of London tonight. Sirius Black was spotted at a night club last night by a reliable squib who reports to the Ministry."

"I can confirm it wasn't him, but I'll pass on the danger," assured Lupin. "I'll see you later."

- - - - - - - - - - - - - -

Grimmauld Place

Once Lupin returned to Grimmauld Place, the day continued to go from bad to worse. He saw Sirius dressed in a fine set of robes. They were much too fancy for an evening commiserating over the sorry state of their lives. In fact, Lupin would have thought that Sirius was--

"You're not thinking of going out, are you?"

Sirius quickly transformed into Snuffles and barked at him enthusiastically. He wagged his tail just to add to the effect.

"Oh no, no walkies. You're supposed to remain at the house," said Lupin as he crossed his arms over his chest.

Snuffles barked again and even approached to lick Lupin's hand. "Get away! Now you stop that! Dog drool will get you nowhere."

"How about a bribe? I found a stash of chocolate." Sirius had transformed and was now dangling a bar of Honeydukes finest in front of Lupin.

Chocolate. It would almost be worth it, thought Lupin, as Sirius slipped the bar into his suit coat's outer pocket.

"Don't wait up. I'll be at Emmeline's." Sirius was about to go out the door when Lupin finally moved.

"No, you're not going to Emmiline's. You're not stepping one foot out of that door."

"But, Moony!" Sirius gave his friend his best pleading eyes.

"No." Lupin was standing firm.

"Remus, come on. You know you'll give in. You always do."

"No, Sirius. We're not boys sneaking out of Hogwarts anymore. It's dangerous for you out there, especially tonight," insisted Lupin.

"But you don't understand! Once the Weasleys are here, I won't be able to go out. Molly's worse than a watchdog. It's my only chance to have some fun until the term starts at Hogwarts. Be a pal, Moony. Just stand aside, look the other way. You can say I sneaked past you."

"No, not anymore, Padfoot," said Lupin. He put his hands on Sirius' shoulders wanting to shake some sense into the other man. "Do you think I want to lose you? Merlin knows you're arrogant, self-centered, and reckless, but the only thing bigger than your ego is your heart."

"Well, it's nice to know I have one good quality," muttered Sirius.

"You're my oldest friend, the only one left. I don't want to be your gaoler, Sirius, but I refuse to be your gravedigger." Lupin was pleased to see Sirius take on a concerned expression as he continued, "I will not let you run off tonight. Kingsley's leading a sweep because some squib spotted the notorious Black in London."

Sirius nodded as if he accepted the edict, but then shook his head. "You don't want to see EmmelineVance when she's been stood up for a date, Moony. All the Aurors in London wouldn't match her wrath."

"You walk out that door and it won't be Emmeline who's kissing you, it'll be a Dementor," insisted Lupin. He was pleased to see his friend pale a bit at the thought, but it also wrung his heart. "Look, tell Emmeline to come over here tonight."

"I thought you were upset with our--"

"I'll leave you two the house, just promise me you won't go out."

"Well, I suppose she'll agree."

"Write the note and I'll send the owl," said Lupin. It wouldn't take much time to apparate to the Owlery at Diagon Alley. He was fairly certain he would get a quick reply, especially after he attached his Howler about her endangering Sirius by coaxing him out.

- - - - - - - - - -

Fifteen minutes later, Lupin was opening the door to Emmeline Vance.

"Hello, Remus, it's nice of you to be so accommodating. Are you sure you won't stay?" asked Emmeline with a note of humor underlying her suggestion.

Lupin merely leaned in to quietly ask, "I have your assurance he's not leaving the house?"

Emmeline smiled. "I know how to keep him occupied, Remus. Now run along. Ah, Sirius, you wicked man! You look quite dashing and all for me?"

"Of course." Sirius gallantly bowed and said, "I have dinner for us in the kitchen. I'll be right there after I have a word with Remus."

"Oh, the kitchen again?" called Emmeline over her shoulder.

"It's just for eating. Food," called Lupin with emphasis. He shook his head as he heard her laughter trailing back. He turned to Sirius to severely admonish him, "Not on the kitchen table!"

"The kitchen table will remain inviolable. I just wanted to give you my word that I won't try to sneak out," assured Sirius. He was about to turn to follow Emmeline when he said, "You know, I was trying to be considerate of your sensibilities tonight, Moony."

Lupin quirked an eyebrow, but understood from experience that his friend was sincere, if misguided. "I understand, Padfoot, but I far more appreciate your being alive than discrete."

"Well, here," said Sirius as he suddenly stuffed a handful of galleons into the inner pocket of Lupin's suit coat.

"What?" Lupin pulled out the money and looked at his palm. "What the hell is this?"

"You'll need lodging tonight."

"I don't need your charity, Sirius," said Lupin stiffly as he placed the money on the entry table. He was out the door before Sirius could say anything else.

"Stubborn, stiff-necked git!" Sirius then shrugged. It wasn't as if Lupin didn't have his own house to go to. He forgot about it as soon as he heard Emmeline calling.

- - - - - - - - - - - -

Lupin took ten steps before the light mist began. He let his feet take him around a series of growing puddles until he wound up at the bookstore Tonks had shown him. He randomly pulled out a book and sat down in a chair by the window. The rain was now a real downpour, but the awning of the shop kept the window clear. The Professor looked at the binder to see what his reading material would be: Werewolves of London by Brian Stableford. Perfect, he thought, as he rolled his eyes. Why not indulge in some Muggle nonsense about his kind?

He put his mind to the book and didn't bother to wonder why he had selected the window seat. It's not as if Tonks would be walking along at any time; she'd probably apparate. Besides, in this rain she would be difficult to detect--except for her bright umbrella. He told himself to quit thinking about her and became absorbed in the book. He especially identified with a character named Pelorus.

But Tonks was in fact walking home under the protection of her bright umbrella rather than apparating tonight. A celery stalk indicated the contents of the bag she carried in one hand. She was dodging a puddle in front of the bookstore when her attention was caught by the sight of a familiar lanky frame she spotted through the window.

There he was, Professor R. J. Lupin, once again seeking refuge at the Muggle bookstore. Since he wasn't at number twelve tonight, she could well imagine who was. The man was very accommodating to his real friends. Tonks felt her anger flair and didn't think twice before tapping the window to get his attention.

Lupin looked up when he heard the rapping. He was a bit disturbed by the warm feeling that seemed to rush through his body at the sight of Nymphadora Tonks. It would never do to foster tender feelings toward her, but try as he might, he found himself returning her wave. Worse, when Tonks crooked her finger to summon him out of the store and under the awning, his feet immediately obeyed her command rather than his own rational thought. He needed to put distance between himself and the water nymph and that was not going to happen by running after her like some lovesick puppy.

"Wotcher, Remus," said Tonks amiably as he stepped out. She smiled tightly as she wondered how she could skin such a tall man. The first thing to do was to draw him to her lair and that required using honey rather than vinegar. "Been kicked out?"

"Volunteered, actually. Sirius was thinking of slipping out to see Emmeline--"

"That randy git! He'd ruin everything! Kingsley and I baited the sweep the Aurors are doing to show he's fled the country. Damn!"

"Calm down, Sirius isn't going anywhere. We reached a compromise, so, Emmeline is there for the night and I'm here."

Poor puppy, thought Tonks as she caught her breath, then she hardened her heart. Lupin was a fraud, albeit with soulful eyes. "Look, Remus, my flat is just a short walk from here," said Tonks as she nodded toward the direction. "I can actually brew a cup of tea. That's the limits of my cooking, but I'm sure I have something for sandwiches besides celery."

Tonks' voice fell off as a closed expression crossed his face. Which Lupin was she facing now? The man from Wolf Rock or the man at the Ministry? His silence seemed to be answer enough. She shrugged and added, "Well, I just thought."

She turned to walk away when she heard him calling. "Nymphadora, wait."

She stopped long enough to correct him, "It's Tonks."

"Tonks," echoed Lupin, "are you sure you want to invite me to your flat? Most women wouldn't want a werewolf to know where they lived."

"I'm not most women, Remus. I'm an Auror or have you forgotten?" asked Tonks as she turned to face him. "But if this is a polite way to make your escape--"

"Escape?" asked Lupin as a frown crossed his face. Actually, that is just what he should be doing, but instead his voice betrayed him. "No, I'm not."

He stopped talking and took the umbrella from her hand. "Please, lead the way."

As they walked, Lupin was confused by the signals Tonks was sending. She invited him to her flat, but was walking stiffly by his side as if he had offended her. In fact, she seemed to be taking special steps to splash through each puddle on their way. His shoulders were dry put his trouser legs were getting soaked.

"I thought you didn't care for mud baths," muttered Lupin after the third deliberate splash. "Is this your idea of payback for the peeking? I just want to know so I can keep the record straight."

Tonks felt her lips quirking into a smile at his question. "No, I was just thinking of an old Muggle song about singing in the rain."

She ended her statement with another big splash. To her surprise Lupin merely began whistling the tune. Tonks tried one more malicious splash, but found herself doing it in time with the melody. She began smiling as her anger fell away and settled for more delicate sloshings that added percussion to the whistling song. She even found herself singing, "Lala la la lala la la la lala..."

In the meantime, Lupin was lost in a childhood memory where the roles were reversed. It was a woman carrying an umbrella while a sullen young boy sloshed through the puddles. Her patient attitude had paid off and the boy had soon been smiling as he also hit the puddles in rhythm.

Lupin brought himself fully back to the present as he noticed Tonks giggling at their antics. "Ah, I see that subjecting me to water torture has brightened your spirits."

"Being with you has brightened my spirits." The words had slipped out without thought, but Tonks looked down shyly after she said them while Lupin suddenly found a passing tree interesting. He felt as if he were preening inside at her comment. The feelings she evoked were far too dangerous.

In the meantime, Tonks told herself to remember that Lupin was a two-faced liar, so she offered her first probe. "I saw you at the Ministry today."

Lupin looked at her sharply. "Really? I'm sorry I missed you. I didn't think it was a good idea to look you up when I was there. Rufus Scrimgeour doesn't approve of me. In fact, he never sees me unless Kingsley's there to act as intermediary."

"He's afraid of you?" asked Tonks.

"Scrimgeour doesn't trust me. Thinks I take after my father and he also knows I'm Dumbledore's man," said Lupin. He remembered his words against Tonks and added, "He wouldn't like the idea of you associating with me."

"So I should disavow any knowledge of you?" asked Tonks.

"No, but if he asks about me, reveal only the negative. You have plenty to draw upon," reminded Lupin.

"I understand," assured Tonks. The conversation she had overheard was beginning to make sense in light of this information, but now they had arrived at the candle shop.

"Here we are," said Tonks as she led him to a stoop at the back of the building and waved her wand. The door opened to a storage area with stairs ascending to the second floor while another door led into the residence at the back of the shop.

"My landlady is a squib who makes decorative candles as well as scones. She discounts my rent in exchange for my keeping the protective wards intact."

"Good work," offered Lupin as he inspected the wards that protected the building. The Auror had been very thorough. "Moody would be proud."

"Thanks, it beats having to share a flat." But as soon as Tonks opened the door, they heard a hoarse little snarl coming from a top hat that sat on the table at her entry hall. Tonks folded her umbrella and tapped the rim of the hat calling, "Wimples! Stop that. It's just Remus."

The vorpal bunny peered at Lupin, but Tonks lifted the hat with the lepine and walked to the kitchen. "I bet you're hungry. Here, have some celery."

She pulled Wimples out of his hat and gave him a celery stalk to nibble before turning to Lupin. "Why don't you start some tea? And help yourself to anything in the kitchen. I just got some fresh vegetables for Wimples. Right now I need to get out of this Auror uniform. Feel free to kick off your shoes."

She said the last as she sent hers flying into a corner, then disappeared into her bedroom cooing at the were-rabbit who was snarling at Lupin as he was carried over Tonks' shoulder in between crunching on the vegetable.

While Lupin normally wouldn't have considered going barefoot at a strange house, he found his socks were uncomfortably wet. He called the spell to dry the socks and the hem of his trouser legs that were damp from all the splashing, but it felt good to get to bare feet. He did take the trouble to put his shoes neatly by the door, however.

Lupin walked to her small kitchen and soon had the teapot going. It had an extended surface that served as a breakfast counter, but sitting on a stool to eat didn't seem as inviting as the sofa in the small flat. He peered across the room to see that Tonks did have a coffee table.

He decided to take off his suit coat and felt the weight in the outside pocket. He pulled out the Honeydukes bar and smiled. "Compliments of Sirius Black. Thank you, sir, for providing dessert."

He loosened his tie, unbuttoned his collar, and rolled up the sleeves of his white shirt as he rummaged through Tonks' pantry and Muggle refrigerator. The activity helped him deal with the fact he was nervous. He'd never been invited into a young woman's flat before. He didn't count Lily because then he'd always been with James.

"It's not like this is a date, you git," he mumbled to himself as he made the sandwiches. "She's just a nice girl who understands about having randy roommates. She's just returning the same hospitality you showed her at Wolf Rock."

He nodded to himself, then said miserably, "Besides, even if you wanted to take her out, you're too old, too poor, and too dangerous." Lupin sighed

. - - - - - - - - - -

While Lupin was seeing seeing to their supper, Tonks was in her bedroom fretting over Wimples and why she had even invited Lupin to her flat. Still, she quickly scrubbed her face and took off her black oxford shirt and trousers. As she looked around, she found she had no clean blue jeans.

"Why didn't you do the laundry, Wimples?" she asked indulgently as he settled on the floor to gnaw at his celery stalk. He twitched his ears.

"Right, it's not your job description. I'll just slip on one of the dresses I never wear. Mum would be so proud," said Tonks. She pulled out a yellow dress dotted with tiny pink flowers. While it came to mid-calf, it had a slit in front to allow freedom of movement. She freshened her perfume, but wondered why she bothered.

"What do you think? Is he for real or a backstabbing git?" asked Tonks as she leaned down to stroke Wimples. He wrinkled his nose at her question, so she gave him a last pat on the head and opened the door to her living room. Her first thought then was: Busted!

- - - - - - - - - - -

Lupin had two plates with sandwiches and two cups of tea ready before Tonks re-appeared. He made his way to the sofa and placed the goods, including the chocolate bar, on the coffee table. He was moving items off the sofa when he saw a book on the seat. He picked it up to lay it aside, but heard Tonks open the door just as he held the book in his hand and read the title. Seven Steps to Seduction.

Their gaze met a cross the room and Lupin quickly put the book down while Tonks cringed inside as she realized what he had found.

"Uh, the book was in the way," murmured Lupin as he quickly sat down and raked a hand through his hair.

Tonks felt the flush rising, but then the imp in her realized Lupin also was looking distinctly uncomfortable. She decided it was best to be laughed with than laughed at., and if she wound up embarrassing Lupin, it was the payback he deserved.

"According to that book I should always wear my hair blonde." Tonks tossed her head and the pink spikes became long, blonde locks as she stood in the doorway.

Lupin frowned lightly. He thought pink suited her best, but he remained silent.

"But that's not my only failing. See, I should change my name to something like Boopsie, er, no, Bambi."

"Bambi?" repeated Lupin. She couldn't be serious, could she? "I should be wearing something sexy which means tight and revealing," she said as a hand was gliding down the dress that covered her body modestly, "but I prefer to be comfortable."

"A wise choice," agreed Lupin readily. Actually, her dress emphasized her feminine features quite nicely without revealing too much skin.

"Then I should saunter over to you with a sultry stare," she exaggerated the gait and gaze of a model on the catwalk.

That's when Lupin noticed the flash of skin as she walked. The trim expanse of leg was all the more alluring for the brief glimpses that were offered. Suddenly she tripped on a cushion on the floor, but had the presence of mind to turn it into a pratfall. Lupin saw a hand go up through the pile of green feathers wafting from the ruptured cushion, declaring, "I'm okay!"

Lupin bit back a smile as Tonks found her feet again after blowing a lime green feather off her lips. She was entirely enchanting in this playful mode and it was clear she was making this whole thing into a joke.

But when she reached him, Tonks leaned forward with hands on her knees and whispered near his ear. "I should then say something like, 'Do you think it's getting hot in here?'"

Her sexy whisper induced an immediate blush and Lupin had to swallow the lump that had suddenly appeared in his throat. He moved back to look into her eyes and with relief noted the twinkle of mischief still there. Actually, it was more beguiling than any artifice.

"I applaud your performance," said Lupin as he reached with a finger to touch a lock of blonde hair, "but could I have Tonks back, please? Her tea is getting cold."

Tonks' bright laughter let him know he'd managed to say the right thing. She tossed herself gracelessly beside him on the sofa and admitted, "Good, because I don't think I make a very good seductress, too much effort."

Tonks changed her hair to the short, pink spikes as Lupin asked, "Then why?" "Buy the book?"

Tonks shrugged as she grabbed a sandwich and nibbled on it. "Guess I just wanted to see what I'm always doing wrong." She craned her neck to look around. "You didn't see a line of men beating a path to my door, did you?"

"You had a number of admirers at the Randy Boar," reminded Lupin as he took a bite of his sandwich. Tonks grimaced. "That seems to be my lot in life. I'd rather stay single than settle for one of them."

"As a confirmed bachelor, I have no problem with that philosophy," agreed Lupin readily. Still, he had to consider that Tonks might soon be dating someone. He should feel relieved, but instead he found the sandwich had lost its taste.

"So should I applaud your performance at the Ministry courtyard this afternoon?" asked Tonks when Lupin was taking a sip of tea. "Or was that the real R.J. Lupin?"

Cough. Cough. Tonks whacked his back with vigor. "You poor man! Choking on the truth, are you?"

"I lied." Lupin's voice was quite hoarse as he got the words out.

"You what?"

"I lied to Scrimgeour," said Lupin as he met Tonks' gaze. Then he turned from her and repeated, "Tonks is immature, annoying, and reckless. I can't believe she met Auror criteria."

His voice was very harsh as he again repeated the insults. Lupin pinched the bridge of his nose and asked, "You heard something like that?"

"That was the gist of it," confirmed Tonks. She had turned her face away and her hands were fidgeting with a button on the front of her dress as they lay on her lap.

Lupin watched as his hand moved over hers and gently squeezed. It's not something he normally would have done, but when her movements stilled, he saw it as a sign he had offered no offense. "I'm sorry, Nymphadora, but you're too important to the Order for Scrimgeour not to trust you. Having Aurors on our side has made the difference in keeping Sirius safe. It was best to have him think that you'd be the last person I'd recruit for Dumbledore."

Tonks found herself idly rubbing the edge of his fingers with one of hers. "I guess you deserve payback for the splashing, huh?"

Lupin reluctantly extracted his hand and reached for his sandwich. "You're providing me with shelter and supper. I don't think I have any complaints."

He raised the sandwich in salute and took a bite. Lupin still expected her to kick him out the door, but instead she reached for a tea cup and raised it in a return salute before taking a drink. The Professor finally felt his body relax.

Tonks sipped her tea as she looked at him. His long fingers made eating a sandwich look elegant. His open shirt revealed a throat that was long and slender. She bet his skin would feel very warm, just like his hands had been. She shook off her thoughts and took a long sip of her tea.

- - - - - - - -

As they finished their supper, Tonks asked the question that had been on her mind earlier. "So how do you know that Muggle song so well? Singing in the Rain?"

Lupin was silent for a moment, but he realized that in the bright environment of Tonks' flat he was eager to talk about something that had long been painful for him. "My mother was a dance instructor. She appreciated an eclectic mix of music."

Tonks almost choked on her sandwich but managed to ask, "A dance teacher? Professor, do you boogie?"

The sauciness in her voice made him smile. "Ballroom dance, Boogie, Swing and Shag--and you know I'm referring to the dances, so take that smirk off of your face."

"No puns allowed? Or is it no puns aloud?" offered Tonks with a giggle before she stuffed the rest of her sandwich in her mouth and pointed. "Mmmmmm."

"Wise move," agreed Lupin, but he was shaking his head. He rather enjoyed her annoying little habits. Tonks swallowed and turned to face him looking completely angelic. "Your Mum taught you to dance?"

"By the time I was ten I was easily tall enough to serve as her partner, but I haven't danced since she--" Lupin's voice hesitated a moment. "She died right after I graduated from Hogwarts. My father soon followed."

"I'm sorry, Remus," said Tonks sincerely as she reached out to squeeze his arm. "Your parents must have been special people."

"Father was like the Wolf Rock itself and mother was--she was like a rainbow," said Lupin as he thought of her colorful dresses and her bright personality. "Every summer I'd help her at the dance studio she had in Hugh Town on St. Mary's. It was her busiest time, so that's how I spent my holidays, except for that one week in France. Even full moons didn't keep me away after a day."

"Lessons for the blokes on holiday?"

"And curious Aurors," said Lupin with a quiet laugh. "She taught Moody how to Swing."

"Now there's a brave woman," laughed Tonks. "How did she know Mad-eye? I thought you didn't meet him until you joined the first Order."

"I've known Moody all my life. He and Father were colleagues."

"Your father was an Auror? But you're the only Lupin on the Order roster."

"He was killed by Death Eaters before he could join. Although my lycanthropy prohibited my being trained as an Auror, I demanded that Moody let me help him find the killers. That's how my mates and I discovered the Order. Soon we were all joining."

Tonks prevented herself from asking whether he had avenged his father. "You lost so much in so little time, didn't you?"

"It seems that's how things happen to me. I've mostly led a quiet life. It's the bumps in the road that tend to be mountains," said Lupin with a quiet smile. "Time for dessert? Courtesy of my best mate and your dear cousin, by the way."

"How considerate of him," said Tonks with a grin.

Lupin broke the bar in half and gave her one piece. Then from his half he snapped off a square of chocolate, tossed it in the air and caught it deftly in his mouth.

"How did you do that?" Tonks was sitting up with her full attention on Lupin.

"Do what?" asked Lupin as he felt the chocolate melting in his mouth.

"You tossed it up and just caught it. I've never been able to do that," admitted Tonks. "Ah, but you didn't know Sirius when you were a child. He spent an entire afternoon in the infirmary teaching me how to gauge the toss when we were first years."

"Then as his cousin, I demand you share this legacy of knowledge. Come on, what's the trick?"

"Break off a small piece. It's best if the sides are even." Tonks snapped a jagged piece off the chocolate bar and grimaced. Lupin demonstrated patiently. "Just use your thumb and forefinger, yes, like, wait, no, uh, with your permission?"

Tonks smiled at his old fashioned manners, especially since he'd touched her before. "Please."

Lupin positioned her fingers over the chocolate bar with his hands. "See, just a little pressure and--" Snap!

Tonks smiled as she held up a mostly regular sized morsel. "Then you just toss it?"

"Hold it like this, good, then you have to anticipate the trajectory," explained Lupin. He took another piece and slowly flicked it up before expertly catching it again. "See, nothing to it."

Tonks looked at him a bit warily. "Here goes."

She tossed up the chocolate a bit high and both heads turned up to monitor its fall. Lupin closed his eyes just in time to avoid being stabbed by the falling confection, but it still bounced off his eyelid.

"Oh, Remus! Bloody hell, are you--here, let me see," insisted Tonks as she moved closer to him.

"I'm fine," assured Lupin, although his eye was watering from the impact. He blinked it only to find Tonks looming over him and the sweet smell of her perfume wafting all around him. She was using her hands on either side of his head to hold him.

"Still reckon I'm mostly harmless?" she asked in clear chagrin as she peered closely into his eye.

"You just need some practice," replied Lupin. His voice sounded particularly hoarse and he felt his heart beating at her proximity.

Tonks told herself to breathe and move away slowly. She let her hands drop as she sat back and said, "You're a masochist, aren't you?"

"Not quite. I'll just," and here he summoned her umbrella to him and unfurled it, "take cover."

Tonks was laughing at the sight of the grown man hiding under the rainbow umbrella. "Suit yourself, but I'm going to get this trick."

She managed to catch three morsels, although three others rebounded off the umbrella that Lupin quickly hoisted up at each toss.

"End of lesson; that's three that you've caught. I'll grade you at Exceeds Expectations," declared Lupin as he watched her catch the third morsel in her mouth. He let the umbrella fall away and leaned his head against the back of the sofa to catch his next piece.

Tonks was leaning back as well, just savoring the flavor and realizing that she had not spent such an enjoyable evening with a man in a very long time. Must be the chocolate, she thought. Tonks also realized that this was the real Remus Lupin and he was acting as immaturely as she was. The man at the Ministry had indeed been the fraud, but even that had been an attempt to protect her. Did the Professor care about her? Or was it just her value to the Order?

Tonks pushed those questions aside and muttered as she deftly tossed her last piece and caught it. "They should give OWLs for this."

"Messieurs Moony, Wormtail, Padfoot and Prongs actually developed their own set of OWLs during fifth year," said Lupin as the memory flooded his mind. "Four OWLs that each one of us contributed."

"Do tell, Professor, what were these Marauder OWLs?"

Lupin rolled his head to look at her and smiled. "First, the Edible Arsenal, including the infamous chocolate toss."

"Is that one Moony's?" asked Tonks as she tucked her legs under her.

Lupin nodded to confirm this. "Yes, but the real test was how many tidbits you could capture from the edible projectiles flicked at you. Lucky for me, I managed to engender an aversion to peas among my mates, but anything else was game. Thought I swallowed a spider once, but it was a Bertie Bott's. Anyway, we'd take advantage of any food fights that erupted."

"Ah, yes, food fights. I got detention for instigating a food fight once during Halloween," said Tonks. "It was the exploding pumpkins that got me detention, though. So what were the other OWLs?"

"There was the Castle Sweep, courtesy of Prongs, James Potter."

"Somehow I don't see the Marauder's engaging in such drudgery."

"Of course not, it meant riding through the castle halls on a broom," explained Lupin as he used his hand to to gesture the zooming broom.

Tonks sat up with a squeal. "Why didn't I ever think of that? I only ever buzzed the greenhouse."

"Special points for buzzing the dungeon, by the way." Lupin leaned his head back again as he named another. "Padfoot came up with Belling the Cat."

"Mrs. Norris? I put a ribbon on her tail, but never thought of a bell," murmured Tonks with a pout.

"Mrs. Norris was as far as the rest of us got, but Padfoot's target was actually McGonagall," said Lupin with a laugh as Tonks eyes went wide.

"Are you serious? No pun intended."

"Yes, Padfoot was determined to succeed and actually did on a bright sunny day at the end of term. See, he and James were called to her office so often they noticed some cat hair on a cushion near her window."

"McGonagall taking afternoon cat naps?" Tonks then covered her mouth with her hands in alarm. "I--"

"Blame your dad. I know, I know," assured Lupin. "Then there was Wormtail's."

An edge appeared in his voice and Tonks understood the source. The Order all knew the story of Pettigrew's betrayal. Lupin took a breath and continued, "Peter's was the Boggart Bait. We took turns stealing Boggarts from each other instead of saying Ridikulus. But we didn't gang up to confuse the Boggart; we'd step in front of each other in sequence. The idea was to see long we could handle the fear before someone else would jump in. With each round the Boggart became more menacing for James, though, so I put a stop to that."

"That sounds more malicious than any of the others," said Tonks.

"I never realized how much our OWLs revealed about our nature before," said Lupin as he leaned back to consider the implications. His head lolled toward her one more time. He had not felt this relaxed in ages, especially when he thought about Peter Pettigrew.

Tonks was smiling at him as she sat leaning her head on her hands against the back of the sofa. She thought he looked so young at the moment, even younger than his mid-thirties. She wondered for a moment what would have happened if he had introduced himself four years ago at Wolf Rock.

"So, what do you want to do now?" asked Tonks.

Lupin released a long sigh. "I suppose Wimples and I could entertain you by growling at each other all night."

Tonks laughed, "You've already scared him into staying in my bedroom. Poor thing's a nervous eater; he was attacking the celery with relish."

"I think I'll see if Sturgis Podmore will switch with me for guard duty. I can't go back to number twelve until morning," said Lupin as he sat up.

"Emmeline's there for the whole night?"

"That was the bargain."

"Can't you go to Wolf Rock? I suppose you need your broom once you take a floo to Land's End."

"No, I can summon the skiff we use to get across the sea," said Lupin. The question in her eyes was clear, so he explained, "We use the skiff for quick trips to get to and from the lighthouse from the coast or around the islands."

"Do you then apparate up to the lighthouse?"

"No, it," and here Lupin used his hand to show the vertical ascent, "whips you right up along the side of the tower. It's how we get down to the pool as well."

Tonks suddenly bounced on her knees. "Oh, I want to try it. Please? Pretty please?"

"I don't know--"

"Payback for the spying of the sunbathing, Professor," said Tonks as she pointed a finger at him "You owe me, unless you'd rather I get my revenge in kind? Let's see, I know which room you're sleeping in and where you'll be taking a ba--"

"Done," agreed Lupin firmly.

Tonks actually clapped her hands in delight. "Well, let's go then."

"We can't. I set a repairing spell before I left. It'll take a month for it to work if left unimpeded and I won't be able to start it again until the day after the next full moon."

"Oh," said Tonks with disappointment. "Well then, you'll have to let me know when you're going back."

Lupin merely nodded, although the thought that he had just made a tentative date with Tonks did enter his mind.

"How about, well, I don't have a chess set," said Tonks as she thought about diversions the Professor might enjoy.

"I brought mine, but it's at number twelve," said Lupin. Tonks grinned at him.

"Well, then, let's go get it."

"What? We can't go get it. Heaven knows what Sirius and Emmeline are doing now that they have the run of the house--except on the kitchen table."

"So? We sneak in and get your chess set. In fact," added Tonks as the idea formed, "we can also grab a bedroll and change of clothes for you. You can sleep in here for the night."

Lupin looked at her as if she'd gone mad. "I can't stay here."

"Why? Afraid of the vicious vorpal bunny?" taunted Tonks with as she used her fingers to mimic Wimples incisors.

Lupin huffed at the thought. "A werewolf cannot be intimidated by a ball of fluff."

"Well you can't be afraid of me," said Tonks. "You're bigger, although I'm probably meaner. And I can assure you that I have no, ahem, peas in the premises."

"You're suggesting we sneak into Order headquarters."

"Yes, in fact, now would be a good time to test the security. What's the worst that could happen?"

"Let me think. We could catch Emmeline and Sirius in the middle of an intimate act and set off alarms that summon every available Order member to witness this."

Tonks nodded, "Yeah, and it would serve them right, wouldn't it?"

"You have a wide streak of mischief, young lady."

"And a professional interest."

"We might discover something to help improve security at number twelve," agreed Lupin.

"It's perfect! We could actually learn something useful on this lark," said Tonks with a nod. Lupin stood up.

"Why am I saying yes?"

Tonks stood, "Because you're still a Marauder at heart. Let's go."

"We can't sneak in dressed like this," said Lupin.

"You're right," said Tonks. She quickly summoned her wand and tapped both their shoulders. Their clothes changed to black clothing complete with black caps. "The charm will only work for thirty minutes. Let's go."

- - - - - - - - - - - -

Grimmauld Place

The two Shadows slipped up the stairs of number twelve, then the taller one tested the front door. The wards were working, but rather than reveal his identity to allow him through, Lupin thought of a counterspell. He hadn't considered the breach in security this posed as the door opened just a slit.

Tonks nodded as he looked at her. They had already learned something of value and would advise setting locks inside the door. The Auror then set the disillusionment charm on them before they slipped into the house. Lupin was carrying the barest faint blue light in his hand. The troll foot umbrella stand seemed to move in front of them, but Lupin lifted Tonks up as he stepped over. He set her down and they made it to either side of the stairs.

"You go first since you know where everything is. I'll follow and keep watch for Kreacher," whispered Tonks.

"Don't worry about Kreacher," said Lupin. "He was hiding in his cupboard as soon as he heard that Emmeline was coming over."

A quick nod affirmed Tonks had heard, so Lupin led the way up to his room. As soon as they got up the steps, they heard the voices emanating from Sirius' bedroom.

"Oh, Sirius!" "Emmeline!" "Sirius!" "Emmeline!"

"Aren't they ever quiet?" muttered Tonks.

"No." Lupin opened the door and slipped into the room.

Tonks stood in the open doorway but cast an illusion spell so that anyone passing would only see a closed door. The Auror had a clear view of the hallway although the spell didn't dampen the sounds from the bedroom. "Oh, oh, oh!" "Yes, yes!" "OH YES!"

Tonks could only pray that Lupin hurried. She looked over her shoulder as he walked to the wardrobe. The illuminated writing on the ceiling of the room provided sufficient light. She whispered, "Hey, the room is still marked."

She referred to the line and letters marking the room as Tonks Territory and Lupin Land.

"I don't know what Sirius did to the spell, but it hasn't faded. I think it's gotten stronger," murmured Lupin as he walked to his wardrobe while Tonks resumed her surveillance.

- - - - - - - - - - - - -

The Professor pulled clothing out of a drawer from the wardrobe and off the hangers. He opened the other side to grab a satchel and stuffed them in. He slung that over his shoulder then reached for the bedroll.

"Catch," called Lupin as he tossed the bedroll to Tonks. She caught it deftly and wondered about using it to muffle the sounds still emanating from the other bedroom.

Lupin just had one last acquisition, but when he reached under the bed to get the small wooden box that contained his chess set, he discovered an intruder in his room. Somehow the house elf had made it past his wards. Kreacher was clutching the box that contained the chess set.

"Kreacher, what are you doing with that? It doesn't belong to the Blacks," hissed Lupin as he dragged the box and the house elf from under the bed.

"The vile creature acts like a human, but Kreacher knows the truth. The wolf that walks on two legs is still a wolf. Wolves don't need such a precious and ancient item."

Lupin was not amused. The Wizard's chess was indeed old, but more than that, it had been his father's favorite pass time. Kreacher's very touch was sullying the set. "Give it to me now."

Tonks heard a scuffling behind her in the room and bit her lip to keep from laughing. Lupin was engaged in a tug of war with Kreacher, who came up to about his knee. Back and forth went the box until the lid flew open and chess pieces scattered to the floor with a rattle. Then several things happened at once.

Four chess pieces, all white Knights, became activated as Lupin called, "Defend your King against the Dark pawn."

Kreacher began jumping around and squealing loudly as the Knights attacked his ankles while Lupin tried to gather the remaining pieces as quickly as possible. But the house elf had set off Mrs. Black's portrait. She began to rail at all and sundry. "BLOOD TRAITORS! SHAPE-SHIFTERS! ABOMINATIONS!..."

Tonks grabbed Kreacher's shoulders and tossed him out of the room toward Sirius' door.

"Wonderful, we've woken Mrs. Black." She heard Lupin's voice behind her, but before she could respond, they both had to muzzle their mouths to muffle their laughter.

Kreacher's hands had slapped the door to Sirius' bedroom. The door opened and, thankfully, the house elf blocked critical bits of Sirius' body from full view of Tonks and Lupin. But a mirror near the door reflected the house elf's face perfectly. The shocked look on Kreacher's face when Sirius opened the door was matched by the one on his master.

"Kreacher!"

The house elf yipped and had the presence of mind to disapparate with a pop while Sirius slammed the door shut. But still, Mrs. Black was ranting: "FORNICATORS! BLOOD TRAITORS! MUGGLE LOVING FILTH!"

"Ready? We need to leave," urged Tonks.

Lupin quickly inspected his precious chess pieces and sighed in relief when found all were intact. He spelled the box securely shut and said, "Let's see if getting out is as easy as getting in."

Tonks freshened their disillusionment charm before they stepped out of the room. Lupin then turned and placed his hand on the door of his bedroom. Tonks could sense the flow of magic at the contact, but soon he was prodding her forward. They were in the middle of descending the steps when they heard Sirius and Emmeline.

"He's coming," murmured Tonks to Lupin. They immediately flattened against the wall.

"...can't do anything with her ranting away like that," huffed Sirius.

"Well then, let's give the old bat something to really scream about." Emmeline's tone had that suggestive challenge that Sirius could not resist. Sirius' laughter was all the signal they needed to understand he agreed.

"Oh, bloody hell, let them at least be dressed," whimpered Tonks as she closed her eyes.

"Just keep your eyes closed; I'll give the all clear," murmured Lupin just moments before Sirius and Emmeline breezed past them.

"...I don't often give a performance, Sirius, so I hope you appreciate what this is costing me."

"I appreciate everything about you, luv. Come on, we haven't tried.."

"Oh, Sirius. And here I thought you'd forgotten my favorite position."

Tonks heard all of this while Mrs. Black's continued ranting in the background. She felt Lupin take her hand and advise, "Don't look, I'll just lead you out."

"Okay, hey, wait," whispered Tonks amid the moans of Sirius and Emmeline now coming from the entry hall. "Why do you get to look?"

"Because I've seen it all before," said Lupin as he tugged her toward the door.

"You're hampering my education, Professor," replied Tonks in a hushed voice. Then as Lupin was turning the latch on the front door, she opened her eyes and peeked over her shoulder. "Oh, my!"

"Get out of there," said Lupin with one last strong tug of her arm.

As the door closed, they could hear Siruis lamenting, "Oh look. Mumsy has closed her curtains..."

Lupin and Tonks made sure the door was firmly shut and reapplied the wards. He again pressed his hand against the door and Tonks could feel a stronger wave of magic securing the door.

"That should help until we get the locks up tomorrow," said Lupin. "Right, I'll nick some from the Auror stores. Ready?"

They disapparated with a pop.

- - - - - - - - -

Tonks' Flat

Once they entered her flat, Lupin and Tonks took a deep breath and let the bedroll and satchel fall to the floor with a thunk. Then they practically fell over each other laughing.

"I don't think I've ever quite had an escapade like this one," said Tonks as she just sank to the floor and sat cross-legged. Their clothes were back to their pre-raid attire.

Lupin followed suit and put the chess box in his lap. "I think I should have left this at Wolf Rock."

"You can keep it here if you like," offered Tonks. She giggled as she thought of Sirius and Emmeline. "You know it's funny, but Emmeline mentioned that, uh, never mind. It was just a position thing."

"Ahem, right," said Lupin. It truly wasn't anything he hadn't seen before. He'd learn to announce his arrival at the flat he and Sirius had shared to prevent stumbling on a variety of interesting positions.

Tonks wasn't sure why she felt like teasing Lupin, but she added, "I suppose it helps if the couple is about the same height."

Lupin was nodding before he realized it. "Well, yes, although if the man is taller he could always wrap--Uh, how about that game of chess?"

"Right," agreed Tonks as she noticed her face was flushing as an image popped into her mind.

They walked to the sofa a bit self-consciously and set up the chess game in silence. The game they played was particularly passionate, however, as if both of them were venting a bit of pent up energy with their moves.

"Checkmate," Lupin finally called.

"I demand a rematch," cried Tonks immediately.

"Some other time. This old man needs some sleep," said Lupin as he stretched.

"The loo's through my bedroom. Just grab one of the pillows from the bed when after you change. I'll clean up from supper."

Lupin merely nodded and grabbed his satchel. As he entered Tonks' bedroom, Wimples snarled at him. The Professor, usually a compassionate man, growled back at the were-rabbit. Wimples went scurrying out the bedroom door to seek his mistress.

Tonks had just washed the dishes when she felt the furry body leaning against her ankles. "Now, Wimples, don't let Remus scare you. He's a lost puppy at heart."

But she gathered the bunny in her arms and pet him for a moment as she thought about her odd day. But then, every day with Remus Lupin had been a unique experience. Had it only been a week?

Lupin walked out of her bedroom dressed for bed his arms holding a pillow. He had the appearance of a rather shy youth as he said, "Thanks for putting up with me and putting me up."

Tonks shrugged a bit diffidently, but then she put her hand lightly on his arm. "That's what friends are for, Remus. Good night."

And as Lupin settled into the bedroll, he didn't notice the hard floor under him. He was too preoccupied with that warm feeling springing from his heart and sending him sweet dreams.

End of Chapter

Minor Edits

Author Notes:
Yipes, it was a long chapter, but rather than posting individual stories, I'm trying to keep this all in one. I hope you got more of Lupin's background and found it wouldn't violate canon. I also incorporated some details for Kingsley's efforts to keep Sirius safe. I thought Tonks would have helped with that. We see Scrimgeour appear and, yes, the silver screening will be relevant to another chapter. There's still some angst to come, but again, there's always a reason for it.

I really enjoyed the image of Lupin's mother that came out of this story. It helps set the tone for Lupin's personality. Will there be some dancing some time? Who doesn't want to see Moody Swing? And, yes, I was counting on there being a resemblance of Lupin and Tonks in his parents. I think I can understand why he'd be drawn to a woman like Tonks after all these years. I'm tired or I'd think of more to say. So, thanks for reading this long chapter. I hope it flowed well enough to maintain your interest.