Sing a Song for Me

Chapter 5 – The Moment I Said It

AN: The morning after I posted the last chapter, I realized that I had placed Remus and Tonks in the same bed. I did it without noticing anything odd. Oh, how I have been corrupted by the world. I will probably go back and edit that at some point, as I value the morality of characters. And yes, they were in the same bed in Chapter Three, but that was an entirely different…mostly innocent…situation. :P


The moment Remus said it, he knew that it was a mistake. He had hardly uttered the words, "I don't love you," when he saw the hope in Tonks's eyes dissipate. Part of him screamed: you old sod, what are you doing? The other part assured that it was good, that it was for the best.

Tonks gave a small nod and turned away quickly to hide the despair that took control. She would be strong, she would move on, like every other time. Only…this wasn't the same as every other time. She turned back to read his expression, but his face was blank and eyes were lowered.

The silence had lasted long enough. "Yes, well…that's how things go." There was a slight tremor in Tonks's voice and Remus looked up at her.

He could see the pain in her eyes, and was suddenly reminded of himself. It scared him a great deal. I've never seen her like this. Oh…what am I doing? This amazing young woman loves me, and I have to go and ruin it all.

"I…er…yes. I'm sorry if I've….lead you on…or anything." Remus heard himself speaking as if far away.

"Oh, no. It's entirely my fault. I tend to read too much into situations." Tonks recovered nicely, and stood stony-faced, clenching her wand.

"I don't think so. You're very good at…evaluating situations." Remus replied lamely.

"Well, if that is all, I suppose I should be going."

"Don't." Remus said abruptly.

Tonks looked at him in surprise.

"Don't leave. Not like this. Not now."

Something in his voice made Tonks stop. "What are you saying?"

"I am saying that…" Remus fished for words. "I'm saying that I hate parting like this, after a disagreement."

"Do you?"

"Yes."

"Then why do you continually insist upon disagreeing with me?" Tonks asked, with a challenge in her eyes.

"Because you are right, and I don't like it. The fact that you can see through me so well is, frankly, unnerving."

"Oh. I see. Should I apologize, or something?"

"No...I am afraid. You're right. I avoid forming attachments because I am always betrayed, or left alive when those I love most are killed."

Tonks was taken aback. "I'm so sorry. I had no idea."

"It's just…I am always left alone. Always. I don't want it to happen again."

"You mean that--"

"Yes, blast it. I'm a liar, too."

In these words lay quiet confirmation of everything Tonks believed. There was love.


AN: Uh, yeah. I hope it wasn't too cheesy for you. Poor Remus; I feel for the guy, which is probably why he is one of my favorite characters. At least he has Tonks. :) This chapter was based on "The Moment I Said It" by Imogen Heap. And don't worry, I'm running out of songs by Imogen. I believe there is one more chapter based on an Imogen song, and then it's on to other things. That is, if I can find them.