I woke in a warm and safe embrace. Snuggling closer to it, I stiffed at the chuckle. Looking up I was staring into storm eyes. Damn did he look sexy! It was then that I noticed how we were entwined. My leg was between his, my arm wrapped around his waist and face in his neck. Giving him a sleepily look, I slowly began to pull back. He wasn't having that.

"Morning." His voice laced with sleep.

"Morning." Trying to pull back again, he tightens his grip. "I have to get up, school."

Lifting his head and looking over mine, he fell back with a groan. "Still have two hours."

"Oh." Trying to relax, I held back the gasp when he rolled us over. Looking up at the man hovering over me, I panicked. "Wh-what are you doing?"

Sirius seemed lost, his eyes fighting an inner battle. "What would you think if I were to kiss you?" His eyes jumping from mine to my mouth.

I didn't know how to respond. If he did, it would be my first kiss. "I-I don't know."

The next thing I knew, he had slammed his lips to mine and nearly knocked all wind from my lungs. I hardly had a moment to react before he pressed his tongue to the seam of my lips and, at my grant of access, delved inside my mouth. It was a sloppy kiss with the strong scent of old wine being exchanged in the intermingling of our billowing breaths. My arms reached up and tangled around his strong neck. In an instant, I had pulled away and arched up into his broad chest, moaning in the contact of body heat against my own, before I drew back into his lips. I could nearly feel the slight burn of the wine as it rolled off my tongue and seeped down my throat with every push of his tongue against mine.

As we both pulled back, breathing heavily I hesitantly looked up at him. The swirls of emotion I saw there made me gasp. Lust and desire. However, before I could ponder on it, he leaned in once more. My lips compelling against his slimmer, warm ones, dancing around and soon bonding together. Epiphany and elation percolated into my veins and soon my entire system as he continued to his lips more impenetrably and rougher onto my lips. His insistent mouth, parting my lips once more, sending wild tremors along my nerves, inflicting sensations I had never known I was capable of feeling. Then, I kissed him back, the kiss getting deeper, deeper than all the galaxies in the universe. No one has ever kissed me like this. Ha! Nobody had ever kissed me. I'd always wondered what stories meant by 'melting into a kiss', now I fully understood, dissolving into Sirius's lips.

Slowly he pulled back, a smirk on his red lips. "Well, what do you think now?"

Between the dizziness of the kiss and slight embarrassment, I turned my head away. "I-I need to get up for school." Sneaking out of his grip, I ran into the bathroom, before he could say anything. How can this man have such an effect on me? I couldn't have feelings for him, I just couldn't. Sirius was simply doing this to keep us both safe. But, why did he kiss me? And with such aggression. As I was about to take a shower, I remembered my things were in another room. "Merlin please help me!"

WITH SIRIUS:

Watching her bolt into the bathroom, Sirius groaned and flopped onto the bed. He wasn't sure what came over him. One moment he was in control and the next it went to hell. He couldn't stop once he began, the taste of her lips and the softness of her skin, was just too much. He knew, he had pushed too far and too fast. She was just a girl-innocent and untouched girl-who by the greed of her father was tossed into a marriage. One with a man much older than her, not only that, but Sirius wasn't half the man he used to be. He was broken and had demons. Demons that would never stop their torment. He couldn't deny, that having her by his side, was placing her in danger as well. Even more than her usual ones with Harry. Still, she was a very beautiful girl, and try as he would, he had to have her. It has been years since he's acted as he was raised. Usually, the simple mention of his name, had witches and muggles falling to his feet. But not this witch. No, he'd have to concur with this one. He may be rusty, but it's like riding a broomstick. Once you learn, you never forget.

WITH ATHENA:

Taking in a deep breath, I cracked the door up. "Sirius?"

"Yes?"

"Umm, I need some clothes." Hearing him climb out of the bed and out of the room, I waited. Sitting on the toilet until he knocked softly. "Thank you." Reaching for it, he didn't let go.

"When you are finished, may I have a word with you?" He asked. His eyes gave nothing away.

Nodding, I swallowed the lump in my throat. "Of course." I took my time, trying to postpone the talk. I wasn't sure what he wanted to say. Maybe he was going to back out? Angry for leaving him? What if he wanted more than the kiss? "Stop it, Athena! You are getting worked up for nothing!" Chanting myself, I finished washing. Once I was dried and dressed, I walked out into the room. Sirius sat on the bed showered and dressed. And let me tell you, he was too good to be true. Dressed in a burgundy shirt, black trousers, and black jacket. His hair was loose but combed neatly. A pocket watch was seen on the inside of his jacket. I couldn't help but notice a black ring on his finger, followed by a silver watch. "Hi."

"Come." Holding his hand out for me, I took it with a bit of uncertainty. "I want to talk about the kiss."

"Okay."

"If I pushed too fast, please forgive me. I did not want to make you uncomfortable, or embarrass you." Sirius, the tone was nothing but sincerity.

Looking into his eyes, I shook my head. "It was not that. I just-I didn't know how to react. I did not mind." The last part was nothing, but a whisper. Why was I such an idiot around him? "I am the one to apologize. I should not have left you like that."

Sirius chuckled, a certain charm coming onto his face. The smirk he held was not one I have seen. It made him seem younger and a bit rebellious. "I want to make things right. This Is something that must happen, so let's make the best of it. I don't want this to be a simple business to keep the family line pure. Let me be your friend before I can be anything else."

Now that I can handle. A friend, with the promise of much more. "I'd like that."

"But, I wish to ask permission for something." He asked.

"What?"

"A repetition of this morning." I know he saw the fear, flash behind my eyes. "Simple gestures Athena. Kisses, hand-holding, public appearance, family meetings, and physical contact. It would make what is to come, much easier."

He was right. Even though I was a never wreck, I must get used to him touching and kissing me. He was after all the one to be my first. "Okay."

"Okay?"

I nodded, plastering a smile on my face. "Okay."

Giving me a quick peck on the lips, he jumped to his feet. "I must speak with Remus and I'll meet you downstairs for breakfast."

"Alright." With that, he was gone. "What did I just get myself into?" With a groan, I bounced down the steps. Surprised in seeing the kitchen empty, Molly was always the first to wake up. Glancing at my watch, I cursed. The others still had an hour to wake. Shrugging to myself, I pulled out pans and eggs. Using my wand, I enchanted the potato peeler to peel the potatoes. Followed by setting the table and flipping the eggs. Grabbing the bacon, I allowed them to fry. So, lost in my activity, I did not see or feel Sirius enter the kitchen.

Unexpectedly, I was turned around, his hand drifting to my hip. It settled there and pulled me closer. I was against his warm chest, chiseled to perfection. Must he be so perfect? Splaying a hand on his chest, intending to push him away, but instead, I left it there. My breath quickens, as did his. Gasping softly as he nuzzled my neck with delicate kisses. So, faint, they were whispers. I urged myself to push him away, but I couldn't. Instead, I gripped his shirt, in a fierce fist. My limp body beginning to tremble uncontrollably. His head angled slightly to his side, as his lips came closer and closer to mine. I was surprised to find my lips parting. Our breath mingled, just like before. My heart fluttering in my chest. Then his arms encircled me, his fingers gently ran up and down my spine, coaxing shivers out of me. With my cheeks still blushing hotly, I glanced back up into his captivating gray eyes. He leaned down, resting his forehead against mine. I watched breathlessly as his eyes studied mine with silent intensity. His warm breath ghosted across my face. Shutting my eyes in anticipation, I stifled a surprised gasp as his lips captured mine. The heat seemed to travel through my veins, warming me entirely. At first, it was a delicate butterfly of a kiss. Drawing me even closer to him, he tilted slightly deepening the kiss. This time he asked for no permission as his tongue thrust into my mouth, earning himself a low moan. Just as I felt a rush of euphoric bliss envelop me, making my body react in strange ways, it ended.

"Sirius!" A shrieking voice rang throughout the kitchen.

Jumping at the intrusion, I tried to step away, but he rejected releasing me. so Instead I hid my face in his chest, hoping and praying they would leave. Sirius simply turned his head to glare at the intruders.

"What?" He growled, making him sound more animal than human.

Molly stalked up to us, ripping me from his arms and behind her. "Just because you are to marry, does not mean you have to right to take advantage of her!"

Sirius rolled his eyes. "I have not taken advantage of her and I never will Molly. Like you said we are to marry and it is perfectly normal for me to kiss my fiancé." He finished, with a hand stretched out towards me. A clear sign of his claim. Looking between the two, I placed my hand in his larger one. Pulling me to his side, he wrapped his arm around my waist and glared at the woman. It was a showdown, one neither were willing to lose. Looking towards the door, I tensed. Everyone and I do mean everyone stood there. Hermione and Ginny held stupid grins on their faces. Harry was slightly paled and Ron seemed sick. The twins were snickering, while the rest of the group was somewhat neutral. Remus seemed disappointed with his friend.

"She may be your fiancée, but she deserves respect, Sirius!" Molly argued.

"Kissing her has nothing to do with respect Molly." Sirius snapped. I could see the anger swimming behind his eyes, waiting to erupt. "For merlin sake's Molly, it was simply a kiss. It's not as if you found us shagging on the counter."

"Well, then it's a good thing I arrived when I did. Otherwise, who knows what I'd find." Molly snapped, clearly not hearing what she was saying.

Either way, her words hurt a bit. Did she really think I would throw myself at him? Did she think so little of me?

Sirius took the words as hard as I did. It would seem as if he was the insulted one. "Careful Molly. Athena is now under my protection and I will not have her insulted." His tone held a certain threat.

Molly narrowed her eyes on the wizard. "Then show some respect, Black."

Not wanting to be in the middle when the wands came out, I quickly snuck out. Pulling the others and Remus with me. Sirius was currently ranting about, it just being a bloody kiss. Molly retaliating that I was too young for him to be feeling up, no matter if I was to marry him or not. Blocking them out I turned to Remus.

"Professor Lupin, could you take us to the train station. It appears Molly and Sirius are in for the long haul." I asked, sighing as the shouting got louder.

Remus nodded, trying to keep the smile from his lips. "Of course, finish getting ready and meet me in Sirius's house." I glanced at him, slightly confused. "I left my briefcase there and you need to get your pet."

That's right! I couldn't leave without my trunk either. Doing as told I jogged up to the room and grabbed my jacket. Not sure if I should take my books, I didn't notice Sirius walk into the room. Yelping at the hands, that had fallen on my waist. "Bloody hell Sirius!"

"Sorry love." Clearly not sorry, he took a seat on the edge of the bed.

Looking him over, I sighed in relief. "I see no injuries and you weren't hex, so I take it things ended well?"

Sirius playfully glared at me. "Funny, it's the emotional trauma she has caused me."

Giving him a shrug, I turned back to my books. "You're a big boy, I'm sure you can handle it." Finally deciding on going halfway, I pulled my wand and shrunk two of the four books. Placing them in my pocket, I zipped them up.

"Where are you going?" Sirius asked, in a slightly bored tone.

I quirked an eyebrow. "First day at Hogwarts remember? Remus had agreed to take us to the train station. Molly and you seemed to engross in your verbal battle."

Sirius grumbled something along with the words of 'bloody woman'. "Well, then where are you meeting him?"

"Your home." I replied, not paying attention to my words.

Sirius paused, his eyes flashing something I didn't quite get. "It's your home as well Athena." He almost whispered it.

Leaning over and kissing him on the cheek, I leaned closer to his ear. "I know Sirius." Before I could back away, he wrapped an arm around my waist.

"Should we use the floo channel or apparated there?" He asked, clearly wanting the latter.

Looking down at my clean white shirt, I wrapped my arms around his neck. "Appareate. I don't want to dirty my clothes."

"Very well." Holding me even tighter, I held my breath as he mingled together. Holding me steady, Sirius placed me on my feet. Not letting go, until I had my balance.

Just then I was suddenly tackled by two, fluffy and furry figures. "You two miss me. Kreature been feeding you?" That earned me a sloppy kiss on the neck. Not noticing the way Sirius, eyes darken in jealousy. Both wolves were your typical dire wolves.

Gryffindor was a mixture of colors. He was the one to join me this year at Hogwarts. His name fitted him perfectly, he was brave, had courage, loyal, and a huge sweetheart. Everyone was simply drawn to him, petting and kissing him. kind of reminded me a lot of Sirius. The girls fell under his charms. He was given to me, by my brother. Asked to look out for him, but ended keeping him as he grew attached to me.

Slytherin was the youngest one by a year. He was fully black. His favorite time to go out for hunts and walks, were at midnights. The only thing that gave him away, in the darkness were his green eyes. Like the other one, his name was perfect for him. Always bullying Gryffindor, causing mischiefs, but he was loyal and very overprotective of me. He was with me last year and had taking a liking to Draco as a chew toy. For some reason, he never allowed anyone, but those from Gryffindor to touch him. He was given to me by Snape, as a birthday gift.

Both wolves had tried to protect me against my father, but it only earned them, being hit by his wand and chained in the back yard.

Leaving them be, I took off into my room and gathered my things. Shrinking it all down, so it would fit in one trunk. After I was done, I made sure I had Gryffindor's things and blocked Slytherin from reaching buck beak's room. I don't want to come home to a blood bath. As we waited for the others to arrive, I took out a book and read. Sirius paced the room, corner to corner. It was annoying. Every now and then, he'd glance my way and just as I was about to snap, he took a seat beside me.

"Earlier today I said I wanted to do things right." I nodded, wary of what he might say next. "That includes giving you an engagement ring."

I quickly scooted back, with a shake of my head. "No, Sirius-"

"Allow me this please." He cut me off, pulling a black velvet box from his pocket. He held it out to me, in the palm of his hand. "Open it."

Doing as told, I gasped softly. I never expected this. The ring itself was black, with small rubies embedded around it. In the middle sat a blood-red ruby, big enough to be noticed, but discreet as well. Small tiny diamonds circling the rock. Beautiful was not nearly enough to describe it, but either way, it was too much. Opening my mouth, Sirius stopped me.

"Athena, please accept the ring. This engagement began wrong and for the wrong reasons, let me fix what little I can. Plus, Remus helped me pick it out."

I couldn't reject him, not just for fear of hurting him, but because I could see the emotions swimming within his eyes. "Okay, I accept."

Grinning he pulled the ring out of the box and slipped it on my finger. "This will keep the snotty boys away from you, but this one..." He pulled out another ring. Only this one was steel, a black ring with specks of dark red. It had the Black crest engraved on it. "This one will keep you safe. If you are even harmed or in danger I will know."

"How?"

"Blood magic." He said as if it was obvious. "The ring carries some of my blood Athena. If anyone tries to take it off. If you are harmed. Scared. Sad. I will feel it. That ring will keep us connected, no matter where you are." Lifting his left hand, he showed me his black family ring. "The rings have been magically bonded."

I smiled at the sweet, yet overprotective gesture. "So while I am at school-"

"I won't be, but a few steps away."

Running my finger over the ring, I failed to notice the shiver that passed through Sirius. "Thank you." Kissing him on the corner of his mouth, he grinned. Just then Remus and the rest flooed into the living room.

"Padfoot?" Remus frowned, clearly not knowing his friend was here. "You are coming along?"

Nodding, the wizard draped a hand over his shoulder. "Of course. I would like to see my godson and fiancé off safely." He glanced at the others. "And their friends as well. Besides you tend to get distracted easily."

"I do not." Remus grumbled, a slight pink on his cheeks.

Sirius snorted in laughter. "Moony, before Tonks, every girl you saw had you drooling and seeing lamb chops.

Glaring at his friend and us for laughing, he gave a small growl. "You brats ready?"

"I'm good to go. This should be a good year, as long as a giant snake doesn't try and eat me." I grumbled.

"Or get kidnapped by a bloody game." Ron shivered. The poor lad still hasn't gotten over that.

"let's scratch dealing with three-headed dogs as well." Hermione added. Yet ironically, she was cooing at two dire wolves. Ginny was on the side, scratching Slytherin's belly. Some protectors they were.

"You three done complaining?" Remus asked somewhat annoyed, but the amusement danced and somersaulted behind his eyes.

"Yes, professor lupin." The four of us chorused.

It was then that I spotted certain twins missing. "Where are Fred and George?"

"They needed to stop at the shop for a few things, they will meet us at the station." Ron answered.

"Well, we will see you in a bit. I am going to take my fiancé to the station." Sirius smirked, wrapping his arm around my waist. "Shall we?" Nodding I braced myself for the sick feeling of apparatating.

Luckily it wasn't long before we were at king's cross station. There weren't many muggles, being as it was a weekday and a little past 10 am. You had vendors yelling as the potential customers came to and from. The smell of wet coats, cigarette cologne, and perfumes mixing within the damp air. I reached for my trunk but was beat by Sirius who decided to pull it through the tong of people. Through it all, Gryffindor kept to my side, not once trailing away or getting distracted. I kept to myself, trying not to gain any unwanted attention. I was already getting looks for the wolf. We were soon in front of the solid column of brick between platforms 9 and 10. I was never too confident with this thing, I mean one day it might not work. Sirius took my hand, giving me a reassuring smile. Making sure no one was looking, we quickly ran through the invincible cloak. You know that feeling you get when you break out from under the water? Well, that's what it felt like. Only you were dry. Glancing behind me, I smiled as Gryffindor jumped from within the wall.

This side was almost no different than the muggles. If you don't count the magic and animals. Hundreds of witches and wizards roamed through the platform. In the center of it the long majestic scarlet and black, Hogwarts express. We walked through the students, bumping ever so often into one another. New students attached to their parents, nervous for their first year. Others running from one side to the next, greeting and chatting with old and new friends, excited to start a new year. Suddenly I was pulled to the side and into strong arms.

Glancing up I relaxed at seeing Sirius. "What's the matter?"

"Too many kids." He grumbled, causing me to chuckle. "Listen, I know I have said this before, but please be careful. If anything happens, anything at all do not hesitate to send me an owl. Or the dog. Look out for yourself and the others."

"I promise." Seeing the sincerity in his eyes, with a mixture of fear and worrisome was too much. He had beautiful eyes, to be filled with nothing, but happiness. "You do the same."

With a soft huff, he nodded. "I will. And try and stay out of trouble this year."

Groaning, I dropped my head on his chest. "Punch Malfoy once and it follows you for life."

Sirius barked out a laughter. "You hit Malfoy?"

Nodding, I hid my face even deeper. "Hermione did too. It was the day Harry found out about you." Although it mostly came out muffled, I think he understood me.

"I meant no pranks, but yeah that too. Try and restraint from hitting anyone."

Looking up, I shivered as his breath ghost over my face. swallowing hard, I gave him a stiff nod. "No promises." With a slight smirk, he leaned down. Brushing his lips against mine, almost as if testing the waters. One of his hands slipped to the back of my neck, while the other pulled me closer to him. Moaning as his tongue pushed past my lips and danced with mine. Oh, merlin! Did this man know how to snog! Wrapping my hands around his neck, I crushed my body against his relishing in the warmth he gave. His body heat covering me from the cold and damp morning air. In a moment of bravery, I lowered my right hand to the hem of his shirt. Teasing for a moment, before I placed my hand under his shirt. His skin was smooth, harden with muscles, and a few scars here and there. Before I could explore more, someone cleared their throat. Breaking away, I was both relieved and embarrassed it was only Remus. I didn't want Harry to witness me openly kissing his godfather. It was still foreign for me, no matter how much I like it.

"Sirius. Must learn to behave yourself old friend." Remus scowled, pulled me away, and slightly behind him. "Athena the others already aboard. Hurry, the train leaves in a few."

Giving him a nod, I waved bye to Sirius and ran towards the train. It took a few moments to find the cart. Students were bumping and pushing to find their seats, luckily Gryffindor made sure we were let through. Walking in, the wolf took up the floor. Harry sat between Ginny and Ron. Taking a seat beside Hermione and across the others, I glanced out the window. Smiling to myself, Sirius gave a small wave. Waving back, I watched him left behind as we began to move. I couldn't help, but see the looks he was getting. Sirius may be free and a free man, but people still pointed him out. and who wouldn't? The wizard was the last in the Black line. Godfather to the boy who lived. Spent 12 years in Azkaban and escaped. Part of the order of the phoenix and as far as everyone knew, single and with no heir. No pressure. It was then that I remember, we have not talked about the wedding. We had three months, from the moment he presents the marriage proposal to the ministry.

"Athena?" Hermione shook me.

Snapping out of my trance, I turned towards her. "What?"

"I was talking to you." She seemed somewhat worried.

"Sorry Mione. I was somewhere else." Turning my full body towards her, I gave her my full attention. "What were you saying?"

"How are things with Sirius?" She asked.

Blushing I shrugged. "Nothing's changing. We are marrying, to save me from marrying Malfoy and our magic. Nothing more." I couldn't allow them to know what was going on. I didn't even know what was going on. I mean he did have some effect in, but I knew it wasn't love. Not yet anyway.

"That kiss was not nothing." Ginny added.

Thinking of an answer, I bit my lower lip. Cursing at the taste of whiskey that still lingered there. "I can't deny him the right to kiss me. I am looking to make the best of the situation. The minute this is known, all eyes will be on us. Besides, I best get comfortable with all of this. I can-" Ginny cut me off, with a deafening squeal.

"Blimey Ginny! You gone popped my ear!" Ron whimpered.

"What's is wrong with you?" Harry asked, rubbing his ear.

"Her hand" She squealed. "Your hand!"

"Stop squealing like some school girl!" Ron yelled.

Glancing at my hand, I cringed at not remembering I was sporting the ring. "He gave it to me this morning."

Harry grabbed my hand, giving it a once-over. "I don't know about this stuff, but it's nice."

"Nice?! That thing is huge!" Ginny giggled.

Ron groaned. "Are you going to scream the whole way?" Ginny scowled, sticking her tongue out at him. Ignoring his sister, he turned to talk with harry. Ginny was happily examining the ring, while Hermione scribbled something on a piece of paper. Giving her a look as she handed it to me. Rolling my eyes as I read the perfect handwriting.

*Have you slept with him?*

"No."

"No what?" Harry asking, putting a pause to his conversation.

Glaring at the snickering witch, I quickly changed the subject. "Harry, you still going to be a seeker?"

"Yeah, the last owl I got said we were going to start practice tomorrow." He grinned. I always loved the way his eyes lit up. They did that every time he spoke of something he loved. The same way they dimed into a darker green when he was upset.

We talked for a while, pretty much nothing serious. We stayed clear of the situation with Voldemort. As well as the one about my marriage. I still had to tell my brother. Now that should be fun. Harry and I decided to buy one of each candy on the cart. Corcksack had decided a game of chase was in order when Ron allowed his chocolate frog loose. Damn cat was jumping all over the place, only stopping when Gryffindor snapped at him. It was then that professor Remus walked in, he held a tired look in his eyes. Then I remembered last night was a full moon.

"You okay professor?" I felt for him, but he was getting there.

Giving me a kind smile, he took a seat. "Yes, just finished making my rounds. How are you holding up?"

"I'm alright. Glad to be back, but we all know this year is going to be tough."

Harry was being attacked from all sides and we can do only so much. Kids can be harsh and will not hold back in hurting harry. Fear can drive even the sanest of people over the edge.

"We will get through it. We always do." He hummed. "I see Sirius has given you the ring."

Looking down I couldn't help, but feel something. "Yes, just this morning. He also gave me the Black's ring."

Remus chuckled. "Let me guess...blood magic?"

"Yeah." looking up at him, I debated. The past was a hard one and asking can bring back, bad memories. "Professor, what was Sirius like?"

"Like?"

"Yeah, you know my age? Before Azkaban. Before everything."

Remus smiled, clearly remembering the old days. "He was a charmer, flirt with every girl and guy, honest, loyal, a good friend, didn't know when to shut up. Still doesn't. Between the three of us, we pulled some of the craziest pranks. Always ready to defend his friends, hated his family and their pure-blood mania. All but his uncle. He settled a bit after being disowned but never stopped being himself. He seemed relieved after leaving. Regardless of what one might think, Sirius was a good student, smart as well. He enjoyed a good book in private. His skills in position and non-verbal spells were amazing, still are. He also knows a few languages. After Lilly and James, his mood darken, even more, when Harry was taken." He paused a moment, swallowing down. "Sirius never had time to mourn the death of our friends, he was sent to Azkaban before he had time." His smile dropped, replaced by a sad one. "As you can see, Sirius rarely laughs and smiles. If he does it is when he is with you or Harry. He no longer plays pranks or uses his charm. Many have called it maturity, but after all, that has happened to him, he rarely sees the joy in life."

"How would I be able to help?" I wanted to make his life better.

Remus huffed with a chuckle. "Believe it or not, you are already doing it. Sirius seems more relax and energized. With you, he has someone to look out for, yes Harry too, but the boy is looking for something Sirius can't give him at the moment."

I sighed, knowing very well. "A father."

"Sirius sees so much of James in him, that he can't get past it. He has never had a moment to grieve. Sirius sees him as a mate and his godson. Harry looks for a father figure in him. Maybe in time, he can give him that, but not now." Placing a hand on my arm, he took a deep breath. "As for you? You are what he needs. Yes, things were done wrongfully, but it couldn't happen at a better time. Allow him to watch over you, protect you and...love you. It will give him a purpose, something to live for."

Giving Remus a reassuring smile, I glanced at the Black ring. "He already is." Brushing a finger over it, it caused me to feel him. Sense him if just for a second, it seemed as if Sirius was next to me.

WITH SIRIUS:

Sirius stumbled into his room. He'd just finished a meeting with the order. One that simply pissed him off. Dumbledore had ordered them to stay put. Not to move a finger. That old man had lost it! Voldemort was collecting followers, with each passing second and he was to sit here and wait! For what? Until Harry was in danger? His fiancé and their friends? Did that man care about them at all? They should be out there gathering forces, building an army. Or at least stop the dark lord from getting his hands on- suddenly he felt a shiver run through him. Smiling all anger and desperation disappeared. Looking at his ring, he sighed. She was thinking of him, but was that good or bad? He really hoped it was good. He was a lost cause; the girl was not even gone a day and he already missed her. And he had the entire Weasley family with him. They should keep him sane until Athena returned for the holidays. He'd already picked out her gift and seeing as they would be married by then, it should be appropriate. For once his mother's plan backfired in a good thing for him. Taking a sip of his fire whiskey, he tossed the rest into the fire and called it a night.