Author's Note: Getting to the juicy bits ;D (Just a little though, no full blown lemons yet)

Thank you SO much for all of the favorites, follows, and reviews! :D

Review shout-out: Vienna22, haleygur7, Justforloveknows, Moo, KyraKuran, and Guest!

I love seeing what you guys think! :D

I do not own any of the Harry Potter characters or anything else resembling what J.K Rowling introduced us all to. Just the plot and OC are mine.


Chapter 27

Breakfast the next morning was the most tense meal that Remus had experienced thus far in his seventeen years. The conversation amongst the group seemed forced, everyone walking on egg shells, not sure how to handle themselves after the shouting match between himself and Ava the day before. The Gryffindors were sitting in their usual spots, meaning that Ava was now directly across from him, pretending as though he didn't exist. She didn't even look up at him, not once, and he knew that for a fact because he had been watching her every move since the moment she appeared at the table. He was desperate to drink her in. After Ava stormed away from him yesterday, Remus felt an intense pain in his chest and immediately longed for her company. Sirius and Lily convinced him to give Ava some space so he didn't go after her, regardless of how much Moony begged and threatened.

Taking in his mate's clenched jaw and stony expression, he now wished that he had spoken to her sooner. When Ava had first sat down, he greeted her with a friendly tone, but it was clear that she hadn't forgiven him for his behavior since she pretended to not hear him. Remus knew that he acted possessive and boorish, but there was also a part of him that knew he was right. And that part of him wasn't willing to relent. He was surprised when he felt Moony rumble a noise of agreement. Neither of them wanted Ava to act recklessly and put herself in a dangerous position. He sighed internally. I did kind of flip out on her though, and she's a very stubborn witch. Of course she wasn't going to back down when I started yelling at her. We aren't even officially dating. That thought prompted his magic to surge and prod him into movement, as though he could ask Ava to be his girlfriend right then. I know, I know, he grumbled mentally, after Moony growled at him to claim their mate as well.

Remus wasn't sure how long he could let this silent treatment go on for. Regardless of Moony and his magic persuading him to be with Ava, Remus wanted her for himself anyway. After experiencing how their magic caressed each other the day before and being in her presence induced a joyful, pleasant feeling to settle within himself, Remus wasn't willing to let her go so easily. However, it seemed he would need to wait a little longer because Ava suddenly stood from the table and strode out of the Great Hall without a backwards glance.

He let out a heavy sigh, drawing the attention of his friends.

"That was rough mate," James said with a sympathetic look.

Lily reached out and pat his hand. "Maybe let her cool off a little bit more? I'm sure she'll come around."

Remus felt himself nodding, even though he wasn't entirely sure he agreed.

"I don't see what all the fuss is about. If she's stupid enough to get into fights with the Slytherins, let her," Peter said with a shrug before taking a bite of his breakfast.

He glared at the boy, eyes flashing amber.

Peter gulped. "Sorry, Moony. I didn't mean it," he mumbled around his food.

Remus took a couple deep breaths in an attempt to calm himself and his wolf. We just need to talk to her and straighten everything out.


Ava barreled through the library doors, startling Madame Pince. She winced and muttered a quick apology before walking to her usual study table to meet up with Severus and Regulus. Her magic was roiling in agitation at the blatant dismissal of her soulmate. As she departed the Great Hall, Ava could feel her magic attempting to push her back towards Remus, but she ignored it and grimaced through the pain, storming out of the dining hall even faster. That possessive cave man needs to apologize to me first, she mentally stated to her magic.

She plopped down at the table and took out her assignments, patiently waiting for the Slytherins to join her. Not a minute later, they appeared from within the shelves of books and took their seats.

"Hey, guys," she muttered distractedly, still organizing her schoolwork and supplies.

"Hello, Ava," both wizards replied while doing the same.

For some time, they worked in companionable silence, with Ava occasionally asking either Severus or Regulus for assistance. She was nearly finished with third-year Defense, fourth-year Charms, and second-year Transfiguration, so that's what she decided to focus on first. Since telling her aunt, Mrs. Potter, and Madame Pomfrey that she'd cut back on performing magic so much, she had, but just when it came to practicing in class. She was told to only perform magic in class, but Ava couldn't wrap her head around the idea of not practicing dueling or Occlumency with Severus. So, once she mastered a spell three times in class and performed it for the teacher, she stopped, opting to study theory instead. Granted, that had slowed down her progression though the material a bit, but since the workload was increasing anyway, she now had more time for studying and more magical strength when it came to dueling. Which is definitely necessary, she thought with a faint smile, recalling how Severus had complimented her during their last practice. He had commented that her movement and reaction time was getting better, and that she was definitely ready for the third-year Defense exam once she finished the theoretical portion of the curriculum.

She was startled from her thoughts when someone cleared their throat and said, "Regulus."

Glancing up from her textbook, Ava saw a younger student standing near their table. Looking him over, she saw that he was a Slytherin, and while his expression remained blank, his shifting feet gave away his nervousness.

"Oh, hey, Barty," Regulus said with a small smile. "You can come here you know, you don't need to keep your distance. We're not so formal here."

Barty? Ava thought with wide eyes, flicking back and forth between the Slytherins.

Severus raised a curious brow at her reaction, but remained silent.

Barty eyed Ava warily and slowly crossed the few steps to their table, standing near Regulus.

"So, what do you need, Barty?" Regulus asked in a friendly tone.

The boy ran a hand through his brown hair, and cast a quick glance at Severus and Ava before turning back to Regulus. "I'm stuck on a part of my Charms essay, and I'd like some help, if you don't mind."

"Of course, I don't mind. I've told you plenty of times that you can ask me whenever you need something," Regulus said while shifting some of his parchments and books so that Barty would have a clear space to work across from Ava.

He locked eyes with her and gulped.

Why is he acting so weird? I've never done anything to him, she thought before throwing him a friendly smile.

His shoulders seemed to relax and he settled into his seat. After explaining his assignment to Regulus, which Ava couldn't help but overhear, she learned that Barty was currently a third-year.

"You know, Ava's actually in fourth year Charms. The third-year material is probably fresher in her mind than in mine," she heard Regulus say before looking up from her own essay. "Ava, you wouldn't mind helping out Barty, would you?"

She rose her brows in surprise and cast her gaze to the younger wizard. He still appeared fidgety and nervous, and Ava couldn't puzzle out why. But, she didn't mind helping him with homework. Just as the boy opened his mouth, probably to protest, she spoke up. "Of course, I'll help. I don't mind at all," she told them with a smile.

Barty's eyes widened slightly before he ducked his head. "Are you sure?" he asked softly.

She frowned and looked to Regulus. His expression was unreadable, but he nodded at her. Turning her gaze back to the younger Slytherin, she said, "Barty, if I didn't want to help you, I would've just said so."

His head whipped up and his mouth was open in a surprised "O."

"Now, let's see what we're working with," she said, reaching out for his parchment. When their fingers brushed, he snapped back his hand. She chose to ignore his squirrelly behavior and read over his essay as Severus and Regulus returned to their work. A few minutes later, she gave him feedback, making sure to include both strengths and weaknesses of his work, and then offered to show him the books that would be useful to cite.

Barty stammered out a response about finding the books on his own, but Ava waved him off.

"Nonsense," she said, standing from her seat. "C'mon, I'll just show you. I was only using these books a week or so ago anyway."

Barty hesitated in his seat and swallowed. Regulus gave a nod when the boy sought him out. Barty seemed to nod to himself and then stood. "After you," he told Ava, gesturing towards the bookshelves.

Ava assumed by "Barty", that this thirteen-year-old was Barty Crouch Jr. Knowing about his future self, made her reluctant to put her back towards him, but she had to remind herself that he was merely a student and likely wouldn't try anything with Severus and Regulus around. Unless he thought they would agree with his treatment of a blood traitor. Ava kept glancing over her shoulder as she lead Barty through the stacks, pulling out three books once she located them. She began to walk back to their table, holding the books while she explained what each one could be used for in his essay, but he cut her off.

"Miss McGonagall, I can take the books. It's only fair after you've helped me," he told Ava, eyes flicking from hers to just over her shoulder and back several times.

"Oh, sure. Thank you." She handed over the tomes to him, noticing that while he didn't jerk away from their fingers touching, he couldn't hide his flinch.

Barty turned and stalked towards their table without a word, leaving Ava frowning after him.

Returning to her seat, Ava could see that Barty already found the section in the first book that he should use to help support his essay. Satisfied that he would ask for help if he needed it, she returned to working on her own assignments and only paused a while later when she heard Barty clear his throat. She glanced up with her brows raised. "Finished?" she asked.

He nodded and seemed to want to hand her the parchment, but hadn't yet. His gaze met hers for a moment before he looked away.

"Do you want me to look it over?" she offered, reaching out a hand.

"Yes, please." He finally held out the essay.

Ava's eyes quickly scanned over his work, and realized that after giving him a few more resources, he had made connections between the theories of several Charms that she hadn't considered, but they made total sense. Professor Flitwick hadn't even discussed those in class. Barty even made reference to a fourth-year Charm that she recognized. She looked up at him with a wide smile. "This is fantastic."

His eyebrows disappeared into the brown fringe that hung over his forehead. "Really?" he asked with a look of disbelief. He cast a quick glance at Regulus out of the corner of his eye.

She nodded. "Yeah, you've made some observations that I think would impress Flitwick and you managed to throw in some more advanced Charms theory than he would expect too."

A slow smile transformed Barty's face. It wasn't anything like the maniacal grin that she associated with Barty Crouch Jr., the Death Eater, but one of a boy who was proud of what he had accomplished.

She handed him back the essay and jokingly said, "If you don't earn full points plus some extra, I'll speak to Flitwick myself," trying to boost Barty's self-esteem.

The boy's eyes widened as he began to pack up his stuff. "Wha—what? No, no. You wouldn't need to do that," he said, clearly taking her comment seriously. "You've already helped me plenty. You wouldn't need to go out of your way to do that for me. Besides, if I don't get full points, I wouldn't blame you. It's probably just because I don't deserve them." He voice had trailed off as he said the last sentence, and rubbed Ava the wrong way.

Narrowing her eyes at Barty as he ducked his head, continuing to pack up his bag, she realized something. "Barty," she called softly. He glanced up at her before lowering his eyes to the table. "You deserve those points. Whoever told you that you don't deserve acknowledgment for your thoughts and hard work is wrong." His gaze whipped up to hers, startled. "It's true, and I will be speaking to Professor Flitwick if he says anything to the contrary. I expect to see your graded essay once it's returned to you."

His mouth was hanging open as he shared a baffled look with Severus and Regulus. The older Slytherins merely raised their brows in reply. "And—and what do you expect in return?"

Ava scrunched up her nose in confusion, furrowing her brows. "In return for what?"

"For speaking to Flitwick on my behalf."

Ava could feel herself softening towards Barty. She had so many questions for Regulus, but they would have to wait. She smiled at the young boy. "Nothing, Barty. I don't expect you to reciprocate in any sort of way." He grimaced, seemingly uncomfortable with her explanation. "If it makes you feel any better, think about it this way. If Flitwick doesn't give you extra credit on the essay, it reflects poorly on myself as a tutor. So, of course, I'd like you to do well."

Barty frowned for a moment before nodding slowly. "Okay," he said, hesitantly, once again glancing at Regulus out of the corner of his eye. He finished gathering his belongings and then gave stiff goodbyes before leaving.

Once Ava thought it had been long enough for Barty to have put some distance between himself and their table, she whipped out her wand and cast Muffliato. She pointed a finger at Regulus and said, "Explain."

He sighed and looked to Severus, almost as if seeking his permission.

Severus scoffed. "If you didn't trust Ava with the truth, I doubt you would've suggested Barty work with her."

Regulus nodded and shifted his attention back to Ava. "I don't know for certain, because he won't wholly open up to me, but I think Barty is mistreated at home." She nodded and waited for him to continue. "I know that he's afraid of his father and he's always been a little fidgety, but over the last year or so, it's gotten worse."

"He doesn't like to be touched, and he won't maintain eye contact for very long," she said, leaning forward in her seat. "Someone has him doubting his intelligence too." Perfectly susceptible to the manipulations of the Dark Lord, if Barty goes looking for affection and praise elsewhere.

Regulus nodded.

The trio sat in silence for a moment before Ava spoke. "You should invite him to work with us more if he'd like to."

Regulus smiled while Severus sent her a mock glare. "Why am I not surprised?" he drawled.

She bumped his shoulder gently. "C'mon, Severus. I know you love being my friend, but I've got to spread the wealth a bit."

Regulus chuckled and shook his head at Ava. "It is rather surprising how much Severus tolerates you."

"Indeed," the wizard in question said.

Ava scoffed and flipped her braid over her shoulder. "As if he would abandon me. He's my best friend, I'll have you know." Ava hadn't realized what she had said until it was out of her mouth. Her whole body tensed, not sure how Severus would react. She looked at Regulus, who merely had his brows raised in surprise, and then risked a glance at Severus.

His mouth was hanging slightly open and his dark eyes roved over her face, scrutinizing her.

For a split second, Ava thought about trying to take it back, not wanting to make Severus uncomfortable. Fuck it, she thought. He is my best friend. She made sure to maintain eye contact with him when she said, "You are my best friend, Severus."

He did nothing more than gape at her, causing her to squirm anxiously in her seat.

She sighed and looked down. "I mean, it's okay if you don't feel the same way. I guess we don't need to hang out as much—" She stopped, startled by a hand grasping hers. Ava looked up to see that Severus was squeezing her hand.

"I said no such thing, Ava," he said lowly, before glancing at Regulus.

Ava looked at the other wizard as well and had to keep herself from laughing. He was deliberately flipping through a textbook that he had already read, facing away from them, trying to give them some semblance of privacy.

"I find myself wanting to reassure you that I enjoy your friendship," Severus continued. "I'm pleased with the current rate of our…camaraderie."

Ava had to keep her smile in check. "I am as well."

He nodded as he retracted his hand from hers. "Then we have nothing further to discuss. Friends?"

She beamed at him, unable to hold back her happiness. "Best friends."

The corners of his mouth twitched. He looked to Regulus out of the corner of his eyes to see that the other wizard was still pretending as though they didn't exist. Severus looked back to her and nodded firmly, then mouthed "best" to her.

It was a miracle that Ava was able to control the squeal of excitement that wanted to burst from her, but she knew that Severus would most definitely not appreciate it. She also managed to wrangle her enthusiasm in so that she wouldn't launch herself at the Slytherin for a big hug.

Regulus must've sensed their conversation dying off since he looked up from the book. Turning back to Severus and Ava, he said, "Are two ready to go to lunch?"

With noises of agreement, all three of them began to pack up their belongings. Being the first one ready, Regulus offered to return the couple of library books remaining on their table. Once he was out of earshot, Ava leaned over to Severus and said, "I want to ask him if he'll join us in the Room of Requirement after lunch. I think it's time I told him the truth."

Severus's eyebrows disappeared. "Are you sure about that?"

"He knows Occlumency, right?"

He nodded slowly.

"Then, yes, I'm sure."

Regulus returned just as Ava and Severus were ready to depart for the Great Hall. The three of them walked to lunch, discussing their classes, and Ava casually threw out the idea that Regulus join her and Severus after lunch for some practice dueling. He immediately agreed, telling them it sounded like fun. She neglected to mention that Severus would lead him to a secret room or that she was preparing to drop a bombshell on him. He'll be fine, she assured herself. This is the same kid who plotted against Voldemort on his own.

At the entrance to the massive dining hall, they parted ways with the agreement to regroup after the meal. Ava sat down, not really paying attention to the tense silence of the group of Gryffindors. After filling up her plate, she noticed the hushed discussions and took a look around the table. Everyone was staring at her with various levels of disbelief and concern.

She leaned towards Sirius and whispered, "What's going on?"

"It's possible that everyone, especially Remus, noticed you walking in with Snape and Reggie."

Her eyebrows rose as her mouth opened slightly. Ignoring the pull of her magic to glance at Remus, she rotated her gaze between James, Lily, Alice, and Frank while she said, "They're my friends, not some evil scum of the earth or whatever else you're thinking of. We study together all the time and nothing bad ever happens, so you all can just relax." Without waiting for a response, she started eating her meal quickly, hoping to escape the onslaught of arguments that were likely coming her way.

"I know you might just be trying to make friends, Ava, since you're new and all, but those really aren't the wizards you want to be hanging out with. No offense, Sirius," Frank told her with his brows furrowed.

Sirius waved him off. "I get it, mate."

Ava sighed. "Severus and Regulus might be in Slytherin, but that doesn't automatically make them dark wizards." She elbowed Sirius. "C'mon, tell them about Severus."

His gray eyes widened and flitted from friend to friend before landing back on Ava.

She narrowed her eyes.

He gulped. "Uh, yeah. Snape's still a git and all, but he's not the absolute worst," he blurted out before stuffing a bite of food into his mouth, directing his attention elsewhere in the Great Hall.

Ava turned to the rest, still not risking a glance at Remus. "See? Maybe you guys just need to be more open-minded and willing to spend time with some students in Slytherin. Not all of them are bad." She continued to scarf down her lunch while watching her friends flounder for an effective response. James and Lily seemed perfectly content to mind their own business, thankfully. But Mary and Alice looked terrified at the prospect of befriending someone in the house of snakes. Marlene and Frank's faces were reddening, likely in anger, so Ava rapidly packed up the remainder of her lunch into a cloth napkin.

She was hoping to avoid a confrontation with anyone, but it didn't look like her wish was going to come true. Just as she was standing from her seat, Remus spoke up.

"It has less to do with being open-minded, and more to do with you being naive and ignorant." His tone was harsh, reminiscent of their argument in Hogsmeade.

Ava bit the inside of her cheek to refrain from responding. Unwilling to rise to the bait, she simply scooped up her schoolbag from the floor and raced towards the door, clutching her unfinished lunch in her hands.

Stupid boys and their stupid rivalries, she thought as she slowly made her way to the Room of Requirement. Since she bolted from the dining hall mere minutes after lunch had started, Ava knew it would be a while until Severus and Regulus were ready to join her. Stupid werewolf, really. While the witch knew that Remus was acting irrational about her interactions with Slytherins, she was also aware that he couldn't necessarily control his reactions. Especially because I'm his mate, she thought with an eye roll. While climbing the staircases, Ava considered how Remus might react to the truth about her arrival and their connection as soulmates. She hoped that explaining the truth would help him see her reasoning behind hanging out with certain Slytherins, but she was also afraid that the truth might just reaffirm his worries. If Remus knew the true danger she faced simply because of her knowledge of the future, he might never let her out of his sight ever again. Regardless of the role that Severus and Regulus played in the time line, they were her friends now. I guess Barty Crouch Jr. is too now, she realized slowly. Hmm, didn't see that one coming.

Once Ava paced in front of the Room and entered the requested setting, she plopped herself into a comfy chair in front of the fireplace to finish her lunch. Eventually, she decided that Remus both deserved and needed to hear the truth if they were to have any sort of positive relationship moving forward. Even if it doesn't stop his whole alpha male thing. At the notion of explaining everything to the werewolf, Ava's stomach was filled with a swarm of butterflies. It felt more daunting than when she told McGonagall and the boys the truth. She felt less sure of herself than when she first made moves to befriend Severus. This is going to be awful, she lamented, chewing on her bite of apple with a frown. Maybe I can ease him into it somehow. Butter him up. Ava spent the next half hour finishing her meal and plotting how to progress her relationship with Remus to the point where he would most likely be able to handle the truth from her.


Hearing Severus's chuckle from the sideline caused Ava to snap, "Shut up, you tool!" as she dodged another hex from Regulus.

"I'm sorry, Ava," he said between laughs, clearly not truly sorry. "You just look rather ridiculous, twirling and flouncing about."

She cast Protego and replied, "I don't flounce, you flounce."

"I beg your pardon?" he asked.

Ava smiled. Without looking at Severus, she could picture the stern expression he was sending her way, with one eyebrow cocked. She shook herself to refocus on her dueling partner. Regulus was a force to be reckoned with. She didn't know if it was because he played Quidditch or came from a notoriously dark family, but the kid was quick as hell and relentless. He pelted her with spell after spell, sending jets of light to blast and fizzle against her shield. Ava stood her ground, continuously casting Protego, not sure how to take down her opponent. Thinking quickly, she knew she'd have to take him by surprise. A grin stretched across her face as she recalled the plan that Severus had previously thwarted. Being a Pureblood, Regulus probably won't even think about a physical attack coming. Not wanting to waste another moment, Ava charged towards him. The fire of his spells increased as she gained ground, but she was quick enough now to shield herself from each spell flying in her direction. Within seconds, she was close enough to see his eyes widen, in either surprise or fear, but she liked to think it was the latter.

"What the hell?" Regulus managed to squeak out as Ava landed her fist in his gut. The wizard doubled over, letting out a groan.

Ava reached out and snatched his wand, which was hanging loosely from his hand braced on his knee as he tried to catch his breath. "Ha!" she exclaimed, holding up his wand triumphantly for Severus to see.

The older Slytherin smirked at her. "Alright there, Regulus?" he called.

"Just fine." He stood up straight and looked at Ava with narrowed eyes. "You play dirty, witch." He held out his hand, and she returned his wand.

She giggled before turning to Severus. She waggled her eyebrows, hoping he'd catch onto her intention. Looking back at Regulus she nonchalantly said, "I'm probably going to need to if I have any chance of facing Voldemort and his Death Eaters."

Regulus sucked in a breath and paled. He glanced at Severus before looking back at Ava, his mouth opening and closing, unable to form words.

Severus sighed, drawing her attention. "You utter Gryffindor. Couldn't ease him into it, could you? Just had to go and blurt it out," he scolded her.

Ava crossed her arms. "Well, excuse me." She returned her gaze to Regulus. "I'm sorry if that wasn't very tactful of me."

He merely nodded.

"Perhaps we should sit down," Severus said, gesturing towards the chairs and fireplace to the side of the dueling mat.

The trio took their seats, and Ava's nerves finally made their appearance. She wrung her hands and her eyes kept flicking between the two Slytherins.

Severus cleared his throat and nodded to her.

"Right. Well, first of all. Whether you've already taken your Mark or not doesn't matter to me, Regulus. I'll still be your friend and I won't judge you for it. I know you were likely forced into it."

He silently pulled back his left sleeve to reveal a pale, spotless forearm.

She let out a relieved breath. "That's good. Can you tell me if and when you're supposed to get your Mark?"

His brows furrowed. In a low voice, he said, "Why are you asking me these questions, Ava?" He looked to Severus. "Did she ask you the same thing?"

The older Slytherin nodded. "Yes, and I told her the truth. I'll let Ava tell her story, but know that she is the most trustworthy person I know. She has some insight into the Dark Lord's plans, and she'll need our assistance if we are to stop the worst from happening." He paused. "You cannot deny that some of the others are more…intense and devote when it comes to the Dark Lord's ideology."

Regulus clenched his jaw before he nodded. He turned to Ava. "How do you have that kind of information?" he asked with narrowed eyes.

"I'll tell you everything, but I need a Wizard's Oath from you first." She braced herself for his reaction.

He looked to Severus once again, who nodded at the younger wizard. Regulus pressed his lips together for a moment before drawing his wand. "I, Regulus Arcturus Black, swear upon my magic to not divulge any information shared with me tonight by Severus Snape and Ava McGonagall."

Ava threw him a grateful smile. "So, let me start at the beginning. When I first arrived to Hogwarts." She then proceeded to tell Regulus of the soulmate spell and how she was familiar with the Wizarding World. He didn't quite believe her at first, but he relented after she gave him some personal trivia. More specifically, his odd friendship with Kreacher, which apparently no one knew about, even Sirius. Like Severus, he didn't need much convincing of how depraved the Death Eaters would become over the years. The Horcruxes threw him for a loop though, resulting in ashen skin and erratic breathing.

"It's alright, Regulus. I know what they are and where they are," she reassured him while grasping his hand in hers. "At least, I do for the most part," she added with a shrug.

"That doesn't help," he exclaimed, squeezing her hand reflectively. He looked to the other wizard with wide eyes. "You know what he'll do Severus. You know how dangerous he is."

"So do I," Ava said, determination lacing her tone. "Don't underestimate me, Regulus."

His gray eyes scanned her face for a moment before he nodded sharply. "What's our time line? I'm assuming there's a point of no return before events will occur as you know them?"

She nodded. "We have about four years, but I'd like to get this nasty business wrapped up much before then."

Regulus let out a breath. "It won't be easy."

"I don't expect it to be. But with your help, and James and Sirius, as well as McGonagall and the Order, we're going to be fine." She hoped that her voice didn't betray the uncertainty she felt about defeating Voldemort.

"I apologize for the position my brother has put you in," he told her with a frown. "He's always up to no good, and he's the same way at home too."

Ava smiled softly. "It's alright, Regulus." She patted his hand and pulled away. Truth be told, Ava hadn't thought about her home world in quite some time. Feeling her eyes stinging in anticipation of the waterworks yet to come, she quickly changed the subject. "So, will you help us? It's okay if you don't want to. I understand how precarious of a situation it would be for you."

He shook his head immediately. "No. It's worth it. If everything you said is true, we can't let that happen."

She flashed him a smile. "Thank you, Regulus. Really. It means a lot to me." Yet again, Ava found herself partnering with another ally, boosting her confidence and allowing her to consider that they might just pull this whole thing off.


Remus was sitting in the Gryffindor common room, trying to focus on his Transfiguration essay to no avail. He couldn't stop thinking about Ava, and worrying about her. He knew that he hadn't handled the situation best that he could, but he didn't seem to think straight around her. It was harder for him to control Moony, but there was a part of him that knew the human side of him felt the same way. He just wanted to protect Ava and keep her safe. It didn't help that he knew something else was going on with her, her "ordeal" or whatever it was, which added to his anxiety.

He sighed and set down his quill. He glanced up from his work to look at James and Sirius, who were actually completing their assignments without hassle for once. "Hey, guys. Could you tell me what's going on with Ava?"

Both of his friends paused in their writing and shared a look before turning his way. James nonchalantly asked, "What do you mean?"

Remus scowled. "Cut the shit. I know something's going on with her. Probably her health. What is it?"

Sirius rolled his eyes. "You know we're not going to tell you anything. It's Ava's business. If you want to know, then you've got to talk to her yourself."

He let out a frustrated growl.

James raised his hands. "Whoa, mate. We promised her we wouldn't tell anyone, alright?"

Remus could feel his expression soften. He could sympathize with not wanting to betray a friend's trust. "I'm just worried about her, you know?" he said softly.

Sirius ran his hand through his hair. "Yeah, we know. But you've really got to try with Ava, Moony. She doesn't trust easily, and I know you don't want to move too fast with her."

Remus blushed, but nodded.

"Well, be her friend first, then she'll let you in," Sirius told him.

He nodded again. He just needed to work with Moony on sticking to that advice. No more tantrums, he thought to his wolf. I need to apologize first though if I've got any chance of her talking to me.


Considering that Ava arrived to the Great Hall once again with Severus and Regulus at her side, dinner was another tense meal. She was starting to feel like she wasn't welcome at the table, but James and Sirius's gentle shoulder nudges reassured her. She consumed her meal quickly and intended to head back to her quarters to finish up her homework for the weekend. As soon as she finished her last bite, she said her goodbyes and retreated from the dining hall. Only a few steps outside of the entrance, someone grabbed her shoulder. She startled and turned around to see Remus. Sucking in a breath, her eyes roved over his face, desperate to see him after a near twenty-four absence from her sight. Her hands tightened, recalling why she had been avoiding him.

"Ava, can we talk please?" he asked, worry lacing his tone, as his hand dropped from her shoulder.

She quickly debated if she should try to hold off this conversation until James or Sirius was around. No, you were okay with him in Hogsmeade, for the most part at least. And besides, you've got to be alone with him at some point if you're going to be together. She couldn't help the blush that sprang to her cheeks and tried to will the color to go away before Remus noticed. "Sure," she said with a nod.

His body seemed to relax at her response. Glancing up and down the corridors that branched off from the entrance to the Great Hall, he must've come to a decision and gestured for Ava to follow him. He headed down one of the corridors and seemed to be walked towards a tapestry.

Oh, no. I'm not going in there. Not alone with him. In a small, dark space. Not sure how to avoid going behind the covering with Remus, she continued to follow him. Bad idea, bad idea. Say something! But it was too late, as Remus pulled back the tapestry and snagged her wrist, dragging her in right behind him.

Bad idea, she mentally confirmed upon realizing there was only a couple feet between the two of them once Remus lit his wand. Ava could already feel her magic stirring, delighted at the idea of being in such an intimate setting with her soulmate.

"So," Remus started, running his hand through his hair. He seemed unable to keep his gaze on her as he continued, "I want to apologize."

Ava raised her eyebrows. Huh, I wasn't expecting that.

"My behavior in Hogsmeade was uncalled for. You were right, and I shouldn't have yelled at you like that. It's just—just, well, I don't want to see you get hurt." His words started to fall from his mouth faster. "I couldn't stand it if you got hurt, Ava. Especially, if I didn't do anything to prevent it. You just made me worry, and I think I went a bit overboard, you know?"

Ava sighed. Of course she knew. His face was so full of remorse and worry, and all because of her. I can't take seeing him like this, she whined internally as her magic flared to life. Ava could feel it nudging her towards Remus, compelling her to reassure him that she was there with him and safe. Unable to hold herself back, she launched herself at him, looping her arms around his neck. "I'm sorry too," she said, voice muffled by his robes.

Remus didn't hesitate to return her embrace. He pulled her body against his and buried his face in her neck.

Ava smiled when she felt and heard him inhale deeply. Her magic thrummed in satisfaction and she absentmindedly ran a hand through his hair.

He stiffened for a brief moment before returning to his task of taking in as much of her scent as he could, and he began to press his lips softly to her neck.

Ava tensed herself, but relaxed knowing that she had wanted to progress their relationship at some point soon anyway. Not to mention, feeling Remus tenderly kiss her skin and holding her hips tightly was absolute heaven. She startled, feeling a little nip. "Remus?" she asked, hoping her voice didn't waver.

He pulled back from her with wide eyes. "I'm so sorry. I can't believe I just did that."

She smiled. "It's alright. You just surprised me."

He continued rambling on, as though he didn't hear her. "Oh Godric. I really just bit you, didn't I?"

"Remus, it's perfectly fine," she reassured him, resting her hands on his shoulders.

"I swear, I'm not normally like this."

Ava rolled her eyes as he apologized profusely once more. Good God man, get a grip. She reached for the back of his head and pulled him down, slamming her lips against his. Remus froze, almost giving Ava pause, but she waited another moment, savoring the feeling of their magic coming together. It tingled across her lips and she pressed her body closer to his, practically trying to climb inside his skin. She hesitantly ran her tongue along his lips, which spurred him on.

Remus gripped her hip with one hand and threaded his other through her hair, keeping her mouth against his. He returned her kiss, learning her lips with his tongue and teeth.

Ava dropped her hands to his chest as they took the time to explore each other's mouths. She could feel her magic building, swirling in a fiery haze, clouding her thoughts of everything but Remus and his body. He bit down on her bottom lip and tugged lightly, causing a whimper of need to escape from her. He growled, and in a blur, lifted her up while wrapping her legs around his hips and pushed her up against the wall.

"Holy shit," she said, breathless and wide eyed. Her skirt allowed for the heat of Remus's body to seep into her own. She swallowed, realizing how exposed her core was to him.

Her comment must've brought Remus back into himself because he pulled away from her face, but held her gaze. His expression looked pained and was lit by the pale light emanating from his wand, which now rested on the floor. His hands were still gripping tightly onto her thigh and butt as he panted, trying to catch his breath.

Ava could see his eyes flickering between green and amber. She placed a hand softly against his cheek. "Remus?"

"Ava," he said, voice deeper than she had heard him speak before.

Her magic may have been pushing the two of them together, but Ava had her own needs too. She shifted her hips, trying to get closer to Remus.

"Ava," he growled in a warning tone. "Stop."

"What if I don't want to?" she whispered.

Remus let out a long groan and dropped his head to her shoulder. "What are you doing to me, witch?"

She giggled and shifted her hips again. "I dunno," she said innocently.

He growled as he plundered her mouth once more and kneaded her ass cheek before he suddenly dropped her and stepped away, snatching his wand from the ground.

She let out a surprised squeak as she hit the floor and tried to right her clothing. "Why'd you stop?" she asked, trying to keep the hurt out of her tone.

Regardless, he must've picked up on it because he took a step forward, intending to reach out to her, but seemed to think better of it and dropped his hand. "I'm sorry, Ava. I'd really love to continue this at some point, but that's uh, not why I brought you in here."

She laughed. "I know that, Remus." She looked down, fingers playing with her skirt. "I was just enjoying myself. Were you?"

"Yes," he said quickly. "A little too much. We need to slow down, for now at least. I haven't even taken you on a proper date yet."

Ava beamed at him. He wants to go on a date!

"And I think we should talk about what's going on between us. It's, uh—well—" he paused, rubbing the back of his neck. He opened his mouth to continue, but Ava cut him off.

"I have a pretty good idea about what's happening, but we don't need to talk about it yet. At least until we're both ready." Please don't want to talk about it. Please don't want to talk about it.

Remus frowned slightly, but nodded after a moment. "Alright."

She let out a relieved breath and smoothed over her clothes once more. "Alright. I'll see you tomorrow?"

He smiled. "Definitely."

Ava returned his smile and turned to leave their little hideout. As she was about to let the tapestry drop back down behind her, Remus called her name. "Yeah?" she asked, peeking her head back in to see him.

"We're going to need to talk soon because now that I know how good you taste, I won't be able to hold myself back much longer," he told her with a smirk.