Author's Note: A million apologies to everyone that's been patiently waiting for an update! Real life was kicking my ass this past month or so, but I'm back and hopefully for good. The whole story is plotted out, I've just got to get the words down for you lovely readers :)

Thank you SO SO much for all of the favorites, follows, and reviews, both past and more recent! I wouldn't be as motivated without them :)

Review shout-out: Huge thank you to monkeybaby, Justforloveknows, Littlecosma001, Shrimpyoi, convalla91, Vienna22, and Guest!

Quick recap: Once the Christmas holidays started, Ava and Severus hung out at Hogwarts and Ava was inducted into the Order (Don't forget she dueled with Moody). After celebrating Christmas Day with her Aunt Minerva and Severus, she went to stay with the Potters and had dinner and presents with them. However, the next morning she had a secret meeting with Dumbledore (per his request) and he made it obvious that he intends to have her train for a more active role in the Order. As of now, no one else knows about the meeting. Later that same day, Remus joined the Potters and Ava, and this scene picks up with the couple going off on their own after dinner. Also, don't forget that Ava was also invited to Malfoy Manor for afternoon tea as well as the New Year's Eve Ball.

Warning: Smut and fluff ahead ;D

Let me know what you think! Enjoy!

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 46

Avalynn's fingers tightened around Remus's as he led her towards the bedroom. Her heart beat faster in anticipation of being alone with her soulmate after so much time apart. I don't care that it's only been like a week, she thought. Her magic pulsed in agreement—the warm tingle trailing out from her chest, down her arm, and resting in the hand that was intertwined with his.

"Goodnight, boys," she threw over her shoulder at James and Sirius without casting a backwards glance. She ignored their chuckles when Remus turned to look at her with amber flashing in his eyes.

"Is this alright?" he asked in a low voice.

Ever the gentleman. Ava rolled her eyes and brushed past him, stepping into his room. "C'mon, Remus Lupin." She tugged on his hand. "I fully expect to be ravished by my werewolf, and I'll be severely disappointed if my needs aren't met."

Without taking his heated gaze off her, he shut the bedroom door a little forcefully with an accompanied growl. "You don't think I'm able to satisfy your needs, mate?"

She bit her lip to keep from smiling. Riling him up was one of her favorite things to do. She let out an exaggerated sigh as she pulled her hand from his, stepping away to briefly glance around the guest room that was nearly identical to hers. "I guess it's just been so long. I think you might have to remind me."

She nearly giggled at the affronted look on Remus's face, but quickly swallowed her laughter when he began to stalk towards her. Instinctively, she backed away, but after just a few steps, the back of her thighs connected with the bed.

"No where to go, little mate," he said in a low rumble, finishing with a smirk as he stopped within arm's reach.

Ava pursed her lips in annoyance. "Little? I'll have you know—" she began, but was silenced when Remus planted his hungry lips on hers in the blink of an eye. Having successfully distracted her, Ava let out a contented sigh and looped her hands around his neck as she returned the kiss.

Their movement started off slow and steady, but his touch lit her body with a burning desire. She pressed her breasts against his chest, desperate for more. Their magic crashed together, sending waves of pleasure through her and she clung tighter to Remus, insistent on their souls being as close as physically possible.

He groaned into her mouth as his arms wrapped around her, returning the embrace, before settling on her hips.

In the wanton haze clouding her mind, Ava struggled to maintain her Occlumency shield and felt the soulmate bond flare in intensity. Her mate's desire flooded her entire being, giving a frantic edge to her own need. "Remus," she whined softly.

His warm, strong hands grazed up her sides and slid into her hair, tilting back her head. He plundered her mouth relentlessly, warmth pooling in her belly at thoughts of what else she knew he could do with his skilled tongue.

Ava nipped on Remus's lower lip, causing him to let out a moan. As she smiled against his mouth, he released an impatient growl before firmly gripping her hips and tossing her back onto the bed.

Her grin remained as she looked over her mate. His broad chest was heaving, out of breath from their kissing. The battle for dominance between wizard and wolf shone through his eyes as they alternated between green and amber. The sandy hair that hung down at an angle in an attempt to hide his rugged good looks was begging for her fingers to run through it.

Apparently Moony was a bit put out at her ogling but lack of action. "I'm going to wipe that smile off your face," he said in a low voice with a threatening tinge.

Ava quirked a cocky brow, but was unable to stop the shivers that raced down her body. "Oh, yeah?" She squirmed on the bed, inching herself backwards.

Remus darted forward and dropped to his knees, holding her in place at the edge of the bed in an iron grip. "Oh, yeah," he said breathlessly, eyeing the center of her legs as he pushed her skirt up to her waist, revealing the last layer of fabric between them. A pleased rumble emanated from the werewolf's chest.

She gulped and couldn't hold back an excited tremble, realizing how close he was to her core. Ava's magic wasn't helping any as it seemed just as eager as she was to become reacquainted with her mate.

"Nervous?" he asked with a wicked grin.

She nearly scoffed, but she swallowed it down as his tongue darted out to lick his lips. Her nerves and magic flared to life at the sight of Remus on his knees in front of her, ready and more than willing. She had to work to keep her voice steady. "Never. I'm not afraid of the big, bad wolf," she said, spreading her legs wider.

A growl sounded and Ava felt a sharp tug on her hip before cool air met her moist center. He tossed a piece of fabric over his shoulder and her jaw dropped. "Did you seriously just rip my underwear off?" she asked incredulously with raised eyebrows.

Remus lowered his head and trailed his nose up her inner thigh, seeming to scent her along the way. "You want me, mate. Desperately."

Not liking Moony having the upper hand, as this was clearly the wolf she was dealing with, Ava opened her mouth to protest.

He cut her off, piercing her with an amber gaze. "Not only can I smell it, but I can feel it." A hand went to his chest as the other nudged her legs open further.

She was too overwhelmed to speak, her nerves coming to life as he touched her. Their magic and emotions were swirling together in a heated storm, and it was growing increasingly difficult to distinguish between her thoughts and his. As much as she tried to resist and maintain the nonchalant facade, she couldn't hold back any longer as his deft fingers parted her lips and gently circled her clit.

"Fuck," she cursed breathlessly as she rested back on her elbows.

The werewolf flashed her a smug grin before he dipped his mouth and began to ravish her pussy, just as she requested. He never kept the same pattern, but kept her guessing, alternating between teasing her clit with a flick of his tongue, licking her slit, pressing his tongue into her, and even the occasional nip to her clit. Time lost all meaning as her soulmate worshipped her body.

Ava's fists clenched the bed sheet as her hips undulated uncontrollably. Her frustration mounted as her prior pleas had gone unanswered. "God damn, Remus. Can you please just get inside me already?"

Though his words were muffled, she heard his reply. "Not yet."

She threw her head back and growled in annoyance, but it morphed into a breathy moan as he continued his pleasurable assault. She writhed under him and released one hand from the bed sheet only to tangle it into his hair.

He grazed his teeth over her sensitive clit, causing her hips to twitch involuntarily.

Ava yanked up his head, resulting in a warning growl from the werewolf. "Remus," she pleaded, leaning up on her elbows. "Moony. I need you inside me. Now."

His eyes flashed amber. "My mate will do as she's told. And she will wait until I'm done eating out her delicious pussy."

For the second time that night, her jaw dropped open in astonishment. Partially at his audacity, but also because there was a part of her that loved seeing Remus take control like that.

When it appeared that she would adhere to his demand, he let out a pleased rumble and returned to driving her towards the brink of insanity with his tongue and teeth.

While she would normally push back at his dominant side, Ava couldn't muster the willpower to do so when she was so close to coming. With an unbidden moan, she dropped back to the mattress and gripped Remus's shoulders, resigned to letting the werewolf have control.

Finally, the waves of pleasure crashed higher and higher and she called out his name as her orgasm peaked. Her hips rhythmically thrust towards his mouth as he gently continued to lick her clean. "Remus, too much," she whispered, nudging him away from her center.

Her eyes peeked open to see him looking down at her as he took off his clothes. She quickly did the same, tossing her skirt and blouse to the side. He reclaimed her attention as he kneeled between her legs.

She wanted to smack that knowing smirk right off his face. "Remus Lupin," she warned, sensing just how cocky he felt through their bond.

He crawled up her body, planting kisses along the way between his words. "Are—you—not—pleased—mate?"

She didn't hold back a scoff and lightly slapped his chest as he hovered above her. "You know damn well that I'm pleased."

He leaned down and nuzzled her head to the side, exposing the bite mark that staked his claim. He swiped his tongue over it once and gently bit down, releasing a noise of contentment.

With her magic and emotions more settled after her orgasm, Ava decided to remind her soulmate of his place. Gripping both of his shoulders, she hooked her foot behind his, and forcefully rolled him over, ending up atop him, straddling his hips.

"My turn," she said with a smile before reaching between them and wrapping his hard cock in her hand. She slowly stroked before lining him up with her and lowered herself down onto him, but excruciatingly slow, wanting to make him beg just like she had.

"Ava," he pleaded in a raspy voice.

She smirked and let herself drop a tiny bit further. When Remus raised his hands to her hips, likely intent on filling her completely, she batted away his hands. "Uh-uh. Patience, mate. You'll do as you're told," she said in a stern tone.

His eyes narrowed as they flickered between green and amber.

She couldn't keep in a pleased giggle when a rush of emotions crossed their bond. Irritation. Desire. A hint of remorse. Desire. Desperation. A burning need. Good, she thought. That'll teach him.

"Please, Ava," he whispered, cautiously splaying his fingers across her hips. He didn't try to move her but kept his hands in place, continuing to beg with his eyes.

She leaned forward and pecked his lips before nipping them. "Since you asked so nicely."

As she sank down onto him, she let out a deep moan while Remus hissed in pleasure. His hands clenched around her hips before he began to softly thrust against her.

"God, I missed you being inside me," she said, bracing herself on his chest.

He let out a satisfied growl and picked up speed, causing her to bounce. "Me too. It's practically all I've thought about since I left the castle."

She continued to ride him, releasing satisfied groans every time he pounded deep into her.

He let go of her hips and slid his hands up to firmly grasp her breasts, gently pinching her nipples into hardened peaks.

The pleasurable sensations mounted. Not only in her body, but through her magic too as it pulsed in time with their thrusts. "Fuck," she muttered.

"Damn it, mate. You feel so fucking good."

The sound of slapping skin echoed throughout the room. She squeezed her walls around him, nearing a second orgasm.

"Fuck, Ava!"

"I'm close," she said breathlessly before reaching down to circle her clit.

"Oh, fuck," Remus groaned, watching Ava touch herself as his thrusts became erratic.

Just a moment later he let out a throaty moan as he came, sending another orgasm crashing through her. The soulmates collapsed together in a tangle of sweaty limbs, and Ava could feel her magic still reaching out for Remus but it wasn't as insistent.

Though still trying to catch her breath, she managed to say, "That was incredible."

"Wasn't it?" he asked in a teasing lilt.

She let out a huff of air and smacked his chest.

He pulled her close, gripping the back of her knee and pulled her leg across his hips, undeterred by their messy state. "You know that was only so incredible because of you, right?"

The exhausted witch smiled as she felt Remus kiss the top of her head.

"You're amazing, Ava."

Adoration blossomed in her chest. "You're sweet." She hugged him with her whole body, trying to make her affection clear.

"I mean it. You know that I love you." He loosened his grip on her and popped up on his elbows before tilting her chin up to look at him. "Please tell me you can feel how much I love you."

A tidal wave of devotion and deep admiration barreled through their bond, smacking into her magic. A breath left her lips from the sheer force of his feelings. "Remus," she whispered.

He leaned down and placed a fierce kiss against her lips. "I love you," he told her, pressing his forehead to hers.

"I love you too."

The couple snuggled close for a few more minutes before Ava couldn't take it any longer. She loosened herself from Remus and stood next to the bed. "I've got to clean up. I'm too sticky and feel kinda gross."

He squinted and raked his eyes up and down her naked body before cracking a smile. "I don't know. I think you look rather good. Epitome of perfection, some might say."

She rolled her eyes and turned to make her way to the bathroom. "Yeah, well, this girl needs a shower." She paused at the threshold of the expansive en-suite and peered back at him sprawled out on the mattress. "Want to join me this time?"

His green eyes widened slightly before he sprung into action, scrambling off the bed. "Absolutely."

Ava giggled and shook her head at the sight before stepping into the bathroom.

After the shower that might have included more than just some suds and a rinse, the soulmates put on some pajamas and climbed back into the soft bed and got cozy. Ava had borrowed one of his shirts and a pair of boxers, causing her magic to send a warm, tingly feeling of contentment throughout her body. I totally agree, she thought.

"Are you ready for your gift?" Remus asked, drawing her attention.

Ava's excitement must've shown on her face because he laughed before grabbing his wand from the nightstand and summoning a package from his trunk across the room.

"Wait! I've got to go get yours," she said, starting to stand.

"Just ask Bucky."

She stopped. "Oh, yeah."

A little assistance from the house elf and just a minute later, Ava had her present for Remus resting atop the bed.

"You go first," Remus muttered, sounding nervous.

Her brows furrowed as she took the paper wrapped object from him. She focused on their bond and could sense his anxiety clear as day. He's worried I won't like his gift. Ava fought a smile. As if that were possible.

A blush rose to his cheeks as he gestured for her to open it.

With the sense of giddiness that often accompanies unwrapping presents, Ava tore into the paper to reveal a square shaped, leather-bound book of some sort. The cover didn't have a title, but a small window cut-out that held a photo. "Is that Hogwarts?" she asked with a frown, looking up at Remus.

He nodded and his cheeks darkened even further. "Merlin, this is brutal," he huffed out. "Can you just open it?"

She snorted. "What is it?" She glanced back down to the book. "It can't be that bad, can—" her question died out as she flipped the cover and spotted a photo of her and Remus.

They stood in the Entrance Hall, holding hands and grinning widely at each other. The image of her popped up on her tiptoes and planted a kiss on Remus before settling back into her starting position, and the scene replayed once more. A small, handwritten caption below the picture read Remus and Avalynn, soulmates who found each other despite the distance.

Her gaze flicked up to meet the werewolf sitting in front of her. "What is this?" she asked, wonder leaking into her voice.

He rubbed the back of his neck. "Well, it's a bunch of photos and some notes. Lily called it a scrapbook, I think."

Ava broke into a smile so wide her cheeks hurt. "You made me a scrapbook?"

He grimaced. "Yeah. Is—is that alright?"

Realizing how self-conscious he felt, she nodded vigorously. "Of course, it's wonderful. Thank you so much. Can I keep looking through it?"

He swallowed. "Sure."

Still beaming, she looked down at the photo album in her lap. "Remus Lupin made me a scrapbook," she muttered to herself.

Ignoring his chuckle, still laced with nervousness, she turned the page to find photos of her with James and Sirius. One was of them eating and laughing in the Great Hall. The boys high-fived each other over her head as she grinned at James. A rush of warm love filled her heart at the sight.

Another picture was her attempting to study in the library. The boys sat with her, spelling crumpled balls of paper to fly at each other's faces just before she lashed out and incinerated the balled up pieces of parchment. The boys appeared startled but grinned conspiratorially as she ducked her head to resume reading.

Ava huffed out a laugh. "I remember that day. They were driving me crazy with those stupid paper balls. I think I threatened to dismember James and Sirius."

Remus chuckled. "You did. They told me about it later, unsure if they should take you seriously."

She lifted her head to stare at him. "I meant it."

He smirked. "I know you did."

Reaching out to squeeze his hand, she said, "We weren't together then."

Remus's fingers grasped hers. "No, but I felt like I knew you already." He paused, gazing at their intertwined fingers. "The other half of my soul," he whispered reverently.

Without him saying the words, Ava could tell how he felt. The concept of soulmates seemed outlandish at the start, but being together now made it all clear. Just a simple look or touch solidified the fact that they were meant to be. The way their magic interacted confirmed it, and she couldn't imagine life without him.

Shaking those deep, reflective thoughts from her mind, Ava returned her attention to the scrapbook. Across from the pictures were little envelopes attached to the pages. Stealing her hand back from Remus, she opened one and pulled out a folded piece of parchment paper.

"What's this?"

Once again, his cheeks reddened. "Well, I, uh, know you've had a rough time adjusting to our world, so I wanted to make you something that would make you feel more at home."

She began to open the note. "What do you mean?"

Remus might've responded, but she didn't hear it if he did. Her attention was drawn to the small paragraph penned on the parchment. She skimmed over the words, feeling tears burn the back of her eyes.

My Lady Avalynn,

While Sirius and I have apologized profusely for the circumstances that brought you to us, I find myself questioning if I should apologize at all. I certainly don't feel very sorry anymore. Not now that I've gotten to know you. Besides bringing a little love into Moony's life, you've been a tremendous friend to me and Padfoot. I know we don't agree on everything, like Snape (Ava rolled her eyes as she could clearly see where James scribbled out the letters s-n-i-v before writing Snape), but I wouldn't have it any other way. Things have been more fun with you at Hogwarts, mixing things up.

Some of my favorite moments this term have been with you. I will forever cherish the trust you put in me, allowing me to fly you around the Quidditch pitch. I hope you know that we all love having you around. I don't regret my actions, thoughtless as they were, because they brought you to us. I couldn't be more pleased and I'm sure Moony feels the same.

P.S. Moony better well appreciate you after the bloody terrifying scolding I got from Mum and Dad. You let me know if I ever need to knock that werewolf around.

Your humble knight,

James

Ava read the note once more before glancing up at Remus. "Did James actually write this?" she asked, the wetness in her eyes starting to spill over.

Panic sparked across their bond. "Why? What did he write? What did he say?" he asked, eyes flashing amber for a moment while wiping away her tears. "That arsehole. I told him—"

"No, no," she said, shaking her head. "He wasn't mean or anything."

His brows furrowed. "Then why are you crying? I can't tell with so many emotions coming from you all at once."

She flashed him a watery smile. "He was just…really nice."

Remus relaxed back into the bed. "Oh. And that's good?"

Ava nodded.

"Even though it made you cry?"

She laughed. "Yes, happy tears."

The worry etched into his features disappeared. "Okay." He nodded to himself. "Good."

With a shake of her head, she asked, "Did you not read what he wrote?"

"No, there's a spell on each of the letters so that only you can read them."

She quirked a brow.

He looked away, blushing yet once again, and began to fiddle with a scrap of wrapping paper. "Well…someone that I asked to write you a note mentioned that they would only do so if you were the only person who could read it. I figured that kinda made sense and I wanted to respect their privacy, and yours, so I offered the spell to everyone who wrote you so that they would feel more comfortable."

Ava frowned. "Why wouldn't they feel okay with giving you a simple letter? I doubt the boys would've said that, or Lily."

He peeked up at her.

After a few moments of silence, her eyes widened in realization. "You didn't," she whispered.

Remus ducked his head.

She set the scrapbook to the side and leaned forward to smack a kiss against his lips. "Remus Lupin, you thoughtful, brave werewolf." Sitting back, she spotted his grin, making her chuckle. "I'm surprised he didn't hex you."

He huffed out a laugh. "Snape has a soft spot for you, Ava. As soon as I mentioned that I wanted to do something for you, he lowered his wand and listened."

She shook her head with mirth. "Look at that, my soulmate and best friend, Gryffindor and Slytherin, sneaking around to plan my Christmas present. That's adorable."

With a roll of his eyes, Remus picked up the scrapbook and placed it back in her lap. "You've got plenty to look through."

With a squeal of excitement, she replaced James's note and took out the other one, which turned out to be from Sirius. Of course, his was entirely over the top, using flowery language to compliment "Queen Ava" and describe how thankful he was that she graced them with her presence. But once again, she finished the letter with tears in her eyes.

"Happy tears?" Remus asked. At her nod, he added, "I wanted to make you something to show how much we all care for you."

She sniffled and wiped her nose with the edge of her sleeve. "Mission accomplished. I absolutely love it." She flipped to the next page, which was filled with photos of her with the Marauders. "How on earth did you get all of these pictures?"

One photo was taken from behind, her and Remus walking down the corridor holding hands. Another showed them laying in the grass next to the Black Lake with Sirius, James, and Peter flinging Tickling Jinxes at each other nearby.

"Lily took the pictures. When I told her about my idea, she told me not to worry about it, that she'd take care of it. She said something about buying the wizarding version of a Polaroid."

"That's so cool." She grinned. "Do I have a note in here from Mrs. Lily-flower herself?"

Remus chuckled. "You do."

Ava continued her perusal of the scrapbook, a flood of emotions running through her the entire time. She knew that she could count on the others as her friends, of course, but it was more real to see their friendship laid out in front of her like it was through the pictures and letters. Lily's lovely note accompanied a picture of herself cuddled up with Remus in the Gryffindor stands at one of the Quidditch matches. Even Peter managed to include a pleasant message—just a couple of sentences about being happy that Remus found someone and wishing her a Happy Christmas.

She startled Remus when she bursted out laughing while reading Severus's letter.

Ava,

You may be a pain in my arse, but you know perfectly well that I care for you. I shan't wax on poetically about our friendship, though I doubt you expect me to. Thus why I allow you to remain so constantly in my presence. I may not fully forgive your beastly soulmate of his past transgressions, but I will admit that I believe he truly cares for you. His heart is in the proper place which is why I accepted his sickeningly romantic request. That is part of the reason, and the other is that I value your friendship to a great degree.

Happy Christmas,

Severus

Remus smiled at her reaction. "I'm glad that his didn't bring you to tears."

"Hmm, yeah." She didn't voice aloud the thought that she and Severus had already had their fair share of emotional moments together.

As she perused the remaining photos documenting her friendships, Ava couldn't help but wonder how Lily managed to take some of the photos without her noticing. One included her Slytherin study group while they were in the library. She was helping Benedict while Regulus appeared to be reading over one of Barty's essays. The poor boy was nervously biting his lip like he did every time they reviewed his work.

The last couple of pages were littered with more envelopes, causing her brow to furrow. She glanced up at Remus but he just smiled in response.

She took out the first note and recognized the handwriting immediately. Benedict. "You're shitting me." Her head whipped up to flash a blinding smile at the continually blushing werewolf. "This is really too much, Remus. You're so incredibly thoughtful," she said, voice soft.

He reached out to cup her cheek. "I know you have this battle going on inside you about settling down here, in our world, but you have people here who love you. Very much. I just wanted you to remember that and know that we're all here for you and we always will be."

Tears welled in her eyes once more and she took a steadying breath. "Thank you. This is beyond anything that I could've asked for," she said, reaching up to cover the hand on her cheek.

As Ava read through the letters from Benedict and Regulus, she couldn't keep her emotions at bay. Even with her vision blurred, she managed to read the last note, from Barty, before carefully folding and replacing the piece of parchment back into its envelope. As soon as it was back in place, she began crying in earnest.

"Ava, love," Remus whispered with a hint of pain as he gently pulled the scrapbook from her hands, setting it to the side. "I'm so sorry, I really didn't mean to upset you like this." He wrapped his arms around her and lifted her into his lap.

"I'm f—fine. I prom—promise," she gasped out, leaning her head against his shoulder.

He softly ran his hand over her head and down her back. "I find that hard to believe."

He continued to comfort her and make soothing noises as she sobbed, causing Ava to feel extremely grateful for the fact that he was letting her get all the tears out. It seemed that the floodgates had opened, allowing all of her buried, ill-founded insecurities to rise to the surface. Somehow she couldn't believe that her friends had such nice, heart-warming things to say about her. She never imagined that they treasured her place in their lives as much as she cherished them.

There was something in particular about the Slytherins' letters that hit her heart so strongly. She wanted to make a change for the better and help the boys to see that they didn't have to be Death Eaters, and it was finally starting to feel like she was making progress. I'm actually making a difference, she thought, wiping her eyes and nose as her tears started to dry out. She sucked in a shuddering breath.

"Ava," Remus said, a pitiful whine cracking through his voice as he nuzzled her neck. "I'm so sor—"

She cut him off, squeezing his hand. "Really Remus, it's okay. I love the scrapbook. It's an amazing gift. And I'm not sad at all, it was just a lot to process."

"Are you sure?"

She nodded and consciously strengthened the soulmate connection. "Does it feel like I'm upset?"

Some of the tension left his body. "Can you maybe say it aloud again? For Moony? He's been snarling at me this entire time, thinking I screwed up with our mate."

Ava chuckled and lifted her head away from his shoulder to look into his eyes, ringed with amber. "Moony, I promise that I'm perfectly fine. Sometimes people cry when they feel other things besides sadness."

After a moment Remus let out a relieved breath. "He's settling down now."

She snuggled down further into his lap and rested her head against his chest. "It's good to know that Moony will kick your ass if you do ever do something to piss me off."

"I solemnly swear to never do so intentionally."

Ava smiled and then eyed his present, still unwrapped. She startled him, springing from his lap to snatch up the double stacked gift. "Your turn!"

He laughed. "Okay, okay." Separating the top box from the second one, he tore off the paper and let out a deep moan. "Chocolate."

"Yep! Honeyduke's finest."

"All of my favorites are in here," he said with a grin before his brows furrowed. "Wait a minute. Ava, there's like ten galleons worth of chocolate in here."

"I know," she told him primly.

He rolled his eyes, but leaned forward to give her a peck on the lips. "Thank you, love."

"Don't forget the other one." That was the one she was most excited about.

Remus unwrapped the box and took out the scroll inside, unfurling it to show the message Ava wrote herself. "You're cordially invited on a real date in Muggle London with your one and only soulmate on any day of your choosing?" he read aloud, breaking into a smile.

She nodded vigorously. "Yes. I want to go on a date. Like a date date. Movies, dinner, the whole sha-bang. And it's my treat."

"I'll go on one condition. Well, two, actually."

"Name your price," she said with narrowed eyes.

"First, I pay for half of everything."

Ava sighed. "Alright. And?"

He smirked. "And you wear those tight Muggle jeans that make me have all sorts of naughty ideas."

She threw back her head and laughed, squealing when Remus lunged for her and dove his head into the juncture of her shoulder and neck.

He let out a soft growl and nipped the spot he marked her, pulling a breathless moan from her lips. His hands began to wander, cupping her breast and squeezing her ass.

Giggling, she pulled away from him and placed her hands on both sides of his face. "Remus, can we maybe continue this tomorrow? Honestly, I feel like I'm gonna pass out any second."

The werewolf grinned. "Did I wear out my mate already?"

Not rising to the bait, Ava huffed out a laugh. "You sure did, Moony. Now I've got to sleep it off."

His face transformed into a mock pout and he let out a put-upon sigh. "I suppose I can live with that." He began to clean up the disposed wrapping paper. "Do you want me to walk you to your room?"

She quirked a brow. "You think I'm staying under the same roof as you and not sleeping in the same bed?"

"It's hardly appropriate," he said with a scoff that turned into a frown. "What if the Potters find out?"

Ava's eyebrows shot skyward as she snorted. "You're seriously worried about it being appropriate? Was it appropriate when you pounded me against the shower wall, Remus?"

His cheeks darkened.

"Besides, the Potters already know that we're together, and Sirius made it rather obvious at dinner that we've had these urges or whatever you want to call them, so they probably figure that we've already slept together anyhow."

He stilled. "I forgot about that."

"It's not a big deal. If anything, it makes it easier than trying to skirt around the truth. I think it's better that they know, don't you?"

"I guess, yeah," he muttered.

"Wouldn't you rather me stay with you?"

His eyes popped wide open. "Of course! Of course, I want you to stay."

She rolled her eyes, helping him clear off the bed. "Well then, looks like I'm staying." She threw him a smile, which he slowly returned.

"It'll be our first time spending a night together you know."

"Oh, I know," she said, slipping under the covers.

Remus joined her. "Merry Christmas, love," he said before pressing a kiss to her hair.

She snuggled back into him. "Merry Christmas."


As sweet as it was to fall asleep in each other's arms, Avalynn woke up with a chill, realizing that for the hundredth time that Remus had stolen the sheets from her. With a huff, she leaned up on her elbows and yanked the warm fabric back over herself.

A scoff brought her attention to the werewolf, who was laying next to her, appearing wide awake with his brows raised, eyeing the sheet still gripped in her hand.

She pouted. "I'm cold. You kept taking all the covers."

He rolled his eyes. "As if you were any better. You kept kicking me all night."

Ava let out an affronted huff. "I can't help it if I've got vivid dreams! I was being chased!" she exclaimed. Lowering her voice, she added, "By clowns."

Remus chuckled.

She threw him a dirty look and whacked him with her foot under the covers. "They can be absolutely terrifying, you know."

"I'm sure they can be." He pecked a quick kiss to her forehead and continued to laugh as he hopped off the bed and went into the bathroom.

Belatedly realizing that this was their first time waking up together, Ava broke into a grin. "Good morning, by the way," she called out.

He popped his head out of the bathroom with a smile. "Good morning."

Once the couple was fully dressed, Ava having snuck back to her room for fresh clothes, they headed downstairs for breakfast, running into James and Sirius on the main staircase.

"Oi, Prongs. Looks like the lovers have emerged from their den of desire," Sirius announced, elbowing James.

The Potter heir looked at them with reddened cheeks and couldn't meet Ava's eyes.

Looking between the two boys, one fidgeting and obviously uncomfortable, and Sirius grinning like a loon, her eyes narrowed. "What?"

Amusement sparked in Sirius's eyes. "You might want to consider a Silencing Charm next time."

Her jaw dropped. Fuck no. God, that's so embarrassing. She grimaced, thinking if the roles had been reversed she'd want her mind wiped.

Sirius winked at her, earning a threatening growl from Remus. But then he glanced to the werewolf and sent him another flirtatious wink. "I enjoyed your moans just as much, Moony."

Her eyes darted to Remus to find him blushing furiously and attempting to form words but only managing to sputter, causing her to giggle uncontrollably. Looking towards James only made Ava laugh harder at the mortified expression on his face after he accidentally made eye-contact with her.

Sirius started chuckling and eventually Remus and James dissolved into laughter as well.

And that's how Mr. and Mrs. Potter found them a minute later. Still on the stairs, all four of them clutching their stomachs and wiping tears from their eyes. Breakfast and lunch raced by—the boys entertaining themselves with flying and Wizard's chess while Ava continued to devour Finding Your Inner Animal: How to Become an Animagus, occasionally watching the boys from the sidelines. For a very short while, she had joined the wizards on their brooms, but found that she didn't have the stomach to fly on her own—let alone do so while simultaneously holding or trying to catch the Quaffle.

As late afternoon crept nearer, Ava's stomach began to twist into knots. It'll be fine. It's just tea. She took several deep, calming breaths, collected her thoughts and cleared her mind, ignoring the chatter from the boys sitting near her in the Potter's library. Besides, Severus and Regulus will be there. Deep breath. In…and out. And Rabastan, she added with a small smile. While she had told Remus the truth of her invitation to Malfoy Manor earlier that morning, she had decided against telling James and Sirius until right before she left, and she had only mentioned to the Potters that she'd be visiting a friend, not wanting them to worry.

She rolled her eyes to herself. A friend. Not the exact word I'd use to describe Lucius Malfoy. She couldn't help but wonder what kind of "business opportunities" he wanted to speak to her about. Her nervousness flared once more upon realizing that she'd have to act as a Seer in the moment, right in front of Malfoy. Maybe I can just tell him it doesn't work like that. That I'll need some time.

Recalling their conversation in the corridor in which they swore on their magic to protect each other's secrets, she remembered that the blonde Slytherin had agreed that he wouldn't hold her accountable if she couldn't just give him visions on demand. Her anxiety dimmed. Okay. Shouldn't be too bad then.

Unfocused, her eyes drifted towards the boys. I still don't know who else will be there. She absentmindedly felt the wand holster attached to her forearm underneath the sleeve of her sweater.

"Ava?" Remus called, breaking into her thoughts.

She shook her head and flicked her gaze to his. "Yeah?"

He eyed James and Sirius who were participating in a rather violent game of chess, cheering on the little pieces as they destroyed each other. "I think you might want to head out. For—you know—" he raised his brows "—that invitation you got."

Glancing at the grandfather clock along the wall of the library, she realized Remus was right. She was supposed to be Flooing into Malfoy Manor in just ten minutes. "Yeah, good idea." She closed her book and stood, drawing the attention of Sirius and James.

Noticing their inquisitive expressions, she took a deep breath. Just as she opened her mouth to speak, Remus snatched up her hand and gave it a tight squeeze. She looked at him with a grateful smile. "Thank you," she whispered.

Though her soulmate hadn't been too pleased with the fact that she was visiting Malfoy Manor, he had at least understood her reasoning. Besides the fact that she couldn't really turn down the invitation, unbeknownst to Remus, she explained to him that it would provide her with the opportunity to get familiar with the layout of the home which could come in handy during the New Year's Eve Ball. It also soothed his anxiety when she informed him that Regulus and Severus would be joining her for the afternoon tea as well.

Ava turned to face James and Sirius. "I'm meeting up with some friends for tea." Without waiting for a response, she headed towards the door, tugging Remus along behind her.

Forgetting about their chess game, the boys followed them down the hall to the sitting room where the Floo was located.

"What friends?" Sirius asked, enough doubt leaking into his voice to cause Ava to freeze in her tracks.

She whipped around to face him with a glare. "I have other friends, you know." She swiveled back around and continued walking towards the Floo. "They just aren't your friends."

"Ava," James groaned, drawing out the syllables of her name. "You're supposed to be spending time with us. You had a whole week with Snape."

Though he was whining, she couldn't hide her smile. "I know. I'm meeting with some other friends as well, but I won't be gone long. And then you'll have me all to yourselves for a few days before New Year's Eve. And even then, I'll be coming back here afterwards."

Having arrived in front of the fireplace, she stopped to face the boys and Remus.

With crossed arms, Sirius narrowed his eyes. "What other friends will be at this tea party you're so keen on attending?"

Her eyes bounced between her mate and Sirius. With an encouraging nod from Remus, she muttered, "I may have gotten invited to tea by Lucius Malfoy."

James's eyes popped wide and red crept up Sirius's face as his lips thinned.

"Severus and Regulus will be there! It'll be fine. I already told Remus, and he's fine with it," she said quickly, pleading with the werewolf to back her up.

Her friends turned on Remus, expressions full of confusion and anger.

"You're okay with this?" Sirius asked incredulously.

Instead of answering, he looked to Ava around Sirius's shoulder. "You should probably get going."

She sighed with relief. "Thank you." Scooping up a handful of Floo powder, she said, "I told Severus that I'd kill him if I arrived before him, so I'm sure he's waiting for me. Everything will be fine, I promise." She flashed them a grin, and was about to throw down the powder when she noticed Dorea standing in the doorway with a curious look on her face. I'll deal with her when I get back, she thought with resignation before shouting, "Malfoy Manor!"