Accidentally In Love
The first time it happened, no one batted an eye. It wasn't really that strange. It was just a friend helping another friend out.
It happened after a rather rough night for Remus, during their fifth year. His transformation seemed to have really taken it out of him this time. He was tired and had barely managed to dress himself. Sirius jumped up into the bed curling around Remus as a dog.
It made the most logical sense. Peter was a rat and wouldn't offer much warmth, and James was a giant stag and would offer no comfort. Naturally it fell upon Sirius to help warm the lycanthrope. It would be a few hours before Remus would be well enough to leave. Sirius didn't mind that this was one of his duties as Remus' best friend. He was sure James and Peter would do it too if they had become snugglier animals.
"Thanks Pads," Remus murmured softly, his voice hoarse.
Remus snuggled in closer to Sirius, he reached up and scratched behind Sirius' ear. Sirius gave a rumble of contentment as he settled. Remus wrapped an arm around him pressing his face into his fur.
The next morning as they left the shrieking shack, Peter took off ahead to make sure there was still room for them in the great hall. James followed after to protect the smaller boy if he ran into any trouble. Remus and Sirius fell back together.
"Thanks Pads, I owe you," Remus said, smiling softly at the other boy.
"Don't worry about it Moons, I know it's tiring for you, the least we can do is make you comfortable afterward," Sirius said with a smile. "And who wants to cuddle a stag? Not me."
Remus laughed at that, causing Sirius to laugh. It made something warm blossom in his chest. Seeing Remus smile after everything he had been through made Sirius smile. It was infectious.
"Will you two hurry up!" James called back to them.
"Race ya," Sirius challenged. He took off without waiting for an answer.
"Cheater," Remus called as he started running. They both collapsed into laughter as they entered the great hall for breakfast.
Remus sat down next to Peter who was already filling his plate, talking with Frank about herbology homework. James was sitting across from him staring down at Lily who was engrossed in conversation with her girls. Sirius sat down next to Remus. He placed something on Remus' plate. Remus looked down and smiled at the chocolate croissant Sirius had already snatched him.
"You always say that chocolate fixes everything," Sirius said with a small smile.
"It certainly does," Remus said, patting Sirius on the head with a chuckle.
"Hey, that was only ok last night," Sirius said, swatting his hand away. Remus just laughed, shoving him back.
—Accidentally in Love—
The second time it happened was in the common room. Remus was reading a book, while Lily studied next to him, quizzing him between pages of his book. They were study buddies after all.
It was late when James and Sirius stumbled into the common room. Lily jumped up and made an excuse to go to bed. Remus waved her off.
"Moony," James whined as he plopped down on the couch next to him. "Why'd you let her go?"
"It's getting late and we've got a quiz tomorrow," Remus shrugged. He looked down as he felt something land in his lap.
He saw Sirius had transformed and decided to take a nap next to him, with his head in his lap. He arched a brow at him.
"Hello Padfoot," he greeted the dog.
"Aw look at the cute lap dog," James teased as he reached out to pet Sirius. The warning growl that Sirius gave had him second guessing his actions.
"Aw, don't be mean Prongs," Remus said, bringing a hand up to scratch Sirius behind the ear. "Sometimes I think he was meant to be a dog, he just was born in the wrong body."
Sirius started to growl again. He jumped down from the couch and started to walk away. He and James fell into a small fit of laughter.
"Aw Pads, I'm sorry, please come back. You're quite warm actually," Remus called after the growling dog.
Sirius turned around with a huff. He returned to the couch sliding his head back into Remus' lap. Remus smiled as he picked up his book again, his other hand coming to rest on Sirius.
"You two are odd," James chuckled as he stood with a stretch. "Don't stay up too late, apparently we've got some kind of quiz tomorrow."
"Potions," Remus replied without looking up at the other boy.
"Right," James chuckled as he left.
Remus turned his attention back to his book. His other hand seemed to have a mind of its own as he scratched Sirius' head. Sirius seemed to be loving the attention.
"Sometimes I wonder about you," Remus said, looking down at Sirius. Sirius simply nudged his hand. Remus chuckled as he started to scratch him behind the ear again.
—Accidentally in Love—
Over the next few weeks this becomes the norm for Remus and Sirius. They are always together now, unless James was dragging Sirius away to quidditch practice or to pull some prank on younger students. Or when Remus and Peter would study together, they would force James and Sirius to join every so often. The pair of them were starting to show more affection for one another and would joke around more.
On one occasion when Remus and Peter pulled a study group together, and James couldn't come up with a good excuse to get away they were stuck. Sirius moaned and groaned about how boring homework was most of the night.
"Come on Moony, Wormtail, do we really need to do all this homework all at once?" Sirius whined. "This stuff isn't due for two weeks!"
"Yes, it's better to get it done now so we don't have to worry about it later," Remus replied.
"But Moony, this is so boooring," Sirius whined leaning on the other boy.
"Yes but you don't want to fail, do you?" Remus asked.
"Maybe I do, it would stick it to my mother," Sirius said pouting as he leaned away from Remus.
"Don't be like that, the best way to stick it to her would be to succeed and prove her wrong," Remus pointed out.
"He's got a point," Peter chuckled.
"I gotta agree here that studying is kind of boring," James chimed in.
"Don't you and James wanna be aurors? You need to pass your O.W.L.s with flying colors to make that happen," Remus reminded him.
"Stop using logic on me," Sirius whined.
"I'm not forcing you to stay here. I merely suggested you get some homework done. You've done two essays already. That's the most we've ever gotten from you in one sitting," Remus said looking over at the shorter boy.
"What? You mean I'm not a prisoner?" Sirius asked, jumping up.
"No, I just think it's wise to get ahead of the game so you don't fall behind," Remus laughed.
"Screw this, I'm done," Sirius said. He cleared his stuff up and dashed off. James closed his book too.
"I think that's it for me," James declared. He followed after Sirius.
"I'm surprised they lasted that long," Peter commented.
"Me too," Remus chuckled. He returned his attention to his essay.
Eventually Peter called it a night and left. Remus had a little more work to do. He wanted to finish it and get it over with. The Moon was coming and he wouldn't have time soon.
He heard rustling behind him. He didn't bother to turn around. He knew who it was. He looked down as his lap was suddenly filled with Padfoot. He looked down at the dog with a fond smile.
"I know it's late," Remus said, "I've got just a little more to do."
Sirius gave a huff and nudged him with his snout. Remus reached down to pet the other boy. Sirius glared up at him.
"Don't look at me like that," Remus sighed. "I just have a little more. I wanna get it done before the moon."
Sirius' eyes softened at that. He rested his head back in Remus' lap. Remus' hand came down to scratch behind his ears. It was something Sirius loved but would never admit to, and only something Remus did when they were alone.
"You don't have to stay with me," Remus said casually.
Sirius huffed again, silently telling the other boy that he did in fact have to sit up with him. He wasn't going to let him suffer alone. They sat there in a comfortable silence.
Remus didn't understand what it was about Sirius that was so comforting. He knew that Sirius loved his dog form to sleep in, it was easier for him to get comfortable, so he said. Sirius also seemed to be getting more and more protective of Remus. He always made sure he got his rest, or that no one messed with him.
He sighed as he realized homework time was done. He could finish tomorrow. He wasn't able to focus anymore, not with a restless Sirius in his lap.
Remus stretched and gently nudged Sirius. Sirius sat up and allowed the other boy to stand and clear his things from the table. He gathered them and turned to Sirius.
"Shall we go to bed then?" Remus asked.
Sirius led him up to their dormitory. Peter was already snoring softly. James was dead to the world hugging his pillow tightly. Nothing was going to wake that boy. Remus chuckled to himself as he got changed for bed. He turned to his bed and saw Sirius already cured up.
"You have your own bed you know," Remus said. Sirius just huffed and stretched out. "Bad Padfoot, that's my bed." He tried again.
Sirius gave a low warning growl. Remus shook his head as climbed into bed. He wrestled his blanket from under Sirius.
"You know, I really do think you were truly a dog in a past life," Remus said, earning an angry nudge from Sirius as he rested his head across the taller boy.
Remus just chuckled at his friend's antics. He ran his fingers down Sirius' back as he slowly drifted to sleep. He swore he heard Sirius purr, but maybe that was just his sleepy brain playing tricks on him.
He woke the next morning alone in bed. He half wondered if that had been a dream.
"Oy Moony, you gonna get up soon? you're gonna miss breakfast. Your lap dog took off already," James called from the next bed.
"Lap dog?" Remus asked sleepily.
"Yeah, you two were all cuddled together," Peter laughed.
"Oh," Remus said as last night came back to him.
Sirius chose that moment to walk into the room with nothing but a towel on. He paused as the others all turned to him.
"You could have woken me up," Remus said as he got out of bed.
"Nah, you were sleeping peacefully, I didn't want to disturb you," Sirius said as he made his way to his wardrobe.
Remus rolled his eyes as he made his way to the bathroom being sure to nudge the other boy as he passed. Sirius stumbled but managed to shove him back with a laugh.
He exited the room and heard laughter and Sirius holler at James calling him a wanker. Remus shook his head as he made his way to the bathroom.
—Accidentally in Love—
Christmas break was spent with the Potters. Remus and Sirius had nowhere else to go and James convinced them to join him for winter break. Peter was off visiting his family. The Potters, only slightly surprised to see Remus and Sirius, we're happy to have them.
The boys spent most nights out in the town causing havoc and having fun. They went with the Potters to all their family traditions, which included dinner with their neighbors and joining the muggles as they went caroling. It was fun.
However as the moon approached Remus got restless. His skin felt like it was crawling. He wanted to just rip it off already and get this over with. He hated this so much. He had snapped at James and Sirius this morning. He hadn't meant to, but they had been bugging him and being clingy. He had finally had enough and stormed off.
It was Sirius who found him in his guest room a while later, sitting on the floor with his face in his hands. Sirius was down in front of him in seconds. He lowered his hands gently.
"Oh Moony," he said softly.
"It's the moon," Remus replied, tugging his hands back to himself.
"It's this weekend," Sirius said as he settled beside him.
"I can't take this anymore," Remus sighed, "I just want it to be over already."
"It's never gonna be over," Sirius said softly. He leaned his head on his shoulder. "Just know that you have two best friends here right now that only want to help you and a third one waiting for you when we get back to Hogwarts."
"I know, I just…my skin is crawling and I just can't settle. I hate this so much," Remus said. He felt like crying. His chest felt tight.
He felt Sirius move beside him. He looked over and was greeted with the familiar sight of Padfoot. He smiled as Sirius moved into his lap, pressing his face to his shoulder. Remus let out a relieved breath as he hugged his friend closer.
"Thanks Pads," he said, pressing his face into his fur. It was very comforting.
For the first time in three days, Remus felt at ease. His skin no longer crawled as he was relaxed. He didn't understand this effect Sirius was having on him lately. It wasn't necessarily a bad thing either.
"So does this make you my emotional support dog?" He asked after a few minutes.
Sirius nipped at his shoulder. Remus laughed as he flinched away. Sirius jumped on him taking them both to the floor. They rolled around for a moment before Sirius transformed back. He fell down laughing beside Remus.
"If that's what you need then yes, I guess I'm your emotional support. I am here for you no matter what Remus," Sirius said, "it's what friends are for."
Meanwhile…
James sat in the living room with his parents as they chatted and shared town gossip. He knew Sirius was probably talking to Remus and he didn't want to overwhelm Remus by ganging up on him. He knew the only reason he was short tempered was because the moon was two days away.
"James, dear," Euphemia said, catching his attention.
"Yes mum," James said, turning to her.
"Leave it be Effie," Fleamont said.
"Oh hush, I just wanna know," Euphemia said.
"What's wrong?" James asked.
"Are Sirius and Remus together?" Euphemia asked.
"Yeah, they're upstairs," James said confused.
"What? No I meant are they together," Euphemia said putting an extra emphasis on the word together.
"Wha-oh," James said, his eyes going wide.
"There's nothing wrong with it sweetie, but they can tell us. We don't care right Monty," Euphemia asked.
"Not at all," Fleamont said.
"No, no it's just the moon is coming up," James said quickly, "Remus had been on edge and if we both went up there, it would overwhelm him."
"Oh," Euphemia said.
"They aren't…" James trailed off as he thought about it. He looked away from his parents thinking back over the last few months.
"James," Euphemia said.
"I don't think they are," James said slowly.
"Forget I said anything," Euphemia laughed softly, "they'll tell us when they're ready."
James sat there for a moment. How had he missed something so obvious? We're his best friends in love with each other?
—Accidentally in Love—
Back at Hogwarts the guys were getting ready for their O.W.L.s. Remus was having more study sessions and trying his hardest to get Sirius involved. James seemed to be cracking down too, ever since Remus reminded him that to be an auror he needed to pass how O.W.L.s. It wasn't that he wasn't smart, he just lacked the motivation.
Winter gave way to Spring. Which meant quidditch was back on. Today was the big game day. Gryffindor versus Slytherin. James and Sirius had been pushing the team hard to get in tip top shape. They wanted to beat Regulus who was the new seeker for Slytherin this year.
Remus yawned as he made his way out of the bathroom. Sirius and James were gone already. They were probably getting ready for today's quidditch game against Slyrherin. Peter was just getting up himself and told Remus to go ahead without him.
He made his way to the common room and found Lily and Marlene talking and laughing as they exited the girls dormitory.
"Remus," Lily greeted him.
He joined them as they exited the common room. They started down to the great hall together chatting about the game today.
"So, where are your goonies?" Marlene asked.
"They were gone when I woke," Remus replied, "I'd rather not know what they are up to."
"Right plausible deniability," Marlene laughed.
"They're so immature, why do you put up with them?" Lily asked.
"They're my best mates, through thick and thin," Remus said with a shrug. "I've got their backs and they've got mine."
"But you're a prefect now, do you want that taken from you because they drag you down," Lily asked.
"Nah, I think Dumbledore thinks if I'm a prefect I can reel them in, but like there is no stopping James and Sirius once they set their minds to something."
"Speak of the devils," Marlene said as James and Sirius rounded the corner laughing.
"Remus!" Sirius shouted. He ran up to the taller boy with James trailing behind. He waved a piece of parchment around. "We found it! The perfect prank for game day!"
Remus snatched the paper. "Where did you find this?" He asked.
"Library," James said proudly.
"Lily, do you have a pen?" Remus asked, turning to her. Lily quickly produced a pen from her bag. He grabbed it and started to scribble something down.
"Why do you use those muggle things," Sirius asked.
"Because they are convenient," Lily replied.
"Here, try this instead," Remus said. He handed the parchment back to Sirius.
"What's this?" Sirius asked.
"It's better trust me," Remus said, "now go, as a prefect I can't condone this. I didn't know what you two were up to as you left before I was even awake," Remus said as he turned and walked away.
Lily and Marlene followed him and James and Sirius looked at the paper trying to figure out what spell Remus had given them. The three entered the great hall and sat down for breakfast.
"What was that?" Marlene asked as she and Lily sat down across from him.
"What was what?" Remus asked.
"He's not gonna tell us," Lily replied as she started to fill her plate.
"Plausible deniability," Marlene laughed again.
Remus poured himself a cup of mint tea and grabbed an apple. He pulled a book from his bag and started reading as Lily and Marlene started chatting. Remus placed his elbow on the table holding the apple up.
"Don't mind if I do," Sirius said, snatching the apple from Remus. He took a bite.
"That was mine," Remus said with a frown, "get your own jerk."
"But it was closer," Sirius laughed as he placed the apple back in Remus's hand.
"Keep it," Remus said, handing it back to the other boy.
"If you insist on Moons," Sirius laughed leaning in and nudging the other boy playfully.
"Stop," Remus squirmed away from his elbow. Sirius just laughed and turned to James. They started talking about the game. He turned his attention back to his book.
"Ready to beat Reg," Sirius asked.
"I'm faster than that little punk," James boasted.
"Duh, which is why we always win," Sirius laughed.
"Come on, we should get going," James said, nudging him.
"Yeah, wish us luck," Sirius said looking at the girls.
"Good luck," Marlene and Lily chimed.
"You don't need luck, you're Sirius Black and you're amazing. You're strong and you show those bludgers who are boss," Remus replied, not looking up from his book.
"That's why you're one of my best mates," Sirius laughed.
"What about me?" James asked.
"You don't need an ego boost, Potter, you've got enough ego for the whole Gryffindor team and then some," Remus replied.
"That's cold Lupin," James shot back.
"But he's not wrong," Sirius laughed as he leaned over Remus placing his arms around his shoulders. "Thanks for the faith in us, Moons."
"Always, now go kick some Slytherin arse," Remus replied, shrugging the other boy off.
"You heard the man Pads," James said, grabbing Sirius by the arm and dragging him away.
"You and Sirius are getting awfully cozy," Marlene commented.
"He's one of my best mates," Remus replied with a shrug.
"Best mates don't hug one another and steal half eaten apples," Marlene said.
"Have you met Sirius and James, they have no boundaries. I'm used to it by now," Remus said, waving a hand.
"Not James, just Sirius," Lily said.
"What are you on about?" Remus asked, finally looking up from his book.
"He fancies you," Marlene said simply.
"You're nuts," Remus said, shaking his head. He returned his book trying to ignore the giggling across from him.
Marlene was off her rocker. There was no way Sirius fancied someone like him. That was just insane.
"Remus she's right, he's not touchy feely like that with James or Peter, just you," Lily said.
"Now I know you're both loony," Remus said as he closed his book. "I'm gonna go now and you two can sit and think about how wrong you are."
He stood and left the table passing Peter on the way, giving him a quick goodbye and that he would see him for the game. He made his way outside and wandered down towards the lake. The game was a few hours away still, so he had a little time to kill.
He pulled his book back out and tried to read. However, Marlene's words kept ringing in his head. There was no way Sirius fancied him. Sirius was like that with all the Marauders, wasn't he? He was just a touchy feely person. No one else noticed because Sirius liked to play the part of bad boy without a care. When in fact he did care, a lot. Especially for those he was close to.
"Apple for your thoughts?"
Remus looked up to see Lily had followed him with an apple. She tossed it and he barely had time to catch it, nearly dropping his book.
"I'm fine," Remus said.
"He does seem to fancy you," Lily said.
"No he doesn't, that's just Sirius being himself. He doesn't let it show often, but he's more the bad boy with a heart of gold," Remus said.
"With an extra soft spot for his Moony," Lily teased. Remus blushed and looked away. "Do you fancy him?"
"How can I not?" Remus asked before he thought about it. "I-I mean…wait!"
"I knew it," Lily said grinning triumphantly.
"Please don't tell anyone, Sirius isn't like that. He's just being a good mate. He does it for James and Peter too," Remus reasoned.
"Not the same way he does for you, but your secret is safe with me," Lily promised.
"Thank you," Remus said, looking out across the lake. "It's like the way James fancies you. If I were to tell him it wouldn't end well."
"I think it might end better than you think," Lily said. She held a hand out to him. "Now come on, we had better get going, if we want good seats."
"Right, we've to show our Gryffindor pride," Remus chuckled.
"Exactly, we can cheer on Sirius and knock down James' ego a few notches," Lily laughed.
"You fancy him," Remus teased, nudging her as they walked along.
"Maybe, but he's got a lot of growing up to do first," Lily sighed.
"James is a clever lad, give him a chance to prove it to you," Remus said, "aside from this rivalry he has with Severus, he's really a good guy. His competitiveness just brings out his worst and you know he was raised with a silver spoon."
"Well when he loses that spoon, let me know," Lily replied. She took Remus' arm in hers and led him to the quidditch stadium.
They joined the other students. Lily led Remus to the Gryffindor goal post. Marlene and Peter were already sitting with a few others. They were saving two seats with them.
"There you guys are," Marlene said with a smile. "I thought you were gonna miss the match."
"I'd never miss this," Remus said with a mischievous smile.
"What spell did you give them?" Marlene asked again.
"Just wait," Remus smiled.
"I know that smile," Peter said grinning. "What did you do?"
"I didn't do anything, James and Sirius left before I even woke up. Who knows what mischief those two got into in that time," Remus replied.
Cheering erupted around them. They jumped to their feet as the Gryffindor team took to the sky. James and Sirius in the lead showing off as always. Remus and Peter whooped and hollered, cheering them on.
A few minutes passed and the Slytherin team had yet to show. Everyone was starting to notice too. Suddenly someone shouted and pointed towards the Slytherin locker room. All eyes turned down to the team as they stooped out in their school uniforms shouting at Madam Hooch. She made them turn around and go get ready for the game.
Eventually two lone Slytherin players walked out wearing transparent robes. The entire school started laughing as they argued with Madam Hooch about their robes.
"What did you do, Reemy?" Marlene asked.
"I didn't do anything, it was probably James and Sirius," Remus smirked.
"They aren't that smart, no way McGonagall is going to believe they acted on their own," Marlene said.
"Yeah, but James and Sirius would never flip on him," Peter said.
"It doesn't take a genius to figure it out," Marlene said.
"But they left before I even woke up this morning, and I didn't see them until breakfast," Remus replied cheekily. "Even then it was only a few minutes before they took off again to get ready for the game."
"Come on, you think James and Sirius come up with this stuff on their own? We have the mastermind behind it all and they know if they rat him out he's not gonna help anymore," Peter laughed.
"Exactly," Remus replied.
"You're an evil genius," Marlene laughed.
—Accidentally in Love—
Remus yawned as he nestled into bed. He was currently reading while the rest of Gryffindor partied downstairs celebrating their quidditch win against Slytherin. It seemed James and Sirius had managed to get into the other team's head with their prank.
Remus had partied with his friends congratulating them on their win. Being sure to stroke Sirius's ego while ignoring James, which just annoyed the latter. Remus had just laughed and told them they were both talented. However he grew tired of the crowd and escaped to their dormitory.
The door banged open only mildly surprising Remus. He was used to it having roomed with James and Sirius for five years now. They were always loud.
"Moony!"
Remus looked up as Sirius crossed the room. He plopped down beside the taller boy with a grin.
"Hi Padfoot," Remus greeted him.
"Why're you up here all alone?" Sirius asked.
"My social battery was drained and I want to finish this book," Remus replied, holding up his book.
"How can you read that, it has no pictures," Sirius said, making a grab for the book. Remus jerked it away from him.
"It doesn't need pictures," Remus said.
"Booooring," Sirius drawled.
"Did someone spike the punch?" Remus asked, chuckling.
"Maybe," Sirius giggled. He scooted closer to the other boy. "Come back to the party and have some fun."
"I'm fine up here Pads, you go and celebrate your victory," Remus said shaking his head.
"I don't want you up here all alone though," Sirius replied, snuggling closer to his friend. "You deserve to spend time with people too. You are special and don't need to isolate yourself, Moony."
"Thanks," Remus said, his cheeks dusting pink. He looked away from Sirius.
"Come on Moony, live a little," Sirius said.
"I am fine up here in the quiet Pads, it's not about isolation. I just spent the whole morning with people cheering you and James on, and then the whole afternoon partying with you guys and now I need time away from people," Remus explained.
"Oh," Sirius said, his shoulder slumping. He moved to get up.
"You can stay," Remus said, reaching out to him. "You are ok, it's everyone else I need to get away from."
"Are you sure," Sirius asked.
"Positive, I like your company," Remus replied.
"I like your company too," Sirius said, moving closer to him.
He shifted to his animagus form and rested his head across Remus' lap. Remus reached down to pet the other boy knowing how much he loved it.
Hours later when Peter and James entered the dormitory they found the pair asleep in Remus' bed together. Remus sitting up with a book on his chest, and Sirius laying across the other boy's lap as Padfoot.
"They just need to snog and get it over with," Peter muttered.
"A galleon, they figure it out before the end of the year," James said.
"Nah, they're blind," Peter replied, shaking his head.
"Easy money then," James goaded him.
"You're on," Peter said, a smirk lighting his face.
—Accidentally in Love—
One day, Sirius and James laughed as they ducked into an empty classroom, avoiding Filch. They both fell back against the wall waiting to see if he ran past.
Once the coast was clear they relaxed. James took a seat on a desk while Sirius remained near a wall.
"Brilliant mate, jinxing his office supplies like that," James said with a grin.
"I do what I can," Sirius said, taking a bow.
"How much longer do you think?" James asked.
"Oh not much, I just wanna make sure that nasty cat is gone," Sirius said, making a face.
"You truly are a dog in a human's body," James laughed.
"Ok Remus," Sirius said glaring at the other boy.
"Speaking of dear old Remus," James said casually.
"What?" Sirius asked, looking towards the door.
"Mum and dad seem to think you two are shagging," James said.
"What?" Sirius asked, his head snapping back so fast he almost got whiplash.
"I know, I told her she was crazy and Remus was just one edge cause of the moon," James laughed.
"Exactly, besides I'm more cuddly than a deer," Sirius said regaining his composure.
"Stag, and cuddly?" James asked.
"Yes, dogs are calming and cuddly creatures but can also be ferocious and dangerous," Sirius said.
"You like cuddling with Remus?" James asked, arching a brow at the other boy.
"What? No, it's just…sometimes he needs it when he's anxious. I'm just being a good friend who learned a skill to help him. Why not use it to actually help," Sirius said. James laughed and shook his head.
The classroom door opened. They pair looked up as Remus entered the room with their map in his hands.
"Well this thing works," Remus replied, "Peter saw you two in Filch's office and I thought I better find you before you burn the whole place down."
James and Sirius relaxed. Remus tapped the map with his wand and put it away in his bag.
"We may or may not have jinxed a few things," Sirius shrugged.
"I don't want to know, plausible deniability" Remus shook his head. "Let's just go get some dinner."
The trio exited the classroom. They rounded the corner and saw Filch screeching at Professor McGonagall. She looked exhausted. Filch saw them and started pointing.
"Way to go Moony," Sirius mumbled.
"Mr. Black, Mr. Potter," McGonagall said as she walked up to them.
"It was them, I just know it," Filch said as he ran up to them.
"Argus," McGonagall said, holding a hand up. "Boys, where have you been? Why aren't you down in the great hall?" She asked.
"Is there a problem professor?" Remus asked, "we are heading to dinner now. We lost track of time, we were studying, using an empty classroom to practice our charms homework."
"I saw them running from my office," Filch screeched.
"I've been with them for the last hour, helping them with homework," Remus said.
"You see, I told you just because it's usually them doesn't mean it's always them," McGonagall sighed. "Go to dinner boys."
The three took off down the hall. They entered the great hall together. They took their seats with Peter. He looked up and greeted them before returning to his conversation with Marlene.
"Sirius, you need to-," Remus said, turning. He paused when he saw James beside him rather than Sirius.
"Hi I'm James, have we met,"James teased.
Remus looked across the table to Sirius then back to James.
"Sorry, usually Sirius sits there, habit I guess," Remus said, his cheeks going slightly red. "Anyways you both need to be careful. If I hadn't shown up, you would both be in detention."
"Ah, we can handle Filch," James said waving a hand, "and sorry to disappoint you Moons. You can cuddle with Padfoot later."
"Ow," Remus gasped, a foot collided with his shin. He glared across the table at Sirius.
"I think that was supposed to be for me," James laughed.
"Can it Prongs," Sirius hissed at him. "You're just jealous because I'm way more cuddly than you, you deer."
"Stag," James shot back, glaring at him.
—Accidentally in Love—
Things got hectic for the boys. They prepared for their O.W.L.s at the end of the school year. The guys were spending more time studying than causing mischief. Even James was buckling down. He was still sassy and snarky in class and in the hallways, but it seems his extracurricular pranks were put on hold.
One morning, Remus yawned as he sat down across from Peter in the great hall. He grabbed his usual apple and tea.
"Morning Peter," Remus greeted him.
"Do you ever do anything else besides read that book," Peter teased.
"I need to make sure I've got this down," Remus said, shaking his head.
"You'll do fine, you're probably the smartest one out of us and will pass all your O.W.L.s with flying colors," Peter said waving a hand at Remus.
"Sure I've got the knowledge, but the practical stuff, that's where I lack," Remus said. He was nervous about the exams.
He felt someone sit beside him on the bench. With a sigh he held out his apple. He knew better than to try and stop Sirius. This had become their morning routine.
"No thank you."
Remus turned as he saw James sitting there. He pulled his hand back confused. He looked at the apple for a moment before looking back to James.
"Sorry I thought—" he started.
"I know who you thought I was, but forget that for a moment. You and Evans are getting to be good buddies lately," James said.
"Yeah," Remus replied, looking over his book at the other boy.
"Are you two dating? Everyone seems to think so and I-" James started. He frowned as Remus started laughing. "Why are you laughing at me? I just wanna make sure you're not-" He started again.
"James mate, stop," Remus said, shaking his head. "I do not like Lily that way. Trust me we are not dating. We are just friends."
"Ok I just needed to hear you say that," James said sitting back.
"Why it's not like she likes you," Peter said.
"Yet, it's not like she likes me yet. Trust me I'll win her over," James replied with a smirk. "She can't resist my charm and wit forever."
"Stop," Remus said, looking away from him trying not to laugh.
"You mark my words Lupin. I'll win her over," James said.
"Whatever you say Potter," Remus shot back. "Have you seen Sirius, he's late for breakfast and that's not like him."
"Dunno," James shrugged, "I was busy sending out a letter to mum and dad. Hera wouldn't come down from her perch at first," He said referring to his owl.
"Ah," Remus said. He glanced around the great hall, but there was no sign of Sirius.
"Come on time for class," James said.
Remus nodded his head. He followed James and Peter from the great hall. They headed to the dungeons for potions.
They arrived and saw Sirius already there with Marlene and Lily. He said something to Lily, who looked a little distraught and made her laugh. He jumped up and made his way over to the guys once he saw them, giving the girls a hasty goodbye.
"What was that?" James asked.
"Just being friendly," Sirius replied, shrugging.
James eyed him suspiciously. He didn't have time to question him as Professor Slughorn chose that moment to call the class to order.
He brought their attention to the potions he had brewed up front. He started on about how important their O.W.L.s were and that they would be able to brew these potions if they passed and continued on with potions classes. He was trying to get them excited about potions. They went around the room to identify them.
Marlene was able to correctly deduce that one of them was the polyjuice potion, which allowed the drinker to turn into anyone they chose so long as they had something from their chosen person. James correctly identified felix felicis, otherwise known as liquid luck. They went around the class figuring out what was what. The last potion was amortentia, the love potion. The strongest love potion known to wizard kind. The potion was known to smell different to each person, according to what they found attractive.
Lily was the one who correctly identified it. She smelled pine, leather, and something she wasn't sure of how to describe. Slughorn had the other students give it a go too. Everyone was laughing and giggling at one another. Peter smelled roasted garlic and honey. James smelled flowers, lilies to be exact, and burning wood from the fireplace, and went red before shutting up earning nudges and laughter from Sirius.
Remus took his turn and immediately smelled something he could only describe as a Sirius. He had to think quickly. He couldn't say that he smelled Sirius.
"The forest on a calm night, books and…er…," Remus said, pausing as he thought his next words over carefully. "…and dog fur," Remus said slowly, taking a step back, his cheeks slightly red. He didn't miss the look Lily was giving him. It was almost as if she knew what he was implying.
Next was Sirius who made a protest about how stupid this was. He didn't understand why they had to do this. He refused to share what he smelled with the class, which only made more gossip go around.
Slughorn reeled them back into the lesson. He was offering two small vials of liquid luck to whichever team could get the closest to brewing it during class. The class quickly paired off. Remus claimed Sirius had his partner. Sirius looked like a deer caught in the headlights for a moment before he turned it around telling James and Peter that he and Remus were gonna beat them.
In the end it was Lily and Marlene who got the potion the closest, with Remus and Sirius a close second. Sirius took it as a win that he beat James Potter son of Fleamont Potter the great potioneer. James just told him to bugger off that he was having an off day, and it didn't help that Peter mixed up ingredients that set them back a bit.
They exited the dungeons together. Peter took off to his next class while the other three had a free period. They made their way outside and decided to take a break from cramming for their exams.
"You wanna know what else I smelled in that potion," James asked.
"What? Evans?" Sirius asked with a laugh.
"Yeah, her hair," James said with a dreamy look.
"Mate you've got it bad," Sirius laughed.
"What about you Pads, what did you smell?" Remus asked.
"It's stupid," Sirius shook his head.
"We all shared," James said.
"Nope," Sirius shook his head, "it's lame."
"Was it flowers?" James asked, prodding him.
"Just drop it," Sirius said before storming off.
James and Remus shared a confused look. James looked to where Sirius retreating back disappeared.
"Shouldn't have pushed him," Remus said.
"But what is he hiding?" James asked, "I was honest. I smelt Lilies and Evans herself. He was all for it until you went."
"What do you mean?" Remus asked, confused.
"I don't know, he was laughing with us and then suddenly after you went he got all moody and called it stupid. Just makes me wonder what he smelled," James shrugged, "you know since you smelled a dog."
Remus pursed his lips as he looked away from James. He knew what he was implying. What was James saying? Did he know that Remus liked Sirius? Was he disgusted? He was probably gonna tell him to leave Sirius alone.
"Moony-" James started.
"I have to go," Remus cut him off, jumping up. He took off across the lawn in the opposite direction of Sirius.
He couldn't face James right now. He didn't want to admit he didn't just smell the dog. He smelled Padfoot. He was in over his head now. There was no way around it, he was head over heels for Sirius Black.
Remus didn't stop until he had reached the library. His escape from life for a bit. He hid among the stacks of the muggle fiction section. He found a book and started reading, escaping his own reality for a while. He knew James wouldn't find him here, or even Peter for that matter. The only one who knew about this hiding place was Sirius, but he was avoiding him.
—Accidentally In Love—
The next two weeks leading up to the moon everything changed. Remus and Sirius started avoiding one another. They slept in their own beds and stopped sharing food. James was trying to ease the tension between them, but to no avail. Peter seemed to be oblivious to it all.
Remus tapped his finger against his book as he waited for the class to end. He was sitting with Peter today rather than Sirius. Peter seemed confused by the action as Remus and Sirius were always charms buddies. They always sat together.
Finally the class ended and Remus bolted from the room. Peter quickly followed him.
"Remus, are you ok?" Peter asked.
"M'fine," Remus mumbled.
"You sure-" Peter started.
"I'm fine," Remus snapped, turning to face Peter with a glare. He softened once he saw Peter jump back. "Sorry, it's just—" Remus glanced around the corridor—"you know." He said.
"Right," Peter nodded.
The moon was getting close. For some reason Remus' anxiety was up again. His skin was crawling and he could feel people staring at him. He wasn't sure why it was getting bad again. He hadn't been this bad since winter holiday at the Potters home.
"I'm fine Peter, just a little anxious," Remus said, "you go get lunch I'll meet you down there in a bit."
Peter nodded his head. He looked as if he wanted to say more, but thought better of it. Once he was gone, Remus turned and walked away. He had no intention of going to lunch. He needed to get away for a bit.
Eventually he found himself alone at the top of the astronomy tower. He sat back against the wall looking out at the school grounds below. He took a breath and closed his eyes.
"Moony?"
Remus jumped slightly. He looked over to the left as Sirius appeared beside him. He hadn't even heard him approach.
"Oh, I didn't think anyone would find me up here," Remus admitted.
"You were missing lunch," Sirius said.
"I wasn't very hungry," Remus said.
"Because of the moon?" Sirius asked.
Remus gave a nod. It was better than the alternative, which was spilling his guts to the boy before him, that he was helplessly in love with him.
"Here," Sirius said as he sat down beside him. He held out a pumpkin pasty to him. "It's not chocolate, but it should do."
"Thanks," Remus smiled. He took the sweet from Sirius.
Sirius rested his head on Remus' shoulder as he ate. They sat there in a comfortable silence. If Remus didn't know any better, he would say things were normal. He knew they weren't though, far from it. As long as Remus kept his feelings secret they would never be ok. He needed to man up and let Sirius reject him, maybe then he could move on. He couldn't bring himself to break the silence though.
"It's a gorgeous day out," Sirius said softly.
"Yeah," Remus nodded.
Remus took a few deep breaths. This was the calmest he felt in over a week. Just having Sirius near worked wonders on his anxiety.
—Accidentally in Love—
That evening James found Remus up in their dormitory pacing. The moon was two nights away now. He was on edge again. Sirius had basically avoided him the rest of the afternoon. Once they left the astronomy tower it was like things went right back to the way they were. James attempted to calm the other boy, but nothing worked.
"James, mate, kindly piss off," Remus snapped after another failed attempt at trying to calm the other boy.
"I am just trying to help," James said defensively.
"You're doing the opposite actually," Remus said, "god I hate this! I just want this over with already."
"I know you get anxious with the moon being so close but-" James started.
"Stop," Remus snapped. He turned to glare at his friend.
"Sorry," James apologized.
"No I'm sorry," Remus hung his head. "You're right I am on edge with the moon being so close and…" he trailed off.
"And…?" James supplied.
"Forget it," Remus said. He walked over to his bed and grabbed his jumper. "I'm going for a walk."
"Want company," James asked.
"Not right now," Remus replied as he left the dorm.
James sighed, running a hand through his hair. He hated seeing his friend in such distress. He knew there was one way to help. A certain pig headed boy was the answer to Remus' anxiety. He knew how to calm him down right up to the moment the wolf took over.
He made his way to the common room where Sirius was sitting with Peter. He was helping Peter with his transfiguration homework, since the blond boy was struggling. James was on a mission however.
"Oi, Black," he snapped as he approached his best friend. Sirius looked up confused.
"What do you want Potter," Sirius asked looking up at James.
"You need to fix whatever is wrong with you and Lupin," James said angrily.
"What do you mean?" Sirius asked, confused.
"Oh come on man, don't be that dense. You two have been acting so odd since that day in potions. You just need to go tell him that you smelled his books or sheets," James said, annoyed.
"It wasn't that," Sirius said, his cheeks going red. He jumped up and made his way to their dormitory. James growled as he followed him. He heard Peter following him.
"Then what was it?" James demanded as he chased the other boy up the stairs.
"Drop it," Sirius said.
"Come on, tell me I know it was something about him. You were fine until he said he smelled a dog," James said.
"Let's not fight," Peter said, trying to diffuse the situation.
"It doesn't matter," Sirius snapped, ignoring Peter. He rounded on James with a glare. "'My mother would kill me if she ever found out."
"Fuck her, tell her to fuck off" James said.
"Wish I could mate, but I've got a few more years left before I can even think about that," Sirius said.
"Then come stay with us! I already told you mum and dad adore you. I'm sure they consider you a second son by this point. They think you two are shagging anyway! And guess what, they don't care, they just want you to be happy!"
"Chocolate, and that damn mint tea," Sirius said looking away, "at first I just thought it was Remus standing too close but as I got closer to the damn potion it got stronger and then he had to go and say dog!"
"I'm sorry, it seems I am interrupting something."
The three looked to the door as Remus stood there. He was looking at Sirius.
"Remus," Sirius said.
"Chocolate and mint tea?" Remus asked. Sirius looked down at the floor. "Is this the part where I confess it wasn't just any dog I smelt but rather a specific annoying dog that takes up my entire bed and practically suffocates me some nights?"
"Yeah, but if you really didn't like it you would have kicked me out by now," Sirius said looking up at him with a grin.
"I oughtta," Remus said.
"You two need to snog and get it over with," Peter sighed.
"Come on Pete, let's go get a snack from the kitchen," James said, grabbing the smaller boy's arm along with his invisibility cloak. "You owe me a galleon by the way."
"No way, you cheated," Peter said as they walked away.
Remus and Sirius stood there looking at one another. Neither of them are sure what to say to the other.
It's Remus who moved first. He stopped in front of Sirius. He took a breath, as he played with the sleeve of his jumper.
"Is this the part where we snog then? Cause I've been-" Remus started.
Sirius silenced him as he brought their lips together, his hands pulling Remus' face down to his. Remus squeaked into the kiss, surprised at the suddenness. However he pulled the smaller boy closer. He allowed Sirius to lead the way as he had more experience in this field than he did.
It felt like pure heaven to Remus. He was floating on cloud nine. Sirius's lips felt perfect against his. It was like they were made to do this.
They parted when the need for air became too great. Remus rested his forehead on Sirius', just taking in a breath. He chuckled softly.
"I don't know when or how it happened but it seems I have fallen for you," Remus said softly.
"Me too," Sirius replied.
Remus pulled the other boy close, sealing their lips together again. Sirius pushed the taller boy to his bed, making him sit. He quickly climbed into his lap, their lips barely parting.
He was no longer anxious. Every bone in his body was relaxed. Sirius just had a way of calming his racing mind. Right now the moon was the furthest thing from his mind. All he could focus on was Sirius and how his lips felt pressed against his.
—Accidentally in Love—
James and Peter laughed as they entered the common room. They looked in the direction of their dormitory. They shared a look.
"Stay here Wormy, your innocent eyes can't handle it," James teased.
Peter scoffed and shoved James as they made their way up the spiral staircase. They both stopped outside the door unsure of what lay beyond.
"By all means Prongs, my innocent eyes can't handle it," Peter sneered.
"Fine," James said, standing up straighter. He ran a hand through his hair nervously before opening the door.
He entered the room and cautiously glanced over to Remus' bed. The other two marauders were already asleep, fully clothed. They laid curled around one another in a tangle of limbs. James gave Peter the all clear and he entered the room.
"About time," Peter said, "we are gonna have to set some ground rules."
"Let them have their moment Pete," James chuckled. He flicked his wand and the curtains around Remus' bed closed.
"Yes, but I don't want to walk in on them shagging," Peter said, causing James to shudder at the thought.
"Fair point," James said. He walked over to his bed to start getting ready for bed.
He was happy for his friends. They were truly perfect for one another. They both deserved to be happy and he knew they could get it from one another.