Remus' POV

The news spread like wildfire. Sirius Black had fallen down the stairs and was in the hospital wing. As I heard, my heart went to my mouth. Was he okay? Guilt suddenly hit me. I had told him months ago to never speak to me again. But that's not what I wanted. I wanted him to talk to me. I wanted him. I had done nothing but stick with my brother for the last few months as I watched him slowly go into himself. His skin became pale and clammy. His vibrant eyes lost their sparkle and became dull and lifeless. He got slower and paid less attention in class. So much so that I heard he fell asleep in Transfiguration.

It didn't take a genius to catch the worried and concerned looks the Slytherins, including Sirius' brother kept shooting him as well as the teachers. I had noticed he was not eating much. He was not himself. He was not well. And now he was in the hospital wing. I wanted to see him but knew I'd never get away yet. I went through all my classes for that day. But I was preoccupied and I think my teachers realised I was. I think I only got away with it because I was usually such a good student.

The bell went signalling the end of last lesson and I ran as quickly as I could out of the door. I ran towards the hospital wing and slowed to a silent walk as I got closer. I slipped in and caught the sight of him. His soft dark hair stood limp and matted with blood. His body was bandaged. I could feel my tears falling down my face. I quickly hid behind a large pillar, in an alcove. In my hiding spot I could hear and see what was being done and said but I could not be seen unless searched for. I was content to watch his chest rise and fall softly. Then I heard the door open. I glanced up and spotted Regulus. I knew it was him immediately. He had the dark hair like Sirius, although his was shorter. He also carried the same haughty look Sirius used to bear.

Regulus spoke softly to the matron before stepping towards Sirius' bed. He glanced around and I was sure for a moment he'd seen me. I sighed in relief as he turned back around and sat by his brothers head. He gently took his hand and I watched as Sirius stirred and opened his eyes. Regulus got him some water and it was silent as he drank.

'Hey Reg,' Sirius muttered weakly.

'Hey yourself.' Regulus said to Sirius, tears falling on his uncharacteristically animated face.

Sirius tried to reach up and wipe Regulus' tears away but winced as he did so.

'Don't cry little brother. Everything's fine.' Sirius said. I watched as Regulus got angry.

'Everything is not fine you idiot!' He shouted as he stood quickly. 'You are lying here in a hospital bed, black and blue and bandaged to high Merlin while he saunters around like nobodys business!'

'How is that fair?' Regulus huffed out as he plopped into his seat again. Who was he talking about?

'I know you don't understand it little brother, but I won't force this onto him. if I'm to be with him I want it to be mutual. He has to want it too.'

'But youre dying Siri!' Regulus cried and put his head down on Sirius' leg. Sirius started to play with his hair.

Sirius was dying? Why? Who was causing this? I'll protect him as best I can.

'If he's happy, then what does it matter Reg?' Sirius sighed. I turned away as I heard Regulus sobbing. I tiptoed out as quietly as I could, my head reeling.