Everything Black

by BrooklynFazenbaker

Adeline Shafiq is proper and well behaved. She has a sharp wit and is a potions prodigy. She is everything that a pureblood princess is supposed to be. Except she's not a pureblood. Follow Adeline, who is willing to kill to protect her friends from the dark lord who is obsessed with her, as she navigates the wizarding world and a marriage contract with the Black family.

11. Chapter 11

I do not own Harry Potter

Chapter Eleven

Adeline snuggled closer to Remus as he turned off her alarm.

"It's time," Remus sighed.

"No," Adeline shook her head, hiding her face in Remus' neck.

"It's just one day. After today, Reggie will move into the room across from yours and we can all pretend it never happened. One day, you'll do the spell and become pregnant and Reggie and I will help you with everything," Remus promised.

"I can't ask that of you," Adeline sat up, staring at Remus in shock.

"Reggie and I already spoke about it," Remus smiled gently, sitting up with her. "We figured with three of us, one baby will be easy enough to handle while we all do independent studies. Wobky and Tiffy will help as well."

"Remy," tears formed in Adeline's eyes as Remus pulled her into a tight hug.

"You're my best friend, Adie," Remus told her. "I told you once that you're too ambitious to not continue your schooling and I meant it."

"Thank you," Adeline breathed out.

"Up you get," Remus told her. "Time to get ready."

Adeline bathed before pinning her hair up and doing her makeup by hand, taking her time. Tiffy popped in, giving Adeline a small plate of breakfast and a cup of tea before popping away again. Once she was in a silk robe, makeup and hair done, Adeline picked up her empty plate and teacup and walked down to the kitchen, finding Severus and Remus talking quietly to one another as they sipped their tea, both already dressed and ready to go. Both turned as Adeline entered, both smiling brightly at her.

"You look beautiful," Remus smiled.

"I'm not even dressed yet," Adeline rolled her eyes.

"Still," Severus shrugged.

The floo roared to life and Adeline looked around, confused. Sissy walked into the kitchen, led by Tiffy. Sissy smiled brightly at Adeline before seeing the two boys.

"Sissy, you remember Remus and Severus?" Adeline asked once Sissy reached her.

"Of course," Sissy nodded. "I just hadn't expected them to be here."

"They agreed to come by early to have breakfast with me," Adeline lied.

"Have you finished?" Sissy asked.

"We have," Remus smiled. "All ready to go."

"Good," Sissy nodded. "Adie, your dress has arrived at Black Manor."

"Perfect," Adeline breathed out, still not moving from her place between Remus and Severus.

The three just stared at her waiting. She took a deep breath and tried to take a step forward. When she still couldn't bring herself to move, Remus called for Tiffy. He bent his knee and spoke quietly to Tiffy before Tiffy popped away.

"Adie?" Reggie's voice spoke a moment later, appearing beside Remus.

"You aren't supposed to see her," Sissy immediately spoke up but the four teens ignored her.

"Adie," Reggie took her hands.

"I'm going," Adeline nodded, breath coming out unevenly. "Why can't I breath?"

"Look at me, Adie," Reggie's voice was gentle as he spoke to her, taking her hands in his. "Copy my breathing."

"I have something for nerves," Severus spoke, his voice sounding disoriented.

"Breath with me, Adie. I'm right here with you. I've got you," Reggie spoke, ignoring everyone else in the room.

"Reg," Adeline's breathing went back to normal and she blinked a few times. "When did you get here?"

"Just now," he told her. "You were panicking a bit. Take this."

Adeline took the offered vial, drinking down the potion without thought. After a few moments, she calmed, her breathing completely normal and her eyes clearing.

"Well, that was eventful," Adeline sighed.

"Ready to go?" Reggie smiled to her, still holding one of her hands.

"Yeah," Adeline nodded. "I'm ready."

Tiffy, Wobky, and Kreacher popped the five to Black Manor, Adeline and Sissy landing in Adeline's room with Tiffy. Walburga entered the room just as Sissy finished buttoning up the silver gown.

"You look beautiful," Walburga smiled to her. "I brought you a few bouquets."

Adeline stared at the bouquets before taking the only one not containing vanilla flowers. She pulled the roses and calla lilies close, smelling the flowers before looking up as Remus entered the room. Remus smiled brightly at her.

"Are you ready?" he asked.

Adeline nodded and the four left the room, Walburga watching Remus carefully, as if sizing him up. Sissy went first, walking through the sunroom and into the garden. Remus turned to Adeline, checking on her one last time before leaving her with Walburga. Walburga offered Adeline her arm before leading her down the aisle. Reggie gave Adeline a bright smile as she walked towards him, making a silly face to make her smile back. Walburga kissed Adeline's cheek before passing her over to Reggie and taking her seat beside Orion.

Adeline and Reggie crossed their hands, repeating their vows to each other before the official tapped their hands with his wand, causing their rings to glow. Sparks shot into the air and Reggie pulled Adeline close, kissing her carefully before they stepped away from each other. Applause filled the garden before everyone headed into the sunroom, Adeline and Reggie leading everyone into the first dance.

After dancing for a few songs, Reggie led Adeline to their table where they sat down. They exchanged looks before they both began laughing. As they calmed down, they looked around the room.

"Do you want to mingle a bit?" Reggie asked.

"Yeah," Adeline nodded.

"I'll find you in a bit," Reggie promised, kissing Adeline's head before walking away to join Barty and Evan.

Adeline stood and walked around the edge of the room until she found Remus. He was standing by a cracked door, listening intently. Adeline walked forward to listen as well, knowing Remus didn't eavesdrop unless it was something interesting.

"How did grown wizards get beaten by a little girl?" Tom's voice asked in a calm tone that made a chill run down Adeline's spine. "I told you how to get through the wards and where she would be. All they had to do was hit her with one spell. Just the one so that she couldn't have children."

"We can try again," Rudolphus' voice spoke this time.

"She's a Black now," Tom stated. "It needed to happen before the wedding. I told you that. I took care of the parents, you were to deal with the girl."

"Maybe if you hadn't given her so many private lessons, she would have been easier to handle," Rudolphus growled out before gasping for air.

"Speak to me that way again and I will rip your tongue out of your throat. Do not forget who I am. I am the Dark Lord. You obey me," Tom's voice threatened.

Remus turned then, panic in his eyes. Adeline threw her hand over his mouth to hide the gasp of surprise from finding her behind him. She put her finger to her mouth to signal for him to remain quiet. They both leaned closer to the door to listen.

"We've been conducting the raids as you've instructed," a voice Adeline didn't recognize spoke up, but caused Remus' spine to straighten. "How would you like us to proceed?"

"Adeline Black will be a good foot soldier," Tom stated. "She would have been better without a child tying her down in the future. We'll have to deal with the child after its born so she won't lose her magic."

"We should get back," Rudolphus' voice sounded smaller than normal.

Adeline and Remus moved instantly, Adeline dragging Remus to the dance floor. The two placed fake smiles on their faces as they fell into the crowd, dancing across the floor. Adeline glanced at the door, taking note of each person that came out of the room. Tom and Rudolphus exited first, followed by Yaxley, Carrow, and a man that Adeline didn't recognize. She saw Remus' staring at the man before they moved further into the crowd.

"Who was he?" Adeline asked, knowing that Remus would know who Adeline was asking about.

"Fenrir Greyback," Remus whispered. "The werewolf who turned me."

Adeline looked to Remus in shock as he continued to lead her across the floor.

"Just keep dancing," he told her. "We're dancing."

Adeline and Remus continued dancing across the floor until they reached Severus, who was speaking with Avery and Mulciber quietly.

"Severus, you promised me a dance," Adeline smiled as Remus left her to find Regulus.

"Did I?" Severus smirked.

"Yes," Adeline smiled, taking his hand. "Don't argue with the bride. Come."

Severus moved with her, noting the look in her eyes. As they moved through the crowd, dancing around everyone, they spoke in low voices. Adeline explained what she and Remus had heard and Severus told Adeline he needed to tell her of his conversation with Avery and Mulciber later. The two bowed to each other as their dance ended, Severus leading Adeline from the dance floor. Adeline bowed her head slightly to Tom as she passed him, a fake smile on her face. Tom smiled back, bowing his head as well.

Adeline held Severus' arm tightly as they searched for Reggie and Remus. Adeline sighed in relief when she finally caught sight of them before tensing again at seeing them standing with Rudolphus and Orion. They walked to the group quickly, Adeline taking her place at Reggie's side.

"Rudolphus," Adeline smiled in greeting. "Lovely to see you."

"You as well," Rudolphus nodded to her, not smiling in the slightest. "You make a lovely bride."

"Thank you," Adeline gave him her sweetest smile, Orion noticing the smile but saying nothing, assuming it was due to Adeline not liking Rudolphus previously. "Where is Bella?"

"She had to leave early. Not feeling well."

"Do send her my love," Adeline nodded. "We missed her this summer."

"I will," Rudolphus nodded. "If you'll excuse me."

Once Rudolphus was gone, Adeline settled a bit, leaning against Reggie. As time went by, Adeline became more agitated, ready to leave Black Manor and spend the last three days away from people she didn't like before returning to Hogwarts. Barty, Avery and Mulciber stole her for a dance, Evan stealing her for three, before Adeline went to Walburga.

"I believe it's time for Reggie and I to retire," she smiled.

"I have to agree," Walburga hiccupped, a glass of wine in her hand. "Have a wonderful wedding night. I'll see you tomorrow at the ministry to finish the paperwork."

"Thank you," Adeline nodded to her before leading Reggie away.

The two went to Reggie's room in Black manor, Severus and Remus following a few minutes later. Wobky and Tiffy were waiting for them already, Reggie's stuff having been moved to Shafiq Manor earlier that day. After reaching Shafiq Manor, Adeline fell into Remus' bed, still in her wedding gown and heels.

"Are you alright?" Remus asked Adeline.

"Not even a little," she told him. "Sev has something to tell us about though."

"That I do," Severus said as he entered the room, having changed out of his dress robes already, Reggie walking in behind him, also dressed in pajamas. "Avery and Mulciber want to take me under their wings. They said that they see our friendship and want to help me fit in better among the purebloods."

"That sounds grand," Adeline sighed before hearing a knock on the door. "What now?"

"Want one of us to get it?" Remus asked.

"I've got it," Adeline sighed, standing and leaving the room.

She reached the entrance room just as Wobky opened the door. Sirius stood in the doorway, staring at Adeline in shock.

"Siri?" Adeline asked, voice soft.

"Would mistress like to have Wobky send the boy away?" Wobky asked.

"No, Wobky. You can take the rest of the night off," Adeline stated, not looking at the elf.

Adeline heard Wobky pop away but kept her eyes on Sirius the whole time. Sirius continued staring at her, no words being spoken. She stepped forward, leaning against the door.

"Hi," Adeline finally breathed out.

"Hey," Sirius whispered. "Nice dress."

"Nice?" Adeline smirked. "Is that the word you're going with?"

"You look beautiful," Sirius breathed out. "Stunning. Breath taking. Better than I deserve."

"Have you been drinking?"

"Yes."

"Of course, you have," Adeline sighed. "Why are you here, Siri?"

"I saw the wedding announcement in the Prophet this morning," he told her.

"And?" she asked. "You knew we were to be wed this summer."

"I just wanted to see you once more beforehand," he shrugged.

"You're a few hours late," she smirked to him.

"I see that," he nodded.

They stared at each other for a few more moments before Sirius spoke again.

"Have you signed all of the paperwork at the ministry yet?"

"No," Adeline shook her head. "We're going in the morning."

"Oh," Sirius nodded.

"Yeah."

"So, technically speaking, I'm not too late?" Sirius tried, stepping towards the door.

"Do you want to come in?" Adeline asked him. "We can speak inside rather than in the doorway."

"Sure," Sirius nodded and Adeline stepped aside, allowing Sirius into her home.

Adeline closed the door, turning to face Sirius. He stared down at her, eyes travelling up and down her body as he stared at her gown. She leaned against the closed door, not really sure what to say.

"I'm sorry for just showing up," Sirius said, voice soft. "I just needed to see you."

"Well, you see me," Adeline told him.

"I do," he nodded.

"Is there anything you want to say?" she asked, voice gentle.

"Can I ask you something?" he asked.

"Sure," she nodded.

"Can I kiss you?" he sounded almost broken as he asked.

"I don't know if that's the best idea," she told him. "You've been drinking and I did just exchange vows with your little brother."

"You don't love him. Not that way," Sirius pointed out, moving closer to her.

"According to you, you never loved me like that," Adeline pointed out.

"I did say that," Sirius nodded, deep in thought as he stared at Adeline.

"You should get back to Jamie," Adeline told him. "I'm sure he's worried about you."

"He knows where I am," Sirius shook his head.

"Let's go upstairs," Adeline sighed. "Get a potion in you and get you in a bed."

"Can I stay with you?" Sirius asked, tears in his eyes.

"We'll see," Adeline nodded. "Come on."

Adeline took Sirius' arm, helping him up the stairs as he stumbled a bit. Remus stepped out of his room when he heard the noise, his door being the only one still open. His eyes grew when he saw Sirius, surprise on his face.

"Will you grab a hangover potion from the lab, please?" Adeline asked Remus. "I don't have any sobering potion."

"Yeah," Remus nodded before throwing a large shirt on and heading down the stairs.

Adeline led Sirius to her room, sitting him on her bed. She pulled a silk nightgown from her wardrobe, setting it on her bed before looking to Sirius. She waved her wand over him, turning his clothes into pajamas. He smiled up at her, eyes glazed slightly. Remus came into the room then, passing the potions to Adeline.

"Need any help?" he asked, glancing at Sirius.

"No," she shook her head. "I'm giving him this and putting him to bed."

"Let me know if you need me," Remus told her before leaving the room, shutting her door behind himself.

Adeline passed the potion to Sirius and he smiled before downing it.

"You always take care of me," he told her.

"I do," she nodded. "Lay down. Get under the covers."

"You're still in your dress," Sirius frowned. "You should change."

"I can't take it off with magic," she sighed. "Your mother had it spelled so only a Black could remove it. I was going to tell Reggie about it but then you showed up."

"She's horrible," Sirius scrunched up his nose.

"She is," Adeline sighed.

"Do you want me to do it?" Sirius asked. "Reggie doesn't seem the type to want to see you naked."

"He wouldn't see me naked," Adeline rolled her eyes. "He would just have to unbutton the dress."

"Is that how she worded it?" Sirius asked.

Adeline thought about it for a moment, biting her lip, knowing Sirius had a point.

"Fine," she grumbled before turning around.

Sirius stood and slowly unbuttoned her dress, his hands grazing down her spine as he went. His touch was feather light, his fingers gently brushing against her skin.

"Try it," Sirius whispered to her.

Adeline tried to move the sleeves over her shoulders and groaned in annoyance when the dress stayed put. Sirius chuckled before helping her. He slowly pushed the sleeves down her shoulders, letting the dress fall off of her and leaving her in the white bralette and knickers she'd worn all day. She reached back, trying to undo her bra to find it stuck as well.

"I'm guessing the spell is on everything," Sirius voice was low, husky like as his breath hit her shoulder.

His fingers brushed against her bare skin, flicking the hooks so that they came undone. He slid the straps down her arms and the bra fell to the floor. Sirius leaned into Adeline, kissing her shoulder softly before his fingers reached into Adeline underwear, sliding the garment down her body, his lips trailing down her back as he kneeled behind her. She stepped out of her underwear but found herself unable to move as Sirius stood back up behind her, his clothed body pressed against her naked back.

Sirius rested his hands on her hips, lips back against her shoulder as he kissed the spot gently. Adeline moved her head to the side, allowing him access to her neck. He pulled the pin that held her hair up from her hair, causing her blond curls to come loose as his lips travelled to her neck. She let out a gasp as he nibbled the sensitive spot under her ear, arching slightly without thought.

Sirius pulled Adeline closer, one of his hands moving to her stomach as the other wrapped in her hair.

"You're drunk," she breathed out.

"I had a buzz when I got here," Sirius told her. "I'm sober now."

"Why do I not believe you?"

"James gave me a sobering potion," Sirius admitted, pulling the potion from his pocket to show her.

She took the vial, opening it so she could see the color and smell it. After verifying what the potion was, she passed it back to Sirius, who downed it in one go. He held her close, kissing and nibbling her neck as the potion took effect. She knew the moment he was sober because he let out a sigh before his hand that was on her stomach moved up. He felt between her breast before reaching her chin and turning her head towards him.

He kissed her roughly, the taste of alcohol completely gone. Sirius moved his hand to her chest, massaging her breast and causing her to moan into his mouth. He freed his hand from her hair, moving it in front of her and reaching between her legs. She gasped at the feeling and Sirius' tongue entered her mouth. Adeline leaned back into him and Sirius pulled her towards the bed.

He turned her once they were close enough to the bed, wrapping his arms around her waist and lifting her. Adeline wrapped her legs around his waist and Sirius lowered her to the bed, pressing his body against hers while holding his weight up with his arms. His hand travelled back down her body and going between her legs. Adeline moaned quietly before holding her hand out and summoning her wand.

She set up privacy wards on the room before letting out the sharp gasp as Sirius moved a finger into her. He watched her face as he continued moving his fingers, adding another while his thumb worked circles against her sensitive spot.

"Siri," Adeline gasped out.

"I've got you," he promised.

Adeline felt a feeling of pleasure move through her, moaning as her back arched.

"Adie," Sirius whispered her name. "I need you."

"Yes," Adeline whispered out.

Sirius removed his shirt and Adeline ran her fingers down his chest, moving gently over the old scars that his mother had left on him. He watched as she reached for his pants, pulling them down slightly. He kicked his pants off before moving over her again.

"This may hurt a bit," he told her.

"It's okay," Adeline nodded.

Sirius kissed her again before slowly moving against her. Adeline gasped as she felt pain before it turned to pleasure. Sirius groaned before he began slowly moving, careful to not hurt Adeline more than he already had. They kissed gently, both breathing heavily.

"Adie," Sirius whispered out. "I can't."

"It's okay," she nodded to him. "It's okay."

Sirius continued moving slowly, one of his hands going down and rubbing circles on her again. They continued kissing, both moaning into each other's mouths as they did so. Adeline came again, legs shaking from over stimulation. Sirius grunted a few times before becoming still. Sirius slowly removed himself from her, rolling to her side. He pulled her to his chest before pulling a blanket over them both. He took Adeline's wand, cleaning them both with magic before performing the sterilization charm on her.

He set her wand aside before holding her close. The two fell asleep quickly, exhausted. When Adeline woke the next morning, Sirius was gone. Had she not woken up naked, she would have thought she'd imagined the whole thing. She stood in the shower, crying silently before pulling herself together and getting ready for the day. She slipped on a black dress that reached her knees before adding robes over the top of it. With a wave of her wand, her wedding dress flew into her closet.

Once she looked presentable, Adeline left her room, walking slowly from the soreness between her legs. She went straight to her potions lab, taking a mild pain reliever and waiting for it to work before heading to the dining room where Remus, Severus and Regulus were already eating.

"We have to head to the ministry in twenty minutes," Reggie told her as she sat down.

"I know," she sighed, fixing her tea and grabbing a piece of toast.

"Who was at the door last night?" Severus asked curiously.

"Wrong house," Remus spoke up, saving Adeline from answering.

"Really? That's strange," Reggie said, eyebrows knit together.

Adeline simply shrugged before sipping her tea. Reggie and Severus went back to their breakfast and Adeline caught Remus' eye. He asked with his eyes if she was okay, to which she simply nodded before finishing her piece of toast. Tiffy popped Adeline and Reggie to the apparation point beside the ministry building afterwards, the two walking arm-in-arm into the ministry and heading to the correct floor, Walburga and Orion already there and waiting for them. Walburga gave Adeline a smirk before she and Orion led them to the counter.

"So, this bit is rather easy," Walburga explained. "You sign the wedding contracts and a charm will be placed over you."

"What charm?" Reggie questioned, he and Adeline both seeming confused.

"It's a pureblood tradition," Orion smiled. "The charm allows you to feel when the other dies and it'll tell you the blood status of the one you've married."

"What?" Adeline asked, trying to not sound panicked.

"It's fine dear," Walburga promised. "Neither of you will be dying any time soon."

"How can it tell your blood status?" Reggie asked curiously.

"The charm reads the blood inside of you and you'll hear it in your head. Only the two of you will hear it. It's a charm that was created centuries ago when muggleborns were trying to sully pureblood lines. I'll find a book on it," Orion promised.

"Alright," Reggie agreed and Adeline nodded along, not trusting her voice in the moment.

After the contracts were signed, the two were led to a private room where a ministry official cast the non-verbal charm. Adeline felt the magic flowing through them as they were connected and knew it was the part of the charm that would tell Adeline if something had happened to Reggie. A few moments later, she heard it.

'Pureblood,' a voice whispered to her.

Her eyes locked on Reggie's as his eyes widened in confusion. She shook her head, telling him with the simple movement that she would explain later. He nodded, making his face blank as the official completed the charm. They exited the room and Walburga pulled Adeline close.

"I'm so happy that you and Regulus were able to connect last night," she whispered to Adeline. "I knew it would work."

Adeline simply hugged Walburga back, refusing to say anything. They pulled away and Adeline gave Walburga a fake smile.

"We're rather tired," Reggie announced to his parents. "We're heading home if that's okay with the both of you?"

"Of course," Walburga smiled as if she was in on the secret. "We'll see you both at Christmas."

Once Adeline and Reggie had been brought home by Tiffy, Reggie turned on Adeline.

"Something you want to tell me?" he asked, voice raised and causing Adeline to set up privacy charms in her home a second time within the last twenty-four hours.

"Reggie," Adeline tried speaking softly.

"Does Remus know?" Reggie questioned. "Of course, he probably knows. You tell each other everything. Does Sirius? Was everyone in on your secret except for me?"

"Sirius doesn't know," Adeline shook her head. "Only Remus. He figured it out ages ago."

"Figured it out?" Reggie yelled the question. "How? How does someone just figure that out, Adeline? It seems like the one thing you wouldn't want people to figure out, so explain it to me!"

"Reggie," Adeline tried.

"It wasn't a joke!" Reggie realized. "You made a joke about it at Christmas, but you were being honest!"

"Reggie," Adeline reached for him before he pulled away.

"Don't!" Reggie pulled away, stepping back from her.

"Does it really matter that much to you?" Adeline questioned, feeling angry now. "Have your parents really dug so far into your mind that something as ridiculous as blood status actually mean something to you now?"

"I don't care about that, Adie! I care that you didn't tell me!"

Adeline stared at him with sad eyes, the both of them trying to gather themselves.

"Tell me everything," Regulus demanded. "You at least owe me that much for keeping this from me. I thought we were best friends, but I guess I was replaced with Lupin longer ago than I realized."

"We are best friends," Adeline promised him. "I didn't want anyone to know and I never wanted to put you in a position where you had to keep this from your parents."

"Did you not think I would protect you?" he asked, seeming even more upset now.

"I didn't want you to have to protect me," Adeline corrected him. "No one was ever meant to know."

"The Shafiq's had a daughter," Reggie said, trying to figure it out. "The contract wouldn't have come into play had they not had a daughter."

"They did have a daughter," Adeline admitted. "She was killed in America though. They found me in an orphanage and decided to pass me off for her. That's why Miranda hated me so much. She had just lost her real daughter and had to settle for a muggleborn orphan to fulfil the contract instead or risk losing their magic. They blood adopted me to make the contract final."

"That's why she hit you," Reggie whispered out.

"Yes," Adeline sighed out. "Adrian tried to remind her that it was her idea in the first place but she hated me for reminding her of what she'd lost and what she could lose if I made any mistakes. She trained me for a year before I met you."

Reggie just stared at Adeline, not sure what to say. Eventually, he deflated a bit.

"I need time," he told her.

"I understand," Adeline nodded, taking another step away from Regulus.

"I don't care that you're muggleborn," Reggie told her. "I care that you didn't trust me enough to tell me."

"I know," Adeline nodded.

"I'll see you later."

Reggie walked out of the room, breaking the privacy spell the moment he opened the door. Adeline let out a rough sigh before sinking into a chair. She stayed there for a bit longer, not in the mood to go looking for Remus or Severus in the moment. She felt heartbroken from fighting with Reggie and physically exhausted from the night with Sirius. To be honest, she was heartbroken about Sirius as well. She cried into her hands for a few minutes before pulling herself together.

After clearing her face from tear marks, she stood and left the room. She went to her room, shutting the door behind herself before waving her wand and sending her completed summer homework to her trunk, along with her uniforms. She set out a set of plain black robes and a black dress for the train ride before laying in her bed.

She could still smell Sirius' cologne on the pillow he'd slept on. She buried her head in the pillow, breathing the scent deeply. She hugged the pillow against her chest, crying softly for the remainder of the day, finally letting everything that she had been feeling out.

The next morning, Adeline went into muggle London alone as the shops were just starting to open. She bought new perfumes that smelt like honey instead of vanilla before moving along to a larger departments store. There, she bought new sheets and pillows that were red and black plaid and softer than any silk she'd ever worn. She walked through the store with her buggy, throwing clothes into it based on how they felt on her hand, only choosing items that were soft. She found clothes that weren't form fitting, but loose instead. She also made sure she had clothes in colors other than black, choosing more white items than anything else. Next, she found shampoo and body wash that smelt like honey as well before going to the makeup aisle. She found eyeshadows and liners that were lighter, finding white of those as well.

After checking out, Adeline carried her bags by hand and found a place for lunch, finding a pizza shop and wondering what pizza was. She stepped inside, smelling the air and smiling. The worker greeted her with a smile and asked what she would like to order. Adeline asked what their best sellers were and ordered three large pizzas, carrying them along as well once they were ready.

Tiffy opened the door when Adeline kicked it as a form of knocking. She opened the door wide, allowing Adeline inside and staring at her in confusion. Adeline walked up the stairs to her room, dropping her bags onto her floor before setting the pizzas on the bed. She opened the boxes and tried a piece of each before eating as much as she could, deciding that she liked the grease and spices. After she finished eating whatever her stomach would allow, she threw the clothes out of her closet and hung up her new clothes.

She pulled her extra clothes from her trunk, adding in a few of her new outfits in there as well. She stripped from the clothes she was wearing, grabbing all new items before going into the bathroom and taking a hot shower, scrubbing at her skin with the new body wash and cleaning for hair with the new shampoo and conditioner. Once she was done, she pulled on her new clothes, loose jeans, a white t-shirt and an opened green and blue flannel. She brushed her hair out, leaving it frizzy instead of taming her curls like she normally would.

Next she grabbed her makeup, applying white liner under her eyes along with silver eye shadow and light pink lip gloss. Her flannel slipped on one side, exposing her arm slightly. She stared at her reflection, not recognizing the girl that stared back at her. This girl looked a bit wild compared to how Adeline typically held herself, bags under her eyes and bright colors on her skin, hair completely out of place. She tilted her head before smiling slightly and nodding, deciding that she liked what she saw before leaving the bathroom.

She put all of her old clothes into a pile to donate as soon as possible before looking down at her hands and seeing her wedding bands and her family rings. She pulled the family rings off and set them on the table beside her bed before stepping out of her room, finding Severus, Remus, and Reggie all talking quietly.

"Adie?" Remus asked, staring at her.

"What are you wearing?' Severus questioned.

"What did you do to your hair?" Reggie added on.

"I'm trying something different," Adeline shrugged. "What do you think?"

"It's great," Remus smiled before either of the boys could respond, knowing that they would probably ruin it. "Why the change though."

"I'm not the same person I used to be," Adeline shrugged before walking away from them.

"What the bloody hell does that mean?" Severus whispered to the other two boys as they followed her down the stairs.

"I'm thinking of going out again," Adeline told them. "I have a few more things to buy. Would any of you care to join me?"

"Sure," Remus spoke up, giving the other two a look.

"Why not?" Severus sighed.

Reggie remained quiet, still rather upset with Adeline. She walked out the front door, wallet going into her pocket as the boys followed behind her. She walked back into the department store and headed to the jewelry section. She looked through the rings, necklaces, and bracelets on display, choosing a few different things before looking to the boys.

"Can I dress you?" she asked the three of them.

They all seemed a bit concerned about the question before agreeing. Adeline smiled brightly before leading them to the male clothing. She grabbed a buggy, wheeling it towards the men's section. She grabbed muggle band shirts, a black and a brown leather jacket, over-sized sweaters, multiple pairs of jeans and shoes. She stared at boxer briefs and Severus and Reggie began blushing as Remus rolled his eyes.

"Adie?" Remus asked, voice soft. "What's going on?"

"I've decided I need change and I don't want to do it alone," she whispered to him before grabbing packages of Calvin Klein boxers and adding them to the buggy.

"Okay," Remus nodded.

Adeline went to push the buggy and Remus stood behind her. She stepped onto the bar on the bottom of the buggy and Remus pushed it for her, letting her lean against his chest as her led them around the store, Adeline telling Reggie and Severus when she saw something she liked.

"Sev, you would look amazing with some eyeliner," Adeline commented as they passed the makeup section.

"No," Severus spoke up but Reggie had already grabbed the liner and added it to the cart, smirking as he did so.

"We should do our school shopping," Adeline sighed.

"You haven't done your school shopping yet?" Reggie asked in shock.

"I'm so sorry. I was busy planning our wedding this summer and found all my time ate up by that," Adeline deadpanned.

"Sorry," Reggie flinched slightly.

"Don't be," she sighed, still leaning against Remus. "Do either of you still need school supplies?"

"Severus and I went two weeks ago," Remus told her. "I got most of what you needed. I knew you were busy"

"Thank you," Adeline whispered.

"Anything for you, Adie," Remus whispered back as they continued walking around. "What else do we need?"

"I think this is plenty," Adeline sighed as they turned a corner and almost ran into Lily. "Hi."

"What are you four doing here?" Lily asked curiously.

"I decided we needed new clothes," Adeline shrugged. "I didn't realize you lived so close by."

"I don't," Lily sighed. "Mum brought my sister and I up for the day hoping that we would get along."

"Is she still being ridiculous?" Severus rolled his eyes.

"Lily. Where did you go?" a girl with a long neck appeared beside Lily suddenly. "There you are. Oh, it's him."

"Petunia," Severus greeted with a fake smile. "A displeasure as always."

"Are these more of those freaks you go to school with?" Petunia questioned, staring at the other three in distaste.

"We are," Adeline smiled. "Freaks, I mean. All very strange and unusual."

"Whatever," Petunia rolled her eyes before looking to Lily. "Are you coming or not? Mum found something for you to try on."

Petunia walked away without waiting for a response.

"She seems lovely," Adeline smiled enthusiastically.

"That's one word for it," Lily mumbled. "I'll see you on the train."

"Bye, Lils," Adeline smiled, watching as she walked away.

"Her sister is terrible," Severus told them about Petunia's treatment towards Lily as they checked out.

Once they were home again, Adeline passed clothes out to the boys, having somehow kept everything organized as she'd thrown it into the buggy. The three didn't argue as Adeline made them try on different things to show her as she ripped her sheets from her bed, tossing them into the pile of her old clothes. She put her new sheets onto the bed telling the boys when to trade shirts or jackets as they went.

The final day before they were to head for the train, they all practiced dueling for the majority of the day, Reggie watching how the three moved so well together after having practiced with one another all summer. They headed to the station the next day, appearing at the apparition point thanks to Wobky and Tiffy. The four walked through the barrier and smiled when they saw so many people wandering around the station, students hugging each other after not having seen each other all summer.

Taking Reggie's arm, Adeline led her boys onto the train, leading them to an empty compartment. The four fell into their preferred seats, shutting the blinds on their window and the curtain on their door for a semblance of privacy. Adeline laid across the seat, head resting in Remus' lap as Reggie and Severus came up with a plan for Severus to blend in with Avery and Mulciber without issue.

"What are you going to do about what we heard at the wedding?" Remus asked Adeline gently.

"I'm not sure yet," she sighed. "I can't distance myself from Tom without raising suspicion. I was able to use the wedding as an excuse this summer and I think I'll be able to use Shafiq Potions this summer but Walburga will know if I've been avoiding him."

"We'll need to keep an eye out on everyone that he's been recruiting," Reggie agreed.

"Do you think he's behind the disappearances and muggle deaths?" Severus asked.

"That might be the raids that were mentioned," Adeline nodded. "I'll see what I can figure out. He's been hinting at wanting my help with something."

"Be careful," Remus said softly.

"I will be," she promised as their compartment door opened.

Adeline sat up quickly just in time for the curtain to be pulled open and Barty and Evan to step in.

"What's going on in here?" Barty asked as Evan sat between Adie and Remus.

"Just discussing classes," Reggie offered.

"Boring," Barty sighed as he fell into the seat beside Reggie as Avery and Mulciber came to the doorway.

"Snape. We've been looking for you," Avery smiled. "Would you like to join us?"

"Sure," Severus nodded, standing and leaving with them.

"Why is a Gryffindor here?" Evan asked Adeline.

"Because he's my friend," Adeline's voice was firm.

"Actually, I need to go find Lily," Remus sighed, standing. "I'll see you in Charms."

Remus kissed Adeline's head before leaving, shutting the door behind himself.

"Finally," Evan sighed, laying across the seat and resting his head in Adeline's lap. "I thought he'd never leave. Why do you keep him around?"

"He's my friend," Adeline defended.

"He's a mudblood lover," Barty spoke up and Reggie tensed slightly. "You shouldn't associate with mudbloods or traitors now that you're a Black, Adie. You need to stay with your own kind, the right kind."

"I think I can sort out the wrong sport for myself, thanks," Adeline deadpanned.

"Adie, we're just trying to look out for you," Evan promised. "The Dark Lord has asked our parents about us joining his cause once we complete Hogwarts. He wants to teach us as he's been teaching you."

"What's he calling his followers?" Reggie asked curiously. "Mother hasn't told me."

"Death Eaters," Evan smirked.

"Punk rock," Adeline rolled her eyes.

"What?" Evan asked, confused before narrowing his eyes at the door.

Adeline looked out the door and found Sirius, James and Peter in the compartment next to theirs. Adeline pulled the curtain closed before the three could see who was beside them.

"Don't be a coward, Adie," Barty rolled his eyes, opening the curtain back. "It's just the three blind mice."

"I don't want to see them," she stated, reaching for the curtain.

"You're being spoiled," Evan rolled his eyes.

"Am I?" Adeline asked, brow raised.

"Yes."

Adeline pushed Evan off of her, causing him to roll onto the floor. She stood and opened the compartment door, Reggie's and Barty's laugh following her out. The three Gryffindor's turned in time to see Adeline leaving the compartment, Evan still on the floor as she walked away with an angry expression on her face.

Adeline found in empty compartment at the back of the train and sat down, shutting and locking the sliding door so no one could bother her. She laid across the seat, arm over her eyes in an attempt to get some rest before arriving at the school, still tired from the nightmares she'd been having.

When the train arrived at the station, she stood quickly and exited the train. She roughly ran her fingers through her frizzed hair, trying to tame it slightly now that she was no longer using magic to do so. In fact, she'd stopped using magic for a lot of things. Her makeup was done by hand and she's started washing the dishes after dinner by hand as well. She preferred it at times, finding it relaxing to do something on her own.

She climbed into an empty carriage, letting out a deep sigh as she sank into the seat. When she reached the castle, she ran her hand along the backs of the black beasts that pulled the students along before heading inside. She looked into the Great Hall, staring around at the other students as they were getting settled for the feast. She shook her head and headed to the kitchens to steal a bit of food before going to the empty classroom where she had been given permission to brew.

Adeline transformed a desk into a bed, adding as many cushioning charms as she could. She went to the potions that she had started for Remus for the coming weeks as she ate her sandwich, adding ingredients and stirring as needed. As the night wore on, the candles grew brighter, giving her the light she needed to continue working. She wrote in her potions book as the night wore on, deciding to start brewing Dreamless Sleep potions the next day.

Just as she finished adding her own notes to the sixth potion in her book, a knock sounded on the door. She turned to find Dumbledore standing in the doorway, giving her a small smile as he entered the room. He looked around the room, seeing the cot in the corner and the potions brewing on the long desk.

"Mrs. Black, I did not see you at the opening feast," he stated.

"I didn't feel like dealing with people that I don't truly like," Adeline shrugged.

"Is that why you have a bed in here?"

"It is."

"Is there something you wish to tell me?" he asked.

"Not in particular," Adeline shrugged.

"I see," Dumbledore nodded. "If you change your mind, you know where my office is."

"Thank you, sir," Adeline nodded before watching him leave.

She closed her book and laid on her cot, deciding to try to get some rest. The next morning, she conjured a mirror, finding that her trunk had somehow appeared at the end of her bed at some point in the night. She combed out her hair, tying it into a messy bun before working on her makeup. She threw on her uniform skirt, rolling it up to halfway up her thighs before pulling on her white uniform shirt and green tie, leaving it untied. After pulling her school robe over her clothes, she left it opened and grabbed her bag with her charms and runes book packed inside, finding her schedule having appeared on one of the tables as well.

She ran to the charms room after realizing she was running behind due to doing everything by hand, deciding to wake up earlier from now on. She found Remus standing with James, Peter and Sirius while Reggie stood with Evan and Barty on the other side of the hall. She glanced between the two groups before walking past them and standing beside Severus and Lily with a smile.

"You are not in proper uniform," Evan stated, going to Adeline's side.

"Such a keen observation," Adeline sighed, rolling her eyes to Severus as he held in a laugh.

"Adie, can we skip to the part where you yell at me for the stupid thing that I said and I apologize profusely, please? I've missed you," Evan pouted.

"Don't beg," Adeline sighed. "It's unbecoming."

"Adie," Evan's face turned serious. "I don't know what I did to upset you this much. I am truly sorry and I want to make it up to you. Come to Hogsmeade with me?"

"Are you apologizing and asking her on a date at the same time?" Lily asked, head cocked to the side slightly.

"Stay out of it, mudblood," Barty growled before gasping in pain when Adeline's fist collided with his nose.

"Ow," Adeline complained, shaking her hand out.

Remus grabbed her hand immediately, looking over it as a bruise began to form.

"What the hell, Adie?" Reggie asked, going to Barty's side immediately.

"Bitch," Barty spat out, eyes widening when Adeline got out of Remus' hold.

"You do not speak to her ever again, do you understand me?" Adeline asked, voice raised. "If I hear you call her that again, I'll hex you until you're bleeding on the ground!"

Barty glared at Adeline before turning and walking away, nose still bleeding as Evan and Reggie ran after him. Remus pulled Adeline in the opposite direction, dragging her behind in alcove once they were clear of the hall. She took a few deep breaths as Lily joined them in the alcove, staring at Adeline in disbelief.

"You shouldn't have done that," Remus shook his head. "Walburga…"

"Oh, to hell with Walburga Black!" Adeline yelled.

"Adie," Remus tried to quiet her.

"No!" Adie went to argue just for Remus to wrap her in a tight hug.

She pushed against him, trying to escape him. She banged her fist on his chest as well before she felt herself crumble against him, tears pouring from her eyes. She sank to the floor, Remus going down with her as she sobbed into his chest, unable to stop herself. Lily sat with them, rubbing Adeline's back.

"I can't, Remy," Adeline sobbed. "I can't keep pretending. I can't keep doing this. I hate it. I hate it here. I just want to disappear. I don't want to have to pretend anymore."

"I know," Remus whispered to her. "I know. I understand. You know I do. I'm here. I've got you."

"I hate them for making me do this," she continued. "I hate the Shafiqs. I hate the Blacks. I hate damned Adeline. I hate her."

"Shh," Remus tried, staring at James as he stood at the entrance to the alcove, staring at them.

"I can't," Adeline continued crying. "I can't."

"I know," Remus continued.

"I just want to be Hathor. I don't want to be Adeline," Adeline whimpered and Remus' eyes grew.

"Shush now," Remus told her, voice a bit more firm.

Adeline stopped speaking but continued crying, unable to stop. Lily and James stared in confusion before James' eyes widened, a quiet gasp escaping his mouth and causing Adeline to turn sharply. Her eyes met James and she stared in panic as James began figuring things out.

"What's going on?" Lily asked. "What are you talking about, Adie? Who's Hathor?"

"You aren't Adeline Shafiq," James whispered out so only the other three could hear him.

"Of course, she is," Lily shook her head in confusion. "Who else would she be?"

"That's what you know. That's why you're so close," James said to Remus before looking to Adeline again. "You said you and Remus knew things about each other that others didn't. That's it, isn't it?"

"James," Remus said, voice low.

"Who's Hathor?" Lily asked again.

"We need to find a place more private," Remus announced, lifting Adeline into his arms easily and carrying her out of the alcove.

James led them to an abandoned classroom, locking the door and throwing up privacy charms the moment they were inside. Remus set Adeline on a desk, standing in front of her.

"Do you want to explain?" Remus asked in a soft whisper, nodding when Adeline shook her head and stared at her lap.

"Someone needs to explain," James stated.

Remus turned and faced Lily and James. He took a deep breath, leaning back against Adeline as she laid her forehead on his shoulder. Remus told James and Lily the truth about Adeline as she hid her face, refusing to look up. Remus answered every question that Lily and James asked without hesitation, trying to get the story over with as soon as possible so that he could go back to comforting Adeline.

Adeline jumped when the bell rang, head popping up. Remus turned around, facing her. She gave him a small nod as James and Lily came closer.

"So, your real name is Hathor Boudreaux and the Shafiqs blood adopted you so that you could complete the contract with the Blacks," James sighed, leaning against the desk.

"You were confused as to why I blended in with muggles so well," Adeline pointed out.

"I was," James nodded, brows raising. "You made a joke at Christmas about it."

"I think I about gave Remus a heart attack when I did," Adeline smirked as Remus gave her a playful glare.

"How did Remus find out?" Lily asked. "Did you just tell him?"

"He figured it out within a month of us being friends," Adeline shrugged. "A few things didn't make sense and he pushed until I told him the truth. He's far too observant for his own good."

"He is," James agreed. "Bit annoying actually."

"Thanks, mate," Remus rolled his eyes before looking to Adeline. "Are you okay?"

"Yeah," she sighed. "It was a rough summer."

"I know," Remus nodded. "You didn't really want any help though."

"I thought I was doing fine," Adeline argued.

"You blew up the dining room table," Remus deadpanned.

"Well, I…"

"You also threw away all of your old clothes and stopped taking care of your hair, you haven't been eating or sleeping properly, and you've been short with everyone except for me and Severus."

"You're right, it is annoying," Adeline said to James as another bell rang.

"We need to get to class," Lily sighed.

"How bad do I look?" Adeline asked Remus.

Remus gave her a look and she groaned, waving her wand over her face. Her makeup went back to how it had been that morning and she hoped off the desk. Remus took her hand as they exited the room, James and Lily behind them. Remus walked Adeline to her next class, kissing her head before heading to his own, not caring about the late bell as it rang out. Adeline walked into runes and sat at the desk closest to the door before starting to take notes.

The other Slytherins gave Adeline a wide birth any time they saw her, shooting glares at her. Adeline had started taking her meals in the classroom where she brewed, spending all of her free time there with Remus as they discussed the dueling club.

"Do you think any Slytherins will still be interested?" Remus asked.

"Probably not," Adeline sighed. "Severus is still in but Reggie, Barty and Evan aren't speaking with me. I hung a sign-up sheet in the common room while everyone was at dinner last night so we'll see."

"James, Peter, Sirius and Lily are still coming, along with a few others," Remus told her.

"Lovely," Adeline sighed. "Pandora had a few friends sign up in Ravenclaw and I got ten Hufflepuffs without even trying."

"So, it's just your house we need to worry about?" Remus asked, looking worried.

"I'll figure something out," Adeline promised. "Reggie will come around and help."

"I hope so," Remus sighed. "I should be getting back to my house. Goodnight, Adie."

"Night, Remy," Adeline gave him a soft smile as he left the room.

The sign-up sheet continued to disappear from the Slytherin common room for a week and Adeline ended up giving up on it. Avery and Mulciber came to her a few days after.

"Hello," Adeline greeted them. "How can I help you?"

"Actually, we were thinking we could help you," Avery smirked.

"We can get a few Slytherins to join your dueling club," Mulciber offered.

"What do you want in return?" Adeline asked, arms crossing over her chest as Remus came over to her.

"Put in a good word for us with the Dark Lord," Avery shrugged.

"That's it?" Adeline asked. "Tell him that the two of you are willing to follow him and you'll help me?"

"Yes," Mulciber nodded.

"Done," Adeline shrugged. "I'll write him tonight."

"You write to the Dark Lord whenever you wish?" Mulciber asked, eyes wide.

"Yes," Adeline nodded. "Why is that always so surprising?"

"Because he's the Dark Lord," Avery stated.

"Will you be teaching us spells that he taught you?" Mulciber asked excitedly.

"Some," Adeline nodded.

"We're in," Avery smiled. "Do you have a sheet?"

Adeline handed the sign-up sheet over and the two older boys left with it, heading out to find Slytherins to join them. Adeline and Remus bumped their fist together before turning and walking into potions. They sat together, working on their potions in sync. Remus pulled Adeline down when a cauldron blew up next to them, protecting her with his own body as the potion splashed on him, causing him to grunt in pain. Slughorn came around quickly, clearing the potion from the room.

Remus and Reggie were both carried out of the room on stretchers, being taken up to the hospital wing. Adeline chased after them, others following directly behind her. The group was stopped outside of the hospital wing by McGonagall though.

"What do you mean we can't see them?" James demanded. "They're our friends."

"Friend isn't good enough to get into the hospital wing," McGonagall said firmly.

"How about wife?" Adeline asked, glaring at McGonagall.

McGonagall stared at Adeline for a moment before letting her through, Adeline rushing into the room. She stood in front of the two beds, watching as Slughorn and Pomfrey each worked on one of the boys. Once they were done, the sky had darkened and Pomfrey told Adeline that they would both be fine before trying to dismiss her. Adeline conjured a chair and took a seat between the two beds instead, giving Pomfrey a steely look. Pomfrey sighed and walked away to attend to other patients as Slughorn gave her a wink and left the hospital wing.

Adeline pulled her journal out, writing to James, Lily, and Severus to let them know that Reggie and Remus would be alright. She wrote to the three for a bit before setting the journal aside. She reached over and took Reggie's hand as she watched Remus, falling asleep as the night wore on.

She felt someone shake her gently and she sat up straight, a small kink in her neck from how she had been sleeping. She rubbed her eyes before looking up to find James, Peter, and Sirius staring at her in the mostly dark hospital wing.

"Hey," she whispered to them, holding in a yawn.

"You didn't look very comfortable," James told her.

"Neck hurts a bit," Adeline admitted.

"How are they?" James asked, sitting on the edge of Reggie's bed.

"They've been asleep the whole time," she sighed. "Pomfrey gave them plenty of pain potion but I'm not sure how long it'll work of Remus. He burns through potions faster than others due to his condition. Pomfrey knows though so I'm sure she's thought of something. What happened?"

"A cauldron exploded next to your table," Peter told her. "It was Barty's."

"What?" Adeline asked in confusion. "Barty messed up a potion?"

"Doesn't seem very likely," Sirius stated, voice sounding rather rough.

Adeline sat quietly for a moment, thinking things over.

"How did Reggie get hit?" she asked. "He was two tables away."

"He tried to get to you," James told her.

"Of course, he did," Adeline sighed. "Isn't speaking to me but still throws himself in the crossfire."

"I'm sorry," James flinched, hearing the hurt in Adeline's voice.

"It's my fault," she sighed. "I shouldn't have pissed so many people off at once when he was already upset with me."

"Slytherins still not speaking to you?"

"Avery and Mulciber are," Adeline offered. "Not exactly the best company though."

"They seem like they have sparkling personalities," James smirked.

"Is that the word we're going with," Adeline smiled back.

"Since when are you two friends?" Sirius asked, glancing between Adeline and James.

"Since she punched Crouch," James rolled his eyes.

"Which was stupid, by the way. If Walburga finds out…"

"How many times do I have to say, 'to hell with Walburga Black,' before people understand that I don't care?" Adeline asked before turning to see Remus shifting in his sleep.

Adeline heard the familiar whimper and cursed before climbing into the cot next to him. She pulled him close, running her fingers through his hair as his nightmare picked up. He calmed the longer Adeline held him before settling against her. She let out a sigh before looking to Peter as he was practically falling asleep where he stood.

"You should lay down," she told him. "Take the bed over there. Pomfrey probably expected you three to show up at some point."

"Four," Evan's voice spoke up as he walked out from behind a curtain. "Sorry. Just arrived. Didn't mean to startle anyone."

"What are you doing here?" Adeline asked him curiously.

"You and Reggie are here," Evan shrugged, taking the seat Adeline had previously occupied. "I don't really feel like being around Barty right now after he tried attacking you."

"So, that is what he was trying to do?" Adeline asked, to which Evan nodded his confirmation. "Well, that's interesting."

"You've already got a plan forming in that beautiful mind of yours, don't you?" Evan smirked.

"Oh, she definitely does," James smirked as he led Peter over to a bed.

After tucking Peter into the cot, Sirius and James carried a hospital bed over between Peter's and Remus' before climbing onto it together. Adeline shooed Evan to the bed on the other side of Reggie before staying sitting up and watching over the boys as they slowly fell asleep. Sirius stayed awake the longest, watching Adeline as she watched over them, keeping an eye out for Pomfrey as she periodically checked on Remus for nightmares and Reggie for any signs of pain.

The next morning, Adeline sent everyone else away before Pomfrey woke. James and Sirius placed the bed back and Adeline remade the beds by hand, Sirius staring at her in confusion, knowing she could easily do it with her wand. The boys left, Evan heading in the opposite direction as them as they went towards the Gryffindor tower. Adeline sat back in her chair, taking Reggie's hand again. She stared at him for a few minutes before brushing the hair from his face. His eyes blinked open slowly, staring at Adeline in confusion before he figured out where he was.

"Adie," Reggie sighed. "Are you alright?"

"I'm fine," Adeline promised. "Remus covered me with his body. He's in the bed next to you. He got the brunt of it all."

"Oh," Reggie whispered.

"What were you thinking, Reg?" Adeline asked. "You could have been hurt so much worse. You didn't need to try protecting me."

"Of course, I did," Reggie shook his head. "You're my best friend. We're supposed to protect each other."

Adeline sighed, biting her lip in thought.

"Are you going to hurt him?" Reggie asked, voice small.

"I need to prove a point," Adeline told him. "People need to know that you are under my care and anything that results in your injury will not go unpunished."

"Now who's protecting whom?" Reggie smirked.

"Be quiet and drink this water," Adeline rolled her eyes, grabbing the water glass from beside the table.

Pomfrey began moving around then, coming out of her office to check on the boys. She smiled when she saw Reggie drinking the water that Adeline had given him before waving her wand over him to check for other injuries. Finding none, she moved over to Remus to check him over. Remus opened his eyes slowly as Madam Pomfrey placed her hand on his forehead.

"Welcome back, Mr. Lupin," she smiled down to him.

Remus groaned for a moment before his eyes went wide and he sat up.

"Where's Adie? Is she okay?" his voice was raised in a panic.

Adeline stood immediately, going to his side.

"I'm fine," she said soothingly, pushing him back to lay down again. "You covered me. I'm okay."

Remus calmed considerably when his eyes found her. He looked over her, as if inspecting her himself for injury. She took his hand and ran her fingers through his hair, reminding him she was there physically. Once he'd calmed, Pomfrey waved her wand over him and found him to be fine.

"The three of you are free to go," she smiled.

"Three?" Remus asked.

"You're not the only one who tried to protect me," Adeline smirked, moving slightly so Remus could see Reggie standing from the bed beside him.

"Oh, and Mrs. Black?" Pomfrey gathered Adeline's attention.

"Yes, madam?" Adeline turned to her.

"Next time there's a slumber party in my hospital wing, tell the boys to keep it down?" Pomfrey smirked before leaving them.

Adeline held in a laugh as she turned back to her boys.

"Who was here?" Reggie asked curiously.

"Evan, Peter, James, and Sirius," Adeline told him. "They all snuck in after hours."

"How do they sneak around so well?" Reggie asked.

"How does Evan?" Remus asked curiously.

"Evan was probably brought here by a prefect," Adeline supplied to Remus before turning to Reggie. "They know all the secret passages."

"Adie helped with that," Remus smirked as he pulled a fresh shirt over his head.

"Should you be in here while we're dressing?" Reggie questioned.

"We're literally married," Adeline rolled her eyes before turning her back to them so they could change. "Prude."

"Sorry, wife, but you aren't really my type," Reggie laughed.

"You're right. I could never have an ego as large as James Potter's," Adeline smirked before being hit in the back of the head by a pillow. "Hey!"

Adeline turned and grabbed the pillow from the floor. She attacked Reggie with it and Remus had to separate the two before Pomfrey was able to return. He dragged the two from the hospital wing. Avery, Mulciber, Evan and Severus were waiting outside the doors, waiting for the three to appear.

"Oh," Adeline stopped at the sight of them. "Morning."

"We're here to escort you to the hall," Avery smirked.

"Are you now?" Adeline asked, still confused.

"We need to be sure people know that you're protected," Mulciber shrugged.

"That's… a strange feeling," Adeline admitted.

"And you were just telling me you needed to prove the same point about Remus and me," Reggie smirked.

"Mother hen," Remus rolled his eyes, earning an arm slap from Adeline.

"As if you're one to talk," she stated as the group started walking to the Great Hall. "You're more motherly than I am!"

"Am not," Remus argued with a pout.

"Are so," Adeline smirked.

"Oh, please not again," Severus groaned.

"Are they always like this?" Avery asked.

"Yes," Evan and Reggie answered together as they walked into the hall.

Adeline stopped in the doorway as eyes turned to all of them. Reggie was to Adeline's right with Evan, Remus on her left with Severus, and Avery and Mulciber standing behind her, probably looking more intimidating than normal. Reggie offered his arm and Adeline took it without thought. Remus' hand brushed Adeline's before he moved to join his Gryffindors before the rest of the group held their heads high and headed to the Slytherin table. Mulciber and Avery each sat on the ends of the group like bookends once they'd all sat. The other Gryffindors seemed to be backing away from Barty instead of Adeline now, which was a stranger sight then Avery and Mulciber walking with Adeline.

In History of Magic, Adeline pulled out her journal, writing to Tom about the two older boys.

'Their parents have reached out to me as well.' Tom told her.

'Well, I think they would be good foot soldiers. Both good with a wand from what I've seen. I'll know more once dueling club commences.'

'Do let me know how that goes?'

'Of course! Any suggestions on how to teach other students?'

'Well, as I was turned down for the Defense position, you're the only person I've taught. You'll have to figure out your own methods, I'm afraid. What potion did Crouch use?'

'I don't think it was a specific potion. If I had to guess he just added a few extra exploding mushrooms and used a shield to direct the explosion.'

'Makes sense.'

'I have come up with a few new potions. Would you like me to send them along to you?'

'I would love that. I sent you a few spell books this morning. You should receive them before your club begins.'

'I look forward to it. Maybe I'll teach a few of those spells as well.'

'Shouldn't you be in class?'

'Barnes is a terrible teacher. Over half the class is asleep. Evan tends to give us a better summary of events after class. Rather brilliant in history that one.'

'Is that a compliment? To the boy you've complained about multiple times?'

'He was my friend before he decided to turn his affections towards me.'

'How's he with a wand?'

'Brilliant. He helped teach Severus how to duel.'

'And this Severus is a hand at potions?'

'Better than me.'

'Better than you?'

'Better than me. I swear.'

'Well, this I don't believe. Impossible.'

Adeline held in a small laugh before continuing to write Tom about her fellow classmates throughout classes that day. It didn't occur to her that he would remember the conversation as anything other than a teenage girl gossiping until years later.