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.

16. Chapter 16

I do not own Harry Potter

Chapter Sixteen

James and Adeline didn't write each other. Remus didn't tell Adeline that James knew and Adeline didn't remember James helping her into bed while she'd been drunk. She continued walking around as if he didn't exist but did notice that he didn't throw any insults her way anymore. Adeline gave Remus his potions a night early every month, staying in the brewing room on those nights at Remus' request, telling her he just wanted to run around as his wolf and didn't want her sitting alone in the shack while he did so.

As Christmas holidays approached, Lily agreed to come over for a few days during the holidays. Adeline agreed to go visit Tom the day after Christmas so he could talk to her in person about something. Adeline received an invitation to the Christmas Ball along with a formal apology from Orion for recent events. Adeline smirked as she passed the letter to Severus, letting him scoff as he read through it. Avery grabbed it after, nodding at the formalness of it all.

"Would you save me a dance at the Ball?" Avery asked her.

"I'll save you two," Adeline answered.

Severus and Adeline sat in their compartment on the way to Shafiq Manor, both laying out across their individual benches as images of the countryside flashed pass their window, snow covering everything and making Adeline smile at how beautiful it all was.

Remus and Lily appeared in Shafiq Manor a few minutes after Adeline and Severus, Remus pulling Adeline into a hug as Severus did the same to Lily. The four ate dinner at the Indian restaurant, laughing loudly as they passed food around, causing a bit of a scene. Adeline tipped heavily as an apology before they headed out. Lily slept in Adeline's room as Adeline camped out in Remus' bed like normal.

"Why do you even have your own room?" Remus asked. "You might as well just move your things into here."

"I mean, you aren't wrong," she sighed. "I don't know. I feel like, this way, you can just kick me out when you need alone time or I can go to my room when I need privacy as well. Also, if no one's home and I end up having people show up, I can lock your room so no one sees it and use my own room."

"That's true," Remus nodded. "I don't have much clothes wise, so there's plenty of room if you want to have some clothes in here."

"Thank you," Adeline smiled as she leaned against Remus' side and kissed his cheek.

Remus held Adeline as she slept, unable to get James' words out of his head from a month ago. He shook his head before closing his eyes, getting comfortable before falling asleep. Lily left the day before Christmas Eve, having exchanged gifts with Adeline, Remus and Severus that morning. Remus was going to Potter Manor for Christmas Eve while Adeline and Severus headed to the ball.

As Adeline went through the floo, wearing a dress of her own choosing for once, she smiled to Walburga, who stared at her with wide eyes. Severus came out behind her, offering his arm. Adeline allowed Severus to lead her around the room to Avery, Mulciber, and Wilkes, the five of them starting a conversation before Reggie found her. Adeline and Reggie led everyone into the first waltz, the two giving forced smiles in the process before being allowed to separate from one another. Tom intercepted Adeline as she headed towards Severus.

"Adie," he smiled.

"Tom," she smiled back.

"You look amazing," he told her.

"I figured I'd branch out a bit," she smiled. "Try a different color on for size."

"Well, red suits you well," he told her.

"Thank you."

"May I have a dance?"

"Absolutely."

People made a circle around the two as they danced through two songs, applauding once they finished, bowing to one another before Tom led her from the floor. People cleared a path as the two walked forward, not even watching where they were going as they went, knowing people made room for them wherever they went. Tom took her to the refreshment table, grabbing her a glass of champagne.

"Thank you," she smiled as she sipped from the glass.

"Of course," Tom smiled. "So, one tomorrow?"

"Yes," Adeline nodded. "I look forward to it."

"As do I. Unfortunately, I have politics to speak with."

"Send up sparks if you need a rescue," she smirked.

Once Tom walked away, Adeline slipped behind the refreshments table, waving her hand and causing a potion to pour into the champagne flutes and punch bowl. She smirked as she walked away with her untouched glass, sipping from it as she watched other attendees. Soon everyone began acting recklessly and confused, bumping into each other and behaving all sorts of inappropriately. Adeline stood back, watching with a smirk as the befuddlement draught settled into everyone's stomachs. She finished her glass and nodded to Severus, the two of them leaving for the night as reporters shot photos of the behavior. Tom had the same idea as he walked ahead of them.

"My Lord," Severus caught his attention. "Turning in for the night?"

"I seem to not care for the company Walburga Black is keeping tonight," he admitted.

"It's so strange," Adeline tsked.

"That it is," Tom nodded. "The two of you have a wonderful evening."

"Thank you, My Lord," Adeline bowed her head slightly.

Tom went through the floo, Adeline and Severus following behind. Once in the sitting room, Adeline and Severus began laughing, falling onto the couch as Remus entered the room, confused.

"What's happened?" he asked curiously. "You two are typically gone all night."

"Adeline is brilliant," Severus smirked. "She put a potion in the drinks so that everyone began acting rather brashly. The reporters were having a field day."

"It was just a bit of befuddlement draught," Adeline laughed. "They'll be fine in an hour. Their reputations on the other hand will not be so pristine. I wonder how much the Blacks will try to pay to keep it quiet."

"The Dark Lord seemed rather put out," Sev smirked.

"I didn't want him to have the chance to try to bully any politicians tonight," she shrugged. "Oh! I discovered a branch of magic that we should learn. It's called occlumency. It'll protect our minds from outside sources."

"I've heard of it," Remus nodded. "Seems challenging."

"It will be," Adeline sighed. "It'll take us a while to master it."

"I'm always down for a challenge," Sev smirked. "Tell me more."

The next day, Tiffy took Adeline to Tom's home, remaining invisible and silent as she followed them to the library. They sat across from one another and Adeline waited patiently for him to speak.

"I want you to promise me something," he finally said.

"Alright," Adeline nodded. "What is it?"

"I'm going to be making bigger decisions soon. My followers are going to be fulfilling larger duties. I plan to have all of wizarding Britian under my control in a few years. I want the wizarding world to work a certain way, to progress under my care and to follow my same beliefs. If something goes wrong in all of this though, I want you to find a way to protect yourself. I don't want you in Azkaban no matter what. Dementors aren't the most pleasant creatures to be around and I'd prefer you didn't have to deal with them. If something goes wrong, I need you to promise that you'll say and do anything you can to stay out of Azkaban and to stay alive."

"I can do that," Adeline nodded. "I promise."

"Good," Tom nodded.

"Are you worried about something specific?" Adeline asked.

"As long as Dumbledore is alive, I'll be met with resistance. I just want to be sure that you're protected at all costs. I've spoken to many of my followers and they've all agreed to protect you in any case."

"I can protect myself," Adeline gave Tom a small smile. "I do appreciate your thoughtfulness, though."

"I also want to formally ask you to be my right hand once you finish an independent study," he smiled.

Adeline hesitated, remembering what she overheard with Remus.

"Unfortunately, I will be required to carry the Black heir at that time. I'm not sure how much help I'll be," she flinched at her own words.

"Well, when you've had the child, I'm sure Walburga or nannies can watch it whenever I need assistance. However, I understand wanting to raise a child yourself. You can be sure the child is raised properly."

"Might I provide someone who can substitute in for me?" Adeline asked.

"Absolutely," Tom nodded. "Give me a few names and I'll look over all of them."

"Severus and Avery," Adeline offered. "Avery can be ruthless and protective of his cause. Severus is smart and calculating. The two of them combined would be a rather terrifying duo."

"I'll look into it," Tom nodded. "Thank you for the suggestion. You and Avery are rather close lately?"

"As I said, he's protective," Adeline smirked. "He decided watching over me was the best way to gain favor with you."

"I may just make him your bodyguard one day," Tom smirked.

"Why does everyone think I need protecting?" Adeline smirked.

"I did find you on the floor in your manor just a few weeks ago," Tom pointed out. "I have a pet that I want you to meet while you're here."

"You got a familiar?" Adeline asked, eyes wide. "I feel like this is a moment that needs to be celebrated."

"Her name is Nagini."

Adeline stared at the large snake in wonder as it slithered out from under his chair silently. Tom and Nagini hissed back and forth before Nagini went to Adeline's chair, sliding up the side of it. Nagini draped herself across Adeline's lap and Adeline ran her hand down Nagini's large body, smiling at the beautiful creature.

"Any chance you can teach me to speak with her?" Adeline asked with a smile.

"Unfortunately not," Tom sighed. "It would be helpful to teach you so we could talk in private in front of others."

"If anyone can figure it out, it's you," Adeline smiled as Nagini slithered off of her. "I should get going soon. I need to brew for my company. I have a few things to send you as well."

"Such as?" he asked curiously.

"I nicked some Veritaserum from advance potions class that I think would be useful to you. I'm brewing it myself this summer, along with the antidote."

"I appreciate you providing me with so many potions," Tom smiled as he led her to the main room.

"Of course," Adeline smiled. "I may not be able to fully throw myself into everything, but I can help in this way."

Tom kissed Adeline's head before stepping away from her. Tiffy took Adeline's head and they popped into Shafiq Manor. Adeline grimaced and rubbed at her forehead, trying to wipe the feeling of Tom's lips from her head. Remus and Severus watched in amusement.

"I'm going to take a shower hot enough to melt my skin," she told them, leaving the room.

Adeline walked through the Shafiq library later that night, just looking through the books she'd never really thought to open before. She pulled a book on magical souls from the shelf, opening it with curiosity as she sat in her chair by the fire.

'Souls are the most complex form of magic in the world. Even the muggles have one. Some souls can be split and stored in other objects, called a horcrux. Some souls are intertwined, like a soul mate. Souls connect to a witch or wizards magical core, which can have a match as well. Magical cores that are aligned cause a strong connection to be formed between the witches or wizards involved, and many believe these magical cores to be soul mates, though the two terms are not the same.

In this book, I will explain soul magic and the different types of soul mates and aligned magical cores. I'll discuss how one's soul may become separated or fractured by performing heinous acts of violence. Finally, I will go over how to fix a fractured soul before it is damaged beyond control.'

Adeline took the book to hers and Remus' room, sitting up in bed and opening the book again as Remus read his own book. They sat in comfortable silence until they were both too tired to keep their eyes open. Severus shook them awake the next morning and the three of them left for the train station, Remus getting there before them like last time.

"I did not get those dances," Avery smirked at breakfast while staring down at the Prophet and the large article about the Christmas Ball, multiple pictures provided.

"Well, I suggested you to help the Dark Lord as his righthand on days where I can't be present myself, so I hope that puts me in the clear," Adeline shrugged.

Avery stared at Adeline in shock, words escaping him. She gave him a gentle smile before going back to her own breakfast. The bell rang and Avery seemed to get his bearings at the sound.

"Did you really?" he asked, chasing after Adeline as she headed towards charms.

"I did," she nodded before being lifted into the air in a tight hug.

"Thank you, Adie," Avery whispered before setting her down. "I owe you so much."

"I'm not saying that he's going to choose you," Adeline clarified. "I just made a suggestion. I suggested you and Severus, actually. Told him the two of you together would be terrifying."

"Severus is rather talented at strategies," Avery nodded as he stood in the doorway of the charms room.

"That he is," Adeline nodded. "Now get to class. You're almost done with Hogwarts. Don't go ruining it now."

"Thank you, Adie," Avery said again, staring at her in awe before he left.

"Why is Avery thanking you so much?" Severus asked.

"I told him that I suggested the two of you to work for the Dark Lord in my absence," Adeline told him just loud enough for the other Slytherins to hear.

"Ah," Severus nodded. "Yes, I believe I thanked you a thousand times when you told me as well."

"You even had tears in your eyes," Adeline joked.

"I did not," Severus argued.

"You did," she nodded. "It was rather sweet, actually. I liked it."

"You just like seeing people cry," Severus shot back.

"That may also be true," she gave him before Flitwick called every one's attention to his lecture.

Teachers began piling on work for the fifth years as OWLs approached. The dueling club was more for reviewing for the fifth and seventh years now, the other students working around them. Remus and Adeline sat up at night, Remus quizzing Adeline before they would go to sleep and Adeline was grateful that she had taken her potions and charms OWLs the year before due to being in advanced classes.

Adeline stared at the black crate that held a boggart apprehensively. She did not want to do this and neither did quite a few of the other people in the room. She wondered how the hell she was going to be able to face whatever came out the crate on her turn and how she was supposed to face it in front of so many people.

"Do we have any volunteers for first?" Professor Grundy asked.

No one stepped forward or raised their hands.

"Mrs. Black?" Grundy questioned.

"I'm good," she shook her head and a few students laughed.

"Well, no one volunteered and you seem to be the ringleader of the rest of your house, so I figured you could tap into that leadership and take a crack at it."

Adeline gave a loud groan of displeasure before stepping forward. She pulled her wand from her hair and stared at the crate for a few moments. She nodded to Grundy, wand raised. The crate opened and nothing happened, causing Adeline to turn to Grundy in confusion. Both took a few steps forward, taking a peak into the box to find Remus dead inside. Adeline stepped back immediately, gasping in shock. Remus' hand appeared on the side of the crate, pulling himself upright as Grundy watched carefully.

"You did this," Remus' voice told her. "It's your fault."

"No," she shook her head.

"Concentrate, Mrs. Black!" Grundy yelled.

"You're the reason I'm dead," Remus continued, his body dragged across the floor. "They're all dead because of you. Reggie, Barty, Evan, Avery, Sev, Siri, Pete, me. It's your fault. You did this."

"No," Adie had tears running down her face as she shook her head.

"Look at me!" Remus demanded.

"Riddikulus!" Adeline screamed.

Remus's dead body turned into Reggie's, then Evan's, then Avery's, then Severus'. Adeline took a deep breath, letting it out angrily. She remembered mattress surfing then and smiled.

"Riddikulus!" she yelled.

Severus turned into a mattress sliding down a set of stairs, the sound of hundreds of students laughing filling the air. She stepped away as the next person stepped forward. Once the boggart had changed into a spider, she ran from the room, abandoning the remainder of the class and running to her brewing room. She sank to the floor, sobbing into her arms. She skipped the rest of her classes and stayed in her own room that night.

The next morning, she fixed herself up by hand, dressing in her uniform and a pair of Converse before putting her wand in her hair and heading to the Great Hall. She stopped a few feet from the Great Hall, out of sight of the other students as she took a few deep breaths. She started walking towards the hall before veering to the left at the last moment and heading to the kitchens instead, unable to bring herself to face the gossip that she was sure was circulating the school by now.

After grabbing something light to eat and a goblet of juice, Adeline went into the dungeons, sitting outside of the classroom while reading the book on souls. She bit into her apple, frowning when she realized she'd grabbed a red one. The apple was snatched from her hand and she glared up at Reggie as he bit into her apple.

"What the hell was that?" Reggie questioned.

"Are you going to specify?" Adeline asked as she bit into her toast.

"The boggart," Evan answered stealing her juice as Barty grabbed the toast from her mouth.

"I didn't need to eat breakfast today," Adeline sighed.

"Explain," Barty stated.

"Get fucked," she said instead. "You two don't even take potions anymore."

"What's happening over here?" Avery appeared beside Adeline.

"Just some friendly conversation," Barty smirked.

"Young Lady Black and head of House Shafiq, do you wish to speak to them?" Avery questioned.

"Not particularly," she shrugged, not looking up from her book. "One of them does have this class and happens to be my husband though, so he can stay."

"I suggest the other two leave then," Avery said, staring Barty and Evan down.

Barty and Evan left, rolling their eyes and mumbling under their breath as they did so.

"Do I need to remind you that she is your wife and should be shown some respect?" Avery asked Reggie and Adeline looked up, seeing a crowd around them as Reggie and Avery stood in front of each other, glaring at one another.

"Do I need to remind you that she is my wife and any issues we have are ours to discuss?" Reggie shot back.

"Funny considering I haven't seen you trying to discuss anything with her all year, yet your dead body was one of her biggest fears," Avery responded. "How about you try remembering that as you speak to her."

Avery turned on his heel, his robes billowing behind him as he left. Adeline went back to her book, ignoring the looks she was receiving from the other students. Slughorn opened his doors then, allowing the students inside. Adeline sat at her seat, copying the notes from the board as they were instructed. Adeline ignored her journal, noting that Remus was scratching away in his. Adeline ran when the bell rang, hiding in the next available alcove and praying to the Gods that Remus wouldn't find her, the image of his dead body stuck in her mind. She wondered if this was how he had felt when she'd been injured so badly last year.

Adeline avoided everyone for the rest of the day. She knew Remus would be in her brewing room, so she hid away on an empty classroom instead, making a cot in the closet and setting up privacy spells and notice-me-not charms. The next morning, Adeline went up to the brewing room, hiding away for the weekend with extra locking and privacy charms. She had Tiffy take Remus his potions when he was alone before settling on her cot. Late in the night, with the moon full, Adeline finally opened her journal.

'Are you alright?'

'Where are you?'

'Adeline, please answer me.'

'I hated the boggart. Wanted to hide away for a week after facing mine. It was you… The wolf had gotten you and you didn't make it.'

'Adie, please answer me. You're sitting beside me but seem like you're a millions worlds away. Don't push me away out of fear. I'm here. I'm right here. We take care of each other. That's what we do. You're my home and I'm yours.'

'I'm heading to the forest but I wanted to write you once more and remind you that I love you. You're my best friend. I left my window open just in case.'

Adeline closed the journal and changed into just her underwear and one of Remus' larger sweaters that she had stolen from him over Christmas. She opened the window and turned into her raven, flying to Gryffindor tower. She landed on Remus' bed and set up the privacy and silencing wards before cuddling into his bed and relaxing into the sandalwood scent around her, making her think he'd sprayed extra cologne on his pillow just in case she showed up.

She ended up sleeping in, only waking up early the next morning when Remus crawled into bed next to her, the sun not yet risen. Remus curled around her, holding her against his bare chest. The two stayed in bed most of the day, skipping their Monday classes so that they could whisper back and forth and share a few bars of chocolate between them. As dinner rolled around, Adeline flew to the brewing room, changing into muggle clothes and pulling her hair back so that she could head to the Great Hall, feeling much better after having spent time with Remus.

She sat between Avery and Severus, Wilkes and Mulciber across from them, all of them ignoring the looks Adeline received as she ate silently. After eating, Adeline went back to her brewing room, sighing as she sat in front of her cauldron and started on the next round of Wolfsbane potion for Remus, wondering if there was a way to make it in advance, find a way for it to keep longer. She pulled out her journal, writing down different ideas she had in her section with Remus before writing to Tom and asking if he had suggestions, claiming it was for her potions company.

Tom sent her a few potions books within the next few weeks with chapters marked. Adeline set aside the book on souls, Remus picking it up one day and starting to read it as Adeline went through the potions books. She set up four new cauldrons, setting out ingredients and step-by-step instructions to attempt. She set up a testing table in the corner as well, Remus giving her an amused look as she passed him his potions for the next day.

"Can I borrow this?" he asked.

"Yeah, just make sure you get it back to me. I haven't finished it yet," she shrugged.

"Ready to go?" he asked curiously.

"I guess," she sighed, looking down at her jeans, muggle band shirt, and Converse. "Maybe I should change first."

"It's just a Hufflepuff party," Remus reminded her. "You look beautiful. Come on. We'll "patrol" before we go."

"Alright," she sighed.

Once they reached the entrance to the Hufflepuff common room, Remus gave Adeline a smirk. He knocked a rhythm on one of the barrels and a false door opened. Adeline laughed slightly before following Remus in. There were flashing lights and music blaring, Adeline and Remus slipping into the room without being noticed. They stared around at the party in surprise before they caught each other's eye and laughed. Adeline headed towards Severus as Remus went looking for the marauders and Lily.

Adeline found Severus when Remus found Lily and the boys, all sitting in a circle with drinks in front of them.

"Adie!" Severus yelled, grabbing her a bottle of firewhiskey. "Catch up!"

"Oh, you're going to need a hangover potion," she laughed, sitting beside him and frowning when Reggie took the spot on her other side.

She shrugged before downing a few chugs of firewhiskey, coughing slightly once she'd finished.

"What are we playing?" she asked.

"Never Have I Ever," Mattheo answered. "Someone will say something they've never done before and if you've done it, you drink. For example, never have I ever cheated on a test."

A few people drank and Adeline nodded, understanding the game.

"Potters turn!" a seventh year Hufflepuff announced.

"Never have I ever kissed someone in this circle," James smirked at Adeline.

Adeline, Reggie, Severus, Remus, James and Sirius all drank, along with a few other people, causing everyone to stare at them.

"Never have I ever kissed two people in this circle," Peter added.

Adeline, Reggie, Remus, Sirius, Dorcas and Marlene drank.

"Never have I ever made out with someone in this circle," Lily said, staring as Adeline, Remus and Sirius all drank.

"Never have I ever had sex with someone in this circle?" Severus asked, staring at Adeline as she and Sirius drank.

"I don't wanna play anymore," Adeline sighed.

"It's your turn," Reggie said, staring at her.

"Fine," she sighed. "Never have I ever… used a love potion on someone."

Sirius, James, and Peter drank, all glaring at Adeline.

"Never have I ever been tortured on multiple occasions with an unforgivable," Reggie offered and Sirius and Adeline both drank as people gasped.

"We're upsetting the Hufflepuffs," Adeline sighed, leaning on Severus.

"Never have I ever snuck into more than one common room that wasn't my own," Evan smirked and Adeline drank.

"I am caught up," she told Severus.

"I can tell," he smirked. "Now who's going to need a hangover potion?"

"I already took one so ha," she smirked.

"Never have I ever kissed Adeline," Barty said and Reggie, Remus, Severus and Sirius drank.

"When?" Lily asked Severus at the same time James asked Remus.

"When did you and Sirius have sex?" Reggie asked Adeline.

"Never have I ever lied about being in love with someone," Sirius' smirk fell when Adeline simply stared at him.

"Aren't you going to drink?" she asked him, brow raised.

"Why aren't you?" he asked in return.

"Can I go now?" Adeline asked Severus.

"Never have I ever been in love with someone in this circle," Mattheo watched as Adeline, Regulus, James, Remus, Sirius, Severus and Evan all drank.

Adeline tried not to stare at Remus, wanting to know who it was, sure that Lily wanted to question Severus. Adeline stood and left the circle, taking her bottle of firewhiskey with her. Severus and Remus watched her go, worry etched on their faces as she found a few Hufflepuffs to socialize with. As the night wore on, Adeline found where the dancing was. She grinded on a few Hufflepuff girls before dancing on her own, rolling her hips left and right as she drank from her bottle. She left the dance floor finding a bottle being spun in the middle of a circle of people. She watched as the bottle landed on her, confused.

"What's that mean?" she asked as everyone 'ooh'ed.

"It's spin the bottle," Jesse, a Hufflepuff in her grade, explained. "Someone spins the bottle and whoever it lands on, they have to kiss."

"So who spun me?" she asked as Remus stood. "Oh."

Remus walked over to her with a smirk and Adeline held in a giggle.

"House rules!" Jesse yelled.

"What's house rules?" Adeline questioned.

"It has to last a minute and can't be a peck," Remus told her before pulling her close.

"Oh," she said again before licking her lips and leaning forward.

Remus held Adeline's waist with one hand and the back of her neck with the other. Adeline's free hand went to his shoulder and she felt someone take the bottle from her hand. With her now free hand, she wrapped her arms around his neck, pulling him closer. Remus swiped Adeline's lip with his tongue and she opened her mouth, giving him access. The two snogged heavily for the next minute before someone yelled time. They pulled apart slowly and Adeline smirked as Remus blushed.

"Good kisser," she nodded before walking over to the circle and spinning the bottle.

She backed away, watching as the bottle spun. It slowed and landed on Sirius. His eyes widened slightly as Remus went back to his spot, eyes flicking back and forth between the two. Adeline stared at Sirius for a moment, chewing her lip before shrugging. She walked around the backside of the couch where he was sitting and stood behind him. She pulled his hair, tilting his head back before leaning down and kissing him.

The kiss started rough, both of them fighting for dominance when suddenly they both softened. Sirius moved so that he was on his knees, body turned towards her. His hand went to her cheek, holding her face as they continued, Adeline's hands moving to his chest.

"Time!" Mattheo called and the two separated immediately, Adeline taking a few steps back before moving to sit beside Severus.

Sirius's eyes were locked on her as she sat on the arm of the chair Severus occupied, trying to fight his feelings for her. He looked to the bottle and let out a breath, reaching forward and spinning it. The bottle came to a stop, pointing at Adeline again and causing the Hufflepuffs to 'ooh,' which made Adeline confused.

"Why are you freaking out? You just saw us kiss?" she asked.

"So, when two people spin each other back-to-back, they have to play Seven Minutes in a Broom Closet," Jesse explained.

"What in Merlin's name is that? How have I never heard of these games before? Also, I thought you Puffs were the chill house?" Adeline smirked.

"Don't judge a book by its cover," Mattheo shrugged before standing. "Follow me!"

Sirius and Adeline stood, following Mattheo towards the entrance of the common room as he explained the rules.

"You have to find a broom closet or secret passage or something to make out in. If you get caught, you lose. If you don't respect the rules of the game, you lose. Most people get caught but something tells me that the two of you know your way around the school. Those who don't get back tend to show back up an hour or two later or just leave for the night. The hardest part is sneaking around the school."

"So, find a broom closet, snog for seven minutes, make it back here or head to bed. Simple enough," Adeline shrugged.

"Good luck," Mattheo smirked, leaving them at the door.

Adeline and Sirius looked to each other for a moment before Adeline took his hand and cast disillusionment charms on the both of them. Sirius led them out of the common room and towards the closest passage. They heard Misses Norris meow and pressed themselves against the wall, watching as Misses Norris and Filch moved pass them, grumbling about finding more students out of bed than normal that night.

Adeline led Sirius into an alcove the moment Filch left the hall they were in, both letting out sighs of relief. Sirius removed the charm and they exchanged looks.

"That was close," he noted.

"We aren't safe here," she informed him. "I know his route. He'll come back around in a few minutes and check here."

"You know his route?" Sirius' brows raised.

"When you sneak around the castle for fun, you tend to figure out where not to hide," she smirked. "I figured you would have it memorized by now as well."

"Let's get moving," Sirius smirked, taking her hand.

He peaked out of the passage and they took off running down the hall, trying not to make too much noise or laugh in the process. They slid to a stop when they heard footsteps approaching from the hall they were heading towards. Adeline pulled Sirius behind a tapestry and he put his hand over her mouth as she tried to not laugh. They listened as the footsteps moved pass them, waiting until they heard the sound fade before Sirius moved his hand. They both let out quiet laughs before Sirius checked the hall.

"Come on," he whispered, taking her hand again.

They ran down the hall, ducking behind a suit of armor and running up the secret stairwell that was there. They came out on the fourth floor and Adeline led him towards her brewing room, opening the door and allowing him inside before she shut the door and placed her wards on the room. With another flick of her wand, a few candles flickered to life, casting the room in a soft, warm glow.

"Do you think they'll know if we don't snog?" Adeline asked curiously.

"I wouldn't underestimate the Puffs," Sirius smirked to her, moving closer.

"Wouldn't dream of it," she smirked as he reached forward, taking her face in his hands.

He leaned down, kissing her gently. Adeline placed her hands on his waist, holding him to her. He took a step forward, pressing her against the door. They separated, staring into each other's eyes before Sirius leaned down again and took her lips with his own. He pressed against her and she arched her back so they were more firmly pressed to each other. Sirius' hands travelled down and Adeline remembered her wedding night, remembered how gentle he'd been the whole time. She smiled into the kiss and he backed away, confused.

"What?" he asked.

"Nothing," she smiled.

"You're thinking something," he smiled down at her.

"I was just remembering something," she shook her head.

"Was it something like this?" he asked, kissing her lips.

"Yeah," she smiled when he'd backed away.

"Something like this?" he asked, moving his lips down to her throat and causing her to gasp.

She nodded, unable to speak.

"Or this?" he asked, voice a whisper as he pushed her sweater down her arms.

"Yes," she whispered as the sweater hit the floor.

Sirius looked into her eyes and they both moved suddenly, kissing each other roughly. Sirius lifted her and her legs wrapped around his waist. He set her on a countertop with some of her notes on it, pushing the notes to the floor. He reached down, pulling his shirt off and Adeline copied his movements, pulling her shirt off before reaching behind her and unclipping her bra, which she tossed to the floor. He grabbed her face again, kissing her before letting his hands travel down her body.

She gave a quiet moan at the feeling of his hands on her skin. His lips travelled down her throat again, leaving a love mark on her neck as he unbuttoned her jeans. Her hands travelled to his pants, undoing the button and pushing the jeans down slightly. Sirius lifted her again, carrying her over to the cot.

When Adeline woke the next morning, Sirius was holding her naked body against his own, a blanket covering them. He kissed her shoulder and she smiled, turning her head slightly so that she could see him. He kissed her gently and she twisted in his arms so that she could kiss him properly. They remained in her brewing room for the day, only dressing long enough for Adeline to call Tiffy to ask the elf to bring them some food.

Sunday morning, Sirius kissed Adeline goodbye after dressing in his clothes from Friday night and sneaking back up to Gryffindor tower before anyone could wake. She got dressed, letting out a sigh before working on her potions for a bit. Severus burst into her room an hour after Sirius had left.

"Avery attacked Reggie."

Adeline had never been so angry in her life as she stared down at Reggie. His whole left side was wrapped in bandages; arm, leg, ribs, face, everything. Severus had explained that Avery had gone looking for Adeline and Reggie had made a smartass comment about the party, causing Avery to attack Reggie to defend Adeline's honor. When Adeline had first burst into the hospital wing, Reggie had been bleeding, flesh missing in chunks from his body. Now he was wrapped up and his skin was red and irritated, much like Adeline had probably been at the end of last year.

"I've done everything I can," Pomfrey explained, voice gentle as she spoke to Adeline. "We can't move him due to internal damage. We have to wait and see if he pulls through."

No one was telling the teachers who had attacked Reggie and Adeline knew it was out of fear of her, everyone unsure of who she would protect in this situation: the estranged husband or her protector. Walburga and Orion were in Dumbledore's office, demanding an answer that he didn't have. Once they came back to the hospital wing, Walburga sat beside Reggie, taking his good hand gently. Orion stood behind his wife, staring at his son. Orion looked to Adeline and she caught his eye. Walburga looked up seeing the two staring at each other. Adeline moved then, wand coming out of her hair and landing in her hand. Orion looked back to Reggie and Walburga watched Adeline strut out of the hospital wing as if she were an avenging angel, out for blood and justice.

Adeline swept through the halls, black cloak billowing behind her. People moved out of her way as she went pass them. She knew where Avery would be hiding, not wanting to face her if she decided it was him that needed to pay. She wasn't the first one there though, seeing wand light in the distance. As she turned the corner, she undid the button on her cloak, letting it land on the floor behind her. Wilkes, Avery and Mulciber were dueling Sirius, Remus, James, Peter, Lily, Evan and Barty. Remus and Sirius were thrown backwards, and Adeline walked between them as they sat back up. Lily was thrown into Evan and Barty as James tackled Peter to keep a spell from hitting him. The spells stopped when Adeline stepped forward.

"Adeline," Avery spoke up, eyes wide as he stared at her. "I'm sorry. I was trying to defend you. He was saying horrid things."

Adeline's voice was dangerously calm as she spoke.

"Avery, do you recall my first year?"

"Of course," he nodded.

"Who did I tell you was off limits?" she asked.

"Both Blacks and Lupin," Avery answered. "They aren't your friends anymore and Reggie doesn't speak to you."

"Have I, at any point, told you that you were allowed to touch what is mine?"

"I thought… I thought…"

"You should leave the thinking to others, obviously. I also implied that the others behind me were mine as well, did I not?"

"Yes," he nodded, flinching slightly with his wand held loosely at his side.

"Raise your wand," she told him.

"What?" he asked.

"I said raise your wand. All three of you."

Mulciber and Wilkes went on the defense immediately, raising their wands. Avery stared at Adeline for a few moments before nodding. She smirked and the spells began flying. Adeline pushed Evan and Lily back with her wandless magic as she continued dueling the seventh years. She was pretty sure she had a broken rib and blood running down the side of her face, but she continued. She heard Remus growl behind her and used wandless magic to push him back as well before throwing up a shield behind her that would keep them all safe, but also kept them from moving forward.

Adeline heard them yelling and banging against the shield trying to get to her. Adeline caught a glimpse of all of their faces as she spun around a spell, seeing fear on all of their faces except Remus and Sirius'. They were glaring at the seventh years with such hatred and anger that Adeline felt pride.

She used a modified spell to lift bricks between herself and the other three, shooting off three different spells as the each exploded the wall. She saw Wilkes go down and her smile grew. She used Wilkes unconscious body to throw at Mulciber, taking him down and wrapping them both in thick, black ropes. Avery was throwing spell after spell and Adeline was flicking them away, playing with her food in a way. She conjured fiendfyre, a raven of fire flying above Avery and causing him to fall backwards, staring up in horror. Adeline had the bird circle him, watching as his jeans darkened as he relieved himself.

She vanished the fire raven, staring at Avery, completely unimpressed. She lowered the shield behind her and walked forward. Avery had tears rolling down his face, whimpering as he stared up at Adeline in fear.

"Did you forget who I am?" she asked him, voice full of blind hatred. "I am Adeline Black nee Shafiq. I receive private lessons from the Dark Lord himself and was raised by Adrian Shafiq and Walburga Black. I am the Lady of House Shafiq and heiress to House Black. Did you really think that you could bring my husband to the brink of death and I wouldn't retaliate? That I would listen to your pathetic apology and accept it out of the goodness of my heart? After everything you've seen me do, you expected to be the exception? No, no, no sweetheart."

Adeline was standing over Avery, wand pointed down at him as he whimpered in fear, the smell of piss taking over the entire hall.

"You're lucky I don't kill you," she told him, voice soft.

"Please, Adie," Avery begged. "Please."

"I won't," she told him, lowering her wand. "You're going to head to lunch now. Just like this. You're going to sit through lunch and eat your favorite foods. Then, you're going to the hospital wing. You're going to tell Orion Black, Walburga Black, and Albus Dumbledore what you did. Then, if you're lucky, the Dark Lord won't come for you at my request."

Avery stared at her, eyes wide with fear.

"Go," she told him. "You're making the hall stink."

Avery ran as fast as he could towards the great hall and Adeline vanished the piss from the hall before moving to Mulciber and Wilkes.

"Obliviate," she whispered, taking their memories of the duel.

When she was done, she stood up straight, looking forward at the wall. She cracked her neck and shivered before turning to face the others. Everyone but Remus and Sirius stared at her with fear. Remus seemed fearful as well but more shocked than anything else. Sirius looked rather impressed and as if he wanted to pull her into an empty classroom and have his way with her.

As much as Adeline would like to entertain that idea, she needed to get looked over by Pomfrey. She release Wilkes and Mulciber from their ropes before stepping forward. The group followed close behind them, most of them with a few injuries of their own. Adeline put her wand in her hair and rebuttoned her cloak as they walked, making it to the hospital wing using secret passages to avoid the stares.

Adeline opened the hospital wing doors and the mismatched group followed after her. Pomfrey gasped and rushed forward, yelling for everyone to get to a bed. Adeline ignored her as she took a seat on Reggie's bad side, staring at him as Walburga and Orion watched her with pride in their eyes.

Pomfrey finally made her way to Adeline as Dumbledore ran in. Adeline's head and ribs were throbbing as she was given Skele-Gro and pain potions. Remus was in the bed beside her chair, trying not to stare at her in front of everyone else, though James kept giving him looks.

"What happened?" Dumbledore demanded of the students.

Avery walked in then, still covered in his own piss. Adeline scrunched her nose up at the smell, her concussion making the scent worst. Remus scrunched up his own nose, his wolf senses picking up the smell better than the others, smelling more than just piss now. Lily gagged, her bed being the closest to him.

"Headmaster," Avery's voice was shaky as he looked to Orion and Walburga. "Lady and Lord Black. It was me. I attacked Regulus Black."

"Why?" Dumbledore demanded.

"He said something unsavory about one of my friends," Adeline coughed at the word and Avery flinched. "Apologies. He said something I didn't like and I attacked him."

"And what happened to the rest of you?" Dumbledore asked.

"Fell down a flight of stairs," Adeline offered with a shrug.

Dumbledore turned to her with an unbelieving look. Adeline simply smiled at him as she took the ice pack from Madam Pomfrey and pressed it to her head where a bruise had formed. Orion and Walburga were staring at Avery with so much anger it made Adeline scoot closer to Remus.

"And what is this?" Dumbledore asked, waving his hand at Avery's pants.

"I had an accident," Avery flinched again and Adeline moved her hand over her mouth, hiding her smirk.

"Very well," Dumbledore sighed. "Go change, Mr. Avery. Meet me in my office."

Once Avery and Dumbledore were gone, Walburga and Orion turned to Adeline, who openly smiled now.

"You did that?" Walburga questioned.

"Oh, yeah," she nodded to her, looking down at Reggie. "I told him my first year not to touch what belongs to me. He should have listened. Poor thing just wet himself thinking about what I could do to him. Good on him for admitting his wrongs though. Tiffy?"

Tiffy appeared, staring at Adeline in worry.

"The extra strength pain potions, please? And my journal and a pen?"

Tiffy disappeared and reappeared a few moments later.

"Pass the potions out to whoever needs them," she instructed, taking the journal and pen.

"Here, mistress," Tiffy passed a potion to her first.

"Thank you," Adeline smiled before downing the potion.

She opened the journal to Tom's section, telling him what had happened to Reggie and what she had done in retaliation.

'Would you like me to help?'

Adeline thought it over, pursing her lips slightly before responding.

'I'll think on it. I'm pretty sure he's getting expelled, so he'll reach you before I make a decision. If you want to do something, I probably wouldn't be opposed. It's up to you though. Just don't kill him, please? We might need him later and, technically, he now owes me a life debt.'

'Deal.'

Adeline flipped to her section with Severus and told him what he'd missed, then she took Reggie's hand carefully, leaning close to his ear.

"You pull through this or I will make my way to the afterlife and drag your ass back here just so I can yell at you," she whispered to him.

"We should go," Orion sighed. "It's getting late. We'll be back tomorrow."

"Bye," Adeline nodded to them.

"Misters Rosier, Crouch, Pettigrew and Black, you are free to go. The rest of you are staying for the night. Mrs. Black, choose a bed so I can look over you correctly, please."

Once the four had left, Adeline stood, moving slowly. Remus stood, flinching slightly before helping Adeline to the bed he had previously occupied. Once she was settled, he moved to the bed on the other side of her, eyes on Adeline as Pomfrey waved her wand over her, finding a few more injuries. Pomfrey tasked at her before setting about to heal her.

"Broken ribs, concussed, sprained ankle, bruises on your neck and shoulders and extreme exhaustion," she mumbled as she walked away, only loud enough for Adeline and Remus to hear.

Remus gave Adeline a knowing look, to which she held in a snicker. The two were given sleeping draughts so that their bodies could heal as they rested. They fell asleep facing each other.

"They are disgustingly in love," James smirked, looking to Lily.

"They haven't spoken in a year," Lily immediately responded.

"Lily, I know the plan," James told her. "I caught Adeline sneaking in and out of our room multiple times and got Remus to spill the beans. I know that you know about it, too, and honestly I would like to have a friend to talk to about it."

"You have Remus," Lily said, looking uncomfortable.

"He's more involved than he wants to admit. I mean, you saw the way he reacted today during the duel once Adeline showed up," James defended.

"He was livid," Lily nodded before turning in her bed so she could face James. "How do they not realize that they've been in love since the moment they met?"

"Right?" James asked, turning to her as well. "I mean, it's obvious to everyone. She was in love with Sirius, I'll give her that."

"Oh, absolutely," Lily agreed. "But they're Adie and Remy."

"They're Adie and Remy!" James looked around quickly, making sure he hadn't gotten Pomfrey's attention or woken the two in question by accident. "They literally can't sleep without being beside each other, their boggarts are each other dead, they're always touching or talking without talking."

"Oh, it's so annoying when they do that. I mean, she does it with Reggie and Sirius, too, but with Remus you feel completely left out," Lily sighed. "It's ridiculous."

"Both of them are so smart, yet they somehow don't even see what's right in front of them," James sighed, turning so he could see them better.

Lily stared at James, thinking over his words. She took in his appearance, the handsome features that he was growing into. She thought about how he'd stopped bullying people so much, growing up as time went on. She remembered him nervously asking her to Hogsmeade a few years ago and began chewing her lip. James turned to her, seeing the expression on her face and growing worried.

"Are you okay? Are you in pain?" he asked.

"No," she shook her head. "Adeline's potion works well."

"I would hope so considering what it's made for," James mumbled to himself.

"What was that?" Lily asked, not having been able to make out his words.

"Nothing," he shook his head. "What's wrong then?"

"Nothing," she shook her head, looking away as a slight blush creeped up her neck.

"Would it be alright if I wrote you this summer?" James asked her. "I'm sure you probably need someone to talk to about all of this that isn't directly involved."

"I would like that," she nodded. "Thank you."

James gave her a smile as Pomfrey came over to check on them, giving them both potions to put them to sleep so they could heal faster.

Adeline went to classes and brewed like she normally did. Outside of that she spent most of her time either in the hospital wing to watch over Reggie or being pulled behind alcoves and into empty classrooms by Sirius. She enjoyed those moments more than anything else. Reggie woke up a week before OWLs were to begin. Adeline had been asleep in the chair by his bed, holding his hand with a transfiguration book open on her lap.

"Adie?" he asked, shaking her hand.

"Hmm?" she asked, waking up and flinching as she reached up with her free hand to rub her sore neck.

"Adie," Reggie tried again, getting her attention.

"You're awake," she gasped, waving Pomfrey over. "How are you feeling? Are you in any pain?"

"Adie, it was Avery," Reggie told her, voice panicked.

"We know," she told him as Pomfrey waved her wand over him. "He's been expelled. Admitted to Dumbledore that it was him."

"Do you have any pain, Mr. Black?" Pomfrey questioned.

"My head hurts a bit," he admitted. "How long have I been here?"

"Three weeks," Adeline told him. "We didn't know if you were going to wake up. I've been so worried, Reg."

Adeline had tears rolling down her cheeks and Reggie gave her hand a gentle squeeze.

"I'm alright," he promised.

"Take this," Pomfrey told him. "It'll help with the headache. Everything is healed inside and out."

"How bad was it?" Reggie asked.

"You looked like ground meat for a minute there," Adeline admitted.

"Mrs. Black," Pomfrey groaned as Reggie made a sour face.

"Sorry. He did, though," Adie defended herself.

"Wait. Three weeks? When are OWLs?" Reggie seemed panicked.

"Next week but you've been given special permission to take them this summer if need be," Adeline told him and he relaxed.

"Didn't you take two OWLs in here last year?" he asked curiously.

"The written parts, yes," Adeline nodded. "I did the practical once I was released."

"I'll just study here then," Reggie shrugged.

"I'll help," Adie smiled. "Aren't you happy you've already taken two of them?"

"Thank Merlin for that," Reggie nodded.

The next week was spent quizzing Reggie on Transfiguration, Defense, History of Magic, Runes, Arithmancy, and Astrology with the help of Barty, Evan, and Severus. With the other three working with him, Adeline had more time to pull Sirius into hidden places for once. He smiled so widely the first time it happened that she wondered if his face hurt from it. He pressed her against the wall and kissed her softly, making her forget the thought entirely.

Reggie took the written OWLs in the hospital wing and Adeline thought her brain was going to explode from the stress of all of her OWLs. She had no clue how Remus had been so calm during the year before with everything that had been going on with the two of them, and she had two less OWLs to take than him! She flew into his room and he set up the privacy charms. She rubbed her face tiredly and he smiled down at her.

"Only one left to go and it's the defense practical," he reminded her.

"Yes. I'm very excited to face a boggart again," she deadpanned and Remus chuckled at her.

"At least it won't surprise you this time," he offered. "If it makes you feel any better, I'll be waiting in your brewing room with chocolate once you finish."

"That does help," she sighed.

Remus laid down, pulling her close. Adeline fell asleep almost instantly in his arms, exhausted from all of her tests. The next day, fifth years were called into a room one by one and asked to perform different spells. Adeline sighed when she was called in, knowing she would do well but not looking forward to it. She performed each spell perfectly before being asked if she knew any spells from next year's syllabus. Adeline performed the patronus charm, smiling as she thought of Remus. A silver wolf ran through the room before nuzzling Adeline's side.

Next, she faced the boggart. Remus' dead eyes stared at her, not moving this time. She already knew it was her fault. It didn't need to remind her.

"Riddikulus," she said firmly and Remus turned into a tap-dancing bear.

She left the room feeling relieved, the image of Remus dead plaguing her mind. Entering her room, she smiled as Remus sat reading the souls book. She slid to the floor next to him and he set the book aside before feeding her a piece of chocolate.

"Remember when you used to give me chocolate all the time?" he asked with a smirk.

"Please tell me this isn't that chocolate and you just never ate it because I'm pretty sure there's an expiration date for a reason," Adeline joked.

"No," Remus laughed. "I was just remembering."

"In that case," Adeline smiled, grabbing another piece and tossing it into her mouth.

Later that night, Sirius walked into the brewing room as Adeline stood over Remus' pain potion. She was dressed in muggle clothing, large t-shirt hanging off of her shoulder and hair in a messy bun on top of her head. She glanced at him and continued stirring her potion, not paying much attention as he walked over to her. He looked into the cauldron before looking through the ingredients she had in front of her, examining everything with interest. When she finished her stirring, she waved her wand over the potion and turned the flame to low, leaving it to simmer over night before bottling.

"Hi," Adeline smiled, as she turned to face Sirius.

"Hi," he smiled back, grabbing her hips and pulling her close.

Adeline's arms went around his neck as he leaned down and kissed her gently. He pulled away after a few moments.

"How was your OWL?" he asked.

"Good," she nodded.

"Boggart was terrible, wasn't it?"

"At least it didn't have time to yell at me or turn into anyone else this time," she supplied.

"Did I ever tell you what mine was?" he asked curiously.

"I never heard it, no," she shook her head.

"I didn't get to face it during class. After Remus went, the teacher decided class was dismissed."

"Ah. Seeing one of your students being terrified of the death of another student probably didn't sit right with Helmshore last year."

"It did not," Sirius smirked. "Think he decided he wasn't being paid enough for all of our trauma."

"What was your boggart?" Adeline asked, voice soft.

"You."

"Me?"

"Mm-hmm," Sirius nodded.

"Just me? Did I yell? Throw things? Was I dead?" Adeline asked, confused.

"It was when Walburga was torturing you," Adeline could barely hear Sirius' voice when he spoke.

"Well, I don't think Helmshore would have been able to deal with that at all," Adeline offered, trying to make a joke out of it.

"Not in the slightest," Sirius gave a small laugh before his face went back to scared.

He looked down, not wanting to meet her eye. Adeline moved her hand, lifting his face and ducking her head slightly so she could see his eyes.

"Hey," she whispered. "I'm okay. I'm right here. I'm alright."

"I'm sorry for leaving you," he whispered, tears in his eyes. "You didn't deserve that."

"Neither of us deserved what we got," she told him.

Sirius just let out a shaky breath and nodded.

"How about we just enjoy the here and now?" she asked, pulling him a bit closer.

"I could do that," he smiled.

"Could you?" she asked, going on her tiptoes.

"I could," he smiled, both laughing slightly as they kissed.

Adeline transformed a few of the items around her room into blankets as Sirius conjured mattresses. They created a fort in the middle of the brewing room, opening the windows to let a breeze in. The two climbed into the fort and Sirius waved his wand, causing constellations to appear on the ceiling of the fort. They began pointing out stars to one another, Adeline finding Sirius before he did. They laid side by side, just watching the stars as they held hands until they fell asleep.

Adeline sat beside Severus in the Great Hall two days later, Tiffy having already taken her trunk and potions home for her so she wouldn't have to carry anything on or off of the train.

"Make sure you eat enough," Severus told her.

"Tiffy's planning a large dinner," Adeline told him with a smile.

"We've got errands to run when we get to the manor," he explained. "Not sure how long it'll take."

"I have potions to attend to," she pouted.

"Can it wait a day?" he asked.

"Sure," she nodded. "What are the errands?"

"My father died last night. Dumbledore informed me a few minutes ago."

"Are you okay?" Adeline asked, setting her toast down.

"I'm fine," he shrugged. "I just need to pack up the house and deal with the funeral."

"Well, I do have an expertise with funerals at this point," she grumbled. "Have you told her?"

"No," he shook his head.

"Want me to?" she asked.

"Yes, please. I already have to call his boss and co-workers once we get to Spinner's End."

"Should I have Tiffy and Wobky grab us from Hogsmeade?" she asked as Barty, Evan and Reggie sat down.

"Why would you not ride the train?" Reggie asked.

"Lots to do," Adeline explained. "Owning a family business while in Hogwarts doesn't mean the business goes on hold."

"I would appreciate it. Thank you," Severus whispered to her and she nodded, pulling out her journal.

She wrote to Remus and Lily before putting the notebook away. She heard Lily gasp as she and Severus left the hall and Adeline took Severus' arm to keep him from going to her in front of everyone, knowing he would want her comfort. They walked out of the school and headed through the school grounds until they passed through the gate.

"Tiffy, Wobky?" she called and the two elves appeared. "To Spinner's End."

They appeared in the center of Severus' old home, Tiffy and Wobky staring at them with uncertainty.

"Tiffy, will you return home and wait for Remus, please? Wobky, can you do a bit of magic and remove the alcohol and trash, please?"

Tiffy left and Wobky got the work, snapping his fingers. Severus and Adeline headed up the stairs, going to his parents room to get started. Severus tossed all of his father's belongings besides a watch. He found his mother's belongings hidden away in a closet in the hall and Adeline pulled him into a hug to help control the anger that surged through him.

Severus went back down the stairs to make the calls he needed to as Adeline continued going through his parents belongings, throwing away anything that belonged to his father and setting aside anything that belonged to his mother. Remus and Lily showed up after getting off the train, Lily going straight to Severus as Remus went looking for Adeline, finding her flipping through a photo album.

He sat beside her, pulling her close.

"What are you doing?" he asked curiously.

"I found pictures from before his father was a terrible person," she explained, showing Remus the photo. "Here's Severus as a baby."

"He had such chubby cheeks," Remus smirked.

"I'm keeping this," Adeline decided. "He may want it one day. There's pictures of him and Lily, as well."

"What's this pile?"

"Trash," she grumbled. "All stuff that belonged to his father. He wants none of it. He grabbed a watch his mother had bought his father and kept that. Wobky will deal with it."

"Tiffy is making dinner to bring over for everyone. Said she's making Severus' favorites," Remus nodded.

"Good," she nodded. "She's a good elf."

"That she is," Remus smiled as his grip on Adeline tightened slightly.

"Are you okay?" she asked him.

"Are you?"

"I feel like the death of a parent isn't easy on any of us," she admitted. "Makes me think of Adrian and of my real parents."

"What do you remember of them?" he asked.

"A lot," she admitted. "I was in the orphanage for just under a year when the Shafiq's took me. My mum was so sweet. She loved spicy food and to dance in the kitchen. Dad was a joker, always making mom laugh. They were so sweet it could cause cavities."

"What?"

"It's an expression," she sighed, waving her hand. "It doesn't matter. I look like my dad. Mum's hair was a bit darker and her eyes were green. Dad has the very light hair, blue eyes and curls. Mum said that she had two angels with the two of us, apparently we looked like cherubs?"

"A cherub?" he smirked.

"Yeah," Adeline laughed before sighing. "We should get downstairs. Help Severus down there."

"He was on the telephone when we got here," Remus nodded.

"I'm sure he got distracted with Lily here," Adeline smirked. "Come along."

Remus smiled as he took Adeline's hand, accepting her help to stand. He kept ahold of her hand as they went down the stairs, needing to touch her at some sort of compacity. Lily was under Severus' arm as he spoke on the phone. He hung up as Remus and Adeline joined them, letting out a harsh breath. He wrapped his other arm around Lily and she pulled him close, giving him the only comfort she could think of.

Remus leaned against Adeline slightly and she knew he was thinking of his own father. She wrapped her arms around his waist and he buried his nose in her hair, breathing deeply and letting her scent give him comfort. The four teens stood in silence for a while until Wobky appeared, making them all jump.

"Wobky has cleaned the house and taken care of young master's father's belongings. Wobky will help Tiffy with dinner."

"Thank you, Wobky," Adeline nodded and the elf disappeared.

"Well, what now?" Remus asked.

"Wobky didn't get rid of all the alcohol," Severus smirked, pulling two bottles out of the cabinet, a third still sitting inside. "Make it a party?"

"A party of four?" Lily joked.

"I call it inclusive," Severus shrugged. "Not like we can invite anyone else."

Lily and Remus remained silent, neither of the Slytherins knowing that James knew the secret. Adeline took the bottle offered to her, sighing before she took a sip. She made a face and passed the bottle to Remus, who smirked as he drank it with no problems.

"Oh, congratulations. You can drink terrible liquor better than me," she rolled her eyes, pushing him away. "We need snacks."

Severus followed Adeline into the kitchen just for them to find empty cabinets and rotten food in the cold box.

"Alright, to the grocer," she sighed.

The four headed out of the house in muggle clothing, walking to the grocer down the street. They grabbed snacks and bottles of water before paying and heading back to the rundown house on Spinner's End. Adeline glared up at the house, thinking of the terrible memories Severus probably had from there.

The teens began snacking and drinking, eating when Tiffy brought them dinner before Wobky brought Adeline a bottle of firewhiskey. She and Lily shared the firewhiskey while the boys drank the muggle liquor, neither of them liking it. Luckily the firewhiskey was stronger than the muggle liquor and the girls caught up to the boys quickly.

Lily ended up sprawled across the couch, head in Severus' lap as he played with her red hair. Remus was in an armchair, Adeline on the floor in front of him and leaning on his legs. He grumbled a bit before reaching down and pulling Adeline into his lap, burying his face in her neck. She laughed lightly at the action, Lily smiling at them as Severus wasn't sure what to do. He was used to seeing Adie and Remus with each other but it always made him feel as if he was watching something that was meant to be private.

At the end of the night, the four were taken back to Shafiq manor and given hangover potions before heading to their rooms, Lily in Adeline's again as Adeline had basically moved into Remus' room at that point. The next morning, they all sat around the mismatched table for breakfast.

"I told Severus I would go with him to make the arrangements," Lily told Adeline. "He said you made him a list of things that will need to be done?"

"I can duplicate it for you, if you like?"

"No, we'll share this one. Thank you," Lily shook her head.

"Don't worry about it," Adeline shook her head back. "I need to work on a few potions anyways."

Adeline went to her lab after Wobky had taken Severus and Lily away while Remus headed to the library. Adeline began her experiment potions after starting the newest batch of wolfsbane, trying multiple options as she went, already having prepared the ingredients and using sticking charms to keep the instructions and notes on the designated cauldrons, checking off each step as she went. Remus joined her a while later, sitting on a stool with the souls book as she moved around the lab with ease.

She sighed as she sat beside him, rubbing the back of her neck. Remus smiled and reached over, rubbing her neck for her. She moaned slightly at the feeling and Remus used both hands, rubbing her shoulders as well.

"You're a saint," she told him.

"I wouldn't go that far," he smirked. "Post came while I was in the library. A few things for you."

"Wonderful," she sighed, taking the letters.

Adeline opened the first letter, smiling when all that was in the envelope was a moving photo. The family of three smiled and waved at her, the baby in the picture having hair that changed colors. She set it aside and picked up the letter from her distributer. She read through it slowly, going over all of the payments and deliveries that had been made. Once she decided that everything was in order, she set that one aside as well. The next envelope had her name written in familiar handwriting. She flipped the envelope face down beside the picture, deciding to open it when Remus wasn't sitting so close.

After dueling for a bit, Adeline went to the library, hiding away from Remus. She smiled down at the envelope, chewing her lip slightly before opening it.

'Adie,

Is it strange that I miss you already? You disappeared before we could try sneaking around on the train. Is everything alright?

I was hoping we could find some time to see each other this summer. I know we can't be seen in public due to your marriage to Reggie and that Snape lives with you. Maybe you could come to Potter manor? I know Mia wouldn't mind seeing you. I think she likes you more than she likes me or Jamie.

We could go into muggle London and see a film? Or just take a walk through the muggle gardens? It won't be the same as the ones we used to see, but it's just as beautiful. I think you'll love it. I made a little doodle of it at the bottom of my letter. My drawing skills aren't exactly the best, but you get it.

I just want to see you. Maybe one day things will be different. We can runaway to that house in Georgia we spoke about. Large yard with a field. Extra bedrooms for our friends. I would even put up with Snape being around all the time if just meant getting to be with you.

I've been reading books by this muggle fellow. Apparently, he's a romanticist. I read a poem he wrote the other day that made me think of you.

"Tread lightly, she is near. Under the snow, Speak gently, she can hear The daises grow. All her bright golden hair Tarnished with rust, She that was young and fair Fallen to dust…"

A bit sad at the end, but still. Bloke named Wilde.

Write me as soon as you can so that I know everything is okay.

All my love,

Sirius'

Adeline smiled before grabbing a pen and paper.

'My dear Siri,

I'm fine, I promise. Severus and I left because he got word of his father passing. We went to take care of his childhood house and funeral business. It was a rather difficult process even if he and his father didn't speak anymore.

I would love to see you this summer. Severus is going out of town for a bit at some point this summer to see a few family members. I'll tell you when so you can come by. I miss you as well.

I still think about that Georgia house. I can see it in my mind. White house with shutters and a wraparound porch. Weeping willows and peach trees in the yard, large field of wildflowers with woods behind the house. We'd leave the windows open in the spring so that a breeze could sweep through the house and so that we could hear music from outside.

You, James, and Reggie would fight over Quidditch teams while Remus and I rolled our eyes and read our books. Pete would probably braid flowers into Lily's hair while Lily force Sev to stay still while she did the same to him. I wonder if I could find a spell that does it?

Give Mia my love, please? I love the doodle and the poem. Send as many of both as you want. I mean it.

Xoxo, Adie'

'Dear Adeline,

James asked why I was smiling like a girl as I read your letter. I just told him that I thought of that time he fell down the stairs in the main hall while trying to impress Lily. Did you know that they write to each other now? I wonder when that started.

I'm sorry about Snape's father. I know we have never been friendly, but still. I'd say to offer my condolences to him, but I'm sure you haven't told him about me. I don't blame you. It's not exactly safe for us to be together.

I'm imagining a Quidditch pitch in the backyard in front of the woods. I also imagine there being a basement where you and Snape can brew, dried herbs hanging from the ceiling and cauldrons all strewn about. There would be a garden off to the side where the two of you could grow fresh ingredients, as well. A fireplace for winter, but I'd probably just force you to stay under blankets with me all day if it got too cold.

Remus' wolf would love the woods to run in. He told us about how freeing it felt when he lived with you to run through the woods as his wolf. I believe he does it in the Forbidden Forest now in the area by the shack.

If you figure that spell out, let me know. I have a feeling Jamie needs a flower crown for some reason now.

As requested, a page with just a doodle. This is our future Quidditch pitch. Maybe you could send one back of whatever in the world a 'weeping willow' is? Is it some kind of mandrake? And, also as requested, another poem by Wilde:

"It is full summer now, the heart of June; Not yet the sunburnt reapers are astir Upon the upland meadow where too soon Rich autumn time, the season's usurer, Will lend his hoarded gold to all the trees, And see his treasure scattered by the wild and spendthrift breeze."

This one is one of my favorites…

Love, Sirius

P.s. What is xoxo?'

'Siri,

You would not believe the night I had. I showed up to the picnic in a yellow sundress with white daisies on it. I thought your mother was going to Crucio me in front of everyone. The only reason she ended up being fine with it was because I changed Reggie's shirt to white and his tie to yellow with the same flowers on it and everyone complimented us.

My favorite moment was when the punch bowl somehow tipped over and spilled on many of the guests. Still not sure how Walburga came out without a spot on her considering she was who I was aiming for. What a shame. I'll have to work on my aim.

Sissy and Lucy have lost three babies now… I'm worried for her. I've sent her potions to help, but I know it isn't enough. I plan to have lunch with her and Bella soon. I haven't seen much of Bella recently, either, and heard that she's on some potions but no one is saying why.

I've included a copy of a picture I received recently. I think you'll enjoy it as much as I have. Have you heard from her lately?

A weeping willow is a type of tree. It is called that because the leaves hang down. Not sure what causes them to do so. I believe my drawing skills are much worse than yours but I tried my best. I liked that one as well. Much happier than the previous one but both still pretty. Imagine what everyone would think to know that Sirius Black waxes poetry in secret love letters.

X's are kisses and O's are hugs.

Xoxo, Adie'

'Adie,

I saw the picture in the Prophet! It was amazing! Please stop trying to anger my mother though. You'll put me in an early grave from how much you make me worry. Did you have something to do with the babbling potion a while back?

I feel so sad for Sissy. She's always wanted to be a mother. I wish I could write to her but, when I tried reaching out to her last, she told me that we were no longer family. I've left her alone ever since.

I love the photo. I haven't heard from her in a while. I'll try reaching out soon though. She always was my favorite cousin.

Your tree looks nothing like a tree. I don't know if it's supposed to look like that or if you really are just that bad at drawing. Finally! Something you're bad at! I'll lord that over you for the rest of our lives if you ever tell anyone about my poems or doodles. Speaking of, this one is a peach wearing a crown. Did you know that 'Adeline' means nobility? Here's a quote instead of a poem: "If you are not too long, I will wait here for you all my life." I would wait my entire life for you…

I wish to have all of your kisses and all of your cuddles. Soon.

Love, Sirius'

'Love,

How does next week sound? Severus will be gone for nine days and I'll have the house to myself. I hate having the house to myself. It's too big and too quiet. I miss when the halls were filled with laughter. I never want another quiet day in my life. I'll probably regret saying that one day, I'm sure of it.

He leaves Friday night and I have dinner with Walburga, Orion, and Reggie on Saturdays and I have business most of the week. How does Sunday and Monday sound? We can laze about or go see a film. Honestly, I don't care what we do. I just want to see you again.

I don't think waiting your entire life will be necessary. Maybe just fifteen years or so. Would be more fun that way. Serves you right for threatening to tell people of my poor drawing skills.

I'll leave the floo open for you.

Xoxo, Adie'

"Fifteen years?" Sirius demanded as he walked into Adeline's brewing room. "You're trying to torture me."

"I said it's more fun that way," she smirked, putting a stasis charm on the potion she was making.

She rushed to Sirius, jumping into his arms and throwing hers around his neck. He caught her around the waist and spun them in a circle. He buried his face in her neck, breathing deeply and smelling the herbs and honey scent on her skin. He smiled contently as he took a step back to look at her.

"What?" she asked, confused.

"I just missed you," he shrugged, pulling her close again, arms wrapping around her tightly.

"I missed you, too," she whispered, holding his waist.

The two had lunch before they went upstairs to the room that Lily had used more than her, Remus' door sealed with Wobky's magic while he was away visiting his mom for a few days. Severus' door was closed as well while he was on vacation with the Evans family, Lily sticking close to his side since his father passed.

Adeline had moved most of her clothes back into her own room that morning once Remus had left before changing the sheets before tossing the other ones into the cleaning pile. Tiffy had helped Adeline prepare the house, hiding any sign of Lily and Remus from prying eyes for the next two days. Adeline had only begun brewing an hour before Sirius had arrived, not sure exactly when he planned to arrive and deciding to get a few things done while she waited.

Sirius and Adeline remained in her room for the remainder of the day and into the night, Tiffy magicking their dinner into the room at Adeline's request. The next morning, Sirius and Adeline fed each other berries and cream for breakfast before going into muggle London. They saw a movie and sat in the back row. Neither had any clue what the movie ended up being about.

When it was time for Sirius to leave, he pulled Adeline close, hugging her to his body. She melted into him, his touch bringing her comfort and easing her in ways she hadn't realized it could. He kissed her head before leaning down and kissing her lips gently. Adeline cried a bit when he left, closing the floo behind him.

The house was put back in order and Adeline went to her brewing room, staring around her at the herbs, cauldrons, ingredients, vials, and notes. She thought about how she wasn't going to be able to continue sneaking around with Sirius eventually, how she was going to have to keep him at arm's reach at some point before pushing him away completely. She remembered Reggie's words from the other day.

"We can't let Siri anywhere near this," he'd stated.

Adeline, Severus, and Remus had nodded in agreeance before Reggie's eyes locked on Adeline's.

"What?" she'd asked.

"I mean it, Adie. I know that you're still in love with him and you've kept him away for years now. Don't put him in danger," Reggie had insisted and Adeline knew then that Reggie had figured out what had happened the night of the party.

She stared at him, surprised and taken aback. She had gathered her emotions though before nodding.

"I understand."

"Good. The Dark Lord has approached mother about me joining his side before the end of our sixth year. He wants to be sure that Severus and I can cover for you when you're pregnant after seventh year so he wants to give us private lessons as he did with you. I doubt it'll be as pleasant as yours were."

"Let's go practice our occlumency then," Severus sighed and the two had walked away, heading to the dueling room.

Remus had looked to Adeline then, questioning her with his eyes. She'd walked away rather than saying anything, giving him all of the answer he'd needed.

Adeline stared around the room, pain and anger working through her. She waved her wand over Remus' potions, putting a heavy shield around the two. Next, she grabbed the closest box of vials and threw them across the room. Her wand went into her hair and she ran her arms across her workstation, herbs, ingredients, and notes flying across the room and to the floor. She waved her arms, letting her magic spark out and throwing empty cauldrons into the glass cabinets on the other side of the room. She screamed then, magic escaping her through her throat as every vial and bit of glass shattered around her, the glass from the chandelier above her raining down on her.

She took a few steps back before collapsing. She curled in on herself then, sobbing into her knees. With tears still in her eyes, she stood. She grabbed her wand and went to the closest lavatory. She pulled the top layers of her hair into a messy bun on top of her head before pointing her wand at the bottom layers, whispering the spell she needed and dying her hair black underneath.

She cleared her appearance a moment later, face no longer red and blotchy from crying. She went back to the brewing room and the glass fixed itself, small shards tinkering as they moved against each other in some sort of strange symphony. The room cleaned itself, everything going back to its original place and seeming as if nothing had happened. She made a list of ingredients that needed to be replaced before moving upstairs.

After moving her clothes back to Remus' room, she changed the sheets on the bed back to the ones Lily liked so much. The few belongings that Lily had left behind went back to their place. Downstairs, pictures moved back to the mantle. In the kitchen, Lily's and Remus' favorite mugs moved back to reachable spots in the cabinet.

She changed into a black dress, black heels, and black robes. After opening the floo, she called for Reggie, asking him if he wanted to take a trip into the alley with her. He came through a few minutes later and they left through the floo. They made sure to be seen smiling and laughing together as they replaced the potions ingredients she needed before heading back to Shafiq manor. Reggie kissed her head and left with a soft smile, not knowing about the destruction that had befallen the home just a few hours before.

"Are you going to teach me fiendfyre?" Reggie asked curiously one day as he came through the floo and into Shafiq manor.

"I'd like to learn that as well," Remus smirked.

"Let's go," Adeline sighed, wand out.

"Are you going to duel in a dress?" Reggie asked.

"You duel in robes all the time," Adeline rolled her eyes. "It's basically the same thing."

Adeline dueled Reggie a few times, winning every time and correcting him each time until he corrected multiple mistakes. Remus watched on, nodding in agreement with Adeline's suggestions. After teaching him a few spells, she stood in front of Reggie and Remus, taking a deep breath.

"The first time you do this, it'll drain you a bit. Wobky has potions for you to take now and after." Once both boys had taken a potion she began speaking again. "Do you know why fiendfyre is so difficult to contain?"

"It pulls at your magical core," Remus nodded.

"Correct. Reggie, you already know how to do that from Walburga's teachings. Remus, you've done wandless magic before, so you've done it as well. With fiendfyre, you have to make sure you don't become distracted. Keep you wand and eyes where you want the fire to go or you'll lose control. I'm going to teach you the counter first."

Thirty minutes later, Adeline trusted that they both were comfortable with the counter spell. She walked them through the fiendfyre spell slowly, making them practice pronunciation over and over before doing wand movements without the spell. Finally, Adeline had Remus step forward, a dueling dummy moving back and forth in front of him and a shield blocking Reggie and Wobky from danger.

"Aim behind the dummy. Follow it with the fire. The fire will likely take the shape of an animal."

"Is yours a raven?" he asked curiously.

"Yes," she nodded.

"I bet your patronus is as well."

"It's a wolf, actually," she smirked.

Remus rolled his eyes before looking forward. He said the spell a few more times before casting the spell. He took a step back as the fire erupted from his wand.

"Steady," Adeline told him. "You control it. Not the other way around."

Remus forced the fire to calm. It turned into a wolf, chasing after the dummy. Remus was sweating from the heat and exertion.

"Counter," Adeline demanded, watching him as he swayed slightly. "Now, Remus!"

It took three tries before the fire extinguished, Adeline moving closer and closer to him in the process, ready to intervene if necessary. The shield lowered and Wobky rushed forward as Adeline caught Remus. They sank to the floor and Remus downed the offered potion and a glass of cold water.

"You did well," she told him.

"I almost lost control," he reminded her.

"I did lose control the first few times," Adeline shrugged. "Miranda was very upset."

Adeline helped Remus to a bench, making sure he was alright before turning to Reggie. He nodded, face serious as he stepped forward. A new shield was erected and Adeline stood close by. Reggie began, a lion running after the dummy. Reggie did just about as well as Remus, but he passed out the moment the spell was dismissed. Adeline spelled the potion into him and he woke, accepting the water. After he was seated, Adeline smiled.

"You both did better than I thought you would," she told them honestly. "I expected to have to put out fires or replace the dummy a few times."

"Your faith in us gives me strength," Remus rolled his eyes as Adeline and Reggie both laughed.

"You should be getting home," she sighed to Reggie.

"Yeah," he nodded. "I'll come see you later this week."

"Okay," Adeline nodded. "I have to come to dinner at some point this week as well. We'll meet up before then and go to the alley."

"Deal," Reggie smiled. "Need to keep up appearances."

Adeline led Reggie to the floo, kissing his cheek before he disappeared into the green flames. Adeline sighed and turned, finding Remus leaning against the doorframe.

"Hi," she smiled.

"You're terrifying," he smiled, walking towards her.

"I think that's the nicest thing you've ever said to me," Adeline smiled.

Adeline, Reggie, Severus and Remus studied occlumency every morning for a few hours before having lunch and dueling. Adeline and Reggie went to the alley before dinner with his parents, making sure to be seen holding hands and laughing together. It wasn't hard to smile around each other considering they had been best friends for years. Dinner in the Black manor had been a bit awkward as Walburga had tried speaking to Adeline as she had before, as if nothing had ever gone wrong. Adeline grit her teeth and got through it though, Tiffy on standby behind her chair if she needed to grab Adeline and make a break for it.

"We should do pairs," Severus offered as Remus and Reggie dueled in front of them.

"Who do you want?" Adeline asked.

"Reggie," he nodded. "Might even it out a bit."

"I feel like me with Reggie would even it out," Adeline told him. "I trained you and Remus. Reggie has the least experience with me."

"And you're rather powerful."

"Five galleons on you and Reggie being the first two out," Adeline smirked.

"You think you and Remus will be the ones left standing?" Severus asked, brows raised.

"I do," she nodded.

"You're on," Severus smirked.

"Oi!" Adeline yelled and the spells ceased. "We're going to do pairs. Reg, you're with me. Do either of you need some water before we start? You've been going for a while."

"Yes, please," Reggie answered as Remus nodded.

Wobky gave them both some water before going back behind the shield with Tiffy, the two elves watching in fascination. Adeline made a note to teach the elves how to use a wand if they ever ended up having to pick up Adeline's during a time of need. She knew their magic was more than enough, she just wanted to be sure.

Reggie went to Adeline's side, breaking her out of her thoughts. She gave him a smile and the two stood across from Remus and Severus. Adeline winked at Remus as she stood in front of him, causing him to smirk. She snapped her fingers and sparks shot into the air. She threw up a shield in front of Reggie as Severus shot a spell from his wand and used wandless magic with his other hand, effectively blocking his sneak attack. She ducked under the spell Remus had shot at her before causing black vines to shoot at him.

He gasped and dodged the vines as they shot pass him. She shot a spell at Severus while he was distracted by Reggie, causing him to yelp in pain as he was thrown backwards. Reggie and Adeline shot spells at Remus at the same time, but he threw up a shield so strong that the spells rebounded. Reggie was knocked back, but Adeline moved out of the way just in time, hearing it crash into the wall behind her.

She and Remus stood in front of each other, both breathing heavily. Adeline sent him a smirk before they began shooting spells back and forth. Reggie and Severus moved behind the shield with the elves, just watching. Adeline shifted into her raven and flew over the spells being thrown her way, flying at Remus and hitting his face with her wing. He swatted at her and she shifted, arm going around his shoulders and pulling him backwards. He lost his footing and they went down on the mat. Adeline had her wand against Remus' throat and they were both panting heavily.

"You win," Remus breathed out.

"Oh, thank Merlin," she sighed, letting him go and moving her wand away from him. "I don't think I could have beaten you if we'd kept going."

"I feel the same," he laughed slightly before sitting up.

He helped her to her feet as Wobky ran over to them with water and to make sure they weren't injured. The drank their water down as Severus and Regulus came over, both chattering excitedly about the two of them.

"You two go again," Adeline laughed to the two. "We're taking a break."

"You're breaking up with me?" Remus gasped, hand over his chest as he smiled.

"I'm just not women enough for you," she sighed. "My husband was catching on anyways. It was time to let it go."

Adeline and Reggie were reading through the next years lessons in the sitting room later that evening, summer homework having been completed within the first two weeks of their break.

"We're learning the patronus charm this year," Reggie smiled as he flipped through their sixth-year defense book.

"Want me to teach you?" she asked.

"Of course, you already know how to do it," Reggie rolled his eyes with a fond smile. "I'm not even a little surprised."

"Got extra points on my defense OWL for showing it to them," she smirked.

"Let's go practice," he sighed.

Reggie was able to do a basic shield patronus within two weeks. He got it figured out on the same day that he and Severus were going to Tom's home for their first meeting with him. They were both able to occlude for a few minutes during an attack, Adeline and Remus having not held back during their practice sessions and leaving all of them with headaches, while she and Remus practiced together in bed every night. Headache potions were taken almost every day when they'd first started but were now few and far between.

Adeline paced in the sitting room the entire time they were gone, Remus reading more of the soul book to pass the time, glancing up at Adeline every so often. A few hours after they left, Severus came through the floo.

"Are you okay? How did it go? Where's Reggie?" Adeline immediately started in.

"Adie," Remus pulled her back. "Let him breath."

"Sorry," she sighed. "Where's Reggie?"

"Went back to Black Manor," Severus gave her a soft smile. "You aren't the only one that wanted to know how the conversation went. He'll be over tomorrow morning. I'm fine, no harm done. We just spoke and told him what we had to offer. He had us duel for a bit and asked our feelings on magical creatures and pureblood beliefs."

"Magical creatures? He works with Greyback," Adeline said in confusion.

"I don't know," Sev shrugged. "I followed Reggie's lead on that one because I wasn't completely sure how to answer. Reggie called them abominations but a necessary evil at times."

Adeline leaned into Remus' chest as he tensed slightly.

"He didn't mean it," she told him, voice soft. "Reggie loves all magical creatures and doesn't give a shit about what he was raised on."

"I know," he breathed out, nose in her hair. "It doesn't make it easier to hear."

"I'm going to head to Lily's for a bit," Severus told them, patting Remus' shoulder as he went.

Adeline turned in Remus' arms once the front door shut. He stared down at her with a sad look in his eyes, causing her to sigh. She held his face in her hands, forcing him to keep eye contact with her.

"You are not a monster. You are not an abomination. You are the kindest person I have ever met and better with a wand than the purebloods that I know," she told him, voice firm.

Remus took a deep breath and nodded, pulling her into a hug. She held him, repeating her words into his ear with a whisper in the process.

'Adie,

I miss you yet again. Feels unfair that Snape gets to spend so much time with you. We'll have to remedy that eventually, let me steal you away for a bit. How would you feel about going on a small vacation? Uncle Alphard left me all of his fortune when he passed. I expect he's been blasted from the family tapestry by now. He left me a house though and it needs a bit of a woman's touch. It sits on the countryside an hour outside of the city. Would you be up for joining me?

"Beautiful star with the crimson lips And flagrant daffodil hair, Come back, come back, in the shaking ships O'er the much-overrated sea, To the hearts that are sick for thee With a woe worse than mal de mer- O beautiful stars with the crimson lips And the flagrant daffodil hair. - O ship that shakes on the desolate sea, Neath the flag of the wan White Star, Thou bringest a brighter star with thee From the land of the Philistine, Where Niagara's reckoned fine And Tupper is popular- O ship that shakes on the desolate sea, Neath the flag of the wan White Star."

All my love, Siri'

Adeline smiled as she rode on the back of Sirius' motorcycle, her body leaning against his and her arms around his waist. They flew through the countryside, visions of rolling hills and cottages flying by as they rode pass. Sirius turned down a gravel side road, a wooden gate open as they rode between thin rows of trees until they found a grey stoned cottage sitting in a clearing. Sirius stopped the bike in front of the cottage, letting down the kickstand and removing his helmet. Adeline stood, removing her own helmet and pulling her hair back into a messy bun. Sirius' own hair was pulled back into a much smaller bun, his wand in his hair as well. He took Adeline's hand, leading her into the cottage.

She smiled at the mismatched furniture. The windows were open, a breeze flowing through the house to help with the stuffy air. There were moving pictures on the mantle and the dining room table wobbled slightly when Adeline placed her bag on it, one of the legs being too short.

Sirius followed her as she moved through the house, looking into the two rooms, one a bedroom and the other an office space. The office had books along one of the walls and a desk in front of a large window, looking out at the large yard to the side of the house. The bedroom looked a bit lived in and Adeline knew Sirius must have stayed here a few times since coming into ownership of the home.

The two spent the next five days exploring the land that the cottage sat on, finding a garden hidden among the trees, along with a river. They went into the muggle village, walking along the cobblestone steps and looking into the different shops. The village people gave them questioning looks but gave friendly smiles as the two teenagers they'd never met before walked through the streets, looking happy and in love.

On the last night at the cottage, Adeline and Sirius were laying on a blanket outside, staring up at the stars. They woke up, wrapped in the blanket and naked as the sun came up, causing the trees to glow as the oranges and reds painted the sky. Sirius drove Adeline back to muggle London on his motorcycle, dropping her off in front of the theater. He sat on the motorcycle, pulling Adeline between his legs so they could kiss goodbye before he watched her disappear down the street, heading back to Shafiq manor.

Adeline had already gone through her potions book, notes made on the sides of the pages, which she compared with Severus as soon as he finished his own book. Remus had reviewed runes with her for her sixth year and Reggie had helped her with arithmancy problems. With all of her school books read, Adeline headed to Tom's, smiling a greeting to him before noticing the angry look on his face.

"What is it? What's wrong?" she asked him.

"We have company joining us today," he told her. "Should be here any moment."

"Who is it?" she asked before a crack was heard through the room and she turned to see Fenrir Greyback smiling at her, teeth yellow.

"Well, hello there pretty," he smiled.

Tom stepped between Adeline and Greyback, glaring at the werewolf.

"Hello," Adeline nodded. "My name's Adeline Black nee Shafiq."

"I know who you are," he told her. "Name's Fenrir Greyback."

"Nice to meet you," she gave him a smile, catching him off guard.

"Greyback just came by to discuss a few things," Tom explained. "I can meet you in the library once he leaves."

Adeline knew it was a dismissal but she never did like being left out of conversations.

"May I stay?" she asked and Tom turned to her, brow raised. "If I'm to be your right hand as you've said, I should know what's happening so I can offer assistance."

"Smart and pretty," Greyback smirked. "No wonder you keep her around."

Greyback yelped when a spell hit him, Tom glaring down at the beast.

"I can go," Adeline said, heading towards the door.

"No," Tom's voice was firm. "You're right. Stay. Greyback, you will not speak to her unless she asks you a question. You will give a direct answer and nothing more. Is that understood?"

"Yes, my lord," Greyback grunted as he stood back up.

Adeline returned to Tom's side, standing straight as she faced Greyback.

"I have some of mine dispersed throughout the area you requested for tomorrow night."

"How many?"

"Ten. We'll be able to take six."

"Good," Tom nodded. "Bring the strongest ones to me, the more defiant. Don't bite those ones."

"Yes, my lord," Fenrir nodded.

"I also have information on the muggle village that you sent scouts to. He's gone, my lord. They couldn't find him."

"He didn't just disappear," Tom's voice was low, anger in his tone.

Adeline place a gentle hand on his arm, causing both men to turn to her.

"Did you find any clues in the area that he was ever there?" she asked Greyback.

"A few witnesses said they remember seeing him a few months back but then he just left one day."

"No one knows where he left to? Did you search his home? Did he ever mention any family or friends in a different area?"

"House was emptied and he told no one where he was going. We didn't ask about mentions of friends or family."

"Well, if he has any, you could start there," she shrugged, removing her hand from Tom's arm. "I would send your politest back to the area to ask more questions. People may not even know that they were given information in passing by accident."

"What do you mean?" Tom asked.

"Well, someone may have said that their sister lived somewhere and he could have mentioned knowing the area, which gives reason to believe he'd been there before. Is the person you're looking for magical?"

"A wizard," Tom nodded.

"There will be a magical footprint in the area if he performed magic daily. So, unless he was living as a muggle, it'll be easier to find him. You have people in the ministry. Have someone look into the area. They might be able to track the magic user to another area if they're lucky. I'm not saying that you'll for sure be able to track them that way but luck could always be on your side."

"I'll send people out now if you like, my lord," Greyback offered.

"You follow any order she gives," Tom glared at Greyback.

"Yes, my lord. Mistress."

Greyback left and Adeline was taken back by the title. She turned to Tom, seeing his brow raised as he stared at where Greyback had just disappeared from.

"What is he?" she asked.

"Werewolf," he spat. "Nasty creatures."

"Explains the manners," she shrugged. "Mother had a rather strong opinion on werewolves. I understand better why now."

"Unfortunately, he's a means to an end," Tom sighed. "I need to go deal with some business and speak to the people I have in the ministry. Can I write you to reschedule?"

"Sure," Adeline smiled. "Give Nagini a rat from me."

Tom laughed and Adeline disappeared, Tiffy holding her hand. Adeline conjured a pen and paper the moment she was home, Remus and Severus staring at her in confusion as she began writing quickly. Her handwriting filled the page and she passed the paper to Tiffy. Tiffy popped away immediately and Adeline took a shaky breath.

"What is it?" Remus asked, rushing to her side.

"I met Greyback," she told him, watching his reaction.

"What?" he asked, voice uneven.

"He had business to discuss with the Dark Lord and crashed our lesson. He's going to attack a village on the full moon. I don't know where or which one. They were rather vague with me in the room. They're trying to find a wizard as well. He was rather angry that Greyback's men had lost him in a muggle village."

"He's going to turn more kids," Remus breathed out.

Adeline grabbed Remus' hand and dragged him from the room. They made it up the stairs and to his room quickly, Adeline tossing up privacy charms. She pulled Remus close, wrapping her arms around him and feeling sobs rock through his body. He held her tightly, crying into her shoulder.

"It's going to be okay. Dumbledore will figure something out. He mentioned six people and Voldemort wants some of them untouched."

"That doesn't make it better, Adie!" Remus yelled, pulling away from her.

"I know," she told him. "I know. I'm just telling you the rest of it. It's going to be okay."

"None of this is okay! Can't you see that! None of this is okay and it isn't going to be! You can't save everyone, Adie!"

"I know," she nodded.

"Do you? Because it seems like that's what you're trying to do!"

"Of course that's what I'm trying to do. I want to save as many people as I can. I know it won't be everyone and I know it's dangerous. I have to try though, Remy."

"You can't keep doing this. We can run away. We'll finish this year of school and then we'll go. We can go to America."

"I can't do that, Remy. I have a contract to uphold and I'm needed here."

"Then have Reggie do the spell now and we'll leave! You can't keep putting yourself in danger, Adie! You can't be around Greyback! What if he decides he wants you and goes against Voldemort's orders? What if the others find you out? What if they find out you've been sneaking around with Sirius?"

"How?"

"It's plain to see, Adeline! You have that look about you whenever you've been around him. James wrote me about it, as well. Sirius gets the same damn look. Adie, you and Sirius could have a baby instead. It just needs to be a Black baby. Wouldn't you rather it be him anyway? We could all go. We could grab Reggie and Lily and everyone else and just leave. Let the actual adults handle this war," Remus begged.

"I can't," she told him, tears in her eyes. "You don't understand. I would love nothing more than to run as far away from here as quickly as possible with all of you, knowing that you're all safe. I'm in too tight of a position though. The information that I'm giving Dumbledore is saving people, Remy. I can't just not do it. Imagine all of the people who would be dead already if I wasn't doing this. Lily's parents might have been killed had it not been for me."

"I can't watch you get yourself killed, Adie," Remus' voice was low as he stared into her eyes. "I can't."

Remus left that night, going to stay at Potter manor with Sirius and James, Mia giving him a sympathetic smile as he entered her home.