Authors note- Okay, first, I'm loving all the comments. You guys are so amazing. Secondly, Updates will slow down a little now. I had written a lot ahead and was struggling with a migraine last weekend, so I was editing instead of writing. With this Chapter you guys are about at the same place I am in the story. I've got some great ideas and have started the next chapter, but updates will probably be every couple of days for a while. Glad you guys enjoyed the quick updates, and I will continue to post quickly but I have no regular update schedule because I write when I have ideas and edit when I need a break. LOL. Love you guys. Hope you enjoy this long Chapter.

Song inspiration for the Memory part is 'I Won't Let Go' By Rascal Flatts

Chapter 25

A Runaways support

Harry hurried to put his things away. He was getting to leave. He was getting to go back to Cokeworth. He'd have to come back but he wasn't going to be trapped here. Snape had even given him permission to change his appearance. He couldn't wait to be 'just Harry' again. Or as everyone here knew him 'Max.'

He packed his bag with his cloak, sketchbook, and the book he'd been reading. He'd like to have his wand, but he thought Snape had taken it again. When he'd woken up it was gone.

His mind raced. Bill knew about the Dursley's. Did anyone else know? Did Dumbledore? He'd said something about what had come to light. Was he talking about Harry? He didn't think so. He had thought in that moment that's what he was talking about but then he'd made Snape apologize for stunning him.

Not a very genuine apology but he supposed it was something.

He felt a knot twist in his gut. The twins had betrayed his trust. He really couldn't trust anyone. He let his wall down a little and felt the tears immediately start to fall down his cheeks. He couldn't keep the wall up all the time. It was too painful when it came down.

He wiped his face. He couldn't count on anyone. That wasn't anything new. He set his sights on just getting out of the house. He changed his shirt for one that was a little better fit and had no holes although it did have a few stains.

Harry walked as quickly and quietly as he could back down the stairs.

"Potter." Snape called from the sitting room.

Harry walked into the room and waited by the door.

"If asked you may tell people you are staying here. This is a small town. News will get around that there is a child staying here. Best to head off rumors. They know I am a teacher. Just…tell them you needed a place to stay this summer. Best not to lie where it can be helped. Do not make a scene. Take your wand." Snape said holding out his wand.

Harry nodded and walked to Snape and took his wand. He hesitated, he wished he had kept the wand holster. But it wasn't his to keep. He'd been bad. He'd stolen. He hoped Sirius would forgive him. He had no reason to though.

Harry sighed and slipped the wand into his bag.

"If you manage to run into trouble, go to the chemist. He's a wizard and he has my number. Do not use magic unless it is absolutely necessary." Snape instructed.

"Yes, Sir. Thank you." Harry said a little shyly.

He was Thankful to have his wand back. And to be let out. He knew he deserved the punishment. He always did but he was feeling very overwhelmed here.

"Very well. Back by dark." Snape repeated.

Harry nodded and headed for the door before the man could change his mind.

Harry walked out the front door then slipped around the side of the house. He pulled off his glasses and shoved them in his Bag. Then allowed his form to change to 'just Harry.' He was surprised to find that his natural hair was almost as long as he'd been wearing it. It had a bit of curl, but he preferred it wavy and to have it a little longer. He adjusted it and took off running for the Book Nook.

Harry grinned when he came around the corner and saw the busy little neighborhood. He took a few deep breaths and calmed himself. He walked to the door of the Book Nook and pulled the door open. He hoped Mary wasn't upset with him. He was supposed to come back on Sunday to fix her roof.

"Welcome." Mary's voice called from the back.

Harry stayed by the door. He felt a little out of place. He'd been so excited to come back he'd forgotten that there were several people he'd have to explain himself to. He really hoped he wouldn't have to deal with more angry adults. He didn't think he could handle it right now.

"Oh my god, Max!" Mary shouted when she saw him standing there.

Harry gave her a half smile and kept his head down.

"Where have you been? I was so worried when you just disappeared like that. We thought you were dead!" Mary said, coming to stand right in front of him.

Harry was taken aback a little by that. Surely, she was exaggerating. Harry flinched a little when he realized she'd taken one of his hands and was now dragging him to the sitting area. Her hand was warm and soft. Even though he wasn't comfortable with touch. It was a kind touch and somehow comforting. Especially after how his morning had gone. He both wanted to pull away and also never let go of her hand.

Mary dropped his hand a moment later and took a seat.

Harry set his bag down and took a seat. He kept his head down. He knew he was in trouble.

"I'm sorry ma'am. I did mean to only be gone for a few hours. My friend had an errand in London. I had some business I wanted to take care of, so I went with them. I…I got caught by some people who were looking for me." Harry said.

"Did they hurt you again?" Mary asked softly.

Harry raised his head a little at that.

"What do you mean?" Harry asked.

"Maggie saw how roughed up you were Hun. No one gets that way by accident." Mary said softly.

Harry shook his head. He didn't know what to say.

"It's okay. We don't need to talk about it. I'm just glad you're back. How did you get back?" Mary asked.

"I…Um the people who were looking for me weren't my relatives…I um…" Harry stopped how did he explain what was happening.

"I found someone to stay with. I'll be in Cokeworth but I…I don't know how often I'll be able to come to the shop." Harry said running his hands through his hair.

He pushed some of his hair behind his ear and Mary gasped.

"You did get hurt again. Look at that lump on your head!" Mary exclaimed.

Harry just shrugged.

"I'm fine." Harry said, trying to dismiss the worry.

"Who are you staying with?" Mary asked.

Snape had said he could tell people who he was staying with. However, he wasn't aware that the people already knew him. Harry sighed and raised his head. He hoped that the people here like Snape better then his classmates at school. He'd hate to be pushed away for being associated with the git.

Harry looked up and made eye contact for the first time and was surprised by the strange shock on Mary's face.

"Oh god." Mary whispered and covered her mouth.

Harry was confused.

"Your Lily's boy." Mary said.

Harry's heart felt like it stopped for a moment.

"Your eyes." Mary said softly.

Harry closed his eyes. He'd forgotten to change his eyes to blue. Too late now. She'd seen and apparently was able to recognize him. Mary had known his mum. That made something in his stomach twist.

"I forgot my contacts." Harry said softly as he opened his eyes.

Mary gave him such a pained look.

"Are you staying with Severus?" Mary asked softly.

Harry was shocked by the question. How in the world would she know that?

Harry nodded a little jerkily.

"Yes, please don't tell him I've been here. No one knows where I've been. I didn't know he lived here. I ended up here by accident. He's already upset with me. I'll put my contacts in. If that's all it took for you to recognize me. I…I found out my mum was from here while I was staying here. I…I don't know much about her. I didn't even know where she'd grown up. Please don't tell Professor Snape anything. I know you think you know something about where I come from but…" Harry rambled and then sighed.

"No one knows about my relatives, and I'd rather keep it that way." Harry said a little defeated.

"Relatives? You've been with Petunia?" Mary asked angerly.

Harry looked back and nodded.

Mary just closed her eyes and shook her head.

"I won't tell Severus you've been here. He does know about Max though. So, if he figures out you are Max, he's going to know a lot." Mary said honestly.

Harry's shoulders slumped. He didn't like that anyone knew anything about him. The number seemed to be increasing rapidly. Snape would just mock him though. How horrid would it be to live in that house with him knowing about his home life. Although given the way Snape had treated him, Snape would understand Harry had deserved it. He knew Harry was a Freak. He wasn't meant to live a normal life.

"I'm sorry I haven't gotten to your roof. I can do it today. The professor isn't expecting me to be back until dark. I figured I'd let Maggie know she can let out the room, let jack know I probably won't be back to work…at least right away. I might try and go up to the diner I could use a meal." Harry thought out loud.

"Everyone has been worried. You just disappeared. I'll let Maggie and Julie know. Why don't you run across the street and talk to Jack? Then go up to the diner and get something to eat. Then you can come back here. I have something to give you, but It'll take me a little time to find it." Mary told him.

Harry nodded.

"Oh, and I'd go put your contacts in, if you don't want to be recognized. Those eyes. You couldn't be anyone but an Evan's." Mary said with a shake of her head.

"Yes, Ma'am." Harry said and made an act of digging in his bag and then going to the restroom.

When he came back his eyes were blue again.

"I don't know why you'd want to hide such beautiful eyes behind just plain blue." Mary said.

"I grew my hair out too. I didn't want anyone to recognize me." Harry said a little sadly. He scuffed the toe of his trainer on the floor.

"You look like her even with those contacts. I thought something was familiar I just couldn't place it. Now that I know what I'm looking at I don't know how I missed it before." Mary explained.

Harry smiled softly. He liked hearing that he looked like his mum.

"Alright go and come back. Eat something. You look like a ghost." Mary chided.

Harry had hurried to the grocery. Jack had been understanding. They'd gone out for a smoke, and he hadn't pressed for more information. Not even where he was staying. He'd told Harry that he was one of the best workers he'd had. That if the best he could offer was some drop in shifts he could always come by for a shift. Harry thanked him and headed up to the diner.

Jack had joked that his wife had been really worried and was likely to feed him to popping.

Harry had a good meal at the diner. Jane had fussed but had let him leave when he said he'd be back. He did let her know it might not be for a while. He didn't know how often Snape would let him out. He didn't want to make promises he couldn't keep.

He'd stopped at the Sundown and talked to Maggie. Even though Mary had said she would call. Maggie had read him the riot act. He'd apologized and told her he'd found someone to stay with. He'd thanked her for all her kindness and told her he'd stop by again sometime to say hi.

When he'd made it back to the Book Nook Julie was there talking to Mary. She had fussed a little but mostly about how red his face still looked, and he'd promised to put whatever cream Mary had on it.

Harry had spent most of the rest of the day helping Mary around the shop. She'd closed early and he'd gone home with her. He didn't have much time before he needed to head back. But Mary had given him his shirt back. She'd apologized she hadn't been able to find the other thing she'd been looking for, but he'd shrugged it off. Mary had done more for him then anyone.

Harry appreciated that Mary had continued to call him Max even though she knew who he was. He'd promised to finish the roof the next day he was allowed out. He told her he'd been in a lot of trouble for running off. Mary had said she understood. She'd told him that she was glad he'd gotten away from his relatives but hadn't pushed to talk anymore about them. She had promised to tell him some stories about his mother. He'd smiled at that. He would love to know more about her.

Harry was now walking back to Snape's house.

He felt apprehensive. He was making it back before sunset. He didn't want to anger the man anymore then he already was. He hoped he'd just be allowed to go to bed. He'd had an exhausting day.

When he walked into the house it was quiet. He walked to the sitting room and found it empty. He looked in the kitchen and found it was also empty. He debated what to do now. A moment later he heard the floo flare and waited. He recognized Snape's sharp measured steps in the hall and relaxed. It wasn't good that it was Snape, but it was better than an intruder. Snape walked into the kitchen and stopped when he saw Harry.

"I trust you kept out of trouble?" Snape said, going over to the stove and setting the kettle.

"Yes, Sir." Harry replied.

"Very well, I assume you've eaten." Snape asked over his shoulder.

"Yes, Sir." Harry said. He was surprised by the question.

The man hadn't bothered in three days to see if he had food. Why today? Just because of Dumbledore?

"Very well. I haven't had a chance to go through your essays. Do with your evening as you please." Snape said dismissively as he dug around in the fridge.

Harry thought the man was probably trying to decide on something to eat. He should be doing that. It was his job. Snape had set him to making meals that first day with lunch. He would have been in a lot of trouble at the Dursley's if he hadn't made a meal on time.

"Would you like me to make you something to eat, Sir?" Harry asked a little shakily.

Snape turned and looked a little surprised by the question. However, he nodded.

Harry put his bag by the door and scrubbed his hands. Then looked for what could be made quickly.

He pulled out a few things and began chopping and prepping. When the meal was almost finished cooking, he noticed Snape was asleep at the kitchen table. The man looked younger asleep. Harry knew he was the same age as his parents, which meant he was about Thirty-six. He looked quite a bit older though. Harry guessed that had to do with the stress of being a spy. Remus and Sirius looked older then there age too. Remus' premature aging was from the toll his condition took on his body. The pictures he'd seen of them in school, he'd already been getting greys. Sirius had spent years in prison.

Harry sighed. He figured he'd age quickly too with all the stress. If he was allowed to get past being a teen. Which he doubted. That was ok.

He plated the professor's food. He didn't want to startle the man, but he couldn't let him sleep at the table like that. His neck was twisted at an uncomfortable angle.

"Professor." Harry called softly.

No response.

"Professor Snape." Harry said a little louder.

Harry sighed.

He set the plate on the table.

He reached out and touched the man's shoulder.

"Professor Snape, your dinner is done." Harry said.

In a flash the man sat up grabbed his arm and had his wand shoved with bruising force into Harry's neck.

Harry froze.

"What are you doing Potter?" Snape spat as he shoved Harry away from him.

Harry took a moment to calm his racing heart.

Harry gulped and rubbed his arm where the man had grabbed him again.

"Your dinner's ready." Harry said shakily.

A strange look crossed the potions master's face before it returned to a blank mask.

"Very well." Snape said neutrally.

Harry took that as his dismissal. He had already cleaned up the cooking utensils and the surfaces. He grabbed his bag and made his way to the guest room.

He dropped his bag, grabbed his pajamas and toiletries, and made his way to the bathroom. He showered in less than five minutes in cool water. He didn't want to get yelled at for using the hot water again. When his teeth and hair were brushed, he made it back to his room. His body was aching a lot. He'd been able to push down a lot of the pain today, but it was starting to get to him.

He had spent his whole-time stunned laying on his left side. The road rash was red and sore. Some spots had even broken open again with all the struggling he'd done to get out of the bindings. He had new bruises where the ropes had been as well as another handprint bruise from Snape. Thankfully, this one was on his right arm and lower, so it didn't overlap with the other one. Vernon would always grab him in the same spot and the bruise felt like it would never heal.

He was out of bruise balm. He was out of all his potions. He would just have to wait for things to heal. He wished things would heal quicker. Everything healed slower in the summer. He'd hoped after leaving the Dursley's he wouldn't constantly be getting injured. That he wouldn't spend the summer in pain. Wouldn't spend all of his time covered in bruises.

He sighed again. He knew he deserved the pain. He had always deserved it. Why had he even bothered to leave?

Harry turned out the light and left the door open a crack and climbed gently into bed. He wished he could sleep as Akela tonight. He wanted to quiet his mind. He focused on his wall and put it up. It wasn't the same, but it would work. He waved his hand over himself and set his silencing charm.

With a sigh he tried to get comfortable until a restless sleep claimed him.

Sirius sat in the living room lost in thought. Remus had gone to lay down again after Bill had left. Bill had planned to return over the weekend to fix the wards. Remus had been exhausted and had tried to get Sirius to lay down with him, but he couldn't get his mind to quiet.

He'd found Remus whiskey an hour ago and poured himself a glass. It sat untouched on the coffee table. He wanted it to wash away the words Bill had said. He wanted to forget. He knew if he had that glass, he would have another, and another. He didn't want that. He deserved the pain he was feeling for Harry. He'd made the decision to go after Peter instead of taking care of Harry. How could he have put anything above his pup.

Sirius shook his head. He picked up the glass and held it to his lips breathing in the strong smell.

Just then the floo flared and Sirius set the glass down and pulled out his wand. He stood and waited.

"May I come through?" Albus voice called through the flames.

Sirius released the breath he was holding.

"Yes." Sirius said, retaking his seat.

Sirius was holding a lot of anger for Albus again. He wouldn't confront the man now though. He was too raw and would certainly say something he regretted.

"Good evening. I trust Bill has been by to check the wards?" Albus asked.

"Yes. He left not long ago. He'll be back this weekend to do the work." Sirius said, trying to hold down his anger.

Albus nodded and looked around. He then pulled two items from his robes.

"Severus just brought this to me and asked that I deliver it." Albus said holding out a vial of what Sirius knew was Remus' wolfsbane.

Sirius took the vial and put it in his shirt pocket. He'd need to wake Remus soon to take it.

"This is from Harry. I saw him briefly earlier." Albus said softly. Handing Sirius a box.

Sirius took the box in confusion.

"How was he?" Sirius asked as he stared at the box.

"He and Severus had some trouble this morning, but I think everything is smoothed out now." Albus said.

Trouble? What kind of trouble? Death Eaters?

"What happened?" Sirius asked, raising his eyes to Albus.

"Nothing of consequence. They just had a disagreement." Albus placated.

Harry was fighting with Severus. He didn't deserve to fight with Snivellus. He was fighting a fight for the marauders that wasn't his fight to fight.

"Is Harry alright?" Sirius asked.

"He is. I corrected the situation. Everything is fine Sirius." Albus said.

Sirius thought about that for a moment. He didn't believe Albus. He knew he always brushed Harry's concerns under the rug. It was why he'd been left with the Dursley's for so long. Why so many horrid things had happened to his godson at Hogwarts. He knew Albus was just placating him. However he knew there was little he could do about it right now. He promised himself he wouldn't allow the headmaster to manipulate him anymore though.

He needed to talk to Harry. Even if he couldn't help him right now, he needed to let him know that he knew and that things were going to get better. That he was going to be ok. Let him know he wasn't alone anymore.

Taking a deep breath and shoving all his emotions down he looked back to Albus.

"I'd like to see Harry. I know I will be meeting with Amelia on Friday and then attending the Order meeting. Could Snape bring Harry so that I might speak with him?" Sirius requested.

Albus had a thoughtful look on his face. Sirius hated that he had to request this time with Harry. He should have him. He shouldn't need to ask to see his godson like this.

"Yes, I think that will work out. Severus plans to begin dueling lessons with Harry at the school. I imagine they will be there on Friday. You may see him after our meeting before the Order arrives." Albus said.

Sirius sighed. Hopefully, he will have good news to give Harry.

"Alright. Thanks." Sirius said with a nod.

"Have a good evening, Sirius." Albus nodded and disappeared into the floo.

He held the box. He wondered what Harry wanted to give him.

Sirius brows furrowed as he opened the box. At the top was a folded piece of parchment and what looked like a ripped-up shirt tied around something.

Sirius lifted the note and read.

I'm so sorry Sirius.

Please forgive me.

Sirius felt tears pricking his eyes. Harry had nothing to apologize for.

All the adults around him were the ones that owed him apologies. Sirius thought angerly.

Sirius set the note aside and picked up the shredded shirt. There was a soft sound like broken glass when he set the bundle in his lap. When he untied it, he realized it was James' Mirror. Both mirrors had now been broken. Sirius couldn't be mad. He didn't know how Harry's had broken but his heart hurt when he saw blood on the shirt rags.

Anger began to replace the sorrow.

Harry had been hurt again.

Sirius set the mirror on the coffee table and looked back into the box. He pulled out a set of green dueling robes that he recognized as Regulus'. Sirius could remember when he'd gotten them. He'd look like a twat. Their father had tried to bribe them both with new robes. Regulus had fawned under the attention. Sirius had trashed them. Ripped every stitch and hung the rags over his mother's favorite tea set.

Sirius thought the green would have looked wonderful on Harry. His dark hair and bright green eyes would have been dazzling. He wondered why he had taken them only to send them to Sirius.

He pulled out a wand holster next. This one had also been Regulus'. It was smaller than the one that he had. Regulus had been slighter like Harry. Although his brother had been taller. Harry was rather short.

Sirius set them aside and reached into the box. He pulled his leather jacket out, smiled, and pulled it on. He had lost a lot of muscle in Azkaban, but he'd been happy that his jacket had still fit well. His smile slipped as he wondered why Harry had it. Looking into the box he started pulling books and notes out. His brow creased as he pulled out a stack of letters and photos that had been in his desk. A large stack of his old shirts seemed to have been gently stacked into the box as well.

Sirius felt a stab in his chest as he pulled the last books from the box and saw that they were the set he and Remus had given Harry last year at Christmas.

He set the empty box on the coffee table amongst the items. The box bumped into his glass, and he picked it off the table before it could spill.

Looking down into the amber liquid Sirius considered everything he'd just looked at. Remus had said Harry had been to Grimmauld, but he hadn't mentioned that he'd taken anything.

Sirius reached out and took a stack of notes that had been bundled. He started to look through them and saw that it was all his research for Remus. Harry had even added a few sheets of parchment with his own notes and thoughts.

He was such a smart and caring child. His notes showed that. The thoughtfulness in the questions scribbled onto the parchment. He wished that Harry and Remus understood how much the other cared. They both acted as if they weren't deserving of any kind of care. He hoped once they were all together that they would help build each other up.

Sirius set the stack back down and held the glass in his hand back to his lips.

Harry had so little from James and Lily. Sirius could imagine Harry going through his room and trying to take everything with him. Sirius thought back to when he'd been Harry's age and had run away. He had never questioned for a moment where he would go. Never thought he wouldn't have a safe place to sleep. Never thought he'd have to go without a meal. He knew he'd go to James, and everything would be ok. Even if he wasn't okay.

Memory-

Sirius lay on his bed staring blankly at the ceiling. Music blasted from the record player he'd smuggled into his room. His mother had screamed herself hoarse over his 'muggle loving ways' and 'dirty mud-bloods turning her son against her.' He'd already had several curses cast at him when he'd left his room earlier. So, he had decided he'd just stay in his room. His mother had finally given up banging on his door with a 'wait until your father gets home.'

Sirius couldn't wait for this summer to be over. He was ready to be back with his friends. He had spent hours staring at the photos on his walls. He wanted to fly with James and sneak to the kitchens with Peter. Mostly he wanted to talk to Remus. Remus was always the best to talk to. Especially when he had a lot on his mind.

However, He wasn't sure he could face Remus right now. He'd realized at the end of the year that he was starting to feel different about him. The feeling had rolled around in his stomach like a bowling ball. He was falling for his friend. How could he do that? Remus wouldn't want someone like him. Remus deserved so much better.

Plus, what would happen if he admitted his feelings and Remus didn't feel the same? It would be so awkward. He would never jeopardize their relationship like that. Sirius wasn't even sure if Remus fancied blokes or not. Or what type of person he would be interested in. Remus was very shy and reserved when it came to such a thing. The opposite of himself if he was being honest. He had dated a lot, but his feelings for Remus just felt different.

Sirius sighed.

He pulled the pillow from his bed and covered his face. With all he could he screamed into the pillow. He hated his life so much. Regulus had been even more unbearable this summer then normal. He'd begun to spend a lot of time with their cousins. Bellatrix and Narcissa were here frequently. They would all sit with his mother and wax on and on about blood-traitors and Mudbloods and the war. Sirius wanted to pull his hair out.

Regulus was such a sweet kid when he was little. He had always looked up to Sirius. That was until he had been sorted into Gryffindor and had made friends and had started thinking for himself. He didn't want anything to do with the Blacks.

He was so sick of his family looking down on him. His father's dark and disapproving, silent stares. His mothers non-stop screeching about blood purity and hatred of anything muggle. His Brothers greater then Merlin attitude. He was sick of being told who to be, and how to act, and who to be friends with. And mostly who to hate. He was sick of having curses thrown at him. He had been thankful they had been helping to patch up Moony all year and knew some healing spells.

Sirius threw the pillow across the room and grabbed his wand. He waved it at the record player and flipped the album over. As the music filled the room again, he wondered what his life might look like five years from now. He would be out of school and probably working a respectable job. He and James had planned to become Aurors, at least that's what they had told McGonagall. Sirius thought he would like that job. He wanted to do something that mattered. He had no interest in playing politics like his father or just living off his family money. If all went well, he'd not even be speaking to his family at that point.

Maybe in five years he would be living with someone he loved.

Sirius felt himself blush at his own thoughts. He wanted that to be Remus. It wouldn't be, but he supposed he could enjoy his daydream for now.

Rolling onto his stomach he grabbed a muggle pen off the floor next to his bed. He held it to his hand and began to draw on his skin. He had little doodles everywhere. He was planning on sneaking out one of these nights and getting his first tattoo. He just hadn't decided what to get yet. As he drew yet another moon on his skin there was a knock at the door.

Sirius groaned and climbed off his bed. His father must finally be home.

Sirius pulled the door open and glared at his father.

"You'll be in the sitting room in five minutes." His father hissed. He then looked Sirius over.

Sirius looked down at himself and smirked. He was wearing a muggle band shirt that he'd cut the sleeve off and ripped blue jeans. He had pen drawing up and down both arms and mix matched socks stuck out underneath frayed jean cuffs.

"Wash that ink off and put on appropriate clothing. My heir will not look like some muggle homeless child." Orion sneered down at Sirius.

Sirius watched his father walk away. He threw up his middle finger at his back and slammed the door.

Sirius leaned against the door. Only six more weeks he kept trying to remind himself.

He walked to the wardrobe and threw it open. Ugh, he hated these stuffy robes. Wasn't nine months of school enough time in robes? He grabbed a set of black robes and pulled them on. The sleeves were long and covered the top of his hands. He gave a shrug. Good enough. He pushed his feet into a pair of black dress shoes.

Sirius entered the silent sitting room. It would be peaceful if the silence didn't feel so heavy. Regulus stood by a small table with his hands folded neatly and his shoulders back. His father stood in front of the hearth with a glass in his hand. His mother sat primly in a straight back chair.

Sirius walked over and stood next to his brother.

"We will be having guests tomorrow. You will both be on your best behavior. You will dress appropriately, and you will be perfect examples of the noble house of Black." His father said stiffly.

"Who is coming father?" Regulus asked from beside him.

Sirius swallowed hard. He was sure whatever the answer was it would be horrid.

"People that share our ideals. They would like our family to join them. Two fine boys like you would be excellent examples of well bred purebloods." Orion stated.

Sirius felt his stomach twist. Death Eaters. His father meant Death Eaters. They had been rising to power and the war was getting worse. His father was expecting them to join Voldemort.

Sirius felt his blood boil. He'd sooner jump from the astronomy tower than join a man intent on killing people like his friends.

"You will join them if you expect to stay a part of this family." Walburga added in. Venom thick in her voice.

Sirius saw his brother nodding obediently next to him. The once sweet child Regulus had been had now been twisted by their mother. She had convinced him that the only way to get her approval was to fall in line. He had filled his room with articles about the Death Eaters and had aligned himself with other dark families at school. In his mother's eyes he was a perfect son of the house of Black. Sirius knew it was fear and self-preservation that kept Regulus on this track. He feared what their parents would do to him if he did anything else. He'd seen how Sirius had been treated since going into Gryffindor.

Sirius wasn't going to be bullied though. He wished he could protect Reg too. However, for now his brother was too wrapped up in the delusion of his mother's pureblood mania.

"I'd rather be disowned then join those assholes." Sirius spat.

He saw the rage swell in his father's eyes.

"You will not speak like that in my house." Orion growled as he approached Sirius.

"Fuck you." Sirius spat again.

When his father raised his wand Sirius darted for the door and up the stairs. His father would never do something as undignified as run. He'd have a few moments.

Sirius slammed his door and cast a locking charm at it. He threw open his trunk and began filling it with everything he could grab. Sirius heart was pounding as he raced around his room. He could hear his father's footsteps in the hall. He rushed faster and slammed the lid shut. He shrunk his trunk and shoved it in his pocket. He was getting out of here. He wouldn't be forced to join a bunch of blood purists in a war he didn't want to anything to do with.

He ripped the robes he was wearing off just as the door flew open.

Sirius heard his father shout a curse and felt his shoulder explode in pain. He fell to the floor gasping.

"You dare defy me?" His father seethed, stalking over to loom over Sirius.

Sirius was afraid but he wouldn't back down.

"Bite me." Sirius spat.

Sirius heard the slow click of his mother's graceful steps enter his room.

Sirius looked up to his mother who was sneering at the posters and photos on his wall.

"You are a disgrace to the Black family. You will learn your place, Sirius." Walburga said coldly.

"Crucio." Walburga said calmly as she cast.

Sirius felt like his body had been set on fire. He writhed and screamed for it to stop. When his voice began to cut off and he felt himself beginning to fall unconscious from the pain, the curse was lifted.

His whole body shook as he lay on the floor gasping for air.

"You will make yourself presentable tomorrow. You will not embarrass your mother and I." Orion intoned from somewhere above him.

Sirius watched his parents leave the room. He caught sight of Regulus standing in the hall. He looked pale and shaken.

Sirius closed his eyes. He would never have watched his parents hurt Reg. He'd even stepped in a few times when they had tried.

Sirius listened to the door across the hall open and close. He felt hot tears fall down his face. He was out of here. He just needed to rest. Wait for his family to go to bed.

Sirius peeled crusty eyes open and moaned. His whole body ached. His shoulder felt like it had been shattered.

Taking a deep breath, he pulled himself to his feet. It was dark and the house was silent. He needed to leave now.

Sirius limped to his bed, grabbed his jacket, and pulled it on. His shoulder screamed at the forced movement. He bit into his lip to keep from crying out.

Sirius moved as quietly as he could to the door and listened. There was no sound.

He pulled the door open and walked softly into the hall. He felt his heart stop when the door behind him opened.

Sirius turned pleading eyes to his brother.

Regulus was standing in his open bedroom door. His hair was mussed, and his eyes were red. He said nothing but gave Sirius a half smile and a nod and gently closed his door.

Sirius released a breath he hadn't realized he was holding.

He smiled sadly to himself. He wished he could take Regulus with him. However, they would both be back at school in a few weeks, and unlike Sirius, Regulus would be back with the snakes. He couldn't be seen as a blood traitor. His own house would tear him apart.

Sirius hoped his brother could safely make it out of school in a few years. Then maybe they could be brothers again. For now, Regulus wouldn't even be able to acknowledge that he had a brother. Once his parents discovered him missing, they would disown him.

Sirius pushed open the front door and hurried to the street. He held out his wand and waited. A moment later the knight bus arrived. He slowly climbed abord. His body protested every movement.

When he arrived outside the gates of Potter Manor he could have cried. His body and mind hurt so badly. His own family had been willing to torture him. To force their own children into war. His parents were selling them off to maintain the dying pureblood world.

Sirius shakily walked to the front door. He felt bad waking his friend and his parents in the middle of the night. Maybe he should just kip on the porch.

Sirius looked around and groaned. He needed a pain potion bad. Raising his hand, he knocked on the door.

He leaned on the doorframe with his good shoulder and waited. His eye lids felt heavy, and his legs shook.

"Come on Jamie. I need you." Sirius whispered.

A moment later the door flew open.

"Sirius?" James' concerned voice called to him.

Sirius could only groan as his legs finally gave out under him and he fell hard to his knees.

"Mum! Dad!" James screamed into the house.

Sirius felt James arms slip under his arm and pull him to his feet before another strong arm looped under his shaking legs and lifted him clear off the ground.

Sirius groaned at the movement and rolled his face into his best friend's shoulder.

"It's okay. It's okay. You're going to be okay." James said his voice thick with panic.

Sirius closed his eyes as he felt James lay him down on the couch in the sitting room.

"James? What's going on?" Sirius heard Mr. Potters voice as he entered the room.

"Oh my." Mrs. Potter gasped.

"It's Sirius. I don't know what happened." James rambled out.

Sirius opened his eyes as someone knelt next to him. He looked up into kind brown eyes.

"You'll be alright son." Mr. Potter said.

Sirius blinked back tears.

"Here drink this." Mr. Potter said as he held a vial to his lips.

Sirius opened his mouth and tasted the familiar taste of pain potion. He sighed as he felt the pain dissipate.

He felt himself drifting again. He could feel hands on him. Rubbing salve into the cut and burn marks from his mother's curses earlier in the day. He'd healed them but they were still very red and tender.

"Where else are you hurt?" Mr. Potter asked.

Sirius swallowed thickly. He hurt everywhere.

"My shoulder. I think it's broken." Sirius whispered.

He saw the man nod and dig into a bag that seemed to have appeared out of nowhere. Another vial was produced, and Sirius grimaced. Skele-gro. He opened his lips, and the foul liquid filled his mouth.

"I'm going to put your arm in a sling to keep the pressure off. Do you think you can sit up?" Mr. Potter asked.

Sirius really just wanted to fall asleep, but he nodded. He felt hands on his back and looked to see James helping him up. He flashed him a tight smile. His friend looked terrified. He must look rough.

"Easy." Mr. Potter said helping him to lean back on the couch.

Sirius watched silently as his left arm was wrapped against his body. His arms were still covered in his doodles from earlier and he felt a little silly being covered in ink. He hoped none of it had rubbed off on the couch.

When had he taken off his jacket? Maybe he'd passed out. He couldn't remember his mind felt sluggish.

"There. That should hold while the bones mend." Mr. Potter said quietly.

"Thank you, Mr. Potter." Sirius whispered back.

"Monty is fine." He said with a dismissive wave of his hand.

"Mia went to get you something to drink. Just rest." Monty said patting Sirius on the head like a small child.

James sat on the couch next to him. His face creased with worry.

Sirius wanted to make a joke. He wanted to see his friend smile. He just didn't have the energy. Nothing was funny about this situation. He felt embarrassed and began second guessing showing up here like this. He probably should have just gone to St. Mungo's.

"What happened, Siri?" James asked softly.

Sirius tipped his head back on the couch and stared at the ceiling.

"Here's something warm to drink. You boys should take it upstairs. Have your drink and get some sleep. Will work everything out in the morning. It's nearly four now." Mia said setting a tray on the coffee table.

"Thank you, ma'am." Sirius whispered. He didn't think he'd ever be able to speak louder again. His throat felt like he'd swallowed fiendfyre.

"Your Welcome, dear." Mia said softly. She raised a hand and brushed his hair out of his face.

"Your always welcome here." Mia said before stepping out of the room.

"You boys get some sleep." Monty said.

Sirius felt like crying again.

He felt his chest begin to shake and tried hard to hold in the bubbling sobs threatening to spill out.

"It's okay Sirius." James murmured beside him.

Sirius felt the sob rip from his lips and the tears fall down his face.

James pulled him into his chest and held him in strong arms while he cried.

"My parents want Reggie and I to join the Death Eaters." Sirius choked out.

"I…I would never." Sirius added.

"I know Siri." James affirmed.

Another sob wracked his body.

"I was trying to leave, and my dad broke my shoulder…and my mum…She started casting on me. I've never felt so much pain." Sirius cried.

"It's over now. You're not going back there. I've got you now. Your my brother and I'll make sure nothing happens to you." James whispered into his hair as his hand rubbed comforting circles on his back.

Sirius nodded into James's chest. They were sat in an uncomfortable position on the couch. As Sirius felt himself begin to calm, he pulled away from James. His cheeks blushed in embarrassment. He couldn't believe he'd just blubbered like a baby all over his best mate.

James didn't seem to even notice.

"Come on. Let's go up to my room. Looks like mum brought us hot chocolate." James said.

Sirius looked at the mugs and nodded.

James helped him to his feet and once he was steady they walked upstairs to James' room.

Sirius sat next to James on his bed. Their backs leaned up against the headboard.

"Here." James said handing Sirius a mug of hot chocolate.

"I Won't say anything about what happened if you don't want me too." James said quietly.

"Nah, I don't care if your parents or the boys know, my parents have completely lost it." Sirius said with a sigh.

James leaned into his side in a show of comfort.

"You've got us you know. You're not alone. You'll always have us." James said.

Sirius felt tears well up in his eyes. They slid down his face and he choked back another sob. Taking a deep breath, he looked at James.

"Thank you." Sirius said honestly.

" Your welcome." James said with a nod.

"Here." James said handing him a handkerchief off his side table.

Sirius raised his eyebrow and wiped his eyes with the back of his hand.

"You think I'm going to wipe my face with a cloth your just keeping within reach of your bed." Sirius laughed.

With a huff of laughter, James rolled his eyes and tossed the handkerchief back to the table.

"I don't care about you telling the guys about my asshole parents, but you tell them about me crying all over you I'm going to have to hex your bollocks off." Sirius laughed and bumped into James.

"Of course." James said with a smile.

They settled back against the headboard.

Sirius held his hot chocolate in both hands and enjoyed the warmth seeping into his hands. He was getting lost in thought when he heard James's laugh.

"It's a good thing Moony's not here. He'd have already stolen your hot chocolate." James joked and gently bumped Sirius on his good shoulder.

Sirius felt his cheeks heat up. He needed to get a grip. He couldn't blush every time Remus got mentioned.

James snickered beside him.

"What?" Sirius asked, taking his first sip.

Sirius turned to look at James. He had mischief in his eye. Sirius hoped whatever James was up to it wouldn't involve any more moving tonight. He didn't think he could. He felt so wrung out.

"We should go get him tomorrow. Pete too. Have a couple of days just the marauders." James said.

Sirius blushed again. He wasn't sure being around Remus right now would be a good idea. Being with his friends did sound nice though.

"Yeah, sounds fun. Skele-gro should be through my system by noon tomorrow. What do you have in mind?" Sirius asked.

James gave him a strange look for a moment then smiled.

"I don't know. We could go to town and raise some hell. Maybe we could camp under the stars tomorrow night." James suggested.

"Sounds nice. Full moon isn't for another ten days. Moony should still be feeling ok." Sirius answered thoughtfully.

James just made a humming noise.

They sat in silence for a while sipping there drinks.

"Can I ask you a question?" James asked a while later.

Sirius didn't want to answer questions about his fucked-up family. But he had woken James and his family up in the middle of the night. If James had questions, he'd answer them.

Sirius nodded.

"You fancy him, right?" James asked.

Sirius mind stopped working for a moment. There was no way James knew.

"What? Who?" Sirius responded as casually as he could with his heart beating out of his chest.

"Remus." James deadpanned.

Sirius felt his face burn.

"No. of course not." Sirius denied.

Sirius could feel James body shaking before he heard the laughter.

"Oh really?" James said through his laughter.

Sirius groaned.

"It's just a crush. It'll pass." Sirius muttered into his mug.

Sirius felt the bed jostle and soon James was sitting in front of him, sitting cross-legged.

"It's okay if you like him." James said honestly.

Sirius shook his head.

"Nah, we just spend too much time together." Sirius tried to dismiss.

"We all spend a lot of time together. You telling me you've been crushing on Peter too? Been making eyes at me behind my back?" James joked.

Sirius felt like he'd die of embarrassment. He shook his head.

"Just don't say anything. Ok?" Sirius begged.

"I won't. Remus is oblivious. Remember that Ravenclaw girl last year. We basically had to spell it out for him. Although the girl was pretty oblivious too. Remus is clearly gay." James said.

Sirius snapped his head up and looked at James quizzically.

"What do you mean?" Sirius asked.

"Oh brother, Your oblivious too." James groaned, laying back dramatically like he had fainted.

Sirius kicked his foot a little.

"Am not." Sirius defended.

"Yes, you are. Remus is gay. It's really obvious. Have you ever heard him talk about any of the girls at school? Caught him looking at any of them? No. But I bet you've seen him blush when that Hufflepuff boy talks to him in the library." James stated matter-of-factly.

Sirius considered all that for a moment. James had a point. He, James, and Peter had all been out on plenty of dates in the last couple of years. He didn't think Remus ever had. He'd always just chalked it up to his anxiety about getting close to anyone. He didn't want people to know about his 'furry little problem.'

"So, what if he is. It doesn't matter. I've gone out with blokes." Sirius said a little defensively.

James held up his hands.

"I don't care. I'm just saying you might be able to woo him. He might be open to the idea of a date." James said.

Sirius shook his head.

"No, I can't go out with one of my mates. What happens if things go sideways? We all live in the same room. Plus, Remus means too much to me to lose him over a crush. Just don't say anything to him. It'll pass. I'll find someone when we get back to school and we'll all move on with our lives. Yeah?" Sirius said.

James didn't look convinced, but he nodded.

"How are things going with Evans." Sirius smirked.

"I thought I'd officially ruined my chances after that prank during OWLs, but we've actually been writing this summer. I've tried to back off. Just be friends." James said a little sadly.

"Maybe for the best. I think this war is only going to get worse. We can't keep on the way we have been." Sirius said with a sigh.

"I've been thinking that too. Time to grow up I think, Pads." James replied.

Sirius nodded. Things were going to be different when they got back to school. The Death Eater's were recruiting hard. Apparently not sparing their classmates. It was time to start making allies out of their classmates. Instead of just being pranksters.

James had laid down on the bed and Sirius had too. They both stared at the ceiling thinking about the future.

End Memory

Sirius had never doubted he had a place to go when he'd run away from home. The Potters had felt more like family on that first night then his own family ever had.

He wished that Harry would have felt safe going to the Weasley's. Sirius couldn't stop staring at the items from the box. Harry had taken clothing. He had needed it. Probably still did. Harry had wanted things that reminded him of Sirius. Or his parents. He knew why he'd taken his jacket and the letters. He wondered if he'd read them.

He couldn't get the image of Harry from the office out of his mind. Thinking of that boy rummaging through his room broke his heart.

He felt tears prick his eyes and blinked them back.

"How much have you had?" Remus' voice asked from beside him.

Sirius eyes snapped up to him. He hadn't expected the voice.

"What?" Sirius asked. His voice was a little wobbly with emotion.

Remus pointed to his hands.

"How much have you had?" Remus asked softly. Concern creasing his brows.

Sirius looked down and realized he was still clutching the glass of whiskey.

He shook his head.

"None. I thought I wanted it, but I don't." Sirius said firmly, Setting the glass on the side table.

Remus nodded and sat next to him.

"What's all this?" Remus asked.

"You didn't tell me Harry had emptied my room." Sirius said, turning to Remus.

Remus looked over the items on the table and nodded.

"Sorry. How did you get this?" Remus asked.

"Dumbledore came by. He brought this box from Harry." Sirius said.

Sirius held out the note to Remus.

Remus looked over the note and handed it back.

"What is he apologizing for?" Remus asked softly.

Sirius shrugged.

"I don't know. He clearly thinks I'm upset with him. He even sent back the books we gave him at Christmas." Sirius said pointing to the books.

Remus sighed.

"What do you want to do?" Remus asked.

"I'm going to talk to him on Friday. Albus said he'll be at the school with Snape. I'll be able to talk to him between our meetings with Amelia and the Order." Sirius said.

Remus nodded.

"Are you going to tell him what we know?" Remus asked.

Sirius thought about it for a moment and nodded.

"Yeah, He needs to know he's not alone. I've been thinking about when I ran away. I never questioned where I was going to go. Harry didn't have that. Albus has pulled all the strings in his life. He thought he had to go it alone. With Death Eaters and Order members after him ready to take him back he was probably right. He needs to know that we are standing behind him. That he has us." Sirius said.

Remus nodded again.

"Okay. Do you want me there?" Remus asked softly.

"Yeah. I think us maintaining a united front is for the best." Sirius answered.

"Okay." Remus responded.

Sirius sighed and dropped his head into his hands.

"I miss James so much." Sirius whispered.

His heart hurt thinking about his best friend. He thought about how badly he'd let him down. His sweet little boy had been hurt, and Sirius hadn't been there to keep him safe.

"I know. I do too." Remus murmured.

They sat quietly for a few moments. Then Sirius remembered the vial in his pocket.

"Albus brought this too." Sirius said holding out the vial.

"You want me to make you some dinner? I know it hurts your stomach." Sirius offered quietly.

Remus smirked.

"You think your cooking will settle my stomach?" Remus asked with a raised eyebrow.

Sirius bumped him with his shoulder and smiled.

"Fine, make your own bloody dinner." Sirius said as he stood.

Remus laughed softly.

"How about we make something together?" Remus said with a smile.

Sirius nodded.

He grabbed his abandoned glass and walked to the kitchen. He dumped the contents in the sink and washed the glass. His heart felt heavy, but they would get through this. They would get through it together.