Hermione's night was restless, the second in a row since arriving in this new time. Not that sleep had been in abundance prior her arrival either. Thankfully she had the foresight to pull the thick drapes around her four-poster bed and cast a silencing charm to keep her tossing and turning from disturbing the other girls, as sleep came in fits and starts, plagued by snatches of memories she couldn't quite escape. Images of the battle, flashes of spells, and the overwhelming sense of loss haunted her dreams, leaving her drained and bleary-eyed when she finally gave up on sleep altogether.

When Hermione woke up, it wasn't just the lingering fatigue that weighed her down. Her throat was scratchy, each swallow a mild irritation, and she sniffled involuntarily, feeling the telltale signs of an oncoming cold. Of course, she thought with a hint of wry resignation. Too much stress, barely any sleep, and a whole new set of germs to contend with—it was no wonder her immune system had decided to wave a white flag.

But she was determined not to let it slow her down. A bit of sniffling and a sore throat were hardly enough to keep her from carrying on, especially when blending in was already such a challenge. She splashed some water on her face, dressed quickly, and made her way down to the common room, hoping a cup of tea and the rhythm of routine would help her push through the day.

As she entered the common room, she was met with a flurry of excitement. The Gryffindor Quidditch tryouts were that morning, and the energy was palpable. James, the team's Captain and star Chaser, was in the thick of it, discussing strategy and evaluating the potential new players with the enthusiasm of someone who lived and breathed Quidditch. Sirius, one of the team's two Beaters, was right beside him, hyping up the rest of the players and offering a bit of playful trash talk to keep things lively. Marlene, who volunteered to supervise the tryouts as the other Chaser who was basically sure to still be on the team after this was done, looked every bit the confident leader, keeping a watchful eye on the hopefuls.

"Minnie!" Sirius called from across the room, waving her over with an eager grin. "You're coming down to the pitch, right? It's going to be brilliant!"

Hermione hesitated, forcing a smile despite how run-down she felt. "Oh, I don't know… I've got a bit of work to catch up on."

"Oh, don't be such a bookworm," Marlene said, nudging Hermione playfully as she joined them. "Come on, it'll be fun. You've been all work and no play since you got here, and you've got to see James try to outdo himself on a broomstick."

Hermione glanced around the room, seeing the eager, expectant faces of her housemates. She didn't want to draw attention by refusing, and truthfully, a bit of fresh air might help clear her foggy head. "Alright," she conceded, her voice hoarser than usual, which earned her a concerned look from Lily. "I'll come down and watch."

As they made their way to the Quidditch pitch, the chatter was lively, and Hermione did her best to join in, though her throat felt like it was lined with sandpaper and the cool breeze only added to the chill that had settled in her bones. By the time they reached the stands, she was shivering slightly, rubbing her arms to keep warm.

Hermione found a spot on the bleachers, and the excitement of the tryouts quickly drew her in. She watched as James took to the air, his flying as effortless as she had always imagined. He moved with a natural grace, diving and dodging like he was born on a broomstick, and the Gryffindors cheered him on, their enthusiasm infectious.

Remus soon appeared, settling down beside her with a kind smile. "Mind if I sit with you?"

"Not at all," Hermione replied, sniffling slightly and trying to mask how chilly she felt as the wind picked up.

Remus, ever perceptive, seemed to notice right away. "You look a bit cold," he observed, his brow furrowing in concern. Without waiting for her to protest, he shrugged off his sweater and draped it over her shoulders, the fabric soft and warm. "Here. It's not much, but it should help."

Hermione blinked, taken aback by the gesture. She pulled the sweater around herself, grateful for the warmth it provided. "Thank you, Remus," she said softly, touched by his kindness. "I'm fine, really—just a bit tired."

Remus gave her a knowing look, his eyes filled with quiet understanding. "I get it. New school, new faces, and a lot to take in. But don't push yourself too hard, alright? It's okay to take a breather."

Hermione nodded, appreciating his words more than she could express. It was comforting to be seen, even just a little, and to know that someone was looking out for her in this whirlwind of a new life. "I'll try," she promised, pulling the sweater tighter around her as they turned their attention back to the pitch.

The tryouts continued, filled with impressive dives and close calls from the hopefuls, the air alive with shouts of encouragement and the occasional groan when someone narrowly missed a catch. Hermione let herself be absorbed in the action, grateful for the distraction and for Remus's quiet presence beside her.

Though she still felt the weight of her exhaustion and the tickle in her throat, for a while, she was just another Gryffindor watching the tryouts, sharing in the excitement of her house. And as Remus leaned in to comment on one particularly daring manoeuvre demonstrated by James, Hermione found herself smiling, wrapped up in the moment and the warmth of his company.

She watched as Marlene took to the air with determination, weaving through the other Chaser hopefuls with impressive skill. James and Sirius were equally captivating, their flying smooth and effortless as they performed daring manoeuvres that kept the crowd on the edge of their seats.

"Look at them go," Lily said, her eyes fixed on Marlene's performance. "I'll eat my hat if they find a better Chaser to replace her. And James, well, he's just showing off as usual."

Hermione nodded, enjoying the action despite her growing headache. She pulled Remus's sweater closer around her, grateful for the warmth, but the chill in her bones wouldn't seem to leave. Remus, sitting on her other side, seemed to notice her discomfort.

"You alright?" he asked quietly, his brow creased with concern as he watched her shiver again. "You still look like you're freezing."

"I'm fine," Hermione said, forcing a smile despite the tickle in her throat. "Just a bit tired, that's all."

Remus wasn't convinced. "You don't look fine. You've been pushing yourself too hard since you got here." He hesitated for a moment, then added, "Why don't we head up to the castle and get you checked out? Just to be safe."

Hermione hesitated, not wanting to make a scene, but the growing ache in her head and the constant shivering were wearing her down. "Maybe you're right," she admitted, her resolve finally waning. "I don't want to miss the rest of the tryouts, but I think I need a Pepper-up."

Remus nodded, his decision made. "Come on, I'll walk with you."

The two of them slipped away quietly, leaving the cheering crowd behind as they made their way back to the castle. Hermione leaned on Remus just a little, grateful for his steady presence beside her.

When they reached the Hospital Wing, Madam Pomfrey took one look at Hermione and ushered her inside without question. "You've caught a chill, haven't you? Term hasn't even properly started yet, but already pushing yourselves too hard, you students. Here, drink this."

She handed Hermione a steaming vial of Pepper-up Potion, and Hermione drank it down in one gulp, wincing at the sharp, spicy flavour. Warmth flooded her system almost immediately, clearing her sinuses and easing the tightness in her chest as steam poured out of her ears.

"Thank you," Hermione rasped, her voice still rough but a bit stronger now.

"Rest up, dear, and don't hesitate to come back if you're feeling worse," Madam Pomfrey said, her voice kind but firm.

Remus helped her out of the Hospital Wing, keeping a careful eye on her as they made their way back to the common room. "Feeling better?"

"A bit," Hermione admitted, managing a small smile. "Thanks, Remus. I'm sorry if I worried you."

"You don't have to apologise," Remus said gently. "Just take care of yourself, okay?"

As they returned to the common room, Hermione felt a quiet gratitude for Remus's kindness. She settled into a cosy couch by the fire, wrapped up in his sweater, and let herself relax. The warmth of the Pepper-up Potion, combined with the gentle crackle of the flames and the comforting weight of Remus's sweater, made it all too easy for her weary eyes to drift shut. She hadn't meant to fall asleep, but the exhaustion from days of restless nights and the lingering chill finally caught up with her.

The next thing Hermione knew, the noise of students returning filled the common room. She blinked her eyes open, disoriented for a moment, and found herself still curled up on the couch, Remus sitting beside her with a book, reading. The sky outside the windows was a brighter shade of blue, signalling that the tryouts had concluded, and Gryffindors were streaming back in, buzzing with excitement.

Marlene made a quick beeline for the dorms, seeming to have urgent business with Mary there. Sirius spotted Hermione and Remus immediately, his eyes lighting up with a mischievous grin as he nudged James. "Well, look at you two, sneaking off early and making it all cosy. Got tired of watching us fly circles around everyone?"

Remus, smiling but not bothered, shrugged casually. "Mina wasn't feeling great, so we thought we'd come up early. A bit of quiet seemed like a good idea."

Lily, who had just walked in behind the boys, caught on immediately and quickly sat beside Hermione, her face shifting to concern. "You're feeling poorly? You should have said something sooner."

Hermione smiled, reassured by Lily's immediate care. "It's just a bit of a cold. Madam Pomfrey's already sorted me out with a Pepper-up, and I'm feeling better."

Lily gave her a light squeeze on the shoulder. "Good, but take it easy, alright?"

As Lily spoke, Hermione caught a glimpse of James from the corner of her eye. His expression had softened, his usual bravado replaced by a look of quiet admiration as he watched Lily fuss over Hermione.

Sirius, picking up on the vibe but blissfully unaware of the subtleties, kept up his teasing. "Well, you can't ask for a better nursemaid than Remus, can you? He's got the whole 'quiet care' routine down pat."

Remus rolled his eyes but chuckled good-naturedly. "Not sure 'nursemaid' is in my skill set, but I do my best."

Sirius smirked, his eyes twinkling. "Careful, though. Next thing you know, Remus will have you up early, debating the finer points of magical theory over hot cocoa."

Hermione laughed softly, her cheeks flushed, but there was no real embarrassment in it. "Well, I'd take a warm fire and good company over being knocked around by Bludgers any day."

James nudged Remus with a grin. "You better watch it, mate. If she sticks around you too long, she might start thinking all Gryffindors are this thoughtful."

Remus chuckled, shaking his head in amusement. "Just trying to show her the best of the house. Can't let all of you set the example—she might get the wrong idea."

Lily laughed, her eyes sparkling as she watched the boys banter. "It's good to know we've got at least one gentleman in the group."

Sirius threw his arm dramatically over his chest, feigning offence. "Hey, I'm a perfect gentleman! You can ask any of the ladies in the castle."

James snorted, rolling his eyes. "Oh, please. The only thing they're asking is how to get away from you faster."

Sirius, unfazed and grinning broadly, leaned back with a cocky shrug. "Jealousy doesn't suit you, Prongs. Not my fault the ladies appreciate a bit of charm and good looks. What can I say? I aim to please—and I rarely miss."

Lily shook her head, amused but clearly used to his antics. "Right, Black. It's your charm they're overwhelmed by. Must be exhausting, keeping up with all those admirers."

Sirius winked, his grin only growing wider. "It's a tough job, Lilyflower, but someone's gotta do it. I'm just here to spread a little joy—and maybe a broken heart or two along the way."

Hermione couldn't help but laugh at the easy banter, the way they all fit together like pieces of a well-worn puzzle. She glanced at Remus, who was watching the scene unfold with a mix of amusement and exasperation.

"It's a full-time job," Remus added dryly, though there was no hiding the fondness in his tone. "Sirius Black: Casanova of Hogwarts, breaker of hearts, and master of absolutely nothing else."

Sirius threw his head back in mock offence, placing a hand over his heart. "You wound me, Moony! But don't worry, I've got plenty of admirers to help nurse my bruised ego."

Hermione couldn't help but notice how casually they used their nicknames around her now, as if they'd already decided she was part of their circle. It was a strange feeling, comforting and yet tinged with a quiet curiosity. Moony. It was all so obvious, really. She wondered how no one had ever connected the dots about Remus being a werewolf. The nickname was practically a neon sign pointing to his secret.

Just then, Peter shuffled down from the boys' dormitory, bleary-eyed and yawning, clearly having missed most of the action. He looked around, taking in the lively scene with confusion. "What did I miss?"

Sirius immediately seized the opportunity, grinning wickedly. "Oh, not much, Wormtail. Just Moony auditioning for the role of Minnie's personal nursemaid and me defending my title as the castle's most eligible bachelor."

James added with a smirk, "You know, the usual—Pads trying to convince us he's Hogwarts' gift to women, and Remus over here putting the rest of us to shame by being actually decent."

Peter blinked, still half-asleep but catching on quickly enough to grin. "Sounds like I've missed all the fun then."

The warmth of the fire and the rhythmic banter of her friends lulled Hermione back into a comfortable haze, and before she knew it, she had dozed off again, wrapped snugly in Remus's sweater. The buzz of the common room faded into the background, replaced by the comforting murmur of voices and the occasional crackle of the fireplace.

The Gryffindor common room had quieted down, the earlier buzz of Quidditch tryouts fading into the comforting crackle of the fire. Most of the students had moved on to other activities—some had gone off to the library, while others were scattered around the room in smaller groups, talking in hushed tones. Mina was curled up on the couch near the fire, Remus's sweater draped over her like a blanket, her breathing slow and even as she finally caught up on some much-needed rest.

Remus remained nearby, his book open but unread, his attention flicking occasionally toward Mina. She looked peaceful now, her features relaxed in sleep, but he couldn't forget the earlier tension in her posture or the way she had shivered despite the warmth of the morning sun. There was something deeply vulnerable about her in this moment, a glimpse of someone who was struggling more than she let on.

Sirius plopped back down beside Remus, stretching his legs out and giving his friend a nudge. "Still got the whole Florence Nightingale routine down, I see," he teased, though his tone was softer than usual, mindful of Mina sleeping just a few feet away.

Remus shot him a look, but there was no real annoyance in it. "She's not well, Sirius. Just a cold, I think, but she's exhausted. I could see it from the moment she came down this morning."

Sirius's teasing grin faded into something more thoughtful. He glanced over at Mina, then back at Remus. "Yeah, she didn't look too good out there. I thought she might keel over in the stands. Guess it's good you got her to Pomfrey before it got worse."

James joined them, tossing his broomstick carelessly onto the floor as he dropped into an armchair. "It's a bit odd, isn't it?" he said, keeping his voice low. "She's been here, what, a couple of days? And already she's pushing herself like this. She barely knows anyone, and she's acting like she's got something to prove."

Remus nodded, his expression pensive. "I don't think it's about proving anything. She's just… guarded. I don't think she wants anyone to notice when she's struggling."

Sirius leaned back, crossing his arms behind his head. "Sounds like someone else we know, Moony."

Remus gave a wry smile, acknowledging the truth of it. He'd always been careful not to show weakness, not to let on when he was feeling unwell or overwhelmed. It was easier to keep his struggles private than to risk the pity—or worse, the fear—of others. Watching Mina struggle in silence, pushing herself even when it was clear she needed rest, felt all too familiar.

"She doesn't want to stand out," Remus said quietly, watching the flickering firelight play across the room. "And she's not used to relying on anyone. It's like she's carrying the weight of something she doesn't want anyone else to see."

James glanced over at Mina, her form still beneath Remus's sweater, and frowned thoughtfully. "She's a good sort, though. Lily likes her, says she's sharp—really on the ball with everything. But I can't quite put my finger on it. There's something… off, you know?"

"Yeah, I've noticed," Peter chimed in, shuffling over with a packet of chocolate frogs. "It's like she's here but not really here. Always thinking about something else."

Sirius nodded in agreement, but his eyes softened as he looked at Mina. "Well, whatever it is, she's lucky she's got Moony watching her back." He nudged Remus playfully. "Always the caretaker, eh? She couldn't ask for a better friend."

Remus shrugged, trying to brush off the comment, but he couldn't help the flicker of concern that lingered in his chest. "It's nothing. Just looking out for her, that's all."

But he knew it wasn't just that. There was something about Mina that pulled at him, a sense that she was navigating something far more complex than a simple case of homesickness or a mild cold. He wanted to help, to offer whatever quiet support he could, but he also knew better than anyone how hard it was to let others in when you'd grown accustomed to carrying burdens alone.

As they sat in the warm glow of the common room, their conversation ebbing and flowing around Mina's quiet presence, Remus found himself hoping that maybe, with time, Mina would feel safe enough to let down her guard, even just a little. For now, though, he was content to keep watch, ready to offer his support whenever she needed it.

And as Mina shifted slightly in her sleep, pulling Remus's sweater closer around her, he allowed himself to hope that perhaps, in some small way, she was already beginning to feel a little less alone.

Hermione felt a gentle touch on her shoulder and she stirred, blinking her eyes open to see Remus leaning over her.

"Mina," he said softly, his voice gentle but insistent. "It's time for lunch. You should eat something."

Hermione sat up, rubbing her eyes, still groggy from the nap she hadn't intended to take. She glanced around, noticing the common room had quieted down as most of the students had trickled out already toward the Great Hall. The warmth of the fire lingered, and she felt a little more rested, though still a bit fuzzy around the edges.

"Sorry," she mumbled, her voice slightly hoarse. "Didn't mean to fall asleep again."

Remus gave her a reassuring smile, offering her a hand to help her up. "Don't apologise. You needed the rest. But it's best if you get something to eat—it'll help you feel better."

Hermione took his hand, grateful for his steady presence. As she stood, she noticed that Lily, James, Sirius, and Peter were still waiting for them, though they'd given her space while she slept, congregating around another table. Sirius, in particular, looked amused, but his teasing had softened into something almost protective.

"Ready to join us, Sleeping Beauty?" Sirius quipped, though his usual bravado was softened by a hint of concern that flickered briefly in his eyes.

Lily, ever the caring one, offered Hermione a small, encouraging smile. "You don't have to push yourself. But a bit of food might do you some good. You've got to keep your strength up."

Hermione nodded, appreciating the gentle nudge. "Thanks. I could use some lunch."

Together, they made their way out of the common room, Hermione nestled between Remus and Lily as the group moved in their usual lively formation. The chatter flowed easily around her, Sirius and James recounting the highlights of the tryouts, with Peter chiming in now and then, still half-asleep but determined to catch up. Hermione let their voices wash over her, comforted by the familiar sounds of friendship.

When they reached the Great Hall, the long tables were already laden with food, a tempting array of dishes that filled the air with the warm, rich scents of a Hogwarts meal. Hermione found her usual spot between Lily and Remus, and a steaming bowl of chicken soup appeared in front of her, its inviting aroma beckoning her to eat.

She picked up her spoon and took a few sips, the warmth soothing her sore throat and easing the lingering chill in her bones. But as much as she wanted to eat, her appetite just wasn't there. The soup was all she could manage, and even then, every swallow felt like an effort. She pushed the rest of the food around on her plate, trying not to draw too much attention to the fact that she wasn't eating much.

Lily noticed but didn't press, simply sliding over a glass of pumpkin juice with a knowing look. "Just take it slow," she said quietly, giving Hermione's hand a reassuring squeeze.

Hermione nodded, grateful for the support without the fuss. "I'm alright. The soup's helping," she said softly, managing a small smile.

Remus, seated on her other side, watched her with a careful eye, ready to step in if she needed anything. He didn't say much, but his quiet presence was comforting, a steady anchor in the bustling, noisy hall.

Sirius, meanwhile, was busy regaling Peter with exaggerated tales of his best Bludger hits from the tryouts, his animated gestures drawing laughs from James and even a few amused glances from nearby students. For all his swagger, there was something unspoken in the way he occasionally glanced over at Hermione, as if checking in without making a show of it.

After lunch, Hermione could feel her energy waning. The chicken soup had warmed her, but she was still fighting a losing battle against the persistent chill in her bones and the fog clouding her mind. The noise of the Great Hall, usually so comforting, felt overwhelming now, every clatter of silverware and burst of laughter too loud, each sound grating against her growing headache.

She tried to keep up with the conversation, nodding along as Lily and Marlene chatted animatedly about the tryouts, but it was clear her energy was flagging. Remus noticed first, his keen eyes picking up on the way she slumped slightly in her seat, her usual alertness dulled.

"Mina," he said gently, leaning in so the others wouldn't overhear. "You look exhausted. Maybe you should head back to the dorm and get some rest."

Hermione nodded, not needing any further convincing. "Yeah, I think you're right. I just need to sleep this off."

Lily immediately turned her attention to Hermione, her expression softening with concern. "Do you want me to walk you back?"

Hermione smiled, grateful but determined to be as low-maintenance as possible. "No, it's okay. I can manage. I just need to lie down for a while."

Sirius, catching part of the exchange, chimed in with his usual light-heartedness. "Take it easy, Minnie. We need you in top form for when we finally get around to starting that book club."

James gave her a supportive smile. "Rest up. We'll see you when you're feeling better."

Hermione nodded, appreciating their concern, even through their playful teasing. With a quick wave, she excused herself and made her way back to Gryffindor Tower, each step feeling heavier than the last. When she reached her dormitory, she was relieved to find it empty, the quiet a welcome reprieve from the bustling castle.

She slipped off Remus's sweater, folding it neatly at the foot of her bed, and crawled under her blankets, pulling them up to her chin. The familiar weight of her bed, the softness of her pillow—it was all she needed. Her eyes fluttered shut almost immediately, and before she knew it, she was drifting off, her mind sinking into a deep, untroubled sleep.

After Mina left the Great Hall to rest, Remus watched her go, worry still tugging at him. Mina had been running on empty all day, pushing herself too hard despite clearly being unwell. He knew he couldn't go up to the girls' dormitory, but he wasn't about to leave her to handle everything on her own.

Remus caught Lily's eye as she and Marlene finished discussing their plans for the next day at the table a few feet from theirs in the common room. Leaning in, he spoke quietly, trying not to draw too much attention. "Lily, could you check on Mina when you head up? She really didn't look good."

Lily nodded, her expression immediately shifting to concern. "Of course, Remus. I'll go up now and see how she's doing."

As Lily disappeared up the staircase, Remus tried to focus on the group around him. James was demonstrating an exaggerated reenactment of one of his best saves from the tryouts, complete with sound effects. Sirius was not about to be outdone and was in the middle of spinning a tale about how he'd narrowly missed a Bludger aimed right at his head, complete with wild arm movements that had Peter ducking reflexively.

"Pads, you weren't even close to it!" James laughed, shaking his head. "The only thing you nearly hit was the ground when you lost your grip."

Sirius threw his hands up in mock indignation. "Oi, that was all part of the plan! Got to keep the crowd guessing. Can't have my adoring fans getting bored, now can I?"

Peter snorted, juggling a stack of biscuits. "Adoring fans? More like concerned onlookers wondering if you've lost your marbles."

Remus smiled at their antics, but his gaze kept drifting back to the staircase. When Lily returned, she settled back beside him with a reassuring nod. "She's asleep, Remus. Completely out of it, poor thing. But at least she's resting."

Relieved, Remus nodded. "Thanks, Lily. I was worried she wouldn't even make it up there."

Sirius, catching the tail end of their exchange, leaned over and nudged Remus with a sly grin. "Our Moony, always playing the worrywart. Maybe you've missed your calling—should've been a matron."

"Yeah, what's next, Remus?" James added, teasing. "Going to start tucking us all in at night?"

Remus rolled his eyes but couldn't help the small smile that tugged at his lips. "Only to then Mobius hex the covers to ensure you don't try to prank me while I'm asleep."

Marlene wandered over, and Remus seized the opportunity to ask for another favour. "Marlene, when you head up, could you bring Mina some tea? She's still not feeling great."

Marlene nodded, her expression softening as she glanced at Remus. "You really are a mother hen, Remus. But don't worry, I'll bring her something warm."

Sirius, ever the dramatist, mimed holding a teacup with a pinky outstretched. "Make sure it's the finest tea, Marlene. We can't have our dear Minnie drinking anything less than the best."

James snickered, adding, "Oh, yes, the Remus Lupin five-star treatment. We're all jealous, you know."

Remus just laughed, shaking his head. "It's called basic human decency, you lot. You should try it sometime."

Marlene returned a short while later with a triumphant look. "Tea's delivered, Remus. She's still fast asleep, but it'll be there when she wakes under a stasis charm."

"Thanks, Marlene. I appreciate it," Remus said, feeling a bit of the weight lift from his shoulders.

As the afternoon stretched on, the Marauders continued their antics. Sirius tried to teach Peter a new, utterly impractical hex that caused objects to sprout wings and flap around the room, leading to a loud crash when a textbook dove into James's head. James retaliated by magically sticking Sirius's shoes to the floor, and the ensuing chaos had half the common room in stitches.

But even in the middle of the laughter, Remus's mind kept drifting back to Mina. As dinner approached, he cornered Lily again. "Lily, could you do me another favour? Could you bring Mina some toast and biscuits when you go back up after dinner? She'll probably be hungry when she wakes."

Lily, unfazed by Remus's persistent concern, nodded with a kind smile. "I'll take care of it, Remus."

Remus handed Lily the small, carefully folded note he'd written earlier. "And could you leave this with the sweater she was wearing today? Just something to let her know she can keep it if she still needs it." His voice was soft, tinged with concern, a reflection of his constant need to care for those around him.

Lily took the note with a knowing smile, tucking it into her pocket. "You've got it, Remus. Don't worry—I'll make sure she gets everything." There was no need for Remus to explain why he was doing this; Lily understood him well enough to see that his care ran deeper than he let on.

Dinner in the Great Hall was as chaotic as ever, the Marauders finding a new way to entertain themselves. Sirius had somehow acquired a Nose-Biting Teacup from Zonko's, and it was currently making the rounds at their table. "Alright, Wormtail, your turn!" Sirius announced, nudging the teacup towards Peter, who eyed it warily.

Peter frowned, poking the teacup cautiously. "I'm not falling for that again. Last time, it nearly bit my nose off!"

James laughed, drumming his fingers on the table. "Come on, Peter, it's all about strategy. You've got to approach it like you're going in for a kiss. Gentle, but firm."

Peter snorted, still glaring at the teacup. "If this thing bites me again, I'm hexing the lot of you."

Sirius grinned, leaning back with an air of mock innocence. "Oh, come on, Wormtail! It's just a bit of fun. Besides, what's a little nibble between friends?"

Remus watched with a bemused expression as Peter finally mustered up the courage, taking the teacup gingerly. As expected, the cup snapped at him, and Peter jumped back, nearly knocking over his goblet in the process.

"Brilliant," James laughed, clapping Peter on the back. "You're getting better at dodging, Wormtail. Maybe we'll sign you up for Defence Against Dangerous Dishware."

Peter grumbled, rubbing his nose. "Next time, Pads, you're going first."

Sirius held up his hands in mock surrender. "I've already got my fill of teacup bites, thanks. Besides, it suits you—think of it as a character-building exercise."

The seventh-year Gryffindors continued to joke and laugh as they made their way back to the common room, the Marauders spinning tales of their latest pranks and Peter's ongoing war with the Nose-Biting Teacup. Remus joined in the banter, but his thoughts kept drifting back to Mina, hoping she was resting well.

When Lily finally returned, she sat beside Remus, her expression a mix of gentle reassurance and quiet concern. "I left the toast, biscuits, and your note. She must have woken up at some point because her mug of tea is empty, but she's fast asleep again."

Remus let out a relieved sigh, tension he didn't realise he'd been holding easing just a little. "Thanks, Lily. I really owe you one."

Lily smiled, her eyes soft with understanding. "You're doing what you always do, Remus—looking out for everyone. She's lucky to have someone like you keeping an eye on her."

Sirius, who had been listening, leaned over with a mischievous grin. "Careful, Moony. At this rate, you'll be everyone's go-to for all their troubles. Got any remedies for teacup bites?"

Remus chuckled, shaking his head. "Not unless you want me to write up a detailed safety guide for magical crockery. I'll even include illustrations."

James, always eager to join in, nudged Remus playfully. "Oh, I'd pay to see that. 'The Comprehensive Guide to Marauder Mishaps.' You'd make a fortune."

Peter, still nursing his nose, chimed in with a smirk. "Just make sure to put that teacup in a locked box first. I think it's got it out for me."

Remus smiled, shaking his head at his friends' antics. "You lot would be lost without me. Maybe I should start charging—prefect services, prank management, and now personal injury prevention."

Sirius grinned, clapping Remus on the back. "And that's why we keep you around, Moony. Always one step ahead of the madness."

The Marauders continued their playful jabs, the warm, familiar rhythm of their friendship wrapping around them. But even as the laughter filled the room, Remus's thoughts kept drifting back to Mina, hoping that every small gesture would help her feel a little more comfortable and cared for.

Hermione woke up a few times throughout the afternoon, each time greeted by small but kind gestures. Marlene must have noticed her absence because a steaming cup of tea appeared on her nightstand, its gentle aroma filling the room. Later, Hermione found a few pieces of toast and some biscuits left quietly beside the tea, courtesy of Lily, who had popped in to check on her without disturbing her rest.

Each time Hermione woke, she felt a little more restored, though her body still craved sleep. She allowed herself the luxury of drifting off again, cocooned in the warmth of her bed and the quiet comfort of knowing she didn't have to push herself, not today.

By the time Sunday morning rolled around, Hermione felt like a new person. Her throat no longer ached, her head was clearer, and the relentless fatigue had lifted. She sat up, stretching, feeling the stiffness ease from her muscles. She noticed Remus's sweater still neatly folded at the foot of her bed, its familiar warmth and earthy scent a comforting reminder of the previous day. Somehow even a small note made its way on top of it, written in Remus's neat handwriting:

Keep it, in case you are in need of it again. Hope you're feeling better. —Remus

Hermione smiled softly at the gesture, touched by his thoughtfulness, but as she held the sweater, a pang of guilt tugged at her. She knew what the future held for Remus—the struggles he would endure, the way money was always tight for him. It felt wrong to keep something of his, especially knowing how much he would come to rely on every small possession.

Determined, Hermione folded the sweater neatly and tucked it under her arm before making her way downstairs to the common room. After a quick glance around the common room and not spotting Remus among the bustling students, Hermione decided to head to the library. Returning the sweater could wait; there was something else on her mind that she couldn't ignore.

She found a quiet table tucked away in the library's corner and pulled out a thick reference book on lunar cycles. She knew that the full moon was always a difficult time for Remus, and she wanted to find a way to show her gratitude for his kindness. Remembering how much he loved chocolate, she thought it would be a small but thoughtful gesture.

Hermione skimmed through the pages, carefully noting the upcoming full moons. She planned to have some chocolate ready on those days, a discreet way to offer support without drawing attention. It was a small act, but it was her way of repaying his quiet generosity.

She was so absorbed in her research that she didn't notice Remus approaching until he was already beside her, looking curiously at the open book. "Studying the lunar calendar?" he asked, raising an eyebrow. "Interesting choice."

Hermione blinked, startled, but quickly composed herself. "Oh, Remus! I didn't see you there." She closed the book slightly, her mind scrambling for an explanation. "I, uh, got curious. There were some plants mentioned in our Herbology book that are best harvested during the full moon, for potions ingredients. Thought I'd read up on it."

Remus nodded, buying the explanation with a faint smile, though there was a glimmer of understanding in his eyes that made Hermione wonder if he suspected more. "Always diligent, aren't you?"

"Something like that," Hermione said with a sheepish grin.

"Feeling better any better?" Remus asked with genuine concern.

"A lot better," Hermione said, her voice warm with gratitude. "Thanks to you, really. And… I wanted to return this." She held out the sweater, trying to keep her tone light. "You've been more than generous already."

Remus waved off her attempt, shaking his head. "Keep it. You might still need it."

"Remus, I couldn't," Hermione insisted, her voice gentle but firm. "It's yours, and I'm fine now. You've done more than enough."

Remus's expression softened, but there was a quiet resolve in his eyes. "Honestly, Mina, it's just a sweater. I'd rather you have it if it makes you comfortable." He smiled faintly, as if trying to ease the weight of the gesture. "Besides, I've got a few more."

Hermione hesitated, clutching the fabric tighter. She knew he was downplaying it, brushing off the significance, but the thought of accepting something from him felt heavy. She thought of the worn, patched clothes he would wear in the future, the hardships he never let define him but that she knew he carried every day.

"It's really fine, Remus," she tried again, her voice quieter, almost imploring. "I'd feel better if you kept it."

Remus leaned back, crossing his arms with a gentle smile that didn't quite hide the stubborn kindness behind it. "And I'd feel better if you did. It's just a bit of wool, Mina. No need to make a fuss."

Hermione met his gaze, seeing the sincerity there, and reluctantly nodded. "Alright, but only because you're insisting."

Remus's smile widened slightly, his eyes crinkling at the corners. "I am. And besides, it looks better on you anyway."

Hermione laughed softly, a mix of gratitude and guilt swirling in her chest. She folded the sweater over her arm, feeling its comforting weight, but couldn't shake the awareness of how much Remus had already given—far more than a simple piece of clothing.

"Thank you, Remus," she said, her voice thick with unspoken appreciation. "For everything."

Remus nodded, brushing it off as if it were nothing. "Anytime, Mina. Now, are you going to keep reading about potions ingredients, or do you need another book recommendation?"

Hermione laughed softly, feeling lighter despite everything. "I think I've got enough reading material for now. But I'll let you know if I need any help."