When Remus finally returned to classes the next day, he acted as if nothing had happened. He offered no acknowledgment of the kiss, no glance in Hermione's direction that might hint at an apology or explanation. Instead, he avoided her entirely, ducking away the moment she entered a room, finding every excuse to sit with someone else in class, and leaving conversations the second she drew near.

Hermione tried not to let it bother her, telling herself that he was just processing things in his own way. But as the days dragged on, the silent treatment only grew more pronounced. Remus's avoidance was no longer subtle; it was like he couldn't get away from her fast enough. And by the time Halloween rolled around the following Monday, the strain had reached a breaking point.

At breakfast, Hermione slid into her usual seat at the Gryffindor table, her mood already sour as she caught sight of Remus sitting at the far end, his back to her. He was deep in conversation with Peter, his posture closed off, every line of his body language screaming that he wanted nothing to do with her. Hermione busied herself with her pumpkin juice, but the knot in her stomach wouldn't ease.

Lily, sitting beside her, had been observing the whole charade for days. She glanced between Hermione and Remus, her brow furrowing in concern. Finally, she set down her fork, turning to Hermione with a look that was equal parts confusion and frustration.

"What on earth is going on with you and Remus?" Lily asked, her voice low enough not to carry but sharp with curiosity. "He's been acting like you've got the plague or something. I swear, every time you walk into a room, he bolts like a rabbit."

Hermione stiffened, feeling the embarrassment crawl up her neck. She hadn't wanted to draw any attention to the mess she'd found herself in, but Remus's blatant avoidance had made that impossible. She forced a smile, though it didn't quite reach her eyes. "I have no idea," she said, keeping her voice light, even as the words tasted bitter. "I think he's just… dealing with stuff."

Lily eyed her sceptically, clearly not buying the nonchalant act. "Dealing with what, exactly? I thought you two were getting on well, but now he's acting like you've hexed him."

Hermione looked down at her plate, poking absently at her food. She didn't know how to explain it without revealing too much, without confessing that something had shifted between her and Remus, something raw and unspoken that neither of them seemed equipped to handle. "It's complicated," she finally muttered, her voice barely above a whisper. "I think I did something to upset him, but I don't know what."

Lily sighed, her expression softening as she reached out to squeeze Hermione's arm. "Well, whatever it is, it's not worth this. If you've done something wrong, he owes it to you to talk it out. If he's your friend, he shouldn't be running off like this."

Unbeknownst to them, even though Remus sat at the far end of the table, with his senses heightened by his condition, he heard every word, each whispered syllable stinging more than he cared to admit..

That night, after the Halloween feast, the common room slowly emptied out, students drifting up to bed, full and content. But Hermione lingered by the fire, her thoughts a whirl of memories and unspoken fears. The flames crackled softly, casting a warm glow that did little to chase away the chill she felt inside. Today was Halloween, and she couldn't help but think of Harry, of everything that would be lost on this very night just a few years from now, and the very fact she didn't know when she would see them again, if ever. It felt like a weight she couldn't shake, a dark shadow looming over her.

She wiped at her eyes with the back of her hand, but the tears kept slipping out, silent and relentless. She hadn't meant to cry, hadn't meant to let it all overwhelm her, but the strain of pretending, of holding everything in, was more than she could bear.

The sound of footsteps broke her reverie, and she looked up to see Remus standing at the edge of the common room, watching her with a hesitant expression. For a moment, he seemed poised to turn back, but something in Hermione's tear-streaked face held him in place. Slowly, he crossed the room, the firelight catching the uncertainty in his eyes.

"Mina…" he began as he sat down beside her, his voice thick with apology, but before he could say more, Hermione turned fully toward him, her face crumbling as she broke down, tears flowing freely.

Remus stiffened, caught off guard by the sudden, raw emotion. He hesitated, then wrapped an arm around her shoulders, pulling her close. She buried her face against him, sobbing into his jumper, unaware of the helplessness welling up inside him.

"I'm sorry," he whispered, his voice strained and unsure, his apology incomplete and laced with his own guilt. "I didn't mean to—"

But Hermione just cried harder, clinging to him as if he were the only anchor in a sea of sorrow. Remus tightened his grip, resting his cheek against the top of her head, every fibre of his being aching with the need to fix whatever he'd broken. He had no idea that her tears were far beyond anything he could understand, rooted in memories that hadn't yet happened and a grief that spanned across time.

Hermione's sobs slowed, and as she pulled back slightly, she caught the pained look on Remus's face, his guilt written plainly in his eyes. The realisation hit her hard—he thought he was the cause of her heartache, that his rejection and avoidance had driven her to this breaking point. She blinked away the last of her tears, trying to gather herself, feeling a pang of guilt for burdening him with emotions he couldn't possibly understand.

"I'm sorry," she said, her voice hoarse and shaky as she wiped at her damp cheeks. "I didn't mean to break down on you like that."

Remus shook his head, his own voice laced with regret. "No, I'm sorry, Mina. I shouldn't have ignored you. I… I've been a coward, and it was shitty of me."

Hermione tried to smile, but it wavered, the weight of the evening still pressing on her. "Oh, it's not that," she said quickly, though there was a faint edge to her words. "I mean, yeah, that was a bit shitty, but it's not… it's not why I'm like this." She faltered, searching for something, anything, that could explain her emotional spiral without revealing the impossible truth.

"My mother died on Halloween," she blurted out, the lie slipping easily from her lips, though it wasn't entirely untrue. It wasn't her own mother she was mourning, but she had been thinking of that inevitable future loss—of Lily and James, of the lives cut short, leaving Harry an orphan. It felt close enough to the truth to cling to, a plausible excuse that would justify her tears in the middle of the common room.

Remus's expression softened, his eyes widening with understanding. "Oh, Mina, I'm so sorry." He squeezed her hand, his earlier guilt now mixed with empathy. "You don't have to apologise for that. No wonder you've been feeling this way."

Hermione nodded, swallowing down the tightness in her throat. "Yeah, I just… I guess it all came back tonight." She let out a shaky breath, trying to steady herself. "I didn't mean to make you think it was all about… you know. Us."

Remus gave her a sad, lopsided smile, his thumb brushing against her knuckles in a gesture of comfort. "Well, I still feel like a bit of a prat," he admitted. "But thank you for telling me. And I'm here if you need me, alright? For anything."

Hermione nodded, her heart heavy but a little lighter for having shared this half-truth.

Remus sat on his bed, the worn, familiar comforter twisted in his hands as he stared blankly at the wall. The weight of the past week clung to him like a heavy fog, dragging his thoughts into a tangled mess he could hardly make sense of. Mina's confession about her mother had hit him like a tidal wave, crashing over him with a force he hadn't been prepared for. He'd spent the entire day since in a daze, replaying every interaction, every moment of avoidance, every misguided attempt to keep her at arm's length.

James and Sirius were in the dorm with him, both uncharacteristically quiet as they exchanged glances. They'd spent the better part of the evening trying to coax Remus into talking, but he'd been withdrawn, his mind elsewhere. It wasn't just the moon that hung over him now; it was the guilt of his own actions and the pain he'd inadvertently caused.

Finally, Sirius broke the silence, leaning forward from where he sat on the edge of his bed. "Moony, you've been quiet all day. What's going on? I thought things were… better between you and Mina after last night?"

Remus ran a hand through his hair, his fingers catching in the messy curls. He'd hoped that, somehow, telling Mina he was sorry would be enough, that it would patch over the cracks he'd created. But hearing about her mother had changed everything. It had stripped away the walls he'd built around himself, exposing just how much he'd misunderstood, how badly he'd misjudged her pain.

"It's not just that," Remus said finally, his voice strained. "She told me last night that her mum died on Halloween. And I've spent the last week hiding from her, being a complete arse, thinking… thinking it was all about me."

Sirius's expression softened, and he reached for one of the Chocolate Frogs scattered on the bedside table, idly tossing it between his hands. "You couldn't have known, Moony. She didn't exactly advertise it."

"That's not the point," Remus snapped, though his frustration wasn't directed at Sirius. He was angry with himself, with the way he'd let his fears control him. "I was so wrapped up in my own head, worrying about the kiss, about… everything, that I didn't even notice she was hurting."

"What kiss?" James's voice cut through Remus's confession, sharp with surprise and the kind of protective concern that only a best friend could muster. He straightened, his eyes widening as he looked between Remus and Sirius, clearly waiting for an explanation. Sirius, who had been mid-toss with the Chocolate Frog, froze, the playful banter suddenly vanishing from his face.

Remus swallowed, his throat tightening as the weight of his actions sank in further. He hadn't meant to bring it up, but now that the words were out, there was no going back. "I kissed her," he said quietly, his voice barely above a whisper. "A week ago. Before the full moon."

James blinked, stunned into silence for a moment before he found his voice again. "You kissed Mina? And you didn't think to mention this before?" There was no anger in his tone, just a mixture of disbelief and a touch of hurt that Remus had kept something so significant from them.

Sirius set the Chocolate Frog down carefully, his expression a mix of curiosity and concern. "That's what all this has been about, hasn't it? Why you've been avoiding her? You're worried it's going to mess things up between you two."

Remus nodded, his shoulders sagging under the weight of his guilt. "I didn't mean for it to happen. I was… I don't know. Angry, frustrated. The full moon was coming, and everything felt wrong. And then I saw her, and it all just… came out. I kissed her because I couldn't keep it in anymore, and then I ran."

James leaned back, letting out a long breath. "Mate, it's not the end of the world. You kissed her. She didn't hex you, did she?"

Remus shook his head, but the memory of that kiss still burned, raw and unrestrained, fueled by his wolfish instincts and his tangled emotions. "No, but I shouldn't have done it. Not like that. I don't have the right to want anything from her, and definitely not after acting the way I did."

Sirius, ever the pragmatist despite his often reckless nature, met Remus's gaze. "Moony, you've got to stop thinking like you don't deserve good things just because of what you are. You're allowed to feel things. You're allowed to want things."

Remus clenched his fists, the frustration bubbling up again. "No, I am not. I've made a vow to myself, to never let anyone in like that. I can't offer her anything. Not when every month I turn into a monster. It's not fair to her."

Sirius looked at him pointedly. "You think she doesn't already know you? You think she hasn't seen the good and the bad by now?"

Remus glanced away, unable to meet Sirius's eyes. "It's not just about that," he admitted, his voice cracking under the strain. "You saw how bad the moon was. I've never been like that—so angry, so out of control—since you lot started transforming with me. And it all started after that kiss."

Sirius frowned, piecing together the unspoken implications. "You think that's why the transformation was so rough?"

Remus nodded, his hands shaking slightly as he gripped the edge of his bed. "I was a mess, Padfoot. The wolf… it was restless, angry. I couldn't keep it contained, and I think it was because of how I'd been acting. How I let all those emotions boil over."

James, who had been quietly absorbing everything, finally spoke up, his voice gentler now. "Remus, you're not going to be perfect. And yeah, maybe the kiss stirred up some things, but you don't have to punish yourself for it. You just… need to talk to her. Properly. Without running this time."

Remus sighed, the knot of fear and regret tightening in his chest. "I know, Prongs. But what if I mess it up again? What if… what if she realises she's better off not being near me?"

Sirius shook his head firmly, his expression uncharacteristically serious. "Mina's still here, mate. She wouldn't have told you about her mum if she didn't want you to be part of her life. She doesn't strike me as the kind of girl who's easily scared off."

Remus clenched his hands together, his knuckles white as he stared at the floor. "I know she's strong. I know she's not scared. But that's not the point. I'll make amends, I'll be her friend again, but she deserves better in a partner. Someone who isn't… me."

James leaned forward, resting his elbows on his knees as he looked at Remus intently. "Moony, you're selling yourself short. You're not some monster who has to keep everyone at arm's length. You're good enough, and Mina knows that. You're not just the wolf."

Remus's jaw tightened, the familiar self-loathing simmering beneath the surface. "But the wolf is still part of me, James. And every month, it takes over. It's angry, it's dangerous, and I can't control it the way I wish I could. She deserves someone who can give her stability, not… whatever I am."

Sirius crossed his arms, his voice tinged with frustration but also fierce loyalty. "You're more than the moon, Remus. You're one of the best blokes I know—kind, thoughtful, self-sacrificing to a fault. You'd be the best kind of partner because you care more than anyone else. But you've got to believe it yourself."

Remus looked up, meeting Sirius's gaze, but he couldn't shake the fear that had been gnawing at him. "I want to be there for her, as her friend. That's all I can offer. Anything more… it's just not fair to her. She deserves someone whole, someone who isn't constantly battling themselves."

James reached out, squeezing Remus's shoulder firmly. "Mina doesn't need someone perfect, Remus. She just needs someone who cares. And you already do, more than you know. So stop tearing yourself apart over what you think you can't give her."

Remus swallowed, his chest tightening with a mix of hope and dread. "I'm going to try. I'll be there for her, as a friend. But that's all I can promise. She deserves better in a partner, and I've made my peace with that."

Sirius watched him, his eyes softened by understanding. "Alright, Moony. Be her friend. Be whatever she needs. But don't sell yourself short, and don't push her away just because you're scared. You'll figure it out—both of you."

Remus nodded, though his heart still felt heavy with doubt. He'd do his best to make things right, to rebuild the friendship he'd nearly wrecked with his own fears. But as much as he cared for Mina, he knew he couldn't allow himself to want more. For her sake, he'd keep his distance, keep his heart guarded, and be the friend she needed—even if it meant denying his own desires.

Sirius's birthday was on the 3rd of November, inconveniently landing on a Thursday, which meant any plans for a proper celebration were immediately dampened by the looming threat of Friday classes. But the Marauders were never ones to let something as trivial as a school night get in the way of a good time. With the first Quidditch match of the season set for that Saturday—a heated Gryffindor versus Slytherin showdown—they found the perfect excuse to combine the two events into one massive blowout. Win or lose, there would be a reason to celebrate or, at the very least, drown their sorrows.

It was a plan that had the whole of Gryffindor buzzing in anticipation. As the date drew closer, whispers of the party spread like wildfire through the castle's corridors. With Sirius and James at the helm, the preparations took on a life of their own, and soon it felt as though the entire school had caught wind of the impending chaos. Butterbeer and Firewhiskey were smuggled in through secret channels, hidden away in broom cupboards and behind tapestries, waiting for the moment when curfew would be a distant memory and the celebration could begin in earnest.

Sirius, revelling in the prospect of a joint birthday and victory bash, was in his element. He was the ringleader, orchestrating the logistics of sneaking in the contraband with a confidence that bordered on reckless. It was almost as if the rule-breaking was part of the fun for him, the thrill of outsmarting Filch and the Prefects making the party that much sweeter. "We'll drink to Gryffindor," he'd declared one evening in the common room, "and if we lose, we'll just drink more."

By Friday night, the atmosphere in Gryffindor Tower was electric, the anticipation of both the match and the party thrumming in the air. Everyone knew that this wasn't just another Quidditch game; it was the first chance to set the tone for the season, and the rivalry between Gryffindor and Slytherin only heightened the stakes. James was more focused than ever, pouring over plays and strategies late into the night, determined to lead his team to victory and give them all a reason to celebrate properly.

The day of the match dawned crisp and cold, the kind of weather that bit at your cheeks and filled your breath with fog. A thin layer of frost clung to the grass, shimmering in the early morning light, and the stands were alive with the chatter and excitement of students wrapped in scarves and cloaks. Gryffindor and Slytherin banners whipped in the breeze, the house colours vivid against the grey sky, and the air was charged with the palpable tension of rivalry. This was more than just the first Quidditch match of the season; it was a battleground, and the entire school had turned out to witness the clash.

Hermione sat wedged between Remus and Lily in the Gryffindor section of the spectator stands, their breath mingling in the crisp air as they waited for the match to begin. Over the past two months, Remus and Lily had become her closest friends, their easy companionship filling the spaces left by the people she missed from her own time. It was comforting to be caught up in the rhythm of their lives, a strange but welcome reprieve from the weight of her secrets.

"Alright, here we go," Remus said, his eyes fixed on the pitch as the players soared into the sky.

Lily, ever the dedicated student, had a book perched on her lap, her fingers idly tracing the lines of text as her eyes flickered between the pages and the field. She was half-watching the match, half-absorbed in whatever she was reading, her brow occasionally furrowing in concentration. Hermione couldn't help but smile at the sight; it was so quintessentially Lily to find a way to mix study with leisure, even at a Quidditch match.

Hermione had considered bringing a book herself—it was more her speed than watching broomsticks zip around at breakneck speeds—but Remus had convinced her otherwise. When she'd sheepishly admitted she didn't understand half of what was happening on the pitch, he'd promised to make it interesting for her, offering to be her personal commentator and explain the ins and outs of the game.

"See how the Chasers are flying in a tight V formation?" Remus pointed out as James, Marlene, and their new Chaser, Felix Roscoe, weaved through the Slytherin defence. "That's the Hawkshead Attacking Formation. It's designed to pressure the Keeper, making him divide his focus."

Hermione watched as James feinted left, drawing the Keeper out of position before passing the Quaffle to Marlene, who scored with a sharp flick of her wrist. The stands erupted, and Peter's voice boomed from the commentator's box. "And McKinnon scores! Ten points to Gryffindor! Potter's got them on the ropes today!"

Remus grinned, nudging Hermione gently. "James is all about misdirection. Make them think one thing, then switch it up. He's always planning three moves ahead."

Hermione nodded, finally seeing the strategy beneath the chaos. "It's almost like a dance," she said thoughtfully. "Every movement is setting up the next."

Remus smiled, appreciating her growing enthusiasm. As Slytherin scored on the next play, the momentum shifted slightly, but Gryffindor remained in control. "Potter's got the Quaffle again—he's weaving through like they're not even there!" Peter's commentary was laced with excitement. "Pass to McKinnon—back to Roscoe—oh, he fumbles, but Potter's right there to scoop it up! He's going for the goal!"

James was relentless, his movements sharp and calculated. The Slytherin Keeper dived too late as James's shot sailed through the hoop, adding another ten points to Gryffindor's score. "And another one for Gryffindor!" Peter shouted, barely keeping pace. "Potter and his Chasers are running the show—Slytherin's Keeper looks like he's going to need a map to keep up!"

Remus laughed softly, his focus never leaving the game. "Slytherin's playing rough today. They're trying to force control by using their Beaters to push us off balance, keep our Chasers out of formation."

Hermione watched as Sirius smashed a Bludger toward an incoming Slytherin player, his grin wide and confident. "Sirius is playing smart," Remus continued. "He's disrupting their rhythm. It's more about strategy than just hitting things."

The match intensified, both teams pushing themselves to the limit. Hermione glanced at Remus often, comforted by his quiet explanations that helped her navigate the chaos. Below, Sirius turned back to the stands, spotting them, and raised his bat in a cheeky salute before sending another Bludger flying.

"You'd think he's showing off just for you," Remus teased, nudging her lightly.

Hermione rolled her eyes, smirking. "Please, Black shows off for everyone. I'm just convenient."

Lily looked up briefly, a smirk playing on her lips. "As long as his aim's better than his flirting, we'll be fine. Come on, Potter!" she cheered as James executed a perfect pass to Felix, who fumbled briefly but managed to recover.

The match continued in a blur of speed and strategy, the crowd's energy sweeping Hermione up completely. For the first time, she felt like she truly understood Quidditch—not just as a sport, but as a battle of wits and reflexes. It was thrilling in a way she hadn't expected, made better by the warmth of Remus's commentary and the closeness of her friends.

"Gryffindor's Seeker's seen the Snitch!" Peter's voice rang out, the stands exploding into cheers. "It's all down to this, folks! Can she make it?"

Remus leaned forward, his excitement contagious. "This is it. One catch and it's over. If she misses… Slytherin still has a chance. 100-50 can still be turned around."

Hermione held her breath, her heart racing as she watched the Seeker dive. The roar of the crowd, the tension in the air, and Remus's steady presence beside her made the moment feel electric, like she was truly part of something bigger than herself.

The Seeker streaked through the air, her eyes locked on the glimmering golden Snitch as it zigzagged erratically, just out of reach. The Slytherin Seeker—Regulus Black as Hermione was shocked to find out—was hot on her tail, closing the gap with every second, and the stands were a cacophony of cheers, gasps, and frantic shouts.

"Come on, just a bit closer!" Peter's voice was a mixture of hope and nerves, his words capturing the collective tension in the stadium. "She's got it in her sights—don't let it slip!"

Hermione found herself gripping the edge of her seat, unable to tear her eyes away. The Seeker's hand stretched out, fingers brushing the Snitch's delicate wings. For a moment, it seemed like it would dart away, just out of reach—but then she snatched it from the air, her broom spiralling to a stop as she held the Snitch high above her head.

"Farley's got it! Gryffindor wins!" Peter's exclamation was drowned out by the deafening roar of the Gryffindor stands, students jumping to their feet in wild celebration. Red and gold banners waved furiously, and the sound of feet stomping against the wooden stands reverberated through the air.

Remus turned to Hermione, his grin wide and boyish, looking every bit as exhilarated as the rest of the Gryffindor supporters. "We did it!" he laughed, clapping her on the shoulder. "First match of the season, and we've set the bar high."

Hermione couldn't help but grin back, caught up in the euphoria of the victory. "That was incredible," she admitted, her voice still breathless from the excitement. "I think I finally get why people go mad for this."

"Welcome to the club," Remus teased, his eyes sparkling. "There's nothing quite like it."

Sirius and James swooped down from the sky, their expressions triumphant as they dismounted from their brooms. They were instantly mobbed by a sea of ecstatic Gryffindors who had already begun flooding down from the stands, their cheers echoing off the castle walls. James was grinning ear to ear, barely able to keep up with the onslaught of high-fives, back slaps, and congratulatory shouts. He playfully tussled Felix Roscoe's hair, laughing as Marlene nearly tackled him in an enthusiastic hug.

Sirius, meanwhile, basked in the chaos, his grin wide and wicked as he clapped his teammates on the back. He revelled in the victory, the adrenaline still thrumming through his veins. "That's how you start a season!" he shouted, throwing his arm around James and pulling him into a rough, celebratory hug.

"You're a bloody menace," James laughed, shoving Sirius playfully. "But we did it! We actually did it!"

Gryffindor students surrounded them, draped in red and gold scarves, their faces flushed with excitement and pride. Some were already chanting victory songs, their voices blending into a jubilant chorus that filled the pitch. Even the professors looked slightly amused, though McGonagall was clearly struggling to maintain her stern composure amidst the revelry.

Remus and Hermione made their way through the throng, Remus's hand resting lightly on her back to guide her through the crowd. When they reached Sirius and James, Remus was quick to join in the congratulations.

"How was that, Moony? Told you I'd knock them out of the sky!" Sirius boasted, his grin impish, slinging an arm around his shoulders.

Remus laughed, shaking his head. "You were great out there."

Sirius shot Hermione a mischievous look. "What did you think, Minnie? Not bad, huh?"

Hermione smiled, feeling a warmth she hadn't felt in a long time. "I think you're all mad—but it was brilliant. You really gave them something to remember."

Lily was eyeing James, her expression caught between grudging admiration and her usual exasperation. "Well done, Potter," she said, her tone lighter than usual, though her eyes lingered on him a second longer than necessary. "Though a tad dramatic there at the end don't you think?"

James's face lit up, clearly basking in her rare compliment. He gave her a mock bow, his grin impossible to hide. "What can I say? I've got to keep you watching somehow."

Lily rolled her eyes, but there was a small smile tugging at her lips. "Don't get too full of yourself."

"Me? Never."

"Prat."

James chuckled, his eyes twinkling as he straightened up, still riding the high of both the game and her attention. "Only for you, Evans."

Lily shook her head, fighting back a laugh. "You're insufferable."

"But you're still here," James shot back, his tone teasing but with a hint of something genuine underneath.

Lily glanced away, hiding the faint blush that betrayed her, but her smile didn't fade. "Someone's got to keep you grounded."

James just laughed, the moment stretching between them, charged with an unspoken understanding Lily wasn't quite ready to voice. "I'll take it."

The buzz from the Quidditch pitch followed them all the way back to the castle, the Gryffindor team at the head of a sea of red and gold as students poured into the common room. The celebration seemed to expand with every passing second, and by the time they'd reached Gryffindor Tower, the party was already in full swing. It felt like half the school had somehow squeezed in, with students from other houses sneaking in to join the fun despite the risk of a late-night encounter with Filch.

Music blared from a charmed gramophone, and the room was awash with the glow of enchanted lanterns. Sirius, in his element, had taken charge of the drinks, handing out Firewhiskey and Butterbeer with a roguish grin, his laughter loud and infectious. James was beside him, accepting pats on the back and good-natured ribbing, clearly basking in the attention.

Hermione found herself swept into the chaos, catching snippets of conversation as she moved through the crowd. It was impossible not to get caught up in the infectious energy, the mingling of triumph and celebration that made the room feel electric. She spotted Remus in the corner, nursing a Butterbeer, his usual reserved demeanour softened by the party atmosphere and she sidled up beside him with a small smile.

Lily, who had somehow managed to be dragged away from her book, was engaged in a lively conversation with Marlene, though her eyes occasionally darted to where James was standing. Hermione watched the exchange with a knowing smile—there was something almost magnetic about the way they orbited each other, neither quite willing to acknowledge the pull.

Sirius, spotting Hermione and Remus, waved them over with a grand, exaggerated flourish. "Minnie, Moony! Don't think you're getting away with hiding in the corner!"

Hermione laughed as she and Remus made their way through the crowd, feeling the press of bodies and the warmth of shared excitement. They squeezed into a spot beside Sirius, and Remus leaned in close, his voice barely audible over the din. "Quite the celebration, isn't it?"

Hermione nodded, her eyes sparkling. "It's like the whole school's here."

"And why not?" Sirius said, clapping Remus on the back. "Victory, Firewhiskey, and a belated birthday bash—what more could you ask for?"

It was reckless, loud, and borderline chaotic, but for a few hours, it felt like nothing else mattered but the here and now. The common room was alive with laughter and the promise of a night no one would forget anytime soon.

Hermione leaned against the wall, as she watched the chaos of the party unfold. Remus got dragged away by Peter to discuss some Marauder secret she was clearly not privy to. Sirius was attached at the face with a Hufflepuff she didn't know the name of. James and Lily were off somewhere, pretending not to be madly in love with each other.

Marlene McKinnon, cheeks flushed from both excitement and a few swigs of Firewhisky, slid into the spot beside her, bumping her shoulder playfully. "You enjoying the madness?" she asked, her eyes bright with the thrill of victory. "I swear, it's like we've won the Cup already."

Hermione laughed, glancing at the boisterous crowd. "I don't think anyone's even thinking about the Cup right now. It's more about celebrating that Slytherin didn't get one over on us."

Marlene snorted, taking a long sip from her own drink. "True. They'll be licking their wounds for days. I'd pay good money to see Snape's face when he found out we won."

Hermione smirked, leaning closer, her eyes sparkling with mischief. "You think he even cares about Quidditch? He seems more like the 'lurking in the dungeons and brewing potions' type."

Marlene shrugged, grinning. "Probably. But everyone hates losing, even him. And let's be honest, he deserves a good thrashing with the way he treated Lily. I still don't get how they were ever friends."

"What happened there?" Hermione asked but it seemed like she wasn't heard over the blare of the music. Either way she got her answer because Marlene was more than happy to make her opinions known on the subject without prompting.

"I mean, you can't go around calling people Mudbloods and expect to keep them as friends," Marlene said, rolling her eyes. "Lily deserves better, though I'm not sure Potter is that quite yet."

Hermione chuckled, casting a glance over at James, who was holding court in the middle of the room, laughing loudly with Sirius and Peter. "Yeah, well, Potter's nothing if not persistent. If he keeps up his charming act, he might just win her over."

Marlene nodded, smirking. "One of these days. She's stubborn, but even she can't hold out forever." She turned her gaze back to Hermione, her tone softening slightly. "I swear, it's like she's got this soft spot for lost causes."

Hermione smirked knowingly, leaning back in her chair. "I think she just sees the good in people—even when it's buried under layers of greasy hair and a bad attitude. Or toeraggish bullying whatever that might mean."

Marlene laughed, shaking her head. "You're not wrong there. But honestly, you're a bit like her in that way, Mina. Always trying to see the best in people—even the ones who don't deserve it. Watching Lupin go hot then cold and back again with you every two weeks is exhausting."

Hermione shrugged, feigning nonchalance, though Marlene's words struck closer to home than she'd admit. "I guess it's just easier to believe people can change than to write them off completely."

Marlene raised her glass, giving Hermione a knowing look. "Well, here's to second chances, then. For all the stubborn idiots who might just surprise us."

Hermione clinked her glass against Marlene's, feeling the weight of the unspoken hope between them. "And to the ones who make us believe it's worth the effort."

The party continued to swirl around Hermione, a kaleidoscope of sound and colour that shifted with every step she took. Somewhere between the loud music and the constant press of bodies, she found herself separated from everyone else she was actually on speaking terms with when she went looking for something to drink. She looked around, trying to spot Lily's familiar red hair or Remus's calm, steady presence, but the room was too crowded, and the faces all blurred together in the haze of celebration.

Someone pressed a drink into her hand—Butterbeer, she assumed, though it tasted stronger than usual. She took a sip, grateful for something to steady herself in the chaos, but as she drank, a warmth spread through her that was far beyond anything she'd expected. It was like her mind was wrapped in fog, her thoughts slowed, and the noise around her grew distant and distorted.

Moments later, Hermione found herself cornered by a Ravenclaw boy she barely recognized, his intentions painfully obvious. He leaned in close, his breath smelling of Firewhiskey, words slurring as he tried to charm her. "You're new, right? Mina, yeah? Bet you've never seen a party like this back at Beauxbatons."

Hermione tried to back away, but her movements were slow, clumsy, the room spinning slightly around her. She didn't want this, didn't want him, but everything felt heavy, her limbs uncooperative. She mumbled something incoherent, trying to push him away, but her voice was lost in the din of the party.

The Ravenclaw grinned, misreading her disoriented state as something else entirely, his hand brushing against her arm. "Come on, you're too pretty to be standing here alone."

Hermione's head swam, her vision blurred, and just when she thought she might lose control completely, a familiar figure appeared, cutting through the crowd like a lifeline. Her best friend, looking more serious than she'd ever seen him, stepped in between them, his eyes sharp with irritation.

"That's enough," Potter said, his voice firm, the easygoing charm gone from his tone. He placed a steady hand on the Ravenclaw's shoulder, steering him away with a force that left no room for argument. "She's not interested. Move along."

The boy muttered something under his breath but didn't argue, stumbling away into the throng of students, leaving Hermione to lean heavily against her rescuer. Her head spun, and she blinked up at him, trying to focus. In her drunken haze, his face swam in her vision, and all she could see was Harry—the same messy hair, the familiar glasses, the unwavering look of concern that was etched into her memory.

"Harry…" she mumbled, reaching out as if to steady herself on a familiar anchor. "Harry, I… I feel… weird."

James looked taken aback, his brow furrowing at the name, but he didn't press her on it. "Come on, Mina," he said gently, his arm around her shoulders, guiding her through the crowded common room. "Let's get you back to Remus."

Hermione nodded, though the world continued to tilt and blur around her. James kept her close, his grip firm but careful as he manoeuvred through the chaos. They finally found Remus near the back of the room, looking up with immediate concern as they approached.

"What happened?" Remus asked, his voice tight with worry as he took in Hermione's unfocused eyes and unsteady stance.

"She's had too much," James said, his tone edged with frustration and concern.

"I only had… like two sips," Hermione mumbled, her brow furrowing as she tried to piece together the foggy fragments of her memory. Everything felt distant, her thoughts sluggish and tangled.

James glanced at Remus, his jaw clenched. "Or someone gave her something."

"Who gave you the drink?" Remus asked, his voice gentle but urgent. "Where did you get it?"

"I don't… I don't know," Hermione slurred, her head feeling heavy as she tried to remember. Faces and voices blurred together, and the room swayed with every blink.

Lily appeared beside them, her expression shifting from confusion to immediate concern as she took in Hermione's state. "Mina, are you alright?" she asked, her voice soft but laced with alarm.

"She's not," James answered, frustration simmering beneath his calm exterior. "Someone gave her a drink—she doesn't remember who. It was probably spiked."

Lily's eyes darkened with a mix of anger and worry as she wrapped an arm around Hermione's shoulders. "We need to get her out of here. Mina, can you walk?"

Hermione nodded feebly, though her legs felt like jelly beneath her. With James on one side and Lily on the other, they guided her away from the chaos of the common room, their collective anger at whoever had done this simmering beneath the surface.

Remus stayed close, guiding Hermione gently through the crowd, his presence a reassuring anchor as they made their way toward the staircase that led to the girls' dormitory. But as they reached the base of the stairs, Remus hesitated, his hand still lightly resting on Hermione's back. He couldn't follow them any further; the castle's magic had strict rules about boys going up, and he knew the staircase would turn into a slide if he tried.

Lily stepped in smoothly, her arm wrapping securely around Hermione's waist. "I've got her," she said softly, giving Remus a reassuring nod. "Go on, Remus. I'll take care of her."

Remus nodded reluctantly, his eyes lingering on Hermione's pale, bewildered face. "Alright," he said, his voice low. "I'll be right here if you need anything."

Lily helped Hermione up the first few steps, and Remus watched as the two girls made their way up, Hermione leaning heavily against Lily, her movements slow and unsteady. He stayed at the bottom, staring after them until they disappeared around the curve of the stairs.

Once they were out of sight, Lily tightened her grip on Hermione, guiding her carefully up each step. "Almost there, Mina," she murmured, her voice gentle but firm. "Just a little further."

Hermione nodded vaguely, her head still spinning, but she let Lily lead her without protest. The climb felt endless, but eventually, they reached the familiar door of the seventh-year girls' dormitory, and Lily pushed it open, easing Hermione inside.

Lily helped her over to her bed, sitting her down gently. "Here, let's get you comfortable," she said, helping Hermione out of her shoes and tucking her under the covers. She grabbed a glass of water from her nightstand and handed it to her. "Drink this—it'll help."

Hermione took the glass with shaky hands, managing a small, grateful smile. "Thank you, Lily. I… I didn't mean to…"

"It's alright," Lily said firmly, smoothing back Hermione's hair with a gentle touch. "Whatever happened, it's not your fault. Just rest now. We'll figure this out in the morning."

Hermione nodded, sinking back into the pillows, the room still spinning slightly around her. As her eyes fluttered shut, and she mumbled a faint, "Thanks, Lily," before slipping into a restless sleep.

Lily gently squeezed Hermione's hand before quietly leaving her to rest, as the muffled sounds of the party drifted up from below determined she resolved to uncover what had happened.

Remus returned to the dormitory, the celebration now a distant echo in his ears. He sat on his bed, his mind churning with worry and self-reproach as he stared at the worn, familiar walls of the dorm. Parties had never been his scene—the noise, the crush of people, the overwhelming sensations—but he'd gone along tonight for his friends, for Mina, hoping maybe it would be a chance to let go, just a little. He'd watched her earlier, smiling and laughing with Marlene, and for the first time in weeks, things had felt almost normal between them. He'd let himself believe she was alright, that they were alright.

But then he'd seen her, glassy-eyed and stumbling, and everything shifted. Remus replayed the moment over and over: Mina, with a drink that in hindsight had clearly been tampered with, cornered by some boy who didn't take the hint. James had stepped in, but Remus should have been there first. He should have been watching closer, should have seen the signs earlier.

Every fibre of him wanted to storm up those stairs, to make sure Mina was safe, but he knew he couldn't. All he could do was wait and hope that, by some miracle, she would be alright.

Sirius and Peter entered the room not long after, his usual swagger muted by concern. He shot Remus a questioning look, but Remus just shook his head, unable to put into words the fear that gripped him.

"She's with Lily," Remus said quietly, his voice hollow. "But someone did this. Someone hurt her."

Sirius's expression darkened, and he slammed his fist against the wall, the sudden burst of anger startling in the quiet room. "We'll find out who," Sirius vowed, his tone steely. "And they'll regret it."

But for Remus, the only thing he could think about was Mina—Mina, who was always so kind, so selfless, and who now lay upstairs, vulnerable and hurt because he hadn't been there to protect her. He buried his face in his hands, feeling the weight of it all pressing down on him, the crushing guilt that refused to let him go.

The door creaked open, and Remus looked up to see James entering, his expression tense and worn. His hair was even messier than usual, glasses askew as he shoved his hands into his pockets. Sirius and Peter both looked up, concern etched across their faces as they waited for James to speak.

"Well, Lily's put an end to the party," James said, his voice edged with a mix of frustration and worry. "She wasn't having any of it once she got Mina upstairs. Told everyone to clear out, and most of them actually listened."

Remus nodded, though he could barely register the words. His mind was still caught on Mina's unfocused eyes, the way she'd swayed, the helplessness in her voice. "How is she?" he asked, his voice strained. "Did Lily say anything?"

James sighed, running a hand through his hair as he sat down on the bed opposite Remus. "She's asleep now. Lily got her some water, helped her settle down, but… mate, she's in a right state. Whoever spiked her drink did a number on her."

Remus clenched his fists, anger boiling beneath his skin. He hated the thought of someone taking advantage of Mina, of using her kindness and trust against her. He'd been so caught up in his own issues that he hadn't noticed what was happening right under his nose. "I should have been paying more attention," Remus muttered, guilt clawing at him. "I shouldn't have let this happen."

James shook his head, his expression softening. "It's not your fault, Moony. We didn't know, and we're going to find out who did this." But there was something else in James's eyes, a flicker of confusion that hadn't been there before.

"What is it?" Remus asked, catching the hesitation. "You're holding something back."

James glanced at Sirius, then back to Remus, his brow furrowing. "It's just… when I found her, she kept calling me Harry. It was weird—like she wasn't seeing me at all. She looked right at me and thought I was someone else."

Remus's heart sank, a knot forming in his stomach. Harry. The name meant nothing to him, but the way James said it, the way Mina had latched onto that name, sent his thoughts spiralling. Who was Harry, and why had Mina mistaken James for him? It felt like a piece of a puzzle that didn't fit, something that hinted at a deeper pain that Mina hadn't shared.

"She thought you were someone else?" Sirius echoed, frowning. "Why would she…?"

James shrugged, frustration tinged with concern. "I don't know. She seemed so out of it, like she was caught up in something else entirely. She looked at me like I was the solution to whatever she was feeling, that I'd make it all better, but it wasn't me she was seeing."

Remus stared at the floor, his mind racing. Mina had been through so much already, and he'd barely scratched the surface of her past. He knew she was grieving, that she'd been holding onto secrets, but this felt different. It was as if she'd been transported somewhere else entirely, somewhere that had nothing to do with Hogwarts, Gryffindor, or any of them.

"She's been dealing with so much," Remus said quietly, his voice heavy. "More than any of us realise. And I've been too wrapped up in my own mess to see it."

Sirius crossed the room, dropping down beside Remus and clapping a reassuring hand on his shoulder. "We're all in this together, Moony. We'll get to the bottom of it, figure out what's going on with her. But you can't blame yourself for this. You've been there for her in ways no one else has."

Remus nodded, but the guilt didn't ease. He thought of the times he'd pushed Mina away, the walls he'd built to protect himself that had only served to isolate her further. She'd been reaching out, and he'd let his fears keep him from being the friend she needed. Now, someone had hurt her, and he hadn't been there to stop it.

"What did Lily say?" Remus asked, his voice tight. "Does Mina remember anything?"

James shook his head. "Lily said she was pretty out of it, but she doesn't think Mina remembers much about what happened. She's going to check on her in the morning, make sure she's alright."

Remus nodded, but the knot of worry remained. All he could do now was wait and hope that when Mina woke up, she'd know that she wasn't alone—that despite everything, he was still here, ready to be the friend she needed.