Sirius Black's closed eyes felt like they were burning as he sat there on the floor, listening to those terrible words he heard. Briefly before he realized who was standing outside the Fat Lady's portrait, he paused, hearing her voice as clear as day. Emily's eyes were shining with happiness and his heart sank as he saw Luke holding her delicately. He felt like he'd been punched in the gut, his lungs constricted in agony having to keep quiet while listening to the woman he loved be held by another man.
Tears pricked at the corners of his eyes as he heard Emily whisper I love you. The words cut through him like a knife, leaving him reeling. It felt like he was drowning in a sea of pain, his mind racing with memories of all the times they had shared their secrets with each other. They had said they were meant to be together.
And now, it seemed that was all… frankly he didn't know but it hurt greatly. A lump formed in his throat as he thought about all the times he'd confided in Emily, all the times she'd listened to him with tears in her eyes. He had thought that she felt the same way, that she loved him just as much as he loved her. But now, it seemed that she had been lying to him all along, or maybe as she had once said, he was only for practice for the real thing….
The pain and betrayal were almost too much to bear. Sirius didn't move, didn't make a sound. He froze in place, his ears fixed on the couple near him. He felt like he was going to collapse under the weight of his emotions. When they finally pulled away from each other, Sirius stared at the opposite wall, praying Luke went the other way, which thankfully he did. He felt his heart break into a thousand pieces.
Taking a deep breath and trying to shake off the feeling of despair that had washed over him, a constant ache lingered in his chest. While others walked past him, he ignored them trying to hide his emotions. Finally, he stood and wiped his face a few times before turning to the Fat Lady, muttering the password. Eyes stinging with tears, he somehow managed to put a brave front on. Scanning the common room, he hadn't expected Emily to be seated quietly in an armchair staring at the fire. But the distance felt grand in the awareness of her actions.
Sirius felt a wave of emotions rush through him as he silently watched her head lowered against her arms. He struggled because he wanted to console her, to tell her that everything would be fine. Watching her now, his heart was heavy with the three words she said again. Studying her profile more, his eyes were drawn to the subtle yet profound changes that had taken place over the years. The little girl he met at Christmas, his second year, with her big hazel eyes and slightly curled hair, was now a stunning woman with a luminescent beauty that radiated from within. Her features had matured, her skin glowing with a healthy complexion, and her eyes sparkled with quiet confidence.
Sirius's mind wandered back to the countless times he had watched her grow, from a shy and awkward young student to the confident and compassionate individual she had become. He remembered the way she used to giggle uncontrollably, the way her eyes would light up when she talked about something she loved, and the way her smile could light up a room.
As he gazed at her now, he was struck by the realization that Emily had grown into a true beauty, not just in appearance, but in spirit as well. Her kindness, empathy, and generosity of heart had only deepened with time, and it was as if she had radiated an inner light that drew people to her.
Despite the pain and betrayal that still lingered in his heart, Sirius couldn't help but feel a sense of pride and admiration for the woman Emily had become. He felt grateful to have been a part of her journey, even if it was only as a friend and confidant, or her brother's best friend as several people reminded him frequently. As he continued to watch her, a sense of longing washed over when they had shared secrets and laughter, for the times when they had been each other's rock. He could only acknowledge the present and move forward, even as his heart still ached with the pain of what he had overheard.
Emily must have sensed him standing there because a moment later she turned around, her big hazel eyes examining him closely. Her expression hardened, a sharp contrast to a loving one she held behind. Her eyes were red, but in the shadow he wasn't sure if his own eyes were noticeable. Nodding curtly, he stumbled to his own dormitory, lost in thought and heartache. As he lay in bed, staring up at the ceiling, Sirius couldn't help but wonder what he had done wrong. Had he been blind to Emily's feelings all along? Had she been playing him from the beginning? The questions swirled around his mind like a vortex, sucking him down into a deep well of sorrow and regret. He felt like he would never be able to escape the pain of losing Emily's love.
In the end, Sirius couldn't help but wonder if he would ever be able to forgive himself for being so blind to Emily's true feelings. Unless Luke had done something to cause everything to happen, which given his history, wouldn't be too far off….
*dot*
It had been nearly three weeks.
OWLs were tomorrow and this was the final stretch. It was terrible that after months of studying and practice, it would all come down to the next two weeks of exams. So now the entire weight of her education and its future was suddenly and blissfully present in all her classmates. She made her way to the Great Hall for lunch, she noticed David sitting with his Slytherin friends, chatting and laughing as if nothing had changed between them. A small ache stirred within her as she watched him from afar, feeling a bit left out. She wondered if he had told anyone about them becoming exclusive, or how his friends would react to their newfound intimacy.
As she approached the table, David caught sight of her and his face lit up with a warm smile. He quickly excused himself from his friends, making his way towards her. His friends exchanged curious glances, but seemed to let it slide, perhaps sensing the unspoken bond between the two. Embracing each other, they shared a brief, tender hug before deciding to sit, away from the prying eyes of his friends. They exchanged stories about their weekend, reliving the moments they had shared in the bath, and the emotions that had accompanied them since.
"Ready for your OWLs?" he asked softly, peeling an orange.
"No, but I'm not studying all day unlike others. I told myself that at this point, if I know it, I know it and no amount of extra stress will help. Professor Slughorn held reviews. It helped greatly."
"He did with my year too! I'm just glad it's over," David said, breaking off a piece of orange and popping it into his mouth. "I've been waiting for you to take your OWLs. You'll do great, I'm sure!"
Emily smiled, taking a sip of her drink. "Thanks! I'm trying to stay calm. It's just my entire future here, after all."
"So, what's the plan for tomorrow?" David asked, leaning in with a smile, grabbing some toast and jam.
"I think I'll just get there early and try to relax," Emily replied, pulling at her hair. "I've been studying for months, so I feel pretty prepared. But I'm still a bit nervous, I won't lie."
"Of course," David said soothingly after taking a bite of his food then swallowing down a cup of coffee. "It's a big deal. But you'll do fine. Just remember to breathe and trust yourself. Potions has its own difficulties, it was not easy for me. I'm not the best at Potions though."
Emily nodded, taking another sip of her drink. "I think I can manage that one. My father's a great Potioneer."
"My father excelled in the Greek equivalent of Ancient Runes and Charms."
Their conversation was filled with laughter, comfort, and an unspoken understanding that they were in this together, no matter what the OWLs held for Emily. Every time he reached out or leaned in to whisper something in her ear, the faint fragrance of applewood enveloped her, stirring up memories of their bath. It was a subtle but powerful reminder that made her heart flutter with affection. But deep down, thoughts of Sirius came making her pause whenever he looked up at her.
As she sat there, basking in the familiar scent that clung to David, Emily saw a shadow appear over their plates. David made a gulping sound at the source as he looked up. Leaning over them was a girl, a rather tall girl, her brown hair braided to one side. With a devious glint in her green eyes, she seemed to be taking great pleasure in wrapping her arms around David's waist and holding him in a tight hug. David, on the other hand, looked decidedly uncomfortable, his face scrunched up in a mix of annoyance and embarrassment.
"Surprise to see me?" the girl purred, her voice dripping with fakeness as she glanced slyly at Emily. David looked uncomfortable as he gently tried to disentangle himself from the girl's embrace. Emily's eyes widened as she watched the awkward scene unfold before her.
"Cosette, what are you doing?" David repeated, his voice firm but laced with a hint of exasperation. He tried to gently push her away, but Cosette held tight, her grip like a vice.
"I just wanted to see what you were up to," she purred, her voice dripping with false sweetness. "How...interesting...you and your little lion."
Cosette shot Emily a sly glance, her green eyes sparkling with mischief. Emily felt a twinge of jealousy and annoyance at Cosette's presence, but she tried to keep her composure. Who was this girl? And what did she want with David? She felt a flush rise to her cheeks as she realized that Cosette was clearly trying to provoke them. David's face turned red with annoyance as he tried to break free from Cosette's grasp.
"Cosette, stop it. This is ridiculous," he said, his voice rising in frustration.
Just then, a few nearby students caught wind of the commotion and began to stare. Emily could feel their eyes on her, and she knew that they were probably gossiping about the situation. She felt her face grow hotter with embarrassment. Standing up, her eyes were fixed on the intense stare-down between Cosette and David. Without thinking, she reached out to try and physically pull her off, hoping to break the tension. But Cosette was too strong, and Emily's efforts only resulted in her stumbling backwards.
The commotion seemed to attract even more attention from the surrounding students, who were now openly snickering and whispering to each other. Emily's face burned with embarrassment as she quickly regained her footing, trying to think of a way to salvage the situation. Meanwhile, Cosette's wicked grin only grew wider, as if she was enjoying the spectacle.
"Nice to meet you, Cosette," Emily said again, trying to sound calm and friendly despite the chaos around her. "I'm Emily."
Cosette crossed her arms and stared at her. A wicked smile also drew itself but Emily tried to keep cool.
"Oh, I know who you are. David talks about you all the time…."
"Does he," questioned Emily, a hint of a frown beginning to form as she turned slightly looking at David. He shifted uncomfortably in his seat, a flush creeping up his cheeks.
"Cosette, can we talk later? I'm busy right now."
Emily shifted uncomfortably under Cosette's intense gaze. The atmosphere grew tense as she continued to stare at her with a challenging expression. Emily cleared her throat, trying to diffuse the situation.
"Cosette, why don't you leave?"
Cosette's lips curled into a sly smile as she slowly took a seat at the table, never once breaking eye contact with Emily.
"I think I'll just stay for now, thank you. I'm quite comfortable where I am."
Emily felt a mix of unease and defiance rise within her. "What do you want?"
Cosette's smile widened as she leaned in closer to Emily. "Oh, nothing much, just keeping an eye on things, making sure everything is...in order."
David turned fully in his seat, clearly uncomfortable with the tension between the two women.
"Cosette, please, don't make this awkward."
Cosette finally broke her gaze from Emily and turned to David with a smirk. Something in her posture made Emily frown. Looking between the two before Cosette laughed harshly in response, her grip on David's shoulder tightened.
"You know you still have feelings for me, David. Don't pretend like she means anything to you," she whispered, a sly smile playing on her lips.
David's eyes narrowed, his face reddening with anger.
"That's not true, Cosette," he said firmly, his voice low and even. "I'm with Emily now, and I'm happy with her. You need to accept that."
But Cosette just laughed, her smile growing wider. "Oh, come on, David. You can't deny it. We had something special, something that she could never replace."
Emily's eyes widened in shock as she listened to the conversation. She felt a stab of insecurity and doubt creeping in, wondering if there was some truth to Cosette's words. She glanced at David, trying to read his expression, but his face was a mask of calmness.
"David, what's going on?" Emily asked, her voice trembling slightly. "What's she talking about?"
David's eyes flickered towards her, then back to Cosette.
"Just old news, Emily," he said quickly. "Cosette's just trying to stir up trouble."
But Cosette wasn't finished yet. She slid closer to David, her eyes burning with intensity, as the boy stared her down. Emily felt a shiver run down her spine as she noticed the way Cosette's gaze seemed to bore into David's soul. Her fingers seized on his jaw that was clenched in a tight line, as if he was trying to hold back his emotions.
"You're not as clean-cut as you seem, David," Cosette said, her voice low and husky. "You have secrets."
David's eyes flashed with anger, and for a moment, Emily thought she saw a glimmer of something else there too - something like rage. But then his face smoothed out into a mask of calmness once again.
"What secrets?" Emily demanded, her voice rising in alarm. "What's going on here?"
David turned to her, his expression serious. "Nothing, Emily. Just some old history with Cosette. We can forget about it."
But Cosette just laughed, her eyes glinting with amusement. "Oh, no, David. I think Emily has a right to know what kind of history you have with me."
David, caught in the middle of the escalating tension, tried to interject, but the two girls continued to trade barbed remarks back and forth. His jaw tensed as he tried to push the girls apart, his patience wearing thin. The air was thick with tension as Cosette's words hung in the air, a bitter sting to them. Emily's eyes widened in shock as she felt a surge of anger and humiliation. She had never felt so belittled, so small.
"You're different but not his cup of tea," Cosette sneered, her grip on David's arm tightening like a vice. "I'm whatever he wants me to be!"
Cosette's words were like a slap in the face, and Emily felt her face burning with anger. She took a step forward, her fists clenched at her sides.
"Phew, he would never want a girl like you," Cosette continued, her voice dripping with malice. "Not even remarkable if you ask me!"
Emily's eyes met David's, but he was staring at Cosette with a mixture of anger and shame.
"That's enough!" he said loudly, his hands slamming on the table to get everyone's attention. His voice cut through the tense atmosphere, making everyone fall silent. Cosette's smile faltered for a moment before she regained her composure.
"Oh, I'm just getting started," she said, her voice dripping with venom.
David's eyes flashed with anger as he pulled his arm free from Cosette's grasp.
"No, you're not," he said firmly. "You're just trying to stir up trouble."
Emily felt a surge of relief as David stood up for her, but she couldn't shake off the feeling that Cosette had hit a nerve. She glanced at David, trying to read his expression, but he was still wearing that mask of calmness. The atmosphere in the room was still charged with tension, but Emily knew that she couldn't let Cosette get to her. She took a deep breath and stood up straight, her eyes locked on David's.
"I think we've heard enough," she said firmly.
"Yes, I think you're right." David nodded, his eyes never leaving hers. While his face set in a stern expression, his jaw was clenched in an effort to maintain his composure. Emily watched as he stood there, he was heaving, probably from the pounding in his chest. His hands were still resting on the table, his fingers curled into tight fists. Cosette's gaze locked onto Emily, her voice dripping with sarcasm.
"You're so... brave, Potter. I'm surprised you're not more... burnt from being so close to the fire."
Emily's eyes narrowed, her face flushing with anger.
"At least I don't have to resort to manipulation and lies to get what I want," she spat back.
"COSETTE," he shouted sharply, his eyes flashing with warning to them both. His raised voice for the second time alerted many students around them to hush as they watched in anticipation. The Slytherin students nearby couldn't help but gleam at the scene unfolding before them, whispers and murmurs spreading like wildfire. The Ravenclaws were conversing more to the Hufflepuffs while Gryffindors seemed to stare at Emily solely. Cosette's grip on David's arm tightened, her eyes flashing with a sly intensity.
"Oh, David, you're so... predictable," she purred, reaching for his arm again.
"I've had enough of this," he said firmly. David's face darkened as he pulled his arm free from Cosette's grasp. "You need to leave, now."
The girl's facade of flirtatiousness crumbled as she shot Emily a venomous glare before finally storming off, leaving a cloud of tension in her wake. With a final lingering look at Emily, Cosette stood up and sauntered away, her braided hair swaying behind her. Emily let out a sigh of relief as the tension in the air dissipated, but she couldn't shake the feeling that Cosette's presence was not a mere coincidence. As she turned to David, she knew there were still unanswered questions lingering between them.
"Who is she, David?" Emily's voice was quiet, but there was a firmness in her tone that demanded honesty.
David sighed, running a hand through his hair. "That's Cosette, an old friend. She can be a bit...overbearing sometimes."
Emily nodded, as she looked at David. There was a pained expression crossing his face as he hesitated for a moment before he looked after Cosette's retreating figure. Sighing heavily, he turned to face Emily letting his arm drop.
"She...she's an ex-girlfriend of mine," he admitted, his voice tinged with regret.
The weight of his words hung heavily in the air as Emily processed the revelation. Her heart sank when she realized the depth between them, and why Cosette had behaved as she did. The awareness that there was a history between them, more than them simply being in Slytherin house together.
"Why didn't you tell me about her before?" Emily's voice wavered with a mix of hurt and anger as she confronted David, her eyes searching his face for some semblance of an explanation.
David's shoulders slumped as he met Emily's gaze, regret flashing in his eyes.
"I...I didn't want to cause any drama," he started, his words faltering. "Our relationship was over two years ago, and I thought it was in the past. I never expected her to do that."
The heaviness of the moment hung between them, the weight of unspoken emotions simmering beneath the surface. At his admission, Emily felt herself calm strangely. Taking a deep breath, Emily's voice shook as she mustered the courage to voice her deepest fear.
"Was she… with her… was she your first…?"
David's eyes widened in realization as Emily's words pierced through the silence. The guilt that had been building within him threatened to consume him as he met her gaze.
"No, Emily, she wasn't my first girlfriend," he confessed, his voice barely above a whisper. "I mean with that, yes, but it was at the beginning of the year."
"Beginning of the year?"
In an instant, the knowledge she had shared her most intimate and vulnerable self with him was shattered beneath her feet. He, having already given that part of himself to someone else before, tore at her heart.
"I gave you something that I had never given to anyone else…. I trusted you. How could you...?" Emily's voice cracked, the hurt and betrayal evident in her tone as tears streamed down her cheeks. David reached out to her, his heart breaking at the sight of her pain.
"I'm so sorry, Emily. I never wanted to hurt you. What we have is special, and I'll do anything to make things right," he pleaded, his voice laced with regret.
But the wounds were too fresh, the betrayal too deep for Emily to simply forgive and forget at the moment as she stood there, raw and vulnerable. In that moment of turmoil and anguish, Emily looked into David's eyes, seeing the pain and regret mirrored in his gaze.
Turning quickly she grabbed her bag and took off and tried to brush away her tears. As she waited to pass a group of Ravenclaws in the courtyard, she sat down trying to hold back her tears.
In the days that followed the revelation of David's past, Emily found herself adrift in a sea of emotions, hurt and betrayal each morning and night. She withdrew into herself, seeking solace in the quiet corners of Hogwarts, away from the prying eyes and whispered rumors that seemed to follow her wherever she went. All the while trying to ace her OWLs including the more difficult Potions one, Emily felt alone for the first time. The entire week had been horrible and the lack of sleep was something completely different. On Wednesday evening, Daphne was found asleep in the armchair, her book opened on her lap. Emily had retreated to bed at seven that evening without even changing. On Friday morning, she sat the Ancient Runes OWL, praying she didn't confuse 'ehwaz and 'eihwaz… But when finally the exam finished, she left feeling drained.
Wandering the grounds a bit, her footsteps led to the wide expanse of grass near the Quidditch pitch. The sound of laughter and chatter from students playing games echoed in the distance, but she paid them no mind as she found a secluded spot to sit and gather her thoughts. Her eyes scanned the surroundings, searching for some semblance of peace in the chaos that had come. It was then that she spotted Sirius, his dark hair tousled and his eyes alive with mischief. Curiosity piqued, as he deftly threw a Quaffle back and forth, his movements fluid and determined. A small smile tugged at the corners of her lips, the sight of him lost in the simple joy of the game a welcome distraction from her own tumultuous thoughts.
As if sensing her presence, Sirius looked down, his eyes meeting hers across the expanse of grass. Without a word, he flew over. Hesitant at first, Emily rose from her spot and made her way toward Sirius, the distance between them growing smaller with each step. She could see the knowing glint in his eyes, the unspoken understanding that he was offering her a much-needed respite from the storm raging within her.
Without a word, Sirius tossed her the Quaffle, a silent challenge that brought a flicker of determination to her gaze. For a brief moment, Emily allowed herself to be surrounded in the simplicity of the game, her worries fading into the background as she lost herself in the back-and-forth rhythm with Sirius. In that fleeting moment of connection and camaraderie, Emily found a sense of peace and clarity that had eluded her in the wake of the confession earlier that week.
As the sun began to dip below the horizon, casting a warm glow, she realized that maybe she had overreacted to David's words. After a particularly enthusiastic throw the ball soared past Emily. She let out a laugh and shook her head.
"You're really good at this, Sirius. Quidditch isn't the only sport you excel at, it seems."
Sirius grinned, a mischievous gleam in his eyes as he retrieved the ball.
"I like to keep my skills sharp, you never know when a good game might come in handy," he replied, tossing the ball back to Emily. "I wish that I had seen the one at Christmas!"
As she caught the ball and prepared to throw it, a lull in the game allowed for a moment of quiet reflection between the two of them. Emily hesitated, the weight of the recent events with David heavy on her mind.
"Sirius, can I ask you something?" Emily ventured, her voice soft with uncertainty. Granted it has been nearly three months since she had yelled at him in the common room after Potter had been a right foul pig about David. Sirius paused, his gaze meeting hers with understanding.
"Of course, Emily. You can ask me anything," he replied, his tone gentle and reassuring.
Taking a deep breath, Emily found the courage to voice the question that had been lingering in her thoughts since her conversation with David.
"Have you... been in relationships before? I mean, you have... But experiences that were more than just casual?"
For a moment, Sirius's expression softened with a hint of contemplation, his gaze flickering to the horizon before settling back on Emily.
"I have, Emily. I've had my fair share of... relationships. But, they were mostly casual. I never really found that deeper connection, " he admitted, his voice tinged with a hint of wistfulness. "We talked about this at Christmas."
Emily nodded, her heart squeezing with a mix of relief and understanding. In Sirius's candid admission, she found a kindred spirit, someone who understood the complexities of love and intimacy, and who didn't judge her for the tangled emotions that had consumed her in recent days.
"As for us, Emily," Sirius continued, a hint of vulnerability in his voice. "That kiss we shared before school... It felt more alive for me than I like to admit, but I did like it."
Emily's breath caught in her throat, a rush of conflicting emotions swirling within her. She met Sirius's gaze, her own eyes shimmering with a mixture of surprise and something warmer, an unspoken understanding passing between them in that moment of honesty. As they resumed their game, they played in the fading light of the day.
"Emily, I... That kiss, it felt different, I felt alive, like something I hadn't felt before," he revealed earnestly, his voice vulnerable.
The air between them crackled with unspoken emotion as they let the weight of their shared confession settle in the space between them. In that moment of honesty, a newfound understanding and connection blossomed, and the barriers of uncertainty and fear crumbled away. The weight of the confession hung heavy in the air, stirring emotions that threatened to unravel. After a few moments of quiet contemplation, Sirius cleared his throat, his expression troubled, his words tumbling out in a rush.
"I've been feeling this way for a while now, and it's tearing me apart. I care about you deeply, and it's not just because I enjoy being around you. I have feelings for you, Emily. Real feelings about having a future with you."
Emily's heart skipped a beat as she processed Sirius's confession. She felt a mix of emotions: surprise, concern, and a hint of longing. Sirius's gaze intensified, his voice taking on a more urgent tone.
"I don't want to jeopardize my friendship with James. I don't want to hurt him by pursuing something that could potentially complicate our relationship."
Emily nodded, understanding the weight of Sirius's words. "I know, Sirius. And I appreciate your honesty."
Sirius's eyes narrowed, his voice laced with concern. "But I do have to ask... What's going on with Luke? You're so quiet all the time, avoiding James and me, avoiding everyone really unless it's him... What changed?"
Emily's eyes met Sirius's, her expression a mix of uncertainty and vulnerability. She took a deep breath before speaking, her voice barely above a whisper.
"Sirius, we... We had sex," she said, the words hanging in the air.
The words hung in the air like a challenge, a revelation that left Sirius feeling stunned and disbelieving. He had never suspected that Emily had such feelings for Luke, and the knowledge hit him like a punch to the gut. His eyes widened in shock, his eyebrows shooting upwards as he struggled to process the information. His face contorted into a mixture of confusion and disgust, his lips curling into a snarl.
"You...you had sex with him?" he repeated, his voice barely above a whisper. He couldn't believe what he was hearing. The words were like a slap in the face, leaving him reeling and uncertain.
Emily nodded, her eyes welling up with tears. Looking down to her shoes, she barely noticed that he had walked right up to her.
"Yes, Sirius. It was... it was a mistake," she let out in soft sobs realizing how hard and brutal it was to admit this to him. Her absolute confidant was now an outsider because she had made a choice to not pick him first…. "I'm so sorry Sirius…. It happened and now…. I feel so upset it was not you!"
The weight of their conversation settled around them like a shroud, leaving Sirius feeling frustrated and hurt. He had never imagined that Emily would have intimate relations with someone else, especially not Luke. The realization was a harsh blow to his ego and his feelings for Emily. But instead of pushing her away or lashing out in anger, Sirius took a deep breath and wrapped his arms around Emily. He held her close, his chest heaving with emotion as he tried to process the revelation.
"It's okay, Emily," he whispered into her hair as she shook within his arms. "I'm sorry you're hurting. You're being incredibly brave right now, and I know how hard it is to admit this to me."
Emily buried her face in his chest, tears streaming down her face as she felt the weight of Sirius's hug. She knew that she had broken trust with him. But in this moment, surrounded by his warmth and understanding, she felt a glimmer of hope that maybe they could still find a way to move forward together. The silence between them was no longer heavy with emotion, but instead Sirius remained quiet, allowing her words to sink in painfully. It was like hearing her say those words to Luke all over again….
"Who was your first?" asked Emily, looking at him.
"I'm not sure that matters at the moment," he whispers, rubbing her back. Gray stormy eyes locked onto hazel ones, his expression somber. "I already told you it was Cosette Amory."
Emily's face had been etched with alert, hearing Cosette's name again. Somehow though, it softened the blow as the girl's smirking face disappeared from her mind. Cosette had been with David and Sirius both at some point over the prior year. Thinking back on it, Sirius had said they had sex at the end of their 5th year, and maybe she had made a bigger deal about it than she intended. They were teenagers after all. This was just all brand new and new territory that she had never experienced before.
"I suppose me being upset about her being an ex of David's doesn't exactly mean I can get mad then..."
She paused, her voice trailing off as she searched for the right words. Sirius's eyes stayed fixed on hers, his expression thoughtful.
"I mean, I doubt she's capable of love or anything," Emily said, her tone slightly more even now. She was trying to rationalize her feelings, but it was hard to shake off the initial sting of betrayal. Sirius's smile was wry.
"I'm being honest with you, Emily, it was a brief and purely physical connection. I never had romantic feelings for her. As for Luke, I can only speak to what I've observed - they kept their relationship private, but I believe they were together in the Slytherin common room. To be clear, I don't care about their relationship or what they did; I care about you and your well-being."
Her eyes still lingered on Sirius's face, searching for any sign of deception. But his eyes were genuine, his expression open and honest. His gaze dropped to her lips, his eyes crinkling at the corners as he smiled softly. As they stood there, the tension between them was indisputable.
"You're beautiful, Emily," he whispered, his voice low and husky. "Your eyes sparkle like diamonds in the moonlight. You're the only one who can make me feel like I'm home."
Emily's heart skipped a beat as she felt a flutter in her chest. She hadn't expected this, but she couldn't deny the spark that was between them. Without thinking, she leaned in, her lips brushing against his. The contact was electric, sending shivers down her spine. But instead of feeling repulsed or uncomfortable, Emily felt a sense of comfort and familiarity. She had kissed him before, and it was like no time had passed at all. Their lips moved in sync, their tongues tangling together as they deepened the kiss. Sirius's hands came up to frame her face, his fingers gentle as he explored the contours of her cheeks. Emily's hands wrapped around his waist, pulling him closer as she lost herself.
"I've missed that," he whispered, his voice barely audible. Emily's smile faltered for a moment before she nodded.
"Me too," she whispered back.
For a moment, they just stood there, lost in the sensation of each other's lips and silence between them was plain, but it was no longer uncomfortable. It was like their emotions and desires swirling together like a stormy sea. They both knew that this was what they had been missing - the gentle touch, the soft whispers, the feeling of being completely understood by the other.
As they pulled back, Emily's breath came out in a soft sigh. She looked up, her eyes sparkling with a mix of surprise and excitement. Sirius smiled down at her, his eyes shining with warmth.
"I've thought about you every day," he admitted, his voice cracking slightly. Emily's eyes locked onto his, and she could see the sincerity in his gaze. "I've tried to move on, but nothing feels right without you."
Emily's heart skipped a beat as she reached out to touch his face. "I've felt the same way," she whispered. "I'll try to find my way back to you, but I don't know how."
*dot*
Summer had arrived at long last, bringing with it the promise of lazy days and warm nights spent in the company of friends. For Emily, the end of the school year meant bidding farewell to Hogwarts and returning home to her family, a prospect that filled her with both excitement and trepidation.
Emily woke up to the warm sunlight streaming through her window, casting a golden glow over her room. She stretched her arms and yawned, feeling the weight of the summer stretching out before her. It was early July, and she was still getting used to the idea of being back in Godric's Hollow. She had spent the last few weeks lounging around the house, trying to catch up on her reading and doing some much-needed catching up with her family.
Emily's eyes sparkled as she walked into the kitchen, greeted by the warm aroma of freshly brewed coffee. Sirius, sitting alone at the table, looked up with a sleepy smile as she approached. She rubbed his shoulder affectionately, feeling a sense of comfort and familiarity. As she glanced over to the kitchen counter, her eyes landed on a letter with her best friend's scribbles on the envelope. She picked it up, feeling a thrill of excitement building inside her.
"Hey, look at this," she said, holding out the letter to Sirius. "It's from Daphne!"
Sirius's eyes perked up, and he took the letter from her hand. "Ah, yeah, I saw it earlier. I didn't recognize the handwriting, so I figured it was probably her."
Emily's eyes scanned the page, her voice growing more animated as she read aloud. " 'Dear Emily, I hope this letter finds you well... I've been thinking a lot about our summer plans...' Oh my goodness, Sirius! Daphne was signed up for a contest! She didn't tell me!"
Sirius's eyes widened in surprise. "Blimey, that's amazing! What does she say about it?"
Emily continued reading, her voice filled with excitement. " 'I won! I won the contest! We're going to America for three weeks! I'm going to bring you and... and maybe someone else?' Oh my gosh, Sirius! What does it mean?"
Sirius chuckled. "I think it means she wants you to bring someone else along for the trip."
Emily's eyes sparkled with excitement as she turned to Sirius. "Do you think she means...? No, it can't be! It's too crazy!"
But Sirius was already nodding. "Actually, it's not that crazy. Daphne loves a good adventure, and this would be an experience of a lifetime. Who do you think she might be talking about?"
Emily's mind was racing with possibilities. She thought about all their friends at Hogwarts, but one person in particular stood out.
"What if she means Arlo?" she asked, her voice barely above a whisper.
Sirius grinned mischievously. "That would be perfect too. They are dating and Daphne would love having him along for the ride."
As they sat there, discussing the possibilities, Emily couldn't help but feel a sense of excitement and anticipation building inside her. This summer was going to be one for the books, and she couldn't wait to see what adventures lay ahead. They left a few hours later and were greeted by the warm sunshine and the sound of birds chirping in the trees. The rolling hills of Yorkshire stretched out before them, a picturesque backdrop for their visit to Daphne's family home.
A tall woman opened the door, with long blonde hair braided back in an elegant style that accentuated her striking features. Her piercing blue eyes sparkled with curiosity as she took in the pair, her gaze lingering on Sirius before moving back to Emily.
"Ah, you must be Daphne's friends," said the woman, her voice sweet and melodious. "Come in, come in. We're just having tea."
Sirius flashed his usual charming smile, but Emily could sense a hint of wariness beneath his carefree exterior. She knew him well enough to recognize that he was nervous about being there. As they entered the house, Emily couldn't help but notice the stark contrast between this tranquil setting and the chaotic atmosphere of their own homes. The Winters residence was a haven of elegance and refinement, with delicate china and fine linens adorning the table. Daphne sat at the center of the room, her bright smile illuminating the space as she poured tea into dainty cups.
Emily felt a pang of nostalgia wash over her as she took in the familiar surroundings. She had always loved visiting Daphne's family home, with its warm hospitality and cozy atmosphere. But now, with Isadora present, Emily couldn't help but feel a sense of trepidation. What would their interactions be like? Would they get along?
Emily's eyes lit up with joy as she returned Daphne's hug, feeling a surge of warmth and happiness.
"Daphne!" she exclaimed, her voice muffled by Daphne's shoulder. "It's so great to see you!"
As they pulled back, Emily took in Daphne's radiant smile and sparkling eyes. She looked like she was on top of the world, and Emily couldn't help but feel a sense of excitement and anticipation. Sirius, who had been watching the reunion with interest, spoke up, his voice low and smooth.
"Daphne, we're so glad to be here. Who is this?" He was pointing at the tall woman who had gracefully sat where she had been. Daphne's eyes twinkled as she turned to Sirius, her smile unwavering.
"Ah, this is Isadora, my eldest sister," she said, her voice filled with warmth and affection. "She's been like a second mother to me. She also was Head Girl what…. how long ago?"
"That was nearly five years ago," said Isadora, seated across from them, nodding graciously. Her eyes crinkled at the corners as she smiled. "And a pleasure to meet you both. I've heard so much about you."
Emily's eyes scanned the room, taking in the elegant atmosphere and the refined demeanor of the Winters sisters. She couldn't help but feel a sense of admiration for their poise and composure. Isadora, with her gentle smile and commanding presence, was clearly the epitome of elegance and sophistication. The twenty-one year old seemed to understand the importance of her status.
Sirius, ever the charmer, flashed his famous smile at Isadora.
"The pleasure is all ours," he said, his voice dripping with charm. Daphne chuckled, her eyes sparkling with amusement.
"I'm sure you got my letter! Isadora has already filled me in on some of the details," she said, her voice teasing."
"Daphne, remember, Father won that contest and gave you and Eric it for completing your OWLs..." reminded Isadora quickly. Daphne's face fell, her eyes flashing with a mixture of disappointment and embarrassment.
"Oh, well I know that, I'm so sorry," she said, her voice apologetic. "I got it all mixed up. Father did indeed win that contest, and we received the gift so it's like Eric and I won it…."
Isadora's expression turned stern, her eyes narrowing slightly.
"Yes, Daphne, you must remember that our parents' generosity is not something to be taken lightly. We must always be mindful of our family's values and traditions," Isadora said sternly. "After all, we are representatives of the Winters' esteemed name. I'm sure Mr. Black understands the importance of such things," she added, her eyes flickering towards Sirius.
Emily felt a sense of unease wash over her as she took in the strict demeanor. She knew that Daphne's family were wealthy and influential, her father was a top-rate Quidditch star and her mother was a Daily Prophet Senior Editor. But Daphne and Eric had never acted with such formality and propriety while at school.
"Ah, I see," said Sirius, his voice dripping with sarcasm, looking down at his hands. "I'm not the only one who's had to deal with a parents'... eccentricities."
Daphne shot Sirius a warning look, her eyes flashing with a hint of annoyance. "Let's just focus on the trip, shall we?" she said, her voice bright and cheerful once more. Isadora's expression turned thoughtful, her eyes drifting off for a moment before focusing back on Sirius. He shifted slightly under the glance. The elder Winters sister sure had an intense observance over the eldest Black son.
"Yes, of course," said Emily. "You've been planning this trip for several days?"
Emily's excitement grew as she listened to Daphne's words. She couldn't wait to hear more about the trip and start making plans for their American adventure.
"Who do you think I should bring? Arlo can't come because of his internship and I thought about David but he's got an internship too, and I don't want to go without someone I know."
Emily's mind began to spin as she thought about all the possibilities.
"Well naturally I want you to go!" she exclaimed out loud, not even thinking about the pros and cons. "But if Arlo can't..." She knew that he was busy with the summer Healer program. He had talked about it a few times when Daphne was with her during their study times. Because of the nature of the program, it wouldn't be fair to ask him to drop everything, even as exciting America as it would be.
"Who has Eric picked?" Emily thought aloud, considering that surely each twin got to pick someone.
"Eric doesn't care. He would rather it just be me going but he is looking forward to checking out the Smithsonian. You know him. He loves history!"
A small giggle came from Isadora. "Oh, for goodness' sake! Eric's fascination with ancient civilizations is something to behold, isn't it?"
"According to the letter, we would arrive in New York and spend some time there in the area, then onward to Philadelphia. Then to the capitol, and lastly... "
"What's next?" asked Emily nervously, holding onto Sirius. He was even invested in this.
"Apparently we are offered to go camping in some place called Monongahela National Park which I find exciting. I've never been camping!"
"I'm sure it'll be a real adventure," Isadora said dryly, her tone suggesting that she was not exactly thrilled about the prospect. Waving her hand at Daphne, she noticed her sister's strong reaction.
"Of course, there's the obligatory visit to the White House," she added, her eyes rolling heavenward. "I mean, who wouldn't want to spend their summer vacation stuck in a stuffy room with a bunch of politicians?"
Daphne and Emily sat there for some time as they looked over the itinerary together. Their eyes scanned as they threw out random names as the fourth person.
Sirius had leaned back into the chair, noticing that Isadora was staring at him. Sure she was beautiful but the woman was much older than he. His gaze lingered on Isadora's profile, his eyes tracing the curve of her jawline and the subtle slope of her nose. He found himself drawn to her, despite his initial reservations. Her piercing green eyes seemed to hold a world of wisdom, and yet, there was a hint of mischief in their depths that hinted at a more playful nature. As he watched, Isadora's gaze flicked back to him, and Sirius felt a jolt of awareness as their eyes met. He raised an eyebrow, a small, wry smile playing on his lip as Emily and Daphne talked animatedly.
"You're rather...perceptive," he drawled, his tone laced with amusement.
Isadora's eyes sparkled with a hint of mischief as she replied, "Oh, I try to keep up with the times."
Her voice was polished and calm. Sirius's heart skipped a beat as he caught the subtle undertone of flirtation. But he was too seasoned a wizard to let his guard down, and he masked his reaction with a casual shrug.
"Well, I suppose that's to be expected from someone who's...experienced," he said dryly, his eyes never leaving hers. The words were innocuous enough, but the way he drew out the last syllable sent a shiver down Isadora's spine.
"But for the fourth person," said Emily suddenly, turning to Sirius with a curious expression. Sirius raised an eyebrow as his attention wasn't to her for once.
"What's going on?" he asked, his voice laced with amusement. "You're looking at me like I'm supposed to be some sort of...mystery guest or something."
"Remember you must have an adult witch or wizard with you. I can not go due to my obligations to my husband," said Isadora, throwing her hair back a moment. "Perhaps Mr. Black would be ... willing..."
Emily's eyes sparkled with mischief as she trailed off, leaving the unspoken suggestion hanging in the air. Sirius's expression turned wary, his eyes darting between the two sisters as he sensed the weight of their unspoken agreement.
"I'm not sure I'm the best person for the job," he muttered, his voice laced with reluctance. "I'm not exactly… conventionally an adult."
It must have been the puppy eyes that Daphne and Emily were sporting but a moment later, his shoulders fell. Despite his initial reservations, Sirius's eyes locked onto Emily's, his expression softening as he weighed the risks.
"Fine," he said finally, his voice low and decisive. "I'll go. But I'm only doing it because I don't want you to get yourself into trouble." He glanced at Daphne sternly, who nodded happily.