It was finally the end of June following the conclusion of the NEWTs that seemed to stretch endlessly. Every moment was filled with both relief and an underlying weariness that had settled in her stomach. As she stepped through the threshold of the Hospital Wing, the familiar ambiance washed over her—a blend of antiseptic that spoke of care and old stone that whispered tales of healing. Her heart felt lighter as she spotted a young man positioned behind the desk. The shelves behind him were lined with thick tomes and jars filled with peculiar concoctions, remnants of both extensive study sessions and practical applications in healing.
Arlo was completely absorbed in his work and his frock cuffs were slightly frayed, as the quill in his hand flew across the page. His hair was tousled as determination highlighted his face against the soft shadows. As she approached he finally looked up, setting down his quill and getting up in a rush.
"Hey, Emmy!"
Surprise and a wide smile flashed across his face as he pushed his chair back. His green eyes twinkled with an eagerness that suggested he had been thinking of her. Despite the gravity of his work, he always made time for her. Smiling back, she felt the familiar comfort of his hug and she felt most at home.
"You look a bit pale," he said, his eyes narrowing with concern as he pulled back a bit. "Are you feeling alright?"
"Not really," she said as a sigh escaped. Arlo's brow furrowed deeply as his frown darkened a little, a protective instinct flaring within him. "I've been nauseous for a while – I think it was the exams but it hasn't gone away."
"That's not good. You should have come to me sooner," he whispered sympathetically, running a light finger down her cheek affectionately. His eyes spoke of love and this made her smile against his hand. Silently he led her to the nearest bed and motioned for her to lay down. "Better safe than sorry."
As he performed a series of spells and tests, they chatted, trying to keep things light. He was excited about his future in healing, and this last year in Hogwarts as a de facto member of staff had been unusual.
"Thank you for checking on me," she said quietly, breaking the comfortable silence that had settled between them.
"Anytime," he said adoringly, looking up and giving a reassuring smile. "Anything for my girl."
He turned back to his task, his fingers deftly measuring potions and casting diagnostic spells. The shadows under his eyes betrayed long hours spent working in the Hospital Wing. His hair fell into his eyes as he focused, and she couldn't help but feel gratitude for having him in her life. Arlo always put her, and Aurora to that extension, first. Emily found herself drawn into their discussions and his fingers gripped his wand tightly as he paused over her abdomen. Worry nagged at her as his eyes widened. His expression had changed from curiosity to a look of controlled anger.
"Is it David's?" he asked gently, watching her reaction carefully. His arm fell to his side as he looked deeply into her eyes trying to find the words.
"What do you mean?" Caught off guard, Emily frowned.
"The baby? Is it David's?" he pressed, firmer this time, his voice holding a mixture of concern and something else, something unsettling. Her heart sank at his words, confusion swirling within her. She admitted she heard the question clearly, but the weight of his repeated question settled heavily. His question hit her like a shockwave, and she blinked rapidly, unsure how to process the reality.
"Are you serious?" she whispered, her heart racing. The emotions surged up inside her — happiness, fear, joy at the thought of giving Aurora a sibling, but also concern about how Sirius would react given she recalled last being with David at Easter.
"Why would I lie to you," Arlo snapped harshly. He took a deep breath, his anger giving way to hurt. "At Easter, were you with David? Because it wasn't with me!"
"It wasn't like that! It was complicated," she protested, feeling the tears prick at her eyes.
Arlo's outburst hung in the air like a fragile glass, threatening to shatter under the weight of his emotions. For a moment, silence enveloped them. Emily felt a rush of confusion, her heart pounding against her ribcage as she tried to comprehend the turmoil between them.
"Arlo," she spoke softly, her voice barely above a whisper, willing him to look back at her. "Please, just listen."
He turned, the fiery resolve in his eyes dimmed slightly by the hurt she could see beneath. The shadows of the room seemed to wrap around them, amplifying the tension, but the flicker of vulnerability — her honesty — stopped him in his tracks. She took a deep breath, her thoughts a turbulent storm.
"I— I've only been with David," she insisted, shaking her head as if the motion could clear the confusion from her mind. His eyes hardened, and doubt still lingered in his gaze. The hurt in his voice held a note of desperation.
"After everything he's done? Emmy – he was with Cosette! He was – You know it!"
The mention of Cosette stirred something within her. The name conjured vivid memories—of the fight, of the coldness, and an undeniable connection that had once burned brightly. But Emily got lost in those thoughts, struggling with the reality of her circumstances.
"I thought…" she started, the warmth in her heart shadowed by a chill of uncertainty. "I thought it wasn't anything. It was one time!"
Arlo's eyes bore into hers, a desperate plea for understanding reflected in the depths of his green irises.
"Where did you go after you ran away?" Arlo's voice was strained, like a taut string ready to snap at the slightest tug of truth. Arlo's expression shifted, confusion giving way to a mixture of disbelief and rage. His grip tightened on the edge of the bedside table, the wood creaking under the pressure.
"I went to Godric's Hollow. I don't know why," she admitted, feeling the weight of that memory flood over her. "I just thought... I thought it would be good for Aurora to connect with her father, to know him. It's supposed to be a safe place. I wanted to be safe and — I thought that Sirius might …"
Emily's words tumbling out in an attempt to explain her motives, but his gaze only hardened, flashing with frustration.
"Do you even hear yourself? You ran away, left me behind, to have your moment with him! You were with David too — after everything!"
The air around them crackled with tension, each word a jagged shard as he spoke. Emily felt her heart constrict painfully, torn between the duty she felt to her daughter and the love she shared with Arlo.
"It wasn't like that, Arlo! I thought maybe... maybe he'd want to be a father to Aurora. I don't want to deny her that opportunity!"
"Deny her? Emmy, you're not thinking straight! You're getting caught in his charm again, and you put her in the middle of it!" His voice quivered, trembling with the weight of betrayal and hurt. "I've been here, by your side, committed to you and to raising your daughter."
The vulnerable ache in her chest twisted painfully, his words cutting deeper than she would care to admit. A painful silence enveloped the room, amplifying the chaotic thrum of her heart. Emily could feel the weight of Arlo's accusations, but they also ushered forth her own doubts. The image of Sirius and their shared moments swirled in her mind, but it was never just about him. She glanced up at Arlo, whose expression was a portrait of vulnerability and pain, and her stomach twisted at the fear of losing him.
"Arlo, I need you to trust me," she whispered, the words a fragile lifeline cast amid turbulent waters. "I made mistakes, but I thought I was ensuring a future for Aurora. I thought if I could create a bond between her and her father, it would mean something—something real. I still love you!"
His eyes softened for a moment, a flicker of the truth lingering there.
"Emmy, I've never once stepped out on you. Aurora has been flourishing because of us! Those moments we shared … David was never there for those! I was holding Aurora's hands teaching her to walk! I was there reading to her before Daphne sure as bloody hell ruined everything for me! We were raising her, together! Not Sirius Black, not bloody David Luke. No! US! I've been here through everything — supporting you, loving you, and raising her like she's my own."
Arlo shook his head, a weary resignation settling in his shoulders. A long, aching silence stretched between them, the truth echoing in the spaces they would fill with laughter and love. His gaze fell to the ground, the weight of unspoken words hanging in the air. But his eyes were clouded with turmoil, the tension of a trust shaken like a glass teetering on the edge, and she realized just how precarious their love had become. The battle ground was set, and the only certainty left was the rising conflict within them, settling like a heavy weight over everything they once held dear.
Emily's chest tightened as she realized he was right. The shared glances, the clandestine smiles, and the unspoken connection that had lingered in the air like a tangible thread had not disappeared. They were still there, wrapped tightly around her heart. She remembered back to Aurora's first Christmas, and how she learned to walk in his very home and took her first steps. Arlo's attention to his goddaughter was more than most and Emily knew it stemmed from his love for them both. Her mind raced back to Christmas, when they tried to inform David and Daphne about the truth but it never came out, so their love remained on the inside.
"I never meant to betray you," she confessed, fear cloaking each word. "It was a mistake— this was just a fleeting thing!"
"Emily, it's not that simple," he said gently, his voice now a whisper wrapped like a warm embrace. He stepped closer, the tension melting from his shoulders as the walls around his heart began to soften.
"But David…" she trailed off, unable to complete the thought as doubt crept back into her heart.
Arlo closed the space between them with an electric tension that left Emily breathless. Her heart raced as he gently cupped her face in his hands, fingers brushing against skin as if she were made of delicate glass. The warmth of his touch sent a shiver down her spine, and her mind raced with confusion, uncertainty, and desire as his gaze bore into hers. In one swift motion, he leaned in, capturing her lips with his. The kiss started as a jolt—her eyes widened in surprise, momentarily pausing her thoughts as she processed the unexpected warmth flooding through her. But then the shock melted away, and she felt herself leaning into him, her hands gripping his forearms as she surrendered to the moment. His lips moved against hers with a fervor that spoke volumes, pouring every ounce of his concern, affection, and love. It tasted of longing, of missed opportunities, and something undeniably sweet. The world outside fell away; the tension, the fears, and the turmoil dissolved, leaving just the two of them suspended in time.
As they leaned into each other, the kiss deepened, soft but insistent, as if trying to communicate all the feelings that words could never quite capture. She felt his emotions bursting through the connection, wrapping around her like a comforting embrace. It was fervent, almost desperate, carrying with it the promise of understanding, of a love that had quietly lingered just beneath the surface, waiting for the right moment to rise. When they finally broke apart several minutes later, both breathless and flushed, Emily's mind raced with the same set of questions. Arlo's grip remained gently firm, and the look in his eyes mirrored a vulnerability that both thrilled and terrified her. As she took a hesitant step back, the weight of the moment hit her like a wave, and she sank onto the nearby bed in the hospital wing, tears brimming in her eyes.
"Emmy," he whispered, his voice husky with emotion. "We promised each other to be there for one another. I will always stay true to that."
"I—" she started, feeling the weight of the confession settle in her chest, but words escaped her. How could she respond to something so significant after that had happened? The flicker of hope battled against the reality of her situation — the messiness of her feelings for Arlo, the confusion of her life involving David and Sirius. Tears slipped down her cheeks as the conflict swirled within her.
"You deserve someone who truly cares about you. Someone who sees the light in you," said Arlo, his hands trembling slightly as he lowered them to her shoulders, needing to maintain that precious connection. He remained standing in front of her, his presence both grounding and overwhelming as she looked up into his earthy green eyes.
"I know that but," she admitted, her voice almost breaking as she fought back more tears gathering in her eyes. "I thought I did… we've talked about running away…."
She glanced down, the weight of her spiral of emotions pulling her gaze away from him.
"Please don't look away," he murmured, tilting her chin back up gently with a finger, his touch sending warmth down her spine. Brushing away escaped tears, she felt kindness envelop like a lifeline. His gaze remained steady, as if searching deep trying to find the parts of her that still believed in hope. The sincerity in his eyes rekindled a flicker of courage within her. She could imagine a different future, one with Arlo's constant presence and their shared laughter echoed. Lingering complications that felt almost insurmountable appeared to be waiting patiently for the complexities of their hearts to settle. Searching his eyes, the same warmth he always gave was there.
"You deserve someone who doesn't make you cry," he said calmly gathering her into his arms, wrapping them in a shared scent of lavender and cedarwood. "I love you and Aurora with everything I am.
His words brushed against her like a gentle balm, if only briefly easing the turmoil inside her mind. Yet, beneath the reassurance, the shadows of reality loomed. The hope of what might be, the fear of the unknown, the bright possibility of a second child; it all blended together making her nauseous.
"I love you too Arlo," she whispered softly against his chest, holding him around the middle. "Please never leave me alone."
"I'm not going anywhere," he promised, his voice a low rumble, wrapping around her like a soft blanket. "When we can, when I'm certified as a Healer, let's run away. I will protect you, Aurora, and whatever happens with this one."
Arlo's arms wrapped sincerity around her, pushing back against the shadows of doubt and fear. Emily took a deep breath, allowing his calming scent of cedarwood and her lavender to fill her senses. The air felt electric in his tightened embrace, as if he wanted to shield her from the storms brewing both inside and out. The steady thump of his heart was a comforting rhythm that beat in time with her own. The weight of her worries faded slightly, replaced by a warmth that spread through them both.
"How long? How long till you're certified?" She hadn't even realized she was crying. The tears that had been gathering now morphed into something softer, a mixture of relief and hope, a rediscovery of strength she didn't know she had.
"Two years or so. I'll be done in fall of 81, if I continue at the rate I'm at now. I'm working hard to get us out of Britain. But Dumbledore keeps with these Order missions for me and I'm growing tired of his games. A war is coming and I don't want us, or Aurora, to be a part of it. I can't lose you in this mess… But I need two years."
Emily searched Arlo's gaze, seeking the sincerity that lay just beneath his reassuring smile. The weight of their unspoken dreams hung in the air, tangible and almost electric.
"Two years?" she whispered, the number absorbing her thoughts, swirling her mind into a vortex of possibilities and uncertainties. "So much can happen in two years. Everything feels so fragile right now."
The tremor in her voice betrayed the turmoil brewing inside her. Arlo tightened his hold on her, his finger tracing gentle patterns on her back, offering her a silent promise of safety.
"I understand that, Emmy," he said gently, his voice steady. "But we need to hold onto that hope, remember why we talked about running away. We made those plans because we believed we could find a way to be free — together."
"But what if…" she paused, fear cutting through her words like a cold breeze. "What if we never manage to get away? What if something... or someone... pulls us apart before then?"
Her body shivered slightly as vulnerability washed over her. Arlo's expression hardened slightly, determination lighting up his earthy green eyes.
"Nothing is pulling us apart, Emily. Not now. Not ever. I've been thinking about this for a while, a life away from all the chaos, and it's not just a fantasy. I'm working towards it. I won't let anything get in the way of us and our future."
"Even if David keeps…" she started but hesitated. The thought alone brought a fresh wave of nausea.
"David won't matter when we're free. He'll be nothing more than a distant memory we can finally close," he interjected softly, kneeling down to her eye level. He cupped her face in his hands again, his touch firm yet tender. "But I need you to believe it too, Emmy. I need you to trust that we can make it happen. You and Aurora deserve so much more than what we have now."
Emily's heart fluttered at the urgency in his voice—a voice that wrapped around her fears like a warm embrace.
"And what about… this baby?" she whispered, her fingers instinctively resting on her abdomen. "What if—"
"I can take care of this baby, if you want," he said quietly, his eyes searching hers. His fingers gripped hers tightly as if to confirm the words. "I know the spell and I've made the potions several times. You're not the only pregnant student here at Hogwarts. I'm actually surprised how many times I've done the spell truthfully already."
Emily's heart raced at Arlo's admission. She could see the determination etched in his features, the way his eyes shone with an intensity that spoke of deep devotion, yet a flicker of conflict danced behind them.
"How many?" she questioned, unsure if she really wanted to know the number.
"It's surprisingly more Ravenclaws and Gryffindors, a few fifth years, mostly sixth and seventh years. But there was one Hufflepuff who was taken advantage of. I couldn't do it because I knew her well as a former prefect. Madam Promfrey handles most though."
Emily's eyes nearly bulged out as she realized the Hufflepuff in question. She knew Melody too and the thought of when it happened was terrible. It had been after the prefect meeting in March.
"Was it because of that boy in Slytherin? Rosier?"
Arlo looked down for a moment to gather his voice before speaking. Clearing his throat once more, he nodded. "It was. And Dumbledore dealt with him. He was stripped of his badge and given detention for the rest of the year. As well as criminal charges against his record. It will follow him no matter where he goes."
Silence enveloped them, the gravity of his words sinking in. Her voice trembled, a mix of disbelief and the weight of the decision pressing down on her, unlike the Hufflepuff prefect. Arlo was still gently cradling her face, grounding her as her mind spun with the implications.
"You would perform the spell on me, if I asked?" she dared watching his reaction.
"If that's what you want, yes. I would. No hesitation." His sincerity was tangible, yet the enormity of his offer hung heavy in the air. "I love you, Emmy. You matter more than anything else. I won't watch you suffer if you don't want this baby, especially if it belongs to David."
"But it's not just about what I want," she murmured, glancing down at her abdomen, her mind racing with the realities of pregnancy, commitment, and the tumultuous feelings for this baby. "It's complicated. What if… what if I choose to keep it? This is more than just a decision about a spell. We're talking about a life, Arlo."
"I understand," he replied, his voice steady as if anchoring her in the storm. "But I want you to know that I'm here for you — whatever decision you make. I'll stand by you, hold your hand through every moment, and make sure you and Aurora are taken care of. If you keep it, nothing will break us apart, I promise. We'll make it work because our love is stronger than any complications. That's what love is, right?"
Arlo's earnestness washed over her like a soothing balm, yet the conflicting emotions waged a fierce battle within her. His gaze never wavered, even as the shadows of uncertainty flickered between them. Tears brimmed in her eyes as she registered the depth of his commitment. A profound silence settled between them, heavy with unspoken fears and dreams yet to be realized. An ocean of uncertainty crashed against the shore of her heart as she inhaled deeply, letting the weight of their conversation settle into her being. The promise felt like a lifeline, a way to anchor her swirling emotions
"It's such a confusing time," she finally admitted, wiping a stray tear away. "I wish things could be different, simpler."
"Sometimes, the hardest paths lead to the most beautiful destinations."
Arlo shifted closer, as if trying to bridge the gap that remained in her heart. Taking a deep breath, Emily allowed herself to indulge in a flicker of hope again. Perhaps there was a way to navigate this chaos together. With those words, Emily felt a sense of calm wash over her, embracing the complexity of their situation with warmth instead of fear. In Arlo's gaze, she saw not just the echoes of her past but the beginnings of a future that could be filled with love—if only they could brave the storms together.
"Love doesn't divide; it multiplies. Aurora has already taught me that. Our family will grow stronger together. I want to build a life with you — not just run away, but create a life where we thrive. There's a whole world out there waiting, and I promise you, every step I take is to make sure you are safe and happy, no matter what it takes."
The steadfastness in his voice ignited something within her—a flicker of hope among the shadows.
"You really believe that, don't you?" she asked softly, searching his eyes for any hint of doubt.
"I believe in us. I believe in the love we have and what we can create together. And together, we can be strong enough to face whatever comes. Just promise me you'll hold onto that belief too?" Arlo's eyes pierced through her defenses, urging her to sink deeper into his unwavering faith.
"Two years…" she said, trailing off as she met his gaze once more. "A lot can happen in two years."
"I will be there for you and these children forever," he whispered, kneeling forward and kissing her gently, wiping away the lingering tears.
dot*
The sun hung low in the sky, casting a golden hue over the waters of the Black Lake. Emily stood at the shore, her heart brimming with bittersweet emotions as she looked out across the gentle ripples. Seven years at Hogwarts felt like a whirlwind, filled with laughter, challenges, and unforgettable friendships. In her arms, Aurora cooed softly, her tiny fingers grasping at the edge of Emily's robes. The little girl mirrored her father's striking features, a living reminder of the bond she shared with Sirius.
Looking down at her stomach, she sighed quietly, an internal turmoil rising. Aurora giggled at the sight of an empty boat making its way back across the lake, seemingly unaware of her mother's ambivalence. Those innocent sounds tugged at Emily's heart, awakening a protective instinct and a pang of uncertainty.
A second child, she thought, and it wasn't just Sirius's influence this time. This child's existence stemmed from a moment that had been both heated and reckless, one she had not yet fully reckoned with. The day of Easter had felt like a blur, a whirlwind of emotions that had left her feeling both exhilarated and terrified. David… she could still feel the tension of that encounter in her bones, as if the shadows of her choices stretched across the lake she had once crossed as a wide-eyed first-year. A part of her had known, had always known that running away was the safer option. Back to her childhood home, to the familiar comforts instead of facing the storm that had brewed within her. Was she carrying the Luke family legacy? Did she dare even tell him in case he locked her in a relationship she didn't desire anymore? Sure she loved him, but she could not be in love with a man like Arlo described.
And Arlo…
Aurora broke the heaviness of her thoughts with another giggle, the sound bubbling up like the laughter that had filled the castle's halls. Emily couldn't help but chuckle along.
"You're excited to leave, aren't you?" she mused softly, brushing a loose strand of hair behind her ear. Aurora responded by reaching out for the fading sun as if to grasp its warmth, oblivious to the worries swirling in air. "You'll be back one day when you come back to learn."
The last boat finally arrived, bumping gently against the shore, but she had chosen to wait until the end — a small act of defiance against the change that was approaching. Perhaps it was a brief reprieve from the inevitable, one last moment to hold on to the vestiges of her childhood. Glancing at the throngs of joyous graduates being warmly welcomed on the other side, she felt familiar sentimentality rise within her. Each student, each face, was a mirror of the journey they had all shared. Taking a deep breath, Emily steadied her resolve. No matter the tumultuous waters ahead, she would navigate them with courage, hand in hand with her family, and with the legacy of Hogwarts forever echoing in her heart. With a determined heart and a spark of hope igniting in her chest, she finally stepped into the boat, the gentle lapping of the water urging her forward. As the boat began to glide smoothly across the lake, she looked down at Aurora, who seemed captivated by the shimmering water.
"Together, my little star," she whispered, the weight that had lingered on her shoulders felt lighter with every inch they traveled.
Recalling the first trip across the water, a bundle of nerves and hope, stepping into the place Potter and Sirius had raved about for an entire year. Sitting up behind Eric and Daphne, had been the best choice, as they laughed their way across. The castle soared majestically into view, and she remembered holding Daphne's hand as her hair shimmered while she spoke animatedly about her hopes for sorting into Ravenclaw; the way Eric had rolled his eyes, teasing his sister while maintaining his slick-back hairstyle. Only it fell out of place when he sat down on the stool himself. The playful banter had felt like a warm welcome, a promise of friendships yet to be forged amongst new beginnings.
"Well, better be... GRYFFINDOR!"
It had thundered through the hall, followed by cheers from her brother and Sirius, pride illuminating their faces. In that moment, she had felt seen, welcomed, and part of something larger than herself. Emily's mind wandered back to that pivotal moment during their Sorting Ceremony. She could still feel the rush of anticipation coursing through her veins as Daphne had taken her place on the stool, her nervous energy. Emily had sat up straight, crossing her fingers in hopes that her friend would be placed in Gryffindor alongside her. Sirius had held her steady, laughing at her enthusiasm, as the hat had screamed out "Gryffindor!"—the cheers from their table reverberating like an echo of joy.
The sight of Daphne bounding over, arms wide, crying out, "My mum is going to kill me! BUT WE GET TOGETHER!" filled her with a sense of belonging that felt so pure, so innocent.
In that moment, everything had felt perfect—an unlikely duo of girls navigating the complexities of growing up, united together by friendship and shared dreams. They were poised at the edge of their youth, hearts brimming with aspirations, none the wiser to the trials, heartaches, and choices that lay ahead. Now that anticipation felt tinged with an ache that became unexpected. They had envisioned this day so vividly and talked about it endlessly — what it would be like to take the boat back together, to laugh and reminisce about the adventures they had shared, the late-night talks, the mischief. But now, as the water rippled quietly beneath her, the seat beside her felt empty, and the memories were bittersweet.
Mere years ago, Daphne with her wide blue eyes and big dreams of becoming a Daily Prophet Reporter like her mum, longing to pursue a legacy that resided mostly within Ravenclaw as her parents had been. The constant need of approval from them, led her into many fitful nights, judging herself against unbeatable odds. Now that Daphne, she was gone. And had been for a long time. Having chosen a different path that whisked her away from all the laughter, the secrets, and the unbreakable bonds they once shared.
Emily's thoughts drifted to the secret she had kept hidden from her best friend — the months of stolen glances and hidden smiles with Arlo, her boyfriend of three years. How exhilarating it had felt, those furtive moments behind the scenes, away from prying eyes. The Christmas Ball of their sixth year would forever remain etched in her mind; the way Arlo's presence had felt electric alongside her, the warmth of his laughter as they danced beneath the twinkling lights. It was on the chilly viaduct outside the Great Hall, with snowflakes swirling softly around them, that they had shared their first kiss — full of unspoken promises that had surged between them like a brewing storm. The thrill of that moment had felt like pure magic, something she yearned to replicate, even as guilt clawed at her insides. There had been laughter, late-night whispers, and secret kisses in his cottage or her private suite, all while Daphne remained blissfully unaware, trusting and happy in her ignorance. But with every brush of Arlo's lips against hers and each secret rendezvous, the weight of betrayal had begun to cast a shadow over her heart, even as they built those fleeting memories with the flicker of excitement.
Six months ago, they had promised each other to finally reveal the truth of their affair, but that moment never came, especially after learning of her second pregnancy. Somehow, Arlo has even agreed to let Daphne live in his cottage despite initial protests. Their safe haven was now compromised as Daphne repeatedly tried to repair a relationship Arlo had no intention of fixing. She swallowed hard, reminding herself that this journey, no matter how lonely it felt, was part of the new life ahead—one that would require her strength to embrace, to forge anew amidst the remnants of what once was.
Suddenly, the boat nudged against the bank with a soft thump. Emily stepped out, feeling the familiar solidity of the ground beneath her feet. The moment was here, teasing yet another new beginning amidst all the goodbyes. Beginning to navigate the throngs of graduates and their families, the gentle murmur of conversations around her faded, replaced by the unmistakable sound of her name being called.
"Emily!" The voice cut through the noise with a familiarity that quickened the beat of her heart, and she looked up, her breath hitching in her throat. There, standing amidst the jubilant crowd at Hogsmeade Station, was Sirius. He stood tall and proud, a dashing figure in casual attire, his dark hair tousled by the breeze. In his hand, he held a vibrant bouquet of wildflowers, the colors radiating against the pastel backdrop of the afternoon sky. Emily felt a rush of warmth envelop her, as if time had slowed down just for them.
"Sirius!" She exclaimed, a wide smile breaking across her face. The worries that had clung to her moments ago seemed to evaporate in the warmth of his gaze. He had always had that effect on her; no matter how heavy her heart was, he somehow managed to lift it.
As she approached, the world around her faded further into the background. He stepped forward, a dazzling smile on his lips, his eyes sparkling with affection.
"Congratulations, Graduate!" he said, his voice bright with enthusiasm. "You did it!"
"These are for you. I thought they could brighten up your day." Without hesitation, he extended the bouquet toward her, the flowers bursting with hues of lavender, sun-yellow, and deep crimson—the colors of celebration and life. Emily took the bouquet, its fragrance enveloping her in a comforting embrace.
"Thank you, Sirius. They're beautiful!" She breathed in deeply, the scents of summer and wildflower meadows mingling together. In that moment, she felt an overwhelming sense of appreciation for him, not just as the father of her child but as a steadfast friend. He stepped closer, their hands almost brushing as they both reveled in the moment.
"I wouldn't have missed this day for the world."
His voice softened, and she noticed the warmth in his eyes, a tender understanding of everything she was feeling. The reassuring weight of his words settled over her like a warm blanket, and she felt an answering tug at her heart. The memories of their journey raced to the surface — trials, triumphs, and the indomitable spirit of their love that had weathered every storm together. It was a grounding force, reminding her that even in the face of uncertainty, they would face the future united.
"Ready to go home?" Sirius asked, his expression earnest as he looked deep into her eyes.
"Home?" she replied, curious yet intrigued.
"Yes, home. For us…" He smiled, a warm spark igniting in his gaze. "Where we'll build our future together."
Emily's heart swelled, embracing the promise of the journey ahead—hand in hand with the one who had always made her feel truly at home, but for once her heart argued who that person was. She didn't notice that near the end of the station stood Arlo, his own hands clenched at his side as he watched her walk away with Sirius, nor did she see his angered expression.
dot*
A warm orange glow bathed the kitchen that melded beautifully with the light music playing softly from nearby. Sirius sat at the table, absorbing the scene with a content smile. The aromas wafting from the stove wrapped around like a comforting blanket, the kind that felt familiar and safe. Emily was busy at the counter, her attention devoted to preparing lunch. Sliced vegetables neatly displayed and a pot bubbling away with a fragrant stew. Her hair was loosely tied up, wisps escaping to frame her face, a look of concentration mixing with a hint of fatigue in her expression. Leaning back in his chair, watching Emily as she worked, each movement fluid and purposeful. The way she stirred the pot and the occasional glance she cast over her shoulder to check on Aurora, who was quietly playing in the corner with her toys.
Sirius loved watching the girls in their element. The way Emily dedicated herself to nurturing their little family and how Aurora was learning the world around them. This and more filled him with an overwhelming sense of gratitude and warmth. He sometimes felt like the luckiest man in the world. Here was his partner, the woman he loved deeply, crafting a life for them that felt rich and full. She was a whirlwind of energy, a force that brought joy into their home, and he couldn't help but feel proud. Yet, there was a cloud he couldn't quite shake—a nagging sense that something was amiss. The faint creases around Emily's eyes told tales of long nights and tireless days, but there was a spirit in her that refused to dim. But as he watched her, the timing of her movements, the slight changes in her posture, it began to dawn on him that something had shifted. The air felt different, thick with an unspoken reality he couldn't quite name. His heart raced as he tried to dismiss the thought, but each passing moment seemed to amplify the awareness that she was hiding something.
Trying several times to get her to admit, Daphne was of no help either. It seemed that she was having an equal amount of difficulty getting information from Arlo about their relationship and any time Emily was mentioned, she was met with a 'Emmy and I are friends' response. Attempting to reach out directly to man, Sirius somehow pinned Arlo into meeting for a casual meet-up, nothing more than drinks at the Leaky Cauldron. The Ravenclaw, indeed, froze at the mention of Emily's name. His eyes flickered with something resembling worry. When he pressed about it, Arlo had initially downplayed it, brushing it off with vague comments about tired parents. Pushing harder, and finally relenting, his voice lowering to a conspiratorial whisper, his eyes darting around like he was telling a sworn secret.
"She's pregnant," he had confirmed softly, his words punctuated with an uncomfortable pause. "She came to me about a test in late June. I'm worried it's David's though. I mean he and I had a huge row over Easter holiday, and now this. She's just confused. I don't want him hurting her!"
Those words had sent a jolt through Sirius as the world tilted on its axis at that moment. Memories of Easter floated through him — the angry sear of wrath after her spell nearly knocked him out, the soft whispers of warmth as they spent a week rebuilding, and of the accidental name slip of the very man he was staring wide eyed at. Everything about Arlo's personal knowledge of Emily made his skin crawl.
His heart filled with conflicting emotions. The joy at the thought of being a father again was amazing, but this time a gnawing dread soon eclipsed it. He had sensed it about Emily's demeanor had shifted, too, the way she had been stealing glances at her belly, the way she was softer around the edges, almost protective. He had dismissed it but it coiled around his chest, tightening with every passing thought. He forced himself to think about the life they were building. She also never openly said she was pregnant, almost like she knew something he didn't.
Sirius chuckled, the heaviness remaining. There was that unnameable feeling again. What if he was wrong? What if the baby she carried wasn't his? His breaths quickened at the thought. Could he trust the idea of their perfect family, when he couldn't shake the doubt that clung to him like a specter?
"Hey!" Emily's voice broke through his spiral of thoughts, bright and teasing. She turned, her hands on her hips, watching him with a keen smile that instantly drew him back. "You've gotten awfully quiet again. What's going on in that head of yours?"
"Nothing!" he replied too quickly, offering a smile that felt more like a mask. He stepped over to her, the lingering tension threatening to spill over, but he couldn't let it. Not now, not here in their home.
"Just admiring my two favorite girls, that's all," he added quickly with a forced smile.
She arched an eyebrow, her smile widening with playful skepticism.
"Just 'thinking'? You sure it doesn't involve plotting something else?" she asked, stepping closer, her eyes sparkling with mischief. "But you know, if you want to get in my good graces, you could help me with lunch instead of just sitting there."
Sirius chuckled, the tension easing for a moment. He stood and moved toward her, reaching for a few veggies on the counter.
"Yes, ma'am! What's on the menu?"
As they worked together, side by side, he stole glances at Emily. The way she focused on what she was doing, the way her body moved, there was a stillness about her, a protected secret that made him want to delve deeper… but he didn't want to disturb what they had.
Aurora was starting to mimic sounds and words, her laughter brightening their days like sunbeams breaking through cloud cover. He had come to count on the routine they created, the dance of parenting and partnership that held them together. Every shared moment felt like a thread tugging them closer. Nearby, she had finally found her footing, upright and adventurous. She still wobbled across the kitchen floor, her tiny feet delightfully unsteady but determined. With each tentative step, she giggled, and today's mission was looking for her favorite toy — the stuffed lion that had perked on top of a small bookshelf in the corner.
"Mummy!" she chirped, her voice ringing with the pride of discovery. She tugged at the red lion's hanging tail, her eyes sparkling with excitement as it stumbled down causing a loud ruckus. Emily paused, her quick laughter spilling into the air as she turned her attention to Aurora.
"What have you found?" exclaimed Emily, her voice brightening further.
She bent over to meet their daughter's eye level, the two of them sharing a moment that seemed to encapsulate everything he cherished about their family — affection, playfulness, and the undeniable bond they shared. Aurora raised the stuffed lion triumphantly, the toy caught in a bright beam of sunlight. That gleeful laughter reminded him of his conditional childhood, a time when joy was complicated and love was unmet. Yet, as he looked on, a hollow feeling that sometimes accompanied those moments had bogged his mind. Looking over at them, Sirius smiled knowing he was attempting to change the narrative of his terrible birth family.
"Mummy! Roar!" Aurora interrupted his thoughts, joyfully mimicking the noise of her toy lion. She was so utterly charming, so unabashedly innocent, and he wondered if she sensed the tremors beneath the surface of their family. "Rah-oh!"
They laughed again, her face softening as she straightened, playfully shoving her hair behind her ears. A playful light sparked in his gaze. His voice dripped with affectionate teasing, and for a moment, the lightness returned. Emily stepped aside, and he took her spot at the counter. As he rummaged through the ingredients, he felt the weight of her gaze on him, her curiosity flickering just beneath the surface.
"Do you ever think of… well, what might have been? If we hadn't been apart?" she asked quietly, breaking the comfortable silence that had settled around them.
Sirius locked his gaze on the bread, focusing on the task at hand rather than the storm that rose within him. The knife met the cutting board with a forceful thwack, sending a shudder through the wood that made him want to lash out. It had even made Emily jump a moment. A flicker of anger coursed through him. It constantly nipped at the edges of his mind, reminding him how far he had gone. Her question hung in the air, taunting him, stirring feelings he wasn't ready to confront. He couldn't help the swell of frustration inside, each push of the knife a release of tension. But somehow, he knew he needed to respond without letting his emotions dictate the moment. This was a chance to reassure them both, to find common ground amidst the difficulties trailing in their wake.
"Sometimes," he admitted, deliberately casual, though the reveal stirred the depths of his heart. "But I'm grateful for where we are now too… Aren't you?"
"Of course. But…" hesitated Emily, her expression a mixture of contemplation and unresolved thoughts. Sirius could see the struggle in her eyes. "Sometimes it feels like there are things we still need to sort through. Feelings we haven't addressed."
He swallowed hard, heart racing in unison with a simmering tension. Arlo Stone, his mind wondered.
"What do you mean?" he asked, rinsing his hands from the vegetable juices.
"Like our past, the confusion surrounding Aurora… and other things."
Her words hung in the air, laden with meaning. Drying his hands, Sirius braced himself for the conversation that was clearly brewing. The past simmered beneath the surface, and though he wanted to dive into it, a part of him hesitated.
"Other things?" he asked cautiously, knowing if he dared to question about Arlo, it would blow up in his face. Also, what other things was she referring to?
"Yes, other things," she nodded confidently. "I thought it might do us well to address the other people more openly. To get it off our chests."
As he stood there, feeling the gravity of her words settle in the room like a thick fog, Sirius sifted through the myriad of emotions crashing within him. The warmth of the sun streaming through the kitchen window felt distant, as if he were standing at the edge of a precipice, peering into the unknown below. The specter of Arlo loomed large in his mind — a name that carried weight and whispers of uncertainty. The unspoken tension within their relationship hung heavily in the air, thickening the atmosphere around them. He recalled his conversation with the man, the unease that crept into the silence as uncertainty danced between them like shadowy figures at dusk. Emily's connection to him seemed more than a mere friendship; it felt like a thread woven into the fabric of their lives, tied to a past that was still wet with unresolved chapters. A part of him bristled at the thought of Emily needing to air out her feelings about someone else, while another part — the part that was deeply in love with her — recognized the weight of their shared history and the complexity it brought along.
"Get it off our chests," he repeated, and he found himself torn between the desire for honesty and the fear of what truths could reveal. The uncharted waters of their hearts seemed to beckon him closer, urging him to take the plunge. Yet, what would that plunge reveal? Would it deepen the fissures already threatening the foundation of their family, or would it lead to a stronger bond forged in transparency?
The kitchen became a cocoon, their small world closing in around the sound of Aurora's laughter, the simmering meal, and the quiet music still playing softly in the background, all contrasting sharply with the turmoil brewing within. Here, anchored in their shared moments of joy and love, Sirius felt that perhaps it was time to confront the uncertainties that had begun to fray the edges of their picture-perfect life. He inhaled sharply, shifting into the moment with renewed intention, determined to navigate this conversation without the shadows of jealousy or fear distorting the open space between them. It was necessary to tread carefully; reaching for the truth meant stepping into the chaos of emotions, but the risk felt worth it for the sake of their family—their future, even.
"You mentioned a name in your sleep," he said carefully as if navigating a minefield. "Do you remember?"
The flicker of uncertainty in her eyes ignited his resolve, and with that, he steeled himself to delve into the depths of her feelings, beginning with the one name that haunted him. It was time to bridge the gap between them and unearth the secrets that might either bring them closer together or tear them apart, unaware of which path they would ultimately tread. Emily furrowed her brow, frustration mixed with vulnerability creeping into her voice.
"Sirius, I don't remember calling anyone's name—"
"I know you might not remember," he interrupted gently, wary of causing any more distress. "But I heard it clearly. It felt… significant."
Her eyes widened, the corners of her lips pulling down in concern.
"What name did I say?"
"Arlo."
Emily's face morphed in a split second, her initial surprise now tangled with disbelief. She shook her head with almost frantic vigor, as if trying to physically detach herself from the implications of his words. The color drained slightly from her cheeks, and her breath quickened. Sirius observed the subtle shifts in her expression, from doubt to something deeper and darker. Initially, there was a flash of anger in her eyes, righteous indignation at the very notion that he could think otherwise.
"Arlo? No, Sirius, that can't be right," she insisted, a hint of defensiveness creeping into her tone. The words were sharp on her tongue, cutting through the quiet intimacy of their kitchen. "Why would you even suggest that? I'm not… I don't think of him like that!"
But then, as if she had caught herself mid-rant, the light in her eyes dimmed, replaced with lips pressed together tightly, and he could see the turmoil brewing beneath the surface. The sudden silence felt heavy, oppressive, as if the air crackled with the potential for unspoken truths. He leaned in slightly, genuinely trying to understand.
"I just thought it was strange since you've done it several times. You say his name in your sleep a lot, I mean—"
"It doesn't mean anything!" she cut in, her voice rising, trembling at the edges.
Suddenly, Emily's guard was up. It was as if a barricade had sprung up within her, separating what felt like internal chaos from the candid conversation they had been having moments ago. Sirius studied her intently, his concern mounting. There was something in her rigid posture, the way her fingers clenched tightly around the edge of the table, that hinted at more than mere indignation.
"It's just strange, that's all."
"Strange?" she echoed, suddenly alarmed. She took a step back, her expression flaring with frustration, eyes narrowing with a fierceness that startled him. "You're making this into something it isn't. I don't know why I would even say his name! He's just… he's just a friend, that's it!"
The defensive posture she had adopted rang alarm bells in Sirius's mind. The way she repeated that last phrase — just a friend — too quickly, too insistently, felt like a flimsy shield, like it was something to hide behind. He could almost see the gears turning in her head, calculating how much she should reveal, weighing the consequences of honesty against instinct to protect herself.
"Emily," he pressed gently, "you don't have to defend your feelings. If it's nothing—"
"Why are you doing this?" she interjected. The vulnerability in her gaze flickered and was replaced by something deeper—possibly fear, possibly the hint of rage for daring to pry into her mind. "You heard a random name and suddenly you think there's something more? What do you want me to say?"
At that moment, Sirius realized: this was more than a simple misspoken slip up. It was as if he had unearthed a hidden fracture in the foundation of their relationship, something lurking beneath the surface of her bravado. He sensed a breach in her understanding of her own emotions, and as much as she wanted to claim innocence, the way she said Arlo proved there was more at play than mere friendship.
"Emily," he said slowly, choosing his next words with care, because the battlefield was now strewn with landmines. "I'm not trying to make anything of it. I'm just trying to understand. "
"Arlo." She shook her head, trying to grasp the connection with incredulity. "Arlo and I are friends, Sirius. Just friends."
"Well yeah I know that," he responded, his tone gentle but firm. Suspicion lingered in his mind as he looked over rigid expression. "That's not the point. It's… I need you to understand how it felt to hear another man's name out of your mouth."
Emily crossed her arms, tilting her head as she searched his face for clarity.
"But why would you think it meant anything? It doesn't mean there's anything between us, or that it ever could be. You know me better than that!"
"Of course. Right!" he finally snapped as she turned away, brushing her hair over her shoulder. He was fuming internally but he fought to keep his voice steady as it rose. "Because the woman I love calling me by some other man's name wouldn't do that!7 But it's not just about what you meant. The fact that it happened at all rattles me. I thought we'd moved past that kind of confusion."
Sirius saw a flash of surprise cross Emily, the unexpected sharpness catching her off guard.
"Oh, like you and Cosette Amory!" she snapped, crossing her arms defensively.
"I was never with Amory!" he shot back, the retort slipping out before he could rein it in. He had shouted the last bit, his voice roaring over hers with limited care about the volume.
For a moment, the kitchen felt heavier, the soft melodies playing in the background drowned out by the weight of their words. The tension in the air sharpened as both of them stood their ground, unyielding and raw. Aurora, unaware of the quiet storm brewing between her parents, continued to play at their feet, blissfully tossing her lion and squealing with delight. Her innocent laughter echoed like a chime in the charged atmosphere, a stark contrast to the tense silence that followed.
Sirius and Emily exchanged heated glares, each grappling with the remnants of old wounds. His heart raced as he tried to formulate a response that would ease the tension, but every word felt fraught with the ghosts of their past. Emily's brow furrowed, disappointment etching lines across her face.
"Is this how we're going to handle things now?" she asked quietly, her voice low but unmistakably hurt.
"I don't know how to handle this!" he retorted, far louder than intended.
Aurora paused mid-laugh, looking up with wide eyes at the sudden shift in her parents' demeanor. The realization brought both parents back into the moment, hands hovering over their unfinished conversation as the need to protect their daughter became more pressing than the argument. The kitchen fell silent again, the fragile energy between them momentarily quelled by Aurora's innocent chatter, plucking at the edges of their frayed nerves.
She picked up her stuffed lion and, with an excited cry of ROAR took a clumsy step forward, her determination shining brightly. Seeing her joy made Sirius's heart ache, grounding him. How could they be at odds when their daughter radiated such pure happiness? Emily looked down and her features softened slightly. But in her eagerness, Aurora misjudged her footing. She stumbled straight onto Sirius's legs and accidentally hit her face against his shins. The sudden thump startled her for a moment, tears brimming as she froze, a sudden cry escaping her.
"Hey, hey!" Sirius exclaimed, his heart lurching as he instinctively leaned forward, hands reaching down to scoop her up. Emily's eyes flicked from Aurora to Sirius, both parents momentarily united in their concern.
"I've got her!" Sirius said, his voice irritated as he steadied Aurora into his arms. Emily looked onward with a controlled look of annoyance. She looked up at him, wide-eyed, giving way to a quivering smile as he cradled her close. "See, sweetheart? All better! You've got to watch where you're stomping around."
Sirius pressed a gentle kiss to the top of Aurora's head as Emily turned around, walking out of the kitchen. He paused, the unexpected shift in Emily's demeanor stirring a mix of confusion and concern within him. He watched as she moved with purpose, her back to him, the tension between them re-coiling like a taut string. Aurora, still nestled in his arms, sensed the change, her small brows furrowing in confusion.
"Mummy?" she called out, her voice small yet filled with a child's innate sensitivity. The innocent question hung in the air, drifting between them like a fragile thread, and Sirius tightened his grip on her, wanting to shield his little girl from the emotional currents that surged around them.
"She just…needs a moment," he said, trying to sound reassuring, though uncertainty edged into his voice. "You gave her a little scare, sweet pea."
The mention of Emily's distress seemed to resonate with Aurora. She looked up at him with wide eyes and wobbled her stuffed lion in her small grasp as if offering it as comfort.
"Mummy sad?" she asked, her brows knitting together, perplexity furrowing her tiny forehead.
"Maybe just a little," Sirius answered softly, brushing a gentle hand over Aurora's head. "But it will be okay. We can roar like lions together! How does that sound?"
Aurora's face brightened as she clutched her lion closer, her cheeks flushed with innocence. She echoed another roar, her excitement breaking through the tension like sunlight piercing through clouds. She wiggled her body in his arms, eager to engage. Sirius chuckled, allowing himself to be swept up in her energy. He let out a playful roar, and Aurora erupted into giggles as she mimicked him, her laughter ringing through the kitchen like a chime that momentarily dispelled the heaviness in the air. As they played together, he glanced toward the doorway, hoping Emily would return soon. The warmth of Aurora's laughter filled the silence, and Sirius clung to the notion that they would find their way back to laughter and understanding as a family — no matter how stormy things felt right now.
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