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Chapter Text

Part 1

Between the mountains of Connemara in Ireland was a small wooden hunting cabin. Only one person lived there for eight months in 1977 before a second person arrived. They stayed together, just the two of them for four years until...

Cordelia Dubois was only twenty years old when she gave birth alone at a safe house. She birthed a baby girl, her one and only child and she named her Alexandra.
She had written the father a letter to say she was pregnant, but she never got a reply. She only found out she was pregnant after Dumbledore made her go into hiding. He told her she could come back when the time was safe, but it's been eight months and still no word, not one.

She was sitting in her bathtub and let the red-stained water drain away as she held her daughter tightly to her chest. While the baby girl was drinking hungrily, she cleaned herself up and casted some healing charms over her, happy to have had her first healer training before she was forced into hiding, so she knew what to do. She tiredly climbed out of the tub and got dressed.
She made her way to her bedroom and went to the transfigured carton box turned crib. She laid the fully naked baby in the bed and went to get all of the clothes and diapers she had transfigured or bought at the small local store and placed them in the cupboard. She looked over her shoulder to Alexandra who was starting to doze off. Her head was full of wavy black hair with grey eyes. She looked so much like her father; it made her heart break. With a sad smile, she put on a little diaper and a onesie and went to sit at the desk at the window.

She took in a deep breath and started on the next letter. Her quill scratching on the parchment was the only sound in the room. On her right was already a large stack of envelopes, all sealed magically only for Alexandra to open up when it was the right time.

Alexandra, Alec was her go-to name now, appeared with a little trunk with the initials CD, on the steps of a little apartment building on the edge of London. She was alone on the streets at just four years old, and the snow was starting to fall down. She shivered as she looked at the doorbells on her top left. With a tiny little frown, she compared the letters on the piece of paper her mother had shoved into her hands to the name plaques next to the bells. She put the trunk on the ground and climbed on top of it and reached for the right bell. When she didn't hear anything, she pursed her lips and kept pressing it.

After a few minutes, the door flew open and revealed an angry-looking young man with sandy brown hair and amber eyes. She could see a large scar on his neck that disappeared in his shirt. The man's eyes softened when he saw the little girl on the trunk, her hand still hovering over the bell. His eyes shifted from anger to surprise to worried, as he looked around the empty street.

"Uncle Moony." Alec smiled at the man, her eyes like saucers. Remus Lupin's eyes nearly fell out of their sockets as he looked at the girl in front of him.

"Uncle Moony?" He choked out. "Where are your parents, little girl?" It looked like he said the wrong thing, the girl got tears in her eyes and let the little teacup in her other hand fall to the ground. "I'm sorry, I'm sorry." Remus muttered, trying to soothe the child but didn't know how to do so. He was so out of his element.

Alec wiped the tears away, took a letter from her red coat and handed it over before she hopped off her trunk. "I'm cold." She said through shivering teeth.

"Oh, right." Remus shook his head as he looked at the envelope in his hand with his name on it. "Why don't you come in? I think I have some hot chocolate upstairs."

The little girl didn't answer, but just took her trunk and walked past him. He watched the girl wait for him at the bottom of the staircase and smiled as she tapped her tiny foot impatiently. Remus picked up the plastic teacup and walked over to the girl. "Follow me."

Once settled in the kitchen, he put the envelope down and made work on two cups of hot chocolate. As he prepared the cups, he studied the young girl carefully. With her black wavy hair and those grey eyes, there was only one possibility on who she was...

"Here you go, little girl." Remus smiled nervously as he pushed a cup to her.

"Alec." She huffed as she pulled the cup to her.

"Alec." He nodded with a smile at the directness of such a young girl. "Is it okay that I read this now?" He asked her, holding up the envelope. She nodded at him before she took the cup in her tiny hands and brought it to her lips.

With a little shake in his hands, Remus opened the envelope and his eyes flickered over the parchment at rapid pace.

Remus,

I'm sorry for springing her up on you, but I had no other choice.
They are coming closer, I can feel it. I'm no longer safe at the house Albus put me in.

I've put a vial of my memories in Alec's trunk and Alec is the final memory. You can take it from her while she sleeps, it won't hurt her. I've put it ready for you.

I have written letters for her, for every birthday that is to come. Please, please take care of her. I don't have anyone left. I just read the paper today, about Sirius... I can't believe it.

You'll find her birth certificate in the envelope with this letter.
I wish I could've introduced her to you sooner, but seeing the circumstances...

Tell her I'll always love her and watch over her.
Please look after her, Remus.

Love,

Cordelia Dubois.

He didn't look at the girl in front of him, but just took the next piece of parchment in the envelope and folded it open, a birth certificate.

Name: Alexandra Fae Black

Date of birth: October 30 th , 1977

Place of birth: Connemara, Ireland

Mother of the child: Cordelia Fae Dubois

Date of birth: January 20 th , 1958

Nationality: French

Father of the child: Sirius Orion Black

Date of birth: November 3rd, 1959

Nationality: British

"Sirius." He whispered as his hand clenched around the parchment. It was only a little over a month ago that Lily and James were killed, that Sirius betrayed them and delivered them on a silver platter to Voldemort. It never sat right with him what happened, that Sirius could've betrayed them but still what other explanation was there?

He looked up from the birth certificate and saw the girl, Alec, asleep on the kitchen island. He rubbed his hand tiredly over his face as he sat halfway on the barstool, his eyes fixed on the sleeping young girl. What is he supposed to do with her? He was a freaking werewolf! He wasn't cut out to raise a child. But what were his options? Maybe he could find Cordelia before it was too late. After staring at the young girl for fifteen minutes, he decided to watch the memories first. He picked up the young girl, and the girl snuggled in his chest like it was something she always did.

He frowned when he kicked open the door to his small second bedroom. It was being used as a storage room; with piles of boxes stacked against the walls. With great difficulty, trying not to wake little Alec, he took his wand out of his holster and transfigured one of the boxes into a small bed. He placed the girl softly on the bed and scavenged through the boxes to search for his spare blankets. When he found a red and blue checkered one, he covered the girl and walked out of the room.

He picked up the little trunk from the ground next to the chair Alec fell asleep in and put it on the kitchen counter. With a tap of his wand, the chest enlarged to one of Hogwarts' school trunks. His fingers went over the initials, it was Cordelia's old trunk. Remus and the others all knew Cordelia from school. They weren't close as she was a year ahead of them and she was in Ravenclaw, but they were familiar. They grew closer after school, when Cor joined the order, especially with Sirius. Remus believes if they had the time, they would've fallen in love with each other. They cared for each other greatly, and Sirius wanted her to be safe. So, he agreed with Dumbledore to send her away, for her own safety. Cor was angry and fought them with everything she had, but she was made by one of the death eaters one night. That was when she reluctantly agreed to go into hiding. Sirius promised to come back for her, but then all hell broke loose. Now Voldemort was defeated, Lilly, James, and Peter were dead. Sirius was in prison, and Remus was left all alone. Not so alone anymore as he has a four-year-old girl in his spare room.

He inhaled deeply as he clicked open the trunk. He saw the stack of letters neatly tied together with a piece of string on top of some clothes. He smiled at the stuffed dog, which looked a lot like Padfoot, and placed it on the counter. That's when he saw the vial full of memories floating around. He studied it up close before he put the vial down and picked up the stuffed dog. He walked back to his spare room and softly pushed the door open. The girl was still peacefully asleep, and he placed the dog in her arms. Alec turned around and snuggled close to the dog. Once she was lying still again, he crouched down next to her. He looked over his shoulder and summoned another vial. With a trembling breath, he placed his wand on her temple and pulled out the memory Cordelia had put ready from him. The girl didn't even stir and with a firm grasp on the vial, he stood back up and walked out of the room, leaving the door ajar.

He paced the living room, his eyes going back to the vials on the counter. He needed a pensieve. He knew Dumbledore had one, but he wasn't in the mood to explain Alec's situation to him. Honestly, he was afraid he might take her away like he did Harry. He wasn't sure if he was going to keep her, but he wouldn't want her to be placed with muggles who wouldn't understand her. He stopped pacing when he remembered Sirius had one in Grimmauld place. He was already one foot in the fireplace when he stopped. Shit! I can't leave her alone. He started pacing again, he needed to see those memories, to see what had happened. Who could he contact? He was running his hands through his hair so much it was standing in every direction. He stopped in his tracks as an idea popped into his head.

"Of course." He mumbled before he headed to the front door. He didn't walk far just across the hall and knocked on the door. A few minutes later, the door opened to reveal his elderly neighbour, Beatrice.

"Remus, hello. Did you need any more sugar?" She smiled sweetly.

"No, Beatrice." He smiled back. "My niece is visiting, but I forgot to take her backpack. Do you mind keeping an eye on her? She's already asleep, and it wouldn't take more than half an hour."

"You know I would love to do it, but my son will pick me up in about five minutes to go to the doctor." She said a little sadly.

"No worries, thank you." Remus smiled. "I hope you feel better." He nodded his head briskly and walked back into his flat. He was pacing in his hallway. He could hear the little girl breathing in the spare room. With a frown, he suddenly walked over to the basket full of muggle magazines. He had seen something in it that might be of use. He flickered quickly through the magazines and grinned when he found it. He grabbed a blanket from his couch and studied the picture carefully before he transfigured the blanket. He looked at the magazine again with a crease between his eyes as he tried to figure out how to put it on. It took him nearly ten minutes before he had figured it out, now putting little Alec in it... He walked over to the spare room and pulled the blanket off the girl. He picked her up gently trying not to wake her, her stuffed dog still firmly in her little hands. With great effort, he wrapped the "toddler carrier" or whatever it was called, over Alec's back and put the sturdy straps over his shoulders. He couldn't reach the clasp on the back, so he used his wand to fasten it up. He shifted her legs a little, so she was "sitting" comfortably, her head resting on his chest.

He took in a deep breath, one arm tightly around her just to be safe and he apparated out of the flat. He landed a little wobbly on the steps but straightened himself out before he tripped. He looked down at the girl, to check if she was okay. But she was still sleeping soundly against his chest. He looked back up and took in the large beaten-up black door before he tried the door handle. To his surprise, the door opened. Maybe it was because he was carrying Alec, a Black heir. He slowly stepped into the dark hallway and looked around.

"Kreacher?" He called out as he covered the girl's ears. No answer. "Thank Merlin." He mumbled to himself as he walked further into the house.

He knew the house would be empty, as Sirius's mother, Walburga would be at her weekly pure-blood fanatics meeting. He quickly made his way to the library and began to rummage in the large closet. He sighed in relief as he found the portable pensieve. He reduced the pensieve until it fit into his pocket. When he turned around, his eyes widened, his hand stroking the girl's head in an instant. The Black family tapestry had changed once again. Remus's eyes found Sirius's scorch mark, but right under his was a brand-new branch.

Alexandra Fae Black.

There was no denying it any longer, it was now with 100% certainty she was Sirius'. His brows gathered at the thought that Walburga must've seen the new addition on the tapestry, as it would appear on itself the day she was born. Maybe she tried to look for her but couldn't find her due to the safe house and not knowing who the mother was. Or maybe she didn't want anything to do with a kid that Sirius fathered. Either way, the old hag wasn't getting her hands on her. His eyes lingered for another minute on her name before he quickly apparated out of the house.

He put on the extra muggle locks for safety on the door, once he arrived home and enlarged the pensieve when he placed it on his coffee table. He placed Alec back in the bed and covered her with a blanket. Once he was sure that she wouldn't wake up, he walked back to the living room. He poured Cordelia's vial into the pensieve, making the liquid cloudy and silver in the scale. He shook his hands nervously loose next to him before he leaned down.

Chapter Text

Remus was looking at Cordelia, her brown hair in a high lose bun, wearing a black muggle training suit. They were in an unknown cabin, which he figured was the safe house Sirius and Dumbledore had sent her to. It was small and entirely made out of wood, like a hunting cabin in the woods.

Cordelia was standing in the bathroom, shaking in front of the mirror while her stomach glowed bright gold. It was the moment she found out she was pregnant, Remus thought to himself. Cordelia stumbled back and dropped down on the edge of the bathtub as she rubbed her stomach softly. The tears were falling freely down her cheeks, was it with joy or fright, he didn't know. He wanted to go over to her, but the scene changed before he could reach the tub.

After the silver clouds disappeared again, he was standing in the living room of the same cabin. Cordelia was now much further along, her belly way bigger, maybe even near the end of her pregnancy. She was sitting on the old weary couch as she talked softly against her stomach, drawing circles with her index finger on it.

"I'm still thinking of a name for you, little one." Cor smiled down at her stomach. "What about Halley?" She looked expectantly at her stomach as if the baby were to answer. "No? I think you're right; your daddy wouldn't like to continue naming his kids or any other kids after constellations. Alright, let me think about it some more, yeah?" She leaned her head against the back of the couch. "I wish he was here; I hope he got the letter I sent him." She chuckles. "But I know he would love you in a heartbeat, just like I do." She looked back down as the baby kicked her. "Hopefully you will get to meet him soon." Her voice grew distant as the silver clouds blocked Remus's sight again.

The next scene was quite disturbing to watch, but Remus knew he had to. He saw and heard Cordelia scream as she went into labour, alone in a tub. His heart broke for the young woman, who had to go through this all alone. No parents, no family, no friends. He was glad the memory didn't have the smells like in real life, but when the water turned red, he had to cover his mouth and nose and stumbled back a bit. He heard the cry of the baby and looked back at the red-filled tub. When the baby was drinking soundly, Cordelia let the tub run dry and cast some spells on herself. He looked away when she stepped out and only looked back when she was dressed. He followed her out of the room to the small bedroom. He watched her dress baby Alec, who already had a head full of black wavy hair. He looked around the room and saw a large stack of letters on a desk near the window. A few minutes later, Cordelia took her place on said desk and started writing.

The next few memories were all of Alec's firsts. Her first time crawling, which made him chuckle as she went straight to the fire. Cordelia cried out as she flung herself in front of the six-month-old, but she managed to laugh about it afterwards. After that, she put a fence in front of the roaring fire.

The first time she did magic was when she was stuck in her crib in the living room and presumably bored. She let all kinds of things hover right above her, letting it fly in circles. But it wasn't all baby toys and teddy bears. But also, glasses, cutlery and a log. Remus chuckled at the thought of what a handful Alec must've been, just as a baby.

Her first steps were in the closed-off garden. Cordelia was crying happy tears as she waddled in the yard. After a few minutes of walking, she disappeared into a molehill. Remus couldn't believe what he just saw, but Alec just floated back up on herself. The number of times Cordelia nearly died of a heart attack in those years, couldn't be counted on only two hands.

Her first words. He saw how Cordelia had made the little stuffed dog, naming him Padfoot. Her first word was mummy, her second Paddie (Padfoot). Remus knew he had to keep these memories, so Alec could watch them later, so she could see her mum.

He had seen little Alec throwing a tantrum because she wouldn't eat her potatoes. Or when she was walking through the small living room in a dress and her mum's heels. The memories were endless, from birth to just before she turned four years old. Most of them were happy moments, but once in a while, something sad came through. Like Cordelia talking to herself when Alec was asleep. The idea of being alone, deserted in a cabin in the woods for years, must've driven her mad if it wasn't for Alec. There was one where Remus couldn't hold back his tears anymore. It was when Cordelia was sitting in the bed, snuggled up to Alec and told her stories about Sirius, about him and all of her friends. You saw the sadness in her eyes as she told her bedtime stories.

In the next memory, Cordelia was sitting in front of the mirror while a three-year-old Alec was playing with wooden blocks on the floor.

"Remus." Cordelia spoke to herself in the mirror and Remus looked at her wide-eyed. "I know this is unusual, but I have no way of reaching you safely and I thought a letter wouldn't be enough. If you're watching this, Alec made it safely to your home. I made a slightly illegal portkey." She smiled. "The plastic cup won't come back to me. Once she arrives at your flat, which I really hope you're still using, the portkey turns back into a cup. I haven't heard from anyone from the order in years, the last I heard was a short letter from Alastor that just told me to stay where I am. I've been getting everything ready to leave this place because I know we're not safe here anymore. I feel that they are about to find out our hiding spot. I don't know how I just do. But if this reaches you, I'll... I'll probably be dead. I don't have any family left to take care of her, I - I only have you. I only trust  you,  to take care of my little girl. And I know about your furry little problem, but I trust you completely, I trust you to make the right decision that time of the month. I just read the paper today about Lily and James."

She took in a trembling breath. "About Sirius. I don't know how You-know-who managed to persuade him, but I haven't been in his life for four years now." Her eyes were sad. "Maybe that's why he didn't reach out to me or tried to contact me again. Or maybe he just didn't feel the same way I felt for him. I had sent him a letter you know. So maybe you knew about her existence. I wrote to him after I found out I was pregnant, and then again when I gave birth to Alec. But I never heard anything from him." She wiped away the tears that were rolling down her cheeks.

"Please, Remus. I'm begging you, take care of her. Love her like she is your own, I've hidden a key in the cover of my trunk to a vault at Argent Caché, the world wizarding bank in Brussels. You find all the money you need right there, for school, for wolfsbane, for a house. So please don't let money be a problem, I have more than enough. In the trunk hidden underneath her clothes, you'll find pictures that I've taken over the years. It would mean a lot to me if you would put them in an album. If you decide to take care of her, there are papers in the trunk that I gave you custody of Alec, so no one can take her away from you. You just have to sign it. It is drawn up so, that even if your lycanthropy comes up, they can't take her away. So, Remus please think about this. She is such a sweet and curious girl. She takes after her father a lot, even at a young age. So, I won't be surprised if she turns out a little reckless and a prankster. So, I'll be honest with you, she'll probably be a handful when she grows up, but she is just the sweetest." She breathed in deep, her eyes full of desperation." Take care, Moony."

The memory faded and Remus was pushed out of the pensieve harshly. He fell back against the couch and breathed heavily. He needed to sort everything out, he needed to calm his emotions down. But he couldn't, at least not until he saw the last memory, the one of little Alexandra Fae Black. His hands were trembling when he reached for the second vial. Trembling for what he just witnessed and trembling for what he might see next. He poured out the vial and leaned back in.

He was standing in the hunting cabin again. Cordelia had just reduced the trunk into a smaller form and handed it over to Alec. She handed over the plastic yellow cup to her daughter, just as the house started to shake in its foundations. Remus heard loud and deep voices coming from behind the door. He turned around and saw Cordelia tap the cup with her wand and shove a piece of paper in the hand that held the cup.

"Mummy."

"It will be fine, sweetie." She tried to reassure her and pressed a kiss on the top of her head. "Remember what we talked about?" Alec nodded, as her eyes filled with tears. "Okay. We'll see each other again, I promise. I love you so, so much, Alec." Cordelia said crying, as she placed her daughter behind the counter, out of sight from the door.

"I love you too, mummy." The words were barely out of Alec's mouth when the door flew open, and six wizards walked straight through Remus. Remus knew he couldn't do anything, but he still tried to stop the death eaters from going after them. The teacup vibrated and just before Alec disappeared from the cabin, she saw a bright green light, hit her mum. The next moment, Alec and Remus were standing in front of his building.

Remus was pulled out of the pensieve once again. His heart stammered fast in his chest as tears rolled down his cheeks. She was really gone, murdered. And the last thing she did was save her child and send her to him, the only one she trusted to take care of her daughter. How she had managed to put the memory ready, was beyond him. But Cordelia was in Ravenclaw for a reason, so she must've found a way to preserve the last memory Alec had of her mum.

It took a while for Remus to calm down. To stop shaking, to stop crying. With one last deep breath, he stood up and put the vials on the top cupboard, safely out of reach. He searched the trunk for the photos, key and custody papers. He placed them in his little vault under the sink before heading to bed, letting it all sink in. He stopped by Alec's room and saw her sleeping soundly, the stuffed animal named Padfoot, still securely in her arms. With a sad smile, he walked to his room and left his door open, so she could find him with ease. He put on a charm, so his wand would start to vibrate if Alec woke up. But that wasn't necessary that night, as she slept in until after eight o'clock. While Remus was already making pancakes in the kitchen. He had made his decision that night after he couldn't find any sleep.

He decided to take her in. He knew it wouldn't be easy and he needed to find a solution for his monthly problem, but the full moon passed just a few nights ago, so he had time. The first thing they would do is go to Brussels for the bank account and search for a place to live in. But that would be abroad, since he had just accepted a job in Belgium, on the border of France. So, the next morning, Remus packed everything he had, which wasn't much, and they took a portkey to Belgium to start their new life together. A safe distance away from death eaters that were still roaming around, that had just killed her mother. Because if they found out she had a daughter, or that Sirius had one, they would certainly come after her. So, Remus didn't tell anyone he had a ward. It isn't like there were a lot of people to tell, but he knew that Dumbledore or McGonagall would be interested in the news. But he just fled to Belgium with the four-year-old and started building their lives together there.

Chapter Text

"HURRY!" I screamed through the hallway as I tugged on my ankle boots. I looked around the living room, boxes lined against the walls and saw my book still on the dinner table. I went to go grab it, but nearly fell over my damn trunk. Cursing softly, I hopped to the table to pick up my book.

"I'm here! I'm he- What happened?" Remus stopped in his tracks as he saw me limp.

"Just bumped my shin against the trunk," I grumbled and glared at the wrongdoer. I turned to look at my uncle, who was standing there with his coat half on and a trunk in one hand. "Klaar om te vertrekken?" [Ready to go?]

"Speak English, cub."

"I'm not in Hogwarts yet." I pointed out. "My English is perfect, you know that." I huffed as I put on my black coat over my blue robes. "So, I can speak Dutch or French to you if I want to." I stuck my tongue out at my guardian. My uncle put his trunk on the floor and placed his hands on my shoulders and searched my eyes.

"Are you sure you are okay with going to Hogwarts? To move to England?"

"Yes. I know we can't stay here. It's been fun while it lasted and to our surprise, we stayed here much longer than we anticipated."

He chuckled lightly, letting his hands drop. "I know, five years. Must be a record." He grinned. "But I know you made friends here, good friends. Transferring you to another school, at fifteen."

"Fifteen and ten months." I clicked my tongue, and he just shook his head with a grin. "I'll be fine, I promise." I glanced at my watch. "But we better get going, or we will be late."

"Alright, alright. You know..." Remus started slowly as I put my finger on the yellow plastic cup. My book was tucked into my coat and my trunk in my free hand. "Good things come to those who wait."

"You know what happens if we wait? We miss the train!" Uncle Moony laughed as we disappeared from the house, we had lived in for the past five years.

Our little yellow portkey had transported us to an empty room in King's Cross train station. I glanced around the corner to see the hustle of people going about. Remus had pulled a cart from the hallway and placed our trunks on it. I tucked my outer robes a little tighter around me and turned to look at him.

"Why do I need to wear my Beauxbatons robes to Hogwarts?" I grumbled a little.

"I already told you, cub. Professor Dumbledore asked. It's to show the students the possibilities and that friendships can be made outside of Hogwarts."

I held the door open for my uncle as he pushed the trolley out. He looked worn, the full moon wasn't that long ago, and you could see it. I was happy for him, delighted even. But I was afraid that the lycanthropy would stand in the way of his teachings. Remus had gotten the message from Dumbledore to teach Defence Against the Dark Arts at Hogwarts this year, and since he just lost his job in Belgium after his employer died, he didn't have a choice. He didn't want to take it at first, as he didn't want to leave me, or wanted me to change schools. But I couldn't let him pass on this opportunity, certainly not after he took me in and uprooted his life. The fact that I needed to meet new people, didn't scare me. The fact that Hogwarts' lesson plan was entirely different than Beauxbatons is what frightened me. Beauxbatons also didn't have houses you get sorted into. So, yeah things will be different, a lot. But I think I can manage. So, I told Remus to take the job and since we had to wrap up everything at home, and with the full moon, we couldn't come sooner and were now walking through the station on September 1st, 1993, as we would both take the train to Scotland. Dumbledore was surprised at the mention that Remus had a ward and asked to know more about me. But Remus was tight-lipped, I was his responsibility and Dumbledore would just have to wait like everyone else.

" So, I'll be sorted alongside the first years?"

"I don't think so." Remus mused. "I think they'll sort them first and after bringing them up-to-date on the staff, they will place you." I nodded my head slowly, as my eyes followed the numbers on the walls. Remus frowned and looked worried at something. I turned to look at him as I felt him staring and raised a dark eyebrow. "Do you want to use Black or Dubois?"

"Actually," I said, my hand trailed over a stone wall. "I want to go by Lupin-Black." I smiled as I saw his astonished face. "Uncle Moony, we changed my name legally on my tenth birthday, why would I go by something else?" Remus opened his mouth to reply, but I cut him off. "I know Black isn't well received in Britain, but my mum wanted me to have his name. And you, Uncle Moony, took me in, raised me since I was four, a kid you never knew about, I'm proud to be a Lupin." He had stopped me in the middle of my little speech, with his hand on my shoulder.

"I'm proud to have you as my daughter." Remus said with a trembling breath, we both had tears in our eyes. We shared a tight hug before wiping our eyes. "Let's go find the train, yeah?"

"It should be there." I pointed out the stone wall between numbers 9 and 10.

"Right you are, cub."

"You know, you can't call me that in school, right? At least not in public." I chuckled.

"I know. Shame." He pouted, but the corners of his mouth twitched. "Alright." He rubbed his hands as we stopped in front of the wall. "Just walk through it, Alec ."

"Okay." I drawled out and inched closer to the brick wall. I let my hand hover over the wall before pushing it forward. And it went straight through. My eyes widened and looked over my shoulder to a smirking Remus. I glanced back to the wall and stepped through.

A large red steam train was standing in front of me, the platform with a little sign 9 ¾ hung just above me, was completely empty. I stepped aside to let Remus in and looked at the large clock on the wall. The train was leaving in an hour, and I was surprised to see the platform still empty. I turned back to see that Remus had come through the wall and was standing right behind me.

"I'm guessing the kids here don't come early."

"No." He laughed. "The platform will start to fill in about half an hour. But that's why I wanted to come early, to avoid curious eyes." I hummed in understanding as I covered my blue robes once again. "Let's find a compartment." I followed him to the first doors of the train and helped him load the trunks on it.

"Let's sit in the back." I pointed to my right. "Maybe it will be quieter there and you can sleep."

"I'm okay, cub."

"Uncle Moony." I gave him a stern look. "I think I know by now if you're okay or not. And you need to sleep." I put on my pleading eyes when he wanted to deny it. "For me?"

"Alright, I'll get some sleep on the way. But here-" He pulled a wrapper out of his coat. "Take some chocolate."

I shook my head with a smile and accepted it before we headed down the path to the last compartment of the train. I pulled the sliding door open and pushed our trunks up on the rack. I took the seat on the window so I could watch the platform while Remus sat across from me. I stood back up and pulled his pillow and a blanket out of his trunk.

"Don't you roll your eyes at me, Remus." I pursed my lips at him. My uncle gave up because he knew when I used his first name, it meant I was serious and wouldn't be ignored. So, I placed the pillow against the window and once he laid his head on it, I covered him with the knitted blanket. Moony tried to fight off his sleep, as he didn't want to admit I was right, damn stubbornness, but he failed. Within minutes, he had drifted off to sleep.

I took my book out of my coat and placed it on my lap, not opening it quite yet. My eyes flickered to the platform as I started seeing kids and parents arrive. I took my wand from my boot and locked the door as it started to get crowded. It was fascinating to see really, how it all works here in Britain. I had seen pictures from Remus his time at Hogwarts and read about it in Hogwarts: A History. But still seeing the kids, all in their muggle clothes or wizarding robes was a sight. They would probably change on the train, which didn't seem convenient but hey, who was I to judge? I saw kids of all ages and sizes. Some towering over other kids, or even the parents while others looked like they were too young to go to school. But looks can be deceiving for sure, I was always on the small side. I only got my growth spurt when I turned fourteen. It literally happened overnight, and Remus and I needed to go shop for new clothes the next morning.

I felt the train wobble as more and more students climbed onboard with their trunks and pets. I heard the kids talk and walk in the hallway, but no one seemed to get too close to our compartment. When the parents started to wave at the train, it moved with a jolt. I looked over to Uncle Moony, but he was still fast asleep.

I tucked my book in my pocket again and put on my oversized hooded coat. I peered outside the compartment, and when I saw it was nearly empty, I stepped out and closed the door softly behind me. I checked my coat again, to see that none of my blue robes showed and went out to explore.

After a few minutes of walking on the full train, I passed a girl with bushy brown hair, a boy with flaming red and one with raven black hair, looking inside every compartment as they hauled their trunks on the train. I murmured an apology as I tried to walk past them, but they didn't even turn around. I looked over my shoulder at the trio as I walked further. That's when it hit me. When I recognized the boy with the raven black hair. I was so distracted by him, that I didn't see a pair of kids in front of me and bumped straight into them. It looked like they didn't see me either as I harshly collided with two boys, sending the three of us to the ground. They must've been running or something, because the air was literally knocked out of me. I gathered myself for a second, trying to catch my breath as I readjusted my hood.

"Sorry!" Two voices chimed above me. I looked up at them, just over the rim of my black hood. The boys couldn't see my face, just the colour of my grey eyes as my hood was magically enhanced. They both held out a hand to me and I agreed to let them pull me up. The two boys, twins to be precise, looked at me curiously.

"And who -" Started the one on my left.

"Might you be?" The one on the right finished. They both leaned down to try and have a better look.

"Who wants to know?" I cocked my head, a sparkle in my eyes.

"Oh, a girl." Their eyes crinkled as a large grin appeared on their faces.

"Fred-" The one on the left bowed.

"And George." The other bowed.

"Weasley." They bowed together with a grin, not taking their eyes off me.

"Sorry for running into you." The one on the right said with a wink.

"That's quite alright, Fred and George. Just mind where you're... running." I said a smile on my lips the boys couldn't see, and I walked between them.

"But... who are you?"

"What's your name?" They called after me.

"Bye, boys!" I waved with my back to them and a wide grin on my face. I felt the stares of the twin boys on my back and heard them whisper franticly behind me.  

Chapter Text

I walked all the way up to the front until I reached the cab. I knocked on the door in a pattern Remus had taught me. I heard shuffling of feet before the door slid open. An elderly man with long grey hair, that reached his shoulders and a short salt-and-pepper beard, appeared in front of me. I glanced behind me and when I saw we were alone, I lowered my hood.

"Alexandra." The man beamed at me.

"Hi, Oscar." My face matched his. "Can I sit with you?"

"Of course, dear. Step on in." He stepped aside and when I had entered the cab, closed the door behind me. "Come, sit next to me."

"Thank you, Oscar." I took off my robe and sat on the chair next to him. "Remus told me where to find you."

"Is he with you?"

"Yes, he's sleeping right now. He hasn't been sleeping much the past few days."

Oscar nodded in understanding. Oscar had been driving the train for about forty years now. Remus had met him on the train in his first year as he stumbled into his cab. And we stayed in touch since. Oscar doesn't come out of his cab, so he doesn't meet any of the students. His wife, Mary, was the lady who walked through the train with her trolley filled with candies and such. I met Oscar and Mary when I was about five years old. Through a special connection of their floo, we were able to come to each other's houses in minutes, which we used at least once a month, while Remus transformed. They have been a great help over the years, for me and Remus. They, of course, knew of Remus his condition and were glad to help out with the young girl who had been left in his care. But in the last two years we had seen less of them I mused as I looked at the elder man. They didn't need to watch me every month as I grew older and especially after...

My thoughts were interrupted when Oscar asked me something.

"Nervous for school?"

"A little." I shrugged. "Healthy nervous, I'd say."

"That's good." He smiled. "But you're always one that could handle these situations with grace."

"Oscar." I said a little bashful.

"No, I mean it. That's just who you are, and you have a way to charm the pants of everyone you meet."

"Hm." I hummed with a frown. "Moony says I take after my da- after Sirius on that front."

Oscar placed his hand on my shoulder with a sad smile. "I'm sorry, I didn't mean to -"

"I know, it's okay." I inhaled sharply.

"You know Hogwarts has different robes, right?" He chuckled as he pointed at my blue robes. And I was happy that he redirected the conversation.

"Yeah, but Dumbledore -" I started to explain. The train ride went smoothly as we talked about my transition to another school, another country. We talked about his kids and grandkids and their plans for the rest of the year.

I enjoyed the scenery in front of me. The mountains, the forests, the blue skies. When the sky suddenly turned grey and dark, the rain started to fall heavily, I subconsciously reached for my wand in my boot. My eyes searched the sky worried. When I saw a hooded figure float in front of the train, my eyes widened, and Oscar reacted fiercely as he stood on the break. The train stopped with a loud screeching sound and the cab turned cold. I glanced over to Oscar, who had his wand in his hand.

"Dementors." We both whispered. Before we could say another word, the train jostled.

"They're on the train." I gripped my wand tightly, as I saw my breath appear in front of me.

"No, stay here." Oscar took a firm grip on my arm as I went to stand up after a few minutes. "I'll go."

"No, Os-" I started but was cut off when the cab door flew open and a dementor appeared in front of us.

"Alexandra, turn! Now!" I glanced back at Oscar, who had gone pale as he stared at the dementor. The dementor turned to look at me. I, at least think he looked at me, hard to know with no eyes. But he stared at me a long time before he opened its mouth, and I felt all the happy memories fleet away. No, I couldn't let a dementor control my life. Remember what Moony taught you, I murmured to myself as I tried to find my bearings. As I tried to find the right memory to get this evil thing away from here.

"Expecto Patronum!" I called out fiercely. The tip of my wand glowed brightly before an arctic wolf leapt out of it and pushed the dementor back. The dementor disappeared behind the white light, behind my wolf and was cast out of the train. I breathed in deeply, regaining my composer before I turned to the paled Oscar. I kneeled in front of him and clasped my hands on his cheeks. "Oscar? Oscar, are you alright?"

Oscar's eyes fluttered for a moment before he looked up at me, the colour in his cheeks coming back. He took a hand of mine in his and gave it a small squeeze and looked up at me. "I'm okay. Thank you." I waved him off with a smile but took my other hand in his too. "Thank you." He said again, his eyes locked on me.

"Anytime." I smiled at him. The door was still open after the dementor had been driven off, and when we heard running footsteps, we both looked to see a frantic and panting Remus run up to us. "Moony!" I called out, standing up and flung my arms around him as soon as he was in the cab.

"I was so worried." He pulled back with fright in his eyes and his eyes scanned me for any damage. "Are you okay?"

"I'm fine. We're fine."

"She'd driven off a dementor that came into the cab." Oscar said standing up, still a bit wobbly. I reached into my coat and gave him the bar of chocolate.

"It helps, it always helps." I repeated the words Remus always used. And in the corner of my eyes, I saw the corners of his mouth twitch.

"Why didn't you turn?" Remus asked, turning my attention back to him after Oscar accepted the chocolate.

"I told her to." Oscar said as he broke off a piece.

"I couldn't just let them parade around the train. I couldn't let them get to Oscar. You taught me those things for a reason, Moony. You didn't teach me everything just to run away and go into hiding."

Remus sighed as he rubbed his face. "Okay, you're right." He pulled me back in a hug. "I'm proud of you, cub." I smiled against his chest as my arms circled around his back.

"Uncle Moony?"

"Yeah?" He asked pulling back, his hands still on my shoulders.

"Where they here for...?"

"I think we should talk about this later." He said with a stern look, that meant not to question him, and I nodded.

"I should go check on Mary." Oscar said with a trembling voice.

"I'll go check on her and the students." He kissed the top of my head. "Wait for me at the train station." He said before he walked out and closed the door behind him.

I turned back to Oscar, who was still munching happily on the chocolate. "Mary is a tough cookie, she'll be fine." Oscar smiled weakly at me. "Can I drive?" I grinned broadly.

"Alright, sit here." He ushered me to his seat, while he took mine. "So, first -" He started explaining the ropes of the train as it started again with a slight jolt. I gladly accepted a piece of chocolate as I took control of the train, unbeknownst to all of the students and Remus that a fifteen-year-old was driving it.

When we arrived at the station, I waited until most of the students had departed the train. I put on my hood again and said goodbye to Oscar and Mary, the latter had joined us for the last ten minutes of the ride. With my cloak and hood firmly around me, I walked out of the train. The students that were still left sent me curious looks but no one dared to speak to me. I walked over to the little building and leaned next to the white door, against the brick wall. My eyes scanned the platform swiftly. Remus walked out of the train at last, after most of the students were gone to the carriages.

"We're going with the floo." Remus said once he reached me and opened the door of the station. The building was small, with just a few benches spread across the room. A little ticket booth on my right and a large fireplace on my left. "We're flooing to the headmaster's office." I nodded my head. "I'll go first." Remus stepped into the fireplace and grabbed a little of the floo powder from the pot next to him. "Albus Dumbledore's office." He said before he disappeared in green flames.

Once the flames had retreated, I stepped in after my uncle and repeated Remus's actions. I stepped out of the fireplace, into an oval office. A large desk in the centre of the room, paintings and books aligned against the walls. Behind the desk was a staircase that led up to another part of the room. A beautiful phoenix clattered its beak from his stand. The office was empty except for me and Remus, so I walked over to the bird, pulling my hood down.

"Hello there," I whispered as I stroked its head. The phoenix nudged his head affectionately against my hand.

"He seems to like you." An unknown voice came from above the staircase. I looked up to see Headmaster Dumbledore smile at me. "His name is Fawkes."

"He's beautiful, sir." I looked from the bird to the man in a flowy emerald gown as he descended the stairs.

"Professor Dumbledore." Remus came forward, once he reached the end of the stairs, he had his hand already outstretched.

"Remus!" The professor/headmaster smiled widely. "Nice to see you again, dear boy." They shook hands. "But since you'll be teaching here at Hogwarts, please call me Albus."

I tried to hide my snicker as I saw Remus's shocked face. "Albus -" He tried out but frowned a little at the informality of it. "This is Alexandra Black-"

I cleared my throat, reminding him of my true last name just when the headmaster asked. "Black?" Dumbledore's eyes flickered between me in Remus. "Black in like...?" He turned to Remus.

"Daughter of Sirius Black."

Dumbledore's eyes widened behind his half-moon spectacles as he looked from me to Remus. "I thought – I thought you were dead." The words fell out of his mouth.

"Dead? You knew about her?" Remus's voice was low, his eyes angry as he stepped protectively closer to me.

"I saw the letter Cordelia sent Sirius." His voice was quiet, as though he did it without his consent. "When the wards of Cordelia's safehouse were broken, I came over in an instant. But it was too late, the house was on fire. By the time we extinguished the fire, there was nothing left."

My legs started to shake uncontrollably and Moony must've noticed because his angry gaze left the headmaster and looked at me worried. He lowered me to one of the chairs and crouched in front of me. "Are you okay?"

I hummed with my eyes closed. I took in a deep breath and looked with an icy glare at Dumbledore. "It's Lupin-Black."

"Excuse me?" He asked confused.

"My name. My name is Lupin-Black." I grumbled.

"Lupin-Black? So-" He turned to Remus, his eyes large behind his spectacles.

"We're not talking about this now, Albus." He snapped.

"Right. And with this new discovery, there is a matter I would like to speak to you about." He said seriously. "The matter of your father, Sirius Black."

"I understand he escaped Azkaban." I nodded with a quick glance to Remus, who took the seat next to me. "I don't know what this has to do with me. My mum wrote to him with the news of the pregnancy and birth, but he never replied."

"You have to remember that he is your father. I don't know if he has received the letters from your mum. I only saw the one where she stated she was pregnant with you. So, there is a chance he might come after you."

"Maybe... But as I understand, he escaped trying to find Harry Potter."

Dumbledore's eyes flickered to Remus for a moment and Remus crossed his arms over his chest as he looked at the headmaster. "We don't keep secrets, Albus."

I bit the inside of my cheek as I tried to hide the smile that wanted to escape as my eyes went between the two professors. "So, you know that he's Harry's..." He didn't need to finish his sentence because I gave him a short nod. "Alright," He slowly drawled out. "You can't tell him, miss Lupin-Black, under any circumstances." I made a move to counter but by the look Remus gave me, I snapped my mouth shut. "Anyway, that's what we were thinking, that he escaped to get to Harry" Dumbledore admitted. "But be that as it may, you're still his daughter..."

"Only in blood." I muttered. "Sorry." I apologized quickly for the interruption, but the headmaster smiled.

"And it is certainly possible for him to find out about your existence if he hasn't already."

"No one knows who I am, Professor. Yes, I go by the name Lupin-Black, but in Beauxbatons it was never an issue as almost no one knows about the Black family there. And I – my name – never appeared in any article or sorts, so I don't think he knows who I am and if he does, he doesn't want to know me."

"Maybe not. But I'm afraid to say that won't be the same here. You'll be the talk of the school if you plan to keep your name -"

"I don't mean to interrupt, professor." I held up my hand. "But I will be keeping my name, both of them. Remus raised me and I'm proud to carry his name, to be his daughter. And my mum gave me the name Black. I won't change them, and I certainly won't care about what other kids say about it or me." My voice is determined and proud.

The headmaster looked at me for a moment, his eyes fixed on mine. I felt a subtle nudge in my mind, and I knew what he was trying to do. However, having Remus as a guardian has its advantages. He had prepared me for everything I might need. And trained me on all sorts of subjects. From defence – magical and muggle – to occlumency and more. The headmaster tried once more, before giving up and backed off.

"Well, that's settled then. But it's certainly a possibility for him to find out once you've been introduced here." I nodded in agreement. "So, I just wanted to tell you to be careful and don't seek him out."

"Why would I seek him out? He's a mass murderer."

"Hm." He gave a short nod, and I glanced to Remus who gave me a strained smile. "Let's head to the great hall." The three of us rose from our seats and Remus and I followed him out of the office, I already with my hood over my head.

Chapter Text

Dumbledore explained all about the castle as we made our way to the ground floor, about the portraits or the shifting staircases. Not something I didn't know already. I loved hearing Uncle Moony's stories when he was younger. Remus and I were being ushered into the great hall through a chamber near the head table.

"That's an interesting cloak, miss Lupin-Black." Dumbledore asked with his hand on the door handle, that led to the great hall.

"I charmed it myself, sir." I said, my fingers went over my hood involuntarily.

"Very interesting." He said again with a lingering look before he pushed the door open and walked out. Remus followed and I peered out of the room and took in the crowded room.

All the older students were already sitting at the designated tables. I could easily figure out which table was which, with the colours that filled them. Starting from left to right was: Hufflepuff, Ravenclaw, Gryffindor and Slytherin. my eyes flickered over each table as I wondered what house I would be sorted in. My mother was in Ravenclaw, Sirius and Remus in Gryffindor. I knew the rest of the Black family was sorted into Slytherin, while my mother's family all went to Beauxbatons. I followed Remus out, who took a seat at the end of the table, sitting next to a professor with greasy black hair that reached his shoulders. I saw the professor sneer at Remus and my eyes shot daggers at him.

The whispers of the students began to fill the room as they saw me enter after Remus. I took a seat next to him; an extra chair had been added at the end of the long table. I recognized the red-headed twins at the Gryffindor table. They whispered and shot me curious glances. I turned my attention to the back of the room as another professor, Professor McGonagall, I presumed as I remembered the pictures Remus had shown me, walked in front of all the first years to the front of the room. McGonagall's eyes caught mine and she sent me a smile before ushering the little ones to the front. Professor McGonagall hushed the room as she started calling each child up to the little stool in front of Dumbledore. After the sorting was done, I saw Harry walk in with the bushy-haired girl from the train and sat down near the twins, Harry's curious eyes on me.

Dumbledore stood up and greeted everyone.

"Welcome to another year at Hogwarts! I have a few things to tell you all, and since one of them is very serious, I will start with that." I saw all the students look worried at the headmaster. The room was completely silent, if you dropped a needle, you would hear it clatter to the ground. The headmaster cleared his throat and continued.

"As you're all aware after their search on the train, our school is presently playing host to some of the Dementors of Azkaban, who are here on Ministry of Magic business." He paused for a second. "They are stationed at every entrance to the grounds and while they are with us, I must make it plain that nobody is to leave school without permission. Dementors are not to be fooled by tricks or disguises – or even invisibility cloaks. I warn each and every one of you to give them no reason to harm you. I look to the prefects, and our new Head boy and Girl, to make sure that no student runs foul of the Dementors. On a happier note, I'm happy to announce two new teachers to our rank this year." Suddenly all eyes in the room turned to me and Remus. Remus and I shared a look and snickered softly.

"Firstly, Professor Lupin, who has kindly consented to fill the post of Defence Against the Dark Arts teacher." Remus bowed slightly at the room. The reception was rather bland, but I saw Harry and his friends clap as enthusiastically as me. "As our second appointment, well I'm sorry to say that Professor Kettleburn, our Care of Magical Creatures teacher, retired at the end of last year in order to enjoy more time with his remaining limbs." I snorted in my pumpkin juice as Remus patted my back softly, the eyes of the other students flickered between me and Dumbledore. "However, I am delighted to say that his place will be filled by none other than Rubeus Hagrid." The students were stunned for a moment as their eyes shifted from me to the man named Hagrid before applause broke out.

"And for the last piece of news." He spoke again, and the students fell quiet. "We have one last sorting to do because we have a new student in our midst. She transferred here from Beauxbatons in France and will be joining our fifth-year students." Dumbledore glanced towards me, and I rose from my seat after a reassuring squeeze in my hand from Remus, knowing all eyes were on me.

"Alexandra Lupin-Black!" He gestured to me.

Loud whispers filled the room at my last name, and I pushed my hood off before taking off my coat, revealing my blue robes. My wavy hair, now slightly lighter than that when I was a little kid, more like dark brown than black, although it changed throughout the year, fell over my shoulders. In the summer it was lighter, while during the winter it went almost back to black. My round silver-grey eyes went over the room before it landed on Dumbledore, who held out his hand. I smiled, trying to hide my nerves as he led me to the barstool in front of the room. I sat down and crossed my ankles under the stool. Unlike the first years, my eyes didn't disappear behind the hat, so I stared at the doors in the back. Once I heard the voice, all the whispers disappeared around me.

"What do we have here? A Lupin-Black, how interesting. Almost sixteen as well, highly unusual, miss." I snorted at the hat, and I heard the chuckles of students in front of me. "So, you probably all heard of the houses here, miss Beauxbatons."

I have. I thought to myself, knowing he could hear it. My mum was in Ravenclaw, my guardian in Gryffindor and the Black family in Slytherin.

" Except your father, he was a Gryffindor." I shrugged and crossed my arms, and my eyes darted through the room, seeing amused faces looking at me.

The one I consider my father is Remus.

"But you don't call him that." The hat stated.

He – he didn't want me to, but I see him as such.

"And Black?"

He's a stranger. But I'm not here to talk about my family, am I?

" Perhaps not but remember that not everything is as it seems." I held back a huff of frustration. "Let's get back to the point, yes?"

"Thank, De la Barre!" I accidentally said out loud as I flayed my arms. And now, I nor the hat could ignore the laughter that broke out in the great hall. I bit my lip as I tried to hide a smile and looked down.

"I think we're gathering attention." The hat mumbled, making me chuckle. "Alright, you have a good set of brains in here, courageous, I see." He was quiet for a moment. "Cunning and helpful. Hmm, that doesn't make it easier."

No, it doesn't. Does this happen a lot? I asked a little worried.

" Not so much, mostly I can't decide between two houses. But this... this is a first. Do you have a preference, miss Beauxbatons?"

"That you stop calling me Miss Beauxbatons for starters." I huffed and blew out a lock of hair out of my face. When I heard the room burst into laughter, I cursed to myself as I realized I said it out loud again. I dared a glance at the room and saw the students grinning at me. After the laughter died down and the hat was mumbling to himself, I heard a kid from the Ravenclaw table yell.

"Hatstall?!"

"Perhaps." The voice of Dumbledore said next to me before he leaned down to look at me. "How's it going?"

"He doesn't know where to place me, sir."

"What house is he contemplating?" He inquired.

"Uhm." I glanced over the four tables. "Every one of them." I saw Dumbledore's eyebrows disappear behind the rim of his hat.

"Is it okay if I announce it to the others? This never happened before, and I think some are losing their patience."

"Sorry."

"No, it's okay. Truly fascinating." He murmured the last part.

"You can tell them." I shrugged. Dumbledore's eyes twinkled before he straightened and turned to the crowd.

"It is a hatstall, mister Rain. And a special one at that."

"What houses?" I looked at the twin boys as one of them shouted.

"All four of them so it seems." Whispers filled the room again and I heard the hat tell me, he tossed out the idea of Hufflepuff.

"Hufflepuff is out," I whispered to the headmaster. "Maybe I'm not that loyal or hard-working." I frowned a little as I looked at the yellow-filled table.

"From what Remus has told me, you're as loyal as they can get and hard-working to boot." He said soft enough for only me to hear. He turned to the students in front of us. "Hufflepuff is out." Dumbledore repeated to the students.

"Only three to go." I mumbled and was happy to notice no one heard because they were all talking to each other. I stretched my legs out in front of me, adjusting so my dress was neatly covering my knees. So, how's it going?

" Slowly." The hat grumbled, making me grin. "I actually thought it would be easier if the students were older." He groaned out loud, and the students all looked shocked at the hat on top of my head for a moment before laughing.

Guess you're wrong. Or maybe it's just me.

"What are your thoughts on Slytherin?"

Besides that, most of the dark wizards come from that house. I glanced at the green-filled table. They are cunning, ambitious, and determined.

" Ravenclaw?"

Learning, intelligence. But I think I'm more than that.

"Gryffindor?"

Bravery, courage, nerve."

" Which you certainly have, I know what you did on the train. So, I'm guessing Ravenclaw is out?"

I think so. I turned to tell Dumbledore but was surprised to see Remus. "Uncle Moony?" I whispered.

"You okay?"

"Except that my butt is starting to hurt." I shifted in my seat. And the students in the front chuckled as they heard my proclamation. "Ravenclaw is out too."

"Right." He nodded and looked at the students. "Ravenclaw is out." He said with a clap of his hands. I heard several kids groan at the blue table. "Only two to go." He winked before he stood back up.

"Gryffindor or Slytherin. Slytherin or Gryffindor." The hat said in a sing-along voice. "What would you do if someone found out about Lupin." I stiffened for a moment and was about to toss the hat off my head. "Don't worry, I won't tell. But what if someone found out and went after him, what would you do?"

I would stand by his side and protect him. He's the bravest and kindest man I know. No one will lay a hand on him.

" And if you have to choose between him and a successful career?"

I didn't even dignify his question with an answer but huffed at him as I crossed my arms over my chest again.

"Well, I think we figured it out then, miss Lupin-Black. I wish you good luck in your future years and remember, not everything is as it seems." Then the voice boomed loudly through the room. "GRYFFINDOR!"

The table burst into applause as Remus grinned broadly as he took the hat from my head. "Way to go, cub."

I pursed my lips at him before I walked over to the Gryffindor table. I went to sit on the edge of the table, next to the newly sorted first years, but the red-headed twins beckoned me over. I smiled at the first years before going over to them. When I stopped in front of them, because they both had turned in their seats, I had a Chesire grin plastered on my face.

"Hello, boys." I said with the same tone as I did earlier on the train. 

Chapter Text

"So, you're the one -"

"- Who was hiding under the hood." The twins grinned.

"Maybe." I shrugged. When the two boys just stared at me, I shuffled awkwardly with my feet. "Well, if that's all, I better take a seat." I pointed at the edge of the table. "People are starting to stare." I made a move to leave, but the twins both grabbed a hand and pulled me down between them.

"They've been staring since you sat down next to our new professor, Lupin was it?" The one on my right said. I opened my mouth to answer, but Dumbledore intervened.

"Now that everything is settled. Play a good knife and fork!" He clapped his hand and the food appeared in front of them. I looked over at the food and saw everyone dig in and load their plates, the boys on either side of me had their plates filled over the brim in a minute. I looked at the food in front of me for a moment, deciding what to take. And settled for some roast, mashed potatoes and steamed vegetables.

"So, Lupin?"

"He raised me, he is my guardian."

"And you took his name?"

"I did, he's like my dad." I said not looking at them as I cut my roast.

"But your name is also Black." A third voice said. I looked up to see a boy across from me, a few seats down, listening in.

"Shut up, Cormac." The twins grumbled at the boy.

"It is." I simply said before looking at the boys next to me. "So, what year are you two in?"

"Fifth, just like you." One winked.

"Hm, alright." I squinted my eyes a bit as I looked at the two. "Tell me your names again."

"George."

"Fred." I searched their eyes, and to my surprise, I found out they spoke the truth. I could perform occlumency, but I wasn't a legilimens. I was just good at reading people. "And you're Alexandra." He said with a twinkle in his eye.

"Call me Alec." I smiled and shook their hands briefly.

"Well, Alec." The one called George said, and I tried to find the differences between them. "Let us introduce you to the other fifth years, yeah." He gave me a lopsided grin before he gestured in front of me. "Our best friend, Lee Jordan. He's also the commentator for the Quidditch games."

"Nice to meet you." The boy smiled and shook my hand. Before I could reply to the pleasantries, Fred motioned to a girl next to Lee.

"This is Angelina and Alicia. They both play quidditch for the Gryffindor team, chasers."

"Nice to meet you." I smiled and leaned closer to shake hands. They replied the same to me, both holding a smile. "Is that it?" I turned to look at the twins.

"No, but the others don't matter much." George said with a grin and a shrug.

"I'll meet them later then," I said because I choose my friends myself, and even if they don't really talk to them, doesn't mean I won't.

"If you want to waste your time." Fred chuckled and I shot him a glare.

"I don't know you, so maybe I'm wasting my time here." I was happy to note that he cowered back a little.

"Don't listen to them." Angelina said quickly. "They're just confined to their own clique." My gaze softened when I looked to Angelina who gave me a warm smile.

"So, why am I sitting here then?" I raised an eyebrow at the twins.

"Because you peeked our interests, ever since you bumped into us on the train." George said.

"If I remember correctly you ran into me ." I pointed out with my fork.

"And if I remember correctly, you were staring at wonder boy right there." George grinned as he pointed over his shoulder to Harry. "Do you know him?"

"No." A little crease formed between my eyes. "My uncle talked to me about him. Harry's parents were his best friends." My voice was soft as I glanced from Harry to Remus, who was talking to McGonagall.

The grin on George's face disappeared like snow from the sun. "I'm sorry." He placed a hand on my shoulder that made me look back at him, his eyes sincere.

"'S okay, but that's why I was a little surprised to see him." It was silent for a moment in the group before Alicia spoke up.

"So, what classes are you taking?" Happy to have the change of subject, I explained what I signed up for, besides my mandatory classes. I had chosen Arithmancy and Ancient Runes. And even though I knew the twins for about ten minutes, I wasn't surprised that neither of them took those subjects. Actually, none of the group had those, but that meant I was about to learn others from their fifth year.

The dinner went by fast as no one asked about my last name or Sirius, yet. I felt that I was being watched though. When I glanced around the room, I saw a lot of people duck their heads. But that was to be expected, I looked back at the head table and my eyes found Remus's, and he smiled reassuringly at me. After the boys had stuffed their faces with dessert as I talked to Angelina and Alicia about their dorm, they stood up to leave.

"Alec? Where are you staying? Our room is full." Angelina asked, looking a little guilty.

"Oh, I-" I started, not knowing exactly but then a Gryffindor prefect appeared in front of me.

"Alexandra Lupin-Black. My name is Percy, Percy Weasley." He stuck out his hand formally. I glanced over my shoulders when I registered his last name and hair colour, and saw the twins roll their eyes.

"Nice to meet you."

"I've been instructed to show you to your dorm."

"She won't be staying with us?" Alicia asked.

"No, Professor McGonagall informed me there was no room left. So, she gets to stay with her uncle."

"Am I allowed in the common room?"

"Of course, you are." The twins answered immediately. "Right, Perce?"

"Like they said." Percy glared a little at his brothers. "You can go to the common room as you please. The password is Fortuna Major." He said to all of the Gryffindors in front of him. "Now, let's go, miss Lupin-Black."

"Call me Alec." I turned to the others. "I'll see you later."

"Tomorrow, breakfast!" Angelina called out as I followed Percy and shot her a smile.

Percy was showing me the way to mine and Remus's quarters. He explained the classes and chambers we passed and asked loads of questions about Beauxbatons.

"I wish to visit sometime." He said.

"Well, it's been a while since we had an exchange student from Hogwarts, but we do have such a program. Maybe you can ask Professor McGonagall or Dumbledore for information." I said as we walked an empty corridor.

"Probably too expensive." He said softly looking at his feet. I stopped him by placing a hand on his shoulder.

"It's not. It's the same as Hogwarts, everything is paid for. And you can apply for a scholarship for the books and robes." I still saw doubt in his eyes about the money.

A look I'd seen a lot in Remus's eyes. Remus never had much money, I did. But he never wanted to take any unless it was necessary. I always said that he could take whatever he needed because we were a package deal, but still. So, every time it was his birthday or Christmas, every occasion truthfully, I bought him the books he wanted for a long time, new clothes, or even a day trip. When Remus got offered the job of teaching here, I bought him a whole new wardrobe. He protested first, naturally, it was Moony after all. But I convinced him that a teacher needed nice and fitted clothes, so he agreed.

"I still have a few pamphlets in my trunk, I'll get you one. You can find all the information in there."

"Oh alright, thanks, Alec."

"Any time." I smiled and we continued walking.

"Here we are." Percy stopped in front of two doors. "This one." He pointed to the right. "Is the Defence Against The Dark Arts classroom. And this one leads to your private chambers."

"Thank you, Percy."

"You're welcome. Tomorrow Angelina or the twins can show you the common room. Or I can, if needed." He added the last part with a slight blush. "Good night.

"Night." I smiled and Percy turned and walked back. I took a peek into the classroom first and stepped in. I walked through the class slowly, the moon that shined through the windows was the only light in the room. I walked between the two rows of desks and when I reached the back, I sat down on the one near the window and let my fingers skim the underside of the desk. When I felt engravings on my fingers, I dropped down to the ground and looked up. There they were, just like Uncle Moony said. Four sets of letters were engraved on the desk. JP– SOB – RJL – PP. A smile appeared on my face as I looked at the names. I then took my wand out of my boot, and placed the tip of my wand on the desk and traced my own initials on the hard wood, AFLB.

"Vandalizing school property on your first day." A voice came from behind me. I was startled from the sudden intrusion and let the desk fly through the air, before I rolled on the ground, pointing my wand at the newcomer. "I see your training is still going well." Remus grinned as he leaned against the wall.

"Don't do that to me, Uncle Moony." I huffed and stood up. I glanced over my shoulder and let the desk fly back. "And I've been training like I was seven years old, first muggle then duelling. What did you expect?" I grinned at my uncle and leaned against the wall next to him. "I had to come see it."

"And put your name next to it?" He raised an eyebrow with the same grin.

"Well... yeah." I laughed. "Are you ready, Professor Lupin?" I asked, my eyes curious.

"That's going to take some time to get used to."

"It's not the first time." I nudged his arm. "You've taught me and some other kids too."

"You were eight years old, that's different."

"Maybe." I shrugged and looped my arm through his, guiding him out of the classroom. "But you were – are - a great teacher. And you taught me a lot or found the perfect person to teach me."

"Thanks, cub." He kissed the crown of my head. "Let's explore our own room, yeah?"

"Yes." I nodded enthusiastically and pushed the door handle. When it didn't budge, Remus took his wand and tapped it in a certain rhythm, when I heard a click, I smiled as I pushed the door open. "Is this it?"

"No." Remus chuckled. "This is my office. If you want to enter our accommodations -" He said closing the door in front of us again. He tapped the door again; I recognized the rhythm in an instant. It was the song my mum sang to me, and that Remus started to sing to me the second night he took me in. "-are past the door." He winked and pushed the door open again.

I wasted no time and walked in, my eyes exploring the room. It was a fairly large sitting area. On the left was a large fireplace with a couch and two armchairs in front of it. An old school trunk was used as a coffee table; on the right side of the room was a large bookcase against the wall, and on either side a door. The floor-length windows looked out at the forbidden forest and reading nook in front of it. In the back corner was a kitchenette where we could store some extra food and drinks. The doors on either side of the bookcase, had our names written on it. I frowned a little as my full first name was plastered on it. With a flick of my wand, I changed it to Alec, I glanced to Remus's door and changed it to Moony.

"If mine says Moony, yours says cub." Remus pointed out from the other side of the room.

"Fine," I muttered but grinned. I changed it back to Remus reluctantly. "I'm going to check out my room." I heard Remus call something back as I stepped into the room. They must've waited until I was sorted to decorate the room. I had red curtains around my bed and red covers. On the wall was a banner from Gryffindor next to one from Beauxbatons. My mother's trunk was neatly placed in front of my bed. A light wooden desk was placed against the window, while on the other side of the room was a large wardrobe. I kneeled down at my trunk and started to unpack it. After twenty minutes, I walked back out of the room to see Remus in an armchair, already going over his first lesson for tomorrow.

"Moony." I started and he looked up from his papers. "I'm going to explore the castle."

"It's past curfew." He pointed out, trying out his teacher's 'voice'.

"Uncle Moony." I pouted and looked at him with silver-grey pleading eyes. "I'll go as Loki."

I saw him thinking, going through every scenario in his head before he sighed. "Fine. Don't go out of the castle, be careful and if you get lost..."

"I'll send Loki 2.0." I chuckled and leaned down to give him a hug. "Thank you. I won't be too long." I kissed his cheek and walked to the door.

I concentrated for a moment and felt my body shift and shrink until I was about 60 centimetres high and standing on all fours. I glanced down and saw my white furry paws. my whole body was now full of white fluffy fur and one tail behind me. I had transformed into an Arctic wolf, a little smaller than the average one, but I didn't mind because it helped me sneak into things a normal wolf wouldn't get into. I looked over my shoulder and Remus winked and with a wave of his wand opened the door for me and I patted out. 

Chapter Text

The next morning, I was dressed in the normal uniform of Hogwarts, my robes accentuated with red and the Gryffindor crest. I fidgeted with my tie for over ten minutes, before Remus came in to help me, a grin plastered on his face as he tied it for me. I wasn't used to a short skirt, so I was tugging it absentmindedly all the way to the great hall.

Now I was leaning against the head table talking to Remus and getting to know Professor McGonagall who sat next to my uncle. The transfiguration professor looked uneasy for the first five minutes until we started talking about her subject and my former grades and accomplishments in it. I was just telling the professor about my first class of transfiguration at Beauxbatons that went horribly wrong, making the two professors laugh so loudly that the students all looked at us in curiosity. That's when someone called my name.

"Alec!" I turned to look who called for me and saw Angelina waving excitedly at me.

"Go on, we'll talk later." Remus smiled.

"I'll be there in a moment with your timetables." Professor McGonagall smiled. I smiled at both of them before I walked over to the two girls.

"Good morning," I said as I sat down across from them and put my hair in a high bun.

"Morning!" Angelina said excitedly. "We were wondering if you wanted to come back to the common room later."

"Yeah, I would like that." I said as I poured myself a glass of pumpkin juice. "Hello again, professor." I said after I swallowed my drink.

"Morning girls, and boys." The professor added when Lee and the twins walked up. "Mister Weasleys tuck in your shirt and straighten your ties, you won't be welcome in my class like that." Angelina, Alicia and I shared a look and snickered as the twins did as they were told before sitting down next to me. "Well, that's better, isn't it?"

I heard the twins grumble and pursed my lips together trying to hold in my laugh, and I saw the girls and Lee doing the same.

"Here are all of your timetables." She said choosing the right ones and passing them out. "You all have potions in half an hour."

They all nodded politely as they looked from the professor to the timetable in their hands and the professor walked to the next students coming in.

"Double potions this early in the morning." Lee groaned, placing his head on the desk, and the others all had the same look.

"Snape is the worst. He hates Gryffindors." Alicia explained.

"Yeah, heard about that." I glanced at the head table and saw Snape glare at Remus. "He was in the same year as Mo- Professor Lupin."

"That must've been fun." Angelina scrunched up her nose.

"They were not exactly friends." I said looking back at the girls in front of me. I knew, of course, what had happened between Remus, his friends and Snape and it wasn't pretty. Remus had warned me this morning too, that he'd probably take it out on me. But I was ready, not only was I brilliant in potions, but I also had a plan. "I'm off at two today, what about you?" I asked Angelina and Alicia.

"Not until four. We have care of magical creatures with Hagrid then."

"We're free at the same time." The twin, I thought Fred, said.

"Well, Angelina and Alicia invited me to the common room."

"No one needs to invite you, you know." Lee said as he leaned forward to look past the twins.

"I know, but I don't know where it is, remember?" I said with a smile.

"Right, forgot about that." He grinned sheepishly.

"We can escort you there." George offered looking at me from behind Fred.

"Don't worry." Angelina said. "We'll be there soon, you don't have to get stuck with those two for too long."

"Oi!" The twins yelled and the others, including me, laughed.

"Alright, I think it couldn't hurt." I shrugged with a grin.

"We better get going, Snape already left." Lee pointed out and we quickly stood up and walked out of the great hall.

When we arrived at the dungeons, the professor wasn't there yet as the door was locked. The twins leaned against the wall, Lee standing slightly on Fred's left and the girls in front of them.

"Blood traitor." I heard someone hiss behind us and the girls all turned in a hurry.

"And who might you be talking to?" I asked with a snare.

"You, the Weasleys. Doesn't really matter, does it? You all are." The Slytherin boy spit out. I looked over my shoulder and saw the twins' fury, their faces turning red. Lee looked worried between the Slytherin boy and his friends.

"Hm." I hummed looking back. "What's your name?"

"I don't need to -"

"What's your name?" I said with a stern voice, that made the girls look at me with raised eyebrows. Their eyes turned even bigger as the boy answered.

"Vanity, Lowell Vanity."

"Family of Emma Vanity?" I knew this because Remus made me read up on the Pure-blood families in the UK this summer. It was dreadfully boring, but apparently, that information would come in handy.

The boy nodded dumbly. "That's my mum."

I pulled back the grin that wanted to escape and answered. "You know that her father was a muggle-born?"

"Wh- what?!" The boy sneered but looked confused and frightened.

"Oh, yes. He was killed in the last war, probably due to his background. I have a feeling that your family kept it a tight secret and decided to continue with Vanity's name instead of Dollor."

"You're lying!"

"I am certainly not, Lowell. You can even check it out in the library."

"You-!" Lowell charged forward and the twins pushed me back in an instant and jumped in front of me.

"What's going on here?" A new voice said in a bored voice next to us. We all turned to see Professor Snape looking at the group.

"Just waiting for you, professor." I jumped in before the twins or Lowell said anything. Snape's eyes flickered to me and stayed there for a moment.

"Everyone inside." He snarled as he opened the door with a wave of his hand, only then he looked away. It wasn't that he tried to enter my mind, but he was looking for something. I followed the Gryffindors and Slytherins inside and chose to sit down next to Lee. "Today we will be mixing a potion that often comes up at your OWL's, The Draught of Peace. Can someone tell me what this is for?"

My hand shot up in the air, together with one of Slytherin. And to no one's surprise he chose the Slytherin to answer.

"Thank you, sir." The girl answered. Suck up. Lee whispered next to me with a wink. "It's to calm anxiety and agitation."

"Indeed. What happens if you brew it incorrectly?"

My hand went up in the air again, but now I was the only one and Snape reluctantly waved his hand towards me to continue.

"If you are too heavy-handed with the ingredients you will put the drinker into a heavy sleep. It can sometimes even be irreversible."

"Correct." He said briskly and turned to the board and the instructions appeared on it. "Well, we don't have all day." He sneered as he sat down at his desk. Everyone got up quickly and made their way to the cupboard to gather ingredients.

We were at it for a little over an hour by now, and I was almost done. My textbook and the instructions on the board said I had to stir clockwise four times, but I did it five times. The professor was next to me in an instant, the movement made the other students look up.

"Why did you stir the potion five times, miss Lupin?"

"It's Lupin-Black, sir." I directed my gaze at him and added my three spoons of powdered moonstone in it, without looking at the potion.

"So, I've gathered." He said through gritted teeth, his eyes blazing. I added the powdered porcupine quills in it without breaking eye contact and stirred the potion. "So, why did you stir the potion five times instead of four, miss Lupin- Black ."

"Well, professor," I answered, lowering the heat underneath the cauldron. "I've made this potion before."

"You have?" Lee asked surprised, but shut his mouth when Snape glared at him.

"I have," I said as I took the pipette from my desk and squeezed the tube seven times, letting exactly seven drops of hellebore fall into my cauldron. "And now it's perfect." I tore my eyes away from the professor and looked at my cauldron, my potion perfectly white as it should be.

"Perfect? If you're so sure of yourself, you can drink it."

"Professor, you can't-" Angelina said outraged but closed her mouth as Snape's head snapped to her.

"Who's the professor in the classroom, miss Johnson? I thought so." He said when she didn't answer. "So?"

"Happy to, sir." I put out the fire and put a cooling charm on it.

"Alec." The twins whispered from behind me, their eyes wide. I just smiled and took a ladle before tasting my potion. It tasted like the ones I made before, like the ones I took when I was younger. I glanced at the twins in the corner of my eyes and pretended to faint. The boys, Angelina and Alicia jumped up, as Lee's hands tried to catch her.

"I'm just joking." I chuckled as I straightened myself. I heard the Gryffindors blow out a breath of relief, while the Slytherins looked disappointed that I didn't fall unconscious. I looked back at the professor in front of me. "If you had read the letters my guardian had sent you this summer, you would've known that I studied under Lore Peeters, thé potion master of Europe, for the last two years and you would know that the classes in Beauxbatons are different than the ones here. From what Remus has told me; I would be in seventh-year class at Hogwarts." I took a binder from my bag and gave it to a stunned Snape, who tried to hide it from the others, but I caught it. Snape snagged it out of my hand and walked back to his desk.

"Five points from Gryffindor for insubordination." He said sitting down, the Gryffindors groaned.

After we cleaned up our stations, I followed the rest out of the classroom. When I walked past the professor, he said without looking up. "I'll review this, miss Lupin-Black."

"Thank you, professor." I said sincerely. The professor looked up for a moment. I opened my mind to show it, as I figured out quickly, he's a legilimens. When he found what he was looking for, he looked back down to his papers.

"Welcome to our home away from home." George said as he spread his arms as we climbed through the portrait hole. I had seen pictures of the Gryffindor common room of course but being here was an entirely different feeling. I recognized the couch in front of the fire from the picture of Remus, Sirius, James and Peter. I recognized the corner where Remus always did his homework. George was right, it was home away from home.

"So, what do you think?" Fred asked stepping on my other side.

"Brilliant!" I beamed at the twins.

"Come on." He took my elbow and dragged me to the couch. He put me in the middle of the couch, while they sat on either side of me, sitting against the edge, facing me.

"What about -"

"Twenty questions?"

"Sure." I kicked off my shoes and sat cross-legged on the burgundy couch. "If it goes both ways." The twins nodded with a grin. "And twenty questions each, not ten-ten."

The twins pouted a little, as I figured out they were playing just so. "Fine. We'll act like real gentlemen." George said.

"It was time really, -" He chuckled. "- so, you can go first." Fred's grin was back in place.

"Alright. How many siblings do you have? I've met Percy." I asked Fred.

"Six. Five brothers, and one sister. Bill, Charlie." He started counting on his fingers. "Percy, me, George, Ron and Ginny."

"Poor Ginny." I chuckled, thinking about being the only girl. "All Gryffindors?" I turned to George.

"Yes, parents too. Our uncles were Gryffindors, grandparents too. We have an uncle that was in Hufflepuff though."

"Oh, and great-aunt Bessie was in Ravenclaw." Fred pointed out. "Our turn. Why were you hiding that pretty face of yours on the train?"

I rolled my eyes at the not-too-subtle compliment. "I wasn't in the mood to explain who I was to everyone I met on the train."

"I can understand that. We were pretty curious too."

"Really? I had no idea." I chuckled lightly.

"Where did you go after bumping into us?" George asked.

"I went to sit with Oscar."

"Oscar?" The twins chorused.

"Yeah, the train driver. He's a family friend."

"You're getting more interesting by the minute." George's eyes twinkled.

"Believe me, once you know me, I won't be as interesting at all."

"I highly doubt it." I glanced at Fred, who had the same twinkle in his eyes.

"My turn." I cleared my throat. "What have you two been smuggling in your pockets today?"

"Oh, you noticed that, did you?" The twinkle was even more evident in Fred's eyes. He glanced over to his twin with a grin before they pulled out small candies from the pockets. "We make them ourselves."

"Candies?"

"Not just sweets," George said holding out a pink and green one. "One side makes you puke, the other side stops it."

"I'm confused. Why would you make something like that?" I asked looking at the candy before my eyes darted to George.

"That's your second question then? Okay, we're planning to open our own shop, a joke shop."

"Like Tom's Grappen."

"Tom's what?"

"It's a joke shop in Belgium." I waved my hand a little. "It's absolutely brilliant there."

"Ours will be better."

"Well, if you can make something like this at your age, I don't doubt it." I said giving the candy back and the twins beamed at me.

"I thought you lived in France?" George asked, stuffing the candies back in his pocket.

"No, I mean yes." I shook my head trying to find the right words. "I was born in Ireland and lived there with my mum for four years. Then Remus and I moved to Belgium, we stayed there for another four years. Then three years in France and a few months before my eleventh birthday we moved back to Belgium. Beauxbatons accepts students from France, Belgium, the Netherlands, Luxembourg, Spain and Portugal."

"Wow." The boys gasped.

"Yeah, so the school is at least three times as big as Hogwarts."

"How does it work with the language barrier?" Fred asked.

"There are French classes you can take. But there is also a spell that translates for you, so that's one of the first spells that is being taught at the school. I speak English and Dutch fluently and a little French, so I could talk to most of them and otherwise I had the spell."

"Didn't know there was a spell for that." Fred frowned as he racked his brain.

"The previous headmistress there, the great-grandmother of Miss Maxime invented the spell and it is mostly used there and in Durmstrang."

"Wicked." They chorused. We continued the questions and were way past the twenty when Lee and the girls climbed through the portrait and joined us at the fire. 

Chapter Text

Thinking I was going to share Ancient Runes with the other Gryffindor fifth years, I was disappointed to see there were only four Ravenclaws and three Slytherin boys. The Ravenclaws all looked wary at me as they paired up. I was about to take an empty seat in front of the class when one of the Slytherin boys who sat alone beckoned me over. I saw the other Slytherin boys look at their friend with raised eyebrows and even the Ravenclaws looked shocked.

"You can sit here." He said, putting his bag on the floor.

"Thanks." I glanced at him as I put my bag next to my chair.

"Babbling was going to put us together anyway. She'll be happy to have an even number." He shrugged, his face emotionless.

"I figured." I said in the same tone and blank expression, worthy of a Slytherin. The boy looked at me with raised eyebrows for a hot second before he looked to the front of the class, his mask back in place. I crossed my legs on my chair, making myself comfortable as I took my book out. We worked next to each other in complete silence for almost half an hour, before I heard the two other Slytherin's whisper next to the boy.

"Do you think Black is close family of hers?"

"I heard it's her father."

"Think she has his traits?"

"What? As if she's a mass murderer? I could see it."

I wrote down the wrong answer on my paper because of what they said. But I just pursed my lips and changed it, trying to ignore the boys.

"Hot for a mass murderer's daughter though." The one with dark thick wild eyebrows snickered.

"I would tap that, even if she's a –" The boy didn't get to finish his sentence as I scoffed. The still-unnamed boy next to me looked at me with a slightly raised eyebrow.

"Even if you two were the last people in the world, I wouldn't touch you with a ten-meter pole," I said not, bothered to look up. The boys wanted to retort but Professor Babbling asked for a volunteer just then. "I can do it, professor."

"Excellent, excellent." The professor smiled broadly and gestured with her hand to come to the board. I dropped my legs to the ground and pushed myself up. "I was wondering what you got in store for me, miss Lupin-Black." The professor said as she leaned against her desk, watching me work the assignment.

"We were wondering what's in store for us under that skirt." One of the boys whispered, but it wasn't quiet enough and the professor's head snapped to him.

"Ten points from Slytherin and detention, mister Gore."

I smiled as I finished writing on the board and looked at the professor. "So, think I did okay?" I asked as I stepped away from the blackboard, to look at what I did.

"I should say more than okay. You even added things you will only learn in two years." She exclaimed excitedly and clapped her hands. "Ten points for Gryffindor." She announced to the class as she turned. "I should look at Beauxbatons curriculum." She murmured.

"I could get it for you if you want." I offered.

"Really?" She asked surprised, her eyes wide and I nodded with a smile. "If it's not too much trouble."

"It isn't." She smiled. "I'll get it to you as soon as possible."

"Oh, take your time, dear." She smiled and ushered in a quick apology. "Oh, sorry, miss Lupin-Black."

"It's okay." I chuckled before heading back to my seat. I crossed my legs again on my seat and saw the boy look at me, the corners of his mouth twitched. "Something funny?" I asked, scribbling in my notebook.

"No." He said slowly. "Just... that doesn't look comfortable for me." He nudged his head to my lap.

"Hm." I hummed and glanced sideways at him. "Probably because I'm more limber than you." I pulled back a grin as I saw an eyebrow rise again and looked back to my book. The boy looked at me for a moment before turning back to his book. For the rest of the class we worked next to each other in silence.

"Are you ready, cub?" Remus asked as I took the right stance. Our wands were placed on the cupboard in the corner, our shoes on the floor in front of it. I had traded my school robes for dark grey sweatpants and a loose, black shirt, my hair was pulled up in a high ponytail. Remus was standing in front of me with a similar look, baggy light grey sweatpants with a faded Queens t-shirt. We were standing in an empty classroom, and we transfigured some blankets in gymnastic mats that covered the entire floor. I twisted my bare feet on the blue mat and nodded my head.

Remus grinned as he beckoned me over. I pushed off the mat and ran over to him. I made a feigned movement with my arm before I slid on the mat kicking his feet from under him. Remus fell down with a thud but rolled over in an instant and was back on his feet. I hopped back up and we took our stance again. Remus lunged first now, I dodged his punch and slammed my fist on his side, landing on his kidney. He groaned at the pain, but before I could retract my hand, he grabbed it and twisted it to my own back. I struggled against his grip, but he didn't let go. One hand kept my arm behind me while the other wrapped around my neck, my back to him.

"How are you going to get out of this?" Remus asked seriously. I tried to turn and twist, but he was too strong. I thought about it before I stomped his bare foot with my heel. His grip loosened by the unexpected impact, and I used it to my advantage. I rammed my elbow in his ribs and his grip became loose enough for me to turn. I raised my hands and reached up to poke my thumbs in his eyes. "Fuck!" Remus grumbled. I stumbled back, thinking I overstepped. I was just starting to apologize when Remus started to laugh. "You seriously poked me in the eyes!"

"Well..." I started laughing with him as we went to grab our water bottles. I dried my neck and head off with my towel. "Courtois taught me to take advantage of the unexpected." I shrugged as I twisted the lid off.

"That certainly was unexpected." He grinned. "Esmee was a great teacher."

"I miss her."

"Me too, cub. Me too." He rubbed my arm, and we both drank half of our bottles empty in silence. I placed my water bottle back on the cupboard and looked at him.

"Ready for round two, old man?"

"Old man?" He raised his eyebrow. "This old man is going to kick your ass, Alexandra Fae Lupin-Black."

"That is a mouthful, isn't it?" I chuckled as we took our stance in front of each other again. "Bring it, Remus John Lupin."

"It's Uncle Moony to you." He said before he lunged at me.

"Hey, Ange." I dropped down next to her at Charms, on the fourth day of classes.

"Here I thought you didn't know us anymore." She pouted.

"Sorry, it's been... a lot to adjust." I smiled apologetically. "Still getting used to the castle."

"Hm, I understand." She said as she opened her book. "Why don't we show you around the castle tonight?"

"Aren't they really strict now with ..." I let the sentence hang there, but she knew what I meant.

"They are. But the twins have their way of getting around unnoticed."

"Oh, really?" I chuckled as I glanced at the twins, who were sitting on the other side of the room, facing us. The twins both gave me a lopsided grin before they turned to the professor. "It could be fun."

"Sit with us tonight at dinner alright?" Angelina asked. "At breakfast, you always sit with Professor Lupin, you're never at lunch and at dinner, you sit alone or with other Gryffindors."

"I try to get to know more people than just you guys." I chuckled.

"Where do you go during lunch?"

"Shh, the professor is talking." I grinned as I ignored her question. "But I'll sit with you guys tonight."

"I will figure it out, you know." Angelina huffed with a smile.

I liked Angelina, she was funny, smart and straightforward. She was one of the most popular girls in our year, just like the twins were one of the most popular boys. How I had become one of their friends, I had no idea. It's not like I was unpopular or didn't have any friends, but Beauxbatons was a very large school with three maybe four times the amount of people than Hogwarts. I had a large group of friends, but you just couldn't compare the school's most popular girls and boys, clicks, and friendships to how it works here. I've only been here for about five days, but the inter-house rivalry was prominent, and I hated it! The worst of the bunch was Gryffindor vs Slytherin. You could see it in every class, the hallway and even the great hall. I was a bit scared to go watch a quidditch game between the two of them. I hoped to break the vicious cycle, but the few Slytherins I had spoken to didn't help the matter. But I don't give up that easily, I'll break them. One by one if I have to. I shook my head and turned my attention back to the professor who was still talking as he stood on his pile of books. I pulled my feet up and sat cross-legged on the chair again like I did in every class. Angelina grinned at my position but didn't comment as she flicked to the right page.

After my free period, I walked to the great hall for dinner. When I entered Angelina was already waving at me as she kept a place for me next to her. I walked over and sat down next to her. Alicia was sitting across from us next to Lee. The moment I sat down, they all started to load their plates.

"You didn't have to wait for me." I said as I filled my own.

"It's the polite thing to do." Lee winked.

"So, you guys wait for me, but not your best friends?"

"Nah." Lee waved his fork. "Those two knuckleheads won't be down any time soon."

"Busy with their "sweets"? Angelina asked and Lee nodded, his mouth full.

"Alicia, Angelina told me you're taking muggle studies?" I asked the quiet girl. The first time I met her she didn't seem like the silent type. Maybe I guessed wrong, or maybe she doesn't really like me hanging out with her friends.

"I am." She said but didn't elaborate. Lee furrowed his brows but didn't say anything. I turned to Angelina confused. She just shook her head with a sigh and turned back to eat.

"So, Alec. Tell me about those Beauxbatons girls." Lee asked after dinner was replaced by dessert.

"We want to know too." The twins had finally appeared, and one sat down next to me while the other sat down next to Lee.

"What's there to tell, they are girls. Just like the girls here."

"But they are French and pretty and..." I held up my hand to stop Fred next to me, who looked like he was daydreaming.

"Sorry to burst your bubble, boys. But they're just girls. Yeah, there may be a handful of girls with Veela blood in them, but otherwise." I shrugged. "And it's more than just French girls. They come from at least six countries. And there are pretty girls here too. Besides a lot of them are vain and a handful, believe me."

"So, pretty girls here, he?" George wiggled his eyebrows in front of me.

"I can recognize any beautiful girl without shame. You can't say the same about boys, can you?" I challenged with a grin. And the twins stuttered with a slightly shocked face. "That's what I thought."

"And boys? Can you tell that without shame?" Fred asked with a large grin plastered on his face as he leaned on his hand.

"I can, but..." I searched around the table. "Can't seem to find any." The boys scoffed and Angelina choked on her pumpkin juice. "You alright there, Ange?" I chuckled as I clapped her back.

"I'm good." She smiled once she had cleaned up. "You say the girls from France are vain, but you just broke the boys' hearts." She laughed as she nudged her head to them. I turned in my seat and saw the boys pouting as they looked at the back of a spoon, setting their hair right. "I think they're even worse."

"I'm not so sure about that." I snickered as I stood up and ruffled their hair. I took Angelina's hand and ran out of the great hall. The twins ran after us, combing their fingers through their hair. Lee was talking to Alicia before he came over alone. "Isn't she coming?"

"Says she's tired," Lee said as he looked over his shoulder back to the girl, who had moved from her seat, to sit next to a fourth year.

"She doesn't like me." I said as we walked through the corridor. I took a scrunchy out of my bag and put my hair in a high loose bun.

"It's not that..." Angelina started, and I looked att her.

"Is it because of my family? Because I'm a ... Black?"

"No, no." George said as he came to stand on my other side. "She just -"

"Doesn't know you." Fred added next to Angelina.

"Neither do you." I pointed out as they led me to the right. "So, what's the difference?"

"In all honesty?" Lee asked, and the others shot him a look.

"Yes. I only want to know the truth."

"It's partially because she doesn't know you and part of her is jealous."

"Jealous?" I asked incredulously. "Of what?"

"The mystery that is you." Lee said.

"The looks." Fred added with a wink.

"The raw talent." George added. "And Angelina."

I stopped the four of them just as we were headed out of the castle. "Hold up. First-" I pointed to Lee. "I'm not mysterious."

"You are." They all said. "The whole school talks about you." Fred added.

"Great." I rolled my eyes. "Looks?" I pursed my lips at Fred. "Alicia is a beautiful girl, she doesn't have anything to be jealous of, believe me." I said as I pulled my sleeve. The twins had noticed the movement but didn't comment on it. Lastly, I turned to George. "Raw talent?" I shook my head. "Hard work is what it is. If I would tell you my schedule from the past ten years, you would think I'm mental."

"But you think it's true? About me?" Angelina asked.

"I do." I said. "She may think I'm trying to steal her best friend. So, next time in Charms sit back next to her. I'll sit -"

"With me." The twins both exclaimed happily. I turned to look at them with raised eyebrows and saw them glare at each other before they turned back to me with a grin. "I think I'll sit with one from Hufflepuff." I locked my arms with Angelina and walked her out of the castle. 

Chapter Text

The first night that I strolled around the castle as Loki, I didn't go outside. I only explored the castle itself. So, when the group led me to the quidditch field, I looked around with interest. The Beauxbatons field was the same size of course, but the tribunes weren't decorated in different colours. The stands were larger as there were more students, but in France, they were just in a light engraved wood, the school crest was engraved in the wood and the teams' logos were scattered across the stands. There wasn't a section per team. Everyone was scattered around the pitch. Beauxbatons being such a large school had 10 teams, and since they had no houses, the teams were made a long time ago by the students who founded the different clubs that you could join. Hogwarts didn't have many clubs, which is probably why everyone was so stuck with their own house. That actually brought me up with an idea...

I was so lost in thought again as I walked the field, I didn't see the others gather broomsticks.

"Do you fly?" Lee asked, nudging his head to the others.

"I fly a little. Not something I consider my favourite activity though." I shrugged. "You?"

"Same as you. That's why my job is next to the field, not on. What is your favourite activity then?" He asked as we stopped by the twins and Angelina, who fell quiet as they listened in.

"Wouldn't you like to know." I grinned.

"See!" Fred pointed at me. "Mysterious."

"Cautious, more like." I countered. "I know you guys for five days, so trust needs to be earned."

"I think she gave us a challenge, Georgie." Fred nudged his twin with a grin and they both leaned forward.

"We're going to break the wall you're hiding behind, Lupin-Black." George said.

"Good luck with that." I steered the conversation away. "Is one of them for me?" I gestured to the brooms.

"You fly?" Angelina asked, handing one over, and I smiled.

"Are you flying, mate?" George asked Lee, who shook his head. The twins and Angelina climbed their brooms and shot up in the air.

"Come on, Lee. Fly with us."

"No, I'm good." He waved his hands in front of him.

"Fly with me then."

"You just said we known each other for only five days, we hardly know each other. And you want me to trust you on a broom, in the air!" He pointed upwards dramatically.

"I see your point." I tapped my lips. "How about this... you fly with me, and I tell you something about me."

"Depends on what that something is." Lee grinned. "I don't need to know if you have pets or something."

"I don't." I chuckled. "Ask me now, and if it's something I want to share, I'll tell you... after."

"Oh, hm." Lee frowned as he thought about what to ask. "What is your favourite activity?"

"I can answer that." My smile wide as I climbed the broom and held out my hand for Lee. "So, what about it?"

Lee cocked his head at me, trying to figure out if it was safe before he took my hand and took his place behind me.

"Hold on." I instructed. "De la Barre! Just hold my waist, Jordan." I laughed as he didn't know where to put his hands. He finally clasped his hands together around my waist and pushed us off the ground. Lee's grip became tighter as we flew higher. I was flying just above the stands and had a beautiful sight of the castle.

"How did you get Lee to agree to fly with you?" Angelina asked shocked as she and the twins flew over.

"I have my ways." I grinned, as I felt Lee's head against my back. "You okay there?"

"Fine." He mumbled in my sweater, and I chuckled.

"Look at the castle, Lee. It's beautiful." I said as the sun started to lower. "You guys should really see Beauxbatons, it's even more magnificent." I sighed as I leaned forward on the broom.

"You miss it?" George asked coming up next to me.

"I do. It's a lot different than here, I don't fit in here."

"Of course, you fit in." Fred said coming to float in front of me.

"I don't." I shook my head, and I felt Lee lifting his head. "I'm not one for clicks or groups. The whole house thing here... it doesn't suit me. They put you in a box here. Hufflepuff is kind and loyal, Ravenclaw is studious, Slytherin is cunning or like you guys said prejudiced and Gryffindor is brave. It looks like you're put in a box here and if you don't act like it, you're an outcast. I heard about that Granger girl, about her first year here." I took in a deep breath. "Sorry, I don't mean to talk ill about Hogwarts."

"I can see your point actually. Even though the professors tell us they want us all to get along, from the age of 11 we're being put in a group that sleeps, eats and takes classes together." Angelina said to my right. "It's not ideal, to say the least."

"No wonder the sorting hat had such difficulties placing you." Lee said behind me.

"But it's not just that... the whole Black thing. I don't really care what other people think, but I just want to curse anyone who judges me just because of my name."

"Can I ask, why did you keep his name?" Angelina asked.

"It was my mother's wish."

"Can you tell us about your parents?"

"Sirius Black, I guess you all heard the story?" The others nodded in silence. "My uncle actually thinks there is something off about that story, about what happened that night... but even still. He's my father in blood, nothing more. My mum wrote to him when she found out she was pregnant and again when she gave birth, but she never got an answer. It broke her heart."

"You think he escaped to come find you?" George asked with a horrified voice.

"No." I shook my head. "He never contacted me or my mum. He doesn't care about me." My voice wavered a bit. "But I don't need him to, I have Remus." The silence filled the air around us. "Okay, I think I shared more than enough. Let's fly over the forest!" I said excitedly and flew off.

"Nooo!" Lee screamed at the sudden movement. "There are dangerous things in there."

"I'm not going in, relax Jordan." I laughed as the others followed me. My eyes scanned the forest beneath us, and I already started mapping out the grounds to go explore in my wolf form. I still felt Lee shiver behind me. "Fine, I'll go back." I chuckled and turned around.

"Let's go to the boathouse." Fred called over and flew to the black lake. I landed softly on the wooden floors in front of the boathouse next to George.

"Wasn't so bad, was it?" I asked as I turned to Lee.

"No." He smiled. "Until you flew up to the Forbidden Forest. So, tell me."

"Not now." I grinned as I glanced at the others and Lee nodded with a wink.

"What was that?" Fred leaned his head on mine. "What were you two talking about?"

"Nothing to concern that big red-head of yours about." I chuckled as Angelina led me inside the boathouse.

"Big head?" Fred gasped, touching his head all around, while the others chuckled. George transfigured one of the wooden chairs into a large couch. Lee sat on the right end, Angelina next to him, then me, George and Fred at the other end.

"So, the boys asked about the girls in Beauxbatons. But what about the boys?" Angelina's eyes were wide. "Or should I say, was there someone, boy, girl, I don't judge, that had your interest?"

"There was," I said and the rest all leaned closer with interest. "There is. It's complicated." I shook my head. "What about you four?"

"Still searching for the one." Fred sighed dramatically.

"The one? You're fifteen. It doesn't need to be the one, it needs to be fun !" I laughed. "You're only young once, enjoy before it's over." I turned grim as my thoughts wandered to my mum.

"She's right." Lee suddenly said, trying to steer the direction away from me. "We are young! We should be having fun. When's the first Hogsmeade weekend?"

"The last weekend of October." George said.

"Brilliant. Oi, Johnson, want to go with me to Hogsmeade?"

I smiled widely as Angelina's eyes turned into saucers and the twins nearly fainted from shock. The air was silent, and I nudged Angelina to speak up because Lee's smile was faltering.

"Oh – yeah, uhm." Angelina stumbled as she came out of it. "I would love to." The blush was evident on both of their cheeks.

"Isn't that sweet." The twins cooed, and I punched them both on the arm. They both glared at me, but their lips twitched.

"I think we should head inside." I said as I leaned forward and pointed to the other side of the lake. The dementors that guarded the school were coming closer to the castle, and you could feel the cold air creeping up. The others followed my gaze and saw the hooded figures come closer, they simultaneously jumped up.

"Do we have time to bring the brooms back?" Angelina asked sounding a little scared.

"You guys go to the castle. I'll get them back." I said as I already started to collect the brooms.

"No! You can't go alone!" Angelina glanced from me to the hooded figures.

"I'll be fine. I'll probably be at the castle at the same time as you guys."

As I was busy with the brooms, I didn't see the three boys exchange glances with each other.

"We'll go with you." I turned to see the twins step closer and reach for the brooms. "You two head back to the castle, we'll meet you there." Fred said to Angelina and Lee as he climbed on one of the brooms.

"Seriously, it's not necessary." I said putting the spare broom on my back with a simple spell.

"Stop protesting, it won't work." Angelina laughed as she passed me. "We'll see you at the castle doors."

"Let's go then before they get too close," I said as I looked behind George to the dementors. "Don't you dare offer to carry the spare broom." I snickered as I climbed the broom. George looked flustered for a moment before he grinned wide, and I flew out of the boathouse.

When we reached the quidditch pitch, the dementors were floating over the black lake. We put the brooms in the storage room and headed back to the castle, the twins on either side of me.

"So, uhm." George started and the boys glanced at each other over my head. "What were you and Lee talking about?"

"You're too curious." I shook my head with a smile. "I promised to tell him something about me, making me less 'mysterious' as you guys say, if he went flying with me."

"And what are you going to tell him?" Fred asked.

"I'm going to tell Lee, not you two.

"But-" They pouted. "What if we can do something for you?"

I stopped and looked at them with raised eyebrows. "What do you think I need?"

"Don't know yet, but we'll figure it out."

"Hm, until then..." We had reached the castle doors, but Lee and Angelina weren't there. "Angelina? Lee?" I called inside, no answer. "Where are they?" I turned to the boys.

"Probably got sent away by a prefect or a teacher. We'll see them in the common room."

"So, no tour then?"

"Why wouldn't there be a tour?" Fred asked as they both raised their eyebrows.

"Well, Angelina and Lee are gone. And it's nearly curfew."

"Are you afraid to be alone with us, Lupin-Black?" Fred purred as they both stepped closer to me.

"Afraid? Of you two? Please." I chuckled. "Lead the way then, Weasley."

The boys looked a little surprised by the lack of effect they had on me, but they both looped an arm through mine and led me through the castle.

As I already knew where my classes were, they took me on a different route. Showing me hidden classrooms, abandoned parts of the castle, hidden passageways, shortcuts, the whole lot. They just showed me the girl's lavatory with the story of what happened last year, when we heard footsteps come closer.

Before I knew it, they had pulled me inside a small alcove. George had pulled me flush against him, one hand on my waist, while he placed his fingers on his lips with the other.
Fred was standing behind me. Not just behind me, he too was flush against me, his chest and abdomen prominent on my back. Like I said, the alcove was really small, I barely had space to move my arms, but from the sudden jolt into the narrow space, they were twisted in the wrong way. So, I moved and jiggled a bit and brought my hands up to rest on George's chest. My eyes fixed on the little crook in the tapestry so I could watch the corridor. The boys' breathing became heavier and I felt something grow against me on both sides. I had to bite my lip from laughing and try not to look either of them in the eye. When the sound of footsteps receded, I looked up to George.

"Cosy." I chuckled softly. "Do you two bring all the girls in here?"

"Hm -" George's eyes dark as he looked at me. "No."

"Not here anyway." Fred purred in my ear. "We have a more spacious place for that."

"Well, as fun as this was." I wiggled on purpose between them, and I chuckled as I heard a small groan escape from the both of them. "I better get back to my room."

"Aren't you coming to the tower?"

"No. It's too late. And I promised to write some of my friends from Beauxbatons after a few days." I shuffled out between them and stuck my head out of the tapestry. "Tell Angelina and Lee I'll come by the common room tomorrow. Night, boys." I said and slipped out once I saw the coast was clear.

What I didn't see or hear, was that the twins stayed there a little longer. They told me about it years later. They stood in the alcove for a long moment, trying to gather themselves, trying to reduce a certain swelling. After that had passed, they talked in hushed voices as they made their way to the tower.

"She's going to be the death of us, George."

"Tell me about it." George rubbed his face.

"Do you think she could be... You know?"

"I - I think so. We never had such a strong connection for someone and certainly not this fast. And we both like her but -"

"We still need to get to know her, not frighten her with..."

"Not only that, Freddie. You heard her." George sighed as they climbed a moving staircase. "There was someone from Beauxbatons..."

"Yeah." Fred frowned. "But he's not here. Even if they are still together, doing the long-distance thing... it won't last, will it?"

"I wish I knew, Fred. Fortuna Major." He said as they reached the portrait, and they climbed in. "Let's just wait and see. We don't even know if she's interested."

"We could ask her to Hogsmeade."

"We could, but not as a date. Too soon, too confusing and too much explaining of triads." George whispered. "Like you said, try not to frighten her. So-"

"Taking it slow."

"Yeah." George nodded before they sat down next to Lee and Angelina in the corner of the common room. 

Chapter Text

I was writing my potion's essay at my desk in our living room while Moony sat next to me going over the class for tomorrow with the third years. I finished it rather quickly as I had made the potion before. When the ink had dried up, I rolled up the parchment and stuffed it in my bag. I pushed myself backwards and stood up. Just two small steps further I was standing behind him, leaning over his shoulder to look at the lesson plan.

"Oh!" I gasped as I saw what he was going to do tomorrow. "A boggart! Where did you find one?"

"In Filch's filing cabinet."

"The caretaker? How did it get in there?"

"Don't know." He said as he filled in the steps.

"Can I come and watch?" I asked excitedly. Remus turned a little in his chair to look at me with raised eyebrows. "Oh, come on!" I whined a little. "It's been years since I've seen one. See, your class is in the fourth period, that's my free one." I grinned.

"And do you want to face it yourself? The last time..."

"No." I shook my head. "I'll keep my distance if you want me to. But I did defeat the last one, remember."

"I do, but you had nightmares for a week, cub."

"I'll be fine." I waved him off and leaned my head on his shoulder. "Please." I looked at him with my pleading puppy eyes.

"Alright fine."

"You're the best." I screamed and hugged him. I gave him a chaste kiss on the cheek and headed towards the door.

"Where are you headed?" He called after me.

"Even with the Wolfsbane, you still want to go hide out in that Shrieking shack. I'm going to see if that's suitable for us."

"Us?" Remus jumped up. "You're not coming, Alec."

"But I am." I turned to him. "I always do, Uncle Moony. Ever since I became an Animagus. We both know it's perfectly safe, now even more so with the Wolfsbane potion. You won't change my mind."

Remus groaned in his hands, and then his hand ran tiredly through his hair. "Fine, fine." He slumped back in his chair. "Don't tell anyone, alright?

"I never do. That's the benefit of not sleeping in the Gryffindor tower, otherwise, it's harder to explain." I glanced at my watch. "I'll be back in an hour."

"Remember what I told you about how to get in!" He called as I walked out the door.

"See you later!" I called back just before the door closed behind me.

Yeah, alright. The Shrieking shack was true to its name – a shack -. It was worn down, battered and the floorboards creaked so loud, I thought I might fall through. I toddled on through the shack on my four white paws and when I reached the first landing, I transfigured back into my human body. My breath got caught up in my throat as I looked around the room Remus told me about. It was the room he used to stay in during his school days. The room he had torn apart, where his friends joined him on his monthly nights. When I was younger, I had never seen his wolf side. He was always far away from me, so I never knew what he did or how he felt during that time. But seeing all the scratches on the walls and the floor, broken glass and still some fur scattered around the room, it hit me hard. I started my Animagus training the first year I started school. He had told me when I was nine what his friends did for him, and I wanted to do the same. I wanted to be with him, help him. Repay what he did for me for all those years. I read up as much as I could before school and once I started, I began the process to become one. I was hard work, and the teachers didn't want me to start that young, but I pushed my will. The teachers had tested me on other things to see how I would react, to see if I was physically and emotionally ready to undergo it all. And after a year of extra testing, they agreed to let me start in my second year with a private tutor to help me. Only two of my friends knew about it, as the teachers wanted to keep it quiet. Remus was surprised at what my form was, seeing that Sirius was a large black dog and I turned into a wolf. He thought it was a mixture of the two of them, Sirius and Remus. But a being of light, my fur was so white, Remus always said it radiated warmth, love, and good. The light in the dark is a large contrast to Sirius's black dog form. Even after my success in becoming an Animagus, Remus didn't want to let me come with him during a full moon. I convinced him to let my tutor come with us for the first few times, and after two successful times, I'd go with him alone. Once we had found someone to make Wolfsbane, those nights went even easier, but my uncle never trusted himself and we always went to an abandoned or locked place for those nights.

So, now I was standing here alone in that room, and I pulled my wand out of my worn-out All-Stars. I mended the room as much as I could, so he wouldn't have to face everything he did those long nights he was locked in here. There was a chair lying on the ground with a broken leg, with a wave of my wand, I transfigured it into a dark grey three-seater. I fixed the broken glass from the windows and from a mirror, leaving the floor spotless. There wasn't more I could do; I could only think of bringing over a blanket and some tea the night itself. With a last glance around the room and turned back into Loki and toddled back down the stairs. When I climbed out of the dark hole, the whomping willow was swaying softly above me. When I saw a red streak in the corner of my eye, I tore my eyes away from the tree and saw a large ginger cat with a squashed face strutting around the grounds. The cat stopped and looked at me for a few seconds. Neither of us moved as our eyes were locked on each other. There was a slight rustling in the bushes a little further and the cat looked away before disappearing from sight. Weird. I thought to myself, but since it was getting dark, I toddled back to the castle.

"Miss Lupin-Black?" Professor Snape called me over after the end of our double potions class. I glanced at my watch as Remus's lesson was going to start in fifteen minutes as I walked to his desk.

"Yes, professor?"

"I reviewed all of your work and the letters that Professor Lupin had send me." He said, only looking up at the end of the sentence. "And since you're wasting your time here..."

"Professor?" I asked confused.

"Like you said, your potions are seventh-year level, NEWT level. I suggest we change your lesson plan, and you would join the seventh years and take your potion's NEWTs at the end of the year."

"Oh." My mouth made a little O in surprise. The professor looked back down at his papers. "But what about my OWL's?"

"I've discussed this with your head of house and your guardian. If you want, you can take the potions OWL's at the end of October."

My eyes turned comically large as I looked at the professor at his desk. "I would love to, sir."

"Alright, I'll pass it through to the examiner. If you pass your OWL's, this will be your new timetable." He handed me a piece of parchment. "That's all. Go."

I glanced at the parchment in my hand as I walked to the door. "Thank you, professor." I heard him grumble. I stuffed the timetable in my bag and hurried to the DADA classroom. My head filled with excitement, and I was already planning to study for the exams at the end of next month.

I saw the third years trickle in, in the classroom by the time I had reached it. I saw Harry and his friends walk near the back. Behind them, a boy with stark blond hair, which Remus informed me, long ago, was in fact a cousin of mine on Sirius's side. I waited until the Gryffindors and Slytherins had all walked into the classroom. Remus had gestured them all to the back of the classroom as the desks were all situated to the side, leaving a large open space in front of them. On the other side of the classroom was Moony and a large wardrobe. When Remus saw me, as I closed the door behind me, he smiled and nudged his head to call me over. The third years all began to whisper to each other, wondering why I was there. I smiled at Remus and hopped on a desk against the side, next to Remus before my eyes went to the kids. Most of them looked away when my eyes crossed them, and a few Slytherins, including my cousin, challenged my gaze. But it was when I saw Harry looking back at me, my breath hitched a little. The boy's green eyes were curious and large, and I wanted to tell him everything at that moment. I was glad that Moony started to talk to the students and we both looked away.

"Good afternoon, everyone." Remus walked a little closer to the students. "You won't need your books today; it will be a practical lesson. You will only need your wands."

I grinned as some of the students looked confused like they never had a practical lesson in DADA before. Which was probably so, from what the others and Remus told me. The wardrobe began to shake and banging noises were heard inside.

"Not to worry about that." Moony said calmly as the students jumped back in alarm. "There is a Boggart in there. Boggarts like dark, enclosed spaces. Like wardrobes, the gap beneath beds, and cupboards under the sink. I once met one that had lodged itself in a grandfather clock. This one moved in yesterday afternoon. So, the first question we must ask ourselves is, what is a Boggart?" He asked the class expectantly. My eyes went over the students and stopped at Hermione Granger who had her hand held up high.

"It's a shape-shifter, sir." She said. "It can take the shape of whatever it thinks will frighten us the most."

"Couldn't have said it better myself." Moony said and the girl glowed. "So, the Boggart sitting in the darkness has not yet assumed a form. He does not know what will frighten the person on the other side of the door. Nobody knows what a Boggart looks like when he is alone, but when I let him out, he will become whatever each of us fears the most." A boy behind Harry made a noise filled with terror. "This means we have an advantage over the Boggart before we begin. Have you spotted it, Harry?"

My eyes shifted from Moony to Harry, Hermione next to him had her hand in the air again. Harry looked between me and Moony before he answered. "Er - because there are so many of us, it won't know what shape it should be?" He said a little uncertain.

"Precisely, it's always best to have company when dealing with a Boggart. It becomes confused. The charm that repels a Boggart is simple, yet it requires a force of mind. You see the thing that really finishes a Boggart is laughter. What you need to do is force it to assume a shape that you find amusing. We will practice the charm without a wand first. After me, please... Riddikulus."

"Riddikulus." The class said together.

"Very good, but that was the easy part, I'm afraid. You see the word alone is not enough. And this is where you come in, Neville."

The boy named Neville paled as Moony called for him. The wardrobe shook, but not as hard as the boy himself, who looked like he was walking to his death.

"Right, Neville." Moony said, standing next to the boy as they both faced the wardrobe. "What frightens you the most?"

I leaned forward and tried to focus as Neville's lips moved, but no sound came out. "I'm sorry, Neville. I didn't catch that." Moony said.

Neville looked around for anyone who could save him and when his eyes crossed mine, I gave him an encouraging smile. "Professor Snape." He whispered, but everyone heard and started to laugh. I smiled a little as Moony didn't laugh with the others but looked thoughtful for a moment.

"Hm, alright. And I believe you live with your grandmother?" He asked Neville."

"Y-yes, but I don't want it to turn into her either."

"No, no." Now Moony and I chuckled lightly with the boy. "You misunderstand me. I want you to-" Moony whispered the last thing to him, so no one but Neville and me (wolf hearing) could hear what he was saying. Neville's eyes went wide as he looked at his professor. "Alright." He turned back to the class. "When Neville succeeds, the Boggart will turn to one of you. So, if you will all form a line behind Neville." The class started to move. "Think of what frightens you the most and think of how you could turn it into something comical. Everyone ready?" He asked as he walked to stand next to me. "One the count of three, Neville." He said and I slid off the desk to get a better look. "One - two – three- now!" With a wave of his wand, the wardrobe flew open. The boy began the shake hard, his wand bobbed up and down as it pointed at the wardrobe. An exact replica of Professor Snape walked out of the closet; his glare fixed on Neville.

"R-Riddikulus!" Neville shouted and suddenly the professor was wearing an old woman's clothes and a large red handbag. The whole class started to laugh, and I clapped my hands with a large smile as Neville turned to us shyly.

"Great work, Neville! Parvati, forward!" Moony called out.

Snape turned into a mummy before it crumbled to the ground as it unravelled itself. When a boy named Seamus came forward it changed into a Banshee, an unearthly sound filled the air as the banshee opened her mouth. When Seamus called out the charm, the noise faded as she clutched her throat, her voice gone. The Boggart keeps changing going from one thing to another.

"It's getting confused! We're almost there!" Moony shouted over the excitement in the room.

After the twins' brother, Ron had vanished the legs of a large spider, Harry stepped forward. I felt Moony stiffen next to me, and I subtly grabbed my wand, ready to step in. The spider turned into a Dementor, and Harry took a step back.

"Over here!" Moony shouted trying to get the attention of the Boggart.

"No." I hissed and stepped in front of him. I knew what the Boggart would change into if it focused on him. I felt him behind me, trying to make me move, but I wouldn't. I knew what to expect and wasn't surprised to see the Dementor turn into a large green bolt of light, directed at me. "Riddikulus!" I called out easily and the green bolt of light changed direction and shot it in the air. The green was accompanied by other colours near the ceiling, as fireworks exploded above us. The colours got pushed together before they exploded, and the Boggart was gone. The class all turned to me in surprise or shock, I couldn't really figure out which.

"Excellent!" Moony said as he stepped up next to me. "Five points for Neville for facing the Boggart first, and five points for Harry and Hermione for answering my questions correctly. Now for homework." The class groaned a little, and Moony and I smiled softly. "Read the chapter on Boggarts and summarize it for me, you can hand it over on Monday. That will be all." The class excitedly walked out of the classroom, all talking about the lesson. "Alec."

I looked away from the retreating students. "I'm sorry, I didn't want to give them any assumptions."

"No, no. It's fine. You did brilliantly. Five points for Gryffindor." He winked. "Duelling in thirty minutes?"

"I'll be there." I grinned and walked out of the room. My eyes scanned the corridor and when I saw the combination of red, brown and black, I headed over. "Potter!" I called out. "Harry!" The trio stopped and all turned to look at me.

"Uhm- hi." Harry looked confused.

"Can I have a word?"

"Yeah, sure." He looked at his friends. "I'll see you at lunch, alright." The two looked hesitant at first before they walked in the direction of the great hall.

"I should probably introduce myself first. I'm Alec Lupin-Black." I held out my hand formally.

"Harry Potter." He shook it. "So, what did you want to talk about? Is this about-" He glanced sideways before whispering. "- your father?"

"No, not really." I shook my head. "I know Mo- Professor Lupin hasn't said anything, because he doesn't want to cross the line with a student. But he was one of your parents' best friends."

"R-really?" His green eyes grew wide.

"And I wanted to tell you about him and them. I even have some pictures."

"That... that would be great." He smiled.

"Are you going to Hogsmeade? Maybe we can go together?"

"I - I wish I could, but I don't have permission to go."

"Oh." I frowned, and then something occurred to me, something the twins had shown me. "How do you feel like sneaking out? I may or may not know a secret passageway out of the castle." I grinned.

"Well, how can I say no to a bit of sneaking around? Does Professor – your uncle know?"

"It will stay our secret." I winked, and I chuckled as the boy blushed. "I actually have to get going, I'll see you later, Harry."

"Wait!" He called as I turned. I looked over my shoulder at him. "Where do you go every lunchtime?"

"Everyone here is always so curious." I grinned. "Bye, Harry." And I walked away, leaving a stunned boy behind.

Chapter Text

Almost a month after school started, and I haven't seen much of the other Gryffindors outside of class. I was so busy studying for my potion exams, that my time was spent in the library or in the privacy of my own dorm. I've been talking in class more to the other houses, once they got over the fear of me being like Sirius Black. So, during charms, I did what I told Angelina and the others what I was going to do and sat with a Hufflepuff. Alicia still didn't talk much to me, but I gave her the space and time to come around.

"Can I sit here?" I asked a Hufflepuff. The boy turned away from one of his friends he was talking about and saw me pointing at the empty seat next to him. He nodded his head and I lowered myself to the chair. All the other Gryffindors were sitting on the other side of the room, facing me. "I'm Alec."

"Cedric."

I nodded. "Don't let me interrupt your conversation," I said as I took my book out of my bag.

"It wasn't that interesting." He said as he turned to fully face me. "So, are you adjusting nicely?"

"I'm getting there." I said as I twirled my quill between my fingers. "The whole inter-house rivalry isn't my scene though."

"Mine either." He said as he leaned in his seat. "But what can you do?"

I smiled to myself as I looked down at my book. "I may have a plan for that."

"Here for three weeks and already planning to overturn Hogwarts?" He raised an eyebrow with a chuckle.

"No, nothing that excessive." I chuckled with him. "It's weird for such a large school to not have clubs you can join."

"Hm, Hogwarts used to have a lot of clubs actually." He said as he leaned on the desk, his head tilted to me.

"Really? What happened?"

"Don't know the details, but most of them got disbanded after a teacher attacked a student." My eyes went wide, and my mouth dropped open. "You'll catch flies." He grinned and closed my mouth with his finger. "But yeah, it was bad... But we had lots of clubs."

"Can you tell me about them? Like what kind of clubs and was it specified by house?" I asked as I pulled my parchment between us, my quill in hand. Cedric looked to Professor Flitwick who was talking to some other students. His eyes flickered to the Gryffindors across from us.

"Alright, if you're sure they don't mind." He gave a subtle nod to the other side of the room. But I didn't turn around to my fellow Gryffindors, so I didn't see the fixed stare of the twins.

"Why would they mind if I ask you about Hogwarts?" I shook my head laughing. "So ..."

"So, alright. We did have clubs that belonged specifically to certain houses, let's start there." He pointed his wand at the parchment and the four houses appeared on it. "And then we'll do the others."

"Great, thanks, Cedric." Cedric started to explain the clubs that Hogwarts used to have, sometimes stopping if the professor asked something or told us to perform a spell. After class Cedric introduced me to the other Hufflepuffs in the room, some more reluctant than others, before asking me to sit with him next class. So, the start with Hufflepuff went okay. Now Slytherin and Ravenclaw, and to my surprise, I thought that Slytherin was going to be easier, partly because of that Slytherin boy I sat next to in Ancient Runes. I was still thinking about how to approach the Ravenclaw students best.

When I entered the classroom for Ancient Runes ten minutes early, I was the only one there besides Professor Babbling.

"Good morning, professor." I smiled as I walked up to her desk. "I've got you the information from our lesson plan at Beauxbatons, sorry it took so long."

"Oh, no. It is sweet for you to take the time. Thank you." She accepted the large back of papers. "And your latest paper was excellent, Alec."

"Thank you. I worked hard on it."

"I could see it. You even added things from next year's class, again." She said with a grin. "Go sit down, I'll put this away quickly." She said before she headed to the door behind her desk. After my third class with Professor Babbling, she started calling me by my first name, but I didn't mind. Professor Sprout did it, just a Remus with the other students. I took my usual seat in the classroom and placed my bag on the floor before laying my head on the desk, my hair spread around me like a halo. I was out late again studying, and I was getting a little overworked to be honest. But it was only a few more weeks before the OWL exam. I was so zoned out, that I didn't hear someone come in the classroom. It wasn't until the chair next to me moved, that I realized.

"Bit tired, Lupin-Black?" The boy's voice came next to me. I turned my head, but a black curtain of hair was hanging over my eyes. I was startled when the boy moved and pushed my hair back with a grin.

"Not tired. I was just inspecting the desk, thoroughly." I said deadpanned.

"And did it pass your inspection?"

"It did, for now." I straightened myself and tucked my hair behind my ear. "I have a question for you."

"Oh, do you now?"

"It's a simple one actually."

"Lay it on me then." He leaned back in his chair, his arms behind his head.

"What's your name? We've been sitting next to each other for over three weeks, even talking on occasion but I don't know your name. And you know mine, it's not fair, is it?"

"Fair? What's fair in this world." He said absently. "What is in it for me? If I tell you?"

"Why should something be in it for you? You know I could easily ask the professor."

"But you didn't, you asked me." His Slytherin smirk is in place.

"I regret it already." I turned in my seat.

"Wait. Alright, if I tell you, could you help me with the essay for next week? I'm stuck at the third part of the translation from the pyramids in Egypt."

I frowned as I looked back at him. "You're serious?" I asked surprised when I saw the look.

"Am not asking for the fun of it, Lupin-Black." He scoffed. "Being seen out with a Gryffindor." He huffed, but I knew he didn't mean it. His tone wasn't hurtful or resentful. And he just said Gryffindor, nothing about Sirius Black. I looked at him for a long moment, the room silent until the other students walked in.

"Alright, I'll help you. Tonight, at the library?"

"Sure, after dinner."

"So.." I drawled out with a grin. "What's your name? Or should I call you Slytherin boy for the rest of time?"

"Nott, Emmett Nott."

"Nice to finally meet you, Nott." I couldn't help to chuckle that escaped from my lips with the look he gave me. "You call me Lupin-Black."

"Fair point." He shrugged and turned to the other Slytherins who had come to sit down at the desk next to him, ignoring me for the rest of the class. But it didn't matter, one step closer to breaking a Slytherin. There was actually another Slytherin that I was thinking about approaching, but first Ravenclaw. But how? I needed an in with one of them. So, during dinner when the others were talking about quidditch my eyes scanned the Ravenclaw table. There was an eccentric-looking girl with long blond hair sitting alone, reading a magazine upside down. Feeling my stare, her eyes fluttered up and gave me a smile before looking back down. The girl was younger than me, only twelve or thirteen maybe. Maybe it wasn't the best choice, so my eyes scanned further until someone nudged my ribs.

"Oi, could you not break my ribs, verdomme."  [Dammit] 

"What was that last thing?" George chuckled, as Lee murmured an apology.

"Nothing, speaking a language none of you understands has its values." I grinned. "Why was I attacked just now?"

"Those two wanted to ask you something," Lee said nudging to the twins in front of us.

"Yes?" I asked with a raised eyebrow.

"We were wondering if you wanted to go to Hogsmeade with the two of us." Fred asked casually.

"I can't, I'm sorry. Otherwise, I would've loved to go with you."

"Aren't you interested in seeing the village?" George asked.

"I am, but I'm already going with someone."

"Who?" The three boys asked. Angelina leaned forward to look past Lee to me, even Alicia seemed a little interested.

"Harry." I stated, picking up a potato with my fork.

"Potter!?" The twins exclaimed loudly.

"Yes?" Harry asked not far away from where we were sitting. I looked at Harry's confused face and couldn't help the laughter that bubbled up, Angelina and Lee joined in quickly.

"Sorry, mate. Wrong Potter." Fred called to him. Harry frowned a little before shrugging and turning back to Hermione and Ron. He was probably already used to the twins' antics.

"Why are you going with Harry?"

"Because I asked him to. I wanted to talk to him, about his parents."

"And you couldn't do that another day?" Fred grumbled a little.

"Why does it matter who I go to Hogsmeade with? It's just a town. We can all go together the next time if you really want to."

"Ignore them, they probably just wanted to take the glory of showing you around." Angelina said, but the way she looked between the twins afterwards, she didn't really know why they acted like that.

"Alright, next time then." George smiled before turning to Alicia. "You want to go with us, Alicia?"

"Can Katie come with?"

"Sure. Then we have ourselves a double date." George grinned and Alicia chuckled as she threw a piece of bread at him.

"Don't push it, Weasley."

After dinner, I said goodbye to the others, who all grumbled a little as I once again wasn't going to join them in the common room and headed to the library. When I entered the large and silent room, I saw Emmett Nott, sitting at a table next to the window. He was leaning back in his chair, his eyes closed as the sun shined on his face. His wavy light brown hair was falling over his eyes, and he reached his hand up and ran his fingers through his hair. He had his sleeves rolled up; his muscles visible for everyone to see. That was the first time I really looked at him, and I must say, he wasn't bad to look at. I walked over to him silently and thought how I was going to get him out of his daze. With a hard bang or ...

"Emmett," I whispered in his ear as I walked behind him and leaned close. The boy shot forward, his eyes wide and his wand in hand, but not raised. "Oh, did I scare you?" I asked innocently.

"Startled, maybe." He said leaning back in his chair. I chuckled as I rounded the table and took the seat across from him. I took my books and parchment out of the bag and placed them between us, just as he leaned forward, his brown eyes stormy. "I like how you said my name like that, Lupin-Black."

"Well, it was a one-time thing, Nott. Since you keep calling me by my last name." I clicked my tongue and sat cross-legged on the chair again.

"We'll see about that." He said as he took his homework out of his bag. I glanced back at him as he reached for his bag. I actually liked the way he reacted to me, to me saying his name like that. Gods, what's wrong with me? It's a boy you barely talked to, and then there was... We should really talk about everything because this was getting too hard. I was probably just being pulled in by his looks, nothing more. I could deal with looks, I did it before and this certainly won't be the last time.

"Alright," I said as he took out his essay. "Let me see what you got so far." I outstretched my hand and gestured to give it over.

"Don't ruin it."

"The only thing I could do to it is make it better." I said with a smirk worthy of a Slytherin. "Who has the best grades in class?"

"School only started three weeks ago; I have time to beat you."

"Good luck with that." I said as my eyes scanned the paper.

"You know." He leaned forward, his head only inches from me. "I understand why the hat took so long to decide. Especially between our houses, you would fit in perfectly in Slytherin."

"Is that the reason you talk to me?" I asked looking up. "Because I've never seen you talk to anyone outside of Slytherin."

"That may be one of the reasons." His Slytherin smirk was in place.

"You know, this is the first time I ever heard you talk so much" I smiled, not looking up and crossed something on his paper.

"That's- hey! What did you just do." He nearly yelled as he tapped his paper.

"I fixed a mistake."

"I don't make mistakes."

"Oh, another one." I grinned as I crossed something else.

"You're making this up, scoot over." He stood up and dragged his chair over to me and planted himself right next to me, our knees bumped against each other. "No, no that was right. That means cow."

"Here." I handed my book over without looking up. "Check it."

He grumbled something inaudible as he flicked through the pages. "Oh, goat."

I bit my lip trying not to laugh at the Slytherin boy's reaction. I took a loose piece of parchment and drew two runes on it. "See," I said as I pointed with my quill and the runes. "Just one tiny line makes a difference." I turned my head to look at him, just as he did. Our eyes locked, our noses just an inch from each other. I turned back to the essay as I cleared my throat. "Look up this one, that was your second mistake."

We worked close together for an hour. There wasn't much to adjust really. Nott was really good at Ancient Runes. He really could beat me in class if he wanted. We finished his essay and the one for the next week before we packed up our Ancient Runes. Nott stood up to leave the library, but when he saw I didn't move he turned back around.

"Aren't you leaving?"

"I have to study for potions."

"We don't have any homework, do we?" He asked a little worried that he might have missed the announcement.

"No, but I have my OWL exam in a few weeks, and if I pass and can join the seventh year for the NEWT's this year."

"Nerd." He said but I could hear the teasing in his voice. I smiled softly as I concentrated on the book in front of me. I was startled a little when I felt the chair move next to me and Nott sat back down.

"What are you doing?" I asked, glancing sideways at him.

"Sitting."

I rolled my eyes and turned back to my book. In the corner of my eye, I saw him shuffle his seat to the other side of the table again and he took out a book on transfiguration and a large piece of parchment and started to work. We worked like that until the lights of the library dimmed, a sign it was closing in ten minutes. I stretched my arms above my head, my shirt shifted revealing my stomach. When I lowered my arms, I saw Nott's eyes quickly change direction.

"I should get back."

"Yeah, me too." He said as we both started to pack our things. We walked out of the empty library together and I was surprised that he took the same direction as me. We walked in silence in the empty corridor and when we passed the large staircase, he stopped, looking confused.

"Don't you need to go that way?" He pointed up the staircase.

"Why should I go that way?"

"Isn't the Gryffindor tower up there?"

"It is." I said evasively, and I saw the boy get frustrated.

He groaned. "Then where are you going?" Then his eyes widened. "Or do you have a secret rendezvous with someone?"

"No." I laughed and then turned the tables. "What is in it for me if I tell you?"

Emmett looked stunned at me for a split second before that smirk appeared. "Definitely a Slytherin." He stepped closer, so our chests nearly touched, and I had to strain my neck to look at him. "What do you want?" His eyes dark.

"Hm." I hummed as I thought it over. "I don't know yet."

"What about a favour, no questions asked."

"You want to know so badly?" I chuckled. Nott reached his hand up and tucked a strand of hair behind my ear, not saying anything just still with the grin. "Alright." I tried to pry my hand between us for him to shake, which wasn't easy seeing as we were standing so close. "You have a deal." His eyes twinkled, not wavering from mine as he shook my hand. "There was no room in the fifth-year corridor, so I have my own chambers with my uncle."

By the look on his face, he didn't expect that. "Really?"

"Yes." I stepped passed him and started walking, with two long strides he caught up to me. "We have a sitting area, kitchen and two bedrooms."

"And where –" He started to ask. But we had just reached the chambers and the door flew open, Remus glaring at Nott. "Oh, hello, Professor Lupin."

"Emmett." He nodded. Moony's eyes didn't waver from Nott, who tried to look unaffected, but I knew better. My uncle's glares could be deadly.

"I'll see you tomorrow, Nott. Goodnight."

"Night, Lupin-Black." His eyes came to rest on me before he walked away.

I pushed Moony back into the room and closed the door behind us. The room was dark, except for the light at Moony's desk. "What was that about?"

"I could smell the sex from here!" He snarled.

"Sex? You're mad." I chuckled, and then I turned concerned. "You're taking the wolfbane potion, right? Tomorrow is the full moon."

His shoulders slumped. "Yeah, I'm taking it. But you know how it is when it's nearly time."

"I know," I said sadly and pulled him in for a hug. "You go to bed, you need your rest. And don't you dare argue with me, Remus." I added quickly.

"Fine, fine." He smiled. "I'm going to bed, mum."

I flicked him on the head before he disappeared into his room. As I walked over to his desk, I let my bag drop on the couch. I cleaned up his desk putting his papers together, when I saw the corner of a picture tucked in a folder. I glanced at the closed door of his room before sitting down and took the photograph out. It was a picture of Remus and ... Sirius. When they were still at school, and from the way they were sitting on the couch together, it looked like more than friendship was going on between them. My fingers grazed Remus's young face.

"Oh, Moony," I whispered. My eyes found Sirius, the likeness was disturbing, to say the least. If people would see us next to each other, they would have no doubt that we were related. When I heard a scuffle in his room, I tucked the photo back into the folder and turned out the light. With a wave of my wand, I lit on the fireplace.

I was rereading the letter my friends from Beauxbatons had sent me when someone suddenly whispered my name. Within a second my wand was drawn, and I looked around the room before my eyes fell on the fireplace when I heard someone snicker.

"Jack!" I called out and dropped to my knees, to the head of my boyfriend...? I don't know what to call him now. "What is your head doing here?"

"Speaking English to me now, schat? Als het moet." His accent thick. "I wanted to talk to you." [babe/love. If I have to.]

"I wanted to talk to you too, I was thinking about you just now, actually. How did you know where to find my fireplace?"

"It took me a few tries." He chuckled. "Scared some kids along the way too."

I smiled at him, and I wished I could reach out and touch his cheek. "I miss you and your craziness."

"I miss you too." He smiled and was silent for a beat. "This isn't working, is it?" His voice was sad.

"No, it isn't." I tear escaped my eye. "I wished so hard for this to work, but it's too hard, Jack."

"I wish I could come over to you, but they'd put a block on flooing to another country. I want to hold you so badly."

"I love you." I said as more tears rolled down.

"Ik hou ook van jou, schat. Maar vergeet niet." He suddenly said in Dutch. "Eerst vrienden."
[I love you too, baby/love. But don't forget. First friends.]

"Voor altijd." I answered with a teary nod. [Forever.]

"I should go before they figure out what I'm doing." He said looking back. "Can I write to you? In a few months when we have time to process."

"You better send me a letter before Christmas, or I'll climb through the fireplace to smack you on the head." I chuckled as I wiped my tears away.

"It's a deal then. Bye, Alec."

"Bye, Jack." And with a little pop, he was gone. I crawled back on the couch and wrapped my arms around my knees pulling them close as I fell asleep crying.

Chapter Text

It was the day of the full moon and Moony had made sure that his lessons of that day were only filled with theory. And even though I was used to the full moon and staying with Moony during the night, it was quite different in a new place, especially if it was filled with students. I made sure he took the last potion that morning, but you could already see the effects of the moon.

He found me that morning still sleeping on the couch and knew immediately that I had been crying. He asked a house elf to get us some breakfast in our room and I told him everything that happened with Jack as he pulled me close to him. Even with the full moon coming, he still took his time to see if I was okay. I wanted to ask him about the picture but thought the better of it. I waited for another time.

So, clearly my head wasn't with the classes and all of my fellow students had noticed. Crazy how they noticed it since they had only known me for a few weeks.

"Hey, you okay?" I felt a nudge against my arm when I was blankly staring in front of me. I shook my head before turning to my left.

"I'm fine, George. Just nervous about the potions exam."

"Are you sure?" He asked, not really convinced. "You can always talk to me, you know."

I smiled at him. "I'm okay, I promise." I gave his hand a squeeze. "Just have to pull through until next month."

"I know you're way ahead of me, but if you need help or just someone to study with..." He offered.

"Thank you, but I don't see you sitting still and quiet for more than thirty minutes."

"It is hard for me, that's true." He grinned. "But if I try hard, I can make it work."

"It's okay. I study better alone anyway." Just then the professor dismissed the class, and I jumped up already stuffing my things into my bag. "I got to go." I kissed his cheek. "See you, George."

When I looked back, I saw George standing there with a stunned expression, his twin coming over to him with the same look. Kissing someone on the cheek wasn't a big deal, at least not for me. That's how we say hello and goodbye to friends and family back home.

I had just walked out of the first corridor when someone stepped up next to me. I looked to my left and saw Emmett Nott walking next to me. His gaze was fixed on the pathway ahead of us as we made our way to the Ancient Runes classroom. We walked in silence and took our usual seats once we reached the classroom. When we sat down, he turned in his seat and looked at me.

"There is something different about you." He stated as I reached down to take my book. I slowly sat up straight and turned to him with a raised eyebrow.

"Excuse me?"

"There is something different about you." He said again.

"Care to enlighten me?"

"Can't put my finger on it, not yet anyway." He said thoughtfully as his eyes stayed on me. "Thought about your favour yet?" He asked as he leaned back in his chair and placed his hands behind his head, looking as casual as one can be.

"Not yet, I don't have a time frame, do I?"

"No." He grinned as he stared at the door as the other students came in. "I'm just curious what it is you're going to ask."

"Me too." I chuckled as I stood up. "Homework?" I asked, pointing at his bag. He let his arms fall from behind his head and bent down to get his homework out of the bag. I reached for it when he held it out, but when I pulled it away, his other hand grabbed me and pulled me closer. Our faces once again inches from one another.

"I better pass this."

"You're going to do more than pass this." I whispered back and I saw the storm in his eyes. I winked before I headed to the professor and placed the homework on her desk. When I turned back, I saw Nott talking to the two other Slytherins. I could see their lips move, and I put on my wolf hearing.

"What was that about?"

"What?" Nott said in a boring voice as he inspected his nails.

"You and the serial killer's daughter." The broad Slytherin hissed.

"Don't call her that, you don't know her." He shot back.

"And you do?" The other asked.

"Not yet, but I will."

I was a bit surprised at his defensive stance toward the other Slytherins, especially since it was about me. I shook my head before walking back to the desk and sat back down next to him. The two other boys looked at me with a stink eyes, but Nott just had his gaze directed to the front again. I flipped my book open to the right page, but again my mind drifted to nothing. My gaze was fixed on a smudge on the window behind the blackboard. I didn't hear the professor talking, or any of the students. My head was completely shut off from the world. I came out of it when Nott placed a hand on my arm.

"Lupin-Black? You alive in there?" He said teasingly but I heard a fraction of concern seep through.

"Hm, what?" I turned to look at him.

"I asked if you were still alive in there." The concern was now visible on the boy's face.

"Yes, I'm breathing, aren't I?" I snapped at him, and he pulled his hand off my arm quickly. The class ended just then and once again, I was up from my seat before everyone else and walked out of the room.

"Lupin-Black!" I heard Nott call behind me, but I just kept going until I was standing in front of my chambers. I walked straight to my room and dropped my bag on the bed. As I slid down to the ground and leaned against the bed. I pulled my knees up and buried my head in them, the night of the full moon, the break-up with Jack, the exam, the move, it all became too much. The tears started to fall, making my skirt wet. When I heard the main door open and close again, I jumped up and dried my tears.

"Alec?" Moony's voice came from the other side of the room.

"I'll be there in a second. Just changing into something more comfortable." I called back with a steady voice, much to my own surprise. I heard his footsteps retreat and pulled out black sweatpants and an oversized hoody out of my wardrobe. When I had changed, I walked out of my room. Moony was already pacing behind the couch.

"Uncle Moony?"

"I should never have taken a job as a teacher! What if I hurt someone?"

"Hey, hey." I walked over and stopped his pacing by placing my hands on his shoulder. "We talked about this. All summer actually." I smiled softly. "I'll be with you the whole time and you took your potion. It will all be okay; I even believe we can stay in here tonight."

"I won't do it."

"I know, but we'll be fine. Trust, Moony."

"Trust." He repeated as he took in slow breaths.

"What time do you want to go?" I asked and dropped my hands from his shoulders as he glanced at his watch.

"What about now? It's getting dark already."

"Alright. Let me get my bag." I walked to my bedroom but turned to look over my shoulder. "Do you need anything?"

"Your company is enough, cub." He smiled softly. I smiled back before grabbing my bag out of the room.

We walked through the castle quickly. Nodding a hello to the ones we pass without stopping. When we reached the castle grounds, I gave my bag to Moony and walked behind a wall and changed into Loki. When I toddled out, he followed me to the whomping willow. I walked under the large three branches, while he waited for me to press my nose on the trunk of the tree. It looked like the three had fallen asleep, the branches hanging down and they only rustled with the wind. Moony came over as I walked into the hole under the tree. We walked in silence until we reached the shrieking shack. I pushed the door open with my nose and hopped on the couch, before turning back. Remus stood in the doorway as he looked around the room. Fear, regret and confusion flared through him.

"Are you okay?" I asked. "Is it weird being back here?"

"It is. The last time I was here..."

"You still had all your friends." I whispered and he came over and sat next to me, pulling me close again.

"And now I have family."

"You're a big sap, you know that." I chuckled as I took the bag from the ground in front of us. Moony just grinned as he leaned against the couch, his head on the back as he breathed in slowly. "Here," I said as I handed him a sandwich. "You probably haven't eaten all day."

"I had eggs." He countered as he accepted the sandwich.

"You had one boiled egg at breakfast, and I know you are even more grumpy if the wolf inside is hungry, so eat. I don't want to hang out with mister grumpy wolf all night."

"You win." He sighed and took a bite, I heard him sigh in contentment. "What did you bring, anyway?"

"Food, of course. Games and books."

"How's the potions studying going?" He asked taking another sandwich, and I smiled at that.

"Good, tired but we're almost there. I study in my free time and during class, Professor Snape lets me make the potions they're going to ask at the exam."

"I was shocked that he suggested that you take your OWL's this year, to be honest."

"After what you told me, me too. And he did act like a git the first class, but I think he was surprised that a spawn of you and Black would be a pro in potions. Even with all the hate, he couldn't see past that."

"I'm proud of you, cub."

"And I'm proud of you," I said leaning back, he looked at me surprised. "Everyone's been saying you're the best teacher they had in years. They can't stop talking about you."

"Well from what I heard; it isn't really a competition from what they had before... You would do better than the previous teachers."

"I don't know if I should take that as a compliment." I chuckled, but it stopped as Moony leapt forward and groaned loudly.

"Loki." His voice was hoarse, and not of his own. I quickly turned into my Arctic wolf form as he started to change. The clothes ripped from his body, and fur started to appear over all of his torso. He was crouched down on the ground, breathing heavily. When the turn was over, he stretched out and howled to the ceiling. The howl was so loud, that the Shrieking Shack started to tremble. The werewolf now was different from the one I saw for the first time a few years ago. Then he was skin and bone, bald spots over his body where the fur had disappeared from lack of food and control. Now it was a large and full werewolf with thick black fur, and muscles all over its body. I gave a little howl myself and the wolf turned to me. His eyes bore into mine before he sat down on the ground across from me. I knew Remus was in there trying to control himself. The wolf had his head hanging low as he breathed in and out. I hopped off the couch and searched my bag with my nose. When I found the right book, I took it in my mouth and toddled over to him. I dropped it in front of him and sat down. The wolf didn't look up. I changed just a minuscule thing in my Animagus form, so I could speak.

"Scotty!" I said with a low voice. The wolf looked up and after a few minutes of the staring game, I pushed the book to him with my white paw. He followed the book until I stopped pushing it. He made a noise from deep down before flipping the book open. It was one of Moony's favourite books when he was younger, and to his surprise, the werewolf side of him liked it too. The name Scotty came from a muggle movie, we went to see a few years back. Teen wolf and the boy who turned into a werewolf was named Scott. Ever since then, I called his wolf side Scotty and it seemed like he enjoyed been giving a name, its own name. I looked at him reading the book for about fifteen minutes before hopping back on the couch with my own book. The first part of the night went smoothly as we both read in our books. When we passed one o'clock in the morning, Scotty jumped up. I was on my feet – paws in a moment and growled at the large werewolf who towered above me. He grunted in response, and I tossed him another sandwich. Scotty sat back down, and I strutted over with all the sandwiches, so he could munch on them during the night. When he was eating, I walked over to the bag and took it in my mouth and walked over. I searched the bag with my nose again and took out a muggle board game. The wolf looked at me and barked a laugh, I think. And with that response, I knew that Remus had most of the control now. The werewolf placed the game a little brutally on the wooden floorboards and we played. If someone would walk in right now, they would think they were dreaming. A werewolf and an Arctic wolf playing a game of chutes and ladders in a beaten-down shack.

I woke up as I felt the ground move. But when I opened my eyes, it wasn't the ground that moved, someone was carrying me, wolf me. I looked up to see it was Moony, back to himself as he carried me to the castle. I nuzzled myself back in the crook of his arm as he carried me inside. When Moony closed the door behind us, he continued to walk to my bedroom and placed me gently on the bed.

"You did good, cub." He said as he stroked my head. "I'm just going to call you in sick." I gave him a high-pitched whine, but I could barely keep my head up, and Moony chuckled. "Sleep, Alexandra. I have the morning off, so I'm going to sleep as soon as I send the message to Minerva." He stroked my head one more time before leaving me in the dark room and I drifted off within seconds.

I slept the whole day, and by the time I woke up it was already dark out and I climbed out of bed. I noticed that my wardrobe looked larger than I was used to before I realized I was still in wolf form. I changed back into myself and walked out of the room. Uncle Moony was sitting at his desk grading essays.

"Hi, cub."

"Hey, Uncle Moony," I said lazily as I walked towards him and stood behind him, my head leaning on top of his. "How do you feel?"

"Okay. Tired, but we had worse. Chutes and Ladders was a nice touch, though." He chuckled.

"I thought we could try something different."

"Bring it again next time. Do you want to eat something here, or want to go to the great hall?"

"Not in the mood to come up with an excuse, but I need to stretch my legs," I said as I stretched my arms above me. "What did you tell them anyway?"

"Just that you had a little stomach bug. Nothing a few hours of sleep couldn't fix." He said placing his papers away and standing up. "But we can't do this every month, or they'll think you're the werewolf."

"Better me than you. I don't want you to lose your job." I stated and my stomach grumbled loudly.

"Alright, kitchens it is."

"The kitchens?" I asked surprised as I followed him to the door. He grinned at me from over his shoulder before he led me out of the corridor.

I knew I was in for a whirlwind of questions the next morning. So, when I entered the great hall, my eyes scanned the Gryffindor table and instead of sitting with Uncle Moony for breakfast, my eyes found a certain redhead and I walked over to him.

"Hey, Percy." I dropped down next to a surprised head boy. "I'm sorry it took so long, but I let it completely slip my mind," I said as I searched my bag. "Here." I said as I held out the pamphlets for the exchange program.

"Oh." He said in surprise. "Thank you, Alec."

"No worries." I smiled and pointed to the pamphlets. "See here? You can stay there from January till the end of the year."

"But isn't it too late to apply?" He asked, his eyes scanning the paper.

"Nope, you can apply until the start of December." I pointed at the bottom of the page. "You need to discuss it with your parents of course, but I actually already talked to McGonagall about it, and they are open to start the program again."

"I don't know what to say." He gasped as he looked from the pamphlet to me.

"Just think about it. This is a great opportunity, and it would look good for future employers."

"I will ask my parents what they think about it, I'll send them the pamphlets."

"Let me know what they decide, yeah?" I jumped back up when I saw the twins arrive in the great hall.

"Oh, Alec?" He asked a blush apparent on his cheeks. "Are you going to Hogsmeade?"

"Yeah, with Harry. You?"

"I don't know yet, lots of studying to do." He said looking back at the pamphlets.

"Well, since you may be in France in a few months, you don't have a chance to go. So, maybe I'll see you there." I smiled before I headed to the twins on the other side of the table, leaving Percy to look over the information.

"Are you okay?" They both asked, each a hand on my shoulder when I sat between them, as they scooted over.

"It was just a stomach bug. A little bit of sleep and it was gone."

"A little? We went by your room." Fred started.

"To see if you were okay."

"We even brought-"

"Soup." They ended together. "But Professor Lupin said you were sleeping." George added.

"You brought me soup?" I asked surprised, looking at the boys who rubbed their necks as their ears turned pink.

"Well, yeah. But then we dropped it when your uncle bumped into us when we reached your chambers."

"That was really sweet of you. Thank you." I kissed their cheeks, their ears turned red. A few minutes later, Angelina and Lee joined us. Alicia was behind them but took a seat next to Katie as she tucked into her breakfast. I let out an internal sigh when she didn't come to sit with us.

Chapter Text

We were nearing the end of October, and I was sitting in Professor McGonagall's office. The professor sat across from me and offered me some biscuits as we waited for Remus.

"So, how are you adjusting?" She asked me. I swallowed the biscuit I just took a bite off before answering.

"Okay, I guess." I shrugged. "Things are different here, but I'll get used to it. Been studying hard for the past month and a half."

"Oh, yes. Your potions exam is next week, isn't it? Don't worry about it, you'll do fine. If Professor Snape suggested something like that... Let me just say, he has never done something like this for the years he's working here."

"Well, I wish to make Remus and Professor Snape proud."

"That's a sentence I thought I would never hear." A ghost of a smile on her lips.

"Hm, I guess you know about their...rivalry." I decided. "Since you were already teaching back then."

"I was, and it wasn't pretty."

"My uncle told me all about it, he regrets that he never intervened when the others took it too far. But what happened then is between them, not me. So, I just hope he sees the same."

"I know he had a hard time when he found out Remus and you were coming, but I think you've proven that you're not them, but brilliant at potions."

"I wouldn't say brilliant." I murmured as I looked at my biscuit and broke it in half.

"Believe me, if Professor Snape goes out of his way for you like that, you must be pretty brilliant. Especially seeing the history with your family. Ah, talking about family. Remus, please sit."

"Thank you, Minerva." I looked up from my biscuit to see Remus walk in with a smile but hearing his voice I knew he found it strange to call her by her first name.

"So, since we are all here. Can you tell me why you wanted to meet with me?" She asked, her eyes going between me and Moony. Moony smiled and nodded for me to go on.

"I was wondering if I could start a club."

"A club. What kind of club?" She asked intrigued and surprised at the same time.

"A duelling and defence club. It would be a combination of duelling and muggle martial arts. And one of the most important parts is that it would be open to all houses."

"Hm." She hummed as she leaned back in her chair and thought it over, her fingers tapping against each other. "That sounds interesting. Do you have an instructor in mind, a supervisor."

"I would oversee everything, Minerva. I would be the instructor together with Alec."

"You want to teach the others?" McGonagall's eyes shifted to me.

"I've been training since I was eight. I've trained under Courtois and had duelling lessons before I started school."

"That's impressive." Her lips turned into a smile. "Do you have a place in mind?"

"The empty classroom on the third floor should be big enough," I answered. "We've been practising there since we arrived at Hogwarts."

"And from what age do you want the kids to join?"

"We thought about third years and up first, if there is enough interest from the first and second years, and we have an opening, we can expand to them."

"No." She shook her head, and my heart dropped. "If we're starting this, and the younger students want to join, I'll supervise them and I could let some of the seventh years help with the muggle fighting, if necessary. There must be some of them who have learned it." She took a piece of parchment and wrote something down before glancing back up at me. "I really like the idea of a mixed house club; can I ask why you insist on it?"

"At Beauxbatons, we don't have houses. Here, no offence." I added. "You're being put in a box, being pushed with the students of your house. You don't have much interaction with the other houses. And I want to break that cycle."

"I see your point." She scribbled another thing down. "And I agree with you. There should be more interaction between the houses, not only rivalry. I've seen you talk to a lot of other people from other houses the past few weeks." She smiled softly. "If you can get me a plan or a schedule-"

She stopped as I handed a rolled-up parchment to her, mine and Moony's grin in place. Her eyes widened as she accepted it and rolled it open. "You certainly did your homework."

"We sure did." Moony nudged my arm. "Do you need time to look it over?"

"No." She said duplicating the parchment and handing the original back. "I give permission for you to start the club. You can make a notice and I'll hang a notice on the board next to the great hall and the common rooms. Or do you have one already?" She asked with a raised eyebrow. I smiled shyly as a blush crept up my cheeks and Moony started to laugh loudly. I took the second roll out of my bag and handed it over. The professor couldn't hold back a chuckle herself as she accepted the roll. "I'll hang this up by tomorrow morning." She looked at the parchment she had unrolled. "How will you know who is going to sign up, or do you want me to collect the notices at the end of the week?"

"No, I – uhm – enchanted it. The names that are written on it will appear on my own piece of parchment. That's how I know who's interested."

"You enchanted it?"

"I learned it at Beauxbatons, we have a lot of clubs there, so it's used a lot back home."

"You raised a smart, kind young woman, Remus."

"Oh, uhm, thank you." Remus was now the one blushing as he didn't expect the compliment.

"He's the best dad anyone could ask for," I said sincerely. "He even has a mug saying that." I chuckled and the professor looked at the both of us with a small, warm smile.

"I drink my coffee in it every morning." Moony smiled as he looked at me. "It was the first thing you got me for Father's Day. Well, alright then, we better get going." Remus said standing up. "This one has just a little more studying to do."

"That I do. Thank you, Professor McGonagall." I said standing up and the professor followed my lead.

"No, need. I would like to be there sometime. I'm a bit curious myself."

"Want to duel with Remus, professor?"

"Oh, no." She chuckled. "I'll let that for the young ones." She said as she opened the door from her office. "I'll see you in class tomorrow."

I had agreed to spend the night not studying and promised the Gryffindors to join them in the tower. I had just left the library with my heavy bag slung over my shoulder and headed to the great hall for dinner. When I entered the great hall, I didn't see Angelina, the twins or Lee anywhere. My eyes flickered over the other tables. I saw Nott sitting on the Slytherin table, a little further across from him sat Draco Malfoy. I pulled my curly waves in a high ponytail and headed to the Slytherin table. All of the eyes were locked on me, filled with confusion and fascination as I walked to the green-filled table. I saw Harry in the corner of my eye, shaking his head in a warning, but I ignored it. Nott looked at me with a raised eyebrow as I stopped not far from him, and I planted myself at the Slytherin table, and straddled the bench to look at the blond thirteen-year-old. The Slytherins, who were always quick with their tongue, all looked at me, shocked.

"Hey, cousin," I said to Malfoy as I picked a piece of bread from the bowl in front of him. The blond boy turned to me slowly, stopping his conversation with one of the broad boys next to him.

"What are you doing here?" He snapped.

"Didn't your mother teach you manners?" I scoffed, and I heard Nott behind me snicker. "You don't want me to write to her, and tell me about the fact that you forgot all those etiquette lessons, she put so much time and effort in, do you?"

"You don't know my mother."

"But I do." I pointed out and took another piece of bread. "I've been writing to her for years now."

"You - you are lying."

"Why would I lie about that?" I asked as I tore a piece of the bread. "When she found out about me, she searched for a long time until she found me. We've met a few times, but she didn't tell you or your dad."

"If you're telling the truth, why wouldn't she tell us... tell me."

"Because of my dad, of course, your father hates mine. And you were too young to understand. But your family is small, and she wanted to be part of my life." I offered him a piece of bread, but he just glared at me, I shrugged and put the piece in my mouth. "You know the vacations in France you went to?"

"Yes." He said slowly, a frown in place.

"That's when she met me. Me and my uncle, actually."

"We go to France every year."

"She found me when I was six, and ever since then, she visited me every summer."

"How do I know you're not lying?" He spat, but I heard in his voice he was starting to believe me.

"I can tell you things your mum told me about you when you were younger, but I doubt you want the others here to know that," I said, and now more Slytherins laughed, even with Draco's glare, they couldn't stop. "But I'll spare you. Here." I pulled out the necklace I had around my neck. It was a double-sided coin, one side was the Malfoy family crest, while the other had the Black crest. By the look in his eyes, he recognized it in an instant.

"That's my mother's. She said she lost it ages ago."

"Like I said, she didn't want you or your father to know." I saw familiar mops of red hair walk in the great hall. And like all the other students their eyes were fixed on me as they sat down near Harry. When I turned my head back, Nott looked at me with a twinkle in his eye. "I'll let you mull it over. Maybe I'll see you at the meeting."

"Meeting?" Draco's head snapped up, coming out of his daze.

"You'll see." I grinned and stood up. "Nott." I grinned.

"Lupin-Black." He winked as I walked by.

The great hall was filled to the brim with students by the time I left the Slytherin table. Still, I felt all eyes on me as I walked to my friends. I ignored the curious glances and whispers around me and sat down next to Angelina at the Gryffindor table, but before anyone could ask me what that was all about, I turned in my seat to look at Angelina.

"Oh, Ange. How's quidditch practice going?"

"Oi!" The twins yelled. "Why not ask us?"

"Ever heard of 'ladies first'?" I pursed my lips at them before I looked back to a grinning Angelina.

"It's going great, Wood is extreme, but he gets the job done. Alicia, Katie and I are learning a new tactic, the triple treat."

"I like the sound of that." I chuckled. "I can't wait to see you in action. When is your first game?"

Angelina opened her mouth to answer, but the twins cut in. "November sixth, against Slytherin." They said glaring to the table I just left.

"We're playing against Hufflepuff." A tall boy dropped down next to the twins.

"What?" The players asked.

"They changed it, don't know why. McGonagall just informed me. Now I need to change our tactics." He grumbled and his eyes fluttered to mine. "You're Alec, right? I'm Oliver Wood, quidditch captain."

"Nice to meet you." I laughed. "I hear you're torturing my friends."

"I didn't say torture." Angelina said quickly. But Oliver didn't seem to mind, he just looked serious at me.

"This is my last year here. We need to win the cup! I need my players in top form. So, don't distract them."

"Me? Distract them?" I huffed a laugh. "You know those two, right?" I gestured to the twins, who tried to look innocent but failed miserably. I wondered if there was ever a time, they looked innocent. "They are the ones who are distracting me when I try to study."

"Once." They exclaimed both pointing one finger in the air. "We just stumbled onto the library." Fred continued.

"A whole new world opened up for you then, didn't it?" I smirked at the twins, who stuck out their tongues at me.

"Well, I need to work out a new plan." Oliver interrupted, standing back up. He loaded his arms with food and headed out of the great hall.

"I think you'll be practising a lot the next few days." I said as I turned to the others.

"Then you'll get your quiet time to study." Lee pointed out Angelina's other side.

"After that exam, we should really spend some time together." George said, and I looked up from my plate in surprise.

"All of us." Fred added.

"You're acting like I didn't just spend the whole day with you guys yesterday." I shook my head.

"But you've barely been in the common room."

"I'll make time, okay." I leaned to Angelina and whispered loudly. "Didn't know they were so clingy." Angelina snickered as the twins glared at me.

"Want to go upstairs?" Angelina asked.

"I thought you never asked." I bat my eyelashes excessively. "But what about Alicia?" I glanced at the girl who was sitting next to Katie a little further away.

"She'll get around. She has Katie, so I can have you."

"Shh. You'll make Lee jealous." I grinned as we stood up, I locked my arm with hers.

"Enjoy dessert." Angelina smiled before we walked out.

"Are you really sure?" I asked again when we climbed the stairs. The stairs above us turned without a sound.

"Yeah, after your exams, after the first match, we'll all get together, and she can get to know you." She pulled me close to her. "So, want to tell me about that Malfoy thing?"

I explained why I was sitting at the Slytherin table once we were up in her room. It was the first time I came up here, so she gave me a little tour. We were sitting on her bed, Angelina against the headboard and me on the end of the bed as we talked, and then the subject of boys came up.

"So, the boy from France?"

"The boy from Belgium." I pointed at her, playing with the rim of her covers. "Jack. He was my best friend even before we started school. Last year, it became more. He's one of the best guys I ever met. He's sweet, funny, honest and so good-looking." I let out a dry chuckle. "Me moving.... we tried to do the long-distance thing, but it wasn't easy. We broke up a few weeks ago."

"I'm sorry." Angelina crawled on her bed towards me and pulled me in a hug as tears formed in my eyes. Her hand rubbed slowly on my arm, trying to console me. "Did you love him?"

"I did. I do. I'll always love him." I wiped a tear away that had escaped. "I'm a hypocrite."

"What?" Angelina pulled back in surprise to look at me. "What are you talking about?"

"Here I am saying you're only young once, and I'm here crying over a boy."

"A boy you love, your best friend. It's completely normal. You will fall in love again when you're ready."

I leaned my head against her shoulder. "I'm so happy to have you as a friend. I'm sorry if I caused a rift between you and Alicia."

"You did no such thing. I'm so glad to have met you too. So are the twins and Lee, if you're wondering."

"That's nice to hear." I smiled softly. "I want to know Harry better too, I thought the twins caused trouble, but the stories I hear about that boy." I shook my head chuckling.

"Tell me about it." Angelina laughed, just as shouting came from downstairs. The twins' voices boomed up the staircase. "Are you ready to go downstairs?"

"Yeah." I nodded, pulling away. The twins' voices were even louder as they shouted again.

"We better get down before they try to get up here." She said opening the door.

"What happens when -" I started, but Angelina pointed as the twins started to climb the stairs and the steps clicked back, turning into a slide. The twins couldn't get a grip anywhere and they both slid down the stairs. "Oh," I said before laughing. Angelina sat down and slid down behind the twins, and I followed quickly. The twins already waiting downstairs, leaning against the wall like nothing happened. Lee had pulled Angelina up, while the twins both outstretched their hands for me. I accepted them with a smile as they led me to the couch.  

Chapter Text

The morning of Hogsmeade, I stuffed my bag with the letters and photographs Moony had collected and headed to the great hall for breakfast. My eyes traced the Gryffindor table until I found the legendary trio sitting in the middle of the table.

"Good morning." I smiled as I sat down next to the twins' brother.

"I don't think we officially met." The Granger girl said a little hesitantly as she held out her hand formally. "I'm Hermione Granger."

"Alec." I shook her hand and turned to the redhead next to me. "Ronald, right?"

"Ron." He said with his mouth full.

"Ronald!" Hermione chastised him. Harry and I shared a look and snickered.

"Are you ready to go, Harry?" I asked as I nudged my head to the doors.

"Where are you going?" Hermione asked a little accusatory. I looked with wide eyes from her to Harry, who shot me a look, to not say anything.

"Since I can't go to Hogsmeade, I asked Alec to help me with potions."

"Oh! Harry that's great." Hermione clapped her hands excitedly, her mood changed in an instant. "I heard you're going for your OWL tomorrow, so you can do the NEWTs this year. Is that true?" She turned to me with large eyes filled with... Envy, adoration?

"I - uhm – I am. How -?"

"News travels fast here." Harry chuckled as he stood up.

"Apparently." I bit the inside of my cheek. "Maybe I'll see you guys later at Hogsmeade when we're done," I said to the other two and headed out of the great hall, Harry was following me from the other side of the table. When we exited the great hall, the twins appeared.

"Where are you two going?" Fred asked with a grin.

"You know we're going to Hogsmeade." I rolled my eyes.

"Oh, and Fred, George." Harry suddenly spoke up as he stepped up next to me. "Don't tell Ron and Hermione where we're going, I'm not allowed in Hogsmeade. Hermione will go on about how it's against the rules. And Ron... well he'll be disappointed that I'm not going with him."

"Merlin, Potter. Alec has only been here for less than two months, and you drag her into your scheming." Fred chastised the younger boy, pointing his index finger at him.

"You can corrupt anyone if you blink those green round eyes of yours, can't you?" George huffed. The twins looked at each other from Harry's astonished face before laughing exaggeratedly. They hung to each other as if their lives depended on it. "Alright, we'll keep our mouths shut."

"What did you say you two were doing?"

"I'm helping him with potions."

"Good lie." George said.

"Yes, indeed. The best lie is one with the truth mixed into it."

"I don't need help with potions!" Harry exclaimed, but the looks the twins shot him told him something different and Harry mumbled to himself.

"Leave him alone, you big bullies." I shoved them to the great hall. "You two are mean when you're hungry. Go eat, I'll see you two later." I turned back to Harry. "Ready?"

He nodded and I started walking. "Where are we going?" He asked.

"You'll see." I winked.

We were standing in the tunnel underneath Honeydukes and I went to push the hatch before I climbed back down the ladder and looked at Harry.

"What? Was someone there?" He asked looking from the latch to me.

"No, but... Your friends are going to be in Hogsmeade, are you going to duck every time you see them?"

"No." He bit his lip nervously. "You can't tell anyone alright?"

"What? Are you secretly an Animagus?" I asked excitedly.

"No, I wish." He said and I deflated a little, but my interest peeked as he took something out of his bag.

"Is that..?" I gasped as my fingers skimmed the fabric. I was surprised he confided in me with this, but maybe it was because of the friendship between his parents and Moony.

"An invisibility cloak, yes. It was my dad's."

"Wow, that's amazing," I said as I stroked the soft fabric. "Oh, Mo- my uncle won't hear the end of this!" Harry looked confused, so I added. "You don't think he didn't know about this? If your dad had this in school..."

"Oooh," Harry said slowly as he caught on.

"Come on, put it on." I gestured with my hands. Harry grinned as he wrapped the cloak around his shoulders and the rest of his body disappeared. Only his head floated in the air. "Zalig!"

"What?"

"Amazing! Sorry." I smiled. "First drinks? It should be fairly empty now. Everyone's going shopping first, at least that's what the others tell me."

"Sure." He said before pulling the hood over his face. "What about you?" His voice said. "What if they spot you?"

"I have my own invention," I said pulling out my own cloak and putting it on. "Not as good as yours, obviously. But it hides my identity." I said as I pulled the hood over my head.

"Wow." Harry said in the same manner as me, and his hand became visible as he reached out and touched the hood. "I thought it was lights in the great hall that night that I couldn't see your face. You made this?"

"Yes, there is only one of these out there. I'm thinking about putting a patent on it. My teachers at Beauxbatons wanted me to publish about it but seeing the whole Sirius Black thing."

"Did you know him?" He asked, and I shook my head. "Sorry, I didn't-"

"No, it's okay. Let's talk about it somewhere else."

"Right, not in a cobweb-filled tunnel." He snickered, as he pushed a cobweb out of the way. "But you should really put a patent on it before someone tries to steal it from you."

"I'll think about it. Now let's get out of this dark hole." I said as I climbed the ladder again. I pushed the hatch open, just a little. And when I saw it was safe and pushed it open and quickly climbed out.

"Two butterbeers, please." I said to the woman named Madam Rosmerta came to ask for our orders. "Do you want something to eat, Harry?"

"No, not yet. Just had breakfast." He smiled shyly at the woman. She smiled and walked to the bar. I shook off my coat and hung it on the back of my chair. "So..." He said nervously. "Your uncle knew my parents?"

"Not just knew." I huffed as I pulled out the letters and photos. "They were best friends in school." I showed him a photo of Remus and James. "You could've been twins; you look so much like your dad. This is a picture of him and his best mates in the common room." I showed him the next picture and went from left to right. "That's Remus, professor Lupin, then you have..." I took in a breath. "Sirius, then your dad and then Peter."

"Peter?" He frowned. "Is that the one-"

"Yes."

"Can I ask? What does your uncle think about all of this? He was their best friend; he must have an idea of what had happened?"

"He doesn't talk about it much, to be honest," I said as I flipped through the photographs. "He never understood what happened, and he never got a chance to go talk to him himself. But he always thought something was off. Like maybe he was imperiused or something, I don't think he ever thought he would betray his best friends, betray you."

"Betray me?"

"I -" I looked up with my eyes wide. Fuck . "Because you're his best friend's son, of course."

"Alec?"

I closed my eyes and sighed, handing him a picture without looking up. I heard him gasp as his eyes scanned the picture. Madam Rosmerta came over with the two butterbeers and I accepted them with a smile.

"He was my godfather." He said quietly. His hand is tight around the photo. I quickly took it out of his hand and straightened it on the table. "He was my godfather, and he handed me over to Voldemort just like that!" He nearly screamed.

"Harry, calm down." I placed my hand on his and his eyes locked with mine. "I can't tell you what he did or didn't do it."

"Of course, he did, the evidence was right there."

"But Harry, Lupin did know him. I heard him talk to himself late at night, trying to figure out what happened that night. He made himself crazy thinking about it, he says that there are so many things that don't add up."

"He's your father, of course, you take his side." He snapped.

"No." I snapped back, and Harry's eyes turned large. "Remus is my dad, in more than blood. Sirius is the one who fathered me, but he isn't my dad, and he will never be my dad. So, don't you ever think I would choose his side because we are related? He broke my mother's heart and he never wanted anything to do with me."

"I'm sorry. I didn't mean -" He stumbled over his words. "I'm sorry."

"It's okay. Actually, it's not, but you don't know my story so I can't blame you." I shrugged, looking down at the photographs.

"Do you want to tell me?"

"Don't you want to know more about your folks?" I asked with a raised eyebrow as I took a sip from my butterbeer.

"I do, but I want to hear about yours too." He said sincerely.

"Maybe another time. I'm not quite ready to tell anyone." I said softly.

"When you're ready." He squeezed my hand. "Is that my mum?" He asked as a redhead filled a picture.

"Yeah, this was when she was pregnant with you. Your dad thought it was smart to take his highly pregnant wife to an amusement park. Remus told him she couldn't do anything there, but he thought because, in his words, they were magical." Harry snorted in his drink. "She could go on a rollercoaster."

"Merlin, he knew even less than I do about pregnant women." Harry laughed as he cleaned his trousers from the spilt butterbeer.

"I think anyone who thinks a little logical would know not to bring an eight-month pregnant woman to an amusement park." I grinned. "Did you know that your dad was mad for your mum for years? But your mum couldn't stand him."

"No?" Harry gasped with a laugh.

We talked about his parents and a bit about Beauxbatons for almost two hours before I pulled the hood over my head, Harry put his cloak on and we went to visit the shops. I had told him that he should talk to Remus about his parents. I knew he wanted to talk to him about them for ages. I duplicated the photographs he wanted and gave them to him, so he could put it in the photo album he received in his first year. I spotted the twins with Alicia and her friend Katie in Zonko's and they recognized my hood in an instant, they shot me a wink but didn't bother me as I walked through the store. I saw Lee and Angelina huddled together at the fireplace in the three broomsticks as they shared a plate of fish and chips. We also passed Hermione and Ron as they visited Honeydukes, but neither of them looked long enough to figure out who was under the hood.

Harry and I decided to walk back to the castle above ground, Harry still with his cloak on just in case we might spot someone who would get him into trouble. I pushed my hood off, as I enjoyed my sweets from Honeydukes, passing one to Harry under the cloak from time to time. It was late in the afternoon when we arrived back in the castle, and we decided to go sit in the great hall already. Since we were there on time, I actually did help Harry with his potions essay and gave him some tips to use during class. When it was nearing five-thirty, the great hall started to fill. Fred and George had come in alone and took a seat across from me and Harry. Next in the hall was Lee and Angelina who looked happy as they sat down next to the twins. Then Ron and Hermione walked in, the latter looking angry as she sat down next to me and Ron next to Harry. Apparently, Ron had scared her near the shrieking shack, making her fall down in the mud. So, now they weren't speaking to each other. 

Chapter Text

"Lupin-Black." I groaned as I turned my head. "Alec." The voice whispered in my ear. I shot up quickly, knocking my head against the person behind me. I turned quickly and saw Nott standing there with his hand over his nose, blood trickling down to his wrist.

"Oh, shit." I conjured a cloth and held it against his nose. I pushed him down in my seat and kneeled in front of him. "I'm sorry, Nott."

"My own fault, I shouldn't have stood so close."

"You should be glad I didn't pull my wand." I chuckled as I dapped his nose. His eyes were fixed on me as I looked to his bloody nose. I pulled my wand out of my shoe. "May I?"

"Are you going to break it?" He grinned behind the cloth. "Try your worst."

I smiled as I whipped the wand in front of him, the bleeding stopped in an instant. "All fixed. Just ... scourgify. That's better." I vanished the cloth. "Perfect."

"I'm perfect, huh?" His eyebrow quirked, matching it with a smirk.

"I didn't say that." I flicked his head. "My work is perfect." I grinned as I stood back up. "How did you get in here?"

"What? In the library?"

"What?" I looked around the room in surprise, thinking I was in my chambers. "I must've fallen asleep."

"You've been here since last night?" Nott stood up, standing close.

"I was studying." I frowned as I tried to recount what had happened.

"You have your exam today." He said placing his hand on my shoulder.

"Shit! What time is it?"

"Nearly eight. What time do you need to be there?"

"Nine thirty." I walked past him to put my things in my bag.

"You should eat something before." He said as he helped me pack. I smiled at him as he handed me the last book. "Why don't you sit down at the Slytherin table? You're all for mixing the houses."

"I-" I frowned as we walked out of the empty library. I rummaged in my bag and took out the large piece of paper, where names were already appearing. The very first name is Emmett Nott. "You signed up." I looked up to him with large grey eyes, beaming.

"Can't pass up an opportunity to fight other students."

"That's not what it's for!" I gasped and slapped his arm.

"Too bad." He grinned. "I saw that you're the one who started it up and that you'll be teaching."

"And Professor Lupin."

"And Lupin." He nodded and when we reached the great hall, he led me to the Slytherin table, again several eyes were fixed on me. "People will come to see you."

"I think everyone got past that," I said as I sat down next to him. The few Slytherins on the table looked at us with a glare.

"Don't know about that. You ready?" He asked as he loaded his plate.

"Ready as I'll ever be. I know most of them by heart, but I'm just afraid of messing up. Of disappointing my uncle or even Snape."

He nudged me with his elbow. "You'll do great, now eat. We don't want you to faint during the exam." He said with a grin. I rolled my eyes at him as I slowly filled my plate, showing every piece I put on it. "Good. Oh, hey little brother."

I looked up to see a younger boy sitting across from us. He looked a lot like Emmett, but his eyes were a shade darker, his hair shorter and his face looked so much younger. Right after the boy sat down, Draco sat down next to him together with a dark-skinned boy. First, Harry caught me by surprise showing me the cloak, now Draco Malfoy. I was sure he had written to his mother about me, otherwise he wouldn't have taken a seat in front of me.

"Theo, this is Lupin-Black."

"Otherwise known as Alec." I interjected, and the older Nott shot me a grin, the boy nodded, and I turned to Draco. "Where are your bodyguards?"

"Grabbe and Goyle? Snoring probably." He said as he took a piece of toast. "And I don't need bodyguards."

"Are you sure?" I asked as I took the paper from my bag. "I don't see your name in here, guess you can't prove yourself." I challenged.

"Give it here." He grumbled and he quickly jotted his name down when I handed it over. I turned to the still unfamiliar boy next to him.

"What about you?"

"I already signed up, Lupin-Black." He pointed at the paper. And my eyes stopped at his finger, Blaise Zabini. "Can't wait to crush you."

"You can try." I shrugged as I tucked the paper back into my bag.

"And try I will." The boy winked at me. Emmett next to me snickered at the young boy's flirting. I took a last bite of my toast and hopped up.

"I better get going, don't want to be late." I leaned down and whispered in Nott's ear. "Don't think I didn't hear you call me Alec, Nott" I straightened back up and saw his stormy eyes on me. "Bye, boys."

"Cousin." Draco acknowledged with a nod. When I walked out of the great hall, I could hear him talk to Nott. "What was that about?"

But he didn't answer him, he just yelled after me. "Good luck!" I looked over my shoulder and shot him a smile before walking out of the room.

"Cub, where have you been?" Remus was suddenly in front of me, looking frantic and worried.

"I'm sorry, Uncle Moony." I said as he led me aside. "I fell asleep in the library."

He took in a deep breath. "It's okay. It's just the moon, I was so tired otherwise I would've come looking for you."

"I know. I'm so sorry." I wrapped my arms around his waist and hugged him tight. His arms circled around me as his chin rested on my head.

"It thought something happened, with the dementors or ..." He didn't finish the sentence, but I knew what he meant. "But enough of that." He pulled back with a smile. "Let's get you to the classroom for the exam."

We started to walk towards the grand staircase, down to the dungeons when someone called out for me.

"Wait up!" I turned to see the twins, Lee and Angelina run up to us. "I thought we missed you."

"I'm sorry, but I really need to go." I glanced at my watch. "I need to be there in ten minutes."

"It won't take long, promise." Angelina grinned.

"We wanted to wish you luck." Fred said.

"And give you a good luck charm." George said as he pulled out a little box, when he clicked it open, there was a little green four-leaf clover pin in it.

"You guys didn't have to get me anything." I said with a beaming smile. Moony was standing next to me, looking at the box with a smile.

"We know you don't need luck." Fred said.

"But we felt like we had to do something to show our support."

"Even if that means you won't be my potions partner anymore." Lee grinned.

"You guys are amazing." I hugged Lee tight, before going over to Angelina to do the same. When I reached the twins, George put the pin on my robe. "Thank you." I stood on my toes and kissed his cheek, and then did the same with Fred. They both blushed with a large smile on their face. I stepped back next to Moony and saw him look at the twins with raised eyebrows before he cleared his throat. "I'll see you in a few hours."

"Good luck!" The four of them chimed before Remus and I turned to walk down the stairs. We walked in silence until we reached the room where the examiner was waiting for me. Remus turned to me and placed his hands on my shoulders.

"Alexandra Fae Lupin-Black, you are going to be amazing in there. You are smart, and driven and you worked so hard to get to this moment, to be this amazing, strong young woman. You are the best daughter I could wish for."

"Even with my shenanigans?"

"Especially with them." He smiled and kissed the top of my head. "Go show them what you're made of."

"I love you."

"I love you too, cub." With a last smile, he turned me, and I pushed back the tears that had formed and walked inside the classroom.

By the time I was done with the exam, the room was hot and damp, the smoke was just starting to disappear. I wiped the sweat of my brow as I bottled the last potion and handed it over at the examinator. The first portion of the exam was theory, which took about an hour and a half. Now I just finished the practical part which took over two hours. I put the last bottle on the tray next to all the others. I picked up the tray and walked over to the examinator who had watched me intently from the beginning.

"Thank you, miss Lupin-Black." The examiner smiled. It was an older man, maybe mid-forties. He had black hair with grey streaks in it, his eyes dark blue, and his eyes wrinkled as he smiled at me. "I don't know until I examined the potions and your exam, but it looks good, really good. From the way you work, it looks like you're a potion master' already."

"Really?" I asked surprised, my mouth hanging slightly open.

"You're the most gifted student I've seen in years. But don't tell anyone I told you that, we aren't allowed to give you any indication if you passed or not."

"I'll keep my lips sealed." I pulled my fingers over my lips.

"It was a true pleasure seeing you work, miss Lupin-Black." He stood up from his desk and outstretched his hand, I shook it beaming. "You'll get the result by owl by the beginning of December at the latest."

"Thank you, Mr Wilson. Have a nice weekend."

"You too, miss. Good day." He nodded with a smile, and I stepped out of the dark classroom. To my surprise Nott was sitting against the wall, reading, his legs spread out in front of him, one ankle of the other.

"Hello, Nott. What are you doing here?"

Nott dropped his book as he didn't hear me come out of the classroom. He picked up his book and pushed it into his bag as he stood up nonchalantly, leaning against the wall with a Slytherin smirk.

"The Slytherin common room is in the dungeons, you know."

"Why aren't you in the common room then?" I tried to hide a smile as he walked with me.

"Who's to say." He shrugged. "How did it go? I thought you would be in there for at least another hour?"

"It went well, finished early as you can see."

"When do you know the results?"

"By the beginning of December."

"Good thing you started the duelling club, so you have a distraction."

"Yeah, let's see how many people have signed up," I said as I rummaged in my bag and took out the parchment. My eyes scanned the parchment that was filled with names. "Wow." I gasped softly. Nott leaned closer to look at the parchment with me.

"You think the classroom is going to be big enough?"

"I think so, depends on how many more sign up." I turned to look at him. "Now I'm starting to feel nervous."

"You? Nervous? I didn't think I would see the day." He grinned and I went to slap his arm, but he caught my wrist gently. His eye caught mine and we stared at each other, his eyes darkening. We were both startled when a throat was cleared, we tore our eyes away and looked to the other side of the corridor. There stood not only my uncle but also Lee, the twins and Angelina. Nott lowered my hand softly before letting go. My eyes were fixed on my uncle with the full moon tonight, I didn't know how he was going to react. But Nott sensed the tension and rocked on his heels.

"I'll see you later, Lupin-Black." He winked. "Lions." He nodded to the five Gryffindors standing there as he passed. When Nott was out of sight, I walked closer to the group still standing there like they were frozen. I touched Remus's arm, and he snapped out of it.

"Sorry." He muttered as the rest looked at us confused. "How did it go?" He wrapped an arm around my shoulder and led me up the stairs.

"Great. I'll get the results in about four weeks."

"We have a surprise." He said as he looked at the others behind us. I looked over Moony's arm and saw them smirk.

"Another one?" I raised an eyebrow.

"This one is for all of us." George pointed out. I pursed my lips as they led me out of the castle. We walked in silence until we stopped at the black lake. The moment we stepped onto a dark patch of grass; a warming spell was in effect. I saw a large blanket with picnic baskets and blankets sprawled around it. As Angelina sat down, she pulled me down with her. The others all took a seat around us, except for Moony.

"Aren't you joining us, professor?" Angelina asked.

"No, I'm sorry. I have – work to do." He said evasively.

"I'll see you before dinner."

"Take your time."

"I'll see you then." I said again as my eyes were locked on him with a serious gaze. He gave me a sombre smile before he headed back to the castle.

"Uhm, so what was that about?"

"We promised to celebrate tonight, good or bad."

"No, not that." Lee shook his head. "Nott."

"Oh," I said slowly as everyone watched me. "He just came from the Slytherin common room." I lied because I knew they weren't fans of Slytherin students. "And we bumped into each other."

"It looked more than that." I glared at Lee before my eyes flickered over the others. Angelina looked intrigued, while the twins looked... I don't know... disgruntled? Annoyed? Confused?

"You all know that we have Ancient Runes together. We get along." I lifted my shoulders a little. "I'm not looking for anything right now. It's only been a few weeks since the break-up."

"You and what's his name broke up?" Fred asked. I looked at him and George who both looked surprised.

"His name is Jack." I gritted out. "We did. I told you, didn't I?" I frowned not knowing if I actually told them or just Angelina. "But since he's been my friend for ages, I would like you to call him by his name."

"Sorry," Fred muttered. "And I'm sorry you broke up."

"It was inevitable really. I love him, but being away from each other..." I shook my head. "But let's talk about something else, alright. How's training going?" The twins looked at me for a few seconds before they started diving in into Wood's new strategy.

A few hours later, I left them to go to Moony. Just like I thought, he was pacing in our joined chambers. I touched his shoulder lightly when he faced me again.

"There are a lot of students out there. Why don't you put a disillusionment charm on yourself, and I turn into Loki when we're outside the castle. And I brought some games for us to play, even Scotty." I took the bag from the floor and slung it over his shoulder. By the mention of the name Scotty, I saw his eyes turn to the ones of the werewolf. "Hold on, Moony." I squeezed his arm. "Let's go."

"Good thing it's the weekend, so you won't have to miss class tomorrow." Moony finally said after we had walked to the exit for the last five minutes.

"Yeah, now just hoping the others won't come on calling for me tomorrow."

"You know, if the wolf – if Scotty is calm, you can take a nap, cub."

"I don't know." I fidget with my sleeve. "We'll see. If I do, I'll sleep right next to you."

"I think he would appreciate that." He rubbed my shoulder. 

Chapter Text

When Remus and I passed the great hall, it was filled to the brim. The Halloween decorations were brilliant. Large pumpkins were placed around the floor, while tiny ones filled the tables. I saw the twins, Lee, Angelina and Alicia laughing at something, and I smiled as I saw that Alicia found her way back to her friends when I was not there. They must have felt my stare because suddenly the twins turned. They waved at me, looking a bit sad that I didn't join them. I waved back before Remus and I walked away. They weren't happy that I didn't join them for the Halloween feast, but once I explained that Remus and I had a tradition, they reluctantly agreed. The corridors were now empty as everyone was sitting early in the great hall to enjoy the feast.

Still, I changed into Loki, and Moony put on the concealment charm as we walked the grounds. If I was in human form, I wouldn't be able to see him, but with my wolf senses, I could hear every crack of a twig he made or smell him with ease, so I could always locate him in a heartbeat. Once we arrived at the Whooping Willow, I trotted down to the tree trunk and pushed my nose against it, so Moony could walk in safely.

Moony slid down in front of me in the dark, muddy tunnel, and just when I was about to follow, my eyes spotted the ginger cat again. Now I knew it was Hermione's cat. I heard Ron complain endlessly about the cat at the Gryffindor table, but I couldn't see how that was Hermione's fault. A cat is a cat, they hunt things like rats and mice. I saw the cat trot towards the edge of the forest. I poked my wolf head around the tree to have a better look.

The cat was peering at the dark trees of the forest, it was just when I saw a large dark shadow move in front of the cat, that my uncle called for me. I looked down for a second, by the time I looked back up the cat and the shadow were gone. I looked around me, spinning around my axis when I didn't find anything, I perked up my ears, but nothing.

"What's wrong, cub?" Moony re-emerged from the hole. He frowned when he saw me concentrate on my surroundings. He tensed as he looked carefully around the grounds.

"I - I thought I saw something." My eyes were on the edge of the forest where the cat had been. I shook my white furry head. "Never mind, let's go in."

It was a few hours later that a Patronus appeared in front of me and let's just say Scotty. We both looked up at Phoenix between us who was floating above our game of Monopoly. The Phoenix opened its beak, and the voice of Professor Dumbledore filled the room.

"There has been a sighting of Sirius Black in the castle. Stay where you are, the Dementors will do a thorough search around the castle, and take your precautions. Everyone is safe and accounted for. I'll inform you both in the morning. Fawkes will come over to see if you both are okay. Stay safe." And the Phoenix disappears.

I looked down from where the Patronus had disappeared and saw the werewolf in front of me breathing heavily. I stretched my four paws before I toddled over and curled into Scotty/Moony's lap. His breathing slowed down as his rough hands gently stroked my back to ease his tension. I knew it was Moony who reacted that way, frustrated about Sirius, and afraid for Harry... I knew I couldn't leave his side for the rest of the night, so I made myself comfortable on his lap, resting my head on his knee.

The Gryffindors trickled back into the great hall. Gone were all the decorations, gone were all the tables. The floor was now filled with sleeping bags. Just as the Gryffindors came in, the other houses, all walked in looking confused. George and Fred were franticly looking around the students, trying to spot one stormy, grey-eyed girl with dark wavy hair, but no luck.

"Where is she?" George grumbled as they looked around once again. Before Fred could answer, the headmaster spoke.

"The teachers and I need to conduct a thorough search of the castle." He said as McGonagall and Flitwick closed the doors of the great hall, locking us in. "I'm afraid that, for your own safety, you will have to spend the night here. I want the prefects to stand guard over the entrances to the Hall and I am leaving the head boy and girl in charge. Sleep well." He said and drifted towards the doors.

But Fred and George couldn't let him get away that easy. Just as they arrived at the headmaster, Nott was there with Malfoy. The twins and Malfoy scrunched up their noses towards each other, but Nott just looked at the headmaster.

"Professor Dumbledore?" He asked. And George, Fred and Malfoy all turned to the headmaster. "Where is Alec? I haven't seen here since this afternoon."

"She's safe. She and Professor Lupin went out celebrating, they'll spend the night outside the castle." His eyes looked a bit surprised from Nott to Malfoy but smiled at them and the twins. "I'm happy to see she found so many good friends."

"Was - was he trying to get to her, sir?" George said with a shaky voice.

"I don't believe so. He went for the tower, miss Lupin-Black doesn't sleep in there." He glanced between the four of them. "You all get some sleep; you'll see her in the morning. Sleep well." And with that, he disappeared behind the doors.

"Sleep well." Fred huffed. "We don't know where she is, and he wants us to sleep well. There is a mass murderer out there, her father! And he thinks he isn't after her." Fred cried out.

"For once, Weasley." Nott started. "I agree with you but there is nothing we can do about it now." He frowned as he looked at the twins. "Or do you two have found a way to send a message yet?"

"No, not without knowing where she is," George answered with his own frown as he thought about other possibilities. "They say you can send a message through a Patronus, but I haven't learned how to conjure one yet."

"Me neither." The other three said in unison. The four of them looked at each other in surprise before Fred started to turn.

"We should tell Harry." He said to George, who nodded and followed his twins to where Harry was crawling into a sleeping bag just as Percy called out that lights were going to out in ten minutes. After informing Harry, who looked alarmed at the mention of her absence, they went to Lee, Angelina and Alicia and explained it again. Angelina was biting her lips to the point of bleeding as Lee tried to reassure her as he pulled an arm around her.

"Where do you think she is?" Alicia asked, who to everyone's surprise, looked worried herself, but none of them commented on it.

"Don't know. She was going to celebrate with her uncle that her exam went well." Fred groaned, and he and George rubbed their faces with a grunt.

"You really like her, don't you?" Alicia asked. The twins dropped their hands and looked to the chaser, who was looking solely at Fred.

"I-" He glanced at his twin. "We should try to get some sleep." He answered, and he shuffled in his sleeping bag. George did the same and scooted closer to him. "She's going to be okay, isn't she?" He whispered so only his twin could hear.

"I have faith". George answered with a feeble smile. "I don't want to be in Sirius Black's shoes when she faces him, that's for sure. She could probably take him down with her muggle fighting thingies."

"Probably." Fred chuckled and leaned his head on his hand. "George, what are we supposed to do?"

"What do you mean?" He asked leaning on his arm a little straighter.

"I'm crazy about her, and I just know she's the one for us. And I know we can't push her; we don't know if she feels the same or even knows about triads. But you've seen how Nott's been around her."

"I know." He combed his free hand through his hair. "I mean, Nott's not a bad guy for a Slytherin, but why does he have to have an interest in her? When we finally found someone who fits us perfectly. I feel it too, Fred. But maybe it's too soon. If we push her now, it might be over before it even starts."

"Yeah." Fred sighed as he rolled on his back, George did the same and they both looked at the enchanted ceiling above them. It took them a long while before they found sleep, and when it finally came, it was restless as they tossed and turned in the sleeping bags all night.

The next morning, Moony and I emerged from the Shrieking Shack and hurried back to the castle. Uncle Moony had a vague recollection of the Patronus but wasn't entirely sure what it said or if it was a dream. So, when we woke up, I explained what it said, and he wanted to go to the castle immediately. So, here we were, still dark out, the sun slowly rising as we walked over the damp grass of the grounds. When we entered the castle, it was eery as it was dark, and the corridors were empty. We walked towards the great hall and were surprised to see Professor Snape standing in front of the closed doors.

"Good morning, professor. Did anyone catch him?"

"Afraid not, miss Lupin-Black." His eyes flickered from me to Moony behind me. "Good night?" He asked with a smirk.

"Professor!" I gasped with a scowl. The professor looked back at me with a slight look of surprise. But before he could say anything the door opened, and students started to trickle out of the great hall. I pushed past the professor and searched for a few familiar faces, but the first one I needed to see was Harry's. When I saw the familiar mop of black hair, I pushed myself through the crowd and flung myself around a surprised Harry. But after he recovered from the shock, his arms circled around me. "You're okay," I whispered. "What happened?" I asked when we pulled back.

"He tried to get into Gryffindor tower."

"To find you?" I asked, my hand gripped his shoulders.

"Don't know, maybe?" He looked a bit sick at the thought. I looked over my shoulder and saw Moony's shoulder relax when he saw Harry was fine and gestured to me that he was going back to the chambers to sleep. "We were at the Halloween feast when it happened."

"He wanted to enter the tower when you were at the feast?" I asked confused and Harry nodded. That was strange, seeing Sirius was an old Hogwarts student, he must've known everyone was going to be at the feast. Maybe he lost track of time, being on the run for so long. But the decorations were a dead giveaway.

"Cousin!" I heard Draco's voice behind me. I turned to see him weave through the crowd.

"I'll see you later, Alec." Harry said quickly and walked to Ron and Hermione who had been watching our exchange from the doors.

"Were you worried about me, cous?" I chuckled as Draco finally made his way to me.

"As if." He huffed. "But if mother would find out I didn't check on you..."

"If you say so." I gave him a crooked smile.

"Nott was very interested to know where you were though." He looked up at me with a knowing twinkle in his eye. "At those Weasels too." I glared at him. "Weasleys." He corrected himself, though reluctantly.

My eyes searched the thinning crowd for said boys, Slytherin and Gryffindor. Just when my eyes found the Gryffindors, an arm curled around my waist, I looked up sideways to see Nott.

"Morning, Lupin-Black. I thought you would deny us your presence here after that eventful night." He smirked. Draco shot me a knowing look before darting to his friends.

"I was out last night."

"So, I've gathered." He turned to me with a grin that turned quickly into a worried look. "Are you okay? Did he come after you?"

"No." I placed a hand on his arm. "I'm good. He's not here for me, believe me. Thank you for asking." I smiled and kissed his cheek. "I should go to the others." I nudged my head to my friends, who were waiting near the doors.

"Yeah, they were really worried about you." He looked from the group back to me. "Be careful, alright." He gave me half a smile before he walked out of the room. I turned to the others and when Angelina and I crossed eyes, we ran towards each other and fell into each other's arms.

"We were so worried." Angelina whispered in my ear.

"I'm sorry, I should have sent a Patronus but -"

"Wait!" Angelina pulled back with large eyes. "You can produce a Patronus?"

"I, well, yeah. It's nothing exceptional. We learn it at school, in our fourth year, but Remus taught me a few years back."

"Don't hog her, Ange." The twins shoved Angelina aside and engulfed me in their twin hug. My arms went around the twins.

"I'm sorry," I said as I pulled back and looked at everyone. Lee hugged me quickly and Alicia stood on the side nervously. "I should have let you know something."

"She can produce a Patronus." Angelina clapped happily when the twins wanted to say something.

"What?!" The four of them, including Alicia, gasped at me.

"Show us!" The twins said. I looked around the great hall, which was now completely empty except for Professor Flitwick and McGonagall who were restoring the great hall like its previous state. "Please." They pouted.

"Alright, alright." I smiled with an eye roll. I took a step back, just as the others did and closed my eyes. I thought about the moment when I took on Uncle Moony's name and the day we had spent together then. It was one of the most amazing days I could remember. With the memory in place, I took my wand out of my Converse and called out. "Expecto Patronum."

When I heard the others gasp, I opened my eyes and saw a smaller-sized wolf run around the room. Its perky ears were up as he looked around the room.

"That's amazing." Lee gasped, kneeling down as it came over.

"It's adorable," Angelina said with awe. "Does he have a name?"

"It's a Patronus-" Lee started.

"He has, Loki." I smiled as the wolf turned to me when I called out for him. The wolf leapt towards me and walked through my legs, zigzagging before going over to the twins. The twins just like Lee and Angelina kneeled down in front of the silver Patronus. Loki cocked his head from one twin to the other, then looked over its shoulder to me and back to the twins before he did the same zigzag at their legs. "Loki," I called him and the wolf appeared in front of me in an instant. "Tell uncle, I'll be there in ten minutes." The wolf nodded and disappeared through a wall with one big leap. When the Loki was gone a small applause began behind me. I turned to see McGonagall and Flitwick clap softly.

"That was extraordinary." Flitwick said beaming.

"It was really a sight to behold, miss Lupin-Black." Professor McGonagall smiled.

"Thank you. I didn't mean to-"

"It's quite alright. I love seeing a strong Patronus like yours come alive. You should show him at your DADA exam at the end of the year. I'm sure you'll get extra credit."

"When do we learn the charm, Professor?"

"That's something you need to ask your DADA professor, mister Weasley." She smiled. "Now, of you go. I need to put the tables back."

McGonagall ushered the six of us out of the great hall. I said goodbye to them, after their long and exaggerated whining, but once I told them I had barely slept with worry, just like they did, they agreed to let me get some sleep. Just like they would go do when they reached the Gryffindor tower.  

Chapter Text

"Here is my favourite team!" I grinned as I approached the quidditch team with Lee before they entered the changing rooms. The rain was coming down hard, and I had my wand pointed upwards to shield me from the rain. The twins' smiles were large, but Angelina pushed past them, making them grumble and hugged me tight. Her clothes were already wet.

"You'll do great, Ange. Can't wait to see the triple threat." I grinned as I pulled back. I saw the twins wait expectantly for their own hug, but right before I reached them, I dashed for Harry.

"Good luck, Potter," I smirked, because I knew he hated that I called him by his last name, I think my cousin had something to do with that. He pursed his lips at me, but a smile crept through. "I hear everyone talking about the youngest seeker in a century, so don't let me down."

"I'll try." He grinned and leaned closer to whisper. "I have a meeting with Professor Lupin at the end of the week. To talk about... everything."

"That's great, Harry. He'll love it. He wished he could come to see the game, but he's a bit under the weather."

"You can recap everything for him."

"I'll try." I winked and gave him a quick hug. "Alright, I better get going!" I said and turned to leave. I couldn't help my grin when the twins called out. "Yes?" I turned around with a straight face and a raised brow. It was hard to hold back my laughter at the faces of the twins. Angelina was standing next to Lee with a grin of her own. "Alright fine." I sighed, a smile slipping on my face. "If you need a hug that badly." I rolled my eyes and opened my arms.

The twins both stumbled towards me in a hurry as they wrapped themselves around me. "Good luck, boys. Let's see what those arms are made of." I rubbed their arms with a grin. I leaned on my toes and kissed their cheeks. When I landed back on my feet, I tucked a wayward strand of hair behind my ear, the twins' ears red. "I'll see you after the game." I looked between the twins. "Lee! Let's go! Before McGonagall has your head!"

Lee gave Angelina a sweet and chaste kiss, murmuring good luck before darting over to me and the twins. I turned and headed to the stands where Lee was going to announce the game. The chanting and voices were loud as the stands started to fill up. And because of the noise, I only heard Lee's chuckle and half a sentence before the noise was too loud.

"You two have it -"

When Lee and I reached the stands, the players all walked on the pitch. The wind was so hard, they had to push through. Their clothes were already soaked and weighed down by the rain. They climbed their brooms and shot up in the air. When Harry lifted from the ground, I saw him sway back and forward as he tried to balance himself. The game wasn't a pretty sight. With the heavy rain and wind, they could barely see each other, even Lee's commentary faded due to the noise as he tried to peer through the rain to see what was happening.

"I don't think Harry can see very much," I spoke loudly to Lee and pointed to Harry who wasn't flying too far off from us. Harry had almost flown into a Katie, his glasses filled with raindrops. The sky was getting darker, as though the night was about to fall, but in reality, it was only just a little after noon. When a strike of lightning illuminated the sky and a loud thunder followed, Hooch's whistle filled the air and the players descended towards the ground. I leaned over the bannister and saw Hermione pointing her wand at Harry's glasses. Oh, a water-repellent charm. Smart girl. I thought to myself. With another loud thunder, the players climbed their brooms again and shot up in the air. With the rain, lightning, thunder and crazy bludgers, the game had become more dangerous by the minute. I was biting my nails to the brim from my nerves as my eyes flickered over the pitch.

Then suddenly Cedric, the Hufflepuff seeker pelted up the pitch, going after a small golden flicker on the other side of the pitch. Harry raced after him when Wood called out, as he was distracted by something on top of the empty stands. Just when Harry threw himself flat on his broom and went after Cedric, at least a hundred dementors flooded the pitch, their black robes and their hidden faces beneath us.

"What the actual fuck!" I cried out, took my wand and headed down, the rain-drenched me after only a few seconds. I didn't hear Lee call after me, I only thought about my friends on the pitch, about Harry. I knew how he reacted to the dementor on the train. Now he was flying high in the sky, what if... I couldn't finish the thought because at that moment I saw something falling from the sky. I stood rooted to the staircase and clutched my hands around the bannister as my knees went weak. Harry was falling down from the sky at a rapid pace, his broom being swept away by the wind. Then suddenly his trajectory slowed down until he landed on the ground with a thud. The dementors were being driven away from the pitch by the teachers but they had a hard time. So, I pulled myself together and conjured my own as I ran down the stairs to Harry. Loki was chasing away the dementors who dared to come near Harry. I dropped down next to him, just as the headmaster and Professor McGonagall reached us.

"Harry." I whispered and pushed his wet hair that stuck against his forehead away. But he didn't react or move.

"Miss Lupin-Black. We need to get him to the hospital wing." Professor McGonagall touched my shoulder lightly. I nodded my head absently and let the professor levitate him from the pitch. I followed them quietly, and the headmaster strutted off to the remaining dementors. Then red quidditch robes caught my eye, and I saw the other players rush over.

"Are you okay?" I asked the group right before Angelina hugged me tight.

"We're fine. I mean, need to recover from all the dementors on the field, but I'll manage." Angelina gave me a feeble smile.

"How are you?" The twins flanked me and wrapped their arms around me as we continued our walk to the castle.

"Worried about Harry. It doesn't look like he has broken anything, but he's as white as a sheet."

"He'll be okay." George rubbed my arm gently. Ron, Hermione and Lee reached us, just as we were about to walk in the castle. The whole group walked in silence towards the hospital wing. Even then, when Madam Pomfrey did her diagnostic spells, we all were quiet as we took a seat on the bed across from the unconscious boy. When the healer was finished, we were allowed to sit with him. Ron and Hermione took a seat on either side of him, and Fred pushed a chair next to Hermione and pushed my shoulders until I sat down. Normally I would've thanked him or give him a smile, but my eyes were fixed on Harry. So, I just squeezed the hand that still rested on my shoulder.

"Has anyone found Harry's broom?" I asked after the silence became too much.

"It flew into the whomping willow." Hermione said with a strained voice.

"Oh, no." I whispered because I knew what that meant.

"I can't believe he didn't break anything." Katie said from the other bed, next to Alicia.

"Lucky the ground was so soft." Lee said.

"I thought he was dead for sure," Fred said behind me, and I shot him a glare.

"He didn't even break his glasses." George added.

"It was Dumbledore, he slowed his fall." I said looking back to Harry.

"That was the scariest thing I've ever seen in my life." Ron shuddered. And Harry's eyes snapped open. We all gathered closer to the boy in the bed in the middle of our huddle.

"Harry!" said Fred, his hands clutched on my shoulders. "How're you feeling?"

"What happened?" He asked as he pushed himself off the bed.

"You fell off, must've been fifty feet?"

"And the match? What happened?" I rolled my eyes internally, of course, he would think of the game. The others were all silent and Harry swallowed. "We didn't – lose?"

"Diggory got the snitch," George said behind me. "Just after you fell. He didn't realise what had happened. When he saw you on the ground, he tried to call it off and wanted a rematch. But they won fair and square... Even Wood admits it."

"Where is Wood?"

"Still in the showers." Said Fred. "We think, he's trying the drown himself."

Harry buried his head in his knees. I stood up and Hermione shuffled aside to let me pass. "Harry." I put my hand on his shoulder. Harry looked at me with a defeated look. I looked to the others for a second. "Can we have a moment?"

While the others nodded and headed to the doors, the twins hung back for a few seconds before they walked out of the hospital wing. Hermione and Ron also waited until Harry nodded for them to go, though Hermione seemed more reluctant to do so. Once they were out, I pushed Harry to the side so I could sit next to him.

"I just fell out of the sky, and here you are pushing me out of the bed." Harry huffed but he grinned.

"At least I can make you laugh," I smirked. "Harry, it's just a game. Things could have been so much worse. If Dumbledore wasn't there..."

"But he was. And besides, if he wasn't, I think you would've come up with something." He nudged me with a smile.

"Hm." I hummed because I had no idea if I would've come up with something before he'd hit the ground. "What did you see?"

"What do you mean?"

"Right before Wood called for you about the snitch, your eyes were fixed on a point at the stands."

"I –" He looked around the room, and I cast a Muffliato charm around us. I felt his shoulders relax against me. "I saw a large black dog." My breath hitched at that sentence. It couldn't be right. I saw pictures of Sirius in his dog form next to the others, all Animagi.

"Are you sure it wasn't the lighting playing with your eyes."

"That's what I thought first. But I have seen the dog before."

"Where?" I frowned as I looked at him.

"Back at the Dursley's. The night I ran off before the knight bus arrived, I saw a large scruffy black dog in the bushes."

"What- what do you think it is?"

"I don't know." I saw the confusion in his eyes. "Professor Trelawny says it's the grim, the omen of death." His voice was serious. I looked at him for a long moment before I burst into laughing. "It's not that funny!" Harry grumbled.

I clutched my side as I tried to control my breathing. "Oh, Harry." I wiped a tear away as I smiled and put an arm around him. "There is a reason they don't teach divination at Beauxbatons." I couldn't help another chuckle. "Dat is belachelijk. It's ridiculous. I believe there are true seers in the world, but I know you can't learn to be one. When I first heard there was a class here for that, I didn't believe it. So, don't worry. You're not dying, not any time soon trust me." I squeezed his shoulder and I grinned at the blush on his cheeks.

"Thanks, that actually makes me feel better." He smiled shyly. I felt that the cushion behind me was wet from my drenched clothes and hair. So, I put a drying charm over me, Harry and the bed. Harry took a lock of wavy black hair between his fingers.

"Wasn't your hair lighter?"

"You pay attention to my hair?" I teased and his blush became more apparent. "In the summer it's lighter, something with the sun. So, in the summer it's more like my mum's hair. And now..." I shook my head, my hair flinging from one side to the other. "Do you think you're up for the duelling club? I saw you three had signed up."

"I am. Can't wait actually, we had one last year but that was just ... bad." He chuckled.

"That's what I heard." I joined in. "I better let Lupin know that you're okay."

"Yeah." He nodded. "Can you send Hermione and Ron back in?"

"Of course, but don't strain yourself!" I said in a motherly voice and Harry shook his head with smile.  

Chapter Text

It was the end of November, a week after the game, and I left Harry and Moony alone to talk about his parents. When I came back, he informed me that Harry wanted to learn the Patronus charm, since the dementors always seem to affect him more. He had agreed to do it, but only after Christmas break. He asked me to tag along when he would teach Harry since I learned at a young age too. I agreed in an instant.

But now Moony and I were standing in the room where we would hold the defence and duelling club. The floor was covered in the blue gymnastic mats that we always used. I was pacing on the blue mat with my bare feet, my wand twirling between my fingers.

"Nervous, cub?"

"I never expected so many people to sign up." I said stopping in front of him, my grey eyes wide.

"I did. They are in dire need of good training and... you of course."

"Me?" I asked, my wand stopping between my pinkie and ring finger.

"Hm, yes. A lot of people had signed up before, but even more after your Patronus stunt on the pitch."

"Oh." I said with my mouth open.

A few days before, we hung out a notice for the ones who signed up, to come in comfortable clothes, preferably a training suite. But I couldn't help but chuckle when they all came in. With mismatched clothes. You knew some had transfigured their old clothes into something comfortable. You could also see a clear difference between kids with a muggle influence and the purebloods. Like Hermione was wearing a simple grey tracksuit, while Draco wore a black shirt and, was it running trousers? I didn't know, it looked like he was ready to spend dinner in a fancy restaurant. Moony and I shared a glance and bit our lips to hold back a chuckle. I was wearing black sweatpants with a white top from AC/DC on top of it.

"Hi everyone," I called out. "Can everyone take off their shoes and socks and place them against the wall."

A few looked surprised at me before they followed the others and took off their shoes. The confusion of taking their shoes off and seeing the large blue mats in the room was a sight I would never forget. It was just so funny. Everyone stopped in front of the mat and looked at me and Moony. There were so many that had signed up, we needed to divide them into two groups. So now was the group filled with third to fifth years. There were about thirty students in the room, I liked that no one wore their school robes and were all just looking like any other kid. I looked to Moony for a second who gave me an encouraging nod. I looked back to the crowd, I saw Angelina and Lee, Harry, Ron and Hermione. Draco, his bodyguards, Blaise, Theo and Emmett Nott. But I didn't see the twins, and that hurt me more than I care to admit. I had the first club meeting last week with the sixth and seventh years, which went well.

"Welcome everyone." I smiled as my eyes roamed the faces. "You can stand on the mat, it won't bite." I held back a grin, and they stepped onto the mat. "Alright, does anyone have experience with Duelling," Hands shot up in the air. "More than what you did last year," I added and a lot of hands lowered. Just like I had expected is that most of the Slytherins' hands stayed up. "Great, can you stand on the right?" I gestured to the side and Draco walked over there with a smug look, and I rolled my eyes at him. "Who has experience in martial arts?"

"In what?" Someone piped up.

"Muggle defence, like karate, judo, boxing." I looked at the boy, I thought was a Ravenclaw. Only three hands shot up in the air and gestured them forward.

"Why do we need to learn muggle defence?" One of Draco's bodyguards scoffed. "My wand is faster than anything."

I looked over my shoulder to see Moony grin. "Can you come forward...?"

"Vincent Crabbe." He grumbled.

"Why don't I show you? We can give the others a demonstration."

"I'm not fighting a girl." He huffed, crossing his arms over his chest.

"Afraid Crabbe?" Lee called out and others chuckled.

"Afraid of breaking this fragile little girl, is what it is."

"Mister Crabbe." Remus said walking closer. "If I see something she can't handle, I'll step in."

"Fine." He grumbled. I hid my grin as I took my place on the other side of the mat. The crowd gathered closer until Remus stopped them from coming too close. Behind Crabbe, I saw Nott and Draco with a knowing grin. Crabbe's eyes went wide when I handed my wand over to my uncle. "You're not using your wand?"

"I don't need it." I simply said and saw Angelina wink at me.

"Right. Bow, please." We bowed slowly. "Three, two, one!" Moony called. I saw Crabbe raise his wand higher and open his mouth when he finally thought of the right spell. But I was already running to him and let myself fall to the ground, kicking his feet from under him, making him fall down with a hard thud. I took his wand and tossed it to Remus when I climbed up. There were astonished whispers in the crowd and clapping. I reached my hand out to help Crabbe up, but he didn't take it and he stood back up, angry.

"Want to try without your wand, Vincent." I grinned and gestured for him to come at me. Crabbe ran over to me with his large round form, his feet pounding on the mat. Just as he lunched for me, I ducked to the side and punched him in the ribs, making him crash to the floor. The room was silent for a long moment, only Crabbe's hard breathing filled the room.

"Go, Alec!" I turned to see Angelina grin widely.

"So, see why you need to know more than just spells to win a fight," Remus said, giving Crabbe his wand back once he recovered. "So, today we'll focus on the martial arts part." He looked around the room. "Michael, would you like to give it a try against Alec." He asked a fifth-year Ravenclaw who had raised their hands when asked if someone had experience in martial arts. The boy's eyes widened, and he looked like he regretted raising his hand, but came up, nonetheless.

"I'm Alec." I smiled and shook his hand.

"Michael." He handed his wand over to Remus, who took his place next to the mat again.

"Boxing?" I asked when I looked at his form. And he nodded in surprise. "Are you ready, Michael?" I asked, looking up, because the boy was certainly taller than me. "I'll promise not to break anything." I said honestly and the boy grinned.

"I'll hold you to that promise. And please don't kick..." His eyes went down. I pursed my lips at him before nodding.

"Great, now that the rules are established, please take your stance," Remus called over. "Three – two - one."

We turned in a circle before Michael tried to punch at me. I blocked his fist with my right arm and punched my left on his ribs. But Michael didn't fall down like Crabbe did, no he was used to it and started again with another move. He kicked me against my knee, and I stumbled back before I balanced myself on my feet and ducked just in time before he lunched at my head. I heard several people gasp around me, in the corner of my eye, I saw Remus looking at Michael's wand with interest, like there weren't two kids fighting each other a few feet away from him. When his arm went over my head, I grabbed it and trapped it behind his back. With a kick in the hollow of his knee, he stumbled to the ground. I still had a tight grip on his arm, and he tried to grab me with his other arm. But when he couldn't do anything, he raised his hand in defeat.

"I give up." I grinned as I let him go. He rubbed his arm as he stood up and turned to me smiling. "That was incredible."

"That was certainly more exciting than the former." Remus said, and I saw Crabbe blush, while Draco snickered.

"You did good, Michael. I'm sure I could learn a thing or two from you."

"I don't know about that, Alec." He grinned.

"Alright, we'll pair up now," Remus called out. "And we don't allow cheating, so everyone can place their wands in the basket." He pointed to a wicker basket on the table. Everyone walked over to the table and put their wands in, some more relucted than others.

"Where did you learn how to fight like that?" Michael asked, still standing next to me.

"Professor Lupin taught me."

"Did you fight against him?" He looked from the professor to me, and I nodded. I felt an arm wrap around my shoulder, and when the person leaned in, Nott appeared in front of me.

"I think we all want to see a standoff between you two." He grinned.

"What are you three talking about?" Remus asked as he came over.

"Over a stand-off between the two of you." Nott said loud enough so everyone could hear. There was an excited murmur going around.

"I think we want to see what you all can do first. So, off you go." He waved them off with a grin of his own.

I saw Lee and Angelina, the Nott brothers, Draco with Blaise, and the two bodyguards all pair up. Harry paired up with Ron, leaving Hermione to look around for a partner of her own. I watched as everyone started to pair up and walked to Angelina and Lee.

"Hey."

"Hey, you're doing great." Angelina beamed.

"Thank you." I smiled. "Uhm, didn't the twins say they were coming?"

"They did. I don't know where they are." Angelina frowned and we looked at Lee, who looked confused himself.

"Oh, alright." I frowned, feeling disappointed. Before either of them could say something more, I started to walk away. "I should check the others. Take your place, Professor Lupin will explain shortly."

I walked further and told everyone to take a stance and stand as much apart from the others as possible. Hermione was still standing alone.

"Hey, Hermione."

"Hi, Alec." She said softly. "I think I'm short of a partner."

"No worries. You can practice with me or Lupin."

"Oh." Her eyes widened in panic. "No, no." She shook her head violently. "I don't think I'm ready for that."

"Even if I promise to go easy on you? No? Okay." I chuckled. "Harry!"

Harry turned away from Ron at the sound of his name and came when I waved him over. "Hermione doesn't have a partner, and she doesn't want to partner with me just yet." I winked at her.

"You can partner up with me and Ron, we could alternate." He suggested, looking a little guilty.

"I was thinking, you could partner up with me, Harry. Then Hermione and Ron can do it together." The boy paled a little. "Come on, what you did the past years, you can handle me." I grinned, and he blushed again before nodding. "Great, let's go." I looped my arm through his and we stopped in front of everyone again.

"Alright, we're going to start with a few self-defence moves. I was thinking about asking for a volunteer." I couldn't help but grin as I saw Harry pale even more. "But I don't think that would be a good idea."

"I want to volunteer." I turned to see a grinning Nott, leaning against the wall casually. His little brother rolled his eyes at him.

"If you see what I'm about to do to Professor Lupin, I highly doubt it." I smirked, and his eyebrows rose up. "So, this is a very important part for when someone grabs a hold of you. Professor?" I turned to look at Remus, who grinned at the formality. He wrapped his arms around my waist. "This is the bear hug. "You lean forward, so it's harder for the attacker to pick you up, then you turn to the attacker," I said turning to face Remus. "While you turn you bring your elbow up to strike his face. He'll let go and then you do the final blow, a kick in the groan." I showed everyone the steps in slow motion. "Now, the real deal. Ready?" He nodded and I knew he put a spell on the places I was going to hit. Then I freed myself in one swift movement. I saw the boys all look with pained expressions when I pushed my knee into his groin, but besides an oof, it didn't look like he felt anything.

"So, this is the first thing you'll learn. You'll switch places after you succeed." I turned to Nott with a grin. "So, still want to take his place?"

He shrugged with a Slytherin smirk. "It seemed like you didn't hit him that hard."

"That's where you're wrong, Emmett. I've put a charm across the places she was going to hit me, to soften the blows." Impressed whispers filled the room again. "Alec and I will place the charm on every one of you, so no one needs to go the Madam Pomfrey."

Remus and I walked around the room, putting the charms on everyone before standing back in front. "Now, everyone ready. Go!"

"Harry? You ready?" I asked, looking at the boy who looked around the room.

"Uhm, yeah sure." He said unsure.

"I'll hold you in the bear hug, and you need to get out. I won't make it hard on you, promise." I smiled, and after he nodded, he turned his back to me, and I wrapped my arms around him. "Remember the movements?" I asked.

"Lean forward, turn, elbow face, then groin."

"Right." I nodded. "Ready when you are." I saw that most of the students hadn't even started and were watching me and Harry instead. I let him do the steps and he freed himself.

"That felt too easy." He said.

"Want to pick it up a notch?" I asked excitedly. "Alright, turn around." I wrapped my arms around him again. Not teasing him when I saw his neck turn red. "Try your best or worst." I chuckled. And so, he did. Harry tried to get out of my grip, he leaned forward and started to turn, but when his elbow came up, I grabbed it and twisted it a little so he couldn't move unless hurting himself. My free hand had his other arm. "What now?" I asked loud enough for the others to hear. "How could he get out of this?" My eyes scanned the room.

"He could try and pull his arm out." One piped up.

"I can't." Harry grumbled, pulling his arm a little, and letting out a soft hiss.

"He can't indeed, it would only hurt more."

"He could stomp on your foot." Angelina suggested.

"He can do that, but he has to have enough force to make me tumble or wince. His options are either he can head bump me, but that depends on how tall your attacker is, of course. Or use his feet, he can try to go for my knees or the groin." I let his hands go. "Come on, your turn." I ushered them to start themselves, and once everyone was busy, I turned to Harry. "You did good, Harry."

"I'm not sure about that." He rubbed his neck.

"Believe me," I said looking around the room. Harry followed my gaze and saw others who didn't get out of the bear hug. "I should go help them out, do you want to practice with Lupin?"

"No, I'm good." He chuckled. "I think I need to recover." He rubbed his arm. "I'm fine, really." He added quickly as I paled, afraid that I hurt him. With a last smile, I went to the others.  

Chapter Text

Everyone was talking excitedly as they put their socks and shoes back on and headed out of the room. Angelina and Lee were sitting on one of the tables that were pushed to the side, waiting for me to finish. I walked over to Nott, who was taking an extremely long time to knot his shoelaces.

I kneeled in front of him and looked up grinning. "Need help, Nott?"

"Not particularly." He knotted them in a second before leaning his head on his hands, his arms resting on his legs. "Maybe I just wanted to talk to you."

"And what did you want to talk about?"

"Hm, well." He clicked his tongue. "If I'm being honest. I was a little jealous that you had your arms wrapped around Potter like that. But don't you dare repeat those words, if someone would know I was jealous of Potter." He shuddered. I looked at him for a moment before I started laughing.

"Well, maybe you should volunteer next time then." I bit my lip as I grinned and pushed myself up. Nott followed my lead, and after pushing his wand into his back pocket, he tucked a loose lock of hair behind my ear.

"Maybe I will. See you next week, Lupin-Black."

"You know we have class together before the next meeting, don't you Nott?" I chuckled. Nott just grinned over his shoulder before disappearing out of the classroom, leaving me alone with Angelina and Lee.

"You did amazing." Remus smiled, giving me a side hug. "I'm so proud of you."

"Of me? Even with the charm, I kicked you in the..."

"That's part of my job." He chuckled. "I better get going and start on finishing grading the essays."

"Alright. I'm going over to the tower tonight, so I'll come in later."

"Have fun." He kissed the top of my head, and with a smile at Lee and Angelina, he walked out of the room.

I pulled on my shoes and the three of us started to walk towards the Gryffindor tower. We walked in silence for a while, my head was stuck with the fact the twins weren't there, and there was just something in the pit of my stomach that I couldn't shake.

"You're alright?" Angelina asked, placing her hand on my shoulder pulled me out of my daze.

"Yeah, fine." I gave her a feeble smile and I saw Lee and her exchange a look. "Do you think Alicia's coming around?"

"She is. She wanted to come to the meeting but since she didn't sign up, she didn't want to come unannounced."

"I'll speak to her then." I nodded. "She can come anytime."

"I'm sorry about Fred and George."

"Hm." I hummed as I looked forward, I already saw the replacement portrait of the knight coming into view. "If they didn't want to come, they should have just told me."

"They wanted to come." Lee said.

"Where were they then?" I raised an eyebrow, and neither could answer.

My thoughts were already drifting when Lee said the password and I climbed through the portrait hole after them. When I entered the room, my eyes found the ginger cat. His large yellow eyes followed me across the room, and when I sat down in the corner near the fireplace, the cat jumped off Hermione's lap and crawled into mine. Hermione looked from her cat to me with large brown eyes. She closed her book and walked over.

"Hey, Hermione. I hoped you liked the club." My fingers scratched the cat's ears.

"I did. You're a great teacher." She smiled wide. "You know, he's never done that." She pointed to her cat. "Crookshanks only lets me pet him, Harry, on occasion. But sleeping in someone's lap..."

"Really?" I asked surprised as I stroked the cat, I could feel him purring underneath my fingertips. "Then why me?"

"Don't know," Hermione said, dropping down to the floor in front of me. "Do you have pets?" I shook my head. "So, no hidden treats?"

"No." I chuckled as I looked at the purring cat. Cats and dogs or wolves usually don't mix, but maybe it was different with an Animagus.

"Maybe, the cat is an Animagus, and he's in love with you." Lee mused with a laugh. Hermione and I turned to look at Lee, who was sitting slightly higher on the chair.

"He's not an Animagus." Hermione scoffed.

"How do you know?"

"Because I checked." Hermione flushed. "Just to be sure. He doesn't act like a normal cat."

"How so-" I started but then the painting flew open, and the twins walked in laughing. Their grin was large as they walked over. And anger started to rise in me. I guess the cat felt it too, because he nudged his flat nose against my hand.

"Where have you been?" Angelina asked. The twins glanced to Hermione for a moment but shrugged and carried on.

"We've been pranking Filch." Fred rubbed his hands excitedly. "You should have seen it, it was brilliant if I say so myself."

"You didn't do anything to the cat, did you?" Hermione's voice was sharp.

"No, no, the old cat is fine." Fred assured.

"You didn't forget anything?" Lee said, not so subtly nudging his head towards me, but the twins didn't notice. They frowned a little as they thought it over.

"Can't seem to think of anything." Fred shrugged.

"But you guys should have seen Filch's-" George stopped as he saw me rise to my feet, I handed Crookshanks over to Hermione and turned to the others.

"I'm going to head back, long day."

"What? Why?" The twins pouted.

"Alec." Angelina tried, but I shook my head.

"Good night, I'll - I'll see you later, okay?" I didn't wait for an answer and walked out of the tower.

I hurried down the stairs, the castle already empty due to the late hour. I didn't want to see anyone, and I didn't want to go back to my chambers, so I strolled around the castle absently. I didn't care if I got busted at that point, I just needed to walk. My feet carried me to the dungeons, I saw the door of the potions' classroom ajar, and I glanced in. Professor Snape was sitting at his desk going over some of the potions students had made during class. I thought about backing away quietly and heading to my room, but my hands did something else, and knocked on the door, while I pushed it open.

"Good evening, Professor Snape."

"Miss Lupin-Black." He was a bit startled by my sudden appearance. "What are you doing here?"

"I didn't mean to interrupt. I was just walking around, clearing my head and found my way here."

"You know it's almost curfew, right?"

"I know, I'll just be going then." I said retreating from the door.

"Hold on." He said and I stopped and walked in closer. "How was the club meeting?"

"It went well. A bit tiring but that means I gave it my best."

"Hm." He nodded slowly. "Then why did you need to clear your head?"

"Just with everything that has happened. Sirius Black, the exam, the meeting, quidditch... And I don't know, but my feet just guided me here. I always brew when I need to clear my head, so that's probably the reason. But I don't want to bore you with this."

"You don't know your result for a few days, why don't you try to brew some of our NEWT's potions now. You have a few to catch up to when you start the class in January."

"I don't have anything with me, professor. Not my cauldron nor my book."

"Cupboard." He pointed to the cupboard in the corner as he looked back down. "Just be silent."

"Yes, sir." I nodded and walked to the cupboard with a grin. I opened the cupboard and took out a cauldron with utensils in it, a seventh-year book, and gloves before taking a place at one of the desks.

"You already know how to make Wolfsbane, so start with Veritaserum." Snape said without looking up.

I flipped the book open to the right page, before heading to the cupboard filled with ingredients. My arms laden with ingredients, I walked back to my station and started to work in silence. Over an hour had passed with only the sound of me crunching my ingredients or stirring in my cauldron. Snape was dead silent save for the occasional huff at one of the really bad potions. I was nearly done with my potion, and I was stirring my potions clockwise when the door creaked open and none other than Emmett Nott walked in.

"Professor, I cleaned all the bedpans for Madam Pomfrey." He said, and he turned to me in surprise when he heard me chuckle.

"Good. Nott, remember detention Wednesday night."

"Yes, sir." He nodded at the professor and looked back at me. When Snape noticed that the boy didn't move, he looked up. He glanced from Nott to me.

"Miss Lupin-Black, are you nearly finished?"

"Yes, sir. Just need to put the freezing charm on it."

"Then mister Nott can escort you back to the main hall." He stood up from his desk and let the potions fly off to his filing cabinet. "Mister Nott, you can help her clean it up."

"Yes, sir." Nott said politely. Snape looked between me and Nott again as I put a freezing charm on it and walked to the door.

"Leave the potion on my desk." And with that, he was gone. I bottled the potion without looking at Nott, but I knew he was leaning against the desk, his eyes curious.

"So, you had detention too? Maybe he can stick us together next time."

I pushed the cork on top of the vial and walked over to his desk. When I turned again, Nott's eyes were on me. "I didn't have detention."

"Then why-"

"Because I was wandering around, and he let me practice in case I pass the exam."

"Which you will. Too bad though, that you aren't in detention, would be fun to spend it with you."

"Hm, if I stay here any longer, that possibility grows," I said as I started to vanish the leftovers to the right pots. Nott helped me clean up my station and within minutes we were done.

"Even though I would like to spend my detention with you, let's get you upstairs before you get busted."

"Why did you get detention anyway?" I asked as we walked the eerie corridor.

"Caught stealing something from Snape's classroom." He said, and I looked at him with large eyes. "What? It was a dare." He grinned.

"Oh, are those the kind of things that happen in the Slytherin common room?" I chuckled. "Do I want to know what the worst dare is you had to do?"

"The worst? Hm." He frowned as he thought it over. We were walking back up the stairs when he finally had an answer for me. "That was when my little brother dared me to kiss Pansy Parkinson." He shuddered, and I laughed at his reaction.

"What did you do?"

"There are a lot of things that I dare to do, but kissing Pansy isn't one of them. So, because I declined, much to the dismay of Pansy I might add." And I rolled my eyes. "I had to do three shots in a row, I was a goner not soon after."

"Does Draco play?"

"Sometimes." He shrugged. "Are you still mad at him?"

"Yeah." I frowned, looking down when we reached the ground floor. "I hate it when he acts like an entitled little brat. From what I heard the Hippogriff barely touched him. Hagrid shouldn't be sacked, and the creature should be free."

"We all know Draco can be a bit dramatic." I raised a brow. "Alright, a lot. But you don't take Hagrid's classes, the creatures he presents to us... They're dangerous."

"It's his first year, give him time to learn."

"Your uncle doesn't need time to learn. Even if they don't say it, the Slytherins all like his teachings."

"That's sweet." I smiled. "But he had practice, trust me." I looked around the empty hallway. "I should head back, and so should you."

"Yeah, you're probably right. I'll see you tomorrow." He said as a promise and leaned down to kiss my cheek. When he pulled back, his Slytherin smirk was in place as he saw the light flush on my cheeks. And with a last wink, he headed back down the stairs.

Chapter Text

The next morning when I reached the great hall, Nott was waiting for me at the large doors. He was casually leaning against the wall, one foot placed against it. When he saw me arrive, he pushed himself off and walked over.

"Morning." He grinned. "Care to join me?"

"Sure." I smiled at him, when we walked into the great hall, my eyes fell to the Gryffindor table and I saw the group looking at me, but I walked towards the Slytherin table with Nott. "Good morning." I said to Draco, Zabini and the younger Nott, when I sat down across from them.

"Morning." Zabini smiled. "I've got to say, you certainly kicked Crabbe's ass yesterday. He doesn't want to come out of his room." He snickered.

"Should I watch my back?" I said with a grin.

"Salazar no!" Draco huffed. "I think he doesn't dare to come close to you ever again." He chuckled.

"I probably won't see him next week then. Boys and their egos." I rolled my eyes and chuckled as the other ones pursed their lips at me. "You guys are coming, right?" I asked, as my eyes drifted behind Draco and fell on the twins, who were looking at the boy next to me, Nott, with a glare.

"Wouldn't want to miss it. I volunteer to be your partner." Zabini winked at me.

"Sorry, that place is already taken." Nott said next to me. I slowly turned to him with a raised eyebrow.

"Is it now?"

"I think I volunteered right after class, remember?" His dark brown stormy eyes on me, his look was intense, and I had to push down the blush that wanted to creep up.

I licked my lips as I didn't pull my gaze away, I saw Nott's eyes flicker to my lips for a second. "I thought you said, you were going to think about it."

"I guess I made up my mind then." You could feel the tension rise between us, the other three Slytherins shared glances before Draco finally cleared his throat and we looked away from each other. I looked down at my still untouched plate, while Nott looked smug with his grin and leaned back. I started on my breakfast when the morning post came flying in. A large eagle owl flew over the Gryffindor table, but when it didn't spot me, he looked over the other tables until he found me. He flew over with one large stroke of his wings and landed between my plate and Draco's. He stuck out its foot. I untied the letter and gave the owl a piece of my bacon. The owl nibbled on it before flying back out of the great hall. My heart skipped a beat when I saw it was from the examination office.

"Is it something bad?" Nott asked as he leaned closer, but then he saw where the letter came from. He placed a hand over my trembling hand. "It's good news, trust me."

"I need to open this with my uncle."

"Of course." He said as he watched me stand up. I took the letter firmly in my hand and my eyes scanned the head table. Remus had seen me stand up and when I found his eyes, I gestured to the letter. He gave a short nod and stood up. I went to turn and walked out of the great hall but halted and leaned down.

"I'll find you later with the news, good or bad."

"Good news." He smiled and I kissed his cheek before walking out of the room quickly. In the corner of my eyes, I saw the twins stand up and go to follow me out, but I didn't turn around and changed into Loki the moment I was alone.

Five minutes later, Moony and I were sitting in our chambers, the letter on the coffee table in front of us. The twins had come knocking a few minutes ago, but Remus sent them away, saying I wasn't there. He didn't ask me what was going on, but I knew he had an inkling.

"Ready, cub?" He asked, looking from the letter to me. I took in a deep breath before I reached for the envelope. With a little shake in my hand, I tore the letter open. He placed a reassuring and grounding hand on my shoulder as I unfolded the letter.

Dear miss Lupin-Black

It is with my greatest pleasure to inform you that you passed your OWL Potion exam. With an Outstanding in both theory and practical.

I can't wait to see you at the end of this year with your NEWT exam. It was an honour to see you work and grade your potions and exams. I'm without a doubt sure that we will hear great things from you.

And in my professional opinion, I should say you should go celebrate this amazing achievement.

I further wish you and good day and an excellent year at Hogwarts.

Sincerely,

David Wilson

"You did it, cub. Just like I knew you would." He wrapped his arms around me, my arms circled around his waist, and my eyes scanned the letter again as I looked over his shoulder in disbelief. "We should celebrate." He pulled back with a large and beaming smile. "What about Belgian chocolates, some cider-"

"And a pass on my essay on Vampire bats?" I tried with a grin.

"No, can do, cub." He said and I pouted. "But we can go to muggle London during Christmas break to get your birthday present."

"Really? One or two?" I asked with large eyes.

"One for now." He squeezed my shoulder. "Go tell your friends, I'll get everything ready for the celebration tonight."

"You're the best." I kissed his cheek before I jumped up. "I'll go inform Snape too." With a last wave, I walked out of the room. Happy to see no red-headed twins guarding the door, I made my way to the dungeons. I nearly ran down the stairs and when I reached the door of the potions classroom, I pushed it open without knocking.

"Whatever the reason is, miss Lupin-Black." Snape drawled out, sounding bored. "You always knock first."

"Sorry, sir. I was too excited. I got my results from the exam."

That made Snape look up from his papers. His face was still blank and slightly bored, but his eyes were a different story. I walked over with my letter in hand and placed it in front of him. His eyes scanned the letter quickly.

"I guess I'll be seeing you in my seventh-year classes after the break, miss Lupin-Black." I knew I wouldn't get more than that from him, but it didn't matter. My smile was broad as I looked at him. "You still have two potions to catch up on. You can do them before break after classes or after break when you get back."

"I'll be staying at Hogwarts during break professor. Is it okay, I'd do it then?"

"That will be fine, let me know when you want to use the classroom."

"Thank you, professor." I beamed at him. Snape looked at me for another second before turning back to the papers in front of him. I turned and walked out of the classroom grinning. With a grin on my face and my head in the clouds, I walked into the empty corridor.

"Good news then." Nott's voice suddenly came next to me, and I jumped a little out of fright.

"Where did you come from?" I asked, eyes wide, as I looked around the corridor. Nott just clicked his tongue, and I slapped his arm with pursed lips.

"Fine." He chuckled. "Our common room is just there." He pointed behind us.

"Oh." I said slowly looking back to him.

"Want to see it?" He said, it looked like he blurted it out, his eyes a little wide.

"Are you sure? You don't seem convinced yourself." I snickered.

"It's just... as far as I know, it's been years since a Gryffindor stepped foot in there."

"But I'm not just any Gryffindor, am I?" I smirked at him. "Come on, show me." I held out my arm and he looped his through it as we made our way to the common room.

As I was sitting cross-legged on the dark green couch in a fairly empty Slytherin common room, I thought to myself what Moony would think about me in the Snake's lair. He had been to the common room of the Hufflepuffs and the Ravenclaws, but he never managed to get into Slytherin's, but seeing his relationship with Snape I could understand why. Nott went to his room to get something to drink to celebrate my grades. Draco was sitting next to me, while Blaise and Theo sat on the two armchairs across from the coffee table. Draco looked around the room quickly before turning back to me with a crease between his brows.

"Alexandra..." He started slowly. Draco was the only one who used my full first name, and I still was getting used to it. "I was wondering..."

"Yes?" I asked when he didn't finish his sentence.

"Sirius Black. What do you know about him?" I saw the two other Slytherins look up from the schoolwork with interest.

"Not much, why? Your mum is his cousin, doesn't she-"

"No." He shook his head. "She doesn't talk about him. My father... he doesn't want to hear his name in the house. Which is weird because-" He stopped. I frowned as I looked around the room, Draco suddenly seemed nervous like he spilt something he wasn't allowed to say.

"Can you give us a moment?" I asked Blaise and Theo. They looked from me to Draco before they walked to their dorms. I put a Muffliato charm over us to give us some privacy. "No one can hear us now," I said as I sat a little straighter. "Draco, is this about the fact that Lucius is a – a death eater?"

Draco's eyes went wide as he looked at me. "Was. He was one." He shook his head as he looked down. "But the thing is, you would think he was glad back then, that he helped You-Know-Who out. But he still acts like he's the worst of the worst."

"What are you saying, cous?"

"That we don't know the whole story. That –" He stopped when Nott came back with a bottle of fire whiskey and the room started to get crowded. I looked at Nott, who looked confused between us. "Never mind." He mumbled and I reached my hand out to cover his.

"You have quidditch practice tomorrow, right? I'll meet you after behind the pitch, we can talk there freely." He contemplated it for a moment before giving me a nod. I lowered the charm, and the noise of the room crashed our ears.

"I brought some fire whiskey." Nott grinned, shaking the bottle in his hand.

"I can see that." I looked at him with my own grin. "Are you going to pour me some or just stand there shaking it?" I asked and saw Draco move from the couch and walk to his dormitory.

"Alright, alright... Don't get your knickers in a twist." He said with a lopsided grin. He plopped himself down next to me and conjured two glasses.

"My knickers are just fine, thank you very much." I huffed as I took a freshly filled glass. Nott's grin turned into a smirk as he leaned back. "You know..." I said as I leaned closer to him. "I find it strange that none of the Slytherin's don't call me out anymore, or gossip about me. At least not in an obvious manner."

Nott stirred the glass in his hand as he looked down at it. "You made a name for yourself now; your name isn't just tied to an escaped prisoner of Azkaban. You earned respect from others since the duelling club, and the crazy ass show of your Patronus on the quidditch pitch."

"Maybe." I frowned. "But it was before all of that." Nott downed his drink and turned into his seat to face me directly. His face only centimetres from me.

"Lupin-Black." I could smell the fire whiskey on his breath like he would smell on mine probably. "Malfoy's your cousin. Ever since he kind of "accepted" you, or didn't hex or curse you, they accepted it. They don't want to be in his bad graces."

"But he's only a third year."

"That may be, but his father has a high position in the Ministry. And you know Malfoy's favourite catchphrase –"

"My father will hear about this." We said at the same time, and I couldn't help but laugh. My head fell on his shoulder while my shoulders shook with laughter. I heard him chuckle near my ear.

"And-" He said as I pulled back. "Having a Nott at your side is a good thing too." He winked.

"Oh, I have you by my side now, have I?"

"You could have." His eyes turned a shade darker as he looked at me. The way he looked at me, it looked like he was drowning in my eyes, just like I was with him. I swallowed as I saw him lean down slowly. His lips were only a breath away from mine, but before our lips could touch, the door of the common room flew open with a large bang. Nott and I jumped apart and looked over the back of the couch. Crabbe and Goyle came in their hands covering their noses, but the blood that came from it was falling down fast. Nott being a Slytherin prefect, which I only found out when I was sneaking around the castle as Loki one night and saw him patrolling. I asked about it the next day, but he just pointed out I didn't pay much attention to his robes because most of the time the badge was neatly pinned on them.

"Crabbe! Goyle! You're ruining the carpet!" He shouted as he walked over to the boys. I rolled my eyes at him because of that statement. "What happened?"

"Don't know. There were some cupcakes on the stairs-"

"And you ate them!?" He shouted in disbelief, and everyone in the common room was snickering, including me. "And why come here?! The hospital wing now!" He pointed back to the door. He looked back and said with a much lower and softer voice. "I better go with them, those two get lost more often than a first year."

"I'll come with. I probably should find the others to tell them the news." I jumped up from my seat and rounded the couch.

Nott looked at me before a smile slipped on his lips. "Can't say no to that, can I?" He gestured for me to walk out of the common room first and we steered the boys in the right direction.

Chapter Text

"Kelpie's Death." I said as I reached the Gryffindor tower. The knight, who's name I'd forgotten, was standing there with his sword pointed at me.

"Password has changed, my fair lady."

"Again?" I groaned. I turned around with a frown before I came up with an idea. I raised my wand in front of me. "Expecto Patronum." Silver-white streaks flew out of my wand until it changed into a white Arctic wolf. "Hey, Loki. This message is for Angelina, alright?" I asked and the wolf's ears perked up. "Angelina, I can't get in the tower, the freaking knight changed the password again. If you're in the common room, can you open the portrait? If not, I'll come by another time."

The wolf leapt over me and jumped through the knight's portrait, who was wielding his sword towards the Patronus, but it just went straight through. Not five seconds later the portrait door swung open, revealing the twins and Angelina.

"She had sent me the Patronus." She huffed and pushed the twins aside. It looked like the three of them had raced to the door, but seeing as the twins' legs were longer, they arrived first. "Why did you run out of the great hall? And where have you been all day?" She asked grabbing my arm and pulling me inside.

She pulled me towards their favourite corner, sat down in an oversized armchair and pulled me next to her, the twins sat back down next to Lee and Alicia. "I got a letter with my OWL results. And I rushed out to open it with my uncle."

"Go on, tell us. Don't let us wait in suspense." Angelina tugged my arm.

"Alright." I chuckled. "I passed, an O on both fronts."

"I knew it!" She cried out and hugged me.

"We all knew that, Ange." George rolled his eyes with a smile.

"We should celebrate." Lee grinned. "Maybe with something strong?"

"No, I just had some fire whiskey." I shook my head.

"Professor Lupin gave you fire whiskey? I wish my parents were that relaxed." Angelina chuckled.

"No, I'm celebrating with him a little later. He never gets me anything stronger than cider."

"With whom were you drinking fire whiskey then?" Alicia asked curious. It wasn't like we were close friends, but she had loosened up over the past weeks. We didn't talk separately, but when we were in the group, we exchanged words.

"I went to tell Snape about my results."

"Snape gave you fire whiskey!?" Fred shouted and nearly jumped out of his chair from shock, making the other students look at him.

"No, dimwit." I laughed softly. "Can I finish?" I asked with a raised brow. "After I left his classroom, I bumped into Nott. He invited me into the Slytherin common room."

"You went into the snake's lair?" Angelina gasped next to me.

"And I came out of it alive and without a scratch." I looked at the twins, who had a frown in place. "I can't say the same for Crabbe and Goyle. I believe that was your handy work?" I raised my brow again.

"We can't confirm –"

"Or deny it." George finished, both with a grin, but something was off.

"That's what I thought." I snickered and Angelina did the same. Then something large, fluffy and orange appeared on my lap. Crookshanks leapt up on my lap and looked at me with his flat nose and large eyes. "Hello, Crooks." I scratched behind his ear.

"That is a weird cat," Angelina said leaning away from me and the cat. "He doesn't like anyone except for Hermione and you apparently. She's been after Ron's rat for ages."

"Cats hunt rats, that's normal behaviour. Isn't it, Crooks." The cat purred in response. I actually haven't seen the rat everyone talked about; I've only seen Hermione's cat. "But the way he looks at me... it looks like he wants to tell me something. Strange, isn't it?"

"Since he's not an Animagus, he's probably just a weird, old cat." Lee laughed and reached over the scratch his head, but the ginger ducked and hissed at him.

"I don't think he likes that you called him a weird, old cat, Lee." I chuckled softly as I placed the cat on the ground and stood up. "I got to go. My uncle is probably waiting for me. Oh." I turned to everyone. "Are any of you staying at school during the break?"

"No." Was chorused around the group.

"But I heard Harry was staying, and Hermione." Angelina said, looking a bit sad.

"Ron asked mum if he could stay, but he hasn't heard back yet." Fred said.

"Alright." I nodded. "I'll see you at breakfast." I gave a small wave and walked towards the portrait.

"Wait!" I turned to see the twins follow me out. "Can we talk?"

"About?" I asked as I descended the stairs, not looking at the boys.

"Alec." They both placed a hand on my shoulders, stopping me. But not so fiercely, that I couldn't break away. I turned to face the twins when we were on the second-floor landing. "We wanted to apologize." George started.

"We were dumb, thoughtless idiots!" Fred sighed. "We wanted to come to the club meeting, but we got side-tracked when we saw the opportunity to prank Filch."

"Which isn't an excuse, we know."

"It's okay." I reassured them, and they both looked surprised at me.

"Really?"

"Yeah, your pranks come before anything else." The twins opened their mouths to reply but I carried on. "You're trying to build a business, I get that. You don't need to come just for me. You have your plans and hobbies, and I have mine. It's okay if they are not the same, but just give me a heads-up, okay?" I kissed their cheeks and turned again. "I'll see you tomorrow."

The twins stood there, looking at my retreating back at a loss for words. When I disappeared from view, they finally came out of it.

"That didn't go as planned." Fred looked a little stunned.

"Tell me about it." George groaned, rubbing his hand over his face. "We need to fix this."

"Agreed. No matter what, we'll be at the next meeting. So, we better not get caught doing something, because it's the night they usually give us detention. Come on, let's get back upstairs." He nudged his twin to turn and they headed back up the stairs.

I could spot Draco's hair from a mile away. So, when I was walking towards the pitch, that was the first thing I saw. He was flying in the air, trying to go as fast as he could on his broom. It was the first time I saw him flying, and I admit he was good. I couldn't wait to see him play against Harry if he plays fair anyway. When Draco flew near me, he spotted me and gave me a nod. I walked behind the pitch until I reached the forest line. When I looked back, all of the players were gone from the sky. I lowered myself to the ground and leaned against the wooden stand behind me. About ten minutes later, Draco appeared next to me. He conjured up a blanket before he sat down next to me.

"A little bit of grass isn't going to kill you, you know." I chuckled.

"These are new trousers, Alexandra. These cost a fortune." He huffed. He looked towards the dark trees in front of us, the silence heavy between us. After a few silent minutes, he spoke. "What's going on between you and Emmett Nott?" Alright, this wasn't where I thought this conversation was going.

"What's going on between you and Pansy?" I countered, but it was probably nothing. I haven't seen any interest from him towards her, but I had to say something.

"Pansy?" Draco snorted. "Nothing. My father wanted to set an arranged marriage in motion for the both of us."

"WHAT?" I turned away from the forest and looked at my cousin. He combed his fingers through his blonde hair.

"Yeah, he had it all worked out. Even made contracts with Pansy's parents."

"What happened?"

"Mother." Draco's smile grew wide. "When she found out, she went ballistic."

"You don't want to face a mama bear." I nodded with a grin. "Especially your mum. You're her world."

Draco looked at me with large grey eyes, that matched mine. After he recovered from my statement, he cast his eyes down. "It was an arranged marriage between them. And as far as I remember, they never had a real, happy, loving relationship. I don't think she wants me to have the same faith."

I placed a hand on his shoulder, the first time we actually engaged in real contact. "She wants you to be happy, with whomever you chose."

"She's planning on leaving him."

"I know." I whispered.

"What? You know?"

"I - I do. She wrote to me to ask for advice since they married in France. She wanted to know what the best way to an easy divorce is. How do you feel about it? About your parents splitting up, I mean."

"Ok, I guess." He shrugged. "It's not like they're happy now. They sleep in different bedrooms; she even has her own wing. I split my time between the two, but most of my time is with her. My father..." He shuddered and shook his head.

"You don't have to tell me." I said. Draco had his head down, and without thinking, I pulled him in a hug. Draco was frozen for a moment before he relaxed and wrapped his arms around my waist. I knew already about how his father was, not from the rumours at school but from the stories Aunt Cissy told me, from the way Draco flinched at something unexpected close to him. I knew enough.

"I don't want to be like him, Alexandra." He whispered in my hair. His voice was so soft, it was almost carried away with the wind. And my arms tightened around him. "I never wanted this thing with Hagrid and Buckbeak to get out of hand. I told my father, but he wouldn't hear of it. I'm still not convinced the big oaf should be teaching, but..." He took in a deep breath.

"You're nothing like him, Draco. And there is still time for you to turn things around." I pushed him back, so I could look at him. "You take more after your mum than you know." I gave him a small smile.

"Alexandra..." His stormy grey eyes reflected mine. "I think Sirius is innocent."

"What? Why?"

"Like I said, father was a -" He looked around nervously, but his voice was softer so only I could hear. "A death eater. If Sirius was the one to turn in the Potters to... He would have welcomed him with open arms, give him shelter at our home or something. I remember a conversation that I overheard my mother had with a friend. The Potters were like his extended family, the family you choose. He would have never betrayed them. I think it's pretty much the same as you and Lupin. You're chosen family, and you protect each other through everything."

I smiled weakly at him. "What do you think happened then?" I asked as we both turned back to the forest.

"I wish I knew."

After a long silence of us just staring into the forest, Draco turned back to me. "I heard you're staying in the castle during Christmas."

"Since my family lives here, yeah." I chuckled.

"There is a good chance my mother left him by then. Why don't you celebrate Christmas or New Year's with us."

"Well, who would have thought that Draco Malfoy would invite a Gryffindor, a Black, over to their home." I couldn't help but grin. And he shoved me with a huff, but a smile appeared on his pale face.

"Even if I didn't want to admit it at first... You're family. And like my mum said, we don't have much family left. She would love to see you again."

"If you insist." I nudged his shoulder. "I'll ask my uncle later."

"Even though it would be super awkward and weird to have a teacher sit with us during the break, you can invite him too."

"See? Nothing like your father. I'm glad I reached out to you."

"Me too." His voice was so soft, if it wasn't for my wolf hearing I would have missed it. "What's that?" He whispered as something large and black moved through the trees. He jumped up, wand at the ready and took a protective stance before me. I scrambled up, took my wand out of my boot and stepped next to Draco, whose arm stopped me from going closer. I smiled a little to myself, for his protectiveness. The large, dark shadow moved fluently through the trees. Then its head turned, and yellow eyes landed on me.

Draco hissed. "Let's go." He turned to run away. But when I didn't move, he pulled my sleeve. But I was fixed on the yellow eyes that were staring back at me from the dark shadows of the forest. I felt a sense of familiarity, but I couldn't place my finger on it. Maybe if I could have a closer look if I could just see what it was. I took a step forward and a branch cracked under my boot. The head of the beast turned before disappearing into the forest altogether. "Alexandra!" Draco shouted. I turned to look at him, a little dazed. His eyes were large, and I hinted a glimpse of fear behind his mask.

"Sorry. Let's go." I shook my head and followed after him. I looked over my shoulder again but couldn't see more than the trees and shadows. 

Chapter Text

I was lying on my stomach on the carpet in front of the fireplace finishing my essay for Transfiguration when Moony walked in. He kicked off his shoes near the door and walked over. He kissed the top of my head before sitting down at his desk in front of me.

"Uncle Moony?" I asked, leaning on my arms to look at him. He looked up from the papers he had just taken out of his bag. "Draco invited us to celebrate Christmas or New Year's with him and Aunt Cissy."

"I don't think Lucius would invite either of us, cub."

I pushed myself all the way up until was sitting on my knees, the quill tucked behind my ear. "Aunt Cissy is leaving him, for real this time. So, it would be just Draco, Aunt Cissy and us."

"I would like to have you here for Christmas. Don't want to miss our tradition." He smiled, and I felt the same way. We always celebrated Christmas together, if it was just cooking together or eating out. "And I would like to see Narcissa again, but I don't think it's the right time for that. Especially with the full moon that just passed then. You can go for New Year's if you want."

"But what about you? I don't want to leave you." I looked up to him with large eyes. I was afraid he would feel lonely and rejected for leaving him, especially right after the full moon.

"I will be okay, Alec. New Year's is two days after the full moon. I'll probably just sleep the whole time since there are no classes."

"Are you sure?"

"Positive." He smiled at me. That smile, I recognized had nothing but honesty behind it.

"Alright. But I'm coming with you on the full moon." I pointed out with my quill that I just had retrieved from my hair.

"Wouldn't have expected anything else." His smile was still in place. "If you're finished, we should head to the club room, to set everything up."

"Almost done. Just need to -" I scribbled another three sentences on the parchment before rolling it up. "You'll look at it later?" I asked walking over.

"Of course. Now go change." He ushered me away as he took the parchment from me.

I was wearing a faded pink training suit as I was walking around the room barefooted, checking to see all the mats aligned perfectly, leaving no gaps. I heard the third to fifth years walk in the classroom, and even though I said they shouldn't come, the twins appeared behind Angelina and Lee. They looked around the room with interest before their eyes landed on me and gave me a lopsided grin. When I saw the familiar blond head walk in, I pushed the last blue mat to the right place with my foot, before going over to the Slytherin group.

"Hey, cousin." I grinned as I watched him take off his shoes. He was now wearing a real tracksuit, not those fancy trousers that didn't give with your movement. I had written to his mother and explained the situation and the next day a neatly wrapped package arrived at the Slytherin table over breakfast. Draco had sent me a look when he read the card, but I couldn't help but grin at him. "Nice tracksuit."

"It's horrendous." He huffed, tucking his socks in his shoes. And he leaned closer when he stood back up. "But it's so comfortable." He whispered.

I couldn't help the burst of laughter that escaped from his confession. And even with the eyes that fell on us, Draco couldn't help the grin that appeared on his lips. I leaned against the wall next to him. "You're welcome then. Oh, and if the invitation still stands, I would love to come over for New Year's."

"What about Lupin?" He nudged his head towards the professor. I saw Remus's ear twitch and I knew he was listening.

"He's not really a fan of New Year's."

"Alright. I'll write to mother. Then we can see how you can come over. But I have to warn you..."

"Yes?" I asked a little afraid of the answer.

"I usually have dinner with mother, and we stay up until late. But I asked her if I could have some friends over."

"Oookay." I drawled out.

"And to my surprise, she said yes. Maybe it's because of the divorce." He shrugged.

"So, I'll be surrounded not by one thirteen-year-old but several?"

"Well, yeah." He grinned. "It's not like I'm going to invite your friends. I'm not that reformed."

"Not yet." I snickered at his astonished look and pushed myself off the wall. "It's okay. As long as there is -" I looked over my shoulder, but Remus was engaged in a conversation with Harry and his friends. "Some booze, I'm good."

"I'll see to it." He smirked as he leaned back against the wall. I turned to walk away and bumped into Nott, who was one of the last ones to come.

"Lupin-Black, looking for me, are you?' His smug grin was in place.

"You wish, Nott." I chuckled and patted his arm as I sidestepped him. "You're ready for your utter humiliation?"

"Bring it." He smirked as he walked to the wall with the other Slytherins.

"Hello everyone. Today we won't be duelling just yet, so you can place your wands in the basket in a minute. You can pair up again, if you don't have a partner, please come up to me. Please choose your partner now." The moment I finished the sentence, Nott was next to me and tapped my shoulder.

"Hello, partner." I rolled my eyes at him but didn't answer as Remus stepped next to my other side. My eyes went over the room as everyone was pairing up. I saw the twins together back against the wall, as their eyes were fixed on me. Their gaze was heavy, so I shifted my eyes away to see Ron come over, looking gloomy and a little afraid.

"Ah, Ron. The odd man out?" Remus asked, clapping the boys back and he searched the room. "Does everyone have a partner?"

"I don't have one!" A small, dreamy voice piped up. Some of the larger kids moved away to reveal the blonde girl from Ravenclaw.

"Luna, this is only for third years and up." Remus said kindly, but I stopped him by putting a hand on his shoulder and stepped forward.

"Welcome, Luna." I smiled. From what I've seen in the past months, she didn't have many friends or any for that matter. I couldn't let her go, maybe she could make some here. "I can't wait to see how you'll bring Ron down." I heard others laugh while Ron turned red as a tomato, and I saw the twins behind her with a grin of their own. "But just don't tell anyone I let you join, alright?" The girl beamed at me before her eyes drifted dreamily around the room. "Come on, Ron." I nudged him. Ron looked lost from me to the younger girl, but I had a feeling she had her own way of battling her enemies.

"Alright, now that everyone's paired up, mister Nott here." I pointed my thumb at him. "Has volunteered to fight me."

"You got a death wish, Nott?" A Ravenclaw boy chuckled, and others joined in. Nott just stuck his hands in his pockets and shrugged.

"We'll put the protective charms on him." Remus said and several groaned, which made me tut at them with a grin.

"Right, everyone, wands in the basket." Everyone moved around the room to place their wands in the basket before returning to their seats. "Okay, Emmett. Do you want to explain the steps or just see what comes at you?" I asked with a smirk.

"Do your worst." He matched my expression.

"You asked for it. Professor Lupin?" I looked to my uncle, and he nodded before placing the charms over Nott's entire body.

"Why are you doing it all over his body, professor?" Hermione asked.

"Because Hermione, I have no idea what Alec is going to do to mister Nott." He couldn't help but grin, his voice proud. Hermione's eyes twinkled as she looked to me.

"So, pull my hair, hard enough so my head pulls back," I said as I shifted to stand in front of him. "Today will be fine, Nott." I said as nothing happened. I heard another wave of snickers go around the room. Then suddenly I felt fingers weave through my high ponytail carefully. Once he had a good grip, he pulled hard, my head snapping back. I turned and grabbed the arm that was in my hair. With my free hand, I pushed the palm of my hand hard up his nose. Nott stammered back and I kicked him in the groin making him double over. But Nott didn't give up, he grabbed my hand and pulled me down, pinning me underneath him.

"No." I heard Remus say, and I knew some people had come forward trying to help.

I grabbed his wrist with one hand, while the other grabbed his bicep. My foot swirled over his to lock it in place while my other leg took place between his. I lifted my hips and turned him to the right, making him fall over. I rolled further as I pinned him to the ground. His arms were locked between my knees. I grinned broadly down at him, while the others clapped enthusiastically. First, I was afraid to see him angry for beating him. But nothing could be further from the truth. He looked at me with – adoration. His smile was large, his eyes dark as they stared up at me. Maybe it was lust. The clapping died down, and in the corner of my eye, I saw the twins standing not far away, together with Harry and even Draco. They were the ones who had tried to intervene then.

"Alright, I give up." He yielded and I released his arms from my grip. "Salazar, that was amazing! And hot!" Several in the room laughed. "Alec, would you like to go on a date with me?" He asked, still lying underneath me.

My eyes went wide as I looked down at him, it wasn't the fact that he asked me that had surprised me, but that he chose this moment in front of more than twenty people, including my uncle, to ask me.

"How can I say no to such a worthy opponent." I smiled as I climbed off him and held out my hand to pull him up. I walked over to Remus smiling shyly, while Nott walked over to his friends beaming. I hopped on the desk and took big gulps from the water bottle.

"Right, uhm." Remus cleared his throat to gather the attention. "So, you can do the first part of the attack, up until Nott pulled Alec down. I'll come over to put the protective charms on you because I don't want to see any nosebleeds or broken noses."

As he went over to every pair to cast the charm, my eyes scanned the room again. My eyes found the twins, who were standing at the same spot as earlier, right next to the spot I had pinned Nott down, right where he asked me out. The boys were whispering to each other a frown in place. I wiped my head off with a towel before hopping off the table and heading over to the twins.

"Are you guys ready?" I asked. They both jumped a little as I appeared next to them.

"Yeah." He said a little off. "But we don't have long hair like you do."

"Want to try it with me?" I asked, looking between them. "I'll go easy on you if you want."

"You don't have to ever go easy on me, love." Fred winked. Those boys with their flirtatious ways. At first, I thought they liked me more than a friend, but then I saw they were like that with most girls. That was just the way they were. Not that I was ready back then to really date anyone serious, and even if I was, they were brothers, no, twins! How could you even think to choose between them?

I rolled my eyes at him, as George moved away, and I turned my back to him. Fred took hold of my looser ponytail and gave it a pull. I turned and grabbed his arm before my free hand shot up, my eyes went wide in terror as my palm went up his nose and blood appeared everywhere. Fred stumbled back and fell to the ground. George and I were next to him in an instant.

"Fucking hell, Fred! Why didn't you tell me that Lupin didn't put the charm over you yet?" I pulled my sweater over my head and pressed it against his nose, leaving me in a black tank top. "George, grab my wand, please." I asked looking at the horrified twin. I saw several pairs stopped fighting and looked at us on the floor. "Everything's okay, just a nosebleed."

"Continue with the fighting," Remus said before kneeling on one knee next to me. "Everything okay, Alec?"

"Those idiots forgot that you hadn't done the spell yet," I grumbled, my faded pink sweater turning dark red. George dropped down next to me again and handed me my wand. "Thanks. I'll take care of it." I said the last part to my uncle.

"Hospital wing?" He asked.

"I don't think so, an Episkey should be enough."

"Right." He stood back up. "I'll go see to the others."

"Fred, I'm going to take the sweater away. I'll stop the bleeding first before the Episkey." He nodded behind the sweater. I pulled the sweater away and waved my wand over his nose, the bleeding stopped in an instant. I cast another scourgify over his face and my sweater making the blood disappear, from his face at least, the sweater still had blood on it. Maybe I can get it out the muggle way. "Now the not-so-fun part because it is broken."

"Do it." He gave me a short nod.

"Episkey." A sickening crack was heard, but his nose looked back to normal.

"I liked it better before." George grinned and let himself fall on his bum. I waved my wand and muttered the protective charm over them and stood up with my stained sweater in hand.

"I've put the charm on you. You can just grab each other's shirt for the exercise." I grumbled a little before walking away, not waiting for an answer.

The rest of the meeting went without a hitch. I checked on everyone except for the twins, Remus took my place to see if they did it right. When the meeting was over and everyone was starting to trickle out, Nott appeared next to me.

"I didn't mean to pressure you earlier." He said softly, his hand on my lower back.

"Pressure me?" I asked, turning a little to see him better.

"Yeah, for asking like I did, in front of everyone. It just came out."

I smiled at him. "I would have said yes even if you asked in private." I kissed his cheek before tugging on my shoes.

"Well then. Hogsmeade next weekend?" A smile back in place.

"Can't wait." I mimicked his smile and with a last wink, he headed out of the room.

When I tugged on my other shoes, I tucked my wand in my hair and looked at the bloody sweater with a frown.

"I'm sorry about your sweater." Fred's voice came from behind me. I closed my eyes, and breathed in deeply, before turning around.

"I'm not mad about the sweater, Fred." I rubbed my face tiredly, the twins shuffled their feet nervously. "You have no idea how much I could have hurt you! I could have gone for your throat which means chocking! This isn't something to go over lightly."

George took a tentative step forward. "We know. We were just excited to train with you." He finished his sentence with a hand on my shoulder. "We won't do anything stupid like this again, promise." He gave my shoulder a light squeeze.

"George is right. We learned our lesson. No more goofing around."

"Well, if you can promise that, then you can attend the next one." I managed a smile.

"Wouldn't miss it for the world." Fred smiled. "Are you coming to the common room?" George asked.

"No, I'm beat. I'm going to take a long shower and head to bed. I'll see you in class tomorrow." I kissed their cheeks before heading towards the door where my uncle was waiting.

Chapter Text

It was just a few days before Christmas break started, and I was in my chambers getting ready for my first date with Nott. I put a scrunchie in my mouth as I walked across the room, braiding my hair. I was wearing simple black tight jeans, with dark brown, over the knee boots. A blue Beauxbatons cashmere sweater hugged my figure. Just as I tied the end of my braid with the scrunchie, my uncle was leaning against my door frame.

“I’m not sure if I like this.” He frowned.

“What part exactly? The part of me going on a date? Or because it’s with a Slytherin?” I asked as I grabbed my coat and walked out of my room with him on my heels.

“No, it’s not because he’s a Slytherin. It seems like he’s a good guy.”

“What then?” I asked when I pulled on the coat, putting the braid of my shoulder.

“You know how I am with you dating. I even had it with Jack, and I’ve known him for ages.”

“Oh, I know.” I laughed. “I remember you tried to send him away when he came to pick me up over the summer, you told him I had the pox before I threw a bread roll at your head.”

“Can’t blame me for being overprotective.”

“No, I cannot.” I kissed his cheek. “But I’m not a little kid anymore, uncle Moony.”

“You’ll always be my cub.” He smiled softly. “Even if you’re sixteen and have a more mischievous streak than me back in the day.”

“I learned from the best.” I grinned and turned to walk to the door. My hand pushed the handle and the door creaked open.

“No sex!”

“REMUS!” I growled as I looked at him wide eyed. “The fucking door is open!”

“Sorry.” He muttered, looking a little ashamed.

“Well, now you won’t know what I’m going to do, now are you?” I shot him a little smile, reassuring him not would happen. “I’ll see you in a few hours.” I waved behind me before walked over the large front doors of the castle.

Emmett Nott seemed the picture of relaxation as he leaned casually against the wall. He was wearing a dark grey wool pea coat, with simple jeans and Timberland boots. His brown hair curled over his eyes as he leaned his head against the stone wall. I walked over with a smile as it didn’t look like he heard me walk closer. I stopped in front of him and went to lean close to make him jump, just a little. But then suddenly his hand, that was hanging loosely next to him, gripped my waist. He opened his eyes and looked down; his eyes dark.

“Don’t think you’ll get me that easy again, Lupin-Black.”

“And here I was thinking you liked it when I call you by your first name. Ah well.” I shrugged. “Nott it will be.” I pursed my lips, hiding a smile as his gaze grew intense. “Ready to go?”

“Yeah.” He smiled as he pushed himself off the wall, leaving him only centimetres from me. His smirk in place before he turned and offered his arm for me to loop through. I accepted it before we walked out of the castle, on the crunching snow beneath our feet. The castle and the grounds looked like a winter wonderland, like I saw in books or movies. “So, what are your plans during break?” He asked as we reached the path that led to the village.

“Nothing much. Catching up on the potions I missed from Professor Snape’s class, Christmas with my uncle and New Year’s with Draco and his mother. You?”

“My parents, Theo and I go to Spain for the first week, like we do every year, but other than that.” He shrugged. “I’m just going to enjoy a few days without studying, classes or homework.”

“And what do you do to relax?”

“Oh, I have a lot of ways to relax.” He wiggled his eyebrows, and I nudged him playfully. “No, but seriously. I like reading horror books and watch muggle movies. But don’t repeat that to anyone. If my parents would find out about Theo and me watching those, they’ll break down the house to destroy it.”

“My lips are sealed.” I chuckled. “Do you and Theo get along then? I haven’t seen you two together much.”

“Like all the siblings, we have our moments. It’s getting better now that he’s getting older, but just last year I didn’t want that nugget to come close or talk to me in front of my friends. I know, horrible of me, right?” He laughed. “But he could be so annoying.” He whined and I laughed softly.

“I don’t have a younger sibling, so I don’t know exactly what it’s like. But I have seen my friends struggle with the same thing. He looks up to you, you know.”

“What?” He asked surprised.

“You can see it in his eyes, the way he looks at you when you do great in class or ace your homework, or when you act all prefect-like.”

“He’s a good kid.” He finally answered. “As long as our parents don’t mess him up too much.” I opened my mouth to ask about it, but he hurried along. “You seem to have a good influence on Draco.”

“You think so?” I asked, cocking my head to the side. He nodded with a smile.

“He’s more relaxed now, he doesn’t call out every muggleborn, not even Granger, and you know how hard that is for him. He doesn’t threaten with ‘My father will hear about this!’ anymore.”

“I think his mother has a lot to do with that.”

“Maybe.” He shrugged. “But his mother is not here, is she? You are.” He looked away from me and looked ahead. “Where do you want to go first?”

I turned to follow his gaze and was surprised to be standing in the front of the village already. Even with the snow and cold air, the street was filled with Hogwarts Students. I saw the three broomsticks not far ahead and rubbed my cold hands together.

“The three broomsticks?” I asked turning back to the Slytherin. “I need to warm up.”

“Not Puddifoots? She has tea and -”

“Gods no. I don’t want to be seen dead in that place.” I laughed but stopped as we walked towards the three broomsticks. “Or do you want to go, because if you want-”

“Salazar no, you have no idea how relieved I am to hear that.” He laughed as he opened the door for me. I walked in and took one of the seats in the corner, near the fire. “I had a few dates there over the years.” He said as he sat down next to me and gestured for Madam Rosmerta. “Those are dates I would rather forget.”

“It couldn’t be that bad, could it? Was it the dates or the place?”

“Honestly? Mostly both. A butterbeer, please.” He shot the barkeeper and flashing smile.

“Hot chocolate with whipped cream.” When Rosmerta turned around to get their orders, I looked back to Nott. “So, no long-term relationships?”

“No, the longest I’ve been with someone was about five months. You?”

“I just came out of one a few months back. We were together for over a year.”

“Was it the moving away?” He asked, clasping my hand softly.

“Yeah, the long-distance thing isn’t really easy. But he was my best friend before, and I’m certain we can get back to that after a while. We just exchanged letters again, and he’s actually going on a date with someone.”

“And how do you feel about that?”

“Good question.” I gave him a small smile. “I’ll always love him, he was my first love, you know. But I want him to be happy, and if I was more heartbroken by the idea of him dating someone else, I wouldn’t be sitting here.”

“I like that answer.” His smile wide, he squeezed my hand before taking the glasses Rosmerta brought over. “Thanks, Rose.” The barkeeper pursed her lips at him, but the corners twitched before she turned to wave at Professor McGonagall and another man she didn’t recognize. I took a small sip from my hot coco, leaving a little whipped cream on my upper lip. Nott chuckled and lifted his hand to wipe away the cream softly with his thumb. Our eyes locked with each other, and a fierce blush appeared making me duck my head. “Where do you want to go next?” He asked with his notorious smirk.

“Zonko’s and Honeydukes for sure, what about you?”

“Sounds good, maybe the Shrieking Shack? I don’t know if you know about it.”

“I heard a thing or two.” I smiled.

“Great, we can’t go in though. It’s fenced all way around.” He said before he took a sip from his butterbeer. “Oh, I need to go through the post office too.”

When we were walking down the main street of Hogsmeade, our hands bumped into each other, at least until Nott made a move to hold my hand. My lips twitched as I saw a little nervousness flicker in his eyes. I let him take it and intertwined our fingers together. I saw his shoulders relax, a smile appearing on his face as we walked to the joke shop. I pulled him excitedly into the joke shop, I looked at every new product that was on display. Nott just followed my lead, laughing at my enthusiasm. The shop was crowded, and I recognized a lot of students from school, and others from the duelling meeting. They all smiled at us as we walked by.

“Oi, Forge!” Fred called out to his twin on the other side of the aisle. George was checking out some Frog Spawn soap when he turned and saw him waving a wand in the air. “No offence to Zonko’s, but our trick wands do more than-” He waved it in front of him and turned limp.

“We should let our friends check out the ones we already made. See what they think of it, maybe give us some more -” He stopped in the middle of his sentence when he spotted a certain witch in the aisle next to them.

“Forge?” Fred asked with a frown that matched his twin. When George didn’t answer, he turned to look what he was looking at. Even though they knew she had a date, his heart plummeted when he saw her laughing, and he felt through the twin bond George felt the same.

The witch they had fallen for, fast and hard was on a date with someone else. Not just someone else, but a Slytherin. Not that Alec looked at the houses people where in, and if she agreed to go on a date with him, he must be a good guy. But it hurt seeing her enjoying herself so much without them. Alec placed a red clown nose on the stunned Slytherin, as his face turned into a clown, with a red, white, blue make-up all over his face. They heard her laugh boom through the store. She dropped her head on his chest, her shoulders shaking from her laughter. Her black wavy hair fell as a curtain around her. Nott looked down at her with a warm smile as he took off the nose and the make-up disappeared. He tucked her hair behind her ear, and she looked up smiling as his hand rested on her jawline. He was starting to lean in, Fred and George both clenched their fists as they looked at the scene in front of them. Then a large seventh year bummed into Nott, breaking the moment. Nott send her a wink, making her blush. He intertwined his fingers with her and guided her up the stairs to the second floor.

“I know it’s inevitable, but thank Merlin, Joost bumped into him. I wasn’t looking forward to the kissing, especially their first kiss.” George shuddered.

“I know, I almost send a tripping hex at him.” Fred grumbled. “Let’s get back to the castle, I’m not in the mood to check out the other shops anymore.”

“No, me neither.” George agreed and dropped the soap into a box.

“I’ve never seen the Shrieking Shack on the outside.” I said as Nott wrapped his arm around my shoulder.

“You’ve seen it on the inside then?” He asked surprised, and I cursed inwardly.

“No, just seen pictures.” I hastily said. We were standing at the fence that enclosed the Shrieking Shack, snow covered the ground, the Shack, the trees, everything. I shuddered from a hard, cold gush of wind. Feeling me shiver, Nott moved to stand behind me and wrapped his arms around my waist and nestled his head in the crook of my neck.

“Better?” He asked, his warm breath sending another shiver through me. And I hummed in appreciation, leaning back against him. We stood there for ten minutes just looking at the scenery in front of us before I heard snow crunching behind us. It sounded like someone was running and when I turned, I saw Harry appear out of nowhere. The invisibility cloak. Something was off, his eyes were red and blotchy, has he been crying? “Potter?” Nott asked quietly.

“Alec.” Harry’s voice soft, broken.

I looked from Harry to Nott. “Can you give us a minute?” I asked Nott.

“Yeah, sure. Do you want me to wait at the village?”

“If you want to wait in the three broom sticks, that’s okay. But you can stay here if you want, I’ll just put a Muffliato over us.”

“I’ll wait here then.”

“Are you sure? You don’t have to wait in the cold-” He stopped me as he placed a soft kiss on my forehead.

“I’ll wait here.” He pointed at a large rock behind him, and I beamed at him.

“Thank you, Emmett.” I kissed his cheek at the corner of his mouth. Before I turned to Harry. I led Harry to another large boulder a little further under the trees as Nott took a seat on the rock near the fence. I cast the Muffliato charm around us before we started our conversation.

“Harry, what’s wrong? Did my cousin do something again?” I crouched down in front of him as I looked up to him.

“No, I mean not more than his usual self.” He shook his head with a forced chuckle. “It’s still weird you call him cousin.”

“Well, he is my cousin.” I smiled. “But enough about that, what’s going on?”

He took in a deep breath. “Sirius Black.”

“Yeah? Did he find you? Do we need to get you to the castle?” I was ready to jump up, but he took my hand in his.

“No, you’re as bad as Mrs Weasley. Too overprotective.” He chuckled a little, and I gave him a small smile.

“That’s what family does.”

“I know for a few months now that he was my godfather. But I overheard McGonagall talk to Rosmerta and Fudge talk about him just now. And it was just too much.”

“I know that this is all confusing.” I grabbed both of his hands in mine. “Even Draco thinks there is more to it than we know.”

“It is confusing.” He frowned. “But that’s the same for you, maybe even more. He’s your dad.”

“No, Harry. Lupin is my dad.”

“I know, but you know...”

“Yeah...”

“What did Malfoy say?” He asked and I explained in short notes what he told me. I chose my words carefully, not trying to bring in Draco’s personal situation in it, or that from Narcissa and Lucius.

“I wish we knew more.” He grunted. “Hearing them talk about him. Like he’s the most vile and evil thing on the planet, it messes with your head. How do you deal with it?”

“In Beauxbatons, almost no one knew about it. And here... there were whispers and a little bit of name calling in the beginning, but I was prepared for it. I only care about what my friends think about me anyway.” I shrugged.

“But how did you make them stop?”

“My great, likeable and brilliant personality?” I offered with a grin before I sighed. “I don’t know, Harry. I talked with Nott about it, why specifically the Slytherins stopped. And he told me it was that they were impressed with my abilities, with potions, the Patronus when you fell, the duelling club. And Draco of course, you know how “high” he is ranked in their house, even as a third year. And he, though reluctantly at first, accepted me.”

“It may be all that. But everyone seems to like you after just a few minutes of knowing you.” He smiled with a blush.

“Including you, Potter?” I poked his chest. He sputtered a bit and I chuckled. I saw Ron and Hermione running over, and stopped a few meters away, looking at us both. “Ah, your friends are here. Are you okay?”

“Yeah, I’m fine. I promise. I don’t want to keep you away from your date.” He said, looking from Nott to me.

“Come find me if you want to talk or hang out, alright? I’m staying at the castle too, during break.” I smiled and kissed his cheek before standing and dissolving the Muffliato charm. “Hello, Hermione, Ron.” I waved and walked back to Nott, who hopped off the boulder on to his feet and offered his arm to me.

Chapter Text

Wearing my snow boots, a winter coat, scarf and hat, I made my way towards the train station with my friends. The snow and the wind were heavy today, making it difficult to see the students in front of us. Angelina had her arm locked with mine as we walked through the deep snow, with our heads bent low. Once we reached the train, we stopped underneath the overhang of the station. Shaking my head to shake off the snow, I looked to the others who did the same.

"I'm going to miss you," I said as I hugged Angelina. "All of you." I looked over her shoulder to the twins, Lee and even Alicia.

"Are you sure you don't want to come over for Christmas?" Angelina asked again.

"I'm sure, I always celebrate it alone with my uncle." I smiled and went to hug Lee. The twins were waiting expectantly when Lee joined his girlfriend and Alicia. I went to hug George, but they both enveloped me in a tight twin hug, lifting me from the ground. "You two are crushing me." I grunted in their shoulders. They both put me down gently, a silly grin on their faces.

"Sorry." They said, each holding my hand. They gave it a squeeze before letting go. "We're going to miss you."

"On one hand, I'm going to miss you too. On the other hand, I'll finally have some peace and quiet." I grinned up at them. The twins clutched their hearts, gasping slightly. I stood on my toes and kissed their cheeks. "Now off you go, before the train leaves." The twins looked at me with a goofy grin, before they simultaneously winked. They waved at me as they stepped on the train one by one, the twins the last to board. They looked at me like they didn't want to leave me behind. I waved to them once more before they headed inside. Once the train was fully out of sight, I turned into Loki and trotted back to the castle, almost invisible in the snow.

"Hey, Crooks. How did you get in here?" I asked as Crookshanks leapt up on my lap purring. I was sitting with my back against the couch in front of the fire in our private chambers. The cat, of course, didn't answer and just curled into a ball on my lap. "Uncle Moony?"

"Yes, cub?" He looked up from his desk.

"Do you think he knows that I'm an Animagus?" I asked looking away from the ginger to the werewolf.

"I don't know." He frowned. "Why do you think that? And who's cat is that?"

"It's Hermione Granger's cat. She says no one can pet him except her, and well... me. And the way he looks at me." I looked back at the cat and cocked my head to examine him. "It seems like he wants to tell me something."

"Hm." I heard him shift from his seat and the next moment he was sitting down next to me in the ground. He hesitated as he lifted his hand towards the cat. Crookshanks lifted his head and looked to Moony with his large red-yellow eyes. The two of them had a little stare-off before the cat nudged his flat snout to his hand. I grinned when I saw his shoulders relax and petted the cat's head softly. "He is peculiar." He mused. "There is something about him that I can't put my finger on." He said as he took a sniff.

"Does he smell like something more than a cat?" I asked as I sniffed the air myself. "Hermione already tested him on being an Animagus."

"No, it's not that." He shook his head. "But there is something familiar."

"Maybe it's just me." I shrugged as I petted the cat.

"Maybe." He mumbled, but I knew that wasn't what he was thinking.

In my Loki form, I trotted around the empty castle. Exploring every crook and cranny I passed. It was fun exploring the castle when there was almost no one around, and no chance of getting caught. I was just heading down the stairs after spending the night in the tower with Harry, Hermione and Ron when I saw Crookshanks again.

The cat was heading towards one of the exits of the castle. I glanced around and when I saw that the coast was clear, I followed the ginger cat out. When I squeezed myself in a hole in the wall that led out of the castle, I saw the cat standing still in the middle of the grounds. Was he- was he waiting for me? Before I had time to think about it more, the cat was on the move again. I trailed behind the cat, trying to disguise myself in the snow, but if Crookshanks really knew I was following him, it didn't matter. I followed him until we reached the edge of the forbidden forest. The cat was sitting just under the trees where there was no snow on the ground, his gaze directed at the dark gloomy forest.

When I saw a dark shadow move around, I flattened myself to the ground, trying to hide myself as much as possible. I thought about running back to the castle, but the way Crooks acted, I needed to know what was going on. Crooks miaowed at the shadow in the forest and the shadow stilled. If it wasn't for those large yellow eyes, I wouldn't have known it had turned his head. The eyes came closer to the edge of the forest. I dug myself even deeper into the snow, my ears on high alert and my heart pounding fast in my chest.

Crookshanks miaowed again and I heard a growl from the forest. The growl was deep, but the cat didn't seem fazed by it, he just sat there looking at the shadow. It sounded like they were talking to each other with miaows and growls, but I couldn't understand a word. After about ten minutes, and freezing paws even with the fur, the cat miaowed again and suddenly the yellow eyes spotted me in the snow. I jumped up on four legs and went running to the castle, but the large shadow leapt out of the forest. With two large jumps, the shadow pounded on me and pinned me to the ground, lying on my back. I was staring at a large, scruffy, thin, black dog, his yellow eyes locked on me.

"Black." I growled; the eyes of the dog grew large as he didn't expect to be recognized or at least to hear me speak. His grip loosened from the shock, and I wiggled myself out of his grasp. "Leave, or I'll call the Dementors." I said and turned to run back to the castle.

"Wait!" A sudden voice filled the air. And even though it was more of a question, than a demand, I stopped. I stopped at the voice of my father, at the voice of an alleged mass murderer. I turned and saw not the black dog standing there, but the man. A shadow of the man he used to be, the man from the pictures and the stories Remus had told was standing there. He was still wearing his prison clothes, ripped and dirty from being on the run. His hair reached over his shoulder blades, his eyes hollow and he had sunken jaws. He was skin over bones, and from seeing him standing there, I was surprised he even had the strength to push me in the snow a few minutes ago. "Who are you?"

"What are you doing here?" I countered, and my eyes followed the cat that came closer to the escaped prisoner. He walked between Black's legs with a purr.

"The cat seems to think you're safe." He mused, and I growled in response. He put up his hands in defence. "I'm not here to hurt you."

I literally barked out a laugh. "I know." I narrowed my wolf eyes on him. "You're here to hurt Harry."

"Harry?" He sounded surprised. "No, I'm not here for Harry." He looked over his shoulder in worry. "I have to go. The cat-"

"Crookshanks."

"Crookshanks?" He looked down at the cat between his legs and he miaowed back at him. "Right, Crookshanks. He thinks you can help me. I promise I'm not here to hurt Harry, I would never." He looked to the sky. "I can't stay here in the open like this. Please, meet me in the Shrieking Shack in three days. I'll wait until midnight." He turned back into his black dog form, into Padfoot. Crooks trotted towards me and nudged his head against my leg. I looked down at the ginger cat, still stunned from seeing my father in front of me for the first time ever. When I looked back, Black was already back in the forest, his yellow eyes on us as we walked back to the castle.

When I entered the castle, I transformed back into my human form, and I leaned against the wall. My legs, my arms, everything was shaking to the core. I slumped to the ground as I trembled. Crookshanks purred between my legs before jumping on my lap. The castle was cold, and it didn't help with the tremble I had from meeting my father. I didn't know how long I sat there on the cold stone floor, but suddenly there was a hand on my shoulder.

"Alec?" I looked up to see Harry crouched down in front of me. "Are you okay?"

"Yeah." My voice sounded a little hoarse. "What are you doing here?"

"I can ask you the same thing." He smiled but a frown was still in place. "It's really late, let's get you back to your chambers." He held out his hand. I nodded before I took it, and I let him pull me up. When I shifted, the cat jumped off my lap and Harry looked surprised to see him. "Crooks? Hermione has been looking for you for ages."

"He seems to like my company." I said as we walked to the corridors, the cat trailed next to me.

"You are good company." I looked to Harry who had a blush on his cheeks. I smiled as I looped my arm through his.

"You're not bad yourself." I chuckled a little when he blushed worsened. I saw the shimmer of the invisibility cloak in his robe but didn't mention it as we walked through the castle. I couldn't ask what he was doing, otherwise he would ask me what I was doing.

When we reached my chambers, I turned to Harry. "Thanks for walking me back." I kissed his cheek. I leaned down and petted Crookshanks. "Now, you go back to your owner, before she loses her mind." I smiled as I scratched his ear. "Now, follow Harry upstairs, you hear me." The cat looked at me with round yellow-red eyes and miaowed. "Good." I nodded and stood back up. "Good night, Harry."

"Night." He chuckled. "See you at breakfast tomorrow?"

"No, not tomorrow." I shook my head. "It's Christmas and Remus and I always spent it together. But I'll see you at breakfast the day after. But there may be a present under the tree for you."

"There might be one under yours too. And as I won't be seeing you tomorrow. Merry Christmas."

"Merry Christmas." We smiled at each other before Harry walked away followed by the ginger cat.

I pushed the door open and saw Moony sleeping on the couch in front of the fire. He was sleeping on his stomach, one arm fallen off the edge of the couch, touching the floor. Right next to his hand was an old photograph. I crouched down, picked up the photograph and flipped it around. It was a picture of him, James and Sirius. I fell on my butt and leaned against the couch as I stared at the photograph. The tremble came back again as I focused on Sirius. What was I supposed to do? He wants to meet me, not because I'm his daughter because he has no idea, but because Crookshanks trust him, a cat! I can't tell Moony, not when the full moon is so close, not when he's been looking at an old photograph of them. I craned my neck to look at him, and at first glance, you wouldn't think he had been crying, but I could smell the salt from tears around him. I stood up and covered him with a blanket. I placed the photograph on the coffee table and leaned over to kiss his forehead.

"Night, Moony." I heard the clock chime behind me. "Merry Christmas."  

Chapter Text

I was covered under thick blankets that weighed down on me, which I loved. I was snuggled up and fast asleep when a voice boomed through the room.

"Merry Christmas, cub!" Moony's jubilant voice echoed. I groaned from under my blankets, nuzzling my face even more into my pillow. I felt the bed dip as he sat down next to me. He moved the blanket, to reveal my hair all over the place, my face hidden under my dark locks. "Ready to get up? It's nearly nine."

"Humpfh."

"I guess I'm going to muggle London myself then."

I bolted up quickly, my hair standing in every direction as I looked to Moony wide-eyed. Then a frown appeared on my face. "It's Christmas."

"That's why I greeted you with Merry Christmas, yes." He said with a grin.

"Nothing is open on Christmas."

"This one is."

"How?"

"It's someone I used to know." He said vaguely as he stood up. "Now, get dressed. We have to be there in an hour, and you know we have the rest of the day planned." He said as he walked to the door. When he closed the door behind him, I jumped out of bed with a large grin. I sprinted to the bathroom and took a quick shower. I came back out in jeans and a loose sweater, my hair tied up in a high loose bun. Moony was waiting for me in the joined living chambers as he was leaning against the couch flipping through a book.

"I'm ready." I clapped my hands together in excitement.

"We'll floo over to the Leaky Cauldron and do the rest on foot." He offered his arm and guided me to our own fireplace. He let me step in first as he took a handful of floo powder. And with green flames, we were gone.

Half an hour later we were standing in muggle London, what is normally a busy street, was now dead quiet. We were both glancing through the dark shop window as the snow blazed by. "Are you sure you want to do this?" He asked, looking away from the window to me.

"You know I wanted this forever. I've been asking you for the last two years. Are you sure you're okay with it?"

"I am, you're turning seventeen next year, so even if I say no, I know you're going to get one then. And I like to be there with you, especially this one." He wrapped an arm around me.

"I'm happy you're here too." I wrapped my own arm around his waist. The door of the shop opened and a man a little older than Uncle Moony looked at us with a smile.

"Lupin! Long time." He said as he shook his hand, before giving him half a hug.

"Norris, good to see you. How are you?" He asked. The man named Norris stepped aside and gestured us in.

"Good. Business is going well. Opened my second shop in Edinburgh last year." He smiled his pearly white teeth. He was a handsome man, about as tall as Moony, with green eyes and blonde hair tied up in the back. "So, who's the client for today?" He asked as his eyes lingered on me.

"Right, well." He cleared his throat and looked from the man to me. "My niece, Alec. Alec, this is Damien Norris, an old friend of mine."

"Nice to meet you." I held out my hand. He shook it as his eyes searched for something and looked to Remus with a raised eyebrow. With Moony's evasiveness, telling me he's an old friend, and the fact that Sirius was covered with tattoos, he must've figured out who I was, as I resembled him more than I liked to admit. "Lupin is my guardian, so he's giving me permission."

"Oh, don't worry about that." He winked and guided us to the back of the shop. The room he guided us to was small with a large window on one side. A long, small table was placed against the wall, filled with tools. There were two stools on wheels in the room and one large leather chair in the middle of the room under a bright light. "Hop on, love." He patted the leather chair.

I hopped on the chair and Norris sat down on one of the stools and rolled closer. He looked over his shoulder and nudged his head to the other stool for Moony to sit on. Moony pushed the chair to my other side and sat down.

"Alright, now that everyone is seated. What can I do for you, Alec?"

I took a piece of paper from my pocket and handed it over. "I want this, right here." I pointed to the spot just under my elbow pit. I watched as he studied the paper.

"Can I ask why this?" He asked as he copied to the paper.

"My mum's name was Cordelia, which means heart," I said as I watched him gather the supplies. "She died when I was four."

Damien looked from Remus to me. "I'm sorry." I nodded my head, not knowing what to reply. "I'll put the imprint here and then I'll start. If it hurts too much, just give me a shout, alright?"

"Yeah." I nodded again as I laid my arm flat on the armrest. After he placed the imprint on my arm, he gathered the tattoo needle and ink. Moony took hold of my free hand and gave it a squeeze. Norris gave me a warm smile before turning on the equipment, the buzzing sound filled the room. When the needle hit my skin, I clenched my hand around Moony's. He didn't even flinch, he just grazed my hand with his thumb. My eyes watched the man work, the needle, his fingers going delicately over my skin. I was mesmerized by the way it moved over my skin, marking me permanently. Before I knew it, he finished it, and I was the brand-new owner of my first tattoo. The tattoo was just a simple black outline of a heart, a little shadow colouring the inside. My grin was wide as tears clouded my eyesight. "Thank you, it's beautiful. Your work is amazing."

"You made the design." He said with a smile as he put a paste on the tattoo. "Keep the tattoo clean, don't go swimming for a few weeks, and rub it in with this." He handed me a tube of cream. "Don't let it dry out."

"I will." He helped me off the chair with a large smile and looked down at me. "Thank you for making the time for me today."

"No worries. Anything for friends. Now." He looked at me with a grin. "You can see me when you're ready for your next tattoo."

"Which won't be for at least a year." Moony said behind me. Norris and I exchanged a look before we both chuckled.

"Right," Norris said trying to pull a straight face. "Don't be a stranger, Remus."

"I'll try." They shook hands when we reached the front door of the shop. "Merry Christmas, Norris."

"You too." He turned to me and took my hand in his and leaned down to place a kiss on it. "Merry Christmas, love."

"Merry Christmas, Damien." I shook my head with a chuckle. "I'll see you soon."

"Not too soon." I chimed with Moony because I knew him so well, I knew what he was going to say. He mumbled something incoherent, and Norris and I laughed.

We had just finished our gingerbread houses, made our own tree decorations, singing crazy and loudly on Christmas songs with extravagate dancing, and were now on our way to the kitchens. The castle was beautifully decorated with garlands and lights, and Christmas trees around every corner. Moony tickled the pear and the portrait opened up, revealing the kitchens behind it.

"We can cook here, or in our chambers." Remus said as he walked in behind me.

"Our chambers if you don't mind," I said as a house elf came over in an instant. Remus spoke to the elf as I looked around the large kitchens, seeing numerous house elves strut around, making dinner for the remaining students and staff. The house elf disappeared before reappearing with a large basket a second later. We thanked the house elf, before heading out of the kitchens. "I like Christmas at the castle, but I rather spend it in our own room. The whole move has been a lot, and spending our Christmas together in our small kitchen just takes me back to when it was just us two."

"I know what you mean. Even though I grew up here and spent most of my days surrounded by my friends, I got used to it being just the two of us, especially on Christmas. You're my family now."

"And you're mine." I nudged my arm against him with a smile before opening the door to our chambers. "Let's get cooking!" I rubbed my hands together as he placed the basket on the table.

Stomachs filled with delicious homemade food; we settled down on the floor in front of the fire. With a wave of his wand, the presents came flying over from under our own Christmas tree. My pile was larger than Moony's, but he didn't seem to mind. And just like the years before, we started off with the presents we got for each other.

"Since I got you a whole new set of robes for landing this job, which you are brilliant at, I might add." I grinned. "I thought I would get you something else," I said pointing at the large package in front of him. He pursed his lips at me before turning his attention to the present.

"I hope you didn't spend too much money on this."

"Just open up, uncle Moony." I huffed as I waved my hand. He started to open the wrapping, revealing a French press coffeemaker and a pair of old man slippers.

"Just what I wanted." He laughed holding up the fuzzy slippers.

"I know you always get cold feet, and your other ones are in dire need of replacement." I chuckled as he scoffed. "And I know you miss your old coffee maker. And don't lie to me-" I pointed my finger at him. "I know how bad coffee makes you grumpy, and you've been grumpy every morning since we arrived here."

"I am not." He scoffed again, leaving his mouth open.

"Yeah, right." I rolled my eyes with a laugh. "You like it?"

"I love it, cub. But spending the day with you is all I need. I love you." He smiled. "Now open yours."

I glanced down at the pile and picked up the top present. I took the small box in my hands and clicked it open. It was a ring; with a vintage rose gold band, and a green oval emerald. "Oh, wow!" I gasped as I took out the ring. "It's beautiful."

"It was your mothers." I looked up to him with large eyes. "It's been in your family for ages actually. It took me a while to track it down, even enlisted the help of Narcissa. But I wanted you to have something that belonged to your mum." By the time he finished talking, I was already crying. I jumped over the presents and wrapped my arms around him. He rubbed my back softly as I cried on his shoulder.

"Thank you, dad." I whispered in his neck. His hand stilled for a moment before it repeated the movements. I haven't called him dad a lot. I think I've only said it a handful of times in the years since he became my legal guardian. He was in every sense my father, my dad. I loved him like I loved my mum. I don't care if I had another father out there, even if Sirius was hiding in the forest behind the castle, Moony was mine. He didn't want me to call him that, I don't know why exactly, but I think he didn't want to take Sirius Black's place even with what he supposedly had done. The few times I had called him dad, was in times of distress, emotional overload, or when I was beyond scared. But now was the right time to call him that, to let him know what he meant to me.

"Anything for you, cub." He kissed the top of my head.  

Chapter Text

Once again, the ginger cat was sleeping soundly in my lap. I had joined Harry and the others in the mostly empty Gryffindor tower the day Sirius Black asked me to meet him. Hermione didn't even look surprised anymore by Crookshanks's behaviour towards me but smiled as the cat came strutting over and with one turn around, he curled up in a ball. I was petting him absentmindedly as my eyes were fixed on the fire in front of me. My feet were inches away from the flames, feeling nice and toasty. Behind me, I heard Harry groan as Ron beat him at chess, again. Hermione was sitting in the corner reading for the last hour since we came back from lunch. Outside the thick snowflakes had turned into wet snow, the temperature unusually warm for the time of year. My head was at Black. I was still debating on meeting him at midnight. I glanced over my shoulder to see Harry laugh at something Ron had said. Maybe I should meet him, and see what he has to say... But what if he had something planned? I glanced towards the stairs that led up to the boys' dormitories and bit my lip. I have to get up there. Hermione was way deep in her book, she wouldn't notice if a bomb would explode next to her, but the boys. Before I could think of a plan, Harry dropped down next to me.

"Thanks for the present, Alec." He smiled wide and I looped my arm through his. He had the fake snitch in his hand, the snitch could open and send messages or gifts to the people he chose.

"Thanks for yours." I nudged him playfully. "What else did you get?"

"Oh!" Ron shouted loudly and leapt over the coffee table, landing next to me. "Didn't Harry tell you?"

"Tell me what?" I looked from one boy to the other.

"Harry got a Firebolt!"

"From whom?"

"Don't know." Harry shrugged.

"What do you mean you don't know?" I asked confused and slightly anxious. I heard a book close with a loud thud and looked at Hermione, who glared at the boys.

"Harry gets a brand-new expensive broom without a note! With a mass murderer on the run, who's out to get him. He shouldn't have it! It could be dangerous." Hermione's hair was electric at that point, standing in every direction.

"Come on, Hermione!" Ron groaned, rolling his eyes. "Where would Black get a firebolt?"

"I don't know! If he can escape from Azkaban, he can get a bloody broom!" She jumped up glaring. Crookshanks lifted his head as he looked at his owner. The sound of Hermione's voice had woken him with a jolt. Hermione nearly rammed her book into her bag and stormed out of the common room. Crookshanks leapt up from my lap and stretched out before following his owner out. His tail disappeared just in time as the portrait closed behind him.

"She exaggerates, it's just a broom." Ron grumbled. "She can be so annoying."

"Hey!" Harry and I cried out. "She's right you know. You don't know where it came from. What if Sirius Black did give Harry the broom, what if there are curses on it?" I turned to Harry. "Be careful okay." I tugged his arm slightly and he nodded. I gave him a strained smile as I retreated my arm from Harry's and stood up. "Can I use the bathroom?" I asked, thinking I could go up to the girls' dormitories and change into Loki to sneak in the boys.

"Sure, use ours." He said standing up to sit down on the couch again. "I don't know where the girls' exactly is since we're not allowed up there. But almost everyone's gone, so you can use ours. Third landing, first door on the right."

"Thanks, Harry." I smiled and headed to the boys' staircase. That went easier than I thought. I thought to myself as I climbed the staircase. But instead of stopping on the third landing, I headed up further and stopped on the fifth. I glanced inside the first dorm, but it was obvious it wasn't the twins and Lee's. The second room was a hit though, I recognized the boys' stuff in an instant. The room was messy. Probably less messy than usual, since they're at home and got their trunks with them, but still... The floor was littered with failed products, half-cleaned-up cauldrons and notes scattered around. I rolled my eyes before I glanced over my shoulder. When I saw the coast was clear, I walked in quickly. I pursed my lips as I looked around the room. I can't search everything, that would take hours and invade in their privacy. I picked my wand out of my Converse and waved it in front of me.

"Accio Weasley prank box." In the hopes, that some of the product would come out. And to my surprise, a closed large carton box came flying over. It landed softly in front of me, and I kneeled down to open up the box. I smiled at all the finished products in front of me and picked them up to see what would come in handy tonight, just in case. A few minutes later, my pockets were filled with a few of their items. I had burrowed some candies, like nosebleed nougats and fainting fancies. I also took a smoke and decoy detonator. If I were to use them, I would tell the boys an excuse why I needed them. If not, I would sneak in later and place everything back. I went to walk back to the common room, but when I reached the first landing Harry appeared, looking mad.

"Stay up here." He mumbled as he passed me.

"Hey." I grabbed him by the arm. "What's wrong?" I searched his eyes, looking for an answer.

"When Hermione left, she... she went to McGonagall."

"Okay." I said slowly, not following.

"She told McGonagall about the broom and now I have to give it to her, so they can test it to see if it isn't cursed." He sighed deeply and rubbed his eyes. "So, don't go down there. You aren't supposed to be up here." He said before he headed up the stairs.

I looked from Harry's retreating back to the stairs that led to the common room. It can't be that bad if she sees me walk down. I thought with a shrug and headed down anyway. Hermione was standing a little behind McGonagall. She looked a little afraid but held her head high. Ron was glaring at her from the other side of the room. Professor McGonagall eyes turned large when she saw me walking down the stairs, but before she could say anything Harry appeared behind me with his shiny new, possibly dangerous broom. Harry walked past me and handed it over to the professor reluctantly. Hermione looked down at her feet as Harry looked from the broom to her. And I felt sorry for Hermione, I understood why she did it. I would have done it a little differently, but I understood her actions.

"Well, we'll start on it tomorrow, mister Potter."

"How long will it take?"

"As long as it takes." She said sternly. Her eyes went from Harry to me. "Miss Lupin-Black, glad to find you here. Not so much as it was in the boys' dormitories, but we'll talk about that later. Professor Snape is looking for you, about your last potion before the start of the new term."

"Oh, right." I nodded. "Is he in the dungeons?"

"Yes, I'll walk you there. I need to talk to him about the firebolt anyway."

I walked over to the professor and looked over my shoulder to Harry. Harry looked angry and hurt by Hermione's actions, but he didn't look remotely as angry as Ron. Ron was fuming, his face red as he glared at Hermione. I was surprised I didn't see steam coming from his ears. I frowned at his reaction, it was Harry's broom after all, not his. I looked back forward, and the professor was already waiting at the portrait hole. When I passed Hermione, I gave her shoulder a reassuring squeeze and she offered me a forced smile.

I took in a deep trembling breath as I stood just outside the castle doors. My eyes followed the dark path towards whomping willow. The almost full moon was peeking through the clouds, enlightening the castle grounds in front of me. Crookshanks was sitting next to me, patiently waiting until I was ready. It was stupid really but having Crooks with me eased my mind a little bit. To most, he's just a cat, but there is something more about the ginger. And if it wasn't for him trusting Black, I would've never agreed to meet with him. My stomach was in knots as my mind drifted to Moony, to the fact I was hiding this from him, I've never hidden anything from him. He knew me through and through like I did him.

I shook the white fur on my wolf form, trying to throw off the dust that had settled on it before I headed off to the grounds. Crookshanks followed right behind me. When we reached the whomping willow, we walked under the swaying branches and slid down in the hole. When I landed on the dark, damp floor, I looked back and saw the ginger cat with his tail high strut forward and walked in front of me to lead me to the right path. After a ten-minute walk, we entered the Shrieking shack.

The floorboards didn't creak under our weight, so the shack was dead silence, so silent that it sent a shiver over my body. When I heard a creak above us, the hairs on my back stood up but the cat just climbed the last stairs. My eyes turned into slits as I followed the cat, on guard the whole way up. He nudged a door open with its flat nose, and with a deep breath followed after him.

There was a large bed against the wall, with no cover or pillows on it. Just a worn-down mattress and on the mattress lay... Padfoot. The large black dog had his head resting on his paws as his eyes were closed. But by the sound of his breathing, I figured he was awake. I toddled into the room and sat down with my back straight, a few meters in front of the mattress. Crookshanks sat between my front legs and miaowed at the dog. Padfoot lifted one eyelid open, to reveal his yellow eye before he opened them both. He stretched out on the bed and sat up straight, looking down at me and Crookshanks. We sat there for a while, staring at each other without anyone saying a word. Then Black turned his gaze away from me as he transformed into his shaggy, skin-and-bone self. He sat cross-legged on the bed, his hands up in the air.

"I'm unarmed. I don't have a wand or anything. You can keep your wand on me the whole time, if you want."

"Talk." Was the only thing I said as I kept my wolf form.

"I would like to speak to the person behind the Animagus form."

"Why?"

Black shrugged, his eyes on me. "I would like to see the person I talk to, not the Animagus. It's been years since I talked to a real person.

I sighed internally before I transformed back. Black's shocked face as I turned into my teenage self, almost made me laugh.

"You're a kid."

"Well, this is Hogwarts." I rolled my eyes and took the same position as him but with Crooks on my lap and wand in hand.

"You..." He cocked his head as he looked at me, searching. "You look familiar. What's your name?"

I pursed my lips contemplatively before answering. "Alec."

"Alec...?"

"That's all you're going to get. Now talk."

"Okay, right to the point, I get it." He said, a little shadow of a smile on his lips. But even then, he searched my face, trying to figure out who I was, and why I looked so familiar to him. "Like I said before, I'm not here to hurt Harry. He's the only family I have." I tried to put on a neutral face, and try to give nothing away. And when he droned on, I knew it worked. "I never did those things they said. I am innocent. Pettigrew... He was an old friend of ours. He switched sides, he worked for Voldemort. He betrayed me, the Potters, Remus." As Black mentioned Moony's name, my breath got stuck in my throat. "He faked his death; he was the one to kill all those muggles. He framed me."

"Why should I, or anyone for that matter, believe you?"

"I'm trying to get the proof, that's why I'm here."

"I don't follow."

"Pettigrew is here, in the castle."

"Why would Pettigrew be here? And why hasn't anyone noticed him?" I said as a dry laugh escaped me. "Wait... you're saying he's an Animagus."

I saw a real smile appear on his face, a little one but it was a large contrast to the rest of him. "Yes, he is. That's how he could have faked his own death. After the explosion that killed those muggles, he transformed and escaped."

"Why didn't you tell anyone?"

"I got arrested. I didn't get a trial; I was sent to Azkaban immediately. So, no one checked my wand to see if I had cast it or not. No one asked for my memories that night or gave me Veritaserum."

"You could've used another wand; you can alter your memories and you can deceive Veritaserum."

"You certainly know your way around dark arts."

"Defence and everything that comes with it, yes." I said. "I have a great teacher."

"As you said, that is indeed possible, but most of the time you can see if a memory is altered."

"Not if you do it right." I interjected.

"Again, yes. But when did I have the time? I was imprisoned that same day." I hummed with a nod. "I can give you the memory if you want, if you have Veritaserum you can give it to me, I happily take it. But the ultimate proof is Pettigrew."

"Who, you think, is in the castle." If I hadn't heard the doubts from Moony himself and from Draco, I would never have believed him. But now... the stories they had told. Now hearing this, it all adds up.

"I know he's in there. That's why I enlisted the help of Crookshanks. He's been trying to catch him for months now."

"Catch him." I frowned as I looked at the cat in my lap. I recounted the times I saw the ginger cat sneak around, but I never saw him hunt anything or anyone. But Harry had told me about the fighting between Ron and Hermione. And then I heard the two fight in the tower once or twice. "You mean to say, Pettigrew is the rat. Ron's rat, Scabbers?"

"We called him Wormtail, but yes. You know the owner of the rat?"

"I do. He's friends with Harry."

"You know Harry?" He asked hopefully. I looked up from the cat and saw a twinkle in his eyes, a look of hope. "How is he?"

"I'm not here to talk about him. But he's doing okay, considering..."

"Considering?"

"Considering, that he thinks a mass murderer is after him. And the fact he was raised by horrible muggles." The twinkle in his eyes disappeared and anger flared up. "But you think, or rather Crooks thinks, I can help you?"

The anger retreated as he looked from the cat to me. "Yes, especially now that I know you know Harry and Ron. You can help me get the rat."

"I can try..." I frowned. "But I haven't seen the rat. It's always hiding from this one." I stroked the cat softly. "Now I know why. And since he always comes crawling into my lap..."

"I see." He frowned as he tapped his chin. "Which house are you in?"

"Gryffindor."

"Okay, that makes it easier then, since you live in the tower."

"But I don't." Now it was Black's turn to look confused. "I transferred here this year from Beauxbatons. There was no room in the girls' dorms, so I don't sleep in the tower. I have access to the tower, but I have my own chambers."

"Thought I heard an accent." He mumbled. "So, do you believe me?"

"I - I do, weirdly," I added. "But can't Pettigrew just transform when I catch him?"

"He can, but he won't risk exposing himself like that. Then his whole cover is blown."

"I'll see what I can do." I said standing up. Crooks leapt up from my lap and stretched in front of me. "You can't stay here, go back in the forest." I said as I thought about Moony being here in a few days.

"Right." He nodded. And like he was thinking the same thing he asked. "Is it true Remus Lupin is teaching here?"

I turned to look at him, trying not to give anything away. He looked vulnerable, scared. "He is. He's teaching Defence Against the Dark Arts, he's a great teacher. From what the others say, the best one they had in years."

"That's-- nice to hear. Not a surprise though." He jumped out of bed quickly and I involuntarily flinched. "Sorry." He said, holding up his hands again. "It's a bit soon to trust me, I know. I'll just walk in front of you." He said as he transformed back into Padfoot and walked out of the room. I looked from the black dog to Crooks, who miaowed and followed him out. I tucked my wand away before turning into Loki and followed the pair out.   

Chapter Text

I was leaning against the door frame of Moony's room. He was sleeping in his bed, snoring slightly. The covers pulled up high until it touched his chin, his eyes had heavy bags under them. I pushed myself off the door frame and walked closer to him. I crouched down next to the bed and pushed his hair back.

"Uncle Moony?" He grunted as he lifted one eyelid up. "Are you sure you're up to being alone? I can stay if you want."

"No." He rubbed his eyes before he lifted himself up. I sat on the bed next to him as he shuffled against the headboard. "I'm good. A bit tired but that's all. Besides there are no classes, so I'll take the opportunity to sleep in."

"Are you sure?" Still not convinced.

"Yeah, go have fun." He smiled, still looking tired. "Cissy will love to see you. And even though Harry can't get along with Draco, I'm glad you can. I can see the difference in the boy already."

"That's not because of me."

"I don't know, cub. I believe you're a great influence, and once Cissy leaves Lucius..." He stifled a yawn. "You'll be staying the night at the Manor?"

"Yeah, Lucius won't be there, Aunt Cissy already got a room ready." I smiled at the thought. "They opened their floo for me to arrive at four."

He glanced at his loose watch, which had almost shifted to his elbow. "You better get ready then." He offered a smile.

"Yeah, yeah." I chuckled and hopped off the bed.

When the green flames subsided, I saw Draco and Aunt Cissy waiting for me at the large fireplace in Malfoy Manor. Draco had a neutral face on, but his eyes twinkled. While Aunt Cissy smiled wide and happy as she saw me appear.

"Aunt Cissy!" I cried out and leapt out of the fireplace and flung my arms around her.

"Oh, Alexandra." She whispered in my hair. "I've missed you." She kissed my temple and pulled back. Her eyes inspected me with a smile. I was wearing a blue silver cocktail dress with a boat neckline. My hair fell over my shoulders in black waves with two silver pins tucked into it. "You look beautiful."

"I missed you too, Aunt Cissy." She was wearing a silk black, floor-length dress, hugging her figure nicely. "You're one to talk. What a dress." I smiled warmly. Narcissa Malfoy had put her hair in a low ponytail, her hair reaching her lower back. I turned my head when I heard Draco clear his throat.

"This is weird." His face showed no emotion, but his eyes twinkled as he looked between his mother and me.

"Hello, cousin. You look fetching." I chuckled and kissed his cheek. He was in his finest black wizarding robes, his blond hair a large contrast against it.

"Thank you, Alexandra. You don't look bad yourself." He offered me a smile. "What about a tour?" He gestured behind him. I nodded and looped my arm through Cissy as Draco took the lead, to show me around at the grand mansion.

A few hours later we were sitting at a large dining table. Too large for just the three of us, but it looked like they were used to it. The house elves brought in the food and drinks, and I thanked them with a smile. I frowned a little seeing the state of the rags the elves were wearing, but I knew it was too early to ask them about it. So, I turned back to the two Malfoys as we loaded our plates.

"Draco, I need to tell you something." Cissy said as dinner disappeared, and dessert arrived.

"Do you want me to go?" I asked, already making a move to stand up.

"No, sweetie. I want you to stay." She smiled and I leaned back in my chair. I looked at Draco, who had a nervous look on his face as he glanced from me to his mother. "I wanted to tell you both... I left your father." She said it directly at Draco. "I'm drawing up the divorce papers as we speak."

"How did he react?" I asked after a few minutes as Draco was frozen in place.

"He was mad, said it would be a disgrace to the Malfoy name." I hid a chuckle as she rolled her eyes, the rest of her posture was the perfect example of pureblood etiquette. "But I'm done caring about what other people think." She smiled at me before turning to her son. "We had an arranged marriage, Draco. And I wouldn't trade you for the world, but there was never any love in our marriage. And I don't want you to see this as an example. I want you to feel free to love who you want, to marry who you want." Draco was still frozen as he looked at his mother. "Draco, sweetheart. How do you feel?"

"It's a lot to take in. I knew you were thinking about it but it's still a surprise. But I just want you to be happy, mother." He reached over with his hand and took hers. "You deserve it, you deserve to be happy, to be loved. I love you."

"I love you too, my little dragon."

If I wasn't so moved by the sweet moment, by the things they said, I would've laughed at Draco's nickname. I saw Draco flush when she called him that, and I stored it away for a later date. The three of us took our chocolate mousse and headed to the parlour. Tea was already served as we sat down. I was scraping up the bowl empty when Aunt Cissy spoke up.

"How is your uncle, dear?" She asked, her bowl vanished without a sound.

"He's good. He loves teaching at Hogwarts. He's amazing at it too." I smiled proudly. I saw Cissy's gaze flicker from Draco back to me.

"I heard he's much more interesting than the previous defence against the dark arts teachers."

I chuckled as I glanced at Draco, who was busy with his second helping of chocolate mousse. He was sitting on my right, in his own dark green armchair. "More interesting huh?" Draco avoided my eyes as he looked at his dessert. "It's that the only nice thing you could muster?" I turned back to Cissy. "From what I heard from the others, he's more than just interesting. The stories I heard about the previous teachers."

"Yes." Cissy nodded with a serious face. "I had some doubt about Dumbledore's choices for the job, but it seems like Remus is doing well."

In the corner of my eye, I saw Draco put his second bowl on the table and it disappeared within seconds. He rested his arms on his knees as he leaned forward. "So, is either of you going to explain how this-" He pointed between us. "Happened?"

Cissy and I shared a glance, and she gave me a nod, telling me she would take the lead in this one and I leaned back against the couch. I tucked my feet under me and pulled my dress a bit down as Draco waited for his mother to start.

"I found out about Alexandra back in 1980, she was about three and a half by then. I was visiting Walburga and for some reason she had her library locked up, she never did that. So, I may have figured out to get in and to try and find out what she was hiding."

"Mother!" Draco gasped, his eyes bulging from shock. I couldn't help the laughter that boiled up and Aunt Cissy continued with a smile.

"You do what you have to." She put it simply. "So, first I didn't check out the family tapestry but investigated the cupboards, books, etc. When I was about to give up and walk out of the room, I saw the addition on the tapestry." Her eyes flittered from me to Draco. "That was certainly not what I expected. I think I stood there for ten minutes, just staring at the wall, at her name. I was frozen in place until Walburga caught me in the library. She was angry, really angry but so was I. I asked her why she didn't say anything. She told me Orion forbid her to look for Alexandra, but still, she tried to track her down."

That took me by surprise, my eyes wide as I looked at my aunt.

"I don't know if it was because even though she treated Sirius badly, he was still her son, you her granddaughter, or the fact that she just needed someone to continue the Black line, but she tried. Failed, as you can see. She didn't know who your mother was and it's not like she could ask some of Sirius' old friends. But that's when I started my search. It took me a lot of time gossiping with pleasant and some unpleasant people before I even found out who Sirius was seeing at that moment. I found out about Cordelia Dubois over a year after I found out about Alexandra. But of course, there was no sign of her anywhere. She had disappeared from one day to another. I found her old flat, but there was no sign of where she had gone to. All of her furniture, clothes, everything was still there."

"How did you find her then?" Draco asked curiously.

"I never found Cordelia." She shook her head sadly. "It was when I saw Remus Lupin in Paris in 19̈83, I found Alexandra. She had black wavy hair that reached her lower back. She was holding Remus's hand tightly as she pointed excitedly into a toy store. She was practically bouncing." She smiled at me. "But it was when she turned, I knew who she was. She has the exact same eyes as Sirius, just a shade lighter than yours." She said to Draco, still a smile on her lips. "I stepped up to Remus, and I still laugh at the shocked and slightly frightened look he had when he saw me." She chuckled. "And I demanded an explanation. He reluctantly gave it to me, after I promised not to tell anyone else."

"But why not tell me?"

"Draco, sweetheart. You were too young, you were three years old then, and even later..." She shook her head. "I couldn't risk you letting it slip with your father."

"I still don't like that you didn't tell me, but I understand." He sighed and clasped his hand around his mother's. "Why didn't you tell me before school started?"

"Honestly? I was afraid of how you would react. If you were going to be mad or didn't want to believe me. I only found out she was transferring to Hogwarts at the end of August."

"Alright." He said slowly, before he could say something else the doorbell rang. I looked surprised at the door of the parlour.

"I should leave you to it." Aunt Cissy said as she rose elegantly from her seat.

"Aren't we going to celebrate New Year's together?" I asked, jumping off my seat, not even close to the elegance my aunt had.

"I don't want to intrude on Draco's party. I'll be up in the library." She kissed my cheek before going over to her son and did the same. "Happy New Year."

"Happy New Year." Draco and I said in unison, and Aunt Cissy walked out with a smile. When my aunt was gone, I walked closer to Draco and poked his chest. "You said you invited a few friends."

"I did."

"A party is more than a few friends, Draco."

"Oh, come on; It will be fun." He grinned as he walked to the front of the house, me on his tail. "I procured you some of the best fire whiskey money can buy."

"I think I could stay for a little while then." I pursed my lips to hide a smile. Draco gave me my personal bottle of fire whiskey, and when he walked to the front door, I walked to the parlour and poured myself a glass as I leaned against the window, looking outside as I heard people trickle in, making their way to the parlour. When the door opened again, I noticed the house elves had decorated and filled the place with drinks and food. I shook my head in confusion because none of it was there when I entered a few minutes ago. I sipped my drink as I saw Draco's bodyguards arrive, followed by Theo Nott, Blaise Zabini, Pansy Parkinson, and a few I didn't recognize. Music started to play, and I swayed a little on the beat of the music as my gaze found the garden again. The garden was decorated by fairy lights, illuminating the large grounds around the house. You could spot white peacocks taking a stroll around the garden. There was a large willow tree on the far left, the branches low to the ground.

"What a surprise seeing you here." A familiar voice, full of mirth came from next to me. I tore my eyes away from the willow tree and smiled as I saw Emmett Nott standing there.

"Hm, a surprise?" I raised an eyebrow as I leaned forward and kissed his cheek. "For me, yes. For you? Nu-hu." I shook my head. "You knew I'd be here." Nott just looked at me with a large grin before his eyes travelled my body.

"You clean up nice, Lupin-Black."

"Great at compliments, I see." I said sarcastically, rolling my eyes.

"Right, let me try that again. You look fucking hot." He said with dark eyes. I looked at him before laughing. I tutted at him as I poked his chest.

"I don't believe that's how your mother taught you how to compliment a young woman, Nott."

"True." He shrugged. "But it was the first thing that came to my mind." He winked before he bowed, holding out his hand. "Care to join me for a dance, miss Lupin-Black?"

"Well, if you ask me like that. How can I say no?" I grinned back at him as I accepted his hand, and he pulled me towards the empty space.

The night was fun, even though most of them were thirteen-year-olds, only Emmett Nott and I were sixteen and were drinking that night, the young ones kept to drinking butterbeers. A few board games came to pass, just like truth or dare and charades.

I was playing truth or dare with a group, Nott sitting right next to me when an unknown Slytherin asked me about Sirius after I chose truth.

"We all know Sirius is your father." He started and I tensed, Nott must've felt it because he laid his hand softly on my lower back. "Will you follow in his footsteps?"

"What do you mean?" I asked politely as I tried to control my breathing.

"Well, being a murdering lunatic." He smirked at me. I felt Nott's hand tightened around my waist, and I was reaching for my wand, fuck the trace. I saw movements in both of my eye corners, but before Nott had leapt to the boy, Draco had punched his square on the nose. The boy had never expected it and looked shocked at Draco, covering his bleeding, possibly broken nose.

"Out! Now!" He grumbled, his eyes blazing. The boy, whose name I still didn't know, scrambled up and ran out of the room. "Fuck." Draco frowned as he looked at his fist. I gave Nott's hand a squeeze and jumped up.

"Let's get this taken care of." I said to Draco as I looked at his bruised hand. "We'll be back soon." I said over my shoulder, mainly to Emmett.

I led Draco to the kitchen and asked for an ice bath for one of the house elves. With a pop, the ice bath had appeared on the counter. I hopped on the counter next to the ice bath and I placed Draco's hand in it, making him hiss. The elf came back with another pop and handed me a bruising paste before disappearing again.

"How does it feel?" I asked after his hand soaked in the ice bath for a few minutes, music from the party carried softly into the kitchen.

"Better. Thanks." He offered a small smile. I lifted his hand from the ice bath and dapped it dry with a towel.

"You shouldn't have done that. I can take care of myself."

"Believe me, I know." He chuckled but winced as I flexed his fingers. I frowned as I uncorked the tube of bruising paste. "But you were reaching for your wand and you're still sixteen, don't want to get expelled, do you?"

"Oh, are you going to miss me if I'm not at Hogwarts anymore?" I cooed. "I didn't know you grew so attached to me."

"As if." He huffed and I grinned as I spread the paste over his hand. "But mum would kill me if there was a way to prevent that."

"Ouch, that hurt, little cousin." I said as I patted his hand a little forcefully, making him wince again. I grinned triumphantly as I hopped off the counter. "Let your mum check it out in the morning, alright?" I said as we walked back to the party.

I danced with quite a few Slytherins, including Nott's brother, Blaise, Draco, and even Pansy. But when Crabbe or Goyle, no idea who's who wanted to ask me. I was happy to note that Nott made it in time to "rescue me". (His words) And guided me again towards the dance floor.

"You know, Blaise's hand was a little too low on your back if you ask me." He said as he twirled me around.

"But I didn't ask you, did I?" I smirked up to him. "Come on, Nott. He's thirteen, not really my type." I chuckled. "Are you jealous?" I asked, pursing my lips together.

"Nott men don't get jealous." He huffed, his face blank.

"If you say so." I said dropping my hands from his neck. "I think I'll ask Blaise for another dance then, he's a surprisingly good dancer."

"I don't think so." He pulled me back, flush against his chest. "It's nearly time." I looked up to him, confused. But then I heard it, the room started to chant in unison.

"Ten, nine, eight, seven, six -"

"Five, four, three -" Nott and I chimed in as we looked to each other, my hands still resting on his chest. "Two, one." Nott leaned down, and I reached up before our lips met. My arms went around his neck as his arms circled around my waist, pulling me closer. Our lips parted and our tongues danced around each other. The kiss began sweet before it became more heated. We parted only when a throat was cleared next to us. But before we turned to see who it was, probably Draco, we smiled at each other and in unison we said.

"Happy New Year."  

Chapter Text

I was impatiently bouncing on my heels at the train station waiting for the train to arrive filled with Hogwarts students returning from the holiday break. I had spent the morning at the Gryffindor tower with Harry and the others, not only for company but also to look for the rat. One of them had been a success, the other... well not so much. I was straining my eyes as far as I could, but still no train. I glanced at my watch and saw that the train was late. The train was never late, Oscar was never late. I started pacing up and down the train station. The grounds around me were clear of snow by now, as the temperature kept rising. Turning around for the umpteenth time, I finally saw the train in the distance, coming closer. I smiled broadly as the train stopped in front of me. The doors opened and the students started filing out. Nope, don't know that one, or that one. I craned my neck to find the people I was looking for. I first saw Angelina pop out, her head already in search of me. I sent up red sparks as other students droned past me. Angelina's eyes found me beneath the sparks, and she pushed herself through the crowd. When she reached me, we wrapped our arms around each other.

"I missed you." We said at the same time. We pulled back grinning at each other, before we turned to the train again, each an arm around each other's waist.

I saw Lee and the twins appear out of the same door as Angelina. The door right behind them, Emmett Nott appeared. The twins and Nott appeared to look around the platform too. And as a creepy coincidence, the three of them found me at the same time, and they all had a large smile on their faces. The twins nearly pushed younger students to the ground trying to get to us. Nott too was making his way to me, but he was stopped by another Slytherin. My gaze went from Nott to the twins who were almost there. Their beaming faces, had me smiling back just as wide. Their arms were already open before they reached me and when they finally did, they enveloped me in their famous and amazing twin hug. It felt amazing being hugged by them.

When I opened my eyes over their shoulders, I saw Nott smiling at me as he was walking towards us. The boys let me go and opened their mouths to say something but before a word was uttered, Nott stepped between them and lifted me up, twirling me around. I laughed as I buried my head in his neck. I saw the others surprised looks when he put me down on the stone tiles and kissed me, in front of everyone. Not just a hello kiss, but a deep and sensual kiss. Even though I knew people were watching, I couldn't help but kiss him back like that. Our first kiss had been on New Year's, and we had a few smaller kisses that night. But now it was a few days later and it felt needed. When I heard some Slytherin's catcall, we pulled apart.

"Hi." I smiled up at him.

"Hi." His smile was wide. He looked at my friends around me before he looked back at me. "I'll let you catch up with your lion friends. I'll see you tonight?"

"Yeah." I nodded with a grin, he leaned down and gave me a short kiss and a wink before he disappeared with the rest of the Slytherins. "Well, uhm." I cleared my throat as I looked at Angelina. "We better get up to the castle, I've been outside too long waiting for you lot."

Angelina looped her arm through mine, and before we even started to walk to the carriages, she started to quiz me. Lee was on Angelina's other side, while the twins were behind me. "I thought you said you hadn't kissed yet."

"Like I told you, we didn't kiss on our date. He was a perfect gentleman, just a kiss on the cheek. But Draco invited him to the New Year's party at the Malfoy Mansion. And he kissed me at midnight." I blushed slightly as Angelina squealed. I heard the twins grumble behind me, and I turned to look at them. They both had frowns on their faces as they looked at the ground. I let Angelina's arm go and squished myself between them. While I wrapped my arms around them, Lee threw his arm around Angelina's shoulder. "Don't worry, no one can replace you two knuckleheads. I weirdly became attached to the two of you."

"He better not," Fred said, a grin finally replaced the frown, and he wrapped his arm around my waist. I turned to look at George, who had a similar look. "We're more fun to be around anyway." George winked.

"I think I'll be the judge of that." I chuckled. "But you're not that bad."

The twins huffed as they grinned, leading me up into the last carriages. I walked with them to the Gryffindor tower. Harry, Ron and Hermione were sitting in front of the fireplace, and we joined them. I sat down next to Harry with my back towards the fire, warming me up quickly. Harry blushed as our knees touched when I leaned over to shuffle the deck of cards. We talked about what we did over break, and Harry nearly choked on his drink when I told him I was at Draco's party. When the twins' cards exploded, I grinned at them, my eyes twinkled as our eyes met.

After a few hours, I left them at the tower, much to the twins' chagrin, as I walked down to the dungeons where a certain Slytherin was waiting for me. Nott was leaning against the wall in the dark-lit corridor. When he heard me approach, he didn't move. He just waited until I reached him, not opening his eyes. My fingers went to the collar of his shirt, tugging it a little. I saw a little smirk on his face.

"Well, -" I breathed softly, near his lips. "If there is no one here who's interested in me, I'd better go to my room." I let the collar go, my hands sliding down on his chest. When I stepped back, his arms wrapped around my waist, and his eyes flew open, dark and full of lust.

"Nu-hu." He shook his head, making his wavy brown hair bounce. "You're not going anywhere." He grumbled as he pulled me close. I looked up at him through my dark lashes with an innocent smile. My hands rose up from his chest to curl around his neck, pulling him down. Our lips met for a searing kiss. The moment was broken when we heard footsteps in the empty corridor. With a sly grin, he took my hand and led me to the Slytherin common room.

Draco nodded his head as Nott and I walked past him. Nott sat down in one of the armchairs near the fire and pulled me into his lap. I pulled my book out of my bag and made myself comfortable on his lap. He nuzzled my neck when I started to read. But I wasn't reading much. Nott was whispering sweet, and maybe not-so-innocent things in my ear. I chuckled and slapped his chest as I tried to continue reading. An hour later, I gave up and closed my book. I turned to look at him with a frown.

"You know I'm trying to read, right?"

"Maybe." He grinned and placed a featherlight kiss on my neck. "But I like distracting you."

"I'll bear that in mind the next time you need to concentrate." I shoved his arm playfully. I hopped off from his lap and tucked my book away.

"Hey, where are you going?" He pouted as I placed my bag over my shoulder and leaned over the armrest.

"It's getting late, and my uncle wants me to be back in time since classes are starting tomorrow."

"Even though I like Professor Lupin, he's a bit of a cockblocker being at Hogwarts."

"Hm." I hummed as I kissed him. "Who said you're getting anything more than this." I kissed him again, letting my tongue swipe over his lips. Before he could deepen the kiss, I pulled back with a teasing grin. "Good night, Emmett ."

He grunted as I whispered his name. "Tease." He grinned playfully, but his eyes were dark. "Night, Alec." He leaned forward to kiss me again. I waved Draco and his friends a good night, before walking back to my chambers.

The next few weeks were filled with classes, fight club (as the twins like to call it), and dividing my time between my friends, Harry and Nott. Or maybe I should start calling him Emmett. After one of our fight club meetings, I was waiting for the twins to arrive at the tower. They were busy setting up a prank, so I decided to wait in the tower. Angelina had a date with Lee, so I sat with Harry and his friends. After Harry lost a game of chess, I decided to try my hand at it. But I may be as bad as Harry. Ron's grin was wide as he broke another piece of mine, swiping it off the board. Crookshank was sleeping on my lap as I caressed his head softly.

"Hey, Ron?" I asked, and he looked up from the board. "Where is Scabbers?"

"Hiding from that monster." He grunted, glaring at the cat. I saw Hermione jump up, grabbing Crooks from my lap and hurried upstairs. I swear I could hear her hiss at Ron for his comment. Ever since Christmas break, when McGonagall confiscated the firebolt, Harry and Ron had been given her the cold shoulder to say the least. I talked to Harry about it a week after class started, and even though he was still angry, he at least talked to Hermione again. It took me a while to convince him that it was in his best interest, for his own safety. But Ron was another story. I know he's George and Fred's brother, but he could just be a giant git! It wasn't even his fucking broom.

"I'm done." I said pushing my chair back. Ron and Harry looked at me in surprise.

"What? I've nearly beaten you." Ron exclaimed. "Can't stand losing?" He teased.

"No." I shook my head. "I can't stand idiots who are assholes to their friends." I turned my head away before something worse came out. "Bye, Harry."

Harry opened his mouth to say something but glared at Ron instead. When I reached the portrait, he called after me. "You don't have to go."

I looked over my shoulder with a small smile. "I know." I said and walked out of the Gryffindor common room.

"Hey, where do you think you're going?" A voice asked when the portrait closed behind me. I looked up to the grinning faces of the twins.

"Escaping your git of a little brother." I grumbled.

"Still about the Hermione-firebolt thing, he?" George asked, offering his arm to me.

"Yeah." I said as I looped my arm through his. Fred came to my other side and offered the same.

"Even though, we would've loved to see the firebolt. And see Harry win with it in every game." Fred said as I looped my other arm through and walked down.

"We get her concern." George finished.

"That's good. She's only being a protective friend. You can't blame her for wanting to keep Harry safe."

"And we don't. Someone needs to keep the golden boy safe." Fred laughed. "He would be dead if it weren't for Hermione."

"You think Hermione likes Harry? I mean, like-like?" George asked.

"Oh, I don't know." I frowned. "I haven't really paid attention. But with Ron being mad about the firebolt and the rat..."

"Yeah." The twins said in unison with a short nod.

"On a happier note. Now that you are here, you can help us with the prank." Fred said with an evident twinkle in his eyes, a twinkle that stood for mischief.

"I thought you were coming to collect me after."

"Well, we thought," George smirked. "That you are in dire need to experience a prank with us. Since you still haven't joined us."

"Alright. I would love to see your work in action." I grinned broadly at the two ginger boys next to me. "So, who are we pranking?"

"Oh, you'll see." They both grinned devilishly, and I was afraid of the answer. I wasn't even surprised when we stopped in front of Filch's office.

Chapter Text

I was waiting outside the great hall, waiting for Harry to finish his dinner. When he finally appeared with Ron, I locked my arm with his. "Ready?" I asked and he nodded grinning.

"Where are you going?" Ron asked with a frown.

"Professor Lupin, remember?" Harry looked at Ron. "I'll be back later."

"Right." Ron mumbled and walked up the stairs. I started to lead him through the corridor. When he noticed that we weren't going to the DADA classroom, he looked at me with a frown.

"Uhm, isn't the classroom that way?" He asked pointing over his shoulder.

"It is," I said but kept walking. I chuckled as I looked at him. "He's meeting us in History of Magic."

"Why-" He asked, but we were already there, and I pushed the door open. The classroom was dark and empty, and with a wave of my wand, I lit the candles. I shrugged off my robes and hopped on the desk. Harry did the same and hopped on next to me. "Where is your tie?" He asked, looking at my collar.

"I'm a disaster at tying it. I can't understand how you do it every day." I huffed. "Lupin is the one who's always tying it for me." I shook my head with a laugh. "I miss my Beauxbatons robes."

"I wouldn't mind seeing it around Hogwarts too," Harry said cheekily. I gasped as I slapped his arm. I never heard him openly say something like that, something flirty. It took me by surprise and couldn't help the laughter that escaped.

"Something funny?" My uncle's voice came from the door. I stopped laughing, wiping a tear away as I saw him haul a case into the room and place it on Professor Binn's desk.

"What's that?" Harry asked.

"Another Boggart." He said as he shrugged off his coat. "I've been combing the castle ever since Tuesday, and very luckily, I found this one. It's the nearest we get to a dementor." He explained. "The Boggart will turn into a dementor when he sees you, so we'll be able to practice on him. I can store him in my office when we're not using him, there is a cupboard under my desk he'll like."

"Okay." Harry said slowly. And I nudged him with a grin.

"So," Remus said as he took out his wand and gestured for Harry to do the same. We both jumped off from the desk. Harry took out his wand from his back pocket and I slid over to Remus. "The spell I'm going to try and teach you, Harry, is very advanced magic. Well beyond OWL level. It's called the Patronus charm.

"How does it work?" Harry asked nervously, as his grip on his wand tightened.

"Well, when it works correctly, it conjures up a Patronus. Which is a kind of Anti-dementor – a guardian which acts as a shield between you and the dementor. The Patronus is a kind of positive force, a projection of the very things that the dementor feeds on – hope, happiness, and the desire to survive. But I must warn you, Harry, that the charm might be too advanced for you. Many qualified wizards have difficulty with it."

"What does a Patronus look like?" Harry asked curiously.

"Each one is unique to the wizard who conjures it."

"What's yours?" He asked Remus.

"A wolf."

He then turned to me. "And yours? I heard you could cast one, but since I was unconscious, I haven't seen it."

"An arctic wolf."

"Both a wolf?" He looked between me and Remus with surprised and raised brows.

"Yeah, but different ones." Remus winked at me.

"Can you show me?"

"What about a deal? The moment you can produce a Patronus, we'll show you ours." I grinned.

"Professor Lupin said there is a chance I can't produce one."

"I have faith." I grinned.

"Oh, okay." He blushed. "You have a deal." I looked from Harry to Remus, who looked amused for some reason. "So, how do you conjure it?"

"With an incantation, which will only work if you are concentrating with all your might-" Remus said as he glanced quickly at me, before looking back to Harry. "On a single, very happy memory."

I watched as Harry racked his brain for the right memory. It's not easy to choose the right one, a powerful one. And with Harry being raised by the Dursleys...

"Right." Harry nodded.

"The incantation is this." Remus cleared his throat. "Expecto Patronum."

"Expecto Patronum." Harry repeated under his breath a couple of times.

"Concentrating hard on your happy memory?"

"Oh, yeah." Harry said, making me chuckle softly. He repeated the charm a few times before something silver whooshed out of the end of his wand. "Did you see that?" Harry said excitedly. Remus and I smiled at each other before turning to Harry. "Something happened."

"Very good. Ready to try it on a dementor?"

"Yes." He nodded as he gripped his wand tightly and moved to the middle of the classroom. Remus grasped the lid of the case and pulled. A dementor rose swiftly from the box, its hooded face turned towards Harry. Subconsciously, I took my wand out of my boot, I didn't even know I was doing it until Remus stopped me by placing a hand on my wrist. I lowered my wand but only slightly. The candles around the room flickered and went out. "Expecto Patronum." Harry yelled in the silent classroom. "Expecto Patronum. Expecto-" Harry fainted in front of me. I slide over the ground to him in one swift movement, putting his head on my lap. The dementor looked at me, turning in the green bolt before it turned again, now in a full moon. Remus forcefully said Riddikulus and the Boggart flew back in the case with a whistling sound.

"Harry." I shook him as Remus lit the candles back up. "Harry!" His eyes flew open and looked at me with terrified eyes. When he noticed his position, he blushed and pushed himself up.

"Sorry." He muttered, but I smiled as I handed him a towel to wipe the sweat from his face.

"Are you alright?" I asked as Remus leaned against Binn's desk.

"Yeah." He said as I helped him stand on his feet.

"Here." He tossed him and chocolate frog. I pouted as I looked at my uncle and he just grinned before tossing me one too. "Eat this before we try again, it -"

"Helps, it always helps." I grinned as I opened my package.

"I didn't expect you to do it the first time, Harry." Remus said as we munched on our frog. "In fact, I would be astounded if you had."

"It's getting worse," Harry said softly, avoiding my gaze. "I could hear her louder that time, and him, Voldemort."

I looked from Harry to a pale Remus. I didn't know exactly what he saw, but I had a vague idea since I saw the same thing every time too.

"Harry, if you don't want to continue..."

"I do." Harry interrupted fiercely. "I've got to. What if the dementors turn up at our match against Ravenclaw? I can't afford to fall off again. If we lose this game, we've lost the cup."

"Alright then." Lupin said slowly, but I rolled my eyes at the fact he was thinking about the game. "You better choose another memory then; it didn't seem like this one was strong enough." I nibbled on my frog, as Harry swallowed the last piece and gripped his wand tightly again.

"Ready?"

"Ready."

"Go!" Remus called out as he lifted the lid again. The dementor was back as his hooded face found Harry.

"Expecto Patronum! Expecto-" He came crashing to the ground again. I was kneeling next to him in a second and placed his head on my lap again.

"Harry." I pushed his hair from his face. "Harry!" I said a little louder and prodded his face. "Wake up!"

"I heard my dad." Was the first thing he said, before he opened his eyes. I stiffened under him, my eyes darting between him and my uncle. "It's the first time I've ever heard him. He tried to take on Voldemort. To give my mum time to run for it..." I saw tears rolling down his cheeks, and I had a hard time pushing my own tears back. I grabbed the towel and dapped his face, not saying anything as I pretended to dap the sweat away.

"You heard James?" Remus's voice was shaking. I looked back at him, he was even paler than before, and his eyes were sad.

"Yeah." He whispered.

"Lister, Harry – perhaps we should leave it here tonight. This charm is ridiculously advanced. I shouldn't have suggested putting you through this. I should have known after..." He drifted off, as he avoided my gaze.

"No." He shot up from my lap and stood up again. "I'll have one more go. I'm not thinking of happy enough memories. Hold on." I stood up and walked over to Remus as Harry paced, franticly searching for the best memory. I wrapped my arm around him and leaned my head against his arm. Neither of us said a word, knowing this wasn't the time to talk about it.

"Ready?" Remus asked, reluctantly when Harry took his stance again. With a nod from Harry, he lifted the lid again. And for the third time, the dementor rose from the case, its cloak grazing the floor beneath it.

"EXPECTO PATRONUM!" Harry bellowed. A silver mist shot out of his wand, I saw Harry's knees buckle, and I knew he couldn't hold on any longer. But Remus saw it too and jumped in front of the dementor, his wand already at the boggart.

"Riddikulus!" He said, making it disappear.

I walked to Harry quickly, my hands coming under his arms as I led him to a chair. His legs were shaking as I crouched down in front of him with a beaming smile.

"You did great, Harry."

"Excellent." Remus said, striding over to us. "Excellent work, Harry. Great start."

"Can we have another go?"

"Not now." Remus said firmly. A tone I recognized. One you couldn't persuade him otherwise. "You had enough for one night. Here-" He handed over a large bar of chocolate. "Eat the lot, or Madam Pomfrey will have my head."

"Okay." He said biting a large piece of the bar. When I saw his knees had stopped trembling, I stood up and hopped on the desk.

"Alright, you better get going, Harry. It's getting late."

"I'll walk you back." I offered, and Remus nodded with a smile.

"How do you feel?" I asked after we walked in silence for a while.

"I'm okay." He said looking down at the ground. The castle was dark and empty, it was nearly curfew when we walked back to the tower.

"Harry, -" I started quietly. "I know you probably didn't want to share all of that information with me..."

"No, it's okay." He shook his head and looked at me. "Seeing your situation, I think you are the best person I could talk to about this."

"Harry, do you remember what my Boggart turned into at the beginning of the school year?"

He frowned as he thought back to the class. "The green streak."

"Yeah." I nodded slowly, and I saw Harry's eyes turn wide when it clicked.

"Who?" His voice was so soft, I almost missed it.

I took in a deep breath. "My mum." I whispered and stopped in my tracks in the middle of the staircase. Harry wrapped me in a hug.

"I'm sorry. Want to talk about it?"

"After you shared... that. I do." I had sunk to the cold steps of the staircase and Harry followed suit. I cast a Muffliato charm around us. "Me and my mum only had each other for four years -" I started. I finally let someone in, let someone know what exactly happened the years I spent with my mum and how it ended. We sat on the staircase for over an hour talking. The castle must've known something because the staircase didn't move once when we talked.   

Chapter Text

It was the end of January, and I was lying on my stomach on my bed reading about my next potions class when I heard the door open. Not the door to my room, but the one that led out into the corridor. I didn't pay much attention to it, as some students came to ask for Remus. But a few seconds later there was a knock on my door. The door creaked open slowly and Remus's head popped in.

"Hey, cub. You got some visitors."

"Oh, yeah?" I asked looking up from my book.

"Angelina and the others are here. Do you want me to get rid of them or?"

"No, let them in." I said before he disappeared from my room leaving my door open. I put my attention back to my book as I heard Remus's footsteps walk to the door.

"Come in, come in." I heard his voice say. "Welcome." I could just see Remus gesture around the room proudly, his arms wide.

"Nice digs, professor." I heard Lee say.

"Thank you, Lee." I heard the footsteps come closer. "And here is the person you're looking for."

I looked up to see the five of them standing in the doorway looking at me. They were all still wearing their school robes. It was only an hour after dinner, and they still had time to wander around the castle.

"Are you going to come in or are you just going to stand there?" I raised an eyebrow with a grin. Angelina was the first to move and walked over to my bed quickly, while the boys all walked in slowly. Seemingly afraid Remus would pound on them for having a boy or rather boys in my room.

"I have a staff meeting. I'll be back in about an hour, two tops." Remus said looking from the others to me with a smile.

"Alright, but if you're not back by ten, I'm eating your ice cream." I pointed with my bookmark at him. Remus gasped and clutched his heart. If anyone would look at him right now, you would think someone suggested something improper. When the others chuckled, he winked at me before leaving us in the dormitory.

"I can't believe you have a room of your own." Angelina said, flopping down next to me.

"Yeah, it's okay." I shrugged, flipping a page over.

"Okay? You have all the privacy you want. You can invite anyone over without nosy roommates." She wiggled her eyebrows. "Someone like Nott, maybe."

I saw the twins turn away from my pinboard and look at me. Their faces were indescribable. "Yeah, right." I laughed and nudged Angelina's shoulder. "Nott coming over when your uncle sleeps right next door. And can hear everything..."

"Hm, yeah. That might be a buzz kill. But there is always a Muffliato charm."

"Oh, De la Barre." I laughed as I let my head fall in my hands, shaking it slightly. I lifted my hand again to look at the others. "What are you guys doing here anyway?"

"We wanted to see your room." Fred grinned, looking at the collection of pictures on my wall.

"Just like you expected?" I asked, closing my book and sitting up, Angelina followed my lead.

"No." He said, holding a yellow scarf between his fingers. "And yes." He looked at me and raised an eyebrow. "Whose is this?"

"Cedric's." I shrugged. "He gave it to me a few days ago. I saw him come out of Potions and he gave it to me, saying Snape deliberately put a cooling charm in the room. It was so cold you could see your own breath."

"That's..." Lee glanced at the twins. "Nice of him."

"It was." I nodded. "Nott wasn't too pleased though."

"What? About you wearing a scarf of one of the most popular boys in school." Angelina snickered. "Can't imagine why."

"He was just being nice." I pushed her shoulder a little harder. "Besides I think he's seeing that Ravenclaw girl that plays on the Quidditch team." I looked at the twins, who were leaning against the wall, one foot propped against it. "What about you two? Are you going to ask someone to Hogsmeade?"

The twins looked startled at me. They shared a quick glance towards each other before turning their gaze back to me, giving a simultaneous shrug.

"We'll probably stay back to work on our products." George answered.

"Oh, come on," I whined. "Remember what I said a few months back, you only live once." I jumped on my knees on the bed, pointing at the twins. "Oh, why don't you let me set you up with someone? There are at least a dozen girls who want to go out with either one of you."

"Not interested." They said, shaking their heads.

"Besides, most people don't even know how to tell us apart."

"How's that even possible? Look at you two." The twins looked at me in surprise. "You're two completely different people." The boys just stared at me, trying to figure out if I was joking, which I wasn't.

Their gaze was intense as a lopsided grin appeared on both of their faces. It wasn't like I didn't know the twins were handsome but seeing them standing against the wall of my bedroom with their sleeves rolled up until over their elbows, showing their strong, muscular arms. Their brown eyes turned a shade darker as they took me in. I cleared my throat as a blush crept up my cheeks from being under their intense gaze and looked at the book next to me. I picked it up and placed it on the nightstand before looking at Lee.

"Are you guys staying? Because I got a new board game during break I wanted to try out."

"Alec?" Angelina asked after we had played the game. Lee was putting it back in the cupboard when she turned to me. "When's your birthday?"

In the corner of my eye, I saw the three boys turn to look at me. "It already passed," I said and when Angelina's eyes went wide, I quickly added. "It's no big deal, I don't really celebrate it."

"Why not?" Fred asked, and George gave him a not-so-subtle nudge in his ribs. "You don't need to tell us." George added.

"Thank you, George." I gave him a little smile. "I'm not ready to tell you guys just yet."

"'s okay." Angelina placed her hand on mine. "We're here when you're ready or if you want to share it with us."

I squeezed her hand softly. "Thank you." Before anyone could utter another word, the door opened and Remus walked in swiftly, he stopped in his tracks when he saw all of us sitting in front of the fireplace.

"Since it's five minutes before curfew, you suggest you all better get going." He smiled.

"Right." Was a general mumble as they jumped up from the floor. "See you at breakfast, Alec." Angelina waved goodbye as she walked to the door with Lee.

"Good night." I said as I went to stand up from the floor. Suddenly there were two identical hands in front of me. I looked up to see the twins, their hands outstretched to pull me up. "Thank you." I smiled and reached up to kiss their cheeks. The twins' blush crept up again before they said goodnight and followed Angelina and Lee out of the room. Remus walked closer to me and wrapped an arm around my shoulders as we looked at the door that had just closed behind them. I heard him growl a little and I looked sideways with a raised brow.

"What's that all about?" I asked with an escaped chuckle.

"Hm?" He looked away from the door and down at me. "Nothing, just tired." He said waving it away and turning to his desk. I looked from the door to Remus and watched him a little as he grabbed the fourth-year essays. When he didn't look up, I walked back to my room and got dressed for the night.

I was sitting on the floor with my back leaning against the back of the couch as I looked at the window. The dark black lake loomed in front of me, sometimes you could spot a ripple in the water before a creature or a tentacle appeared. Despite the dark and gloomy vibe that defined the Slytherin common room, the black lake was a sight to behold. I was so entranced by the water that I didn't notice a body slide down next to me.

"Hey, you." I jumped a little from the sudden voice next to me. I turned and saw Blaise Zabini sitting next to me.

"Blaise." I nodded at him before looking back to the window. I just saw two large tentacles disappear from view.

"Where's your boyfriend?" He asked. Nott and I hadn't really put a label on it, and I was just about to open my mouth when another voice came from behind me.

"Oh, you have a boyfriend, Lupin-Black?" The teasing voice said. I turned with a grin to see Emmett Nott grinning back at me. He was leaning over the couch as he looked down at me and Blaise. "I've been snogging someone else's girl then?"

"Well, if she isn't your girlfriend," Blaise said looking at Nott. "I'm free to flirt with her whenever I want."

Nott jumped over the back of the couch in a fluent movement and landed next to me. His arm went around my shoulders, and he leaned forward to look at the young boy. I pursed my lips together to hide a smile. "Don't push it, Zabini. Besides she's two years older than you."

"So, I like my women older." He winked as he quickly evaded Nott's hand as it tried to grab his robes. "Later, Alec." He said with a grin before disappearing behind the couch.

Nott looped his free arm under my legs and pulled them into his lap, turning me more to him. I leaned forward to capture his lips. He hummed against it as his finger grazed my thigh. "Still jealous?" I chuckled against his lips.

"Hm, of Blaise? No." He said with a little shake of his head. "I know he thinks you're hot, but who doesn't." He shrugged, and I slapped his arm making him chuckle. "He's just trying to rile me up." He pecked my lips. "Diggory or the Weasley twins though."

"I already told you, Diggory is seeing some Ravenclaw girl. And the twins and I are just friends."

"Just friends, he? Are you sure?"

"I am." I cocked my head as I looked at him. "They were my first friends here, together with Ange and Lee. Do they flirt? Yes." And I cupped his cheek as he frowned. "But you know the twins for like five years, you know how they are. They flirt with almost every girl."

"Maybe." He said still not convinced. I cupped both of his cheeks before leaning forward to kiss him. Our lips moved in sync, and they parted simultaneously as our tongues intertwined. The arm around my shoulder went lower until it rested on my waist. The fingers on my thigh went up higher, at a slow pace. It slipped under my skirt, and the tension in the lower part of my stomach knotted together. My hands went from his cheeks to his hair, tugging it until our lips parted. Our eyes met as our breathing became heavy. "Alec." He whispered in a deep and husky voice; his eyes darker than I'd ever seen.

"Dorm." I said between heavy breaths. He captured my lips again before lifting my feet from his lap and stood up. He pulled me with him in an instant, and without looking at anyone in the room he guided me towards his dormitory.

It was the first time I stepped into his dormitory, but besides the fact that it was empty, I didn't have a chance to look around the room. The moment I was in the room, Nott closed the door and pushed me against it. Our eyes met, and my arms circled around his neck before his lips came back crashing onto mine. The kiss was heated and filled with lust. His hands went to my waist, his thumb grazed under my shirt, touching my bare skin. That soft touch shot shivers down my spine, and I nibbled his bottom lip, making him groan. His hands went lower until they were on my thighs. His hands went slowly and passionately over my bare skin, going under my skirt until his hands cupped my cheeks. Without breaking the kiss, he lifted me up from the floor. My legs wrapped around him, and I pulled him flush against me. I could feel him through his pants, his need apparent.

He pulled me off the wall and carried me to his bed. He lowered me softly on the mattress and started kissing my neck, leaving his mark on me. He pulled back, as one hand went to the buttons of my shirt, his other still under my skirt. He looked from the buttons on my chest, which was heaving heavily, to my eyes. When I gave him a nod, he opened them with ease. Popping them open one by one at an excruciating slow pace. But once the final button was undone, my shirt fell open, revealing my thin black lace bra. I didn't think it was possible, but his eyes darkened even more. I felt his hand move to cup my breast, but I raised my own hands to undo his shirt. Within a second the buttons were open, and I pushed it off his shoulders and threw it on the floor. His torso was firm, a slight but noticeable sixth pack visible under my fingers. I took him in for a moment, just letting my hands go up and down his tanned torso. It looked like he had been under a sunbed a few times, the way his skin looked. My hands went lower, and I pulled on the waistband of his trousers, pulling him back down to me. His lips didn't touch mine but travelled lower as he pushed my bra straps down. When he took one of my breasts in his mouth, I moaned loudly, arching my back.

"Emmett." I moaned his name, as my nails dug in his back. I felt him harden between my legs, just from me moaning his name. With my bra pulled down, a breast in his mouth, his hand travelled down to my skirt. But before he could pull it off, I stopped him. "Wait."

"Something wrong?" He asked worried, pulling back. "Do you want me to stop?"

"No, sweet De la Barre, no." I smiled up at him before I glanced to the door and back. "But I don't want anyone to walk in."

"Gotcha." He grinned and took his wand from his back pocket. With a wave of his wand and a soft murmur the door locked. He tossed his wand on his nightstand before his attention went back to me. His Slytherin smirk was in place as he tucked his thumbs in the waistband of my skirt. I lifted my legs up and he slid them down, taking my knickers with him. Before he could do anything, I pushed myself up and sat down on my knees in front of him. His Slytherin smirk had vanished as my hand traced the rim of the waistband before my hand slipped under it. I couldn't help my own smirk when his head fell back, letting out a moan. Even though his eyes were closed, and his head tilted back, he said with a hoarse voice. "Stop smirking."

"I learned it from the best." I smirked between the kisses I left on his torso. My hands unbuckled his belt before I popped the button open. "Out now." I said as I sat back up and kissed him deeply.

"Yes, ma'am." He grinned as he chivied out of his trousers.

I was sitting in the Gryffindor tower with Angelina going over our Charms homework when Harry came running in loudly. His eyes were wide as he searched the common room, in his right hand was his new Firebolt. When his eyes found me, a large grin appeared on his face, and he came running over.

"Alec! I've been looking for you since this morning."

"Well, I'm here." I snickered.

"Sorry, Harry. I had her hauled up all day in my room." Angelina apologized as she looked up from her essay.

"'S okay. Can I borrow her?"

"Yeah, sure-" She was interrupted when the twins and Lee came down from the boy's staircase, laughing. They were still smiling when they stopped at the table Ange and I were sitting at and dragged a few chairs to sit next to us, the twins on either side of me and Lee next to Ange, placing his arm around Angelina, giving her temple a sweet kiss.

"So, you got the broom back?" I asked Harry, tilting my head. But before Harry could answer, Angelina gasped. The five of us turned to look at her with raised eyebrows. "Ange?"

Angelina had a knowing smirk on her lips as she looked at me. "What's on your neck?" She asked as she pointed towards it. Shit! The hickey. The past two days I had managed to keep it covered, wearing turtlenecks, a scarf, anything. But now the collar of my shirt had shifted, and since my hair was tied up in a high bun, it didn't cover the mark.

"N-Nothing." I said, adjusting my collar. I felt all eyes on me and I looked to the ground ignoring the looks. As I looked down, Fred had reached up and before I could stop him, he pulled my collar back.

"Oh, Nott left a mark." Angelina grinned. Fred's hand dropped from my collar, and I dared to look at the others. Angelina still had that smirk on her face, Lee looked worried for some reason. Fred, George and Harry all avoided my gaze. The three of them looked down. They really should get over the rivalry with Slytherin. I adjusted my collar back, covering up the mark and stood up.

"First of all, I'm not answering anything about it. Second of all, I know you guys don't like Slytherins, but Emmett is a good guy." I took my robe and draped it over my arm. "You should give him a chance. I'll see you guys tomorrow at the meeting, okay?" I went over one by one to give them a kiss on the cheek, but the twins barely gave reaction while Angelina whispered to tell me more later. I stopped at Harry who was still standing in the same spot. "Harry, did you need me?"

"Uhm, yeah." He shook his head, trying to clear his thoughts. "I just got my broom back from McGonagall, and I -" A blush crept on his cheeks. "I wanted to ask, if you wanted to go test it out with me?"

"Sounds like fun." I smiled as I nudged him. "What about Hermione and Ron?"

"Hermione doesn't really like flying, and Ron... well he can get a little overexcited."

"Alright, let's go then." I turned and held out my arm for him to take. When he looped his through, I looked over my shoulder to the others. Lee was going over the essay from Angelina, and the twins still had a funny look plastered on their faces, I couldn't quite describe. With a little frown of my own, I waved them goodbye and headed out of the common room with Harry.   

Chapter Text

It was over a week ago that Harry and I went flying on his firebolt. It had been an exhilarating experience, to say the least. Both of us didn't mention to Ron I flew on it before him because we knew he could get petty about it. The bright side was that Ron started to talk to Hermione again. Hermione had seen Harry and I walk back in the castle that night, both flushed from the cool air. I had seen her frown and utter a quick excuse before leaving us in the corridor. Harry looked confused at her retreating back but shrugged it off as she always went to the library.

We were now celebrating the win of the quidditch match in the Gryffindor common room. With Harry's new broom and the lack of dementors, they won easily, and the party was now in full swing. I had been sitting with Nott at the game, he kissed me passionately before he told me to go ahead and go celebrate with my friends. I kissed him again before I headed to the stairs of the bleachers, not before Emmett playfully slapped my ass. I looked over my shoulder with a scrunched-up nose, but he just smirked and winked at me. I turned around with a smile and headed to my lion friends.

I was sitting on a chair in the corner as people danced and talked around me. My eyes were fixed on the ginger cat as it tried to go up the boys' dormitories. Trying to get Scabbers/Wormtail/Pettigrew, whatever. But to no avail, most of the Gryffindors had ganged up on the cat and stood in front of the staircase so he couldn't pass. Ron had been saying for weeks now that Crookshanks had eaten him. But if that was true, why was the cat still trying to get into the boys' dormitories? My eyes went up the stairs, but I didn't have an excuse to go up the boys' dormitories now, did I?

"You're cute when you frown." I looked up to see George leaning against the wall next to me, an easy-going grin on his face. "Why does the boys' dormitory hold your interest?"

"It doesn't." I shrugged. "I was just making sure Crooks doesn't get a chance to get up there." I pointed at the cat, who seemed to scowl at the students.

"Instead of worrying about the cat." He said pushing himself off the wall and coming to stand in my line of sight. "Maybe you should focus your attention on me."

"On you?" I grinned with a quirked eyebrow.

"Uhu." He nodded with a lopsided grin. He bowed and held out his hand. "Would you do me the honour of dancing with me, miss Lupin-Black?"

I smiled up at him as I took his hand, he helped me up and led me to the spot that was reserved for dancing. Just as we reached the spot, a slow song went on. I saw George giving a nod behind me and I turned to see Lee grin at George. I looked back to George before he would see I noticed the exchange. George wrapped his arms around my waist, pulling me close. My arms went around his neck as we danced.

"You played great today." I said as I looked up to him. George found my eyes quickly, a lopsided grin in place.

"I always play great." I slapped a hand against his chest as I shook my head laughing. "Ouch."

"You're too cocky."

"I'm a Weasley twin after all." He shrugged with the same grin. He took the hand that still rested on his chest and twirled me around, leading me back against him. "You're a good dancer."

"I'm good at everything." I grinned a Chesire grin at him. "Except tying my freaking tie."

"And you say I'm cocky." He huffed with a laugh. "This is nice." He said as I leaned my head against his chest. I hummed in response; this was nice. This was safe and sweet and from the moment one of the twins had their arms around me, I felt... calm and knew that accepted me for me. With my head leaning on his chest, I could see Fred standing a few meters away from us. He was dancing with one of the fourth-year Gryffindors.

"It seems Fred took my advice." I looked from Fred up to George. George frowned a little, not understanding and followed my gaze to his twin.

"Hm." He hummed. "Maybe."

"Thanks for your help yesterday, at the duelling club." I asked when he looked back at me.

"How can I pass up on an opportunity to duel you, even if you wiped the floor with me." He grinned.

"I didn't wipe the floor with you. You have a special way of duelling, the spells you use are unconventional. Which is a good thing." I added quickly as he frowned. "You take your opponent by surprise. You took me by surprise, almost won because of that. Almost." I grinned as he looked at me with sparkled eyes. "Next time, I'm prepared."

"Can't wait." The song ended and we parted a little. When we turned to get a drink, we saw Fred kissing the girl he was dancing with. I grinned at the pair, but when I looked to George, he was frowning.

"What's wrong? Did you like her?" I asked worried.

"No." He shook his head. "It's nothing. Want something to drink?"

"Lead the way." I smiled up at him and he wrapped his arm around my waist and guided me through the crowd. After we got our drinks, he led me to a wall, and we leaned against it as we looked around the room.

Angelina and Lee were whispering and giggling in the corner where Lee was playing the music. Fred was still snogging the daylights out of the girl, while I saw Hermione sitting with Ginny, her eyes darting over to Harry. Harry and Ron were talking to other girls from their year, a girl with blonde hair, threw her hair over her shoulder as she giggled at something Harry said.

"Give me a minute." I said to George, who nodded, and his eyes followed me as I weaved through the crowd.

"Hey, Harry."

"Hi, Alec." His smile was wide and the two girls pursed their lips as I interrupted their obvious and bad flirting. I looped my arm through his.

"Can I talk to you for a moment?"

"Yeah, sure." He smiled at the furious girls and followed me. "What's up?"

"I think there is someone who wants to dance with you."

"If it's you, you can just ask." He teased.

"It's not me, silly." And I saw he deflated a little. "Hermione."

"Hermione?" He repeated and looked to the spot she was sitting at. Hermione had been watching us and ducked her head quickly. I smiled at the fact Harry knew exactly where she was sitting in the crowded common room. " You've been kind of a dick to her because of the broom. She's one of your best friends. You shouldn't let Ron talk to her like that. You don't pick sides, Harry."

"I've talked to her, and what about Ron?"

"You started talking to her after I told you off. And Ron, you and I both know it won't be a good idea for her to talk to him, let alone dance." I shook my head with a frown, knowing the cat and rat would come up and a fight would break out. "So, dance with her."

"What if she says no."

"She won't." I turned him as I placed my hands on his shoulders. "Now, go." I nudged him forward.

As Harry was slowly walking to Hermione, I walked back to George, my eyes on Harry. I saw Harry's ears turn red as he talked to Hermione. Hermione herself blushed fiercely but nodded and they walked to the dance floor together. I gestured to Lee, and when he found me, I made some hand gestures in the hope he would understand, which he did. He nodded and the music turned into a slow song. With trembling hands, Harry took her waist, while Hermione's hands went around his neck. With a smug grin, I leaned back against the wall.

"Playing matchmaker, are you?" George chuckled.

"A little." I shrugged and looked at George with a grin.

He took me in for a moment before he blurted out. "You know Harry likes you, don't you?"

"It's a silly crush." I waved him off. "He likes Hermione, he just doesn't realize it just yet."

"How do you know?" He asked looking at the slow-dancing duo.

"He knows where she is at all times, he can't help but smile when he hears her laughing. He tucks her in when she falls asleep in the common room. Little things you know. I don't know if it will turn into something real though, they are still so young. It could be just his first innocent crush."

"Huh." He said still looking at the two. "What about me?" He asked, his gaze intense as he looked at me.

"It's different with you and Fred." I titled my head to the side. "You two flirt on a daily basis, it's just who you are. But it makes it difficult to see who you really like."

"Never really thought about it like that. I know we flirt, but I thought it was different with a girl we liked."

"Is there someone now?" I asked with a raised eyebrow. "Because I can keep an eye out, to see if you're acting any different."

"No, no." he spluttered, waving his hands in front of him.

"Alright." I chuckled and glanced at my watch. "I got to go." I almost laughed at George's pouting look. "I promised my uncle I would be back in time. Unlike you guys, I have someone who will notice if I'm out late. Does McGonagall even come by here?"

"Only if it gets out of hand." He grinned and walked me to the portrait. The portrait flew open, and a cold gush of wind shot a shiver down my spine. "Goodnight, Alec." George tucked a lock of hair behind my ear and leaned down to kiss me on the cheek.

"Night, George." I smiled up at him. With a smile of his own, he walked back in the loud common room. The noise drowned out the moment the portrait door closed again.

I was walking back to my own chambers. The corridors were lit with only a few candles, it was quiet except for the sound of my own footsteps. When I rounded another corner, I saw Emmett doing his nightly rounds with a prefect girl from Slytherin. The girl was giggling at something he said, and I stopped to look at the interaction, curious to see what he would do. The girl put her hand on his arm with a smile. But Emmett didn't seem fazed by it. He took a step backwards, her hand dropped from his arm.

"Why don't you patrol the third floor, Liza." He said, his voice cold.

"I already checked it."

"Again." He put it simply. The girl, named Liza, frowned but stomped up the staircase. I waited until the girl was out of sight and earshot. I walked closer to Emmett who had his back towards me as he continued his patrolling. I followed him silently with a grin on my face. It wasn't until five minutes had passed, that he sensed there was someone in the corridor with him. I could see his shoulders tense, and I leaned against the wall casually. "Who's there?"

"Who's where?" I whispered, and he turned around so fast that I thought I had imagined it. His eyes searched the corridor until they finally landed on me. He lowered his wand and walked over with a grin. He leaned his arm just above my head as he looked at me hungrily. "Hi."

He didn't respond with words, he just slammed his lips against mine, his arm curled around my waist pulling me off the wall and closer to him. I bit the bottom of his lip before I asked for entrance. He obliged in an instant before I pulled back. "Cupboard?" He asked with a gruff voice, and with my nod, he pulled me to the nearest cupboard.

Chapter Text

That impatient foolish idiot! I grumbled to myself when the news of Sirius Black reached my ears. I had been woken up by Remus, his eyes frightened and alarmed. Telling me that Black broke into the Gryffindor common room, standing over Ronald Weasley's bed with a knife. The security around the castle increased and though the twins frowned at the tightened security, which made it harder for them to sneak around and pull pranks, it was still easy to sneak out of the castle as Loki.

So, the day after it happened, I trotted over to the forbidden forest after making sure Harry was okay. When I didn't find Black in the forest, I didn't dare to go too deep, knowing what hides in there, I walked back out to see Crookshanks waiting for me. I cocked my furry little head at the cat. He stuck his nose in the air and turned around. I rolled my wolf eyes and followed the cat. Of course, the cat stopped in front of the whomping willow. I walked under the swaying branches and looked over my shoulder to the cat.

"Aren't you coming?" I asked. Crookshanks gave a slight shake of his head before turning and walking back to the castle. "Alright then." I grumbled and slid down the muddy pathway.

After a ten-minute walk, I entered the Shrieking Shack. I walked into the room we last met. Sirius Black was sitting cross-legged on the bed, staring through the window in front of him. As I walked into the room, I turned back into my human form and paced in front of him. It didn't even dawn on me to draw my wand or that I wasn't afraid to turn my back on the alleged mass murderer.

"What the fuck were you thinking, Black!" I cried out after I ceased my pacing and looked at my biological father. His eyes had averted from the window and looked at me curiously. "Breaking into the castle! Not just the castle but the GRYFFINDOR COMMON ROOM! You've spent twelve years in Azkaban, you should've learned how to be patient! I'm trying to get Scabbers, okay? But Ronald thinks Crooks already ate him because he's missing!"

"How long have you been an Animagus?" He asked calmly.

"What?!" I asked, my eyes nearly bulging out of my sockets.

"How long have you been an Animagus." He repeated slowly, his eyes searching for something.

"About three years now." I said still confused about the question.

"How old are you?"

"Sixteen. What's with the twenty questions?"

"Just curious." He shrugged. He was quiet for a moment before he said. "You were thirteen when you became an Animagus?" He asked surprised and a little impressed, his eyes large.

"Uhm, yeah." I turned around to look out the window.

"Why?"

"Why what?" I asked not turning around.

"Why did you want to become an Animagus, why so young?"

"Why did you?" I asked turning to him with a fixed glare. Sirius Black leaned against the headboard and stretched out his legs in front of him.

"I had my reasons."

"So did I." I mumbled. It didn't escape me how alike we were, but I really, really didn't want to admit that.

"Sorry." He whispered, and my head shot up from the ground to the bed. "I shouldn't have gone in the castle. But I couldn't help myself."

"Obviously." I rolled my eyes.

"When I was in the castle... I heard kids talking." He said slowly. I looked at him and tried to keep a neutral face, afraid of what he might have heard. When I didn't respond, he continued. "I heard that Lupin, Professor Lupin has a daughter who goes to this school."

"He does." I said, trying not to look away because otherwise, he would know I was keeping something from him. "You can ask him when we get Pettigrew. But that won't happen if you break into the castle again."

"I know. I'll stay on the grounds and in the forest." I sat down on one of the old squeaky chairs, my arms leaning on my knees as my head was bent low. "You trust me."

I scoffed, tilting my head just a little to scowl at him. "I believe you, there is a difference."

"Perhaps." A curious look passed through his eyes. "Why do you believe me though?"

"I have my reasons." I shrugged and stood up. "I better get going. Because someone-" I pointedly looked at him. "Broke into the castle, and they tightened security. Even trolls guard the castle now." I turned back to Loki and looked at Sirius Black one last time.

"Being an Animagus comes in handy like that." I saw a ghost of a smile before he turned to look at the window again. With a deep breath, I trotted back out of the room, following the wooden floors out of the shack.

The first time I joined the seventh years for Potions in January, I received a few dirty looks. But in the first class, I made the perfect Wolfsbane, and though some reluctantly, they accepted me. I was happy that Wolfsbane was the first because I've been brewing it for years now. At the end of the class, Snape gave me a subtle nod, that I could take the potion with me for Remus.

I was now working on Veritaserum. If I'm successful, I highly doubt that Professor Snape would let me keep this, shame. I had stirred it four times, before lowering the fire underneath and let it stew for a bit. I started cleaning up my station and putting the leftovers in the designated box. With a potion brewing for at least fifteen minutes and my station cleaned, I looked around the room. The seventh-year NEWT level class was small. Three Slytherins, two Gryffindors, two Ravenclaws, three Hufflepuffs, and well, me. Eleven in total, and because I only joined in the second half of the year, everyone was already paired up. Not that I minded, I loved working alone on my potions, I preferred an empty room, but hey, you can't have it all. I hopped on my stool and opened my book to see the next steps.

"Miss Lupin-Black." Snape's bored voice came from in front of me. I looked up from my book, to see him standing there with a few pieces of parchment in his hands. "If you pass your NEWTs, you still have two years in Hogwarts left. During a meeting with the other professors, they suggested you might be interested in an apprenticeship. Look over the information and get back to me before May."

I opened my mouth to reply, but before a single syllable fell out, Snape had turned and sat back at his desk. Looking like this didn't just happen. I looked at the parchments he left on my desk, and I rolled them up and placed them in my bag to look over later. Ten minutes later, I added six drops of water from Loch Lomond before putting my potion on statis. I put the lid on it and put a few charms on it so that no one could mess with it and placed it on the top shelf of the cupboard. When I came back to my desk, I wanted to start summarizing our potion for next week, when a seventh year whispered my name.

"Lupin-Black." I turned to look at the Ravenclaw boy. He had long black hair, that was tied up in a low ponytail. He looked from Snape to me. "My potion is green. I don't know what I did wrong." He whispered.

I hid the smile that wanted to creep up, and with a quick glance at Snape, who was busy grading essays, I turned back to Azen. "Too many frog legs. Add six strings of Valarian root to counter it."

The boy did what I told him without any hesitation. When the green turned to a colourless liquid, he grinned at me. "Brilliant! Thanks, Alec."

"No problem." I mouthed as I saw Snape stand from his desk and walk over to inspect the potions. Snape stopped to look at Azen's potion. He looked carefully into the potion before looking up at Azen and then at me. He knew. He knew that I helped him, I was sure of it. But he didn't say anything. He gave Azen a nod before looking to the others. Even with my back to the boy, I could hear him let out a breath of relief. I smiled as I put my attention back on my book.

I was sitting in the library with Harry helping him with potions when Draco walked in alone. It wasn't much of a shock to me anymore, seeing him alone, or just with Blaise and Theo. He had left his bodyguards behind ever since Christmas break. When he saw me sitting at the table, he came over with a smile. But it faltered when he saw Harry sitting across from me, a scowl taking its place. He walked past us and sat down at the table a little further away. Harry didn't notice Draco arrive as he was frowning at his potions essay.

"How's it going?" I asked, looking from Draco to Harry.

"Miserably." He muttered as he looked up. "What?" He asked as I frowned myself.

"'S nothing. I promised Draco that I would help him too." I said, nudging my head to the blond.

"Oh." His scowl was back in place. "I'll let you to it then, Hermione can help me finish this."

"No, Harry. Why don't we ask Draco to join us."

"No." He shook his head. "No way. Buckbeak is most likely to be sentenced to death because of him." He was standing already.

"Harry." I touched his hand softly. "He's not the same boy anymore. He tried to ask his father to stop the trial, but he wouldn't listen. He's trying, slowly and with ups and downs, but he is trying."

"I don't know." He frowned as he risked a glance over his shoulder.

"I'll be here. I won't let you two alone."

"Fine." He flopped back down on his chair and turned his attention back to the essay.

"Draco." I whispered. The young Slytherin looked up from his own potions book. "Come here."

"Why?" He whispered back. I rolled my eyes at him and gestured him over. I saw him huff as he packed up his things and walked over.

"Sit down." I patted the chair next to me. Draco's grey eyes, which matched mine, went comically large as he looked from me to Harry. "I need to help you both, it's easier if we're sitting together."

"I- ugh- fine." He dropped into the chair next to me and placed his book in front of him. I smiled to myself as I knew both would have thought that Hell would freeze over before they would study together. But here we are, the three of us sitting together to study. An unlikely trio: The golden boy, his arch nemeses from their first year here, and the daughter of the alleged mass murderer, Sirius Black. I wouldn't lie, we did get some curious glances shot towards us. Curious was putting it mildly, to be honest. The three of us knew, that by this time tomorrow, the word had spread. Even though we were an unlikely trio, it shocked the kids the most that Harry and Draco were sitting at the same table without wands drawn. Everyone knew, Harry and I got along, and that Draco and I were cousins. But still, I was in my happy place as I was seated with them at the little table in the library. Because both of them were my family. Draco is my blood, Harry by uncles, best friends, godfathers and whatever.

We studied together for almost two hours. It went better than I thought. Yes, Draco snorted at some of Harry's questions as if Harry was the biggest idiot in school. And I had to remind him that Harry didn't grow up with an uncle that taught him potions before school, or the fact that his uncle was picking on Harry every chance he got. Harry's grin went wide, as Draco mumbled something incoherent as he tried to push back a blush.  

Chapter Text

Draco hadn't spoken up at Buckbeak's trial. He had tried to reason with his father again, but that evil git Lucius had smacked him on the jaw with his cane, leaving a large bruise. I was surprised it wasn't broken with how it looked. The Hippogriff was sentenced to death. I was walking out as Loki, trying to search for Scabbers when I heard Draco laugh. Oh no! That's his pretentious and evil laugh. I thought to myself, and when I rounded the large stones on the field, I saw him standing with Crabbe and Goyle. Damn it! I thought he had cut loose from them.

" Look at him blubber!" Draco's taunted, his dumb bodyguards snickered. "Have you ever seen something so pathetic!"

From my position, I saw Hermione walk towards Draco, her eyes glaring at my cousin and then. SMACK! She had punched him on the nose, hard! My mouth dropped open, but then I closed it again. He had it coming. I knew Draco was being questioned by his fellow Slytherins due to him studying with Potter in the library. The Slytherins didn't care that I was there too, just Harry. They only saw Harry. Two rivals sitting together amicably. And I knew he was going to try to save his reputation. I saw the three Slytherins run away, and I heard Hermione say.

"That felt good."

Ron and Harry came into view as they stepped up next to Hermione. Harry checked on her hand before his gaze flickered to me. Harry opened his mouth to say something to Ron and Hermione, and he turned to them for a second. By the time he looked back, I was already gone. Harry tried to spot me in the grass but no such luck. Ron and Hermione looked from each other to Harry curiously.

"Let's get to class." He shook his head, and the three walked back inside the castle.

The Easter holidays weren't for relaxing. It was hours and hours of studying. I tried to divide my time between the Gryffindor common room, the Slytherin common room, or neutral ground like the library. Safe to say, Harry and Draco had not studied together since that fateful day. The night that Hermione had punched Draco, I walked into the common room with Emmett and sat down next to Draco with a smirk worthy of a Slytherin.

"You're getting too good at that." Draco said, pointing at my smirk. I shrugged as I looked at the two bruises on his face. "I presume you know what happened? Weasley babbled, didn't he?"

"I wouldn't know. I had front-row seats, actually." I bit the inside of my cheek to stop the laughter that bubbled up. "You deserved this one, you know." I said pointing to his nose.

"I know." He sighed, leaning back against the couch as he closed his eyes.

"I have bruise paste. I can take care of your jaw, but I don't think you deserve it for your nose."

"I'm sorry, okay." He groaned.

"Are you really?" I asked, and Draco lifted his head to look at me. He looked around and saw that we were alone. Emmett was getting his books from his dorm.

"I am. It's just with my father, and the gossip about studying in close proximity to Potter."

"I know. But you shouldn't care what people say about who you hang out with. Your father." I sighed. "That's a different story, but you shouldn't stoop to his level." I grabbed the bruising paste from my bag and handed it over just as Emmett appeared back in the common room.

"Thank you." Draco gave a small but honest smile.

It was the end of easter break and I was sitting in the tower late that night. Hermione was sitting to my right at a table filled with books. I patted the twins' legs, who were situated on either side of me and walked towards the younger girl.

"Hey, Hermione." My voice was soft because I've seen how she can react when you interrupt her.

"Oh, hey Alec." She rubbed her eyes. "I'm sorry, I don't really have to time to-"

"'S okay." I said as I sat down across from her. "I know you help Ron and Harry a lot. But sometimes you need to learn to ask for help too. Give me potions and DADA. I'll go over them first. Those are my best subjects." I winked at her. First, it looked like she was about to protest before she let out a breath of relief, and a grateful smile appeared on her lips. She handed over the parchments and I took the quill from my hair and started to read them over. Half an hour later, I had checked on her potions, DADA and transfiguration essays. I looked up to see the heavy bags under her eyes. "Go to bed, Hermione."

"No, I need to finish-"

"No, you need sleep. Without sleep, nothing is going to stick up there." I chuckled as I pointed at her head. "Come find me in the library after dinner, I'll go over your other things, and we can study together."

"Don't you have your own OWL's to study for?" She asked as she started pushing her books in her bag.

"I do, but I'll manage." I winked at her. I stood up with her and placed my hands on her shoulder. "Meet me there, yeah?"

"Yeah." She nodded and stepped past me. Before she went up the stairs, she looked over her shoulder. "Thanks, Alec."

"Sleep well, Hermione." I smiled at the bushy-haired girl.

When she had gone up the stairs, I dropped back between the twins and let my head fall in George's lap, yawning.

"That was nice of you." George said, tucking a strand of hair behind my ear. He had been doing that a lot. It was something that he didn't do with other girls. Was this his way of showing he liked me, liked me?

"She's overexerting herself. She's going to burn out, if she doesn't take a break."

"Sounds like someone I know." Fred said and he patted his lap with a grin. "Feet up."

"Uhm, I don't think your girlfriend would appreciate that." I said looking over the back of the couch. The twins followed my gaze until they saw the girl in the back of the common room glaring at us.

"Not my girlfriend. She wanted it though." He shrugged and pulled my feet up onto his lap without asking again.

"Why not? She seems nice if she'd stop glaring." I smiled as George chuckled.

"Not my type." He shrugged. Fred was lazily rubbing his thumb on my calf while George was stroking his fingers through my hair, the combination of the two was lulling me to sleep.

"I need to get back." I said sleepily, not even sounding remotely convincing. I looked up to see George. His eyes were already on me with a sweet smile on his lips.

"Just rest for a bit. We'll wake you up later."

"Are you sure? Do I need to move?"

"Don't you dare!" The twins said in unison. "We're comfortable right here." George said softly, still stroking my hair.

"Okay." My voice was barely a whisper as my eyes closed. I snuggled into George's chest and fell asleep with George's hand in my hair and Fred's hand on my ankle, still rubbing circles on my calf slowly.

The twins' birthday was something to behold. The day was filled with good-natured pranks and foolishness. Even I, who had been spared so far, wasn't so lucky on April 1st. It was something sweet really. Just some conjured-up birds, who followed me around for the day. And when I began to get a headache, I cast a silencing charm around the birds. But that didn't work, of course not, we're speaking of the twins. I put a Muffliato charm around me, but I saw that the birds were starting to bother the other students. With a quick Expulso the blue feathered birds blew up, falling silent at last. The class cheered when the silence returned. But at the end of the day, the twins pouted that I blew up their little birds.

The night before the final quidditch match, I sneaked out of the chambers. Remus was snoring slightly in his own bedroom as I turned into Loki and headed out of the room. When I reached the front doors, Crookshanks came bounding down the stairs, and the two of us walked outside into the night. We walked over the empty, dark grounds. It was silent, not even a slight brush of wind to rattle the leaves on the trees. We walked over to the edge of the forest and sat down. My eyes searched between the dark trees, a shadow here and there before a large black shadow walked out from the forest. Padfoot, the large black dog, towered over me and Crookshanks. With one last look behind me, I followed the pair into the woods.

"Where are we going?" I hissed at Black.

"To my hideout."

"I thought you were hiding out in the Shrieking Shack."

The black dog shook his head. "Only when I meet you."

"So, why the forest now?" I asked and Black suddenly stopped in front of me. He stared behind me, and I turned to look. Black floating cloaks were flying over the castle grounds, even from here you could see more and more coming. "Let's go then."

By the time we reached his hideout, the sun was already starting to set. Black's hideout was just a large hollow tree. The tree was big enough to fit five adult men, and I was about to turn when Black stopped me with a growl. I looked up to him.

"No, too many dementors nearby." His voice raspy and I nodded. I had an invisible bag slung around my waist and I tossed it over with my mouth, letting food fall to the sand. Black's eyes shot up from the food to me. "You brought me something to eat?"

"Have you looked at yourself? You need it." I said as I went to stand guard at the entrance. "Eat, then we'll discuss." I could feel Sirius Black's eyes on me before I heard him munch on the food I snuck out of the castle. "It's the final today." I said as I saw the sunrise.

"Does Harry play?"

"Like you don't know." I snorted and adjusted my stance so I could watch Black and the entrance. Crookshanks trotted over and sat between my front paws. "I know you sent the firebolt."

"How?" He asked just before he bit into an apple.

"I just do." I turned to look outside. "He's a seeker, pretty good one too."

"Just like his dad." His voice was proud with a tinge of sadness. I didn't look at him, I couldn't. I now knew he wasn't a murderer, but he still left my mum, he left me. It looked like he only cared for Harry. I felt his stare on me again as I looked over to the forest that was starting to wake. The silence was deafening, only the sound of Black eating filled the hollow of the tree. "I'm still curious why you decided to help me."

"Me too." I said quietly as I saw something move in the forest. I shuffled back further in the tree as a dementor past me, sending a slight shiver over me. When I was sure the dementor was gone I turned back to him. "He's gone. I didn't feel like I normally would, meeting a dementor."

"It's because of your Animagus form." I frowned, not quite understanding. "That's how I escaped Azkaban. Dementors feed on your emotions and feelings, and when you're in your Animagus form they are not so complex as in your human form. So, the influence of a dementor is weaker."

I didn't say anything as I took in this new information. Was that why Oscar wanted me to turn into Loki on the train? I turned back to Black. "How did you know that Pettigrew was at Hogwarts?"

"I recognized him in the paper. The Weasley family went to Egypt when they won money from Galleon drawn. The young boy, Ron, was holding him in the picture. That was when I knew where to find him." The silence filled the tree again. "How is Professor Lupin doing?"

"Why do you keep asking about him?" I shot him a glare.

"He was one of my best friends." His said looking to the ground.

"He's a good teacher." I said without giving him anything more.

"And?"

"What, and?" I snapped. "He's my teacher, I don't know him. I'm not even sure I should talk about Harry."

"Why not? He is my godson."

I held back a scoff. "You may not be a mass murderer, but that doesn't mean you're a good guy."

"What gives you the expression that I'm a bad guy?" He asked a little shocked, but I didn't look at him. I looked down at Crookshanks, who was zigzagging between my paws.

My first reaction was to say, my mum. But I held back. "Does the name Severus Snape ring a bell?"

"I don't know what you heard-"

"I heard enough. And no, not only Snape's side." I added quickly. "Was there another specific reason you wanted to meet, because I want to be back in the castle before the celebrations."

"A plan for Wormtail."

"That's hard since he's still missing. I thought I could find him by smell, but I didn't have anything to use. I haven't had the opportunity to go up the boys' dormitories."

Padfoot barked out a laugh, and I looked at him with a white raised eyebrow. "You can get in the boys' dorms without even trying. Any guy would go up with you." I was a bit cringeworthy to hear him say that, about his daughter, but he didn't know who I was, did he? If he'd ever found out, I would like to see the look on his face when he thinks back to this moment.

"Be that as it may. I'm seeing someone. Not a Gryffindor." I added.

"A Hufflepuff? No? A Ravenclaw." I stayed silent. "No!" He laughed. "You're seeing a Slytherin! What do your friends say about it?"

"They know I'm not one for putting people in boxes. They don't spend time together, but they're happy for me."

"Never took you for one to go into a snake's lair."

"As you don't know me, I'm not really bothered by it."

He was silent for a minute, taking me in again. Then suddenly. "What's that?" He asked, nudging his snout to my leg. I frowned as I looked down at the paw he was looking at. In the middle of my front paw, I saw that my tattoo was inked in my white fur. The black lines of the heart are obvious for me, but not for someone else. Huh.

"Must be dirt from walking around the forest. And since we have no plan -" I said, turning to leave.

"Wait." I turned to see Padfoot pick something up with his snout and threw a piece of blanket my way. "Pettigrew slept on this; I can smell him." He growled at the blanket. "But I can't seem to find a trace of him. I don't know why. Maybe you have more luck being a wolf."

"I'll try." I picked up the blanket and stuffed it in my little satchel. "You. Stay. Here."

"Yes, ma'am." He saluted with his dirty black paw. "Thanks for the food." He said, but I didn't turn around. I walked out of the tree and Crookshanks flanked me on my right, leading me back out of the large forest.   

Chapter Text

By the time I reached the castle, I could hear the singing and chanting coming from the quidditch pitch. I changed back to my human form as I saw the students walking towards the castle. Crookshanks saw the large crowd come closer and ran inside before a stampede would occur. It was obvious who had won. First, the Ravenclaws came in singing, then the Hufflepuffs. If Slytherin had won, they would never be singing. Then the Gryffindors came into view, singing louder than I ever heard them. I saw that the twins were carrying Harry on their shoulders, Harry was holding the cup high in the air, laughing. When Harry found me, he called out for me.

"ALEC!"

I smiled wide as I waved at him. Clumsily he jumped off the twins' shoulders and pressed the cup in Oliver's hands. The twins followed amused as Harry came running over to me. His arms flung around me, hugging me tight. "We won! We won the cup!"

"I know." I laughed. Harry pulled back with a beaming smile before he planted one on me. My eyes were large, but Harry just sang again as he walked back to the team, celebrating. When I saw the twins in front of me, they had an amused but grumbled look on their faces. I couldn't help the laughter that burst out, and the twins joined in. When they were close to me, they pulled me in a twin hug. "Congratulations." I beamed up at them.

"Thank you." They bowed. "You missed quite the show."

I stilled as they straightened back up. "You knew I wasn't there?"

"Of course." They said.

"Where were you?" Fred asked.

"Nott was there, but you weren't."

"I -" I didn't know what to say, I would've never expected them to notice my absence. "I'm sorry, I didn't sleep at all last night. I just slept through my alarm clock. I'm so sorry."

"That's okay." Fred said wrapping his arm around my shoulder, while George grabbed my waist. "If you do us a little favour."

"A favour? Like what?"

"Hm." George hummed in my ear. "We'll think of something."

"Nothing too gross, okay." I chuckled. "And please don't tell Harry." I stepped out from between them. "I got to go see Draco. Party later?"

"What do you think?" Fred huffed with a grin. I smiled at them both and kissed their cheeks before looking for the Slytherins. First, I saw the Slytherin students trickle in slowly and defeated behind the Gryffindors. I stopped the seventh year, Aiden, when I didn't spot Nott or Draco.

"Hey, Aiden. Do you know where Emmett is or Draco?"

"The team is still in the changing rooms, I bet Emmett is there for his brother."

"Okay, thanks." I said before I pushed passed the Slytherins and made my way to the changing rooms. I saw Emmett pacing in front of the entrance of the changing rooms. When his back was to me, I stopped him by wrapping my arms around his waist. "I'm sorry."

He placed his hand on mine. "You know, you're the only Gryffindor I would believe when they say that."

"Good." I smiled against his back. He turned in my grasp and he tilted my chin to give me a soft kiss.

"They're going to be in there for a while." He said looking back to the changing rooms. "Can I talk to you for a minute?"

"Yeah, sure. Everything okay?" I asked as I followed him to the back of the bleachers.

"Depends." He combed his hand through his hair. "I like you, Alec. You're the first Gryffindor I liked. You're funny, sweet, smart and smoking hot." He grinned. "And the sex." He blew out a whistle.

"Okay." I said slowly. I think he was feeling the same as me, but I wasn't sure, so I waited for him to continue.

"But there is something missing, isn't there?" He asked as he took my hands in his. "That something to make a relationship work."

I looked at him and started to laugh, my head falling against his chest. Emmett looked surprised and confused down at me. "I feel the same." I said when my laughter died down. "I don't know what exactly there is missing, but something just is. On paper, we would match perfectly. Like you said, we like each other, you are smart and witty, and the sex is amazing. But after four months there has to be something more right, like love? Or at least really falling for each other."

"You are amazing, you know that."

"I know." I chuckled and he kissed me again, pushing me against the bleachers.

"I have to admit, I will miss this."

"Maybe you shouldn't." I looked up to him. "We can keep this casual, and the moment there is someone else, we stop. We've been together for four months without any real feelings for each other. I think we could do it."

"I like the way you think, Alec." He purred my name, hitched his hands under my legs and picked me up. Our tongues danced around each other, as my hand went into his hair. He started kissing my neck, nipping and sucking it hard. I let my head fall to the side, and that's when I noticed that the door from the changing rooms had opened.

"Emmett." I moaned his name as he sucked on a sensitive spot. "The team is walking out." He lowered my legs slowly and groaned against my neck.

"Right. Let's go." He said as he adjusted his trousers. I laughed at his strained situation, and we walked to the grim team. Emmett clapped his brother on his back, while I turned to look for Draco. When my eyes found Theo, he nodded to the changing room. I gave him a small smile before I headed in.

Just like with muggles, each player had his own open cupboard where their clothes, protection and brooms were hanging in. Draco was sitting on the floor, his back against the bench, his head dropped low. I slid down next to him, and we sat in silence for a few minutes.

"I'm a failure." He said, his voice barely audible.

"No, you're not." I wrapped my arm around his shoulder and pulled him close. "Don't you ever think that. Potter is just -"

"Better than me." He mumbled.

"He has a firebolt." I pointed out. "And you know, you're too big." Draco lifted his head, and he looked at me with a funny expression, making me chuckle. "I mean, seekers are supposed to be small, and light." I pinched his arm. "You're getting too tall and broad, cousin."

"I guess I can take that as a compliment." He said with a small smile.

"You should. Every girl or boy is going to fall for you. With those arms and your gorgeous stormy grey eyes."

"Are you saying that to give yourself a compliment?" He chuckled.

"What? Are my arms that big?" I flexed my arms, and I could see the first real smile appear on his lips. "Come on, let's get you something to drown your sorrows in." I nudged him. Draco stood up and took my hands in his, to pull me up. "I've got some fire whiskey stashed in my room.

"Don't you want to celebrate with your friends?" He asked as we walked out of the changing room. The other Slytherins were gone, probably already drinking the defeat away themselves.

"I'll meet them a little later. I'm sure the party is going to last until well into the night. Now, my cousin needs me."

"You're the best cousin I've ever had."

"You don't have many cousins to choose from." I chuckled. "And would you still feel the same, if I didn't give you booze?"

"Depends on the day." He joked and ducked just in time when my hand flew to his head. He laughed as he ran over the pitch, me on his heels.

After an hour of drinking in my chambers, Draco was going over the books in our bookcase curiously when Remus walked in. His eyes were fixed on me, angry. I gulped a little as I jumped up. That's when he noticed Draco standing at the bookcase.

"Draco, you played well today." His eyes softened as he walked to the young boy and shook his hand.

"Thank you, professor." He looked between Remus and me, before stepping aside. "I should get going. Thanks for cheering me up, Alexandra."

"Any time, cousin." I kissed his cheek and slipped the rest of the bottle of fire whiskey in his robes. He grinned at me and with a nod to Remus, he walked out the door. I turn to see Remus leaning against his desk, scowling. "So, the drinking or staying out all night?" I asked leaning against the wall.

"Both."

"Draco just lost the quidditch cup, he said he was a failure, Uncle Moony." I rubbed my eyes tiredly; it's been a long day/night. "All because of his stupid father, he thinks he's a failure if things don't come through. I tried to cheer him up."

"Okay." He gave a short nod.

"And I went out last night to explore the... forest." I think I could feel the daggers pierce my skin when he looked at me like that. "As Loki. And I got a little lost and stayed at a hideout until it was light out."

"Why didn't you send a Patronus?"

"Then I needed to change back, and there were tons of dementors in the forest. By the time they left, I had fallen asleep." I rubbed my arm subconsciously. "Oh, that reminds me. Look." I turned into Loki on the spot and held out my paw. Remus pushed himself off the couch and crouched down, inspecting my paw. His eyes turned a bit larger when he recognized the mark. He stepped back to let me transform back. "A bit like McGonagall and her spectacles."

"Yeah." He nodded. "But will this happen with every tattoo you get? Because Sir-" He stopped himself from talking as he looked anywhere but me.

"I'll go to my room." I said.

"Why?"

"Aren't I grounded?"

"Hm, no." He said with pursed lips. "I can't ground you in a school where nobody gets grounded, that seems unfair. You can do three nights of detention."

"Doing what?"

"I'll think of something."

I smiled as I flung my arms around his waist. "You're the best."

"Wait until you know what your detention is." He joked. "Go to the party, cub."

"I love you." I kissed his cheek.

"I love you too, now go. If it gets too late and you decide to stay with Angelina, send me a message."

"I promise."

The party was already in full swing when I arrived. The moment the portrait opened the music echoed loudly in the hallway. I quickly walked in and closed the portrait behind me, enclosing the music in the common room. The last first and second years were guided up the dorms as it was nearly ten-thirty when I arrived. I saw Harry talking to Ron and when he saw me enter, he blushed fiercely. I just smiled at him before my eyes went around the room. The next person they halted on was Hermione. She was tucked in the corner, her head on the table as she slept. I walked towards her and nudged her awake. When she lifted her head, I saw a glimpse of a golden necklace around her neck. I shifted my eyes and looked at her droopy eyes.

"Let's get you upstairs, sleepyhead." I wrapped an arm around her waist and hauled her up. Slow steps as we walked up the spiral staircase. Once we reached the third landing, Hermione pointed to the first door, and I opened it. Hermione stumbled to her bed and crashed on it, already asleep. I chuckled as I pulled off her shoes. Then I swapped her casual muggle clothes with a pair of pyjamas with a wave of my wand. I tucked her in, placing the blanket just under her chin and kissed the top of her bushy hair. "Goodnight, Granger." She snored slightly by the time I left the room and headed back to the party.

Chapter Text

When I stepped off the last step from the staircase of the girls’ dormitory, I bumped into someone. One of the chasers of the Gryffindor team stopped and looked at me. “Hey, Alicia. Congratulations.”  

“Thanks, Alec.” She smiled as she swayed on her legs.   

“You okay?” I chuckled, my hands coming up just in case she goes stumbling down. Not that we had become close friends, but we were friendly towards each other.  

“Uhu, I just needed a little liquid courage.”  

“For?” I asked, but she just grinned and stumbled over to the other side of the room. She pulled on Fred’s shirt to make him turn around. Fred turned away from Lee to see who it was. He smiled at her, and that was apparently all the encouragement she needed. Alicia lunged forward, crashing her lips against Fred’s, her hands coming around his neck. Fred who was shocked for a moment, wrapped his arms around her waist and pulled her closer. From the moment I met the twins, I encouraged them to have some fun, but now seeing him kiss with so much intend, it made something in me clench together.  

I felt an arm coming around my waist. I looked up sideways to see George standing there, again with a frown in place as he looked at his twin.   

“Didn’t expect that.” I gave a dry chuckle. I saw the girl Fred had been kissing at the previous party glare at Alicia and Fred.  

“Me neither.” He scrunched up his nose, before looking at me with a lopsided grin. “Wanna dance?”  

“With you? Always.” George eyes sparkled as he pulled me to where the others were dancing. It wasn’t a slow dance now. George had one hand of mine in his as he twirled and twisted me around the room. I couldn’t help but laugh loudly at his antics. I was getting out of breath after a few songs, so I was happy when the music turned to a slow one. I wrapped my arms around his neck while his came around my waist.  

“So, you guys already know the favour?” I asked. When George frowned in confusion, I leaned up and whispered in his ear. “For missing the game.”  

“Well, we had.”  

“Had?”  

“We wanted -” He said as his bit his lower lip, which was kind of cute. No, stop thinking like that. I smacked myself internally on the head. George glanced to his brother, who was dragging a tipsy Alicia up to his room. He looked back at me. “To get a kiss from you.”  

“A kiss?”  

George looked at his feet, as he shuffled nervously. “Yeah, a kiss.”  

“What kind of kiss?”   

“Not a peck on the cheek, that’s for sure.” He chuckled dryly. “But we would never ask you to cheat on Nott. And besides, Fred seemed to have other plans.”  

“Why a kiss though?” I asked. “So many things you could ask for.”  

“Curiosity?” He offered, but I knew it wasn’t that, but I didn’t press the matter as he looked a little nervous.  

“Hm, okay.” I nodded before looking back up at him. “If you still want a kiss at the end of the party, then come find me. Fred didn’t look like he wanted a kiss as a favour.”   

“Believe me, I’ll find you.” He winked. I blushed a little and avoided his eyes, I could see the Weasley smirk in place in the corner of my eyes. The music changed again, and suddenly I was being pulled out of George’s arms by Angelina.   

“Sorry!” I called over the music and looked over my shoulder to see George was laughing.  

“My turn.” Angelina pursed her lips at George before dancing extravagantly with me.  

It was one-thirty at night, and the party was finally dwindling down. I had a few drinks that night but wasn’t drunk, not even tipsy. I was laughing at Ron who was trying to get up the stairs to his bed for the last five minutes. Harry came to stand next to me, a little buzzed himself.  

“I should probably go help him, or he’ll fall asleep right there.”  

“That’s a real possibility.” I chuckled.  

“I’m sorry I kissed you.”  

I looked away from the stumbling red head on the stairs to Harry. “Are you?” I asked with a lopsided grin.  

“No.” He looked down blushing. “If I’m honest, I’m a bit confused myself. I’ve had a crush on you since the start of the school year. But then there are other feelings.” He frowned a little.  

“First, you don’t have to apologize. You were celebrating.” I nudged him with a chuckle. “Second, you’re thirteen, you have lots of time to figure out what or who you want.”  

“What if I don’t know if I want a girl or a boy?”  

That statement took me by surprise, but I hid it quickly as I saw his head turning towards me. “You’ll figure it out. No rush. As long as your happy, I’m happy. You’re like my family.”  

“I like having a family who wants me.” He said barely audible. My heart broke at that statement. “Please don’t tell anyone about this.” He mumbled, looking down at his feet.  

“My lips are sealed. And if you ever want to talk, just come find me, cousin.” I laughed as he scrunched up his nose, because the word cousin probably reminded him of Draco. “Off to bed now, Harry.”  

“Night, Alec. Thanks for everything.” I kissed the top of his head before I pushed him towards the staircase where his best friend was already sleeping on. I laughed as Harry tried to wake up the sleeping boy, and when he finally succeeded, he supported him as they climbed the stairs.   

I looked around the room and saw that the seventh- and sixth-year prefects were starting to clean up. Angelina and Lee were huddled together on an armchair as George sat on the couch. With a wave of my wand, I helped the others clean up. They said I didn’t need to, but I waved them away, and within minutes we had cleaned up the entire common room. The prefects thanked me and bid me goodnight as they climbed the stairs. I dropped down tiredly next to George. George who had his arm around the back of the couch, wrapped it around my shoulder and pulled me close, my head resting against his shoulder. I kicked off my boots and tucked my feet under me and made myself comfortable.  

“So, what are you going to do?” Lee asked George. My eyes already feeling heavy as they talked.  

“Don’t know yet. Probably wait a little, see if she comes down or not. You?”  

“I’ll stay with Ange tonight. We’ll close the curtain and put on a few charms for... privacy.”  

Even in my tired state, my eyes already dropping to close, I chuckled. I was fully aware that George was starting to rub circles on my waist softly, it felt nice .  

“I think someone is tired.” I heard Lee chuckle. “How is she going to get back?”  

“If I knew that Alicia would stay out all night.” My stomach clenched, but I didn’t let it show. “She could stay in our room, or in my bed, but with Lee...”  

“I’ll take care of her.” George warm and soft voice vibrated through his chest.   

“I’m sure you will.” Lee snickered, and I heard Angelina punch his arm. “Aren’t you afraid of Nott’s wrath, if he finds out that she stayed in the tower?”  

“No.” His answer short, but sure. “You two go ahead. It’s getting late.”  

“Are you sure?” I heard Angelina ask as she stood up. I felt his body move as he nodded, he never stopped tracing circles on my waist.  

“Night.”  

“Night, George.”   

After their footsteps receded, I felt George move a little. I heard his shoes fall to the floor, and I heard him mutter something under his breath and felt the couch move. “George?”  

“It’s okay. Just enlarging the couch.” I felt him move and he laid down on the couch, he pulled me close against him. My head found a resting place on his chest, feeling his chest heave up and down, and the fast heartbeat under his shirt.  

“Oh, I need to send a message to my uncle.” I said as I barely lifted my head from his chest.   

“Let me do it.” He whispered in my hair. I smiled as I rested my head back on his chest.  

“How?”   

“Fire message.” He said as he conjured a piece of paper. “Sleeping over at the tower, see you tomorrow. Alec.” He said as he wrote it down, I nodded that it was okay and with a wave of his wand the paper disappeared.   

“Need to teach me.” I murmured.  

“Tomorrow, okay?” He chuckled as he kissed the top of my head. I looked up from his chest his eyes already on me. His hazel eyes were kind, and normally full of mirth. But now they were just kind, warm and a bit tired.   

I cupped his cheek with one hand, and I saw his eyes flicker between my eyes and my lips. I leaned up and kissed him. The kiss at first was fairly innocent, but his grip became tighter, and he pulled me closer. The pressure of our lips became more intense, and soon our lips parted, and our tongues danced with each other. When I became lightheaded and George moaned in my mouth, we parted, both breathing heavy. “What was that for?” He asked breathlessly, which sounded like music in my ears.  

“A favour.” I winked, and George chuckled as he traced circles on my waist again. I let my head rest on his chest again, his heart beating even faster now. Before I knew it, I had fallen asleep.  

By the time we woke up, a lot of students had passed us and had seen us sleeping together on the couch. George was lying slightly on his side; my head lay on his shoulder. His arm wrapped underneath my head, while the other held me close around my waist. Our legs were intertwined, while my hand rested over his heart. When I heard a few young girls giggle, I woke up and I lifted my head to look up to a still sleeping George. I smiled as I whispered. “George, wake-up.”  

I grinned as his grip on my tightened, pulling me even closer, if possible. “Not yet, Alec.” I was happy to note he knew who he was curled up with. Not that he was drunk yesterday, but still. I hid my face in his chest and chuckled.   

“People are gossiping already.”  

“Let them gossip.” He murmured in my hair.  

“You know we’re lying in the common room, right?” I said, resting my chin on his chest to look at him. George eyes opened quickly; he looked around the common room before his eyes landed on me.  

“Like I said, let them gossip.” He closed his eyes again, a smile resting on his lips.  

“No matter how nice this is, I better get back to my chambers, take a shower and change my clothes.” I pushed myself a little straighter. “Do you think the others are awake yet?” I asked, and once again his eyes shot open.  

“They are.” I looked to see Hermione walk back in the common room. “Fred, Lee and Angelina are already downstairs.”  

“They saw us?” George squeaked a little.  

“Everyone saw you.” Hermione chuckled before she turned to me. “Thanks for getting my into bed.”  

“Better asleep in your bed than on a hard table.” I smiled as I sat up straight, pulling George with me. Hermione smiled again before she headed up the stairs. “Meet me in front of the great hall?” I asked to George. “In twenty minutes?”  

“Yeah, okay.” He rubbed his eyes tiredly. I kissed his cheek before I stood up and walked out the common room.  

After a quick shower and a change of clothes, I headed to the great hall. When the large doors came into view, I saw George pacing in front of them. With a small scowl, I walked closer to him.  

“George? What’s wrong?” I asked as I tilted my head. My hand went to rest on his upper arm to stop him from pacing.  

“Nothing, nothing.” He said looking inside the great hall before he looked back to me. “I was just waiting for you.”  

“Alright.” I frowned a little. “Can we go in then? I’m starving.” I groaned and George chuckled.   

“Yeah, let’s go.” He wrapped his arm around my shoulders and guided me towards the great hall. Just as we were about to step in, he let his arm drop to his side. I looked up to George, again with a frown at his weird behaviour. The twins were never shy from touching or showing affection, so for George to drop his arm so suddenly was weird. I looked to the table and saw Angelina waving us over. Lee and Angelina were sitting across from Fred and Alicia. Alicia was clinging to Fred’s arm, like he would float away if she let go. We walked over to them, and George guided me to sit next to Angelina, his hand lingering on the small of my back.   

“Morning.” I said as I sat down, George took the seat next to me. My eyes went from Angelina and Lee to Fred and Alicia. Fred had a weird look on his face as his eyes flickered from me to his twin. I cleared my throat as I looked to Angelina.   

“Hello, snuggle buddies.” Lee snickered. George blushed a little, while I rolled my eyes at him, feeling my cheeks heat up themselves.  

“So, -” I started, changing the conversation. “A Hogsmeade weekend is coming up, are you two planning on going together or can I come with?”  

Angelina lowered her spoon full of cornflakes. “Aren’t you going with Nott?”  

“I’m not.” I said, looking at my plate as I filled it. I felt George move to look at me better, and I dared a glance at him. His eyes were soft and confused when he looked at me. In the corner of my eye, I saw Fred’s eyes on me too. “We kinda broke up yesterday.”    

“What!?” Angelina cried out behind me. I turned slowly to look at her, and when I moved, I saw several students look in our direction.  

“Shh.” I hushed her. “I don’t need to whole castle to know and start gossiping.”  

“Sorry.” She muttered, looking a little ashamed. “What happened?”  

“Nothing, really.” I shrugged. “He’s a great guy and we have fun.” Angelina wiggled her eyes at that, and I nudged her with a chuckle. “We like each other, but we don't like, like each other, you know.”  

“I’m sorry.” Angelina rubbed her hand over my back.  

“It was mutual, and we decided to keep it casual.”  

“Casual?” I looked up when Fred spoke, his voice contorted. Fred’s gaze on me felt like a bucket of ice had thrown over me.   

“I - yeah.” Turning my head to George. “Until one or both of us interest shifts.” George, who had a funny look himself, started to smile wide, making my heart flutter. “So.” I turned to Angelina. “Can I come?”  

“That would be great.” Angelina beamed.  

“We can make it a group thing.” Lee said excitedly, clapping his hands together. “George?”  

“I’m in.” He grinned.  

“Fred?”   

“Oh, no.” Alicia shook her head, answering in his place. “Fred and I are going on our first date.”  

Angelina and Lee looked surprised at that but shrugged. “Alright, the four of us then.” Lee smiled. When I started on my breakfast, I saw George glare at his twin from the corner of my eye. When I looked up, I saw Fred’s eyes still on me, unreadable. George turned my attention back to him as he started telling us that we should go to Zonko’s first. No surprise there.  

Chapter Text

As the exams came closer, the more time I spent with Remus in my chambers. I studied the best on my own, in complete silence. I used to study like that back in Beauxbatons. I glanced up from my place at my desk to Remus who was going over tons of essays. It was a few days after the full moon, the bags still visible under his eyes. His hair had gotten a bit longer this year, the fringe falling over his eyes. He blew out a breath to shift his hair out of the way, but it fell straight back. I grinned to myself before I looked back to my Transfiguration book.

"Are you meeting your friends today? It's been a while." I looked up when he spoke, but he was still focused on the papers in front of him.

"No, I've still got a ton of work to do." I said, looking back down. Even though I prefer to study alone, I studied with Hermione and Harry from time to time. I tried to study with Ron there, but that was nearly impossible. He never sat still or shut up. I just couldn't concentrate. Draco was a great study partner too; he was exceptionally bright and was gifted at Potions. I tried to study with Angelina and the rest, but seeing Fred with a giggling, clingy Alicia didn't make it easy. George seemed to glare at his brother most of the time anyway, it just felt awkward.

I felt Uncle Moony's eyes on me as I highlighted a sentence. In the corner of my eye, I saw him open his mouth to say something but was interrupted when a knock came on our door. Our heads simultaneously went to the door in surprise. I saw Remus rise from his seat and walked over to the front. Remus opened the door, and I heard him talk to a person outside before he stepped back, George walked in carrying several books in his arm.

"George?" I asked, a surprised look on my face.

"Hey." He smiled shyly as he walked in, Remus on his heels. "I was wondering if I could study here?"

I looked behind him to Remus, who nodded. "Sure. Uhm." I looked at my full desk with a frown. "Let's sit at the coffee table. Don't think I could fit anyone here." I chuckled.

"I'm meeting with Dumbledore," Remus said as I grabbed my things to move to the coffee table. "I'll be back in a few hours."

"Alright." I nodded as I placed my books on the coffee table/trunk. George had placed his things next to mine and had already sat down on the floor, his back against the couch. I kissed his cheek before he walked out of the room, leaving George and me alone. I sat down next to him, our shoulders touching as I leaned back against the couch. "Why aren't you studying with the others?"

I felt him shrug against me as he looked at the fire in front of us. "It was all too couple-y."

"Is that even a word?" I chuckled and saw him grin.

"It is now." He grinned. "I've missed you the last few weeks."

"I'm sorry. I just dived into my studies. You know I like to study alone."

"It has nothing to do with... the kiss?" He asked with red-tinged ears.

"No, of course not." I looked at him with large eyes. "You're one of my best friends and the kiss was... great." I grinned up at him. "It has nothing to do with you."

"Does it have anything to do with Fred?" His voice was soft, as he looked at the piece of carpet between us.

"No." I shook my head a little. "It is a bit weird seeing him all clingy with Alicia, never thought he was that kind of guy, but hey." I shrugged. "Don't know you guys for that long, do I? But no, it's not because of anyone. I just like my peace and quiet. So, if you want to stay and study, you better be silent." I grinned and he shot me a smile that made my heart stutter. "Right." I said, looking down with a smile and a small blush as I grabbed my Transfiguration book.

George beamed at me as he was the reason a blush had appeared on my cheeks, but I ignored it and focused on my book. George took his own Transfiguration book and we started to work in silence.

A few hours later, I was sitting on the couch, my feet resting in front of me on the coffee table as I read my charms book. George was lying on the couch, his head in my lap as his feet hung over the other side. One hand was holding my book while the other combed softly through his hair. He hummed when my nails went over his scalp.

"That feels good." He murmured. He let his book fall open on his chest as he closed his eyes.

"Getting tired?" I smiled.

"A little." He stifled a yawn and I chuckled.

"I still have a bit of reading to do. Why don't you sleep? I'll wake you when I'm done."

"You're the best, Alec." He smiled as he put his book on the table and made himself more comfortable. I stopped stroking his hair as he shifted in my lap, his nose nuzzled my stomach. "Don't stop." He said as he guided my hand back to his hair. I snickered as I resumed combing my fingers through his hair.

A week later, I left the Slytherin common room after studying with Draco and had a little stress reliever with Nott when I bumped into Fred. It has been a while since the two of us were alone or even just me and the twins. But here we are, alone in the corridor, with no one else in sight. I pulled my skirt straight as I looked at him.

"Uhm, hi."

"Alec." He gasped in surprise. Before I could walk away, he took my hand in his and pulled me into a small alcove.

"Fred, wha-" I started but he placed his hand over my mouth as he looked over his shoulder. I listened to the silence before I heard the shuffling of feet. Filch. I thought. We stood there frozen for a few minutes before Fred finally lowered his hand. "What did you do?"

"I was just setting up a prank when Filch nearly caught me." He said looking back at me. His words stilled as noticed how close we were standing. Our eyes were locked on each other, and his hand came up as he tucked a lock of hair behind my ear. I looked down as I felt a blush rise. "I - It's been a while."

I looked up at him trying to hide a frown. "Yeah, sorry. Studying."

"I get it." He nodded slowly. "You've been studying with George though."

Now the frown became visible on my face. "That's because he doesn't want to see Alicia throw herself at you. What's going on between you and George anyway?"

"Nothing, why?" He said a little surprised.

"Because he's been glaring at you for weeks. Did he like Alicia or something?"

"No." He shook his head with a frown, suddenly he couldn't look at me anymore. "I'll talk to him. We better get going, it's getting late." He said already stepping out of the alcove.

"You go." Fred stopped and turned to look at me. "I'm going to go see if Professor Snape is available, I need to ask something about the exams."

"Do - do you want me to come with?"

"That's okay. You go back to the tower." I gave him a little wave and turned to walk to the other side of the corridor. Fred stood grounded at the spot as he saw me walk away. I felt his eyes on me until I was out of sight.

I was pacing for the last ten minutes. Branches cracked, and leaves crunched under my feet as I paced. I was pacing near a small clearing, surrounded by large trees, so large and big a bird in the sky couldn't even spot us. Once I feared two things, and now those two things surrounded me. First of all, I was in the middle of the Forbidden Forest. Uncle Moony always told me horror stories and what crept around here in the dark, deep woods. But now I was used to the eerie silence, the movements that caught my sight. The second thing was sitting on a large boulder, his feet dangling in a small pond. He was watching me pace, and like he always did when we met, he tried to figure out who I was. Because I still looked familiar to him. HA! But he couldn't place me, yet. He was leaning back, resting on his hands as his eyes searched my face. But I was growing frustrated and picked up a rock and tossed it against a tree.

"He's been gone for months! No one can seem to find him." I turned back to glare at the escaped prisoner. "You know whose fault this is, don't you?"

"Crookshanks?" He offered and I glowered at him.

"You! First for sending Crooks to do it, then breaking into the castle. Not once, but TWICE!" I shouted. I took in a deep breath and tried to control my breathing. "We'll never catch him like this." I dropped to the ground, resting against a large oak tree. "Maybe he's already gone?"

"No." Sirius shook his head. "You said it yourself, you smelled him."

"That was weeks ago, and it was on the grounds. He could be long gone by now. I can't find his trace." I grumbled. Crookshanks walked over and curled himself between my legs. Subconsciously, my hand went down and stroked his head. After my shouting, the forest became dead silent again. You couldn't hear birds or crickets. You couldn't hear the wind blow through the trees. How farther in the forest you went how stiller it becomes. I pushed myself off the ground and dusted off my clothes. "I better get back."

"No, wait." I looked up to see Sirius with a hand in the air. I cocked an eyebrow at him. "I just like talking to someone." His voice was so soft, I almost missed it. If there had been any other sound in the forest, I would have. I closed my eyes as I bent my head down, taking in deep breaths. This is a man who didn't want to know anything about me. Yes, he was falsely imprisoned, but that still didn't change the fact that he left me and mum utterly alone.

"It's not like we really talk." I huffed. It's true after he told me the story about what happened with Pettigrew, he never told me anything else, not that I asked. He tried to pry more out of me about Remus and Harry, but I didn't budge. Just like about the fact that I looked so familiar... "I can't stay." I looked at him and saw his face fall. "I have an exam in two hours, and it's going to take me an hour before I'm out of the forest."

"I'll walk you to the edge of the forest." He said, and before he waited for my response he turned into the shaggy, large, black dog. I rolled my eyes before I turned into Loki. And the three of us started our way out of the forest. When the trees started to become further apart from each other, he asked. "What's your exam?"

"Potions."

"I was never good at potions." He stopped for a moment, and his ears perked up, but after a few seconds, he started walking again. "Is it true that Snape is teaching it?"

"Yeah, he is."

"Must be a treat." He scoffed.

I shrugged after I leapt over a small puddle. "He didn't like me at first, being a Gryffindor and all," I said, leaving a small part out. "But I earned his respect."

"You must be amazing at potions then."

"I am. I'm-" A part of me wanted to tell him about my NEWT but something held me back. In the corner of my eye, I saw Padfoot look at me, waiting for me to continue. "Ah, the castle." I nudged my little white wolf's head towards the edge of the forest. "I'll come by if something new happens." I turned to look at him and found out he was already watching me. "Don't eat all the food at once."

"Don't be a stranger, Alec." He said as he was already retreating in the shadows of the forest. I'm the stranger? How ironic. My eyes were still trained on the spot he had disappeared from. It was only when Crookshanks miaowed and curled between my legs I came out of it.

"Right." I gave a single nod. "Let's go."  

Chapter Text

I had my final exam today, so I was enjoying the summer breeze as I sat at the edge of the lake. I have been sitting here since noon, and my company had changed throughout the day. First were Draco, Blaise and Theo, they came by and sat down with me as they went and studied for their last exam tomorrow. Now that it was public knowledge that Nott and I decided to stay friends, Blaise was even more flirty. Draco and I shared a glance, every time he said something flirtatious, and we had a hard time holding back our laughter.

An hour or so after Draco left, Harry and the others had joined us. Hermione had fallen asleep quickly in the warm sun as the boys talked about Quidditch (what else?) Hermione still had two exams to do, while the boys had only one. But I couldn't bring myself to wake Hermione. Even without Divination, she was still overworked from all the classes she was taking. When she was startled awake from the twins' laughter, she chastised us for not waking her up before the three of them took off towards the castle.

"Hey, you." I smiled as George sat down on my right. Fred took a place in front of us, looking a bit... nervous? They both had switched their robes for muggle shorts that reached their knees and a white tee that accentuated their muscles. "What are you two doing out?"

"Celebrating." George winked with a grin.

"Celebrating?"

"Yup." He popped the P. "We're celebrating the end of our OWLs and..." George glanced over to his twin. "Being two very handsome, single men."

"Both of you?" I looked from George to Fred. Fred who had been unusually quiet the entire time, was looking at me with an unreadable expression and gave a single nod. "I'm sorry."

"Sorry? That's bloody amazing news if I say so myself." George chuckled. "Do you mind if we hang out with you for a bit?" Before I could say anything, George laid down next to me on the grass, his hands propped up underneath his head. Fred shifted, so he was lying down next to George in the exact same position. I looked at both of the boys, who had their eyes closed as they enjoyed the sun. Their hair had grown a little over the year, a slight fringe covered their eyes. The way their arms were propped up, showed off their muscles spectacularly. The tight tees didn't make it any better. Despite what I said at the start of the year, these boys, almost men, were handsome. I could look at those faces for days. Their dark hazel eyes, the freckles scattered across their faces, trickling down to their necks. Their broad, strong chest and arms. I think I was nearly drooling as I looked at the sunbathing boys. Like they knew what I was doing, they both had a smirk on their faces but didn't open their eyes.

"Are you just going to sit there? Or are you going to join us, love?" George asked. I rolled my eyes, closed my book and lay down next to him. "Come here, love." He said, pushing his arm under my head and pulling me over him, so I was lying down between the twins.

"De la Barre, George. Warn a girl." I chuckled. I could feel either twin against me. Seeing that my relationship with George had strengthened over the weeks compared to Fred, I curled myself into George, letting my head rest on his chest. If I would've looked up, I would've seen George's surprised face or the hurt in Fred's eyes. When George wrapped an arm around me, I felt Fred shuffle closer. And I reached my free hand out to his, we clasped our hands together. We lay like that for a while, enjoying the sun until it disappeared behind the mountains making the temperature drop, making us go inside.

It was the night of the last full moon of the school year, and I was packing my bag for the night. Remus was still in a meeting with the other professors and would join me soon. Or at least that was what I thought. An hour later, I was still waiting for him to return. I flipped another page of my book as I waited. The clock chimed again, but still no Remus. After the third chime, I threw my book across the room and started pacing. I thought about sending him a Patronus, but what kind of message would that send if he was just enjoying talking to the other professors.

When the fourth chime went, and the sun was almost gone, I couldn't bear it anymore. I tossed the backpack over my shoulder and headed out of the room. I concentrated on my surroundings, I couldn't hear him, but I could smell him. I followed his scent around the castle until it went out on the grounds. I frowned as I looked at the empty grounds, the sun almost gone behind the mountains. I transfigured my bag until it was small enough for my wolf form, and after a double-check of my surroundings, I transformed into Loki. When I reached the whomping willow, I saw plucks of black and ginger hair under the branches. Black. I grumbled to myself. I walked under the calm tree and descended the tunnel underneath. Remus's scent was strong here, not just by the fact we've been staying here every month, it was strong like he had just walked by. But there were other scents too, familiar ones. When I reached the creaky wooden floors, I heard muffled voices fill the room. Fuck! Who else was here!?

I ran towards the door where the voices came from, I stilled in a hidden corner when I saw Sirius, Remus, Harry, Ron and Hermione all standing inside the room. Remus was standing so close next to Sirius. My eyes widened when I saw Snape unconscious on the floor. But the thing that shocked me to most was the bound and gagged man, who was sitting on the floor. Peter Pettigrew. I couldn't help the growl that escaped, and Remus and Black heard it in an instant. Crookshanks too, he came trotting over and nudged his head against my paw.

"Crooks?" Hermione asked quietly. Ron, Harry and Pettigrew all turned to look at me, confusion spread across their faces. "Who- what?"

"Doesn't matter," Remus said, shaking the surprise from his face. And before he turned to Ron, he gave me a little smile. "I can't mend bones nearly as well as Madam Pomfrey, so I think it's best we just strap your leg until we go to the hospital wing." He bent down at Ron's side as he made quick work of it. I must've missed a lot because none of them seemed mad or scared of Black. But seeing the proof of Pettigrew's survival, made it hard to ignore the evidence. Harry, Hermione and Black were still looking at me as Crookshanks sat down next to me.

"What about Snape?" Hermione asked, tearing her eyes away from me to the professor.

"Nothing is seriously wrong with him. You were just a little – over-enthusiastic. We best wait to revive him until we're safely back in the castle. We can take him like this." He stood up from beside Ron, done with his leg, and pointed his wand at the potion's professor. "Mobilicorpus." Snape came up, looking like a puppet with strings on. Crookshanks turned and left the room first. I waited until everyone had passed me. Hermione and Harry were walking in front of me. They shot glances over their shoulders to look at me.

"Why is it following us?" Hermione asked.

"I don't know. I've seen it before, though." He looked to Hermione. "I woke up the night of the final game, when I looked out the window, I saw it with Crooks."

"Weird." She frowned. "Sirius?" Hermione asked Black, who was walking in front of them. Sirius slowed his step until he was next to them. "Do you know who this is?" She pointed at me.

Black smiled as he looked from the pair to me. "I do. But it's not my place to tell." I let out a breath of relief when he turned and walked through the muddy tunnel. The rest of the journey went on in silence until we reached the last climb. "You know what this means? Turning Pettigrew in?"

"You're free." Harry said.

"Yes. But I'm also – I don't know if anyone ever told you – I'm your godfather."

"Yeah, I knew that."

"Well, your parents appointed me your guardian." He said and I saw Harry stiffen. "If anything happened to them. I'll understand if you want to stay with your aunt and uncle. But... well..." It made me angry to see him nervous in front of Harry, trying to ask him to stay with him, but he didn't have any interest in me. "If you wanted a different home."

"What – live with you? Leave the Dursleys?"

"Of course, I thought you wouldn't want to." Black seemed defeated. "I understand, I just thought..."

"Are you mad? Of course, I want to leave the Dursleys." Harry said grinning, which made Black beam. But Harry's smile faltered as he looked in front of him. "But you should talk to Professor Lupin first."

"Remus?" He asked surprised. "Why?"

I smiled to myself as Harry thought of me. "Just... talk to him."

They didn't talk any more, they were silent until they reached the surface. Remus pushed the rat-man to the ground as they stood in the clearing next to the tree. The clouds shifted above us and suddenly they bathed in the moonlight. My eyes found Remus, who had forgotten his last potion, his body began to shake violently. "Oh no, he didn't take his potion. He's not safe."

"Run! Now!" Black whispered to them. Then all of it happened at the same time. Sirius transformed and lunged for Remus, werewolf and dog fighting. Pettigrew made a grab for Remus's dropped wand, and before Harry could disarm him, he transformed and ran into the bushes. I went after Pettigrew until I heard Black scream. My head snapped back, and I saw Sirius limping. I ran over to the werewolf.

"Don't!" They all cried out to me.

"Scotty." I said looking up at the large werewolf. "SCOTTY!" I shouted. The werewolf turned to look at me. His breathing was heavy, and he showed his large yellow teeth. He was about to lunge for me, but I transformed on the spot. "Dad!" I said with a forced whisper.

Harry, Hermione and Ron all looked at me bug-eyed. "A-Alec?" Harry whispered. "You got to get away! Run!" He shouted but I ignored him.

Sirius Black was looking at me with a stunned expression. His lips were moving, whispering dad to himself; confused. But I didn't have time to explain, any of it. My sole focus was on Moony.

"Dad, please," I begged and reached over, placing my hand over his heart. Everyone was holding their breath as they watched the two of us. The werewolf seemed to calm down until a howl was heard in the forest. The werewolf growled again, and his hand flew up and crashed against me. He had sent me flying over the ground. I heard a sickening crack, and I knew the sound came from me.

"ALEC!" I heard several shouts, but everything went black before anyone could reach me.

Flashes of the Shrieking Shack, Black, Moony and the others came to my mind. When the image of the man-turned-werewolf popped up, my eyes flew open. I shot up with my eyes wide. "DAD!"

"It's okay, cub. I'm here." Moony's voice was soft, as I felt a hand stroking my hair softly. I turned to look at him. He looked tired and worn. The bags under his eyes haven't been so bad since... ever. I flung my arms around him. He held me against his chest tightly.

"Are you okay?"

He gave a dry chuckle. "I'm fine, it's you I'm worried about." He pulled back and inspected me closely. "How are you?"

"A bit of a sore head." I flinched a bit as I moved my head. "What happened?"

"It was all my fault. I'm so sorry, Alec. The wolf, Scotty -" He shook his head, casting his eyes down. "When you called me dad, I was coming back. Calming down, but when Scotty heard the howl, he – I hit you. You flew backwards, your head smashed against the tree. It was fractured." His voice was trembling, tears in his eyes.

"It wasn't your fault."

"It was. With the whole Sirius Black thing, I forgot to take my potion. I wasn't in control."

"Hey, look at me." I cupped his cheek, making him look up. "I'm okay. Nothing Madam Pomfrey couldn't fix. Don't beat yourself up, okay? A little bump on the head, won't break me. I love you, dad."

I saw the tears rolling down his cheeks freely now. He pulled me in a hug again. "I love you, cub."

We sat there, hugging until Madam Pomfrey pushed the curtains away and handed me a potion. Just from the smell of it, I knew what it was. It was a potion to help heal the skull fracture. When I drank the whole vial, my eyes fell on a sleeping Ron across from me.

"Are Harry and Hermione okay?" I asked once Madam Pomfrey walked away.

"Harry and Hermione are fine, and so is Ron." He looked over to the redhead. "He just needs a bit more time to rest."

"Pettigrew. He escaped. I couldn't stop him. There is no proof that Black is innocent."

Remus sighed and combed his hand through his hair. "About Sirius." He started, he brought his hands in front of them and intertwined his fingers together. "I'll ask you later about why you didn't seem even remotely surprised about his innocence, or the fact there was a supposedly dead man in the Shrieking Shack. The headmaster wants to see you, including the Minister of Magic."

"The minister? Why?"

"Sirius. Fudge wants to throw him back in Azkaban. But Dumbledore wants to speak to you first. Harry, Hermione and Ron told their side of the story, but the minister won't believe the words of thirteen-year-old kids. No-" He shook his head as I opened my mouth. "I'm a werewolf, in his eyes barely a human being, and seeing we were friends in school, he won't believe me."

"Alright." I frowned. "But I'm his – I carry his name. Why would he believe me? And what about Professor Snape?"

"Severus didn't see Pettigrew. He was unconscious before we revealed his identity. You don't have a history with Sirius, I believe Dumbledore already told Fudge that you two are not on speaking terms."

"About that..."

"Later." He said with a little shake of his head. I had a feeling he had a suspicion. "Let's go to Dumbledore's office." He held out his hand. I took it and he helped me off the bed. When we reached the closed doors, Madam Pomfrey called over.

"I don't know what the headmaster wants to talk to you about. But you need to be back in an hour, you still need your rest."

"I'll make sure she's back in an hour, Poppy." He smiled at the healer. Pomfrey looked pleased at that as she gave a nod and went to check on Ron. Remus looped his arm around me, as I still wobbled a little on my legs. The halls were empty as we walked to the headmaster's office. I looked sideways with a frown. "What time is it? How long was I out."

"Over a day. It's almost seven. In the morning." He added with a little grin. "Your friends barely left your side. Madam Pomfrey had to force them out. The twins even tried to sneak in at night." He chuckled. "They nearly had a heart attack when they spotted me in the dark."

I smiled as I pictured it in front of me. "Please tell me you slept and weren't keeping an eye on me the whole time." From the look on his face, I knew he hadn't slept at all. "Right, when we're back, you need to sleep."

"I'm proud of you, you know." He said, changing the subject, oh so subtle. "For how you adjusted this year from the move, how you made great friends and how you aced your potions NEWT's."

"You don't know I aced them." I countered with a smile.

"We'll know in a few weeks, and I get to say - 'I told you so'."

"Very mature." I rolled my eyes as we reached the gargoyle.

"Reece's Pieces." He said and the gargoyle turned. "Can you make it up the stairs?" He asked worriedly.

"I think so." I said and I started to climb the stairs. It went slowly, but Moony just matched my pace, a hand held up, just in case I would stumble. But eventually, we reached the top, Remus put his arm around me again, supporting me as he knocked on the door. The door opened and I saw Dumbledore sitting behind his desk, his hands folded neatly in front of him. Across from him was presumably the Minister of Magic. Remus helped me inside and sat me down on the chair next to the minister.   

Chapter Text

"Take a seat, Remus." Dumbledore smiled.

"I'm good here." He said standing behind me, his hands on my shoulders.

"Right, let's get this started then." The minister said. I looked at him with a frown, he was looking at Remus in disgust, like he was covered in slime. "I already heard a version from Harry Potter and his friends. But I want to hear your version."

So, that's what I did. I recounted the events of that evening, going over them step by step. Twenty minutes later, I took in a deep breath when I finished. I tilted my head to look at Remus, who gave me a supportive smile. Dumbledore had a twinkle in his eyes as he looked at me, and Fudge... well he still wore a scowl like a champ.

"Do you mind if we retract the memory from you?"

"No!" Remus said, his hand tight on my shoulders. "She's still recovering."

I reached up and placed my hand over his. "It's okay." I looked to the minister. "You can even try legilimes or put me under Veritaserum. Nothing I said is a lie."

"It won't come that far, isn't that right, Fudge." Dumbledore's voice was soft but stern.

"Right, no, just the memory then." He gave a reluctant nod. He stood up and reached for his wand. Remus moved fast in front of me, blocking the minister from view.

"I'll do it." He said decisively. In other words. Don't touch her.

Fudge looked from Remus to Dumbledore when the headmaster gave a nod, he sighed and slumped back down. Remus shifted so he was crouching down in front of me.

"Tell me when I need to stop." He asked softly. I nodded, and when he took his wand, I closed my eyes. I felt the tip of his wand at my temple, and I thought about the events of that night, as he pulled the memory out. My brows knitted together from the pain that coursed through my head. I felt Remus's hand shake and he tried to pull away, but I locked his hand in place. He grudgingly proceeded to pull the memory out. When he was done, I leaned back against the chair, not ready to open my eyes. Remus leaned forward and placed a kiss on the top of my head before standing up. I heard chairs scrape the floor as Dumbledore and Fudge stood up. I lifted one eye open and saw the pair walking to a large pensieve in the corner. Remus took his place behind me again, his hands resting on my shoulders. I closed my eyes again and let my head fall back.

"Are you okay?" I hummed in response, not really sure what to answer. "I'll take you back soon, cub. You're doing great."

When the two of them sat back down on their respective seats, I opened my eyes again. Dumbledore looked pleased, but Fudge looked at his notebook with a frown. They sat in silence for a bit as he scribbled down.

Remus cleared his throat. "I'm sorry, but Alec needs her rest."

"We're almost done, Remus." Dumbledore smiled.

"Even though your story matched the memory, I need to ask. You are Sirius Black's daughter, why should we believe you? Maybe you just want your dad out of prison."

I scoffed a little. "Remus is my dad." I felt Remus squeeze my shoulder softly. "He was the one who raised me and chose me. Black is a stranger to me. He never wanted me. He never wanted anything to do with me and my mum. If he was guilty, why would I lie for him? He means nothing to me."

Fudge looked at me for a moment, trying to find out if I was lying. When he found what he was searching for, or gave up finding something to lock him up, he sighed. "Right, with your testimony I believe Sirius Black is innocent and was falsely imprisoned. I'll go over to the ministry with Dumbledore, and he'll be a free man by tonight."

"Thank you, minister." Remus held out his hand. Fudge reluctantly took it, giving it one shake before he stood up.

"Minister?" I asked as I lifted myself from the chair. I held tight on the back of the chair as I became dizzy. Remus noticed this and looped his arm around me again. "Can I ask? Why didn't you take Harry and his friends at their word?"

"No one would believe them, miss Lupin-Black. They are thirteen years old; they could lie to protect his godfather."

"But you could've taken their memories."

"They are too young. You are almost of age, so it's not dangerous to take a memory from you. Also, your teachers vouched for you. From Hogwarts and Beauxbatons. You have a clean slate." In other words, Harry and his friends got into trouble a lot over the past years. " The one that persuaded me the most was Professor Snape. He took me aside after you all came back from the castle and requested to speak to me."

I knew Remus and I both wore the same look of surprise from this development. We both didn't say anything, so Dumbledore stood up and walked with Fudge to the fireplace. They both gave a nod as they stepped in. Fudge's eyes were dull while Dumbledore's eyes sparkled.

"Let's get you back." Remus said as he turned back to me.

"Yeah." I whispered. The pounding of my head worsened. I felt my knees buckle before they gave out. Thank Droiturière that Remus had a hold on me, otherwise I would've crashed to the ground. I felt Remus pick me up before it went dark, again.

I woke up on the same bed in the hospital wing. I felt a hand around mine, and I opened my eyes and followed the arm that was attached to it. Remus was dozing off in the chair next to my bed. I smiled at him as his head lolled to the side.

"I told you to get some sleep."

"Sleep is for the weak." He said with a tired smile as he rubbed his eyes with his free hand.

"And now you're the weak one." I pointed out, squeezing his hand. I heard a laugh come from my other side, and I was surprised to see Sirius Black sitting there. Not just sitting there but freshly washed and in a set of new clothes. He had his feet propped up onto my bed as he leaned his head against his hands that were folded behind it.

"Good morning, love."

I turned back to Remus. "What is he doing here?"

" He-" Sirius started. "Wanted to make sure you were okay. And to thank you, because if it wasn't for you, he would be in Azkaban."

"I did it for Moony." I snapped at him. I leaned my head back against the pillow, closing my eyes.

"Can either of you explain the whole dad thing?" My eyes snapped open, and I turned to look at Remus wide-eyed, away from the curious Sirius Black.

"I told you... later." Remus growled at his friend.

"It is later. You said when we could talk when she woke up."

"That doesn't mean a few seconds after it happened." He rubbed his hand over his face. "Can we not do this now, Sirius. Can you give us a moment?"

Sirius looked like he was going to object, but he picked up his feet from the bed and stood up. "Fine, I'm going to see Harry."

"You do that." My voice was snippy. He looked at me with a slight scowl, not knowing why I acted like that, but he walked out of the hospital wing without another word.

"Don't worry." Remus said as he cast a privacy charm around us. "Harry won't say anything. I told him and the others to keep tight-lipped about everything. For now, you are Alec Lupin."

"I like the sound of that, Dad." I smiled at him. He gave me a warm smile back as he took a place on the edge of my bed. "Won't he hear stories?"

"No." He shook his head. "He isn't allowed to roam the castle just yet. He is freed of all charges, but it won't be published until tomorrow. And we don't want to scare the hell out of the students." He chuckled lightly. "He can only go here, or in the room adjacent to the hospital wing."

"You nearly gave me another heart attack, cub. Madam Pomfrey was beside herself when I came back in with you unconscious in my arms. The moment Dumbledore was back in the castle, she marched up to him and gave him an earful. It was a sight to behold." The smile on his lips warmed my heart. He was happy, happy to have his friend back after so many years.

"I helped him." I blurted out. "Sirius Black, I mean."

"I know."

"You do?"

"Sirius filled me in when you were asleep. You never told him who you were?"

"No." I shook my head. "Just introduced me as Alec, someone who transferred to Hogwarts this year. He asked about Harry a lot, and you." I said, leaning against my pillow as I stared at the flecks on the ceiling.

"If he knew... he would want to know more about you too."

"We both know that's not true. If he wanted to know anything about me, he would've tried to contact me in the years before he was thrown into Azkaban." I lowered my head until my eyes found his. "I'm sorry I didn't tell you. You were so busy with work, Scotty, teaching Harry to produce a Patronus. And I- I was afraid-"

"Afraid I wouldn't have believed you, or believe that Sirius was innocent?"

"Yeah."

"I probably wouldn't have, not without real proof."

"So, a bound and gagged Pettigrew is enough proof?" I grinned at him.

"Just enough." He laughed. "And you don't need to apologise, I understand." He squeezed my hand. "What do you want to tell Sirius?"

"I don't know," I said with a frown as I looked at my lap. "He'll find out eventually." I sighed, rubbing my eyes with the palms of my hands. "Tell him the truth, tell him you took me in when I was four years old. Tell him you raised me as your own, and that you are my dad. Because you are." I pointed out with a smile, which he reciprocated. "The tapestry, is it still there? In Grimmauld?"

"I would be surprised if it wasn't. Why?"

"School's almost over. I don't want to see him when he finds out. When does he leave?"

"Tomorrow morning. But I don't know if he'll go to Grimmauld, he loathes that place."

"Can you just tell him to go there? And when he sees the tapestry... He'll see my name, and know it was me he abandoned all those years ago."

"Alec." His voice was soft.

"No, I want it to happen like this."

"Alright. I'll talk to him in the morning before he leaves." He suddenly smiled at me. "You ready for some company? There is a group of people waiting for you just outside those doors." He pointed to the large doors of the hospital wing.

"Yeah, but not for too long. We both need to sleep."

He leaned over to kiss the top of my head. "I'll be back in an hour to shoo everyone away."

I chuckled as he winked. He walked over to the doors and talked to the group outside before he disappeared from view. It was all of two seconds before the group burst in. They were pushing and shoving each other as they ran over to me. But being the twins, with their long legs, they made it first. It looked like they were going to fling themselves at me, but it was the contrary. I never had such a gentle and sweet hug from them before. They kissed my temple simultaneously, their arms around me. The butterflies in my stomach roared from their touch, and I pushed them down. I couldn't like them both, I just couldn't. I couldn't choose between the two, they both made my heart flutter for the same and completely different reasons. When they pulled back, I smiled as I pushed back the blush. The twins' smiles were small, with worry all over their faces. Before they could say something, Draco pushed Fred away.

"She is my cousin." His blond hair appeared in my sight. "Hey, cous."

"Hey, Draco." I smiled as he hugged me, still a little awkward for him.

"Professor Lupin came to get me. How are you? I need to send mum a letter."

"I'm okay." I chuckled at the young boy.

"Move, Malfoy." Angelina shoved Draco aside, but not in a rude manner but a playful one. Angelina's hug was the biggest as she didn't shy away from wrapping her arms around me tightly. "Don't ever do that to me again!" She chastised me.

"I'm sorry. I'll try to not get thrown against a tree again." I rolled my eyes.

"Good." She said as she sat down on the bed next to me. George took Sirius's empty seat and Fred sat down next to him. Draco took place on the end of the bed. "How long do you need to stay here?"

"I don't know but school's almost over, so won't be too long."

"What are you doing this summer?" George asked his eyes, just like his twin, fixed on me, edged with worry.

"My uncle and I are going to go to France for a month." I knew they were making small talk. They all evaded the elephant in the room. The elephant named Sirius Black. But I was happy none of them pressed for answers. I don't know what they heard or what Remus or Harry told them, but I was happy about the light conversation.

After an hour of talking about everyone's summer plans, OWL results that had yet to come and the next school year, Remus walked back in. He ushered everyone out. After kisses on the cheek and hugs, they reluctantly left the hospital wing. Remus hopped on the bed next to me, and without a word, Madam Pomfrey walked over giving a sleeping draught for the both of us. We both drank it and fell asleep in an instant.

I woke up with a dry throat, the sun was low in the sky. I pushed myself up in a straight position and let my feet dangle over the edge of the bed. A large glass of water was sitting on my nightstand. After a few large gulps, the glass was empty. I sighed happily as I jumped off the bed. My head felt much better now. The door opened and Harry and Sirius walked in laughing. The anger subsided when Harry's face lit up when he saw me. Black looked from a grinning Harry to me as Harry nearly ran to me. He flung his arms around me, hugging me close.

"I was so worried."

"I'm okay." I smiled as I pulled back. Harry had a fierce blush on his cheeks which made me chuckle a little. Black was watching the interaction with raised eyebrows. "Don't be too loud. He needs his sleep." I said pointing with my thumb over my shoulder to point at a sleeping Remus. I took Harry's hand in mine and guided him on the bed. I sat with my back against the pillows, while Harry took the other side. Sirius Black took the same chair as earlier.

"So, you're an Animagus."

"You don't beat around the bush, do you?" I snickered and he shrugged. "Yes, I am. Became one three years ago, for Remus." I saw Sirius Black lean forward with interest. Harry saw it too, and since he knew he wasn't supposed to say something he changed the subject.

"Hermione and Ron wanted to come see you too. But Madam Pomfrey wouldn't allow any more to come in."

"It's okay, I'll talk to them tomorrow. How's Ron's leg?"

"All fixed. Madam Pomfrey is a miracle worker."

"Harry... about me being an Animagus. Can you keep it to yourself, all three of you?"

"Professor Lupin already asked us too, don't worry. Your secret is safe with me."

"Thank you." I reached over and squeezed his hand. "Care to fill me in what happened while I was out?"

"I think you did the most memorable thing, convincing Fudge of Sirius's innocence. But -" He said as he started telling everything that had happened the last days. About the fact that he was locked on top of the tower, freeing Buckbeak, casting a full Patronus to shoo off many Dementors. At some point, Remus had woken up. He looked much better after a few hours of sleep. After he checked on me, he joined the conversation, all talking about anything but... I saw that Black was watching me and Remus with great interest. He was probably trying to figure out, how, who, when. I was a bit nervous by the thought that Remus was going to tell him tomorrow, but I tried to push the thought away, just as I did a few hours ago from the twins' strong arms around me.  

Chapter Text

Remus had left about an hour ago to go talk to Sirius, and I was pacing a hole in the living room. I was nibbling on a fingernail when a knock came from the door. I stopped midway my path that I was going over for the past half hour, my finger still in my mouth, frozen in place. When the second knock came, I jumped a little as I came out of it and walked towards the door. My hand hovered over the doorknob. What if it’s Black? - No, Uncle Moony wouldn’t just let him drop in. I turned the knob and standing there was my favourite cousin.  

“Hey, Draco.” I smiled as I stepped aside to let him. “I was just packing.” I said walking over to my room.  

“Since when does packing mean pacing?” Draco snickered as he leaned against the door frame of my room. My room was a mixture of being packed up and of clothes and other things scattered around. I was tossing things in a garbage bag to throw out when he spoke, his voice sounded serious. “I know you’re worried about you father.”  

“Don’t call him that.” I snapped. “I’m sorry, it’s just...”  

“Professor Lupin is your father.” He concluded and I nodded. “I didn’t mean that... But it will be okay.” He pushed himself off the door frame and walked over, placing his hands on my shoulders. “When he goes to Grimmauld place, when he finds out... If you don’t want to face him or talk to him, you don’t, okay? It is your decision, and your uncle will understand.”  

I wrapped my arms around him and rested my head on his shoulder. “Thank you. I’m really glad I sat down at your table in the beginning of the year.”  

“Me too.” He squeezed me a little before pulling back, his face was decorated with a frown. “There is something I need to tell you...”  

“What is it? What’s wrong?” I asked worried. He ran his hand through his hair as he began pacing in front of me, making me even more worried. “Draco?”  

“Fuck!” He grunted and turned to me. “There is no easy way to say this...” He took in a deep breath. “Snape let it slip to my father about Lupin’s condition.” I sucked in a breath. “Seeing that he’s on the school board, he’ll make sure that he’s going to get fired.” My eyes were stormy as my breathing became heavier, due to anger. I walked past him as he said. “I’m sorry, I tried to talk to him...”  

I turned to look at him, my eyes softening. “It’s not your fault, Draco. I’m not mad at you. But I need to find my uncle and Snape.” I said the last one with a hiss. “Thanks for warning me.” I stepped closer and kissed his cheek.  

“Where are you going to stay if he gets fired?”  

“I don’t know.” I frowned. “I guess we have to figure it out by tomorrow night. Draco...”  

“Go.” He nodded with a sad look. “Better yet, I’ll go with you. Snape’s my uncle, I want to know what he was thinking.” Draco’s voice angry. It surprised me because he was always fond of his uncle. He wrapped an arm around my shoulder and walked me out of the room.  

But we couldn’t find Professor Snape anywhere. We checked the dungeons, the great hall, the teachers’ room, everywhere. We ceased our search for the time being, but he wasn’t going to get away that easy. We were just on our way back, Draco’s arm still around me as I was still shaking with anger.   

In front of us a door opened, and Sirius Black and Remus walked out. But I was talking to Draco about Aunt Cissy, that I hadn't noticed. Neither did Draco, he was laughing at the story I told him, his face looking to the ground while I looked to him with my own grin. When the door closed behind them, I looked up at the sound of the thud. I didn’t stop walking, although my body wanted to by the look he was giving me. I know Moony didn’t tell him outright that I was his daughter, but from the details he did gave him and by the fact he ordered him to go to Grimmauld, I figured he would’ve figured it out. Especially if he would really see me, see the likeness I have with him or the aspects I got from my mum. Moony was standing next to him, and I contemplated to drag him away to tell him about Snape but thought better of it. Draco must’ve felt me stiffen as he stopped laughing and looked at me. When he followed my gaze, he understood.  

“Oh, Alec.” He said trying to direct my attention to him. “You said I could borrow your potions book of Lore Peeters.”  

“Lo-R-e.” I tried to spell the name in Dutch with a small smile.   

“Lo-re.” He tried but failed miserably. I chuckled as we passed them.  

“Alec.” I heard Sirius Black call after me, but I didn’t turn around.  

“Not now, Sirius.” Moony’s voice followed.   

“What’s is she doing with Malfoy?” His voice filled with anger. “After Lucius...”  

I was happy to note, that Draco didn’t hear any of it. It was only because of my Loki hearing I caught that. The last thing I heard was Moony who answered him. “You have a lot to catch up on. He’s a good kid.”  

I smiled as Draco led me through the corridors. But my stomach was in knots as it sounded like Lucius already made a play to kick him out of the school. When we arrived back at my room, Draco helped me pack up my things as he tried to distract me from Sirius, Snape, Moony, everything.  
Draco excused himself to use the bathroom, and ten minutes later he came back with a large smile. 

“Didn’t think you enjoyed going to the bathroom so much.” I chuckled, then frowned a little. “Or what exactly did you do in there?”  

“Oh, get your mind out of the gutter, Alexandra.” He huffed, but the smile was still intact. “I lied. I wasn’t going to the loo. I was using your floo to call mother.”  

“Aunt Cissy? Why?” I asked surprised as I sat on my trunk, trying to close it.  

“Asking if you and your uncle wanted to come live with us, of course.”  

“What?” I hopped off my trunk and the lid flew back open. “Draco...”  

“She said yes by the way.” He grinned as he walked over closing my trunk with a wave of his wand and closing the locks on it.   

“I can’t.” I shook my head. “I love that you asked her, but my uncle...”  

“He can come too.”  

“But-”  

“No buts. She knows. Apparently, she knew since she found you back in the day. The house is large enough to even house the Weasley family. And whatever Lupin needs to do on the full moon. He can either stay in a secured room or... Does he use Wolfsbane?”  

“He does, and he has another anchor.” I chuckled as Draco raised an eyebrow. “Me.”   

“Isn’t that dangerous?”  

“A little, but it’s been three years, I’m still here, aren’t I?”  

“But how?” He asked curiously.  

“Well, if my uncle agrees to stay at your place, you’re bound to find out.” I said taking my wand out of my boot. “But you need to promise not to tell anyone.”  

Draco nodded eagerly, his eyes, so like mine, locked on me. I transformed into Loki for a few seconds before turning back.  

“Holy fuck.” He breathed. “That was awesome!” His grey eyes large. “You said you’ve been his anchor for three years.” He said, his unsaid question hung in the air.  

“I was thirteen when I became in Animagus.”  

“Isn’t it extremely difficult and dangerous?”  

“It is, but I had a great motivator.” I chuckled as I cleaned up my small desk in my room.  

“Who knows?” He asked as he tossed away old candies, looking over his shoulder to me.  

“My uncle of course. My two oldest friends from Beauxbatons. Harry, Ron and Hermione found out the night everything happened. And Black.” I looked down at my desk as I said. “I’ve been helping him this year.”  

“WHAT?!” Draco shouted, making me jump a little. I turned around and leaned against my desk as I looked to him. I took in a deep breath and told him everything that had happened over the past year.   

“Uncle Moony!” I jumped up when the door finally opened and revealed my favourite person in the world. Draco had left an hour ago after he used our floo again to call his mother and left to go pack his things. “Snape. Lucius.” I said in pieces, not forming a sentence as I hugged him, my head on his chest.  

“I know.” He said once he wrapped his arms around me. “I resigned.”  

“You what?!” I pulled back and looked up at him with a frown. “Why?”  

“Because I was going to get fired anyway. When the parents would hear that a monster-”  

“A tame werewolf.” I corrected and I saw a small smile appear on his lips.  

“Once they get word on what I am, they’ll force Dumbledore’s hand to fire me.”  

“Why would Snape tell Lucius? He vouched for me with the minister, to get Sirius found innocent.”  

“I don’t know.” He answered honestly. “I really think, you changed his view on everything that had happened back in school with us. Maybe he just needed to vent to someone about what happened. It is weird that he would help get Sirius off but throw me for the lions.”  

“Especially since Sirius did way worse things than you.” I grumbled. I saw that he was going to object, so I quickly added. “I couldn’t find him. Snape, I mean.”  

“You tried to find him?” He asked surprised.  

“Yeah, to ask him what the bloody hell he was thinking!” I cried out, making him chuckle. He led me to the couch, and we sat down together.   

“I’ll find a daily prophet somewhere around here -” He said looking around the room.  “- for a place to live, after that I’ll start looking for work.”  

“Actually, I might have a solution for the first thing. Aunt Cissy and Draco have invited us to stay with them at the Manor. And since she knows about your furry little friend.” I nudged him. He looked to the floor sheepishly. “What do you think?”  

“I think that’s the best thing for now, just until we find our own place.” He said, pulling me close.   

“Are we moving back to Belgium or France? Am I going back to Beauxbatons?” I asked, as my thoughts filled with my new friends and family.  

“Do you want to go back?” He asked, his eyes focused on me.  

“Yes and no.” I said honestly. “I miss my friends and Beauxbatons, but I have friends and family here that I don’t want to say goodbye to just yet. But if you find work there, I’ll come with you of course.”  

“No.” He shook his head. “Now, I’m going to follow you. I’ll find work in England, so you don’t have to move again.” He kissed the top of my head.  

“Are you sure?” I asked. When he nodded with a smile, I said. “Let me just send Draco the message.” I pulled out my wand and send him a fire message, just like George taught me. After the paper disappeared with a puff of smoke, he turned to me.   

“He didn’t ask, -” He started. “But I think Sirius already knew before he left for Grimmauld. You said he always thought you looked familiar, but couldn’t place it?” I nodded as I looked at him. “And when I told him that I took you in, adopted you. That he realized you weren’t my daughter in blood, he had a strong suspicion. But I think it fully hit him when he saw you next to Draco just now. The three of you have the same grey eyes, albeit Draco’s is a shade darker. It’s a Black family trait.”  

“I don’t want to see him.” I said looking at my boots that were resting on the coffee table.  

“I’ll handle him.” He said, rubbing my arm softly. “It’s your choice if or when you want to talk to him.” I nodded slowly, not looking up. “Besides, we leave for France tomorrow, so he’ll have to wait a month before he can even ask. Did you tell Draco?”  

“Yeah, he knows about France. But he’ll be spending the last two weeks of July there too with his mother.”  

“I’ll arrange everything with Narcissa, so we can spend those two weeks together, if you would like?”  

“That sounds great. I know he can still be a dick sometimes.” I ignored his look for my little curse word. “But he’s a good guy, funny too. He’s trying.”  

“I know he is. Being away from Lucius and spending time with you, he’ll be a great man.” He said honestly. “You seem to have a great effect with all the houses, but especially the Slytherins. You’re not only tolerated by them but made friends there too.”  

“Even though most of them are fourteen-year-olds.” I chuckled. “What about defence and duelling meetings? Can I continue it when you’re gone?”  

“I don’t know, cub. Try talking to Professor McGonagall in September.” He kicked off his shoes and placed his feet on the coffee table. “So, July, France.” He smiled as he leaned his head back. “August, Malfoy Manor.”  

“It’s not possible for Harry to come too, is it?” I asked. He lifted his head up again as he looked at me with sad eyes.  

“I don’t think so. Sirius is probably going to try to get custody of Harry, so even if he’s not at the Dursleys...”  

“Right.” I nodded with my lips in a thin line. I leaned forward and looked over my shoulder to him. “Is it okay if I go to the tower?”  

“No, go. You’ll be stuck with me the whole summer.” He laughed. “You be with your friends.”  

“Thanks, uncle Moony.” I kissed his cheek. “I love you.”  

“I love you too, cub.” He smiled.  

Chapter Text

When I climbed through the portrait, the fat lady back in place, the twins enveloped me in a tight hug. I wrapped my arms around their waist and nuzzled my head between them. The fact they had pulled me in their arms the second I came in, made me think they were waiting for me just behind the portrait hole. I breathed in their scent which calmed me, feeling at peace for the first time in days.

"We're so sorry." They both said, looking worried down at me when they pulled back.

"We already set something up for Snape, don't worry." Fred winked, making me chuckle.

"My heroes." I kissed their cheeks. And when I saw Angelina and Lee sitting near the fire, I walked over and sat down next to them. Before my butt reached the couch, Angelina had pulled me in a hug.

"I don't want you to go." She whispered in my hair. I stroked her black long hair softly.

"Hey, it's not forever. We'll see each other in a few months."

"What?" Angelina said together with the twins. "You're not moving back to Belgium?"

"No." I smiled at her. "I'm staying here." Angelina shrieked as she threw herself back at me. As I looked over her shoulder, Lee winked at me, and Fred and George's eyes almost bulged out of their sockets before they grinned. "We just need to find a place to live. But we have time, we leave for France tomorrow for a month and then we can stay at the Malfoy Manor."

"Going all fancy pants on us, are you?" George asked with a wink.

"A few white peacocks in a large designer garden isn't that fancy." I chuckled. "But I'll be back in September. If you'll have me."

"You better get your arse on the train September first, or I'll drag you from wherever you're hiding." Angelina laughed. She shifted until we were leaning against the couch and had her arm looped around me.

"So, you guys aren't mad at me?" I started and saw all the confused faces looking at me. "For not telling you about my uncle."

"Of course not!" They all exclaimed loudly.

"We understand, it isn't something that you need to explain." Lee answered.

"He's still the best, funniest, most amazing teacher we ever had." Angelina said, rubbing my arm.

"We do too, you know." George added when I looked at them. "Him having a furry little friend one time a month, doesn't change who he is."

"And the way he raised you says more about him than his friend ." Fred said, both a warm smile on their lips. My smile was wide as I looked at my friends. The portrait door opened again, and before I had time to turn my head, I heard Harry call my name. I stood up from my seat and before I was fully standing, he had wrapped his arms around me.

"I'm so sorry about Lupin. I'm going to get Snape back for this." Harry grumbled, his head buried in my hair. Over his shoulder, I saw Ron and Hermione sit down on the empty seats across from the twins,

"We already took care of that, little man." Fred said.

Harry pulled back and looked at Fred with a frown. I bit back a smile at the look he gave the older twin. With a last scowl at Fred, he turned back to me with a little smile. "Can I talk to you?"

"Yeah, sure." I nodded.

"Let's get up to my dorm." He said as he held out his hand. I looked at the twins, who had a scowl on their selves before Harry pulled me behind him.

I walked into his room and looked around curiously. It wasn't much to behold as he and his friends almost had everything packed but it was interesting. I hopped on the first bed I came across and looked at Harry. He had closed the door and was leaning against it. He was taking in deep breaths which made me worry.

"Harry?"

"Sirius asked me to move in with him." He blurted out.

"I know, Harry." I chuckled. "Remus already told me."

He sighed and combed a hand through his unruly hair. He pushed himself off the door and walked over, sitting down next to me. "I'm sorry."

"You have nothing to be sorry for." I nudged him slightly.

"Does he know?" He asked. I glanced at the watch around my wrist.

"I assume so. Remus sent him to Grimmauld over an hour ago." I looked at Harry. "And I don't blame you for you wanting to have a relationship with him."

"What about you?"

"I have Remus, I don't need anyone else. He abandoned my mum, he abandoned me. I don't need to have a relationship with him, I don't want to talk to him."

"Alec, you can't avoid him forever."

"Watch me." I let out a dry chuckle as I looked to the other side of the room. "And besides he knew about me before. I don't want him to reach out just because I helped him get cleared." It was silent for a moment, my eyes were trained on the window, nothing but blue skies behind the glass. "Do you have to go back to the Dursleys?"

"Yeah." He sighed as he leaned his head on his fist. "Sirius is trying to get custody but that won't be done overnight. It even could take longer than the summer holiday. So, as long as that's still going on, I'll have to stay at the Dursley's."

"Maybe I should kidnap you to go to France with us."

"I would go with you freely." He laughed.

"Let's get back down before someone gets jealous." I chuckled as I stood up and pulled Harry up with me.

"Who? The twins?"

"The twins?" I asked with a quirked eyebrow. "No, Hermione, of course. Why would the twins be jealous?"

"I-" He opened and closed his mouth like a fish. "Never mind."

I spend the rest of the day in the tower until late at night. Everyone was already upstairs in their dormitories while I was stuck on the couch, the twins' heads on my lap as they slept. My fingers were combing through their ginger locks that they were growing out. My eyes flickered between the two boys, the almost identical faces. I've never seen them so at peace. Their faces normally full of mirth and mischief, almost looked innocent. My heart skipped a beat when I looked at them. I shook my head as I tried to clear my head. I can't like them both, I just can't. Even if I could choose between them, I didn't want to. Every touch they gave me made me shiver, every look they shot me almost made me blush. Everything they did towards me, made my heart beat faster.

I needed to push these feelings aside, I didn't want to lose my friends. Being away for the summer is probably going to help put those feelings aside. Because this isn't the way I wanted to really like someone, to fall in love again. Not with brothers, certainly not with twin brothers. I kissed the corner of their mouths before I lifted their heads gently and stood up. I placed them on the couch trying not to rouse them and walked out of the common room. If I had looked back to the couch, I would have seen the twins' eyes wide open as they both touched the place I had kissed.

When I came back to the room I shared with Remus, I saw him quickly tuck an envelope away in his robes. He smiled as I came in, but I saw a flicker in his eyes but didn't mention it as he asked me to help him pack the last of our things in the joined room. It was late when we finally crashed in our beds, for the last time this year. The next morning, I almost slept through breakfast. By the time I came to the great hall, it was starting to empty as everyone said goodbye to their friends before they boarded the train. My eyes sought out the twins, but before I could find them, I was swept in a hug. I couldn't see his face, but I knew it was Nott who was twirling me around. He sat me down on the floor and dipped me before he placed a sweet kiss on my lips.

"Have a nice summer, love." He grinned as he pulled me back up. I laughed as I slapped his chest.

"You too, Nott." I reached up and kissed his cheek before I tousled his perfectly styled hair. "Bye." I quickly dodged his arm as he tried to grab me. I stuck out my tongue when I looked over my shoulder, and he rolled his eyes playfully with a grin. When I turned again, I bumped into someone else. "Sorry."

"That's okay. Hey, Alec."

I looked up and stared into the hazel eyes of Cedric Diggory, the Hufflepuff prefect. "Hey, Cedric. Ready for break?"

"Been waiting for weeks." He grinned. "Leaving for Marrocco next week."

Before I opened my mouth to reply, I heard someone call out for him. "I think that's your queue." I chuckled. "Have a great time in Marrocco."

"Have a nice time in France." He winked when he saw my surprised face. He leaned down and placed a kiss on my cheek before he walked over to his friends. My eyes searched for my favourite redheads but no luck. The first thing that caught my eye was the platinum blond boy who pushed through the crowds towards me.

"Hey, Alexandra." He said a little out of breath.

"Hey, cous. You okay?" I chuckled, placing my hand on his shoulder.

"Yeah." He straightened himself up. "Are you taking the train back to London?"

"No. Lupin and I are flooing back later today."

"And coming to the Manor to drop your things off before you leave for France, right?"

"Yes, we're coming over around three." I grinned at him. "Now, go. Your friends are waiting." I nudged my head to Theo and Blaise leaning against the wall waiting for him. "See you later, cousin."

"I'll see you soon, Alexandra." He waved before he walked over to his friends. I was watching Draco and his friends walk out of the great hall, not before Blaise had sent over a flirty wink. I rolled my eyes playfully but shrieked when someone threw me over their shoulder.

"George, put me down." To my surprise, he did put me down in an instant. His eyes were wide as he looked down at me. "George?"

"It's just... how did you know it was me?"

"I don't know." I shrugged. "I've always known, from the day I've met you I could tell you apart."

"But you didn't see me or hear my voice." He looked over my head, and I turned to see Fred right behind me, the same expression on his face as his twins.

"Isn't it good though? That I know the difference?" I asked looking between them.

"It's the best." Fred's smile made my heart skip a beat. "Let us escort you to the train station milady." He offered his arm, and George did the same on my other side.

"Uhm, I'm not taking the train to London." I saw disappointment flash across their faces. "We're flooing our things over to the Manor later today. Lupin still has something to wrap up here. But I'm more than happy to escort two strapping young lads to the station." I said, offering my arms to them. They both grinned their goofy grin as they looped their arms through mine. Angelina and Lee were walking in front of us as we walked to the train station. We decided to forgo the carriages and enjoy the beautiful weather and a nice long walk before we would spend almost three months apart.

When we reached the station, I said goodbye to Harry and his friends before I turned towards the others. Lee gave me a quick but tight hug before he stepped aside, and Angelina flung herself at me. The twins had to pry her off as they wanted to crush me with their hugs themselves. It was hard saying goodbye to them, even though I would see them in a few months. But my heart broke a little when the train disappeared from view, leaving me alone in the empty, silent train station. With one last look at the train rails, I turned and hiked back up to the castle.

Chapter Text

Part 2 

The first month of break went by fast. It was time that Remus and I had all to ourselves. We visited historical sites, libraries, museums and much more. I relished our time together, since I won’t be seeing him when school started, and we’ll be at Draco and Narcissa’s for six weeks. Not that I didn’t like the idea, I loved both of them, but it also took away my alone time with Moony.  

I knew Remus was itching to talk to me about Sirius. I saw him staring at me or trying to shoot me short glances, but he never brought it up, which I was happy about. I wasn’t ready. Draco and Narcissa joined us two weeks ago and while Narcissa and Remus enjoyed their quiet time in the house, reading together or catching up, Draco and I roamed the streets of the little town we were staying at or made our way to the beach. That’s where we are at now. I glanced to my left where Draco was lying next to me, sunbathing.  

“Did you seriously forgot to ask your mum to place an anti-sunburn charm on you? On your last day?”  

Draco frowned, before he opened his eyes. “What? I-” I slapped his red shoulder slightly. “Shit, that hurts.” He cursed as he rubbed his arm. He pushed himself up and looked down. Not only were his shoulders red, but also his stomach, face and legs. “I’m - I’m-”  

“A lobster.” I bit my lip to hold in a laughter, but it came bubbling out, nonetheless. Draco turned to me with a scowl.  

“Why aren’t you all red? You didn’t do it either.” He huffed.  

“First of all, I’m not as pale as you.” Draco glared at me. “Second.” I reached back and tossed him the sunscreen. Draco frowned as he inspected the bottle. “It works. Maybe you should use it next time.”  

“Yeah, yeah. What now?” He looked at me.  

“Let’s get you out of the sun. I have after-sun at the house.” I said standing up and started packing up our things.  

“After what?” Draco asked confused as he rolled up his towel.  

I chuckled lightly as we walked back, climbing over the dunes. “It will help, trust me.”  

“Fuck, this is depressing.” I sighed as I glanced out the window of the manor.  

“Alec.” Moony said sternly.  

“Sorry, but it is.” The rain was falling out like cats and dogs. I missed the south of France already. “Can’t we go back?” I looked over my shoulder as Remus placed his clothes in the cupboard.  

“Afraid not, cub.” He smiled a little. “I’m starting my new job in a few weeks, Narcissa has her charity events, and you and Draco...”  

“Can go by ourselves?” I said hopeful, even though I knew the answer.  

“You’re not off age just yet, and Draco far from it.” He placed his empty suitcase on the bed and sat down. “It’s been over a month.” He stated as he looked at me. I turned away from the window and leaned against it, looking at Remus.  

“I’m aware.”   

“Alec...”  

“What? What do you want from me?” I snapped a little and hung my head low.  

“He’s been sending letters.” He waited a beat. “To you.”  

“You can toss them in the fire, I don’t want to read them.”  

“He sends you one every week, I haven’t read any of them.” He looked at me with sad and tired eyes. “I really think you should read them, see what he has to say.”  

“Have you spoken to him?” I asked, glancing at him.  

He nodded. “I have. I talk to him about Harry and stuff, but every time he brings you up, I shut him down, telling him it must come from you. But he brings you up quite often.”  

“I’m going to write to my friends, I haven’t answered their letters yet since we left for France.” I said changing the subject and pushing myself from the window. “We’re going out to dinner tonight, yeah?” I asked as I passed him.  

“Yes, just the two of us.” He smiled, but his eyes still looked sad.  

That evening after dinner, I closed the door from my own room at the manor behind me and changed into my pyjamas. When I placed my wand on my nightstand, I saw a small stack of envelopes. Since I had my friends’ letters in my desk and already send my replies through owl, there was only one person left. Sirius. Remus must have snuck them in my room, hoping I’d read them. I put out the light and turned my back to the letters.  

It was an early Sunday morning, a week after we got back, and I was standing in an empty street. I looked up at the mundane house with furrowed eyebrows. I heard an owl screech and then a heavy, angry, shout.  

“Shut that damn bird up, boy!” Must be Vernon. I pursed my lips as I rang the doorbell. A few seconds passed before the door flew open. It revealed a heavy boy with thick blond hair about Harry’s age.  

“Hello.” I forced a smile, the look that boy shot me, gave me an unpleasant shiver. “I’m here for Harry.” The look changed into disbelief and anger. He turned around and shut the door behind him. “Alright, then.” I frowned. I waited for a few seconds before raising my hand to ring the doorbell again, but the door flew open. Yes, this was Vernon. I could see his wife, standing at the end of the hallway looking at us.  

“Who are you?” He snapped.  

I put my forced smile back in place. “I’m Alec. I’m a friend of Harry’s, from school.” I saw him stiffen and remembered what Harry and Remus told me. “We went to primary school together until I had to move when I turned ten.”  

His shoulders relaxed a little, but he was still tense. “What do you want?” He barked.  

“I wanted to see if Harry was free. Wanted to go for a walk or something, catch up you know.”  

His gaze was inspecting me, trying to figure out if I was lying, if I was one of his freaky friends. He looked over his shoulder to his wife, I can’t seem to remember her name... I think it was some kind of flower. “Fine.” He snapped. “Can you take him till tomorrow.” He said, not really a question.  

“Oh, I believe so.” I said a little startled.  

Vernon turned his big, round head and bellowed in the hallway. “Get your worthless, skinny arse in here, boy.”  

I seethed through my teeth but tried to hold on to my fake smile because his wife was watching me. Harry came out of the door, from the kitchen maybe. He looked confused at his aunt before coming over. I saw the shocked look in his eyes, they sparkled, but he tried to keep his face and voice neutral.  

“Hey, Harry. I know it’s been a few years. But I wonder if you wanted to hang out.”  

“Hang out?” The corner of his lips twitched.  

“Get something other to wear, boy. You’re staying over.”  

“I-” His eyes turned large as his eyes shifted from me to his uncle. “I’m what?”  

“You heard me.” He snapped. “Now, go. Before I have to call on Mrs Figgs.”   

Harry didn’t need to be told twice and bounded up the stairs. The silence was deafening between the three of us. None of us looked at each other, my gaze travelled the street. I heard Harry’s light footsteps on the floorboards before I saw his snowy owl fly outside.   

“I want more bacon!” Dudley screamed and his mother disappeared behind the door Harry had come from. Another silent minute passed before Harry came down, with a small rug shack on his shoulder. He didn’t speak to his uncle; maybe afraid he would change his mind. He stepped out of the house, next to me.  

“Good luck with this one.” Vernon sneered with an evil smirk and closed the door in front of us.   

I stared at Harry, and when I went to open my mouth, he placed his finger on it. “Not here.” He whispered as he lowered his finger when I nodded. I looped my arm through his and walked away from that dreadful house. After we passed the second corner, I stuck out my wand. The next moment the Knight Bus appeared in front of us. I placed the money in the young man’s hand with a nod and he smiled.  

“Harry, long time no see.” He said after Harry stepped in behind me.   

“Hey, Stan.” Harry grumbled as he followed me further inside the bus.   

We took place at the back of the bus where a large bench was place going from one side to the other. When Harry placed his bag on the floor between his legs, I leaned closer.  

“So, you weren’t exaggerating.”   

“No, I was not.” He smiled. “How did you convince them to let me go with you?”  

“I told them we were friends in primary school.”  

“Ah, the muggle lie then.” He chuckled.   

“I was surprised they said you could stay over.” I frowned a little.   

“That’s because they have a wedding to go to. They were just discussing what to do with me before you arrived.”  

“I must say I have impeccable timing.” I grinned as I leaned back.   

“So, where are we going?”  

“First we need to drop your bag off, then we can go to Diagon Alley.”  

“Drop off my bag.” He murmured to himself. Then his eyes turned wide as he looked at me. “Malfoy Manor, you’re staying at Malfoy Manor.”  

“Yeah.” I rubbed my neck. “I know you two don’t really get along, but besides being a brat sometimes, he’s a good guy. I wasn’t expecting you to stay over, Harry. Otherwise, we would’ve just gone to Diagon. But you can stay in my room, and you don’t need to see him. I’ll bring you breakfast and all.”  

“How domestic.” He chuckled. “No, you don’t need to do that for me. I think I can stand to be around him for a few hours.”  

“Good.” I nodded. “I think you two would really get along, if you put your differences aside.”  

Harry didn’t answer as Stan just called up. “Curly, Harry, your stop!”  

“Curly?” Harry asked with a raised eyebrow once the bus had disappeared.   

“I didn’t want to give my name, so he called me that.” I shrugged.  

“Appropriate, though.” He grinned as he tucked on one of my curls. “Where are we?” He asked looking around. “It doesn’t look like the manor to me.”  

“No, just a floo that’s connected to the house.” I pulled him inside a musty, old potions shop. Harry didn’t ask why this shop was connected as he followed me to the back. I grabbed some floo power and gestured for him to step in. “Malfoy Manor.” I called out once we were both inside. 

I stumbled out of the large fireplace alone. I heard a thump, but Harry wasn’t with me. I heard a familiar snicker from the couch.  

“Draco Lucius Malfoy!” I cried out. “Did you just block out Harry from your floo!?”   

Draco nearly rolled off the couch laughing. I couldn’t help the tiny smile that appeared, just from seeing him so free and relaxed. The noise of my shouting and Draco’s booming laugh made Remus and Narcissa appear.  

“Aunt Cissy, Draco ordered the house elves to block out Harry. Can you-”  

She smiled as she easily waved her wand on the fireplace, then she shot a stinging hex under her arm to her son. Draco’s laughter stopped as he gasped. “Mother!”  

Uncle Moony and I shared a glance before laughing for ourselves. I disappeared in the fireplace again, and the next moment Harry appeared with me, rubbing his head.  

“Harry!” Remus smiled and clapped him on the back.   

“Hi, professor.”  

“Just Remus, I’m not your professor anymore.” He smiled softly.  

“Right, Remus.” He said, but just like Uncle Moony calling Dumbledore Albus, it was like a weird taste in your mouth.  

“I don’t know if you have met-” I said turning us to Narcissa.  

She smiled warmly and outstretched her hand. “No, I haven’t had the pleasure to meet you.” Draco snorted and she shot him another jinx, that made him yelp and roll of the couch. “Nice to meet you, Harry.”  

Harry was still smirking at Draco before he turned to his mother and took her hand. “Nice to meet you too, Mrs Malfoy.”  

“Oh, none of that. It’s Narcissa. Would you like to stay for lunch?”  

“Uhm.” Harry looked unsure at me.  

“We’re going to Diagon in a minute. But there was a change of plans though.”  

“Oh?” Aunt Cissy smiled.  

“Well, when I went to pick up Harry -”  

“Without my permission.” Uncle Moony added as he came up next to Narcissa.   

“When I picked up Harry.” I continued, pretending I didn’t hear him. But in the corner of my eye, I saw his lips twitch up. “Vernon nearly ordered me to take Harry for the night.”  

“Oh.” Narcissa’s eyes went wide as she looked from us to her son, he had crawled back on the couch at some point.  

“But if that’s too much to ask-” I started, but Narcissa waved her hand.  

“Of course not. You’re welcome to stay, Harry.”  

“What? Mother!” Draco whined.  

“You will barely see each other. They’re going over to Diagon, and you need to work on your potions. So, no more fussing, Draco.” She said sternly. And I recognized the tone of voice, it was one my uncle had, not one for debate.  

“Yes, mother.” He grumbled softly while Harry couldn’t stop grinning.  

Chapter Text

It was nearly four o'clock when Harry and I sat down on a bench in the busy wizarding street, catching our breaths. We placed the bags at our feet and leaned back.

Harry smiled as he closed his eyes, turning his head towards the sun. "Thanks, Alec. This was really fun."

"Any time." I smiled as my head lolled to the side, so I could look at him. "I mean it, anytime you want to have a break from the Dursleys, just write to me and I'll be there within an hour."

He opened his eyes and smiled softly at me. "Thanks, but my time with the Dursleys is almost up. But I still want to meet up, but just because I like hanging out with you, not because I need an escape." He said blushing slightly.

"I like hanging out with you too, Harry. Obviously, otherwise, I wouldn't-" I stopped with a little frown. "What did you mean your time at the Dursleys is almost up?"

"I - I can move in with Sirius on the fifteenth. He bought a house last week and the papers are nearly in order."

"That's good." I smiled. "I'm really happy for you, Harry."

"You're not mad?"

"Why would I be mad? You're finally getting a home where you're wanted."

"You're welcome too, you know." He said as he shifted more so he fully faced me. "Have you talked to him?"

"No." I said as I looked away. Harry placed his hand on my arm, making me turn. His eyes were nearly pleading.

"Talk to him. I'm not saying this to make you feel bad, but he's really lost at the moment. Doesn't know what to do with himself."

"That's probably just because he isn't used to his freedom anymore."

"It's not. He visited me two weeks ago, it's you, Alec."

I sighed and leaned my head back, looking at the clouds that floated by. My head snapped back when I heard someone call my name.

"ALEC!" I saw Angelina run to me, Lee strolling behind her with a silly smile. I jumped up from the bench just as she hurdled herself at me.

"Ange!" I smiled against her shoulder. "What are you doing here?" I asked when we pulled back, Lee came over to kiss my cheek.

"Getting our school supplies. You?"

"Hanging out with Harry. Did the letters arrive?"

"Yeah, this morning."

"The results." I whispered to myself. I looked back up to Angelina and Lee. "How did you do?"

"Five O's, four E's and one A's." I smiled at Angelina's beaming smile and turned to Lee.

"Three O's, four E's, two A's and one P."

"What? Where did you get a Poor in?" I chuckled.

"Divination." Lee shrugged with a grin.

"Ah, well. That's okay then." I clapped his shoulder.

"Want to come and have a drink with us?" Angelina asked, pointing at the Leaky.

"We were just about to go." I looked to Harry, who shrugged a little. "But I think we can go for one drink."

"Brilliant." Angelina looped her arm through mine and led me to the pub, Harry and Lee trailed behind us.

Harry and I stumbled through the fireplace without anything going amiss. Dusting my clothes off, I stepped inside the large room. "Uncle Moony!" I called out. I heard footsteps run over and Remus looked at me with worrying eyes.

"Are you okay?"

"Yes, I'm fine. We had a great time today. Did my results come in? We bumped into Angelina and Lee, theirs arrived this morning." I rambled out.

Remus smiled as he pulled an envelope out of one of his pockets. I took it with a slight tremble, my eyes fixed on the envelope.

"Do you want to do this alone? I can leave." Harry suggested.

"No." I shook my head. "I want you here." I looked up to Remus. "I want everyone here. Are Aunt Cissy and Draco home?"

"Yes, I'll get them." He kissed the top of my head before disappearing behind one of the doors.

"Let's go to the sunroom."

"Sunroom?" Harry asked as he followed me. I saw him look around the house in amazement.

"Yeah, just through here." I pushed open the large double doors. "It's my favourite room."

"I can understand why." Harry said, his eyes flickering around the room. He walked over to the floor-length windows and looked out to the garden. When we heard the others come closer, Harry tried to hide his curious and amazed eyes. He did a poor job of it, and the way Draco smirked at him, he had recognised it too.

I sat down next to Remus, while Draco and Narcissa took the seat in front of us, and Harry chose the chair to my left.

"Ready, cub?" My uncle asked.

"Cub." Draco snorted a laugh.

"Really, Draco?" I rolled my eyes. "Or should I call you, my little dragon."

Draco sputtered, turning pink. The blush was so visible on his pale skin. Harry bit down hard on his lip to try and hold in a laugh. I looked back at my letter and ripped it open. I unfolded the letters and the first one about my school things, I handed over to Remus. Then my eyes flickered over the page. The silence was a little eerie, it sounded like everyone was holding their breath.

"Alec?" Remus's voice soft.

"I-" I looked up from the letter to my uncle. "I got all O's on my OWL's."

Remus beamed at me as my smile finally appeared, getting over the shock. "That's great, cub." He hugged me tight. "What about your NEWT for Potions."

"Probably an Outstanding too." Draco huffed and leaned forward to snatch the letter out of my hand. His eyes were on the page for a second as a grin crept up. "Told you so."

"Well, we need to celebrate this, don't we?" Narcissa smiled.

"Narcissa's right." Remus agreed. "What about dinner in De Laatste Deur."

"Never heard of it." Draco said.

"It's a Belgian restaurant on the outskirts of London. It's really good." I said excitedly. "Dank u, Uncle Moony." [Thank you, Uncle Moony.]

"Mijn plezier." [My pleasure.] He smiled and kissed the top of my head. "Gefeliciteerd. Oh, en er ligt een brief van Jack voor je klaar in je kamer. Die kwam deze middag aan." [Congratulations. Oh, and there is a letter from Jack waiting for you in your room.It arrived this afternoon.]

"I didn't understand a word you just said." Draco looked frazzled between us. "Who's Jack?"

"Childhood friend." Remus said.

"Best friend." I corrected.

"Ex-boyfriend." Remus grinned.

"All the above." I finished with a smile.

We were just eating our main course when someone called out for Remus, and my stomach dropped.

"Remus?"

"S-Sirius." My uncle nearly shocked on a mussel. "W-what are you doing here?"

"You recommended this place a few weeks ago, remember." I saw him walk around the waiter, coming into view. He saw Harry first, and a little surprised smile appeared on his face. Then he saw Narcissa and Draco, and he frowned. Then his eyes fell on me. His movements stopped completely, and his eyes looked a little glazed over.

Remus cleared his throat. "Well, uhm-"

"Have you read my letters?" He asked, ignoring Remus, his eyes fixed on mine.

"No." I looked away from him to Remus. "Can I be excused? I'll just take Harry and Draco to the little pub at-" I nudged my head, not wanting to tell where I was going in front of Black.

But Remus being Remus, understood in an instant. He looked over to Narcissa for a second. "Sure, be home by eleven." He gave me a sad smile.

"Thanks." I kissed his cheek. Draco and Harry followed me out without a word, just before we reached the doors, I heard Black say.

"You're letting her go out to a fucking pub!?"

I looked over my shoulder to Remus, ready to turn back. But Remus's eyes found mine and gave a small shake of his head and I stepped out of the restaurant with the two boys.

I was leaning on my cue, pursing my lips to hold in my laughter as I saw Draco trying to play pool. Harry was not so subtle and held my shoulder as he nearly doubled over laughing, his cue swaying in his other hand. We've been here for about two hours, the two boys didn't exchange much in conversation, only snorted and snickered at each other when one of them failed to do bar games. We have played darts, pools, pinball and foosball. Draco glared at us as he looked up from his que. He was leaning over the table trying to get the right shot. He was practically lying on top of the table as he tried to reach the ball.

"I never imagined Malfoy in a muggle bar." Harry said still whizzing, his eyes on the Slytherin.

"I've been dragging him into all kinds of muggle things since he arrived in France." I smiled as Draco's cue slipped and missed the ball. He grumbled and blew his fringe away before he leaned back down.

"And he had gone willingly?" Harry asked in an incredulous tone.

"Willingly is a strong word." I chuckled. "The first time out, I practically had to drag him out. But ever since then..."

Harry hummed slightly as he looked to the blond boy. I followed his gaze and we both started laughing again as he frustratingly tossed his cue on the green table. Draco was shits at pool while Harry couldn't land a dart on the dartboard. To say it was funny, was a serious understatement. Thank, de la Barre, Remus had vast muggle knowledge and happily gave it over to me. I may be a pureblood through and through, but many people wouldn't know it when they knew my knowledge all things muggle.

Two hours later, we were back in the manor. The living room was dark, Remus was probably already in bed, while Narcissa usually stayed in the library until midnight. That's good because I would rather not know what happened in the restaurant after we left. At least not tonight. Draco bid me goodnight with a kiss on the cheek as he ignored Harry and walked up the steps to his room. I nudged Harry with a smile as he huffed at the Slytherin. He smiled back and followed me up the stairs. Moony or Narcissa had already placed a second bed in my room for Harry, his backpack situated on the foot of the bed.

"I'll go change first; you can go after." I said walking to the second door in my room.

"You have your own bathroom?" Harry's eyes were comically large.

"Every single bedroom in this house has an ensuite, it's ridiculous really. But it comes in handy." I shrugged. "I'll be right out."

Once I'd brushed my teeth and got changed, I walked back in to see Harry sitting on my bed, with the letters from Sirius in his lap, still closed. He looked up, and with a soft voice, he said. "He wrote a lot of letters."

I walked over and sat down on my bed next to him. He handed me the stack, and I looked down as my fingers trailed over the paper. I didn't look up when I said. "I guess I should read them. Because apparently, he's not going to stop trying. And with you and Remus..." I took in a deep breath.

"I can stay with you, if you want?" Harry offered with a small smile, reaching out to hold my hand.

"No, no." I shook my head lightly and looked up at him. "You go change, I – I need to do this alone."

"Alright." He retracted himself from my bed. "I'll just take a shower then, give you more time. It's been a while since I had a proper one, actually." When I tilted my head in confusion, he added. "Dudley always turns off the hot water when I'm in the shower."

"Take all the time you want, Harry. There are several showerheads, just don't use the power beam." And the Dursleys will get their due, believe me. I added to myself.

"I'll keep that in mind." He chuckled before he disappeared in the bathroom, once the door closed behind him and I heard the familiar click of the lock falling into place, I leaned back against the headboard. I picked up the first letter and stared at it for a moment before tearing open the envelope. The letter fell open in my lap and it read.

Dear Alec,

Chapter Text

Dear Alec,

I'm really hoping you will read this letter. (I had burned the ones he had sent directly to me).

So, like in all my previous letters, I'll start at the beginning. I got your mum's letter, the one where she stated she was pregnant with you. And I'm going to be honest with you, I was in denial at first. We weren't together for that long, and then she was sent away on order of me and Dumbledore. I don't know if I think I would have gone into hiding with her if she asked back then.
Like I said, I was in denial. I never told anyone, maybe I should have. Maybe I should have told Remus or James, but I didn't. Just when I wrapped my head around it, I got the second letter stating you were born. She didn't give a name; it didn't say if you were a boy or a girl. I could understand why really, since I never answered the first one.

I was going mad, not only by the fact that I had a kid that I wasn't able to see, but the fact that Cor had to do it all by herself. That she had no one. The one thing I was happy about was that if I couldn't find you, nor did my mother or the death eaters. I thought it was best to leave it at that. That you and Cor would be safe far away from me, far from the war.

Then the war picked up speed, and I was being sent from one assignment to the next. Then the Potters... I was sent to Azkaban immediately, had no trial and nobody listened to my pleas. I was in Azkaban for six, maybe seven years when two death eaters got the cells across from me. The first days, they laughed about how they'd killed the French witch who had ratted out their friends years ago and set the place on fire. I knew immediately who they were talking about, and I thought I had lost you both. My plan of keeping you away, of keeping you safe, failed.

I'm sorry I didn't try to find you. I think, given the time, I could've really loved your mother.

And I will understand if you won't ever speak to me. But I really hope after some time, you will. Because there is nothing more in the world that I want than a chance to get to know my daughter.
I want to know everything about Alexandra Fae Dubois, about Alec Lupin, about Alec Black. I want to know  you.

I breathed in deep as I opened the next letter, and the next and the next. Most of the letters were mostly the same as the first one. In case I would've tossed them in the fireplace too. In the last letter, he told me about the house. That he had room for me and Remus if we wanted to. I heard the shower turn off and I tucked the letters in my nightstand. I had just jumped out of bed as Harry came back in dressed in pyjamas.

"Where are you going?" He asked as he rubbed the towel over his unruly hair. His eyes scanned my bed and nightstand in search of the letters but didn't say anything as he looked back to me.

"I'm just going to see if Remus is awake."

"Alright." He nodded. "Is it okay if I wander around a little?"

"Yeah, sure. Just don't go in the two rooms in the back of the hallway, that are Draco and Narcissa's rooms." I said as I headed to the door. Once I pulled the door open, I glanced over my shoulder and said. "Don't go in the basement." And with that, I left the room.

"Remus?" I knocked on his door. I heard a bit of shuffling, and then the door opened. I swallowed back a chuckle as Remus appeared in front of me in his plaid pyjama bottoms and his bathrobe open over his shoulders. His chest was bare, so I could see the scars plastered over his chest. The first one I saw on him when I was barely four years old, started at his cheekbone and stopped right under his armpit.

"Are you okay, cub?" He asked with small sleepy eyes.

"I'm okay." I smiled at his sleepy worried face. "I woke you."

"No, no, I'm-" He placed the back of his hand against his mouth to stifle a yawn.

"I'll talk to you in the morning. Go back to sleep, Uncle Moony."

Remus shook his head, trying to clear away the drowsiness. "I'm fine." He stepped aside. "Come in."

I walked in and hopped on the desk as Remus sat down on the foot of his bed. We stared at each other for a long moment. Then we said at the same time.

"About Sirius..."

Both our eyes widened before we both laughed softly. Remus gestured for me to go first. "So, I just read his letters." I looked down at my lap. "Do you know what was in them?"

"I haven't read them, but I know Sirius."

"Right." I sighed and furrowed my brows. "I don't know what to do, Moony."

He stood up and took my hands in his. "You don't have to do anything, cub." He squeezed them lightly. "Take it one step at a time." I looked up to him, he met my gaze with a small smile. "You know about the house, right?"

"Yeah."

"He's having a housewarming party once Harry's moved in."

"A housewarming party." I murmured, then chuckled. "Who is he going to invite? He just got cleared." Then my eyes turned round and large. "If it's just Harry and us, I'm not going."

"No, no, Narcissa and Draco are invited too."

My mouth dropped open in shock, and Remus laughed. "That was my first reaction too. But Cissy and Sirius used to get along, before... everything. And he knows how close you are with Draco, so he wants to try."

"Right." I nodded with a slight frown. "Does Harry know?"

"No. Do you want to take the honour?" He asked innocently.

I laughed because he and Black probably would've been too scared to tell Harry that his nemesis is coming over. Draco probably doesn't know either. "Sure, I'll tell him."

"And just for the sake of people, he's inviting the Weasleys too."

"The Weasleys?"

"Yeah, Molly's brothers were in the Order too back then. We never really knew Arthur and Molly, but we knew Fabian and Gideon pretty well." Remus shifted until he was leaning against the desk next to me. "Have you heard from Fred and George yet?"

"They'd send me a few letters, haven't really had the time to answer more than once, why?"

"They are coming too. All of the kids and Harry invited Hermione too."

"Alright, I'll come. I'll have the twins to distract me when I need them or cause a distraction for me to sneak off." I heard a small growl from the back of his throat, and I turned to him to see him scowl. "Moony?"

"Huh?" He looked at me confused before his face softened. "So, you and the twins."

"Don't start this again." I chuckled and hopped off. "We're friends." I kissed his cheek. "You go back to sleep. We'll talk more tomorrow. I have to go see if Harry didn't get lost in the house." I snickered and Remus grinned back at me. "Goodnight, Moony."

"Night, cub."

I went straight to the basement. Even though I only met Harry not even a year ago, I knew he would be going somewhere I told him to stay away from. The door was open, and I leaned against the door frame as I saw Draco leaning over a cauldron stirring the liquid. Harry was sitting in the corner of the room flipping through a magazine, but his eyes flickered to Draco more than once. I was just about to announce myself when Draco said.

"Stop gazing, Potter. Either help or leave." He said not looking up from the cauldron.

"Huh?" Harry looked flabbergasted, and I had a hard time not to laugh. "I-I wasn't gazing."

"Sure." Draco rolled his eyes. "So, in or out?"

"I-I, uhm, well. I'm not good at potions." He said pushing himself out of the chair.

"Believe me, I know." Draco snorted. "Maybe you can learn something. And Alexandra seems a good influence on you at least."

"On me?" Harry snickered as he stood awkwardly across from him. "What about you?"

Draco glanced up for a moment to look at Harry. "I haven't changed." He looked back down. "Hand me the dried needles." He gestured impatiently with his fingers.

"Yeah, that's why I'm staying over at your house." Harry retorted as he handed the needles over. "You would've never allowed that before Alec."

"I still don't." He said as he rubbed the needles between his hands, letting it trickle in the cauldron. "But I found out pretty quickly that there isn't any arguing with Alexandra."

"Yeah." Harry smiled as he looked at Draco's movements.

"You still like her?"

"I-" He blushed fiercely. "I don't-"

"It was pretty obvious, Potter." He said as he squinted at the potion. "Ash of a Den." Harry handed the bottle of ashes over without question. "It's not something to be ashamed of, although yours was pretty shameful". He smirked as he tapped the end of the bottle. Harry huffed with a frown. "You're certainly not the only one."

I was pretty certain Harry got over his little crush on me. But he didn't say anything to Draco about it, because they weren't friends and Harry didn't want to say anything about it to the Slytherin.

"You mean Emmett Nott."

"Amongst others." He glanced up.

"Oh, you mean the -"

Harry was interrupted as Narcissa charged past me in her night cloak, her hair hanging loosely over her shoulders. "It's passed midnight, why are you -" She stopped when she saw that Harry was standing across from her son.

"I think we better all go to bed." I came out from behind Narcissa and saw the boys stiffen a little. "I thought I told you not to come down here, Harry." I quirked an eyebrow as I grinned.

Draco's grey eyes bore through mine, and I shot him an innocent smile.

"Right." Harry stepped away from the desk as he wiped his hands on his pyjama bottoms. "We should go to sleep."

"Aunt Cissy." The blond witch turned to me with a smile. "Did you get the invite?"

"I did." She looked at me curiously. "But I only want to go, if you're comfortable with it."

"I am. I'm going myself." My aunt looked shocked for a second. I saw Draco and Harry share a glance. "Don't look so shocked." I grinned and she composed herself.

"Well, then we should tell the boys, right?"

"Or..." I said slowly, a mischievous glint in my eye, and Cissy's lips perked up. "We could wait until tomorrow, after breakfast."

"That's a great idea, dear." She smiled.

"Wait!" The boys yelled together. Cissy and I raised an eyebrow at them. They both looked surprised at each other too. Draco cleared his throat. "What are you two talking about?"

"Can't this wait until morning, little dragon? I'm dreadfully tired."

Draco glared at Harry, who snickered at his nickname. "Mother!"

"Fine, fine." She waved him off, she tried to keep a neutral face. But standing so close to her, I could see she had a hard time holding back a smile or maybe even a full-blown laugh. "Your uncle, Sirius Black, bought a new house. And Harry's moving in with him in a week or two."

"Alright." Draco said slowly not following.

"He's having a -" She glanced at me. "How did he call it?"

"A housewarming party."

"Right, that." I snickered as she pointed at me. "And he invited us to come also. And before you say anything else, Draco. We're going."

Draco turned off the fire under his cauldron and placed the lid on top. He crossed the room until he stood in front of me. "You're going?"

"I am."

He regarded me for a moment. "Fine, we'll go. I'll be your backup."

"Thank you, Draco." I kissed his cheek. "Good night."

"Night." He turned to Cissy. "Sleep well, mother." And he walked out, and Narcissa followed a few seconds later.

"I can be your backup too, you know." Harry said as he came closer.

"I know," I smirked at him. "But you need to bond with him and need to get comfortable in your new home." I said as we walked out of the basement. Once we were in our beds in my room, Harry said.

"You knew I would go in there, didn't you?"

"I don't know what you're talking about," I said innocently. I smiled, but Harry couldn't see it in the dark. I couldn't see Harry either, but I was 100% sure, he had just rolled his eyes. "Good night, Harry."  

"Good night, Alec."  

Chapter Text

It pained me to leave Harry at the Dursleys, but that's where we were going to now. Remus held out his arms and we looped ours through. Narcissa and Draco were unusually quiet as they stood side by side. Since Harry wasn't used to sleeping in, he slept until 10.30. I had breakfast with the Malfoys and Remus. I might've let it slip how he was treated at the Dursleys when they asked why I looked so gloomy. I didn't want to drop him off even if it was for only two weeks. Remus and Narcissa were shocked, Draco didn't say anything, he was quiet for the rest of breakfast.

With a slight pop, we appeared around the corner of the house. I grabbed Harry's hand as we walked towards the house.

"I'm going to miss you."

"I'm going to miss you too." Harry smiled sadly. "But in less than two weeks I'm at the new house and we can meet up all the time."

"I don't want to leave you there for a minute, let alone two weeks." I glanced at Remus, who was walking to my left. His eyes were fixed on the house we were walking to, and I knew he was having a hard time with it too.

Remus knocked on the door when we arrived at the house. A few seconds later, Vernon Dursley opened the door, his eyes narrowed at Harry.

"Good evening, Mr Dursley." Remus forced a smile. He held out his hand. "I'm Remus Lupin."

"Hmph." He grunted not taking his hand. He glanced back to Harry in disgust. "We've been waiting thirty minutes for you to start dinner." He grunted. "Then you'll need to clean the bathroom and kitchen. After that straight to your room and keep your ruddy owl shut."

Remus stiffened next to me. I tilted my head to look at him. To my surprise his gaze wasn't unkind, it seemed like he adopted Narcissa's blank expression. Vernon pushed Harry harshly inside. He cleared his throat until the fat man looked at him, Harry stood behind him, glancing at his shoes.

"Are the adoption papers in order?"

"The godfather, Sirius Black?" He grunted. "Yes. He'll be picking him up on the fifteenth, not fast enough if you ask me." He grumbled the last part.

"Right." Remus frowned before he looked from me to Harry. "Harry, go pack your things.... Everything." Harry's eyes widened just like mine, he glanced from Remus to me uncertain. I shot him a smile and a tiny nod, and the boy darted upstairs. "Harry's coming with us. He'll stay with us until he can move in with his godfather."

"If you take him now, he is not coming back in."

"Believe me, he is not coming back." I snarled. The pig-headed man looked at me, his eyes blazing.

"You're one of them, aren't you?" He barked.

"I am." I challenged as I took a step forward. I smirked as Vernon stumbled back. "What is it to you?"

"Alec." Remus said calmly but with a slight warning in his voice. "Why don't you go see if Harry's nearly packed."

"I'm done." Harry's voice came from the stairs. I looked away from Vernon to see Harry looking at us with a bemused expression. "I don't have a lot of things."

I smiled honestly as I helped Harry with his bag. "We'll change that."

Without looking back, I tugged Harry out of the house. I heard Remus talk to Vernon for another minute before I heard the door close. Remus clapped in his hand excitedly as he stepped between us. "Ready to go?"

"Am I really not going back there?" Harry asked apprehensively.

"No." He shook his head determinedly. "You'll stay with us." Then he looked insecure to Harry. "Do you mind staying at the manor? I know you and Draco..."

"It will be fine, it's only for two weeks, right? I'll just hang with Alec if she'll have me."

"You're not getting rid of me, Potter." I smirked and nudged his arm slightly. "You can meet up with Hermione or Ron too. But maybe-"

"Go there instead?" He chuckled. "Yeah, I figured." He turned to Remus. "What about Mrs Malfoy and Malfoy?"

" Oh, they already know." He said as he started walking. Harry and I shared a surprised glance before following after him.

"We were never really bringing him back, were we?" I asked once we caught up.

Remus didn't answer but the corner of his lips twitched up. Once we rounded the corner, he held out his hands, and we disappeared with a pop.

Harry's been at the manor for over a week now. It was almost hilarious as the two young boys tried to avoid each other at all costs. Draco was once again in the basement working on his potions, while Harry was in the garden exploring. I leaned against the window frame as I glanced outside, Harry was walking through the rose bushes with Cissy, an unlikely sight for sure, but the two seemed to hit it off, much to Draco's frustration. I looked up when a large barn owl came flying towards my window. I gave the owl some treats before unwrapping the letter from its leg. I chuckled as I sat down on the bed, I recognised the handwriting in an instant, but that's not why I laughed. I laughed because written in red marker in bold letters on the front.

TOPSECRET! NIET OPENEN WAAR ANDERE BIJ ZIJN! IK MEEN HET, ALEXANDRA FAE LUPIN-BLACK! [DO NOT OPEN WITH OTHER PEOPLE AROUND! I MEAN IT, ALEXANDRA FAE LUPIN-BLACK !]

With Harry in the garden, Draco in the basement and Remus on a job hunt, I was alone and in the clear to open the letter. With a small smile, I opened the letter as I leaned against the headboard.

Mijn liefste engel, Alec. (Kiss ass, I thought to myself with a grin)

Ik mag hopen dat je helemaal alleen bent in je kamer ofzo, anders ben je in grote problemen!

Dus de reden dat ik je schrijf is niet alleen omdat ik je mis en baal dat we elkaar deze zomer niet kunnen zien, maar ook omdat ik topgeheim nieuws heb. Jij zult denken, wat voor nieuws kan hij hebben dat voor mij van toepassing is? Omdat je zo aandringt zal ik het maar zeggen zeker? :D

Beauxbatons, Zweinstein en Durmstrang, gaan voor het eerste in eeuwen het toverschool tornooi weer opstarten. En Zweinstein gaat dit organiseren!!! Dit betekent dat er een dertigtal studenten van Beauxbatons en Durmstrang dit jaar in Zweinstein zullen verblijven. Ik en Jazz gaan ons inschrijven om mee te gaan, maar we zullen pas in oktober weten of we wel echt mee mogen.

Maar dit is top secret, niemand mag dit weten. Ik mag dit normaal ook niet weten, maar ik hoorde mijn vader erover spreken met mama. De schoolhoofden mogen dit pas meedelen op de eerste dag van school. Dus mondje toe ;)

Ik hoop je snel weer te zien, schat.

Liefs

Jack

Translation :

[My dearest angel, Alec.

I should hope you're all alone in your room or something, otherwise you're in big trouble!

So, the reason I'm writing to you is not only because I miss you and hate that we can't see each other this summer, but also because I have top-secret news. You will think, what news can he have that applies to me? Since you're so insistent I'll just say it shall I? :D

Beauxbatons, Hogwarts and Durmstrang are going to restart the wizarding school tournament for the first time in centuries. And Hogwarts is going to organise it!!! This means about 30 students from Beauxbatons and Durmstrang will be at Hogwarts this year. Me and Jazz are going to sign up to go along, but we won't know until October whether we'll actually be allowed to go.

But this is top secret, no one is allowed to know. I'm not normally allowed to know this either, but I overheard my dad talking to Mum about it. The headmasters are only allowed to announce this on the first day of school. So shut up ;)

Hope to see you again soon, darling.

Love

Jack]

Fuck! A Triwizard Tournament. That was not at all what I was expecting. I quickly wrote down a reply, saying I'd keep it a secret and hoped to see him soon. This was going to be hard keeping it a secret for three weeks. I hid the letter in my fake bottom drawer before heading downstairs.

Just before I reached the stairs leading to the basement, Harry popped up. "Hey, where are you off to?"

"I promised Draco to help him with potions. You can come if you want."

"No, no." He shook his hands in front of him.

"Come on, Harry. You two can't avoid each other for the next week, besides, Black and Cissy seemed to get along, so you'll probably going to see him more than once." Harry stood there for a moment, contemplating. "You don't have to talk to him."

"Fine." He threw up his hands in fake frustration. "But only if you give me pointers for this year's potions."

"It's a deal!" I looped my arm through his as we descended the stairs. "But I have something much better than just pointers." I grinned as I stepped off the last step. "Hey, cous." I smiled as I walked over to the boy, who had his head over the cauldron.

"Alexandra." He said not looking up. His usual neat hair was messy, sticking out in every direction.

I rubbed my hands through his hair playfully. "I like it like this, makes you look ... less serious."

"It's a mess, that's what it is. It makes me look like Potter! I just can't seem to get the potion right."

Harry cleared his throat in amusement and both he and I had to bite our lips as Draco's head snapped up in surprise, not knowing Harry had entered the basement with me. They stared at each other for a moment, Harry was still trying to hold in a laugh but there was something else too. He looked a bit flustered, just like Draco.

"I stand by my statement." He said before snapping his head to me. "Can you have a look?"

"Sure." I smiled, ruffling his hair again. And he huffed out a breath as he stepped aside. Harry sat down in the chair in the corner again, looking at us.

"Never thought I would see you ask for help, Malfoy."

"You don't know me, Potter." Draco snapped.

"Boys." I sighed as I concentrated on the potion. They pursed their lips at each other before looking down. "Right, you put too much camomile in. Just add one-fifth of everything else to counter it."

I stepped aside and placed a second cauldron on the desk with a thud, and I looked up. "Let's go, Harry."

"What?" He asked in surprise, and Draco looked up with slightly raised eyebrows.

"You wanted to practice," I said while Draco muttered softly next to me: And he needs it. I ignored it pointedly. "Come here and take these ingredients," I said once he stood in front of me and walked to the staircase.

"Where are you going?" The two boys asked.

"Don't worry." I laughed. "I'll be right back." I left the two stunned boys behind as I darted up to my room. I quickly retrieved the books I needed and bounded back downstairs. Draco was busy with his potion while Harry stood across from him, looking up at the ceiling. I took my place next to Draco and dropped the books between me and Harry, handing the top one to him.

"These are my old potion books. You can use them for class. I've written notes and changes in the side-lines."

"Why does Harry get to have them?" Draco asked with large grey eyes.

"Because you're nearly as good at potions as I am and you have your uncle to help you. Harry does not."

"Well, if you look at it like that." He grumbled looking down, then his head shot back up. "Hey! I am as good as you."

"You wish, cousin." I laughed. "So, you want them?" I asked Harry.

"You don't need them anymore?" He asked flipping through the book.

"I had an O on my NEWT's, Harry." I smiled. "I'm good. But we're starting at the first-year potions. I need to see what you can do." I nudged my elbow into Draco's side as he snickered.

Harry took my first-year book and flipped through it, ignoring Draco. He frowned as he looked from the page to the other books. "We learned this last year, not first year." He said pointing at the girding potion.

"Lesson plans in Beauxbatons are a little different." I shrugged. "Just pick one of your first years' potions and we start from there."

As Harry started to flip through the book, Draco turned to me. "Have you chosen an apprenticeship yet?"

I saw Harry glance up from the book to me. "No." I sighed. "I still have time. They need to know by the second week of September."

"Snape came over the first week of break trying to explain what happened." He said carefully.

"Don't care. I won't do it." I looked back to Harry. "You chose one?" He nodded. "Great, you'll start on your own first. Then I can see whether you need help"

The three of us worked in silence. Harry working on his own potion, while I helped Draco with a fifth-year potion. Draco and I didn't need to look at each other to know what the other needed. I caught Harry staring at us from time to time, and I knew Draco had too because he had a smirk in place as he chopped the ingredients.

Later that night when we were both in bed, Harry said. "You and Malfoy... you two really work well together. Almost in sync."

"Been stargazing, Harry?" I snickered and the next second I was hit with a pillow in the face. "I'm keeping this, thank you." I tugged the pillow under my head.  

Chapter Text

So, the past week before Harry left for Black's house, we spent a lot of the time in the basement working on improving his potions. When Harry wasn't under the scrutinizing eye of Severus Snape, he wasn't half bad. The two boys didn't speak much, but Draco helped him in his sneering way. When the sun came out and the days were beautiful, I dragged them both out to the garden. Remus and Narcissa nearly fainted one day when the two boys were flying in the garden together but not together. Harry had left two days ago, and it was now the day of the housewarming party. The sun was out again, so I picked a light summer dress before heading down for breakfast.

"Morning." I kissed Cissy's and Moony's cheek, before sitting down next to my uncle. I was happy to note that Narcissa took my advice. The elves weren't wearing old rags anymore. My aunt had bought them fabrics which they could make their own clothes from. The one, who handed me a plate with bacon and eggs, wore a sort of dark green kimono. "What time do we leave?"

"Noon," Remus said sipping his tea. "We can go on foot." Narcissa and I looked surprised at Remus. "The house is only two blocks away."

"Why did he floo over here then?" Narcissa huffed.

"Because he's lazy." Remus shrugged with a little smile. His eyes glazed over like he was thinking back about something that happened a long time ago. "I've found a new job, cub."

"Really? That's great, Moony!" I hugged him tight. "As what?"

"As a librarian."

"I don't think there is anything better, except..."

"Not again, Alec." He groaned, letting his head fall back.

"What is she talking about?" Narcissa asked as she cut her toast.

"Nothin-"

"Opening his own shop. It's his dream." I interrupted him with a glare.

"Why haven't-" Narcissa stopped when Draco came sauntering in, with little eyes. His hair was messy, and he was still in his bathrobe. I'm guessing I, alongside the others on the table, were the only ones who had seen him like this. Even with Harry staying for two weeks, he had never seen it. Always showered and got dressed before he headed down.

"Still want to go?" He asked me, and I nodded. "I'll go get ready in a minute. First-" Before he could finish his sentence, I handed him a cup of tea, just how he liked. He smiled after he took a sip.

A couple of hours later, the four of us were walking to Black's new house. Narcissa hasn't asked about the shop yet, but I knew she was dying to ask. The truth was... He didn't have the money. I already told him to take it from my account, but he flatly refused. I even suggested I'd loan it to him, but still a no-go. I was still figuring out a way to convince him, really. Draco and I were talking about going to Diagon Alley to get our school things when Remus and Cissy stopped in front of us. I glanced up at a large house, a manor really. Not one like Malfoys which was pretty dark, but light and smaller. But how can it not be? Malfoy Manor was ridiculously large. It had white wooden panels and a bright blue door. Grass and trees surrounded the property, secluding it from the surrounding houses. Before any of us had the time to step to the front door, the door flew open. Harry grinned when he saw me and ran towards us. He flung his arms around me in a tight hug.

"It's been two days." Draco muttered, but another voice said just the same. I glanced over to Harry's shoulder. Sirius Black was looking at us with a curious expression. I looked away from his eyes, the exact copy of mine as I pulled back. I grinned at Harry.

"Are you going to show me around or what?"

"Yeah, let's go. The others aren't here yet." He started pulling me to the house, then he looked behind me uncertain. "Uhm- Malfoy, do you want to come with us?"

The blond huffed. "Don't strain yourself, Potter. I'm fine."

And with that, Harry pulled me inside, leaving the four of them standing in the front yard watching us walk through the blue door. I had to admit, the house was impressive. It was brightly coloured and large windows let in all the sunlight. A large contrast from Grimmauld Place, Remus told me about. It had an open kitchen with a long dining table, that could fit twelve people. The living room had a large beige L-shaped couch that was facing a TV. A light wood bookcase was built around the TV and was filled with books. The living room looked at in the garden with its floor-length windows, and a large glass slide door.

On the first floor were five bedrooms and three bathrooms. Harry proudly opened the door to his room and let me step in. It had beige walls, a bookcase and a desk against the wall. A double bed was placed beneath the window. You could see little hints of Gryffindor around the room. The wall that was filled with pictures called my attention and I walked closer.

"You like it? Sirius let me decorate it myself. I was never allowed to decorate, so I don't know..."

"It's amazing, Harry." I smiled as he came to stand next to me. "You're so cute here," I said pointing at a picture of Harry, Hermione and Ron.

The boy flushed. "That was the end of our first year. We were just babies."

"Cute." I said as I pinched his cheek. The boy turned even more red. "De La Barre, Harry!" I laughed. "How is it I can still make you blush like that? I know your crush has been long gone."

"I- I don't know. I don't have a crush on you anymore, but I think you'll always have that effect on me. I mean -" He looked me up and down. "Look at you."

"Fuck Salazar, Potter. Stop looking at my cousin like that." Draco's voice filled the room.

Harry spun around quicker than a spinning top. Draco sauntered in slowly, looking at the room, before he stopped next to me looking at the pictures.

"Be nice, Draco." I slapped his arm as the three of us looked at the pictures. "There really should be a picture of us on here, Harry."

"I don't think that's a good idea," Draco said and the two of us looked at him. "Harry won't be able to sleep, going to town on him-OUCH!"

I send him a small wandless stinging hex, making him double over. "What were you saying?" I asked innocently as I looked at a picture of Harry with the Weasleys. Seeing Fred and George in the photo made my heart jump, I missed them more than I thought I would.

"I was saying the others have arrived." He gritted out. "They were practically all glaring at me, I had to get out."

"And you thought I was better?" Harry asked sending an own glare, but I saw he didn't really mean it.

Draco shrugged and walked back to the door. He looked over his shoulder. "Don't. Tell. Anyone. You. Stayed. At. My. House. Potter." He gritted out and walked out of the room with too much flair. Harry and I snickered at each other before following the Slytherin down.

Before we walked downstairs, Harry pointed to two doors in the hallway. "That's your room and that one's Remus'. Do you want to take a look?"

"No, I'm good. Let's get to the others."

The sight downstairs was something to behold. They were all standing in the garden, Hermione was talking to Ron in hushed tones, while Molly and Arthur stood with Remus, Narcissa and Sirius. Remus and Arthur were engaged in the conversation while the other three stood awkwardly and insecure next to them. My heart thudded fast as I saw the twins and Ginny in the lounge chairs. The three of them had their eyes closed, so they hadn't seen me yet.

"Harry!" Hermione cried, she abandoned her conversation with Ron and ran up to him. Harry caught her in his arms.

"Alec, can I talk to you?" Black asked and I looked away from the hugging duo. But just behind him, I saw the twins' eyes snap open at the sound of my name. They jumped up like they'd been electrocuted. They nearly pushed Sirius to the ground to get to me. I smiled broadly at the boys as they bumped into each other coming to me. Draco snickered next to me as he stepped back.

"Hello, boys." I said as I opened my arms and they engulfed me in their famous twin hug. The smell of fireworks and rain after a hot day filled my nose. I buried my face in their arms.

"Gods, we missed you, love." They both kissed my cheek, a little closer to my mouth than they usually did.

My hands were still on their necks as they leaned slightly down. "I missed you too. I'm sorry I haven't written much-"

"That's okay-" They started but the next moment Remus and Sirius appeared next to the twins, clearing their throats.

"Uhm, Harry, why don't you show us around?" Hermione asked glancing between the twins and Remus and Sirius.

"Yeah, sure." He said. "Fred, George, let's go." The twins winked at me before walking into the house. Harry stepped closer and whispered. "Are you going to be alright?"

"Yeah, I'm fine. Draco and Remus are still here. You go show everyone around." I watched Harry and the others walk inside the house. Draco and Remus subtly shifted until they were standing with Mrs and Mr Weasley. The silence stretched on between me and my father. Remus gave me an encouraging smile and I turned towards the house.

"Nice house," I said as my eyes flickered over the windows. The next moment I saw several heads duck away from one of the windows upstairs. Spies. I chuckled to myself. I felt Sirius Black's eyes on me, while I looked at the house.

"Thank you. I don't know if Harry told you, but you have a room here, so does Remus."

"He told me."

"Uhm, yeah, right. Have you seen it?"

"No." Silence. Not just between us but the whole garden. Remus and the others had gone completely silent too. "I read your letters."

"Really? I'm really so-"

"Not now, Black." I turned to him, my gaze hard. "I agreed to be here, but this will take time. I don't want to do -" I gestured around the two of us. "This here and now."

"Okay." He said with a small smile. He seemed not bothered by it, maybe because I was even remotely speaking to him, albeit the few words. "Did you become an Animagus because of Remus?"

"Obviously," I said in a Snape-like manner, and Black winced. "He told me his friends did it for him back in school, so I decided to step in."

"You know that's really impressive doing it at that age."

"I'm aware." I tucked back a grin. "How old were you?"

"Fifteen." He grinned. "How did you find out about Moony?"

"Scotty." I corrected.

"What?" Sirius looked genuinely confused.

"The name of the wolf is Scotty."

"Huh." He frowned. "We always called him Moony."

"I know, he didn't like that. His name is Scotty. And I didn't find out, Remus told me."

"He -" He looked over his shoulder to the others. "He told you?"

"Yeah, I was about six, I think."

Sirius whirled around to face my uncle. "You told a six-year-old you're a werewolf?!"

"I tell her everything." Remus shrugged unfazed by his reaction. He looked at me and winked, I smiled widely at him. Sirius looked between us as we smiled. "I-" Sirius huffed. "I'll set the table for lunch." He muttered and walked inside the house.

"I'll help, Sirius." Narcissa smiled and the two Blacks walked in.

"Alec?" Remus called me over. "This is Mrs and Mr Weasley."

"Nice to meet you. George, Fred and Harry told me all about you." I smiled as I shook their hands.

"All good things, I hope." Mr Weasley gave me a warm smile.

"Nothing but, Mr Weasley." I said honestly. "You raised some amazing children."

"I guess I have you to thank for getting the exchange program up and running again. Percy really loved going there for his last months." Mrs Weasley smiled. "And call us Molly and Arthur, dear."

"The twins told us all about you too, you know."

"I'll bet." Draco snorted a laugh. And I subtly stomped on his foot.

"What are we talking about?" Fred asked as he and George appeared next to me, out of breath. It looked like they had run through the house.

"You." I grinned and the boys paled.

"What?" They choked out.

"Seems like you two can't stop talking about Alexandra." Draco said with a blank expression. Remus growled in the back of his throat, but I was the only one that heard it.

"Lunch is ready!" Narcissa called out, saving us before Remus's growl turned louder.

I turned and tugged Remus with me as we headed to the table. Sirius was looking between me and Remus, sensing something was wrong. Sirius sat down at the head of the table, Remus on his right and me next to him. Draco smirked as he slid on the stool next to me before either of the twins sat down. Across from me was Harry.

"Are you taking your Wolfsbane?" Sirius whispered to Remus.

I snorted while Remus smiled. Black raised his eyebrows as he looked at me. "I make his Wolfsbane potion. Of course, he takes it."

"You - you can make Wolfsbane?" His grey eyes, just like mine, turned comically large.

"She can make about everything." Harry said proudly, and I smiled at him.

"I think she's the only one that ever got her NEWT's for potions in fifth year instead of seven." Hermione said with adoration.

"And got an Outstanding." Harry grinned.

"I told you she would get an O." George nudged his brother. "This is a cause for celebration."

Fred smirked at his twin before they rummaged in their pockets and held out fireworks before sending it off. I shook my head smiling at the twins' antics.

"Congratulations, dear." Molly called over the fireworks to me.

"Thank you." I called back. I turned back to see Sirius's eyes on me with a look I couldn't decipher.

Sirius's lips moved as he looked down at his plate, that already filled itself with all kinds of things. I perked up my ears. "She finished her potions NEWT's, she got an Outstanding." He looked back up and locked eyes with me, his smile wide. Then suddenly yelled. "My daughter got an O for her Potion NEWT's!"

"I'm not your daughter." I grumbled.

"Alec." Remus placed his hand on mine. I was shaking slightly, I looked down at my plate.

"It's not because I'm here, and I exchanged two dozen words with you, that makes you my father. Remus is. It's because of him, that I got here. Him, not you." I said as I looked to Sirius stone-faced.

Everyone at the table went dead silent. It even sounded like the birds had stopped chirping. Then the silence broke as Ron turned into a big yellow canary. We all looked stunned at the younger Weasley before falling in a fit of laughter. Count on the twins to flip over the mood in an instant.  

Chapter Text

Everyone had dispersed after lunch, Harry took Hermione, Ron and Ginny upstairs while I sat with the twins and Draco, the latter was sitting rather uncomfortably, around a fire pit, sitting on logs. The adults were sitting at the table in the garden. The twins were trying to start a fire in the pit in the middle of the garden.

"So, what have you two been doing all summer?" I asked as the twins tried to make fire with rocks.

"Not much." Fred shrugged as he clanged the stones together and frowned when nothing happened. "Been working on more products."

"And practicing quidditch, very important." Then they turned to me, the stones still in their hands. "And missing you." They said with such a serious face, I couldn't help but snort, just like Draco.

"Wow, that was really cheesy." I laughed and the twins gave me a lopsided smile that made my stomach flip. "Are you done trying to make fire like cavemen?" I grinned. I looked over their shoulders to the table. "Uncle Moony, do you have matches? Or a Zippo?"

But it wasn't Moony who came over. Sirius Black had tossed his chair to the ground as he jumped up. He stumbled towards us with less grace than a cross-legged donkey. He handed over a black zippo with trembling hands.

"Thanks." I murmured turning my attention to the firepit. I felt Draco shift closer to me.

"It was my brother's, Regulus. He died a long time ago." I looked up as I heard the sadness in his voice.

"I'm sorry." I whispered as I clicked the zippo open and set a few of the smaller branches on fire. The twins leaned forward in interest. They were both nearly in the fire when the others joined.

"So, Malfoy." Fred started looking at the young Slytherin. "Who would've thought you would be in the same place as Harry, voluntarily." He snickered.

Draco looked up with large eyes, surprised someone talked to him directly beside his mother, me or Remus. "I sure didn't."

"Having a hard time not jinxing him?" George laughed and Harry yelled. "Oi!"

"Getting harder by the minute, Weasley." Draco said with a straight face, but the corners of his lips twitched up. The twins barked out a laugh, and I smiled. I know Gryffindors and Slytherin don't get along, even worse with Weasleys and the Malfoys, but I was happy that the twins tried. "What you do for family." A real smile crept up as he nudged me softly.

Again, I felt several eyes on me. Narcissa watched us with a warm smile, just like Remus. Sirius' gaze was intense, but I couldn't make it out. Harry too, had a look I couldn't really decipher.

"Did you hear? Dad got us tickets for the World Cup!" Fred said excitedly about twenty minutes later.

"Ron wanted to invite Harry and Hermione, but Harry said Sirius already got him tickets." George continued.

"That's great!" I said in a happy voice. "Then you can all go. I'm guessing you're going to have a lot of fun." I smiled broadly, happy to see their excited faces. I turned to Draco. "Are you going?"

He nodded as he accepted a stick from Remus with a frown. "Mum and I have tickets. We had to get separate ones because father already got tickets last year. He was making it difficult for Mother to procure them."

"But I did it. Your father can't take this away from us." Narcissa smiled and I nudged Draco with a grin. He was still looking funny at the stick in his hands, but so did the most around the campfire. Only Harry, Hermione, Remus, Sirius and I knew for what it was. Just as I was about to explain, Fred asked.

"Aren't you going?" He asked, looking between me and Remus. "It's in two days."

"You surely know how to ruin a surprise, Weasley." Black grumbled.

I furrowed my eyebrows as I looked at him. Fred went red in the face and looked down at the fire, twiddling the stick between his fingers. Black pulled out two small dark red envelopes and handed one to me and one to Remus. He rubbed his neck nervously.

"I - I wanted to surprise you both. I've got a tent and everything, more than enough room for the four of us."

Remus and I shared a glance. "I don't know. I'm not a big quidditch fan."

"What?!" Was shouted by several around the fire. A reaction I knew was going to come.

"But you come to all of our matches." George said in disbelief.

"That's different. I come to see you ." I pushed my finger against his chest. His ears turned red. "I come to see my friends and family."

"Come on, we're all going." Harry whined. As I looked around all eyes were on me. The twins and Harry looked at me with pleading puppy eyes. Draco just had a raised eyebrow. My eyes found Remus who was sitting next to Sirius. And just from that look, I knew what to say.

"Alright, alright. I'll go."

The twins cheered and Harry smiled as he leaned back, placing a hand on the ground behind Hermione. My eyes flickered over Sirius, and he had an excited and happy twinkle in his eyes. I quickly looked away.

"Can someone please tell me why I'm holding a stick?" Draco huffed waving it in the air. I tossed a marshmallow at his head with a laugh.

Since Black and Harry only lived just around the corner, we and the Malfoys decided to go together. Much to the dismay of Draco, who didn't want to be spotted with Harry within ten metres of each other. But like always he followed me and Narcissa without another complaint. Harry and Black were already waiting outside the house with their bags packed. Unlike the Weasleys, we were going to apparate as there were as many adults as kids.

Sirius looked nervous between me and Remus. I knew why he was nervous around me, but Remus? I'll ask about it later. Remus put his arm around me and looked down with a warm smile. "Ready, cub?"

"Yeah, you?" I asked since the full moon was just a few days away.

"I'll be fine." He kissed the top of my head as I leaned into him.

Sirius cleared his throat and broke the stare he had on us. "We should be going." He held out his hand for Harry. I wrapped my arm around Remus's elbow and Draco took his mother's hand. With a pop, the six of us disappeared from the street.

With a wave of his wand, Sirius put up the tent. A little further back, Narcissa did the same with their tent. Draco bluntly refused to put the tent up next to us even though the place where we were staying was for the "richer" people and had enough room around us to put them together.

"We were supposed to set it up the muggle way, Pads." Remus said with his hands on his hips.

Harry and I looked at each other with a grin. Sirius whirled around with flair, his black hair bouncing on his shoulders. "I can take it apart, so you can set it back up the muggle way." He offered with a lopsided grin. Remus's eyes twinkled as he looked at the escaped prisoner.

"That won't be necessary." Remus smiled and looked away with a slight blush. "Why don't we set everything up inside, then the kids can go wander around."

"I-" Sirius looked at me and Harry. "Fine, be back at four."

I glanced at Remus with a raised eyebrow. "Five is fine too, enough time to get to the stadium."

"Thanks, Uncle Moony." I kissed his cheek "See you at five." And tugged Harry through the crowd.

Harry and I were in search of the Weasley tent, but since most of the tents here looked like each other, it took a while before we found them. It was when I saw a familiar redhead with glasses disappear inside, I knew we found them. But just as we reached the tent, two strong arms picked me up and twirled me around. I shrieked at the sudden action until I saw who it was. I laughed as I let my head fall in the crook of his neck.

"Hey, you." I kissed his cheek.

"Hello, gorgeous." He smiled and lowered me to the ground as throats were cleared next to us. We turned and I saw most of the Weasleys in front of the tent. "Uhm, hello." Emmett had put me down, but his arm was still around my waist. The atmosphere was tense, and Emmett withdrew his arm. "Well, I'll leave you to your... friends. Maybe I'll see you later."

"Oh, okay. Yeah." I said turning away from the Weasleys to look at him. "Draco's at plot A, if you want to see him or if Theo wants to."

"Great, we're on plot A too." He kissed my cheek. "Later." And he disappeared in the crowd.

I looked at the group in front of me. The twins were standing in the middle both with green and white face paint, The two others, also Weasleys, I only recognized from photos. They had just two-coloured streaks on their cheeks. "Well, you must be another Weasley." I smiled as I walked up to the one on the left. He had short red hair and freckles all over, and he had broad muscular shoulders, scar lines visible on his bare arms.

"That I am." He grinned. "Charles Weasley." He bowed and kissed my hand.

"Alexandra Lupin-Black." I said with a curtsy.

Recognition filled his face and he looked to the twins for a second. "Oh, so you're the famous Alec!"

"Famous?"

"Master potioneer, expert dueller, wizarding as well as muggle, speaks three languages and is full of mystery." The other brother said as he held out his hand. "Bill Weasley."

"I already told them I'm not mysterious, I'm practically boring." I smiled, but my heart was thundering fast in my chest as I looked at the bashful twins. I said it! Bashful, who would have thought!

"You are a lot of things, love. But boring isn't one of them." George smiled and leaned down to kiss my cheek.

"Agree to disagree." I grinned up at him.

"I agree with George." Fred said leaning down for a kiss too.

"Shocker." I said and the other brothers laughed. "Want to go explore?"

"Hell, yes!" The twins said, already wrapping their arms around me.

"Harry!?" I called to the tent.

"He's already gone with Hermione and Ron."

"Oh." I frowned not knowing when he left.

"He left when you were hugging that boy." Charlie said pointing at the crowd Nott disappeared in.

"Emmett Nott. He's my ex, we're still good friends." I shrugged. "Ready to go, gents?" I asked the twins. "You two are welcome to join."

"That's okay. You three go ahead." Charlie waved us off as the twins wrapped their arms around my waist.

"Fred, George, try to be back in time, alright?" Bill said. "Don't try and find some quiet lonely corners." He snickered. The twins looked over their shoulders as they glared at them.

"Come on." I tugged them forward. I didn't turn around but through the crowd, I could hear one of them whispering, Bill, I think.

He whispered. "This isn't going to end well."

When we were out of sight, I pulled my arms back and tried to ignore the pouting faces of the twins. Because I knew Bill was right. They probably noticed how I looked at them and knew that I could never choose between them. I could never come between brothers. I could never come between Fred and George, they meant too much to me. I needed to try and move on, that would be the best for the three of us.   

Chapter Text

George and Fred were singing loudly in the Weasley tent, happy that the Irish had won. Hermione and I were whispering as we looked at the twins, who were teasing Ron. Suddenly Charlie took my hand and started dancing with me to the sound of the twins and the music.

"Are all of you Weasleys so..."

"Handsome?" Charlie grinned. "Why yes, we are. Good genes, if I say so myself."

"That was not what I was going to say." I laughed.

"It's the truth either way." He winked. "So, you're the daughter of Sirius Black and Remus Lupin?"

"I am the daughter of Remus Lupin, yes." I said, looking away from him. The twins had stopped singing, they were leaning against the tent, their arms crossed as they looked at me and Charlie. Bill was trying to talk to them but smirked when they didn't answer and followed their gazes.

"I'm sorry, I didn't mean..."

"It's okay." I looked back up at him. "It's just complicated."

"Yeah, I would assume so." He looked at me with a small smile. "Bill and I were talking earlier..."

"Oh, yeah?" I asked with a raised eyebrow.

"We would like to see your duelling skills."

I laughed at that because he looked so serious. "Well, the next time you're in England, I'll hold you to that. Bill too."

"That might be sooner than you think." He whispered in my ear. The next moment Charlie was being pulled away by the twins and George tucked me in his side, while Fred pushed Charlie away. "Took longer than I thought." Charlie laughed as Bill clapped his back.

I looked up at George and squeezed his waist. He stopped glaring at his two older brothers and looked at me with a smile. Then explosions sounded. Bill, Charlie, Percy and Arthur had their wands drawn, just like me as I took a stance. Arthur slipped out for a few seconds before coming back in.

"Death eaters." Arthur breathed. "Kids, you go into the woods until you hear from me, alright?"

The lot of us ran out of the tent, and chaos surrounded us. People screamed while others were floating upside down in the air.

"Fred, George, keep Ginny safe!" Arthur yelled before he and the three eldest brothers ran towards the chaos. The twins both took Ginny's hand and George held out his free hand for me.

"Keep your wands ready." I said to them. Ron took his wand out of his pocket, but the rest had them in hand. "Go straight to the forest." I said before I turned.

"Where are you going?" George stopped me with a hand on my shoulder.

"I need to find Draco."

"He'll be fine. Let's go." Fred said looking around nervously.

But I stood my ground. "I NEED TO FIND HIM!"

"His father is a death eater; they're not going to hurt the precious son of You-know-who's trusted follower."

"What!?" I shrieked, and I saw the moment Fred registered what he had said. Another explosion behind us. "Go to the forest. Now!"

"Alec, wait! I'll come with you." Harry came closer to me.

"No." I shook my head. "You go to the forest with the others."

"Alec." The twins pleaded, I looked to George who still had his hand on my shoulder.

I squeezed the hand on my shoulder. "Go." I said barely audible. With another lingering look, they took off towards the forest while I ran the other way, towards the loud sound of explosions.

Even amidst the chaos, burning tents and death eaters coming closer, I found my way back to the tent. I found our tent first, but it was empty, not a cup out of place. I let the flap close again and ran to Draco and Narcissa's tent.

"DRACO?!" I called into the tent, but no answer. I turned around and cried out in the crowd. "DRACO!?"

"A-Alexandra?" Draco's frightened eyes came from behind a tent before he started running. I hugged him tight against me, I could feel him shake. "He's- he's here."

"Right." I nodded, knowing exactly who he meant. "Where is your mum?" I asked as he pulled back.

"Black and Lupin wanted her to go into hiding with me, but she refused. She wanted to help and followed them."

"And why are you still here? Are you okay?" I tilted his head from left to right.

"I'm fine. I was running towards the Weasley tent to come find you, but I spotted him..."

"It's okay, lets head to the woods." I squeezed his hand. I looked around the wreckage around us. More than sixty percent of the tents had already burned down, the cries grew silent, and smoke filled the air. In the corner of my eye, I saw hooded figures coming closer. I pulled Draco down behind a burned-down tent and put a disillusionment charm over us.

"Do you have your wand?" I whispered and Draco nodded silently next to me. "Good, keep it ready."

A few minutes later, the death eaters walked away. I kept the charm over us as we tried to walk to the forest. But since there were still many death eaters around it took us a while. We had to duck or hide when another group past us. It looked like the sun was starting to rise already when two death eaters appeared in front of us still hooded. Trying to look innocent and small, I whipped my wand behind my back and the one closest to Draco flew ten metres back. The other death eater looked baffled around, which was an opportunity I didn't waste. I kicked at his legs, letting him fall to the ground with a loud thud. He tried to reach for his wand, but I kicked it away. With one foot on his groin to keep him down, I kicked my heel on his hood-cladded nose. Until he lay motionless underneath me.

"Fuck, Alexandra." Draco breathed behind me. We both stiffened as another twig cracked. I turned around, already making the motions with my wand and pointed at the spot where the noise came from. The figure was hanging upside down in the air, it looked like he had an invisible rope tied around his ankle. Draco picked up the wand from the unconscious death eater as we walked to the hanging figure. Without asking, Draco kept his wand fixed on the death eater on the ground.

"Alec, cub. You can put him down." Remus said, appearing behind the figure with a proud smirk on his lips, but his eyes were filled with worry. The figure in the sky turned, and I looked up to Sirius Black. Given the situation, it wasn't appropriate, but I just couldn't help myself. I laughed. I laughed hard, so hard tears rolled down my cheeks.

"That was bloody brilliant, love." Charlie appeared from behind another tent with Bill. "I'm not sure I want to duel you, anymore."

"Too late, Weasley."

"Alec." I looked back to Sirius, who was still hanging upside down in the air. His hair was swaying under him, and he had his arms crossed over his chest. It was bloody funny. "Can you put me down?"

I pouted a little that I had to, and Draco snickered next to me. But I did disband the spell and he fell to the ground with a thud. Could I have softened his landing? Maybe. But all the others could have lowered him to the ground, and they didn't. I looked back to Remus as Sirius scrambled up. When our eyes met, we ran to each other, and he put his strong arms around me.

"Why aren't you in the forest?" He asked cupping my cheek, and checking for injuries. "Where are the others?"

"I send them to the forest. I needed to find Draco."

"Of course." He smiled. He looked over to Draco. "Your mum is fine, she should be packing up the tent by now." Draco let out a breath of relief as Remus looked back at me. "Are you okay? Did the death eaters-"

"I'm fine. Those idiots didn't stand a chance."

"I'd say." Bill whistled.

"You - you saw?"

"We all saw, love." Charlie winked. "Not just you flinging Black here in the air."

"Are you okay?" I asked looking back at Remus, his eyes looked weary and tired.

"Now that I know you're okay, yes." He smiled softly and tucked me under his arm.

"What now?" Draco asked, stepping closer to us as he didn't know the others.

"We-" Sirius said, his eyes fixed on me. But he was interrupted as the sky turned green and the dark mark appeared in the sky. I gasped as we all fell silent, looking up at the sky.

I was sitting at the library in Black's house. It was a few days after the disastrous cup, and Remus had me nearly in lockdown. I could only go to this house or stay at the Malfoys. So, today I decided to spend my time here, for Harry. The twins, mainly Fred tried to write an apology, but I really wasn't in the mood for it. Harry's scar had been hurting a lot since the cup, but he didn't want to tell Sirius and worry him, even with how much I pestered him about it. I leaned back in the armchair as I flipped through the pages of possible Potions Masters, trying to pick one. I heard the door open and close. I didn't need to look up to know who it was.

I looked up from my papers to see Sirius Black sitting on the ottoman in front of me. He had cut his hair since he'd been on the run, it stopped just over his shoulders now. The sickening look on him was gone now too, and his skin was starting to fill in. Making his eyes and jaw hollow. He looked more like the guy in the pictures Remus had of them when they were younger.

"I know we haven't really talked since the World Cup, or like ever." He added with a little smile. "But you did really great there. Amazing, really." I looked at him with a blank expression, worthy of a Slytherin, I tell you. "Remus already told me he trained you from a young age, but still seeing it makes it real, you know."

"Maybe Remus should teach you a trick or two, since you're so slow on your feet." Involuntarily the corner of my lip twitched up.

"You caught me by surprise that's all." Sirius shrugged but he smiled broadly.

"I caught you by surprise?" I raised an eyebrow. "You were literally on a battlefield, and I took you by surprise?"

"Well, yeah." He said uncertainly. He threw his hands up with a chuckle. "I didn't expect you to whirl on me like that."

"I was almost attacked by death eaters two seconds before that! You didn't announce yourself, so it was your mistake." I said leaning back.

"I cannot deny it." He grinned. "It was certainly my mistake."

That made a tiny, but real smile appear on my lips. Sirius looked far too pleased with himself to get a smile out of me, so I dropped it.

"I should get going," I said picking up my bag and papers. When I reached out for the doorknob, he said.

"Can I write to you?"

I looked over my shoulder at him, his eyes were pleading. And it looked like he was a second away from begging on his knees. "Sure..." I hesitated. "But no promises I'll write back though."

"I'll take what I can get." He breathed out a sigh of relief as I walked out of the room.

I passed the large couch in the living room, and a memory of the night after the World Cup, came flooding in my mind. Remus and Sirius were sitting in the middle of the couch, close together as they spoke in hushed tones. Sirius had his arm on the back of the couch, surrounding Remus's shoulders, so he could lean in to whisper in his ear. Sirius wore his lopsided smile, while Remus blushed. And then I knew nothing would ever be the same again.  

Chapter Text

Since Draco refused to go to the platform at the same time as Harry, we apparated to King's cross before them. Draco could be such a drama queen. We arrived later than last year, and the platform was already crowded. I glanced around the platform in search of a familiar face, but no such luck. A few of the younger ones from the duelling class waved at me as they passed.

"I see Theo and Blaise," Draco said to his mother and kissed her cheek. "I'll see you at Christmas."

"If you want to come home that is." But she just smiled as Draco looked confused at her. Would it have anything to do with the tournament? "I'll miss you."

"I'll miss you too, mother. Be safe." He added in a serious tone. He nodded at Remus before walking over to his friends.

"You'll keep an eye on him, right?" Aunt Cissy asked me, looking worried.

"You know I will." I smiled and pulled her in a hug. Her hugs were always warm. Most people think she's pretentious and sticks up her nose to everyone, but nothing could be farther from the truth. She was warm, honest, sweet and motherly. She's the closest thing I had to a mother growing up. "I'll miss you, Aunt Cissy."

"I'll miss you too, Alexandra." She kissed the top of my head. She patted my cheek softly before giving me and Remus a moment.

I wrapped my arms around Remus's waist as he circled his around me. "You'll be safe, alright? And keep Cissy safe."

"We'll keep her safe." He murmured in my hair.

"We?" I asked, pulling back with a quirked brow. "Who is this we?"

" I - uhm - well." Oh gods, Remus was blushing! "I just mean Sirius and me. He is her cousin."

"Right. I should get on the train." I said picking up my trunk. "See if I can find the twins."

"Alec." He said before I could step away. "You'll be safe, okay?"

"Safe?" I repeated with a frown, then it hit me. "Oh, de la Barre, Moony! What do you think I'm going to do?"

"Don't think I don't see how -" He stopped himself before he said. "How some boys look at you. And I won't be around now to look after you." He clenched his hand.

"Hey." I took his hands in mine, and they relaxed. "I'll be safe, don't worry. On all aspects." I smiled. "I know how to take care of myself. Don't forget, you're the one who raised me."

"I remember." He smiled. "Where are you going to sleep?"

"I haven't the foggiest." I chuckled. I saw Harry and Sirius walk through the wall, and they smiled as they walked towards us. I tugged his hand. "You'll be Safe too, right?"

Remus spluttered, turning red when I nodded towards the pair. "I - I." He cleared his throat. "I don't know what you're talking about."

"Uhu. I won't mind, you know. I promise." I squeezed his hand tightly. "Just let me know when anything changes, alright."

"Yeah." He let go of one hand and rubbed his red-tinged neck. I gave him a lopsided smile and leaned up to kiss his cheek.

"I'll write soon, and I'll see you at Christmas." He nodded, still in a daze, thinking things over. "I love you, Moony."

He came out of it and smiled broadly. "I love you too, cub." He said just when Sirius and Harry stopped next to us.

With a last squeeze of his hand, I let go and turned to Harry. "I'll see you on the train, Harry." I glanced at Sirius Black, and gave a short nod before I walked up to the train. I heard Remus say to Sirius.

"Give her time."

I pulled my trunk to the front of the train until I reached the cab. Once I was inside, I glanced out the window and waved to the three of them, Harry must've boarded the train already. Remus and Narcisa looped their arms together, and my stomach twisted by the fact I wouldn't see him for a long time. Even in Beauxbatons, I came over once a month. Maybe I'll find a way to do that this year too. With a sad smile, I saw them disappear from the platform. Once I saw a family of redheads appear through the wall, I ducked my head inside and started filling Oscar in about my summer.

The train ride went smoothly this year and before I knew it, we arrived at Hogwarts. In the past hours, I didn't leave the cab, Mary supplied me with candy while Oscar supplied me with stories. I knew Angelina and the others must've searched the train for me, but they'll see me soon. I was still a bit mad at Fred for what he said during the cup about Draco. I knew it was probably because he was scared, but still...

Oscar let me out of the train before the rest of the doors opened. I hid behind one of the trees before I turned into Loki. I saw the doors of the train open and the students filtered out. I bounced between the coaches as I trotted towards the castle. I may have four legs, but they were rather small, so I came in later than everyone except the first years. I turned back to myself in an alcove before slipping into the great hall.

My eyes found Draco first, and even though he had seen me enter the train, he looked relieved to see me. The same was with Harry's look. But what struck me the most was that Harry and Draco had shared a glance after they spotted me. I saw Angelina and the twins jump up when they saw me, so of course, almost the whole great hall turned to me. With a smile and a little wave, I made my way to my friends. Angelina hugged me when I stopped next to her, before pulling me down next to her. On my other side sat Harry, across from me the twins and on Angelina's other side sat Lee. Before anyone could say anything, Harry tugged me closer.

"Where were you?" He whispered.

"I'll tell you later." I heard a door open. "Oh, look the first years are here."

I knew I was safe from further questions until dinner, and I focussed my attention on the new first years. I felt the twins' eyes on me the whole time but didn't turn to look at them. After the kids were sorted and dinner appeared, Hermione was the first one to speak.

"How come you were late, Alec?"

"Got caught up with Oscar." I said as I filled my plate.

"Who's Oscar?" The twins asked. I glanced at them for a moment before scooping up my plate with baked potatoes.

"The driver, he's a family friend."

"But why weren't you in one of the coaches, we were in the last one." Angelina asked.

"I-"

"Malfoy." Harry whispered softly next to me, giving me an excuse.

"I was sitting with Draco and the others."

"And Nott." Fred grumbled as he glared behind me to the Slytherin table.

"Right." I said with a small frown. "You know..." I said turning to Angelina. "I wonder where I'll be staying because I think that Moody fellow is going to stay in my chambers from last year.

"You haven't heard anything yet?" She asked surprised and I shook my head, my curls flinging from left to right. "We'll ask the prefect after dinner or go to McGonagall."

"I've missed you." I nudged her with a smile.

"I've missed you." She bobbed my nose before we laughed.

Angelina, Lee, and even Alicia talked about their summers, while they asked us about what happened at the World Cup. Even though the night was terrible and horrifying, Harry could find something funny in the middle of it.

"Sirius is still miffed about it." Harry laughed, nudging my side.

"Miffed about what?" George asked.

"Didn't Charlie or Bill tell you? They were there." Harry choked out between laughs as he held his side. The twins shared a glance with raised eyebrows before they looked to Ron who shrugged.

"No, what did we miss?"

"Well, two death eaters found me and Draco not far from the forest line."

"Let me guess you knocked them down a peg?" Lee offered with a grin.

"Maybe?" I smiled. "Not all death eaters are smart. But just after I disarmed the second one, I heard someone else come closer. And well... I whirled around and hug that person upside down in the air."

"And that was Sirius Black?" Angelina looked shocked and the corners of her lips twitched up. I pursed my lips as I looked innocently at her. Then they all started laughing, I smiled a little as I ducked my head.

"He should've announced himself." I shrugged and the others just laughed harder. With a smile, I looked around the great hall. I saw Cedric digging into his pudding like a madman, I chuckled softly at that. Even though there was no chance he could hear me, he still looked up. He gave me a lopsided smile and I waved back. The twins stopped laughing and snapped their heads to the Hufflepuff table. He winked at me before turning back to his friends. After a second the twins turned back to me, just as dessert disappeared from the table. People were starting to stand up, but Dumbledore rose from his seat, making everyone still their movements.

"Before you go to your chambers and doze off, I have an announcement to make." The great hall went dead silent. " We have the honour of hosting a very exciting event over the coming months, an event which has not been held for over a century. It is my great pleasure to inform you that the Triwizard Tournament will be taking place at Hogwarts this year."

"You're joking!" The twins shouted, and I laughed. I leaned my head on my hand as I was lost in thought as Dumbledore explained the rest of it. I was tired, and I was just starting to doze off when the twins shouted again.

"THAT'S RUBBISH!"

"Huh, what going on?" I asked with a little slur.

"Dumbledore said the tournament is only allowed for kids who are off age when the names are drawn, October 31." Harry explained, looking at me funny.

"Oh." I said, closing my eyes again. Sometime later, Angelina nudged my shoulder. "Hm?"

"We can go up." She said.

I looked around and saw that more than half of the kids had already gone to their common rooms. I was walking with Angelina on one side and Harry on the other, the twins were behind me.

"You were sleeping." Lee stated from Angelina's side.

I leaned forward smiling. "That's what you do when you're tired."

"I know but Dumbledore just announced something exciting! And you were asleep!" Lee laughed.

"You didn't look surprised." Harry mused with a small frown. "You - did you know?"

Everyone stopped as they looked at me. I took another step before turning to face them. "I did."

"How?" They all chorused, even Hermione and Ron.

"Friends in high places?" I shrugged. "Look-" I began but was interrupted by one of the Gryffindors prefects.

"Alec?" Diego said politely.

"Yeah?" I turned to the seventh year with a blond buzz cut.

"Professor McGonagall informed me that you'll be staying in the seventh-year girls' dormitory, since Dorice is in the exchange program with Beauxbatons. Your things are already up there."

"Thanks, Diego."

"No problem. I hope that the duelling club is still on this year." He smiled already turning. "Oh, right and the password is Butterbeers." And he was gone.

"So, up to the common room then?" I grinned at the others. Angelina looped her arm through mine as we walked the staircase.

"So, is Jack coming to Hogwarts? Or any of your other friends?"

"I don't know, not all of them will be seventeen by then." I said, not seeing the twins' frown behind me. "I'm not expecting all of the students that are off age to come here, they'll probably do a selection. I'll write to him later, see if he knows anything."

"I hope he comes, I wonder what he looks like." Angelina grinned, pulling me closer to her.

"Butterbeers." Hermione said and the fat lady swung open.

"Alec." Fred's voice came behind me. "Can I talk to you?"

Angelina unwrapped her arm but looked at me for confirmation before she headed inside, leaving me alone with the twins in front of the portrait. George was leaning against the railing while Fred was nervously shuffling his feet. He looked adorable being that nervous. No, stop thinking like that! I clapped myself internally on the head.

"I'm so sorry about what I said after the cup. I didn't mean it, I promise I didn't mean it. I know the situation with Draco and his father isn't simple. And I know he isn't his father and since you came into our lives everything has just been better, not only for Draco but for us too." Fred rambled on.

He was just taking in a breath to ramble some more, but I just flung myself at him, wrapping my arms around him tightly. Because he didn't expect it, he nearly lost his footing. George had stepped in on time and placed his hand on Fred's back. Fred's arms were loose next to his sides for a second, before wrapping them around me.

"I forgive you." I looked up from his chest and offered him a small smile. His brown eyes were burning right through me, and I had to look away, I turned to George. I reached out for his hand, and he stepped closer wrapping his arm around me. "It was a scary night for all of us. I'm just glad we're all safe."

"Me too." They whispered against my hair before they kissed my temple.

"That night, was the worst night of my life." George said quietly. "Not knowing you were safe."

"I'm sorry."

The twins pulled back slowly. Fred had still an arm around me, while George cupped my cheek. His thumb grazed my cheek softly. It was the closest the three of us have been besides hiding in the alcove in the beginning of last year, and it send my heart and head in overdrive. "You've nothing to be sorry about, love. You were protecting your family."

"Huh-hum." A throat was cleared behind me. The three us jumped apart and looked at the Fat Lady. "I want to go to sleep, so in or out."

"Butterbeers." I said quickly and walked through the portrait hole, the twins on my heel. I told the others, who were plastered in front of the fire, that I was going to check on my new room before darting up the stairs. I ducked in the bathroom and splashed cold water on my face, breathing in deep. I glanced up to myself in the mirror. "You can't." I whispered. I can't fall for them! I thought to myself, but I knew it was already too late. "I need to distance myself, find other things that interest me." I said looking at my reflection. "Don't ruin the friendship you have with them."

With another splash of cold water in my face, I walked to my new room. I changed into my pyjamas before I re-joined the others. I laid down with my head in Angelina's lap in front of the fire as we talked. But not before long, I fell asleep in her lap as she combed her fingers through my hair.

Chapter Text

Two weeks had passed and the whole school still talked about the Tournament. Talking and guessing about who was going to enter the tournament. I just came back from McGonagall's office telling her my choice for a potion's master. I would start my apprenticeship at the start of November. I saw a familiar head of hair walking on the opposite side. I ran up to him and jumped on his back. It was like he expected it because he looped his arms around my legs without hesitating.

"Hey, handsome."

"Hi, gorgeous." Nott smiled as he looked over his shoulder at me. "Where to, milady?"

"I'm staying at the tower now, so the grand staircase is just fine." I smiled as I leaned my chin on his shoulder.

"Don't I need to carry you up to your chambers, fair maiden?"

I snorted and he chuckled. "I don't think your girlfriend will like that."

"I-" He stopped walking and looked over his shoulder to look at. "I don't-" I raised my eyebrows at him. "We're not official yet. How did you know?" He asked as he started walking again, me still on his back.

"The look in your eyes," I said as we reached the staircases. He lowered me slowly to the ground and turned to look at me. "If you really like her, which looks like you do, you should do something about it not being official."

"Yeah." He chuckled. "I'll think about it." He looked up at the staircases. "Are you meeting someone in the common room?"

"No, why?"

"Care to join me in the snake pit? We can catch up a little, and maybe you can talk to Malfoy."

"What's wrong with Draco?" I asked anxiously.

"I don't know, Theo said he's been more grumpy than normal. Didn't know it was possible, but..." He shrugged.

"Alright, I'll come with you." I locked my arm with his and we turned to the stairs leading down. "You can tell me all about your new girlfriend." I grinned.

I was talking to Emmett for about an hour before Draco, Blaise and Theo walked in. The two boys with Draco had grown a lot this summer. They looked older, not that typical baby boy face anymore. They were turning into handsome young men. Not that I would ever tell them, they're already big-headed enough. Draco's blank face disappeared when he saw me sitting there and smiled. He leaned down and kissed my cheek.

"Hey, cous."

"Alexandra." He smiled as he sat down on the coffee table in front of me. "What are you doing here?"

"Oh, now I feel welcome." I rolled my eyes.

"I invited her." Emmett smiled and wrapped his arm around my shoulder.

"You two are back together then?" Blaise asked, his eyes flickered between me and Nott.

Theo snorted. "No, Emmett has his eyes on someone else."

"That he does." I smiled. And turned to Emmett with a grin. "And you better do something about it." I poked his chest.

"Yes, yes, I know." He sighed with a smile. Emmett turned to his younger brother, and they started to talk to each other about something that happened this summer. I leaned forward to Draco.

"Can I talk to you?" I whispered.

"Uhm, yeah sure." He glanced around the room before he nudged his head towards his chamber. Nott sent me a knowing look before we walked out of the common room. "So, what's up?" Draco asked as he flopped on his bed. I sat down on the end of the bed, kicked off my shoes and looked at the blond.

"I was going to ask you that." Draco frowned at me. "I heard you've been more grumpy than normal, and that's saying a lot."

"Hey!" He protested, but his shoulder deflated. "Nothing's going on."

"Draco."

"No."

"Little dragon." I whined before I pursed my lips together trying to hold back my laugh.

"I'll tell you if you'll never call me that again."

"I can't promise you that." I said honestly with a bright smile.

Draco grumbled something incoherent before he said in a soft voice. "Lucius wrote to me."

"Oh." I gasped as I leaned against one of the posters. I didn't expect that.

"Yeah."

"What did he say?"

"He talked about the World Cup, that he wished I was there with him. He says he wants to see me, he wants to educate me." He said with a sneer. "He - he wants me to stop talking to you, he thinks you're a bad influence."

I snorted, but frowned, nonetheless. "What did you do?"

Draco huffed and crossed his arms. "I burned the letter. I don't care what he wants or has to say, he doesn't control me anymore. And he won't tell me who I can or cannot hang out with." He looked at me with a small smile.

"Did you tell Cissy?"

"No, I don't want mother to panic."

"But-"

"I'll tell you if something like this happens again." He stated, and I nodded.

We fell silent and I looked at Draco with a cocked head. He was still nervous, I could tell. His foot was twitching, and his shoulders were tense. It didn't take me long after meeting Draco to see when he was hiding something or that he was nervous about something. Draco knew he could tell me anything, so I waited until he was ready. I stretched before I shuffled on the bed until I was next to Draco. I rested my head on the pillow and looked up at him. Draco was still sitting against the headboard staring at the black lake through the window. The silent minutes stretched on, but it wasn't uncomfortable. I just waited.

"I-" Draco started his voice hoarse. He cleared his throat. "I'm not normal." His voice shook as he settled down next to me. He turned to his side but didn't look at me. He looked at the pillow as he plucked at it. "I'm not normal, Alexandra."

"Draco," I said quietly. "Why do you think you're not normal?"

"Because I -" He took in a trembling breath. And got really anxious, I'd never seen him like this. "I was always taught to marry a pureblood witch, deliver an heir and all that stuff." He finally looked up, his eyes were sad. "I don't want that."

"You don't need to, Draco. I know you don't care about purebloods or muggleborns anymore-"

"It's not that. I don't want to marry a witch."

"Oh." I said as it hit me. "Okay."

"O-okay?" He stuttered, his eyes wide. "You don't mind?"

"That's calling the kettle black, don't you think?" I raised a single eyebrow while Draco's shot behind his hair.

"You - you're...?"

"I like who I like. It doesn't matter what sex they are, I like them for them."

"You had a relationship with a girl?"

"Sort of." I chuckled as Draco's mouth dropped open. "Oh, don't be so shocked." I slapped his shoulder.

"You're right. If it comes to you nothing should shock me." He chuckled, and he dropped his head back on the pillow. "I don't know what to do."

"You don't have to do anything. You don't have to say anything." I squeezed his hand.

"I'm afraid how people would react. My friends, my mother."

"Your mum wouldn't mind, trust me."

"She knows about you?" He asked and I nodded. "Who else knows?"

"Everyone in Beauxbatons knew," I said, turning to lay on my back too. "It wasn't a big reveal or something. My first kiss was with a girl and when Jack and I were together, we – well, let's just say we explored a bit."

"Salazar!" Draco gasped a chuckle. "What about your friends here? Harry?"

"I-" I frowned. "I don't think so. They know about Jack, but they weren't really that interested to know about it."

"The twins didn't want to know, you mean?"

I punched his shoulder until his grin dropped. "Emmett knows."

"Really?"

"Yeah, we talked about our past relationships and stuff."

"Why didn't you tell me?"

"You never asked, and it never came up, did it?"

"Yeah." He was silent for a while. "Thank you."

"Anytime."

"Can you stay?"

"Sure." I smiled before I turned into Loki. Draco has only seen me change a couple of times, so his eyes widened as I turned next to him.

"What - what are you doing?" He stuttered as I crawled against him. But unaware of his actions, he started to stroke my fur. I felt him relax, he closed his curtains around us, and not long after he was fast asleep, me curled up against his chest. Happy to be able to help him relax. I knew there was more behind him discovering he was gay, an event or a person. But again, he would tell me when he wants to, when he's ready.

The next morning, Draco woke first and tugged my white furry ear. "Morning, cousin."

"Morning." I mumbled blinking open my eyes.

"Salazar, that's freaky." He said as he looked at me, a talking white wolf. I trotted to the end of the bed before turning back. I looked at him for a second before laughing. "Come on, let's get breakfast." He said tossing his pillow at me.

Because I had only just woken up, I couldn't dodge the flying pillow and it sent me over the edge, toppling out of the curtains and on the floor. I looked up to see Theo and Blaise looking down at me.

"Not who I would expect to see toppling out of Draco's bed." Blaise smirked as Theo helped me up.

"Thank you." I smiled at the younger Nott. "Coming down to breakfast with us?"

"Sure." They said in unison. I put my curly, black hair in a messy bun on top as I walked out with the three Slytherins'. Blaise was playfully tugging my bun as we walked into the great hall.

I looked at the Gryffindor table to see my friends and gave them a little wave. Angelina, Lee and Alicia waved back, while the twins' eyes just followed me all the way to the Slytherin table. Harry, Hermione and Ron sat a little further away, and Harry looked at me with an inquiring look. I shot him a wink, making him blush as I sat down next to Draco.

"I can't believe he's still crushing on you." Draco smirked as he loaded his plate.

"He's not." I said resolutely. Draco looked at me questioningly, but I ignored him as I started my breakfast. Just like Draco, I would wait until Harry was ready to tell me. And if he did, I would never betray his trust by telling someone else, especially Draco.

After breakfast, I headed up to the tower to change into my school robes before first class. And I knew I was going to be questioned once I joined the others in class. But when I changed and headed down with my bag over my shoulder, I saw the twins standing at the portrait hole, their arms crossed.

"Hello." I said, stopping in front of them. "We should go before we're late for class."

"We have time." Fred stated. "Where were you last night?"

"In the dungeons, with the Slytherins."

"With Nott."

"Among others, yes." I sighed at them before tossing them a bone. "Nott and I are just friends, he has a girlfriend, did you know?" They both perked up at this, and my stomach flipped. No, they can't like me, like I can't like them. Two guys, one girl... that never ends well. "I slept with Draco."

The twins scrunched up their noses and I slapped their arms laughing. "De la Barre, not like that. He's my freaking cousin."

They both gave me a lopsided smile, and I needed to look away. They were too handsome for their own good. "We were just worried." George said.

"You two worry too much. You know I'm either here, in the library or with the Draco in the Slytherin common room when it's late."

"Yeah, we know." They said with a little smile.

I walked between them and looped my arms through theirs. "Let's go before McGonagall has our heads." I grinned at the two redheads as the portrait door flew open.

Chapter Text

Since apparition classes only started in November, I needed to use a floo to get to Malfoy Manor. I didn't pack a bag the afternoon of the full moon, since I had everything I needed at the Manor. I quickly switched my robes for my baggy sweatpants with a cropped sweater on top before I headed down to the common room. The group was waiting for me to head to the great hall for dinner.

"Hey-" George started but stopped when he turned to me. "Why did you go change?"

"I'm not coming to dinner with you. I have a meeting with my potion's masters." I lied through my teeth.

"And you're wearing that?" Angelina grinned, pointing to my casual clothes.

"He said wear something comfortable because we'll be brewing all night to see what I can do."

"All night?" Fred asked.

"Don't know if it will literally all night, but don't wait up for me. At least you know where I am." I lied again.

"How will you get there?" Angelina asked.

"I'll walk to Hogsmeade and then floo from the three broomsticks." I glanced at my watch. "But I should really be going."

"We'll walk you." The twins offered with a tremendous smile. I was starting to decline, but they looked so hopeful.

I smiled at them. "You won't mind missing dinner?"

"We'll snag something from the kitchens later." Fred grinned.

"Then I would love the company." I stepped between them and looped my arms through theirs. I looked over my shoulder to Angelina, Lee and Alicia. "I'll see you guys in the morning."

"Go show him what you got, Alec." Lee gave me a thumbs-up. I chuckled as the twins led me out of the common room.

The twins were leading me to the front doors of the castle, but I stopped a few metres away. "Uhm - can we go through Honeydukes passageway?"

The twins looked over my head towards each other before shrugging. "Yeah, sure." And we turned around.

"So, why did you want to take the secret passageway?" Fred asked as he pushed away a cobweb.

"Dunno." I shrugged a little. "Looked like it was going to rain. So, found a way yet to enter the tournament?"

"I'm glad you mention it." Fred started.

"Because we found the right potion yesterday. It's an ageing potion."

"Just to add a couple of months."

"Hm." I hummed as I thought it over.

"You don't think it's going to work?" George asked softly. I turned to him with a sad smile.

"Depends on what precautions Dumbledore and the ministry will take. But my guess is that they will know how to block an ageing potion."

"Fuck." They chorused.

"I'm sorry." I said biting my lower lip.

"It's not-" George started but his eyes flickered down to my lips. He breathed in deep and licked his own lips before his eyes shot back up. "It's not your fault. We'll look for a backup plan."

I quickly let go of my lip and cleared my throat, looking at the darkly lit passage.

"Are you going to enter?" Fred asked as we kept walking.

"I don't know, I don't think so."

"Why not?"

"It's not something to go over lightly, is it?" I asked dodging another cobweb. "We'll see, I still have time. Angelina is still debating too."

"Well, George and I already talked about it, and we know if you are going to enter, you will be the one chosen for sure."

"Oh?" I raised an eyebrow and looked between them with a smirk. "You two talk about me, do you?"

"All the time." George joked. But there was something in his voice that didn't seem like he was joking, at all. I looked away before a blush appeared. Just then I saw we reached the hatch that led up to the candy store.

"We're here. You two should head back."

"Are you sure?" They glanced from the hatch to me.

"Yeah, I'll be fine. I'll see you guys in the morning, alright?" I stood on my toes and kissed their cheeks. "Now, be good boys and head back to the castle."

"Yes, ma'am." They saluted, but they waited to leave until I had climbed up the ladder and closed the hatch behind me.

The manor was empty when I stepped out of the fireplace. I looked out the window and saw that the sky was nearly dark. I would've been here sooner but with the twins, I couldn't turn into Loki.

"Moony!?" I called out, but nothing. "Aunt Cissy?!" I turned around when a crack sounded behind me, Stovo, the head house elf, was bowing deep.

"Miss Alexandra."

"Stovo, how are you?"

"I'm fine, Miss Alexandra. How can I help you?"

"Is Remus or Narcissa here?"

"Missus Malfoy is in the garden, miss. Should I go get her?"

"No need, Stovo. I'm here." Narcissa Malfoy said with a flair I never had. Her hair was loosely over her shoulders, and she looked free. "Alexandra, dear, what are you doing here? Are you okay? Is Draco alright?"

"We're fine, Aunt Cissy. It's the full moon."

"Oh." She said softly. "I didn't know you were coming."

"I never missed a full moon. Where is he?" I looked around expectantly.

"I -" She glanced to the front door. "Where do you think?" She turned to me with a secretive smile, her perfectly shaped eyebrow high.

"Figures," I mumbled. "I should get going then before I'm too late." I stepped closer and kissed her cheek. "It was nice to see you, Aunt Cissy."

"You too, dear."

I closed the door from Malfoy Manor behind me and started to walk towards the house of one Sirius Black. I should have known he would go to him, thinking I wouldn't be there for him. We didn't discuss it, but I thought it would be obvious I would come and stay with him. I did it for years, even when I went to Beauxbatons. I stopped before the front garden, looking up at the house. The house was still as light and inviting as it was a few weeks back. Damn Black, for choosing such a gorgeous house. I pushed open the small wooden white garden gate as I stepped up to the house. Then I rang the bell. I waited and I waited. I rang it again, and again, and again. Almost ten minutes had passed before the door flew open, revealing an angry-looking man. Not like the man I saw open the door like those years and years ago. But what was the same was, is that his face softened when he saw me.

"Alec." Sirius breathed out. He shuffled a bit, trying to decide whether to step towards me or not. "Are you okay?"

"I'm fine. Is Moony here?"

"Yeah, he's-" He said pointing behind him. I took the last step up and walked inside the house. Sirius closed the door quickly and followed me inside. "Upstairs." He said, and I did not wait another second. I walked to the room Harry had said was for Remus. Without waiting or knocking, I opened the door. There were bars on the windows, and the walls were cushioned. I snorted at the sight before my eyes fell on my uncle, who was sitting on the bed cross-legged. Sirius appeared next to me, seemingly a little out of breath.

"This -" I gestured around the room. "Isn't necessary," I said to Sirius, but my eyes were on Moony. Moony's eyes snapped to mine.

"Alec?" He said jumping off the bed. "What are you doing here? Are you okay?" He asked, cupping my cheeks as he looked for any sign of injuries.

"It's not me, it's you."

"Huh?" Remus cocked his head and in the corner of my eye, I saw Sirius Black giving him lovey-dovey eyes. I held back a snort.

"It's the full moon." I pointed at the window.

"I didn't know-"

"Have I ever missed one?" I lifted a brow.

"No, but-"

"Wait!" Sirius interrupted quite rudely in my opinion, and I turned to him with a small glare. He smiled apologetically. "What about when you were in Beauxbatons?"

"What about it?" I asked.

"You said you never missed a full moon."

"I haven't." I said, not elaborating. Sirius huffed in frustration. Remus sighed with a soft smile before turning to Sirius.

"We had a deal with the counsellor. She came home whenever she liked."

"What about her schoolwork?"

Now I was the one who huffed. "Does it look like it suffered?" I crossed my arms over my chest.

Sirius frowned. "Well - well no."

"Alright then." I turned to my uncle. "Expect me to be here with you every month."

Remus smiled broadly and he stepped forward to hug me. "Thank you, cub."

"Anything for you," I murmured in his chest. "Black, close the door." I said as I saw that it had gone dark.

It was already past midnight and I, as Loki, was sitting across from Moony. Between us was a checkers board. Padfoot was lying on the bed watching us. I didn't like being in this room, it looked more like a mental institute, an isolation cell than a room. I needed to change that before next month because I knew Remus would stay here instead of the Manor. He still didn't want to explore outside in a large and distant forest. The moon appeared from behind the thick dark clouds, and Moony's nails dug into the skin of his knees.

"Scotty," I said low, coming forward. I stepped over the checkers' board and leapt up on his lap. Padfoot had jumped from the bed and had taken my spot. He watched as I curled up in a ball on Moony/Scotty's lap. "You're okay." I whispered as he stroked the fur on my head. I felt him relax as he leaned back.

"I don't know how you do it."

I looked up to see Padfoot staring at me, I cocked my head to the side.

"You know exactly how to calm the wolf in him, just with one touch or one word."

I looked at my uncle, who had closed his eyes as he leaned against the wall. His chest was rising and falling slowly as he drifted to sleep. I looked back to Padfoot. "It helps that we don't keep secrets from each other," I said quietly, trying not to rouse him. "We know each other through and through."

"I figured that." Padfoot mused. "I'm jealous of him. Of the bond you two have, it's not one I've seen often."

"Hmm." I hummed. It took us a lot of arguments and fights until we reached that kind of place, but Sirius didn't need to know that.

"I know we probably won't ever have that kind of trust or bond, but only a fracture of it would be enough for me."

"Maybe one day." I whispered.

"I'll look forward to it." His yellow eyes gleamed and we fell silent. Remus's soft inhalation of breaths sends me right into my own dream world.

The next morning, barely five thirty, Sirius was making breakfast in his kitchen. Moony and I sat on the kitchen table, half asleep while Black hummed a showtune. A year ago, I would never have believed I would be sitting in Sirius Black's house waiting for him to be done making breakfast. I leaned into Remus as he put his arm around my shoulder. Sirius turned around with a warm look as he loaded our plates. As we ate, Moony said.

"So, the Triwizard tournament."

"Yeah, can't wait to see my friends again. Whoever will come, it still isn't decided."

"Harry wrote to me, telling me you knew." Sirius said.

"I did," I said buttering my toast. "Jack wrote to me. Moony knew I knew."

Black's eyes flickered between me and Remus. "I - you-." He breathed in deep before he said. "Who's Jack?"

"My best friend from Beauxbatons, we used to date."

"Why don't you tell me those things, Moony?" Black whined and I nearly choked on my eggs.

"I'm not one to gossip, especially about Alec." Remus shrugged sipping his tea. "I told you, everything you want to know, you have to ask her. And respect what she wants to tell you and what she doesn't."

I knew he respected my privacy, and he would never do anything to hurt me. But I had figured he had told Black a thing or two about our years together. Sirius kept himself busy with setting up another pot of tea before saying.

"You're not going to enter, are you?"

"I'm not sure, maybe." I shrugged and Remus offered me a smile.

"Like hell you are!"

"Excuse me?" I said as Remus and I snapped our heads towards him.

"You can't enter. It's dangerous, and – and-" He sputtered. "I forbid it!"

"Oh, no." Remus groaned in his hands, shaking his head as I jumped off my chair.

"You forbid it?" I choked out a laugh. "You have no say over me. I can do whatever I want."

"I- you can't." He looked to Remus. "Moony, you're on my side, right? You said it was dangerous."

"I did." He admitted. "But she'll be seventeen by then, I can't stop her. But I wouldn't do it either, she's strong, Sirius. You know she is. I taught her myself for Merlin's sake. If someone could win this, it's her."

Sirius opened his mouth, but nothing came out, he just stared incredulously at Remus.

I looked at my uncle with a small smile. "You mean it?"

"Of course, I do, cub."

"Thank you, Moony." I hugged him tight. "I should get going, I'll see you next month." I kissed his cheek. I glared at Sirius Black, who was still dumbfounded before I disappeared in the green flames. But one thing was certain, I'm going to bloody hell sign up for the tournament.   

Chapter Text

I was too tired to climb the last stairs to the dorm, so I crashed on the couch in the common room. I was sprawled out on the couch, lying on my stomach. My hair was spread around me, covering my vision and the sun's rays.

"Alec." A hand nudged me softly. "Wakey-wakey."

I grumbled in the cushion. "Too tired. Laat me slapen."

"What was that?" I heard the grin in his voice.

"Let me sleep." I turned my head. The hand that nudged me lifted my hair. I looked up to George and Fred. They were sitting on the coffee table, looking at me with a little smile. "Morning." I offered them a smile.

"You look cute when you sleep." Fred grinned.

"Bugger off." I huffed as I pushed myself up. "I must look like a mess, I barely slept." I grabbed my wand and waved it over my head. My hair combed itself and put it in a bun while my face refreshed. "That's better."

"I liked the rougher look better." George smirked.

Like a grown-up, I stuck out my tongue at him. "What time is it?"

"We still have time. An hour before the first class."

"Let me go change really quick, then I'll come down for breakfast."

"We'll wait." They said as I walked to the stairs. I looked back to see them sitting on my spot. I was opening my mouth to protest, but I knew them, they wouldn't go, no matter what I said. So, I headed up the stairs to change.

At our last class, which was Charms, I rested my head on the large book in front of me. I managed to stay awake all day, but this class was just too much. The class was theoretical, so I didn't really miss much as I took a little nap. I was dreaming about my mother; it was one of the memories Moony had shown me. The one where I was walking in the garden, disappearing in a molehill.

"Alec." I was nudged awake once again. I blinked my eyes open. Cedric smiled down at me with a cocked head. "Nice nap?"

"Not bad. Sorry." I grinned sheepishly as I lifted my head.

"I fell asleep last week during History of Magic, don't worry." He winked. "I just wanted to tell you class is over."

"Oh." I looked around the classroom and saw it was mostly empty. The twins, Angelina and Lee were waiting at the door. "Did Flitwick notice?"

"No, I put a notice-me-not charm on you."

"You - you did?" I grinned broadly. He shrugged smiling. "Good thinking." I kissed his cheek. "Thank you."

"You're welcome." He stood up and handed me my bag. "Oh, we're having a party in the Hufflepuff common room in two weeks." He said as he searched his pockets. He pulled out a small yellow flyer. "You and your friends should come."

"Sounds like fun. I'll ask them." I smiled as I accepted the flyer.

"Brilliant. See you later." He waved, he nodded to the others as he walked out of the classroom.

"Here's our little sleepy head." Fred smiled as he wrapped an arm around my shoulders.

"I think I am heading straight to bed after dinner," I said stifling a yawn. I leaned into Fred as we walked towards the great hall. "Cedric invited us to a party." I said once we sat down for dinner. I took out the flyer from my pocket and handed it over to Angelina in front of me.

"Oh, I love a good party. What's the occasion?" Angelina said excitedly as Lee looked at the flyer with her.

"I don't know exactly, didn't ask." I shrugged. "So, are we going?"

"Duh." Angelina grinned.

I looked at the twins, who were quiet. I raised my eyebrows at them. "Earth to Weasley."

They both blinked, shaking their heads slightly. Sitting on either side of me, they looked over my head for a second before George said. "Sure, why not."

They didn't say more as the food appeared on the table. I just ate my last potato when Angelina spoke up. "So, have you decided yet? If you're going to enter the tournament?"

"I have actually." I smiled and everyone turned to me. "I'm going to enter."

"Brilliant! Me too." Angelina beamed.

"What made you decide?" George asked.

"Black," I muttered, and the rest raised their eyebrows. "He forbids me to enter." I snorted. The others shared nervous glances. "My uncle said I could enter, he's the one I listen to, not Black."

"Right." The twins said. Everyone looked uncomfortable, that happened frequently when Black is mentioned.

I cleared my throat and changed the subject. "So, is there a dress code?" I asked as I took the flyer again.

Since I shared my dorm with a group of cackling seventh-year-olds, I took my stuff and headed a level lower. I pushed the door open and sighed.

"That bad?" Angelina snickered as she poked her head out of her closet.

"You have no idea. They're all giggling and talking about boys and the party." I said dropping my things on her bed. "Nightmare."

"We talk about boys too." Alicia said from her place in front of the vanity. I walked over closer as she put on her make-up.

"I know but believe me, it's different. You can go up and check." I grinned in the mirror.

"I'm good here." She smiled back before she puckered her lips to put on lipstick.

"You look beautiful, Alicia. Is it for someone in particular?" I asked, wiggling my eyebrows.

"Nope, but you've seen the guys in Hufflepuff." Her red-coloured lips turned into a smirk.

"Not bad." I laughed before going over to Angelina's bed to dress myself. Angelina had already put on a dark blue dress that reached her knees. Just as I zipped up my burgundy skirt, Alicia stood up.

"Cedric doesn't look too bad either, does he?" She said as she adjusted her skirt. She was wearing a light pink cocktail dress, with over-the-shoulder sleeves.

"He does not." I agreed. I turned to the mirror as I put on the white, lace crop top before letting my black curls fall on my back.

"He seems to like you."

"I am very likeable." I snickered.

"But he likes you likes you." Alicia insisted.

"I don't know," I said turning around, leaning against the vanity. "He's the same as last year, and last year he was interested in that Ravenclaw girl. Weren't they dating?"

"I think so," Angelina said once she put her heels on. "But haven't seen them together this year."

"Or do you like someone else?" Alicia asked as she put her other clothes away. Angelina looked at me with interest.

Immediately the twins jumped into my mind, but I pushed them back quickly. "Not -" I looked from Angelina to Alicia. "Particularly." I was debating on telling Angelina, but not in front of Alicia. We just didn't have that kind of friendship.

"It seems like the twins like you."

I sat down on the bed and tucked on my shoes. I looked down and my hair covered my face, hiding a blush. "As a friend, they act the same with me as with any other girl."

"I don't thi-"

"Let's head down, the guys are probably already waiting for us." Angelina interjected. I sighed in relief, and I put my wand in my ankle boots before following the girls down the spiral staircase.

Angelina and I were standing at the improvised bar in the Hufflepuff common room, both nursing a glass of fire whiskey as we glanced around the room. The Hufflepuffs had a dartboard in the room which the twins are trying their hand in. A group of Hufflepuff girls were surrounding them as they giggled and cheered at the twins, even if they missed by half a meter. I frowned and turned my eyes elsewhere.

"Who is it?" Angelina whispered.

I looked at her confused. "Who's what?"

She nodded her head at the twins. "The one you like? Fred or George?"

"I -" No more lying. I sighed and leaned against the table. "It's not that simple."

"Because they both like you?"

"No, because-" I looked at her nervously. "Because I like them both."

"Oh."

"Yeah, so complicated. I can't have them both, and I can't choose between them. I won't. I won't come between them, Ange" I shook my head.

Angelina wrapped an arm around my shoulders and hugged me sideways. "I'm sorry."

"S' okay. I just need to get over them."

"Or under someone else." Angelina snickered, trying to light the mood. I shoved her before we both started laughing. Angelina refilled our glasses again, still laughing before we leaned against the table again. Alicia was talking to a Hufflepuff boy in the corner, smiling as she twirled her hair between her fingers. Lee was talking to the head boy from Hufflepuff, looking very serious. The common room was crowded, students from all houses except Slytherin, I frowned a little at that.

"Why are the two most beautiful girls standing here on their lonesome?" Cedric grinned as he leaned against the table next to me.

"I'm guessing my man is discussing quidditch with Zachariah." She pushed herself off the table. "I should go before it gets too heated." She shot me a wink before she walked over to her boyfriend. I glared at her back before looking at Cedric with a smile.

"So, enjoying the party?"

"It's okay." I teased. I chuckled as he pursed his lips at me. "Didn't invite any Slytherins?"

Cedric puffed up his chest. "I did." He said proudly. He pointed to another corner of the room. A girl with brown plated hair was snogging her face off with someone. When they finally came up for air, I saw on whose lap the girl was sitting.

"Nott?" I turned to Cedric grinning. "You invited Emmett Nott?"

"Yes and no. He's a cool guy, I was going to invite him anyway. But Kat beat me to it." He snickered.

"So, that's his new girlfriend. Finally made it official then."

"Are you upset?"

"No." I shook my head with a smile. "We parted as friends. I told him to make it official."

"So, you're not seeing anyone?" He said while he eyed the twins.

"Nope. You?"

"Not at the moment."

"What about that Ravenclaw girl, Cho?"

"We hooked up, but never really dated." He shrugged. "So, if you're single..."

"Yeah?" I asked warily, afraid of the answer.

"Then it's time for SPIN THE BOTTLE!" He called out over the room. Several people cheered, and some were already making space in front of the fireplace.

"Aren't we a little old for that?"

"Old? We're sixteen." He raised an eyebrow at me. "What age were you when you played this?"

"I -" I slapped his chest playfully. "I developed young, alright." He chuckled. "Fine, let's go." I grabbed his hand, and he followed me to the group that had already gathered. Cedric laughed behind me.

I sat down with Cedric on my left. The twins had joined the group too, leaning back on their hands with their lopsided grin. Angelina and Lee had taken place on the couch behind them, not playing the game but watching with interest. The group was equally divided into boys and girls. "So, who's first?"

"Maybe the birthday boy?" One of Cedric's friends suggested as he nudged his head to Cedric.

"It's your birthday?" I asked surprised.

"Not until midnight." He grinned as he accepted the empty whiskey bottle from a girl. He winked at her, making her blush fiercely. He put the bottle in the middle of the group and spun it around. It turned, and turned, and turned, until... Of course. "Well, well, will you look at that?" Cedric grinned at me, as he looked from the bottle to me. I didn't dare to look at the twins, but I did see Angelina smirk.

"Well, consider this your birthday present then." I chuckled. Cedric smiled as he leaned in. Our lips touched in a rather innocent kiss, that was until his hand went in my hair and tilted my head, deepening the kiss. The crowd cheered around us, and we pulled back. We smiled at each other before turning back to the game. I purposely avoided the twins' stare.

The game continued, and I was happy to note that the bottle landed on another kid every time. Fred had to kiss the girl who had been blushing at Cedric's wink, she was now beet red. George had to kiss Alicia, who had joined, but that was an awkward peck. When the twins turned the bottle, my nerves grew but was happy it didn't land on me. But when everyone had spun, it was my turn. I looked nervously at Angelina before looking back at the bottle and spun it around. I was holding my breath as it turned in circles in front of me.

Don't, please don't. I pleaded to myself. No, no, no. The bottle was slowing down, and I saw it happen in slow motion as it stopped in front of the twins. The others all leaned forward to look at it, the bottle had stopped just between them.

"Who is she supposed to kiss?" A Ravenclaw girl piped up.

"I don't know." A boy frowned as he hiccupped drunkenly. "But I don't know the difference either way."

Angelina bit her lip nervously, but sweet obliviously Lee suggested something else. "Kiss them both." He clapped his hand excitedly on the couch, and Angelina groaned in her hands.

"Both?" Cedric frowned. "Isn't that a little excessive?"

"I'll kiss one of them for you." I turned to a tall Ravenclaw girl, a year above us. She had her hair in a low ponytail, a bit greasy on the top, and when she smiled you could see her slightly crooked teeth. I turned to the twins for the first time. They both looked a little disturbed at the thought and looked at me with pleading eyes.

I smiled at them, even though my heart was beating fast in my chest. It's fine. "It's fine, I can kiss them both." The twins took in a deep breath, their eyes large. "We're friends, it's okay." The twins' shoulders slumped a little. It's going to be okay. I could feel every eye on me, but I looked at the twins only. "Who's first?"

George without question, gestured to his twin. Probably thought he had a kiss already. I came closer to Fred on my hands and knees. Fred was holding his breath when I came over. I tucked my hair behind my ear and looked up at him. "Are you sure?"

"Yeah." He croaked. I smiled at him, I cupped his cheek lightly and my stomach fluttered even more as he leaned into the touch a little. The look he was giving me was maddening, and I bit my lower lip softly. His eyes flickered to my lips when he saw the movement and the next moment, he cupped both my cheeks and kissed me hungrily. My chest exploded as his lips moved around mine and I had to hold back a moan. Fuck, this is even better than I imagined. Fuck! Fuck! I'm making this harder on myself. I pulled away slowly. Fred was looking at me, breathing hard. He was looking at me like he was going to kiss me again, so I sat back on my heels while the others cheered.

"Now Fred!" One of the girls squealed.

"George." I corrected her without looking, my eyes were already on the boy in question. "Can I have a glass of water?" I asked Angelina, who conjured it quickly.

"I bet you need it." A boy snickered somewhere on my right.

I knew my lips must've looked red and swollen already but George had the same hungry look as his twin had. I took a sip of water. "Hi."

George gave me a lopsided smile, my heart was just slowing down, but with that smile, it started up again. "You don't have to." He said quietly.

"I already know you're a great kisser." I whispered with a wink and grinned as he blushed. George was less direct than Fred, so I wrapped my hand around his neck and leaned in. The kiss started out slow, our tongues slowly caressing each other's. But when George's hand went to my waist, his thumb grazing a spot on my bare waist, the kiss intensified. Fuck, this feels good! Fred and George kissed so differently but made me the same amount of crazy. I really need to get over this crush, now! I pulled back; George was breathing hard like his twin. He caressed my waist one last time before pulling back.

"So, are they good kissers?" The Ravenclaw girl who volunteered asked.

I sat back next to Cedric as I looked at the twins, with a crooked smile, I said. "Not bad."

Chapter Text

The next few days I was cornered by groups of girls as they all wanted to know about how good the three most popular guys in school kissed. Mostly I could duck away without answering, or Angelina pulled me away. Two or three times I had to use my wand as a distraction before I could escape. The twins' behaviour towards me didn't change, thank Merlin, but I caught them whispering in a corner more than once. And when they saw me approach, they fell quiet and turned a little red. I squinted my eyes for a second before sitting down with them with my homework.

It was the afternoon of a full moon, and I was sitting alone in the common room working on my Transfiguration essay in the corner, while the rest was at Potions. I was so immersed in my work. I didn't hear the portrait open. I only noticed when someone dropped down in front of me. I looked up to see Harry sitting across from me at the small round table.

"Hey, Harry. Where are Hermione and Ron?"

"They're not always with me." He pursed his lips. I lifted a single eyebrow. "Fine, Hermione is at the library and Ron just ran up to get changed." I looked at him questioningly. "Crabbe covered him in slime."

I scrunched up my nose, and Harry chuckled softly. "So, how's it going with Hermione?" I asked offhandedly, inspecting my essay.

"I like her, but -" He looked over his shoulder to the boys' staircase. "I'm still so confused."

"Whether you like boys or girls?" I asked quietly as I looked up.

"Yeah." He rubbed his neck nervously. I reached over and took his hand in mine, giving it a squeeze.

"Harry, you can like both, you know."

"I - I can?"

"Of course. I -" I stopped talking when Ron bounded down the stairs. Harry retracted his hand quickly and stared out the window. I looked up to Ron and suppressed a chuckle. "Uhm, Ron. You missed a bit." I pointed to his ear. Ron had a big lob of green slime hanging on his ear. Harry turned to look and burst out laughing as Ron frantically rubbed his ear clean with his sleeve. Harry stood up, already ready to leave.

"Oh, Harry wait up." Harry turned back to me with a raised eyebrow. "It's the full moon tonight. And I'm slipping out of the castle to be with Remus."

"Alright."

"But the others don't know. I need someone to cover for me."

"Okay." He nodded. "Why don't you tell them?"

"They don't know I'm an Animagus, Harry. Why would a sixteen-year-old go hang out with a werewolf."

"Oh, right." He said sheepishly. "Sure, I'll cover for you."

"I'll be there for dinner. The twins have some kind of prank planned after and Angelina and Lee have a date. I'm leaving after dinner. So, can you just tell them when they get back, I didn't feel very well and went to bed early."

"Sure, but what if Angelina comes to check on you."

"I'm just going to put a spell on the bed curtains. She won't notice."

"You've done this before, haven't you?" He smirked and I mimicked his expression. "Be careful." He gave me a hug which threw me off, if I'm being honest. Harry wasn't the type to initiate affection. "Tell Remus and Sirius hi from me." He smiled as he pulled back.

"Will do. Thank you, Harry."

The twins left for their prank before dessert arrived, while Angelina and Lee were already on their date. So, after I finished a chocolate mousse. I winked at Harry before leaving the great hall. I hid behind a tapestry near the front doors before changing into Loki. Since I was alone and in wolf form, I reached Hogsmeade faster than last time. I changed back before I stepped inside The Three Broomsticks and floo'd over directly to Black's house.

Nobody was there when I entered the living room, but I could hear muffled voices coming from upstairs. The door was ajar, and I saw my uncle and Sirius sitting close, talking softly to each other. Moony heard my footsteps and smiled up at the door.

"Hi, cub." He said and Sirius's head snapped up. He really wasn't using his dog's hearing.

"Hi, Moony." I pushed the door open and Moony walked up to me, hugging me fiercely. "I've missed you."

"I missed you too," I mumbled in his shirt. "Harry says hi." I said when I pulled back and looked between the two.

"How's he doing?" Sirius asked.

"He's good, excited about the Tournament."

"I can imagine." Moony smiled. "I wish we had it when we went to school."

"Hm, yeah." Sirius frowned. I took out my wand and pointed it behind Sirius. I'm not going to lie if I said I didn't enjoy the flicker of panic in Sirius's eyes. "What are you doing?"

"Fixing this room up. I told you last month." I smirked.

"You're not seventeen yet, are you?" Sirius asked.

Right. I frowned. Moony chuckled before he turned his wand to the walls. The padded wall turned back to stone, but he let on the cushioning charm on, just in case. He gave the room a dark blue wall, while the other three stayed bare. Then he transfigured a couch and placed it against the wall. Next to it, is a large coffee table.

"Sirius, can you get some food and tea?" I asked as Remus's wand flittered around the room.

"Yeah, sure." He said hurriedly and disappeared from the room.

"That was mean." Moony commented as he flopped down on the couch.

"That was funny." I corrected and smiled over my shoulder. "Don't deny it."

"Alright, it was a little funny." He agreed with a chuckle.

"Do you have your special shorts on?"

"Merlin, Alec." Moony chuckled in his hands.

"What?" I asked turning around.

"Nothing." He smiled up at me.

I pursed my lips at him as I put my hands on my waist. "Someone needs to take care of you."

"I'm an adult, I can take care of myself."

"Don't fool yourself, Moony." I grinned. "If it wasn't for me, you would have been standing in your pyjama trousers the first day of lessons last year."

"I-" He opened and closed his mouth without another syllable. Then he shook his head. "Fair point. But, yes, I'm wearing them."

"Good. And the Wolfsbane?"

"Taken it just like instructed." He winked. I nodded contentedly before sitting down next to him. "So, do you know if any of your friends are coming? Jack?"

"No, still not decided. Jack said they needed to write an essay on why they wanted to come, and only the people who turn seventeen before November 1st. They should find out in a few days."

He nodded his head slowly. "Are you still going to enter?" He asked and I nodded my head. "Not just to spite him, right?"

"No, I mean at first yes. But I think it could be fun and exciting, I'll probably learn a lot too. But what are the chances that I'm getting picked." I shrugged.

"One to fifty, give or take. Pretty high, if you think about it. And I don't think of anyone who could do it better than you." He squeezed my hand.

"Thank you." I leaned my head on his shoulder. Sirius was just standing outside the door, we both knew he returned around the time when I said Jack and the others needed to write an essay, but we didn't let him know.

"Did you get any sleep?" Moony asked tiredly. We were sitting in the living room, and I was curled on the large couch while Sirius was making breakfast again. I grunted into the pillow. "I'm sorry."

"'It's not your fault," I said pushing myself up and I rubbed my eyes. "I have the first two hours off, so I can take a kip."

"Did you and Sirius get a chance to talk?"

"Actually," Sirius said coming over with a large tray with food on it. "Alec told me about me about a date you had a couple of years back." He handed Remus and me a plate.

"Thank you." I gave him a little smile before I dived in.

"ALEC! You didn't?" Moony groaned and Sirius and I laughed. "You're supposed to talk about your life, not mine." He chastised but the corners of his mouth twitched.

"As I remember that story involves me too." I pointed out with my fork.

"Well, yes. But -"

"I told him about how I arrived at your place, and the days after." I said with a soft voice, not looking at Sirius. I still felt a little uncomfortable, but I thought I start with the early stuff.

"I still can't believe you remember that. You were so young."

"I don't remember anything from before Moony. I only have the memories that mum kept, and the pictures." Moony had wrapped his arm around my shoulders and rubbed them softly.

"Thank you, for sharing it with me." Sirius said softly and I shrugged not looking at him. I ate my plate clean and stood up, tiredly.

"I should get going, and take a nap before classes." The two men got up too and I hugged Moony. "Next moon is on a Friday; I won't miss any classes then." I chuckled lightly.

"You can stay here if you want." Sirius offered nervously. "You - you have a room."

"I'll think about it." I nodded at him. Sirius smiled at me. I turned back to Remus. "I'll see you soon." I kissed his cheek.

"Let me know about the Tournament, okay?"

"I will." I squeezed his hand and walked to the fireplace.

"Do you want me to apparate you?" Sirius offered before I stepped in.

I turned as I stepped in with a raised brow. "I'm flooing over to the three broomsticks. That's almost as far as you can apparate me. It won't be necessary. I'll turn into Loki when I'm in Hogsmeade. I'll be in the castle in a second."

"Oh, alright." He took a step back. "See you in a month then."

"Yeah." I took a handful of floo powder. "Bye." With a last wave, I disappeared in green flames.

I forced myself up the stairs to my dorm. I was still in Loki form since everyone was still asleep. The three girls in my dorm were breathing evenly, so I trotted down to my bed and hopped in. Once safe behind the curtains, I changed back. I crawled under my blankets and the moment my head hit the pillow; I fell asleep.

"Miss Lupin-Black?"

I frowned as I woke up. I was still in my bed and the curtains were closed, so I couldn't see who the voice belonged to. I pushed myself up and pulled the curtains open. "Professor McGonagall?" I squinted my eyes at the light.

"I've been told you didn't feel well, and you missed my class. Highly unusual."

"I'm sorry," I mumbled. "I'm just really tired."

"Have you been out all night?" She asked sternly.

"No." I shook my head. "Gone to bed after dinner last night because I didn't feel so good."

The professor stared at me for a long moment, then gave a sharp nod. "Madam Pomfrey asked me to give this to you. You'll stay in bed for today, I already informed your teachers."

"Oh, okay. Thank you, professor."

She gave another short nod. "Your apprenticeship will start in a week and a half, you'll be using the floo in my office to go to his lab. Everything is set up."

"Thank you," I said again. The professor turned to leave, and when she reached the door, I called out. "What about the duelling club?"

"We'll talk about it after the ceremony. You'll be entering, I gather?" I nodded. "Well, alright. We'll talk about it after, see what happens."

"Okay."

"Sleep well, miss Lupin-Black." She turned around, her robes flapping behind her, with a last swish of her emerald green robes, she disappeared from the dorm.   

Chapter Text

The next two weeks went by fast. Nobody asked questions about my absence. The twins, Angelina and Alicia just asked if I was feeling better when I came down for dinner that evening. The twins had brought me soup, just like the year before. They had it levitated to just outside the dorm with a note. They didn't make it easy not to like them. It was getting harder and harder to keep my eyes off them, or to focus on class. It's not like they did something major. They just helped me pack up my things, carry my bag, and make me laugh. Every time one of them winked or gave me their lopsided smile, my heart nearly exploded.

I was happy that they were gone most of the nights with their pranks or trying to find a way to enter the tournament. I could focus on my homework, talk to Harry, or just relax without feeling their eyes on me. A few days ago, I was talking to the Gryffindor head girl. She had strawberry blond hair that just reached her shoulders and a cute button nose. She was obviously flirting, and for a moment I thought, why not? I needed something to distract me from the twins. So, I flirted back. But of course, the men who occupied too much of my thoughts interrupted us. Neither of them noticed that we were leaning in, or maybe it was just because she was a girl, they didn't think about it. Because I knew if it was a guy that was standing so close to me, they would be sending daggers at him. They still send Cedric daggers, but Cedric was just as friendly as he always was. To me and to the twins. None of them spoke about the kiss at the party which I was grateful for.

Classes were ending early today because the students from Beauxbatons and Durmstrang would be arriving soon. We just finished our Charms class; Flitwick soon gave up on the class as everyone kept talking about their arrival. My stomach was in knots the whole day, not knowing who would come. Jack hadn't answered my last letter and a dreadful part of me thought it was because he didn't get to come and was too ashamed. He could be proud like that. We were walking at a fast pace to the courtyard.

"Are you nervous?" Angelina asked me as she eyed my hands, which I was wringing together.

"A little. I haven't seen them for so long. And I don't know who's coming."

"They're going to be happy to see you." Angelina smiled.

"Can't wait to see all those French boys."

"Not only French." I pointed out to Alicia with a smirk, and she rolled her eyes smiling.

The twins were walking behind us next to Lee and were unusually silent. I risked a glance over my shoulder and saw their eyes already on me. I shot them a little smile before turning back as we stepped out into the courtyard. Students were trickling out of the castle and the courtyard filled quickly.

"Do you how they will get here?" George asked, standing right behind me as we took our places.

"I have a feeling." I smirked up at him. He squinted his eyes at me before smiling.

"Again, so mysterious." He winked and my cheeks heated.

I turned back forward, and my foot started tapping as my eyes scanned the sky. All the students and teachers had gone quiet in the courtyard, waiting. Over five silent minutes had passed before I saw it. I saw the horses and the carriage flying violently through the sky. I grinned up at the sky, just when a second-year student called out, pointing up at the sky.

"Look! Look!"

Every eye flickered up to the sky. And when they saw the carriage and the horses, they all gasped. Even Fred and George were behind me, which made me smile. Although the carriage was swaying in the air violently, it landed gracefully and softly in the middle of the courtyard. The horses were bigger than Hagrid, who came over with buckets of water and apples.

I took a step closer without thinking, and then the door of the carriage opened. Madame Maxime stepped out first with the help of Headmaster Dumbledore. I held back a snicker as everyone around me gasped at the large woman. Then the students came flittering out, all dressed in their blue robes. Oh, how I had missed those robes. I looked at the students that had joined. Fleur, obviously, I didn't expect anything else. Eloise, Chloé. I knew them all, not real friends but we had shared a few classes.

Then I grinned from ear to ear when I saw Jasmine exit the carriage. Her dark skin was a large contrast to Fleur's fair one, her eyes were dark brown, and her curly hair was bigger than the last time I saw her. Then the boys came out. The first one that came out made my breathing stop. Jack . He was light-skinned, with a buzz cut, his piercing blue eyes scanned the large crowd around them.

"Alec?" The twins chorused as I leapt forward, but I ignored them.

"Jack!" I called out. Jack's eyes found me in a second and his smile was so beautiful, I couldn't help but mimic it. He pushed himself through the other Beauxbatons students, who glared at him, as he made his way towards me. As I was running, I saw Jasmine lifting her wand, and she changed my Hogwarts robes into those of Beauxbatons with a wink. I flung my arms around him tightly and nuzzled my nose in his neck. He just smelled like he always did, making me lightheaded. His arms were around my waist, and he twirled me around.

"Alec." He breathed softly. He put me down and looked down at me beaming, a twinkle in his eyes, I knew by heart. He tucked a curl behind my ear before taking my cheeks in his hands and kissed me. He kissed me in front of the whole school. Oh! This could work! I thought to myself and let myself fall completely in the kiss. When the crowd started cheering and wolf whistling, we parted. "Ik heb je gemist." He smiled. [I've missed you.]

I let my head fall on his chest and laughed. "Ik heb je ook gemist." [ I've missed you too.]

"Gelukkige verjaardag, schat. Ik heb je cadeau in de koets liggen." He winked. But before I could reply, Jasmine interrupted. [Happy birthday, love. I've got your present in the carriage.] 

"Mijn beurt, Jacky." Jasmine pushed him aside and enveloped me in a hug. "Gelukkige verjaardag." [My turn, Jacku. Happy birthday.]

"Noem me niet Jacky, Jasmine ." Jack muttered with a smile as he watched me and Jazz. She didn't like her name, we always call her Jazz except for the teachers. [Don't call me Jacky, Jasmine.]

"Well." Dumbledore clapped his hands with a smile. "That's what I call a warm welcome."

The Hogwarts students all laughed, and I ducked my head as Jack wrapped his arm around me, probably grinning from ear to ear.

"Alexandra?" I turned to the headmistress.

"Madam Maxime." I bowed my head.

"Hoe gaat het me je, lieverd?" [How are you, dear?]

"Goed, goed. Ik mis Beauxbatons well." [Good, good. I miss Beauxbatons though.]

"We missen je ook." She gave me a rare smile. [We miss you too.]

"Madam Maxime, why don't you follow us inside, so you and your students can warm up." Dumbledore said, offering his arm.

I stayed with the Beauxbatons group, locking my arms with Jack and Jazz as we walked inside the castle. While the others stuck up their noses as they walked into the castle, Jazz and Jack just looked around in amazement, asking me all kind of questions. I needed to leave them when they needed to get ready for their "show", whatever that meant. Jack and Jazz didn't look forward to it, that was for sure. So, I walked to the great hall, which was still empty. Five minutes later the Hogwarts students started walking in.

"That's Jack?" The twins choked out as Alec ran to him.

"I guess I'm more her type than you two." Lee joked and he nudged George's side. "She really does fit in, doesn't she?" He looked at the twins after one of the girls had changed her robes to the one from Beauxbatons. "Shit! You really like her, don't you?" Lee's eyes were large as he looked at the twins.

"Yeah." They both sighed not looking away from the hugging duo.

"B-both of you?"

"Lee, shut up." Angelina pushed her elbow into his side. Lee opened his mouth again without a sound before closing it. "Oh, damn."

The twins knew that her reaction was because they didn't tear their eyes off Alec. Jack had kissed her, in front of everyone and with much enthusiasm. The twins felt nauseous and took a step back. They couldn't watch this. Diggory was one thing, but this, her ex. No. They took another step backwards.

"We'll be right back." They said in unison, and they disappeared in the crowds. They hid in an alcove not far from the entrance of the great hall.

"We waited too long. We should have just told her." Fred frowned.

"What? Just tell her: Oh, Alec. We think you're the one for us. Not me, but us. You are the one to complete our triad." George huffed.

"Yes! I - maybe, I don't know." He sighed, leaning against the wall.

"We still have the book about triads, maybe we should let it linger somewhere. Just to see her reaction to it."

"Does it really matter with Jack here?" Fred muttered.

"He won't be here forever. She's in the tower now, so it should be easier to let her see the book. Then she has time to think it over. We can't rush this."

"I know, but what if she doesn't see us that way? If Jack is her type... We're complete opposites."

"She dated Nott. I don't think she falls for looks. But I think she does like us. At least she was giving us certain signals."

"I don't know." Fred frowned. "We need to know for sure before dropping a triad book in front of her." They stared at each other for a moment before Fred started grinning.

"Oh, no. Bad idea." George shook his head.

"It's the best idea." Fred grinned, nodding his head. "It doesn't have to be something serious. We just need to see if she gets jealous."

"I don't know, Fred. Can't we just check with Angie?"

"Even if she knows, she'll never say anything. This is the only way, George."

"Let me think about-" He stopped when he heard her voice. They both glanced out of the alcove and saw her walking in the castle, talking to Jack and one of the Beauxbatons girls. They were talking but it wasn't English. Dutch probably.

"I can't understand a word they are saying," Fred whispered. "Do you think they are talking about us?"

"Doubtful. They don't know us, probably just catching up." They watch them turn a corner. "We should head to the great hall before they come looking for us."

The twins came in a few minutes after Lee and Angelina. Lee just said they got lost in the crowds. They took a seat in front of me but didn't say anything, they just stared at the doors.

"You missed Durmstrang."

I shrugged. "Let me guess a large, crooked old ship?"

"Yeah, how do you know?" Angelina asked.

"Hogwarts kind of isolates itself, at Beauxbatons we had exchange students and met with other schools more than once. So, I know how they work."

"Do you know any of the students?" Fred asked finally looking at me.

"I do." I grinned. "You are all going to recognize one for sure."

Now they were all looking at me intrigued but just then the doors opened at the students of Beauxbatons walked in. I bit my lip to stop from laughing as the boys started drooling over the girls, at Fleur especially. Angelina had to slap Lee's arm from gaping, but he wasn't as bad as the others. Probably because he was so in love with Angelina. Jack and Jazz both winked at me as they walked, I mean danced by. I leaned forward to the twins as I winked back at my friends.

"Like what you see?" I asked before turning to face them. But they were not looking at Fleur or any of the other girls but at me. I leaned back quickly.

"Hm?" They both came out of their thoughts, blinking at me owlishly.

"Never mind." I cleared my throat.

"You could fit right in." George said as he eyed the blue robes.

I looked down. "Oh." I quickly changed them back. "That was Jazz's doing."

"Who's -" Lee was interrupted when the Beauxbatons students could choose a place to sit. The students were glancing around the room, debating where to sit. But Jack and Jazz were already making their way towards us.

"Hey, schat." Jack said as he dropped down next to me, his arm already on my shoulder. Jazz took place on the other side me and leaned her head on my shoulder.

"Ik ben moe." She yawned. "Denk je dat dit nog lang gaat duren?" [I'm tired. Do you think this is going to last long?]

"Eerst nog eten." I smiled, I looked around the table. Angelina and Lee looked just confused, while the twins stare was hard, and their jaws fixed as they looked at Jack. I cleared my throat. "Maybe we should talk English if my friends are around, yeah?" I smiled at them. [First, dinner.]

"Oh, sorry, didn't think about that." Jazz said. She looked to the people around us. "So, these are your friends?" She asked with an accent.

"Yeah. This is Angelina and Lee." I pointed to the couple. "This is George and Fred. Then we have Harry, right there." I pointed a little further. "Everyone, this is Jack and Jazz."

"Jazz?"

"Short for Jasmine, but she hates when we call her that." Jack grinned. "Nice to meet you all. Alec told me all about you." His eyes were fixed on the twins. I should have never told him about my feelings for them.

"You act as if I gossip about them all the time." I nudged his side, grinning. I saw that Fleur and Louise had decided to join us at the Gryffindor table while the others sat at the Ravenclaw table. Ron was openly gaping at her. "Ronald!" Me and Hermione said in unison. "Close your mouth."

The whole table laughed as Ron abruptly shut his mouth. Harry grinned at me before his eyes shifted as the Durmstrang students walked in. The whole room was whispering when the last student walked in. Fred and George's eyes flickered from me to the Durmstrang kid.

"Blimey, it's Viktor Krum!" Ron gasped, openly gaping again.

Chapter Text

The Durmstrang kids took place at the Slytherin table, much to the delight of Draco. I rolled my eyes as he grinned at me. For the first time in Ron's life, he kept looking at the Slytherin table in awe. I couldn't look too much at the twins, although I felt their eyes on me. I was happy when the food appeared on the table, I could put my attention on that. Jack had retracted his arm to eat but was sitting close enough that our legs touched. Jack and Jazz were really outgoing, and conversation flowed easily, after about ten minutes even the twins joined in.

"Alec wrote about you." Jazz said looking at the twins, who looked with raised eyebrows between me and her. Jazz's eyes flickered over their features. "Not what I was expecting."

"No?" Their eyebrows went higher until they disappeared under their hair. "What did you expect then?" Fred asked.

I turned my head to look at Jazz, wanting to know where this was going. I mean, yeah, I never told them about their appearance, just that they were incredibly handsome. "Yeah, what did you expect?" I asked.

"I don't know, I just didn't think they would be so-"

"Tall?" Jack offered, grinning.

"Red?" Angelina smirked.

"Ugly?" Lee snickered and the twins threw potatoes at him.

"No, so... white."

I choked on my drink, while the twins looked at her bemused. Jack was gently patting my back. "I'm sorry, white?" I said once I recovered.

"Yeah, the way they carry themselves, the way they look and talk."

I couldn't help but burst out laughing. "You clearly haven't met my cousin."

"Who's your-"

I leaned over to Jazz, and her lavender shampoo hit my nose and pointed to Draco. "He even talks -" I looked to the twins with a tilt of my head. "How do you call it?"

"Big headed?" Fred offered.

"Sesquipedalian?" George grinned.

I smiled at them with a tilted head. "No." I chuckled. "You know what I mean," I turned to Jack. "Zeer chique."

"Posh." Angelina snickered.

"Ja, he talks really posh." I pursed my lips at the twins before looking back at her. "Thank you, Angelina. You two are the worst." I pointed with my fork.

"Oh, you love us for it." They winked. Love. If I didn't do something soon, I would definitely fall in love with them. I rolled my eyes, smiling before turning to Jack.

"Why didn't you tell me you were coming?"

"I wanted to surprise you." He smiled his pearly whites.

"You certainly did that." I leaned my head on his shoulder.

"The moment has come." Dumbledore was standing in front of the head table, smiling at the room. I lifted my head to look at him, just like the rest of the students. "The Triwizard Tournament is about to start. I would like to say a few words of explanation before we bring in the casket just to clarify the procedure. But first, let me introduce you to -" Dumbledore started explaining who the extra people at the head table were when Jazz nudged me.

"Hey, that redhead, he was at our school last year." She whispered.

"That's Percy, I got him in the exchange program. He's the older brother of Fred and George."

"They will be joining myself, Professor Karkaroff and Madame Maxime on the panel which will judge the champions' efforts. Mr Filch, the casket please." Dumbledore continued.

Filch, the scruffy, weird old caretaker stepped forward carrying a large chest, covered in jewels. People started murmuring to each other in excitement. Filch carefully placed the chest on the table in front of the headmaster.

"The instructions for the tasks the champions will face this year have already been examined by Mr Crouch and Mr Bagman. There will be three tasks and they will test the champions in many different ways... their magical powers, their daring, their power of deduction and of course, their ability to cope with danger." The room was so silent at the last word, that you could hear a pin drop. "As you know, there will be three champions, one from each school. They will be awarded points after every task. The champion with the highest total will win the Triwizard Cup. The champions will be chosen by an impartial selector... the Goblet of Fire."

Dumbledore tapped the casket three times. The lid creaked slowly open. He reached inside it, the great hall was dead silent again. He pulled out a large, roughly wooden cup. Blue-white flames were dancing in the cup.

"Anyone wishing to submit themselves a champion must write their name and school clearly on a slip of parchment and drop it in the Goblet. "The ones who wish to participate, have twenty-four hours to put their names in. Tomorrow night, on Halloween, the Goblet will choose to most worthy student to represent their school. The Goblet will be placed in the Entrance Hall tonight, where it will be accessible to all those wishing to compete. To ensure that no underage students will enter their name." My eyes flickered to the twins, whose gaze were fixed on the headmaster. "I will be drawing an Age Line around the Goblet of Fire. Nobody under the age of seventeen will be able to cross the line."

I swear Dumbledore's eyes stopped at the twins a second longer than the others.

"Finally, I wish to impress upon any of you wishing to compete that this Tournament is not to be entered into lightly. Once a champion is selected by the Goblet of Fire, he or she is obliged to see the tournament through to the end. The placing of your name in the Goblet is a binding, magical contract. Please, be very sure of competing, because there is no way back. Now, I think it is time for bed. Goodnight to you all."

The room burst into chatter as they all stood up. I wrapped my arms around Jack and Jazz as we walked towards the staircases.

"You'll be entering?" Jack asked.

"Yes, and since you two are here, I can assume you're going to enter too?"

"We are." They chimed. I squeezed them closer to me. Oh, how I had missed them.

"Are any of you entering?" Jack asked the lot as we stood just next to the staircases where students started climbing.

"I am." Angelina grinned.

"Not old enough," Lee grumbled. "Just like those two knuckleheads." He pointed his thumb at the twins.

"We're entering!" They said, puffing up their chest.

"How?" Jazz asked interested.

"We have an ageing potion ready. Just need to take it an hour before putting our names in." Fred said proudly.

"I don't-" Jazz started but I shook my head at her. "Well, if you get in, you're certainly not getting picked. Not if these two ladies are entering."

"Oh, we know our chances are slim with them around." George winked.

Madam Maxime walked past with the other Beauxbatons students. "We should go." Jack said looking back at me.

"I'll show you around tomorrow."

"Goodnight." He engulfed me in a hug. "Je bent altijd welkom in de koets." [You're always welcome in the carriage.]

"I'll remember that." I grinned. Jack leaned in to give me a soft, gentle kiss on the corner of my mouth. "Night."

"Jij-" Jazz poked my shoulder. "- gaat me morgen alles vertellen over die roodharige jongens daar." [You - are going to tell me all about those red-headed boys there tomorrow.]

"Okay." I smiled and hugged her. "Night, Jazz."

"Slaapwel, schat!" The two of them called out as they walked outside.

I turned back to the others smiling. I looped my arm through Angelina's. "So, when are we going to put our names in?"

Angelina, the twins, Lee and I sneaked out of the common room that night to see the Goblet of Fire. You could see the blue-white flames before anything else. George gave me a piece of parchment and a quill to write my name on it.

"Which school are you going to put on it?" George teased.

"Durmstrang, obviously." I grinned at him before scribbling down my name and school. When I turned, Angelina was waiting for me in front of the age line. I walked over to her, parchment in hand. "Are you sure?" I asked her, taking her hand in mine.

"Yes." She nodded, squeezing my hand. We both took a step forward but halted when the twins called out.

"Wait!" We turned to look at them. "Good luck kiss." They grinned. While Lee snogged Angelina, the twins kissed my cheek, just brushing against the corner of my mouth.

I hid my blush behind my hair as I looked down. Squeezing Angelina's hand again, we stepped forward. Nothing happened, the age line was a grey-like smoke that surrounded the Goblet. We reached over and dropped the parchment into the fire. The paper didn't burn away, it just evaporated.

We were walking back to the common room when Fred put a hand on my shoulder to stop me. I looked up at him with a little frown.

"You're seventeen."

"I am, otherwise I couldn't enter." I grinned.

"I know, but we missed your birthday, again."

"Oh, not really." I said a little cryptically and laughed to myself as they all stared at me. "My birthday is not over for another hour."

"You - your birthday is today? Now?" George gasped.

"Well, yes. Just like every other year." The four of them all glanced at each other. "You don't need to do anything. Like I said last year, I don't really celebrate my birthday."

But nobody listened to me. "Angelina, you know what to do," George said and Angelina nodded her head.

"I'm on it."

"Fred and I will go to..." He nudged his head to the side.

"Guys." I groaned.

"You go upstairs, but don't you dare head up to bed, you hear me," Fred said in a stern voice. "We'll be right back."

"Fine." I sighed, knowing I couldn't change their minds. "Am I going up alone?"

"No, we're coming with." Lee said while Angelina looped her arm through mine.

Once in the common room, which was almost empty, Angelina pushed me down on the couch in front of the fire. "Stay here." She said before disappearing up the stairs. Lee sat down next to me.

"Happy birthday, then."

"Thanks." I chuckled.

"Are you still in love with Jack?"

"Wow." I gasped. "Not what I was expecting for you to say."

"Sorry."

"It's okay. I'll always love him. He was my first love, you know. And seeing him again, stirred something up, I'll admit. But I don't think I'm still in love with him."

"Hm."

"Why'd you ask?"

"Just curious." He said glancing at the fire. My gaze went to the window, knowing that down below the Beauxbatons carriage was parked. Angelina came down with her hands full of presents, and my eyes widened.

"How is it that you have presents when you didn't know when my birthday was?" I asked leaning forward, my arms resting on my knees.

"We bought them over the summer. When you said you could enter the Tournament, our time frame was reduced, between September 1st and Oktober 31st."

"Did you really buy presents, hoping you would figure out when my birthday was?"

"Sort of." Angelina grinned, hopping down next to Lee. "We were planning on writing to your uncle tomorrow to find out."

"Does Potter know? Or Malfoy?" Lee asked.

"Draco does, yeah. He had sent my present to my room this morning." I said just as the portrait opened. George was carrying a large cake and Fred was carrying some butterbeers and a bottle of fire whiskey.

"Happy birthday to you!" The twins sang loudly.

"Shh, everyone's already in bed." I chastised them, but they pretended they didn't hear me.

"Happy birthday to yoooouuuu!" Even louder now. I could hear footsteps coming down the stairs already.

"Happy birthday, dear Alec! Happy birthday to you!!!!"

"It's your birthday?" I turned to see Harry standing at the bottom of the stairs, other students behind him.

"No, Harry, it's New Year's." Fred rolled his eyes.

"I'll be right back." Harry said before darting back up.

"Nothing to see here. We'll keep it down." George ushered the students back up. Hermione frowned but mouthed a happy birthday to me before heading back up. Alicia came to sit with us, and Harry came back down and told Ron to head back up. Harry placed a present on the top of the others before sitting down.

"Not you too."

"I asked Sirius when your birthday was, but he didn't know. Didn't Remus tell him?"

"Remus doesn't tell him anything."

"Why not?" They all asked.

"Because Remus isn't a gossip." I chuckled. "He told Sirius if he wanted to know anything about me, he should just ask me. Let me decide what I want to share with him."

"Professor Lupin is amazing." Angelina sighed.

"He is." I smiled. The twins had sat down in front of me, with their backs to the fire. I accepted a glass of fire whiskey with a smile. "I only found out last month, I thought he would be spilling everything to him."

"Do you want him to know? When your birthday is, I mean?" Harry asked carefully. "I know he's dying to know more, even a little bit."

"And knowing the day his daughter is born isn't little," Alicia said. I pursed my lips because I didn't see myself as his daughter, and I didn't care how big or little the information was. The others all seemed to hold in their breaths, afraid I would have an outburst. I couldn't blame them, talking about Black brought it out in me.

"He can know." I shrugged. "I normally-" I glared at the others. "don't celebrate my birthday anyways." I looked at Harry. "He has sent me a few letters but I haven't answered any. But if you're going to write to him, let me know, I'll just put something in the end for him."

"He'll like that." Harry nodded, then changed the subject, thankfully. "So, presents.

Chapter Text

The next morning, Jack was waiting for me at the entrance hall. He was casually leaning against the wall, his arms crossed over each other. He was smiling and winking at the girls that passed him. He was even more handsome than he was over a year ago, his childish features long gone. He's a lady's magnet, that's for sure. Alicia tugged my sleeve.

"I can't believe you dated him! He's so hot!"

The twins snorted and I pursed my lips at them. "He is good-looking, isn't he? But first and foremost, he's my best friend. I've known him for ages."

"So, you two are not together?"

I was just starting to like Alicia, but her wanting to pound on him the minute he arrived, stirred something in me. I breathed in deeply, my eyes on Jack, whose smile broadened when he saw me approach. Angelina must've noticed because she jumped in before I exploded.

"Merlin, Alicia. Can you not jump on him the second he arrives."

"I-"

"He's not only her best friend but also her ex." She continued. "And obviously, they still love each other very much."

It was true, what Angelina said. What kind of love it was, was still up in the air. But I was happy for her support. I glanced at the twins, but their faces were set in stone. I sighed before smiling up at Jack. He pushed himself off the wall and wrapped his arm around me. "Goeiemorgen."

"Morning." I smiled up at him. "Where's Jazz?"

"Still snoring in the carriage." He snickered. "Have you put your name in yet?"

"Last night with Angelina, you?"

"Was planning on doing it now, care to join?"

"Yeah, the twins were going to put their names in any way."

Jack looked up at the twins, smiling. "Good luck, mates."

The twins looked surprised at him since they barely had said two sentences to him. "Oh, thanks." They murmured.

"Come on, let's go, then we can get some breakfast," Angelina said, already tugging Lee towards the Entrance Hall where the Goblet was stationed. 

Alicia followed them silently, then the twins and us. Jack swished a piece of parchment elegantly out of his blue silk robes. He shot me a wink before crossing the age line swiftly. With a typical Beauxbatons flair, he tossed it in fire, under applause from the other students. Harry, Hermione and Ron were sitting on one of the benches, clapping alongside the others. Jack came back, swinging his arm around me again. The twins were whispering in the corner, glancing at the Goblet.

"Ik ben zo terug." I whispered to Jack, who nodded. [I'll be right back.]

I walked over to the twins, and slightly touched their arms. "Hey." They both turned to me with a soft smile. "Are you okay?"

They both placed a hand over mine that rested on their arms. "Yeah, just wondering whether it is still worth it because you put your name in." Fred winked.

I pushed their arms, but they took my hands in theirs, letting them hang between us. They intertwined their fingers with mine and I allowed them. The moment our fingers closed around each other, it shot a shock through my whole body. Ignoring the weird sensation, and the twins inquiring eyes on me, I stood on my toes and kissed their cheeks.

"Good luck." I said as I pulled my hands out of theirs. I looked down, hiding a blush before turning on my heel towards Jack.

"It's not going to work." Hermione said in a sing-along voice. The twins ignored her, but I shot her a glare. I usually liked Hermione, but this was not the time.

"Ready?" Fred asked his twin.

"Ready." And they both leapt in together. The room cheered and applauded loudly as they crossed the line. They turned to look at me grinning, a twinkle in their eyes. Suddenly there was a sizzling sound, and the twins were hurdled out of the circle. I gasped as they landed painfully and with a loud thud on the other side of the room. Then there was a popping noise, and they grew large, grey identical beards. I stepped forward as the whole room started laughing. But when the twins stood up and looked at each other, they joined in, clearly not in pain. I let out a breath of relief. The twins turned to look at me from across the room, shooting me a wink. They turned around laughing as they made their way to the Hospital Wing.

"The Goblet is almost ready to make its decision," said Dumbledore and Angelina grabbed my sleeve anxiously. "I estimate that it requires one more minute. Now when the champions' names are called, I would ask them to come up here, walk along the staff table and go through into the next chamber." I knew the chamber, of course, Dumbledore pointed to, I arrived there over a year ago. The headmaster waved his wand, dimming the lights, so the ominous light of the Goblet filled the great hall.

"Any second," Lee whispered next to Angelina, his eyes fixed on the Goblet and his fingers intertwined with hers.

The fire in the Goblet turned red, shooting sparks from it. The next moment a charred piece of parchment flew out of it. Dumbledore caught it gracefully, he peered at it at arm's length. The whole room was silent, it sounded like nobody was breathing.

"The champion for Durmstrang.... Viktor Krum!"

"No surprises there!" Ron yelled between a storm of applause and cheering, including me. The broad quidditch player slouched over to the headmaster before he disappeared into the room. Everyone quieted down again and turned back to the Goblet. A second piece of parchment shot out of it.

"The champion for Beauxbatons is..." I grasped for Jack's hand and squeezed it tight. "Fleur Delacour!"

"Oh." I groaned. "I'm so sorry." Jack squeezed my hand reassuringly, giving me his dazzling smile before clapping with the rest of them. Fleur rose from the Ravenclaw table where she decided to sit today and swept towards the room. The Goblet was sending red sparks again and Jack intertwined our fingers again, while Angelina took my other hand.

"The Hogwarts champion is..." It seemed like he paused longer than with the other schools and my heart was pounding in my chest. My grip on Jack and Angelina's hands went even tighter. "Alexandra Lupin-Black!"

My eyes turned wide, and my mouth dropped slightly open, while applause erupted around me. It was even louder than with Fleur and Krum.

"Hell yes!" Was shouted from the Slytherin table. I glanced their way and saw Draco grinning from ear to ear, clapping loudly. Next to him, Blaise and the two Nott brothers clapped enthusiastically with him.

"Congratulations." Angelina turned my attention to her.

"Are you mad?" I asked quietly.

"Of course not." She beamed. "You deserve it." She hugged me tight.

"Gefeliciteerd, schat." Jack kissed me again in front of everyone. "Jij gaat dit geweldig doen!"

I smiled shyly at him, when I turned, the twins had leaned over the table to give me a kiss on the cheek. "We knew it!" They chimed grinning wide. "Now go."

"Alright, alright." I chuckled. When I went to go to the front of the room, Harry was smiling and clapping loudly. I smiled to my friends one last time before I stepped into the room where Fleur and Krum were already waiting. Fleur didn't look remotely surprised at seeing me. We both waved our wands casting the translating charm.

"Why am I not surprised." She smiled as she walked over. We hugged for a few seconds. "I'm sorry I haven't come to speak to you."

"That's okay. I know you've probably been exploring." I winked.

"You know me, always curious." She giggled. I saw Krum move in the corner of the room.

"Hey, Viktor. I don't know if you remember me." I said outstretching my hand to him.

"I remember, Alexandra, right?" He said as he shook my hand. "We met at the ball about three years ago."

"Indeed, you wore those hideous dress robes." I grinned.

"Karkaroff made me wear them." He grunted. "What are we supposed to do n-" He was interrupted when the door opened again. Harry walked in paler than a sheet, his eyes wide.

"Harry?" I stumbled forward. "What's wrong? What are you doing here?" I asked grasping his shoulders.

"I - I." Harry couldn't utter a single word which made me fill with worry.

"Harry?"

The door opened again, and Bagman waltzed in smiling. "Extraordinary! Gentlemen and ladies, may I introduce to you, the fourth Triwizard champion."

Viktor straightened up, looking at Harry with a frown. Fleur looked stunned but smiled at Bagman. "Oh, very funny joke, mister Bagman."

"It's not a joke, is it?" I asked Harry, my voice trembling. He shook his head slightly. "Did you-?" He shook his head again and I knew. I gave him a single nod but didn't let go of him. The door behind Harry opened again and several people stormed in. Dumbledore, Mr Crouch, Karkaroff, Madam Maxime, McGonagall and Snape.

"Madam Maxime!" Fleur said at once. "They are saying that this little boy is to compete."

I squeezed his hand as he tensed at the little boy comment. Madam Maxime turned to Dumbledore.

"What is the meaning of this?"

"I'd like to know myself," Karkaroff said. "Two Hogwarts champions? Nobody told me that was allowed. We were under the impression that your age line would keep out younger contestants, Dumbledore. Otherwise, I would have brought along more candidates from our school."

"It's no one's fault but Potter's, Karkaroff." Snape said. I tensed and glared at the Potions professor. How dare he, how fucking dare he. Snape didn't look at me. "Don't go blaming Dumbledore for Potter's determination to break rules-"

"How dare you!" I snapped at him, and all eyes turned to me. "Harry didn't put his name in the Goblet! Did you even look at him? He's clearly in shock." McGonagall stepped forward, a hand outstretched but I continued. "Dumbledore drew the age line himself, and you think Harry, a fourth-year -" I turned to Harry. "No offence." He shrugged, still looking pale. I turned back to the potions professor, who looked at me with a blank expression, but his eyes betrayed him. "Could find a way around it?! You're mental!"

"You let your students talk to you like that?" Karkaroff huffed.

"Don't, Karkaroff." I was surprised that Madam Maxime and Professor McGonagall silenced him.

I wanted to grab Harry and run out of the room, bringing him home to his Godfather. Professor Dumbledore turned to Harry, and I squeezed his hand. "Did you put your name into the Goblet of Fire, Harry?" He asked calmly.

"No."

"Did you ask an older student -" His eyes flickered to me. "- to put it into the Goblet for you?

"No." He said vehemently.

"He could not have crossed the line," McGonagall said sharply. "I think we can all agree on that."

"Maybe Dumbly-dore made a mistake?"

"It is possible, of course." Dumbledore replied simply.

"You know perfectly well you didn't make a mistake," McGonagall said angrily. "Really, what nonsense! Harry could not have crossed the line himself, and as Professor Dumbledore believes he did not persuade an older student to do it for him. I'm sure that should be enough for everybody else."

"Mr Crouch, Mr Bagman-" Karkaroff started. "Surely you must agree that this is most irregular?"

Bagman turned to Karkaroff with a frown, but it was Crouch who answered. "We must follow the rules, and they clearly state that those people whose names come out of the Goblet are bound to compete."

"You can't let him compete." I nearly shrieked. "He's underage, he's barely fourteen! He didn't put his name in. He isn't here voluntarily. You can't-"

"Miss Lupin-Black." Dumbledore said calmly. I was breathing heavily, and Harry squeezed my hand reassuringly. Moody stepped inside the room and all the professors started discussing again, I turned to look at Harry.

"Are you okay?"

He took in a deep breath. "Not really."

"I'm sorry. They can't let you enter, they just can't." I whispered.

"Apparently they can." He said forlorn.

"I am going to send a message to Sirius, he won't let this happen." Harry was about to protest when I asked. "Do you have your cloak with you?"

"No." He whispered, looking at the teachers who were still discussing. "Why?"

"I have an idea."  

Chapter Text

Once we were free to go from the room, I dragged Harry into the first alcove we passed. "You stay here, I'll get the cloak."

"How?"

I already changed into Loki in front of him, I looked up to him. "Can you put a disillusionment charm on me?"

Harry took his wand out of his pocket and waved it over me. "How are you going to get into the tower?"

"I have my ways." I winked at him with my wolf eyes. "I'll be right back." And darted out of the alcove.

Within a few minutes, I had reached the portrait of the fat lady. "Who's there?" She asked, squinting her eyes as she glanced around the staircases.

"Poppy seeds."

She looked around the hallway frowning, but when she couldn't spot anyone, she reluctantly opened the portrait. The common room was filled with students all talking over each other. They all glanced at the portrait waiting for me or Harry. Most of them looked confused at the portrait, while the twins looked thoughtful.

"Harry?" I heard Hermione whisper. She must think he had his invisibility cloak. I darted passed her and walked up to the girls' dorm to grab the backpack I used as Loki. Then hopped over to the boy's dorm. I pushed open the door of the fourth-year dorm and saw that Ron's curtains had been drawn close. I quietly trotted over to Harry's trunk and nudged it open with my nose. A few seconds later, I had the cloak in my mouth. I froze when I heard movement behind Ron's curtains. But after a few seconds, it stilled. I placed the cloak in my bag and headed back down to the overcrowded common room. I saw the twins sitting near the window whispering. I grinned to myself as I walked closer.

"That's our girl." George smiled dopey.

"Yeah." Fred said, his eyes unfocused. I walked over and slid between their legs, they both shuddered.

"Did you feel that?"

"I did, what was that?" They looked at each other. George shrugged, rubbing the goosebumps on his arms. Then Fred suddenly said. "What about Petra? The Ravenclaw with the endless legs."

A spur of jealously shot through me, and as I needed a distraction to slip out of the common room, I muttered a spell, breaking the back leg of Fred's chair, and making him topple back. As the students all turned to the noise, I slipped out of the common room unnoticed.

When I changed back into human form, I tossed Harry the cloak. He threw it over his shoulders and held it open for me to climb underneath. I smiled before stepping under, I wrapped my arm around his waist, tugging us close.

"Alright, let's go." I whispered. Harry didn't ask where we were going as we walked through the castle. He only asked when we entered the Honey Dukes' passageway.

"We're going out of the castle?" He whispered.

"You don't have to whisper, Harry." I chuckled. "But yeah. I'm taking you to Sirius."

"We're not allowed off the grounds."

"I thought you were a rule breaker." I snickered.

"Not on purpose." He huffed and I laughed.

"Nobody will know." I waved him off. "We'll floo from the Three Broomsticks."

The Three Broomsticks was filled with witches and wizards, which made it easier for us to mingle. We quickly made our way to the floo before disappearing in green flames. The house was dark, and I saw Moony and Sirius sleeping on the couch against each other. Harry looked surprised at this, his eyes widening. He pointed at them as he looked from them to me. I rolled my eyes with a smile before clearing my throat. Remus had jumped up from the couch, in a fighting stance with his wand pointed forwards, Sirius on the other hand, had rolled off the couch from Remus's movements and grunted.

"Well, that's not a nice way to greet family." I pursed my lips trying to keep myself from grinning, I crossed my arms over my chest.

"Alec?" Moony waved his wand and the lights came on, his cheeks were flushed. His eyes widened as he saw who was standing next to me. "Harry? What are you doing here? What happened?"

Before I could answer, he had crossed the room and hugged me tightly against him. I saw Sirius move closer and hug Harry. They both held us at arm's length as they looked at us.

"SomeoneputmynameinthegobletIdon'tknowwhobutnowIamacontestant." Harry rambled on at a speed I'd never heard before.

The two adults both looked thoroughly confused. "What?"

"You better sit down," I said, gesturing to the couch. Remus and Sirius sat down on the couch while Harry and I took a seat on the coffee table. "Someone put Harry's name in the Goblet. He's a champion, they are making him enter." I sneered at the last part.

"I knew something would happen!" Sirius's voice was laced with anger. "They'll just have to choose another champion."

"I'm the fourth champion, someone was already chosen for Hogwarts."

"Well, then they don't need you, do they? Who's the other champion?" Sirius asked. But Moony's eyes were already on me, a little smile tugged on his lips.

"Congratulations, cub." Moony kissed the top of my head. Sirius looked wide-eyed from me to Harry, not believing it. He turned back to Harry.

"They can't let you enter. I won't hear of it." He shook his head. I looked down at my hands as he didn't even acknowledge me as a champion. For some reason, it hurt. "I'm heading to the castle in the morning."

"They say it's a binding contract."

"For those who volunteer." He countered. He frowned as he racked his brain. Moony placed his hand on me, offering me a little smile, and that's all I needed to feel better. "You two better head back to the castle before they notice you're gone. Thank you for coming to me, Harry."

"It was Alec's idea actually." Harry stated. "She even yelled at Snape! It was awesome."

"You did?" Sirius's eyes were wide and full of pride. Of course, he would be proud of that and not the fact that I was chosen as a Champion.

"It's Professor Snape, Harry. And you did?" Moony asked with a sterner voice but I could see his lips twitch.

"He had it coming from last year, and the things he said." I shrugged. "I couldn't help myself."

"You're a great friend." Moony smiled.

"That she is." Harry smiled as he nudged my arm. "Ready to head back?"

"Yeah." I stood up, not looking at Sirius.

"We'll see you tomorrow." Sirius hugged Harry as Moony hugged me.

I took Harry's hand in mine once we parted and tugged him to the fireplace. In the corner of my eye, I saw Moony speaking in a hushed voice to Sirius, who was looking at me. Harry and I took our place in the fireplace, and I took a handful of floo powder.

"Alec." He started but I already threw the floo powder at our feet.

"The Three Broomsticks." And we were gone.

Going back to the common room undetected wouldn't be so easy now. So, Harry had thrown the cloak over him as we reached the portrait. And once we entered, he fled upstairs as I was greeted and congratulated by my housemates. The twins were leaning against the wall now, grinning at me from the corner. I nodded my head to the others, barely registering what they were saying and made my way to the twins.

"Where's Harry?"

"Is he okay?"

I glanced between them with raised eyebrows. "You don't believe he put his name in the cup?"

"Of course not!" They exclaimed, looking at me like I was mad for believing otherwise. "We saw his face when his name was called."

My eyes were still flickering between them as I felt a surge of love for them. I cupped Fred's cheeks and stood on my toes to kiss him, it was short and innocent and then I did the same with George. They both stood frozen as they looked at me, mouth agape. I knew I was blushing, but I beamed up at them anyway.

"You two are amazing. Thank you, it really means a lot." I squeezed their hands. I looked over my shoulder to see Hermione sitting in the corner, looking worried. "I should talk to Hermione." I gave them a small smile before walking over to the fourth year. "Hey, Hermione." I sat down next to her.

"Where is-"

"He's gone upstairs. He's a bit in shock but he's okay." I leaned closer to whisper. "Sirius is coming over tomorrow to talk to Dumbledore."

"You think they'll pull him out?"

"I don't know. I hope so but hearing Bagman and Crouch..."

"Right." She nodded, frowning. "I think I'll head to bed." She stood. "Thank you for telling me, Alec."

"Of course." I nodded as I watched her dart up the stairs.

Two days after the names were drawn, I found my way to the Slytherin common room. They all cheered as I entered, I smiled politely but it was getting a little exhausting, to be honest.

"Here's our Champion!" Draco beamed and I glared at him. "A grumpy one so it seems." He snickered.

"Can everyone just start greeting me like before?" I sighed plopping down next to him on the couch. I glanced around the common room. "What are they wearing?" I frowned when I saw badges on some of their robes.

Draco was leaning back, his arms casually draped over the back of the couch, seemingly at ease, but something flickered in his eyes. "Grabbe, Goyle and Pansy made them."

When I saw it change from Alec Lupin-Black, the real champion into Potter Stinks, I pulled out my wand and pointed it at their robes. With a flick of my wand, the badges shrivelled up. I could see Draco smiling in the corner of my eye.

"You know what the first task is?"

"No." I shook my head turning back to him. "I'll start training after the weekend. Want to help me?"

"Yeah, anyway I can help you to win." He grinned.

"Good, meet me at the duelling room after dinner on Monday." I smiled. Normally I would be the one to do this alone, but since Sirius and Remus's threats didn't do anything, Harry was still forced to enter. And we agreed to train together. I didn't tell Harry nor Draco they would both be there, but they'll find out soon enough.

"How -" Draco seemed to have difficulty finishing his sentence. "How's Potter doing?"

Well, that took me slightly by surprise because ever since school started, they hadn't exchanged one simple word as far as I knew. "Oh, he's - he's -" Afraid, utter shit. But I couldn't tell him that. "He's fine."

Draco snorted. "I highly doubt that. I saw his face when his name was pulled."

The corner of my mouth twitched up. "You were watching him, huh?"

Draco scoffed with a roll of his eyes, but his pale cheeks flushed a little. "Everyone was watching him."

"Right." I tried not to grin. "You could always ask him yourself, you know."

Draco opened and closed his mouth a few times. "No, I just asked because I know what he means to you."

Keep telling yourself that, cousin. I thought to myself as I watched him. He had turned his attention to the fire. It looked like he was trying to see through the burned-up logs. I turned my attention to the flames too as my mind wandered to what the first task might be. 

Chapter Text

I was sitting in front of the fireplace in the common room, books sprawled all around me. Books on Charms, hexes, potions, anything that might come in handy. I was making notes on a long piece of parchment when the twins walked in, their arms full of books. I quirked my eyebrow at them as they plopped down in front of me. I leaned forward and placed the back of my hands against their foreheads. I felt them stiffen under my touch, they both sat frozen in place.

"Are you ill?" I pulled my hands back and sat back. "You're willingly studying."

"Oh, this is not for us, love." Fred grinned. "This is for you."

"I got my books already." I said gesturing around me.

"We got extra." George leaned closer and whispered. "From the restricted section."

"You really think that's needed?"

"You can never be over-prepared." They said before Fred continued. "You just go over your books and -"

"We'll go over these ones and make notes if we find something useful."

"You'd do that for me?" I asked, my heartbeat quickened a bit.

"Of course." They chimed.

Jack was a nice distraction, a really, really nice distraction but if Fred and George kept doing this, it's not going to be enough. The way they were looking at me made butterflies burst in my stomach. I quickly looked down at my notes. "Thanks." I whispered softly.

They didn't answer, they both just took a book from their pile and flipped it open. An hour later, Lee and Angelina joined us and picked up a book themselves, even when I tried to convince them to let me check them over. They all just scoffed at me as they started jotting down notes.

Saturday night, dressed in a black sweater dress and over-the-knee boots, I bounded down the stairs to the common room.

"Hey, Alec." Harry started before he looked me up and down. "Where are you going?"

"I'm -" My speech faltered as I saw the twins' darkened eyes on me. "I'm meeting with Jack." I continued, looking back at Harry. "I'm sorry I haven't been much help, but I'm researching and Monday-"

"I know." Harry smiled softly before hugging me. "I know you're doing all of this to help me, to keep me safe." He pulled back. "But Alec, don't make it too hard on yourself."

"Have you met me? The more I have on my plate, the better." I winked.

Harry didn't look convinced. "Tell me if it becomes too much, alright?" I nodded. "I'm sorry about Sirius."

I shrugged. "Doesn't matter," I said, even though it still gnawed on me. "I should get going. Have a good night, Harry." I made my way to the portrait hole but stopped at the twins. "George, Fred. Put down those books and enjoy a free night. Go pull a prank or something." Then something came to me, and I smirked. "I heard Filch has just polished and reorganized the trophy room. Do with this information as you please. Good night." I winked.

The twins smirked at the idea, but something was off in their eyes. "Good night." They chimed before I headed outside.

The Beauxbatons carriage was large. When you first step in, it's like a small entree way, where you can hang your coats and put away your shoes. Then there is a hallway with at least ten sets of doors. Jack led me through the hallway until we reached the fifth one. It was a room with two single beds, two cupboards and two desks they could work on. He led me to his bed, and we sat down, our backs against the headrest. His hand with fine manicured nails stroked my cheek. I was drowning in his green eyes, and I leaned forward to capture his lips. His hand slipped to my neck and his fingers slid in my hair. I put a hand on his waist and pulled him closer as the kiss deepened. We kissed for a long time but were interrupted by a knock on his door.

Jack pulled back in frustration, making me chuckle against his neck. "Ja?" [Yes?]

"Ik ben het." Jazz's head popped inside, a dazzling smile on her lips. "Mag ik binnen komen?" [It's me. Can I come in?]

"Als het moet." Jack sighed but he was smiling. I tapped the bed and Jazz leapt over the side onto it, already sitting cross-legged in front of us. [If you must.]

"Nu, vertel me alles over dien tweeling." Her eyes were sparkling and full of curiosity. [Now, tell me all about those twins.]

"There is not much to tell" I shrugged, and the two of them looked at me in disbelief. "Fine. I like them, okay? Both of them! That's the problem." I groaned in frustration. "I can't choose between them, I just can't."

"Why would you have to choose?" She asked incredulously, immediately switching to English.

"You're thinking of a triad?" My brows shot up high as I looked at the two. Jack was frowning as he looked at a string of my hair between his fingers.

"Why not?" He said. "You like them, really like them. And they like you too, that much is obvious from the way they look at me." He laughed.

"You know I can't do that. I tried that before, and it didn't work out then." I shook my head. "I don't think it's really possible, that there's already been a real triad without failing. Sex okay, but a relationship, no."

Jack placed his finger under my chin, guiding my gaze to him. "Is that why you came here? To forget about them?"

"I have to forget them, Jack. I don't want to lose them as friends, I have to put my feelings aside."

"Okay, we can try. But -"

"I know." I nodded.

I curled my hand around his neck and guided his lips back towards mine, trying to forget about those handsome twins up in the tower. Jack pulled me lower on the bed, his hand going under the hem of my dress. I felt a dip in the bed and Jazz was spooning me from behind as she started leaving kisses on my neck. Oh! It's been a long time since we did this!

Back in Beauxbatons, after Jack and I were dating for a few months, we had a few escapades with Jazz, we never had a real threesome back then, we were still so young, but kissing and heavy petting were certainly things we did. It was with them I tried the triad thing. Thought it would work because we had known each other for a long time and I loved them both. But it didn't work out. I was just happy we managed to put it behind us and stay friends. But now it seemed like it would be more than just kissing tonight as Jack slipped his hand in my knickers and Jazz's hands cupped my breasts, all the while without their mouths leaving my body. That night, for at least a few hours, they made me forget.

"Hey, Cedric." I greeted him the next morning in the library. I was sitting next to Jack, while Jazz sat across from me with Angelina and Lee, the twins on my other side.

"Hey, Champion." He winked at me, and I ignored the twins' scowl. Jack just looked amused. "Congratulations, by the way. I haven't talked to you since the cup."

"Sorry, I've been a bit busy." I grinned, tapping the book in front of me. Cedric's eyes flickered from Jack to the twins, a grin of his own came upon his face.

"Busy, alright. Forgot to glamour one." He nudged his head towards my neck. I blushed fiercely and quickly covered it with my hair, but everyone saw it already. "I should let you to your studying, I'll see you in class." He winked before walking over to his friends a few tables further.

"Can we do something else?" I asked, trying to change the subject immediately. "I'm getting a headache just staring at those books."

"We could go flying." Jazz suggested and I scrunched up my nose. "You're cute when you do that." Jazz bobbed my nose. The others didn't think any of it, not knowing that Jazz was bi, and I like who I like. "Come on, you love to watch us play."

"You play Quidditch?" The twins asked, their foul moods evaporated in an instant, and they leaned forward in interest.

"Jack and I both do." She nodded. "I'm itching to play a game."

"I could do with one." Jack nodded, and he retreated his arm from the back of my chair. "But we didn't bring our brooms."

"We have school brooms, they are a bit old, but they should do the trick." Angelina suggested.

"Who are we going to play against? And we still need extra players."

"You could ask Harry, I'm sure he wants a good distraction," I suggested. I had to pull back a smile and a punch on his arm, the way Jack's eyes sparkled at distraction. "And Alicia should be up for it too."

"Excellent, now we need a team to play against." Jazz said, her voice already full of excitement. "Didn't you say Cedric was in a Quidditch team?" She asked Angelina.

"Not Cedric." The twins grumbled.

"Why don't you go to the tower, get your things and Harry and Alicia? I'll talk to Draco."

"Malfoy?" Angelina asked surprised. Even though Draco didn't say or do as much as before, it wasn't like they were on friendly terms. Only the twins had talked to him during the summer, and Harry but no one knows that.

"Malfoy is fine," George said as he pushed himself up. "That gives us a little challenge, at least."

"On the pitch in half an hour?" I asked, following the others out of the library. They nodded and while the other Gryffindors climbed up the stairs, I guided Jack and Jazz down to the dungeons.

When we neared the Slytherin common room, I saw Nott walking in front of us, his back towards us. Soundlessly, I ran up to him and flung myself on his back. "Hi, Emmett."

"Hey, gorgeous." He grinned. He lowered me to the ground and turned, looking at the pair behind me. "You must be the famous Jack." He extended his hand.

"Famous, huh?" He grinned, shaking it.

"And Jazz, I heard a lot about you too." He smirked and kissed her cheek. Jazz's eyes widened.

"Yeah, he knows." I nodded. "This is Emmett Nott, we dated a little last year."

"Oh, you must have made the Weasley twins so jealous!" Jazz laughed and Jack grinned.

"No one was jealous." I interrupted before Emmett could say anything. I stepped inside the Slytherin common room and searched for my cousin. "Draco!" I called out as I saw him tucked against the window, a book in his lap.

"Cousin." He nodded, standing swiftly from the window ledge. "You've brought guests."

"Draco, this is Jack and Jazz. Guys, this is Draco, my cousin." Draco exchanged pleasantries with them, much to their amusement. Yes, very posh. "Gather your quidditch team, you're playing a game."

"Excuse me?"

"The Gryffindors want to play an unofficial game. And since they want to have a challenge, I'm here to collect you and your friends." I knew that I was putting on the flattery thick, but it still worked though. Draco straightened his back proudly.

"I'll gather them up."

"Great, at the pitch in half an hour." I kissed his cheek and walked out of the common room.

Word had travelled fast, and the stadium was packed with students. I was standing between the two teams, telling them they ought to follow the official rules and that I would be the referee when Professor McGonagall walked up.

"What is the meaning of this?"

"Harry and I needed a distraction, professor. I thought a friendly game of Quidditch couldn't hurt." Her eyes flickered between the Gryffindor team and the Slytherin team. "I didn't think so many people would show up, but you know how fast gossip travels in the castle, and it being snakes against lions."

"It's quite alright, miss Lupin-Black. I enjoy myself a nice, clean game of Quidditch. I'll be the referee for this match." Relief coursed through me. "Now, if the two captains could shake hands, we can get started."

While Professor McGonagall was flying between the two teams, a whistle in her mouth, I stood next to Lee at his usual place behind the microphone. I was secretly happy that the professor suggested that she would be the referee because I was okay with flying but flying between Quidditch players and bludgers wasn't my idea of fun. My eyes shifted between all the players, but more than once they lingered on the twins. Their strong broad arms smashing the bludger to the other side.

"So, you and Jack are together?" Lee asked after the game as we made our way down after the game.

"Yes and no. I mean, we're friends – with benefits? I guess."

"Friends with benefits? What's that?"

"You know." I tried to express it with my eyes, but he seemed completely lost. "We're friends, who do other things without any feelings involved. I mean, I'll always love Jack, but I'm not in love with him."

"Oooh." He said slowly, probably trying to process what I just told him.

I spotted a ruffled blond head first. "Draco! You did great."

"We lost." He grumbled.

"Maybe, but you got the snitch."

"I did, didn't I?" He smiled a little but then it dropped. "But how? Potter was right next to me, we were bumping against each other trying to catch it, and he suddenly dropped his arm. Did he let me win?"

"He would never do that," I said, but it was weird though. Harry would never let Draco win on purpose but what did happen then? "Go take a shower, then we'll go eat."

"Okay." He said, still looking at the snitch in his hand.

Harry was already in the changing room, and Lee and Angelina were talking to each other just outside. So, I walked over to the twins, Jack and Jazz.

"So, how did it feel?" I asked grinning.

"Amazing." Jazz beamed. "Fred and George are quite the pair."

"Yeah, they're pretty amazing." I said softly, quickly avoiding their brown eyes.

"We'll go change in the carriage; I'll see you at dinner." Jack kissed my cheek.

"I'm sitting with Draco, you can join if you want."

"Actually, George and Fred wanted to discuss Quidditch tactics during dinner."

A little surprised, I smiled. "That's great. Thank Merlin, I decided to sit with Draco then." I teased.

Jack winked before he and Jazz walked off the pitch towards the carriage.

"You were watching us." Fred said with a lopsided grin, that didn't help the blush that rose up.

"I was," I said honestly. "I was watching everyone." But mostly them.

"You said we were amazing." George breathed, stepping closer.

I tried to push back a blush, tried to keep my heartbeat regular, but that was hard when they were standing so close, and their gazes fixed on me. I was surprised by my steady voice when I said. "You know you are amazing. You don't me to confirm that."

"Maybe." Fred shrugged. "But it's nice to hear anyway, especially from you."

I reached for their free hands, the other were holding their brooms. "You two are amazing." I stood on my toes to kiss Fred's cheek, then George's. I'm happy that I'm not the only one blushing. "And I don't mean only for Quidditch." I quickly ducked away and walked over to a freshly showered Draco.

"What was -" Draco started, but just then Harry walked out of the Gryffindor changing room quickly and bumped into Draco. "Watch it, Potter."

I saw a blush forming on Harry's cheeks, his fingers going through his wet and unruly hair. I saw Draco's eyes following the movement, he swallowed thickly. "You were standing in front of the entrance, Malfoy." Harry managed to say, before turning around and walking to the castle.

I cleared my throat and looped my arms through Draco's. "Let's go, I'm famished."  

Chapter Text

It was weird and familiar at the same time sitting with the other Beauxbatons students in class. Not all of them of course, some, like Fleur, were in their seventh year. I tried to switch each class so I could sit with everyone. Ancient Runes with Emmett was still the smallest class, only Jack and Deirdre were in this class. I kept my seat next to Emmett as we worked great together.

The first task was coming up quickly and I had to go to the weighing of our wands. George came knocking on the door when I was in Arithmancy with Lee and Jazz.

"Sorry for the interruption." He said, not looking remotely sorry. "Alec needs to come to the weighing of the wands."

"Of course." The professor nodded. "Miss Lupin-Black, take your things with you, I think it might take a while."

As I packed my stuff, Jazz wiggled her eyebrows at me. She leaned closer as I clasped my bag shut. "Which one is it?"

"George."

"How do you know?"

"I always know." I shrugged. "I'll see you later." I walked over to the door and when George closed it behind me, I said. "Hey, you."

"It's been a while since we had some alone time."

I hummed because he was right. It has been a while since I've been alone with him or with both of them. "Is that why you're the one that is escorting me to the room?"

"Professor McGonagall asked the ones who had a free period, and I volunteered. Fred had detention."

"For what?"

"For jinxing Crabbe, or was it Goyle? I never know which one is which."

"Because they look so alike?" I grinned with a raised eyebrow. I never knew who was who either, but he didn't need to know that.

He gave me that lopsided grin that made my heart speed up. "All dumb, half-troll Slytherins look alike to me."

I laughed as I looped my arm through his. I'd missed this. I had missed him. George was beaming next to me, proud that he made me laugh. "Thank you for trying to get to know Jack and Jazz."

"They're important to you, so they're important to us." I squeezed his arm in return. "I don't want to overstep my boundaries but you and Jack, are you like, back together?"

"I -" I looked up at his deep brown eyes, he was searching for something. I didn't know what to say, should I tell the truth, I mean part of the truth. Or should I lie and tell him we were boyfriend and girlfriend? So, maybe we can all break from this tension. "You're not overstepping." I looked to the floor as we walked through the great hall. "Jack and I will always be friends, what we're doing now is just some fun. It's easy and familiar. What about you?"

"Me?"

"I haven't seen any girl around you or Fred this year."

He shrugged nonchalantly. "Enjoying the single life."

"George." I placed my hand on his arm when we stopped in front of the door. "It's not because of me, is it? I don't mean to sound all big-headed, but I heard someone talking. They thought... they thought you or Fred might... like me. Like more than a friend." George stilled in front of me. He was staring at me, it seemed like both of us couldn't look away. I was holding my breath, afraid of the answer. "George?"

"It's not you." He finally said. "We're friends, great friends but just friends."

"Oh, alright." I really didn't know what answer I wanted, but this one cut through my heart. "Good. Glad we cleared that up." I looked away, trying to hide the hurt in my eyes. "I should go inside."

"Yeah." He answered, his voice a little off. But I couldn't look at him, I stepped inside the room and closed the door behind me, effectively shutting him out.

Fleur and Viktor were already there. Fleur was warming up in front of the fire, and Viktor was hanging casually in on the couches, his robes shucked off. Then I spotted Harry, he was sitting hunched over in a chair, I barely saw him.

"Ah, miss Lupin-Black," Bagman said. I looked at the man, I really didn't like him. "The rest of the judges will be here in a moment, please take a seat."

I sat down on the couch next to Krum's chair and Harry came over and sat next to me. We gave each other a small smile.

"The expert is upstairs with Dumbledore. He should be here in a minute. There will be a little photo shoot." Bagman said and Harry and I shared a frown. "This is Rita Skeeter." He gestured to a witch in magenta robes. "She's doing a small piece on the tournament."

"Maybe not that small, Ludo." The Skeeter woman said, her eyes flickering between me and Harry. She had short blond curls, jewelled spectacles settled on her nose. "I was wondering if I could have a little word with Harry, seeing that he is the youngest. Bring a little colour to the whole event."

"Certainly." Bagman clapped excitedly. "If Harry doesn't mind."

"Er-" Harry started.

"Lovely." Skeeter said, already tugging on his arm.

"I think not." I stepped between her and Harry.

Skeeter's eyes turned large behind her glasses. Her eyes flickered between me and Harry who was standing behind me. "Excuse me?"

"Harry is underage. He's not going to spend a minute alone with you." I said defiantly. "He will be accompanied by an adult. So, either you call on Harry's godfather, Sirius Black or he won't say a single word to you."

"Sirius Black?" Her eyebrows rose. "Your father is Harry Potter's godfather?"

"My father is Remus Lupin." I said through gritted teeth.

"The werewolf." Her lips curled up in an evil smirk.

"You better watch your mouth." Fleur interrupted, her eyes blazing. She stepped up next to me and pushed down the hand that was reaching for my wand. Viktor Krum had risen from this seat and took my other side. "I think I'm not feeling well enough for an interview I'm afraid."

"Me neither." Krum grunted. And I was so happy to have their support. I reached my hand behind me, and Harry took it, squeezing it tightly.

Skeeter looked enraged, her eyes flickering between the four of us, a united front. Then her head snapped to Bagman. "Ludo, do something!"

"I - Young lady." He said to Fleur but couldn't finish as the door opened. Dumbledore walked in with Karkaroff, Madam Maxime, Mr Crouch and an elder gentleman with grey hair. "Headmaster Dumbledore, these young champions don't want to do their interview."

"Oh?" His eyes sparkled behind his glasses as he looked at us. All standing protectively in front of Harry. "No matter, Mr Olivander is here. He will be checking your wands to ensure that they are in good condition before the Tournament."

"Mademoiselle Delacour, could we have you forward first, please?" Said Mr Olivander, stepping forward to the middle of the room. Fleur gave me a small smile before she walked over to the elder man. Skeeter had perched herself on the edge of the couch, glaring as her quill scribbled down behind her.

Harry took Fleur's place next to me. "Mr Olivander is the wand-maker from whom I bought my wand when I was eleven." He whispered to me.

"I've heard of him." I nodded. "Remus got his wand from him too."

"Hmmm." Mr Olivander said as he twirled the wand between his long and bony fingers. Then he held it close to his eyes and examined it carefully. "Nine and a half inches, inflexible. Rosewood and containing... dear me."

"A hair from the head of a Veela," Fleur said. "One of my grandmothers."

My eyes went large at that. I knew she was part Veela of course, but that her own grandmother's hair was in her wand was something entirely different.

"Yes, yes. I haven't used Veela hair myself, of course. I find it makes for rather temperamental wands, however to each his own and if it suits you..."

Temperamental, that really suits Fleur, I mused.

"Orchideous." The wandmaker said. And a bunch of flowers burst from the wand tip. "Very well, very well. It's in fine working order. He scooped up the flowers and handed them to Fleur alongside her wand. "Mister Krum, if you please."

As the wandmaker was examining Viktor's wand, I saw Harry trying to clean his wand with his robes. It made my lips curl up, trying to push back a laugh. Dumbledore wasn't watching the wand weighing, he was watching me and Harry. Harry smiled sheepishly at me when I nudged him with a grin.

"Avis." The wandmaker suddenly said and when I looked up, and a number of small twittering birds flew out of the end and through the open window outside. "Good, good. Miss Lupin-Black." He gestured me forward as he handed Viktor's wand back.

I whipped my wand out of my boot and handed it over with a twirl. The wandmaker smiled at me. "Here you go, Mr Olivander.

"Thank you." He looked over my wand, and without looking up, he said. "I made the wand of your mother and both of your fathers. I'm sad I'm not the one that made this one." He held it closer to his eyes. "It's quite exquisite. Who made this? It looks familiar, but I can't seem to point it out."

"Miss Maes from Belgium."

"Ah, yes, now I see. It's one of the last ones she made, I guess."

"It is very the last, sir. She made it a few weeks before she passed away. My father, Remus Lupin, met her when we moved to Belgium when I was four. She promised me then she would be the one that would make my wand, even though she had been retired for years."

"I used to study under her, many, many years ago. Her work was – is – just really exquisite." His fingers slid over my wand carefully, like it was a prized possession. "Applewood... Phoenix feather." His eyes flickered to Harry for a second. "Thirteen inches... smooth and ribbed on the end." He looked at the wand for a long quiet moment, and I glanced at Harry with an amused look. "Papilio Crepitus."

Out of my wand, dozens of colourful butterflies burst out, flying above our heads. Two monarch butterflies landed on my shoulders. Their orange wings slowly move up and down. Fleur was watching the butterflies with a smile, while Viktor had a blue one on his finger, lifting it up to his eyes to look closer. Harry had several butterflies in his hair, all white with a yellow shine to it. I wonder if it had a meaning. I saw one single monarch butterfly on the tip of Fleur's wand, the others already flying out of the window.

"Fascinating." Mr Olivander said, looking at the butterflies. "It was an honour to see the last wand of Miss Maes, truly." He bowed his head a little as he handed over my wand. "Mister Potter."

Harry came over as I stepped back, the butterflies still on my shoulder.

"Yes, yes, yes. How well I remember..." Mr Olivander said softly, looking over at Harry's wand. Harry himself looked like he was having a flashback to when he bought it a few years ago. "Made of holly... Phoenix feather... eleven inches..." After a long time of examining the wand, maybe as long as he examined mine, he shot out a fountain of wine. A nifty spell to remember if there was a party, I mused. Harry accepted his wand back and stepped up next to me.

"Thank you all," Dumbledore said, standing up with the other judges. "You may go to the great hall, dinner will start shortly."

We started to make our way to the door when Bagman called out. "Photos, Dumbledore, photos. All the judges and champions."

"Yes, yes. Let's do that first." She said, her eyes on Harry. "And then perhaps individual."

I immediately stepped closer to Harry. Then the parade began. The photographer, needed to move Madam Maxime around since she casts a shadow over the others. Once the group shots were done, they started with the individual ones. But not once, did I let Harry alone with that hag or the photographer. Finally done, we made our way to the great hall. It was still empty, but it shouldn't be that for long. The four of us took a seat at the end of the Gryffindor table.

"I heard about Hermione, is she okay?" I asked once we sat down.

"Yeah, Madam Pomfrey should have fixed it by now."

"Who was it?"

"Crabbe and Goyle. Malfoy just watched from the sidelines."

I nodded, it was better than if he would be the one casting it. I don't think he's ready to publicly defend or protect a Gryffindor that wasn't me.

"And how is it going with Ron?"

"Still ignoring me." He grumbled.

I shook my head, disappointed. "I don't care what you say Harry, but I'm going to smack some sense into him."

"I would like to see that actually." He grinned.

"Me too." Viktor and Fleur chimed in with a grin of their own.

Chapter Text

"Hey, I need to talk to you for a second," George whispered, tugging his twin behind the others. He waited a little until they were further away before they started walking. "Minnie asked to pick up Alec from class for a wand-weighing thingy, so I went to pick her up. I – I may have asked her if she and Jack were serious, like a couple."

"And?" Fred asked impatiently.

"She says it's casual. Just friends who are having fun."

"That's great." He grinned, then saw George's fallen face. "Isn't it?"

"Then she asked about us, with the fact that we haven't had a girlfriend or hook-up this year." He ran a hand through his hair. "I just told her we were enjoying the single life."

"Not a bad answer." Fred cocked his head, still confused at the solemn face of his twin.

"Just wait... then she asked if it was because of her. Because she heard from someone that you or I might like her as more than just friends.

"And you screwed up that perfect opening?" His eyes were wide.

"Yeah. I told her we were just great friends, nothing more."

"Fuck, George!"

"I know, I panicked! I didn't want to push or scare her away. And we decided we should tell her together, so what was I supposed to do?" He groaned, pulling his hair a little.

"It's okay, twin-o-mine." Fred clapped his back. "I'm guessing she has a lot on her head already with the tournament and Black." Harry had told them, that Black never congratulated her on becoming a champion, or even acknowledged it. And they knew, even when she didn't speak about it, it had hurt her.

"What do we do now?"

"The same as we've been doing for the past year," Fred said, running a hand through his hair. "Be there for her, flirt a little, do things we don't do for other girls. But I still think we need to see if she gets jealous. Even though she says the thing with Jack is just some fun, it doesn't mean she likes us, like we like her."

"I still don't like the plan." George grumbled as they reached the great hall.

"Do you see that?" Lee asked as they stopped in front of the great hall. The twins stepped up next to him and yes, they saw it. Alec was sitting with the other Champions. A strong magical buzz was glowing around them as they talked intensively. Even though Harry looked small next to the others, it seemed like his magic was buzzing alongside the others.

"What is that?" Angelina asked.

"Magic." The twins breathed, they recognized Alec's magic intertwined with the others. "Powerful magic."

"Do they know what they are doing?"

"I don't think so." George mused. He didn't think she could hear them, but still Alec turned around. She smiled as she saw them at the entrance hall. She gestured them over and when the others looked up too, the buzz of magic started to dissipate.

"That was scary and hot at the same time." Fred whispered before they walked into the great hall, and George couldn't help but nod in agreement.

"Hey, Harry." I said when Harry appeared in the old training room. I was a bit bummed that Professor McGonagall disbanded the club since I was going to enter the tournament, I understood but I was still bummed out. My lesson with the Potion's master has been postponed as well because of the tournament.

"Hey." He smiled. "So, what's the plan tonight?" He hopped on the desk next to me.

"I thought we could practice some spells and muggle defence. We don't know what we need to prepare for, but we better do as much as we can."

"Alright. Can Hermione come next time? Hermione is going crazy with Krum's fan club in the library." He chuckled.

"How do you feel about Krum being in the library so much?"

"Why would I feel something about Krum studying?"

"Because he's not there to study, Potter." Draco said strolling into the room. "That's what you mean right, Alexandra?"

"What are you doing here?" Harry snapped.

"I was invited. You?"

"Stop it. You were both invited. Draco, you want to help, and Harry and I want to train together, so suck it up." I had a hard time trying not to laugh at their flustered faces, they both wanted to argue but refrained themselves. "You still want Hermione here?" I whispered to Harry.

"No, I don't think that's a good idea." He frowned.

"Right, so I thought we should start with basic spells." I twirled my wand as I thought it over. Draco and Harry were both nearly on the opposite sides of the room, looking at me. I turned on my heel and looked at them. "I heard you two duelled in your second year?"

"Not much of a duel." Draco muttered.

"Just because you lost." Harry countered.

"It doesn't matter." I held up my hand when Draco opened his mouth. "Draco, I want you to duel me and Harry."

"What?" Draco paled a little.

"I'm not going to do anything back, nor is Harry." I pointed out and Harry pursed his lips in disappointment. "We'll just start with deflecting spells and protection charms."

"Alright." He started grinning, twirling his wand effortlessly between his fingers. "What can I cast?"

"Anything you can think of." I gestured Harry over. "Harry, take your place right there." I pointed a little further away from me. "Cousin, you stand in front of us. So Harry, protecting and defence spells only. I know you want to curse Draco." I grinned as Draco glared at me. "But we'll do that another day." I winked. "Harry, I'm not going to help you, we will not be fighting or competing together during the tasks, so try to think of protecting yourself and no one else."

He nodded with a serious face, taking his wand out of his robes. We both chugged out our outer robes and took a stance. "Give it your worst, cousin."

"I'm planning to." He grinned before he whipped his wand, calling out. "Locomotor Wibbly!" He shouted, pointing his wand at Harry. Harry deflected the spell easily but the next one hit him in the leg, while I had a shield charm around me.

It was fun and exhausting, dodging and deflecting Draco's spells while trying to hold off a protective shield that was strong enough. Draco was fast and cunning, he didn't just use obvious spells but more complex ones too. After an hour and a half, Harry held up his wand.

"Stop!" He breathed hard, sweat dripping down his forehead. "I- I can't."

"Already tired, Potter?" Draco grinned, but he was breathing hard too, sweat drops gathered on his neck.

I dropped the shield charm and fell to the floor. "I'm done too." I laid down flat on my back, conjuring three water bottles from my bag. Harry dropped down next to me, leaning back on his hands, while Draco sat in front of us, his back straight as he sat cross-legged.

"This was actually kind of fun." Draco's voice sounded a little weird. I pushed myself up on my arms and saw him watching Harry. Harry who had just taken a sip from his water bottle, splashed a little bit of water on his face, water droplets running down his neck. And Draco couldn't take his eyes off him. Oh, this is going to be so interesting.

"This was fun." I agreed. "But Harry doesn't want to train with you again, he prefers -"

"I never said that." Harry interrupted and then looked like he wanted to slap himself on the face. "I mean -" He cleared his throat.

"You like that I throw hexes at you, Potter?" Draco smirked.

"N- no, I – I just. I mean I want to get back at you. Next time, Alec and I are going to defend ourselves and cast counter spells at you, right Alec?" He finally managed to say and turned to look at me.

I had a hard time, a really hard time holding it together. I tried not to look amused or that I was bursting with laughter. Those two are going to make this so fun!

"Yes, of course. Next time, we'll hex back." I said seriously, a small smile tugging at my lips. "So, it's okay for both of you to train together again?"

Draco shrugged nonchalantly, but I knew better. "Fine, by me."

"Sure." Harry glanced at his watch. "It's past curfew, we should get going."

"Yeah." When I went to push myself up, Draco had already stood up and held out his hand. "Thank you." I smiled. "Harry, do you mind taking my bag back to the tower?"

"Aren't you coming?" He asked, already placing my bag over his other shoulder.

"I'll be there soon, I just want to go explore. I haven't done that much this year." I said. I glanced out the door and when I saw the hallway was empty, I changed into Loki. "See you boys later." I winked as Loki and trotted out. I could just hear the boys breathe in unison.

"Still cool!"

Then Harry. "Wait, you knew?"

It was Friday night. Draco, Harry and I had another sparring match, now throwing our own jinxes. We switched partners, but it was so much fun to see Harry and Draco duel each other. All though they both still claimed to hate each other, they also couldn't really hurt each other in the fight, and I needed to push them to go all the way. After our sparring match, I went outside.

The night was cool, the sky littered with stars. I just sat on a large boulder next to the black lake, my wolf head tilted towards the moonlight. I could see the lights still on in the Gryffindor tower even though it was getting pretty late. My head snapped to the forest when I heard a growl, my first thought was Black, but that was crazy. I strained my ears as I looked at the tree line. I didn't see anything, but I heard another growl, a little louder now. Then I saw the tops of the trees shake.

"What the f-" I cut myself off and started running towards the treeline. I ran into the forest following the growls. When I came closer, I heard someone yelling instructions. The voice was vaguely familiar, but the scent was the first I recognized. A Weasley. Not my Weasleys. Damn, Alec, they are not yours! Then I saw him, Charlie Weasley. He was wearing thick leather gloves and an armoured vest. Charlie? That meant – dragons! That's when I saw one, a big one breathing fire, setting the tree alight. In the dark corners of the other side where the dragons were being held, I saw Karkaroff sniffing around.

The first task – it's dragons! Oh gods, Harry and I are not trained for that! We need to train more, a lot more. I need to see Moony! I darted back out of the forest and ran up to the tower. Quickly changing back when I arrived in front of the portrait I barged in the now empty tower.

Should I wake Harry? Or wait till morning? No, this couldn't wait. I ran up the boys' staircase and slipped into Harry's room. Hoping he slept in the bed that was in the same place last year, a room below.

"Harry?" I whispered, poking my head through his curtains, hoping to Merlin, he was dressed. And he was, he was even tucked into almost his neck, snuggling his pillow, it was a funny sight. "Harry?" I nudged his arm.

"Alec?" He rubbed his eyes tiredly, and I handed over his glasses from his nightstand. "What's happening?" He pushed himself. "Or are you finally throwing yourself at me?" He smirked. "Because you're a little late for that."

I snorted and ruffled his hair. "Funny, Potter. Get dressed, we need to go."

"Go? Where? Alec, it's the middle of the night."

"No, shit. Let's go."

"Give me a second to get dressed." He slipped out of bed, grabbed the clothes that were on the chair in the corner and quietly slipped into the bathroom. "I have the cloak." He whispered. I nodded approvingly and the both of us walked out of the dormitory, neither of us noticing that Ron watched us go.

When we arrived in the dark house, I left Harry in the kitchen, and he went to make a large pot of tea. I walked up the stairs and when I looked at the closed doors, I just hoped, I wouldn't find them in bed together. I took in a deep breath before I pushed open Remus's door. I let out a breath of relief when I saw he was alone, his long limbs spread across the bed. Before I could step further in, he bolted up.

"Alec?"

"It's me." I said quietly. He always knew it was me, it started when I was very young, and when I got older, he would even notice when I was near when he slept. Maybe because he thought I would sneak out or it's the wolf in him that wakes him. Whatever it was, he scrambled out of bed and rushed over to me. His hands went to my shoulders, and he looked me up and down.

"What's wrong? Are you hurt? Who do I need to kill? If it's Jack, I'll do it. I love the boy but if he -"

"Uncle Moony, I'm okay. Breathe." I chuckled a little.

He took in a few steady breaths before he wrapped me in his long strong arms. "You're okay." He said quietly. "But if you are okay, why are you here in the middle of the night? The full moon isn't until next week."

"I know. I'll explain everything downstairs. Can you wake up Sirius? We need to talk to you both."

"We?"

"What's going on?" Sirius's sleepy voice came from his doorway. He was leaning against the door frame, rubbing his eyes, his hair was a wild mess. "Alec?" He straightened his back when he saw me.

"I'll explain everything downstairs. Harry's making tea."

"Harry's here?" They both asked baffled.

"Yes, let's go." I walked down the stairs with the two men behind me, I could feel both of their eyes on me. Harry just set the pot of tea and cups on the kitchen island when we came down.

"Harry," Sirius said already walking up to him, engulfing him in a tight hug. "What's going on?"

"Haven't the foggiest." He answered. "Alec and I were training with -" He stopped and cleared his throat. "Earlier she went to explore a little while I went to the tower. A few hours later, she woke me up when I was in bed."

"You went into the boy's dorm?" Sirius asked with his eyebrow high.

"Yes, Harry's. So, fourth years. It wasn't like I was seducing young boys." I rolled my eyes as I accepted the cup from Remus with a smile.

"Besides she's seeing Jack."

"Really?" Remus asked.

"Jack? The ex?" Sirius asked.

"Yes, but we're not a couple. We're just -" I cleared my throat as Sirius's eyes looked murderous and Remus scowled. "That's not why we are here." I put down my tea and looked at Harry. "I know what the first task is." 

Chapter Text

We had talked for a few hours that night before Remus insisted we stay the night since it was Saturday, and we didn't have any classes. Remus promised we would talk more strategies in the morning.

"So, you and Jack... you're being safe?" Remus asked, pulling me to the side as Harry and Sirius cleaned up the cups. And I nearly laughed at how uncomfortable he looked. His eyes were glued to my shoulder instead of me.

"Yes, Moony. We're being safe. What about you?"

"Me?" He turned red. "I haven't - we didn't - there is nothing going on."

"Uncle Moony." I put my hand on his arm, making him look at me. He didn't look flustered or shy, he looked deflated and sad.

"It's nothing." He offered me a small smile. "Besides you have enough on your plate already."

I sighed when I saw his determination. "Fine, but we'll talk about this later, okay?"

"Sure, now off to bed, cub." He kissed the top of my head.

"Uhm." Sirius cleared his throat "Can I have a quick word with Alec?"

Remus turned back to me with a questioning look. I nodded with half a smile. He squeezed my shoulder before walking up the stairs behind Harry. I took in a deep breath and turned to Sirius.

"Yes?"

"I'm sorry about last time. I should have never forbidden you to enter, I'm just afraid of losing you, again. I just found you and even though I don't know you, I want to, and I don't want to lose you."

Wow, that wasn't what I was expecting. "Oh." I whispered.

"I know I've gone wrong about the whole situation, and I know I can't change the past, even though I want to, so badly. I'm just asking for a chance here, Alec. A real chance. You're the only family I have left, and I don't want to lose any more."

It was everything I wanted to hear, and everything I didn't. The whole Sirius Black situation is not good for my head. "I think -" I waited for a moment and Sirius's hopeful eyes, turned into panic. "I think I can try. But baby steps."

"Baby steps." He nodded. "I can work with that." A smile spread across his face. "Thank you."

I wanted to say that I was doing it for Moony and Harry but that is only half the truth. "I should get some sleep. Do you have any blankets for the couch?"

"You're not sleeping on the couch. I told you I have a room for you." He said already guiding me upstairs. "It's not much, I wanted you to have the opportunity to make it your own. So, just the basics." He said pushing open the door next to Moony's room.

It had creme coloured walls, and a large window on the side. A desk, a bed and a closet. Like he said the basics but still. On the nightstand next to my bed were a couple of pictures. One with me and Remus, one with my mum when I was just a baby. Then pictures with Harry, the twins, Aunt Cissy and Draco from at school or during break. It was a small gesture, but it made me smile.

"You like it? Moony helped me with the pictures."

"It's great. Thank you, Sirius."

"It was nothing." He waved it off, already stepping back out of the room. "Goodnight, Alec."

The next morning, we woke up early to try to figure out what exactly we needed to do with the dragons. Harry and I sat on one side of the couch, while Remus and Sirius sat across from us.

"Fighting a dragon will be hard, they are nearly impossible to kill, especially alone." Sirius said.

"We're not fighting them." I shook my head. "You've met Charlie Weasley, right? He rescues dragons, he would never be here if we needed to kill them. No, they will probably be used to protect or guard something or someone."

"A damsel in distress perhaps? Locked away in a tower." Moony grinned, and Harry and I chuckled. Sirius looked completely lost. "Muggle fairy tales, Padfoot." He patted his knee.

"Oh." He said, a blush creeping on his cheeks as he looked at the spot Remus's hand had been. Harry and I shared a secret grin. Harry, not knowing I had the same train of thoughts about him and my cousin.

"Probably no damsel in distress," Harry said. "They wouldn't put other students in danger for the sake of the game." Oh, how wrong he was but we didn't know that then. "So, guarding or protecting something?" He turned to me.

"That would be my guess." I nodded. "We probably need a way around them, preferably without getting burned alive." I didn't see Remus or Sirius's look turn into pure terror. I tapped the quill against my chin as I leaned on my knees. "We're only allowed a wand, yes?"

"Yeah."

"So, I can't use a potion, too bad. I could make one to put it to sleep. But I should look into the spells we trained for to see what could distract it, even for a little bit. I could transfigure something..." All different ideas sprouted in my head and started to write them down. "But that won't help you, Harry."

"Why not?"

"This is not a jibe or an insult, but you don't know as much as we do. That's why the age limit was set on seventeen." I sighed. "You're a great wizard, Harry, but this is next-level shit."

"Alec." Remus said.

I stuck out my tongue to him before looking back to Harry. "But you're great on a broom."

"We're not allowed a broom."

"But you are allowed a wand." Remus pointed out. I saw he was on the same page as me. It took a little longer before Sirius and Harry figured it out.

When Harry went over the summoning charm with Remus and Sirius, I went to the kitchen to make some tea. When the pot whistled, I turned off the stove and thought of the twins. Shit, they must be worried. I quickly took my wand, and conjured my Patronus and sent a message to them.

"You can cast a Patronus?" Sirius asked baffled.

"Uhm, yeah. Moony taught me."

"Is there something you can't do?" He laughed softly, and then a sad smile appeared on his lips. "You're so much like your mother, she was dead clever too."

"I wanted to be like her growing up, but it turned out differently. My mum was more books, calculations, thinking before acting, I, on the other hand..."

"I'm afraid, you inherited that from me. Or from Remus." He laughed again, nervously.

"Yeah." I said quietly.

"Who did you send the Patronus to? Jack?"

"No, Fred and George. They worry."

"And Jack doesn't?"

"He does, but he knows me. He knows how I can be reckless yet careful. Knowing if there is something wrong, I would go to Moony. He just knows."

"That's a special bond."

"It is. He's my best friend." I said smiling. I still can't believe I'm telling him all this, with a smile, nonetheless. But there we were, baby steps.

"Are there other friends of yours that have come too?"

"Jazz," I said. "I've known Jack since I was five, I think. The boy next door for a long time. But Jazz and I met when I was eleven, on the first day of school. Been inseparable since. It's nice to have them here."

"How do the Weasley twins react to Jack?" He asked. And I raised my eyebrows at him. "What?" He grinned. "It's quite obvious they like you."

"We're friends," I said and he snorted. "I mean it. At first, I thought the same thing, but they flirted with most girls and George told me we were just friends."

"I don't believe it." He shook his head. "They are so obviously smitten with you."

"They are not," I said, turning away from him to fill the cups. "Even if they were, they are brothers, twins, I would never come between them."

A smirk worthy of a Slytherin spread across his face, and I knew I slipped up. "So, you do like them? Which one? Or both of them." He said excitedly, bouncing on his heels.

I leaned forward on the kitchen island, my arms rested on the granite counter. "You really want to know who I like? What I want to do to them? Or others, boys or girls? What I do when Jack and I are alone or what I would do with not one but two boys?" I challenged. "You want your daughter to shack up with two guys?"

"I-" Sirius's face paled and his eyes were wide. I smirked the Slytherin smirk back at him as I straightened up.

"Stop eavesdropping, Moony." I called over as Remus scowled immensely. "I'm just riling him up." I laughed as I walked back to them with tea.

"You were not lying." He whispered when I handed him a cup. Of course, he knew. He could hear it with my heartbeat.

"Wait!" Sirius whirled around; his eyes wide. "You said daughter."

"Stay on topic, Black." I said, tapping my notes.

"But that was the topic." He said gloomy, but the smile was still on his face.

"I need to tell Fleur about the dragons." I said.

"What? Why? This gives you an advantage." Sirius gasped.

"It's unfair. I saw Karkaroff in the forest that night, if he knows, Viktor knows, and it would be unfair that Fleur is the only one left out."

"Viktor? Everyone calls him Krum." Harry said.

"I met him a few years back at a ball, so yes, I call him Viktor. To me, he's a young man, not a famous Quidditch player."

"So much to learn about you." Sirius rubbed his head tiredly.

Harry laughed loudly. "You have no idea! The twins, Angelina and I are still finding out new things about her and we talk almost every day. Even Malf-" He stopped again when my cousin's name fell on his tongue. I cocked my head to him with a grin. He pointedly looked the other way, his neck red. "Still an enigma, this one."

"And an enigma I will stay." I grinned. "A girl got to have her secrets. Except for you, Moony."

"You better not." He winked. "About secrets, you can't turn into Loki in the task."

"I know that-"

"I know you wouldn't do it on purpose, not in front of everyone and people from the ministry but you can change involuntarily if you're scared out of your mind."

"I'll keep it in mind, I promise."

"So, you're an illegal Animagus too, like me." Sirius grinned proudly.

"You are proud of the weirdest things." I shook my head.

"What? That's one of the best things to be proud of. You're a little rule breaker, just like your dads."

"Well, since I'm sitting here instead of being at Hogwarts, I guess you're right about that," I answered, not reacting to the dad's part.

"About that... we better head back before too many people notice we're gone." Harry said.

"You're right," I said, pushing my notes in my bag. "Look at our little rule follower." I ruffled his black unruly hair and he blushed. I laughed at seeing it.

"Still not over your crush, Harry." Remus smirked as we stood up.

"I didn't have a crush."

"Oh, yes you did." Sirius laughed, clapping him on the back. "Nothing to be ashamed of, I had plenty of crushes when I was young."

I hugged Remus while Sirius hugged a still-blushing Harry. Hugging Sirius was a step too far, so I just smiled at him when we stepped into the fireplace.

"Besides that isn't so bad as when a parent tells you that you could get in any boy's dorm if you just smiled at them." I said, grinning. Harry looked wide-eyed at his godfather and Remus had a shocked expression on his face.

"You said what?!"

"I didn't know she was my daughter!" He exclaimed, making Harry laugh.

"See you next week." I laughed before throwing floo powder at our feet.

The following week, Harry and I practised every night. We didn't tell anyone what the first task was, except Fleur, but Draco was curious at why we suddenly changed our tactics and training. He found Harry's summoning spell a little boring, so he came to help me with my spells. When Harry had managed to summon an object from a certain amount of space between them, I let it fly further. Because it would be a great distance to cover to summon his broom.

Draco sat next to me, examining my notes. "You know... you could use your Patronus."

"For what?" I asked because the thought had already occurred to me, but I was wondering why Draco thought about it because he didn't know about the dragons.

"For lots of things. You can send a message with it, it can guide you out, but with you being an Animagus you probably can sniff your way out." He laughed, making Harry stop his summoning spell to look at him. Probably because he has never heard Draco laugh, really laugh. "It can be a distraction; it can guard you. It's pretty versatile."

"I was thinking about it too. It's on the top of my list." I grinned, handing over the ideas that seemed the best.

"Great minds think alike." He laughed again, and again Harry dropped the spell to look at him. Draco didn't notice but I did, I shot Harry a wink, who looked away blushing. So much fun!

Chapter Text

The full moon was a few days ago and Harry decided to stay at Sirius's place with us since it fell in a weekend. Not that he could do much, he was forbidden to come inside Remus's room. But he didn't mind. In the early evening, Sirius went to sit with him while I stayed with Moony. Sirius stayed with him until Harry went to bed and Sirius slipped back in the room. He grinned when he saw us playing checkers. While Scotty took a nap, Sirius and I talked. And talked some more. And we agreed to finally send letters to each other once every two weeks or so. The next morning Harry had made breakfast for ten, but Remus and Sirius didn't mind, they ate almost everything.

And now it was the day, THE DAY, the day of the first task and Harry and I didn't sleep at all. None of the Champions did. Because when Harry and I went downstairs at four am, Viktor and Fleur were already sitting at the breakfast table. The elves must've known we were there because a small breakfast appeared in front of us. Not that any of us ate much, more picking at the food than actually eating it. We all slipped out of the great hall when students started to wake up, none of us were particularly excited for all the well wishes and good luck.

The four of us were camped out outside, sitting under a large willow tree. The branches hanging so low, they hid us from view. We didn't talk about how we were going to beat or get past the dragons, we just talked about classes, and Harry asked about Beauxbatons and Durmstrang.

"Oh, Harry, I saw those awful badges those Slytherins wore," Fleur said, even with the spell it was heavily accented.

"Not only Slytherins." Harry muttered. But I already took care of the few Hufflepuffs and Ravenclaws. They won't try something like that again.

"Something funny happened." She continued. "When they say Alexandra, the real champion, they do nothing but the moment they tap the badges to turn into Potter Stinks, the badges get teeth and start snapping at their robes, fingers, whatever is in close contact. Apparently, one of the big dumb ones lost the tip of his wand because of that."

"Really?" Harry and I grinned in surprise.

"Yes, I saw it happen," Viktor said. "Almost took his finger too." His laugh boomed underneath the tree.

"Who do you think did it?" Harry asked. "The twins?"

"It seems up their alley, but they would have said something. Maybe Hermione?" I asked, but I had a feeling I knew who it was. A dear little cousin of mine.

"Too violent for her, she would do something like vanishing them."

"Her-min-ny is your girlfriend?" Viktor asked.

"My girlfriend?" Harry looked surprised at the question. "Uhm, no. I care about her a lot but-" He was blushing fiercely, and I didn't know if it was because he still had a thing for her, or it was just uncomfortable to talk about. "We're friends, great friends."

That last sentence was like a punch in the stomach because it brought me back to when George said it to me. Forget about them, forget it. I glanced between the vines when I heard people come closer.

"We should get to the tent. People are coming up."

Nobody answered, they all just stood up and the four of us walked to the Champions tent. Just when I was about to step in behind Fleur, my name was called.

"Alec!" I turned to see Jack jogging up to me. He was breathing a little harsh when he stopped in front of me. "Geef me een second." He said, holding his side.

"Maybe it was a good thing you weren't chosen." I joked and Jack glared at me with a grin.

"I want to disagree, but -" He took in a few deep breaths. "But the evidence says otherwise." He laughed, and wrapped his arm around my waist and stepped closer. "Good luck, be careful and don't do anything stupid."

"Have you met me? I've never done anything stupid in my life." I gasped, my lips curling upwards.

"Yeah, right." He snorted. "Remember in second year when you went climbing -" The rest of his sentence was muffled underneath my hand. Then he licked it, and I withdrew my hand quickly.

"Viezerik." I wiped my hand on my trousers.

"Oh, you love me." He purred.

"I do, doesn't mean it's not true though."

He lowered his head slowly. "A good luck kiss." He whispered before his lips touched mine. I cupped his cheek softly, it was a sweet kiss nothing too extravagant. "I'll see you after."

"If I live." I joked but Jack frowned.

"That's not funny."

"Sorry." I called over with a grin as he made his way to the stands. I looked around hoping to spot two red-headed twins. I wrote them a note that I would be up early, and they could meet me before the first task. But now they were nowhere to be seen. I waited a few more minutes but when I didn't see them, I headed inside. Just in time to see Skeeter and that photographer take a picture of Hermione hugging Harry.

"Ah, young love." Skeeter smiled.

I charged across the room and stood in front of Harry protectively. "Do you mind destroying that picture?" I asked sneering.

"Why would I do that? This makes it all the more interesting." She smiled.

I started to growl at her, my hand twitching to grab my wand, when Viktor stepped forward. "You have no business here." His accent thick.

"No, matter. I'm done anyway." She said before she swiftly walked out of the tent.

"I should go. Good luck." Hermione said to everyone before she ducked out.

"I'm going to ki-" I didn't finish my sentence as Dumbledore walked in followed by Bagman.

"Ah, everyone is here, excellent." Bagman clapped his hands together. "Time to fill you in. In this bag, you will all select a small model of the thing you are going to face." We shared a quick glance with each other. "Your task is to collect the golden egg." Guarding, not fighting, I knew it. " Miss Delacour." He opened the bag a little.

Fleur put a shaking hand in the bag and drew out a tiny model Welsh Green with the number two around his neck. Bagman shifted the bag to Viktor who was standing next to Fleur. He drew out the Chinese fireball with the number three around his neck. The bag shifted towards me and with a deep breath, my hand went inside. I pulled out the Swedish Short-Snout, number one. I had to go first. Then Harry took out the last dragon, a Hungarian Horntail and my breath hitched. It was certainly the most vicious of the four dragons, and Harry had it, the youngest of the bunch.

"You have each pulled out the dragon you will face, and the number refers to the order in which you are to take on the dragons. Miss Lupin-Black, you are first, just go out into the enclosure when you hear the whistle, alright?"

I nodded before he disappeared from the tent. I turned to Harry and clasped his hands in mine. "Concentrate really hard when you summon your broom, Harry. You must summon your broom."

"I know, I can do it. You be careful, alright." He said before he hugged me. "Promise me you'll be careful."

"I promise if you promise."

"Deal." He chuckled before letting go. Then the whistle blew. Fleur and Viktor quickly said their good luck before I stepped outside the back of the tent.

The enclosure was surrounded by high stands, filled with students. The dragon was resting in the middle of it, one eye open, already fixed on me. Behind her, four eggs, one golden. Before moving away from my spot, I put several protection and shields over me, then I placed a charm over my ears, so I wouldn't be distracted by the crowd. But still, my eyes flickered over the stands. Draco was gripping the railing in front of him hard, his knuckles white. A few rows behind him the twins, Lee and Angelina. They stood there like statues, not moving and seemingly not breathing. I quickly averted my eyes, not wanting to turn my back on the dragon. Charlie and his colleagues were spread across the sidelines, ready to jump in if needed. I saw that the dragon was on a thick iron chain. That might come in useful.

Placing a silencing charm on my feet, I moved across the enclosure. The dragon followed my every move, her head lifted a little, but she didn't move, not yet. Harry and I have read countless of books about dragons, but each one is different, and I can't seem to remember if I read about this kind.

When I stepped a little too close, smoke came out of its nostrils before fire blew out of her mouth, straight into my direction. I rolled over the ground away from the hot fire, but I could feel the heat tickling at my ankles. At my feet lay small rocks and I transfigured them into walking, squeaking plastic ducks. They waddled over to the dragon, and I ran to the other side, closer to the eggs, closer to its tail. The eggs are probably real, that's why she was so viscous, she is protecting her babies. Like my mum did for me. A flash of green filled my eyes, and I shook the thought out of my head.

This is for you, mum. I thought to myself before I stood up from behind the fallen tree. I cast a spell that made the sight around the dragon blurry for just a few seconds and I made my way towards the eggs, but the spell didn't last long enough, just as I reached the eggs, the dragon started to turn towards me. I ducked and rolled away from the eggs when a blast of fire came my way, I could feel part of my flesh burn.

The dragon was coming after me. It was bigger than me, but her movements were slower, so at the last second, I changed direction and ran towards it, picking up a branch on the way. I think if I could hear the crowd, I would hear them gasping in shock. I slid under her head, wrapping my arms around her neck and swinging myself on her back. I summoned my Patronus, thinking of the joyous memories of my mum and let Loki distract the dragon for me, which helped immensely. The dragon stood still, following the silver wolf who was playing around with a stick. I transfigured the branch into a sword and slammed it between her chains. So she couldn't move from her spot. I jumped off her back and grabbed the gold egg. That's when the tail hit me, and I went flying to the other side of the enclosure. That was the last thing I remembered.

"Harry!" I gasped when I woke up.

"Mr Potter is fine, dear." Madam Pomfrey said, helping me sit up. "How do you feel?"

"My head is pounding." I said, pushing the palm against the side of my head.

"Well, that was to be expected. Do you remember what happened?"

"I had the egg and then nothing..."

"The Patronus was a really smart move, but the dragon wanted to play with it and started copying its movements, so the dragon swished his tail and hit you, you flew a couple of meters in the air before your head hit one of the trees."

"That must've looked bad."

"It was scary. Charlie Weasley had to carry you inside."

I then noticed I wasn't in the tent but in the hospital wing. "How long was I out?"

"A few hours. I'm guessing you're having a party, so if you drink this one now, and the other in the morning, you can go, but no drinking."

"Why would I go celebrate?" I said before downing the potion. "I'm probably last."

"Actually." The healer smiled broadly. "You're placed first with mister Potter."

"R-really?" I asked baffled. "How?"

"I'm sure your friends want to tell you all about it. Now, up you go. Some of them are waiting for you outside the door." 

Chapter Text

When I stepped out of the hospital wing, Angelina, Jazz and Jack were waiting for me. Jack was in front of me in a second, cupping my cheeks.

"Are you okay? You took the 'if I live' part too seriously." He said, worry etched on his handsome face.

"I'm okay. Pomfrey patched me right up." I gave him a small smile. Then he engulfed me in a soft hug, one hand around me and the other on the back of my head, his fingers through my hair. I smiled against his chest at how careful he was and hugged him tighter. "I'm okay." I whispered against his shirt. Then Angelina and Jazz wrapped their arms around me and Jack.

"We were so worried," Angelina said. "When you went flying-" Her voice got caught in her throat.

"When you got the egg, we thought you were safe..." Jazz said quietly.

"Me too," I said as we pulled apart, but Jack kept his arm around me. "How did the others do? Since I'm the only one in the hospital wing, I'm guessing nobody got hurt?"

"Nothing major, Harry had some bruises and scratches but other than that he's alright. Fleur had a nasty burn on her arm but that was fixed in a few minutes. Krum was fine. Harry wanted to come but Ron wanted to talk to him before the party."

"Is that where we are going?" I asked Angelina as they steered me to the right. "It's not in the common room?"

"Fred and George planned the whole thing, and they wanted everyone you care about there, so the party is on the third floor, where you apparently did a fight club?" Jazz asked with a raised eyebrow.

"It was not a fight club." I laughed but stopped walking.

"What's wrong?" Jack asked. "Don't you want to go? You and Harry finished first place together, you should celebrate."

"No, I want to go. But I want a shower and a change of clothes first." I gestured to my dirty and torn clothes.

"Yeah, that may be a good idea." Angelina chuckled, poking her finger through a hole in my sleeve. "We can show Jack and Jazz the common room."

"Fantastisch!" They said. Angelina looked confused but redirected us to the tower anyway.

I wrapped the towel around my body as I stepped out of the shower, drying my hair with my wand. In a clear spot on the fogged-up mirror, I saw the reflection of the heart tattoo on my inner arm. The past year, I had it concealed since I wasn't of age yet and I didn't know what the others would say about it, and I didn't want Uncle Moony to get into trouble but now... But now I was of age... I didn't refresh the concealment charm before I walked back into the girls' dorm. The dorm was empty except for Jazz, Angelina and Jack. Angelina explained that boys couldn't come up the stairs, since it would turn into a slide, but Jack just levitated himself up the stairs. Now he was steaming one of my dresses with his wand, while Angelina looked amused, and Jazz was sprawled on my bed.

"I picked out a dress, schat." He said, turning when he heard me come in. "It's a party in your honour, you should look the part." He winked. He had picked out a silvery blue dress, with a V-neck and butterfly sleeves.

"It really matches your eyes." Angelina said as I held it in front of me.

"That's the reason Jack bought it." Jazz said, lazily waving her hand from her spot on the bed, not tilting her head remotely to look at us.

I dropped the towel and undid the dress from the hanger. Angelina's eyes turned wide and looked away. "Alec." She gasped.

"What? Jack and Jazz have seen everything and you're one of my best friends, it was bound to happen." I shrugged. I smiled as Jack helped me zip up the dress.

"Still..." She said, still looking the other way. "Is it safe to look?"

"Yeah." I laughed softly and Angelina looked around. "Let's get going."

"Before Fred and George get into a frenzy." Angelina grinned, she looped her arm with mine, just as Jazz lifted herself from my bed. Angelina's eyes flickered to my arm where her hand rested. "Wait, what's that?"

The party was already in full swing when we got there. Music blaring, people drinking. I saw Harry talking to Ron and Hermione in the corner, his golden egg on the table next to him, while his fingers drummed on the top of it. Draco, Blaise and Theo were sitting on the couch all with a drink in their hands. Fleur was in the corner talking to a seventh-year Hufflepuff which I can't remember the name of. Even Viktor was there, leaning against the fireplace. Several admirers were talking to him, he responded with short answers as his eyes were on Hermione. Lee was handling the music, and the twins were in the corner talking to a few girls. Nobody noticed us entering the room, that was until Lee spotted us and turned down the music.

"Our number one girl has arrived!" He shouted over the people who were still talking.

Then all the heads in the room snapped to us. My eyes were on the twins and the look they gave me, as they looked me up and down made a shiver run through my whole body. Jack leaned down and whispered.

"Oh, just friends my ass. He was lying his ass off." Jack laughed. I looked away from the twins to slap him on the chest. "They already look like they want to kill me. And I just have my arm around you. What would happen if I-" He didn't speak any further, he just tilted my chin up and kissed me. When we pulled back, he winked. "Oh, I'm a dead man." He laughed again and I looked towards the twins. If looks would kill, Jack would definitely be a dead man.

"It doesn't matter if he lied or not, we can't be more than friends. I won't come between them." I whispered back. Jack was about to reply but was interrupted when Draco wrapped me in a hug.

"You had me so worried." He said when he pulled back.

"When you flew in the air, Draco was ready to jump in the enclosure." Blaise chuckled.

"I was not." Draco huffed. He was pushed aside by Harry, who wrapped his arms around me. "Watch it, Potter." He said but it wasn't in the sneering way he used to do it. He looked almost amused.

"I got your egg." He said when he pulled back. "It's next to mine." When I looked over his shoulder, I needed to strain my neck to see it, since they were exactly the same. "I wanted to open it with you." He smiled. "Are you okay? I heard what happened."

"I'm fine." I looked around the room. "I'm fine," I repeated a little louder. "Everyone can stop asking." I smiled. The twins hadn't come closer, they were still in the corner with those girls.

"Open the eggs!" A voice I didn't recognize called out. Ron came over carrying the two eggs with a beaming smile that I didn't return. I couldn't just get past the fact he dropped Harry for the past two months. And now he was there to share the glory.

"Ready?" I asked Harry when we both held one in our hands. All eyes were on us, leaning closer intrigued. Harry nodded, holding the top of the egg. "Three, two, one." We twisted at the top and a loud horrible screeching sound filled the room. People clapped their hands over their ears as we quickly closed the eggs.

"Well, that was pleasant." Draco said sarcastically, making others chuckle. He glared at a few Hufflepuffs, who stopped immediately.

"What the bloody hell was that?" The twins asked in unison, apparently, they had come closer at one point.

"That-" I tapped the closed golden egg. "Is a question for another day."

"Absolutely right." Angelina said. "Lee, love, can you pick up the music again." Lee winked and turned the music back on full blast.

Harry and I set the eggs on a nearby table and the crowds dispersed again, scattered around the room. I took a step in the direction of the twins when a hand took my wrist.

"Where are you going?" Draco asked in a hushed voice.

"Going to mingle?" I grinned. I saw what the problem was because the others had all gone, he would be standing alone with Harry. "You don't need me to hold your hand, do you?"

Draco huffed, letting go. Just when I turned again to go to the twins, I heard Ron speak to Harry. "Come on, Harry. You don't want to go too near the little blond ferret."

I turned on my heel and jabbed a baffled Ron in the chest. "Don't talk about my cousin like that, Ronald."

"Alexandra, it's fine." Draco said, but I could hear the strain in his voice.

"No." I glanced at Draco for a second before I looked back to Ron. "Draco has been there for us every step of the way, where have you been, huh?" Ron didn't answer. "That's what I thought."

"Come on, Draco." Jack said, suddenly at his side. "Let's go get something to drink."

"What does she mean, Malfoy's been there for us?" I heard Ron ask Harry when I turned away from him

"I don't know," Harry said uncertainly, I could imagine him shrugging right now. "He has probably been helping her, so indirectly me."

The rest was drowned out by voices and music as I made my way towards the twins. The girls that were standing with them congratulated me, and I smiled politely but my focus was on the redheaded boys.

"What did Ron do now?"

"Just being an ass to Draco." I looked down and played with the hem of my dress. "I wrote you a note."

"We got it," Fred answered and I looked up. "We were on our way, but you seemed rather occupied, so we just went to the stands."

"Oh, okay." I said, looking away.

"Alec." George tried to reach for my hand.

"No, it's fine." I pulled my hand away. "You didn't need to come... It's fine, next time I'll just ask Ange." I looked over my shoulder. "I'm just going to get something to drink." I didn't wait for them to speak, I turned and walked away. The fire whiskey looked really good, but Pomfrey would kill me if I started drinking, or the mix of alcohol and the potion actually might. I decided on pumpkin juice. I was just pouring a glass when a tall figure appeared next to me.

"You were really amazing today."

"Did you miss the part when I flew against a tree?" I chuckled as I turned to Cedric.

"Sadly no." He frowned, pushing back the hair from his eyes. "But everything else was amazing. I've never seen a dragon act like that, with your Patronus I mean."

"Thank you. I thought she would try to eat the Patronus, seeing it as a food source." I shrugged. "You know, I thought you would be mad at me." I said as we both leaned against the wall, facing each other.

"Mad about what?"

"Your chances of becoming a Champion. I know you entered, and even though people accepted me being here, I still hear whispers of people saying I'm not a real Hogwarts Champion."

"I never heard of such rumours, don't know where you heard them."

"I have good ears."

"But you are the Hogwarts Champion, Alec. I'm not, nor have I ever been mad at you. I think you showed the whole school today that you belong in the tournament."

"So much flattery." I laughed, slapping his arm softly, but he caught my arm. His eyes scanned my arm, stopping at the tattoo, his thumb grazed over it.

"You have a tattoo."

"Obviously," I said in a way Snape says it, it made Cedric scowl, and me laugh. "It's in honour of my mum."

"It's beautiful."

"Thank you." I whispered.

"I was wondering." He said, his hand still around my elbow, his thumb grazing my skin. "You and Jack, I heard you dated back in Beauxbatons.

"We did. We were together for over a year, but we have been friends since we were five. He's my best friend."

"So, you're not together?" He asked surprised. He looked at me with his light brown eyes, a look that made me shiver a little.

"We're friends, and I love him. But no, we're not together. We're just having fun."

"Hm." He hummed softly, his hand slid down my arm, resting on my fingers for a moment before he let go and leaned a little closer. "So, if I were to ask you out, would you say yes?"

"I guess you have to ask to know the answer." I smirked.

Then the music made a weird sound like Lee had slipped on the record player. And when we looked over at him, that's exactly what happened. He was hanging over the record player, his eyes on the other side of the room. His eyes were wide, and his mouth was hanging open. I followed his gaze and my heart stopped. Fred and George were kissing those girls that were standing with them from the moment I walked in. It hurt, it really hurt. It felt like my heart was being crushed. I wanted to avert my eyes, but I couldn't. I was just shocked into watching. It hurt, but I couldn't be mad at them. I was doing things with Jack in the hope I would forget about them, they're free to kiss whoever they want. Maybe this will help me get over this ridiculous crush. Maybe when Cedric would ask me out on a date, I should say yes. Since the Jack thing wasn't working in the way I hoped. But I had to get out of the party, this was getting too much. Then I saw the perfect excuse.

"I should get the egg to my dorm," I said to Cedric, pointing towards it. A few guys were playing with it, tossing it in the air. "Before they break it, and I don't want to listen 24/7 to that screeching sound."

"No, I guess you don't." Cedric laughed. He took my hand and kissed my knuckles. "Goodnight, Alec, Champion number one." He winked.

"Goodnight, Cedric." I smiled. But the moment I turned around and saw the twins still kissing, I felt a little ill. I marched over to the guys who were tossing the egg and snatched it from the air with a glare, they scattered away quickly. I glanced at the twins one last time, just as George stopped kissing the girl before I walked out of the room.

Fred pulled away from the girl he was kissing and looked around the room. "Shit, I don't think she saw us." Fred said to his twin. George was frowning as he looked to the door with longing and regret. The girl he had been kissing long forgotten.

"She saw us." He said gloomy. "She ran out of the common room."

"That's great," Fred said cheerfully, not noticing his twin's mood. "That means she's jealous, right?"

"Yeah," George said, still absently staring at the door. "And we just hurt her fucking feelings. I knew this was a bad idea, Fred."

"We needed to do something, George." Fred said, rubbing a hand over his face. "We know the whole Jack thing is casual, but you saw how Cedric was with her just now. Cedric wants more than just casual. Maybe now that she saw us with someone else, she figured out how she feels for us and would admit her feelings."

"Maybe." He said, he saw Jazz and Jack disappear through the door, probably following Alec. "Maybe we should go look for her, to make sure she's okay."

"Let's wait a while, if she's not back in thirty minutes we'll go look."

"Hm, alright." He said still staring at the door, while one of the girls was tugging at his sleeve.

Harry didn't care that people saw him walk up to Malfoy at that moment. Malfoy had been gone for a while now, he left the party a few minutes before Alec vanished and he needed to know if she was okay.

"Malfoy." He said as he stalked up to him. The surprised expression on the blond boy's face was something he would never forget; he pulled back the grin with great difficulty. "Have you seen Alec? She left a while ago."

"By chance, yes. I was on the first floor when I saw her in the abandoned classroom on the south side with Jack and Jazz." He said with a smirk he couldn't figure out what it meant.

"Okay." He nodded. "I'm going to go check on her."

"Check on her? What happe-"

He was interrupted by the twins. "We'll come with."

Harry glared at the twins, and Malfoy looked utterly confused now. "Fine." He grumbled.

"Potter." He grabbed his sleeve as he wanted to walk past Malfoy. "What happened to my cousin?"

Harry glanced over his shoulder at the twins. "Nothing really, some guys were tossing the egg in the air, and she walked out. She probably brought the egg up to her room." Malfoy didn't look like he believed him, but let his sleeve go, nonetheless. He would know what happened in a few minutes anyway from one of his friends who had witnessed it like all the others.

Harry, Fred and George walked down the staircase in silence. When they neared the abandoned classroom, he could hear her giggle. Good sign then. But when he pushed open the door, it wasn't what he expected. He thought nobody would have expected the sight in front of them.

Alec's golden egg was lying on a dusty desk in the corner. But that wasn't the shocking part, the shocking part was that Jack was sitting on one of the desks, his shirt unbuttoned, showing off his light-skinned, firm abs. Between his legs was Alec, but her back was towards him. One of her butterfly sleeves was tugged down and Jack's lips were attached to her neck while his hands were around her waist. In front of her was Jazz, whom she was kissing passionately. Their hands were in each other's hair as Jazz pushed forward, bringing the three of them closer together.

The twins made a strangled sound, making the trio break apart. Jack immediately pushed her sleeve back up.

"Oh, hello." Jazz smiled her pearly whites casually like they were just meeting up to discuss a class. "Jack, maybe we should head back to the carriage." She said, still smiling as she stepped out between Alec's legs.

As Alec stepped forward, Jack jumped off the desk and turned her around. "Do you want me to walk you back?"

"No, I'm good." She smiled, but Harry saw it was a sad one. She kissed his cheek lightly. "I'll see you tomorrow."

"Slaapwel, schat." [Good night, love.]

"Slaapwel." She answered. Harry and the twins stepped away from the doorway to let them pass, but other than a small smile, they didn't speak. "I'm going back to the tower. It's been a long day." She said, her eyes fixed on him, away from the twins. "You can go back to the party if you want."

"No, I can barely stand, been up from the same time as you."

"What about you?" She asked, finally looking at Fred and George. Harry turned to look at them too. Their jaws were set, and something sparked in their eyes. But not a mischievous spark, far from it actually. "Are you going back to the party?"

"I think we are." Fred said with a clipped tone. "We have some unfinished business there."

"Fred." George said with a warning in his voice.

"We were having fun earlier. People said you walked out with the egg, and we just wanted to make sure you were okay."

"Oh, right." She shook her head a little, looking at her feet. "You should go back then, it is your party anyway. I'll see you tomorrow. Goodnight, Fred. Goodnight, George." Her voice wavered at the end.

As he and Alec started to climb the stairs to the tower, the twins already heading back to the party, silence filled the air around them. It wasn't until they reached the portrait, she said something.

"How did you know where I was?"

"Malfoy. He spotted you three when he was on the first floor."

"Of course, he did that." She rolled her eyes, but her voice wasn't hard. "Balderdash." She said and the portrait flew open. "I wanted to tell you, Harry. But we always got interrupted."

"Tell me what exactly?" He asked as they slumped on the couch.

"I knew you were struggling with your feelings, and I wanted to be honest with you."

"You're bi?"

"I'm-" She hesitated. "I like who I like. I fall for the person, not their sex, I like to experiment. Jazz, Jack and I, did this a few times back at Beauxbatons. We tried a relationship together, a triad, but that didn't end well. So, we stopped doing things with Jazz, we returned to friendship, and she started dating again."

"And Malfoy knows?"

"I told him a few months ago." She nodded. "I don't think he knew about Jazz, but he must've seen something when he passed the classroom. I wonder what he was doing there." She mused, with a slight frown before she yawned. "I'm sorry."

"It's okay, go to sleep, Alec." He smiled.

"You're not mad, are you?" She asked as they stood up. "It wasn't a big secret or anything, but it never came up. And whenever I wanted to talk to you about it Ron or someone else interrupted."

"No." He shook his head. "I get it. It's nice to know that your advice comes from a place of knowledge." He chuckled. "You are my family, Alec. I love you."

"I love you too, Potter." She ruffled his hair, and he pursed his lips at her. A real smile appeared on her lips before she went up the stairs, carrying the heavy golden egg. 

Chapter Text

The next few days were a bit chilly. The twins were distant and poured their attention on the two girls from the party. Angelina and Lee didn't know what happened, they only knew the twins had kissed those girls. Angelina and Lee looked like they were waiting for a bomb to go off, but they were free to do whatever or whomever they wanted. Even though it looked like Fred wanted to rub my face into it. Three days had passed since the first task, and we were sitting at the Gryffindor table. Angelina and Lee were on one side of me, while Jack and Jazz occupied the other side. In front of us were the twins with their new girlfriends. Fred was snogging her excessively in front of us while George whispered things to his girlfriend, making her giggle and blush.

Jack frowned at them before he cleared his throat, looking back at me. "So, Moony should be proud of you for how you did at the first task."

"He is. Harry wrote to him and Sirius. We're going over there after dinner, so I won't be at the castle tonight."

"You call Professor Lupin Moony?" Lee asked.

"He was never a professor of mine." Jack smiled. "I've known him since I was six, so I just picked up on how Alec called him."

"How did you meet?"

"He was my boy next door." I smiled and nudged his arm. "We met the day we moved into the house, been best friends ever since."

Fred scoffed before he muttered under his breath. "Best friends, right."

"I-" I took in a deep breath before I stood up from my seat. "I think I'm going to leave early. I'll see you guys later." I said already heading towards Harry, not waiting for an answer.

Jack was fuming, it wouldn't surprise him if steam was coming from his ears. His fingers twitched, anxious to grab his wand. Jazz tugged on his sleeve.

"Jack." She whispered nervously.

"Nee." He frowned, his eyes on the twin who drove his best friend out of the great hall. "You are a massive asshole."

"Excuse me?" The redhead said he didn't know if it was Fred or George.

"Jij verdommende klootzak! You have no right to judge Alec. Alec has been my best friend for over ten years, I know her better than anyone, except maybe Moony. And the way you are acting is breaking her, don't you think she has enough on her plate already?" He stood up, fisting his hands. "You two should open your eyes before you lose her completely."

The redheaded twins looked at him with a shocked expression, then it turned into regret. But Jack didn't care about that. At this moment, he knew he had to leave before he would spill anything Alec wouldn't forgive him for. He turned around and charged out of the great hall.

"Ok, wat is dit?" I laughed as Harry and I stepped out of the fireplace of Sirius's house. There was a large banner on the wall that read Congratulations, number 1's. Sirius was putting candles on a cake in the kitchen and Remus was nowhere to be seen. [Okay, what's this?]

"What was that?" Sirius grinned, waving his hand over the candles to light them up. "I can speak fluently French, but I don't understand whatever gibberish that was."

"Dutch." Harry and I said in unison.

"If that's even a language." He chuckled, putting his wand in his back pocket. "Moony always starts mumbling or ranting in gibberish when he's mad or frustrated with me, and I can't understand a word of it."

"He must be talking in Dutch a lot then." I laughed when Sirius scowled at me. "Where is he anyway?"

"He should be back any minute." He walked over and hugged Harry. "He was getting some celebratory drinks."

"You know Harry's fourteen, right?" I raised an eyebrow as we sat down at the kitchen table.

"He's getting a non-alcoholic one." Remus's voice said as he walked in with a plastic bag, that rattled from glass bottles inside. "So, what do you think?" He asked, gesturing around the house. "We wanted to surprise you both as you both did so brilliantly."

"It's amazing." I jumped off my chair and hugged him. "Thank you, Uncle Moony." I looked over my shoulder to Sirius with a small smile. "And you, Sirius."

"This is nothing." He waved me off. "Come, sit down."

Remus and I took the seat across from Harry and Sirius. Remus took out our drinks while Sirius said. "To our fierce champions! That make men, women and creatures shake in their boots the moment they lay eyes upon them." Sirius lifted his champagne glass in the air, Remus and I followed his lead, while Harry held up his butterbeer. Harry and I shared an amused look, trying to hold back our laughter.

We spent a few hours at the house. First going over how the first task went, and then we discussed the egg. Remus was vibrating with anger at the fact that he wasn't called to the school when I was injured and unconscious for a large part of the day. It took me a while before I got him to calm down. Harry and Sirius looked at us with amused and confused expressions as we talked in Dutch to each other. Even if they could understand a few words by now, they couldn't follow the quick conversation we had, the banter being tossed back and forward. In the end, we were both laughing hysterically while Sirius and Harry ate their cake watching us.

"How is the apparition going?" Sirius asked when we got ready to leave.

"Good, I managed to only leave a piece of my robe behind last time." I chuckled. "We have four more classes before we can try out for the exams, at least the ones who are of age. Right after Christmas break."

"You will do great, cub." Remus gave me a hug. "Are you coming over next month?"

"Is that even a question?" I raised an eyebrow and Remus just grinned. "I'll see you soon." I kissed his cheek. I saw Harry pull back from the hug with Sirius and finding my courage, I walked over and kissed Sirius's cheek. "You too, Black."

"Great." He beamed. "I bought a new game you two could play."

"Can't wait." I said. And I meant it.

Over the next few days, tension eased between me and the twins. They were still 'dating' those girls, but we were getting back to our normal ways. We didn't have any alone time together, but we joked and laughed again during classes and in the common room. Things between Jack and me dwindled down too. It wasn't because we were caught by the twins and Harry, it was just something natural, falling back into our years-old friendship rather than romance. I haven't kissed him or Jazz since a few nights after the event.

A week after the first task, there was a notice on the board, saying all fourth years and up were required in the Transfiguration class at noon the next day. That's where we were heading now.

"What do you think it is?" Fred asked. "Something to do with the second task?"

"No." I shook my head. "We're supposed to do it alone." I winked at a grinning Harry. "Did you two pull a prank or something to get the whole house in trouble?"

George and Fred mocked hurt, clutching their hearts. "How dare you insinuate something like that?"

"Yes, how dare I." I rolled my eyes with a smile.

"Besides, it's only fourth years and up. If we do something for our house, it will be all of them. From the ickle first years to the stressed out seventh years." Fred grinned mischievously, which made me wonder if they were actually planning something.

"Then we will just have to wait and see." Lee said. I glanced over my shoulder at him. He had his arm wrapped around Angelina's shoulder, tugging her close. Their relationship was strong, and you could feel the love between them with one shared look. It made me a little jealous.

"What if-" Hermione started but we just reached the classroom. The sound of other students already buzzing in the air.

"Oh good, you're here." Professor McGonagall smiled. "Ladies on the left, gentlemen on the right." She gestured to the side.

I glanced inside and saw that all the desks were gone. Two long benches on each side of the classroom, between them the space was empty. Mr Filch was standing next to a large gramophone. I looked at the twins with raised eyebrows, and they looked back at me with the same expression. We sat down on either side of the room, Angelina and Hermione sitting next to me. While the boys sat across from us. Fred and George were standing in the back as the benches were full. They leaned against the wall, their arms crossed over their chests. Looking too devastatingly handsome. I quickly tore my eyes from them to look at the professor.

"I have an announcement." She started. "The Yule Ball is approaching. It is a traditional part of the Triwizard Tournament and an opportunity for us to socialise with our foreign guests." In the corner of my eye, I saw the twins' scowl. "Now the ball will be open to fourth years and up, although you may invite a younger student if you wish."

A girl from Hermione's year shrieked a giggle behind us. I turned a little to look over my shoulder and saw the girl and her friend whispering, glancing towards an oblivious Harry.

"Dress robes will be worn. The ball will start at eight on Christmas Day, finishing at midnight in the great hall." My stomach dropped. Christmas Day? That's the day I always spend with Remus. The professor continued talking but it was like a whisper far away, as my mind went into overdrive. "The ball is, of course, a dance." Ron whispered something to one of his classmates and the professor's head snapped towards him. "Mister Weasley."

"Yes?" Ron asked with a terrified look.

"Will you join me please?" The professor took his arm and pulled him up. Ron looked like a little kid being punished by his grandmother. It was getting near impossible to hold back a grin. The boys were already laughing. "Now, place your hand on my waist."

"Where?" Ron choked out. My eyes flittered from Ron and the professor to Harry. We grinned at each other; eyes full of mirth.

"On my waist."

The twins whistled as Ron did as the professor asked. And when they started dancing, Harry looked over to the twins and I could just make his words out above the music. "You're never going to let him forget this, are you?"

"Never." They chimed with their trademark smirk.

"Everyone, come together." The professor called. The girls all quickly pushed themselves off the bench. And the boys, only Lee stepped up, taking Ange by the waist in a flash. The next one was Neville, the shy boy from Harry's year. He looked a bit lost as he looked at the girls. So, I walked over to him and did a little curtsy.

"Can I have this dance?" I asked.

"I- uhm- I -"

"Come on, Neville." George called out. "The hottest girl in the school just asked you for a dance, say yes!"

"Ignore them." I smiled. "You don't have to if you don't want to." I said kindly.

"I - I would love to." He said, managing a shy smile. I helped him place his hands on the right spots and we started to glide across the room as I whispered instructions to him.

When the music stopped, Neville was as red as a tomato. I thanked him for the lovely dance before the professor called us over.

"Miss Lupin-Black, Mister Potter. The Champions and their partners -"

"What partners?" Harry asked, his voice an octave higher.

The professor looked suspiciously at him before her eyes flickered to me and back. "Your partners for the Yule Ball, Potter. Your dance partners."

Harry paled at that; it almost made me laugh. "Dance partners? I don't dance."

"Yes, you do. Traditionally the Champions and their partners open the ball."

"I'm not dancing."

"Yes, you will." I saw the professor getting frustrated.

"I'll teach you, Harry." I quickly jumped in.

"Brilliant, now that that's settled." She straightened up. "I will expect perfect behaviour from my Champions." The professor looked so proud that two of them were in her house. "Choose your partners wisely." She said to us, but her eyes lingered on me, then flickered behind me where I knew Fred and George were waiting. 

Chapter Text

By the time dinner came around the whole school was talking about the dance. Not surprisingly, since they never held something like this before. For me well, I didn't find it so special. Beauxbatons held a lot of dances and balls during the years. But this is the first one, I'm obligated to attend and open to. The whole room was buzzing with excitement, especially the girls at they talked about it. Harry still looked pale at the idea, I nudged his arm with a grin, and he couldn't help but mimic it.

"Don't worry, Harry. There are a lot of people who want to go with you."

"A lot of girls you mean?" Ron asked.

"No," I said simply turning to the redhead on Harry's other side. "Why don't you go ask your dance partner? I guess Professor McGonagall would love to go with you if she hasn't been asked by someone else already. Otherwise, you'll have to go alone." I smirked; I couldn't help the snide remark. Harry may have forgiven him, but that didn't mean I had to.

Ron turned red while Harry snorted in his drink and the twins laughed loudly across from me. I turned back to Harry and patted his shoulder softly. "Just go with someone fun, and it will all be alright. Don't put too much stress on it."

"Yeah, you're right." He laughed when I gave him a look that said: 'I'm always right.'. "Besides I still have time."

I nodded with a slight hum. "Four weeks and counting down."

Harry paled again as I grinned, plucking a potato from his plate. The twins looked amused at the both of us. For the rest of dinner, Fred and George guided the conversation. Not talking about the ball for a second, just telling us about the latest prank they did on Snape.

I was in the Beauxbatons carriage with Jack and Jazz. Jazz was lying on Jack's bed flipping through some witches' magazines, humming alongside the music. My head was on Jack's lap as I tossed M&Ms in the air, trying to catch it when Jack didn't intervene. Two weeks already had passed since the announcement, and only two more weeks until the ball. I didn't have a date yet, but I didn't mind really. I knew Jazz was going solo, so if anything, she would volunteer to go with me as long as I didn't steal her groove in charming other witches or wizards.

"Stop stealing my sweets." I snatched the M&M out of the air before Jack could close his mouth around it.

"Stop speaking English." He pursed his lips at me, his lips curling up.

"I'm just so used to it by now."

"I get it." He said, stroking my hair back. "Even Jazz and I talk English to each other when no one is around, comes easily with so many people around."

"So, are you planning to ask Levvi to the ball?"

"Who's Levvi?" Jazz asked, interest peaked. She tossed the magazine aside and turned on her stomach to look at us.

"A Hufflepuff girl. She's in my year. She's kind, funny and has gorgeous green eyes."

"Wait." Jack frowned, looking down at me. "How do you know about Levvi?"

"After eleven years, you should know I know everything about you," I smirked up at him. "Besides, I've seen you take her on midnight strolls around the castle."

"You've been spying on me as Loki?" He gasped, but a smile stretched on his face.

"I don't spy, I explore. It's not my fault you happen to stroll around a couple of times a week, under the moonlight." I teased.

"Nothing happened." He said quickly.

"Why not?"

"I like her, but -" He was quiet for a moment. "She thinks we're together and I thought you wanted me to escort you to the ball."

I pushed myself up from his lap and shifted until I was sitting on my knees in front of him, clasping his hands in mine. "You're my best friend and I want you to have fun at the ball."

"I would have fun with you."

"Who wouldn't?" I chuckled. "But seriously, don't mind me, I'll find a date. Tell her the truth, Jack."

"What about Fred and George?"

"What about them?" I asked confused, a slight tilt in my head.

"You wanted to try and forget about them if I start dating -"

"Just ask her to the ball, don't worry about me." I leaned over and kissed his cheek. "It wasn't working anyway, no matter how great a kisser and lover you are." I rolled my eyes as he puffed his chest proudly.

"Maybe you could ask Fred or George." Jazz suggested carefully.

"Oh no, that's definitely off the table." I shook my head. I saw that they both wanted to argue, so I jumped up. "It's getting late, I should get going." I kissed them both on the cheek before I walked out of the carriage.

When I reached the castle, I saw a glimpse of red hair disappear in an alcove. I placed a silencing charm on my footsteps and walked over. I stuck my head in and whispered harshly.

"What are you two doing?" They both jumped a little before Fred pulled me into the alcove, pressed between their bodies. "What-"

"Shh." George placed a finger on my lips. I heard the scuffle of footsteps and muttering of a certain caretaker before the sounds grew quiet.

"This is an odd sort of Deja-vu." I grinned up at George. I could feel both of their bodies pressed close against mine. "What were you doing out so late? A prank?"

"Not - exactly," George said, rubbing his neck. The movement made his whole body move against me and he quickly stopped.

"Oh," I said quietly, looking away from him. "How are Lorena and Amy?"

"Chatty." George grinned while Fred said. "Curvy." Because he was behind me, I couldn't see his face.

It felt like a knife twisted inside me, I put on a fake smile. "Good that you're having fun. They are nice girls."

"Where were you coming from?" Fred asked as he lifted my hair with a finger to let it fall over my back.

"Just -" I cleared my throat, knowing this was going to annoy them even though nothing happened. "Hanging out with Jack and Jazz."

"Right." The hand that was still playing with my hair against my back, fell away. "We should head back to the tower before the new rounds begin."

"Yeah, I guess you're right." I leaned sideways and glanced out of the alcove. "It's clear." The stroll towards the tower was in an uncomfortable silence, the most uncomfortable I've ever felt.

Once we walked through the portrait, I wished them goodnight and bounded up the stairs. Trying to push away the thoughts of two red-headed boys, I closed the curtains around me and picked up my golden egg. I placed a Muffliato around the curtains and let the egg float in front of me. It turned in slow circles, the latch firmly shut. The egg was mostly smooth, except for the parts where the egg could open. Rigged golden edges that went down a bit. I traced a finger over the edges. It almost looked like seaweed. I placed a bubble charm over the egg before I opened it. The screams were muffled but still reached my ears. Why would the clue be a screeching egg? I didn't think the egg itself was a clue, it was merely a vessel to hold it in, a vessel chosen for the dragon to protect at all costs. Maybe the screeching were words or a song. I put a slowing charm on it, a reversal charm, a charm to lower someone's voice but the screeching still held.

Maybe it was a language, a special one if it was one. I frowned. I placed the translation charm over the egg. The screeching didn't stop, not really but it did change somehow. I couldn't point out what it was, but something changed. So maybe it was a language not spoken by mankind. I closed the egg with a sigh, rubbing my eyes tiredly. I scribbled down my findings and flopped back on the bed. Once I curled into my side, I fell asleep almost instantly.

The next two days I was hauled up in the library. Others asked if I needed help, but I waved them off. I was buried with my head in a book about creatures from Asia when a shriek filled my ears. For a moment, I thought the egg had dropped out of my bag and burst open. But that wasn't it, I glanced up from my book and saw I had reached the great hall. Just in time to see Fred and George formally and rather abundantly ask their girlfriends to the ball. On one side, I wanted to turn on my heel and walk in the other direction but on the other side, I couldn't let them see how much it affected me and besides I was starving. I stuck my nose back in the book as I sat down at the Slytherin table. Draco was scowling at the twins before his gaze turned to me, with mild concern. I saw from the corner of my eye that he wanted to say something about the twins, but then his eyes fell on my book.

"What are you reading?"

"A book."

"Obviously." He rolled his eyes. He tipped the book cover to read the title. 1001 most dangerous creatures in Asia. He leaned closer and whispered. "Is this for the second task?"

"Yes." I closed the book with a small frown. "But I don't know if this is the right direction." I pushed the book aside and turned to Draco. "So, who are you taking to the ball?"

"Who are you taking?"

"I asked you first."

"Very mature, Alexandra." He pursed his lips, but his grey eyes twinkled.

"I know." I shrugged. "So..."

"I don't know." His voice dropped so only I could hear. "It's not like it's common knowledge that I'm -" He shook his head. "Only you and mother know. I don't want to tell the whole school about taking a boy. And besides, if I did come out, I don't know who I should -" He stopped talking suddenly and I followed his gaze. His eyes were following Harry, who had just come in with Hermione and Ron. His hair was messy as always, his eyes alight with humour.

"A certain green-eyed wizard perhaps?" I asked with a raised eyebrow. Draco's head snapped towards me, and I couldn't help but snicker. His cheeks were flushed and his grey eyes wide.

"I - Never!" He said, turning back to his food. "I don't know what you're talking about." He mumbled to his food.

"Right." I smirked. I glanced over to the Gryffindor table and my eyes found Harry. He was faced to the Slytherin table, something he did a lot this year, certainly more than last year. He had his head bent down over his food, but he was looking at Draco from behind his fringe. Probably noting the blush on his cheeks and wondering what happened that had caused that. He probably liked a flustered Draco Malfoy, I mused with a wicked grin. Harry's eyes shifted a little and found mine. His eyes widened at being caught. I winked at him, and his cheeks turned as red as Draco's. I laughed loudly, making several people look at me confused at my sudden outburst. Draco muttered something under his breath that sounded a lot like Crazy cousins.

It was about a week before the ball, and Harry and I, the two Hogwarts Champions didn't have a date for the ball. Harry actually talked with Hermione about it, maybe going together but they didn't want to risk their friendship. He didn't seem too bumped out about it, so I figured his first crush had flown over. And it wasn't like nobody asked me. Blaise for example, but no, no boys that are more than a year younger than me. And two other boys I've barely spoken a word with. Jazz thought it was because people still thought Jack and I were together. But a date will come, at the right time.

I lay on the floor in front of the fire, skipping pages from the hundredth book I read about creatures. I think I've read them all about creatures on land. Now I was looking at sea and sky creatures. I was reading about Plimpies when Harry and Ginny dragged a pale Ron in the common room. His freckles stood out on his pale white skin. Hermione who was curled up with a book on the couch next to me, jumped up.

"What happened?" She asked. Curious, I placed a bookmark between the pages and walked over. Ron looked frightened and was mumbling nonsense under his breath. Fred, George, Angelina and Lee were sitting not far from them, listening in.

"He -" Harry started he looked amused and terrified at the same time. "He asked Fleur out."

"What?" Hermione gasped.

"There she was... walking by. You know I like it when they walk. I couldn't help it, it just sort of slipped out."

"Actually," Ginny said, she didn't hold back a smirk. "He sort of screamed at her. It was a bit frightening."

"Oh, Ron." Hermione and I groaned. I heard the twins snicker from their table, I ignored them but that was hard when Fred called out.

"Maybe you should have listened to Alec." Ron turned to his older brother with a frown, confused. "You should've asked Professor McGonagall. But too late now, I heard she's already taken."

"I hate you." Ron grumbled as the rest of the common room fell in a fit of laughter. Even Harry and I couldn't help but snicker.

"Harry, I could set you up with Jazz if you want. She's fun, but she'll probably scamper off when she finds someone more interesting." I chuckled.

"No, that's not necessary." He glanced at Ron. Probably thinking he should fix him a date too. "I'll-"

"Hi, Harry." Parvati said as she and the girl with a flower as a name walked by, I can't seem to remember her name.

"Oh, Parvati, wait up." Harry suddenly flashed by me before the girls could walk up the stairs.

"Who will be the lucky man on your arm, Alec?" Ginny asked.

"I don't know yet." I shrugged.

"Aren't you going with Jack?" Two almost identical voices chimed not even a second later. I looked over at them, they looked shocked and frozen. They must have noticed, the lack of kissing and touching Jack and I were doing the past few weeks, although maybe not with their attention on their own girlfriends.

"I'm not. Jack's going with Levvi. They are really cute together." I smiled. The twins' mouths dropped open, and I walked back to my spot in front of the fire.

"Aren't you afraid you won't find a date?"

"Nope." I laid down on my stomach, glancing up at the others who were all looking at me. "So, who are you taking, Hermione?" I asked with a raised eyebrow. I knew Krum had asked her and she had said yes. Viktor had been anxious for a whole week before he finally found the courage to ask her.

"I -" Hermione turned red. "You'll see at the ball." She said before she scurried upstairs, her books forgotten on the couch.

"You know, don't you?" Ginny asked, grinning as she picked up Hermione's books. I winked at the youngest Weasley before I turned my attention back to my book. I could feel the twins' eyes on me but ignored them as I flipped through the book, page by page. 

Chapter Text

"You know, I heard an interesting rumour last night." Cedric said as he flopped down on the chair next to me. I glanced up from the book I was reading and for a second, I forgot I was in the library.

"Oh? And what's that?" I asked, leaning my elbow on my book, my head in my palm.

Cedric leaned closer. "That our Levvi is going to the ball with your Jack."

"I can honestly say that, that rumour is correct."

"Really?" He looked thoroughly surprised. "Well, since the whole school thought you would go with him, I'm guessing there is still a chance that you're still available."

"Available for what?" I grinned.

Cedric grinned at me, shaking his head lightly. "Alexandra Fae Lupin-Black, would you do me the honour of going to the ball with me?"

"Before I answer, can I ask you something first?" He nodded. "How come you don't have a date yet?"

"In all honesty? I was hoping you were still available."

"What if I haven't been?" I saw something flash in his eyes, and I chuckled softly. "You had a backup plan."

"I did. Cho." He admitted with a slight shrug of his shoulders. "But I really don't want to, she was quite mean to Luna."

"Then you don't have to. I would love to go with you, Cedric Diggory." Cedric beamed at me, I smiled shyly before I tapped my book.

"Can I ask something too?"

"Sure." I said intrigued.

"Why didn't you just tell everyone you were single?"

"I never claimed I wasn't."

"Maybe, but with Jack publicly kissing you, he sort of claimed you."

"Claimed me?" I laughed softly with raised brows. "What should I have done then? Stand on the table in the great hall and shout: Jack is just my plaything. I'm single, boys and girls!"

Cedric laughed, earning him a hiss from the librarian. "It would do the trick- wait boys and girls?"

"Receding your invitation?"

"Merlin, no." He gave me a lopsided grin. "Weren't you afraid to be without a date? It's only a week before the ball."

"Nope."

Cedric laughed again, but silently. "You had a backup plan too."

I winked at him, he shook his head with silent laughter. "But I should really do my research."

"Of course." He nodded but didn't make a move to leave. His eyes flickered over the pile of books. He took the closest one and started flipping through it. "If this is for the second task." He said, then turned the book to show me a terrifying picture. "I really hope you don't come across one of these." He shuddered a little.

Merpeople were sentient magical beasts that live underwater. They are found all over the world. Their customs and habits were mysterious, and, like the centaurs, were offered the being status but refused in favour of beast, as they did not want to be placed in a status with Hags and Vampires. Merpeople could breathe above the water for a time, but it was unclear if they can ever truly leave their habitat

But the thing that struck out the most was.

It is believed that these merpeople used their singing voices to lure unwavering sailors into the water like in Muggle legend. Their voices beautiful underneath the sea but once they break the surface it was a wailing sound that reached the shores miles away.

Cedric found it, at least I think he did. It was the closest thing that made sense. Just the one book I hadn't picked up yet. I held the book against my chest and jumped up. I leaned forward and kissed his cheek in excitement. "You just made my day, thanks Cedric."

"For the date to the Yule ball or the book?" He asked surprised at the sudden kiss.

"Both." I smiled broadly. "I'll see you later okay? I'm sorry but I have to go."

"No, it's okay." He smiled back at me. "I'll talk to you later to meet up for the ball."

I gave him a last smile before I practically ran out of the library.

I was sitting in the shrieking shack; my egg was surrounded by a ball of water as it floated in front of me. I could hear soft singing, but I couldn't make out what it was saying. I'm going to need a large pool of water to get to listen to it. I disbanded the spell and put the egg back into my bag before I walked out of the shack. In the corner of my eye, I saw the black lake. I shuddered at the thought of going in there. Only if it's my last resort. The bathrooms from our dorm only had showers, so that won't work. Moony and my old chambers had a tub, but I couldn't get in there now. My stomach grumbled when I passed the empty great hall.

"Great," I muttered, having missed dinner again. Draco, Harry and the others were starting to get worried about me. My head was in books most of the time, missing dinner or lunch, not really caring about who my date might be for the ball. I should make some time for them, soon. But now, now I need food. I descended the stairs and walked straight up to the painting with the fruit bowl.

The house elves were already scurrying around. I looked to my left to the sitting area and saw George and Fred sitting there, plates filled with food and goblets of pumpkin juice in front of them. I walked over, dropped my heavy bag to the floor and let myself fall between them.

"Hi."

"Hey, what are you doing here?" George asked, a frown of slight concern.

"Missed dinner," I answered, picking up a meatball sandwich and leaning back against the couch. "You?"

"Missed dinner too. Snape made our detention extra long." Fred said.

"You're missing a lot of dinners." George frowned.

"Yeah, been busy with this stupid thing." I kicked my bag and the golden egg rolled out. Relieved that it didn't burst open. "But I'm getting closer." I started to massage my temples. "I could use a break though."

"Headache?"

"Migraine." I sighed.

"Come here." Fred slowly pulled me towards him and laid my head on his lap. I was just about to ask what he was doing when his fingers started to massage my scalp. His long fingers shifted through my hair. I sighed in contentment just before George lifted my feet in his lap and took off my shoes. I opened my eyes and peered at him.

"Just relax, love." He whispered. I closed my eyes again and Fred started his massage again in exact unison as George.

The feel of their hands on me, not in a sexual way, was starting to lull me to sleep. I breathed in deep, letting those relaxing feelings course through me. Without opening my eyes and my voice a little sleepy and breathless, I said. "I don't think your girlfriends will like this."

"What about Jack?" Fred's voice was so close, I could feel his breath. His voice was soft and inquiring, not accusing like before.

"Jack's my best friend." I breathed. "Besides we haven't done anything in weeks."

Their hands stilled for a moment, and without opening my eyes, I knew they were sharing a glance, maybe even a wordless conversation. I almost whined at the loss of movement before they started it up again.

"I've missed this. I mean not this." I gestured to their hands when I opened my eyes, their grins in place. "But us, hanging out." I closed my eyes again.

"Me too." They whispered.

"Maybe you could save me a dance next week." I hated myself for doing this because I was making it harder for myself. But even with the distance over the past few weeks, my feelings didn't grow less strong.

"If your date doesn't mind... Did you find a date?"

"Hm." I hummed with a nod. "First, I wanted to ask Draco, since he was trying to escape Pansy's clutches." I laughed. "But then Hermione said, bringing your cousin to a ball is weird." I shrugged a little. "It's not like it would be a date." I opened my eyes just to roll with them. "But I got him a date that wouldn't go and try to get his nails into him."

"Maybe he would like that." Fred smirked above me.

"I know Draco, and I know whose nails he would like to get on his back." I quickly slapped my hand over my mouth while the twins' eyes grew wide. "Forget I said anything."

"That is hard to forget." Fred laughed. De la Barre, I had missed his laugh. "But-"

"We'll try, for you."

I smiled at them before I closed my eyes.

"Oh, that feels good." I moaned a little involuntarily, arching my back. I heard the twins' breath hitch, but their movements didn't stop, they grew more frantic actually. Fred had two of his hands in my hair, pressing his fingertips on my scalp. It shot shivers down my spine. While George, his hands had travelled up from my feet, slowly caressing my ankles all the way up to my calf with the exact amount of pressure to make me feel lightheaded. I heard a muffliato surrounding us, but I didn't care. The feeling of their hands on me was everything I had dreamed of. If they would just move a little, like Fred's hands going lower, or George's hands going higher. I moaned again, but I didn't care, this feeling, this was more than the feeling of Jack's body against mine or Jazz's, this was... this was what I was waiting for, this was what I had been missing. And their hands did move, Fred was now massaging my shoulders, his fingers skimming over my collarbone, while George's hands were just above my knees, his thumb caressing just under the hem of my skirt.

It felt amazing, and if they would continue like that, I'm sure I would come undone, even if they didn't touch me in the places I so desperately wanted them to. I shot out off the couch my breathing heavy, just like the twins. Their eyes were dark from lust, and I knew I would look just the same but with a mess of a hairdo after Fred's ministrations.

"I -uhm." I cleared my throat. "I should go." I picked up my bag and stuffed the egg back in. "I'm going over to the Draco, so don't expect me back anytime soon." Without waiting, I strode out of the kitchen and headed straight to the Slytherin common room.

Draco wasn't in the common room, so I walked over to his dorm. None of the Slytherins even commented or looked up anymore when I came charging in. They were used to it by now, they didn't even question how I knew the passwords. Draco was leaning against the headboard, his legs stretched out in front of him, one foot crossed over the other. I fell down head first next to him. I could hear him snicker.

"What's wrong, cousin?"

I mumbled the names of my frustrations into his pillow, but he heard it clearly.

"Oh, were they parading around with their girlfriends again?" He snorted.

"No." I lifted my head from his pillow and looked up at him. "We were in the kitchens together, alone. And I was having a migraine from all my research and Fred started to massage my temples and George my ankles, then -"

"Stop! I don't want to know." He held up his hand.

I grinned at him. "It's not like anything happened. Besides I didn't know you were such a prude."

"I am not a prude. I just don't talk about these things, especially with my cousin."

"I would want to know, if you and Har-" He clapped his hand over my grinning mouth and with his wand closed the curtains around us and put a Muffliato on them.

"Nothing is going on between me and Ha- Potter."

"Why did you put a privacy charm on the bed then? There is no one here." I taunted.

"Because his name is like cursed here in the dungeons, the moment someone speaks it everyone knows."

I dropped my head back on his pillow, smothering my laughter. He sounded so serious; it was ridiculous. When I finally got my laughter back under control, I said. "You know, there is nothing wrong with liking him. You're cute, he's cute."

"I'm not cute." He sneered, crossing his arms over his chest. "I'm devilishly handsome."

"Alright, you're hot, Harry's hot."

"Oh, don't say that." He whined, scrunching up his nose. "You're family, that's weird."

"Nothing is good enough," I mumbled into the pillow. "So, you're both good-looking?" I asked and he nodded, I grinned. "Both have that dry sense of humour. A hero complex. Yes, the both of you." I said when he opened his mouth to object. "You protect the people you love and are smart, not just book smart. You two are not so different as you might think."

"Even if those things are true, which I don't see really, it doesn't matter. Because I don't like him."

"Keep telling yourself that." I snuggled his pillow and wrapped my arms around it. "Can I sleep here?"

"Sure." He said. Then he looked me over with a frown. "You're too tall."

I chuckled and sat on my knees. "You can just ask to turn into Loki, little dragon." I laughed again as he scowled at me before I turned. Without waiting a beat, he started stroking my furry head.

"I like you better this way."

"I can still talk, you know. I can make you uncomfortable when I'm like this too."

"Please don't." He groaned as I grinned my wolf teeth at him.  

Chapter Text

Because of the new year, you all get an extra update! 

Have a great 2024.

Lots of love!

It wasn't mature of me, but I avoided being alone with the twins since that evening in the kitchen. Not per se because I was embarrassed, but I think I would jump their bones the moment we were alone. The night before the ball, I had just packed an overnight bag and headed down to the common room. I felt the eyes of the twins on me before I saw them. I quickly darted over to Harry.

"Hey, Harry. Are you ready?" I leaned against the table where he was reading a Quidditch magazine.

"Yeah, give me a minute. I'll get my bag." He said before he started upstairs.

"Will you be back in time?" Angelina asked behind me. I turned around to see her sitting with Lee, Fred and George near the fire. I walked over to them.

"Yes, I should be back by eight at the latest. I'm going to get ready there and my uncle will apparate us back to Hogsmeade. I think McGonagall would have my head if we're late." I chuckled.

"You're probably right." Lee laughed, placing his arm on the back of the couch, to play with Angelina's hair. "Ready to lead the ball?"

"I try not to think about it too much, just knowing that all eyes are on me." I scrunched my nose.

"It's the same with the tasks though." Lee said.

"Not really, because there was a dragon in front of me." I chuckled. "And I placed a charm over my ears to block out the noise." I adjusted my bag on my shoulder as Harry came down. I turned back to my friends with a small smile. "I can't wait to see you all dressed up tomorrow," I said, my eyes flicking quickly over the twins before turning away again. "Happy Christmas."

"Happy Christmas." They chimed, and Harry and I turned to walk out of the common room.

When we arrived at Sirius's house, Uncle Moony took me aside for a moment and asked the same question for the twentieth time.

"Are you sure? We have spent Christmas with just the two of us for the past twelve years." His hands rested on my shoulders, leaning his head down to look me in the eye.

"I'm sure," I assured him again, a smile on my lips. "Besides we will still have our alone time. While Sirius and Harry prepare dinner, we're going to the Christmas market in London, right? Or did something change?"

"No, no." He squeezed my shoulders. "That will still be just the two of us." He smiled. "We're going to make some gingerbread houses, make Christmas decorations, shopping. The whole works."

"Good." I grinned, I looked over my shoulder to Harry and Sirius in the kitchen. "Are you sure they don't mind, though?"

"No, Sirius understands that we have a tradition. I think he's just over the moon by the fact that you want to spend Christmas with him, even if it's just for a few hours."

"Dinner is ready!" Sirius called from the kitchen.

Moony wrapped an arm around my shoulders and guided me to the kitchen. Harry and Sirius were already sitting on one side of the kitchen table, unpacking the food. I laughed.

"Normally when people say, dinner is ready -" I said sliding onto the stool opposite of Harry. "They mean homemade."

Sirius grinned. "You know how hard it is to go over to Chow Meng's and bring it all the way home, that's hard labour, little Lupin." I raised an eyebrow at the nickname, Moony chuckled. "Or don't you like Chinese?" He suddenly asked nervously.

"No, I love Chinese takeout," I said, already filling my plate to the brim. I bit my lip, debating to ask Sirius about it. It's been on my mind for a while now. "Sirius?"

"Yeah?" He stopped his fork full of noodles just before his mouth.

"I was wondering..." I took in a deep breath. I felt three sets of eyes on them, but I kept my eyes on my plate. "I was wondering if you could tell me about my mum." The room was silent, and I slowly looked up. Sirius was just looking at me, an expression I couldn't read. "Uncle Moony already told me a little about her, but you were closer with her."

Sirius drank a bit of water before he cleared his throat. "What do you want to know?"

"How did you meet? She was a year ahead of you, right?"

"Yeah." He cleared his throat again. "I don't think we had an official meeting moment; you know. She was a year older and in a different house, so we didn't share classes or a common room. The first time we talked was at a party in the Hufflepuff common room. She was there with her boyfriend who was on the Ravenclaw quidditch team. So, drunk of my ass and still sore of losing against them a few weeks prior, I walked up to them. I started talking about the game and that they cheated, all nonsense, believe me." He laughed a little. He looked down at his plate for a minute before he continued.

"And then Cor started quoting all the rules of the Quidditch guidebook. Apparently, she was the unofficial coach of the Ravenclaw team. She didn't play herself, but she knew every trick in the book." He had a dreamy look about him. "We got close during the war when she joined the Order. It wasn't like we just went crazy over each other the moment we saw each other again. Your mum thought I was cocky and too full of myself." He chuckled. "She wasn't wrong. Back then I thought I could beat You-Know-Who himself if he stood right in front of me. My cockiness almost cost the lives of my friends. We were paired up together by Dumbledore in the hopes she could keep an eye on me. Which she did. We got close when we were sent away on assignment for a couple of months."

I hated that tears started to fill my eyes, but I couldn't help myself. Hearing about my mum and who she was, even after all these years was still painful. Moony clasped my hand in his, squeezing it softly. Sirius must've taken a cue from that because he reached over to hold my other hand. I blinked away the tears and looked up at him.

"Your mum was brilliant, funny and beautiful. She was one of the bravest people I have ever met. She will always have a special place in my heart. And you look so much like her, Alec. I know she would be proud of the brave, courageous young woman you have become."

I pulled my hands back to wipe away the tears that escaped. I stood up and rounded the kitchen island to Sirius's side. He stood up immediately when I stopped in front of him. His gaze was concerned. I didn't say anything as I wrapped my arms around his waist and buried my face in his chest as I sobbed.

Sirius stood frozen for a moment before he rubbed my back gently. "I'm sorry, I didn't mean to-"

"Thank you for telling me." I said against his shirt. His grip around me tightened.

"It's my pleasure, little Dubois." I chuckled with a sob against him. "Any time you want to talk about her, just ask."

We stood there for a long moment. Sirius rubbed my back as I tried to control myself. After my tears had stopped, I excused myself for a moment to freshen up. When I came downstairs, Harry was excitedly talking about the Quidditch game they had played a few weeks ago. With the mood changed, I sat back down next to Remus, happy to note he had placed a warming charm on my plate.

"Happy Christmas!" Sirius and Remus shouted as Harry and I came downstairs the next morning. They had woken us up by charming little bells to fly and jingle above our heads until we woke up.

"It's break." Harry grumbled, rubbing the sleep from his eyes, like me. "We're supposed to be able to sleep in."

"Sleep is for the weak." Remus mused and I pursed my lips at him as he smirked.

"It's our first Christmas as a family and since you two need to be at the castle before eight tonight, we should start early," Sirius said excitedly. The word family still made something clench inside of me, but I smiled a little to hide my discomfort. Moony noticed, of course, and redirected the conversation.

"Breakfast or presents first?"

"Breakfast." Harry and I said in unison. We smiled at each other as we walked to the kitchen. A pot of fresh tea was already waiting for us, and we gulped it down.

"So," Harry started after he finished his first omelette. "You and Remus will go galivanting around the Christmas market while Sirius and I do the heavy lifting?"

I snorted. "It's probably going to be more like this. We will have an active morning, while you two sit on the couch watching television as magic will do the work for you." I looked from Harry to Sirius with a raised eyebrow. Sirius's grin told me enough. I chuckled a little.

"Do you already have a dress for tonight?" Sirius asked. "I got Harry dress robes when we got the letters this summer."

"We had a lot of dances and balls at Beauxbatons, so I have enough dresses for the occasion. I don't need a new dress." I said. And it was true. I had a full closet with different types of dresses, from cocktail to gala and in every colour imaginable.

"But this isn't just a dance." He countered. "You're a Champion"

I shrugged as I sipped my tea. Harry nudged my arm with his. "Alec doesn't care about that. She didn't even care if she had a date or not." He snickered.

"You don't have a date?" Moony and Sirius asked baffled.

"No, I have a date. But even if I didn't -" I turned to Harry with a little grin. "I had a backup plan."

"Who are you going with?" Sirius asked.

I cocked my head. "Aren't you going to ask Harry who his date is?"

"Of course, but you came up first."

"I'm going with Parvati Patil. She is a girl in our year." Harry said. "But I don't know who Alec is going with, she hasn't said."

"It isn't a big secret or something." I laughed. "He just asked me last week."

"Why so late?" Remus asked curiously.

"The whole school thought she and Jack were dating," Harry said as he buttered his toast. "So, nobody asked her, thinking she was going with Jack."

"So, when news broke out that Jack was going with another girl, I got asked to the ball."

"By whom?" The three men around me asked.

I chuckled internally. "Cedric Diggory."

Sirius looked between Harry and Remus gauging their reactions, to see what they thought of Cedric since they had met them, but Sirius hadn't. Harry didn't seem surprised, and Remus smiled a little.

"Cedric is a good guy," Remus said to Sirius, then turned to me. "You're going to have a great time, cub."

"I believe so," I said as I hopped off my stool. "I'm going to shower and get ready, then we can go." I emptied my mug before I headed upstairs.

After my shower, I stepped back into my room. I glanced around the still-bare room, tapping my wand against my chin. I changed the wall behind my bed into a blue-grey colour and did the same with the wall of my door. I left the two other beige and changed the drapes to the same blue as the walls. Next time, I would put up some pictures, and some trinkets from Beauxbatons and Hogwarts but for now this was enough. I still didn't know if I would stay the summer here or somewhere else. But I knew Remus wouldn't want to leave Sirius and Harry. So, it was safe to assume this would officially become my new room. I got dressed into something simple, just jeans and a sweater before I headed down. 

Chapter Text

Remus and I were already walking over the Christmas market for two hours, our bags filled with things we made and bought when we passed Damien Norris's tattoo shop. I stopped looking at the dark shop. I knew what I wanted as my second tattoo, I wanted it for years now. And before Moony could open his mouth and object, I pressed the doorbell. It didn't take long before Damien appeared downstairs, wearing an ugly Christmas sweater.

"Alec, Lupin. What a surprise." He smiled kindly.

"I hope we're not bothering you." I said.

"A pretty girl can never bother me." He winked. "Are you here for your second tattoo?"

"If you could squeeze me in." I asked sheepishly. "It's something simple."

"Always." He said, stepping back to let us in. He looked at Remus who followed in silently. Since I was seventeen, he couldn't stop me. And he knew I wanted a few tattoos, and he knew it wasn't something decided on a whim, so he would never truly object. "I heard about Sirius. How is he?"

"He's adjusting. It's not easy, but he'll get there."

"I can't imagine." Damien shook his head. "Being imprisoned in Azkaban for so long when you're innocent." He shivered. He looked at me with a small smile and patted the chair for me to hop on. Guilt stirred inside of me. I never asked him about Azkaban. I've been so angry the past year that I never thought about what he had gone through.

"He doesn't want to talk about it, but he'll get there. He's almost at his healthy weight again, got a new wand this summer and he is just enjoying being outside."

"Tell him I said hi, and if he ever wants a new tattoo, he's always welcome."

"I'll tell him." He smiled, then turned to me. "What are you getting?"

"Uhm." I bit my lip. "Can you wait outside until we're done? It's a surprise."

He raised his brows but leaned forward to kiss my forehead and walked to the front where a waiting area was.

"Grab yourself something to drink, Lupin," Damien called after him. "So, how can I help you, love?"

I took out the drawing from my bag that I had on me all day and night. "I want this on my other arm." I opened the paper and showed it to him. It was a full moon with a date in Roman numbers beneath it. "The numbers are the date Remus took me in, the moon is because I call him Moony."

He smiled at me. "He means a lot to you, doesn't he?"

"He's in every way my dad. I wouldn't be here without him. For as long as I can remember, he's been there for me."

"I think the same goes for him." He said as he copied the tattoo to the right paper. He placed the lines on my inner arm before he gathered his supplies.

When the buzzing noise filled the room again and the needle touched my skin, I asked. "Seeing that Remus trusts you so much, I thought I ask. I'm an Animagus," He stopped for a second, looking up at me in surprise before turning back to the task at hand. "- and when I change, the tattoo is visible on my fur. Will that happen with every tattoo?"

"No." He said, dipping the needle in the ink. "It is you who decides if it becomes visible. You choose this consciously or subconsciously. This usually only happens with tattoos that are very close to your heart. Like this one -" He tapped on my arm. "If you allow it, it will also become visible."

"Is there a way to remove it, so I won't be so recognisable."

The side of his mouth quirked up. "Another unregistered Animagus?" I opened my mouth in surprise, but nothing came out. He laughed. "The first time I tattooed your father, the needle scared him so hard that he changed into a shabby black dog right in front of me. I guess he didn't think it would hurt that much." He looked up at me with a broad smile. "You did much better last year." I laughed and tucked the story away to ask Sirius about it later. "So, what is your Animagus form, if I may be so curious."

"An arctic wolf. So, the tattoos really stand out."

"You can't remove the tattoos from your Animagus form once you decide you want it on your wolf form," He said as he started on the Roman numbers. "- but you can always put a charm over it to make it invisible."

I took in this new information as I watched him work. His hands, like last time, worked elegantly over my skin.

"Congratulations on becoming an Animagus, by the way. It's a great achievement for an adult, so for you to be one at this age. Pretty brilliant."

I felt my cheeks heat, knowing I was bright red. I was happy he didn't look up from his work. "Thank you."

"And how is the Tournament going?"

"Oh, you know about that?"

"It's all in the papers. That Skeeter woman plastered everything on the front page."

I snorted. "Don't believe anything she writes."

"I went to school with her, she was a few years below me. I didn't believe her then and don't believe her now. But what can you tell me?"

I smiled as I started telling him about the Tournament. I mentioned Harry a few times, but he didn't ask more about him. Not such a gossip as almost the rest of England, thank Merlin. After about forty minutes, he was done. He rubbed my arm in with the same cream as last year, giving me the same instructions as we walked to the front of the shop where Remus was flipping through a magazine.

He looked curious at me, looking me up and down in search of the tattoo. But it was already well hidden underneath my sweater. After I paid Damien for his amazing work, we made our way to Diagon Alley to use the floo.

"So, you and Sirius... something happening on that front?" I asked.

Remus stopped dead in his tracks and gaped at me. He cleared his throat. "No."

"You know I don't have a problem with it, don't you? I just want you to be happy. You deserve to be happy, to be in a relationship."

"I don't need a relationship to be happy. As long as you're happy, I'm happy." He kissed the top of my head. "And I know you said you're okay with it, but Sirius and I talked about it. And we agreed that he'll focus on his relationship with you first and deal with his own demons before we can talk about us."

I wrung my hands together, frowning. "Is he having that much trouble with his time in Azkaban?"

"He has nightmares, forgets to eat, he-" He stopped and shook his head. "It's nothing for you to worry about. He'll get there, don't worry." I opened my mouth to say something, but he quickly changed the subject. "So, when can I see the new addition?"

"I'll show you tonight after I get ready for the Yule ball."

"Alright." He said as he pushed the door open to the Leaky Cauldron. "I don't know how Sirius will react, though. He doesn't even know of your first one."

"He was fifteen with his first tattoo, and he has a lot more than me." I huffed. "There is not much he can say."

"I guess not." Remus laughed.

When we came back around noon and unpacked our bags, Sirius and Harry dragged us over to the couch and pushed us down.

"Since you left in a hurry this morning, we forgot to open the presents. So, first presents before you get to eat." Sirius said, already pushing gifts in our hands. I shared an amused look with Harry and Remus before focusing on the gift in my hands.

I just untied the bow wrapped around the small gift when Remus gasped softly. I looked to him, he was holding a very old book in his hand, the title read Children's and Household Tales. Moony's fingers trembled a little as they grazed over the cover.

"Sirius." He whispered.

"I know you love the brothers Grimm. This is a first edition with the original title. I thought you might like it."

"I love it." He placed the book carefully on the couch before he stood up and enveloped Sirius in a tight hug. A hug that went on a bit too long to be casual.

Harry got new Quidditch gloves and a photograph of him and Sirius when Harry was just a few months old. He was shaking a little as Sirius wrapped him up in a hug. Giving them some privacy, I looked down at my own present from him. I lifted the lid and saw a silver locket inside. A family tree was engraved on the front and when I clicked it open, it had a photograph of my mum on one side and the other side switched between Uncle Moony, Draco and Harry and Aunt Cissy. We had invited Aunt Cissy to join us for Christmas, but she decided to go celebrate in France with some old friends.

"I hope you like it," Sirius said, rubbing his neck nervously. "I didn't know what you would like and with this, you always have your family with you."

I was lost for words as I looked back at the locket. I couldn't stand up and hug him because otherwise, I would burst into tears again like yesterday. I took in a deep breath. "It's beautiful, thank you." He gave me a small smile before Harry stood up to hand out presents.

Harry and Remus were easy to get presents for, Sirius was another story. I still wasn't that comfortable with him, and I didn't know him. He has money enough to buy whatever he liked. Remus was no help at all. So, I was holding my breath when he opened the envelope.

He read the paper inside, a large smile spread across his face. He looked so much younger when he smiled like that, like the ghosts of Azkaban disappeared, even for a moment. He looked up to me with that smile and tapped the letter. "I will cash this in this summer."

"What is it?" Harry asked, leaning closer to his godfather.

"Alec got me a coupon. A coupon to spend a full day alone with her to get to know each other." He looked back at me. "This is more than I could ask for, thank you Alec."

Moony squeezed my hand and shot me a wink. Telling me, I did good. He clapped his hands. "I think it's time we eat, otherwise they won't be able to eat tonight." We all gathered at the dining room table and with a wave of Sirius's wand, food and drinks came flying over.

"Uhm, Alec." Sirius stopped me a few hours later when we stopped playing board games and it was time to get ready. "There is one last present. It's from me and Harry. It's in your room."

"In my room?"

"I just put it there and went out immediately. I didn't snoop but I like the colours you chose."

I chuckled. I wasn't afraid he would snoop; there wasn't much to snoop anyway. I was just wondering what kind of present they had put upstairs in my room and not under the tree.

"I'll go check it out then." I said before I walked up the stairs.

When I came into the room, I saw a garment bag hanging on the wardrobe and I knew that must be it. I zipped it open, and a beautiful dress revealed itself. It was a satin burgundy dress that reached the floor, it had a V-neck and short sleeves. The bustier and sleeves were in the same colour lace. The back was cut out, and the skirt was wide enough for me to move in easily. I couldn't wait to put it on, so I stripped from my clothes and put the dress on. It fitted like a glove and the fabric felt like it was caressing my skin. I stood in front of the mirror that was hanging on the back of my door. I gasped. It was by far the most beautiful dress I have ever owned. I put on my mother's ring and the locket Sirius had given me before I did my hair. It was almost seven when I finished, and I quickly made my way down.

Harry was already there, looking all fancy and handsome in his black dress robes. His hair still had that bird's nest on top of his head. I brushed his shoulders. "You look good, Potter."

He blushed a little. "Me? What about you?" He took my hand and twirled me around. "I think we chose the right dress, Sirius."

"You will blow everyone's mind." Sirius smiled, his eyes sparkled when he saw the locket.

"You look beautiful, cub." Uncle Moony hugged me, kissing my temple. "Cedric won't know what to do with you."

"Thank you for the dress." I kissed Harry's cheek, then Sirius's. "Both of you." I said and quickly stepped back. Sirius was frozen in place, looking at me, like I had lost my mind.

Remus gently took my arm in his hand, his thumb caressing over the new tattoo softly. "Alec." He whispered.

"You are the most important person in my life, Moony. You raised me and loved me like your own. This is just a reminder of how much you mean to me, all that you did for me." I said equally as quietly. He wrapped me up in his strong arms, burying his head on my shoulder. Harry and Sirius looked curiously at the tattoo.

"What does this mean?" Harry asked, pointing at the numbers.

"That's the day Remus took me in. The day my life changed."

"When did you get this? This looks fresh." Sirius asked. I couldn't make out if he was going to shout or not.

"This morning. We passed by Damien's shop, and he squeezed me in."

Sirius blinked at Remus, who had pulled back. Dapping his eyes with his sleeve. "Damien Norris?"

"Yes, he gave me my first tattoo last year." I answered.

"Your first? How many do you have?"

"Just these two. One for my mum and one for Moony." Sirius eyed the tattoo for my mum with a curious expression. He was probably thinking he saw it in my wolf form. I turned to Remus. "Do you like it?"

"It's beautiful, cub." He kissed the top of my head.

"He's right," Sirius said with a soft smile. "And it says so much about you that you chose those two as your first tattoos. Mine was something stupid." He snickered.

"Oh, -" A grin spread across my face. "Damien told me a story about your first tattoo." Sirius's eyes turned wide. "We will certainly discuss that next time."

"Oh, now you got me curious." Harry said, bouncing excitedly on his feet.

"Next time, Harry." I laughed a little at Sirius's panicked face. "We better get going. We don't want two of the champions to be late now, do we?" I grinned at Harry.

"It would make a statement." Uncle Moony winked. He held out his arms for me and Harry. After we waved a still baffled Sirius goodbye, Moony apparated us away.

We were almost at the castle. I could hear music and voices already coming from inside. We must be on the late side then, our dates probably already waiting for us.

"You and Sirius seemed to get along the past days."

"He's trying, so I'm trying too. It's not always easy but I hope it will get better. We will always have bad days between us. And he will never replace Moony, but I think we can build some kind of relationship. Not without some headbutting probably." I chuckled a little.

"While you and Remus went to the market, Sirius was running around like a headless chicken because he wanted everything to be perfect for you and Remus. He was afraid either of you would regret spending the holidays with us since you normally do it just the two of you."

"I'm not going to lie; it was an adjustment. For as long as I can remember, it was always just me and Moony. We didn't need to think about anyone else but the two of us. But I wouldn't want to change this Christmas for another." I looped my arm through his, pulling him closer. "You are my family too, Harry. I was actually thinking it would be nice to have Cissy and Draco with us next year." Harry scrunched up his nose. "Relax, it's still a year away." I laughed.

We stopped in front of the large double doors, glancing upwards. Harry sighed like a defeated man.

"I'm really not looking forward to dancing in front of everyone."

"It will be okay." I nudged him. "Your dancing skills have really improved over the past weeks. And it's one dance after that everyone will join the dance floor. Just keep your eyes on your date or if that's too awkward, -" I snickered at his shocked expression. "- then look at her shoulder."

"Right, I can do that." He nodded, glumly.

"You defeated a dragon, Harry. You can handle a dance." I squeezed his arm with a reassuring smile. "Ready?"

He swallowed. "Ready."

Chapter Text

To be honest, I was a bit of a hypocrite. I've been telling Harry not to be nervous, while I was probably as nervous as he was. This was different than a dragon, I didn't have anything to keep my attention from the crowd or just the twins. Gods, they must look so handsome tonight.

I was biting my lip as we walked in. We told our dates to meet us in front of the great hall since we would be getting ready at home. I saw Harry's date first. Parvati was waiting near the doors of the great hall, wearing a vibrant pink dress, her hair braided, and she had golden bracelets on her wrist.

I gave Harry a subtle nudge. "Go." I whispered. Harry started towards her like he was given a shock. I watched the pair mumble an awkward hello before they both turned to the grand staircase. I smiled broadly as Hermione came down in a gorgeous periwinkle dress. Her hair, normally bushy, was now in smooth wavy curls hanging over one shoulder. I saw Harry and Parvati gape as Viktor Krum offered his arm. While Hermione shot Harry a nervous but excited look, Viktor gave me the same one. Then my eyes fell on Fleur and her date, a Ravenclaw, Roger, I think. She was wearing a silver satin dress that hugged her figure perfectly. She was absolutely stunning. She was smiling at the Ravenclaw, who was blushing and stumbling over his words. I just hoped he wouldn't stumble on the dance floor.

"Oh, Helga." Cedric's voice came from behind me. I turned to see him. His hair was perfectly tussled, but his suit was perfect, not a wrinkle in sight. His blazer was black, and he had a white rose tucked in the breast pocket. He was holding another one in his hand. "You look -" He swallowed.

"You look too." I smiled at him and walked closer. "Very handsome indeed." I tugged on his collar. He wasn't wearing a tie, the top buttons were undone, and it looked magnificent.

"I- uhm." He cleared his throat. "I got you a rose." He said as he held up the flower. I saw that the thorns were gone. "May I?" He gestured towards my hair.

"Sure." He stepped closer and carefully tucked the rose in the hairpin. I took his hand when he lowered it from my hair. "Thank you, that's really sweet." I kissed his cheek.

"Champions over here, please." We turned to Professor McGonagall's voice. The four champions and their dates made their way to the professor. "Potter and Patil, you go first." Then she gestured to me and Cedric. "Lupin-Black and Diggory, behind them." Cedric held out his arm and I looped it through his before we took our place behind Harry. Behind us was Fleur and her date, then Viktor and Hermione. The eight of us waited in front of the closed doors to the great hall.

The doors opened soundlessly, and we started moving forward. The room applauded as we stepped in, but I kept my eyes on the front. Too nervous and too afraid to see the twins as we walked up to the top table. Madame Maxime patted the two chairs on either side of her as we approached. With a smile, I sat down on her left, while Fleur sat down on her right. I saw Harry sitting next to Percy Weasley, not looking all too happy about it.

"Did you enjoy your time at home?" Cedric asked, as our table filled with food.

I turned to him with a soft smile. "I did. My uncle and I went to a muggle Christmas market, we spent over two hours there. Then we spend the rest of the day with Harry and Sirius. It was the first time I spent Christmas with anyone else besides my uncle, but it was a nice change. What about you? What did you do all day?"

He chuckled a little. "Not much, to be honest. Just hanging out with my friends, doing patrols because apparently, a prefect doesn't get out of his duty on Christmas." He rolled his eyes playfully.

"I forgot you were a prefect." A light was switched on. I turned to him fully, keeping my voice low. He leaned closer to hear me properly. "My uncle said there is a prefect's bathroom with a large tub. Is there a way for me to sneak in?"

He raised an eyebrow. "Whatever for? A late-night dip?"

"Sort of." My voice went lower. "It's about the second task."

His eyes turned big and round, and he blinked a few times. "We do have a private bathroom with a tub as large as a swimming pool."

"Will you help me?"

"Help one of the Hogwarts champions? I would feel disgraced if I didn't lend a hand when I could." He shot me a lopsided grin. "You get in with a password, it's on the fifth floor, near the Boris statue. Just tell me when you want to go because the password changed sporadically."

I threw my arms around his neck, beaming. "You are the best. Thank you."

When I pulled back, he said grinning. "You can just thank me with a dance later."

"That I can do." I chuckled.

For the rest of dinner, we conversed with the others around the table. At one point, Madame Maxime, Fleur and I were all talking French to each other and saw the confused glances from the others. Cedric talked to Fleur easier than Roger was apparently capable of, he was just staring at her. Of course, being part Veela can mess with a guy's mind. Fleur didn't seem really bothered by it. A little further away sat Viktor and Hermione. Hermione was trying to teach Viktor how to say her name, but it wasn't going so well. I looked around the great hall to all the students, nicely dressed up. Except...

"Harry." I whispered-shouted to him. He turned away from Percy to me. "What the hell is Ron wearing?" I couldn't help the laughter that bubbled up.

His eyes flickered over to his best friend, shaking his head a little. "Molly sent it." He said with his own grin. "He said he looked like his great-aunt Bessie."

I laughed even louder now. "I think it would've been better if he came naked."

"Non merci." Fleur said, scrunching up her nose. The rest of the table fell into a fit of laughter.

Not long after that, Dumbledore cleared the tables, creating a big open space to dance. On the side was an elevated platform. The Weird Sisters climbed up the platform under deafening applause. Cedric held out his hand before he guided me to the dance floor. The other Champions followed with their dates. Harry shot me a nervous look and I gave him the most reassuring smile I could muster.

"Didn't think you could get nervous." Cedric teased, and I relaxed my shoulders because of it.

"I get more nervous or afraid than most people think, but I'm just good at hiding it." He started leading me across the dance floor. I kept my eyes fixed on him, on following his lead.

"I think everyone was nervous about this dance. I certainly was." Cedric admitted. "But right now -" He squeezed my waist. "With you, I don't feel nervous at all."

"You're helping with my nerves too but keep talking. Otherwise, I think I'm going to trip." I said nervously, looking down at my feet.

"Eyes up here, love." He tilted my head with his finger. "I didn't know you had a second tattoo."

"Oh, I got this one this morning," I said, lifting my arm a little with Remus's tattoo. "Have been thinking about getting it for a long time."

"I like it. Does it have a meaning, or do you just like the print?"

"This one is for my uncle. The roman numbers are the date he took me in."

"They really suit you."

"Thank you." I blushed a little but didn't take my eyes off him. "What about you? Do you have any tattoos?"

"Not yet." He laughed. "I want to but right now I'm just designing them in my free time."

"You draw?" I asked surprised.

He nodded. "Since I was little. It helped me calm my brain when I went into overdrive. I have special ink in my dorm which I use to practice on my friends. Don't worry-" He added when I gasped. "It's a temporary tattoo, just a few weeks before it fades away. But other than me practising, it helps my friends decide if they really want a tattoo."

"If it's not too personal, I would like to see your drawings. And to see you at work."

"That can be arranged. I ink my friends every two weeks or so. You can come by if you want."

"That sounds perfect." I grinned up at him. He twirled me under his arm before bringing me back to him, a bit closer to his chest.

He leaned down and whispered. "I forgot to tell you earlier... you look absolutely breathtaking, Alec." I was happy he twirled me around again, so he couldn't see my rosy cheeks.

People were starting to join the dance floor, and soon it was filled with students and professors alike. The next song that came on was more for the young people and the professors quickly sat back at their table. Cedric just danced with me more elaborately. Dipping and spinning me, guiding me all across the dance floor through the throng of students. It was fun and light, and I was smiling and laughing the whole time.

After a few songs, the heat became too much, and we darted towards the bar. We each had a goblet of pumpkin juice in our hands as we watched the dance floor. I was waving my hand in front of my face, trying to cool down. I saw Draco dancing in the corner with a dreamy-eyed Luna. She didn't have dreamy eyes for Draco, she was living in her own little world. And Draco was just dancing around her, not bothered by it. Angelina and Lee were close to the edge of the dance floor, wrapped around each other, not dancing at all to the beat of the music.

My breath hitched as I saw the twins. They were dancing back-to-back with their dates in front of them. They had more luck than Ron had, regarding their robes. They had long left their blazers somewhere else and were now only clad in their dress trousers and white shirt that was clinging to their broad and muscular shoulders and back from sweating. The sight alone made me clench my thighs together. I quickly looked away. Jazz was dancing on her own, but the way she moved had a lot of boys (and girls) gape at her. She always had a way of dancing that could hypnotize the crowd. Jack was dancing with Levvi, both a beaming smile as they looked at each other, the sight made me happy. Ron and Harry were scowling on their seats, both of their dates gone.

I looked up to Cedric, who had ordered another drink. "Do you mind if I ask Harry for a dance?"

He smiled behind his goblet before lowering it. "You don't have to ask my permission, Alec. You can dance with whoever you like. And if I was a betting man, I would put my whole bank account on the fact that Fred and George want to dance with you too.

"I-" I opened and closed my mouth a few times. "It's not like that, we're friends."

"I've seen the way they look at you and you at them."

"Why did you ask me to the ball then?" I asked curiously.

"Because I know we would have fun. And I like you, Alec. If this thing between us stays in friendship, that's fine by me. But I wouldn't be opposed to something more." He said casually.

"It is fun." I gave him a small smile. "Besides, the twins and I, it can't work. I won't come between brothers."

"Alec-"

"Tonight is not the night." I interrupted. "I'm going to see if Harry wants to dance. I'll come find you later." I kissed his cheek. He winked at me before I made my way to the two gloomy boys. I bowed in front of Harry, holding out my hand. "Can I have this dance, young Champion?"

Harry blinked up at me. "Uhm, what are you doing?"

"I was speaking English, right?" I tilted my head smirking. "Dance with me, Harry James Potter. I don't like that you're sitting here all gloomy and feeling sorry for yourself."

"I wasn't feeling -" I raised an eyebrow at him. He sighed, his lips twitching upwards. "Fine." He placed his hand in mine and I pulled him up. "What about Ron?" He asked when we neared the dance floor.

"What about him?"

"You shouldn't stay mad at him. I've forgiven him." He said as we started dancing in the middle of the crowd.

"And, I'm sorry, Harry, but you shouldn't have. A real friend wouldn't have acted the way he did. A real friend would have believed you. George and Fred saw the look on your face when your name was drawn, and they knew you had nothing to do with it."

"Really?"

"Really."

Harry glanced at Ron, still scowling as he sat alone at the table in his horrendous dress robes before his gaze switched to the twins somewhere behind me.

Harry and I danced for a bit, laughing and talking together. Jazz joined us and she whisked a flabbergasted Harry away with her. I laughed at his expression when Cedric's arm curled around my waist. We danced for a while before he excused himself to use the lavatory. Hermione and Viktor had left the dancefloor only once before they danced again, both beaming smiles on their faces. Draco was standing on the side talking to Blaise as Luna had flittered back to her common room in her own special way. I was just about to go to him and drag him to the dancefloor when a soft tap touched my shoulder. I turned to see Fred standing there, nervously rubbing his neck.

"Hey."

Seeing him up close, fuck! The firm muscles that were visible under his tight white shirt, his longer hair dancing a little on his shoulders, and the freckles scattered on his face. Gods, the man was gorgeous. I breathed. "Hi."

"If it's okay with Cedric, can I have this dance?"

"If it's okay with your girlfriend, then I would love to." I gave him a bashful smile.

He breathed out a long breath, his shoulders slumping. Like in relief. He didn't waste a second and wrapped his arms around me, holding me close. I didn't even notice the music had changed to a slow tune as he started swaying softly. I curled my arms around his neck, brushing my fingers over the hard plains of his back.

"You look very handsome tonight. Much better than your brother."

He grinned. "I think a toad with a bowtie would look better than Ron."

A grin broke out before I laughed, letting my head fall against his broad chest. My shoulders shaking with laughter. I stilled as he pulled me closer, the fingers on my waist dragging agonizing slow circles on the thin fabric of my dress. He lowered his head, and he smelled like fireworks and fresh rain.

"It should be illegal." He whispered. "The way you look tonight. Absolutely fucking gorgeous." A shiver went through me as his warm breath tickled my ear. "It's so unfair." I tilted my head to look at him, his lips so close to mine. "The way you outshine everyone here. I haven't been able to take my eyes off you for more than five minutes."

"Fred." I breathed. "You shouldn't say things like that."

"Why not? It's the truth." His grip on me tightened, pulling me even closer.

"Because we're friends and you -" I swallowed. "You have a girlfriend." I glanced over his shoulder. "Who isn't looking all too happy right now." I stepped out of his embrace. "Thank you for the dance, Fred."

He stood rooted to the spot as I stepped away from him. His gaze followed me as I walked off the dancefloor, still following me as I took a drink from the bar and headed out. When I was out of his eyesight, Cedric appeared.

"Are you tired? Do you want to go back to your common room?"

"No." I said, smiling up at his handsome face. "I would like to take a stroll if you don't mind."

A wide smile stretched across his face, and he held out his arm for me. As I looped my arm through his, he started walking up the stairs.

Chapter Text

"I thought now that everyone is busy, I could sneak you into the prefect's bathroom." He said with a lopsided grin. No wonder why he's so popular with the ladies, that smile even made my knees a little weak. "I know you don't have the egg with you." He glanced at me. "You'll need the egg, right?" I nodded. "But at least you will know where to be the next time.

I nodded again as I followed him up the stairs, through a corridor. And another and another before I saw the statue he mentioned earlier.

"Bath bombs." He said and the door swished open.

"Bath bombs, really? A bit on the nose, isn't it?" I chuckled.

"Maybe." He shrugged with a tiny smile. "But I didn't choose the password this time." He stepped aside and motioned for me to go in first.

For gods' sake, that bathroom was huge. It was like Cedric said, more a swimming pool than a tub. Even Beauxbatons didn't have a bathroom like this, or at least I hadn't found any in my years there. The castle was so large, there was a lot left to explore. But our bathrooms were bigger than in Hogwarts. With a tub and a separate shower, floor-length windows with a view of the mountains. Here a mermaid grazed the stained windows, flipping her long hair over her shoulder.

"It seems like Hogwarts still has a few surprises up her sleeve." Cedric grinned as he watched me look around in awe.

"Too bad it's only for the prefects. I would be here almost every day."

He laughed, the sound echoing in the room. "I think you just made the point as to why it's only available for prefects."

My lips twitched upwards. "I guess so."

Cedric then explained how to fill the tub and said once someone is inside the door is locked, so they won't be disturbed. He held out his arm for me.

"It's getting late. I should take you back to your common room."

"You don't have to walk me back, Cedric. I don't want to get you in trouble."

"I would never leave a lady on her own in this big, scary castle." He winked and I playfully rolled my eyes. "And besides, I am a prefect. I'm allowed to roam the halls late at night."

"Alright then." I looped my arm through his and we walked out. We talked about the tournament a bit, about how he missed quidditch this year. And a lot of other things. When we stopped in front of the fat lady, he bounced nervously on his heels.

"I had a great time tonight."

"I did too. Thank you for inviting me."

He took my hand in his and lifted it to his lips. "I wouldn't have wanted to go with anyone else."

"Not even your backup?" I teased, even though my cheeks flushed.

"I think I would have left an hour into the Ball." He said. And I believed him. He still held my hand, his thumb slowly caressing the back of my hand. "Can I – Can I kiss you?" He asked quietly.

"Oh."

"It doesn't have to mean anything. I know the thing between you and -" He glanced around. "The Weasley twins is complicated but... But I really had a great time tonight. You are funny and smart. And absolutely breathtaking. And I really want to kiss you right now."

"Well, I guess one kiss couldn't hurt." I gave him a small smile. He tugged my hand, bringing me closer to him. His other hand rested on my waist as a hand of mine curled around his neck. We leaned in and our lips met. The kiss soon became passionate. It wasn't like how I felt with the twins, but De la Barre did it feel good. He was without a doubt an amazing kisser.

A few minutes later, when I said goodbye to the Hufflepuff prefect, I stepped in the common room. A lot of them had gone to bed by now. But it seemed the twins had brought their dates back here. The girls were sitting on their laps, kissing them without taking a breath. My heart cracked and I turned to Harry who was talking to Hermione near the fire. Hermione's cheeks still looked flushed from dancing all night.

"You seemed like you had a great night," I said to her as I sat down next to Harry.

"Except the fact that Viktor can't pronounce my name." She chuckled. "It was amazing. Viktor is so sweet and considerate." She said with a dreamy smile. I glanced at Harry, but he didn't seem jealous at all. "My feet are quite sore; I think I'll head to bed. Goodnight."

"Night, Hermione." Harry and I said in unison.

"How did it go with Jazz?" I asked, grinning.

"She's... a whirlwind." He laughed. "But it was fun. Parvati had already left with a guy from Durmstrang, so I walked Jazz back to the carriage."

"How gentlemen-like of you." I nudged his shoulder.

"Well, I am a gentleman." He said almost proudly, then he blushed. "When we arrived at the carriage." He looked around to see if anyone was listening before he leaned closer and whispered. "She asked if I ever kissed anyone." A smile tugged on my lips. "I told her about the kiss I gave you, but she said that wasn't a real one." I chuckled. "And asked if I wanted to learn."

"She always liked to teach." I couldn't help the large grin that appeared on my face. Harry turned extremely red, and I couldn't help the laughter that broke out. "Let me guess, you accepted her offer?"

The blush deepened and he wiped his hands on his dress trousers. Harry opened his mouth to reply but closed it when footsteps came closer. Without looking behind me, I knew who it was. Harry gave me a tight smile, his cheeks still red before he bounded up the stairs.

"So, where is Diggory?" Fred asked as they stepped around me and sat down in front of me.

"I imagine in his common room. Where are your girlfriends?"

"Upstairs." Fred grinned. George looked at the wall beside me.

I rose from my seat. "Well, then I should let you get back to whatever you were doing earlier." I couldn't help but snap.

Fred's grin turned into a smirk as he jumped up, grabbing my hand. "Are you jealous, my little Fae."

I pulled my hand of out his. That new nickname shot flutters through my stomach. "As if. Why should I be jealous of you two shagging two dumb bimbos?"

"I think you are. And I think you like us."

"Fred." George murmured a warning.

I almost said, And what if I do? But the words that came out were. "If I liked you as more than friends, why would I have kissed Cedric earlier?"

They both went still, and Fred's smirk was gone in a flash. George said quietly. "You kissed him?"

My gaze went to him, he looked... devastated. But they were kissing their girlfriends not even two minutes ago and they were waiting upstairs for them to do more than just that. They shouldn't look like I just fucked Cedric right in front of them.

"Maybe you are the ones who are jealous." Their jaws twitched. I sighed and closed my eyes for a second. I adjusted their collars without looking at their faces. They're my friends. They're George and Fred, Fred and George. I couldn't stay mad at them even if I wanted to. "Let me just say this. You two look insanely handsome tonight. I dare say, the most handsome men I've seen tonight." I leaned up and kissed their cheeks. "Goodnight."

I didn't wait for them to answer. I rushed up the girls' staircase. I climbed into my bed and when the curtains closed around me, I screamed into my pillow.

The day after the Yule Ball it was like nothing had happened. Like the conversation with the twins didn't happen before I went to bed. But it still played in my mind, on repeat. I pushed those thoughts away when Cedric approached me after lunch a few days later.

"Hey, you." He smiled.

"Hey, I was actually looking for you."

"Is that so?" He raised an eyebrow.

"I wanted to ask you for the password for the Prefect's bathroom. I want to go tonight."

He looked a little disappointed but put on a wide smile. "The password is still the same. Do you still remember it? I know it was a hard one."

I laughed and nudged his side. "What was it? Bubbles? Bath oils?" I teased.

He wrapped his arm around my shoulders. "If you don't remember bath bombs, I'm not sure if the Goblet made the right choice in choosing you."

"Oi!" I jabbed his waist as he laughed. Suddenly, Fred and George's girlfriends charged up to me, murder in their eyes. "Hello?"

Then they slapped me. The noise echoed in the corridor and Cedric stood frozen next to me. It stung hard, both of my cheeks must've been bright red.

"This is all your fault!" Lorena nearly screamed.

"Bitch." Amy snarled.

"Five points each from Ravenclaw," Cedric said as the girls turned to leave. He looked at me, cupping my cheeks in his large hands. "And report to your head of house after classes. Are you okay?" He whispered.

"Yeah, they hit like little kids." I lied because damn those girls had a mean slap. Cedric looked like he didn't believe it. "I should go to the common room."

He frowned, his thumbs caressing the red skin softly. "Alright." He kissed my forehead. "Find me if you need anything."

"I will." I smiled, giving him a kiss on the cheek before I walked up the staircase.

The twins were relaxing on the couch, their legs sprawled out in front of them. I walked over and plopped on the couch between them.

"I guess you broke up with your girlfriends?" I asked, staring at the fire.

"How do you know?" George asked, and then his gaze turned to me. "Fuck, Alec. What happened?" He gasped, cupping my cheeks in his hands, his eyes roaming over the still sensitive, red skin.

"Amy and Lorena just came up to me and said it was my fault you broke up with them."

Fred kneeled in front of me, his hand on my neck and I looked at him. He swallowed hard, his eyes even more murderous than the girls. "They hit you." He breathed.

"Both slapped me on the cheek. I guess it gives me a bit of colour to my face." I tried to smile.

"They won't get away with this." Fred seethed.

"I'm okay." I took both of their hands and intertwined our fingers again. Another jolt ran through my body, I don't know if they felt it too, but they squeezed my hands in return.

"I know something that could help the sting," George said quietly. I turned to him, and he gave me his famous lopsided grin that did weird things to my heart and stomach. He leaned closer and gave my cheek a kiss. A kiss so soft it felt like a phantom. I closed my eyes as he turned to the other cheek, letting his lips linger for a moment. "How does it feel?" He breathed, his lips still so close to mine.

"Better." I managed to get out.

"Maybe this will help." Fred had taken his place next to me again and kissed me the same way that George did. My eyes involuntarily closed again. "And?"

"All gone." I breathed out. I opened my eyes slowly and they both looked at me with darkened eyes. "Who knew I just needed my twins to make it all better." I smiled.

They both let out a ragged breath as they looked at me. Then they shifted closer until I was squished between them, and it was the best feeling in the world. Fred's arm around my waist, George's around my shoulder, his hand playing with my hair. I closed my eyes and revelled in their touch, in their scent and let it consume me.

That night when I came to the Prefect's bathroom, I let the tub or rather pool fill with water and soap. Even though Cedric said nobody could enter when someone was in, I still placed an extra locking charm on the door. I undressed when the pool was full enough. I soaked in the water for a long moment before I grabbed the egg from the edge of the tub and dropped it in the water.

It sank and sank until it reached the bottom. Even with all the water, I could still hear the heavy thump when it touched the tile floor. I dove underwater and turned the egg open. Gritting my teeth, still afraid it would start screeching, I relaxed when a slow melody filled my ears.

Come seek us where our voices sound, we cannot sing above the ground.
And while you're searching, ponder this: We've taken what you'll sorely miss.
An hour long you'll have to look to recover what we took.
But past an hour — the prospect's black, too late, it's gone, it won't come back.

I closed the egg, grabbed it and resurfaced. Taking in a long breath and repeated the words again and again. I summoned paper and quill from my bag and scribbled the song down.

"Come seek us where our voices sound," I murmured, letting my head fall back on the tub's edge. Were there any merpeople in the black lake? I wrote down another note to check that in the library. I was only at Hogwarts for a year and a half. I only knew about the giant squid and grindlelows. That were the things I'd seen drift by in the Slytherin common room.

"We have taken that you'll sorely miss." So again, we needed to find and collect an object. All within an hour. If it turned out to be the black lake, I needed to find a way to stay underwater for at least an hour. I could barely hold my breath underwater for a minute, swimming in the dark lake, the thought had sent a shiver through my spine. A few ideas popped into my head but none of them could help Harry. The time and effort for him to master the spell wouldn't be enough. We needed to find another option for him.

Forgetting about the egg, I sank deeper into the water and for a moment relaxed. I didn't think about the egg or the tournament. I didn't think about the twins or Sirius. I let my mind go completely empty and drifted. 

Chapter Text

"I need to talk to you." Harry and I said at the same time the day after.

When I came back from the prefect's bathroom, it was already late and everyone had gone to bed. The flames in the fireplace were already dying out. I didn't see Harry at breakfast or lunch. So, when classes were finally done and we ate dinner, I waited for him just outside the great hall. We had grabbed each other's arms when we said it.

"Empty classroom," I said, nudging my head a little further. When Harry closed the door behind him, I put a privacy charm around the room. "You first."

"Something weird happened." He frowned.

"Are you okay?"

"Yeah, it's just... Professor Moody offered to help me with the egg. He said something about taking a swim. And it wasn't the first time. A few weeks before the first task, he held me back after class and asked if he needed to help."

"He's not allowed to help. None of the professors are." I frowned. Just thinking about Moody made me shiver all over. I wasn't a fan of his classes, and he kept drinking from this weird flask. But the room was always too crowded for me to figure out what it was, even with my wolf nose. But I didn't think it was pumpkin juice the way he shuddered after every sip.

"I know. I said I didn't need help, that I would do fine on my own."

"How did he take that?"

"He -" He frowned. "He looked a bit angry at that, actually."

"Hm." I placed my hands on his shoulders. "Don't get too close to him, Harry. There is something off about him. I don't trust him."

"He's a famous Auror, Alec."

"Gilderoy Lockhart was famous and see how that turned out."

Harry opened his mouth, then closed it again. "You have a point there but-"

"Just be careful, alright? The man just gives me an eerie feeling and that doesn't happen often."

"Okay. I trust your gut." I smiled a little. "What did you want to talk about?"

"I figured out the egg. Creepy Moody had a point about the swim. We needed to open the egg underwater for the noise to make sense. This is what they were singing." I handed him the parchment.

"You call that singing?"

I huffed a laugh. "Underwater they have a beautiful singing voice but it's screeching the moment they breach the surface."

His eyes scanned the paper. "So, we have an hour to look for whatever is taken from us?" He looked up.

"Yeah. Do you think there are Merpeople in the black lake?"

"I think it's a possi-"

"There are. Nasty creatures, I tell you."

Harry jumped at the sudden new voice. I turned to see Draco smirking. I had heard him slip in, but since he helped us with the first task, I didn't mind him hearing us talk.

"A little jumpy, are you Potter?" He smirked. He turned to me, as Harry placed a hand over his fast-beating heart. "They don't come by the window often, but I've seen them swim by in the middle of the night. Only twice since I started school. But they are definitely down there." He cocked his head. "The second task?"

"Yes, I figured out the egg."

Draco sat down on one of the desks and I took a place next to him. Harry sat down in front of us, scowling at the Slytherin.

"We need to be underwater for at least an hour to find whatever they have taken from us. But there are multiple threats in the black lake, so we need to be able to defend ourselves. I have a few ideas for me, but the spells are very complicated. And it would take too long for Harry to learn them. Even if he managed to, I don't want to risk it failing when he's under there."

Harry paled a little at that. Draco frowned as he looked at Harry. He wasn't really looking at him but through him and I knew his mind was going in overdrive.

"We have time. The second task is two months away. I could start teaching Harry the spells, but I want to be safe and look for a better and safer option."

"What about the Fishling potion?" Draco suggested.

I shook my head. "His arms and legs would change into fins completely. He won't be able to use his wand."

"It would be a funny sight though." He laughed. And Harry stared at him like he came from another planet. Still not used to hearing his full laugh. "I'll keep thinking."

I placed my hand over my cousin's. "Thank you, Draco. For helping me and-" I glanced to Harry who was still watching Draco. "For helping Harry."

Draco's gaze flicked to Harry. And for a long moment, they just stared at each other. Grey eyes locked with green. Then they both looked away simultaneously. Draco cleared his throat.

"Are we still going to duel?" He asked me.

"I'm game if you two are. We don't know what we'll face underwater and what the third task may be."

"I'm in." Harry said, both of them looking at me.

"Wednesday night, the same time after dinner."

"Great." Draco jumped up. "I'll make a list of what I know to be in there." He shuddered at the thought and that didn't ease my feelings one bit. Then he walked out of the room swiftly.

"Are you two ever going to talk in public?" I asked Harry before we walked out of the classroom.

"Why would we do that?"

"Yes, why..." I smiled as we walked up to the common room.

A month passed. A month with me, Harry and Draco sparring and training. A month of researching for a way to let Harry breathe underwater. Harry had told Hermione and Ron about the second task. And the former was hauled up in the library as she looked for a solution.
While Draco and Harry practised together, I focussed on the spells I could use. The Bubble-Head charm was a handy spell, but I still was afraid it would burst when something sharp would hit it. My favourite, and most dangerous spell was the Sanguis Oxygeni spell. I would place a filter over my face so water couldn't get in and stop my breathing while the Sanguis Oxygeni spell would help me breathe through my blood. It was a spell that most schools didn't teach, but Beauxbatons had a specialist visit a few years back and everyone who was interested was welcome to attend. So, I did. I didn't tell the others of the spell. I think they would think I'm crazy for even trying that instead of the Bubble-Head charm.

I looked up when I heard one of the boys fall on the floor. I raised an eyebrow when I saw Draco sprawled on the ground, Harry towering over him with a smirk.

"That was a lucky shot, Potter."

"Whatever." He rolled his eyes. Then to my surprise but even more so for Draco, Harry held out his hand to pull him up. Draco eyed his head warily for a minute, probably thinking it was a trick of sorts. But then he laid his hand in his and they clasped them together as Harry helped him up. They were now standing close, really close. Draco had a few inches on Harry, but their gazes were locked, just like their hands.

"You're getting better, Potter." Draco said, his voice a little gruff.

Harry blinked. Blinked once again. "T-thanks. Wanna go again?" He asked, releasing his hand and taking a step back. It was now Draco's turn to blink. He shook his head a little. Like he was clearing his mind.

"Yeah." A smile spread across his face. A real smile that was directed at Harry. And Harry once again was dumbfounded. So, lost in Draco's smile, he didn't see the spell coming the Slytherin shot at him. Harry toppled over and fell to the floor, his glasses flying in the air.

Draco picked up the glasses and repaired them without uttering a single word. He extended his hand and Harry took it without waiting a heartbeat.

"Here." Draco's fingers shook a little as he placed the spectacles on Harry's nose. Harry was frozen in place, like a statue. When Draco adjusted the glasses behind his ear, I saw the addition he added to the glasses. I wondered when Harry would notice the tiny difference on it or why Draco had added the shape of a dragon on the right ear of Harry's glasses.

I was just thinking about slipping out, wondering if they would even notice my absence when Draco turned to me, his cheeks flushed.

"Come on, Alexandra. You're not getting out of training, you know."

I glanced between the two flushed boys, a secret smile on my lips before I pushed myself off the ground. "I know. Give me all you got, cousin."

"De la Berre, I'm exhausted," I said as I fell down on the couch between the twins. Lee and Angelina were huddled together in an armchair, whispering to each other.

"You've been gone a lot." George said, pulling my head in his lap, while Fred grabbed my ankles.

"Training, researching for a way to let Harry breathe underwater for an hour, more training."

"I don't think we can help with the breathing underwater part, but-"

"Why don't you ask us to help you train?" Fred continued.

I glanced from one to the other. "I didn't know you'd be interested. You've been so busy with things for your shop."

"We can always make time for you to wipe the floor with us." Fred grinned, the tip of his tongue against his upper teeth. And at that moment I wanted to devour him. I looked away from him.

"Actually, a change of partners would be good. I'm getting to know what Draco or Harry are going to do by what stance they take." They knew I trained with both. They just didn't know it was at the same time. "Can you do next Sunday?"

"Why not this weekend?" George asked, his fingers combing through my hair.

"It's a Hogsmeade weekend, remember?"

"Oh, right." They frowned. "Are you going with Cedric?"

"I am, but not only him. Ange and Lee are coming, and so is Alicia. And a few of Cedric's friends."

"Now we feel welcome." George muttered.

I pursed my lips at them. "I asked you to come last week. But the moment Cedric's name fell from my lips, you two mumbled something and walked away."

They both looked at me, blinking slowly. "Are we still welcome?"

"Always." I smiled up at them and they smiled back. My heart skipped a beat. I made myself comfortable between them and fell asleep quickly as their hands glided over my arms.

*

The Twins POV

"I think we're on the right track with Alec." Fred said as they climbed through the portrait hole.

"I agree, now that those girls are out of the way."

"Sorry," Fred muttered.

"It's not your fault. Not entirely. I agreed, didn't I?" He ran a hand through his hair. "I think that was the stupidest thing we ever did."

"Can't argue with that." Fred said as they walked up the boys' staircase. What they found in their room was unexpected, to say the least.

The girl of their dreams was sitting on the windowsill in their dorm, the window next to Lee's bed. Her knees were drawn up almost against her chest. She was gazing out the window, out the dark grey clouds that flew by. Before either of them could say anything, she spoke without turning her eyes away from the dark sky.

"I used to think I was part of a triad." She said and the boys' eyes widened as they saw her softly tapping the book on her lap. "But it didn't work out." She said, her voice sad. "And if it doesn't work between best friends you've known for ages, will it ever work for anyone?" She sighed before looking at them. "I'm sorry. I wasn't snooping around or anything, but the book was on Lee's bed. I don't know why Lee has a book about triads." Her brows pulled together briefly. "My roommates are going at it. Do you mind if I hang out here for a bit?"

It seemed like they both had lost their voices. They just stared at her. And stared. She knew about triads. She tried to be in a triad. Probably with Jack and Jazz but since that didn't work, she thought it never would. They needed to show her it was possible.

"But if it's a bad time..." She hopped off the windowsill when they didn't respond.

"No." They both snapped out of it. "You're always welcome, my little Fae."

She cocked her head, a smile on her lips. "What's with the new nickname?"