Searching for Dawn

Searching for Dawn

Chapter 4

"Falling"

Susan Chandler was sitting at the kitchen table absorbed in her cup of coffee, when she was startled by a tapping at the window. She was staring at the window when Sheila walked in, headed for the coffee pot.

"What's that racket?" Sheila grumbled.

"There's an owl tapping on the window," Susan said, looking puzzled.

Sheila stared for a minute, and then nodded in understanding. "Hermione told me that witches and wizards use owls to deliver mail. Look! It's got something attached to its leg."

Susan opened the window and the snowy white owl swooped gracefully inside. Sheila ducked as it flew over her head, landed on the back of a chair, and hooted once. Susan looked at her daughter and asked, "Do you think we should look at the paper?"

"I guess," said Sheila, "although I don't know who would be contacting us like this. Hermione always uses the telephone."

Susan's eyes widened in comprehension. She reached for the owl stammering, "I'll get it." She removed the note, read it, and stuffed it into her pocket.

"Well, what is it?" Sheila demanded. Then she caught the look on her mother's face. "Mother, are you blushing?"

Susan sighed. Sheila would find out that evening anyway. "It's from a man called Remus Lupin. I met him at the wedding, and we're going to dinner tonight."

Sheila was astonished; her mother didn't date often. "Is that the man I saw you talking to last night? Silver hair? Is he ... is he a wizard, Mum?"

"Yes." Susan resumed her place at the table, avoiding her daughter's eyes. "He seems like a really nice man, and Hermione knows him well. He teaches at her old boarding school."

Sheila was intrigued. It seemed so out of character for her mother to meet someone and agree to a date the very next day. She sat down across from Susan and asked, "What's he like? You're obviously very interested."

Susan found herself warming to the subject of Remus Lupin, now that it seemed Sheila wasn't going to disapprove. She told Sheila all about their dance and long conversation, carefully leaving out the part about werewolves. That was Remus's secret, and she wanted to leave it to him to decide whether to share it.

"Why were you hiding the note, mum?" Sheila asked when Susan paused. "I can tell you're excited about seeing him tonight."

Susan confessed, "I wasn't sure how you would react to me going on a date - it's been so long."

"Don't be silly. I'm really excited for you! You deserve it. I'm dying to meet the man who has caught your fancy. A wizard - wow! Is he coming here to pick you up?"

Susan nodded and handed her the note. Sheila read:

Susan,

I really enjoyed talking with you last night, and am looking forward to seeing you this evening. Can I pick you up at 5 PM at your flat? Send your answer back with Hedwig (the owl).

Remus

"He sounds really nice, Mum. I wonder why he's picking you up so early."

Susan shrugged and blushed again. "I don't know, but we don't really have anything else going on today, do we?"

Sheila's eyes twinkled. "You'd better answer him."

"Oh ... yes," Susan stammered and reddened further. She grabbed a notepad and dashed off a note. Sheila's eyes widened in amazement as her giggling mother tried to figure out how to attach the note to the owl's leg. When she finally succeeded, she asked, "Now, what do I do?"

Sheila said, "I don't know. Do we just tell it to go, or do we have to take it outside?"

Susan looked at the owl. "Can you take this note to Remus Lupin for me?" she asked, feeling foolish.

The owl hooted, as if answering, and soared elegantly out the window. Susan and Sheila stared at the open window after the owl disappeared. Sheila broke the silence, "That was weird."

Susan didn't seem to hear. She said quietly, as if to herself, "Well, it found its way here, so surely it can find its way home." She smiled as she wondered what surprises were in store on a date with a man who used an owl to communicate.

******************************************************

Harry moaned as the tapping on his bedroom window woke him from a drunken sleep. He forced his eyes open. "Hedwig?" Hedwig continued to peck, so Harry struggled out of bed with a groan. "All right! All right! I'm coming!"

He let Hedwig in and she landed on his shoulder. He stroked her gently for a moment. Harry was glad she had finally forgiven him for leaving her at Hogwarts; she'd refused to go near him for two weeks. But when he tried to remove the paper, she hooted and moved her leg away from his hand. "What's the deal? I thought you weren't mad at me any more."

"You're up," said a voice from the doorway.

Harry started. "What are you doing here?"

"You don't remember, do you?" Remus grimaced and began studying his shoes. "You had a little too much to drink at the reception last night. I brought you home and kipped on your couch." He looked up as Hedwig flew to him, settled on his shoulder, and held out her leg.

"Oh, nice," said Harry, "you'll let him have the letter, but not me."

Remus looked at the envelope. "It's addressed to me, mate. It's a reply to a note I sent this morning."

"Why is it written on paper instead of parchment?" Harry asked.

Remus couldn't help smiling. "Because it's from a Muggle." He changed the subject quickly. "How do you feel this morning?"

"Horrible," Harry replied. "Do you have any of that hangover potion?"

"No, but I've got some strong coffee going."

"Can we owl Snape for some?" It was a mark of how awful Harry felt to be willing to ask Snape for anything.

Remus shook his head. "Believe me, you don't want to be indebted to him. Besides, you know the way to prevent this from happening in the first place, Harry."

"Yeah, yeah," mumbled Harry.

Remus decided not to push it. He didn't need Harry to be angry with him today; he had a favor to ask of him later.

********************************************

Susan answered the door at 5 o'clock sharp. Remus smiled and handed her a perfect red rose. "Good evening," he said.

"Hi," she said, blushing and taking the rose. "Come in."

As he entered the flat, Remus addressed the young woman standing behind Susan. "You must be Sheila. I don't think we met last night."

While Remus and Sheila exchanged small talk, Susan took the opportunity to assess Remus's appearance. After much deliberation, Susan had dressed simply in navy slacks and a white silk blouse. She was pleased to see Remus clad similarly in black slacks and a grey jumper that perfectly matched his hair.

After a few moments, Remus said, "Shall we?"

He turned to open the door. Sheila gave Susan the thumbs-up and mouthed, "Wow, Mom!"

As they walked out the door, Remus stammered, "Er ... I hope you don't mind riding the motorcycle ... I don't have a car."

Susan had never ridden a motorcycle in her life, and was very ill at ease. To stall for time, she asked, "How do you normally get around?"

"I Apparate. Most wizards and witches have the ability to instantly transport themselves."

Susan was bewildered. "You mean you can just disappear and then reappear at another place?"

"Essentially, yes," said Remus, "but since you can't Apparate, we'll have to be a little more conventional." He noticed her wide eyes and said, "Don't worry, the motorcycle has been charmed so it's impossible to fall off. And I'm a very careful driver."

Susan wasn't sure if it made her feel more or less at ease to hear that the motorcycle had been magically enhanced, but she nodded and got on behind Remus. As they started, she gripped him tightly around the waist, but was able to relax bit by bit as they made their way into central London. It was obvious he was driving slowly to ease her fears, and she appreciated his thoughtfulness. She actually began to enjoy the ride; it was exhilarating feeling the breeze in her hair and watching the buildings slip by.

They stopped in front of a book shop. Remus dismounted, grabbed a bundle from the bike, and held her hand while she climbed off. Then, looking around to be sure no one was watching, he pulled a wooden stick from his pocket and muttered something over the motorcycle. Susan realized it was a magic wand as he stuffed it quickly into his pocket.

"What did you do?" she asked.

"Anti-theft," he whispered. "I borrowed the bike from Harry - it belonged to his godfather - I'd feel horrible if anything happened to it." He took her elbow and steered her to the wall the book shop shared with the record store beside it. Susan stared as he reached for the bare wall. All of a sudden, a door appeared, then a pub. Susan gasped, and then realized she had seen this place before.

"This is the entrance to that magical shopping place, isn't it?"

"Yes, Diagon Alley. You don't mind, do you? I got the impression you enjoyed it when you came with Hermione."

Susan smiled. "Oh, yes - I mean, no - I mean - I don't mind - I did enjoy it before," she stammered, realizing she would have gone almost anywhere to spend time with this man.

Remus led her through the Leaky Cauldron and out the back door. He let go of her elbow for a moment and unrolled the bundle he was carrying. It was a black robe. He pulled out his wand, muttered something, and put the robe on over his clothes. Susan was amazed; even though the robe had been rolled up, there were no visible wrinkles. An ironing spell?

Remus pointed his wand at the wall and stepped back while the bricks rearranged themselves into an arch. Even though Susan had seen this once before, it was still fascinating to watch. Remus took her arm again and they walked into Diagon Alley. She couldn't help turning her head from side to side, like a small child trying to see everything at once. As she did so, she noticed many people gawking at her. She suddenly felt self-conscious, realizing that she was dressed very different from everyone else.

Remus stopped outside a shop and said, "Susan, if it's OK with you, I'd like to buy you something that should make you feel more comfortable here."

Susan was intrigued. "What's that?"

Remus shifted uncomfortably and beckoned her into the shop. "A robe," he admitted. "I know it seems a little strange for a first date, but I thought it would keep you from feeling conspicuous."

Susan's eyes narrowed. "You're not embarrassed to be seen with a - what are we called? Moodles? Mubbles?"

"Muggles."

"Right," she said, and started again. "You're not embarrassed to be seen with a Muggle, are you?"

"Oh, no," he assured her, "not at all. I just thought you might be more comfortable dressed as a witch tonight."

Susan realized he was only thinking of her feelings. "You're right. I really don't like to stand out. I appreciate the thought. But you don't have to ..."

"I want to," Remus cut in with a shy smile. "I'm hoping you'll have more occasions to wear it."

Susan was filled with pleasure as she realized that he was already hinting about future dates. She quietly consented as Madam Malkin breezed up to take her measurements.

Forty-five minutes later, Susan and Remus emerged from Madam Malkin's. Susan was now dressed in an elegant blue robe. She had suggested they buy basic black, like his, but he insisted on the color, saying it brought out her eyes.

The sun set as they strolled the streets of Diagon Alley. Remus described what was sold in each of the shops they passed. Susan was particularly interested in Weasley's Wizarding Wheezes, since it was owned by Ron's brothers. They went in and had a brief chat with George. Susan got a fright when George talked Remus into trying a new product; a liquid which causes the drinker's ears to burst into flame. The effects were short-lived, however, and Remus assured her it didn't hurt.

As dusk settled, Remus steered Susan into a restaurant. Wonderful aromas filled the air, and she suddenly realized she was famished. She was having so much fun she had forgotten about dinner. An arrogant-looking wizard seated them at a small table, and they pondered their menus.

Remus broke the silence, "When you decide what you want to drink, just tell your glass. Same with your food, except tell your plate."

Susan stared at Remus, and he broke into a wide grin. "Really," he said. "Watch." He said, "Red wine," to his glass and it filled quickly. "Try it."

Susan couldn't help giggling as she ordered her dinner. As they ate, she asked him about his childhood, and was rewarded with many hilarious stories about the shenanigans he and his friends had organized at Hogwarts. She was surprised to hear he had been such a prankster in school, and she couldn't help being saddened that his three best friends were dead. She wanted to ask about the events that had claimed their lives, but sensed it would be a difficult topic.

She was so enthralled with his stories that she only picked at her food. She finally realized it was cold and said, "Well, I think I'm finished with this," and was startled when the plate emptied and was left perfectly clean.

Remus laughed at her reaction. "Ready for the next customer. I'm finished, too. Would you like to get some dessert?"

They walked across the street to Florean Fortescue's Ice Cream Parlor, ordered ice cream cones, and ambled along the streets of the now sleeping shopping district. Susan felt like a teenager walking hand in hand with Remus in the moonlight and eating her double dip chocolate fudge.

When they finished their ice cream, they sat on a bench and Susan told Remus about her school experiences and her decision to become an accountant. But the longer she talked, the harder it was to concentrate. He had his arm draped behind her along the back of the bench, and he was sitting so close. The look in his eyes was intoxicating. If he would only move his face a little closer ...

Remus seemed to sense her lack of focus, but he must have interpreted it as fatigue, because his expression changed to concern and he said, "It's getting late - I should take you home."

But he didn't move, just continued to stare into her eyes with that look. Then he slowly leaned forward, until his face was just inches from hers ...

... and stood up suddenly. Susan was bewildered; she was sure he was going to kiss her. But he only said, "We should go - the Leaky Cauldron can get a little rough late at night."

When they arrived at Susan's flat, Remus dismounted the motorbike, held out his hand to help Susan off, and walked her to the door. He turned and gazed at her in the moonlight.

Susan finally broke the silence. "Thank you for an amazing evening," she whispered.

Remus answered, "Thank you for going. I really enjoyed it."

Susan's stomach fluttered at the look in his eyes. Remus reached up with his free hand and brushed a strand of black hair out of her eyes, letting his hand softly caress her face and settle on her shoulder. She shivered at his touch and watched as the look in his eyes changed, as if he was fighting a mental battle.

He suddenly let go of her hand and stepped back, stammering, "C-can I contact you tomorrow?"

She was a little startled, but answered, "Please do."

She watched as his silent struggle continued, wondering what it meant. Surely he's not too shy to kiss me? But he only said, "Well ... goodnight."

Susan couldn't stand it any more. Before he could turn around, she stretched up and kissed him lightly on the lips. Remus looked startled, but then he smiled and leaned in for another kiss. Encouraged, Susan put her arms around his neck and deepened the kiss. Remus responded by wrapping his arms around her waist and pulling her closer. When they finally stopped, Susan was out of breath and she could see a flush on Remus's face. He gazed at her for a few moments, and then reluctantly let her go. He kissed her lightly, whispered, "I'll owl you tomorrow," and left.

Susan let herself in and was immediately accosted by Sheila, who was sitting on the sofa watching television. "Did you have fun? What's he like? Are you going to see him again? Why didn't he come in?"

Susan couldn't help giggling; she was absolutely giddy. She tried to answer all the questions in turn, "I had a fabulous time. He's wonderful. Yes, I think so; he's going to owl me tomorrow. I didn't ask him in because I figured you were still up."

"Did he kiss you goodnight?"

Susan blushed furiously. "SHEILA CHANDLER!"

Sheila's grin widened. "He did, didn't he?"

Susan giggled. "That's none of your business, young lady!"

"Mum, I'm so excited for you - he seems really nice. Where did he take you?"

Susan launched into a description of the wonders of Diagon Alley.

*****************************************************

Remus knocked on Harry's door and entered as it opened. Harry was slouched on the sofa, drinking a bottle of butterbeer and watching the Muggle television. Remus was amused that Harry liked the thing so much; it seemed like nonsense to him.

"Thanks for the motorcycle," Remus said as he tossed the keys onto the coffee table.

Harry waved a dismissive hand and asked, "How'd it go?"

Remus smiled. How could he describe such an amazing evening? "OK," he said, and then changed his mind, "Good, actually."

Harry looked up at him and turned off the TV with his wand. "Are you going to see her again?"

Remus felt himself redden, and watched Harry's eyes widen in amazement. "As soon as possible," he said quietly, "but it might be awhile. Term starts this week, and next Saturday is the full moon."

"That's only a couple of weeks."

"Too long."

Harry laughed. "What?" Remus demanded.

"It's just that I've never seen you like this. Remus Lupin, smitten!"

Remus couldn't help being amused at Harry's teasing; he figured he deserved it since he was blushing like a schoolboy. Besides, it felt nice to finally be on the receiving end of it.

"How did she like the motorcycle?" Harry asked.

Remus's expression clouded. "I don't think she did. She didn't say anything, but she seemed a bit skittish."

Suddenly, Remus didn't feel like talking about his evening any more. He made his excuses, thanked Harry again for the bike, and left.

Harry stared at the door for some time, lost in thought. He couldn't help feeling glad for his friend; he certainly deserved some happiness. Harry had never dated a Muggle before, but since he had grown up with Muggles he could imagine the complications with transportation. Hogwarts was far from London, and only one of them could Apparate.

An idea began to form in his mind, and he grinned to himself as it took shape.

***************************************

Susan was awakened from a lovely dream of her first kiss with Remus by the insistent ringing of the telephone. She blindly groped her nightstand until she found the receiver. "Hello?" she croaked.

"You awake?" said her sister's perky voice.

Susan groaned. "No! What's going on, Lou?"

"Sorry. I couldn't stand it - I just had to call before Church. How was your date?"

Susan was suddenly wide awake. She had forgotten Louise knew about her dinner with Remus. "It was fabulous," she gushed. "He's a wonderful man."

"Are you going to see him again?"

"I think so. I want to. He's supposed to contact me today."

"Did he kiss you goodnight?"

"Louise Granger! You're as bad as Sheila! Why does everybody want to know that, anyway? It's personal."

Louise pondered for a moment. "I guess it's a good indication of how much you liked each other. So did he?"

Susan could tell her sister what she couldn't bring herself to tell her daughter. "Well ... actually ... he seemed really shy about it ... so ..."

Susan heard her sister draw in a sharp breath. "YOU kissed HIM?" she asked, sounding scandalized. "Susan Chandler, I had no idea you were so forward!"

"Well ... I could tell he wanted to ... and he was going to leave..."

Louise laughed. "Susan, I'm just giving you a hard time. He sounds great! Tell me all about him! Where did you go?"

Susan sighed in resignation, knowing she'd never have peace until Louise knew every detail of the date. "Look, why don't you and Tom stop by after Church and I'll tell you all about it - we can have an early lunch."

Louise agreed and they rang off.

*******************************************

Remus didn't sleep well; at 5 AM he finally gave up and started working on lesson plans.

6 AM - Remus gave up trying to concentrate on lesson plans and rose to pace his office.

6:30 AM - Remus sat down at his desk to work on lesson plans again.

7 AM - Gave up on lesson plans and went to the staffroom for breakfast with the other teachers.

7:30 AM - Lesson plans again.

7:45 AM - Gave up on getting any planning done at all, and started a letter to Susan.

8:30 AM - Remus looked at the wastebasket overflowing with parchment and realized that even after 37 attempts, he still had no idea what to say to Susan. He got up suddenly, walked out of the castle, and Disapparated as soon as he left school grounds.

******************************************

Susan was stretching after her morning run when she heard the knock at the door. She wondered who would be calling so early on a Sunday, but was very pleased when she opened the door. "Remus! What are you doing here? Come in!"

"I'm sorry ... if you're busy ... that's OK. I just thought I'd see what you were up to."

Susan thought she might burst at the thrill of seeing him again so soon. Especially after the wonderful dreams she'd had...

But she only said, "Come in - I've just made some coffee. Would you like a cup?"

She took his hand and led him into the kitchen, poured two cups of coffee, and sat down at the small kitchen table. He took a seat across from her and gazed into her eyes. She felt her stomach doing flip flops.

"So what brings you to London this Sunday morning?"

"I was going to make up some excuse for 'just being in the neighborhood', but the truth is that I just wanted to see you again. I hope I'm not being too forward."

Susan smiled with delight. "I don't think so. I might have gone to see you if I had known where to look. Where is Hogwarts, anyway?"

"It's in Scotland, near an all-wizarding village called Hogsmeade. But you'd never find Hogwarts - it's invisible to Muggles."

"You came all the way to London from Scotland this morning?"

"Remember, I can Apparate."

"Well, I'm glad you did." She took both of his hands in hers. "I really wanted to tell you again how much I enjoyed last night. But I don't know how to contact you. Do you have a telephone at Hogwarts?"

Remus sighed. "No. Wizards use fireplaces in a similar fashion, but it's illegal to connect Muggle-owned fireplaces to the network. I was going to send you an owl this morning, but I couldn't figure out how to word the note. I really wanted to talk to you. I hope it was OK for me to come here this morning."

"Is something wrong?"

"No ... well, yes ... well, term starts tomorrow, and it's going to be impossible for me to get away from Hogwarts on weekdays while school is in session. I can't see you next weekend, because the full moon is Saturday, so I can't see you for the next two weeks. I didn't want to tell you that in a note, because I was afraid you would think I just didn't want to see you again. But the truth is that I just don't know how I'm going to get through the next two weeks without seeing you. And I didn't want to put that in a letter because I didn't want to scare you off by sounding desperate. Of course, I probably do anyway."

Susan ignored everything Remus had just said except the bit about how badly he was going to miss her. She felt as if she would float away. She got up without letting go of his hands, walked around the table, and pulled him to his feet. They melted into a passionate kiss. When they finally pulled away, she wrapped her arms around his neck and buried her face in his shoulder. The scent of his robe made her think of an old house, but it wasn't unpleasant. "Remus Lupin, I think I'm falling in love with you," she whispered before she realized she was saying it. She was appalled at herself; she had only met the man two days earlier.

He pulled back just enough to look into her eyes, and asked, "Is that what this is? I've never felt this way before." He kissed her again.

They broke apart suddenly when they heard footsteps on the kitchen floor. Sheila laughed and said, "Don't mind me - carry on." Remus and Susan quickly untangled themselves as Sheila poured a cup of coffee. "Good to see you again, Remus."

"I just stopped by ... to ... to ..." Remus stammered.

Sheila laughed. "Yes, I can see that."

Susan changed the subject by asking, "Sheila, what time are you leaving for school?"

"Around two or three. Why?"

"Lou and Tom are stopping by after Church for lunch."

"Ok, I'll hang around."

Remus blushed. "I'm sorry; you have plans. You probably have a lot to do ..."

"Please stay, Remus," Susan cut in. "This is nothing formal; we just arranged it this morning. I know Lou and Tom would like to see you again."

Sheila interjected, "Yeah, I'll bet Aunt Lou is very curious about you."

"SHEILA!" shouted Susan.

Sheila ran out the door before her mother could get revenge.

Susan turned to Remus, who was looking very uncomfortable. She felt angry with Sheila for teasing, but she forced her voice to be calm. "Remus, please don't go. You just got here."

"I don't want to intrude."

"You're not," she insisted. "Besides, I need help fixing lunch. Sheila's hopeless in the kitchen."

"How do you know I'm not?"

"A guess?"

Remus turned out to be very helpful in the kitchen, probably because of all the years he had lived alone. He peeled carrots and potatoes and set the table for five. It felt so natural, working together in the kitchen and chatting.

When the roast was in the oven, Susan turned to Remus. "Now I've got to get in the shower - do you mind? You can watch the television or something."

"Actually," said Remus, "I need to run an errand. I'll be back in about 45 minutes, OK?"

"That's perfect," Susan smiled. "Lou and Tom will be here about then." She kissed him lightly before he Disapparated.

******************************************

When Remus returned, Susan was dumbfounded. "What on earth ...?"

Remus grinned. "It's an owl. It's for you - so we can communicate more easily."

Susan was overwhelmed. "Remus ... you got this for me ... this is wonderful ... but I don't know anything about owls ..."

"You'll be fine. Owls are very intelligent and easy to care for." He briefly described basic owl care, then opened the cage and gently removed the owl from her perch. He stroked the silky grey feathers as he softly said, "I bought you for my lady friend. Her name is Susan. Hopefully, you'll be carrying a lot of letters between us. I live at Hogwarts."

Susan watched, fascinated, as Remus talked to the owl. When he paused, she asked, "What's his name?"

"Her," Remus corrected. "And that's for you to decide."

Remus held out his hands, and Susan took the owl gently, if a little awkwardly. She stroked the grey feathers; they felt nice. The owl regarded her solemnly, as if waiting for something. Susan thought for a minute, and then said, "Leia. I like Leia. Is that OK?"

The owl hooted once as if satisfied. Susan smiled at her new pet and sat down on the couch.

Remus sat down beside her and asked, "Leia is a beautiful name, but where did you get it?"

Susan grinned sheepishly. "She's the heroine in one of my favorite stories."

Sheila walked in from her bedroom and said, "Mother, what is that?"

Susan smiled at Sheila and answered, "Remus got me a pet."

"Cool - so you can send notes back and forth. What's its name?"

"HER name is Leia."

Sheila giggled. "Mum, only you would name a pet after a character in Star Wars!"

Remus cut in, "Star Wars? I've never heard that story."

"It's Mum's favorite movie," Sheila explained.

"A movie," Remus said, eyes narrowed in concentration. "The moving pictures - like the television - only bigger, right? I've never seen one."

Sheila and Susan gaped at him, but there was a knock at the door, and Sheila turned around to admit her aunt and uncle. Tom and Louise Granger looked surprised to see Remus sitting comfortably on the sofa next to Susan ... with an owl. But they recovered as Remus rose to shake hands.

Lunch was delicious and merry. After they exhausted the topic of the wedding, Remus and Susan told Tom and Louise about their visit to Diagon Alley. Susan noticed Remus seemed to feel comfortable with her family, which pleased her.

When the food was gone and the conversation waned, Tom said, "Remus, let's walk down the street and get a pint. I know the girls are dying to talk about you."

Susan was appalled. "TOM!" But Louise only giggled.

Remus reddened, but agreed, and followed Tom out of the kitchen. Sheila excused herself as well, and Lou started talking immediately. "He seems really nice, Susan! I didn't know he would be here today."

"I didn't either - it was a really nice surprise. He said he just wanted to see me - it will be a couple of weeks before we can see each other again - with school - and all."

Louise suddenly remembered something. "Professor Lupin ... wait a minute ... he's the one that's a werewolf, isn't he?"

Susan was surprised, but then remembered that their daughter had been a student at Hogwarts; of course she would know about that. She answered, "Yes. He told me about that at the wedding. He seemed to think it was important that I knew."

Louise nodded. "Yes, I can remember Hermione saying he was her favorite teacher. Still, I wonder if it could cause complications in a permanent relationship."

"Louise! We just met!" Susan scolded.

Louise smiled significantly at Susan. "I know, but your feelings for him are very intense, aren't they?"

Susan sighed; she couldn't fool her sister. "I think I'm falling in love with him. I've never felt this way about a man before - not even Rupert. Is this even possible? Two days ago I had never even heard of him!"

Louise pondered. "Well," she said slowly, "Tom insists he fell in love with me the first time he saw me. Of course, with us it wasn't a mutual thing at first - I needed a lot of persuasion to even go out with him." They both giggled a little at this. "But after watching you two at lunch, I suspect Remus feels the same way about you."

Susan nodded. "I think he does." She told Louise about their conversation that morning.

"Wow! I think it might be good that you won't see each other for a couple of weeks. Separation is a good test for relationships."

Susan sighed. "You're probably right - but I feel like it's going to kill me."

"I've got a piece of advice for you, if you want to hear it."

"Please."

Louise looked intently at Susan. "I'm guessing you've only talked about the more agreeable aspects of your lives, am I right?"

"Except for the werewolf thing at the wedding - yes." Susan suspected she knew where Louise was going with this.

"Tell him about your marriage. Talking about the unpleasant parts of your lives would be another good test of the depth of your feelings. And I'm sure there are things about his past that you're curious about - ask him. Tom and I can talk about anything, which is the main reason our marriage has been successful."

"Yes," agreed Susan, "communication was a major problem with Rupert." She smiled at Louise. "Thanks, Lou."

Louise returned her smile. "I'm just so happy to see you like this! I really hope this works out for you two."

************************************************

The pub was packed with enthusiastic football fans, all staring at the television screens hanging from the ceiling. Remus couldn't help being amused as Thomas Granger tried to explain the sport. It seemed so strange; the ball was perfectly round, the players couldn't use their hands, and they were running on the ground instead of flying. But the patrons of the pub seemed very emotional about the game; it was difficult to converse over the shouts and cheers.

When coverage of the game paused for an advertisement, Tom suddenly changed the subject. "You have some very strong feelings for Susan, haven't you?"

Remus was taken aback by the blunt question; he felt like a schoolboy under scrutiny. He smiled and said, "I assure you, I only have honorable intentions toward your sister-in-law."

Thomas laughed. "Sorry, Remus; I didn't mean to sound like an overprotective father. It's just that I've known Susan for over twenty years, and I remember how hard it was for her when her marriage failed. I don't want to see her hurt again."

Remus considered confiding in this man. He hadn't had a friend his own age since Sirius died, and he had very little experience with dating. He smiled to himself as he realized Susan was probably telling Louise about their conversation that morning, so Tom would most likely hear about it anyway. He took a deep breath and said, "You know I'm a werewolf, right?"

Thomas looked puzzled for a moment, and then seemed to remember something. "Right - you're the one! Is that dangerous for Susan?"

Remus shook his head. "No, not at all. But there's a lot of prejudice against werewolves in the wizarding world, so I haven't had many opportunities for dating. I've never felt like this about anyone before, but I think I'm falling in love with Susan. Is that possible - we just met?"

Thomas laughed softly. "Oh, yes. I fell in love with Lou the first time I laid eyes on her. But I understand it's very rare." Tom clapped a hand on Remus's shoulder. "Look, you seem like a nice enough fellow, and I'm really not worried. I just feel obligated to give you the "boyfriend talk" since I'm the closest thing Susan has to a brother.

"Now what I would really like to talk to you about is what Hermione was really doing all those years at Hogwarts."

*************************************

Remus walked into the Great Hall with Harry, glad he had convinced his young friend to accompany him to the Hogwarts Welcoming Feast. In Remus's opinion, Harry was too thin and spent way too much time in his flat. He was also hoping Harry would take the opportunity to talk to Professor Snape about Divination.

Remus observed Harry as he warmly greeted many of the teachers, looked reminiscently at the first years, watched the Sorting Ceremony with interest, and gazed almost longingly at the Gryffindor table during dinner. It was amazing, with all Harry had been through at Hogwarts, he still seemed to miss it. Remus couldn't help wishing, as he had many times over the years, that Harry had been able to have a normal childhood, a childhood without Voldemort.

Remus was snapped out of his musings by Severus Snape's voice. "Mr. Potter, please come to my office after dinner. I have something to discuss with you."

"OK," agreed Harry, looking down at his food. Remus was amused that he looked a little nauseated.

Remus caught Snape's eye and mouthed, "Thanks," grateful that he didn't have to broach the unpleasant topic with Harry.

As the students began to finish dinner, Remus noticed many of them were watching Harry, a few were even pointing. Remus sighed and leaned over to the teenager, whispering, "If you're finished, let's duck out the side before you have to start signing autographs."

Harry looked up and realized that the students had figured out who he was. He nodded once to Remus and they slipped out the side door before anyone could approach him.

*************************************************

Harry made his way to the dungeons with a sick feeling in his stomach. Snape had always hated him, and his Occlumency lessons as a Hogwarts student had been physically and mentally draining. He knocked on the door and entered when prompted. He noticed the décor in Snape's office had not improved. There never seemed to be enough light, which was probably a good thing. The walls were lined with shelves brimming with bottles and vials containing an assortment of foul and slimy-looking substances. A large container of a poisonous-looking green liquid occupied a place of honor on the Professor's desk.

"Sit down," Snape said. Harry felt like a student in detention.

"Well," Snape began, "it seems our most famous former student has shown signs of yet another talent. I'm sorry to say this will probably accomplish nothing more than to swell your inflated ego even further, just like your father."

Harry remained silent, refusing to be baited. Severus Snape and James Potter had hated each other as schoolmates, and Snape had extended that enmity to James's son.

Snape continued, "No one can truly teach Divination, however they might try." Harry knew he was talking about Professor Trelawney. "But the Headmaster seems to think I can help you develop your ability."

Harry took a deep breath. "What do you have in mind?"

"As you know, the study of Occlumency involves learning to sense when another mind is seeking access to yours, and to block it. The reverse is also possible, but only for people with the Gift. Professor Dumbledore thinks you might have the ability to probe other minds since the Dark Lord had that ability."

"Legilimency? But that's not the same as predicting the future."

"No, but some of the techniques are similar. First, you will learn to clear your mind - that shouldn't be much of a stretch for you - and then you can learn to probe outward. The Headmaster is hopeful that these disciplines will enable you to focus and control your impressions of the future. I am not so optimistic. We shall see."

Harry ignored the barbs and asked, "Is it possible that I can predict the future because I can see into other minds and read their intent?"

Snape's lip curled slightly. "That is an interesting thought, Potter. However, Legilimency is normally directed toward a specific person, not specific events."

Harry had a sudden thought. "You have the ability to probe other minds, don't you? When I was a student here, it seemed you had an uncanny ability to catch me doing ... er ... things I shouldn't."

The Professor nodded once. "Maybe you're not as dim-witted as I thought."

Harry continued, "That's how you were able to spy on Voldemort." Snape cringed at the mention of the name, but Harry ignored him because something else had occurred to him. "Professor Snape, if you could read my mind ... you should have known ... I never wanted all the attention I got. I just wanted to be a normal kid."

Snape raised his eyebrows and sneered. "I told you that Legilimency is more subtle than mind-reading. But you can't expect me to believe all those stunts you performed during school were NOT for attention! You went after the Philosopher's Stone, the Chamber of Secrets, and Sirius Black, you started an illegal club, you organized a rescue within the Ministry of Magic ... No, your shenanigans far exceeded anything James Potter ever came up with."

Harry finally lost his temper. "Look, I'm sick of being compared to my father! I'm not like him! I saw how he was in your Pensieve, and frankly, I wasn't impressed." Snape's eyes glittered dangerously; they had never talked about the day Harry had intruded into Snape's memories of James and his friends.

Harry lowered his eyes and continued, "I saw how he strutted around campus, ruffling his hair and trying to get the girls to notice him. It was disgusting. And the way he treated you was horrible!" Harry raised his eyes to Snape's face, but it was livid.

"Potter, I don't want or need your pity!" Snape said in a low and dangerous voice.

Snape's anger shocked Harry into realizing what he had done; he couldn't believe he had confessed his resentment toward his father to his enemy! Harry found his voice, and protested, "I don't pity you. It's just ... I don't know ... I wonder sometimes why my mum ever married him."

Snape gripped the desk, his knuckles white, as if trying to gain control of himself. Finally he said, "I think we've had enough for tonight, Potter."

"But we haven't ..."

"GET OUT, POTTER!"

Harry gave the Professor a bewildered look, then rose to leave. As he reached the door, Snape said, "Potter."

Harry said, "Yes?" without turning.

"I expect you Thursday evening at seven sharp!"

Harry turned at looked at Snape. He appeared to have relaxed somewhat, but his eyes were still smoldering. "Thanks," Harry muttered, managing a small smile, and left the dungeon as quickly as he could.

**************************************

Remus looked up expectantly as the owls carrying the morning mail swept into the Great Hall. You're being silly; you just saw her yesterday. But he couldn't help hoping ...

His heart gave a flutter and his eyes lit up when he spotted the small, grey owl. She landed neatly in front of him and extended her leg. "Good job, Leia," he murmured. "Why don't you follow the other owls to the Owlery and have a nap, and I'll send you back with an answer after classes. OK?"

Leia hooted in agreement and flew away.

Remus turned his attention to the letter, realizing from its weight that it was very long. He decided not to open it in the Great Hall, but couldn't resist holding it up to his nose briefly to breathe in her scent before pocketing it. He glanced around quickly to be sure no one had noticed, and saw Professor Snape watching him with an odd expression. He smiled and said, "Good morning, Severus. Lovely day, isn't it?"

Snape looked up at the ceiling, which was bewitched to copy the sky outside. Remus followed his gaze. Thick, mournful clouds hovered overhead, threatening rain any moment. He grinned at Snape, daring him to mention the letter. But Snape only nodded once and returned his attention to his breakfast.