Chapter 4 - Things Once Hidden- Angel and Liam
Story Title : Angel and Liam; Beginnings
Chapter Title Chapter 4 - Things Once Hidden
Chapter Summary: First day back and Hogwarts and a day in London.
Author : siriusmoonlite
Rating: PG13
Liam jerked awake, screaming. His whole body shook. He picked up the sheet from the floor and wiped his face.
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Chapter 4
Things Once Hidden
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And then I looked up at the sun and saw the sky
And the way that gravity pulls on you and I, on you and I
Can you hear my heart beating
Can you hear that sound
Cause I can't help crying
And I wont look down (song: Gravity...Artist: Embrace)
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The young child lay wide awake. The blanket in which he was so lovingly wrapped formed a cocoon around him. The sound of his mother's singing filled his ears. She knew the song was his favourite and it was repeated again and again.
Normally the child would have hummed the tune with his mother, but not today. His mother's singing may have been sweet and calm, but what he felt gave him pause. She was afraid......very afraid. He knew it. Something was very wrong.
Where was the warmth of her embrace? Where was the beat of her heart? Where was the wonderful smell that was her? He wished to breathe it in. Yet these things were nowhere to be found.
He looked around to see only rainbow lights. He felt the soft earth on which he was laid. There was nothing else....nothing except that beautiful continuous singing.
Yet she hadn't left him completely alone. She was inside him, telling him she loved him, embracing his heart.
The child reached out to her and embraced her heart. He knew she was crying. Her embrace became painful....
And then......a piercing scream shot through his head, followed by deafening silence....everything within him was silent.... Yet the beautiful song continued.
"Mama?" the child cried. But it was no use. He knew she was no longer with him.
"Mama!" he screamed. He struggled to loosen the blanket and crawl out of that place, but he couldn't move.
Liam jerked awake, screaming. His whole body shook. He picked up the sheet from the floor and wiped his face.
He was glad Angel was a heavy sleeper. Nothing ever awakened him. No way did he want to try to explain this one to him.
He was upset at himself for being so careless. He couldn't allow himself to fall asleep next to Angel again. He always left the bed just after Angel fell asleep. His excuse for sleeping elsewhere was that it was hard for him to sleep with Angel's snoring.
Angel told Liam that he always slept better when Liam was beside him and he would work on an anti-snoring spell.
The truth was that Liam slept very well when he lay next to Angel, a little too well. And that was dangerous. Liam knew he talked in his sleep and what if he woke up screaming like tonight? It was better if they slept apart.
Liam slid out of bed and tip-toed across the room. He stepped into the hall and quietly shut the door behind him.
Angel opened his eyes and sat up.
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Every month after full moon, Liam took care of Angel. He made sure that Angel took the required soaks and applied the needed medicines.
“Damn Angel. Just look at you. You’re covered in cuts.”
Liam knelt over the tub massaging balm into Angel’s shoulders.
Angel winced. “Look who’s talking. Have you taken a gander at your face?”
Liam got up and walked to the mirror. He studied his face from several angles. “Not so bad.”
Angel complained, “Can you believe Francesca? Jeeeez. We get a few days off and she sends our books. Bad enough we have to go back at all.”
“But I like school. Kinda miss it really. Well, not potions. But ancient runes, care of magical creatures….”
“No problem,” Angel interrupted, “You have a magical creature right here. So come take care of me.”
Liam knelt over the tub again. He came close enough so Angel felt warm breath on his neck.
“Angel?”
“Hmmm….”
“I was thinking…” He paused and became still.
Angel just lay, soaking up the warmth, feeling Liam’s rough hands massaging him, wishing that Liam would quit breathing on him and just kiss him.
“Angel?”
“Hmmm?”
“Do you think we would have done it if you hadn’t been bitten?”
“Sure we would have. I couldn’t resist you forever.”
Liam continued. “Oh….yeh…guess we would have at that. But I was thinking about animagi. Do you think we would have?”
Angel contemplated, “Dunno…yeh…. sure we would have.”
“I think so too.” Liam sat again in quiet contemplation. Angel had almost dozed off.
“Angel?”
“Mmmm?”
“I was wondering. What animal are you?”
Angel grumbled. “You know very well what animal I am.”
“I know that. But what other animal? If you didn’t get the bite and all.”
“I never thought about it. Does it matter?”
“Maybe and maybe not.”
“Liam, what’s going on? Why all these questions?”
Liam didn’t answer. He just stared. He was serious, too serious.
Angel teased, “Wouldn’t have those skinny legs like yours.”
“Oh ho, look who’s talkin’. Look at those chicken legs you got.”
“Chicken legs…” Angel lifted one into the air, “Pretty nice if I say so myself.”
“Oh…yeh.” Liam rolled his eyes. “Chicken l-e-e-gs,” he whispered teasingly. He began clucking.
“Stop.”
“Make me.”
Angel turned and took a swing, but Liam dodged it.
“Bonehead,” Liam punched Angel in the shoulder.
“You fuckin’ arse,” Angel stood up, intending to return the blow. He swayed dizzily and fell over the side of the tub, ending up flat on the floor. He didn’t get up. He lay there, unmoving.
“Angel? Angel? Are you OK?” Liam was upset. Angel was still weak from his transformation. If Angel was hurt, it was his fault.
He knelt over Angel and leaned forward to see if he was conscious. He put his cheek against Angels. He felt breath. At least Angel was alive. He sighed with relief. Should he lift him and put him into the bed? He couldn’t leave him on the cold stone floor.
Angel reached out, pulled Liam close and kissed him. He smiled and looked at Liam, a glint in his eye. “Gotcha!”
“You fuckin’ prat!”
Angel loosened his hold and Liam pulled away, still lying atop Angel, but resting on his palms. He looked into Angel’s face. His breaths were shallow and quick.
Angel’s breaths matched Liam’s. He stared up at Liam, waiting.
Liam tried to do his best stern face, but it was no use. He cupped Angel’s head, cushioning it so that he wouldn’t really give Angel a head wound from hitting it against the floor. He yanked Angel’s head towards him and kissed him roughly.
The school books remained unopened until they returned to Hogwarts.
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Their monthly vacation was over. To Angel’s dismay, they were forced to return to school. School was such a bore and a waste of time. He could learn a lot more if he spent his time doing other things.
Liam walked back into the Gryffindor dorm to find a big lump in the center of Angel’s bed.
“Get the hell up, Angel. I’ve already had breakfast. Classes start in ten minutes.”
It was their first day back at Hogwarts. Liam was feeling very good. He had slept well in his own bed with the curtains drawn and the silencing charm back on.
Angel grumbled, turned over and pulled the covers back over his head.
Liam bounced on the bed and pulled the covers and pillow off Angel, throwing them on the floor. He continued bouncing and laughing. But Angel wouldn’t wake up. He buried his face into the mattress.
Liam knew this would take drastic measures. He reached down and began tickling him.
"Quit!" Angel took a swing at Liam, but missed. “I’m up. Quit!”
Angel grumbled and slowly sat up. He looked awful. His eyes were puffy. “Couldn’t sleep last night. I feel like shit.” He sniffed his arm pits and grimaced. “You go ahead, Liam. I gotta shower.”
“I’ll try to keep the greasy git from missing you. Just hurry.”
Angel plodded across the floor and into the bath. Soon the room was filled with steam. He drank in the warmth and began to feel human again. He closed his eyes and sang loudly, “Each morning I get up I die a little….can barely stand on my feet….Take a look in the mirror and cry ….Lord what you're doing to me…. I have spent all my years in believing you ……but I just can't get no relief, Lord!....can anybody find me…”
“….somebody to love….” came Liam’s voice as soap filled hands caressed Angel’s chest.
“But you’ll miss class.”
“Uh-huh.” Liam kissed Angel’s neck and moved his hands down, now washing Angel’s navel.
“B-u-u-……..damn.”
A while later the boys lay on the shower floor. They were spent.
“Liam, you missed potions.”
Liam laughed. “I did, didn’t I?” He kissed Angel’s ear. “Let’s go to London, skip everything. And no excuse about the headmaster missing us. He is off campus today. Has a meeting of some kind. Probably at the ministry."
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A few minutes later, Angel sat on the edge of the bed, kicking his feet. He wished Liam would hurry. This was boring and there was so much of London to see. If Liam wasn’t ready soon, they might be missed and someone might come looking for them.
“Ok, ready.” Liam sat next to Angel. “Just one thing before we go. Close your eyes.”
“Why?”
“It’s a surprise. Come on, close your eyes.”
Angel shut his eyes and Liam gave him a quick hug.
‘Ok, you can open them now.”
“Whoa,” Angel looked around, “Where are we?”
“Keep your voice down, Angel. We’re in the cellar of the Weasley’s joke shop. Don’t want them to hear us.”
Angel’s mouth was open as he gaped at Liam. ‘You can apparate?”
Liam wasn’t paying attention to Angel. Instead he was listening for any movement. “Come on, think the coast is clear.”
‘But Liam, no one can apparate out of Hogwarts.”
Liam was half-way up the steps, “Just don’t tell the Gwydions.”
A few minutes later they stepped out of the Leaky Cauldron and into muggle London. Although the pub had a few morning visitors, Angel and Liam had walked through unnoticed.
Liam’s stomach growled loudly “Let’s get some breakfast. I’m starving.”
“You already ate.”
Liam shrugged. “Still hungry.”
“Can't believe it was your idea to skip class.”
“Why not?”
"Just doesn’t seem like you.”
“You don’t know everything. There’s a lot about me you don’t know,” Liam shot back.
Angel wanted to tell Liam off for keeping secrets, but decided against it. It was such a beautiful day. The sun was shining and a warm breeze blew through the London streets. He put his arm around Liam and they sauntered towards the café.
‘Hey mister,” a voice came from behind. They turned and saw a small boy with tears in his eyes. “Have you seen my dog?” He held up an empty leash.
“Is he an auburn and white toy Spaniel?” asked Liam.
“Uh-huh,” the boy sniffed.
“I see a very nice Spaniel over there. Is that him?” A young man sat on a stoop. The dog sat on his lap licking his face. The man scratched the dog behind his ears.
“I’ll get him,” Angel ran forward.
The man looked up as Angel approached him. “Yours?” he asked.
“Naw.” Angel reached forward to pet the dog.
“Nice dog, isn’t he? Too bad pets aren't allowed in my flat. Sure would like one like this.”
There was something very familiar about this man. “Have we met?” Angel asked.
“Don’t think so. I meet lots of people. Would sure remember you, though,” he winked.
Liam walked up and snatched the dog. His stomach growled loudly. “Let’s go Angel. I need food.”
He nearly pulled Angel away and into the nearest cafe.
Soon they were sitting at a table covered with trays that were piled high with pancakes and sausage.
Liam took a huge bite of pancake and washed it down with coffee.
"Keep eating like that and you'll make yourself sick," Angel said as he smothered everything on his plate in syrup.
Liam shrugged and took another bite.
“May I join you?”
It was the auburn haired man who had retrieved the lost dog.
“I usually have breakfast alone. Would love the company.” He didn’t wait for an answer. He pulled up a chair and sat down.
“Pancakes and sausage. Look great. Oh, excuse my rudeness. I am Nathan.” He extended his hand to Angel. “….and you are…?”
“Angel. Plenty to go around. Help yourself.”
“And you are?” Nathan held his hand out to Liam, but Liam didn’t take it. Instead he furrowed his eyebrows and stared, “Liam.”
"You two out on the town?"
Angel nodded.
"So, where are you going?"
"Dunno. It is up to Liam. He comes here quite often."
"Does he now? While your here you need to go to the theater. Nothing like live theater."
Angel and Nathan continued to talk. But Liam sat quietly, his arms folded. He didn’t like Nathan. No, that was wrong. He hated Nathan. Just sitting with him made Liam nauseous. There was something about him that wasn’t right. Why couldn’t Angel feel it?
Nathan finally became quiet and looked at his watch. “Getting late. I must take my leave.” He looked Angel directly in the eyes, “Listen, my flat is in the building where you met me earlier, number 6B. Next time you’re in London look me up. Would love to have you.” He looked at Liam and smiled teasingly, “You too hun.”
He stood up, “Oh, and thank you for the food and the wonderful company.” He turned and strutted out of the café.
“Jeeeez Liam, that was rude.”
“I don’t like him.”
“Well I do.....Anyway, let's get going. What shall we do first?”
They spent the rest of the day going through London. Angel made it clear he was not going to any museum. He wanted to have fun. Liam assured him that museums were cool. It was interesting what muggles collected. They often had some very dangerous items on display without knowing it. But Angel would have no part of it.
Angel looked at the sky. “It’s about three. Divination class is just over. This is great.”
“Angel, let’s stay a while longer and have tea here.”
“Ok. So, what shall we see next? Any bike shops around?”
“I would like to get some sweets to take back.” He paused. “But first….” They had just rounded the corner and were standing in front of huge display window.”
“….let’s go inside. This is the coolest antique bookstore.”
“Books?” Angel scowled.
“You’ll like it,” Liam assured him. “Come on. Francesca and her Aunt Jessica love the place.”
The bell tinkled as they opened the door, signaling to the shop owner that a customer had entered. Liam immediately headed to the travel aisle. "Come on. I want you to see this.” He pulled out a book on Australia and sat down to read it.
“Angel, where are you from?”
Angel sat on the floor next to him. “Not exactly sure; someplace in Australia.”
They began leafing through the book together. The pages were filled with wonderful animals neither of them had ever heard of. Liam especially liked the birds.
“Hey, maybe you’re a dodo bird.”
“Huh?”
“You know, you could have been one if you didn’t get bit. Maybe you’re a dodo bird.”
“They’re extinct.”
“So? You could still be one.”
“S-h-h-h," Angel ducked.
The bell over the door tinkled and Aunt Jessica walked in.
“Told you she loves it. Let’s get out before she sees us.”
“No. Just stay quiet and hope she doesn’t walk down this aisle.”
Luckily she headed for the aisle with books on folklore.
Angel and Liam sat quietly together on the floor. It seems like hours later and Aunt Jessica was still browsing folklore books. Angel and Liam found cuddling very pleasant, but it was getting difficult to stay quiet.
The bell tinkled again as the door opened yet one more time.
“Shit!” whispered Angel. “Look who it is…headmaster Lupin. We’re in trouble now.”
“Not if you quit hissing and stay quiet.”
Lupin looked around the shop and walked directly to the books on folklore.
“Hello Remus.”
He smiled and pecked her on the cheek.
“It is so nice to see you Jessica.”
“So Remus, what’s all the mystery. Your letter said you needed me to do you a favour. How can I help?”
“That can wait Jessica. It is nearly tea time. Would you care to join me?”
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Remus and Jessica sat across the table from each other. Jessica had her hand on the table. Remus' hand was laid on top of hers.
"I am so happy to see you Remus. Seems like forever.
"Not quite that long Jessica, but I have missed you. How are you?"
"Hanging in there. Much better now you're here."
Remus smiled.
"And you Remus. How are you? Bo and Lalena told me about Sirius returning and all."
"Bo and Lalena?"
She giggled. "You know me Remus. Always calling things different names. But Clarissa always wanted to call her Lalena. It was that hard headed brother-in-law of mine who insisted on calling her Francesca, a beautiful name, but...So now that Clarissa has passed on..."
Jessica paused and then began again, "Lalena is doing as well as can be expected. I'm a pretty sad substitute for Clarissa, but I promised her I'd look after her little girl."
"Clarissa knew you'd take good care of her little girl just as you looked after her when she was ill. You were a good friend to her, Jessica." He paused. "You owe it to Frencesca to let her know about your past. Have you told her yet?"
"In time Remus. She just lost her mother. One thing at a time."
The waiter came around with the tea and biscuits.
"You know Remus, Bo has visited quite often and he is a great help.....Oh.." she giggled, "I call him Bo. He’s such a nice young man. Don't know how he got that name, but Clarissa started calling him Bo and it stuck."
Angel guffawed. "Bo." He began giggling.
Liam turned bright red. "Hush, they'll here us."
Angel put his fist into his mouth, trying to keep from laughing.
"Remus, did you ever think of how our lives would have been different if circumstances had been just a little different?"
“Like me not being bitten?"
"Yes and if my parents didn't say no when my invitation came."
Ii>"Whoa!" Liam said aloud.
"Hush Liam."
"Did you know?"
Angel shook his head.
"Things would have been different if you had gone to Hogwarts. But we may not have become such good friends. I loved out bookstore meetings."
"Yup, all these years and two husbands later and here I am, still frequenting the same bookstore."
"I am so glad you still love our bookstore. Whenever I pass by I think of your smile and pleasant conversation."
"Remus," Jessica interrupted, "I need to ask you....I need to know what you think.."
Remus sat quietly and waited for her to settle.
'....about dreams. Are they real or just wishing?"
"Well Jessica, what do you think?"
"I've had the same dream over and over for the longest time....about...well, you know who it would be."
"Your Slytherin?"
She sighed, "Yes, my dearest Slytherin.”
"It's normal you would think of him now. Now that Clarissa has passed, it is just you and Francesca. I don't doubt you would think of your first love."
"He was cute wasn't he?" she seemed to be picturing him.
Remus smiled and patted her hand.
"Mum and dad hated him," Jessica reminisced, "but nothing they could do. We were of age...."
This time Remus interrupted, "And the look on Lucius' face when he found out....priceless."
"Yes it was....dear Lucius. He couldn’t believe a relative of his would marry the likes of me."
She became sober.
"I know he passed on years ago, just before James and Lily. But I can't help it. I feel him around me all the time now....and my dreams...I dream of him. He holds his hands out to me. I take them and we hold each other close. We dance. He whispers that we can now spend eternity together."
"Listen Jessica, Sirius and I are living at Grimmauld Place. Liam and Angel are staying there are well.” Lupin looked directly at the spot where Liam and Angel were hiding and then continued. “We would love to have you come and visit for a while."
Jessica's heart raced. "I would love to see Sirius again. Are you sure it wouldn't be too much trouble?"
"Trouble? If there's any trouble, it's that companion of mine. Now he's trouble, not you."
"If you're sure. It would be good for Lalena to get out for a while. She and Bo get on well too."
“It’s settled then. Francesca has a few weeks of school left and can come by after term is over. You can arrive any time before that, today if you’d like.”
“Thank you Remus. I’d like that. Give me a day or two to get things together and I’ll be there.” Her eyes moistened and tears began to fall. “It has been lonely.”
“My headmaster duties keep me at Hogwarts, but Sirius will be at Grimmauld and I visit often. In a few weeks, we will all be together."
“It’s fine Remus. I can manage for a few weeks. Being there again will be bring back memories....but I'll be fine.
She looked at the table. “I guess I'll bump into Cissy and other family members......" A shiver went down her spine. "Remus, I’m not sure at all that I can do this. But I have to, for Lalena. Are you sure it's ok with Sirius?” ”
“Listen, I know you vowed never to step foot in the wizarding world again, but it is time. You’ve hidden among the muggles for too long. Sirius and I will help you all we can. We both want you to come back.”
Remus squeezed her hand. “Do you think you can try?”
“I think so. The pain is less and so is the anger. But I miss him more now than when he was taken from me.” She sniffed, “I knew he was a wizard, but….” her voice trailed off.
Lupin began, “You begged him to move to muggle London where he would be safe.”
She nodded. “And then the dark mark above our house…. “ she sighed, “I wasn’t there. I should have been with him…..Instead…”
“….you were in our bookshop, scouring the shelves for ancient spells and protective charms. You did everything you could for him. He knew that once he joined with Voldemort there was no turning back.”
Jessica sighed, "I know he wasn't as strong as Sirius..he caved in to the family's wishes. Well, except for marrying me. His family hated me, even though...."
Lupin smiled, "You were more pure blood than any of them."
"He was a good man, he just made mistakes. I guess death was better than Azkaban..." She looked at Lupin, her eyes pleading for affirmation. Yet he gave her none.
Instead they sat in silence, holding hands, remembering those years of loss.
Finally Jessica whispered, "Has Sirius forgiven him yet?"
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Chapter Listing
Chapter Title Chapter 4 - Things Once Hidden
Chapter Summary: First day back and Hogwarts and a day in London.
Author : siriusmoonlite
Rating: PG13
Liam jerked awake, screaming. His whole body shook. He picked up the sheet from the floor and wiped his face.
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Chapter 4
Things Once Hidden
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And then I looked up at the sun and saw the sky
And the way that gravity pulls on you and I, on you and I
Can you hear my heart beating
Can you hear that sound
Cause I can't help crying
And I wont look down (song: Gravity...Artist: Embrace)
@@@
The young child lay wide awake. The blanket in which he was so lovingly wrapped formed a cocoon around him. The sound of his mother's singing filled his ears. She knew the song was his favourite and it was repeated again and again.
Normally the child would have hummed the tune with his mother, but not today. His mother's singing may have been sweet and calm, but what he felt gave him pause. She was afraid......very afraid. He knew it. Something was very wrong.
Where was the warmth of her embrace? Where was the beat of her heart? Where was the wonderful smell that was her? He wished to breathe it in. Yet these things were nowhere to be found.
He looked around to see only rainbow lights. He felt the soft earth on which he was laid. There was nothing else....nothing except that beautiful continuous singing.
Yet she hadn't left him completely alone. She was inside him, telling him she loved him, embracing his heart.
The child reached out to her and embraced her heart. He knew she was crying. Her embrace became painful....
And then......a piercing scream shot through his head, followed by deafening silence....everything within him was silent.... Yet the beautiful song continued.
"Mama?" the child cried. But it was no use. He knew she was no longer with him.
"Mama!" he screamed. He struggled to loosen the blanket and crawl out of that place, but he couldn't move.
Liam jerked awake, screaming. His whole body shook. He picked up the sheet from the floor and wiped his face.
He was glad Angel was a heavy sleeper. Nothing ever awakened him. No way did he want to try to explain this one to him.
He was upset at himself for being so careless. He couldn't allow himself to fall asleep next to Angel again. He always left the bed just after Angel fell asleep. His excuse for sleeping elsewhere was that it was hard for him to sleep with Angel's snoring.
Angel told Liam that he always slept better when Liam was beside him and he would work on an anti-snoring spell.
The truth was that Liam slept very well when he lay next to Angel, a little too well. And that was dangerous. Liam knew he talked in his sleep and what if he woke up screaming like tonight? It was better if they slept apart.
Liam slid out of bed and tip-toed across the room. He stepped into the hall and quietly shut the door behind him.
Angel opened his eyes and sat up.
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Every month after full moon, Liam took care of Angel. He made sure that Angel took the required soaks and applied the needed medicines.
“Damn Angel. Just look at you. You’re covered in cuts.”
Liam knelt over the tub massaging balm into Angel’s shoulders.
Angel winced. “Look who’s talking. Have you taken a gander at your face?”
Liam got up and walked to the mirror. He studied his face from several angles. “Not so bad.”
Angel complained, “Can you believe Francesca? Jeeeez. We get a few days off and she sends our books. Bad enough we have to go back at all.”
“But I like school. Kinda miss it really. Well, not potions. But ancient runes, care of magical creatures….”
“No problem,” Angel interrupted, “You have a magical creature right here. So come take care of me.”
Liam knelt over the tub again. He came close enough so Angel felt warm breath on his neck.
“Angel?”
“Hmmm….”
“I was thinking…” He paused and became still.
Angel just lay, soaking up the warmth, feeling Liam’s rough hands massaging him, wishing that Liam would quit breathing on him and just kiss him.
“Angel?”
“Hmmm?”
“Do you think we would have done it if you hadn’t been bitten?”
“Sure we would have. I couldn’t resist you forever.”
Liam continued. “Oh….yeh…guess we would have at that. But I was thinking about animagi. Do you think we would have?”
Angel contemplated, “Dunno…yeh…. sure we would have.”
“I think so too.” Liam sat again in quiet contemplation. Angel had almost dozed off.
“Angel?”
“Mmmm?”
“I was wondering. What animal are you?”
Angel grumbled. “You know very well what animal I am.”
“I know that. But what other animal? If you didn’t get the bite and all.”
“I never thought about it. Does it matter?”
“Maybe and maybe not.”
“Liam, what’s going on? Why all these questions?”
Liam didn’t answer. He just stared. He was serious, too serious.
Angel teased, “Wouldn’t have those skinny legs like yours.”
“Oh ho, look who’s talkin’. Look at those chicken legs you got.”
“Chicken legs…” Angel lifted one into the air, “Pretty nice if I say so myself.”
“Oh…yeh.” Liam rolled his eyes. “Chicken l-e-e-gs,” he whispered teasingly. He began clucking.
“Stop.”
“Make me.”
Angel turned and took a swing, but Liam dodged it.
“Bonehead,” Liam punched Angel in the shoulder.
“You fuckin’ arse,” Angel stood up, intending to return the blow. He swayed dizzily and fell over the side of the tub, ending up flat on the floor. He didn’t get up. He lay there, unmoving.
“Angel? Angel? Are you OK?” Liam was upset. Angel was still weak from his transformation. If Angel was hurt, it was his fault.
He knelt over Angel and leaned forward to see if he was conscious. He put his cheek against Angels. He felt breath. At least Angel was alive. He sighed with relief. Should he lift him and put him into the bed? He couldn’t leave him on the cold stone floor.
Angel reached out, pulled Liam close and kissed him. He smiled and looked at Liam, a glint in his eye. “Gotcha!”
“You fuckin’ prat!”
Angel loosened his hold and Liam pulled away, still lying atop Angel, but resting on his palms. He looked into Angel’s face. His breaths were shallow and quick.
Angel’s breaths matched Liam’s. He stared up at Liam, waiting.
Liam tried to do his best stern face, but it was no use. He cupped Angel’s head, cushioning it so that he wouldn’t really give Angel a head wound from hitting it against the floor. He yanked Angel’s head towards him and kissed him roughly.
The school books remained unopened until they returned to Hogwarts.
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Their monthly vacation was over. To Angel’s dismay, they were forced to return to school. School was such a bore and a waste of time. He could learn a lot more if he spent his time doing other things.
Liam walked back into the Gryffindor dorm to find a big lump in the center of Angel’s bed.
“Get the hell up, Angel. I’ve already had breakfast. Classes start in ten minutes.”
It was their first day back at Hogwarts. Liam was feeling very good. He had slept well in his own bed with the curtains drawn and the silencing charm back on.
Angel grumbled, turned over and pulled the covers back over his head.
Liam bounced on the bed and pulled the covers and pillow off Angel, throwing them on the floor. He continued bouncing and laughing. But Angel wouldn’t wake up. He buried his face into the mattress.
Liam knew this would take drastic measures. He reached down and began tickling him.
"Quit!" Angel took a swing at Liam, but missed. “I’m up. Quit!”
Angel grumbled and slowly sat up. He looked awful. His eyes were puffy. “Couldn’t sleep last night. I feel like shit.” He sniffed his arm pits and grimaced. “You go ahead, Liam. I gotta shower.”
“I’ll try to keep the greasy git from missing you. Just hurry.”
Angel plodded across the floor and into the bath. Soon the room was filled with steam. He drank in the warmth and began to feel human again. He closed his eyes and sang loudly, “Each morning I get up I die a little….can barely stand on my feet….Take a look in the mirror and cry ….Lord what you're doing to me…. I have spent all my years in believing you ……but I just can't get no relief, Lord!....can anybody find me…”
“….somebody to love….” came Liam’s voice as soap filled hands caressed Angel’s chest.
“But you’ll miss class.”
“Uh-huh.” Liam kissed Angel’s neck and moved his hands down, now washing Angel’s navel.
“B-u-u-……..damn.”
A while later the boys lay on the shower floor. They were spent.
“Liam, you missed potions.”
Liam laughed. “I did, didn’t I?” He kissed Angel’s ear. “Let’s go to London, skip everything. And no excuse about the headmaster missing us. He is off campus today. Has a meeting of some kind. Probably at the ministry."
@@@
A few minutes later, Angel sat on the edge of the bed, kicking his feet. He wished Liam would hurry. This was boring and there was so much of London to see. If Liam wasn’t ready soon, they might be missed and someone might come looking for them.
“Ok, ready.” Liam sat next to Angel. “Just one thing before we go. Close your eyes.”
“Why?”
“It’s a surprise. Come on, close your eyes.”
Angel shut his eyes and Liam gave him a quick hug.
‘Ok, you can open them now.”
“Whoa,” Angel looked around, “Where are we?”
“Keep your voice down, Angel. We’re in the cellar of the Weasley’s joke shop. Don’t want them to hear us.”
Angel’s mouth was open as he gaped at Liam. ‘You can apparate?”
Liam wasn’t paying attention to Angel. Instead he was listening for any movement. “Come on, think the coast is clear.”
‘But Liam, no one can apparate out of Hogwarts.”
Liam was half-way up the steps, “Just don’t tell the Gwydions.”
A few minutes later they stepped out of the Leaky Cauldron and into muggle London. Although the pub had a few morning visitors, Angel and Liam had walked through unnoticed.
Liam’s stomach growled loudly “Let’s get some breakfast. I’m starving.”
“You already ate.”
Liam shrugged. “Still hungry.”
“Can't believe it was your idea to skip class.”
“Why not?”
"Just doesn’t seem like you.”
“You don’t know everything. There’s a lot about me you don’t know,” Liam shot back.
Angel wanted to tell Liam off for keeping secrets, but decided against it. It was such a beautiful day. The sun was shining and a warm breeze blew through the London streets. He put his arm around Liam and they sauntered towards the café.
‘Hey mister,” a voice came from behind. They turned and saw a small boy with tears in his eyes. “Have you seen my dog?” He held up an empty leash.
“Is he an auburn and white toy Spaniel?” asked Liam.
“Uh-huh,” the boy sniffed.
“I see a very nice Spaniel over there. Is that him?” A young man sat on a stoop. The dog sat on his lap licking his face. The man scratched the dog behind his ears.
“I’ll get him,” Angel ran forward.
The man looked up as Angel approached him. “Yours?” he asked.
“Naw.” Angel reached forward to pet the dog.
“Nice dog, isn’t he? Too bad pets aren't allowed in my flat. Sure would like one like this.”
There was something very familiar about this man. “Have we met?” Angel asked.
“Don’t think so. I meet lots of people. Would sure remember you, though,” he winked.
Liam walked up and snatched the dog. His stomach growled loudly. “Let’s go Angel. I need food.”
He nearly pulled Angel away and into the nearest cafe.
Soon they were sitting at a table covered with trays that were piled high with pancakes and sausage.
Liam took a huge bite of pancake and washed it down with coffee.
"Keep eating like that and you'll make yourself sick," Angel said as he smothered everything on his plate in syrup.
Liam shrugged and took another bite.
“May I join you?”
It was the auburn haired man who had retrieved the lost dog.
“I usually have breakfast alone. Would love the company.” He didn’t wait for an answer. He pulled up a chair and sat down.
“Pancakes and sausage. Look great. Oh, excuse my rudeness. I am Nathan.” He extended his hand to Angel. “….and you are…?”
“Angel. Plenty to go around. Help yourself.”
“And you are?” Nathan held his hand out to Liam, but Liam didn’t take it. Instead he furrowed his eyebrows and stared, “Liam.”
"You two out on the town?"
Angel nodded.
"So, where are you going?"
"Dunno. It is up to Liam. He comes here quite often."
"Does he now? While your here you need to go to the theater. Nothing like live theater."
Angel and Nathan continued to talk. But Liam sat quietly, his arms folded. He didn’t like Nathan. No, that was wrong. He hated Nathan. Just sitting with him made Liam nauseous. There was something about him that wasn’t right. Why couldn’t Angel feel it?
Nathan finally became quiet and looked at his watch. “Getting late. I must take my leave.” He looked Angel directly in the eyes, “Listen, my flat is in the building where you met me earlier, number 6B. Next time you’re in London look me up. Would love to have you.” He looked at Liam and smiled teasingly, “You too hun.”
He stood up, “Oh, and thank you for the food and the wonderful company.” He turned and strutted out of the café.
“Jeeeez Liam, that was rude.”
“I don’t like him.”
“Well I do.....Anyway, let's get going. What shall we do first?”
They spent the rest of the day going through London. Angel made it clear he was not going to any museum. He wanted to have fun. Liam assured him that museums were cool. It was interesting what muggles collected. They often had some very dangerous items on display without knowing it. But Angel would have no part of it.
Angel looked at the sky. “It’s about three. Divination class is just over. This is great.”
“Angel, let’s stay a while longer and have tea here.”
“Ok. So, what shall we see next? Any bike shops around?”
“I would like to get some sweets to take back.” He paused. “But first….” They had just rounded the corner and were standing in front of huge display window.”
“….let’s go inside. This is the coolest antique bookstore.”
“Books?” Angel scowled.
“You’ll like it,” Liam assured him. “Come on. Francesca and her Aunt Jessica love the place.”
The bell tinkled as they opened the door, signaling to the shop owner that a customer had entered. Liam immediately headed to the travel aisle. "Come on. I want you to see this.” He pulled out a book on Australia and sat down to read it.
“Angel, where are you from?”
Angel sat on the floor next to him. “Not exactly sure; someplace in Australia.”
They began leafing through the book together. The pages were filled with wonderful animals neither of them had ever heard of. Liam especially liked the birds.
“Hey, maybe you’re a dodo bird.”
“Huh?”
“You know, you could have been one if you didn’t get bit. Maybe you’re a dodo bird.”
“They’re extinct.”
“So? You could still be one.”
“S-h-h-h," Angel ducked.
The bell over the door tinkled and Aunt Jessica walked in.
“Told you she loves it. Let’s get out before she sees us.”
“No. Just stay quiet and hope she doesn’t walk down this aisle.”
Luckily she headed for the aisle with books on folklore.
Angel and Liam sat quietly together on the floor. It seems like hours later and Aunt Jessica was still browsing folklore books. Angel and Liam found cuddling very pleasant, but it was getting difficult to stay quiet.
The bell tinkled again as the door opened yet one more time.
“Shit!” whispered Angel. “Look who it is…headmaster Lupin. We’re in trouble now.”
“Not if you quit hissing and stay quiet.”
Lupin looked around the shop and walked directly to the books on folklore.
“Hello Remus.”
He smiled and pecked her on the cheek.
“It is so nice to see you Jessica.”
“So Remus, what’s all the mystery. Your letter said you needed me to do you a favour. How can I help?”
“That can wait Jessica. It is nearly tea time. Would you care to join me?”
@@@
Remus and Jessica sat across the table from each other. Jessica had her hand on the table. Remus' hand was laid on top of hers.
"I am so happy to see you Remus. Seems like forever.
"Not quite that long Jessica, but I have missed you. How are you?"
"Hanging in there. Much better now you're here."
Remus smiled.
"And you Remus. How are you? Bo and Lalena told me about Sirius returning and all."
"Bo and Lalena?"
She giggled. "You know me Remus. Always calling things different names. But Clarissa always wanted to call her Lalena. It was that hard headed brother-in-law of mine who insisted on calling her Francesca, a beautiful name, but...So now that Clarissa has passed on..."
Jessica paused and then began again, "Lalena is doing as well as can be expected. I'm a pretty sad substitute for Clarissa, but I promised her I'd look after her little girl."
"Clarissa knew you'd take good care of her little girl just as you looked after her when she was ill. You were a good friend to her, Jessica." He paused. "You owe it to Frencesca to let her know about your past. Have you told her yet?"
"In time Remus. She just lost her mother. One thing at a time."
The waiter came around with the tea and biscuits.
"You know Remus, Bo has visited quite often and he is a great help.....Oh.." she giggled, "I call him Bo. He’s such a nice young man. Don't know how he got that name, but Clarissa started calling him Bo and it stuck."
Angel guffawed. "Bo." He began giggling.
Liam turned bright red. "Hush, they'll here us."
Angel put his fist into his mouth, trying to keep from laughing.
"Remus, did you ever think of how our lives would have been different if circumstances had been just a little different?"
“Like me not being bitten?"
"Yes and if my parents didn't say no when my invitation came."
Ii>"Whoa!" Liam said aloud.
"Hush Liam."
"Did you know?"
Angel shook his head.
"Things would have been different if you had gone to Hogwarts. But we may not have become such good friends. I loved out bookstore meetings."
"Yup, all these years and two husbands later and here I am, still frequenting the same bookstore."
"I am so glad you still love our bookstore. Whenever I pass by I think of your smile and pleasant conversation."
"Remus," Jessica interrupted, "I need to ask you....I need to know what you think.."
Remus sat quietly and waited for her to settle.
'....about dreams. Are they real or just wishing?"
"Well Jessica, what do you think?"
"I've had the same dream over and over for the longest time....about...well, you know who it would be."
"Your Slytherin?"
She sighed, "Yes, my dearest Slytherin.”
"It's normal you would think of him now. Now that Clarissa has passed, it is just you and Francesca. I don't doubt you would think of your first love."
"He was cute wasn't he?" she seemed to be picturing him.
Remus smiled and patted her hand.
"Mum and dad hated him," Jessica reminisced, "but nothing they could do. We were of age...."
This time Remus interrupted, "And the look on Lucius' face when he found out....priceless."
"Yes it was....dear Lucius. He couldn’t believe a relative of his would marry the likes of me."
She became sober.
"I know he passed on years ago, just before James and Lily. But I can't help it. I feel him around me all the time now....and my dreams...I dream of him. He holds his hands out to me. I take them and we hold each other close. We dance. He whispers that we can now spend eternity together."
"Listen Jessica, Sirius and I are living at Grimmauld Place. Liam and Angel are staying there are well.” Lupin looked directly at the spot where Liam and Angel were hiding and then continued. “We would love to have you come and visit for a while."
Jessica's heart raced. "I would love to see Sirius again. Are you sure it wouldn't be too much trouble?"
"Trouble? If there's any trouble, it's that companion of mine. Now he's trouble, not you."
"If you're sure. It would be good for Lalena to get out for a while. She and Bo get on well too."
“It’s settled then. Francesca has a few weeks of school left and can come by after term is over. You can arrive any time before that, today if you’d like.”
“Thank you Remus. I’d like that. Give me a day or two to get things together and I’ll be there.” Her eyes moistened and tears began to fall. “It has been lonely.”
“My headmaster duties keep me at Hogwarts, but Sirius will be at Grimmauld and I visit often. In a few weeks, we will all be together."
“It’s fine Remus. I can manage for a few weeks. Being there again will be bring back memories....but I'll be fine.
She looked at the table. “I guess I'll bump into Cissy and other family members......" A shiver went down her spine. "Remus, I’m not sure at all that I can do this. But I have to, for Lalena. Are you sure it's ok with Sirius?” ”
“Listen, I know you vowed never to step foot in the wizarding world again, but it is time. You’ve hidden among the muggles for too long. Sirius and I will help you all we can. We both want you to come back.”
Remus squeezed her hand. “Do you think you can try?”
“I think so. The pain is less and so is the anger. But I miss him more now than when he was taken from me.” She sniffed, “I knew he was a wizard, but….” her voice trailed off.
Lupin began, “You begged him to move to muggle London where he would be safe.”
She nodded. “And then the dark mark above our house…. “ she sighed, “I wasn’t there. I should have been with him…..Instead…”
“….you were in our bookshop, scouring the shelves for ancient spells and protective charms. You did everything you could for him. He knew that once he joined with Voldemort there was no turning back.”
Jessica sighed, "I know he wasn't as strong as Sirius..he caved in to the family's wishes. Well, except for marrying me. His family hated me, even though...."
Lupin smiled, "You were more pure blood than any of them."
"He was a good man, he just made mistakes. I guess death was better than Azkaban..." She looked at Lupin, her eyes pleading for affirmation. Yet he gave her none.
Instead they sat in silence, holding hands, remembering those years of loss.
Finally Jessica whispered, "Has Sirius forgiven him yet?"
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