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evermoreness · 4 months ago

Note

if you wrote somethin about flirting with boyfriend remus and he slips his hands in ur back pockets…..just sayin i’d love you forever

— Anon, you gave me such good ideas! Here it is, hope you like it.

back pocket | remus lupin

pairing: remus lupin x reader

summary: your boyfriend doesn't like much public displays of affection, but he still likes to put his hand in your back pocket.

obs: feel free to send any requests!

masterlist

Hogsmeade weekends had always been something special. The crisp autumn air, the scent of butterbeer wafting from the Three Broomsticks, the distant chatter of students wandering from shop to shop—it was all perfect. But nothing made it better than having Remus by your side.

You and Remus walked side by side down the cobbled streets, the occasional brush of your shoulders sending warmth through you. He wasn’t one for grand displays of affection—no dramatic kisses in the middle of the street, no loud proclamations. But the way he loved you was in the small things.

Like now, when he casually slipped his hand into the back pocket of your jeans as you strolled past Zonko’s Joke Shop. It was such a simple gesture, but it made your heart stutter. He wasn’t even looking at you when he did it—just talking to you about some book he wanted to pick up at Tomes and Scrolls—but the touch was grounding, warm, undeniably intimate.

It was casual, effortless—just his fingertips resting in the fabric, his palm warm against you. Yet, the simplicity of it made your heart swell. Remus had never been one for grand displays of affection. He wasn’t the type to kiss you in the middle of the Great Hall or pull you onto his lap in front of the Marauders. But he had his own ways of showing love.

Like this.

Like the way he always made sure to walk on the outside of the path, keeping you away from the street, even if it meant switching sides every few minutes.

Like how he always carried your books when you were too tired, even if he already had a pile of his own.

Like how he always saved you a seat next to him, no matter where you were—class, the common room, the library.

Like the way he looked at you, like you were something rare, something he couldn’t believe was his.

You turned your head slightly, just enough to catch the soft flush creeping up his neck. "Smooth, Lupin," you teased, grinning.

He didn’t falter, just raised an eyebrow at you. "Oh? You don’t like it?"

You hummed, pretending to think. "Didn’t say that, did I?"

His lips curled into a smirk, and he gave a gentle squeeze where his hand rested. "Good."

You nodded, leaning in slightly. "Hand in the back pocket, Lupin. That’s practically scandalous."

He chuckled, his grip tightening just the slightest bit. "Then I suppose I’m becoming reckless in my old age."

Unfortunately, moments of peace like these never lasted when the Marauders were around.

"Oi, Moony!" Sirius’ voice rang out, followed by his loud, obnoxious laughter. "Hand in the back pocket? Really? Are you two in a bloody romance novel?"

"Merlin’s beard," James groaned beside him, shaking his head in mock disbelief. "That’s even worse than when Lily and I hold hands in class."

"Nothing is worse than that, Prongs," Peter chimed in, looking between you and Remus with amusement.

Remus, however, remained completely unfazed. He barely even glanced at them as he continued walking, his hand still comfortably in your pocket. "If you lot are so interested in my love life, I could give you a very detailed report of my last few dates. Would you like that?"

Sirius gagged. "Absolutely not."

Peter chimed in. "Yes!"

James scrunched his nose. "Ew! What exactly is wrong with you, wormtail?"

"I'm just saying" Peter shrugged while the others laughed about it.

"Hey, baby" Lily appeared out of nowhere, hugging James. "Hey, everyone" She said, turning to give each one a little wave. James definitely lit up just by having her there.

"Lily, my love, finally!" James dramatized, kissing her cheek.

Sirius groaned dramatically. "Ugh, please, can you two flirt somewhere else?"

You grinned. "Oh, don’t be jealous, Black."

Sirius rolled his eyes. "I would never be jealous of such a boring couple."

"Then shut up," Remus said simply, the ghost of a smirk on his lips.

"You’re both still gross," Sirius muttered.

"And you’re still single," Remus shot back, making you laugh.

James doubled over laughing, and Remus let out a quiet chuckle, his thumb grazing against your hip through the fabric of your robe. You shivered, not from the cold, but from the simple touch of it, the way he always seemed to know how to make you feel warm even in the autumn air.

"You want to go inside?" he asked softly, tilting his head toward the Three Broomsticks.

You nodded, and just like that, he guided you toward the door, his hand slipping away from your pocket only to rest at the small of your back. Another small thing. Another gesture that said more than words ever could.

The Three Broomsticks was crowded as usual, but the six of you managed to grab a corner booth. James and Lily sat pressed together on one side, while Sirius dramatically sprawled out beside Peter. You and Remus took the other side, you had to sit in his lap since there was absolutely no space left, your back comfortably against his chest as you both sipped your butterbeer.

"You do realize you’re using me as a chair, right?" Remus murmured, though his arms around you suggested he didn’t mind.

"You’re comfortable," you replied simply, tilting your head up to grin at him.

He chuckled, shaking his head. "You’re impossible."

"And yet, you love me," you teased.

Remus smiled against the rim of his mug. "That I do."

Lily, who had been watching with an affectionate smile, turned to James. "See? Why can’t you be that sweet?"

James put a hand to his chest in mock offense. "Lily, love, I am a dream boyfriend."

"You’re an overgrown Golden Retriever," she corrected, though she was smiling.

Sirius snickered. "He really is. I bet if you threw a stick, he’d fetch it."

"You lot are just jealous of my charm," James declared.

"Of course, Prongs," Remus said, completely deadpan. "That must be it."

Lily leaned her head on James’ shoulder, laughing softly. "He’s lucky he’s cute."

"See?" James beamed. "She admits it."

The evening passed in comfortable warmth, laughter mixing with the hum of the crowded pub. You and Remus shared quiet smiles, your fingers tangled together under the table.

The walk back to Hogwarts was filled with the kind of easy, warm chatter that only close friends could have. The evening air was crisp, carrying the lingering scent of butterbeer and the faint smokiness of fireplaces from the village. The sky above was deep blue, speckled with stars, and the group of you strolled along the path leading back to the castle, boots crunching against the gravel.

Lily was walking ahead with James, who was dramatically recounting a story about how he “heroically” saved a first-year from Peeves.

"So there I was," James began, gesturing wildly, "cornered in the Charms corridor, a poor, defenseless first-year behind me, and Peeves holding an entire bucket of ink over our heads."

"Defenseless?" Lily scoffed. "He was just standing there."

"Exactly! Helpless. So, naturally, I had to act."

"You threw your shoe at him," Remus said flatly, amusement flickering in his eyes.

"And it worked, didn’t it?" James argued.

"Yeah, after he dumped the ink on you first," Sirius snorted.

Peter cackled. "You spent the entire day looking like a human ink blot!"

"It was a small price to pay for the safety of my fellow student," James said with an exaggerated sigh.

Lily shook her head, though she was smiling. "You're unbelievable."

You laughed, nudging Remus. "I swear, they get worse every day."

Remus smirked but didn’t comment, just gently slipped his fingers through yours. His hand was warm, his grip firm but comfortable, like he was telling you without words that he was right there.

You glanced up at him, squeezing his hand. "You’re awfully quiet, Moony."

"Just enjoying the show," he murmured, lips twitching as he watched James and Sirius dramatically reenact the ink disaster.

Sirius was now pretending to be Peeves, floating around James with exaggerated arm movements. "Oh nooo, Mister Potter! You’re about to be—SPLAT!" He mimed dumping ink over James’ head.

James gasped, clutching his heart. "Betrayed! By my own heroism!"

"You weren’t a hero," Lily said, shaking her head.

James turned to Remus, looking for support. "Moony, tell her. That was a very noble thing I did."

Remus gave him a completely blank look. "You threw your shoe at a poltergeist, James."

"A heroic shoe," James clarified.

"You didn’t even get it back," Peter reminded him.

"That just makes it more heroic," James insisted.

Sirius clapped him on the back. "We’ll carve your name into a plaque. ‘James Potter, the boy who sacrificed his shoe for the greater good.’"

You giggled, leaning into Remus. "They’re exhausting, but I love them."

He smiled down at you, his thumb brushing gently over the back of your hand. "Yeah, me too."

Sirius suddenly groaned loudly. "Ugh, you two are doing that soft, romantic thing again."

You raised an eyebrow. "And?"

"And it’s disgusting," Sirius declared. "All this... hand-holding and fond gazes. I can’t bear it."

Remus smirked. "I suppose we could start snogging instead, if you prefer?"

Sirius gagged. "Absolutely not."

James looked thoughtful. "You know, it’s funny. A year ago, if someone had told me Moony would be the one out of all of us in a committed, disgustingly cute relationship first, I wouldn’t have believed them."

"Oi," Remus protested.

Lily tilted her head. "Really? I would’ve guessed him first."

James looked scandalized. "You would? Why?"

Lily gave him a pointed look. "Because Remus is the only one who isn’t an insufferable flirt."

James turned to you, looking for backup. "You don’t agree with that, do you?"

You grinned. "I love you, James, but she’s got a point."

Sirius snickered. "She really does."

James huffed, but Lily took his hand, smiling at him. "Oh, don’t pout. I love you even if you are insufferable."

James immediately perked up. "Really?"

Lily rolled her eyes. "Don’t let it go to your head."

Peter sighed dramatically. "I feel like I’m the only sane one here."

"You, Wormtail?" Sirius laughed. "You joined in on the ink prank!"

Peter shrugged. "It was funny."

The castle loomed ahead, the warm glow of torchlight flickering through the windows. As you all reached the entrance, James sighed dramatically. "Well, another successful Hogsmeade trip. No detentions, no injuries—"

"You spilled butterbeer in your pants," Remus pointed out.

James waved a hand dismissively. "Details."

The warmth of the castle wrapped around you as the group made their way inside, the laughter and teasing gradually fading as the others headed toward the Gryffindor common room. James and Lily were still bickering playfully, Sirius was going on about how he could single-handedly take down Peeves if given the chance, and Peter was just shaking his head at all of them.

You, however, lingered at the bottom of the staircase with Remus, the flickering torchlight casting a soft glow over both of you.

You sighed, smiling up at him. "Well, I suppose this is where we part ways."

He made a small noise, almost reluctant. "Unfortunately."

You tilted your head playfully. "Oh? You sound like you’ll just wither away without me."

Remus chuckled, his hazel eyes twinkling. "Don’t flatter yourself."

You grinned, stepping back slightly. "Alright then, I’ll be off—"

Before you could turn, his fingers caught your wrist, pulling you back gently but firmly. You let out a small gasp as you stumbled a step closer to him. He wasn’t normally one to be so bold, especially not where others might see, but the entrance hall was empty now, and there was something in his eyes—something warm, something wanting.

"You’re not in a rush, are you?" he murmured, his voice low and teasing.

You raised an eyebrow, smirking. "And what if I am?"

His lips twitched. "Then I suppose I’ll have to convince you to stay."

You crossed your arms, pretending to think. "Convince me, huh? And how exactly do you plan on doing that, Lupin?"

He hummed, as if considering, then with a slow, almost lazy confidence, he slipped both hands into your back pockets, pulling you flush against him.

A surprised laugh escaped you. "Oh, so that’s your strategy?"

His smirk deepened, but there was a soft pink dusting his cheeks. "Is it working?"

Your heart fluttered as you looped your arms around his neck, fingers playing with the ends of his hair. "Mmm, I don’t know. You might have to try a little harder."

His thumbs rubbed slow, absentminded circles through the fabric of your jeans, and his voice was quiet but playful. "Demanding, aren’t you?"

You grinned. "Only with you."

He leaned down slightly, his forehead almost touching yours. "Lucky me."

You stared at him, your smile softening. "Yeah, lucky you."

His expression shifted, something tender replacing the teasing glint in his eyes. He didn’t always say how he felt, but moments like this, where he just looked at you like you were the only thing that mattered, were enough.

"You know," you murmured, "for someone who doesn’t like public displays of affection, you’re being awfully affectionate right now."

He huffed a quiet laugh, resting his forehead against yours. "No one’s here."

"Still," you teased, "what happened to ‘I show my love in subtle ways’?"

His grip on you tightened slightly. "This is subtle."

You raised an eyebrow. "Both hands in my back pockets is subtle?"

He smirked. "Completely."

You shook your head, laughing. "You’re ridiculous."

"And yet," he murmured, brushing his nose against yours, "you love me anyway."

Your teasing grin softened. "I do."

His breath hitched slightly, and before you could say anything else, he kissed you. It was soft, lingering, like he was trying to hold onto the moment for just a little longer. You melted into it, fingers curling into his hair, savoring the warmth of him, the way he held you like you were something precious.

A smile played on your lips as you pulled your lips apart, your bodies nearly flush. "You, breaking rules for me? I'm honored."

He huffed a quiet laugh. "It's hardly breaking the rules. Prefect privileges, remember?"

"Oh, of course," you teased. "How could I forget? You’re the responsible one."

"Exactly," he murmured, his arms sliding gently around your waist. "And right now, I’m responsibly using my time to be with my girlfriend a little longer."

Your arms wrapped around his neck as you swayed slightly in his embrace. The torches along the corridor flickered, casting long shadows, but all you could focus on was the way he looked at you—like you were something precious, something worth bending the rules for.

"You’re soft, Lupin," you whispered playfully, fingers absentmindedly tangling in his hair.

His lips curled into a smirk, but he didn’t argue. "Only for you."

Your stomach flipped at that, heat rising to your cheeks. "That was dangerously sweet."

"Good," he murmured, tilting his head slightly. "I meant it to be."

A comfortable silence settled between you, your bodies still pressed close. It was moments like this that made your heart ache in the best way possible—just the two of you, tucked away in some quiet corner of the castle, stealing time before curfew.

"You really don’t want to let me go, do you?" you teased, brushing a stray strand of hair from his face.

He exhaled softly, his fingers giving the tiniest squeeze against your hips. "Not really."

You bit your lip, warmth blooming in your chest. "You’re ridiculously cute when you’re clingy."

"I’m not clingy," he argued, though his grip on you didn’t loosen in the slightest.

You grinned. "Oh no? So what do you call this?"

He sighed dramatically. "Fine. Maybe I am a little."

You tilted your head, considering. "I think I like it."

Remus laughed, shaking his head. "You’re impossible."

"And yet, you love me," you teased.

He smiled, the kind of soft, adoring smile that always made you melt. "Yeah. I really do."

You felt your cheeks warm, but before you could respond, the distant sound of footsteps echoed through the corridor.

Remus sighed, finally, reluctantly, releasing you. "Go before Filch catches you out of bounds."

You pouted. "You’re no fun."

He smirked. "I’ll save you a seat at breakfast to make up for it."

You hummed. "With extra toast?"

"Obviously."

You smiled, stealing one last quick kiss before stepping back. "Goodnight, Remus."

"Goodnight, love," he murmured, watching you go with that same soft look in his eyes.

And as you disappeared down the corridor, you couldn’t help but think—Merlin, you were hopelessly in love with him.

#harry potter #fanfic #marauders era #x reader #x yn #marauders #remus lupin #sirius black #james potter #lily evans #lily and james #remus lupin x reader #remus lupin x you

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evermoreness · 4 months ago

Text

moonlight and mending pt.4 | remus lupin

pairing: remus lupin x reader

summary: remus is definitely getting comfortable around you.

obs: this is part four of a series. here's part one and part five.

masterlist

It wasn’t just the Marauders who noticed—it was everyone.

Something was different between you and Remus.

Maybe it was the way you gravitated toward each other like magnets, always ending up sitting together, walking together, talking in hushed voices in the library. Maybe it was the way you touched him, casual and warm—your hand brushing his arm when you laughed, your head leaning against his shoulder when you were tired.

Or maybe it was the way Remus—who had never been one for public affection—let you do all of it.

One afternoon, you were sitting outside in the courtyard with Lily and Marlene, flipping through a magazine Lily had brought from home. The sun was warm, and the three of you were giggling over some ridiculous article about how to “win the heart of a wizard.”

“Honestly, who writes this nonsense?” Marlene scoffed, shaking her head. “Step one: Laugh at all his jokes, even if they’re bad? What if he’s not funny?”

You laughed. “Then he’s not the one.”

Lily grinned. “You’re ruthless.”

“I have standards,” you said dramatically, flipping the page.

“Oi, are you lot gossiping again?”

You looked up just as Remus appeared, hands in his pockets, looking far too amused.

Marlene smirked. “Always.”

You smiled, immediately moving over so he could sit beside you. The second he did, you wrapped your arms around his waist in a quick hug, leaning your head against his shoulder.

“Hi, Rem.”

He huffed a laugh. “Hi.”

Lily and Marlene exchanged very obvious glances.

Remus was stiff for a millisecond—but then he relaxed, resting his arm behind you on the bench. He wasn’t much for this—for letting people be so openly affectionate with him—but with you… with you, he didn’t mind.

In fact, he liked it.

“So,” Lily said, giving you both a knowing look. “What exactly is going on between you two?”

You blinked. “What do you mean?”

Marlene grinned. “Oh, don’t play dumb. You’ve been practically attached at the hip.”

Remus sighed. “Not this again.”

Lily smirked. “It’s not just us. Everyone has noticed.”

You rolled your eyes but couldn’t help smiling. “Maybe we just like each other’s company.”

Marlene raised an eyebrow. “Like each other’s company?”

Remus groaned, pinching the bridge of his nose. “I am not having this conversation.”

Lily giggled. “You already are.”

You patted his knee playfully. “It’s okay, Rem, they’re just curious.”

He definitely blushed at the nickname—again—and Marlene definitely caught it.

“Ohhh, Rem?” she teased.

Lily gasped, clasping her hands together. “That’s adorable.”

Remus sighed in suffering. “Merlin, help me.”

You just laughed, leaning into him a little more. “It’s okay, Rem, I’ll protect you.”

He gave you a flat look. “You’re the cause of all this.”

You grinned. “Exactly.”

Lily and Marlene howled with laughter.

Lily was practically vibrating with excitement at this point. “Oh, this is too good,” she said, nudging Marlene. “James is going to lose his mind when he hears about this.”

Remus groaned, dragging a hand down his face. “For the love of Merlin, please don’t bring Prongs into this.”

“Oh, but I must,” Lily said with a mockingly serious expression. “It is my duty as his girlfriend to provide him with quality gossip.”

You giggled, nudging Remus with your shoulder. “It’s okay, Rem, you know James will just be happy you’re getting some attention.”

Marlene gasped dramatically. “She’s got a point! You are the most mysterious Marauder. It’s about time we figure out what’s going on inside that broody little head of yours.”

Remus sighed, looking to the sky like he was asking for divine intervention. “I don’t brood.”

You snorted. “You absolutely brood.”

“I think a better word would be ‘broodingly handsome,’” Marlene said with a teasing smirk.

Remus groaned. “Merlin’s beard.”

Lily clapped her hands together. “Okay, okay, but seriously. You two are always together, always sitting next to each other, always whispering about Merlin-knows-what—”

“Probably about books,” Marlene cut in.

Lily nodded. “Definitely about books. But that’s beside the point. Look at you two!” She gestured between you and Remus, who was still sitting rigidly beside you, looking like he wanted the ground to swallow him whole.

“I am looking,” Marlene said, tapping her chin. “And you know what I see?”

Remus tensed. “Please don’t say it.”

“A couple,” Marlene said smugly.

You laughed as Remus let out the longest, most dramatic exhale of his life. “We are not a couple!” he protested, clearly exasperated.

Marlene shrugged. “Sure, you aren’t.”

Lily grinned. “But you could be.”

Your heart skipped a beat at that, but you masked it with a playful smirk. “Are you two trying to set us up?”

“Oh, we wouldn’t have to if you two just admitted what’s already obvious,” Lily teased.

Remus scoffed. “Nothing is obvious.”

Lily and Marlene exchanged a glance before Marlene turned back to him, smirking. “Remus, darling, you literally let her cuddle you in public. And you don’t let anyone do that.”

“I—” Remus paused, his mouth opening and closing like he was searching for a good argument.

You just smiled up at him. “Do you mind when I do it?”

His gaze flicked to you, and in that moment, he looked completely thrown off. His lips parted slightly, his expression softening. “No,” he admitted, voice quieter now.

Marlene gasped, smacking Lily’s arm. “Did you hear that? He doesn’t mind.”

Lily grinned. “Oh, I heard it loud and clear.”

Remus groaned again. “Can we talk about something else?”

You giggled, deciding to take pity on him. “Alright, alright, we’ll stop.”

Marlene pouted. “But we were having so much fun.”

Lily nudged her. “We should probably give them a break. Poor Remus looks like he’s about to spontaneously combust.”

Remus sighed in relief. “Thank you.”

Lily leaned in with a smirk. “For now.”

He shot her a look, but she just grinned innocently.

You, on the other hand, couldn’t stop smiling. As much as Remus acted exasperated, you could feel the warmth in his body beside you, the way he didn’t pull away from you despite the teasing.

Maybe, just maybe, there was something there.

Later that afternoon, after Lily and Marlene had left—giggling and whispering conspiratorially, no doubt plotting more ways to tease him—Remus and you were left alone under the warm sunlight. The courtyard was quieter now, students either inside or spread out across the grounds. It was peaceful.

You, of course, took full advantage of the moment. You leaned your head on his shoulder, sighing happily. “Peace and quiet at last.”

Remus huffed a soft laugh. “For now.”

You tilted your head up to look at him, a teasing smile on your lips. “You act like you don’t secretly enjoy it when they tease you.”

He gave you a flat look. “I don’t.”

You grinned and, without thinking much, leaned forward to press a quick kiss to his cheek.

The moment your lips touched his skin, you felt him stiffen slightly, and when you pulled back, you caught the pink dusting his cheeks. He cleared his throat, looking anywhere but at you.

“You can’t just—” He exhaled. “Do that without warning.”

You tilted your head innocently. “Why not?”

“Because,” he muttered, rubbing the back of his neck, “it’s… unexpected.”

You smiled. “So I can do it as long as I warn you first?”

He blinked, processing, then groaned. “That’s not what I meant.”

You giggled, reaching for his hand. He didn’t pull away. If anything, he curled his fingers lightly around yours, tracing absentminded patterns against your skin. You swore you felt his thumb brush over your knuckles.

“I like this,” you murmured.

He glanced at your joined hands, then back at you. His lips twitched. “Yeah?”

You nodded. “You don’t mind?”

He exhaled, shaking his head. “No. I’m getting used to you, I think.”

You beamed. “Getting used to me?”

He smirked. “That’s what I said.”

You pretended to think. “Does that mean I can hold your hand whenever I want?”

He gave you a dry look, but his fingers didn’t move from yours. “I suppose.”

“And hug you whenever I want?”

A pause. Then, quieter, “Yes.”

Your heart did a little flip.

You leaned closer, lowering your voice to a playful whisper. “And steal a kiss on the cheek every now and then?”

His face turned red immediately. He groaned. “Why are you like this?”

You grinned. “You didn’t say no.”

Remus rolled his eyes but didn’t make any attempt to move away from you. In fact, he let his hand slip down from the bench to rest lightly on your back, his fingers tracing gentle patterns there.

You felt your heart melt at the gesture. He was getting more comfortable with you, letting himself enjoy these quiet, affectionate moments.

You reached for his hand, threading your fingers through his, playing with them absently. “You know,” you mused, “I really like being around you.”

Remus let out a breath, looking down at your joined hands. “Yeah?”

You nodded. “Mhm. You’re my favorite person.”

He scoffed, but you didn’t miss the way his grip on your hand tightened just slightly. “Now I know you’re lying.”

You gasped dramatically. “Remus Lupin, do you doubt my affections?”

He smirked. “I don’t doubt that you like annoying me.”

You pouted. “That’s just a bonus.”

Remus chuckled, shaking his head. “You really are something else.”

You beamed. “And yet, here you are, voluntarily spending time with me.”

He sighed, feigning exasperation. “Unfortunately.”

You gasped again, reaching out to shove him playfully.

Remus laughed, catching your wrist before you could retreat, holding your hand in his once more. His thumb brushed over your knuckles absentmindedly, his expression softening. “I do like having you around, though,” he admitted quietly. “Even if you are an absolute menace.”

Your heart skipped a beat at the tenderness in his voice. “You’re getting so soft, Rem,” you teased, nudging him.

He scoffed, rolling his eyes. “You’ll ruin my reputation if you keep saying things like that.”

You grinned. “Too late.”

Remus shook his head, but there was a fondness in his eyes as he looked at you. The castle grounds were quiet now, the sky streaked with the warm colors of sunset, and for the first time in a long time, he felt… peaceful.

And it was all because of you.

His soft spot.

And it wasn’t just in the courtyard.

It was everywhere.

In the Great Hall, when you’d sneak bits of food onto Remus’s plate because you knew he wouldn’t eat enough otherwise.

In the library, when he’d rest his chin on his hand and watch you take notes, a small, soft smile on his lips.

During patrols, when he was tired and quiet, and you’d loop your arm through his and walk beside him like it was the most natural thing in the world.

And maybe—just maybe—Remus was getting used to having you around.

Like how, when you both studied together, you’d casually lean your knee against his, as if it was the most natural thing in the world.

Like how, whenever you greeted him, you’d rest a hand on his arm or tug gently at his sleeve to get his attention.

Remus wasn’t the type to ask for affection.

Not because he didn’t want it—Merlin, he wanted it—but because he never thought he deserved it.

But you? You gave it freely.

And every time you touched him—whether it was an absentminded brush of your fingers through his hair, the warm squeeze of your hand in his, or the way you hugged him without hesitation—he never let it slip away too quickly.

If he could make it last forever, he would.

And right at this moment, it was exactly what he was doing.

The library was quiet that afternoon, only the occasional soft murmur of students and the scratch of quills breaking the silence. Sunlight streamed through the tall windows, casting golden patterns across the wooden tables and shelves. The smell of parchment and ink mixed with the faint scent of dust—old books, well-worn and well-loved.

At one of the many study tables, you and Remus sat side by side, books spread out in front of you.

Well.

You were studying.

Remus? Not so much.

He had started with the intent to read, truly, but then you had very absentmindedly begun to run your fingers through his hair, and—well.

That was the end of that.

He had gone still at first, unsure if you even realized what you were doing. But then you did it again, lightly twirling a lock of his hair between your fingers before combing it back, and Merlin help him, his brain just shut off.

His book—Advanced Defense Against the Dark Arts—lay open in his lap, but he hadn’t absorbed a single word in the past five minutes.

Instead, he sat there, head slightly tilted toward you, absolutely enthralled by the feeling of your fingers threading through his hair.

He could get used to this.

(If he let himself, that was.)

You hummed softly, eyes scanning your own book as you gently tugged at a slightly tangled strand near the nape of his neck.

“Your hair’s getting long,” you mused, voice absentminded and warm.

Remus blinked, trying to pull himself out of his daze. “Mhm.”

You chuckled, still playing with his hair. “Should I stop?”

“No.”

The word left his mouth far too quickly. His eyes widened slightly, and he quickly cleared his throat. “I mean—uh—only if you want to.”

You smirked, closing your book and turning your attention fully to him. “So you do like it.”

Remus groaned, dragging a hand down his face. “I regret everything.”

“You should regret keeping this weakness hidden from me,” you teased, fingers resuming their lazy motions in his hair.

He grumbled something under his breath, which only made you grin.

“You’re like a cat, Rem,” you mused, thoroughly enjoying how flustered he looked.

Remus huffed. “I am not.”

You raised an eyebrow. “You’re literally leaning into it.”

He immediately straightened, sitting up stiffly. “No, I’m not.”

“Oh?” You let your hand drop from his hair completely.

Remus froze.

And then, to your complete amusement, he shifted ever so slightly toward you, as if expecting your hand to return.

You gasped dramatically. “You are a cat.”

Remus groaned, covering his face with his hands. “Shut up.”

You laughed, leaning into him just enough that your shoulder pressed against his. “It’s okay, Rem. I think it’s cute.”

He peeked at you through his fingers, eyes narrowed in suspicion. “…You’re mocking me.”

“Only a little.”

He rolled his eyes but didn’t move away.

Instead, after a long pause, he hesitated before mumbling, “You, uh… you can keep doing it. If you want.”

You bit back a smile, letting your fingers slip back into his hair.

“Thought you’d never ask.”

And if Remus spent the rest of the afternoon pretending to read while secretly basking in your touch…

Well.

That was between him and his book.

As the afternoon wore on, the quiet hum of the library surrounded you both. Remus had long given up on pretending to read, his book now serving as a convenient prop to cover his flushed face. His head tilted slightly toward you with each gentle motion of your fingers in his hair, and he couldn’t help the small, contented sigh that escaped his lips.

You, on the other hand, were completely aware of how much you were making him squirm, but you liked this side of him. The side that wasn’t so guarded, the side that didn’t try to hide how much he liked it. You found yourself smirking, amused by how easily you could get him flustered without even trying.

“So,” you said casually, breaking the silence. “What exactly did you think you were going to do in this library? Honestly, I thought you were here to study.”

Remus let out a small, embarrassed laugh, still not looking at you. “I was,” he muttered. “I had every intention to, but… I’m kind of distracted.”

You chuckled. “By me?”

He shifted uncomfortably, still not looking at you, though his shoulders were visibly relaxed. “Maybe,” he admitted. “You’ve got… you’ve got a way of making it hard to focus.”

You hummed thoughtfully, giving him a teasing look. “So I’m distracting, am I?”

Remus nodded, but it was almost as if he didn’t trust himself to say more.

You leaned in slightly, your voice turning more playful. “Well, I’m glad I can be of service.”

He turned his head just enough to meet your eyes, his own gaze full of warmth. “You’re always of service,” he said softly, as if the words just slipped out before he could stop them.

Your heart skipped a beat at the sincerity in his voice, and for a moment, the teasing atmosphere melted away. You kept your hand in his hair, now just running your fingers through it absentmindedly, unsure of what to say in response to such an unexpected confession.

After a long pause, you finally smiled, trying to keep things light again. “You know, if I keep doing this, you might start expecting it.”

Remus chuckled, his eyes softening as he looked at you. “Maybe I already do.”

That answer caught you off guard, and your breath hitched, your fingers faltering for a second. You weren’t expecting such a direct response, especially not from him. But the way he was looking at you—vulnerable, yet trusting—made your chest tighten with something that you couldn’t quite name.

You swallowed, forcing a smile. “Well, tough luck, Moony,” you teased, pulling your hand back to flip open your own textbook. “You’re just going to have to settle for me occasionally distracting you.”

Remus smiled, a hint of a mischievous glint in his eyes as he finally glanced down at his book, but his fingers reached out to brush against your own lightly. “I think I can handle that.”

For the rest of the time in the library, the two of you didn’t speak much. There was a comfort in the silence now—an unspoken understanding between you both that didn’t need to be voiced. You went back to your studying, and Remus tried, very half-heartedly, to focus on his own work, though the quiet moments of touch between you two lingered, unspoken, in the air.

Even without words, you both knew that something had shifted, that something between you had changed. It was subtle, small, but it was there. And in that moment, as you sat next to him in the stillness of the library, it felt like everything was perfectly in place.

Moony eyes.

At the Gryffindor common room, the boys and you were chatting. Sirius was sprawled on the sofa, while James and Peter were seated at the floor. Sharing a very small armchair, were you and Remus.

The boys have been teasing you for weeks now, and they certainly wouldn't stop. Maybe it was their own unique way to get both of you together.

"Merlin’s beard," Sirius groaned, dramatically leaning back against the couch. "Will you two just snog already and put the rest of us out of our misery?"

Remus choked on his own spit.

You blinked, heat rushing to your cheeks. "What?!"

James cackled, smacking the table. "He’s got a point, mate. You two have been making moony eyes at each other all dinner."

Peter snorted, laughing so hard he actually let himself lay on the floor. "Moony eyes—"

Remus, who was still recovering from nearly dying via choking, cleared his throat. "I have not been making ‘moony eyes.’"

Sirius smirked. “Oh, but you have, Moony. Don’t even try to deny it.”

James nodded enthusiastically. “You should see yourself, mate. Every time she talks, you stare at her like she hung the bloody stars.”

You felt your face heat up even more, sneaking a glance at Remus. His ears were red, and he looked absolutely scandalized.

“I do not,” he insisted.

Peter, ever the instigator, grinned. “Oh, you definitely do. It’s almost poetic, really.”

Sirius leaned forward, grinning mischievously. “And don’t think we haven’t noticed you two sneaking off to be alone. What do you do when you disappear together, hm?”

Remus groaned, covering his face with his hands. “Merlin, give me strength.”

You decided to join in on the teasing, turning to Remus with a playful smile. “Well, Rem, should we tell them?”

Remus peeked at you through his fingers, eyes narrowing. “Don’t you dare.”

That only made Sirius more interested. “Oh, now I need to know.”

James gasped dramatically. “Are you two secretly snogging? Is that what this is? Betrayal! I thought we were friends, Moony!”

You giggled, shaking your head. “No, we’re not snogging, James.”

“Not yet,” Sirius muttered under his breath.

Remus gave him a deadly glare. “Padfoot—”

Sirius grinned. “What? Just stating facts, mate.”

You smirked. “You lot are awfully invested in our nonexistent love life.”

James scoffed. “Oh, it’s very much existent. Just painfully slow.”

Peter nodded sagely. “At this rate, we’ll all be graduated before you two finally get together.”

Remus threw his head back in exasperation. “You are all insufferable.”

Sirius nudged him with his elbow. “Oh, come on, Moony, admit it. You fancy her.”

Remus groaned, pinching the bridge of his nose. “This is not how I pictured my evening going.”

James grinned, leaning forward with a glint of mischief in his eyes. "We’re just saying, you two might as well get it over with before we all go mad."

You rolled your eyes, trying to ignore the warmth creeping up your neck. "You lot are insufferable."

Sirius gasped, clutching his chest. "You wound me!"

Peter snickered. "Pretty sure Remus is the only one wounding himself—what with all the choking and blushing."

Remus scowled at them all. "I do not blush."

James pointed at him. "Your ears are bright red, mate."

Remus groaned, covering his ears with his hands.

You decided to fight fire with fire. You turned to Sirius, an innocent smile on your lips. "Alright, if we’re playing this game—when was the last time you went five minutes without flirting with someone, Black?"

Sirius smirked. "Oh, deflecting, are we?" He wagged a finger at you. "Classic move. But it won’t save you, darling."

James laughed, nudging him. "To be fair, he’s got you there. You are terrible at subtlety."

You crossed your arms, raising an eyebrow. "Oh, and you lot are subtle?"

"Of course," Peter said with a straight face. "We are the very definition of subtle."

James nodded solemnly. "Masters of it, really."

Sirius threw an arm over James’ shoulder. "Stealthy as shadows, my dear."

Remus exhaled sharply, dropping his hands from his face. "I hate every single one of you."

You grinned, nudging him playfully. "Even me?"

His expression softened immediately—traitorously. "Especially you," he muttered, though the slight curl of his lips gave him away.

Sirius groaned again. "See?! Look at that! You two are disgusting!"

James shook his head. "Unbelievable. Just snog already."

Remus groaned. “Merlin, just end me now.”

You, smiling brighter than ever, simply laced your fingers through his. He squeezed your hand, and though he was still flustered beyond belief, he didn’t let go.

Sirius gasped dramatically. “Oh, hand-holding! Scandalous!”

James pretended to faint.

Peter shook his head. “We’ve lost him to romance.”

Remus sighed, but there was a small, secret smile playing at his lips as he looked at you. “I really do hate them.”

You squeezed his hand, laughing softly. “I don’t know, I kind of love them.”

He exhaled, glancing at his friends—who were now reenacting some over-the-top, tragic love story in the middle of the common room.

He looked back at you, shaking his head fondly. “Yeah. Me too.”

Trying to protect you.

The change was subtle at first. Little things.

Remus stopped sitting so close to you, stopped letting his fingers brush against yours when you reached for something at the same time. He no longer rested his arm behind you on the couch or leaned into you when you laughed. The warmth you had grown used to—the easy comfort of having him near—was fading, like a candle slowly burning out.

At first, you thought you were imagining it. But then, he started avoiding you entirely.

You barely saw him at breakfast. He was quick to leave after class. When you sat beside him in the common room, he’d suddenly remember he had something to do—homework, patrols, an excuse that never quite made sense.

But the worst part? You didn’t change.

You were still as sweet as ever, still beaming up at him when you saw him in the hallways. Still sliding into the seat beside him in the common room, pressing a chocolate bar into his hand with a soft, “You look like you need this.”

You still reached for his hand when you laughed at something stupid Sirius said. Still looked at him with those bright, trusting eyes, like he wasn’t something to be afraid of.

It made him feel sick.

Because he didn’t deserve it. He didn’t deserve you.

And yet… he craved you.

Your touch. Your warmth. The way you made him feel like he was more than just scars and sharp edges.

But the full moon was too close now.

He could feel it—coiling in his gut, burning behind his ribs. It made him restless, short-tempered. His body ached, his appetite grew insatiable, his thoughts were muddled with something too sharp, too wild.

And you were still here, making everything harder.

One evening, after dinner, he was sitting in the common room, staring into the fire, trying to drown out the pounding in his head. You came in, looking as radiant as ever, your face lighting up the second you saw him.

“Rem!” you chirped, flopping onto the couch beside him without hesitation.

His jaw clenched. He didn’t turn to look at you.

Undeterred, you nudged his arm. “You okay? You’ve been quiet today.”

He swallowed hard. “Just tired.”

You hummed, unconvinced, but didn’t push. Instead, you leaned against him slightly, just enough for your shoulder to brush his.

“Wanna help me with my Potions essay?” you asked, your voice light. “Slughorn is going to hex me if I mess up another ingredient list.”

Remus should have said no. Should have told you to find Lily or James or anyone else.

But instead, he found himself glancing at you.

And Merlin, you were looking at him like he hung the bloody stars in the sky.

His throat felt tight.

“I—” He forced himself to look away, pushing a hand through his hair. “Yeah. Sure.”

Your smile was blinding, and something inside his chest ached.

He was being so selfish.

Letting you sit so close. Letting you touch him. Letting himself want you when he knew what was going to happen in just a few days.

But he wasn’t strong enough to pull away.

Not yet.

You didn’t seem to notice how stiff he was, or if you did, you didn’t mention it. Instead, you just grinned, pulling out your Potions book and parchment as if nothing had changed. As if he wasn’t trying to put distance between you.

Remus hated it.

Hated how easy it was for you to sit beside him, to nudge his knee with yours like you always did. Hated how much he liked it.

You were making this impossible.

“Okay,” you sighed, flipping through the pages. “Tell me why I always forget the difference between powdered root of asphodel and essence of dittany.”

Remus huffed a quiet laugh despite himself. “Because you have the attention span of a flobberworm.”

You gasped dramatically. “Rude.”

The corners of his mouth twitched. Stop it.

He cleared his throat, forcing himself back into the walls he’d been building around you. “Powdered root of asphodel is a sleeping agent,” he muttered, shifting away slightly. “Essence of dittany is for healing.”

You pursed your lips, scribbling it down on your parchment. “See? This is why I keep you around.”

A warmth spread through his chest before he could shove it down.

You always said things like that so easily, like it was the most natural thing in the world for him to be in your life. Like you didn’t realize how dangerous it was to be near him.

He should have ignored it. Should have let the moment pass.

But when he glanced at you, you were already looking at him—chin propped in your hand, eyes soft and full of something he didn’t deserve.

He swallowed hard. “Don’t look at me like that.”

You blinked, surprised. “Like what?”

Like I’m worth something.

Instead of answering, he shook his head, looking back at your parchment. “Just… keep writing.”

You didn’t press him. You never did.

You just smiled a little, amused, and got back to your notes.

And Remus felt his resolve crumbling.

Because the full moon was closing in, and he was supposed to be pushing you away.

But you weren’t letting him.

And deep down, he knew—no matter how hard he tried—he didn’t want you to.

Someone who stays.

Now Remus was fully avoiding you.

At first, it was subtle—excuses about needing to study, leaving the Great Hall earlier than usual, disappearing between classes. But then, it became obvious. He stopped waiting for you after class. He no longer sought you out in the courtyard or library. He barely spoke to you.

And you weren’t having it.

So, when he slipped out of the Great Hall after barely touching his food, you followed.

Remus walked with his hands shoved in his pockets, head down, as he made his way toward the Astronomy Tower. You didn’t even hesitate to chase after him.

"Remus!"

He froze for a fraction of a second before continuing up the stairs.

You huffed, quickening your pace. “You are aware that ignoring me won’t actually make me go away, right?”

Remus exhaled through his nose. “I’m not ignoring you.”

“You are,” you countered, finally reaching his side. “You’ve been running off at every opportunity like I’m some horrible curse you need to escape from.”

He swallowed, still refusing to look at you.

"Rem," you tried softly.

His shoulders tensed.

You stepped in front of him, blocking his way. “Talk to me.”

“There’s nothing to talk about,” he muttered, glancing toward the night sky.

You frowned. “You’re isolating yourself, and don’t you dare tell me you always do this, because we both know that’s a lie.”

Remus exhaled, jaw clenched. “Maybe you should stop worrying about me.”

You recoiled slightly, but quickly narrowed your eyes. “Like hell I will.”

Remus rubbed a hand over his face. “You’re making this harder than it needs to be.”

“Good,” you snapped. “You’re pushing me away, and I don’t know why.”

His lips pressed into a thin line. “You should.”

Your chest tightened. “What’s that supposed to mean?”

“It means—” Remus cut himself off, shaking his head. “You know something’s wrong. You know I’m not—” He inhaled sharply. “I just— I need you to stop.”

You blinked. “Stop what?”

Remus let out a humorless laugh. “Caring.”

Your stomach twisted.

“Because if you keep caring,” he said, voice hoarse, “you’re going to get hurt.”

You stared at him, heart pounding. “Remus…”

“I can’t—I won’t let that happen.”

You shook your head, stepping closer. “You don’t get to decide that.”

He clenched his fists. “I do.”

“No, you don’t,” you shot back. “Because I choose to care about you. I choose to be here.”

His expression faltered, pain flickering in his eyes.

You exhaled, voice softer. “Rem… why won’t you just let me be here for you?”

He turned away. “Because one day, you’ll hate me for it.”

Your heart ached.

“I could never hate you,” you whispered.

Remus squeezed his eyes shut. “You say that now.”

You took a deep breath, then—without hesitation—wrapped your arms around him.

Remus stiffened.

But you didn’t let go.

You held him tighter, pressing your forehead against his shoulder. “I’m not going anywhere.”

His hands trembled at his sides. “You should.”

“I won’t.”

He let out a shaky breath.

And slowly—so slowly—you felt his arms wrap around you, his grip hesitant, as if he was afraid you’d vanish the moment he touched you.

But you didn’t.

And neither did he.

Remus held you like he was afraid you’d slip through his fingers. His grip wasn’t tight, wasn’t desperate, but it was cautious—like he wasn’t sure if he deserved this moment.

You weren’t having that.

You tightened your arms around him, pressing closer, feeling the steady rise and fall of his chest. His heartbeat was fast, too fast. You didn’t know if it was from nerves or something else entirely, but you didn’t care. You just wanted him to know—really know—that you weren’t leaving.

His fingers twitched against your back. “You don’t understand.”

“Then help me understand,” you murmured.

He shook his head against you. “I can’t.”

You exhaled, running a soothing hand up and down his back. “Then I’ll wait.”

Remus stiffened. “You shouldn’t.”

You pulled back just enough to look at him, your arms still around him, refusing to let go. His face was guarded, carefully blank, but his eyes—those soft brown eyes—were filled with emotion.

“Why not?” you whispered.

His jaw tightened. “Because I’m not worth waiting for.”

Your heart ached. “That’s not your decision to make.”

He looked away, his grip on you loosening, but you refused to let him slip away.

“Remus.” You gently cupped his face, forcing him to look at you. His skin was cool beneath your fingertips, and he tensed under your touch. “You don’t get to decide what you’re worth to me. And right now? Right now, I’m telling you that you’re worth everything.”

His breath hitched.

“You don’t have to tell me anything you’re not ready to,” you continued softly. “You don’t have to explain why you disappear every month, or why you come back looking like you fought the bloody Whomping Willow. You don’t have to tell me why you think pushing me away will keep me safe.” You swallowed, thumb brushing against his cheek. “But just because you won’t tell me, doesn’t mean I don’t see you, Rem.”

His fingers curled into the fabric of your robes.

“I see you,” you whispered. “And I’m not afraid.”

Remus let out a shaky breath. He looked so tired, so torn. And yet, for the first time in days, he wasn’t running.

You watched as his resolve cracked—just slightly, just enough. His shoulders sagged, and before you knew it, he buried his face in the crook of your neck.

Your heart clenched as you felt his breath against your skin, uneven and vulnerable. You rubbed soothing circles into his back, holding him close, grounding him.

“Is it really so impossible to believe,” you murmured, “that someone could stay?”

Remus let out a bitter laugh. “For me? Yes.”

You frowned, tightening your grip around him. “Then I’ll just have to prove you wrong.”

He let out a soft, shaky exhale. His arms wrapped around you fully this time, holding on like he was finally allowing himself to believe—even if just for a moment—that maybe, just maybe, you meant it.

And you did.

You always would.

—— 🌙 ——

Notes from the author:

Hello my favourite people!

Made extra fluff for you, our Moony deserves some love! (Even though he doesn't admit it)

Also, did you notice that the reader, who always does amazing in potions, is asking his help with it? 🫢

And thanks for all the amazing comments, you have me smiling like a fool! 🤍

Hope you like this part as much as i did! (Probably is my favourite till now)

See you soon!

Taglist: @iloveremmy @jjamjamie @breakawayfromeveryday @oursweetmoony @whimsical-mistakes @froggiedragon @deathmybride @nerdbirdsworld @wolfstarsprongs @mischievousmoony @httpvomitello @sophie-0012 @waitforiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiit @msfandomsblog @starofthedawn @malenk @diiyaa @theonyxstate (if you want to be included in the taglist, let me know!)

#harry potter #fanfic #marauders era #x reader #x yn #marauders #remus lupin #sirius black #james potter #remus lupin x you #remus lupin x reader #lily evans #lily and james

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