Embers of Discord

Chapter Fifty-Two

Sirius-

The morning light awakens me, and I stretch my arms as I sit up in bed.

"Couldn't resist sneaking into Ahava's room again, could you?" Prongs remarks, wearing his infamous shit-eating grin.

Still half-asleep, I grab my razor and shaving cream. My stubble is getting out of control, and it needs some taming.

"You could get into trouble if they catch you," he adds.

I raise an eyebrow. "Since when do you care about getting into trouble? I'm the troublemaker, Prongs, and I don't get caught."

He snorts. "Says the guy who ends up in detention every single week."

I smirk. "Well, what's love without a little risk?"

To be honest, I'm feeling a bit restless. I hardly get to spend time with Ahava, let alone touch her. So, every night, I sneak into her room. Sometimes, I even manage to take her outside to feel the fresh air or sit under the stars. Ahava enjoys the thrill just as much as I do. I know she trusts me, but her father, Baba, isn't quite there yet.

It's not like I plan to do anything immoral. Sure, morality may not be my best trait, but hey, I'm a decent guy. Anyway, I guess I'll understand Mr. Shafiq's reluctance to leave Ahava with me if I ever become a father.

Wow, look at me now, contemplating kids already.

Stepping into the shower, the tension begins to melt away as the water droplets cascade down my body. I catch a glimpse of my reflection in the mirror while shaving. Sometimes, I feel like I've undergone some massive mental changes—guess they call it maturity.

As I step outside, I join Peter and Prongs at the breakfast table. Peter arrived this morning, which was quite a surprise.

Grabbing my plate, I plop down on a chair. "Hey, guys, where's Remus?"

Prongs shrugs. "He went outside. Can you fetch him and the girls? We need to have a meeting."

Peter whispers, "About the letter."

We nod. Three days ago, each of us received a letter with our names on it. It stated:

"Greetings, Seventh Year students. This year is your final one at Hogwarts, and it holds great importance beyond your academics. You are well aware of the darkness threatening our world, seeking to diminish our peace and safety. As the future force, you need to stand against it. As supporters against prejudice, come forward and contribute however you can.

Regards, Dumbledore's Army"

It appears that Dumbledore is planning to create an army to oppose Voldemort's supporters. Lately, there has been a surge in killings and murders of Muggles and Muggle-supporting wizards. We need to be prepared for the upcoming war.

I search for Remus, but he's nowhere in sight. A rustling sound near the forest catches my attention. When I arrive, I'm met with a surprising scene:

Ruhani is backed up against a tree, engaged in a passionate snog with Remus.

I lean against a tree, grinning. "Finally getting some action, are you?"

At the sound of my voice, they hastily pull apart. Ruhani looks embarrassed and shocked, and without a second glance, she runs back to her house. Remus, on the other hand, doesn't seem apologetic. Instead, he looks irritated.

"Damn it, Padfoot, did you really have to intervene?"

My smirk widens, which only seems to irritate him more. "Oh my, oh my, the golden boy Remus Lupin resorting to cussing because I interfered in his little romance?"

He spits out, "Go to hell."

I sober up. "Well, isn't it a good thing? You two are together?"

But Remus slumps down beside me. "No, actually. Ruhani is avoiding me. She barely even talks to me, acting like I don't exist. Today was the first time we talked, and well, we were arguing when I kissed her—"

"And she kissed you back?" I interject.

He nods, running a hand through his hair. "Merlin, I'm a jackass. First, I ignore her, and now I just kissed her. She'll probably hate me even more now."

I squeeze his shoulder. "Look at the bright side, mate. She kissed you back, didn't she? She still has feelings for you. Just drop the 'I'm a werewolf' drama and go to her, snog her again, or confess your undying love—whatever works."

Remus chuckles. "Jesus, you've turned into a love guru."

I grin, getting up. "Oh, and bring your girl and Ahava over to our place. We have a meeting, remember?"