Liz Matthews was not one for attention. So deciding to become Hogwarts's first Muggle professor wasn't her smartest idea. Not only does she have to deal with teaching teenagers, old wounds and old friends, and a godson who doesn't know that she exists - her lover has recently escaped from Azkaban and is on the loose. No pressure then. Set During 3rd year/POA with flashbacks to Marauders Era. Sirius/OC
Liz clutched the poster of Sirius Black in her hand tightly. She knew she shouldn’t have taken the stupid thing from one of the shop windows in Hogsmeade but she couldn’t help it, and everyone else had had one too many Fire Whiskeys to notice. That had been a few weeks back and ever since then it had stayed crumpled up in her trouser pocket. Until now.
She glanced up from the page and looked once again out of the classroom window which overlooked the grounds.
She couldn’t see them, which scared her a bit. But they were out there, guarding the entrances to the grounds of the school, and they were looking for him.
For her Sirius… or what’s left of him, if anything even was…
Perhaps she should have felt thankful for the extra protection the dementors provided the school against an alleged mass murderer, yet the feeling in her gut told her nothing good could come from such… things. Dementors
Whatever they were. She shuddered at the thought.
The page crumpled in her hand once more and she shoved it far into her pocket, out of site.
Liz turned away from the window and took a deep breath, nodding to herself as she went over the list in her head, the very alive potted plant from Professor Sprout, waving its leaves at her.
Classroom ready, check. Classes and assignments are planned and ready, check. The feeling of impending doom? Definitely.
It was late afternoon and the students were on their way on the Hogwarts Express and Liz had spent most of the day flittering all over the place. Checking and re-checking all she had prepared over the last few weeks was ready.
The school was full of life, and Liz felt out of place once more. No more milling about the place, taking her time and enjoying the scenery. It was full speed ahead and no stopping now. Soon her classroom, which up until now had been relatively peaceful, will be filled with Children looking to her for guidance. And in Liz’s humble opinion, no one should be looking for guidance from her; she’s barely got her life together as is.
She had two other things to be worried about in the coming hours.
One, she would finally be seeing her godson again, the boy she hadn’t seen since he was in nappies and didn’t know she existed.
And two, Remus Lupin, an old friend she hadn’t seen since their argument after Sirius was arrested, cutting off the friendship on bad terms, was also on his way and he very much knew who she was.
The bitter hurt she had felt from their last interaction had long faded, and all she was left with was guilt and regret. She just hoped he didn’t hate her.
Pushing aside those thoughts, she focused on the evening ahead. She was really quite excited to witness her first welcome feast, to see the sorting ceremony in all its glory. She was always jealous hearing the Marauder boys talk about school, and now here she was about to experience it all, just from a different seat.
After her third cup of tea in a short amount of time, Liz stared at the outfit that sat in front of her. She dressed in her usual tartan trousers and cardigan, but there was one more piece to make it complete. Minerva had arrived a few evenings ago with a set of robes just for Liz; a gift from the Professors she said. They were a warm brown, thick but light and fit her just right.
She felt a warm bundle of nerves in her stomach every time she glanced at it over the last few days, and now it was time.
She pulled the comfy robes on, fussing in the mirror to ensure they were on the right, and looked good. She wanted to impress them all, impress anyone who might have doubts about her abilities, the same doubts she had herself.
She flattened her fringe and took a deep breath, nodding to herself encouragingly when there was a knock on the door.
Opening it, she smiled up at Hagrid, “Hello Hagrid, that time already?”
“Jus’ about! And look at you! A proper professor if I ever saw one.”
Liz was unable to keep the pleased blush from her face. “Do you really think so?”
Hagrid beamed in approval, “I’ve got to head down to Hogsmeade to collect the firs’ years, but I can walk with you to the Great Hall if you like?”
“That would be great Hagrid, thanks.” She said, appreciative of his offer. Somehow being with a giant helped ease one's worries.
Hagrid did most of the talking as they made their way down to the Entrance Hall, explaining once again his job for the night- collecting the first years for their warm welcome boating across the lake to the castle. Liz had asked Hagrid to bring her some time, she could only imagine what a sight it would be to cross the lake under the stars and moonlight.
Liz twiddled her fingers, nodding to those they passed in the halls. As they approached the Great Hall Liz forced herself to take a few deep breaths. Hagrid glanced at her and said, “Well… I’ll see you during the feast.”
Liz realised Hagrid must have felt just as nervous as she did. She tried her best to be reassuring, “I’ll save you a seat.” She smiled.
Hagrid beamed and let out a breath, “...Well… I’ll leave you here then. Off to get the firs’ years!”
They nervously exchanged goodbyes and Liz watched Hagrid leave through the large entrance doors, before turning, robes floating around her legs, and looking into the Great Hall.
There were a few people (and ghosts - that took some getting used to) already mulling about and the walk from the doors to the head table at the back of the room felt very far away.
Liz slowly stepped into the threshold, heels clicking off the stone floor beneath her as she began to make her way to her seat, taking in the surroundings as she did so.
She had come to the Great Hall many times to eat since she had arrived, but it looked particularly splendid tonight. Golden plates and goblets lined the long tables and the room was lit in the glow of hundreds of floating candles above her head. The room was warm and comforting, grand yet homey. Liz couldn’t help but smile in awe.
“Good evening Liz!” Professor Flitwick squeaked from his seat atop a pile of pillows. Professor Sprout smiled warmly from beside him and added, “How are you feeling?”
Liz returned the smile and said “Nervous, but in a good way. I’m excited to see how everything happens, the sorting and all.” It was at that moment that Liz noticed the man she had been avoiding since she had arrived, was glaring her way. Liz peeked over at him and as they made eye contact, Snape sneered, very obviously not happy with her presence.
Severus Snape was not someone she knew well at all, but she knew enough. And so did he, as his instant dislike toward her spelt out very clearly. There was no doubt in Liz’s mind that Snape remembered just who she was and who she had associated with.
Liz looked away quickly, and back to the two much happier faces.
“-Oh, it’s always a good evening!” Professor Sprout said, then indicated to the empty seat beside her, “You can come and sit next to me if you like.”
“Yes, that would be great thank you.” Liz nodded and made her way around the table, happy that there was another empty seat on her other side which she could save for Hagrid.
Soon the rest of the Professors had gathered and taken their seats, and the house ghosts floated through the air above the tables. Dumbledore greeted her along with the others, before taking Professor McGonagall to the side and discussing something quickly. McGonagall then made her way down toward the entrance hall out of sight, just as the room began to flood with students.
Liz sat up straighter as she took them in, eyes running over their faces, the colour of their robes and the groups they moved in. The first years were absent of course, making their way over with Hagrid. These children were older, and settled into a routine. Much more intimidating that's for sure.
And yet she couldn't look away. Somewhere in that sea of students, Harry Potter was surely making his way to the Gryffindor table. It was strange, the bundle of nerves that seemed to have been building up over the last month had dissipated and instead was replaced with the urge to rise from her seat and stand on her tippy toes to find the dark-haired boy. …not that she would know what to say once she did.
It took her a moment to realise who was coming in her direction. It made sense, of course, every other professor was seated except for him and Hagrid. And Dumbledore had told her he would be arriving on the train. Yet somehow she had managed to push Remus Lupin firmly from her mind.
And now here he was taking a seat a few down from her at this very table.
Liz took the opportunity to ignore the presence not far from her by giving all her attention to Professor Flitwick as the Sorting Ceremony began. Hagrid had made his way in behind the first years and accepted the seat beside Liz with a grateful smile. Liz watched in fascination as the students came up one by one, the Sorting Hat shouting out a House for all to hear, the tables erupting in applause as a shy first year made their way to their seat.
It was after the ceremony had finished that she finally spotted him. He entered the Great Hall with a bushy-haired girl and Professor McGonagall who was currently walking swiftly toward the staff table. Harry Potter, the spitting image of his father, weaved his way toward the Gryffindor table and sat beside a lanky ginger boy.
Liz felt Hagid lean toward her, “You okay?” He whispered, obviously having noticed where her gaze had landed.
“Yeah.” She smiled warmly, her gaze running back across the Gryffindor table.
She wondered if he liked the Custard Tarts. Did he even get them?
“That’s Ron and Hermione,” Hagrid nodded toward the two Harry now sat in quiet conversation with, “Best friends them three.”
Before she could respond Dumbledore stood up, “Welcome!” he said, “Welcome to another year of Hogwarts! I have a few things to say to you all and as one of them is very serious, I think it best to get it out of the way before you become befuddled by our excellent feast…”
Liz clutched her hands in her lap, suddenly very aware that all eyes were looking in the direction of the staff table, and there were surely students curious as to who the new faces were. Liz forced herself to look to the headmaster and forget about the rest for the moment.
Dumbledore continued, “As you will all be aware after their search of the Hogwarts Express, our school is presently playing host to some of the Dementors of Azkaban, who are here on Ministry of Magic business.” A slightly grim look settled on Dumbledore's face, “They are stationed at every entrance to the grounds and while they are with us, I must make it plain that nobody is to leave school without permission. Dementors are not to be fooled by tricks or disguises - or even invisibility cloaks. It is not in the nature of a Dementor to understand pleading or excuses.” Liz shivered at the image conjured up in her mind of such beings, “I, therefore, warn each and every one of you to give them no reason to harm you. I look to the prefects, and our new Head Boy and Girl, to make sure that no student runs foul of the Dementors.”
A pause followed as Dumbledore looked around, not a peep coming from anyone in the Hall. The silence unnerved her.
“On a happier note,” He continued with a slightly cheerier tone, “I am pleased to welcome three new teachers to our ranks this year.”
“Firstly, Professor Lupin, who has kindly consented to fill the post of Defence Against the Dark Arts Teacher.” The nerves in Liz’s stomach did a summersault, and she chanced a glance along the table toward Remus. He was looking around and smiling politely at the scattered applause. Liz joined in, clapping her hands whilst staring down at the gold plate on the table.
“Next! A very special appointment.” Dumbledore looked over to her eyes twinkling. Liz tried really hard not to shrink down into her seat. “I am delighted to welcome Hogwart’s first ever Muggle teacher.” Immediately she felt all eyes on her, whispers erupting from all ends of the hall, “Professor Matthews will be teaching Muggle Studies, a subject she is an expert in as you can imagine.”
Liz rolled her eyes lightly at him, blushing as a quick applause filled the room once more.
“And finally!” Dumbledore said once the applause died down, “Well, I am sorry to tell you that Professor Kettleburn, our Care of Magical Creatures teacher retired at the end of last year in order to enjoy more time with his remaining limbs. However, I am delighted to say that his palace will be filled by none other than Rubeus Hagrid, who has agreed to take on this teaching job in addition to his gamekeeping duties.”
Hagrid had gone just as red in the face as Liz, a grin visible through his thick black beard. Applause spread throughout the hall, particularly loud and proud from the Gryffindor table. Liz noticed it was Harry and his friends Ron and Hermione who were the last to stop clapping. She turned to whisper words of encouragement to Hagrid and noticed he was tearing up.
As subtly as possible, Liz passed her napkin to Hagrid who immediately brought it to his eyes. Liz suppressed a smile
“Well, I think that’s everything of importance!” Dumbledore beamed, “Let the feast begin!” And just like that, the table in front of them was filled with food and drink. Liz jumped slightly at the motion, laughing.
Liz hadn’t had such a feast in a very long time. Cooking for one wasn’t always the most exciting, so she happily indulged in the many dishes which now littered the table. She watched and listened to all the chatter around her, and in the light of the warm candles, she felt something she hadn’t in a long time.
Home. Safe.
That is, until she saw them approaching. Harry and his two friends pushed their way through the crowd grinning as they approached Hagrid. Liz froze unable to look away as they stopped in front of the staff table.
“Congrats Hagrid!” Harry exclaimed. Liz resisted the urge to rise from her seat and instead clutched her hands tightly in her lap.
“Yeah, bloody brilliant! You never said anything!” The lanky ginger boy said.
Hagrid blushed, as the congratulations and praise showered him. Liz was slightly concerned when he even started to cry.
She picked up the closest napkin she could find and went to hand it to him, but Hagrid had already begun to sob into the tablecloth.
“Hello Professor.”
Liz jumped when she realised the girl of the trio was beaming at her kindly, brimming with curiosity.
“Oh, Hello.” Liz stuttered out, cringing at how un-professor-like she sounded.
The young girl opened her mouth to speak once more, but Liz was saved by Minerva who bustled over to shoo the kids away, lest they cause Hagrid to completely ruin the table cloth.
And from the reassuring look she gave her, Liz expected that she was trying to help her out of an awkward first interaction.
Liz gave the older woman a grateful look and patted Hagrid’s massive arm. She almost fell out of her chair as Hagrid turned to cry into her shoulder. Or at least he tried to… he really was sitting at an awkward angle.
Liz looked up to watch the trio walking towards the large doors, spirits high and inhaled quickly when Harry took a look over his shoulder. He must have been looking back at Hagrid, but it was Liz who he made eye contact with.
Liz raised her hand and gave him a small, hesitant wave.
And without knowing how much it meant to her, he did the same.
—----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Christmas Eve 1975
Age 15
“You can just leave your coat here if you want,” Lizzy took her own coat and scarf off and hung them on the rack by the front door. Sirius followed suit, looking around the small entrance hall.
Lizzy smiled awkwardly. “Uh… this way.” Still grasping the shopping bags she made her way down the hall, past the living room and into the kitchen.
“You can sit at the table, I shouldn’t take long.” Lizzy had never felt so awkward and was beginning to question why on earth she had invited what was essentially a stranger into her home.
“Do you mind if I watch?” Sirius said with genuine curiosity.
Lizzy blinked as she placed a pot on the stovetop, “Sure, I mean, it’s not too exciting, just stirring stuff together,” she shrugged smiling.
Sirius jumped in surprise when the stove top lit up, flames licking the bottom of the pot.
“How does that work?” He asked as she poured two mug fulls of milk into the saucer.
“What?” Seeing what he was staring at, she gave him a questioning look, “It’s a gas cooker. What, do you have an electric?”
“What?” Sirius looked away from the flame, “Oh, uh… yeah we have… that.”
She was watching him curiously, trying to read him like a book. Sirius shot her a wolfish grin in hopes of moving the conversation on. Her interest lingered, but she looked away quickly.
As a way to diffuse the awkwardness, she asked Sirius to help break up the blocks of chocolate, and she had to repress a giggle at the overly cautious way she placed them in the hot milk mixture.
“Just throw them in!” She laughed.
Sirius scowled, “I did do that! The milk jumped up and burnt me.”
Rolling her eyes she took the remainder of the chocolate and placed them into the pot as she had done many times before, “Clearly you’re just not that fast.”
“What! I am so fast.” He made some flowing movements with his arm, feet moving, “In fact I’m so fast you didn’t even see me leave the room and come back.”
“Uh huh,” Her eyes were filled with mirth, “Wow, colour me impressed speedy.”
He grinned leaning back against the counter, and a comfortable silence fell over them as Lizzy finished up their hot chocolates.
“Here,” She handed one to him then took the other into her hands, humming at the sweet, comforting smell that hit her nose. “Come on,” She nodded her head and he once again followed her, this time ending up in the livingroom.
It almost reminded Sirius of the Gryffindor common room, though, obviously a lot smaller. Two cushy armchairs sat close to a roaring fire, and a sofa covered in mismatched blankets and pillows sat near a thick black box. There was a Christmas tree in the corner, nowhere near as grand as the ones Sirius was used to seeing, both at home and at Hogwarts, nor was it particularly graceful looking with its different colours and random baubles. Sirius thought it was charming and found he very much enjoyed being somewhere that was so the opposite of anything you would find in the Great House of Black.
They plopped themselves down on the two armchairs, the heat of the fire warming their cheeks hiding the subtle blushes as they talked the night away.
She was timid while she spoke of her family's past, the tragic passing of her two sisters many years before and the struggle to move forward through the grief. She didn't know why she felt so comfortable talking about it all, there was just a part of her that knew he wouldn’t judge.
Evidently, he felt the same. Of course, Sirius had to skirt around the discussion of magic but felt a weight lifting from his shoulders as he discussed the dysfunction of his family.
As he left the home, she wished him a Merry Christmas, blushing and smiling meekly. When his head hit the pillow, he played that moment over and over in his head.
"As you know, there are four School Houses, Gryffindor which I am Head of, Hufflepuff whose head is Professor Sprout, Ravenclaw with Professor Flitwick and Slytherin which belongs to Professor Snape. As a teacher, you are able to award points for good behaviour and detract them for the alternative."
Professor Minerva McGonagall was an intimidating woman. High tight bun on her head, lips set as straight as a line and a strong gaze which had Liz listening to her every word.
"Okay," Liz nodded, taking notes in a small notebook she had found amongst her things as she had done for the last couple of hours.
Minerva - she insisted Liz call her such - stood at the front of the Muggle studies classroom alongside Lizzy, talking through the ins and outs of what she deemed to be good schooling. She had given her a quick tour around areas she believed were important for Liz to be aware of including the entrances of each common room, the different classrooms and who taught what, as well as the staff room. Liz wrote meticulous notes on each.
"Detention," She continued, "is also a punishment we use here at Hogwarts, but the when and where is up to the discretion of the teacher. Within reason of course."
"Of course, yes." Liz nodded along. She felt like she was doing that a lot today.
Most of the teachers had now returned though Liz hadn't seen them all yet. She discovered that the strange bug-eyed woman was Professor Sybil Trelawny who was the teacher of Divination. Minerva did not seem impressed by her abilities.
She had also met Professor Sprout and Professor Flitwick both of whom she liked and who were most welcoming. Then there was Professor Binns who taught history. Liz near jumped out of her skin as the ghost came floating through the walls one day. Liz also had an unpleasant meeting with Argus Filch a rather cross-looking man who had a cat and took an instant dislike to Liz. Probably didn't help that Biscuit chased the cat about the place.
"You will want to have your class schedules sorted before Classes start on the second." Minerva held out a stack of parchments to her, "These are assignments and teachings from the last few years to help you figure out the curriculum."
"Oh great thank you." Liz smiled genuinely and was pleased to see Minerva's lips upturned as she nodded in return.
"The place is looking much fresher now," the professor said in approval, "And I saw that you have replaced a lot of the muggle objects in the showroom?"
"Oh yes. Albus said I could do what I liked with it so I popped down to London a few days back and got some things I thought would be interesting. Though I suppose it's difficult for me to judge that. Hagrid was a lot of help. Got a lot of looks in the shops though..."
Minerva was amused, "I could imagine."
"Thank you for giving me your time Minerva. I feel a lot calmer than I did last night."
"Don't thank me, Liz, we're colleagues."
Liz smiled.
Minerva watched her carefully, "How are you? Really?" She asked.
There was a lot that went unsaid but it didn't need to be. Liz knew what she was referring to.
"Good, honestly. It feels safe here at Hogwarts and I've plenty to keep me distracted, even more so once the school year begins. As much as I panic… I think this will be good for me."
"Are you… thinking of speaking to Mr Potter?"
Liz twiddled her thumbs, "I honestly haven't thought too much about it. I'm not sure it would be a good idea… given everything."
Minerva hummed but said no more.
Liz hurried the conversation on, "I was thinking of heading down to Hogsmeade today, do you think that'd be alright."
"Of course, I don't see any reason why not. You're free to come and go, Liz, you don't need to ask my permission."
"I know, it just feels so strange wandering around amongst a bunch of wizards. Feel a bit out of place."
"I hope no one is making you feel like such. I want you to tell me immediately if anyone is giving you grief-"
"Oh no!" Liz shook her hands, almost amused at the stern tone of voice coming from the older woman, "It's just my own overthinking don't worry. Not used to so many people is all."
"You must gain some confidence in yourself, Liz. Professor Dumbledore would not have asked you if he did not believe you were capable."
Liz nodded. "You're right. I know you're right."
"I usually am."
Small bag draped over her shoulder, Liz walked with Hagrid, Biscuit and Fang down to Hogsmeade, Hagrid discussing the scenery and route to and from. It was a relatively easy route to and from the school, but Hagrid seemed to be enjoying himself so Liz didn't want to interrupt.
The grounds surrounding them were beautiful in the Summer sun, a light breeze blowing through the air, cooling her cheeks against the warmth.
Hogsmeade was picturesque. Thatched cottages and shops littered the high street and beyond, with the train station for the Hogwarts Express not far from the main village area. The only thing that soured the view was the face of Sirius Black plastered everywhere, his haggard face screaming under the words 'HAVE YOU SEEN THIS WIZARD?'
Liz's heart sank, finding it hard to tear her eyes from the poster. She felt Hagrid awkwardly shift and clear his throat and she turned her away forcing a smile.
Once they arrived, Liz and Hagrid went their separate ways for the moment, and Liz was excited to explore the shops, ready to spend some of her newly acquired wizarding money. She was not totally unfamiliar with the coins but was by no means an expert. She just hoped the shopkeepers would be forgiving of her muggle ways.
It was slightly unnerving, outside of the walls of Hogwarts, with no one to hold her hand.
Liz took a breath deciding where to go, watching the wizards and witches going about their days around the village. As she moved she tried to ignore the posters which seemed to follow her every move, haunting her.
Scrivenshaft's Quill Shop seemed the most logical first step. After a meek hello to the shopkeeper, Liz took her time looking around the shelves, lifting quills and ink, parchment and other such stationary. It was a rather straightforward trip, no one batting an eyelid or questioning who or what she was, not even when she took a minute to work out how many coins she needed to pay.
She had the same experience at The Magic Neep greengrocers where she picked up a number of fruits, snacks and tea bags.
In Dominic Maestro's she gave herself away. It was inevitable that she would need help trying to pick out a wizard wireless (She couldn't reach any muggle radio stations in Hogwarts, even with her classroom blocking interference with muggle things.) She got a few interesting looks, curious, but not malicious, and the man behind the counter was happy to talk her through the ins and outs of wizarding music.
Liz thanked him and moved on to the Tomes and Scrolls bookshop. She was very interested to see how similar (or perhaps different?) Wizarding novels and stories were compared to muggle ones. She grabbed a few with interesting covers, as well as non-fiction books about muggles from a wizard's perspective.
She met Hagrid in Honeydukes, both purveying the shop and gathering a few sweet treats. Once they reached the till, Hagrid loudly introduced Liz, proclaiming her the first Muggle teacher at Hogwarts with a proud grin on his face. Liz shrunk away from the turning heads and staring eyes.
"Hagrid," She said as they sat at a large circular table in The Three Broomsticks soon after, "I know you mean well, but I think it would be best if you don't mention well… that I'm a muggle to people."
Biscuit and Fang curled up beside each other on the floor, settling into the peaceful atmosphere.
"Eh?" Hagrid looked at her confused, "Why not? You've nothing to be ashamed of!"
"Oh, I know," Liz clutched her Butterbear bottle, "It's just well… I'm not one for attention, and I know how… unusual my circumstances are. I think it's best for me to just get on with it and not make a fuss, you know?"
Liz looked up at Hagrid and smiled.
"Ah…" He said, refusing to make eye contact. "Ah well-"
"Hagrid?" Liz furrowed her brows, just as a new voice squeaked as it approached the table.
"There you are!" Filius Flitwick climbed up on one of the seats resting his hands together atop the table, "Am I the first to arrive?"
"Oh!" Liz looked at him wide-eyed, "Uh, hello professor!"
"Please just call me Filius. What are we drinking?"
"Just some Butterbeer, Professor," Hagrid confirmed, titling his bottle toward the small man.
"Oh nonsense, we're celebrating!"
"We are?" Liz asked.
"Madam Rosmerta!" Flitwick called across to the bar, getting the attention of the landlady, "As many Firewhiskey's as you can carry!"
"Uh…" Liz knew all too well how strong fire whisky was.
"Professor! Too kind, too kind." Hagrid beamed.
The door of the pub opened once more and a few more bodies flooded in.
Professor McGonagall, Professor Sprout, Madam Pomfrey, and Madam Hootch were deep in happy conversation as they approached the table, beginning to pile around.
"Hagrid." Liz murmured, "What's happening?"
"Well, I may 'ave thought it'd be nice if we had a little, welcomin' celebration for ye'. Help you get to know everyone." Hagrid looked firmly ahead, refusing to meet her eyes.
"You what-?" Liz squeaked, before being cut off by the sudden surrounding of bodies.
"Rolanda Hootch," The woman who sat beside her stuck her hand out to Liz, who took it meekly, "Good to meet you. Also nice to have some fresh blood around here. Keeps things interesting. And I do believe you will make things interesting."
Her yellow hawk-like eyes seemed to see right through Liz, "Um, nice to meet you."
"A muggle!" Poppy Pomfrey exclaimed, taking a drink from Rosmerta, "Teaching at Hogwarts. I never thought I'd see the day. This all must be very overwhelming for you Elizabeth."
She knows my name. Liz felt the sweat building on her palms. "Quite." She accepted one of the Fire Whiskeys and drank deeply, the burning in her throat momentarily distracting from the overwhelming feeling growing in her stomach.
"Do tell me," Poppy continued, "How long does it take for a broken bone to heal the muggle way?"
Liz blinked, "Oh well, depends on what it is and how badly it's broken I suppose. Maybe a couple of months?"
"A couple of months!" The healer was astounded, "Merlin's beard, how do muggles survive!"
"We're a sturdy bunch I suppose." Liz played with the bottle in her hand, laughing awkwardly.
"How about regrowing bones?" Poppy leaned forward, a serious expression on her face.
Liz breathed out a laugh, only to stop short when she saw that everyone was awaiting her answer, not a hint of a joke in their expressions.
"Oh uh-"
"I mean it must take at least a year if it takes months to simply mend a bone!"
"Oh Poppy!" Minerva interrupted, saving Liz from stuttering over a response, "Leave the poor girl alone."
Liz looked up from under her fringe and smiled gratefully at the older woman who gave the smallest smile and tilt of her head, followed by a scowl at the taste of the burning liquid.
"Who ordered this?" Minerva demanded, watching the drink with disapproval.
"How are you settling in then Liz?" Pomona Sprout asked, the woman radiating a warm comforting feeling, and the smell of earth and nature radiating from her, "You'll have to come to the greenhouses and get a few plants to brighten up the place. Nothing dangerous I promise."
Choosing to ignore that last part Liz said, "Thank you, that would be lovely. And I'm settling in well. Hagrid has been a great help and you've all made me feel so welcome."
"You're no different from the rest of us!" Flitwick squeaked, pointing his bottle at her, "Muggle or not, you're a teacher at one of the greatest schools in the world! So if anyone questions you, you make sure they know it!"
"Here, here!" Hagrid said raising his drink in the air and taking a deep gulp.
Liz couldn't help it as the others joined in with the cheering. Her cheeks grew red, a genuine sheepish smile graced her face and she beamed with pride.
Bundled up warm, scarf over her face, Lizzy hurried through the thick snow that littered the streets, hands full of shopping bags. It was dark out, but not quiet. The final rush before Christmas was in full swing and Lizzy had never been so glad to have gotten her Christmas presents sorted back in November. The cold was nipping at her nose and she couldn't wait to get into the house, a roaring fire and fluffy blanket waiting for her in the living room.
Her parents always found it difficult this time of year, the constant reminder of families being whole and together was like salt in the wound, hence why Lizzy knew she would have the house to herself until late that night when they arrived back from a few drinks with family friends.
They finally conceded to letting Lizzy stay alone for a couple of hours by herself.
After all… what's the worst that could happen?
Lizzy held the bags tighter to her in a hug, turning a street corner.
"Oh!" Lizzy went straight into someone's back, falling firmly onto her backside.
"Oh shit! I'm sorry-"
"I'm sorry-"
"Oh." Sirius and Liz said at once. He held a hand out to her to help her up and she sheepishly accepted, looking anywhere but at him.
"I'm sorry-" She started again but he cut her off.
"Don't be. I probably shouldn't be standing on street corners like a weirdo." Sirius grinned when he got a smile out of her, "Sorry about that. You okay? Didn't hit the ground too hard I hope."
"No broken bones as far as I can tell." Liz readjusted her bags, "Don't know if you remember me-"
"Of course I do, you're the mugg-." Sirius hurried, causing Lizzy's eyes to widen. He cleared his throat, "Lizzy. That was your name right?"
She nodded.
"And I'm Sirius."
"Yeah, I remember."
"You did?"
"Well, yeah. Hard to forget."
Sirius raised an eyebrow grinning wider.
Lizzy spluttered, "Well- No… not you! Not that you're forgettable- it's just your name is so-"
Sirius couldn't help it. He let out a rich bark of a laugh, blue eyes twinkling as he shook his head.
Lizzy blushed at the sound and clutched her bags. She was unable to look away, despite her desperate need to hide.
"I have been told once or twice that I'm irresistible it's true." He ran a hand through his hair and winked at her, quite pleased with himself.
…He wasn't quite sure why he was pleased… Or why he felt a slight warmth during these random encounters.
Lizzy rolled her eyes, trying desperately to keep the smile from her face. "You're definitely friends with James."
Lizzy began to walk past him when Sirius reached out and pulled her to a stop.
Both of them looked at his hand on her arm and blushed, stepping quickly away.
"Um… yes?" Lizzy looked at her feet.
Sirius rubbed the back of his neck, "I was just… well I suppose I wanted to ask you a question is all."
"...Okay?" her brows furrowed.
He almost looked embarrassed.
"I'm sure you remember the first time we met. Well, I was fighting the grass while you watched."
She nodded once, watching him curiously.
"You gave me this… pastry thing. What is it called." He watched her with complete seriousness.
Lizzy blinked, "Do you mean the custard tart."
"Oh! A custard tart. Is that what it's called?"
"Yeah… why? Did you like it?"
He nodded furiously. Lizzy bit her cheek at his seriousness…
"You should ask James about the bakery that makes them. It's not far from here, I'm sure he'll know."
"Brilliant. A custard tart." He said it so childlike.
Lizzy smiled and began to walk away.
Sirius snapped from his pastry-filled daydream and quickly followed her. Lizzy looked up surprised.
"You're not planning on walking home alone are you?" He asked, matching her steps, "It's very dark."
"Well it's not that late, and it's just around the corner," She pointed ahead to the street before them.
"Can I walk you home?"
"Uh… you really don't have to do that!" She shook her head. No one had ever asked to walk her home before.
"Well, it's only around the corner right?" He echoed her, "I want to make sure you get back okay."
"Okay then…"
They walked awkwardly side by side, snow falling softly on their coats, neither of them was sure how they managed to get into this situation and not quite sure how to deal with it.
"Have you moved here then?" Lizzy asked, desperate to fill the silence.
"Hm? Oh no, well… sort of yeah." Noticing her confused look Sirius continued "I've moved in with James for a while, so I suppose during the holidays I do."
"Oh I see. You're not spending Christmas with your parents?" She asked.
He tensed slightly and laughed humorlessly, "Oh no, we aren't that kind of family."
Lizzy buzzed with nerves realising she made a mistake, "I'm sorry- I put my foot in it didn't I!"
"Nah, don't worry," He smiled reassuringly, a slightly sad look on his face, "If I'm being honest, you were the one to cheer me up when I first got here."
"I was?"
"Yeah, that day I was a bit of a dick, well I had gotten into a fight, and I left… And you gave me a …. Custard tart… and well, it definitely made me feel better. People aren't usually so nice to strangers in my experience."
"Oh. Well, I'm glad I could help. Honestly, I thought I just annoyed you more."
He shook his head smiling, "If you met my mother you'd know there is no one more annoying in the universe than that woman."
She giggled at his cheeky grin and shook her head. They came to a stop in front of her home, the white Christmas lights hung on the building, shining like stars.
She looked at him carefully from under her fringe, "I'm sorry to hear about your family… I'm glad you have a friend like James to turn to."
"Yeah, he's my best friend. I'd do anything for him."
Lizzy twiddled her thumbs, hesitating, "Would you… like to come in for some hot chocolate?"
Sirius's eyes widened, "Uh… what do you- want your parents-"
"They're not home at the moment, they'll be back later. Unless you have somewhere to be of course!" She added hastily, cursing herself for speaking. What was she doing?!
"No! I- Well I'd love to… I suppose I'm just confused as to why you would do that?"
She gave him a small smile, "Let's just say I know a thing or two about family problems."
Sirius blinked, then returned the smile and the two entered the house, the wreath on the door swinging as it closed behind them.
It had taken a few days for Liz to prepare for Hogwarts. She spent most of the time with butterflies in her stomach, trying desperately not to overthink everything.
Every time she felt like backing out and continuing her quiet unassuming life, she held little Harry's photo in her hand and tried to find some courage. Perhaps she needed to channel her inner Gryffindor.
That was their thing, right?
In the end, she had four boxes and a suitcase. Her entire life was packed away neatly, sitting on the floor in front of her. It was an odd feeling.
The box of things she'd rather not think about right now, sat at the bottom of the pile unsealed as it had been for many years.
Biscuit knew something was happening; he had been pacing back and forth, tail wagging all day, and now he sat obediently beside Liz who was standing nervously by the front door. Dumbledore had said that he would be there soon, but each minute seemed like forever.
When the knock on the door finally came, both she and Biscuit jumped out of their skin, each bang sounding like thunder.
Hesitant, she reached forward for the door, eyes widening as behind it was revealed to be a very very large man. In fact, he was so large that Liz couldn't actually see anything of his face except for a huge black bushy beard.
Liz let out a squeak while Biscuit took the opposite approach of a low growl.
"Um, Hello?" Liz spluttered, moving backwards into her boxes.
"O' Hello!" The man crouched and peered in through the door, "Sorry 'bout that, it's a bit small, not sure I'll fit." He gestured to the size of the door frame. "And who's this?" The man asked, reaching a hand down to pat Biscuit's head.
"Oh, right." Liz nodded, eyes wide. "Right… uh-huh. Sorry but um… who are you?"
"O'right, sorry. Rubeus Hagrid at yer service."
He offered a large hand to her, and she almost unconsciously took it, her hand disappearing into his firm but warm handshake, her whole body moving along with the motion.
"Wait…" She said, head cocking to the side, "I know that name. You're the one who got Harry on the night of… well… you know." She trailed off awkwardly.
"Yeah, that was me!" He had a sombre look about him as he said, "Terrible business that, terrible." He shook his head bushy beard flowing back and forth.
"Well, thank you Rubeus, from what Dumbledore had said at the time, you were the best person for the job." She gave him a small smile, suddenly unsure of what to say.
"Oh, jus' call me Hagrid, everyone else does," He waved a hand, "Speaking of Dumbledore," Hagrid continued with notably more cheer, "He sent me here to help with your things! He got caught up with some Ministry business, Sirius Black and all that. A murderer like that on the loose! Isn't bare thinking about!" Hagrid must have noticed Liz's grimace as he hastened to add, "O' Course, we don't know- I mean we do, but well, not your fault… Not that anyone thought you knew-"
"It's okay Hagrid," She held a hand up, eager for the conversation to stop. She felt like crawling under her bedsheets. Part of her had hoped people had forgotten she existed. Obviously not.
"I mean honestly, I'm sure most people don't even know about the connection between you and… well him."
Liz smiled sadly, but said nothing, practically begging for the ground to open up and swallow her.
"Anyways…" Hagrid cleared his throat, and pointed behind her, "That all you have?"
"Hmm? Oh yeah, that's my life in boxes," She chuckled awkwardly, "I didn't really see a reason to keep much stuff over the years, with the constant moving around."
"I don' have much m'self if I'm honest, but I prefer it that way." He reached into his pocket and pulled out a small pouch, handing it to Liz. "Dumbledore asked me to give this to you, say's he will meet you soon."
Liz opened the bag and raised an eyebrow at what looked like dust contained within. Then the realisation hit her, "Floo powder."
"Exactly. You, uh… remember how to use it?"
The unsure look of Hagrid made her question herself and answered, "I just throw some into the fire and say where I want to go right?"
"Exactly that! Dumbledore sure knows how to pick the best of the bunch, you must be a very smart muggle!"
"Thanks, Hagrid," She tried not to laugh, tapping her fingers off of the pouch, "What about you though? If you can't, um…" She awkwardly gestured to his large form unable to fit in through the door.
Hagrid waved her off, "Oh I'll go around the back, less likely to draw attention that way." Hagrid winked at her and Liz bit her lip to keep herself from laughing. She was more than certain that he had already drawn attention to himself, simply by being well… huge. But Liz chose to keep this point to herself.
"Uh okay." Liz awkwardly picked up her suitcase, clutching it in one hand and the pouch in the other, "I'll leave my boxes in your capable hands then?" She said it almost like an unassured question, this whole endeavour starting to make her stomach come alive with nerves once more.
"And your furry friend 'ere too. I'll get him to Hogwarts okay, get him some food and see if I can scrounge up a bed for him, and a bowl if you like?"
"That would be great Hagrid, thank you. His name is Biscuit, by the way," Liz smiled genuinely, feeling comforted by the large man's friendly demeanour. Now all she had to worry about was whether or not everyone else would be the same.
"And I can introduce him to Fang! He's my own, an' not as fearsome as he sounds, a big coward of a dog he is."
Liz laughed quietly. She took a deep breath in through her nose then looked down at Biscuit, "Well then… I'll see you soon boy. Be good for Hagrid." Biscuit looked up at her, tail wagging, "Hagrid where do I um… tell the fireplace to take me?"
"Jus' Professor Dumbledore's office."
"Right. Thanks." Hesitating for a moment she said, "well, um, see you soon then." Liz walked into the living room as Hagrid shouted a goodbye after her.
Her palms were sweaty as she stopped in front of the unused fireplace. She swallowed hard.
Well, here goes. It had been a long time since she travelled by floo. It felt as though she was doing it for the first time all over again.
Liz set her suitcase on the floor and opened the pouch. Taking a handful of floo powder, Liz tossed it into the fireplace shouting "Professor Dumbledore's office- Hogwarts."
She flinched back, eyes wide as the green flames rose in front of her.
"Right. Okay. I can do this." Liz took a deep breath, lifted her suitcase and stared down the fire.
As she took a step forward, she closed her eyes tight, fear rising despite knowing it would be painless.
As the green flames licked her limbs, she felt a whirling, like she was spinning fast and being pulled down through a tight pipe. She clutched her elbows tightly to her side and held her breath, determined not to inhale any soot.
And then she was there. Liz shook her head free of dust and stood straighter as she took in the room, trying to rid herself of the sick feeling the brief trip had given her. She was quite thankful she had skipped breakfast.
Dumbledore's office looked much the same as it had the one other time she had been there. Liz smiled softly at the memories but quickly pushed them aside.
Now was not the time for nostalgia.
The air felt different here. Like magic.
As she wandered around the office taking in the bits and bobs, the curious moving portraits which made her jump when they spoke, the devices she couldn't name, the giant bird that cocked its head at her, she couldn't help it:
The excitement began filling her veins and suddenly she was a teenager again, running hand in hand through the halls of the castle with the man she loved. She had been filled with hope for the future.
What happened to that girl?
Liz took a seat in front of a large desk and set her case by her feet, eyes raking over the area, landing on the bird.
No -
The Phoenix.
It still watched her with interest, but Liz couldn't feel any wariness radiating from him. He seemed as smart as any human. He was beautiful. Feathers of red and gold sat perfectly along his body, which was as big and graceful as a swan.
"You must be Fawkes," Liz said, and the Phoenix almost seemed to bow at her in return. The gesture made her light up with child-like wonder, "Albus has told me a lot about you. Or at least, he has when I pestered him with questions. We don't have phoenixes in the muggle world. I do have a dog, Biscuit- that's his name I mean. He doesn't really like birds, he always chases them…but I promise not to let him chase you."
It was then that Liz realised she had been rambling to a bird, who merely blinked and fluttered his feathers.
Hmm… maybe she did need more human interaction if this is how easy it is for her to have a one-sided conversation with an animal.
"I'm just going to pretend you understood all that."
"Oh I can assure you, he did." Dumbledore closed the door behind him as he entered his office, eyes twinkling as he made his way over to Liz.
Dumbledore sat opposite Liz behind the desk, "Apologies I couldn't collect you myself, I only just returned from the ministry. Hagrid found you alright?"
"Oh yes, he is… hard to miss."
Dumbledore smiled knowingly, "If there is one thing you should be reassured by Elizabeth, it's that Hagrid will always be there if you need a friend. There is no one quite as loyal."
"I'll keep that in mind," She smiled softly picking at her nails. "Now that I'm here I almost don't know what to do with myself."
"Well, this is the ideal time to arrive and get settled in. Most of the other professors are off enjoying their holidays elsewhere so the castle will be relatively quiet for the next week or so before they begin arriving for the new term."
"Oh… that's good."
Very good, Liz could only deal with one thing at a time and trying to adjust to her new home as well as meet a whole bunch of new people was not particularly appealing to her.
She twisted her mouth in thought, "...Will Remus also be arriving early?"
She waited in anticipation and Dumbledore cocked his head.
"No, no. He will be arriving at the beginning of the term with the students."
"Right, right." She nodded.
"It will all be okay Liz, you're not alone."
"I know," She nodded again, smiling down at her lap and watching her fingers twist around each other.
She could feel Dumbledore's thoughtful gaze on her and looked up when he spoke, "Why don't I show you to your lodgings?"
"Yes, that would be nice, thank you."
The walk to her new room wasn't long. Dumbledore rattled on about the school and classes, and Liz was finding it very hard to listen unable to take her eyes off of the grand surroundings.
It was even more impressive than she remembered. The warm summer light flooded through the large glass windows, a yellow glow giving the stone walls a comforting feeling. The ceilings were so tall and their footsteps echoed in her ears. She was in awe of just how old the place felt, the air of majesty that it exuded was immense and Liz couldn't quite believe she was going to live here.
At Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry.
Her. A Muggle.
She peeked into each room she passed, feeling almost childlike glee at the small hints of magic that lay hidden behind the closed doors.
Liz almost barrelled into Dumbledore as he came to a stop.
"Oh, sorry." She said rather bashful.
He gave her a knowing look, "I'm beginning to think I shall leave you to enjoy yourself for a few days, and once Professor McGonagal returns from her holiday she can help you in preparing some lessons. "
"Oh right, yes," She laughed quietly, "Sorry, it's just so hard not to get distracted by all of this." She gestured to the ceiling above her.
"Ah," Said Dumbledore, nodding in agreement, "I agree, there is nowhere quite like Hogwarts. It continues to astound me in its beauty, even after all these years." Dumbledore hummed, then gestured to the door they had stopped in front of, "This is all yours. You will find all you will need inside, and I'm sure Hagrid will arrive with your things soon enough. He will leave it all in your quarters, just down there." He gestured down the hall, "Please make yourself at home, rearrange the rooms to your liking and you need only ask if there is anything you require." Dumbledore held out a set of keys to her.
Liz accepted them, nodding without thought, almost overwhelmed by his words. "Thank you."
Dumbledore smiled kindly and nodded once. Hands behind his back and humming a tune, Dumbledore wandered away, leaving Liz alone outside the wooden door, the mystery of what was lying behind it calling to her.
It was strange, the feeling she had at that moment. For many years no,w she hadn't settled in any one place, never allowed herself to properly have a home, make a place her own. And yet Dumbledore had handed her the opportunity for a new life all hidden behind this final barrier, and all she had to do was take the leap.
Liz clutched the handle of her suitcase and stepped toward the door. Trying the biggest key, she slipped it into the keyhole and turned it with a faint click.
She took a deep breath. And then clutched the door handle.
The door opened with a creak.
Before her, was a small room filled with shelves of various objects, seemingly broken and dusty, lit only by the light shining through the door behind her. Moving further in Liz realised they were old muggle objects as though it was some sort of showroom. It almost made her giggle to see that a dirty toaster was being displayed as though it was a prize piece of art. Though clearly, the place had fallen into a sort of disrepair. She jumped slightly as the candles on the walls came to life, a low golden glow illuminating the objects.
On the right wall, there was another door and after one more quick look around she headed over to it, trying the keys once more until she found the correct one. Behind this door lay a classroom, various tables and chairs stacked and pushed to the side, a blackboard in the middle of the room and a short set of stairs just in sight in the back left corner.
There were two small windows against the left wall, with the rest of the room being enclosed. It had the potential to be cosy, Liz decided. She walked over to a worn but sturdy desk which sat at the front of the room and ran her hand over the wood,
Over her desk.
The drawers and cupboards in the room were relatively empty, with only a few quills, parchment and random muggle objects littering the place.
After aquainting herself with the classroom, she wawlked back out the door and into the corridor. She walked down to where Dumbledore had gestured and behind the third door along was her living quarters. Small but light, there was a bed with sheets already on and blankets made up. Against the wall there was a single wardrobe and set of drawers for her clothes, and in the corner by a window which looked over the lake was a patchy, comfy armchair and an empty bookshelf.
Liz opened a window to air out the place, the sounds of chirping birds filling the space.
She sat on the bed, fingers gliding over the sheets.
It was so peaceful.
She flopped back onto the mattress, desperately trying to push down a smile, not wanting to get her hopes up that things could stay this good. They never did for her.
And for the first time in a long time, Liz truly felt at ease.
Liz very much doubted that anyone had been here since the end of the previous school year. After unpacking what little clothes she had, Liz got to work in the classroom, rearranging the desks and chairs into neat rows. She straightened the desk, brought the blackboard to the front and cleared out the drawers and cupboards.
She made a quick list of things she wanted to request from Dumbledore whenever she got up the courage and was eager to get her stuff from Hagrid, who was still yet to appear. She could really do with her little radio right now.
She hoped Biscuit was okay.
Liz took a better look around the showroom of muggle objects, making a mental note to ask if she had to keep what was on display.
Some of it looked pretty grim…
She was already coming up with ideas of what she could replace them with before reigning herself in. She didn't want to get ahead of herself.
Soon, Liz stood in the middle of the classroom, hands on her hips and observing what would soon be a room filled with her students. Where she would sit at the desk, marking work or writing on the blackboard as she taught about the ways of muggle life.
Her stomach exploded with nerves of both excitement and terror. Liz had long since given up on her pursuit of becoming a teacher, and now here she was, thrust back into that life a decade later.
Looking around the empty room, Liz tapped her foot. What to do? Perhaps she would go and look for Hagrid herself?
She needed to leave the silence, it was giving her too much room to think.
Liz left the room and went into one of the first-floor corridors. She felt almost out of place, like she was once again sneaking around somewhere she shouldn't be, going to get caught at any moment.
She began walking along the corridor back the way she had come with Dumbledore, towards a set of stairs which they had passed. Liz let her hand slide along the smooth marble bannister as she made her way down to the ground floor, eyes unable to stop roaming over every inch of what was before her.
She came into the entrance hall, as big as a house and so tall the ceiling felt a lifetime away. Huge Oak doors lay open opposite her, leading to the grounds outside, and to the side, another set of doors led into the relatively empty Great Hall. Against one wall, there were four giant hourglasses, each assigned a different gem which filled the top bulb of the glass to the brim - Rubies, sapphires, emeralds and diamonds. They were beautiful. Liz was unsure of what these were for other than relating to the school's houses in some way, given that the names were by their designated hourglass.
Liz turned to peek into the Great Hall when she almost collided with someone.
"Oh!" Liz stepped back in surprise, taking in the woman in front of her, "...Hello."
She didn't mean to stutter and stare, honestly. The woman was just so strange that she couldn't help it. Her eyes were bug-like thanks to the magnification of her glasses. She wore an ugly shawl draped around her shoulders and was decked out in bangles and beads.
She looked like a cheap fortune teller you would see at a fair.
Her huge eyes blinked at Liz, arms clutching food and a bottle of sherry to her chest protectively. "Who are you?" She demanded in a strangely mysterious tone.
"Uh- oh, I'm Liz. I'm the new Muggle-Studies teacher." Liz almost reached out to shake her hand out of politeness but the woman was giving her such an odd and wary look that she decided against it. "Do you also teach here?" She asked instead.
The woman drew herself up and declared in an all too dramatic way "Who sent you?! I will not share my secrets, no matter what you say!"
She hadn't listened to a word Liz had said.
"You can't fool me, imposter! I knew you were going to be coming, I saw it in my dreams three moons ago." She stomped past Liz heading toward the stairs, "It won't happen!" She declared and swooped away up the stairs, shawl flowing behind her as she disappeared around the corner.
"Wow." Liz said out loud, wishing there was anyone else around to have witnessed the interaction so she knew she hadn't imagined it. The smell of the woman's strong perfume lingered in the air, so strong it made Liz's nose wrinkle and she turned away from the Great Hall and decided to make the outdoors her next destination.
She breathed in the clear summer air and walked along the courtyards and gardens. She peeked into the greenhouses the insides teeming with life. Liz admired the owls which flew above her head through the sky as she made her way down to the lake, the blue shining in the sunlight.
Liz smiled in awe at the giant squid lazily swimming from one end to another.
She knew it was real. She hadn't dreamt it. Sometimes it felt like she invented the whole thing.
Finding a nice shady tree, Liz sat beneath it and enjoyed the serene scene before her; gentle lapping of water and birds chirping. The echos of past laughs which had filled the area filled her head, and as she looked out across the beautiful view, head leaning on her hands, Liz couldn't help the gentle smile of happier times, wishing, despite everything that had happened since, she could go back to that day and never leave.
—-
It turned out that someone as big as Hagrid had a relatively small hut for a home. It was the sight of Biscuit running around by the pumpkin patch that drew Liz's attention, though she was wary of approaching the dark forest that lay not far behind them.
She didn't like forests. Not anymore.
"I left all yer stuff in the classroom jus'," Hagrid said, pouring her a cup of tea." The door was open, so I was thinking you would be there."
Liz shuffled in the overly large armchair, sinking further into it, "Yes, sorry, I decided to take a walk and got side-tracked. Thank you," She accepted the huge mug (that she could barely hold in her hands) with a smile.
"O' don' apologise," Hagrid waved her off, dropping down into the chair opposite, his own mug in hand. "How do you like it? Hogwarts I mean."
"It's brilliant Hagrid," She said rather shyly, feeling like a child. She grinned into her tea, "I feel like I'm going to wake up from a dream at any moment."
Hagrid beamed at her delight. "And you're settling in okay? No problems with your room or-?"
"Oh no!" She waved a hand swallowing her tea, "it will all do me just fine, I'm not one to complain. I am rather nervous though… I've never taught at a school before," She looked up cautiously, waiting to see Hagrid's shock and dismay that Dumbledore would allow someone so underqualified to teach at a school such as Hogwarts. She stuttered on, "I mean- I did train… it was a long time ago, but- um…" She trailed off, biting the inside of her cheek.
Hagrid was beaming and leaned forward. Liz held her breath.
"I'll let you in on a secret then. It's my firs' time teaching this year too!"
Liz's eyes widened and she too leaned forward, "Really? What are you teaching?"
Hagrid looked rather proud when he announced, "Alongside being the Keeper of Keys for Hogwarts, I will be teaching Care of Magical Creatures. Professor Dumbledore as'ed me himself!" Hagrid looked quite serious as he looked down, "An' I don't want to disappoint him. He put his trust in me. I can' let him down!"
Liz felt her chest lighten, "I know exactly what you mean Hagrid! So much responsibility! And he asked me! What is the man thinking!"
"We best not question it. I've never don' anything like this in me life!"
"I'm sure you'll be brilliant Hagrid. And at least we can help each other out since we're in the same boat and all."
"O' that would be great! Though, I'm not sure how much help I can be when it comes to Muggles…"
"Honestly, Hagrid, you not knowing anything is more helpful than you might think. It means I have someone to help me figure out what to teach young witches and wizards!"
"Well, then, I'm happy to be of service!"
And they sipped their tea together, chatting well into the evening.
It was the longest Liz had spoken to someone since she couldn't remember when, and she found to her surprise, once she pushed back the awkward shyness, she very much enjoyed it.
"Oi! Oi Prongs." Sirius hit the back of James's head with his palm.
"Ow!" James scowled rubbing a hand carefully along his head, "Watch it."
"I barely touched you."
"What do you want?" James went back to observing the back of the book he held in his hand, "Do you think Lily will like this?"
"Buying her books again are you?" Sirius asked dryly, eyes still watching the girl across the store whose nose was in a book, tongue poking out in concentration. She was mousey, lanky and ungraceful, hiding behind her fringe. It was definitely her, the girl who gave him that sweet thing.
"It's a book shop Sirius, a muggle bookshop, what the hell did you think I was going to get?"
"Won't lie to you mate, I stopped listening once you brought up Lily, it's sort of an unconscious thing I do now."
"Ha ha." James put the book down and walked to a different shelf. He stood with his hands on his hips, appraising the over-the-top Harlequin romance covers.
Sirius gave him an incredulous look and barked a laugh, "Don't think that's her kind of thing pal."
"Yes, well you're no help at all dickhead. I should have asked Remus to come."
Sirius baulked, "As if he has more romantic experience than me!" He gave James a winning toothy smile.
James rolled his eyes, walking away in frustration.
Sirius's eyes drew back to the girl who was now looking up high on one of the shelves.
"Prongs, who's that?" He nodded to the girl hand on James's shoulder. His friend barely looked over at who Sirius was referring to.
"Some Muggle girl I'd guess, how should I know?" He shrugged, "Oi where are you going?" He said as Sirius walked away from him and toward the girl.
Liz stood on her tiptoes reaching with all her might to the book just out of reach of her finger tips. Her cheeks were red and her brow furrowed in frustration. She should have just asked the person at the counter, but every time she went to step toward them nerves flared and she turned back to trying herself. After all she wouldn't want to bother anyone.
Clutching a book in one hand, her finger tips brushed against the edge of the book when a voice sounded close behind her.
"Need a hand?"
Spooked at the sudden intrusion in her peace Lizzy whipped around hand flying without thought and the book hit its mark right on her targets face.
"Ow!" The boy clutched his nose, "What the hell?" He whined.
"Oh God," Lizzy spluttered hand reaching forward, "I'm so sorry. I- well just… you scared me, I didn't mean-"
She trailed off looking down at her feet as another boy approached in hysterics, unable to stop the loud gauffing which drew many annoyed looks.
"Padfoot! What are you doing attacking young women!" The dark haired boy pushed his glasses up his nose and threw his arm over the injured one beside him, "I am so sorry young lady, my friend here is a bit deranged, can barely take him anywhere these days!"
"Shut up James!"
"I… I'm really sorry!" Lizzy continued to look down, cheeks burning.
"Hey it's fine!" Sirius said through gritted teeth, trying his best to not grimace, "I shouldn't have snuck up on you."
James titled his head eyes narrowing, "Lizzy?"
Lizzy looked up at her name, eyes widening slightly, "Oh… hello."
"Ah, I thought that was you! Haven't seen you in years."
"Well, you're always away to school, really." Lizzy shuffled giving an awkward smile.
"Wait, you two know each other?" Sirius asked quickly.
"Huh?" James looked around, "Oh yeah, she lives near us."
"Well," Lizzy said clutching her book to her chest, "not right near you, a few streets away. And we haven't really spoken since we were small." She felt so awkward.
"Yet you still remember me! I must be unforgettable." James flashed her a winning smile and Lizzy blushed looking away.
Sirius frowned, "You remember me too right?"
James and Lizzy gave him a confused look.
"Eh?"
Lizzy shook her head, "Sorry, I don't think we've met have… we…" She trailed off.
Then her cheeks exploded with heat.
It took her a minute to remember, it was a thirty second encounter at most and it ended with her running away, but now that she really took in the handsome boy before her, it was hard to forget that face, even if she only got a brief glimpse of it.
"Ha! See you do remember me!" Sirius looked quite pleased and James gave him an incredulous look.
"What are you talking about? How could you have met?"
"The day I arrived. If I remember correctly, you were staring at me." Sirius winked at Lizzy.
"Oh no… well yes I suppose I was, though I didn't mean to of course- It's just you looked pretty upset and I didn't know whether or not to…"
"I mean I wasn't that upset."
"You were kicking grass."
"You must be remembering someone else."
"Um…" Lizzy was very confused indeed. The boy in front of her now- whose name she still did not know- looked much more cocky and outgoing than he did before when he was brooding and snappy. She wasn't sure that she liked either version. "...Okay."
She really didn't want him to snap at her again.
Sirius frowned again. Usually, girls melt at the sight of a wink and a grin from him, but this one looked like she wanted to get as far away as possible.
"Hey, I wanted to thank-" Sirius was cut off as James pushed him away with a hand to the face.
"Anyways," James drawled on, and Sirius scowled at his head, "Forget about him. Lizzy, you're a girl and a … well normal."
"Uh, thanks I guess?"
"What I mean to say is, what kind of books do you like to read?"
"Why?"
Sirius rolled his eyes, "He wants to buy a girl a book. Pretty lame if you ask me." he said with a smirk.
Lizzy clutched the book tighter to her, brows furrowed, "I don't know, seems like a nice gift, to me."
James clapped his hands together, "See, I knew you could help me."
"Well… I don't know about that, people have different tastes." Liz shrugged.
"Well she's like beautiful and smart. Firey personality for sure but is also really kind. Though not to me, but I think she's beginning to like me."
Sirius watched him gush in disgust and Lizzy looked positivley awkward.
She kicked the ground, speaking before James could continue, "Well does she like Classics? Like Jane Austen?"
"Who?"
"Jane…Austen?" Liz felt confused by the blank looks the boys were giving her.
Sirius blinked and then said "I love Jane Aston."
"Austen…"
"Right, that's what I meant."
"What are you doing?" James muttered, but Sirius ignored him.
"Oh!" Lizzy blinked.
"You look surprised," Sirius smirked again.
"Well," Lizzy pushed some hair behind her ear, "You didn't seem the type to read those kinds of books." She said sheepishly, "what's your favourite?"
Sirius put his hands on his hips and dramatically blew out a breath, "So many good ones, I wouldn't know what to choose." He desperately scoured the shelves looking for the name.
"I suppose that's true. My favourite is Persuasion."
"Ah, good choice." Sirius nodded firmly as though he had a clue what she was talking about.
Lizzy gave him a soft genuine smile from under her fringe and Sirius blinked. Were his hands getting sweaty?
"Should I get her that one then?" James interupted, much to Sirius' annoyance.
"Hmm, how about Pride and Prejudice?" Lizzy wandered over to a different area of the shop and came back, book in hand. "Here you go." She held it out to James.
"Awk Liz, you really are the best." James put a hand to his heart dramatically drawing out a small giggle from Lizzy, who shook her head.
"My name is Sirius, by the way."
"Huh?" Liz glanced at James again.
"Sirius."
"Serious?"
James snorted trying to smother his laughter.
"No, Sirius. S."
"Oh, I see… That's…"
"Pretentious?" James offered.
Sirius pushed him away saying, "Noble."
"Right…" Liz shuffled, looking very much as though she was going to leave.
"Do you like flims?" Sirius blurted out.
"Sorry?"
"You know… flims?" Sirius said, ignoring James looking at him as though he had two heads.
Lizzy shook her head, giving James a look as if to say 'is your friend alright?' before continuing "No, sorry. Don't think I know what that is."
James snorted.
"Anyway…" Lizzy said, "I should go. Good luck with your gift." then she was gone before either boy could say a thing.
"FLIMS!" James cackled.
"That's what they are! Those things Muggles watch on those screens!"
"Those are FILM'S you idiot."
"Oh."
"Oof, how embarrassing for you."
"Shut up!"
"I swear Padfoot, I've never seen you so flustered. I like it, it's a nice change. And over a muggle girl no less! What are you turning into?"
"I hate you."
"Yeah yeah, whatever. Come help me figure out how to pay with Muggle money because I have no clue."
It was that evening whilst she was knitting a new pair of socks and listening to the music from her radio, that her life was about to take an interesting turn.
Liz had spent over the last decade in hiding, moving from place to place throughout Britain. This meant she had to keep to herself, gain some hobbies and buy a dog.
It sure could be lonely sometimes, but at least she was alive.
Liz looked up at the sound of the door knocking, brows furrowing in confusion.
There wasn't supposed to be anyone coming by tonight.
Biscuit, the golden retriever who had been soundly sleeping on his bed, picked his head up at the sound. Rising, alert, Biscuit trotted out of the living room toward the front door.
Cautious, Liz grasped a knitting needle firmly in her hand and made her way toward the window. She peeked carefully around the curtain, looking out to the front garden, and almost immediately relaxed.
Tutting, she moved to the door and opened it, pushing Biscuit aside with a pat on the head.
"Albus," She shook her head, "You scared me!"
Albus Dumbledore, unperturbed, smiled back, blue eyes shining.
"Good evening Elizabeth, you look well."
"You say that every time you see me." She smiled as Biscuit rushed forward eager for some attention.
"And every time I mean it." Dumbledore bowed slightly at the dog, a hand meeting the top of the furry head, "Good evening to you too, Biscuit." He looked to Liz again, " May I come in?"
"Oh, yes sorry." Liz shook her head, opening the door wider to allow him entry, "Tea?"
"That would be nice, thank you."
Albus, who had been to the house a few times now, sat in his favourite armchair and hummed to the muggle music playing from the radio, Biscuit's head resting firmly on his lap, his tail wagging wildly.
Tray of tea and the cinnamon rolls she made earlier in hand, Liz smiled amused at the sight before her. "I sometimes think he likes you more than me."
"Oh no. I believe he can just smell the bag of sherbert lemons I have in my pocket."
"You should try rhubarb and custards, they're my favourite." Liz gave Albus his tea and delighted in his compliments of her freshly baked goods.
"How have you been?" Albus asked, white beard tickling the side of his cup as he took a sip.
"Same as always. It's been quiet. I've been enjoying the weather though, it's nice having a garden this time."
"And nothing of concern has come up? Nothing to worry about?"
"No. There's been no sign that he's been about. Everyone here is pretty good at keeping to themselves and not asking questions. It's nice not having to make small talk when buying some bread."
"Ah. Still just as shy as when I first met you."
"I am not! I just don't like socialising."
Dumbledore hummed but said nothing. She could tell he knew she was getting lonelier as the years went on, but it was difficult for her to open up to anyone again. It was sometimes better being alone.
"And your parents?"
"With dad retiring they've decided just to stay in Australia, which I was happy to hear of course. Safer for them. They've asked me to move over with them, but I… well, I said no."
"Something keeping you here?"
They both already knew the answer, but Liz refused to say it out loud.
The music filled the silence for a moment, before Liz asked, "What's happened, Albus? Has he found me?"
Dumbledore's expression became regretful, and Liz couldn't read what was going on behind those eyes.
Dumbledore set his teacup down, fingers linking together. "Elizabeth. I am sorry to call on you tonight, but I have something I wish to tell you before you see it on the muggle news."
"The news?" Now she really was confused, "What are you talking about?"
Biscuit came to sit beside her and she rested a hand on his head for comfort.
"Liz." Albus didn't look away from her as he spoke, "Sirius has escaped."
Liz felt her stomach drop, not able to form words for a moment. She swallowed hard. "When?" She whispered. "How?"
"Yesterday, it is believed. It is a mystery as to how. No one has ever escaped from Azkaban before now."
Liz's hands came to rest on her face. She didn't know what to think, she had tried to push any thoughts of Sirius Black from her brain for years now, finding it brought her more pain than comfort, but here he was instantly taking her over again.
If someone had told her ten years ago that Sirius Black was free, she would have cried with joy. But she was older now, and as time went on the doubts grew louder in her mind and now she felt lost.
When she shook herself from her thoughts, she saw that Albus had not broken his worried stare, clearly waiting for a response.
"So what does this mean?" She narrowed her eyes slightly, and then the realisation came to her, "You think he might come looking for me?"
Dumbledore said nothing so Liz continued, the sudden urge to defend the man she once knew rising quickly within her.
"Sirius wouldn't hurt me!" She protested, voice cracking. Biscuit whined in worry, and she looked at him, to break away from the sympathetic look in Dumbledore's eyes. Liz angrily wiped away tears that were forming in her eyes, "... of course, I'm sure Peter didn't think Sirius would hurt him either, right?"
Dumbledore's eyes furrowed, "Is that what you now believe?"
"I don't know what to believe anymore Albus."
He hummed again, looking at her from behind his linked fingers, glasses gleaming in the sunset light as they sat upon his crooked nose, "It is difficult to know what Sirius will do now that he has escaped, but I do not want to risk your safety any longer."
He continued before Liz could protest, "I held off asking you this as I know how stubborn you are in staying far from our world… but I am concerned for you, Liz. You have become so isolated, so withdrawn. Please allow me to help you."
Liz frowned in guilt, "You've done more than enough for me and my family Albus. I can't ask any more of you."
"Elizabeth…" Albus smiled gently, "If I didn't believe you deserved the help, I wouldn't offer it. And if you accept my proposal, you'll be offering me something in return."
Liz raised an eyebrow, sharing a look with Biscuit, "What is this proposal? And am I going to regret asking?"
Dumbledore smiled knowingly, "It just so happens that I have an opening for a teacher at Hogwarts. And I think you would be perfect for the job."
"Eh? What are you talking about," She guffawed, "Muggles can't teach at Hogwarts!"
"Oh? And why ever not?"
Liz spluttered, "Well… because- Well because magic! I can't do magic or know about magic or-"
"You wouldn't be teaching magic. You'll be teaching something you're an expert in."
"What? Knitting?"
"Muggle studies."
Liz blinked as Albus continued, "I believe our students could benefit from hearing about a muggle's way of life, directly from the source. You would have a home, food and bed. You will be free to meet others and be safe, somewhere protected."
Liz shook her head, "I don't know what to say, Albus. I don't see how I could take that on. I'm not a teacher."
"You were training to be one where you not?"
"Well… yes, but that was a long time ago… And it was for muggle children, not witches and wizards."
"Oh, I'm sure it is quite the same." Dumbledore adjusted his glasses, "Elizabeth, I am not here to force you to make a decision, but rather, to provide an alternative to the life you currently have. I want you to know that you have more options in front of you, you don't have to be alone."
Liz bit the inside of her cheek in thought. Her head felt like mush, too many thoughts rushing through her mind, of Sirius, of what her life had become. Of the fear of opening up the door once more to the wizarding world, knowing it will be more than likely impossible to close again. Her eyes ventured around the room, desperate for an answer.
And then they landed on the moving photograph which sat upon her mantlepiece. Baby Harry giggled at the camera, the picture of his father. Her heart hurt.
It was the only bit of the wizarding world she kept out in the open, the rest hidden away in boxes, far from her sight.
"How is Harry?" She asked, not looking at Dumbledore, knowing he would be curious as to why she decided to ask about him now.
She had altogether avoided the topic for several years now.
"Oh he is doing quite well, a talented young boy to be sure and about to start his third year… though, I have a suspicion, that with what may be revealed over the coming months, Harry could use his godmother."
Liz cringed, "Don't call me that."
"It is what James and Lily decided."
She shook her head, "I don't deserve it. I haven't done anything good for Harry since you-know-who murdered them." She bit her lip to keep from tearing up, "Poor Harry," She said ruefully, "Ending up with two useless godparents in the end."
She felt as though she was opening up old wounds.
"Don't count yourself out so quickly."
Liz leaned against her hand, eyes flickering back over to the photograph, which continued smiling at her.
"It's not too late for you Liz. You deserve love and family as much as anyone else." Dumbledore said softly, "You don't need to punish yourself for things that were out of your control."
She didn't say anything for a few moments, staring into space, willing herself to make the right choice, not knowing what that would be.
"When would I leave?"
"Any time. I would perhaps recommend sometime before the new term starts, so you could get settled into Hogwarts and prepare, though ultimately it is up to you."
Liz glanced to the side, "Can I bring Biscuit?"
"Of course."
"...Can I think about it?"
Dumbledore nodded and Liz returned the gesture.
Liz picked up her knitting again, and Albus sipped his tea once more.
"Any new knitting patterns?" He inquired, watching her work.
"Yes, I've got a few kept for you that I did a couple of weeks ago. And I made you a pair of socks, though they're quite warm, so they might be better for winter."
"Ah, excellent. One can never have too many socks."
Liz smiled amused, the clicking of the needles relaxing her.
She didn't look up when she asked, "He's really out there?" She whispered, needing confirmation.
"Yes."
Liz felt as though her heart would burst, unsure of whether or not it was a good or bad feeling.
"Okay."
"There is one more thing I believe I should tell you before you make your decision."
Liz still didn't look up, knitting needles clicking, "Mhm?"
"I've also invited Remus to teach this year."
That made her look up, "Remus? And you're only deciding to tell me now!"
Dumbledore tilted his head, almost amused at her reaction.
"I haven't spoken to Remus in like ten years! And now you want me to live with him!"
"You'll have your own room, I can assure you."
"Not funny, Albus! The last time I saw him we had a horrible argument!"
"I remember."
"Oh you do, do you? Interesting. So you thought you should put two people who don't like each other in the same position?!"
"Goodness, you almost sound like a teenager again."
Ignoring him, Liz ranted on, "Did everyone just decide to crawl out of the woodwork when I wasn't looking? Why can't I just be left alone to be a muggle in peace!?"
"Clearly, that is not the universe's plan for you."
"Uh-huh, is the universe's name Albus Dumbledore?"
Albus chuckled, "The decision is still in your hands Liz, I am merely the messenger."
Liz grunted, knowing she was sulking like a teenager.
Dumbledore finished his tea and rose from the seat, Biscuit racing over to say goodbye.
"I must be off Elizabeth, the ministry wants to speak with me about protective measures around Hogwarts, in case Sirius tries to enter the grounds," Dumbledore said grimly, clearly unhappy with whatever solution the Ministry had suggested.
"For Harry?" Liz asked.
"Indeed."
Liz hummed, "It'll be his birthday tomorrow."
Dumbledore smiled, "Yes, you're right. Thirteen years old."
Liz bit her cheek, "Albus…" She asked hesitantly, unsure of herself, but the night's discussion had awoken something within her, "Do you think I could send him a present? Or would that be…"
Albus smiled kindly, looking down his crooked nose at her, "I think that would be a wonderful idea. I can send over an owl in the morning to deliver it to him if you like?"
Liz gave a small smile, "Yes… that would be good, thank you."
"You still remember how it works?"
"Yes, yes."
Liz stood, grabbed the knitting patterns she had saved for him, and followed Dumbledore to the door.
"Albus?"
"Yes?"
This was it, the point of no return, facing everything she had hidden from for so long, confronting the memories of old friends, lovers… and family.
Could she really do this?
She placed a hand on Biscuit's head for courage, then looked up at Dumbledore with shaky courage, "I don't need to think about it. I'll do it… I'll come to Hogwarts."
Dumbledore beamed.
Liz had barely been able to sleep that night, and was up early the next morning before the sun had even risen, eager to begin packing what little she owned to distract her brain from the pure panic she was feeling.
What had she been thinking?
True to his word Albus sent an owl over early that morning, the pecking at the kitchen window making her jump.
The large brown owl blinked up at her and squawked at Biscuit who barked back in interest.
"Don't think he likes you very much pal," Liz said amused. Running a gentle finger over the owl's head she said, "Just a moment."
Liz had gone back and forth on what to send the boy she knew very little about, whom she hadn't seen since he was wearing nappies.
It was during the night as she lay staring at the ceiling and memories flooded through her brain, that Liz was reminded of the reason she ended up meeting the Marauders and Lily in the first place.
Custard Tarts.
The kitchen smelled divine, the freshly baked goods lingering in the air. Boxing them up, and tying them neatly with a green bow, Liz wrote a tag saying 'To Harry, Happy 13th Birthday!'
Cowardice won in the end, and she didn't sign her name.
With a bit of effort (She hadn't done this in a while), Liz managed to get the box tied firmly to the owl. With a small treat to the feathered friend and her instructions clear, Liz brought the Owl into the back garden and he took off flying.
Liz watched him go an odd feeling in her stomach. A smile came onto her face unconsciously as she watched the fluid movements of the bird's wings, getting further and further away from her, and closer to Harry Potter, the boy who lived. Her Godson.
Lizzy was having a very good day. The sun was shining, it was the summer holidays and she was heading back home with her two custard tarts. One for now, and one for later.
At least that's what she told herself; she would probably eat them both in one sitting and her mother would scold her when she got a sore tummy. Not like she had any friends to share them with anyways.
Oh well, that's a future Lizzy's problem.
Current Lizzy couldn't wait to get home and curl up in the shade of the big tree in the back garden with a book.
At least, that's what current Lizzy would be thinking about if she didn't notice the sulking boy kicking grass.
He was intimidating. Well-built, handsome with long black hair and he was wearing a t-shirt for some band she never heard of.
Exactly the kind of person Lizzy would avoid. And she avoids a lot of people.
With a loud frustrated noise, the boy threw himself down on the nearest bench and dropped the bag he had been carrying on his shoulder down beside him. He lay his head in his hands.
Lizzy awkwardly hesitated in the middle of the road, going back and forth in her head on whether or not to just ignore the strange boy or ask if he was alright.
It seems fate decided for her.
The boy rubbed his hand down his face and looked up making direct eye contact with Lizzy.
Her eyes widened like a deer in headlights, and she realised she had been standing in the middle of the road, staring.
"What?" The boy growled at her.
Oh, dear. He really wasn't happy.
"Uh… Well- Uh-"
"Well? Spit it out? Or are you just going to stare all day?"
"Oh- uh, sorry." She whispered, looking down embarrassed. She began to walk away, palms sweating. She snuck a look over her shoulder to see the boy had gone back to having his head in his hands.
She slowly came to a stop, chewing the inside of her cheek.
Oh, what am I doing? She asked herself as she hurried back toward the boy. He looked up at her approach, brows furrowed in annoyed confusion.
Before he could say anything, Liz squeaked a 'here', placing one of the custard tarts down beside him on the bench, turned on her heel and practically ran away.
Sirius watched the strange girl run away, baffled by her actions. He looked down at the food she had left him and reached a finger out to poke it. It was a sort of pastry with a yellow thing inside.
Sirius glanced around quickly and seeing no one about, he lifted the small pastry and gave it a sniff.
There was a sweet inviting smell that came from it and he took a small bite.
His eyes widened, the taste giving him an instant feeling of comfort and contentment. He had no idea what it was but he scoffed it down in seconds, savouring every crumb.
The fury he had felt moments before was temporarily pushed to the back of his mind. Sirius looked over in the direction of the strange girl, but she was nowhere in sight.
"Sirius?" James caught his attention, and Sirius snapped his head back to his best friend.
"Prongs! There you are,.." He clapped his back in a brief hug and when they pulled back, James pushed his glasses up and looked at him with worry.
"What happened?"
"I did it," Sirius said, rubbing the back of his neck, "I left. We had an argument and I just couldn't take it anymore… Do you think I could stay with you for a while? Just until I find somewhere?"
"Mate, you can stay as long as you want." James grasped one of Sirius's shoulders, being serious for once in his life.
Sirius felt like he could finally breathe.
He was ready for a new beginning… and to discover the name of that sweet treat.
"I'm not sure about this Lizzy, mum and dad will kill us if they catch us out of bed." Lizzy rolled her eyes at Margaret's worry. Sure, mum and dad had told them it was getting too dangerous for them to be going anywhere alone, but what they didn't know wouldn't hurt them.
Lizzy scrambled over the windowsill and dropped down into the bush below. Turning back she whispered, "I didn't ask you to come, Margaret, why don't you go back to Ellie, she's just as boring as you." Her younger sister always followed after Ellie like a lost puppy. Just because she was older didn't mean she knew what was best.
Margaret pouted, but Lizzy didn't stick around long enough to see. Once firmly on her feet, she hurried off toward the wood which lay behind her home. She said she would meet with him only one more time. He had made her very cross when she spoke to him last, asking her all about her sisters, telling her to bring them to meet him. But he promised to show her something fun tonight, and Lizzy's curiosity got the better of her, despite her huffing.
Besides, it was a full moon and the trees gave the best view.
Once she had made it far enough into the trees, her path lit by the moonlight, Lizzy picked her favourite tree and climbed up and up, so high that if her mother saw how far off the ground she was, she would have a fit.
The moon looked very pretty indeed, and Lizzy settled onto a firm branch with her back to the trunk, admiring it through the leaves. She wrapped her arms around her knees to try and stop the cold nipping.
"Lizzy!" Ellie's voice called out.
Lizzy groaned, her peaceful night ruined. Huffing, she ignored her sister as she continued to call out.
"Lizzy, come back now! Or I'm telling mum and dad!"
Lizzy leaned back into the shadows as both her sisters came into view.
Margaret you little snitch.
Lizzy scowled, arms crossing over her chest. They're going to ruin everything!
Then she heard it, a horrible howling snarl. Gutteral, animalistic.
