countdown - @wolfstarmicrofic - wordcount: 378
It's five days until the next Full when Remus's bones start to ache. He tries to hide his groans. His need to lean on the railing of the staircases a little more.
But Sirius sees through his façade. Slips an arm around his waist as if it's a sign of affection, but really secures his hold tightly, helping him to walk.
Neither of them say a word.
It's four days until the next Full when Remus's skin starts to crawl. He shifts in his chair and frowns, unable to find any position that feels right.
Sirius doesn't look over. Just places a hand on his knee that instantly calms him. His agitation leaks from his body.
Neither of them say a word.
It's three days until the next Full when Remus finds himself awake, staring out at the moon. Resentment and anger flood his system, frustration that he cannot stop what is coming.
Sirius silently rises from his own bed and sits with him. His head rests against Remus's shoulder and he holds his hand lightly.
Neither of them say a word.
It's two days until the next Full when the uncharacteristic temper flares. He says something he doesn't mean, snaps at his friends and then hates himself for it.
Sirius just smiles softly at him and and presses a kiss to his forehead, pulling him close, forgiveness in his eyes.
Neither of them say a word.
It's one day until the next Full and Remus cannot get out of bed. Self-hatred and depression have taken over and he is a shell of his usual self. Dread has a hold of head heart.
Now, Sirius speaks. Pulls him into his chest an murmurs reassurances. Whispers that he loves him.
The Full Moon is in less than an hour, and Remus looks over to Sirius, who holds his had as they walk toward the Shack, like they are on a romantic stroll.
"See you after?" Sirius asks brightly as he kisses Remus softly.
Remus is scared that someday, he might wake up and Sirius will be gone.
It's twenty-eight days until the next Full and Remus wakes up in the Hospital Wing to find Sirius curled into his side.