Chapter 13
The next morning, unfortunately, brought less happy news. In his anger, Snape had told the Slytherin all about Remus being a werewolf, which had lead to Remus’ resignation. So now, they were in his office, packing up his things, talking about what had happened the night before.
“I still can’t believe you saw both Sirius and Peter on the map and didn’t let me know…”
“I am very sorry. I know I might have cost you your only chance to see him again.”
“Oh, you didn’t. I talked to him last night for a few minutes. And he knows where I live, he’s heading there now. I’ll see him soon enough. We’ll have to figure out how to keep him safe, but one step at a time.”
“You keep surprising me, Holly. But I’m glad. And really, really am glad that things turned out as well as they did. To think Sirius and Harry were almost kissed by the dementors…”
“A horrifying thought. You taught him well, though. It must have been quite the impressive patronus to chase away that many dementors. I wonder what his patronus looks like. I wouldn’t be surprised if it was a stag like James’…. He’s so much like James in so many ways… Sometimes I feel like I am watching James grow up again.”
“They would be so proud of him.”
“They would. And they would be grateful for everything you’ve done for him this year. You’ve been a good friend to them, Remus. To us all. I hope we get to see more of each other next year, now that you know I’m here.”
“I hope that too.”
A knock at the door interrupted them.
“That must be Harry. Come on in, then.”
Harry entered, his face grim.
“Well, I’ll leave you two too it. Well done last night, Harry.”, with a wink at Harry and a smile for Remus, Holly left the two to discuss whatever Harry had come to discuss with Remus.
From the entrance to the Great Hall Holly watched a little later as Remus came down the stairs and headed outside, getting into a carriage. Watching him drive off, a little clump settled in her stomach. She felt like she was losing him.
“Now, now, Holly, to you of all people this isn’t goodbye.”
Dumbledore joined her, a kind twinkle in his eyes, as he, too watched the carriage slowly fade from view.
“You and Remus have built a connection within the last year that I dare say is not easily broken, not even by distance.”
Astonished, she turned to Dumbledore, who was now looking outright amused.
“What? You thought I didn’t know?”
He knew! This was bad. This was really, really bad! She was done for, no doubt about it.
“Oh, there’s no need to look alarmed. I am not in the habit of interfering with my professors’ love live as long as it doesn’t interfere with their teaching. And seeing as the students haven’t even noticed your relationship, I think it is safe to say that it didn’t.”
What? The actual hell? Dumbledore, too? Filius really had done a miraculous job spreading that rumour. And here Holly had thought the rumour would just fade out.
“Now, take heart, Holly, the year is almost over and then you shall see your love again.”
It was almost ironical how much that actually cheered her up, although not the way Dumbledore had intended. But he was right, nevertheless, she would get to see her love again soon. Would finally get to have a real conversation with him.