“Sirius, come on now time to get up,” Remus cooed giving his husband’s shoulder a gentle shake, “come on, it’s half past nine and brunch is at 11. Up you get.”
Sirius groaned turning over to nuzzle his pillow, even as he neared 43 he still was not a morning person and valued his sleep greatly. “Nngh Moony can’t I just sleep another half hour,” he whinged burrowing under his blankets, “you know I can’t stand the mornings.”
Remus fought not to roll his eyes he was more than acquainted with Sirius’ inability to wake up early and as endearing as it was, today was special. Though he tried not to make a big deal of it, it’d been Sirius’ idea and Remus wouldn’t dare miss out. After all it is his birthday.
Throwing off the duvet, Remus landed a harsh swat to Sirius’ backside causing the latter to jump in surprise. “Ow damn it Moony,” Sirius grumbled glaring at his husband, “I know it’s your birthday and all, but we have more than enough time to prepare.”
Remus snorted, “oh I know, but Harry and Draco are coming over with Teddy soon and…”
“What!” Now Sirius was wide awake and fumbling about in the tangled mess of sheets and blankets much to Remus’ amusement. “Why didn’t you say they were coming early?”
“Because it’s so much more fun this way,” Remus snickered earning a swat to the arse as Sirius passed by him to use the loo, “just like keeping you on your toes.”
“Fuck you,” Sirius called back through the door though Remus could hear the muffled snickering, “which I will do later after dinner.”
“I expect nothing less, now hurry up they’ll be here any moment,” Remus chastised heading downstairs knowing full well that Harry, Draco and Teddy would be at least another forty minutes or so. He smirked to himself; he was such a stinker when he wanted to be.
Things had certainly changed since the Battle of Hogwarts; it was amazing what could happen in five years time and well a lot had happened. Sirius still had nightmares surrounding the Department of Mysteries where he was nearly killed by Bellatrix, only to be saved at the last minute by Dumbledore catching her by surprise giving him time to dodge her curse. She still got away but Sirius was just grateful to be alive and with Remus and Harry, the latter of whom was worse for wear and definitely needed a break.
Sirius had begged Dumbledore to please let Harry come and live with him at Number Twelve Grimmauld Place, even Harry chiming in wishing to never return to the Dursley’s horrid home. But ever the cryptic and manipulative scoundrel that he was Dumbledore kindly but very firmly told them no, that Harry would only be safe if he remained at the Dursley’s. That had not gone over well and Remus at one point had to physically hold Sirius back from cursing the old fool right then and there.
It didn’t matter that he argued that Harry would be safe at Grimmauld Place or that Harry reminded him of the different places he’d stayed during past summers just before school. Many summers he spent with the Weasleys, once in the Leaky Cauldron by himself at 13 thank you very much, and the last one also at Grimmauld Place with the rest of the Order. However, Dumbledore had a counterargument for every one and after a very long and intense “discussion” they finally gave in. Under the condition though that Remus check in on Harry from time to time, seeing as Sirius was still a wanted fugitive and therefore needed to remain hidden. Then at the end of Harry’s sixth year, when he would officially be seventeen, he could come live at Grimmauld with Sirius if he liked. All of which Dumbledore agreed to and that had been the end of that.
Of course, nothing could’ve prepared them for what happened at the end of that Sixth Year when Dumbledore was killed by Death Eaters and Harry was sent on a wild goose chase all over the country looking for Voldemort’s Horcruxes. Sirius tried to join the Golden Trio but his name was still mud and so he could only send them coded messages and help them narrow down locations. At least Harry kept the small piece of the two-way mirror close to him so Sirius could check in once in a while.
It was the single longest year Sirius could ever remember, even his time in Azkaban couldn’t compare to the constant worry over Harry’s safety and Voldemort’s rise to power. His only source of comfort had been Remus, who hid out at Grimmauld Place with him through it all when he wasn’t running covert missions for the Order. They spent many long days curled up in bed listening to Potterwatch on the wireless for any news, good or bad, and eating take away Remus bought them. Sometimes Remus would cook while Sirius sat at the counter and watched, distracting him with seductive glares and seemingly innocuous gestures.
They made the best of a terrible situation, locked away from the world, each being hunted for one reason or another and with only each other for comfort. Some nights—and days—they would break into the liquor cabinet and drown their sorrows in whiskey or a vintage wine. Remus wasn’t a particular fan of it but when in Rome. Besides, Sirius was usually the one to become sloshed, which led to Remus taking care of him most of the time. Of course, Sirius always thanked him once he felt better.
Then came the Battle of Hogwarts, one that caught them all off guard but at the same time they knew had to be coming soon. Every member of the Order had come, even Tonks who’d just had her son Teddy a month prior. Sirius frowned as he thought of their dear friend, who sadly had not survived the battle having been caught off guard by Bellatrix. The bitch seemed to favor that method of attack.
Sirius had been battling alongside Remus and hadn’t been near Tonks, not that it mattered much. Both of them had nearly been killed as well, Antonin Dolohov almost succeeded in killing Remus had Sirius not fired off a curse to his back causing the Death Eater to fall from the catwalk to his demise. They’d been too late to help Tonks or Fred Weasley, who was also tragically killed and many more who hadn’t survived. But in the end there was nothing they could do; they knew the risks and took the chance defending their world.
They had almost lost hope when Voldemort loudly proclaimed he’d won and that Harry Potter was dead, his seemingly lifeless body cradled in Hagrid’s arms. Sirius was ready to fire the Killing Curse straight at Voldemort, anger and grief raging through his veins and for once Remus wasn’t holding him back. He too was ready to kill the snake. Then to everyone’s surprise and relief Harry had leapt from Hagrid’s arms to the ground, alive and well scaring half the Death Eaters away and reigniting the fight within the students, staff and Order. But nothing was more surprising than watching Draco Malfoy, who’d looked the most crushed at losing Harry, rush forward and throw Harry his wand allowing the Boy Who Lived Twice to finish what he and Voldemort started. Never had there been such a valiant battle and in the end their love survived with Voldemort falling dead to the ground never to be revived again.
Through all the tears, mourning and grief there was also renewed hope for their world. Voldemort’s followers, the ones who survived, were captured, tried and imprisoned for their crimes while others buried their loved ones. The Malfoy family had defected during the battle and so were not sentenced to Azkaban, though Lucius was placed under house arrest for seven years. But Draco and Narcissa, who’d both helped Harry win by either lying or in Draco’s case literally handing over his wand, were acquitted and free to go about their lives.
Of course, nothing could’ve prepared the Wizarding World when Harry and Draco had come out as a couple and were seen snogging unashamedly in front of Hogwarts during its restoration later that year. Sirius hadn’t been too surprised given the boys’ obsession with each other and well he recognized the heartbreak in Draco’s face when he thought Harry was dead, it was the one Remus had when Sirius was trapped in Azkaban. Remus on the other hand had been shocked, he thought for sure the two of them would kill each other before snogging.
But they’d been a couple for five years now and were still going strong, helping Andromeda raise little Teddy with Harry as his Godfather. Unfortunately, Teddy’s father had also been a casualty of the war, a muggle man whom Tonks had fallen in love with but hadn’t married yet when she found out she was pregnant. The poor man hadn’t even known about Teddy as he’d been killed by snatchers before Tonks even had the chance to tell him.
Remus and Sirius had considered adopting Teddy themselves but decided Andromeda needed a piece of her daughter close by and that Teddy should be raised by her. Well Teddy never missed out on having a family, between Andromeda, Harry and Draco and Remus and Sirius plus the Weasley’s he had a whole clan of people to love him and raise him. Yes, things had fallen into place after the war, not quickly but it had happened.
A year after Sirius’ name was finally cleared, with new evidence provided from Sirius’ memories proving once and for all that Peter Pettigrew was the one responsible for James and Lily’s murder and the murder of those twelve muggles. Harry and Remus also provided their own memories to back him up and the Wizengamot had no choice but to overturn his original conviction and declare Sirius innocent. Unfortunately, with Pettigrew also dead there was no way to get proper justice but then Remus and Sirius had decided the miserable lump had suffered enough and had paid the ultimate price.
Sirius regained access to his vaults, gave Grimmauld Place to Harry who wasted no time moving in with Draco, and moved in with Remus in a flat in Hogsmeade Village. Though Remus hadn’t asked for his D.A.D.A. position back at Hogwarts, he had found a different purpose for his teaching skills as a private tutor for those interested in pursuing careers related to the field. At first he’d had only one student, which quickly grew to four and by the end of his first year he had secured twelve gifted and dedicated students! Sirius couldn’t have been more proud of him, often accompanying him to his office he rented just below their flat and watching him work with the same awe as his students.
After that Remus got down on one knee and asked Sirius to be his forever, to which the latter had been so ecstatic that he accidentally shifted into his Animagus form and Remus found himself being licked to death by a crazed pooch! It was a small intimate ceremony, presided over by Kingsley Shacklebolt with Harry and Draco serving as best men. They exchanged vows they wrote themselves, performed the magical bonding ceremony similar to that of Muggles exchanging rings and then the party started. And what a hell of a party it was!
They danced, ate and drank well into the night, their friends and family cheering for them as they smashed cake in each other’s faces and slow danced beneath the stars. If he were honest Sirius actually didn’t remember most of it, he’d had a little too much to drink but Remus was more than happy to fill him in though towards the end even his memories were a bit fuzzy. But what did they care, they were happily married and had the time of their lives.
Remus had surprised him with a honeymoon in Italy, staying in a small villa in a magical community integrated into the Muggle world in a way that Britain had yet to do. They spent two weeks wine tasting, gaining a few kilos eating delicious food and exploring the Italian countryside. When they came back Sirius had a surprise waiting for Remus too. Their cottage in the countryside.
It was just as Sirius had described to him all those years ago and the dream Remus had every night. Off-white stone with a thatched roof surrounded by hundreds of wildflowers and nestled in a meadow in the rolling green hills of the English countryside. It wasn’t fancy or elegant and it was just big enough for the two of them and that was how they liked it.
The cottage was cozy and warm, their living room was filled with pictures and knick knacks with a small bookshelf for all of Remus’ books. He had a large, cozy armchair settled by the picture window where he could sit early in the morning with his tea and read while he waited for Sirius to wake up. They had a big, squashy sofa that took up most of the room at Sirius’ request and it never failed to make Remus laugh when he came in and saw Sirius in dog form curled up on the cushions.
Their kitchen was quaint but since Remus did most of the cooking while Sirius just watched it was just right for them. Though as promised Sirius did get in the way quite a lot and make a big mess, a fault which Remus could never be cross with because well he loved the knucklehead too much. Besides he liked cleaning up after Sirius, especially if it meant Sirius rewarding him in that way only he could.
But the bedroom was their favorite and not just because they could have the endless romps they talked about, hell they utilized the whole house for that. No, it was because they had the softest king-sized bed ever made, with a beautiful patchwork quilt and fresh cool sheets. It was a wonder he could never get Sirius out of bed in the morning, hell Remus found himself sleeping in once in a while himself.
They did cast an extension charm whenever Harry and Draco stayed over, often with little Teddy in tow making for a lot of fun and somewhat frightening weekends. Remus swore he was going to go gray or bald before his 45th birthday, though so far not a single hair had left his scalp and there wasn’t a streak of gray to be found. Of course he joked he still had two years for that to change. Still they wouldn’t have had it any other way.
Sirius mulled all this over as he showered, shaved and dressed for the day, they truly had created the life they wanted and there were many times he’d thought it impossible. Sometimes he still had to pinch himself to be sure he wasn’t dreaming, that he wasn’t still rotting in a dank cell in Azkaban or a ghost roaming about Earth with unfinished business. But each time he was happily proven wrong, especially when he felt Remus’ warm lips kissing him good morning.
Deciding on a plum button-down shirt and denims that hugged his arse almost as well as the ones he wore as a teenager, he quickly blew his hair dry with a spell, cast a cleaning charm on his teeth and bounded down the stairs with childlike glee. His nose was instantly greeted by the smell of crepes and bacon, damn he was a lucky bastard for finding a man who could cook so well. Walking into the kitchen he saw several plates under stasis already, each piled high with French toast, bacon, sausages, eggs, fried tomatoes and mushrooms, black pudding, potatoes, and of course Remus’ famous crepes. His mouth watered at the sight of all the glorious food, Merlin he wished brunch were sooner!
Remus of course was well prepared, having two smaller plates ready for them to nosh on until their guests arrived and they could have everything. Well Sirius wouldn’t complain so long as he got to have Remus’ cooking he’d wait all day if necessary. Greeting him with a kiss Sirius sat down at their tiny breakfast nook with Remus taking the seat across from him and happily tucked into their smaller portions of crepes and bacon. Sirius moaned as he took his first bite into a warm crepe filled with cream cheese and blueberries, it was pure heaven on his tongue. If he could he would live on Remus’ crepes and nothing else, he always made them just right as they were flaky and soft with fillings that were plentiful but not overpoweringly so.
“Mmm Moony your crepes are the best,” Sirius commented around a mouthful of bacon and crepe, “honestly you should teach a cooking class, that’s where your true gift is.”
Sipping his orange juice Remus fought back a laugh. “Oh Sirius I don’t know if I’m that gifted,” he replied blushing a little, “besides most Wix prefer using magic to prepare food.”
“Well that’s a pity because they’re missing out,” Sirius retorted wolfing down his second crepe, “mmm Moony I think you should at least open a restaurant.”
At this Remus did bark out a laugh, oh Merlin the things Sirius came up with. “And when exactly would I have the time to invest in such a thing,” he asked the smile never leaving his face, “I do still have my students you know.”
“So? Take a sabbatical and start your restaurant, then come back when you can,” Sirius answered gulping down his own orange juice.
“Sirius you do understand a sabbatical is for full-time teachers, not private tutors like myself and they only go for a year,” Remus pointed out wiping his mouth with his napkin, “besides you get one for every seven years you teach, so even if I qualified it’s far too early in my career.”
Sirius pouted hating that Remus poked holes in what he thought was a fun idea, even if he knows they’re all valid reasons. “Alright well I guess you’d either have to take leave or quit teaching then,” he grumbled.
Remus pursed his lips, his brow furrowed as he thought over the idea. If he were to be completely honest the idea of having a restaurant did intrigue him but it required a certain level of dedication he didn’t have. Besides he loves teaching, as Sirius predicted he would, he loves seeing his students accomplish complex feats of magic their faces alight with pure joy as they cast spells and hexes.
Why just last week there’d been a young boy just in his Fourth Year at Hogwarts who had been struggling with learning the Riddikulus charm for defending against a boggart. Poor chap not only had a hard time with facing his boggart, a zombie, but he struggled to think of something humorous to fight it with. Remus had to step in constantly, both he and his student growing frustrated by the week but Remus never gave up on a student. Finally after three months of practice it happened, the student not only stood his ground against his boggart but made it do a hilarious dance that was very reminiscent of a chicken. That had been a proud moment for Remus, one he told Sirius all about the moment he came home and Sirius being well Sirius had not only congratulated him but did so in his own special way that had Remus screaming all night long.
“Mmm don’t think I could give that up,” Remus mused softly, “much as I enjoy cooking, I think part of the reason is because I’m not doing it for a hundred people I’m just doing it for us and well…I dunno it just feels more satisfying that way.”
Huh well Sirius hadn’t considered that but he understood well enough and if Remus ever did open a restaurant then he might not get to enjoy his cooking as much. “Hmm well I suppose there’s also the possibility that you’d be too exhausted after running a restaurant all day to cook for us,” he replied pouting again, “and I do love watching you in the kitchen.”
Remus’ cheeks went pink again as he ate his last bit of bacon. “See? It’s settled then my cooking shall stay a secret that only those I’m closest to will have knowledge of,” he proclaimed his face alight with glee.
“Oh alright it’ll just be another delicious secret about you I’ll keep all to myself,” Sirius teased wiggling his eyebrows suggestively, “speaking of don’t suppose we…”
“Ah, ah, ah Sirius we have company arriving soon and I won’t have them walking in on us,” Remus scolded him gently as he wandlessly waved the dishes into the sink, “now if you’ll be so kind as to make yourself useful and set the table while I tend to the food.”
Sighing dramatically Sirius waved a lazy hand in the air, pointing first towards cupboard that held their linens then the one that held their plates and cups and following up with their drawer of silverware. Dancing his fingers about in the air he put on a little show of setting everything in place on their magically extended dining room table, making sure Remus was watching which he most certainly was though he pretended otherwise. Remus had to admit he created a lovely setting, a simple cream linen adorned with five of their best mismatched plates, separate cups for tea, coffee or juice and cutlery elegantly wrapped in linen serviettes as opposed to plain old napkins. It was perfect.
“Ah Sirius you might want to make sure Teddy’s place only has a juice cup,” Remus reminded him, “he has yet to acquire a taste for tea.”
“Are we certain he’s British,” Sirius teased as he magically flicked away the teacup from Teddy’s place, “the lad’s five and still won’t touch tea.”
“Oh he will soon enough,” Remus chuckled looking over the last bit of the meal, satisfied it was all ready, “now have we forgotten anything?”
“No, I think we…”
“Knock, knock anybody home,” Harry called out from the front door surprising the two of them.
“Oh my goodness Harry! Draco! Please come in,” Sirius exclaimed his arms thrown wide open to receive whichever hug came first, which happened to be Harry.
Sirius hugged his Godson as though he hadn’t seen him in years when they’d only just gotten together two weeks ago to plan this brunch for Remus’ birthday. While the Weasley’s had insisted upon a huge birthday party, Remus had graciously declined saying he wanted a more simple birthday this year and Sirius had agreed seeing as Remus wasn’t one for parties to begin with. Throw in the fact that about half of the Weasley’s wouldn’t be able to come either due to work or being out of the country, it just made sense for them to save the party for another time. Though Molly was insistent on a large dinner once everyone was home next weekend.
Draco followed in after Harry, who was practically being smothered by Sirius, looking far more casual than he used to with a simple ice blue button down and black trousers. His once greasy platinum blonde hair now hung loosely down by his shoulders in soft wispy strands that honestly made Remus a little jealous. He smiled warmly at Remus, who returned it with his own, and held out a large platter of cupcakes which Remus would admit he was tempted to devour right this second. Accepting them he set them aside on the end table so he could properly embrace the Malfoy heir.
“Ah Draco wonderful to see you again,” Remus said hugging him tight.
“And you Remus, Happy Birthday,” Draco replied his arms wrapped just as tightly around the older man.
Pulling back he regarded the young man with a fond expression, Draco had changed so much since the war that he was almost unrecognizable at times. True his features were still pointy but he’d grown into them, they were softer angles rather than harsh lines and his eyes were still stormy grey but with a warmth no one knew even existed. His smile was bright and full of laughter, no longer did he sneer or look down his nose at others, instead he was polite and considerate and made an effort to be better than his parents. So far Remus would say he had accomplished that and more.
“Thank you Draco, now not to be rude but where is little Teddy,” Remus asked looking about for the tiny terror.
As if on cue Teddy burst through the front door, a small collection of cornflowers, blue-bells, corncockles, wild daffodils, and just a few bulbous buttercups to round it out clutched in his tiny fist. Many still had clumps of dirt and roots hanging off their ends but Teddy proudly presented them to Remus, his big smile seeming to grow with each passing second. All of the adults had to chuckle at the five-year old’s antics, he was a sweet child with a big heart and what appeared to be turquois hair today.
“Happy birfday Uncle Remus,” Teddy proclaimed loudly, his adorable lisp more prominent than ever since he lost his first tooth.
Beaming with pride Remus knelt down to the child, gingerly took the offered bouquet, gave it a quick sniff and pulled Teddy into a big hug kissing his tender head. Who cares that he plucked all those flowers from their private garden, they grew them magically which meant some of them weren’t even supposed to be in bloom right now. Besides it warmed Remus’ heart to receive such a simple and heartfelt gift.
“Thank you very much Teddy,” Remus replied giving him another kiss, “I love these, how did you know they were my favorite?”
“Because they were in your garden,” Teddy stated matter-of-factly, “and purple is your favorite.”
Well he was right, Remus did love the purple flowers best. Perhaps because oddly enough Wolfsbane was purple and the latest Wolfsbane potion on the market was practically a miracle. Remus hadn’t had a horrific transformation in three years since that potion hit the market, though having Sirius around certainly helped with that too.
“Right you are Teddy,” Remus agreed booping his nose, “I do love purple.”
“They're very pretty, now how about giving your favorite cousin a hug Teddy,” Sirius interrupted with a chuckle, kneeling down to the boy’s level with his arms spread wide.
Teddy eagerly ran into his embrace, wrapping his tiny arms around Sirius’ neck as he snuggled in close. He loved visiting Sirius, mostly because Sirius often indulged him by changing into his Animagus form whenever Teddy asked. Well more like demanded. Still Sirius didn’t need to have his arm twisted to change into his dog form, he already did it constantly with just Remus around or hell sometimes when he was by himself. He loved being able to roll about the floor as a dog, nuzzle up against Remus’ legs or give Teddy rides on his back. Not to mention it was quite cozy curling up as a dog in a nest full of blankets and pillows or beside the hearth with a warm fire crackling on snowy nights.
“Uncle Sirius, I missed you,” Teddy cooed smooshing his lips against Sirius’ cheek.
“Aww I missed you too pup,” Sirius replied his heart warming up like the French toast sitting on the counter, “you been good for your Godfather and cousin?”
“Uh huh I kept my nice clothes clean all morning ‘cause Draco told me to,” Teddy answered puffing up his tiny chest proudly.
“Ah yes well Teddy you did up until you decided to rummage about in Uncle Remus’ garden,” Draco pointed out noting the small steaks of dirt on Teddy’s shirt sleeves and the knees of his trousers, “hold still and I’ll spell it away.”
Quick as a flash Draco flicked his wand at Teddy’s clothes, vanishing all traces of dirt as well as ironing out a few wrinkles. All of them watched in amusement as Teddy examined his freshened clothes, his face a hilarious mix of wonder and disappointment as he didn’t mind being dirty. Like all children his age Teddy loved to run about outside and roll about in the grass, mud and dirt whenever he got the chance even when Draco—and on rare occasions Harry—told him not to. Remus hid a chuckle behind his hand with a cough, he knows how fastidious Draco can still be though he’s loosened up quite considerably.
“Aww but I like being dirty,” Teddy whinged picking at his shirt.
“Now Teddy we discussed this earlier, today is a special occasion and we need to look presentable,” Draco reminded him gently.
Teddy still continued to pout, being only five meant it was hard for him to understand the importance of keeping clean and why some clothes were meant for play while others weren’t. Sirius could understand, hell there were times Remus had to fight him to wear something other than jeans and a grungy t-shirt when they went to dinner at The Burrow. Much like a child Sirius would pout and say that Harry always dressed like that for Sunday dinner so why couldn’t he?
“Ah now Teddy don’t worry it’s only for brunch, we did bring your play clothes to change into afterward,” Harry added giving his cheek a little pinch, “besides Draco had to approve my outfit too.”
“And Remus would’ve never let me join if I’d worn my favorite ripped denims and Rolling Stones t-shirt,” Sirius intoned earning a nudge from Remus, who was failing to hide his laughter.
They all actually had a good laugh about it, the fact that Sirius and Harry required both their partners to help dress them in presentable clothing lest they walk out in whatever was comfortable and smelled clean. Standing up Remus finally got his birthday hug from Harry while Sirius did the same with Draco, the two cousins embracing as though their familial rift had never happened. Draco reminded Sirius so much of Regulus, except he got a second chance and was able to defect and live. He and Draco had had a long talk about it one night a few years ago when it was just them and Teddy at the cottage, Remus working late hours at his newly established tutoring classes while Harry was on a raid with the Aurors. Sirius and Draco had been lonely without them and both were still fairly new at the baby thing, so a sleepover tag-team effort seemed the best approach. It was late when the subject of Regulus came up and it took them well until 2 am, with Draco wanting to understand as much as he could and Sirius was more than happy to oblige.
That was why they were so close now and Sirius sometimes wished he’d taken both Harry and Draco that fateful night rather than leaving either to their less qualified families. Ah well nothing to be done about that, instead he focused on the now and spending as much time with both as he could. He did give Draco an extra tight squeeze around the shoulders which the latter understood perfectly. He squeezed back.
“Alright now I’m sure we’re all famished and a stasis charm only holds for so long, so let’s start eating shall we,” Remus announced drawing his wand and waving it at the plates of food.
Right away Sirius drew his own wand to help along with Harry and Draco all as Teddy pointed and cried out with delight at watching the plates sail effortlessly through the air to the large table. In no time the table was all set and everybody took their seats, tucking in right away indulging in every dish Remus had made. Well Teddy was a bit picky, he wasn’t a fan of sausages, tomatoes, mushrooms or black pudding yet but he was happy to stuff his face with lots of crepes and French toast.
The brunch was everything Remus had wanted and more. Not only was the food delicious, if he did say so himself, but the company was perfect. They asked Harry about his position with the Aurors and whether or not he was still enjoying it—he was—and what new interior design project Draco was currently working on in Grimmauld Place. From the day he moved in Draco had begun redecorating, well more like gutting, the inside of the Black ancestral home which both Harry and Sirius strongly approved of letting him go to town with whatever designs he liked. Harry wasn’t fussy though Draco did often ask for his input regarding furniture, dragging him from one store to the next and having him test out every sofa, chair and bed imaginable.
At first Sirius had worried that Draco would do something similar to the Manor but on their first visit he found himself pleasantly surprised by how bright and airy the place was. He hardly recognized it, in fact he thought he’d stepped into the wrong house at first. The ugly troll umbrella stand had been one of the first pieces to go followed immediately by the elf heads lining the wall of the stairs. As Draco put it those were two things that had frightened him as a child the few times Narcissa brought him to visit. Sirius agreed, they frightened him too.
The old furniture was thrown out and replaced, with the exception of a few small pieces they were able to refurbish and make look new again. That had been Harry’s idea, much to Draco’s shock and consternation, but he allowed it since it was technically Harry’s house. The sofas and chairs were soft and comfortable, not stiff and meant for decoration only and the walls were painted in fresh light colors such as white for the halls, sage green in the drawing and sitting rooms and sky blue in most of the bedrooms. The old, tattered curtains were torn down and replaced with gossamer white linens that made those small rooms grow twice their size without an extension charm.
As of now Draco was working on removing Walburga’s screaming portrait, a task he’d undertaken the first day he’d moved in and had yet to succeed at. He and Harry had tried everything to remove the stubborn old woman from her perch, hell even Sirius and Remus had come over several times to help but she remained rooted where she was. For a while Draco focused on the rest of the home, but any spare moment he had he dedicated to removing her. So far nothing worked so he’d taken to pulling every book from the Black family library, studying them cover to cover trying to find a solution.
Of course Teddy interrupted with his own stories of learning to fly the toy broom Harry got him for Christmas and sitting on Draco’s lap while he read him bedtime stories. He was staying with them for the time being as Andromeda had taken ill and though her prognosis was good, she needed her rest and having a rambunctious five-year-old around the house wouldn’t help. So Harry and Draco took him in, taking him to visit her almost every day to give her a kiss and wish her well. Though he did miss her and worried about whether or not she was getting better, he had Harry and Draco to cheer him up and reassure him that his grandmother was just fine and he would be back home before he knew it.
Remus and Sirius loved hearing about that best, the way Harry and Draco looked after Teddy as if he were their own. Remus had to fight back a coo as he watched Harry dab Teddy’s mouth with a napkin knowing full well that the boy would just smear it everywhere otherwise. He sometimes wondered if he and Sirius should look into adoption again, he thought it might be nice to have a child but he was also quite content with how things were now. Besides looking after Teddy every now and then tended to wear them out. Plus having Sirius around was already like having a child.
Sirius couldn’t and wouldn’t hold back his coos as he watched the young pair act as surrogate parents, he knew how much they loved Teddy and it showed. Like Remus he too often wondered if perhaps they should look into having a child or two of their own but babysitting Teddy usually made up his mind for him and well he felt that was enough. Not to mention he knows their sex life will take a major hit if they do have a child and though some may call that a selfish reason, he and Remus have a lot time to make up for. So he tucks the idea away happy to just be a fun-loving Uncle, Godfather and Cousin living with his sweet werewolf husband.
Brunch goes on throughout most of the afternoon, for one thing Remus made so much delicious food that everybody kept helping themselves to more despite complaints of being too full to move. Draco’s sweet tooth certainly showed as he downed one piece of French toast after another, though he tried to be subtle by only taking one piece at a time. Harry to no one’s surprise couldn’t get enough bacon, actually that went for him and Sirius as the two wolfed down at least a dozen pieces each. But everybody’s favorite was naturally Remus’ crepes, those were the first to run out but everyone got more than their fair share.
At last Sirius sat back after his last bite of eggs, patting his full belly. “Ah Moony once again you’ve created heaven on a plate,” he sighed sipping his orange juice.
Remus snorted, “you say that about every meal I make.”
“Because it’s true,” Sirius countered poking him in the arm, “it’s one of the reasons I love you so much.”
“And here I thought it was my good looks,” Remus teased poking Sirius’ bloated gut, “careful love or you’ll have to roll about the floor to get anywhere.”
Slapping his hand away Sirius stuck his tongue out. “Oh hush you.”
“Haha don’t worry Sirius you’re not the only one with a partner who has exceptional cooking skills,” Draco chimed in throwing a suggestive smirk Harry’s way.
Harry’s cheeks went pink, despite being treated so poorly at the Dursley’s he did enjoy cooking especially since now he could eat the food he made. He made it a point to try a new recipe at least once a week if he could, though sometimes his schedule made that next to impossible but that was where Draco came in. It’d been a real treat for him to learn that Draco had taught himself to cook a few simple meals back at the Manor, though he’d done so in secret. According to Draco it had been a way to relax and forget about the horrors during the time Voldemort took up residence there. That and he wanted to be prepared on the very real chance he were forced into exile into the Muggle world for his crimes, assuming his arse wasn’t thrown into Azkaban. Obviously neither had happened much to both their reliefs but Draco did enjoy it, more than Harry actually and together they learned new recipes and cooked old favorites.
“Well I-I’m not the only good cook in the house,” Harry added nudging Draco playfully, “Draco’s pretty amazing too, in fact he made the cupcakes we brought.”
“Did he? Well then why haven’t we tried them yet,” Sirius gasped excitedly raising his wand to levitate the platter over to settle amongst the half-eaten feast, “they do look delicious.”
Indeed they did, chocolate cake with royal icing enchanted with shimmering edible stars that got everyone’s mouths watering. “My those are something,” Remus commented his eyes nearly bulging from his head, “thank you Draco.”
Now Draco was the one with pink cheeks as he smiled bashfully. “You’re welcome Remus, well shall we tuck in?”
Tuck in they did! For as good as they looked the cupcakes tasted even better, delicate but rich with chocolate flavor and the icing was as sweet as could be without overpowering the decadent cake. Moans of approval flooded the room as they all enjoyed Draco’s cupcakes, Teddy naturally had half of it smeared across his mouth.
“Alright that settles it,” Harry said once he popped the last morsel into his mouth, “from now on Draco you’re making all the desserts at home. Those were amazing!”
“I have to agree Draco, that had to be one of the best cupcakes I’ve ever had,” Sirius intoned licking the remaining icing from his fingers, “you might want to consider opening a bakery.”
Draco chewed thoughtfully. “I don’t know, I feel like I might grow fat if I surrounded myself with so many delectable pastries.”
“Oh well a little soft tummy isn’t so bad,” Sirius replied patting his own not-so toned stomach though he hardly had anything to worry about, “easier to maintain for sure.”
“Mm and besides I like how much softer you are now,” Harry teased tickling Draco’s middle.
Draco squirmed away shooting Harry a death glare. “Harry Potter you take that back,” he snapped though there was a hint of amusement, “I’m not getting fat!”
Harry just laughed grabbing a tiny pinch of his stomach. “I didn’t say you were fat, just a little soft,” he reiterated.
“Oh shut up you,” Draco grumbled smacking his hand away.
“Now, now you two you needn’t worry about any soft tummies for a while yet,” Remus interjected though he would admit the whole scene was amusing, “but Draco I will say I agree with Sirius about the cupcakes they were scrumptious!”
“Thank you Remus, I’m glad you both enjoyed them,” Draco replied puffing up a little with pride.
“I want Draco to make cut-cakes every day,” Teddy piped up as he licked icing off his second cupcake, “please Draco? I don’t mind having a soft tummy.”
A fond smile graced Draco’s lips as he reached over to hand him a napkin. “Don’t you think you’d get sick of them if you ate them every day?”
“No,” Teddy answered around a mouthful of cake, “I like cut-cakes.”
None of them had the heart to correct Teddy at the moment, though Draco nearly did but he bit his tongue and just let the boy mispronounce a few words. Instead they all enjoyed another cupcake, all of them certain they may be sick later but it was worth it to have such delicious treats and for Remus especially it was a wonderful way to spend his birthday. After the dishes were spelled away and washed and the extra food packed away for Harry and Draco to take home, they all settled in the living room where only Teddy had the energy to move about while the adults sat and watched. Harry did manage to get the little bugger to change into his play clothes, seeing as he's sure Draco will have a right fit if Teddy ruins his nice ones twice in the same day. Teddy on the other hand was just excited to run about and play without having to worry, as he followed the lights and sparks the grownups created with their wands.
Eventually he begged Sirius to change into his dog form, which Sirius was more than happy to do making little Teddy squeal with glee. Oh it was so sweet watching Teddy play with Sirius the dog, riding on his back and giving him belly rubs. Draco and Harry did join in once their stomachs settled, taking turns lifting Teddy in the air and tickling him. Even Remus got down on the floor with them and soon they were one giant pile of limbs, laughing—or in Sirius’ case barking-- as they tried to untangle themselves. Oh it was all in great fun for them and they spent the remaining afternoon just like that, playing and laughing without a care in the world.
They had so much fun that it was a shame when Draco and Harry announced they had to leave to get Teddy settled in for a nap, something Teddy insisted he didn’t need because he wasn’t tired. Yet he was already falling asleep on Draco’s shoulder and the boys promised to come back soon, with Draco adding that he would send over another round of cupcakes by next week. Though Remus told him that wasn’t necessary, it was clear he was eager for more.
Hugs were given as they said their goodbyes and soon it was only Remus and Sirius alone in their beautiful home, just how they liked it. It was nearing dusk by now, the time Remus would normally start preparing dinner but they’re both much too full from brunch and besides they’re hungry for something else. Reaching up Sirius carefully locks his arms around Remus’ neck, pressing his lips tenderly to Remus’.
“So my love, did you enjoy your birthday,” Sirius purred pecking his lips once again.
Remus hummed as he returned the kiss. “It was perfect Sirius,” he murmured, “thank you.”
Pulling back Sirius gave him a predatory grin, one that promised a very sexy gift. “You know it’s not over yet,” he paused licking his lips, “if you’re feeling up to it, we could have a little more fun.”
Growling low in his throat Remus dove in kissing him hard, his tongue slipping past his lips with ease. “Mmm and what exactly did you have in mind?”
He didn’t need to ask, he already knew where this was headed. Still he liked hearing Sirius say it, whatever he planned out Remus wanted to know every detail. He watched as Sirius’ deft fingers began to slowly work at the buttons of his shirt, revealing all his scars that Sirius still kissed better even if they were old and faded. Leaning in Sirius kissed one that was settled just below his collarbone, it was smaller than most and nearly invisible, yet Sirius always knew where to look. He shivered as he felt Sirius’ warm breath ghost over his skin, the hairs from his beard tickling him.
“Ah Sirius…”
“Hmm?” Sirius glanced up with lust filled pupils, his eyes hungry and dazed. Shit that was hot!
Sirius’ hands went right back to undoing more buttons, untucking the shirt once he got to his waistband and finally pushing the starched fabric off his shoulders tossing it carelessly to the floor. Normally a stickler for cleanliness and order, Remus let it slide tonight seeing as he’s certain they’ll be far too distracted to worry about laundry. He watches as Sirius sinks to his knees, the rattle of his belt buckle the only sound apart from their labored breathing as his trousers fall to the floor. Bracing his hands on either side of his hips Sirius begins mouthing at the bulge hidden beneath his underwear, Gods Remus wishes he’d just get on with whatever he’s got planned.
“S-Sirius ah…you…didn’t answer…ah ah…me,” Remus panted feeling his cock swell to full hardness.
“Mmm well Moony I was thinking since it’s your birthday,” he suckled the head through the fabric earning a moan, “you could call the shots, whatever you want to do it’s your choice tonight.”
Oh well Remus could get on board with that, not that Sirius was a selfish lover quite the opposite, but they usually never gave each other complete control. As one idea after another entered his head Remus thanked whatever lucky star he’d been born under to have a partner as amazing and trusting as Sirius. Not to mention that amazing mouth of his which was providing quite the distraction.
“Mmm well let’s see,” Remus mused tangling his fingers into Sirius’ dark curls, “how did I have you last? One your front was it? And did I spank you then, I think I did.” He tapped his chin in thought, sure they had their go-to positions and methods of foreplay but he wanted to change things up a little. Go for something a little more unusual for them.
“Well you know I don’t mind either of those,” Sirius said a coquettish smile teasing his lips.
“No but I think we ought to try something else tonight,” Remus suggested a wicked gleam in his eye, “what do you say to doing…oh what do the young people call it, doing the 69?”
Sirius snorted, “I believe they’ve shortened it to 69-ing, but either way I’d be more than willing to give it a go.”
“Then we should head upstairs as we will need the bed,” Remus replied vanishing his shoes so he could step out of his trousers that were still pooled at his ankles.
“Race you,” Sirius teased getting a head start with Remus hot on his heels.
They crashed into their bedroom together, tumbling onto the bed in a messy heap of limbs and clothes as they attempted to remove Sirius’ layers and Remus’ underpants. Finally Sirius just vanished them, he was hard and leaking and in dire need of Remus. It took a bit of rearranging but eventually they got to a comfortable position with Remus’ head near the pillows and Sirius’ towards the edge of the bed. Both had an eyeful of each other’s cocks, hard and waiting for attention.
“Mmm Moony this is an extraordinary idea,” Sirius growled kissing the head of his prick.
Remus hissed quickly reciprocating with a lick to Sirius’ shaft. “Agreed and it’s only the start,” he breathed out, “after this I’m going to have you ride me, the way you ride that motorcycle of yours and then I think I’ll have you stand over the bed and take you that way.”
Sirius felt heat coil low in his belly, he wanted all of that and whatever else Remus was going to offer him. “What no spanking tonight,” Sirius teased suckling the head of his cock in between his lips.
“Ah…now I didn’t say that,” Remus hissed grabbing a handful of Sirius’ arse, “I do adore spanking this glorious backside of yours.”
Sirius only whimpered as his mouth was full of Remus’ cock, he knows what’s coming and he can’t wait for it. He doesn’t have to as Remus’ warm lips wrap around the head of his cock and soon both are lost in wave after wave of pleasure, from sucking each other off to Sirius straddling his lap working himself first on Remus’ fingers then easing himself onto his shaft. True to his word Remus does spank him, though not the same way as usual seeing as Sirius is far too good at bouncing on his cock for him to do more than offer a few stinging swats.
But neither can be arsed to care as they swallow each other’s grunts and moans, Sirius’ tongue plundering Remus’ mouth while his cock fills his arse to the brim. Dusk turns to night as their bed creaks and groans under their lovemaking, hearts beating like mad as they snog while Remus thrusts up to meet Sirius’ grinding. Their climaxes build like a crescendo, Remus is the first to let go coating Sirius’ insides, his hands bruising the sides of his hips, followed by Sirius as he strokes himself to completion. Collapsing in a sweaty heap they take their time regaining their strength, they are in their forties now and do need more recovery time than they did twenty years ago.
“Gods Remus, that was…oh Gods,” Sirius groaned kissing his chest.
“Mmm indeed,” Remus half-whispered rubbing the knobs of his spine, “don’t suppose you’re up for a second round soon?”
Peeking at him through one eye Sirius smirks at him. “For you Moony, I’m up for anything.”
And he means it. Sure enough they’re at it again within minutes, just as Remus had described with Sirius bracing his hands against the bed as he took him from behind. They continue on well into the night, moans and cries of ecstasy being the only sounds to accompany the country night air. Each hot panting breath, languid kiss and touch fills their minds and hearts so much that there isn’t room for anything else, it’s just them in that cottage hot and sweaty and desperate for more.
It's perfect for them, even as they eventually tire out for the evening and resort to naked cuddles they wouldn’t have it any other way. After years of fighting and heartbreak they finally have their life together, the one Sirius had dreamt of back in Fifth year and Remus had kept dreaming of until it came true. So many times they believed it was would stay a dream, a childish fantasy built upon false hope that sometimes they still had to pinch themselves to make sure it was real. But it was real, they were home safe and sound surrounded by pure domestic bliss.
Tomorrow Remus would wake first as he always did, cook them a wonderful breakfast while Sirius got in the way as he tried to steal kisses from the cook. Then Remus would be off to tutor his students while Sirius read and entertained a million fantasies about what the evening would bring and likely have a wank because of it. Finally Remus would come home, they’d have supper and fall into bed naked and hungry for each other again.
Yes it was all terribly predictable and domestic, which is exactly how they wanted it. After years of uncertainty, they finally had a place to call home, something concrete they could believe in. Their little cottage in the country surrounded by wildflowers and tall grass.