𝘱𝘦𝘢𝘤𝘦 ; 𝒹.𝒽

thirty-six

tw/ this chapter deals with self harm. read with caution. 

1979

"So, how does it feel to be free?" James asked, slinging an arm over Althena's shoulder at her house warming party, handing her a beer. 

"About the same."

"Have you figured out your entire life yet?" He sarcastically asked as they walked through the crowds of people. 

She let out a small laugh, "Absolutely not. Saving up for this place has bee the only thing I've figured out. I've joined the Order, though." She said as they walked outside, bracing the cool September air. 

"I'm glad. Diana hasn't been able to be around because of Aurora and uhh..."

Althena picked up on James' sudden anxious state, "What?"

He shook his head, "It's nothing."

"Doesn't sound like nothing."

"I really shouldn't–"

She stopped and stood in front of him, "What's wrong?"

"Padfoot, you know, he likes to talk... Merlin, I really shouldn't–"

"James."

He sighed, gaze dropping to the ground as he scratched his head, "They've been having issues, Diana and Sirius. He thinks she's overreacting about him going off on missions, she's worried that he won't come back. She thinks he's reckless, and that he needs to grow up a little."

"I mean... she's not wrong."

"He said that Diana said that he was not prioritizing her and Aurora. Which, I mean, sort of checks out considering he's been at every single Order meeting no matter how long they last and he's the first to volunteer himself for a mission no matter how dangerous it might be. H-Has she not said anything to you?"

Althena sadly shook her head, "No."

"I'm sorry. I shouldn't have brought it up here. Not at your party."

"Don't worry about it." Althena quietly said, "Has Sirius spoken about them..."

"Breaking up? He's made it clear he doesn't want that to happen. But then again, we really can only know so much. This bloody war... it's taken a lot out of us. Padfoot, bloody hell, he's all over the place and I don't even think he realizes it. They just got married, I hope they can work things out."

"I would talk to Diana, but I won't bring it up until she says something."

"Please don't. I don't need Padfoot being my arse for not being able to keep my mouth shut." James said as they began to walk back inside. 

He made a beeline for Lily as soon as they were inside. She found Remus talking to her parents, Marlene and Dorcas in their own world. That only left...

"Althena!"

She turned to her sister, who held Aurora in her arms carefully. Diana had a bright smile, but beneath it all Althena could tell something wasn't right. The two hugged tightly, "I'm so proud of you for getting your own place."

"Thanks." Althena said before looking to Aurora, who already looked like she was going to start crying. 

Diana looked down at her daughter, "She doesn't like loud places. I think that might be the only trait she's gotten from me." 

"Where's Sirius?"

Her smile faltered slightly, "He's not feeling well. But he told me to let you know that he's happy for you and he gives his best regards."