Despair Is Not an Option

The Aftermath

Oliver knelt by Lupin's body.  He felt the tears coming and failed to choke them down.  He collapsed into suffering, head in hands on his friend's body.  He lay there in tears of agony until he felt a hand on his shoulder. 

"Oliver," said a voice. "You're in pain."

"Dad, he's gone, Alf's gone, and I miss them.  I could never tell you how good friends we were. Like brothers, nearly."

"I always knew that. Oliver Theseus Scamander, nobody we love is ever really gone.  He's still there for you. "

"I wish I could believe you." 

His father helped him to his feet . "Son, I swear it's true. Now help me with your sister."

"How is Silly Lily?"

"She... She needs you.  And you need her."

"Right, Dad."  Oliver, still in agony, followed his father over to his brother's body.  He went up to his sister, who stood next to her dead brother holding his hand.  "Lily," he said softly.

"Oliver, he... I..."

"So do I."

"Lupin more than him, though.  Am I right?"

"No.  I forgave him and never got the chance to tell him so."

"You forgave Alf?"

"Yes, I did.  Lily, it was always possible."

"You're right, Oliver.  It was always possible. But I never thought you would."

"Course he did, Porcupine," said a young man, slinging his arm over Oliver's shoulder.  

"Newt! You're alive!"

"Of course I am. Got a distinguished limp now, though. Guess you can't be the only one, eh, niffler?" 

"Newton Diggory Scamander, how DARE you scare me like that?"

"Sorry, Mum.  I was too busy with other things."

"Digs, y'know that won't satisfy Mum, don't you?" Oliver laughed slightly. 

"Well..."

"Well what, Newt?"

"Lowzers, Dad!"

"I did ask something. Doesn't matter."

"Em and Jerry are coming."

"Lily, you always spot them first."

"'Lo, Oliver."

"'Lo, Jerry.  Anything wrong?"

"Blimey, how d'you do it, niffler?"

"What's wrong?"

"Sam." Jerry choked at the name.  Emily took his hand and kissed him softly.

Oliver hugged Jerry. Lily and Newt joined, and then their parents.  Oliver reflected on all he had lost and all he still had. Others had lost more. "Alf," he thought,"I always and forever will love you," and in his mind, he hugged him, too.