Moonlit Bonds: The Tale of Moony and Snowy

Chapter 197 - An Unspoken Question

The days at Hogwarts continued in a familiar rhythm, filled with the hum of academic activity and the quiet anticipation of what lay beyond the castle walls. For Remus, however, each day was underscored by a growing nervousness that seemed to bubble up whenever he was near Eliza. The ring he had bought felt like a secret burning in his pocket, a promise waiting to be fulfilled.

Despite his nerves, Remus's feelings for Eliza only deepened with each passing day. They attended all their classes together, sitting side by side in each lesson. Whether it was the intricate spells in Transfiguration, the complex brews in Potions, or the intense debates in Defense Against the Dark Arts, their bond grew stronger as they navigated their seventh year together.

One crisp morning in Charms class, Professor Flitwick had them practicing non-verbal spells. Remus, usually confident in his abilities, found his concentration wavering every time Eliza glanced his way.

"Remus, are you alright?" Eliza asked, noticing his distraction. "You seem a bit off today."

Remus forced a smile, his heart racing. "Just a lot on my mind, I guess. How's your non-verbal incantation coming along?"

Eliza sighed, her frustration evident. "I'm getting there, but it's tricky. My wand keeps emitting sparks instead of casting the spell properly."

Remus chuckled softly, his nerves momentarily forgotten. "You'll get it, Eliza. You always do. Here, let me show you." He reached over, guiding her hand with gentle precision, his touch sending a shiver down his spine.

Their eyes met briefly, and for a moment, the rest of the world fell away. Remus could feel his heart pounding in his chest, the weight of his unspoken question pressing heavily upon him. But Eliza, focused on the spell, didn't notice the turmoil in his eyes.

After class, they walked to the Great Hall for lunch, their conversation light and filled with laughter. Remus found himself studying Eliza's expressions, wondering how she would react when he finally asked her the question that had been occupying his thoughts for weeks.

"Remus, you've been really quiet today," Eliza said as they sat down at their usual spot. "Are you sure everything's okay?"

He nodded, swallowing hard. "Yeah, just a lot on my mind. But I'm here, with you. That's what matters."

Eliza smiled warmly, her hand brushing his under the table. "We've got each other, Remus. We can handle anything."

The rest of the day passed in a blur of classes and study sessions. In Potions, they worked together on a particularly challenging brew, their teamwork seamless despite Remus's inner turmoil. In Defense Against the Dark Arts, they paired up for duelling practice, their spells precise and their movements perfectly in sync.

As the evening drew to a close, they found themselves in the library, surrounded by stacks of books and the quiet rustle of parchment. Eliza was engrossed in a text on ancient runes, her brow furrowed in concentration. Remus watched her, his heart swelling with affection and admiration.

"Eliza," he began softly, his voice barely above a whisper. She looked up, her eyes questioning. "I just... I wanted to say thank you. For everything. For being there for me."

She reached across the table, taking his hand in hers. "Remus, you don't have to thank me. We're in this together, remember?"

He squeezed her hand, the words he longed to say caught in his throat. "I know. And I'm grateful every day."

Later that night, as they returned to the Gryffindor common room, Remus's nervousness returned with full force. He watched Eliza interact with their friends, her laughter brightening the room and easing some of his anxiety.

Sirius, ever perceptive, caught Remus's eye and raised an eyebrow in silent inquiry. Remus shook his head slightly, signaling that he hadn't yet mustered the courage to talk to Sirius about his plans.

As the fire in the common room crackled softly and their friends gradually retreated to their dorms, Remus and Eliza found themselves alone by the hearth. The flickering flames cast a warm glow over them, and Remus felt a surge of determination.

"Eliza," he said, his voice steady. "There's something I've been meaning to talk to you about."

She turned to him, her eyes filled with curiosity and concern. "What is it, Remus?"

He took a deep breath, his heart pounding. "I... I care about you more than I can put into words. You mean everything to me."

Eliza's eyes softened, her hand reaching up to cup his cheek. "And you mean everything to me, Remus."

His resolve strengthened by her words, Remus leaned in, pressing a gentle kiss to her lips. "I have something important to ask you soon. But first, I need to speak with Sirius."

Eliza nodded, her smile reassuring. "Take your time, Remus. I'll be here, waiting."

As they sat together by the fire, Remus felt a sense of peace wash over him. The path ahead was clear, and with Eliza by his side, he knew they could face anything together.