Written In the Stars ⭒ Sirius Black

Chapter Eighty Two: New Years Eve 1980

31st December 1980

As the year came to an end, James and Lily wanted to celebrate going forward into the next year, they were hosting a small gathering with their friends at Potter manor for fireworks.

"Lily said they're gonna have a bonfire, so we need some marshmallows," Sirius told Opal as he raided through the cupboards. "Do you think Moons will notice if we pinch some of his chocolate stash?"

"He most certainly would."

Opal gasped, her eyes widening. "Remus!"

He stood in the doorway smiling brightly, she ran towards him hugging him as tight as she could. He smelt like burnt wood and ash.

"I'm so glad you're back,"

"I'm glad to be back," he said.

Sirius walked towards them, smiling brightly. "Alright, Moony?"

"Yeah," he nodded.

As Opal pulled away she noticed he didn't have as many scars as he normally did, his hair had gotten longer and he now had a beard. He'd also lost a lot of weight, his cheeks were hollow, and his clothes were baggy.

"Sit down, let me heat up some food for you." she said, gesturing to the table.

"Oh Opal, you don't have to-" he began, but she had already gotten some soup Hope had made for them.

"It's fine, technically your mother made this, I'm just heating it up for you, sit down."

"James and Pete will be glad you're back as well," Sirius said, "They all missed you."

Opal poured the soup into a bowl and placed it down in front of him adding two slices of tiger bread next to it.

"Thanks Opes."

Opal was itching to ask him questions, but she didn't want to pester him, seeing as he had just got back, but it was as if Remus had read her mind.

"I was fine," He spoke up, looking at the two. "You don't have to keep staring."

"We're not staring... we're admiring." Sirius said, "We haven't seen you in nearly two months,"

"He's just jealous of the beard." Opal smirked.

Remus grinned. "Knew you would, how is everyone?"

Opal nodded, "Yeah they're all good, we're going up to James and Lily's later for the New Year... and now celebrating that you're back."

"It would be nice to see everyone,"

"What was it like?"

"Sirius!" Opal glared at him.

"It's fine," Remus laughed it off, "I know you're both eager to know," he set his spoon down, looking at them. "All I did was gain their trust and then next time I'll be able to talk to more of them and get into their circle."

"Next time?" Sirius asked.

"Yes, this isn't a one time thing, I'm going back in a few weeks, it's gonna be longer." he looked at their worried expressions, sighing slightly. "I know you guys are worried, but I have to do this. And I'm not going to lie to you, it's easier with the transitions. It's better when you're not going through it alone."

"You've already replaced us."

"You guys are irreplaceable, Opal."

★☆★☆

"Moony!" James cheered as they entered the hallway of Potter manor, he pulled Remus into a hug.

"I should leave more often if this is how you lots treat me when I get back."