Padfoot and his Pup

4. | Be Like You

Sirius cracked an eye open and looked at the clock. It was nearly nine in the morning. Surprised, he pushed himself up, running a hand through his hair. He couldn't remember the last time he'd slept so well. Sirius had a hunch that his sound sleep was because of the six year old child in the adjoining room. Ever since Harry has started living with him about six months ago, he was more at ease. The boy was under his protection and safe. He'd make sure no harm ever came to his beloved godson.

Smiling, he got out of bed and got ready. He came downstairs and saw Harry already awake and dressed. "Good morning, little one." He said. Normally, Harry would respond by jumping up to hug his godfather but on that particular morning, he didn't. "Good morning, Sirius." He said in a tone much like Sirius', going as far as to mimic the man's deep voice as best as he could.

Unable to contain his amusement, Sirius let out a chuckle before picking Harry up. He kissed the boy's forehead and set him down in his usual seat. "I need to get to work in an hour or so. Would you like to go to Ron's or Remus'?"

Sirius didn't work often. He didn't need to. He had enough money for the next eighty two generations but he did because he liked to and the Ministry needed Aurors. He was currently one of the highest ranking Aurors in the department. He only worked thrice a week though, opting to spend time with his godson instead.

Harry inclined his chin like Sirius often did and stroked his imaginary beard. Remus was really nice but he didn't let Harry eat more than four chocolate cookies. He said it made him too active. "Ron's house." He confirmed. "Great. Finish your pancakes and then I'll take you to Ron's."

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Harry curled up further, clutching his stuffed dog closer to his chest. He hated thunderstorms more than anything else. Another loud boom echoed through the walls of his room and he whimpered. This was the first thunderstorm since his time with Sirius. Back at his Uncle's place he was always locked in his cupboard and ended up crying the whole night, desperate for someone to take him away.

He wanted to go to Sirius and cuddle up with him. He always felt safe with his godfather. Sirius hugged him, held him, told him stories and loved him. Just like a daddy. But he was reluctant to go. Sirius was so strong and he was never scared of anything. He wanted to be like him: brave, kind, smart and strong.

When a particularly loud boom rattled off his windows, he couldn't take it anymore. Quick as a flash, he threw his blanket off and ran out of his room and into Sirius'.

He climbed into his godfather's bed and snuggled close to the man. He felt better almost immediately.

Sirius awoke when he heard his room door being thrown open and seconds later, he felt the weight of a small body against his chest. He heard the roar of thunder and instantly understood the whole situation. He felt Harry shake against him. "Ssh kiddo. You're alright. I've got you." Sirius wrapped his arms around the small form, marvelling at how tiny Harry felt in his arms. It didn't feel like he was holding a six year old. In fact, the boy was so light that he could've passed for four years or so. It felt like he was cradling a pup. His pup.

"Pup?" Harry's head shot up. "It's okay. It's just a storm. It'll pass soon." Sirius consoled him. "I'm s-scared." Harry whispered against him, feeling very small. "It's okay to be scared, little one. Everyone is afraid of something or the other ."

"No they're not." You're not. "Yes they are kiddo." Sirius confirmed. "Even you?" Ah. So that's what this was about. "Yes pup. Even me." Large green eyes stared at him innocently. Harry found it hard to believe that Sirius could be afraid of anything. "What are you afraid of?"