Smudges → Sirius Black [ON HOLD]

p2 | c4

As sixth year went by, Sirius and I only really managed to see each other in classes, as we were both taken over by the massive workload there was for us to do. We talked, but it was more about the workload.

However, luck came back and we finally got to spend three (three!) hours together one night, after a Hogsmeade day. We did not get to go together (sadly), but tonight was all I really wanted. We were just lying on a sofa together in the Room of Requirement (I hated saying the 'Come and Go Room', you know?) and it was nice. Just laying there, talking about whatever, fingers interlinking and all that jazz. Yeah. It was nice. 

But something went wrong the next morning. Still living off the high the night had given me, it even felt like birds were singing. That is, until I entered the entrance before the hall. 

James and Sirius had gotten into a fight. 

It looked bad. Like, real bad. Both had some very bad bruises already forming. And so before my brother could pack yet another punch at my boyfriend, I screamed and darted in between them, trying to protect them both at the same time. 
"Catherine, get out of the way!" James shouted. "I don't have time for this!" 
"Don't have time for what? Hurting my boyfriend? Your best mate? No, scratch that, you brother?" I emphasised his relationship with Sirius. 
"You don't understand! Now move out of my way!" James repeated. His voice sounded rough. 
"What don't I understand? Is there something I'm missing?" I asked, looking between James and Sirius. Sirius had gone real quiet, which was most definitely the safer option. James stood there for a moment. 
"He's cheating on you." 
"Is he?" I asked, turning to Sirius. 
"No. No! Why would I-"
"You were talking to Marl-" James started. 
"She was helping me! With my Charms homework!" Sirius yelled. 
"See?" I said to James. "I don't assume everyone he talks to he'll cheat on me. And I'm sure he doesn't either. Jem, what is this about?" I ask, using his childhood nickname. When he doesn't answer straight away, I turn to the crowd. "What are you all staring at?" I say bitterly; then grab James' arm and walk off. 
"She's leaving me!" Sirius exclaimed to Remus. Remus clasped his friend on the back. 
"Nah, mate, I think you'll be fine."

"James," I repeat firmly. "What's going on?" He sighs. 
"I'm scared for you, Cathy. What if you get hurt?" he asks, running a hand through his hair. 
"Really? You're afraid I'm going to get my heart broken?" 
"Yeah," James agrees, nodding. 
"Everyone gets hurt, James. I won't be the first, and I will not be the last. When are you going to understand this?"
"I can't help it!" James yelled. "All I want to do is protect you."