Crescent Moon (A HP fanfic and a student/teacher romance)

Chapter thirteen: A shoulder to cry on

A/N: This was supposed to be up two weeks ago but I didn't want to rush this chapter, I want this to kind of set the pace and nature of Cassy and Lupin's relationship. I'm not sure how fast the next chapter will go up. There was a death of a family member who was too young, and that doesn't give you an excuse to slack of in school either so the next days will be hard. I'm sorry for ranting. anways, I hope you enjoy this chapter, and as always, please give your feedback, I want to hear from you guys!

Chapter 13: A Shoulder To Cry On

Every single student was on their way into the Great Hall to spend the night in a giant sleep over. They hadn’t caught the murderer yet and they still thought that he was in the castle so this was the best solution. They could just have had the ghosts roam the halls but maybe this was in some wayeasier.

            I had told my friends to go ahead and find us a comfortable spot; I’d be right back. I needed to talk to Lupin and the only time would be while they were gathering the students. I looked for him all over but I couldn’t see him anywhere playing a sheepdog like the other teachers. He must be staying in his office. I looked around to see if anyone was looking and then went to Lupin’s office.

            The castle was dark. The hallways, classrooms and even the paintings were empty. Every student and staff member was scared out of their minds, even though the teachers tried to hide it. I walked along the walls and felt like something was right behind me, breathing heavily. When I reached Lupin’s office I tried to knock quietly but it felt like it echoed throughout the castle. It’s funny how everything seems louder in the dark.

            “Oh, Ms. Blake. What are you doing here? Aren’t you supposed to be in the Great Hall with the other students?” Lupin asked as he opened the door. He still looked a little tired but a lot better than this morning. I think he’s been drinking a little. Maybe it’s just the lack of sleep. Actually, it wasn’t until then that I realized I hadn’t slept in more than 36 hours.

            “Sorry, I just needed to tell you…”

            “Come in,” he interrupted me. “No need to talk in the hallway.” He let me in and looked around before closing the door and locking it. It was as if he expected the intruder to come knocking on his office door. “So, what do you want to talk about?”

            “Well, last night, this morning, today, whatever, just… thank you. For being there for me I mean. And I’m sorry. For dragging you into this whole mess. It’s- there’s just – I’m, well – I’m sorry.” I finished and mentally face palmed. English, Cassy, speak it! Lupin seemed to enjoy my silly attempt at talking and laughed when I finally finished.

            “I always thought they should teach English and other muggle subjects here. But you’re welcome. And you didn’t drag me into anything, I’m just happy to help, even if it’s just to be a shoulder to cry on.” He said and gave me a warm smile. That’s when I realized he didn’t smile all that often; most of the time he seemed to be in some state of mental anguish. But when he smiled it would brighten up his whole face.

            “Well, you are the first shoulder I’ve cried on since I was ten, so I appreciate it a lot.” I said but didn’t explain further.

            “You know, I mean what I said this morning. If there is anything, just talk to me. A young girl like you should not have to make a decision like this.” I smiled at this. I’m not sure if I’m actually going to take advantage of that offer but it’s not because of any male-related trust issues. Even though Jeff and Harold treat women like shit, my real dad didn’t, so I know that men can be kind and good and trustworthy. I think Lupin is all that but I can’t tell just yet.