Falling // Wolfstar

Twenty Seven

Hope Lupin. There are many words to associate her with. Some would say loving, others would say kind, and creative no doubt. But first and foremost she is a mother. The most important person in her life is her only son - Remus.

Remus makes himself comfortable underneath the beech tree beside the Black Lake. He's bundled warmly in a blue wool turtleneck and a cream colored hat with a small puff ball on top. For early November, the weather isn't nearly as unbearable. It's unpleasant at most. Remus prefers slight discomfort over extreme awkwardness in the dorm.

When the news had spread to Hope of her son's accident, her first instinct was to floo straight into Hogwarts. The only way into the school is through the Headmaster's office. Of course, that wasn't necessarily an option seeing as Headmaster Dumbledore has been in and out of the castle on ministry related business. His office remains untouched for the majority of the school year so far and is unable to coordinate a proper visit.

Remus unties the twine on the hefty parcel from his mother which is hand painted with fall leaves and little pumpkins. He unwraps it carefully and pulls out the card on top.

Dear Remus,

I hope you're getting along better my love. If you need to come home for any reason I might just "fall" down the stairs so you must come home and visit me. I do hope you haven't forgotten my baking.

Remus peeks into the package and smiles at the small tin of cookies.

Are the boys being good? I sent extra cookies for them. Specifically Peter. I know he loves the peanut butter ones. And a possibly a few ginger snaps for James and Sirius. Only if they've been keeping out of trouble.

Has your head felt any better? Are you getting less headaches? I recommend peppermint tea and a warm compress over your eyes if you feel dizzy. You mentioned a new friend, Davy? I'm glad you're making new friends. He's more than welcome over the holidays when the boys come. I already have the outfits planned for your Christmas photos.

Remus smiles at the letter, watching the words blur into the background as the memory appears clear as day.

"Say Frosty!" Hope exclaims, her eye pressed to the small hole in the polaroid.

"Frosty!" the four Marauders utter while keeping a smile.

He's wearing candy cane striped suspenders and beside him, James has reindeer antlers sticking from his messy hair. Peter has an elf hat on and Sirius is wearing his Santa hat. Behind them the Christmas tree is decked in many homemade ornaments and twinkled with sparkling white lights.

Remus shakes his head and the world around his fades away. The letter is before him again and the loopy letters he grew up reading from stare back at him.

If you need anything don't hesitate to ask. However, a mum's intuition is almost never wrong. Especially mine.

Don't forget to floss every day. If you ever miss me, which I know you will, and if you don't you should, we're always looking at the same sunset.

I love you most ardently,

Mum

Remus tucks the letter underneath his leg safely before taking out the contents of his package. First is the beloved tin of cookies. Remus takes the lid off, letting the delicious aroma escape. He grabs a double chocolate cookie and takes a bite, relishing in the familiar taste of home. Underneath the tin is two pairs of the same dinosaur socks and a new pack of Polaroid film. Two pairs? he wonders curiously. He pulls out many miscellaneous things, including a hand-knit scarf for Peter and a glasses cleaning kit for James. The very last thing Remus pulls out is a wrapped gift topped with a festive red and gold bow labeled: For Sirius.