Part 25

Remus hadn’t liked the idea; he’d even felt angry. But it seemed so important to Severus, and he hadn’t had the heart to disagree.

Now Severus is kneeling under the Christmas tree with Albus, who’s ripping the wrapping off his godfather’s gift. Seeing the plush elephant, Remus grits his teeth – it was one of Teddy’s favourites. Albus hugs the soft toy, and Remus watches Severus smile for the first time in months, and suddenly, he understands.

Taking a deep breath, Remus joins them on the floor. It’s hard to let go, but the effort is worth it.

“Happy Christmas, Severus.”

.-.-.-.

Part 26

They’re walking barefoot, the sand under their feet still warm from the day. It’s the last evening of their two-week vacation, spent with conversations, walks on the beach, and holding each other tightly at night.

Severus wraps his arms around Remus from behind as they watch the sunset, waiting until the last shimmer on the ocean has faded and they stand together in the growing dark.

Remus's voice is soft, melancholy but not sad.

“Do you think we can be happy someday?”

For a while, Severus says nothing, but when he answers, he realises he means it.

“Yes, we can.”

.-.-.-.

Part 27

It’s disturbing to be here and not feel crushed by overwhelming sadness. It does hurt, but it’s like an old wound that finally scabbed over, and although there is guilt, the relief is stronger.

Remus has left, waiting out of hearing distance. It’s the first time that Severus took him with him, and while it felt good to have him next to him, there is something that he needs to do alone.

Slowly, he kneels and lays down the flowers, and slowly, he stands again, speaking words he never imagined.

“I’ll never forget you, but I’m done mourning. Goodbye, Lily.”

.-.-.-.

Part 28

On Remus’s fifty-first birthday, four years after Teddy’s death, twelve years after they got to be together, Severus gives him a ring. It’s golden and plain, and both their hands are shaking when he slips it on Remus’s finger.

“I want...I mean I...Remus...” He trails off and looks down, cursing himself. He can’t say it, not yet.

“Severus.” Remus would have liked to hear it, but it is not necessary. The ring tells him everything he needs to know.

“I love you too,” he whispers, fearing he’s saying the wrong thing, fearing he misunderstood.

He needn’t have worried. Severus smiles.

The End