Though it was something he couldn't change, he still couldn't help but complain about the aches and pains in his joints from his monthly gift from Greyback. Ever since his 5th Birthday, he has been experiencing the shift, and it never did get easier.

Remus made his way out of the Shrieking Shack, a blanket covering his light sleepwear as he shivered from the cold. Usually, Sirius would be by his side the moment he woke up, shoving a chocolate bar down his throat. Instead, Sirius was in detention with a very bitter Filch, and most likely suffering just as much as Remus did last night.

And so, he set off to find his own chocolate, and maybe something to warm him up.

Technically sneaking into the Kitchen wasn't against the rules, but it was most definitely frowned upon. Still, he tickled the pear and stumbled to the nearest seat, resting his aching head on his arms as he half-laid on the table in front of him.

After a few minutes of drifting in-and-out of sleep, he awoke to a soft 'clang' sound and the prominent scent of Earl Gray.

"You look awful." A feminine voice whispered from above him, resting a comforting hand between his shoulder blades. "I put some Calming Draught and Essence of Dittany in it, in case you were wondering why the tea had a slightly green tint."

Remus raised his tired eyes to address the speaker. She was a pretty girl, a Hufflepuff by the looks of it. She had short brown hair and slightly chubby cheeks. Her eyes were a soft green and her skin held a slight tan, small scars littering most of her exposed skin. "Thank you."

"My brother always got so tired after his change." She smiled at the sight of his shocked face. "He left a few scars; he never meant it, though. It happened after he forgot to lock himself in one night. I got away in time, though."

Remus gaped at her, eyes nearly bugging our of his head.

"The name's Harper Meddows." She stuck out her hand. He accepted it hesitantly, giving it one shake before dropping it. "You're Remus Lupin, right?"

He gave a curt nod, picking up his steaming tea and drinking a small portion of it. Harper watched eagerly, leaning forward. "So, what do you think?"

Remus smiled at her, suddenly calm. "I must say, you make the best tea in Hogwarts."

They talked for an hour or two more, eventually parting ways around 4 o'clock that morning.

He never saw her again after that, but still smiled every time he thought of the time they spent in the Kitchens together.

In the middle of relaying the story to Sirius, Remus suddenly stopped talking, freezing in place.

"Mate, what is it?" Sirius laid a concerned hand on his shoulder, shaking him out of it.

"I can't believe I forgot it." Remus groaned, putting his head in his hands.

"Forgot what, Moony? You're freaking me out." Sirius cocked his head to the side, concerned for his friend's mental health.

"I forget the damn chocolate."