Heart of the WolfUpdated at May 29, 2023, 04:07
There’s a full moon tonight, and although it’s still early, it hangs low and heavy in the sky. If ever I were to be something else, Remus Lupin thinks, I would be a wolf. There’s something carnal about this moon--something about its fullness which slides beneath his skin and tugs at his bones, as though willing him to escape his weary body. Would if he could.Right now, that weary body loiters outside a bookshop, wrapped in layers of wool clothing, hidden from the bitter chill of the December air.A moment ago, he was walking along the side street. In another moment, he will be entering the shop. But for right now, Remus is suspended in this moment--the moment that exists between approaching and doing. His problem heart lets out a few ill-toned beats as he takes in the overwhelming sensation of the now.Inside the shop there is a comfortable and quiet chaos. The layout of the store is haphazard at best, with mismatched loveseats and discoloured shelves.The shop owner is a Scottish woman named Pince, who wears a severe facial expression most days, and has frazzled hair. She smiles at Remus when he enters--a gesture he tries to return, as he processes the change between being suspended, and going back to the “doing.”“Good to see you, Remus,” says Pince, sorting a pile of books at her counter. “It’s been a while. Ms. Evans was in here a few days ago and said you were in hospital.”“Just a little hiccup,” Remus says, gesturing awkwardly at his chest. “Only had to stay for one night.”“Damn shame, that heart of yours,” Pince says. “Have you tried ginger root? My wife swears by ginger root tea. Cures everything from hangovers to HIV, she says.”