And this one is for Ty, who probably thought she was picking an easy one...

Prelude to a...: #89 Past

The torch nearest the infirmary had flickered low and cast a half light on the hallway. Lupin pulled Tonks into that half darkness and stared down at her in wonder. The wonder increased when she cupped his face and smoothed the fine lines forming there.

“You’re sure?” He had heard her words moments before, but it was hard to believe. “I don’t want you to regret anything… or feel as if you have to stay because you’ve made a promise.”

“I never regret the past, Remus,” Tonks murmured, rubbing her thumb along his cheekbone. “Now… be quiet and kiss me.”