The house felt colder than it should, despite the fire burning in the hearth. Teddy sat on the floor, hugging his stuffed dragon tightly, his small body curled into the corner of the couch. His hair was still brown—unchanging, dull. He hadn’t shifted colors since Tonks had died.

You sat at the table with Remus, watching the boy carefully, but his gaze never once flickered in your direction.

—“Teddy, love, are you hungry?” Remus asked gently, leaning forward with an encouraging smile.

Teddy nodded, but only after a long hesitation.

—“Only if you make it.”

You exhaled softly, feeling the sting of the words even though Teddy hadn’t said them cruelly. He simply said them as a fact. If Remus noticed, he didn’t comment, only nodding before standing.

—“Alright, then. I’ll get us something warm,” he said before disappearing into the kitchen.

You shifted uncomfortably, turning your attention back to Teddy.

—“I can—”

—“I don’t want you to,” Teddy cut in, his small voice firm. His little fingers clenched around his stuffed dragon. “You’re not Mummy.”

You swallowed hard, keeping your voice calm.

—“I know I’m not.”

Teddy’s lips trembled, but his expression was set.

—“You want to be.”

Your heart twisted at the accusation.

—“You’re dating Daddy,” he snapped, hugging his dragon tighter. “That means you want to take Mummy’s place.”

The words hit harder than you expected. Before you could find the right thing to say, Remus walked back in, carrying a warm plate of food. His sharp eyes flickered between you and Teddy, reading the tension instantly.

—“What’s going on?” he asked, concern lacing his voice.

Teddy sniffled, turning away.

—“I don’t want them here,” he muttered.