Soft paws touch the dusty, tattered floorboards of the Squealing Shack. Amid the backdrop of this dull interior, white cat fur looks like an eyesore. A fluffy cat tail brushes across the werewolf's muzzle, drawing his attention. Remus growls and snaps; his yellow eyes are wild with the remnants of his change.

The wooden walls and floorboards are covered with deep scratches, marks of his desperate attempts to contain the beast within. The mattress, the only piece of furniture left unbroken, has its stuffing spilling out from various tears. Splintered chair legs and pieces of wood are scattered across the room, speaking of the raw power he wields during his transformations.

You are only ten minutes late. Even that short delay is enough to test the beast's fragile temper. You settle on the mattress near him, remaining in an Animagus form.

“I'm sorry,” he whimpers, wrapping himself in the thin blanket, which offers little warmth in the cold, draughty room. “It's just that the other me was especially angry today.”

As he speaks, his fingers clench the fabric tightly, knuckles white with tension. He shifts uneasily, glancing at the splintered furniture scattered around the living area.

“I didn't mean to frighten you,” he murmurs, his voice breaking slightly.

You return to your human form, and as he reaches out to you, remorse is clearly reflected on his face. His sweet features are marred by the torment of his dual nature. Remus wraps a strong arm around your waist, holding you close. You curl up next to him, silent and simply watching. His breath is warm against your skin, and his heart beats wildly beneath your palm, making his grip tighten around you as if he fears you might disappear.

Yes, he is truly sorry for snapping at you. The potholes his claws have made in the wood are evidence of how unstable the transformation can be. However, ignoring the danger, you are the one who stays by his side during the hardest days after the full moon ends.

After all, he needs you, and in truth, you need him too.