As the trio dashed down to Hagrid's hut, they ducked behind the pumpkins, overhearing Hagrid's conversation.

Hagrid was saying, "Like I was telling the others, Dumbledore wants to be here when—when they do the deed. A good man, Dumbledore is."

The trio glanced to their left and saw Fudge, Dumbledore, and the man with the axe approaching.

"Here they come. We'd better hurry," Harry urged.

Hermione grabbed Harry's arm. "Fudge has to see Buckbeak before we make our move. Otherwise, he'll think Hagrid set him free."

They peered through the window and saw Ron grabbing Scabbers.

"That's Pettigrew," Oliver whispered, tension clear in his voice.

Hermione's eyes widened. "Ollie, you can't go after him!"

Oliver's gaze was resolute. "Hermione, that's the man who betrayed my family. We can't just sit here."

Hermione pulled him back firmly. "Yes, and you must! We can't afford to be seen. I know it's hard, but you need to stay hidden. Do I make myself clear?"

Oliver sighed heavily, frustration evident.

Dumbledore's voice carried over. "Do you remember this footpath, Minister, from your school days here?"

Hermione turned to Harry and Oliver. "Why aren't we leaving? They're about to see us!"

Seeing rocks near the pumpkins, Hermione grabbed one and threw it through the window, shattering a vase on the table inside.

"What are you doing?" Harry asked, confused.

Hermione threw another rock, hitting Past Oliver on the back of the head.

"Ow!" Past Oliver exclaimed.

Oliver rubbed his head and groaned. "Ow. Hermione, I'm so going to get you for that later."

Hermione smirked. "Yes, but that's for later."

Harry shook his head. "She's a freak."

Oliver chuckled. "She's my freak."

Hermione gave Oliver a playful look. "Please don't call me that."

Oliver started to protest, but Hermione kissed him and then pulled back. "Just calming you down. Studies show kissing someone when they're distracted helps them calm down—mostly because they're too busy wondering why you kissed them."

Harry sighed, "Can we finish this lesson later, please?"

Hermione nodded.

As they saw their past selves heading out the back, Hermione urged, "We're going out the back door. Follow me." The trio quickly moved into the forest, hiding behind trees to avoid being spotted by their past selves.

As the trio watched from their hiding spot, they saw their past selves crouched behind the same pumpkins they had just been near. Hermione stepped forward and adjusted a nearby branch so she could get a better view of the back of her hair.

"Is that really what my hair looks like from the back?" Hermione wondered aloud.

Just then, the branch snapped, and Oliver swiftly covered her mouth, pulling her behind the tree. He looked at her with a serious expression and silently signaled for her to stay quiet.

Hermione nodded, her eyes wide, and Oliver kissed her cheek gently. Lost in her gaze, he held her close as they heard Past Oliver say, "What is it, baby?"

Past Hermione replied, "I thought I saw something... Never mind."

With that, the past group ran off, and Oliver turned to Hermione with a frown. "What were you thinking?"

"I'm sorry," Hermione said, her voice tinged with embarrassment. "I just wanted to see the back of my hair."

Oliver raised an eyebrow. "If you want, I could take a picture next time."

"Please, don't treat me like a child," Hermione replied, a hint of frustration in her voice.

"You do it to me all the time," Oliver shot back.

"That's because you act like a child," Hermione retorted.

Harry intervened, "Guys, please stop arguing."

"Fine," Oliver said, his tone softening. "Next time, just ask me if there's something you want to know about yourself."

"Okay," Hermione agreed.

She leaned in and kissed Oliver, who relaxed slightly. He pulled away and said with a teasing grin, "No, I'm still mad at you." He then moved to hide behind the pumpkins.

Hermione sighed, and Harry offered some reassurance. "Come on. He'll stop being mad eventually. He can't stay mad at you forever. He loves you too much."

Hermione nodded, feeling comforted by Harry's words.

Harry and Hermione crouched next to Oliver, who was focused on their surroundings. Hermione's eyes were locked on Oliver.

Oliver noticed her gaze and asked, "What's wrong?"

Hermione replied, "I don't like that you're still mad at me."

Oliver took her face gently in his hands. "I'm sorry. It's just, you almost got us caught. We all agreed to stay hidden."

"But you saved the situation. They didn't see us," Hermione said.

"That doesn't change the fact that we could have been discovered. If they had seen us, this would be a very different conversation. Can we discuss this later? We need to get Buckbeak out of here."

Hermione nodded and kissed him softly. Oliver, feeling his resolve waver, kissed her back.

Reluctantly pulling away, Oliver headed towards Buckbeak.

As he approached, Oliver whispered urgently to the Hippogriff, "Get away! Off, please!" He bowed before Buckbeak, who bowed back in return.

Oliver smiled warmly. "Hey, buddy. I haven't seen you since class. How are you holding up?"

Buckbeak gave a small nod. "You're such a smart Hippogriff. Let's get you out of here, okay?"

Buckbeak nodded again, prompting Oliver to smile.

Oliver quickly removed the chain from the pole but froze as Fudge appeared ready to exit. Fortunately, Dumbledore's voice called Fudge back inside.

"Come on, Buckbeak. We need to move quickly," Oliver urged.

Despite his attempts, Buckbeak remained stubbornly still.

"Keep trying, baby," Hermione encouraged.

"I am, but he's not budging," Oliver replied, frustration creeping into his voice.

Buckbeak made a soft noise, and Oliver pleaded, "Buckbeak, I'm here to help you. Please, come with me."

Hermione stepped in front of Oliver and held out a piece of meat. "Come on, Buckbeak. Look at this tasty treat."

Buckbeak squawked and, after Hermione tossed the meat, eagerly ate it.

"Good boy," Oliver said with a relieved smile. "Follow us, and you'll get more treats."

Buckbeak nodded, and Oliver pressed his forehead against the Hippogriff's. "Good boy. Let's go."

As Oliver led Buckbeak away, they saw Fudge, Dumbledore, and the man with the axe emerging, but Dumbledore managed to distract them.

Later

The trio guided Buckbeak into the forest. Hermione continued to show Buckbeak the meat. "This way, Buckbeak!"

Oliver, patting Buckbeak as he ran, said, "Good boy. Keep listening to Hermione."

Buckbeak followed eagerly, and the trio continued their escape, relieved and hopeful.

Oliver noticed Buckbeak's chain lying on the ground and asked, "Now what?"

Hermione, already sprinting away, shouted back, "We save Sirius!"

Oliver and Harry ran after her. "How?!" Oliver called out.

Hermione responded, "No idea."

Oliver chuckled, "And here I thought you had all the answers."

As they rushed through the forest, they spotted the tree they had seen before.

"Look, it's Lupin!" Hermione exclaimed.

They heard Lupin's voice shout, "Immobulus!" and the tree froze in place.

Hermione's expression changed. "And Snape's on his way."

After a few tense moments, Harry sighed, "And now we wait."

Hermione echoed, "And now we wait."

Turning to Oliver, Hermione said softly, "I'm sorry about earlier. We don't need to talk about it right now."

Oliver reached out, tucking a strand of hair behind her ear. "I'm sorry too. I love you."

Harry sat to the side, giving them space and observing the tree, not wanting to intrude on Oliver and Hermione's moment.

Oliver pulled Hermione gently behind the tree and began to kiss her. As their lips met, Hermione moaned softly, feeling a deep sense of safety and affection in his embrace.

Oliver pulled away with a playful smile and asked, "Looks like we're going to be here a while. Want to make the most of it?"

Hermione's eyes sparkled as she nodded. "I love you. I love you," she said, her voice filled with warmth, before pulling him back into a kiss.

Oliver savored the moment, lifting her with a joyful yelp and a giggle from Hermione. He gently leaned her against the tree, and they resumed kissing, lost in each other's embrace.

Harry watched with a contented smile, happy to see them reconcile. He kept an eye on the tree, waiting for the moment when their past selves would emerge from the trunk.

As Oliver and Hermione continued their tender moment against the tree, their kisses deepened, becoming more passionate. The quiet forest around them seemed to fade away, leaving just the two of them in their world.

Hermione's hands roamed up to Oliver's shoulders, pulling him closer. She whispered between kisses, "I'm so glad we worked things out. I don't want to argue like that again."

Oliver pulled back slightly, looking into her eyes with sincerity. "Neither do I. But I wouldn't trade moments like this for anything."

Hermione smiled, her cheeks flushed. "You always know how to make me feel better."

Oliver gently cupped her face, brushing his thumb over her cheek. "You make me feel complete, Hermione. Even with everything going on, I wouldn't want to face it with anyone else."

Hermione's heart swelled with affection as she leaned into his touch. "I feel the same way. Even with all the chaos, being with you makes everything worth it."

Oliver's gaze softened as he leaned in for another kiss, his hands exploring her back. Hermione's fingers threaded through his hair, deepening their connection.

They broke the kiss only when they heard a distant rustling, the sound pulling them back to their surroundings. Oliver glanced at Harry, who was still waiting patiently, his eyes fixed on the tree.

Oliver and Hermione took advantage of the brief pause, their earlier intensity now settling into a more relaxed, affectionate mood. Oliver, holding Hermione close, rested his forehead against hers and murmured, "I could stay like this forever."

Hermione's eyes sparkled with warmth as she replied, "I feel the same. But we do have a bit of waiting to do."

Oliver chuckled softly, tracing light patterns on her back. "Yeah, it seems like the universe always finds a way to keep us on our toes."

Hermione leaned into his embrace, her head resting against his chest. "True. But it makes these moments feel even more special, don't you think?"

Oliver nodded, kissing the top of her head. "Absolutely. Every moment with you feels like a treasure."

They continued to hold each other, savoring the quiet of the forest around them. Harry, sitting nearby and observing the tree trunk where their past selves were supposed to emerge, glanced over occasionally with a knowing smile.

After a few moments, Hermione pulled back slightly, her expression thoughtful. "I just hope everything goes smoothly. We need to get Sirius out safely and then..."

Oliver interrupted gently, "And then we can focus on us again."

Hermione's smile returned, and she nodded. "Exactly. We've come so far, and we'll get through this."

Oliver, still holding her close, looked out towards the tree trunk. "Let's make sure we're ready when they come out. We can't afford any more surprises."

Hermione agreed, her hand resting on his arm. "Agreed. We'll be prepared. And until then, let's just enjoy this moment."

They shared a few more kisses, their lips lingering as they exchanged smiles and whispered words of affection. The forest around them was calm, and the distant sounds of the night were a gentle backdrop to their shared intimacy.

As they looked towards the tree trunk, the anticipation of what was to come kept them focused, but the connection they shared made the wait feel like a cherished pause rather than an interruption.

Later

After thirty minutes of waiting, Oliver and Hermione were still entwined in a tender kiss, Oliver holding Hermione close as they savored the quiet moments together.

A flock of birds suddenly flew by, startling them. They broke their kiss as the birds fluttered past, their wings rustling softly in the breeze.

Hermione glanced at Buckbeak, who was grazing contentedly nearby. "At least someone's enjoying himself," she remarked with a soft smile.

Oliver nodded, still holding her. He gently lifted Hermione, causing her to gasp in surprise. "Hermione?"

"Yes?" she responded, looking up at him with curiosity.

"Earlier," Oliver began, his tone thoughtful, "down by the lake, when we were with Sirius... I saw something. Two figures were the ones who made the Dementors go away."

Hermione's eyes widened in understanding. "With a Patronus. I heard Snape mention it to Dumbledore. He said only a really powerful wizard could conjure one."

Harry, who had been quietly observing, spoke up. "It was my dad."

Oliver nodded in agreement. "Yeah, and I think my dad helped too. They were the ones who conjured the Patronus."

Hermione's expression softened with concern. "But, baby, your—your dads are..."

"Dead. I know," Oliver said gently, running his fingers through her hair. "I'm just telling you what I saw."

Hermione's eyes twinkled as she teased, "And you needed to pick me up to tell me that?"

Oliver grinned, "It got you to listen, didn't it?"

Hermione laughed softly and kissed him again, Oliver responding with a deep, lingering kiss.

Harry's voice broke through their moment. "Hey, they're coming!"

Oliver and Hermione reluctantly pulled apart, their faces flushed with affection. They turned their attention back to the tree trunk, ready for what was to come.

Harry pointed at himself and Sirius. "Do you see Sirius talking to me there?"

Oliver nodded. "Yeah."

Harry continued, "He's asking me to come and live with him."

Hermione smiled. "That's wonderful."

Harry's eyes lit up with excitement. "When we free him, I'll never feel alone again. We could live somewhere out in the country, where you can see the sky. I think he'll appreciate that after all those years in Azkaban."

Oliver's brow furrowed. "Wait."

Harry and Hermione turned to him as he asked, "You're leaving me?"

Harry hesitated, "Ollie..."

Oliver cut him off, "Oh. You don't like it at the Manor, do you?"

Harry began, "Oliver, I..."

Oliver shook his head and took a step back. "It's fine. I hope you're happy with Sirius," he said, as he walked away and hid behind a rock.

Harry murmured to himself, "I didn't mean to hurt your feelings."

Hermione stepped forward and said, "I'll talk to him. I think he's grown used to having you around, Harry. I don't believe he truly wants you to leave. He just wants what's best for you."

As Hermione approached Oliver, she noticed he was crying, his eyes fixed on the past version of herself.

She gently stopped beside him and said softly, "Baby..."

Oliver remained transfixed on the scene before him until Hermione wrapped her arms around him, pulling him into a comforting hug. His tears began to flow more freely as he broke down in her embrace.

Seeing him so distressed pained Hermione, and she whispered soothingly, "It's okay. It's okay."

Oliver choked out between sobs, "I don't want him to go." His words trembled as he clung to her.

Hermione held Oliver tightly, her heart aching for him. She stroked his back gently, trying to offer as much comfort as she could.

"It's hard, I know," she murmured. "But remember, it's not about losing someone. It's about finding a new way forward."

Oliver looked up at her with tear-streaked cheeks, his eyes searching hers for reassurance. "But what if... what if he goes and I'm left alone again?"

Hermione cupped his face in her hands and said, "You won't be alone. You have me, you do have Harry and everyone who cares about you. We're all here for you, no matter what happens."

Oliver nodded slowly, wiping his eyes with the back of his hand. "I just... I didn't expect it to hit me like this."

Hermione smiled gently, brushing a stray lock of hair from his face. "It's okay to feel this way. Emotions are tricky, especially when it comes to people we care about."

Oliver took a deep breath, trying to steady himself. "Thank you, Hermione. I just need a moment."

She nodded and held his hand, giving it a reassuring squeeze. "Of course. Take all the time you need. We'll get through this together."

As they stood together, Hermione glanced over at Harry, who was watching them with a mixture of concern and understanding. He approached slowly, joining them by Oliver's side.

"Oliver," Harry said softly, "I didn't mean to make you feel like this. I just want what's best for both of us."

Oliver met Harry's gaze, and though his eyes were still red, a small, appreciative smile began to form. "I know. I guess I just didn't realize how much it would affect me."

Harry nodded and put a supportive hand on Oliver's shoulder. "We're in this together, mate. We'll figure it out."

Hermione gave Oliver's hand another squeeze and said, "Why don't we take a break? We've got time, and it might help to step away from all this for a bit."

Oliver looked between Hermione and Harry, then gave a small nod. "Yeah, that sounds good."

The three of them walked a short distance away from the scene, finding a quiet spot to sit and collect their thoughts. As they settled in, Hermione wrapped an arm around Oliver, while Harry sat on the other side, offering his presence and support. They shared a moment of calm, allowing the weight of the situation to settle before facing whatever came next.

As they watched Past Oliver with Pettigrew, Harry turned to Oliver and asked, "What did you say to Pettigrew?"

Oliver replied, "He mentioned something about me finding happiness. So I told him that if he ever hurt Hermione, I'd make sure he felt my wrath before he ever reached the dementors."

Hermione nodded in agreement. "And he did."

Harry's gaze shifted between Oliver and Hermione. "Do you really not want me to go, Ollie?"

Oliver sighed and said, "It's not about what I want. It's about what you need. If this is what you want, then I support you. I love you, cousin."

He pulled Harry into a heartfelt hug, and Harry, overwhelmed by the gesture, began to cry. The comfort from his cousin was deeply moving.

Oliver gently reassured him, "Don't cry. I think we're about to see Sirius face off against Lupin."

Harry blinked away his tears and nodded. "Yeah, you're right."

Hermione glanced at Oliver, suggesting, "Maybe you two should take a break after this."

Oliver shook his head. "No. This is what he wants. I need to respect that."

Harry and Hermione looked at him with understanding. Oliver added, "I want you to follow your heart. Even if it means you're leaving, I'll be here for you. We'll get through this together."

With that, the trio turned their attention back to the unfolding scene, ready to witness the next chapter of their past unravel.

They heard Past Hermione shout, "Harry!" just as Sirius's urgent cry of, "Run! Run!" followed. The chilling sound of Lupin transforming into a werewolf was accompanied by his menacing snarl, and Past Hermione's terrified scream filled the air.

Oliver instinctively moved to protect her, but Hermione held him back, saying, "You're already here protecting me."

Oliver, momentarily disoriented, apologized, "Sorry. I... I'm not thinking clearly."

Hermione pulled him close, grasping his hand firmly. "Together," she said.

Oliver nodded, his resolve firm. "Together."

They watched as Sirius engaged in a fierce struggle with Lupin in his wolf form. Harry urged, "Let's go, you two."

They sprinted through the forest, with the sound of Sirius's distressed yelps echoing around them. They halted as Past Harry threw a rock at Lupin, who snarled and charged toward him.

Hermione suddenly began to howl. Oliver, confused, asked, "What are you doing?"

Hermione shot him a determined look. "Saving your cousin's life!"

She howled again, louder this time. Harry thanked her, "Thanks."

Oliver's eyes widened as he realized, "Great! Now he's coming for us."

Hermione, realizing her mistake, urged, "Yeah, I didn't think about that. Run!"

The trio bolted through the forest, the menacing snarls growing closer. Harry stumbled, and Oliver immediately rushed back, lifting him. They continued their desperate escape, with Oliver trailing behind to shield them, while Hermione held Harry's hand tightly.

They found refuge behind a massive tree, their breaths coming in ragged gasps as distant whining reached their ears. Moving cautiously, they circled the tree, listening to the low growls surrounding them. Oliver prayed fervently that Lupin wouldn't find them; he was prepared to sacrifice himself if necessary.

The growls grew louder, and a branch snapped behind them. The trio spun around, Hermione gasping in fear. Oliver stepped protectively in front of Hermione and Harry, closing his eyes, and bracing himself for the worst. Harry wrapped his arms around Hermione, shielding her.

Suddenly, a roar pierced the tension, accompanied by the sound of flapping wings. Oliver opened his eyes to see Buckbeak swooping in. Lupin snarled at the majestic creature, but Buckbeak responded with a fierce caw.

Lupin, intimidated, fled into the darkness.

Oliver, relieved, smiled and said, "Good boy," as he approached Buckbeak to offer his thanks.

Hermione rushed into Oliver's arms, clinging to him as she murmured, "That was so scary."

Harry, catching his breath, added, "Poor Professor Lupin's having a really tough night."

Hermione pulled back, her eyes blazing with concern and anger. "And what the hell were you thinking?" she shouted, smacking Oliver's chest.

Oliver looked at her, his expression serious. "I was thinking I'd do whatever it takes to keep you two safe," he said quietly.

Hermione's eyes widened. "You stepped in front of us like you were ready to sacrifice yourself! We don't want you dead, you idiot!"

She smacked him again, but this time on his face, and Oliver winced, holding his face.

Hermione's voice softened, though still filled with urgency. "We need you alive, not a martyr. Do you understand?"

Oliver met her gaze, his expression a mix of guilt and determination. "I understand. I'm sorry. I just... I love you both so much. I'd do anything for you."

Buckbeak squawked and lunged at Hermione, causing her to flinch. Oliver quickly stepped in, raising his hand. "No, Buckbeak!" he called out firmly.

Buckbeak hesitated, his gaze shifting to Oliver. "She's just upset," Oliver said soothingly. "No need to attack her, okay?"

Buckbeak seemed to understand, lowering his head. Oliver approached and gently petted Buckbeak's head. "Good boy," he murmured, offering a reassuring smile.

Buckbeak nuzzled against Oliver's chest, his feathers ruffling in contentment. Oliver continued to stroke his mane, calming him. Hermione watched with a mix of relief and gratitude, taking a deep breath to steady herself.

Harry approached, his eyes still wide from the earlier chaos. "Thanks, Oliver," he said. "That was close."

Oliver nodded, still focused on Buckbeak. "We should keep moving. We can't stay here for too long."

Hermione looked at Oliver with a mix of exasperation and affection. "You really need to stop putting yourself in harm's way like that."

Oliver gave her a soft, apologetic smile. "I just want to protect you both. That's all."

Hermione shook her head, a small smile tugging at her lips. "You're impossible."

Harry, trying to lighten the mood, said, "Well, we've got a Hippogriff to save and a werewolf to avoid. Let's focus on that for now."

Oliver gave a quick nod. "Right. Buckbeak, we're going to need your help again. Stay close, okay?"

Buckbeak cawed softly in response, seemingly ready to assist. Oliver and Hermione exchanged a reassuring glance before following Harry deeper into the forest, Buckbeak trailing behind.

As they moved, Hermione took Oliver's hand, squeezing it gently. "I appreciate what you did back there. Even if you are a bit reckless."

Oliver squeezed back, a small smile on his face. "I'd do it all over again if it meant keeping you safe."

The three of them witnessed the strong wind blowing, and as they looked up, they saw the dementors in the air. Harry exclaimed, "Sirius, come on!" They continued on, with the sounds of distant growls and howls echoing through the forest as they made their way toward the final confrontation.

At the lake

As the trio rushed toward the lake, they saw their past selves—Harry, Oliver, and Sirius—screaming in agony as Dementors closed in on them, draining their souls.

Hermione grimaced, her voice filled with distress. "This is terrible. I don't like watching this."

Oliver, trying to stay hopeful, said, "Don't worry. Our dads will come through. They'll conjure the Patronus."

The screams from their past selves grew more desperate, and Harry's voice was tinged with urgency. "Any minute now! You'll see!"

Hermione, her eyes wide with concern, said, "Guys, listen to me. No one's coming."

Harry shook his head, his determination unshaken. "Don't worry! They will come!"

Oliver watched, panic rising as he saw their past selves on the brink of collapse. Hermione's voice was steady but grave. "They're dying... all three of you."

Without hesitation, Oliver sprinted forward. Hermione shouted after him, "Ollie!"

Oliver drew his wand and shouted, "Expecto Patronum!" A brilliant light erupted from his wand, illuminating the darkened lake.

Harry, seeing the form of the Patronus in the light, recognized its shape and ran to join Oliver. He pointed his wand and shouted, "Expecto Patronum!"

Two powerful Patronuses emerged, their white light forming a protective barrier that drove the Dementors away. The Dementors' screeches faded into the distance.

Hermione watched in awe. "Wow. You two are incredible."

The waves of light pushed the Dementors back, and Oliver and Harry, exhausted and panting, saw their past selves collapse.

As the light from their wands dimmed, Oliver noticed Past Hermione approaching and urged, "We need to go. Now!"

The trio quickly ran back to Hermione, and Oliver grabbed her hand, leading her towards Buckbeak.

Hermione glanced back at the scene and said, "So you two were the powerful wizards we saw."

Oliver nodded as they hurried. "We'll explain everything later."

Later

Buckbeak soared through the night sky with Harry, Oliver, and Hermione on his back. Harry, still processing their earlier revelation, said, "You were right, Hermione. It wasn't our dads we saw; it was us. We saw ourselves conjuring the Patronus. I knew I could do it this time because... well, I'd already done it. Does that make sense?"

Hermione, gripping Buckbeak's feathers tightly, shouted over the wind, "No! But I don't like flying..."

Her voice was cut off by a startled scream as Buckbeak banked sharply. Oliver, grinning, teased, "I wouldn't mind making you scream a different way."

Harry winced, "Ew."

Hermione, blushing furiously, shot back, "We need to be older for that, you flirt."

Oliver chuckled, "Well, thank you."

Harry whooped with exhilaration as the wind whipped past them, enjoying the thrill of flight.

When they reached the roof of the tower, Oliver quickly dismounted and drew his wand. "Bombarda!" he incanted, and the door to the cell exploded open with a force he hadn't known he was capable of.

They all mounted Buckbeak again, and Sirius, his face lit up with joy, laughed heartily, reveling in the wind against his face.

Harry smiled, watching Sirius's exuberance. The night sky was clear, and their escape seemed almost effortless.

They landed gracefully in the courtyard, and the group dismounted from Buckbeak. Sirius, his gratitude evident, led them to a quiet corner and said, "I'll be forever grateful to all three of you."

Harry looked at Sirius with determination. "I want to go with you."

Oliver opened his mouth to protest, but Hermione gently placed a hand on his shoulder, signaling him to hold back.

Sirius continued, "One day, perhaps. For now, my life will be too unpredictable. Besides, you're meant to be here."

"But you're innocent," Harry insisted.

Sirius knelt to meet Harry's gaze and said softly, "And you know it."

Hermione leaned in and kissed Oliver's cheek, whispering, "I'm going to check on Buckbeak."

Oliver nodded as she walked away, calling softly to Buckbeak, "Down, Buckbeak."

Sirius turned his attention back to Harry, speaking with a tender smile. "I expect you're tired of hearing this, but you look so much like your father. Except for your eyes. You have..."

Harry finished, "My mother's eyes."

Sirius chuckled, a touch of sadness in his voice. "It's cruel that I had the chance to spend so much time with James and Lily, just like Robert did..."

The mention of Oliver's father drew Oliver's attention. Sirius added, "And you two were so young. But remember this: the ones who love us never truly leave us. You can always find them..."

Sirius placed his hands over Oliver's and Harry's chests and continued, "...in here."

Oliver, his voice filled with emotion, asked, "Sirius, can I talk to you?"

Sirius nodded. "Of course."

He led Oliver and Harry away from Hermione and asked, "What is it, my boy?"

Oliver took a deep breath. "Are you my godfather too?"

Sirius shook his head gently. "No. Robert did choose one for you, but I don't know who it is. Perhaps your mother does."

Oliver nodded. "You know, I hated you for wanting to take Harry away from me."

Sirius looked pained. "Oliver..."

Oliver continued, "But then I realized that Harry doesn't feel at home at the Manor. He needs you."

Sirius placed a reassuring hand on Oliver's shoulder. "And he needs you too. He may not realize it now, but Harry will need you by his side. After all, you're meant to be his greatest and closest friend. The stories of you two even say so."

Oliver's eyes brimmed with tears as he absorbed Sirius's words. His voice quivered as he spoke, "I never thought... I never knew how much I mean to him."

Sirius's eyes softened with understanding. "You're more important to him than you realize. Friends like you are irreplaceable."

Oliver wiped his tears with the back of his hand. "I've always felt like I was in his shadow. But hearing you say that... it means a lot."

Sirius placed a comforting hand on Oliver's shoulder. "You're not in his shadow, Oliver. You're his light, his guide. He needs you as much as you need him."

Harry watched the exchange with a mixture of concern and appreciation. He stepped closer to Oliver, placing a hand on his shoulder. "You're the best friend I could ask for, Ollie. I'm glad you're here with me."

Oliver looked at Harry through tear-streaked eyes and managed a small smile. "I'm glad too."

Sirius nodded approvingly, his eyes reflecting both pride and sadness. "You're both incredibly brave. Remember, the bond you share is something truly special. It's not just about saving each other but being there for one another in every moment."

Oliver took a deep breath, his emotions still raw. "Thank you, Sirius. I just want to make sure I'm doing right by him."

Sirius gave Oliver a reassuring squeeze. "You are. Just keep being the wonderful friend you are, and you'll both be just fine."

Hermione, having finished checking on Buckbeak, returned to the group. She saw Oliver's tear-streaked face and walked over, placing a comforting hand on his arm. "Are you okay, Ollie?"

Oliver nodded, his voice barely above a whisper. "I am now. Thanks to all of you."

Hermione gave him a warm, supportive smile. "We're all in this together. And we'll get through it together."

As they stood together in the courtyard, the bond between them felt stronger than ever. The weight of their experiences seemed lighter, knowing they had each other to rely on.

Sirius walked over to Buckbeak and said, "Hermione, you truly are the brightest witch of your age. Please look after Oliver now. He's going to need you to help him stay strong."

Hermione nodded firmly, "Of course. I love him too much not to."

Sirius gave her a reassuring smile. "Good. Robert had intended to make me Oliver's godfather, but I thought it best for someone else to take that role. In case anything ever happened to me, I wanted Oliver to have someone else he could rely on. I guess I made the right choice."

Oliver, his voice choked with emotion, said, "Thank you, Sirius."

Sirius looked at him with a soft expression. "No, kid. Thank you."

Buckbeak suddenly jumped, squawking excitedly, and with a powerful leap, he took off into the sky, carrying Sirius on his back. The trio watched as they soared into the distance.

Hermione, her eyes still on the sky, said urgently, "We need to go!"

Oliver nodded, his resolve firming. "Let's go."

The group quickly followed Hermione, racing towards their next destination.

To be continued...