Sirius wondered if a Furnunculus spell would work. Somehow, even in his state of panic, Black realized it was an idiotic idea. Covering his body in boils would do nothing to ease Remus Lupin’s pain. It would ease Sirius’ mind, however, and it would distract Remus long enough to keep the corners of his mouth from drooping so pitifully. No. It was a dumb idea. The tallest of the friends shook his head and reached forward. He wrapped the sickly looking Remus in his long arms. There was a feeble protest from Lupin’s part and somewhere amongst his muttering there were subtle insults Sirius was quick to pick up but he forgave them immediately as they were followed by grunts of pain.

“I’m alive,” mumbled Remus sourly, dark circles around his eyes. “But I won’t be for long if you keep suffocating me.”

Sirius would laugh normally but there wasn’t any humor left in his big frame. He tightened his embrace.

“I know but I don’t know what else to do,” confessed Sirius earnestly. Remus held still for a split second before trying to break free again. “Stay still, Moony and let me hug you! It makes me feel better.”