Severus got another punch for the trouble. "Let him go? Me and Snivellus here are just bonding, ain't we?" Sirius dug his knuckles into Severus's head as the smaller of the two tried to pull away. "Ah, bloody hell, now I need to wash my hands."

He gave Severus a little shove, which was good enough to knock him over before Sirius came to stand next to Remus and help brush him off.

"Might have happened, but what were you doing out here? Still stalking him, Snivvy? Jeez, you're a bit obsessed, don't you think?" Sirius laughed and shook his head. "Think you've got a secret admirer. Anyhow, James wanted to know when you were coming back from your walk. We've plans, don't we?"

Severus watched the exchange, knowing better than to run, though his pride was hurt. He stayed silent, brooding.