the_debt_of_time

"And pay attention in class. I know not every lesson is as fun as the last, but you need every
bit of magic that your professors are willing to teach you."
"And stop asking Hermione to do your homework for you," Remus chimed in.
When Harry looked up as though he had been caught with his hand in his chocolate
cauldron, Remus added, "Yes, I know you've been doing it for years."
"And stop treating that girl poorly," Sirius demanded. "And allowing others to upset
her. You say she's like your sister, then treat her as such. You can't begin to imagine the level
of pain I would cause someone if they'd have made your mum cry. She was my sister."
Harry took in the look that Sirius was giving him and seemed to ponder for a long
moment before frowning. "You're not talking about Malfoy, are you?"
Remus raised a brow. "What do you think would be more painful? To be insulted
by an enemy or a friend?"
Harry sighed in apparent understanding and bowed his head. "I'll try and keep a
better eye on Ron's temper."
"That boy won't like it if I'm the one who has to speak to him," Sirius threatened
quietly. "She's your sister, so that makes her family. We protect our family, Harry. Do you
hear me? Family is everything."
"I understand." Harry nodded, holding his head up a bit higher. "I won't let you
down."
Sirius smiled and pulled the boy into a tight hug. "I know you won't."