There's something to be said for the fact that he doesn't immediately lash out with an I don't deserve it, which speaks quiet volumes for ways in which Remus has already helped him.

"And I want to protect my big brother," is what he says instead. Firm and quiet. Less like a spiraling tower of crystal and a little stronger, pressing a reminder of when they were children, still close.

He frowns anyway though, brow furrowing. "You left because you had to. Things would have just gotten worse for you. It was for the best. I've always been able to keep my head down." He doesn't mention how it hasn't quite been enough any more. "That's how I survived, and it was fine, but I wanted something different. Want something different."

"I don't want to feel like strangers anymore, Sirius."