latenightreadingpdf

[latenightreadingpdf]

Hi! I know this request sounds completely crazy but do you think you could do a yn that's like starfire coded? and Lily finds her and ends up kinda taking care of her (kinda like yn crashes falls into the forbidden forest and lilly finds her) because she's so confused on their world and has that weird type of speech. anway she gets super close with the Marauders and the rest, they're so curious by this new life form. and simply it's all of them, trying protect her from the 'bad houses' slytherin

Out of this World - Marauders Era

₊‧⁺˖⋆ Masterlist ⋆˖⁺‧₊

Summary - Lily Evans and her friends discover an injured, otherworldly girl named Y/N in the Forbidden Forest. She claims to be from the planet Tamaran, having crash-landed after her ship was struck by lightning.

A/N ~ sorry if this really sucks, i haven't written anything in a while

⋆˖⁺‧₊☽◯☾₊‧⁺˖⋆

The Forbidden Forest was unnervingly silent as Lily Evans led her group of friends through the underbrush. She had come here on a whim, dragged along by James Potter’s insistence that the Marauders had discovered something fascinating that evening. The air was damp and cold, the moon casting a silvery glow over the forest floor.

The snap of a branch broke the quiet. Lily turned sharply, her wand already drawn. The sound came again, followed by a faint, pained groan. Frowning, she pushed through a cluster of trees, the others following closely. When they came upon the source of the sound, they all froze.

A girl—or at least she appeared to be a girl—lay sprawled among the roots of an ancient oak. Her skin glowed faintly, as if kissed by the light of another sun, and her hair spilled around her like liquid fire. Her clothing, strange and tattered, clung to her figure, and her chest rose and fell in shallow breaths. Blood seeped from a gash on her arm, staining the ground beneath her.

"Merlin," Lily breathed, rushing forward. "Someone’s hurt!"

"Lily, wait!" James called, but she was already kneeling beside the stranger, her wand hovering over the wound. The others approached cautiously, forming a loose circle around them.

"Who is she?" Sirius Black asked, his gray eyes narrowed. "She doesn��t look like a student."

"That’s because she’s not," Lily said sharply. "Help me turn her over."

Remus Lupin stepped forward to assist, gently rolling the girl onto her back. Her face was ethereal, her features unlike anything they’d ever seen. Her lips moved, forming words in a language none of them could understand.

"What’s she saying?" Peter Pettigrew asked nervously, glancing around as though expecting an ambush.

"I don’t know, but she’s hurt. We need to help her," Lily said. She muttered a quick healing spell, her wand glowing softly as the gash on the girl’s arm began to close. The stranger stirred, her eyes fluttering open. They were an otherworldly shade of green, brighter than any human’s.

The girl gasped and sat up abruptly, wincing in pain. She looked around at them, her expression a mix of confusion and alarm., her expression a mix of confusion and alarm.

"Who... where am I?" she asked, her voice melodic but tinged with an odd cadence. Her words were strangely constructed, as though English was not her native tongue.

Lily offered a reassuring smile. "You’re safe. We found you here in the forest. Can you tell us your name?"

"My name? It is... Y/N," the girl replied, her brows furrowing. "I am from the planet Tamaran."

The group exchanged bewildered glances.

"Tamaran?" Sirius echoed, raising an eyebrow. "You must’ve hit your head pretty hard, thinking you’re from another planet."

Y/N’s eyes widened. "No, it is truth! My ship was struck by the light. I fell from the skies and landed here. I am most distressed!"

James crossed his arms, looking skeptical. "Right. And you just happen to speak English?"

"It is not the language of my people," Y/N explained. "But I have the gift of... what is the word? Absorption? When I hear the words, I learn them."

"I believe her," Lily said firmly, her eyes scanning Y/N’s glowing skin and otherworldly features. "She’s different. You can’t deny that."

Remus sighed. "All right, but what are we going to do with her? We can’t just leave her here."

"Exactly," Lily agreed. "She’ll come back to my dorm. I’ll clean her up and figure out what to do next."

"Hold on," James said, stepping in front of Lily. "What if she’s dangerous? We can’t just let her into the castle."

"She’s injured and scared, James. I’m not leaving her here," Lily snapped. "If you’re so worried, you can come with me."

James hesitated, then sighed. "Fine. But we’re all going."

Lily rolled her eyes but didn’t argue. Sirius and James moved to Y/N’s sides, gently helping her to her feet. She winced, leaning heavily on them as they supported her.

"We’ve got you," Sirius said, offering her a lopsided grin. "Just don’t start glowing or shooting beams out of your hands or anything."

"I possess no beams," Y/N replied earnestly, though her phrasing earned a snicker from Sirius.

As they made their way back to the castle, Y/N glanced between her unlikely rescuers, her heart swelling with gratitude. These strange humans had shown her kindness, and though she was far from home, she felt a flicker of hope. Perhaps, on this unfamiliar planet, she might find allies.

⋆˖⁺‧₊☽◯☾₊‧⁺˖⋆

The girls' dormitory was quiet, save for the soft rustling of the canopy curtains as the group settled in. James, Sirius, Remus, and Peter perched awkwardly on the edge of the beds, clearly out of their element in the girls’ space. They glanced around at the floral decor, feeling strangely out of place but too curious to leave.

Meanwhile, Lily guided Y/N into the adjoining washroom, shutting the door gently behind them.

“Here,” Lily said softly, pulling out a set of her own clothes. “These should fit well enough for now. You’ll be more comfortable than in those ripped things.” She gestured toward Y/N’s tattered attire.

Y/N tilted her head, inspecting the clothing with curiosity. “These garments are strange to me, but I thank you for your kindness. You have much generosity, Lily of Evans.”

Lily smiled warmly. “You’re welcome, Y/N. Let’s get you cleaned up.”

It took some time, but with Lily’s help, Y/N was soon dressed in a cozy jumper and a pair of soft leggings. Her glowing skin seemed to dim slightly as she relaxed, blending in a little more with her surroundings. Lily brushed through her fiery hair, taming it into a neat braid, and gave her a reassuring pat on the shoulder.

“All right,” Lily said, smiling. “Let’s head back out.”

When they re-entered the main dorm room, the boys turned their heads as one. Sirius let out a low whistle.

“Well, don’t you clean up nice,” he said with a teasing grin. James elbowed him, though he, too, couldn’t hide his curiosity about their otherworldly guest.

Y/N looked between them, her expression unsure. “I feel... strange. These clothes are most peculiar, but they are warm. I thank you again.”

“You’re welcome,” Lily replied, leading Y/N to sit down on one of the beds. “Now, we need to figure out what happens next.”

James leaned forward, his brows furrowed. “So, uh, how exactly are we supposed to get you back to your planet?”

Y/N blinked at him, her green eyes wide. “I do not know. My ship was destroyed in the falling. I am... stranded, as you say.”

“Right,” James muttered, rubbing the back of his neck. “That’s a problem.”

“A bit of an understatement, mate,” Sirius added. “How do we even hide someone like her? No offense, Y/N, but you’re not exactly inconspicuous.”

“None taken,” Y/N replied earnestly. “I am not of this place. It is clear to see.”

Lily crossed her arms, her expression thoughtful. “We’ll figure something out. But for now, the most important thing is keeping her safe. If anyone finds out about her, especially someone like Slughorn or—Merlin forbid—Snape, there’ll be chaos.”

“Not to mention the Ministry,” Remus added. “They’d lock her up faster than you could say ‘alien.’”

Y/N’s eyes filled with worry. “You believe I am in danger?”

“Not as long as we’re around,” Sirius said confidently. “But yeah, we’ve got to keep you under wraps.”

James nodded. “We’ll need a plan. For now, she stays here with the girls. Lily, can you keep an eye on her?”

“Of course,” Lily said, her tone firm. “But you lot need to help too. We’re all in this together.”

Peter, who had been unusually quiet, finally spoke up. “What if someone comes looking for her? Like, from her planet?”

Y/N’s expression softened. “I fear no one will. I was sent here because my people are in peril. My mission was to find aid, but I have failed.”

The room fell silent, the weight of her words sinking in. Remus leaned forward, his voice gentle. “You haven’t failed, Y/N. We’ll help you, one way or another. You’re not alone anymore.”

Her eyes shimmered with gratitude. “Thank you, Remus of Lupin. You are all most kind.”

“Well, we’re not letting anything happen to you,” James declared. “Even if it means sneaking around and keeping you hidden. We’ve gotten away with worse.”

Sirius smirked. “He’s right. If we can manage full moon escapades with Moony here, we can handle this.”

Lily shot them a warning look. “Let’s not get overconfident. We’ll take this one step at a time. Y/N, you’re safe with us. We’ll figure it out together.”

Y/N nodded, her heart swelling with hope. These humans, so strange and yet so kind, were unlike anyone she had ever known.

⋆˖⁺‧₊☽◯☾₊‧⁺˖⋆

The sunlight filtered through the curtains of the girls’ dormitory, casting a warm glow on the room. Lily stirred first, glancing over to see Y/N sitting cross-legged on her bed, gazing out the window. Her fiery hair shimmered faintly in the light, and Lily was momentarily reminded of just how otherworldly her new companion was.

“Good morning,” Lily said softly, sitting up. Y/N turned to her, offering a small smile.

“Good morning, Lily of Evans. Your greeting is most welcome,” Y/N replied, her cadence still slightly unusual but endearing.

Lily stretched and stood, reaching for her wardrobe. “We need to get you some food. But first, let’s get you dressed in something more... inconspicuous. If anyone comes in here, they’ll think you’re a new student.”

Y/N tilted her head. “Inconspicuous? I do not wish to cause alarm. I will wear these garments you provide.”

Lily handed her a Hogwarts uniform, complete with a Gryffindor tie. The sight of Y/N awkwardly adjusting the robes made Lily chuckle. “It suits you. Now, stay here. I’ll go to the Great Hall and bring back a plate for you. Don’t wander off, okay?”

Y/N nodded earnestly. “I shall remain. Thank you, Lily of Evans.”

Lily smiled and left the dormitory, heading down to breakfast. In the Great Hall, she spotted the Marauders gathered at their usual spot. James waved her over, a curious look on his face.

“How’s our visitor?” he asked as she sat down.

“She’s fine,” Lily replied, grabbing some toast. “I left her in the dorm. I told her I’d bring her food, but we need to figure out what we’re going to do next.”

“Has she said anything about how she got here?” Remus asked, pouring himself some tea.

“Not yet,” Lily admitted. “But she’s mentioned her ship. If it’s still in the Forbidden Forest, we might be able to fix it and send her back.”

Sirius raised an eyebrow. “Fix a spaceship? Lily, we’re wizards, not engineers.”

“Do you have a better idea?” Lily shot back. “We can at least go look for it. She’s not safe here, especially if anyone finds out what she is.”

James nodded. “After classes, we’ll head back to the forest. If her ship’s there, we’ll figure something out. Until then, we keep this quiet.”

The group agreed, finishing their breakfast quickly. Lily piled a plate with food and excused herself, heading back to the dormitory. When she opened the door, she found Y/N standing by her dresser, examining the trinkets and photographs with wide eyes.

“Oh!” Y/N gasped, startled by Lily’s return. She stepped back, clasping her hands together. “I did not mean to intrude. Your artifacts are most fascinating.”

Lily chuckled. “It’s fine. Here, I brought you something to eat.” She handed the plate to Y/N, who took it cautiously, peering at the food with a skeptical expression.

“This is nourishment?” Y/N asked, tilting her head. “It is unfamiliar.”

“It’s good, I promise,” Lily said reassuringly. “Try it.”

Y/N hesitated, then picked up a piece of toast and took a tentative bite. Her eyes lit up. “This is most delightful! You call it... toast?”

“That’s right,” Lily said, smiling as the boys entered the room. “Enjoy your breakfast while we talk.”

Sirius flopped onto one of the beds, grinning. “Morning, Y/N. Sleep well?”

“Your beds are most comfortable. I am grateful for your hospitality,” Y/N replied between bites of toast.

“Glad to hear it,” James said, leaning against the wall. “Now, about your ship. You said it might still be in the forest?”

Y/N nodded, setting the plate down. “Yes. It fell when the lightning struck. If it remains intact, I may be able to repair it and return to Tamaran.”

“And you’re sure it’s safe for us to help?” Remus asked cautiously. “We don’t want to make things worse.”

“I will guide you. Your assistance is most appreciated,” Y/N said, her expression earnest.

“Right then,” James said, clapping his hands together. “After classes, we’ll head out to the forest. If your ship’s there, we’ll figure out how to fix it.”

“And if it’s not?” Peter asked, his voice quiet.

“We’ll cross that bridge when we come to it,” Lily said firmly. “For now, let’s focus on finding it. We’ll meet back here after dinner and head out together.”

Y/N’s face brightened with hope. “You are most kind. Thank you, all of you.”

“Don’t mention it,” Sirius said with a wink. “We’re just getting started.”

⋆˖⁺‧₊☽◯☾₊‧⁺˖⋆

The evening air was crisp as the group made their way out of the castle, their footsteps echoing softly against the stone path. Y/N walked in the middle, flanked by Lily and Remus, while James and Sirius led the way with Peter trailing behind.

As they neared the edge of the Forbidden Forest, a voice called out, stopping them in their tracks. “Well, well, what have we here?”

The group turned to see a cluster of Slytherins, with Severus Snape at the forefront, his dark eyes glinting suspiciously. Beside him stood Mulciber, Avery, and a few others, their expressions smug.

“Out for a nighttime stroll?” Severus drawled, his gaze flicking to Y/N. “And who’s this? A new friend?”

Y/N, thinking they were more friends of the Marauders, stepped forward with a bright smile. “Greetings! I am Y/N of Tamaran. It is a pleasure to meet more of your companions.”

The Slytherins exchanged confused looks, but before Y/N could say more, Lily quickly pulled her back. “She’s just visiting,” Lily said curtly. “None of your business.”

“Visiting?” Mulciber sneered. “From where, exactly?”

“None of your concern,” James said sharply, stepping forward. “Now, why don’t you lot run along before you get hexed?”

“Hexed?” Severus’s lip curled. “Big words, Potter. Maybe you lot should focus on dealing with your new friend .”

Sirius smirked, his wand already in hand. “At least I don’t have to deal with greasy hair like yours, Snivellus.”

Severus’s face darkened, and before anyone could stop him, he raised his wand. “Expelliarmus!”

The spell missed as James deflected it with ease. Chaos erupted as wands were drawn on both sides, spells flying through the air. Lily stayed close to Y/N, shielding her from the fray.

“Stay behind me,” Lily urged, her own wand ready just in case.

The duel between the Slytherins and the Marauders was over almost as quickly as it began. The Marauders fought with practiced ease, countering the Slytherins' hexes with skillful precision. James and Sirius worked in tandem, their spells complementing each other in an almost choreographed way, while Remus and Peter provided backup, casting defensive charms to keep the group protected.

“Petrificus Totalus!” James shouted, his wand aimed at Mulciber, who froze mid-attack and toppled over like a plank of wood.

“Rictusempra!” Sirius cast with a wicked grin, sending Avery flying backward into a bush.

“Enough!” Severus snarled, his face twisted with frustration as he blocked another hex from James. Realizing they were outmatched, he barked at the others, “Let’s go!”

With a final glare, the Slytherins retreated into the shadows, muttering curses under their breath. As the dust settled, the Marauders turned to Y/N and Lily.

“You okay?” Sirius asked, brushing off his robes as he approached.

“I am unharmed, thanks to your bravery,” Y/N said, her wide eyes filled with awe. “Your magic is most impressive.”

“Yeah, we’ve got plenty of practice dealing with those lot,” James said, tucking his wand back into his robes. “They’re always causing trouble.”

“Who were they?” Y/N asked, her gaze flicking to Lily.

“The worst,” Lily said with a sigh, shaking her head. “Severus Snape and his cronies. They’re Slytherins, and they’re not exactly the friendly type. It’s best to avoid them whenever possible.”

“I understand,” Y/N said solemnly. “I shall steer clear of these Slytherins.”

“Good plan,” Remus said with a small smile. “Now, let’s keep moving before they come back with reinforcements.”

The group continued their trek into the forest, the atmosphere growing darker and more ominous with every step. The towering trees seemed to close in around them, their gnarled branches casting eerie shadows on the forest floor. Despite the foreboding surroundings, Y/N seemed calm, her glowing green eyes scanning the area with curiosity.

Finally, after what felt like an eternity of walking, they reached a clearing. In the center lay a sleek, silver ship, its surface glinting faintly in the moonlight. Though it was partially buried under branches and leaves, it appeared relatively intact.

“There it is,” Y/N said, her voice filled with relief. She hurried forward, kneeling beside the ship and running her hands over its surface. “My vessel! It is not as damaged as I feared.”

The group gathered around, examining the strange craft. “This is incredible,” Lily murmured, her eyes wide. “I’ve never seen anything like it.”

“Neither have I,” Remus said, his tone awed. “It’s... definitely not from Earth.”

“Guess that answers any doubts about her being from another planet,” Sirius said, crossing his arms. “Not that I had any.”

Y/N looked up at them, her expression earnest. “If I can access the power core and repair the guidance system, I will be able to return to Tamaran.”

“Can we help?” James asked, crouching beside her.

“I appreciate your offer, but the systems are quite complex,” Y/N replied. “I will do my best to explain if assistance is needed.”

For the next hour, the group worked together to clear debris from the ship and hold lighted wands for Y/N as she tinkered with its inner workings. Her hands moved with practiced precision, her knowledge of the advanced technology evident.

Finally, Y/N stepped back, her face glowing with triumph. “It is done! The ship is ready.”

Lily’s smile faltered slightly. “So, this is goodbye?”

Y/N nodded, her expression bittersweet. “I must return to my people. But I will never forget the kindness you have shown me.”

Lily pulled her into a tight hug. “Promise you’ll try to visit. You’ll always have friends here.”

“I promise,” Y/N said, her voice thick with emotion.

James and Sirius stepped forward, each clapping Y/N on the shoulder. “Take care of yourself,” James said. “And if you ever need us, you know where to find us.”

“Yeah, don’t let any Slytherin-like creatures push you around out there,” Sirius added with a grin.

Remus and Peter waved as Y/N climbed into her ship, the door closing behind her. The group stepped back as the engines roared to life, the ship lifting off the ground and ascending into the night sky. They watched until it disappeared among the stars, a faint streak of light the only trace of its departure.

Lily wiped a tear from her cheek, her smile returning. “She’s going to be okay.”

James slipped an arm around her shoulders. “So are we.”

The group stood in silence for a moment, their gazes fixed on the sky, before turning and making their way back to the castle. Though Y/N was gone, her brief time with them had left an indelible mark, one they would carry with them always.

⋆˖⁺‧₊☽◯☾₊‧⁺˖⋆

[latenightreadingpdf]

FINALLY FINISHED MY EXAMS WOOO!!! someone sent in the best request and im so excited to write it, ill hopefully have it posted tomorrow night so stay tuneddd :)))

[latenightreadingpdf]

Behind the Scenes - Tom Ryder

₊‧⁺˖⋆ Masterlist ⋆˖⁺‧₊

Summary: When notorious actor Tom Ryder gets a new makeup artist, he’s unprepared for Y/N’s sunny attitude and refusal to tolerate his usual antics. She’s determined to break through his tough exterior, no matter how difficult he makes it.

⋆˖⁺‧₊☽◯☾₊‧⁺˖⋆

The hair and makeup department was buzzing with the usual morning chaos, with stylists and artists weaving between racks of costumes and shelves of beauty products. Tom Ryder, the lead actor of Metalstorm, was, as always, taking his time. His co-stars had already been prepped and were ready on set, but Tom? He was still in his trailer, lost in what he called his "mental preparation."

In her corner of the makeup department, Kendall paced anxiously, phone clutched to her ear. “No, seriously, if he doesn’t get here soon, I don’t know what we’re going to do. They’re already way behind schedule—"

The door swung open just then, and Tom strolled in with a lazy grin, a relaxed contrast to Kendall's obvious frustration. Her eyes widened as she took in his calm expression. “Oh my god, he’s finally here," she muttered to the person on the other end of the line before abruptly hanging up. She took a steadying breath, then turned to him with a stern glare. “Tom, where were you? You’re insanely late. We’re super behind schedule, and—”

Tom rolled his eyes, waving a hand as if shooing away a fly. “Relax, Kendall. Stop freaking out. It’s not like they’re filming anything important without me.” He leaned back in the chair, tilting his head slightly toward his phone and scrolling through his messages, barely paying attention to her.

Kendall bit down on her lip, holding back her retort as her hand subtly tightened around a makeup brush. She didn’t want to cry in front of him—she refused to give him that satisfaction. Instead, she got to work, brushing powder over his skin and dabbing concealer under his eyes, all while he stayed glued to his phone.

“Tom, can you tilt your head up a little, please?” she asked, trying to keep her voice calm. He sighed, tilting his head barely a fraction of an inch, as if she’d just asked him to climb a mountain.

Eventually, she finished, releasing a breath of relief as she set down her brush. “Alright, you’re good to go.”

Without so much as a glance in her direction, he stood up, adjusted his jacket, and strode out of the makeup room, leaving her standing there in stunned silence. As the door swung shut behind him, Kendall muttered under her breath, "I can't do this anymore."

⋆˖⁺‧₊☽◯☾₊‧⁺˖⋆

Tom strutted onto the set with his usual air of invincibility, his chin high and a hint of a smirk playing on his lips. As usual, his tardiness had disrupted the flow of the morning, and the rest of the cast and crew had spent the last half hour impatiently waiting on him, trying to film some scenes without him. Jody, the assistant director, spotted him right away and stormed over, her frustration etched into every line of her face.

“Where the hell have you been?” she demanded, her arms crossed so tightly that her knuckles were white.

Tom looked at her with a lazy smile, as though amused by her annoyance. “The makeup artist took forever. Honestly, she’s just not great at her job. Slowed the whole process down.”

Jody’s eyes flashed with anger. “Don’t even try it, Tom. I know you were late getting to makeup. Everyone else was ready on time, and you were in your trailer. You can’t put this on her.”

Tom sighed dramatically, as if he was a child. He rolled his eyes and leaned back, looking up at the ceiling. “I needed a bit more time this morning. Had to mentally prepare for today’s scenes, you know? Takes a little more than just rolling out of bed.”

“Whatever. Just get in position,” she said, exasperated, gesturing to his mark. Tom rolled his eyes and sauntered to his spot, transforming into his character effortlessly as the cameras began rolling. By the time he was done, everyone knew why he was still around—he might be a colossal pain, but he was a damn good actor.

Later, after filming wrapped for the day, Tom returned to his trailer, going through his nightly skincare routine with meticulous care. He was just about to apply his favorite serum when there was a loud, insistent knock at the door. He frowned, feeling an unwelcome stab of irritation. Who has the nerve to interrupt my nightly routine? I’m Tom Ryder, for god’s sake.

Ignoring it at first, he dabbed another dot of serum onto his fingertips, but the knocking continued. Huffing, he finally set the bottle down and opened the door, only to find Jody standing there, looking furious.

Before he could say a word, she stormed inside, barely looking at him as she shut the door behind her. “What did you do to Kendall?”

Tom arched an eyebrow, leaning against the counter with a look of nonchalance. “What do you mean? I did you a favor. She wasn’t very good. Slow, whiny—she couldn’t keep up with what I need on set.”

Jody clenched her jaw, clearly biting back a retort. She took a slow breath before speaking, her voice tight. “Well, you got what you wanted, Tom. Kendall just quit. She walked out.”

He shrugged, entirely unaffected. “Good. Find someone who can handle it, then. It’ll be better for everyone.”

Jody’s gaze was icy. “You don’t get it, do you? You’re not doing anyone any favors here. Now I have to find a replacement, someone willing to put up with your attitude, before we start filming tomorrow.” She shook her head, almost as if she couldn’t believe his arrogance.

She muttered to herself as she paced in front of him, running her hands down her face. “I’ll call Y/N… she’s great at makeup, and she’s always there when I need her. I just hope she’s free.”

Tom watched her with mild curiosity, his arms crossed. Y/N? He couldn’t remember her, but that wasn’t surprising; he barely noticed anyone on set who wasn’t directly involved in his scenes. Still, he couldn’t resist a slight smirk as Jody turned back to him, her face set with determination.

“You will treat her better than you did Kendall. Y/N is a close friend of mine, and she’s a damn good artist. She doesn’t deserve to deal with your crap.”

Tom gave an indifferent shrug, his expression one of practiced disinterest. “Yeah, yeah,” he muttered, barely listening as Jody stormed out, slamming the door behind her.

As soon as she was gone, he rolled his eyes and turned back to his vanity, the conversation already fading from his mind. With a satisfied hum, he returned to his skincare routine, dabbing the serum across his skin, already envisioning how he’d command the set the next day—new makeup artist or not.

⋆˖⁺‧₊☽◯☾₊‧⁺˖⋆

The next morning, Jody waited outside Tom’s trailer, tapping her foot impatiently as she watched him emerge with his phone already glued to his hand. He didn’t even notice her as he strolled out, scrolling with a lazy smirk, clearly thinking he’d have another leisurely morning to himself.

“Oh no, you don’t,” Jody muttered, stepping in front of him. She grabbed his arm and steered him toward the makeup trailer, ignoring his grunt of protest.

“Jody, come on, what’s the rush?” he drawled, barely lifting his eyes from his phone.

“The rush,” she said, pulling him close as they walked, “is that you’re meeting your new makeup artist, who I personally asked to cover for Kendall. So you’re going to be nice, polite, and actually cooperate this time. Got it?” Her voice dropped to a whisper-yell. “Don’t blow this.”

He glanced sideways at her, giving a half-hearted smirk. “Alright, alright. I’ll play nice. It’s just makeup, Jody.”

Jody rolled her eyes, unconvinced. As they reached the makeup trailer, she took a deep breath before opening the door. Inside, the atmosphere was warm and welcoming, the lights soft and cozy. And there you were, arranging your supplies with an infectious energy that radiated through the room.

As soon as you spotted Jody, a wide smile lit up your face, and you squealed, “Jody!” practically bouncing over to hug her.

Jody laughed, hugging you back tightly, though she felt a small pang of guilt for what she was about to put you through. You were a bright spot on any set, always bringing kindness and positivity wherever you went. And now… she was introducing you to Tom.

You pulled back from the hug, and Jody cleared her throat, gesturing to Tom. “Y/N, meet Tom Ryder.”

Tom didn’t stop scrolling on his phone, muttering, clearly uninterested in the conversation.

Jody’s eyes narrowed as she jabbed him in the ribs with her elbow, forcing him to lift his gaze for a moment. He looked at you for barely a split second, giving the faintest of nods. “Hey.”

Your smile didn’t waver, you shrugged off his lack of enthusiasm, unfazed, and turned to Jody who’s giving you a look that says I’m so sorry about him.

“Don’t worry, Jody. I can handle him.” You winked.

Jody raised an eyebrow. “If he gives you any trouble, be as mean as you want. Seriously.”

“Oh, it’ll be fine,” you said, your tone light and bubbly as always. “But thanks for the permission.”

With that, Jody gave you a sympathetic pat on the shoulder and headed out, casting one last warning glance at Tom as she left. The door clicked shut, and suddenly, the quiet felt heavier.

Tom settled into the chair, his attention fully on his phone as you gathered your brushes and supplies, humming a soft tune to yourself. You glanced at him, trying to figure out the best approach to doing his makeup.

“Alright, Tom,” you said in a cheerful tone. “Can you lift your head for me?”

He sighed, tilting his head up just enough for you to start working, his eyes still glued to his screen. Within seconds, though, his head started to drift back down as he got absorbed in whatever he was reading. You gently reminded him, “Head up, please?”

Another sigh, this one more exasperated. He tilted his head up again, only for it to droop a moment later.

You paused, trying to stay patient, but it was clear this was going to be a pattern. Your gaze flicking to his phone as he scrolled, oblivious to how difficult he was making it to do your job. You cleared your throat and, keeping your tone light, asked, “Could you maybe put your phone down for a minute? Just so I can work a little easier?”

He didn’t look up, only muttering, “No. Just stop talking to me and do your job.”

Alright, time to switch tactics. You stepped back slightly, still using your sweetest voice, you say, “How about this: if you put down your phone until I’m done, I won’t tell Jody you’re being a complete pain in the ass.”

His head shot up, a flash of surprise crossing his face. He looked at you, almost like he couldn’t believe what he’d just heard. No one, aside from Jody, ever spoke to him that way—certainly not someone on the crew. He stared at you, trying to figure out if you were serious, but the gentle challenge in your gaze made it clear you weren’t backing down.

After a moment, he shrugged and set his phone down on the counter, folding his hands in his lap with a small scowl. He wasn’t thrilled about it, but the idea of Jody getting on his case wasn’t worth the trouble.

“Thank you,” you said, your smile brightening even more, as if he’d just given you a bouquet of flowers. Tom blinked, caught off-guard by the warmth in your expression. Pretty, he thought, the word popping unbidden into his mind. He almost felt the edges of a smile tugging at his own lips, but he quickly shoved the thought away, settling into a blank stare instead.

You wanted to talk with him but decided against it, not wanting to push your luck, focusing on your task with quiet dedication. You moved with practiced ease, brushing powder over his skin, blending and smoothing each line with a gentle touch. Occasionally, you would hum a bit, a soft melody that filled the silence without overwhelming it. Tom found himself oddly… relaxed.

When you finally set down the brush and stepped back, “All done! I’ll see you soon,” you said with a gentle smile, already moving to tidy up your station.

Tom looked at you, barely giving a nod. “Yeah, okay,” he muttered, snatching his phone up as he got out of the chair. He didn’t look back as he walked out the door, but even as he strode down the hall, your voice and your warm smile lingered in his mind more than he cared to admit.

Back inside the trailer, you sighed, leaning back against the counter as you watched him go. You smiled to yourself, determination growing. I’m going to get you to open up eventually, Tom Ryder. Just you wait.

⋆˖⁺‧₊☽◯☾₊‧⁺˖⋆

A/N ~ so sorry for not posting as much, exams are taking up most of my time. hopefully ill be back to writing more over the Christmas break!

[latenightreadingpdf]

Jealousy - Sirius Black

₊‧⁺˖⋆ Masterlist ⋆˖⁺‧₊

Summary: When Y/N excitedly announces her first date with Amos Diggory, Sirius Black’s jealousy quickly gets the better of him.

⋆˖⁺‧₊☽◯☾₊‧⁺˖⋆

The Gryffindor common room was buzzing with its usual chaos. The Marauders lounged on their favorite couch, trading jokes and stories, while Lily Evans and her group of friends sat by the fire, discussing the latest gossip. The evening was comfortably familiar—until the door burst open.

You came running in, breathless and wide-eyed, as if you had just sprinted across the entire castle.

"What's wrong?" Lily asked, concern knitting her brows.

But your beaming smile quickly dispelled any worry. "Nothing's wrong!" you said, your voice practically trembling with excitement. "I just had to tell you all—Amos Diggory asked me out!"

Gasps and squeals erupted from the girls. They immediately crowded around you, peppering you with questions.

“When?” “Where?” “What did he say?” “What are you going to wear?”

You laughed, flustered but enjoying the attention. "He asked me after Potions today. We're going to Hogsmeade tomorrow night!"

The boys exchanged confused glances. James, ever the spokesperson, called out, “Hold on, hold on—Amos Diggory? Since when do you fancy anyone?”

Your cheeks flushed, and you tucked a strand of hair behind your ear. "Since he’s nice, smart, and, you know... handsome," you admitted.

James nodded, seemingly satisfied. “Fair enough.”

“Good for you,” Remus added warmly.

Peter gave you a thumbs-up. "Amos is decent."

Sirius, however, leaned forward, eyebrows furrowed in a frown. "Amos Diggory? Really? Of all people, him?"

Your smile faltered. "What’s that supposed to mean?"

"Just that you could do a lot better,” Sirius said, his tone sharp. “He’s... dull. And too nice. Suspiciously nice.”

"Sirius!" Lily snapped, glaring at him.

Mary chimed in indignantly, “Amos Diggory is the dream guy. He’s polite, smart, and incredibly handsome.”

The other girls nodded in agreement, giggling again as they tugged you toward the staircase to the girls’ dorms. "Come on, we have to pick out your outfit!"

You cast a hesitant glance back at Sirius, but his stormy expression didn’t change. Shrugging it off, you let the girls drag you away.

The room fell quiet as the boys stared at Sirius.

“What?” Sirius grumbled, leaning back in his seat.

Remus slapped his arm. “Ow!” Sirius yelped, rubbing the spot.

“What the hell was that for?”

“For being an arse,” Remus said, whisper-yelling. “Why would you say that to her? She looked so happy!”

Sirius scowled. "I just think there’s something off about him."

“Rubbish,” James shot back. “You didn’t have to be so mean about it, though.”

Peter nodded. “Yeah, mate. You kind of ruined the moment.”

Sirius sighed, running a hand through his hair. “Fine. I’ll apologize tomorrow.”

“Good,” Remus said firmly. “But not just because we’re telling you to. You’re jealous.”

Sirius’ head snapped toward him. “I am not!”

James snorted. “You’re jealous.”

Peter grinned. “Definitely jealous.”

Sirius groaned, throwing his head back against the couch. “I hate all of you.”

“Not as much as you hate Amos Diggory,” James quipped, dodging the pillow Sirius threw at him.

⋆˖⁺‧₊☽◯☾₊‧⁺˖⋆

The next day was a whirlwind of excitement. After hours of trying on different outfits with the girls, you finally settled on one that everyone agreed made you look stunning. Their compliments gave you a confidence boost as you descended the staircase to the common room.

Amos was waiting for you, looking polished yet approachable in his casual Hogsmeade attire. His smile widened as he saw you.

“You look beautiful,” he said, his voice warm.

You felt a blush creeping up your cheeks. “Thank you. You look nice too.”

He extended his arm. “Shall we?”

With a shy smile, you took his arm, and the two of you headed off toward Hogsmeade.

The Three Broomsticks was lively but not too crowded, the perfect spot for a cozy first date. Over butterbeers, you and Amos chatted easily, laughter punctuating your conversation. He was charming and surprisingly funny, keeping you giggling throughout.

What you didn’t realize was that someone else had spotted you from outside the pub.

Sirius Black, with the rest of the Marauders in tow, was in Hogsmeade to stock up on their usual supplies: prank items and enough sweets to fuel their mischief. While the others were distracted by Zonko’s display, Sirius had spotted you through the window, laughing with Amos Diggory.

The sight made his stomach twist. “Come on,” Sirius said, feigning nonchalance. “Let’s get a butterbeer.”

James raised a brow. “Now? I thought we were going to Honeydukes next.”

“Just one,” Sirius insisted, already heading for the door.

The bell above the door chimed as the boys entered, and your laughter stopped abruptly. You glanced toward the door and spotted them. Your eyes narrowed, immediately honing in on Sirius.

“Oh, for Merlin’s sake,” you muttered under your breath.

Amos noticed your expression and turned to look. “Are those your friends?” he asked curiously.

You hesitated. “Not really. Give me a second.”

Sliding out of your chair, you made your way to the Marauders. Sirius’ face lit up with exaggerated surprise as you approached.

“Y/N! What are you doing here? Oh my gosh, are you on your date right now?”

You rolled your eyes, unamused. “Leave. Now.”

James and Remus exchanged guilty glances. “Sorry, Y/N,” James said quickly. “We didn’t know—”

Sirius interrupted, “I’m just here for a butterbeer! By the way, you look really lovely—”

“Out!” you snapped, glaring at him.

Peter tugged on Sirius’ sleeve. “Come on, mate. Let’s go.”

Grumbling under his breath, Sirius allowed himself to be dragged out. You turned back to Amos, forcing a smile.

“Sorry about that,” you said, sitting down.

Amos studied you for a moment. “Are you and Sirius... a thing?”

“Godric, no!” you said, horrified. “He’s just... a jerk.”

Amos tilted his head thoughtfully. “He likes you, you know.”

You frowned. “No, he doesn’t.”

“He does,” Amos insisted. “And I don’t want to get in the middle of that. But I’d like us to stay friends. I really enjoy hanging out with you.”

You tried to hide your disappointment and nodded. “Sure. Friends.”

Amos smiled gently and walked you back to the Gryffindor common room. Before leaving, he gave you a soft kiss on the cheek.

When you stepped into the common room, all eyes turned to you.

“How’d it go?” James asked, grinning.

“Horrible,” you snapped, glaring pointedly at Sirius.

He raised his hands in defense. “I barely did anything!”

“Barely?” you repeated, incredulous. “Thanks to you, Amos thinks you like me, and now we’re just going to ‘stay friends’ because he doesn’t want to come between us!”

The room went silent. Sirius’ mouth opened, but no words came out.

“You what?” Lily hissed, rounding on Sirius.

“I didn’t mean—”

“I’m going to bed,” you said sharply, cutting him off. The girls immediately followed, throwing Sirius matching death glares as they escorted you upstairs.

Once you were gone, James shook his head. “You really messed up, mate.”

“I know,” Sirius muttered, guilt tugging at him. “I’ll fix it.”

⋆˖⁺‧₊☽◯☾₊‧⁺˖⋆

Later that night, a hesitant knock echoed at your dorm door. Lily answered, her sharp glare softening only slightly when she saw Sirius standing there, his usual confidence replaced with a sheepish, almost boyish look.

“She doesn’t want to see you, Sirius,” Lily said, crossing her arms.

“Please, Lily,” Sirius begged, his voice uncharacteristically earnest. “I just want to apologize. I feel awful about everything.”

Before Lily could shut the door in his face, your voice called from inside, soft but firm, “Let him in.”

Lily rolled her eyes but opened the door wider. “Fine. But if you make her cry again, I’ll hex you into next week.”

Sirius gave her a faint nod of understanding and stepped inside. The sight of you made his heart clench. You were sitting on the edge of your bed, hugging a pillow to your chest. Your cheeks were streaked with dried tears, your eyes red from crying.

“What do you want, Sirius?” you asked, your tone weary.

He stood awkwardly for a moment before kneeling down in front of you. He reached into his pocket and pulled out a small bag of your favorite candies, placing them in your lap.

“I’m sorry,” he began, his voice unusually quiet. “For everything. I didn’t mean to ruin your date or make you cry. That was never my intention. I just...” He ran a hand through his hair, struggling to find the words. “I screwed up. Big time.”

You stared down at the bag of sweets in your lap, your fingers brushing against the crinkling paper. “Why did you do it, Sirius?”

He sighed deeply, tilting his head back like he was searching for courage in the ceiling. Then, he looked at you, his gray eyes vulnerable in a way you’d never seen before.

“Because Amos was right,” he admitted softly. “I was jealous.”

You blinked, caught off guard by his honesty. “Jealous?”

He nodded, his voice shaking slightly. “I hated seeing you with him. I wanted to be the one sitting across from you, making you laugh. I wanted to be the one you were excited to see. The truth is... I like you, Y/N. A lot. And I have for ages. But I didn’t know how to tell you. I was scared. Scared that you’d laugh at me or that you wouldn’t feel the same.”

The room was thick with silence. You couldn’t tear your eyes away from him, his usual cocky demeanor completely gone, replaced with raw sincerity.

“I ruined it for you,” he continued, his voice breaking slightly. “And I’ll never forgive myself for that. But I needed you to know. Even if it doesn’t change anything, even if you hate me now.”

Sirius stood slowly, his shoulders slumping in defeat. “I’m sorry. I’ll leave.”

He turned and began walking toward the door.

“Wait,” you said, your voice barely above a whisper.

Sirius froze mid-step. He turned back around, his expression unreadable, and found you standing just a few feet away. Your pillow had fallen to the floor, forgotten.

Before he could say anything, you stepped closer, rising onto your toes, and pressed a soft kiss to his lips. It was quick and tentative, but enough to make Sirius’ breath hitch.

When you pulled back, you smiled faintly. “I like you too, you idiot.”

His eyes widened in surprise before a grin broke across his face—a genuine, boyish grin that made your heart flutter. “Yeah?” he asked, his voice almost disbelieving.

You nodded, your own smile growing. “Yeah.”

Without hesitation, Sirius reached out, cupping your face gently in his hands. His thumb brushed your cheek as he leaned down, capturing your lips in a deeper, more passionate kiss. This time, there was no hesitation, no uncertainty—just the overwhelming warmth of finally crossing the line between friends and something so much more.

When you finally broke apart, both of you were breathless. Sirius rested his forehead against yours, his grin never fading.

“I’ve wanted to do that for so long,” he admitted, his voice barely above a whisper.

“Then why didn’t you?” you teased lightly, your cheeks warm.

“Because I’m a coward,” he said with a chuckle. “But I promise I’ll make up for it.”

You laughed softly, and Sirius kissed you again, as if to prove his point.

⋆˖⁺‧₊☽◯☾₊‧⁺˖⋆

A/N ~ guys I’m running out of ideas, please feel free to send requests!!!

[latenightreadingpdf]

Healing - James Potter

₊‧⁺˖⋆ Masterlist ⋆˖⁺‧₊

Summary: James Potter has made a habit of visiting you in the hospital wing for every one of his "injuries".

⋆˖⁺‧₊☽◯☾₊‧⁺˖⋆

The hospital wing smelled of clean linens and healing potions, the quiet hum of magic hanging in the air as you tidied the space. You had always been drawn to healing, and your time as Madame Pomfrey’s apprentice had only solidified your desire to make it your career. It was a quiet day, which you didn’t mind; the calm allowed you to focus on your studies.

Then, the doors burst open.

Madame Pomfrey appeared, bustling in alongside a stretcher that levitated James Potter. He looked worse for wear, his jersey rumpled and streaked with dirt, his glasses askew, and a pained expression on his face.

"Another Quidditch injury, of course," Madame Pomfrey sighed as the stretcher lowered onto one of the beds. She turned to you, offering a kind smile. "Y/N, you’ll handle this one. James, meet Y/N, my apprentice. She’ll be taking care of you today."

James, despite his discomfort, managed a grin. "Pleasure to meet you, Healer-in-Training."

You smiled softly, pulling a chair to sit beside him. "The pleasures all mine James. Now, what happened?"

He winced, rubbing the back of his neck. "Got shoved off my broom during the game. Didn’t land quite right. My leg’s killing me."

You nodded, already jotting down notes in your leather-bound notebook. "You probably a pulled muscle when you landed. Let me grab a few things to help with that. Stay put—I’ll be right back."

As you walked to the supply cupboard, you heard a commotion behind you.

"Prongs!"

You turned slightly to see three boys barreling into the room: Sirius Black, Remus Lupin, and Peter Pettigrew. All wore matching looks of worry, though Sirius's dramatic flair made him the loudest.

"Are you okay?" Sirius asked, rushing to James’s bedside. "Do you need me to carry you everywhere now? I will, you know."

James groaned, half in pain, half in exasperation. "I’m fine, Pads. It’s just a pulled muscle."

Peter and Remus settled into chairs nearby, though Sirius decided to climb onto the bed, squishing himself beside James.

When you returned, your arms full of salves and potions, you stopped short at the sight of the chaotic group. You’d expected only James, but now there was a whole audience.

Clearing your throat softly, you stepped closer. "Hello, everyone."

The Marauders turned to you, and Sirius gave you an overly enthusiastic wave. "Oh, hello! Are you here to save our James?"

"That’s the idea," you replied, amused. Then you turned your attention to Sirius. "But I’ll need some room to work, so I’m afraid you’ll have to get off the bed."

Sirius pouted dramatically but complied, sliding off and promptly sitting on Remus’s lap instead.

"Really, Padfoot?" Remus muttered, though he didn’t push him off.

"Thank you," you said with a small smile before turning back to James. "Alright, I’m going to apply some salves and potions to help the muscle heal. Let me know if anything feels uncomfortable."

James nodded, watching you with an expression that was equal parts curiosity and appreciation. You worked quickly but gently, your touch steady and practiced.

"That should do it," you said, stepping back and packing up your supplies. "How does it feel?"

James stretched his leg cautiously, a grin spreading across his face. "Loads better already, actually. Thanks, Y/N. You’re a miracle worker."

"Happy to help," you replied, handing him a small jar of salve. "Apply this if it starts to bruise or feel sore again. Do you think you’re okay to walk back to your dorm, or would you like to stay a bit longer?"

"I’ll be fine," James said confidently, already swinging his legs over the side of the bed.

"Take it easy," you warned lightly, your tone soft but firm.

James smiled up at you, his warm hazel eyes meeting yours. "Don’t worry. If anything happens, I’ll come straight back, I wouldn’t mind seeing you again."

Sirius let out a mock gasp. "James Potter, are you flirting with the healer?"

James’s ears turned pink, but he shrugged nonchalantly. "Can’t blame me for appreciating good company."

You chuckled, shaking your head as you moved to tidy up. "Take care, James."

As the Marauders escorted him out, Sirius called back over his shoulder. "You’re always welcome at our dorm, Y/N! Just say the word!"

⋆˖⁺‧₊☽◯☾₊‧⁺˖⋆

It had become a running joke among your fellow students: James Potter’s newfound devotion to the hospital wing. Whether it was a phantom ache, a paper cut, or the slightest shove from Sirius, he was there, demanding your attention. You couldn’t say you minded too much—it was hard not to find his antics endearing.

Today, however, was different.

When James walked in, his usual playful swagger was replaced with something a bit more subdued. A dark purple bruise marred his cheek, and his glasses were slightly askew. You immediately put down the textbook you were studying and stood to greet him.

"James," you said, concern lacing your voice. "What happened?"

He gave you a sheepish grin as he settled onto the nearest bed. "Ran into a bit of trouble with some Slytherins. Just a little scuffle—nothing to worry about."

You frowned, pulling your stool closer to him. "A little scuffle? This bruise says otherwise."

Grabbing a jar of salve, you dipped your fingers into the cool, minty substance and turned back to him. Gently, you cupped his face, tilting it so the light caught the bruise.

James froze, his hazel eyes wide as he looked up at you. For once, he was completely still, not a single cheeky comment slipping from his lips.

"This might sting a little," you murmured, focusing on applying the salve. Your thumb brushed along his cheekbone with practiced care, and James let out a soft sigh, though you weren’t sure if it was from relief or something else entirely.

As you worked, you couldn’t help but notice the way he was looking at you—like you were the only person in the world. It made your heart do an annoying little flip, but you pushed the feeling aside, focusing on the task at hand.

"Is there anything else you need?" you asked softly, your hands still cradling his face.

James hesitated for a moment before his lips curled into a grin, mischief sparkling in his eyes. "Actually, yeah. There is one thing."

You tilted your head, worried there might be another injury. "What is it?"

He leaned just the slightest bit closer, pointing to his cheek, his grin turning playful. "Aren’t you going to kiss it better?"

You blinked, taken aback for a moment, before a laugh escaped your lips. “James Potter, you’re impossible."

"Hey, it might help," he said, his grin widening. "You’re the healer—you’d know best, wouldn’t you?"

Rolling your eyes, you tapped his nose lightly. "I think the salve will do just fine."

He sighed dramatically, sitting back against the bed. "Worth a shot."

You shook your head, trying to suppress a smile as you packed up your supplies. "Let me know if the swelling doesn’t go down in a day or two. And try to stay out of trouble for once."

"No promises," he said, hopping off the bed. Before leaving, he paused by the door, turning back to flash you a boyish grin. "Thanks, Y/N. You’re the best."

As the door closed behind him, you couldn’t help but smile to yourself. James Potter might have been impossible, but he was also undeniably charming.

⋆˖⁺‧₊☽◯☾₊‧⁺˖⋆

[latenightreadingpdf]

Quiet Love - Spencer Reid

₊‧⁺˖⋆ Masterlist ⋆˖⁺‧₊

Summary: A quiet moment between you and Spencer.

⋆˖⁺‧₊☽◯☾₊‧⁺˖⋆

The sound of the door unlocking catches your attention. You glance over just in time to see Spencer step inside, his shoulders slightly slumped, dark circles under his eyes. He sets his bag down gently, his tie already loosened, and lets out a quiet sigh.

You rise from the couch, padding over to meet him at the door. Without a word, you wrap your arms around him, pulling him into a warm hug. He leans into you, his face brushing against your hair, and you press a soft kiss to his cheek.

"How was work?" you ask, your voice soft as you rub small circles on his back.

"Tiring," he admits, his voice low and gravelly from hours of talking. "But... we caught him."

"That's good," you say, pulling back just enough to meet his eyes, your hands still resting on his arms. “I was just watching this new sci-fi show that came out. Want to join me?”

His tired expression softens, a faint smile tugging at the corners of his lips. "Yeah, I'd like that."

You lead him to the couch, the soft glow of the TV filling the room. The moment you sit, Spencer gravitates toward you, and you end up squished together, your legs tangled as though neither of you can bear to have even an inch of space between you.

The show plays in the background, its plot weaving through your mind, but you’re far more focused on the way Spencer's weight presses against you. His body is warm, and you can feel him trying to resist the sleep that’s been eluding him for days.

It doesn’t take long before you feel his head gently fall against yours. His breathing slows, deep and even. You glance up and see his face, peaceful in a way that makes your heart swell. You can’t help but smile to yourself, overwhelmed with the quiet gratitude of this moment, of him being in your life.

Slowly, the warmth and rhythm of his breaths lull you into sleep, your head nestled against his shoulder, content in the quiet love you share.

⋆˖⁺‧₊☽◯☾₊‧⁺˖⋆

A/N ~ just a cute little blurb cause I'm rewatching criminal minds.

[latenightreadingpdf]

The Cutest Thing - Sirius Black

₊‧⁺˖⋆ Masterlist ⋆˖⁺‧₊

Summary: When you visit the Marauders' dorm to ask Remus for help with your Charms homework, you're surprised to find a large black dog in the room.

⋆˖⁺‧₊☽◯☾₊‧⁺˖⋆

You hurried through the hallways of Gryffindor Tower, clutching your Charms textbook and muttering to yourself. The essay Flitwick assigned was due tomorrow, and you were in desperate need of help. Luckily, Remus Lupin was your go-to for all things academic, and you figured he wouldn’t mind you dropping by the Marauders’ dorm.

When you reached their door, you knocked softly at first, then a bit louder when no one answered. From inside, you could hear what sounded like… barking? Frowning, you knocked again. Still no answer. The barking continued, frantic and insistent.

Worried something was wrong, you slowly pushed the door open.

“Hello? Remus?”

The scene that greeted you was not what you expected. Remus was sitting cross-legged on his bed, nose buried in a book. James was lounging on his bed, tossing a ball in the air, while Peter sat at the desk scribbling something on parchment. In the center of the room was a large, black dog pawing at Remus, barking as if trying to get his attention.

You froze in the doorway.

James noticed you first, the ball dropping to his chest with a thud. “When did you get here?”

You gestured at the dog. “Uh… whose dog is that?”

All three boys froze, exchanging a fleeting, panicked glance.

“Oh, him?” James said quickly, sitting up. “We, uh, found him outside. Poor thing was injured, so we brought him in to heal him up.”

Your heart melted instantly. “Oh, you poor thing!” You crouched down, extending a hand toward the dog. “C’mere, boy.”

The dog—who had been ignoring the boys entirely—turned to you immediately, tail wagging furiously. He sniffed your hand, then began licking it enthusiastically.

You laughed, scratching behind his ears. “You’re the cutest thing I’ve ever seen. And your fur is so soft!”

The dog leaned into your touch, practically vibrating with joy.

James cleared his throat. “Yeah, he’s, uh, a good boy. Aren’t you, boy?”

“What are you going to do with him after he’s healed?” you asked, looking up at the boys.

The dog let out a whine, nudging your hand with his nose.

“Not sure yet,” Remus said tightly, glaring at the dog as if it had personally insulted him. “Probably just let him back out where we found him.”

You frowned, running your fingers through the dog’s fur. “That’s so sad. I’ll miss you so much, boy.”

The dog whined louder, pressing his head into your lap.

James stood abruptly. “Well, it’s getting late! You should probably head back to your dorm now.”

You blinked. “It’s six o’clock?”

“Yep, still, you’ve got a big day tomorrow,” James said, ushering you toward the door.

“Alright, alright, I’m going,” you laughed, giving the dog one last scratch behind the ears. “Bye, cutie!”

The dog barked, wagging his tail so hard it thumped against the bedpost.

The moment the door closed behind you, Remus rounded on the dog.

“Change back, now.”

With a shimmer of fur and a crack, Sirius Black stood in the middle of the room, his trademark smirk firmly in place.

“Did you hear her?” he asked, looking positively delighted. “She said I was the cutest!”

Peter groaned, dropping his head into his hands.

Remus scowled. “You’re insufferable.”

“I can’t help it,” Sirius said, throwing himself onto James’s bed dramatically. “I’ve got the charm—both human and canine.”

James rolled his eyes. “Just don’t get too comfortable, Pads. She’ll find out eventually.”

“And when she does,” Sirius said, grinning like a maniac, “she’ll already think I’m adorable.”

⋆˖⁺‧₊☽◯☾₊‧⁺˖⋆

A/N ~ just a short little blurb because I’m bored

[latenightreadingpdf]

Summer Nights - James Potter

₊‧⁺˖⋆ Masterlist ⋆˖⁺‧₊

Summary: Y/N and James Potter have been best friends since childhood. When Sirius and Remus decide to stay with him for the summer, James makes a pact to make it the most unforgettable one yet.

⋆˖⁺‧₊☽◯☾₊‧⁺˖⋆

You and James had known each other since the very beginning. Growing up in the house next door, you were each other's first friend, practically inseparable from the start. Your parents were close friends, wizards who had known each other even before you were born, and they would often joke that the two of you had been “partners in crime” from the time you could crawl. There were countless photos scattered around your house: a tiny James, his glasses too big for his face, helping you attempt your first levitation spell, or the two of you on your broomsticks, flying low and wobbling slightly as you raced across the yard.

But when it came time for Hogwarts, your paths diverged. James got his letter, of course, but for reasons your parents never fully explained, they decided you wouldn't go. They reassured you that it wasn’t a reflection on you or your abilities, but rather a decision to keep you safe, especially with the state of the wizarding world. Instead, they’d teach you magic themselves while you went to a regular Muggle school.

James tried everything to convince them otherwise, insisting he’d look after you and make sure you were never in danger. He promised he wouldn’t let you out of his sight, that he'd stand by your side through every lesson and defend you from anything Hogwarts could throw your way. While your parents found his offer adorable, they held firm. So, when September came, you stayed behind, and James went off to Hogwarts. Since then, the school year had always meant time apart, and you’d count down the days until the holidays and summers, waiting for him to come home.

But you never let the distance stop you from being close. You and James had an unbreakable bond, kept alive through a flurry of letters every term.

During the school year, those letters became everything. James would write about all the things he was sure you’d love: his new friends, his latest Quidditch achievements, the clever pranks he pulled off with Sirius, and the way Remus could calm down even the rowdiest moments. He sent stories of sneaking around the castle at midnight, stumbling upon Peeves the Poltergeist, and even daring detours to the Forbidden Forest. Every letter was filled with a whirlwind of adventures, and he’d end each one by telling you how much better it would all be if you were there to experience it with him.

You wrote back just as often, sharing every small detail of your life that he was missing. The mundane lessons, the Muggle friends who couldn’t know anything about magic, and the spells your parents taught you at home—magic that felt incomplete without being able to share it with him. You’d complain about how ordinary your school was in comparison, with no magic staircases or enchanted ceilings. In each letter, you’d tell him how much you longed to be there, side by side, where you belonged.

James would read your letters with a broad grin, practically glowing as he opened each one. He didn’t care how confused it made his friends when they caught him smiling like a maniac at breakfast, owl perched on his shoulder. He'd be quick to tell them, “Oh, it's just Y/N,” and go on about you until Sirius and Remus couldn’t help but be curious about this friend he adored so much but whom they’d never met.

As the end of the school year approached, his excitement reached new heights, because this time, he wasn’t just coming home to you; he was bringing his friends with him. He wrote letters counting down the days, telling you everything about how thrilled he was to finally introduce you to Sirius and Remus, and how he was sure you’d love them. The train ride back was filled with his chatter about you, barely giving his friends a chance to ask questions before he’d start rambling about how you were practically family to him.

And then, after what felt like forever, the last day of term finally arrived.

James could hardly keep himself in check. The moment he got home, he was already dashing down the lane toward your house, his friends scrambling to keep up. By the time he reached your door, his heart was racing, his hands fidgeting with anticipation as he knocked, practically bouncing on his feet. He could hear footsteps approaching, and he barely managed to hold still as the door opened.

The second he saw you, there was no holding back. You both leapt forward, and suddenly, you were in his arms, squeezing each other in a hug that held all the months and miles you’d spent apart. After a moment, you pulled back just enough to look at him, grinning as you took in his taller frame, the confidence in his smile. You raised an eyebrow and gave his arm an appraising squeeze.

“Quidditch really suits you, Potter,” you teased, laughing as he flexed under your hands.

“Glad you noticed,” he replied, playfully striking a pose as if to impress you. He was clearly showing off, but you couldn’t help but laugh, feeling the easy familiarity slip right back into place.

Your gaze shifted, catching sight of the two boys standing behind him, watching you with curiosity. Your face lit up as you looked at them. “Oh, you must be Sirius and Remus! It’s so nice to finally meet you.”

You didn’t hesitate, stepping forward and pulling each of them into a quick hug. Sirius was momentarily stunned, his cheeks tinged with surprise, and Remus’s reserved smile softened at the warm gesture. “It’s nice to meet you too, Y/N,” they both murmured in turn, caught a little off guard by your immediate warmth.

James beamed, practically radiating joy as he looked between you all. “So, want to come over and hang out?” he asked, as though he hadn’t already decided you would.

“Sure,” you replied with a grin, and soon you were all walking together back to the Potters’ house, James at your side, talking your ear off about everything and nothing at all.

When you arrived, he showed Sirius and Remus to their rooms, practically ushering them inside before taking your hand and pulling you up to his own room. Once inside, he flopped down on his bed, stretching out his arms toward you. “I’ve missed you too much,” he said, a boyish grin spreading across his face. “I need you right here. Come on!”

You rolled your eyes, but you couldn’t help smiling as you climbed onto the bed, settling down with your head on his chest as his arms wrapped around you, familiar and comforting. For a moment, there was only a peaceful silence as you lay together, feeling the steady rhythm of his breathing beneath you.

Then, in a quiet voice, James whispered, “I wish you could go to Hogwarts with me. Every day. I just… I want to do this every night.”

You felt your heart sink a little as you looked up at him, seeing the longing in his eyes. You reached up and brushed a hand through his hair, giving him a soft smile. “I know, James,” you murmured, your voice gentle. “But it’s summer now. So, we’ll make every minute together count.”

His arms tightened around you, and in that moment, you knew he wasn’t going to let you out of his sight for even a second this summer. And somehow, that made all the distance during the school year melt away.

⋆˖⁺‧₊☽◯☾₊‧⁺˖⋆

After settling into the house, James, Sirius, Remus, and you all gathered in the Potters' cozy living room, a comforting mix of excitement and ease settling over the group. Remus, carrying a well-loved book in his hands, took a seat on the couch beside you. His attention drifted to the cover as he cracked it open, and your eyes lit up when you noticed the title.

“Oh! I love that book, what chapter are you on?” you said, unable to hide your enthusiasm.

Remus’s face brightened, a genuine look of surprise and excitement sparking in his eyes. “Oh I’ve already finished it once, it was just so good I had to read it again,” he admitted, blushing a bit out of embarrassment.

“It’s honestly brilliant,” you replied. “Every time I read it, I find something new. I swear, it just gets better each time.”

“I feel the same way,” Remus said, smiling warmly as the two of you sat on the couch and dove into a deep discussion about characters, themes, and every twist that left an impression on you both. He seemed thrilled to find someone who understood the magic of getting lost in a book.

While you and Remus talked, Sirius claimed an armchair nearby, sprawled across it with the casual elegance only Sirius Black could pull off. James, of course, settled down directly in front of you on the floor, his back leaning against your legs. Without a second thought, your fingers found their way to his hair, gently playing with his messy curls. James hummed in contentment, tilting his head slightly to let you reach even more of his hair, his voice relaxed as he launched into a conversation with Sirius about Quidditch plays and Gryffindor’s prospects for the House Cup.

The topics bounced between everyone, shifting every few minutes—James told stories of his latest Quidditch victories, Sirius cracked jokes that had everyone laughing, and Remus shared bits of wizarding lore you hadn’t yet learned, each of you listening with fascination.

Hours slipped away, and before you knew it, exhaustion set in. The cozy warmth of the room and the quiet companionship felt like a dream as one by one, you all began to drift off. James fell asleep first, his head resting comfortably on your lap, breathing slow and steady as your hand gently rested in his hair. Sirius had curled up in the armchair, his long legs dangling off one side, his face relaxed and peaceful. You leaned into Remus, both of you resting against each other, his head lightly tilted onto yours, his book still clutched in his hand.

As you closed your eyes, a contented feeling settled over you. This was only the beginning of the summer, and you had a feeling it was going to be one you’d never forget.

⋆˖⁺‧₊☽◯☾₊‧⁺˖⋆

[latenightreadingpdf]

Beneath the Moonlight - Remus Lupin

₊‧⁺˖⋆ Masterlist ⋆˖⁺‧₊

Summary: In the days leading up to a full moon, Remus Lupin receives an anonymous gift basket filled with potions, chocolates, and a carefully-brewed Wolfsbane Potion.

⋆˖⁺‧₊☽◯☾₊‧⁺˖⋆

Y/N considered herself a rather observant student, especially when it came to the Marauders. It was hard not to notice them, really. They were practically a four-person parade through the halls of Hogwarts—pranks, laughter, and charm trailing behind them like a comet's tail. James Potter with his messy hair and endless attempts to impress Lily Evans, Sirius Black with his dazzling grin and effortless cool, Peter Pettigrew following close, always eager to please. But one Marauder stood out to her more than the rest. Remus Lupin.

There was something about him that had Y/N hooked from the beginning. Perhaps it was his quiet brilliance or the way he seemed to carry a world of mysteries in those warm, honey-colored eyes. Or maybe, it was the way new scars seemed to appear on his face and hands every so often, faint but unmistakable. They fascinated her, those scars, and as her gaze lingered on him in class or at meals, she found herself trying to figure him out.

And, admittedly, somewhere along the way, Y/N developed a bit of a crush on him. But who wouldn’t? He was brilliant, always top of the class without trying too hard, and—and yes, he was gorgeous. Handsome in that annoyingly effortless way. Soft, tousled hair that practically begged to be touched, sharp cheekbones, and—Merlin, those knit jumpers that always made him look so adorable. How was that fair? It was like he’d been sculpted by some benevolent god of tall, bookish, sweater-loving dream boys.

But Y/N’s interest in him was more than just attraction. There was something… otherworldly about him. She’d started to notice patterns—how he would seem worn and pale every few weeks, how he would disappear entirely from school grounds for a day or two, only to return looking exhausted and, if possible, even more scarred than before.

A month ago, after endless speculation and careful observation, Y/N had arrived at a conclusion: Remus Lupin was probably a werewolf. She wasn’t completely certain; it was more of an educated guess. But what could she do with this theory? It wasn’t like she could walk up to him and blurt out, “Hey, Remus! You don’t know me, but I’ve been watching you for months, and I just wanted to ask, are you, by any chance, a werewolf?”

The thought alone made her cringe. Y/N sighed, tapping her quill against her parchment. Remus Lupin might be full of mysteries and maybe—just maybe—she’d get the courage to actually talk to him someday.

⋆˖⁺‧₊☽◯☾₊‧⁺˖⋆

The full moon was only a few days away, and Y/N could already see the toll it was taking on Remus. He was limping slightly, a stiffness in his stride that made her heart ache, and the dark circles under his eyes were more prominent than ever. He looked exhausted, like he hadn’t been sleeping in days, and though she knew he had his friends—the Marauders, always fiercely loyal—she couldn’t help but feel he needed more comfort than they could provide. She wanted to do something for him, something small but meaningful.

The idea hit her while she was rummaging through her bag in the library: an anonymous get-well-soon basket. She could leave it outside his dorm, a collection of little comforts to ease the days leading up to his transformation. She’d make sure it was subtle, not too personal, just enough to lift his spirits without drawing attention.

Excitement and nerves mixed in her stomach as she mentally listed what she’d need. A couple potions to help with sleep, pain, and anxiety, some of Honeydukes' finest chocolate, a soft blanket to keep him warm, and a few baked goods from the kitchen elves. She might even add a small note with a simple message—“Hope these bring you a bit of comfort during the full moon. Take care of yourself.”

Over the next couple of days, Y/N carefully gathered everything. She bought him a midnight-blue wool blanket that felt like a hug in fabric form and a variety of different chocolates. She used her advanced potion skills to make Murtlap Essence, a Calming Draught, and a Healing Potion.

But the most important addition was a small bottle of Wolfsbane Potion. She’d somehow managed to get her hands on the recipe, even though it wasn’t officially taught at Hogwarts—and she’d acquired a secret stash of the rare ingredients needed to brew it, though she'd never admit where from. It had taken several nights of brewing in the abandoned classroom she’d found, but she’d done it.

The full moon was only two days away when she finished assembling the basket, carefully placing the note on top before leaving it right outside the boys' dormitory. With a final glance over her handiwork, she quickly walked back to her dorm, satisfied with her work.

As she returned to her room, a little thrill of satisfaction bubbled within her. Maybe, just maybe, her small gesture would help Remus feel a little less alone, a little less burdened by the full moon’s approach. And that thought alone was enough to fill her with quiet joy.

⋆˖⁺‧₊☽◯☾₊‧⁺˖⋆

Just a few floors below, the Marauders were still lounging in the Gryffindor common room, sprawled across chairs and couches as the fire crackled low. They’d spent hours discussing pranks, arguing about the latest Quidditch match, and bickering about everything from Potions homework to the best way to dodge Filch. When the last embers started to die, they finally decided it was time to call it a night.

As they made their way up the stairs, it was James who first spotted the basket. He froze mid-step, eyebrows raised as he pointed it out. "Er, lads... anyone know what this is?"

The other boys crowded around, peering down at the unexpected sight.

“No clue,” Peter murmured, squinting at the note resting on top.

Sirius, with his usual curiosity, leaned down and plucked up the note, inspecting it with a grin before his eyes gleamed mischievously. “Ooooooh, Remus, it’s for you!” he cooed, reading the note aloud for the group: ‘Hope these bring you a bit of comfort during the full moon. Take care of yourself.’

The boys’ faces all fell at once. Whoever had left this knew. Someone had figured it out. Their carefully crafted excuses, the timing of their sneaking around, all the little tricks they’d come up with—they thought it was foolproof. But apparently, someone had been watching more closely than they’d realized.

Without another word, they grabbed the basket, exchanging uneasy glances as they rushed into the dormitory, shutting the door firmly behind them. They gathered around Remus’s bed, where James set the basket down, and just stared at it.

“Well? Open it already!” James urged, his voice a mix of curiosity, excitement, and a tinge of concern.

Remus took a steadying breath. His friends were watching him closely as he slowly lifted the wrapping, half-expecting some kind of prank to burst out at him. But instead, he found an assortment of thoughtful items neatly arranged within the basket. A stack of Honeydukes chocolates, carefully tied together with string. A blanket, dark blue and soft, lay folded at the side. Several small bottles—potions, each labeled with precision, sat in the center, cushioned by tissue paper.

They all scanned the contents in awe and curiosity, but Sirius was the first to notice something unusual. He gasped, eyes widening as he pointed to one particular bottle.

“Holy shit, is that—”

“Wolfsbane,” Remus finished quietly, staring at the vial with a mixture of shock and disbelief.

They all fell silent, taking in the implications of that single bottle. Wolfsbane Potion was incredibly complex, nearly impossible for a student to brew, and yet here it was—crafted, sealed, and ready for him. Someone had not only figured out his secret but had gone to lengths far beyond casual concern. The potion’s presence in the basket hinted at more than just kindness; it was a deeply personal gesture, an unspoken understanding that spoke volumes.

Remus swallowed hard, his fingers brushing the cool glass of the bottle. "Did the card say who it was from?" he asked, looking over at Sirius, who shrugged and handed him the note again.

Remus read the short message over and over, searching for any hidden clues, some hint that might give away the sender. But the note was short, simple, and entirely anonymous. He turned it over, checked for invisible ink, even held it up to the light, but there was nothing.

“Not a single hint?” James murmured, peering over his shoulder, a frown deepening across his face. “Nothing?”

The group exchanged baffled glances. They examined the basket once more, handling each item carefully to make sure nothing seemed dangerous. The potions were labeled clearly and accurately, the chocolate smelled rich and sweet, and the blanket was incredibly soft—perfect for a night when he’d be feeling cold and drained. Every item seemed genuine, carefully chosen, with not a hint of a prank or hex.

As they finished examining the basket, they slowly started getting ready for bed. Remus sat quietly on his bed, his mind racing as he took in the kindness of it all. He tucked the potions into his bedside drawer, hiding the chocolate where he knew Sirius wouldn’t be able to steal it, and spread the blanket over his bed. It was soft, warmer than his own, and the weight of it settled over him like a quiet comfort he hadn’t realized he needed.

Sliding under the blanket, Remus felt a warmth blooming in his chest. Someone out there knew his secret, but instead of using it against him, they’d tried to make things a little easier. And he knew, without question, that he had to figure out who it was.

⋆˖⁺‧₊☽◯☾₊‧⁺˖⋆

The full moon had passed in a calm that Remus had never experienced before. He woke that morning still feeling sore, but the aches were manageable. Normally, the transformations left him scarred and hollow, as if all the energy and warmth had been drained from him, leaving only exhaustion in its wake. But this time, thanks to the Wolfsbane Potion and the potions from the basket, he felt… human. Less broken.

After seeing the other Marauders off to class, Remus leaned back into his bed, feeling the softness of the new blanket wrap around him like a gentle hug. He’d spent the morning drinking one of the calming potions, using the healing salve for his aches, and nibbling on a bit of chocolate to ease his nerves. And though he was grateful, he couldn’t shake the strange blend of curiosity and unease that swirled in his mind. Who knew? Who cared this much? The secrecy felt like a burden, yet he couldn’t help but feel a small glow of warmth every time he glanced at the basket.

Meanwhile, James, Sirius, and Peter were trying to answer that very question in their own way. During Potions, they’d had an idea. Whoever had brewed Wolfsbane Potion had to be incredibly skilled, so finding out who had the best marks in Potions could narrow things down. The second Slughorn dismissed them, they pounced.

Sirius leaned casually on Slughorn’s desk, grinning with exaggerated innocence. “Professor,” he began, “say I wanted to improve my Potions skills. Just hypothetically.”

Slughorn’s eyebrows lifted, clearly intrigued by Sirius’s unusual interest. “Oh? Well, it’s about time, Mr. Black. I’d say your marks could certainly use a bit of boosting.”

“Oh, I know, I know!” Sirius waved his hands, laughing a bit. “That’s exactly why I was thinking maybe a bit of tutoring could help. So… who would you say is the top student in your class?”

James sidled up next to him, nodding earnestly. “Yeah, Professor. Who’s the best at brewing?”

Slughorn looked delighted, his chest puffing with pride at the idea of his Gryffindor students taking a sudden interest in his class. He lowered his voice as though he were sharing a prized secret. “Ah, if you’re looking for someone with real talent, you’d want to speak with Y/N Y/L/N. A truly gifted student! Absolutely meticulous with her brewing, and a Gryffindor as well! You boys ought to know her.”

Sirius and James exchanged baffled glances. “Y/N Y/L/N?” James muttered, frowning in thought.

Peter piped up, looking a little surprised. “Oh, I remember her. We did a project together in second year. She’s very sweet. I suppose she’s easy to miss, always keeping to herself.”

“Right…” Sirius trailed off, scratching his chin. “Doesn’t sound like the type to be sneaking around in the dead of night to drop off mysterious gift baskets, does she?”

“People can surprise you,” Peter shrugged. “I bet she’s got her reasons.”

After classes were over, the three Marauders nearly sprinted back to the dormitory. They’d waited all day to tell Remus their findings, and as soon as they saw him, they launched right into it.

“So,” Sirius said, flopping dramatically onto Remus’s bed, “we might know who left the basket.”

Remus looked up, eyebrows raised, though he tried to appear casual. “Really?”

James nodded, practically bouncing with excitement. “Y/N Y/L/N. Slughorn says she’s his top student in Potions. And she’s a Gryffindor, so she’d know where to find us.”

The name caught Remus off guard. “Y/N Y/L/N?” He knew exactly who she was—quiet, always hanging at the edges of things, never drawing attention to herself. He remembered her from their earlier years, especially a few years back when she and Peter had done that project together. She’d been kind and incredibly smart, but she always seemed to fade into the background.

Sirius shot him a curious look. “Wait—do you actually know her?”

Remus hesitated, carefully picking his words. “I mean… I remember her. We’ve been in classes together since first year.”

But what he didn’t say was that he’d once felt drawn to her quiet kindness. She wasn’t like other students; there was a thoughtfulness to her, a gentle intelligence that had always intrigued him. He remembered her now, the shy girl who had somehow made him feel seen, and the idea that she might have left the basket stirred something inside him—a mix of hope and nerves.

Sirius smirked, leaning in conspiratorially. “Oh, you remember her, do you?”

Remus rolled his eyes, trying to hide his blush. “Look, it’s probably not her. There’s no way she’d still remember… I mean, we barely ever talked.”

James raised his eyebrows. “Barely ever talked? That doesn’t mean she wouldn’t care. Besides,” he added with a grin, “you clearly want it to be her.”

Remus glanced away, not trusting himself to deny it. Because if it really was Y/N… she’d have gone to extraordinary lengths just to help him. It would mean she knew his secret and, rather than fearing him, had quietly found a way to ease his burden. And perhaps the most surprising part? He found himself hoping it was her.

Finally, he cleared his throat. “Alright. I’ll talk to her. See if there’s anything to this theory of yours.”

The next morning, with a hint of apprehension and excitement, Remus set out to find her. He decided to look in the library first, where he thought she might be studying between classes. But as he crossed the common room, he spotted her in the far corner, curled up in a chair with a thick book on her lap.

He took a steadying breath and made his way over to her. She looked up, clearly surprised to see him, her eyes widening as he gave a small, nervous smile.

“Hi, Y/N,” he said, trying to keep his voice steady. “Do you mind if I join you?”

She blinked, a little flustered, but nodded, gesturing to the seat across from her. “Um, of course, Remus.”

They sat in a slightly awkward silence for a moment, and Remus could feel his heart beating hard in his chest. He cleared his throat, feeling the weight of her attention on him.

“So… I, uh, wanted to thank you,” he started, not sure how to bring it up. “For… everything.”

She stiffened slightly, her cheeks flushing, but kept her gaze steady. “I’m not sure what you mean,” she replied quietly.

He watched her, seeing the faintest hint of a smile playing at her lips, and knew then, without a doubt, that she was the one. “The gift basket. The potions. The blanket.” He lowered his voice. “The Wolfsbane. It helped me… more than I can say.”

Her face softened, and she nodded, understanding in her eyes. “I’m… really glad to hear that. I just wanted you to have what you needed. It’s not easy going through all that on your own.”

Remus felt his heart swell. Here she was, fully aware of the truth and yet sitting here, calm and kind, accepting him exactly as he was.

He met her gaze, feeling a sense of calm he hadn’t felt in ages. “Thank you, Y/N. I don’t know what I did to deserve that kind of kindness from you, but… it means a lot.”

They sat there in a comfortable silence, the unspoken words passing between them, understanding filling the space. He knew he’d found a friend in her—someone who saw through the mask he wore and had chosen to help, not out of pity, but because she understood what it meant to care quietly, deeply, and without expectation.

And perhaps, he thought with a hint of warmth, this was only the beginning of something much deeper.

⋆˖⁺‧₊☽◯☾₊‧⁺˖⋆

A/N ~ this is kinda rushed sorry, school is killing me :P

[latenightreadingpdf]

Knock on the Door - Spencer Reid

₊‧⁺˖⋆ Masterlist ⋆˖⁺‧₊

Summary: In the midst of an intense investigation, Spencer and Derek bring you into protective custody after a disturbing discovery links you to their case. As you navigate the unexpected situation, Spencer’s calm presence offers reassurance, sparking an unexpected connection amid the chaos.

⋆˖⁺‧₊☽◯☾₊‧⁺˖⋆

The quiet street was a far cry from the usual high-stakes BAU scene, but the tension in the air made Spencer’s skin prickle with unease. He glanced at Derek, who was already preparing to knock on another door, exuding his usual calm confidence.

"This one could be a lead," Derek muttered, showing a slight glint of hope in his eyes as he raised his hand to knock. The case had been dragging on, and frustration was growing with each unanswered question.

When the door opened, Spencer noted the faint hint of confusion in your expression. Derek immediately flashed his badge, his tone respectful but firm. "Ma’am, I'm Agent Derek Morgan. This is my colleague, Dr. Spencer Reid. We’re with the FBI."

Your eyes darted between the two of them, registering the serious expressions they wore. "The FBI? What's going on?"

"Have you had any strangers come to your door recently trying to sell you something?"

A flicker of recognition passed over your face, and Spencer leaned in, catching the shift. "Actually, yes,” you said, brows furrowing. “A guy came by yesterday… He gave me his card.”

Spencer and Derek shared a look. "Do you still have that card?" Spencer asked, trying to keep the urgency out of his voice.

"Yeah, I think so. Let me grab it." You turned back into the house, leaving the door partially open, and returned a moment later with a card in hand. As Derek took it from you, he confirmed with a nod that it matched the cards left at the other crime scenes.

You looked between them, anxiety creeping into your voice. "What is going on? Who is this guy?"

Spencer’s voice softened, his gaze meeting yours directly. "We believe he's a dangerous criminal who may be responsible for several recent homicides. His method involves gaining entry to homes under false pretenses."

Your face paled as the weight of his words sank in. Derek placed a reassuring hand on your shoulder. "We need to take you back to the station to make sure you’re safe. There are some steps we’d like to take to ensure you’re protected while we gather more information."

"Safe? Is he going to try and kill me?"

Derek’s expression turned serious. "We have reason to believe he might try to come back, and it’s important we get ahead of him."

A sense of dread settled over you as you let their words sink in. You followed them to the car, feeling your stomach twist with a mix of fear and disbelief. As you settled into the backseat, Spencer turned to give you a reassuring nod.

“Just so you know,” he began, his tone gentle, “we’ll have officers posted near your home to ensure he doesn’t have the chance to get in. We’re taking every precaution.”

“Thanks,” you murmured, your voice barely above a whisper. “It’s just… a lot.”

“Understandable,” Spencer said, glancing at you with a sympathetic look. “We’ll also have you meet with a sketch artist and undergo a cognitive interview. It’s standard procedure, and it might help us learn more about him.”

You looked out the window, processing the reality of the situation. The quiet chatter between Derek and Spencer drifted over you as they discussed possible motives, patterns, and theories. But for now, you were too lost in your own thoughts to make out their words.

⋆˖⁺‧₊☽◯☾₊‧⁺˖⋆

When you arrived at the station, Spencer took a moment to walk you through the cognitive interview process. "It’s designed to help you remember specific details," he explained, his voice calm and assuring. "It might feel intense, but I’ll be with you the whole time."

You nodded, glancing around the bustling police station, feeling a strange mix of curiosity and adrenaline. "Okay, so… I just answer questions, and you’ll be able to get a clearer picture of this guy?"

Spencer gave you a small smile. "Pretty much. Think of it as helping us paint a portrait. Every detail, no matter how small, could be useful."

The interview went smoothly; Spencer’s presence was patient and encouraging, never making you feel pressured to remember something you couldn’t. Afterward, he led you to a small break room, offering you a seat at a worn table with a coffee machine humming nearby.

A few minutes later, Spencer returned with two steaming cups, handing one to you. "Here," he said, "it's not gourmet, but it’ll keep us awake."

You took it gratefully, feeling a sense of normalcy settle in. "Thanks, Spencer." You sipped the coffee, savoring the warmth. "I didn’t expect to spend my afternoon in an FBI station, but… it’s definitely more interesting than my usual routine."

Spencer chuckled, seeming surprised by your laid-back attitude. "Most people aren’t as calm in situations like this."

You shrugged, feeling the weight of the situation but refusing to let it get the best of you. "I don’t know. I figure, if I’m in good hands, there’s no point in freaking out."

As you chatted, Spencer filled you in on some of the behavioral profiling techniques they used, giving you a peek into the mind of the BAU. His eyes lit up as he explained the ways they’d been analyzing the unsub’s behavior to find any possible patterns, and you found yourself genuinely interested, asking questions and absorbing his answers.

"Do you ever wonder why people do these things?" you asked thoughtfully, watching him as he considered your question.

"All the time," Spencer replied, his voice softening as he looked down at his coffee. "But there’s rarely a straightforward answer. The best we can do is study the behaviors and try to make sense of them. Hopefully, it helps us stop them."

A sense of respect grew in you as he spoke, and you found yourself admiring the dedication he had for his work. "That sounds exhausting. Important, but exhausting."

"It can be," he admitted, his gaze meeting yours. "But it’s worth it, especially when it means keeping someone safe. Like now."

You smiled, feeling a warmth spread through you at his sincerity. "Well, I guess I’m lucky you guys were around."

The door to the break room opened, and Derek poked his head in, giving Spencer a grin. "You two doing all right in here?"

Spencer nodded, standing up to update Derek on the details you’d given during the interview. As they talked, you finished your coffee, feeling a strange sense of calm despite the unusual circumstances.

When Derek turned his attention to you, his gaze softened. "We’re going to have a team set up around your house tonight, keeping a close eye on things. We’ll catch this guy if he shows up."

You nodded, feeling reassured. "Thanks, Agent Morgan. I know you guys are handling it, so I’ll let you do your thing."

Spencer glanced back at you with a small smile. "If you need anything, or have more questions, just let me know."

As they walked you to the main desk, Spencer looked back, his gaze soft. "We'll keep you safe," he assured you once more, his sincerity unmistakable. "Until then, try not to worry. We’re on it."

A small smile tugged at your lips as you nodded. "I trust you," you replied, giving them one last grateful look before they escorted you to a waiting area. And as you waited, you felt a sense of calm, knowing you weren’t facing this alone.

⋆˖⁺‧₊☽◯☾₊‧⁺˖⋆

[latenightreadingpdf]

A Hufflepuff's Heart - Regulus Black

₊‧⁺˖⋆ Masterlist ⋆˖⁺‧₊

Summary: Regulus Black’s unexpected friendship with a sweet Hufflepuff is revealed when Sirius catches them together.

⋆˖⁺‧₊☽◯☾₊‧⁺˖⋆

The air in the castle was brisk, the cool draft weaving through the stone corridors and carrying with it the faint scent of autumn leaves and freshly lit torches. Regulus pulled his cloak a little tighter around his shoulders, his mind preoccupied with the latest round of pranks that had once again targeted Slytherin House. It wasn’t hard to guess who was responsible—his brother Sirius’s handiwork was as familiar as it was aggravating. Regulus could almost predict the moment Sirius would appear, armed with a smirk and a taunt, ready to test his patience yet again.

Sure enough, as Regulus turned the corner, Sirius was waiting there, arms crossed, looking entirely too pleased with himself.

“Ah, Regulus,” Sirius drawled, that irritatingly self-satisfied smile tugging at his lips. “How’s my favorite Slytherin?”

Regulus forced himself to remain calm, carefully keeping his expression neutral, planning to just walk right past his brother.

Sirius’s grin widened, undeterred. “I take it you noticed the common room… enhancement? Thought the emerald and silver scheme could use a bit of sparkle.”

Regulus rolled his eyes, the irritation flaring up despite his attempts to stay indifferent. “If you’re going to make yourself a nuisance, at least have the decency to make it subtle.”

“Oh, subtlety is no fun, Reg,” Sirius replied easily, leaning back against the wall, his eyes glinting with mischief. “Besides, it’s not as if you’re incapable of a bit of rule-breaking yourself. Don’t think I don’t know about those after-hours trips to the library—”

“Sirius,” Regulus interrupted sharply, his voice low but firm. “I’m not interested in discussing my nightly habits with you.”

Before Sirius could fire back, the sound of footsteps echoed down the corridor, followed by a familiar, bright voice that cut through the tension like sunlight breaking through clouds.

“Reggy!”

Both brothers turned to see you striding towards them, your Hufflepuff robes swishing as you approached, your face lighting up with a smile that was warm enough to melt even the most stubborn winter chill. Regulus’s expression softened instantly, his usual guarded look replaced by something more open, more vulnerable.

Without a second thought, you walked right up to Regulus and wrapped your arms around his neck, pulling him into a hug. He stiffened for a heartbeat, caught off guard by your sudden affection, but quickly melted into the embrace, his arms coming up to hold you close.

“Hey,” you said softly, pulling back just enough to look at him, your eyes filled with warmth and a hint of concern. “How have you been?”

“I’m… good,” Regulus replied, his voice softer than usual, almost as if he were afraid of breaking the spell your presence cast. A small, genuine smile tugged at his lips, a rare sight that seemed reserved only for you.

As you finally pulled back, still standing close to him, you seemed to notice Sirius for the first time, your gaze shifting over to the older Black brother with a look of surprise. A polite, curious smile flickered across your face as you gave him a small wave.

“Oh, hi! I didn’t realize there was anyone else here. I’m Y/N,” you said, introducing yourself in that sweet, open way that Regulus had come to adore.

Sirius raised his eyebrows, looking you up and down as if trying to solve a riddle. He offered a nod, his grin softening into something more curious, though he said nothing in reply. For once, Sirius Black seemed to be at a loss for words. There was something he couldn’t quite place about you—a gentleness, a warmth—that seemed so at odds with the icy walls Regulus usually built around himself. It was strange, almost impossible to imagine someone so kind being so close to his guarded, distant brother.

After a moment, Sirius managed a slight smile, finally extending his hand to you. "Sirius Black,” he introduced himself, his tone curious, though he kept his usual charm restrained. “Regulus’s… older brother.”

You took his hand, returning his smile with a polite one of your own. “Oh! It’s nice to meet you,” you replied, a hint of surprise in your voice. You turned back to Regulus, seemingly oblivious to Sirius’s scrutiny. “I had no idea you had a brother, Reggy!” you said with a laugh, your eyes shining with amusement. “You keep him quite the secret.”

Regulus shifted, his hand instinctively tightening around your shoulder. He’d dreaded this moment for so long, the day you would meet Sirius, the brother who seemed to draw people in without effort, who everyone adored and admired. Regulus had always felt invisible in his shadow, the “other” Black brother, colder and quieter, always on the outside looking in. But you had seen him—you had seen past the walls, the carefully constructed mask, and found something worth holding onto. And he couldn’t bear the thought of sharing that with Sirius, of watching you get pulled into his brother’s orbit and realizing he could never be what Sirius was.

Sirius, still watching silently, caught the faint, possessive gesture, the way Regulus seemed to pull you closer as if trying to keep you all to himself. His expression flickered with something unreadable, a mixture of curiosity and something softer, something he hadn’t expected to feel. Seeing Regulus with you—seeing his younger brother so fiercely protective of this rare connection—stirred something in him, a strange pang of almost… respect.

The silence stretched, and you shifted slightly, glancing between the two brothers as if sensing the tension, though you didn’t seem to mind. Instead, you gave Sirius a warm, friendly smile before turning back to Regulus, your hand reaching for his as you gave it a gentle squeeze.

“Well, Reggy and I should get going,” you said softly, looking up at him. “We’ve got some homework to catch up on.”

Regulus’s gaze softened at the touch, and he nodded, his lips curving into that faint, private smile that he reserved only for you. “Yes, we should.”

With a final nod toward Sirius, Regulus gently guided you down the hallway, his arm draped protectively over your shoulders. He glanced back once, catching Sirius’s gaze, and for a fleeting moment, the brothers shared a look of understanding—a silent acknowledgment, a truce of sorts. Sirius watched as you walked away together, his brow furrowed in thought, his mind turning over the strange puzzle of his brother and his unlikely friend.

How did someone as kind, as open-hearted as you manage to find your way into the life of someone as complex and withdrawn as Regulus? Sirius couldn’t understand it, couldn’t fathom what had drawn you to his quiet, brooding brother. But as he watched the two of you disappear down the corridor, he felt a spark of hope, a rare flicker of warmth in the cold, stone-cast walls of the castle.

Maybe Regulus had found something Sirius had never truly understood—a genuine connection that didn’t rely on charm or bravado, but on something softer, something real.

⋆˖⁺‧₊☽◯☾₊‧⁺˖⋆

[latenightreadingpdf]

Hold Me - James Potter

₊‧⁺˖⋆ Masterlist ⋆˖⁺‧₊

Summary: After a hard-fought Quidditch match against Slytherin, Gryffindor’s loss hits James Potter harder than anyone expected. With the defeat weighing heavily on him, Y/N stays behind to offer comfort while his friends try to lift his spirits.

⋆˖⁺‧₊☽◯☾₊‧⁺˖⋆

The sun was high in the sky, casting long shadows over the Hogwarts Quidditch pitch. The stands were packed with students, their scarves and banners waving frantically as Gryffindor and Slytherin faced off in what was bound to be one of the most intense matches of the season. Y/N sat in the Gryffindor section of the stands, nestled next to Remus Lupin. He had a book in his lap, though he wasn’t reading it, his amber eyes fixed on the pitch below.

"Come on, James," Y/N muttered, her gaze darting between James Potter and Regulus Black. The two Seekers were neck and neck, their brooms weaving in and out of the players below as they chased after the elusive Golden Snitch.

Remus nodded silently, his lips pursed. "They’re so close." His knuckles whitened as he gripped the edges of his book, though he had abandoned any pretence of reading. He hadn’t turned a page in the past half hour.

Y/N could feel the tension in the air, thick like a storm cloud. Every single student in the stands was on edge, watching intently as the Seekers danced through the air. Gryffindor’s hopes rested on James catching the Snitch, but Regulus wasn’t going to let it go easily. Y/N's heart raced as she watched the two of them twist and turn in midair, the tiny golden ball barely a blur in the distance.

James and Regulus were neck and neck, brooms darting dangerously close as they sped through the maze of players. There was a collective gasp from the crowd as they narrowly avoided colliding with a pair of Beaters who were too absorbed in their own skirmish to notice the Seekers darting past.

“They’re going to crash if they’re not careful,” Y/N whispered, her hands clasping tightly together as anxiety bubbled in her chest. She could see the raw determination on James’s face, his hair windswept and wild as he leaned forward on his broom, pushing it to its limits. His focus was entirely on the Snitch, completely oblivious to anything else on the pitch.

Suddenly, something strange happened. James’s broom jerked unnaturally, wobbling violently as if an invisible hand had grabbed it. It veered off course, and for a split second, Y/N thought he might be able to regain control, but the broom jerked again, this time harder. It twisted sharply to the left, causing James to lose his balance. His fingers gripped the handle tightly, knuckles white, as he struggled to steady it.

The crowd gasped, and Y/N instinctively grabbed Remus’s arm, her nails digging into his sweater. James fought to steady his broom, his face set in determination, but it was no use.

“Merlin’s beard,” Remus muttered under his breath. “That’s not normal. Someone’s messing with his broom.”

Y/N’s heart sank. She had seen something like this before—the time during their second year when Professor McGonagall had to stop a match because someone had tampered with one of the school brooms. But this time, it was worse. It wasn’t just a Slytherin ploy to distract James; it was sabotage.

Regulus, on the other hand, seized the opportunity. With a final burst of speed, the Slytherin Seeker shot forward and snatched the Snitch from the air. The whistle blew, and the Slytherin section erupted in wild cheers. Their green and silver banners waved triumphantly as they celebrated their victory.

“Slytherin wins!” the announcer’s voice boomed, but all Y/N could hear were the groans and disappointed mutterings of the Gryffindors around her.

Remus exhaled slowly. “That was… unexpected,” he murmured, his eyes narrowing as he watched James struggle to bring his broom back down to the ground. Y/N's chest tightened with frustration. She knew something had happened to James’s broom—probably Slytherin sabotage—but there was no proof.

As the Gryffindor team trudged off the pitch, heads hung low, the cheers from the Slytherin stands rang in her ears. The energy in the Gryffindor stands had drained, leaving behind a dull silence, broken only by scattered conversations about what had just happened.

“Bloody cheats,” Mary Macdonald muttered, standing next to Lily Evans, her hands clenched into fists. “There’s no way that was an accident. They did something to his broom. You saw how it was jerking around.”

Lily nodded in agreement, her eyes filled with concern as she watched James descend toward the ground. “I don’t know how, but they definitely did something. James should have caught that Snitch.”

“Yeah,” Dorcas said, wrapping her scarf more tightly around her neck as the evening air grew colder. “You could see it from up here. There’s no way his broom would just do that on its own.”

The rest of the Gryffindors in the stands had already started to file out, but Y/N and her friends lingered. Marlene McKinnon, the Gryffindor Chaser, was the last to leave the field. Her shoulders were slumped, her expression dejected as she trudged toward them, her broom dragging behind her.

“Marlene!” Lily called out, hurrying forward to meet her. The group closed in around Marlene, pulling her into a big, warm hug.

“You played great,” Mary said softly. “It wasn’t your fault.”

“Yeah,” Dorcas added. “That broom business was total rubbish.”

Marlene gave them a weak smile, her eyes filled with exhaustion. “Thanks, but it still sucks.”

“It’s not your fault,” Y/N said, stepping closer and resting a hand on Marlene’s shoulder. “It was Slytherin cheating. You did the best you could. James knows it too.”

Marlene gave a small nod, but the disappointment in her eyes was hard to shake. She had given everything during that match, and losing like this felt like a punch to the gut.

“Let’s head back to the dorms,” Lily suggested, glancing around at the emptying stands. “We can have a girls’ night, yeah? Chocolate, pyjamas, the works.”

Y/N gave Marlene’s arm a reassuring squeeze. “Go on. I’ll wait here for James and Sirius.”

Marlene nodded, a bit of the sadness lifting from her face as the group began to make their way back toward the castle. Y/N watched them go, then turned back to the pitch, waiting patiently as the last few stragglers left the stands.

After a few minutes, the locker room door creaked open. Sirius Black emerged, his usual cocky grin nowhere to be seen. His shoulders were tense, and his dark hair was damp from the post-match shower. The moment Y/N saw him, she stood up and hurried over.

“Sirius,” she called softly.

He looked up, his grey eyes dull with frustration, but before he could say anything, Y/N pulled him into a tight hug. “You were brilliant out there,” she whispered, her voice soothing. “It wasn’t your fault, and you know it.”

Sirius sighed, wrapping his arms around her in return, though his grip wasn’t as firm as usual. “Thanks, Y/N,” he muttered, but his voice was distracted. He pulled back slightly, glancing over at Remus, who was watching quietly from a few feet away.

Remus stood up and offered Sirius a small smile. Sirius walked over to him, and without a word, Remus pulled him into another hug. Unlike Y/N’s brief embrace, Sirius stayed in Remus’s arms longer, resting his head on his shoulder for a moment longer than necessary.

Y/N’s heart warmed at the sight, the quiet beginning of something unspoken passing between the two boys. She could feel it, even if they didn’t realise it yet.

Once they pulled away, Sirius rubbed the back of his neck and sighed. “James… isn’t doing great. He’s pissed—mostly at himself—and he doesn’t want to see anyone. He’ll probably take a while to come out.”

Y/N frowned, worry creeping into her chest. “That bad?”

Sirius nodded. “He blames himself for losing. Thinks he should’ve been able to fight whatever Slytherin did to his broom.”

Y/N exchanged a glance with Remus. “He’ll come out when he’s ready,” she said. 

Sirius gave a faint nod, looking relieved that someone would be there for his best friend. “We should head back. He’ll be fine eventually.”

As they made their way back to the castle, Y/N walked beside Sirius, linking her arm through his, offering comfort. The three of them didn’t say much, but their presence was enough to calm the disappointment that hung in the air.

⋆˖⁺‧₊☽◯☾₊‧⁺˖⋆

Later that night, Y/N walked into the Gryffindor common room, the warmth of the fireplace casting a soft glow over the space. Sirius and Remus were sitting on one of the couches, close together, wrapped in cozy jumpers. Their heads were bent in quiet conversation, the firelight flickering over their faces.

“Is James back yet?” Y/N asked, approaching them.

Remus nodded. “Yeah, he’s upstairs. Hasn’t come down since.”

Y/N sighed and leaned down to give each of them a quick hug, planting a kiss on their cheeks. “I’m going to check on him.”

Sirius nodded, his eyes following her as she made her way to the boys’ dormitory stairs. “Good luck,” he called after her.

Climbing the stairs, Y/N reached James’s door and knocked gently. There was a pause before she heard his muffled voice from the other side.

“Go away, Sirius.”

“It’s me, James.”

Silence followed, and for a moment, she wasn’t sure if he was going to answer. But then she heard the soft click of the door unlocking, and it creaked open.

James stood there, his glasses slightly askew and his eyes red-rimmed from crying. Tear tracks marked his cheeks, his face crumpling the moment he saw her.

“Oh, Jamie,” Y/N whispered, stepping inside and closing the door behind her. She pulled him into her arms, and James buried his face in her neck, his breath shaky as he tried to hold back more tears.

“I’m sorry,” he muttered, his voice hoarse.

“You don’t have to be sorry,” Y/N said softly, running her hands up and down his back, offering comfort. She guided him over to the bed, sitting down and keeping him close. James wrapped his arms around her, holding on as if she were the only thing grounding him.

“Is there anything I can do?” Y/N asked, her voice gentle as she played with his messy hair.

James shook his head against her chest. “Just… just hold me, please.”

“Come here.” Y/N said as she leaned back, pulling him with her until they were lying on the bed. His head rested on her chest, his body curled up beside her as his arms stayed wrapped around her waist.

Y/N smiled softly, her hands threading through his dark hair, massaging his scalp in slow, soothing strokes. She could feel the tension in his body begin to ease as he relaxed into her touch.

After a while, James’s breathing evened out, his grip on her loosening slightly as sleep began to pull him under. Just before he drifted off, he mumbled in a low, sleepy voice, “Godric, I’m so lucky to have you.”

Y/N’s heart swelled with warmth, and she pressed a soft kiss to the top of his head. “I’m lucky to have you too, Jamie.”

⋆˖⁺‧₊☽◯☾₊‧⁺˖⋆

[latenightreadingpdf]

Spencer's Secret - Spencer Reid

₊‧⁺˖⋆ Masterlist ⋆˖⁺‧₊

Summary: All Spencer wanted was to finish his paperwork and go home, but now he’s in a bar, drunk, and confessing all his secrets to Derek.

⋆˖⁺‧₊☽◯☾₊‧⁺˖⋆

The team had barely settled back into the office after a grueling case when Derek threw an arm over Emily’s shoulder, talking about needing a drink. Emily agreed with a weary smile, and soon enough, JJ, Penelope, and Rossi had chimed in, all eager to unwind together. Somehow, they’d even managed to convince Hotch, who gave them a reluctant nod, his rare smile hinting he could use a break too.

All that was left was Spencer. Sitting at his desk, he was hunched over, diligently finishing up his paperwork, when Derek strolled over and leaned in with his usual, "Hey, pretty boy."

Spencer looked up, already anticipating the question. "No, Derek, I’m not going."

Derek raised an eyebrow, feigning innocence. "I didn’t even get to ask!"

"Doesn’t matter. I’m not going," Spencer replied firmly, looking back down at his files.

"Come on, kid," Derek urged, his voice dropping to a softer, pleading tone. "Just this once. If you come, I’ll never ask again. I swear."

Spencer let out a sigh, the exhaustion of the day finally catching up with him. There was a beat of silence as he mulled it over, glancing at the hopeful faces of his teammates nearby. Finally, he closed his file, resigned. "Fine," he muttered, “but just this once."

Derek’s face broke into a grin, practically bouncing on his feet. "You heard him, guys—he’s in! Let’s go before he changes his mind."

Spencer reluctantly stood up, pulling on his coat with a sigh. He glanced around, noticing the others already gathering their things, excitement buzzing among them. As they all filed out together, Penelope slung an arm around Spencer, giving him a reassuring squeeze.

"Oh, Spence, you’ll have fun. Trust me," she said, winking.

Spencer managed a small, hesitant smile, wondering just what he was getting himself into. It wasn’t exactly his ideal night out, but surrounded by his friends, he couldn’t help but feel a faint sense of anticipation growing despite himself.

⋆˖⁺‧₊☽◯☾₊‧⁺˖⋆

As soon as the team settled into the bar, the weight of the last case started to fade. They ordered the first round, eager to drink, laugh, and let loose for a few hours. The drinks flowed freely, and soon they were deep in conversation, sharing old stories and laughing harder with each passing round. Spencer, who rarely drank, was feeling more than a little tipsy. Nights like these weren’t really his scene—he usually found it far more comfortable to stay home. But now, with the warm buzz in his head and his friends around, he was actually enjoying himself.

Meanwhile, Derek had been off flirting at the bar, but eventually made his way back to the booth, where Spencer was the last one still sitting. Derek, who could hold his liquor well, was only slightly buzzed. He noticed Spencer's dazed expression and grinned, sliding into the seat next to him. "Pretty boy," he said, nudging him, "there are so many gorgeous women here tonight. You should go try and have some fun, maybe even get a date."

Spencer, a little too drunk to filter his thoughts, shook his head. "Don’t need a date," he said, his words slurring slightly.

Derek raised an eyebrow, smirking. "Oh yeah? And why’s that?"

Spencer’s face softened, and he blurted, “I’ve got an amazing girlfriend at home.”

"Right, sure," Derek teased, not at all convinced. "So what’s her name?"

Spencer’s face lit up. "Y/N," he said, his voice full of adoration. He leaned in, eyes dreamy, and started rambling. “She’s incredible, Derek. So smart, so beautiful. She’s way out of my league—I still can’t believe she’s with me.”

Derek chuckled, noticing just how drunk Spencer was. It was getting late, and he knew Spencer would never make it home on his own. “Why don’t you call Y/N to pick you up, then?” he said, jokingly.

Spencer’s face brightened, and he fumbled for his phone. Derek watched in amusement as he dialed, still skeptical, until he heard a faint “Hello?” from the other end.

Spencer’s face lit up even more. “Hello, my love,” he said, voice thick with affection.

You let out a soft laugh on the other side of the line. “Hey, Spence! Everything alright?”

Spencer grinned, completely forgetting why he’d called. “Yeah,” he said dreamily. “I just…wanted to hear your pretty voice.”

You laughed, clearly touched. Derek, now genuinely surprised that someone had actually answered, took the phone from Spencer, holding it up to his ear. "Hello?" he asked, still a bit skeptical.

"Uh, hi,” you replied, a little confused. “Who is this?"

Derek cleared his throat. “This is Derek. Spencer friend.”

“Oh! Nice to finally meet you, Derek, Spencer talks about you and the team quite a bit.” you said, sounding amused. “I’m Y/N, his girlfriend.”

Derek muttered, “Holy shit, you’re real.”

"Sorry?" you asked, sounding puzzled.

“Nothing, nothing,” he chuckled. “Listen, Spencer’s had a bit too much to drink. Are you able to pick him up?”

You let out a soft, understanding laugh. “Yeah, of course. Just tell me where you guys are.”

Derek gave you the address and hung up, handing the phone back to Spencer. "Your girlfriend’s coming to get you," he said, still slightly in awe that Spencer’s been hiding a girlfriend from them.

Spencer’s eyes lit up even more. “Y/N?” he asked eagerly.

“Yeah, pretty boy, Y/N,” Derek replied, shaking his head with a grin.

Spencer slumped back in his seat with a satisfied sigh. “Finally,” he mumbled. “Someone cool to hang out with.”

Derek just laughed, patting Spencer on the shoulder. He sat down with Spencer and waited with him for Y/N to get there, eager to meet her.

⋆˖⁺‧₊☽◯☾₊‧⁺˖⋆

As Spencer was still happily rambling to Derek about his incredible girlfriend, the door opened, and a beautiful woman stepped into the bar. Spencer’s eyes widened instantly. "Y/N!" he exclaimed, jumping up so quickly he nearly tripped. He stumbled over to you, practically throwing himself into your arms, clinging to you like he’d just found his lifeline. He buried his face in your neck, a contented sigh escaping him.

You wrapped your arms around him, laughing softly at his drunken enthusiasm. "Looks like someone had a good time," you teased, rubbing his back.

“Missed you so much,” he mumbled into your neck, his words muffled but unmistakably fond.

Looking up, you noticed a man standing a few steps behind Spencer, observing the two of you with an amused grin. "You must be Derek," you said, offering him a warm smile.

Derek smiled back, giving a nod. "Nice to finally meet you. I’ve heard a lot about you tonight."

Before you could respond, Spencer had already started tugging you gently toward the exit. You glanced back at Derek and gave him a quick smile. "Hopefully we can actually talk sometime soon," you said, laughing as Spencer clung to your arm.

Derek chuckled, nodding. "I’d like that. Take care of him. Goodnight, Y/N."

He watched as you guided a tipsy, lovesick Spencer out of the bar, a soft smile still on his face. Just then, Penelope popped up beside him, curiosity sparkling in her eyes. “What are you staring at?” she asked, following his gaze to the exit.

“Spencer’s got a girlfriend,” Derek said, unable to keep a little laugh from escaping as he recalled the whole scene.

Penelope’s eyes went wide, and she gasped, practically bouncing in place. "Wait, what?! Our Spencer? Oh my God, I need details!"

Derek smirked, shaking his head. "Calm down, babygirl. You can interrogate him tomorrow," he teased.

Penelope pouted, but the excitement was already building. After a second, she sighed dramatically, then brightened up again and grabbed Derek’s hand. “Fine! But right now, you’re dancing with me.”

Derek let her pull him to the dance floor, chuckling as he made a mental note to tease Spencer about this night for a long time.

⋆˖⁺‧₊☽◯☾₊‧⁺˖⋆

[latenightreadingpdf]

Here it is! - Spencer's Secret

[latenightreadingpdf]

First Kiss - Remus Lupin

₊‧⁺˖⋆ Masterlist ⋆˖⁺‧₊

Summary: Sirius, James, and Peter tease Remus about his lack of a first kiss.

⋆˖⁺‧₊☽◯☾₊‧⁺˖⋆

The Marauders’ dorm was a hub of noise and laughter that night, with Sirius sprawled out on his bed, proudly recounting his latest adventure with a girl he’d met in Herbology. He stretched his arms out with a smug smile. “Absolutely couldn’t keep her hands off me,” he said, punctuating the sentence with a wink. “Who could, right?”

James, perched on the edge of his bed, raised an eyebrow but couldn’t keep from laughing. “Right, because obviously, you’re the irresistible Sirius Black. Never mind your terrible reputation.”

Sirius rolled his eyes, crossing his arms. “At least I’m doing something about my love life, unlike some people here,” he said, nodding toward James. “Speaking of—how’s it going with Evans?”

James grinned, his eyes brightening. “Actually, better than usual,” he said, a bit bashfully. “Last time I asked her out, she didn’t seem nearly as annoyed. Progress, right?”

Sirius clapped his hands together in a grand show of celebration. “It’s happening! Lily Evans is finally seeing the charm of our dear Prongs!”

Remus, sitting off to the side with a book in hand, did his best to block out the conversation, though his lips twitched into a faint smile. He turned the page, not really reading it, but it was better than participating in the banter. Maybe, if he was quiet enough, they’d forget he was there.

But, of course, they didn’t.

Sirius smirked as he turned to Remus. “What about you, Moony? Got any secret admirers you’re hiding from us?”

Remus shrugged without looking up. “No,” he said simply, his eyes stubbornly fixed on the book in front of him, even though he hadn’t comprehended a single sentence since Sirius started talking.

James leaned back, resting on his hands, and squinted at Remus with a skeptical grin. “I bet you haven’t even had your first kiss yet, have you?”

Remus felt the tips of his ears go warm. “What does that have to do with anything?”

Peter let out a small, surprised gasp. “Wait, really? Remus, you haven’t?”

Remus gritted his teeth, shrinking back slightly as all eyes in the room turned to him. “Yes, really. So what?” he said, bristling defensively. He sank lower into his chair, feeling the familiar urge to just vanish.

James held up his hands in a calming gesture. “Nothing wrong with that! It’s… noble, even,” he said, nodding. “I’m waiting for mine, too. For Lily.” He leaned back with a dreamy look on his face, as if he could see her there in front of him, and Remus had to bite back a chuckle.

But Sirius wasn’t about to let it go. With a mischievous grin, he jumped to his feet and swaggered over to Remus, leaning close. “You know, Moony,” he whispered conspiratorially, “I could help you out. Want me to teach you how to kiss?”

Remus’s eyes widened, and he tried to pull back, clutching his book tightly to his chest. “What? No, stop that!” he stammered, face burning. “I know how to kiss. I’ve read books!”

But Sirius was undeterred, moving even closer and pursing his lips in a ridiculous kissy face. “Oh really? The books taught you, did they?”

Remus flinched, scrambling back as much as he could while stuck on the bed, his face turning an even deeper shade of red. Sirius was nearly nose-to-nose with him when the door creaked open, and a voice interrupted their antics.

“Um…” You paused in the doorway, eyebrows raised as you took in the scene. “Should I come back later?”

Remus jerked upright so quickly he almost fell off the bed. He shot Sirius a warning look and quickly scrambled away from him, trying to salvage whatever dignity he had left. “No! No, you don’t have to leave,” he said, still looking as flustered as ever. “Stay. Please.”

You glanced between them, an amused smile on your face as you walked over. “What’s going on?”

Remus coughed, his gaze shifting to the floor. “Nothing. Absolutely no—” He could only hope you wouldn’t ask any more questions.

But, of course, Peter piped up. “We were just talking about how Remus hasn’t had his first kiss yet,” he said with a cheerful grin, clearly oblivious to Remus’s mortification.

Remus shot him a look, but the damage was done. He glanced at you, his cheeks going pink all over again. He hadn’t wanted you to hear about it, of all people. If he’d felt embarrassed before, now he was ready to crawl under his bed and never come out.

“It’s not a big deal,” he muttered, clutching his book like a lifeline. “I was just going to go somewhere quiet to read. A place where they don’t talk about my… kissing experience,” he added, shooting a pointed look at his friends.

Without waiting for a reply, Remus turned and made his way out of the dorm room, his heart pounding in his chest. He was halfway down the corridor when he heard footsteps following him. He slowed down and turned to see you jogging to catch up, your face softened with concern.

“Hey, Remus,” you said gently when you reached him, looking him in the eyes. “Is it true? You haven’t, um…?”

Remus sighed, pressing his lips together. He’d never thought about his inexperience much before, but now it felt like a glaring flaw. “Yeah, it’s true,” he admitted, his voice barely more than a mumble. “It’s a bit pathetic, really, isn’t it? Everyone else—Sirius, James—they’re all so confident, and I’m just…” He trailed off, letting out a frustrated sigh.

You reached out, your hand resting on his arm, stopping him in his tracks. “I don’t think it’s pathetic at all. It’s kind of sweet, actually.” Then, with a small, knowing smile, you leaned in and pressed a soft, quick kiss to his lips.

It was so brief that Remus barely had time to process it, but when you pulled back, he was frozen in place, staring at you with wide eyes and a stunned expression. His cheeks went a brilliant shade of red, and he swallowed, completely speechless.

“There,” you said softly, smiling up at him. “Now you don’t have to be embarrassed about it.”

The sound of voices suddenly broke the quiet, and the two of you turned back to see James and Sirius shouting about something from inside the room. You chuckled, rolling your eyes. “I should probably go check on them before they tear the place apart. You go enjoy your book, alright?”

With a final, reassuring smile, you turned and walked back to the dorm, leaving Remus standing alone in the hallway, still clutching his book and staring after you, completely dazed.

He finally looked down at the page in his book, a foolish grin tugging at his lips. He knew that focusing on reading was going to be utterly impossible.

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A/N ~ please tell me somebody gets the reference I made 🙏

[latenightreadingpdf]

Secrets of the Heart - Marauders Era

Chapter 6 - In the Stands

Secrets of the Heart Masterlist

The next morning, Aurora found herself waking up before the sun fully crested the horizon, determined to see what all the Quidditch fuss was about. She wrapped herself in a cozy sweater and, with her Hufflepuff scarf thrown over her shoulders, made her way down to the pitch.

When she arrived, the practice was already in full swing. James was darting through the air, leaning low on his broom as he scanned for the Snitch, while Sirius rocketed around, sending Bludgers flying with precise hits. She could just make out Peter in the distance, helping with drills. The only one who wasn’t on a broom was Remus, sitting a little ways up in the stands with a book in his lap, his gaze flickering between the pages and the action on the field.

Aurora approached quietly, but he noticed her footsteps, and when he looked up, his face lit up with genuine surprise and excitement. “You actually came!” he said, grinning as he closed his book.

She gave a small, shy smile. “Good morning, Remus. Thought I’d see what all the fuss is about.”

He chuckled. “Well, I’m glad you did. I was getting kind of bored just sitting here.”

They settled into a comfortable silence as they watched the players zip across the pitch. After a few moments, Aurora glanced at his book. “What’re you reading?”

He held it up so she could see the worn cover. “The Lord of the Rings.”

“What’s that about?”

His eyes brightened, and he started describing the journey of the hobbits, the sweeping landscapes of Middle-earth, and the concept of unlikely heroes. Aurora found herself getting drawn into the story through Remus’s passion and animated way of explaining it. He had a way of making even the most intricate details sound fascinating.

As they talked, they didn’t notice James spotting them from across the pitch. Mid-flight, he waved both hands and shouted, “Oi, Aurora! Good morning!”

She laughed and waved back, feeling oddly more at ease as she returned to her conversation with Remus. Seeing her in the stands seemed to spur James and Sirius into action; they started showing off their tricks, looping through the air and executing dives and spins. Aurora couldn’t help but laugh at their antics, giving them an encouraging thumbs-up, much to their delight.

They continued talking as the practice ended, both absorbed in discussing heroes and quests, not noticing the other players leaving the field. Eventually, Remus and Aurora realized the pitch had quieted down when Sirius and James sauntered up to them, fresh from the locker room.

James smirked, crossing his arms as he looked at the two of them. “Well, don’t you both look chummy.”

Aurora’s face flushed as she noticed just how close she had gotten to Remus during the practice. She started to shift away a bit, but before she could, Sirius plopped down on the bench beside her, effectively sandwiching her between him and Remus.

“So, did you enjoy the show?” Sirius asked, his eyes twinkling with mischief.

“It was… fun,” she admitted, stifling a small laugh. “I’ll probably come again.”

At this, Sirius and James exchanged a triumphant look and pumped their fists in celebration. “It’s because of how cool we are, obviously,” James declared, earning an eye roll from Remus.

As the four of them made their way back to the castle, Aurora felt herself settling into their easy rhythm, amused by their confidence but also surprisingly charmed by their enthusiasm.

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Later that night, past curfew, the Marauders found themselves wandering the darkened corridors, talking in whispers about their latest ideas. They were working on mapping out new routes and escape plans, testing ways to avoid getting caught when pulling off pranks. As they passed the Hufflepuff common room, James noticed a shadow creeping along the wall and nudged the others.

“Look, it's Aurora,” he whispered with a grin.

Sirius couldn’t resist. “Oi, Aurora!” he whispered loudly, his voice just carrying enough to startle her. She nearly jumped out of her skin, clutching her chest as she turned around.

“Oh my—Sirius! I thought you were a professor!” she hissed, slapping his arm as he laughed.

“Well, if I were, you’d be in detention,” he smirked, winking at her. “Want to join us? We’re heading back to the Gryffindor common room for a bit.”

After a moment’s hesitation, she nodded. “Sure, why not?”

Together, they quietly made their way through the castle, managing to avoid any wandering professors or Filch. When they finally slipped through the portrait hole into the Gryffindor common room, Aurora was greeted by the cozy warmth of the fireplace, crackling softly against the silence of the night.

They settled into the Gryffindor common room, laughter echoing softly in the quiet of the castle. The fire cast a warm, flickering light across their faces as they all sank deeper into the cushions. Remus and Sirius, leaning back on one couch, exchanged knowing glances as James scooted closer to Aurora on the other. Sirius stretched out, putting his legs across Remus’s lap, settling in comfortably with a lazy grin.

They spent a while chatting about professors, each Marauder throwing out impressions and imitations that had her snickering. Sirius gave a flawless rendition of Professor McGonagall’s sharp tone, and Remus did an exaggerated impression of Professor Slughorn’s affected voice. James’s version of Flitwick’s squeaky laugh had Aurora covering her mouth to stifle a laugh.

Eventually, the conversation turned to her. Remus, ever the curious one, asked her a question. “So, what was Beauxbatons really like? Is it as posh as they say?”

Aurora tilted her head, thinking. “In a way, I guess. It’s beautiful—everything’s so polished and ornate, like a palace. But it felt… strict. Formal, maybe? Hogwarts just feels more welcoming.”

“That’s Hogwarts for you,” Sirius said, his eyes crinkling with a smile.

“We’re glad you’re here,” James added, nudging her gently with his shoulder. “I mean, where else would you get a front-row seat to all our brilliant pranks?”

She smirked, but her face softened. “I think I’m glad to be here too.”

“Why the transfer, though?” Sirius pressed, his curiosity barely hidden. “Just tired of the French accent?”

Aurora glanced at her hands, feeling their gazes on her, and then shrugged. “My parents travel constantly for work, and they wanted me closer, so here I am.”

James nodded thoughtfully, then shot her a mischievous grin and leaned in close. “All right, serious question now. Which of us is your favorite Marauder?”

Aurora’s eyes went wide, and she burst out laughing, rolling her eyes. “Not you, obviously,” she said, pushing his face away.

He clutched his chest dramatically, pretending to gasp in horror. “Oh, Aurora Haven, you wound me!”

“Get up, you big baby,” she laughed, nudging him back upright. But he took the opportunity to slide his arm around her shoulders, giving her a grin as if daring her to protest. She hesitated, but after a second, relaxed, letting herself lean against him.

“Can’t believe she actually tolerated that, Prongs,” Sirius said, a playful smirk on his face. “Usually, girls last about five minutes before trying to run away.”

“Hey, speak for yourself,” James said, giving Sirius a mock glare. “I happen to be very charming.” He flashed her a grin that made her roll her eyes, though she couldn’t help but smile a little.

They settled back into more conversation, and soon, the Marauders started discussing the upcoming Quidditch season, each of them sharing their excitement, strategies, and hopes for Gryffindor’s chances. Aurora found herself enjoying the flow of their talk, the way they were so passionate about their house and their team, each of them with their own quirks.

As the fire crackled softly, she grew more comfortable, finding herself laughing freely with them and chiming in with her own thoughts here and there. Eventually, her eyes began to droop, and she felt herself getting sleepier with each passing minute. The warmth of the fire, James’s arm around her, and the low voices of the Marauders created a cozy lull that she couldn’t fight.

“You’re drifting off,” James murmured, noticing her eyes half-closed.

“Just a bit,” she admitted, stifling a yawn.

Sirius leaned over with a smirk. “Can’t handle a late night, Haven?”

She shot him a drowsy glare but couldn’t hide her grin. “I’ll manage,” she said, leaning her head back against the couch and closing her eyes, listening to the comforting sounds of their chatter.

As she was on the edge of sleep, she heard someone whisper softly, “Goodnight, love,” before she finally drifted off, a small smile lingering on her face. For the first time in a long while, Aurora felt truly at home.

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A/N ~ I'm not really sure if I like this story, I might not write anymore chapters :/

[latenightreadingpdf]

Merry Christmas.