#regulus black fics

[ourloveisforthelovely]

The Words "Best Friends" Become Redefined (one shot)

Regulus Black AU

Summary: You had been Regulus' friend since childhood and now his mistress. The war had changed many things, Regulus among them. Now its time to decide if you should put your self-worth over missing someone who was gone.

Pairings: Regulus Black x Reader 

Rating: M

Song in Chapter: Fast Car by Tracy Chapman 

_______

You lay in satin sheets watching Regulus dress. The clock on the wall read 11:30 pm. As usual, Regulus was done in less than an hour. It seemed, lately, that when the two of you met up for sex it wasn’t lasting as long as the time before that. Every time it seemed once Regulus got what he came for he was done. That was it, goodbye the end

Taking a breath, you looked back to your friend, lover, whatever Regulus was to you. Your heart ached as your eyes reached the dark mark on his arm. Regulus’s choices that been the frequent topic of all of the arguments that the two of you had. Had someone told you a year ago that this would be the predicament that you would find yourself in, you would have punched them. Never in a million years would you ever think that your best friend…the best friend that you had since 1st year…the man that you loved would ever be one of them. Yet, here he was and here you were trudging along after him.

You weren’t completely sure where the lines between friendship and lovers had blurred. Sleeping with Regulus had started months maybe a year ago. Sex was all that it was. Regulus had never once made a mention of making things official. He never even said anything romantic to you unless it was about how tight you were or how perfect your tits were.

Yet another thing that I never thought would happen with Regulus…

Regulus acting like you were some common piece of ass was something that never crossed your mind. When you began sleeping with Regulus, it was to provide him comfort. If you were comforting him, he wasn’t chasing someone else for comfort. You were providing him with what he needed and maybe, just maybe, he would reward you with what you wanted the most.

Keep dreaming. He would never date a Lupin in the open.

You frowned at the thought. Was there something wrong with your family? No, not in your eyes. In Walburga and Orion’s eyes, however, you were trash.

“Stop looking so god damn depressed, will you? It makes me wonder why I bother coming to see you.”

You looked up at Regulus’ harsh words. That’s another thing. Regulus was nothing like himself. He wasn’t your funny, thoughtfully caring best friend. Now he was cold, cruel, and hurtful. Yet again, you wondered why you trudged after him begging for a moment of his time. Were you afraid to let him go? Yes. You could easily admit that. Even with his cruel words and volatile temper, you weren’t prepared to let him go…at least not yet.

“I’m sorry, Regulus. This war…everything is so messed up. Can’t you stay tonight? It's late and we haven’t gotten to spend much time together in a long while.”

You said, before letting the sheets drop from your chest. Maybe seeing your bare breasts would be enough to appease the beast within Regulus. You were, after all, the one who comforted him when he needed it.

“I don’t have the time. Nothing is messed up. The dark lord will win soon enough. You need to stop being such a whining wimp.”

Pressing your lips together, you took a few moments before speaking.

“Is all that you have to say to me negativity? Is nothing that I do, outside of bed good enough for you?”

Regulus finished buttoning up his shirt. He knew that he was being cruel to you but did nothing to stop it. In Regulus’ mind, if he kept you pushed away he was keeping you safe. You wouldn’t be seeing the horrible things that he was doing or what his family really was. What he didn’t see was the foundation of your relationship beginning to crack and fracture.

“I’ll say anything to get a piece of your ass.”

You rolled your eyes.

“Is falling in love so bad? You make it sound so dreadful.”

Regulus moved to fix his bed-ravaged curls.

“Love isn’t real, Y/n. It's some made up emotion to woo silly little girls. Besides why waste your time? It’s shit. I don’t want someone whining after me wanting things that I don’t want. It sounds like a nightmare. Waking up to the same blasted person day after day…listening to them bitch because you don’t live up to some fairy tale being that one’s mind created. I would rather off myself.”

Had Regulus been paying attention to you at all; he would have seen how your hopeful expression fell to sadness.

“I thought that you loved me once upon a time.”

Regulus chuckled before turning to look at you.

“Poor little princess. I suggest getting over yourself or I’ll find another girl to keep me company. While whoever she would be wouldn’t please me as you do…it would be nice not to listen to your whining.”

You stood up and began searching for your own clothes. If this was how Regulus wanted things to be then you would just go home. You would go back home to your own friends. Sirius, Remus, James, and Lily never treated you like this. You weren’t just an option to them. They didn’t threaten to replace you when you were sad or questioning your worth. No, not your friends. They would instead go out of their way to make sure that you knew how much you were valued.

“Do whatever you wish then.”

You replied. Regulus tugged on his wool coat bore, again, rolling his eyes.

“Y/n, if I didn’t care about you then I wouldn’t be fucking you bare risking everything just to be close to you. Lucky for us, you're the smart one that thinks to use birth control potions…we would be really fucked.”

You turned to look at Regulus one last time. Something told you that this would be the last time that you saw him. This would be the last time that you lay in bed savoring how he made you feel. This. Was. It.

“So lucky for me to go home with your come dripping down my thighs. Goodbye, Regulus.”

You walked from the hotel room without another word. When Regulus didn’t come after you, that spoke volumes.

This was it.

For the next few weeks, you avoided Regulus like the plague. He had been sending owls requesting to see you. In Regulus, mind everything was fine. The words exchanged at the last meeting clearly meant nothing and you would be ready to entertain him as soon as he was free.

You never responded. With each owl’s arrival came a letter with cold scathing words, insults, and whatever Regulus thought would con you into seeing him. You had nearly given in when he sent a letter along with an emerald bracelet.

Now he thinks bribing me will work.

You thought before tying the little box back to the owl’s leg and returning the gift to its sender. Had it been a few weeks ago, you would have been thrilled with the bracelet. This was Regulus showing some emotion other than only an interest in sex. Now, however, you wanted no part of it.

Heartache…

That was the one emotion that you had. Your heart did ache for Regulus. It ached for your Regulus…your best friend. This new one sucked. You craved your best friend…the best friend that you would probably never see again.

“Hey girl, hey.”

Sirius’ voice pulled you from your thoughts. You looked up from the owl that was now flying away as Sirius came in and sat down.

“Hey boy, hey.”

You replied, earning a smile from your friend. Sirius put his feet up on the table. The two of you knew that Remus would have a fit if he saw Sirius with his feet on the table but he wasn’t there.

“Now that is a greeting. So, I was coming to see if you wanted to come out to the pub? Remus, James, and Lily will meet us there. It will kind of be like old times before the world went to shite.”

You leaned back into the sofa before nodding. Going out sounded nice. Seeing your friends was just what you needed.

“That sounds great. I need a drink and some shitty bar music.”

Sirius smacked his hands together before standing up.

“Let's go!”

Half an hour later, you sat in between James and Remus while Sirius was having way too much fun listening to Bon Jovi. Taking a drink of the fire whiskey that Remus put in front of you, you slowly were beginning to feel like your old self.

“This is some good stuff.”

Remus commented downing the rest of his drink and signaling for another. You turned to your older brother and smiled.

“Shame on you for encouraging your baby sister to drink booze.”

Remus chuckled.

“We can all have crazy nights every once and a while. Besides, I think we all need it.”

You couldn’t agree more. In the past month, the order had suffered some big setbacks. Dorcas and Marlene both had died while the Longbottoms were now out of their mind courtesy of Bellatrix. All in all, it had been the biggest shittiest month of your life. Losing friends and your lover definitely topped most of the other bad things that you had been through.

“I can drink to that.”

You said while Remus downed his other drink. Sirius sauntered over and held his hand out to you.

“Are you proposing to me or something? If you are, you have the wrong Lupin. My brother is off looking for another drink.”

Sirius snorted. You couldn’t help but feel some joy at the smile on his face. It seemed like it had been forever since Sirius smiled last. You hadn’t realized just how much you had missed his shitty jokes and weird humor until it wasn’t there every day.

“I know which Lupin you are, sugar bean. I am merely requesting that you dance with me because no one else will.”

James helped you stand up and shoved you toward Sirius.

“Go dance with him before he asks me to. I’m too drunk and will fuck up his nice shoes.”

You stuck your tongue out at James before going out with Sirius as a slower song came on. Wrapping your arms around Sirius’ shoulders, you lay your head against his chest.

He feels like Regulus.

That thought alone made your heart freeze. You hadn’t realized just how much Sirius reminded you of Regulus. He held you the same, had the same cologne…and the song on the radio playing definitely didn’t help… Oh, god…

So I remember when we were driving, driving in your car, speeding so fast it felt like I was drunk City lights lay out before us and your arm felt nice wrapped 'round my shoulder. And I-I had a feeling that I belonged. I-I had a feeling I could be someone, be someone, be someone

You didn’t say anything but you were two seconds short of having the biggest panic attack of your life. Thankfully, Sirius’ voice stopped you.

“He’s an idiot.”

“Who?”

You asked, looking up at your new best friend curiously. Sirius raised an eyebrow.

“My brother. He’s an idiot for treating you like trash and letting you walk away. You were the best thing that has ever happened to him and he blew it. It was all him not you.”

Your eyes widened. Sirius knew…SIRIUS FUCKING KNEW!

“I feel like it was all my fault in some way. I miss him, Sirius. I miss him so badly.”

Sirius was frowning as he tucked your head under his chin.

“I know, kid. I miss him too.”

You were quiet for a few moments as you fought the tears that were beginning to stream down your face.

“Don’t tell Remus. Please don’t tell him…or the others. I’m not ready for them to know.”

Sirius was quiet a moment as his eyes locked on Regulus across the room. His younger brother was watching them with a death glare on his face. If Regulus started throwing hexes, Sirius wouldn’t at all be surprised. Sirius gave Regulus one final glare as Regulus turned and walked out of the bar in a furious huff.

“I don’t know what you’re talking about. I haven’t heard anything from you.”

Sirius replied. You didn’t need to know that Regulus was there. In Sirius’ mind, all that you needed to know was your friends had your back and always would.

____

@amelie-black @jessyballet @knreidy1 @justfinishthis @georgeweasleydumbhoe @acciosiriusblack @siriuslyceleste @mimisparkle12 @teletubiswszpilkach @darkenwolfie @ell0ra-br3kk3r @livshifts @stelleduarte @millies0bsimp @coffeeaddictednymph @readtomeregulus @daddyslittlevillain @rogue-nyx88 @panpride @saramaple @missgorldafirst @f4iryluvy @s-we-e-t-t-ea @taylor-will-be-the-death-of-me @buttercup-beeee @gugggu6gvai @jag9000 @quinis @yousmellllikecaca @mentally-unstable-hoe @criminalyetminimal @haroldpotterson @padf00ts-l0ver @goldensunshineshit @aurorasnape12 @ad-astra-again @rubyroscoe1 @rubyroscoe1 @spideyxalmighty @lucasfilms77 @marichromatic @dumybitch @lostarc24 @play-morezeppelin @ravenhood2792 @un-lovesherself @melaninnbarbie @brokencasbutt67-writer @authoressskr @moldy-old-boot @hankypranky @summer-novak @shaylybaby2032 @emiwrites3reads @knight-of-gleefulness @untoldshortsofthefandoms @shitfaceddaniel-blog @li0nh34rt @tas898 @deanwherescas @sprnaturallover @wontlookaway @mycuddlycorner

[loomis-maxima]

Okay so I need some Harry Potter/Hogwarts Legacy mutuals 😭 Any fans or blogs that are down for being hp/hl moots just drop a comment here, the fangirling and headcanon's are too much, I need my people <3 (18+ only please, ty😭)

[suugarbabe]

do you happen to know any authors who take requests for Regulus?

🦈

I don’t :( I’m so sorry.

Or if I do I’m unaware of it because I don’t read regulus stuff. Like I 100% support and appreciate Timmy T being the face of Reggie but any fic I’ve read he’s always been a side character /:

Can anyone help them out???

[maladaptivewriting]

Hello!

Wish all the best for 2024!

I wanted to say that I am completely obsessed with Regulus Black because of the Golden King. I love him more than anything in this world 🥰

Do you have any fics with him to recommend to me?

I already read Solar Flare too 🤭

Thank you!

okay i have two that don't include jegulus cause i'm going to talk about those in another ask.

a little bit of everything by frenchroast99 is a great regulus raises harry fic. it's super long and very domestic. regulus is given harry as a toddler so you get a lot of pre-hogwarts father-son time. it's still a wip but i enjoy it

gathering home by quietlemonhush involves regulus as a little kid. in this fic, he's a lot younger than sirius, but sirius is raising child regulus and toddler harry. it's so fucking good and angsty. so much hurt/comfort.

[starchaserfanatic]

My Friends/Family: Hey can I see your phone? I need to look something up.

Me, closing like 80+ Ao3 Tabs as fast as I can:

[marlsswrites]

James and Regulus watching the Barbie movie in the cinema, then ‘What was I made for?’ starts playing. As soon as the lyric “I’m sad again, don’t tell my boyfriend, it’s not what he’s made for” sounds through the movie theatre, James leans over and whispers in Regulus’ ear,

“It’s exactly what I’m made for.”

[righteousenjoymentofthunder]

just. dropping this here

[ricochetyears]

love that hc where james doesn’t really like being called “jamie” but goes absolute stupid when regulus calls him that. i mean, in general, he’s all so grumpy and frustrated that no one bothers to just add a fucking s to “james”, but whenever reg says it so casually like “thank you for the tea, jamie” or “no, i’m not busy, jamie” or “that’s alright, jamie” his mind just goes lalala i’m so in love hihi

[my-castles-crumbling]

(Based on the TikTok trend that’s had me rolling)

Sirius and James: We listen and we don’t judge.

Sirius: One time in third year I ate the last of Moony’s chocolate and I blamed it on you because I didn’t want him to be mad at me.

James: 😒

Sirius and James: We listen and we don’t judge.

James: Sometimes I use your toothbrush when I can’t find mine.

Sirius: 🤨

Sirius and James: We listen and we don’t judge.

Sirius: Over the summer when I stayed at your place, I accidentally broke Effie’s favorite mug and blamed you because I didn’t want her to hate me.

James: She made me to extra chores for a week!

Sirius: 😬

Sirius and James: We listen and we don’t judge.

James: Sometimes I take your stuff while you’re asleep and then when you try to find it, I pretend to help you look for it.

Sirius: Prongs, my good quill?

James: I needed to do my homework!

Sirius: 😪

Sirius and James: We listen and we don’t judge.

Sirius: Sometimes I hide your glasses on purpose when I’m annoyed at you because I think it’s funny.

James: What the fuck, mate?

Sirius: 🤷🏻‍♂️

Sirius and James: We listen and we don’t judge.

James: I regularly meet up with your brother and snog him senseless.

Sirius:

James: We listen and we don’t-

Sirius: Oh no, we’re fucking judging now.

[not-rab]

this with jily BUT james ends up falling in love with the therapist (*cough* regulus)

[ourloveisforthelovely]

Saying “Yes”

Regulus Black AU 

Summary:  Saying "yes" is never what you planned on happening.

Parings: Regulus Black x Reader 

Rating: T

Song in story: “Savages” by MARINA

____

I'm not the only one who finds it hard to understand. I'm not afraid of God, I am afraid of man

From the moment that Regulus stepped onto the train, you knew that something was eating him. You had waited in your normal “meeting place” where the two of you met every year and he never showed. While you were annoyed at him for standing you up, the look on his face made all those annoyed feelings vanish.

Regulus’ normally haughty cold expression seemed to be amplified by whatever was eating him. You moved your books to the side as he stepped into the compartment and promptly shut the door. He took off his suit jacket and tossed it to the other seat before sitting down beside you.

Waiting a moment, you wanted to give Regulus a chance to speak. You sat nearly on edge until Regulus sighed.

“So are you going to tell me what’s eating you? You didn’t meet me at our place.”

Regulus was quiet a moment longer before looking up. His grey eyes were darker than normal. Immediately, a nervous feeling went through you.

“Reggie?”

Regulus took a breath. He was dreading this conversation. THIS was what he had been dreading since halfway through the summer.

“Do you love me?”

You seemed confused by that question. Of course, you loved him! Regulus was the first person that you had ever loved. He was absolutely everything to you!

“Regulus, you silly. I love you more than anything.”

Regulus nodded before taking a breath.

“I said yes.”

You frowned before realization hit you. Regulus said yes to Voldemort. You were aware that the dark lord had been trying to recruit Regulus for months. Voldemort was all but sending Regulus flowers and begging him to join his side…the right side (or so he thought) and now he got his way.

“You did?”

You questioned. Regulus nodded before rolling up his shirt sleeve. Your eyes moved to the dark mark on his creamy skin.

Regulus was watching your face for any sign of disgust and anger. If you left him because of this, he truly didn’t know what he would do. You were the constant in his life. You were the one thing that meant the most and if he lost you…Regulus would be ready to die for real this time.

“I had to Y/n. I had to because it secures our future. We’ll be out of school in two years and will be married. I had to think about our future.”

While that wasn’t entirely a lie, it wasn’t entirely the truth either. Voldemort had threatened to have you killed.

“If you don’t say yes…your little girlfriend will die.”

Voldemort’s cold words had haunted Regulus’ sleep since the night that he HAD to say yes. Regulus would never forgive himself if something happened to you because of his reluctance to say yes to a madman. He could only hope that somehow, by saying yes, he could make good out of it. Surely there would be some way to “right” the “wrongs” that he was about to commit.

“We can make the best of it. You know that I will always support you.”

You said in a soft whisper. Regulus’ grey eyes rolled right back to your face.

“Do you mean it? Y/n, this is about to change me in a way that I don’t even know what to expect.”

You quickly climbed onto Regulus’ lap and wrapped your arms around his shoulders. The two of you remained that way for a few moments. You were the first to make a move.

“I love you, Regulus. I’ll always have your back…no matter what.”

Underneath it all we're just savages, Hidden behind shirts, ties and marriages. How could we expect anything at all?

______

@amelie-black @georgeweasleydumbhoe @justfinishthis @jessyballet @knreidy1 @acciosiriusblack @siriuslyceleste @mimisparkle12 @teletubiswszpilkach @criminalyetminimal @livshifts @ell0ra-br3kk3r @starsval @stelleduarte @millies0bsimp @readtomeregulus @coffeeaddictednymph @daddyslittlevillain @rogue-nyx88 @panpride @saramaple @missgorldafirst @i-love-scott-mccall @s-we-e-t-t-ea @f4iryluvy @buttercup-beeee @taylor-will-be-the-death-of-me @gugggu6gvai @jag9000 @quinis @yousmellllikecaca @mentally-unstable-hoe @haroldpotterson @padf00ts-l0ver @goldensunshineshit @aurorasnape12 @ad-astra-again @play-morezeppelin @ravenhood2792 @spideyxalmighty @lucasfilms77 @rubyroscoe1 @dumybitch @un-lovesherself @melaninnbarbie @marichromatic @brokencasbutt67-writer @authoressskr @moldy-old-boot @hankypranky @summer-novak @emiwrites3reads @shaylybaby2032 @knight-of-gleefulness @li0nh34rt @tas898 @sprnaturallover @wontlookaway @shitfaceddaniel-blog @untoldshortsofthefandoms @deanwherescas @mycuddlycorner

[loomis-maxima]

❝𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐬𝐡𝐚𝐝𝐨𝐰 𝐨𝐟 𝐛𝐥𝐚𝐜𝐤❞

the noble and most ancient house of black. a mother disappointed in her eldest son, her youngest son, regulus, craves to make her proud... but at what cost. word count;; 570 warnings; angst, typical house of black drama, toxic family life. a/n;; i got bored and threw this together. i haven't proofread it but i just wanted to post something reggie related, so i hope you guys like it<33 (no reader insert in this one, just pure house of black)

quiet summers in grimmauld place were hard to come by, that was a fact. at the end of every term, the Black brothers would return from hogwarts to their family home - and every time they did, arguments and obscenities would return tenfold on their arrival -- or more specifically upon sirius' arrival.

any moment serenity that fell through the long hallways was always just that; a moment, quickly fleeting as if peace itself couldn't survive longer than a single moment in the dreary home. the shouting voices of sirius and their mother, walburga were as common of an occurrence as the rising sun itself, as common as the volatile waves crashing in the north sea.

not many things were certain in life, not many things at all, but the raised voices and bitter arguments between mother and son that plagued the peace that regulus craved were something that could be guaranteed.

vile words, repeated bile and shattering insults being thrown around, mainly by walburga, always left a bitter taste in the air. the younger of the brothers, regulus, wondered how much longer sirius would stay around, how much longer their mother would take having such, in her own words, a 'disappointment of a son' like sirius, all just because he refused to bend the knee to his family's blood-purity fanaticism and share the ties to unsavoury company.

wondering about how much longer his brother would have within the family was not something that regulus had to think on much longer though. as could be expected, the arguments reached the boiling point; the constant arguments over the years had finally strained the mother and son relationship to the point of no return and disownment - tossed aside before the house of black could be tainted anymore.

sirius had packed his bags in what seemed like seconds before he stormed out of his bedroom, slamming the door behind him. just before he could lug his belongings down the stairs and out the front door, he had halted by regulus' bedroom door which was slightly ajar. sirius caught a sight of his younger brother sitting on his bed with a selection of books open around him; a tinge of disappointment etched across his face as he looked between his older brother and his luggage the hallway. sirius took a couple of steps into regulus' room, his eyes scanning around the assortment scattered around. admittedly, they didn't have the greatest of relationships, sirius always preferred his group of friends, but he couldn't help but feel a tinge of guilt at the thought of leaving his brother behind.

"be good reg." sirius' didn't wait for a response from his little brother, instead just placing a solid hand on his shoulder as he stood up and ruffled the younger boys dark curls before leaving the younger black alone once again.

regulus heard the shouts from his mother as sirius descended the staircase, even as the front door opened and shut; the furious voice of his mother pitched and bounced off every wall it touched. even as she bound up the stairs, her volatile words and angered tone never once faded. The sound of a door slamming open and bouncing off a wall did little to cover the shouts of the enraged woman as she stormed into the room that displayed the Black family tree on every inch of wall. the demented ramblings were disrupted by a blast that caused the walls to vibrate ever so slightly as the frenzied mother made her final stand; where sirius' name had once been on display was nothing but memory now; instead a dark burn mark lay in its wake. it was symbolistic of how walburga black saw sirius - just a stain on her once-perfect family.

regulus couldn't blame sirius, their mother was out of line; but unlike his older brother, regulus wasn't willing to stand against his mother. he wasn't willing to meet the same fate. regulus, no matter his care for his brother, wanted to be the son walburga could be proud of. he wanted to be the son that his mother so desperately craved, one that would carry on the respected legacy of House Black.

the departure of sirius left grimmauld place in quiet. there was no more arguments, no screaming for hours on end. walburga seemed a touch more pleasant with sirius gone, but that didn't stop her occasional cruel comments about the disowned son. regulus' constant desire to make his mother proud added to walburga's positive attitude. she was beyond proud that her little regulus didn't follow in his brothers footsteps, that regulus shared her mindset.

little did she know what the beliefs she forced would lead to.

heavy rain hit against the windows in his room, the dull london sky loomed in view through the half-opened curtains as regulus sat on his bed, back rested against the pillows while his legs were stretched out. as he turned the page in his book, his mind began to drift. regulus placed his book down beside him on the bed with a sigh as he lay back. the young black had a lot of pressures on his plate, a lot more than people realised.

his gaze fell to the dark woollen sweater that he wore, pulling the long sleeve on his left arm up as far as his elbow. regulus' eyes lingered on his arm as his other hand traced lightly against the new, dark illustration that now decorated his pale skin.

the lengths regulus would go to, just for the acceptance of his mother - he was just a boy that wanted to make her proud. just a boy that didn't know the depths in which his new loyalty to voldemort would drag him..

[reguluskeys]

Regulus writing James love letters, only signing them with a star at the end, because he doesn’t know how to properly express his emotions and is terrified of rejection from the embodiment of the sun.

James trying to figure out who wrote the letters and slowly becoming friends with regulus, and overtime hoping he’s the one sending the notes.

Regulus slipping up and accidentally quoting himself, making James realize his wish came true.

[where-is-vivian]

regulus who makes out with james just to get one of his hair and make polyjuice to play a prank on his brother.

eventually he loses the hair and has to do it again, and james is oblivious and surprised regulus of all people is showing interest in him but regulus got him completely wrapped around his finger.

[unconventional-lawnchair]

Jealousy, Jealousy

Where the boys get jealous... (Feat. Barty, Regulus, Sirius, Remus, and James)

WC: ~3.5k

CW: Fem!Reader, a few cusses, obsessive and possessive boys, Remus and Moony are written as different characters.

Barty gets asked if you're single…

Barty leaned against the stone wall of the corridor, arms crossed and a lazy smirk playing on his lips as the boy in front of him tried to find his footing in the conversation. It was late enough in the evening that most of the students had cleared out, leaving the space quiet except for the faint echo of distant footsteps. The boy- what was his name? Probably irrelevant- was shifting his weight nervously, though he tried to mask it with a forced bravado.

“So,” The boy began again, licking his lips as though trying to sound casual. “You’re close with her, right? I mean, you two are always together.”

Barty raised an eyebrow, his smirk widening just a touch as he tilted his head- pulling the smoke from between his lips. “We’re friends,” Barty replied easily, though the word friends came out slow and deliberate, almost like a challenge.

The boy took a deep breath, seemingly bolstered by Barty’s nonchalant tone. “Right, yeah. I figured.” He hesitated, then plunged forward, clearly emboldened by the silence. “I was just wondering, you know… do you think she’d go for someone like me?”

Barty blinked. For the briefest moment, his expression was unreadable- like he hadn’t quite heard the question correctly. Then, like a switch being flipped, he grinned widely, his whole face lighting up as though the very idea had amused him to no end.

“You?” He repeated, laughter edging his voice as he uncrossed his arms and pushed off the wall. He took a deep breath of his smoke and let the ash slip onto the boy's shoe, who quickly shook it off. Barty gestured at the boy vaguely, as though considering his entire existence. “You’re asking if you would have a shot?”

The boy’s bravado faltered slightly at Barty’s tone, but he straightened his shoulders, forcing a confident nod. “Yeah. I mean, she’s nice to everyone, right? So I thought- ”

“Oh, that’s precious,” Barty interrupted smoothly, his voice warm but condescending. He stepped closer, his free hand sliding into his pocket, his green eyes glinting as he looked the boy over. “She is nice to everyone, isn’t she? That’s what makes her so…” He paused, pretending to search for the right word. “Enchanting, I suppose.”

The boy relaxed just a fraction at Barty’s seemingly complimentary tone, but Barty’s smile sharpened as he took another step forward.

“Here’s the thing,” Barty continued, his voice softening into something dangerously close to friendly. “You’re not a bad bloke, are you?” He flicked his robes, letting the smoke from his cigarette fill the boys senses. “Clean enough robes, decent enough grades- probably someone your mum’s very proud of. Real cookie cutter, yeah?”

The boy blinked, caught off guard. “Uh… I guess?”

Barty grinned wider. “See? Nothing wrong with you at all. And yet…” He trailed off, taking another hit before he blatantly blew the smoke into his face. Even then he still found himself leaning in slightly, his voice dropping lower. “She’s not for you.”

The boy coughed, shooing away the smoke, confused. “What do you mean? She’s not- ”

“Let me save you some time, mate,” Barty cut in smoothly, stepping around him as though they were taking a casual stroll together. “Do you know what she wants to be after she graduates? How she wrinkles her nose when she laughs too hard- how much she hates when someone brings it up? Or how she’ll hum to herself when she thinks no one’s listening? How to make her smile on her worst days?” He glanced back over his shoulder, his smile full of sharp teeth. “You don’t, do you?”

The boy shifted uncomfortably under the weight of Barty’s words. “No, but- ”

Barty whirled back to face him, the sudden movement causing the boy to flinch. “That’s the problem though, innit?” He said softly, his voice dripping with false sympathy. “You don’t know her. Not really. And she deserves someone who does.”

The boy looked frustrated now, his confidence cracking under Barty’s pointed gaze. “You’re just saying that because you think you’re better for her!”

Barty’s smirk vanished. The shift was subtle but immediate, the playfulness draining from his face as his eyes turned icy, pinning the boy where he stood. “Better for her?” Barty echoed softly, his tone devoid of its earlier amusement. “I’d destroy myself for her. I’d burn the whole bloody world down if it so much as thought about hurting her. I've spent years of my life making sure she'd never know fear when I'm around.”

The boy opened his mouth to respond, but no words came. Barty stepped closer, forcing him to back up until his shoulders hit the cold stone wall. Flicking out his cig and tossing it at his chest.

“You don’t understand devotion, mate,” Barty continued, his voice low, almost a whisper. “Not the kind that keeps you awake at night, wondering if she’s happy. Not the kind that has you ready to rip apart anyone who so much as looks at her the wrong way. That kind of love… it’s not for people like you.”

The boy swallowed hard, his eyes darting away as though trying to escape Barty’s unrelenting stare.

Barty tilted his head, the hint of a smile returning to his lips, though it held none of its earlier warmth. “But don’t worry,” he said lightly, taking a small step back. “I’m not angry. You’re harmless, really. Like a moth buzzing too close to something far too bright for you to touch. Happens to everyone who meets her.”

The boy shifted uneasily, his face pale as he tried to muster some shred of dignity. “You’re crazy,” He muttered under his breath.

Barty grinned at that, his eyes glinting with something almost feral. “Probably,” He admitted cheerfully, shrugging. “Just trust me mate. You wouldn't survive the competition.”

~~~

Regulus sees a guy trying to ask you out…

You were standing just outside the courtyard, the stone archways sheltering you and a nervous-looking Gryffindor boy from the cool autumn breeze. He’d stopped you after class, clearly trying to build up the courage to ask something. You were being polite, as always, listening with a soft smile while he stumbled over his words.

Regulus hadn’t been far, of course. He never was, though you hadn’t noticed him watching you from across the courtyard, his keen gray eyes narrowing slightly at the boy’s sudden presence.

“So, um,” the Gryffindor started, shifting on his feet and running a hand through his hair. “I was wondering if- uh- well, maybe you’d like to go to Hogsmeade with me this weekend? Just us?”

You blinked, surprised by the question. “Oh- ”

Before you could finish, Regulus moved in like a shadow, silent and swift. Without a word, he appeared at your side and leaned down, resting his chin casually on your shoulder. The gesture startled you, your breath hitching as his weight settled comfortably there, familiar but intrusive all the same.

“Are you busy, ma moitié?” Regulus asked smoothly, his tone soft, casual, and laced with just a hint of amusement. He ignored the Gryffindor completely, acting as if he didn’t exist.

Your face turned slightly to the side, startled by his sudden proximity. “Regulus? What are you- ”

“We have that thing to do, remember?” Regulus murmured, his voice low but perfectly clear. He tilted his head, the movement brushing his hair softly against your cheek.

The Gryffindor frowned, his nerves quickly shifting to irritation. “What thing? I was just asking her something- ”

Regulus finally glanced at him, his gaze lazy and unbothered but chilling nonetheless. “How generous of you to interrupt,” he said coolly, his chin still perched on your shoulder as though he hadn’t a care in the world.

The boy bristled. “I didn’t interrupt- ”

Regulus cut him off with a small, sardonic smile, as though he were correcting a child. “You didn’t mean to, I’m sure,” he drawled. “But, you see, we have plans. So unless you’re particularly fond of wasting her time…”

You frowned slightly, your hand moving to nudge Regulus’s shoulder as if to make him move. “Reg, that’s not- ”

“Isn’t it?” Regulus replied smoothly, tilting his head ever so slightly, the hint of a smirk playing on his lips.

The Gryffindor’s face flushed, clearly caught off guard by Regulus’s presence and tone. He looked at you, frustration in his voice. “Look, I just wanted to- ”

“I think you should go,” Regulus said, his voice as light and polite as ever, though there was no mistaking the ice beneath it.

The Gryffindor hesitated, but Regulus’s unwavering stare pinned him in place. It wasn’t a glare- Regulus didn’t need to glare to be intimidating. His calm, unwavering confidence was sharp enough. After another awkward pause, the boy muttered, “Maybe another time.”

He turned and walked off, shoulders tense and ears red.

Regulus finally lifted his chin from your shoulder, straightening up with a look of faint satisfaction. You turned on him immediately, pouting a bit with your bottom lip jotted out- eyebrows furrowing and your arms crossed. “That wasn't very nice, Black.”

Regulus shrugged and wrapped his arm around your waist as he turned you away from the courtyard. “He’ll live.”

~~~

Sirius seeing someone flirt with you…

It was a lovely spring afternoon by the Black Lake. The sunlight filtered through the branches of the nearby trees, dancing over the rippling water. A cool breeze swept through the air, ruffling your hair as you sat cross-legged on a blanket, deep in conversation with a Slytherin boy.

The boy- someone vaguely familiar, you thought his name was Marcus- had approached you earlier in the day, something about needing help with Potions. He was pleasant enough, a bit shy, though you couldn’t help but notice how often he looked away or scratched the back of his neck when you smiled.

“…and, you know, it’s just the stirring,” Marcus was saying, his voice faltering slightly as his eyes darted to yours. “I keep- well, messing it up. Slughorn says I’m overthinking it.”

You offered a gentle smile, always patient. “It’s probably just nerves,” you reassured him kindly. “You’re better at it than you think, I’m sure. Do you want me to walk you through it?”

Marcus blinked, visibly perking up. “Oh- yeah, that’d be great, I mean- ”

“Ah, there you are,” Sirius Black’s unmistakable drawl cut through the serene afternoon like a thunderclap.

Both of you turned toward the voice, and there he was. Sirius stood at the edge of the blanket with his hands shoved lazily in the pockets of his trousers, the sunlight making his dark hair shine like ink. There was an unmistakable mischief in his gray eyes as he looked from you to Marcus and back again.

“Sirius,” You said with a mix of surprise and mild annoyance, straightening where you sat. “What are you doing here?”

“What, can’t a man visit his favorite girl?” He replied with a grin, though his gaze sharpened ever so slightly as it flicked toward Marcus. “You know, it’s dangerous out here by the lake. Giant squids, rouge bludgers, snakes- all that. Best you’re not left alone with someone… inexperienced.”

Marcus’s face flushed, clearly thrown off. “I think she’s doing fine, thanks,” he muttered, trying to sound confident but failing miserably.

Sirius smirked, as though that was the response he’d been hoping for. Without any preamble, he dropped onto the blanket beside you- practically on top of you- his long legs stretching out as he sprawled back against the grass like he owned the entire lakeshore.

“Merlin’s beard, it’s exhausting being me,” he said dramatically, folding his arms behind his head. “You don’t mind, do you, sweetheart? Just needed to rest my bones for a bit.”

You rolled your eyes. “Sirius, I’m kind of busy- ”

“Oh, don’t let me interrupt,” he said innocently, though the smirk tugging at the corner of his mouth was anything but. “Go on, Marcus. You were talking about… stirring, was it?”

Marcus shot Sirius a pointed glare. “We were in the middle of something.”

“Were you?” Sirius replied, eyes gleaming with barely contained amusement. “Could’ve fooled me.”

You frowned, nudging him with your elbow. “Sirius, stop being difficult.”

“I’m not being difficult.” He purred smoothly, shifting just enough to rest his head against your shoulder, his hair brushing your neck as though it was the most natural thing in the world. “Just keeping an eye on you. Someone has to.”

Your face burned at the unexpected affection, though you tried your best to seem unbothered. Marcus, however, looked positively livid, his fists clenching and unclenching by his sides.

“You’re doing this on purpose,” Marcus accused, glaring at Sirius.

Sirius blinked up at him, all mock innocence. “Me? What on earth would I be doing on purpose?”

“You know what- ”

“Marcus,” you interrupted, sighing as you tried to salvage the conversation. “Maybe we can pick this up later. It’s… getting a bit distracting.”

Marcus glanced at you, frustrated but resigned, his gaze lingering a moment longer before he nodded stiffly. “Sure. Later.”

He stalked off without another word, leaving you alone with Sirius, who was grinning like the Cheshire Cat.

“You’re an ass.” You huffed, finally shoving him off your shoulder.

Sirius sat up with a dramatic groan, smirking as he stretched out his arms. “Merlin, that was exhausting.”

You glared at him, exasperated. “What was that?”

“That, my dear,” Sirius said, grinning cheekily, “was me doing you a favor. You don’t honestly want to spend your afternoon discussing stirring, do you?”

“That’s not the point!” You argued, narrowing your eyes. “He was just being nice, and you scared him off!”

“Good,” Sirius replied smugly, lying back down with his hands behind his head. “Couldn’t risk losing you to someone boring.”

“You’re ridiculous.”

“I could be practical- real practical. We can talk about stirring.”

You huffed, trying to hide the small smile tugging at your lips.

Sirius turned his head to look at you, his grin softening ever so slightly as his stormy eyes held yours. “Besides,” he added, voice quieter now, “it’s much better when it’s just us, don’t you think?”

~~~

Remus finds you asleep on someone he doesn't know…

The Gryffindor common room was dimly lit, the fire burning low, its golden light casting lazy shadows across the walls. Most students had gone to bed, and silence blanketed the space, save for the occasional pop of burning wood.

Remus hadn’t been able to sleep. He’d lain awake for what felt like hours, restlessness gnawing at him as Moony clawed at the edges of his mind, pacing.

She’s not where she's supposed to be, Moony murmured, insistent and low, like a growl rumbling through his chest. Go to her. Find her.

It was nonsense, of course. You were probably curled up in your dormitory, safe and warm, and yet Moony’s unease bled into Remus, like an itch he couldn’t scratch. He sighed, swinging his legs over the edge of the bed and padding barefoot to the staircase. Just to be sure. Just to calm Moony.

When he reached the bottom of the stairs, the fire caught his eye first. Then he saw you.

You were curled up in a worn armchair by the fire, your head tilted to rest softly against the shoulder of a fifth-year boy Remus barely recognized. The boy sat stiffly, afraid to move, his expression somewhere between frozen panic and misplaced pride.

Moony stilled.

And then he snarled.

Get her up. She’s vulnerable.

Remus stopped in place, his breath catching as an instinct he couldn’t quite name surged through him. Moony’s anger wasn’t a loud roar this time- it was quiet, simmering like an ember. What’s he doing there? She’s asleep. He shouldn’t be near her. She's vulnerable.

Remus swallowed hard, his fingers twitching as he tried to steady himself. He didn’t want to startle you, and he didn’t want to scare the boy. He wasn’t angry- not really. But Moony… Moony didn’t understand manners.

Before he fully realized what he was doing, Remus moved forward. Quiet as a shadow, he stopped in front of the chair, his amber-tinged eyes fixed on the boy.

The younger Gryffindor glanced up nervously. “Oh. Uh- Lupin- she fell asleep. I didn’t want to wake her.”

Remus didn’t say anything at first, his gaze shifting to you. Your breathing was soft and steady, one arm curled loosely under your head. Moony quieted just a little at the sight, though the wolf’s presence still pressed against Remus’s ribs, heavy and protective.

“She’ll be more comfortable in her own bed,” Remus said finally, his voice low and calm. “I’ll take her.”

The boy blinked, confused. “I- what?”

Remus lifted his chin slightly, his tone firm despite the gentleness in it. “You can go. I’ll make sure she gets to her dorm.”

The boy hesitated, but something in Remus’s steady gaze seemed to settle the matter. “Right. Yeah. Sure,” he mumbled awkwardly, carefully shifting out from under you. He moved to stand, glancing one last time at you before hurrying up the stairs, his footsteps fading into the quiet.

Remus let out a slow breath, crouching down next to you. Moony settled just a little further, content now that the boy was gone, but still restless, still protective.

She’s too exposed, Moony murmured. Wake her. Take her where she’s safe.

Remus hesitated, watching the way your lashes fluttered faintly against your cheeks as you stirred, your lips parting slightly as though searching for the warmth that had left. His heart tugged in his chest, guilt biting at him.

“Dovie,” He called softly, his voice barely above a whisper. He reached out, his hand hovering over your arm for just a moment before gently brushing against your shoulder. “Up you get, lovely girl.”

You shifted with a quiet murmur, blinking blearily as your eyes fluttered open. “Mmm… Remus?”

“Hey.” He cooed, his lips curving into a small, careful smile. “You fell asleep down here.”

“Oh.” You blinked again, sitting up slowly and rubbing at your eyes. You looked around in confusion before your gaze landed back on him. “What time is it?”

“Late,” He chuckled, standing to his full height as he offered you a hand. “Come on. I’ll walk you to your dorm.”

You frowned sleepily, tilting your head. “You don’t have to do that.”

Remus’s jaw tightened faintly, and for a moment, he swore he could feel Moony’s growl rumbling deep inside him. She needs protecting. Don’t leave her here.

“I insist,” He said gently, his voice soft but brooking no argument. “You’ll sleep better in your own bed.”

You yawned, smiling at him as you took his hand. “If you say so.”

~~~

James steals the show from your newest admirer…

The Gryffindor common room was alive with its usual evening bustle- cards flying in midair from a game of Exploding Snap, the fire crackling merrily, and the low hum of chatter filling every corner. You were perched on the arm of one of the chairs, laughing softly as a chaser- Finn regaled you with a story from practice, his easy-going charm and dramatic hand gestures keeping you engaged.

Finn’s voice was lively, something about a Bludger mishap and the newest Beater, and you couldn’t help the bright smile it pulled from you.

James, sitting across the room with Sirius and Remus, had been halfway through a halfhearted game of Wizard’s Chess when he noticed.

“Prongs,” Sirius said, nudging him when his knight didn’t move. “Your move, mate.”

James didn’t hear him. His hazel eyes were fixed on the sight of you leaning just a little closer to Finn, laughing at something he’d said.

James sat up straighter, his jaw tightening.

��Earth to Prongs?” Sirius waved a hand in front of James’s face, earning himself a scowl.

“Do you lot know,” James said suddenly, his voice pitched loud enough to carry across the room, “about the time I stole Filch’s keys and locked him in his own office? Poor guy thought Peeves was after him.”

All at once, a ripple of laughter swept through the room. Students turned toward James with wide smiles and bright eyes, a chorus of, “No way!” and “You’ve got to tell us!” filling the air.

Finn faltered mid-sentence, glancing toward the growing crowd around James.

You shot Finn an apologetic smile, clearly torn between listening to the end of his story and the infectious energy that always followed your best friend. James’s grin was wide and charming as ever, his eyes twinkling mischievously- but when his gaze flicked to yours, something sharper lingered beneath the warmth.

He hadn’t stopped looking at Finn once.

“What happened?” One of the younger students urged eagerly, completely captivated by James’s easy charisma.

“Ah, you wouldn’t believe it,” James replied, leaning back in his seat as though he had all the time in the world. His voice was smooth, his confidence magnetic. “I’d hidden behind that big grandfather clock, you know the one? Filch swore up and down he’d heard a ghost- but he couldn’t figure out how the door locked from the outside. Poor bloke works at Hogwarts and still doesn't grasp magic!”

More laughter erupted, and James winked at you as if to say, See? Isn’t this better?

Finn glanced at you, clearly realizing he’d lost your attention entirely. “I, um… I guess I’ll finish the story later,” He muttered sheepishly.

“Oh, I’m sorry!” You said, genuinely apologetic, but Finn was already waving you off.

“It’s fine. James has a habit of stealing the spotlight anyway,” he joked, though his tone wasn’t without a hint of frustration. He wandered off toward his dorm room, leaving you to turn toward James and his growing group of admirers.

Later, Sirius confronted James about his little stunt. Calling him jealous, James scoffs dramatically. “Jealous? Me? Please. I’m just looking out for her.”

Sirius raises an eyebrow. “Looking out for her, or making sure no one else looks at her?”

James shrugs, a smug little grin tugging at his lips. “Same thing, really.”

[marlsswrites]

Regulus: Effie said she’s on her way.

James: How do you know?

Regulus: She… texted me?

James: Why would she text you? I’m her son?

Regulus: Yeah well I’m clearly her favourite.

James: How-

Regulus: Look *whips out phone* she has TWO hearts next to my name.

James: WHAT?

Regulus: See.

James: I only have ONE??

Regulus patting James on the back: Shhh, it’ll be okay.