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your-girl-nina · 22 days ago

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So uhm, I'm drowning in about six fanfics and I'm trying to figure out how to transfer some things on Tumblr onto ao3. Anyways enjoy bartylus fanfic.

Word count: 10, 486

Tw: cheating and low self esteem I guess? Used the same excuse as my father to make it legit.

English is not my first language don't crucify me please.

Title:Bandaids and suture kit.

Regulus Black had never considered himself a particularly lucky man. Life had taught him that he was better off alone, that love was a mirage, forever out of reach. Yet, somehow, James Potter had managed to slip past the barriers Regulus had carefully constructed around his heart. With James, he had felt warmth for the first time, a sense of belonging he never knew he craved. But now, as he approached the apartment they shared, that warmth felt like a distant memory, replaced by a gnawing unease.

The evening was draped in twilight, the fading light spilling through the windows like molten gold. Regulus carried a grocery bag filled with James's favorite snacks, the ones he bought every week in a small attempt to ensure the moments they shared together were special. He hummed a tune under his breath, thinking of the smile that would greet him as he walked through the door. His heart swelled with anticipation as he twisted the doorknob, blissfully unaware of the heartache that awaited him.

As he stepped inside, a faint sound caught his attention—laughter, bright and carefree, echoing through the hallway. Regulus paused, his brow furrowing. He hadn’t expected to hear laughter from the living room. That was their space, their sanctuary, a place where warmth and love enveloped them. It sounded like… another voice.

He placed the grocery bag on the counter, the soft thud barely registering in his mind. With cautious steps, he made his way towards the sound, curiosity edging out any suspicion. As he neared the living room, his heart began to race, a drum echoing in his ears, each beat resonating with an unfamiliar dread.

The door was ajar, and he could see shadows dancing inside, two figures illuminated by the soft glow of the lamp. He took a deep breath, willing himself to push the door open. But as he did, the scene before him shattered his world.

James was there, his back to Regulus, and in his arms was a woman with cascading red hair—Lily Evans, James’s ex-girlfriend. Regulus felt the air leave his lungs, the ground shifting beneath his feet. The laughter that had once sounded so innocent now clawed at his insides, each peal a jagged knife twisting deeper into his chest.

“James, I missed you so much,” Lily purred, her voice sweet and sultry. Regulus’s heart plummeted as he watched her lean into James, her hand resting possessively on his shoulder, a smile lighting up her face.

Regulus’s vision blurred, hot tears pricking at the corners of his eyes. He wanted to scream, to confront them both, but the words lodged in his throat, heavy and suffocating. Instead, he stepped back, retreating into the shadows, every pulse in his body screaming at him to leave.

How could this happen? His mind raced, replaying every moment, every laugh they had shared. He had trusted James with his heart, believing that he was worthy of love, finally feeling whole for the first time in his life. But here was the truth, stark and painful, shattering the fragile illusions he had clung to. He was wrong. He was unlovable, just as he had always believed.

Regulus stumbled back into the kitchen, his heart hammering against his ribcage like a trapped bird. The grocery bag slipped from his fingers, the contents spilling across the floor in a chaotic mess of wrappers and snacks. He felt sick, his stomach twisting violently as he braced himself against the counter for support.

As he tried to steady his breath, the sound of footsteps approached. Regulus's heart raced in terror; he couldn’t bear to face James, not now, not after this. He could feel the heat of shame creeping up his neck, mixing with the anguish that consumed him.

“Reg?” James called, his voice bright and carefree, completely unaware of the devastation he was about to unleash. “Is that you? I thought I heard you come in!”

Regulus’s heart shattered into a million pieces, each fragment cutting deeper into his soul. He pressed a trembling hand to his mouth, desperate to silence the sob that threatened to escape.

When James entered the kitchen, his expression shifted from joy to confusion as he took in the scene before him—the grocery bags strewn across the floor, Regulus standing pale and trembling against the counter. “Reg, what’s wrong?” He stepped forward, concern flooding his features.

But Regulus couldn’t stand it. He couldn’t bear the sight of the man he loved so fiercely, the man who had broken him so completely. “You… you were with her,” he whispered, his voice shaking. “With Lily.”

James’s face paled, and for a brief moment, he looked genuinely remorseful. “Reg, I—”

“Save it,” Regulus spat, the pain twisting into anger. “I can’t believe I was foolish enough to think I mattered to you. I thought I was worth loving, but clearly, I was wrong. You’ve shown me how little I mean to you.”

“Regulus, please,” James said, desperation creeping into his voice. “It’s not what it looks like! I didn’t mean to—”

“Didn’t mean to what?” Regulus interrupted, his voice rising. “To betray me? To run back to her? I thought I was special to you, but I guess I was just a placeholder, weren’t I?”

“No! That’s not true!” James took another step forward, his eyes pleading. “I love you. I’ve always loved you. I was just—”

“Just what?” Regulus cut him off, tears streaming down his cheeks. “Just confused? Just wanting a little fun? You think that excuses it? I thought you were different, James. I thought you were better than this!”

“Reg, please…” James reached for him, but Regulus recoiled, stepping further away. The hurt in his heart turned into an all-consuming void, swallowing every ounce of the love he had once felt for James.

“Don’t touch me,” Regulus choked out, feeling raw and exposed. “You don’t get to pretend that this didn’t happen. You don’t get to take my heart and shatter it, then ask me to forgive you like it’s nothing.”

James’s eyes glistened with unshed tears, and for a moment, Regulus saw the man he had fallen in love with—the one who had made him feel seen and cherished. But the image was tainted now, distorted by the betrayal that lingered in the air like a thick fog.

“Reg, I’m so sorry,” James said, his voice trembling. “I messed up. I never wanted to hurt you. Please, let’s talk about this.”

“What is there to talk about?” Regulus asked, his voice trembling with a mixture of hurt and anger. “You’ve made your choice. You want her. You always wanted her. I’m just the fool who thought he could take her place.”

“Regulus, no! You don’t understand!” James pleaded, stepping closer. “It was a mistake. It meant nothing!”

But the words rang hollow in Regulus’s ears. “If it meant nothing, then why are you here? Why are you still standing there, pretending like this is all okay?” The despair in his voice echoed in the silence of the kitchen.

James opened his mouth to respond, but Regulus didn’t give him the chance. He turned on his heel, the sobs clawing their way up his throat as he fled the kitchen, each step feeling heavier than the last. He stumbled into their bedroom, the place that once held their laughter and shared dreams now feeling like a prison of memories.

Regulus fell onto the bed, burying his face in the pillows, muffling the sound of his anguish. He had given James everything, his heart, his trust, and in return, he had been given betrayal. The realization weighed down on him, crushing him beneath the weight of despair.

He had always felt unlovable, a burden wrapped in shadows, but for a brief moment, James had made him feel like he was worthy. Now, that flicker of hope had been extinguished, leaving nothing but darkness in its wake.

He could hear James’s footsteps behind him, the soft, desperate calls of his name, but Regulus couldn’t bear to face him. Not now. Not when every word was a reminder of the love that had been ripped away, leaving only the jagged edges of a broken heart.

“Reg, please…” James’s voice cracked, full of emotion, but Regulus couldn’t listen anymore. He was drowning in his pain, and no matter how hard he tried, he couldn’t find a way back to the surface.

As the night wore on, Regulus lay curled up on the bed, the silent tears soaking into the fabric. His heart felt like a heavy stone, each beat a reminder of the love that had slipped through his fingers. In that darkness, he let himself feel the ache, the loss, and the bitter taste of betrayal.

Regulus Black had learned one thing that night: love could be beautiful, but it could also cut deeper than any knife. And now, as the shadows of doubt closed in around him, he was left to wonder if he would ever be whole again.

The next morning dawned gray and heavy, the weight of unspoken words hanging thick in the air. Regulus Black lay curled in a ball under the covers, his heart still raw from the previous night’s revelations. The light filtering through the curtains felt invasive, a reminder that the world kept moving even as his life had come to a standstill.

He had spent the night grappling with his feelings, the memories of laughter and shared dreams now tainted by betrayal. How could James do this to him? The thought echoed relentlessly, a mantra of pain that replayed in his mind. Each time he recalled the image of James and Lily together, a new stab of hurt pierced through the fragile veneer of hope he had clung to.

Regulus took a deep breath, trying to summon the strength to face the day. He could hear James moving about the apartment, the sound of dishes clinking as he prepared breakfast. A part of him wanted to crawl back into the warmth of the blankets, to hide away from the reality of their situation, but another part knew he had to confront this—had to confront James.

With a heavy heart, Regulus pushed the covers aside and swung his legs over the side of the bed, his feet brushing against the cold floor. He felt exposed and vulnerable, like a fragile leaf caught in a tempest. Gathering himself, he stood and took one last look at the chaotic remnants of last night—the spilled grocery bag, the remnants of a life they had shared. It all felt like a cruel joke now.

As he made his way into the kitchen, the smell of bacon and eggs hit him, a stark contrast to the tumult in his heart. James was standing at the stove, his back to Regulus, humming softly to himself. The sight should have brought comfort, but instead, it twisted the knife deeper.

“Good morning,” James said, turning around with a bright smile that faltered when he saw Regulus’s expression.

“Morning,” Regulus replied, his voice barely above a whisper. He shifted on his feet, avoiding James’s gaze, afraid of what he might see reflected back.

There was a moment of silence, heavy and thick, punctuated only by the sizzling of the bacon. Regulus could feel the tension crackling in the air, an invisible barrier stretching between them. Finally, James broke the silence, stepping forward. “I’m sorry about last night, Reg. I didn’t want you to find out like that. I—”

Regulus cut him off, the words bursting out before he could stop them. “You didn’t want me to find out? You mean you didn’t want to get caught.” His voice trembled with suppressed rage and pain, the hurt spilling over like a broken dam. “You didn’t want to break my heart, but you did anyway. You chose her, James. You chose Lily.”

“I didn’t mean for it to happen, I swear!” James protested, his hands raised in defense. “It was a mistake. I never wanted to hurt you!”

Regulus felt his heart clench painfully at those words. Mistake. The word echoed in his mind, a bitter reminder of his past. How many times had he been called a mistake? How many times had he been told he was a burden, unlovable, a waste of space? It was all coming back, the memories of his childhood suffocating him. “So I was just a distraction, then? A placeholder until you decided you wanted to run back to your ex?”

“Reg, please, listen!” James took a step closer, desperation in his eyes. “It wasn’t like that. I love you. I really do. But Lily… I didn’t want to break up with you to get back with her. I thought I could manage both. I thought—”

“Thought what? That you could have your cake and eat it too?” Regulus snapped, his voice rising, anger mingling with hurt. “You don’t get to keep me on the sidelines while you play house with someone else!”

James’s face fell, pain flickering across his features. “I didn’t want to hurt you, Regulus. You have to believe me! It was a mistake, and I’m so sorry. I was confused. I thought we could—”

“Confused?” Regulus echoed, disbelief flooding through him. “Confused about what? I made it clear how I felt about you. I thought I meant something to you, James! But apparently, I was just a stopgap, a placeholder while you figured things out!”

James took another step closer, reaching for Regulus, but he flinched back, the action sending a pang of regret through him. “Don’t touch me,” Regulus said, his voice cold, a protective barrier rising between them. “You’ve already taken so much from me. I won’t let you take my dignity too.”

“Reg, please!” James’s voice cracked, filled with emotion. “I didn’t want this! I thought I could figure it all out without hurting you, but… but I messed up! I cheated on you, yes, but I was never going to leave you!”

Regulus stared at him, his heart breaking all over again. The man who had made him feel seen, wanted, was now the one causing the deepest wounds he had ever felt. The love that had once been a refuge was now a battlefield, strewn with the debris of their broken trust. “You don’t understand what this feels like, do you?” he said, his voice trembling with raw emotion. “You don’t know what it’s like to feel worthless, to feel like you don’t deserve love or happiness. I thought I finally found someone who cared. But here you are, proving that I was right all along. I’m just… broken.”

“Regulus, you’re not broken,” James said softly, stepping forward again, pleading in his tone. “You’re worth so much more than you realize. I—”

“Don’t you dare say that!” Regulus interrupted, anger flaring within him. “You don’t get to define my worth, James! You’ve made it clear what you think of me. I’m just someone you can hurt and then come back to when it’s convenient.”

The hurt in James’s eyes deepened, and for a moment, Regulus thought he saw the flicker of understanding. But it quickly faded, replaced by desperation. “I love you, Regulus. I never wanted to lose you. I don’t want to lose you now. Please, let’s work through this together.”

“Together?” Regulus laughed bitterly, the sound laced with pain. “How can we possibly work through this when you’ve already chosen someone else? How can I trust you again? You’ve shattered everything we built together.”

James’s expression crumpled, and for a moment, he looked lost, like a boy who had wandered too far from home. “I never wanted to hurt you. I thought I could manage it all without breaking us apart. But I was selfish. I know that now, but it doesn’t change how I feel about you!”

“Your feelings don’t change the fact that you broke me,” Regulus said quietly, the fire in him dimming, replaced by a deep, hollow ache. “You don’t get to decide that I’m worth loving now. You’ve already shown me what you think of me.”

“Regulus, I—” James started, but the words faltered on his lips as Regulus turned away, unable to face the truth any longer.

“Just… go,” Regulus whispered, the finality of the words shattering the fragile facade he had tried to maintain. “Just leave me alone.”

James stood there for a moment, the weight of the world hanging between them, but finally, he nodded, his shoulders slumping in defeat. “I’ll give you space,” he said quietly, his voice filled with regret. “But I’ll be here when you’re ready to talk.”

Regulus couldn’t respond. Instead, he turned away, tears streaming down his face as he heard James’s footsteps retreating. The door clicked softly behind him, and in that moment, the silence swallowed everything.

Regulus was alone.

As the reality of it sank in, he sank to the floor, the weight of his past crashing over him. He felt like that same frightened boy again, lost and unlovable, convinced that he was nothing but a burden. Tears flowed freely as he allowed himself to grieve the love he had thought he’d found, the light that had flickered so brightly before being extinguished.

He had trusted James with his heart, believed he was worthy of love, but once again, he was left standing in the ruins of his own insecurities. And all that remained were the echoes of pain and the haunting reminder that he might never truly belong to anyone.

It takes what feels like forever though a few minutes stretched for his tears to stop falling and for his heart to die down.

Regulus sat on the floor, tears still wet on his cheeks, the remnants of his heartache pooling around him. The apartment felt suffocating, filled with echoes of laughter that now seemed like mockery. He wiped his face with the sleeve of his shirt, the warmth of his tears replaced by an unsettling chill.

As the silence pressed in, he felt the weight of loneliness creeping back in. The past few months had been a fragile refuge, a moment of light amidst the darkness of his childhood. James had been the anchor he never thought he needed, the person who made him feel like he belonged. But now, with everything shattered, the loneliness threatened to swallow him whole.

In a moment of desperation, he reached for his phone, fingers trembling slightly as he scrolled through his contacts. Barty’s name stood out, a flicker of hope amidst the despair. Regulus had never thought he would need to reach out to him again, but here he was, seeking a lifeline.

He hesitated, anxiety swirling in his stomach, then finally typed out a simple message: “You busy?”

The seconds stretched on as he stared at the screen, every moment amplifying the weight of his loneliness. Just as doubt began to creep in, his phone buzzed, jolting him from his thoughts. “Never too busy for you, fucker. What’s up?”

Regulus felt a small smile tugging at his lips at Barty’s reply. The familiar teasing tone was a comfort, a reminder of their bond forged in laughter and chaos. “I need you.”

He took a deep breath, guilt swirling within him. He knew Barty would drop everything for him, and while he appreciated the unwavering support, the thought of pulling him away from his life felt heavy. But right now, he needed a friend—he needed Barty.

“Be there in 15,” Barty replied almost instantly, the speed of his response sending a rush of warmth through Regulus’s chest.

His breath hitched at the thought of seeing him. It had been too long since they’d had one of their late-night conversations or shared a drink and let the world fade away. “Don’t speed up too much. Take your time.”

With that, he turned off his phone, pushing himself up from the floor. Regulus dragged himself toward the bedroom, the space around him still echoing with the shadows of what had just happened. He moved mechanically, the need to prepare grounding him even as his heart felt like it was being crushed under the weight of loss.

As he packed a small bag of necessities, he couldn’t help but feel a sense of guilt wash over him again. He was dragging Barty back into the chaos of his life, into the remnants of his broken heart. But as he folded a few items of clothing and tossed in a book he had been reading, he knew he couldn’t face this alone.

Regulus found a small bottle of his favorite cologne, a scent that reminded him of warm nights and shared secrets, and slipped it into the bag. He paused for a moment, staring at the collection of items that felt both necessary and overwhelming. It was all a patchwork of his life that had suddenly gone wrong.

Taking a deep breath, he closed the bag and sat on the edge of his bed, his heart pounding with anxiety and anticipation. Barty would be here soon, and with him came the promise of comfort, the reminder that he wasn’t alone in this chaos. Despite everything, he could feel a glimmer of hope starting to flicker deep within him—a flicker that told him maybe, just maybe, he could find his way through the darkness with Barty by his side.

With that thought, he settled back against the pillows, trying to calm the storm within him as he awaited his friend.

Laying back against the soft pillows, Regulus closed his eyes, letting the silence of the room wash over him. The darkness felt heavy, but it was a comfort, a safe cocoon where he could hide from the world outside. In the stillness, memories flickered behind his eyelids like a broken film reel—James's laughter, the way his eyes sparkled when he talked about his dreams, the moments of quiet intimacy that made Regulus believe he was worthy of love.

But as the memories played on repeat, each one only deepened the ache in his chest. Regulus couldn’t bring himself to hate James, no matter how much he wished he could. James had been the sun in his life, brightening every shadowy corner, chasing away the lingering doubts and insecurities that had followed him like a relentless shadow. He was the light that pierced through the fog of Regulus's past, making him feel seen and cherished for the first time.

But now, lying there, Regulus felt like the fuck-up he had always believed himself to be. How could he not have seen it? How could he have been so blind to the cracks forming in their relationship? James had found solace in someone else, someone who wasn’t a mess of scars and insecurities. Regulus had always thought of himself as a burden, a weight that James had to carry, and now, more than ever, those thoughts seemed insurmountable.

“I wasn’t enough,” he whispered into the silence, his voice breaking under the weight of his self-recrimination. He replayed the scene in his mind: walking in to find James tangled in Lily’s arms, their laughter echoing in his ears like the cruelest of taunts. It was as if the universe was mocking him, reminding him that there was always someone better out there—someone who could be everything he couldn’t.

Regulus felt the sting of tears prick at the corners of his eyes again, but he fought them back, unwilling to let them flow freely once more. He wouldn’t cry for James; he wouldn’t give into the pain any longer. Instead, he turned the blame inward. If he had been less selfish, less of a loser, less of a mess, maybe James would have never strayed. Maybe he would have felt secure enough to stay.

The thought clawed at him, raw and relentless. Regulus had spent so long wrestling with the idea that he was unlovable, that he was a waste of space and time. And now, with this betrayal burning in his chest, that belief felt more solid than ever. How could he have hoped for anything more when he was the embodiment of everything wrong in his own life?

“I’m sorry,” he murmured, feeling a desperate need to apologize to the very air around him, as if it could somehow ease the burden he carried. “I’m so sorry for being who I am.”

He rolled onto his side, wrapping his arms around himself as if he could hold the pieces of his heart together. With every passing moment, the realization sank deeper into his bones: he was a mess, and that mess had driven James into someone else’s arms.

As Regulus lay there, suffocated by the weight of his thoughts, he wished for a moment that he could be someone else—someone worthy of love. Barty was on his way, but even the thought of his friend couldn’t chase away the demons whispering their taunts in the back of his mind.

If he were less broken, if he could somehow be the person James deserved, then maybe—just maybe—things would have turned out differently. But as he lay in the dark, he felt the truth clawing at him: he would always be the fuck-up, the one who let love slip through his fingers.

And he had no one to blame but himself.

The comforting roar of a motorcycle cut through the heavy silence of Regulus’s apartment, a welcome sound that broke him from his spiral of self-loathing. He hadn’t even heard Barty approach, but the rumble of the engine felt like a lifeline being thrown into his tumultuous sea of despair. Before he could even process the noise, the front door creaked open, and there stood Barty, his presence both grounding and electric.

Regulus didn’t move, frozen in his place on the edge of the bed. Barty's eyes scanned the room, landing on Regulus’s crumpled figure, and the air shifted. Without a moment's hesitation, Barty crossed the room in three swift strides and enveloped him in his arms, pulling Regulus closer against his chest. There were no questions, no demands for explanations—just an instinctive understanding that Regulus needed him.

As Barty held him tight, something inside Regulus finally snapped. The dam broke, and he unraveled completely into a sobbing, incoherent mess, every sound of his anguish piercing Barty’s heart like shards of glass. The rawness of Regulus's pain was a visceral thing; each tear that fell from his silver-grey eyes felt like a knife twisting deep in Barty's chest.

“Shhh,” Barty murmured softly, his voice steady even as his heart seethed with anger and sorrow for his friend. He stroked Regulus's hair, fingers tangling in the dark strands, offering comfort without expectation. “I’ve got you. Just let it out.”

Regulus clung to Barty as if he were a lifeline, inhaling the familiar scent of cigarette smoke and peppermint that wrapped around him like a warm blanket. Memories of teasing Barty about his candy-cane smell flickered through his mind—a brief, sweet distraction from the pain that suffocated him. Right now, he wanted nothing more than to drown in that scent, to lose himself in the comfort of his best friend’s presence.

Time felt meaningless as they sat there, Barty’s arms a sanctuary against the storm raging inside Regulus. The minutes stretched into what felt like hours, each heartbeat synchronizing with the sobs that shook Regulus’s frame. With every breath, Barty focused on keeping Regulus anchored, a calm presence amidst the chaos.

Eventually, Regulus’s tears began to subside, though the ache in his heart remained. He pulled back slightly, just enough to look up at Barty. What he saw tore at Barty’s heart: Regulus looked utterly wrecked. His silver-grey eyes were bloodshot and puffy, lips swollen from the relentless pressure of his grief, and his face was blotchy and red, a map of his heartbreak.

Barty’s stomach twisted at the sight. If he could, he would burn the world to ashes if it meant he’d never have to see Regulus in this state again. The thought made his blood boil. Someone had hurt Regulus, and the rage simmering within him was focused entirely on the unknown source of this pain.

“Reg,” Barty whispered, his voice barely above a murmur as he searched his friend’s eyes for some glimmer of the boy he had known for so long. “You okay?”

Regulus opened his mouth to respond, but no words came out. Instead, he leaned into Barty's chest, seeking the warmth and strength that was so inherently Barty. He didn't want to talk, not yet. The pain was too fresh, too raw, and he couldn't bring himself to articulate the whirlwind of emotions that threatened to consume him.

“Just breathe,” Barty urged gently, feeling Regulus’s heart racing against his own. He wanted nothing more than to shield Regulus from everything that had hurt him, to take away the pain and replace it with the laughter and joy they had shared in their years of friendship.

As the two sat there, the weight of their silence spoke volumes. The world outside faded away, leaving only the two of them, wrapped up in each other—a fragile connection that felt like it could shatter at any moment. Regulus was safe here, in Barty’s arms, and for now, that was enough.

A few minutes go by in silence. Regulus turned his head slightly, trying to catch Barty’s gaze through the curtain of his hair. “Bee—”

“Yeah?” Barty replied, his voice steady, as if he could anchor Regulus just by being there.

“Take me with you,” Regulus said, his voice a whisper laced with desperation.

“Anything you need, Regulus.” Barty's heart swelled at the raw vulnerability in Regulus’s request, but it also tightened with concern as he noted the pallor of Regulus's skin, the way his cheeks were sunken, and the deep dark circles under his eyes that told stories of sleepless nights filled with anguish. Regulus looked fragile, and it sent a wave of protectiveness surging through Barty.

With gentle urgency, Barty helped Regulus to his feet. Regulus wavered slightly, his balance unsure, and Barty's heart clenched at the sight. “Easy there,” he said softly, wrapping an arm around Regulus’s waist to steady him.

“Let’s get out of here.”

Barty grabbed Regulus’s small bag, tossing it over his shoulder as they made their way to the door. There was a single helmet resting on the hook by the door, and before Regulus could protest, Barty picked it up and placed it on Regulus’s head. “You’ll need this,” he said, the corners of his mouth twitching slightly as he adjusted the fit.

Regulus opened his mouth to argue, but he quickly found the words escaping him. The helmet felt heavy, but the gesture filled him with warmth—Barty always looked out for him. Instead of voicing his discomfort, he surrendered to the moment, a sense of calm washing over him as he followed Barty out the door.

As they stepped into the night, Barty's motorcycle loomed in the driveway like a beast ready to take them away. Barty secured Regulus on the bike, and he climbed on behind him, instinctively wrapping his arms around Barty’s waist. The warmth radiating from Barty’s body seeped into Regulus, chasing away some of the cold that had settled deep within him.

With a deep breath, Barty started the engine, the roar of the bike drowning out everything else—the pain, the betrayal, the heartbreak. He could feel Regulus pressing against him, seeking solace in his presence, and it only fueled the simmering rage inside him. Barty gripped the handlebars tightly, his knuckles white, but he remained calm on the surface, focusing on the road ahead.

As they sped off into the night, the wind whipped through Regulus’s hair, the world around them blurring into streaks of color. He relished the warmth of Barty against him, feeling safe for the first time in what felt like an eternity. The engine’s growl was a heartbeat beneath them, steady and strong, just like Barty.

Regulus pressed his forehead against Barty’s back, closing his eyes. The city lights flickered past, but he was content to focus on the sensation of being wrapped in Barty’s embrace. It was an anchor, pulling him back from the edge of his spiraling thoughts.

Barty’s heart raced, not just from the thrill of the bike but from the protective instinct surging through him. He would burn the world for Regulus if it meant he’d never see that broken look on his face again. For now, all he wanted was to get as far away from the memories of pain as possible, to remind Regulus that he wasn’t alone.

“Hang on tight,” Barty called over the roar of the engine, and Regulus squeezed him a little tighter, feeling the warmth of Barty’s presence seep into his bones. They were leaving behind the hurt, if only for a little while, and as they rode through the dark, Regulus allowed himself to believe, even if just for a moment, that everything would be okay.

As Barty guided Regulus into his apartment, the familiar scent of cigarette smoke and something sweet wrapped around them like a cocoon. Barty’s space was cluttered yet inviting, filled with the remnants of their shared childhood memories—posters, photographs, and remnants of late-night gaming sessions. It felt safe here, a stark contrast to the turmoil Regulus had left behind.

“Just hang tight,” Barty said gently, leading Regulus to his bedroom. “I’ll be right back.”

Regulus nodded, his heart still racing but soothed by the warmth of Barty’s presence. He settled onto the edge of the bed, the soft mattress a welcome reprieve from the heaviness in his chest. The silence was comforting, but soon it was broken by the sound of muffled voices in the kitchen.

“Hey, Marls?” Barty called out, his tone casual but laced with an underlying urgency.

“It’s Marlene for you, you mister. Only my girlfriend calls me that,” Marlene shot back playfully, and Regulus could almost hear the eye roll in her voice.

“Okay, fine—Marlene,” Barty replied with a hint of exasperation. “Think you can stay with Cas for a while? I’m gonna need your room...”

Regulus’s breath hitched, and he instinctively moved closer to the door, trying to hide himself as if he could disappear into the shadows. The idea of being found, of having to explain himself, was suffocating.

“What will I get in return?” Marlene asked, teasingly.

“Whatever you want,” Barty replied, the desperation creeping into his voice, as if he expected her to refuse.

“I’ll think about my reward later,” she said, and Regulus could picture the sly grin on her face. “You’re lucky my girlfriend has a big house, Crouch.”

“You’re the best!” Barty exclaimed, relief flooding his tone.

“I know,” Marlene replied, and Regulus felt a flicker of warmth at the camaraderie between them, a bond forged over years of friendship.

Regulus shifted slightly, straining to catch a glimpse of Barty as the conversation continued. He felt a mix of gratitude and guilt washing over him. Barty was going out of his way for him, making sacrifices without a second thought, and the weight of that kindness made Regulus’s heart ache even more.

“Thanks, Marlene,” Barty said, and Regulus could hear the sincerity in his voice. “I owe you one.”

“You owe me a few, actually. Just don’t mess this up,” Marlene replied, her voice teasing but with an underlying seriousness that Regulus found comforting.

“Promise,” Barty said, and Regulus could imagine him flashing that easy smile that always lit up the room.

As the voices faded into the background, Regulus felt a swell of emotion rise within him. He didn’t deserve this kindness, this care. He was a burden, a waste of space and time, and yet here Barty was, willing to sacrifice his own comfort for Regulus’s well-being.

Barty returned moments later, his expression softening when he saw Regulus still sitting on the bed, the shadows from the night cloaking him in a vulnerable light. “Marlene’s gonna stay with Cas for a bit. You’re all set,” he said, crossing the room and sinking onto the bed beside Regulus. “You okay?”

Regulus forced a nod, though he could feel the cracks within him still spreading. “I didn’t mean to intrude,” he murmured, his voice barely above a whisper.

“Reg, you’re not intruding. You’re my best friend, and I’ll always have your back,” Barty reassured him, the sincerity in his voice igniting something within Regulus. “You’ve got a place here as long as you need it.”

Regulus’s heart ached at the truth in Barty’s words. It was a lifeline, a flicker of hope in the darkness that threatened to consume him. “Thank you,” he breathed, feeling the weight of his pain lift just slightly in Barty’s presence.

“Let’s just take it one step at a time, alright?” Barty suggested, leaning back against the headboard and patting the space next to him. “I’m not going anywhere.”

With a hesitant smile, Regulus moved closer, settling beside Barty as they both stared at the wall, lost in their own thoughts. It was a small moment of peace amidst the chaos, a reminder that he wasn’t alone—no matter how broken he felt inside.

As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a soft orange glow through the windows, Barty took Regulus’s hand and led him through the apartment, his voice brightening the atmosphere with lighthearted commentary.

“This is the living room,” Barty said, gesturing to the cozy space with mismatched furniture and an array of gaming consoles strewn across the coffee table. “Marlene and I have movie nights here. You know, all the classic horror flicks. We can binge-watch whenever you want.”

Regulus forced a smile, appreciating the warmth of the room, even if it felt foreign to him.

“And this is the kitchen,” Barty continued, leaning against the doorframe as he pointed out the open layout. “Marlene’s the chef, but I do my best when I have to. Just don’t ask me to bake anything. Last time, I set off the smoke alarm.”

Regulus chuckled softly, the sound feeling almost alien coming from his throat. The familiar banter they shared was comforting, a reminder of the bond they’d always had.

Barty opened the door to his bedroom, a sanctuary filled with chaotic charm. Posters of their favorite bands plastered the walls, and books lay scattered across the desk. “And here’s where the magic happens,” he said with a smirk. “Well, the gaming magic, anyway.”

Regulus stepped inside, taking in the space that felt like an extension of Barty himself. “It’s nice,” he admitted, the remnants of his earlier turmoil swirling in his chest.

Barty dropped Regulus’s bag on the bed, glancing at him with a mix of concern and curiosity. “You can stay in here while I crash at Marlene’s. I hope that’s okay,” he said, his voice softening. “I want you to feel comfortable.”

“Yeah, it’s fine,” Regulus replied, though uncertainty flickered within him. He hadn’t planned on needing a place to stay, but being here with Barty felt like a small victory amidst the chaos of his emotions.

As they settled into the room, Barty shifted slightly, his demeanor becoming more serious. “Reg, can we talk about what happened? You don’t have to tell me if you’re not ready, but I’m here for you,” he urged, his gaze unwavering.

Regulus felt his heart race, the weight of the question heavy in the air. He hesitated, searching for the words to explain the depths of his pain. “It’s… complicated,” he finally managed, his voice trembling.

“Take your time,” Barty reassured him, sitting on the edge of the bed, the concern etched into his features.

Regulus took a deep breath, memories flooding back—the hurt, the betrayal, the suffocating fear of being unlovable. “James… he was cheating on me,” he whispered, the confession hanging in the air like a dark cloud.

Barty’s eyes widened in disbelief, and his jaw clenched. “With who?” he asked, anger simmering beneath the surface.

“Lily,” Regulus replied, his voice barely a whisper. “His ex.”

Barty’s expression shifted, an emotion Regulus couldn’t quite place flickering across his face. “I—” he started, then stopped himself. “I’m so sorry, Reg.”

Regulus felt the tears prick at the corners of his eyes again. “I should’ve seen it coming,” he murmured, guilt swirling within him. “I always felt like I wasn’t enough for him, you know? Like I was just… a placeholder.”

“No, you’re not a placeholder,” Barty said firmly, his voice cutting through Regulus’s spiraling thoughts. “You’re amazing, Regulus. James was a fool to think otherwise.”

Regulus swallowed hard, the anguish rising within him. “He didn’t want to hurt me, he said. He just… he wanted to be with Lily again. But he didn’t want to break up with me either. It’s like I was just something to fall back on.”

Barty’s eyes darkened with a storm of emotions, the fury at James evident in his gaze. “That’s not fair to you. You deserve someone who sees you for who you are, not someone who just uses you when it’s convenient.”

Regulus nodded, fresh tears spilling down his cheeks. “I thought I was doing better, that I could finally be happy. But then… this happened. I thought he loved me.”

“He should have loved you,” Barty said, his tone low and fierce. “You’re worth so much more than he gave you. You’re worth all the love in the world.”

Regulus looked down, ashamed of the vulnerability spilling from him. “I always felt like I was just a waste of space, and maybe… maybe this just proves it.”

Barty’s expression softened, and he moved closer, resting a comforting hand on Regulus’s knee. “You’re not a waste of space. You’ve fought through so much, and you’re still standing. That takes strength. You just need to believe it.”

“I want to,” Regulus said, his voice breaking. “But it’s hard. I’m scared that I’ll never be enough.”

Barty’s hand squeezed his knee gently. “You are enough. And I’ll be here to remind you of that every single day, no matter what.”

Regulus looked up, meeting Barty’s gaze, and for the first time since everything had shattered, he felt a flicker of hope amidst the pain. In this moment, he wasn’t alone; he had Barty, unwavering and steadfast, ready to help him pick up the pieces.

As night fell, the apartment was dimly lit, the only illumination coming from a few scattered lamps that cast a warm glow around the room. Regulus sat on Barty’s bed, wrapped in a blanket, his heart still heavy from the weight of his earlier revelations. Barty had pulled out some snacks and a couple of video games, trying to lighten the atmosphere, but Regulus could sense the tension simmering beneath the surface.

Suddenly, Barty’s phone buzzed loudly, slicing through the silence. He glanced at the screen and saw James's name flash across it. A knot twisted in his stomach, and he didn’t hesitate to answer, gripping the phone tightly.

“Potter,” Barty said, trying to keep his voice steady, but it dripped with uncontained irritation.

“Barty! Thank God, it’s you. Is Regulus there? I’ve been trying to call him, and he won’t pick up!” James’s voice crackled with worry, but Barty could hear the undertone of guilt lurking behind it.

“Yeah, he’s here,” Barty replied, his tone flat. “Why? What do you want?”

“Listen, I need to talk to him. It’s important,” James pleaded, desperation creeping into his voice.

Barty could feel the anger rising within him. “You think he wants to talk to you after what you did? You think he wants to hear your excuses and half-hearted apologies?”

“What do you mean? What happened?” James asked, his tone shifting from concern to confusion.

Regulus, sensing the tension in Barty’s posture, turned to watch as Barty paced back and forth, the phone pressed to his ear. He could see Barty’s jaw clenching, his fingers tapping against the phone in agitation.

“Regulus found out about you and Lily,” Barty said, the words spilling out like venom. “He’s here, trying to pick up the pieces of his heart while you’re busy playing the hero. He deserves better than this.”

There was a long pause on the other end of the line before James responded, his voice barely above a whisper. “I never meant for it to happen. I thought I could fix things without hurting him, I swear. I just… I just didn’t want to lose him.”

“You already lost him, James!” Barty snapped, his patience wearing thin. “You think this is some game? You broke him! You shattered him into a million pieces, and you think you can just waltz back in and act like nothing’s wrong?”

“Barty, please,” James begged. “I didn’t want to hurt him. I was confused—”

“Confused? You were fucking cheating on him!” Barty shouted, his fury bubbling over. “You’re a coward for doing this to him, and now you want to act like the victim? You don’t get to play both sides, Potter.”

“I never meant for it to be like this,” James insisted, his voice trembling. “I love him!”

“Love? Love doesn’t betray. Love doesn’t leave someone feeling worthless!” Barty roared, gripping the phone tighter, his anger radiating off him in waves.

“I’m sorry, okay? I just thought I could… I thought I could fix it all,” James’s voice cracked, genuine regret seeping through his words.

Barty felt a moment of satisfaction at James's admission but quickly pushed it aside. Regulus needed more than that. He deserved more. “You don’t get to fix things just because you want to feel better about your mistakes. Regulus is in pain because of you, and he needs time away from your bullshit.”

“Just let me talk to him!” James’s voice rose in urgency.

Barty shook his head, glancing at Regulus, whose eyes were wide, filled with a mixture of dread and longing. “No. Not now. He’s not ready. You don’t get to barge back into his life because you feel guilty. You don’t get to make this about you.”

“Barty, please! I just want to make sure he’s okay,” James said, desperation now pouring from him.

Barty took a deep breath, his voice low and dangerous. “You want to make sure he’s okay? Then just you wait, Potter. Just you wait. You’ll see what happens when someone who actually cares about him is in his life.”

Without waiting for a response, Barty hung up, the sound of the call disconnecting echoing in the charged air. He turned to Regulus, who had dropped his gaze, his expression a mixture of pain and gratitude.

“Reg?” Barty asked softly, stepping closer.

Regulus looked up, his silver-grey eyes shimmering with unshed tears. “What did he say?”

Barty sighed, running a hand through his hair, still feeling the remnants of his anger. “He wanted to talk to you. He sounded worried, but he also… he didn’t really get what he did to you.”

Regulus nodded, biting his lip as he processed everything. “I just… I don’t know what to feel anymore.”

“You don’t have to decide right now,” Barty said gently, his voice steady. “I’m here, and I won’t let him hurt you again. Not now, not ever.”

As Regulus took a shaky breath, feeling the weight of Barty’s unwavering support, he knew that maybe, just maybe, he could find a way to heal—one step at a time.

The weeks that followed Regulus’s emotional unraveling were a delicate balance of healing and uncertainty. Barty took it upon himself to be Regulus's anchor, fiercely protective and annoyingly jealous at times. He didn’t care if Regulus had to be away from James for a while; all he knew was that he would be the one to help him pick up the pieces of his shattered self-worth.

Every night, Barty made sure Regulus was surrounded by friends who cared about him. Their first outing together was to a club where Barty had made Marlene promise to keep an eye on Regulus while he stayed close, his body a wall of protection against the world that had hurt his best friend. As the music pulsed through the air, Barty stood beside Regulus, his presence a comforting weight that pushed back against the loneliness he felt.

“Just be yourself,” Barty urged as they entered the club, a confident smile plastered on his face that was so unlike the Regulus who had walked in. “And if anyone gives you trouble, just look at me.”

Regulus felt a flicker of warmth at Barty’s words. The thought of being in the spotlight was daunting, but Barty’s unwavering gaze bolstered his courage. He moved into the crowd, the bass reverberating through his body. As the night wore on, Regulus began to feel more alive, more like the person he had once been before James’s betrayal.

At the bar, while Barty ordered drinks, Regulus caught sight of a group of guys across the room who were eyeing him. An old familiar anxiety coiled in his stomach, and he instinctively sought out Barty’s gaze. Barty caught his look and immediately frowned, stepping between Regulus and the onlookers with a protective stance.

“Hey!” Barty barked, casting a fierce glare at the group, who promptly looked away, sensing the storm brewing.

Regulus stifled a laugh, a strange warmth blossoming in his chest at the possessiveness of it all. “You don’t have to scare everyone away.”

“I’ll scare them all I want,” Barty retorted, a teasing lilt to his voice. “Nobody gets to look at you like that. Not anymore.”

As the night progressed, Barty kept Regulus close, encouraging him to dance, to laugh, to enjoy the fleeting moments that came with being young and alive. They both drank and danced until the world felt like a dizzying blur of lights and laughter.

---

The next week, Marlene invited them to a movie night at Dorcas's place. As they settled into the cozy living room, popcorn in hand, Regulus felt an unfamiliar comfort wrap around him. They watched an old romantic comedy, and as the characters on-screen navigated love and heartbreak, Regulus couldn’t help but notice how Barty’s eyes would flick to him every few moments, searching for his reaction, almost like he wanted to ensure Regulus was feeling okay.

“You okay, Reg?” Barty whispered during a particularly funny scene, leaning in close enough for Regulus to feel the warmth radiating off him.

Regulus nodded, a small smile creeping onto his lips. “Yeah, I’m good.”

“Good,” Barty replied, his expression softening. “Because if anyone in this movie does anything stupid, I’m ready to throw popcorn at the screen.”

Regulus chuckled, the sound light and free. It felt good to laugh, to connect with his friends without the heavy shadow of self-doubt clinging to him.

---

As they ventured further into the month, Barty and Regulus found themselves in Pandora's bakery, surrounded by the sweet scents of pastries and baked goods. Regulus had tentatively picked up a cupcake, eyeing the bright frosting like it was a treasure. Barty had insisted they take a box of treats home to share with the others.

“I can’t believe you’re eating that,” Barty said, half-joking, as he chose a slice of cake the size of his hand.

“I’m trying to rediscover myself,” Regulus retorted, rolling his eyes playfully. “Plus, you can’t tell me you don’t want to try this lemon meringue pie.”

As they indulged in their sugary feast, Barty watched Regulus, a content smile on his lips. This was a side of Regulus he had missed—the spark, the teasing. It felt like they were rediscovering each other, and Barty relished every moment.

---

But as Regulus began to flourish in the presence of his friends, Barty’s jealousy sometimes simmered just beneath the surface. During a night out at a bar, Regulus found himself chatting with a guy who had taken a keen interest in him. Barty’s stomach twisted at the sight of Regulus laughing easily, flirting back in a way he hadn’t seen in so long.

“Hey, Reg,” Barty interjected, walking over with a forced smile that didn’t quite reach his eyes. “Can I steal you for a second?”

Regulus looked a bit surprised but nodded, following Barty away from the conversation.

“What’s up?” Regulus asked, his brow furrowing slightly.

“You don’t need to entertain every guy who looks your way,” Barty said, his voice low and tense, his eyes narrowed at the guy who was now watching them with a confused expression.

Regulus blinked, taken aback. “I wasn’t—”

“Just… you’re too good for that,” Barty interrupted, the protectiveness evident in his tone. “I don’t want you wasting your time with someone who doesn’t deserve you.”

Regulus’s heart raced, a mixture of embarrassment and warmth blooming in his chest. “Barty, it’s just harmless fun. I’m allowed to talk to people.”

“Yeah, but… I don’t want you to forget what you’re worth,” Barty replied, his jealousy morphing into vulnerability. “You mean so much to me, and I just want you to see that.”

Regulus softened at the sincerity in Barty’s eyes, a wave of gratitude washing over him. “I appreciate that, Barty. I really do. But I’m not going to forget it, not anymore.”

---

Weeks rolled on, and with each passing day, Regulus slowly rediscovered himself. With Barty’s unwavering support and the love of their friends, the layers of self-loathing began to peel away. They would venture to bars, clubs, and parties, always returning home together, laughing and teasing each other.

Regulus found joy in the little things—like cooking with Barty in the kitchen, where flour would fly and laughter echoed. Or the moments spent cuddling up to movies, surrounded by friends, feeling the warmth of belonging wash over him.

Barty’s possessiveness morphed into a protective shield, ensuring Regulus knew he was loved and cherished. He was there through every emotional storm, silently vowing to help Regulus find his way back to himself.

And with each shared laugh, every flirtation with newfound friends, Regulus felt a little less broken. He was beginning to understand that he wasn’t a waste of space or time; he was worthy of love, of laughter, and most importantly, of a future filled with hope.

As they strolled through the streets one evening, Barty’s hand intertwined with Regulus’s, he couldn’t help but think that maybe, just maybe, he was on the right path to finding himself again—one step at a time, with Barty by his side.

It was just another Tuesday. Marlene was visiting, she sort of adopted Regulus. The cheesy jazz music was grating on barty's ears but at least Regulus was smiling at Marlene who was still trying to figure out how to measure ingredients. Barty leaned against the counter, watching Regulus laugh with Marlene. The sound was like music, a sweet melody that lifted his spirits even on the darkest days. But beneath that laughter lay a fragility Barty couldn’t ignore. He felt a protective urge surge through him, a fierce instinct to shield Regulus from the world and its cruelties.

Who the hell had the audacity to cheat on Regulus? Barty thought, clenching his jaw. It was like a punch to the gut, the thought of James Potter treating Regulus like some sort of plaything. The rage simmering beneath the surface made his fists twitch, but he forced himself to breathe, to remain calm. He would confront James soon enough, but for now, he had Regulus to look after.

As he watched Regulus talk animatedly, his silver-grey eyes sparkling with the kind of joy that had been so absent lately, Barty’s heart twisted. Regulus had always been beautiful—hauntingly so—but right now, he was radiating a light that made Barty’s insides feel warm and full. How could anyone look at him and think he wasn’t enough? The thought of James glancing at someone else filled him with a strange mix of anger and disbelief.

Every time Barty saw Regulus's smile falter, a pang of guilt gripped him. He hated that he couldn’t wipe away the hurt James had caused, but he could damn well try. They’d spent countless nights watching movies with their friends, laughing until they cried, and yet Barty felt that he had to do more. Regulus was worth so much more than the way he saw himself.

A few weeks had passed since Regulus moved into his apartment, and Barty made it his mission to show Regulus just how amazing he truly was. They had gone to clubs, danced like idiots, and embraced life in a way that made Regulus's laughter almost contagious. Marlene had even taken them to Pandora's bakery, where they gorged on sweets and joked until their stomachs hurt.

Regulus was coming back to life, and Barty cherished every moment. He loved the way Regulus hesitated before cracking a joke, his eyes darting nervously. He loved how his laughter filled the room, like a song echoing off the walls. And most of all, he loved how, even after everything, Regulus still looked at him like he was the center of his universe.

Yet, in the quiet moments, when they were curled up on the couch with a movie playing in the background, Barty would catch Regulus staring into space, his expression distant and pained. Barty would feel a familiar anger bubble up, not towards Regulus, but towards James. How could he? How could he betray someone so deserving, someone who needed love more than anyone else?

It made Barty want to shake some sense into him. Didn’t James realize how lucky he had been? He’d been careless with the one person who would have given him everything, and it didn’t sit right with Barty. He wanted to protect Regulus, to show him that he was worth loving, worth fighting for.

One day, Barty promised himself, he would be more than just Regulus's friend. He’d be the one to remind him of his worth, to make him see that he was not a burden or a mistake but someone who could light up the darkest corners of the world. Every time Barty looked at Regulus, he saw the stars in his eyes, and he swore he’d do whatever it took to make sure those stars never dimmed.

As they sat together on the couch one evening, Regulus resting his head against Barty’s shoulder, he couldn’t help but smile at the quiet strength of his friend. The moment was soft and simple, but it felt monumental. Barty could almost see the cracks in Regulus’s self-esteem beginning to mend, and that was enough to fill him with hope.

He leaned down, pressing a soft kiss to Regulus’s forehead. “You’re incredible, you know that?” he murmured, feeling Regulus’s warmth seep into him. Barty wanted to scream it from the rooftops—Regulus Black was beautiful, brilliant, and worthy of love.

Regulus looked up, surprise flickering across his face, and for a moment, the shadows receded. Barty wanted to hold onto that light, to nurture it until it became an unquenchable flame. He was ready to stand guard against anyone who dared to extinguish it again.

Barty's heart raced as he leaned in closer to Regulus, anticipation buzzing in the air. The moment felt electric, charged with everything that had been left unsaid. He could see the conflict in Regulus's eyes, that mix of longing and hesitation that twisted something deep within him.

But just as their lips were about to meet, Regulus stopped him. “Don’t—just don’t.”

The words hit Barty like a cold slap, and his breath caught in his throat. “Why not?” he asked, his voice cracking under the weight of disappointment. He had finally dared to hope that he was enough for Regulus, that the shadows of James Potter were fading away. Regulus had seen past Barty’s chaotic exterior, and he thought, just for a moment, that he might mean something more.

“I can’t do this to you,” Regulus whispered, his voice barely a breath.

“Do what?” Barty pressed, a sharp ache blossoming in his chest. He had fought through the storm of his own insecurities, convinced that Regulus was ready to let him in, but now he felt his heart shatter again.

“Treat you like a rebound. You deserve better, Barty. You deserve someone to love you the way you love them. I don’t want you to feel like you’re just a replacement for James.” Regulus’s eyes glistened with unshed tears, and it broke Barty’s heart all over again.

“How can someone so smart be so stupid?” Barty smiled sadly, even though the pain was throbbing in his chest.

“What do you mean—?”

“Do you not see it, Regulus?” Barty leaned in closer, pouring everything he felt into his words. “My heart aches for you. I don’t care if I’m a rebound or not. I don’t care if you use and discard me like a toy. I don’t care how you have me as long as you do.”

Regulus shook his head, looking more broken than ever. “I can’t do this to you.”

“Why?” Barty’s voice was barely a whisper now, trembling with vulnerability. “You’ll love me eventually, I think.”

“I already do,” Regulus replied softly, and that confession sent a rush of warmth through Barty, igniting a spark of hope.

“Then why not have me when I’m begging to be held?” Barty asked, his heart racing, desperate to close the distance between them.

“You need someone better,” Regulus murmured, but Barty couldn’t accept that.

“There is no one better,” Barty insisted, his eyes locked onto Regulus’s, searching for any sign of doubt. “I just need you. Lie to me, Regulus. Tell me that you love me and let me take care of you. I’ll take care of you and love you like no one can. I’ll understand you in ways he couldn’t.”

The silence stretched between them, heavy with unspoken feelings. Finally, Regulus took a deep breath and whispered, “I love you.”

“Thank you,” Barty replied, tears welling in his eyes as he leaned closer, inching toward the kiss that felt so right. This time, Regulus didn’t push him away. Instead, Barty felt the tension shift, an unspoken understanding passing between them. It felt like a sinner tasting heaven, and he wanted nothing more than to drown in the warmth of Regulus’s embrace.

“Hey, Bee?” Regulus’s voice was soft, almost hesitant.

“Yeah?” Barty replied, his heart racing in the charged silence.

“I never lie.”

The sincerity in Regulus’s voice grounded him, and as he leaned in to finally capture Regulus’s lips with his own, he felt an overwhelming wave of emotion crash over him. It was everything he had longed for and more. The kiss was tentative at first, but as Barty pressed closer, he poured every ounce of his adoration into it. It felt like home, like a promise of what could be, and for a moment, nothing else mattered.

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