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#peter loves chess
maiiefizz · 19 days
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Jegulus Prompt: Traitor
@jegulus-microfic
10.04.24, 404 Words
This is the perfect word to write Angst but my heart won't let me. So just peaceful stuff.
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James leans back with a big grin on his face and looks at Regulus.
Reg thinks about how he can still win the game. He is usually the best at chess. Apart from Monty. James' father is the best man the chess world has ever seen. But now the genes seem to be awakening in James too, because Regulus simply can't compete with his boyfriend. No matter what move he makes, James seems to have planned everything three steps ahead and is slowly running out of options. This must not happen.
"Come on Reggi, you know what we bet on."
Regulus sighs, annoyed. "Potter, I'm not going to sit next to Sirius and Remus on a ten hour car journey."
James' grin gets bigger.
"Then I guess you have to win now."
Regulus closes his eyes and slumps backwards, lying on the soft carpet on the floor of the Potters' living room.
"I think I have a better chance of winning the trip if I just strangle Sirius tonight."
He then hears a voice laughing
It sounds like James, but even if the difference is barely noticeable, Regulus knows James' voice better than anyone else. He immediately opens his eyes and looks up into the face of Monty, who is looking down at him with a grin.
"Oh Potter, you Traitor! How long has he been helping you?!"
Monty replies: "If it wasn't for me, he'd already be out of check after your third move."
"Well, now that we've sorted that out," Regulus begins, "you can sit next to Barty and Evan in the back seat tomorrow. Sirius and Remus in the middle on the two and I'll sit in the front next to Pandora."
"HEY!" shouts James, "you haven't won yet. So there's still a chance that I'll sit next to Pandora and you'll sit with your brother and Moony."
"You cheated. That definitely counts as losing!"
"It doesn't"
"It does"
"Don't"
"Does"
"Dad!"
Monty laughs "You're cute, you two. How about you two sit on the two seats in the middle and the others have to take care of the rest?"
Regulus and James look at each other briefly and smile.
The chess game long forgotten as soon as they imagine being in total connection for 10 hours.
They don't notice Monty leaving with a grin.
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evannppeters · 3 months
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POV: you signed up for chess lessons, but you didn’t expect that your teacher would be so young and sexy.
a couple of minutes after an awkward acquaintance for you, he is already sitting opposite you, explains the rules with a calm face, every now and then rearranging pieces with his brutal hands. at some point you lose yourself and make a move together with the teacher, your hands collide and you hold your breath, looking into each other’s eyes...
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marvelomadness06 · 11 months
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Cutsie little headcannon that Pete ran a chess club for the younger students every Sunday afternoon, and would always, always show up, no matter what sorta pranks the marauders had scheduled for that day.
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crazy-walls · 1 year
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Die ganze Zeit quälte Bob Peter mit einer Horrorgeschichte nach  der anderen.
drei ??? out of context, oder: jede dritte Folge
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cherrygumbaby · 1 month
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I love polite, slightly awkward men, they're so cute
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bornetoblood · 1 year
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Awful, Haunted Old Man Chess Game
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knowlesian · 2 years
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neal and keller on white collar are one of those things where i’m sorry there is just no heterosexual explanation for them and if one was offered up i would simply refuse it
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coline7373 · 2 years
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supernovasilence · 1 year
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Ok we all talk about the Pevensies' trauma at returning to Earth at the end of The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe and their trouble readjusting to life there again but think of all the funny/good parts too
They return from the country, and their mom is surprised when all her children hug her at the station. Even Peter, who thinks he's all grown up. Even Edmund, who went away surly and withdrawn. She doesn't know her children haven't seen her in over a decade.
They miss their dear Cair Paravel, but they absolutely do not miss its chamber pots. Indoor plumbing is amazing.
It takes a while to remember how modern technology works, though. How many heart attacks did the siblings give their parents or the professor because they walked into a dark room only to turn on the light and find the children sitting there in the dark. (They were by the window! There was still plenty of light from the sunset! They would have gotten a candle in a minute!) The kids sheepishly remember oh yeah electricity is a thing.
(Edmund has a new electric torch in Prince Caspian. He was so excited to get that torch. Almost more excited than you'd think a kid his age would be, and his parents expect Peter at least to tease him, but the siblings all agree light in your hand at the touch of a switch is terrific.)
Suddenly getting really high grades in some subjects and terrible in others. Their grammar, reading comprehension, spelling, vocab, even penmanship? Amazing. History and geography? They don't remember anything. One time in class Susan forgets Earth is round and wants to die.
Also they can never remember what the date is supposed to be because Narnia uses different months and years. They can estimate time really well by looking at the sun though, and Edmund at least can always tell which way is north etc without thinking about it (again, using the sun)
Okay but how many times did they go to pick something up or reach something and realize they are so much shorter and less muscled than they expect? It's a common sight to see Peter climbing on counters to reach a top cabinet, grumbling about how he's High King this is demeaning. (No he never takes the extra five seconds to grab a stool. He will climb that shelf.)
Peter and Susan being delighted because they are no longer almost thirty. (In a few years Edmund and Lucy will tease them about being old and their parents will not understand.)
Lucy doesn't have to deal with periods anymore for a few years yet. Susan might not either. Heck yeah
Lucy loves to climb into her siblings' laps and be cuddled. In Narnia she eventually she grew too big, but now she is small and snuggleable again. Peter is her favorite, and if she's upset, he'll tickle her and tell bad jokes until she's smiling again, but really she loves cuddling with all her family. She grew up without her parents; how many times did she just want to crawl into her mom's lap and her mom was a world away? Imagine the first time she realizes she can now. Or, imagine one day, a cold and grey sort of day, when the rain is pattering against the windows, and it sounds like the rain on the windows of the Professor's house, that first day they went exploring. It sounds like the day they played hide and seek. It sounds so like the rain on the windows of Cair Paravel, that if Lucy closes her eyes she can imagine she's back there, having tea and chatting with Mr. Tumnus before the fireplace of her room, and soon the rain will stop, and they will go out on the balcony and wave to the naiads and the dryads and the mermaids, who have come out to enjoy the rain and visit one other on the banks of the Great River winding past Cair Paravel down to the sea.
But if Lucy looks out the window, all she'll see is the rain over London, so it's not only a cold and grey sort of day, it's a lonely sort of day too.
Susan and Edmund are playing chess in the living room (and they must have studied with Professor Kirke, thinks their mother, because they certainly weren't that good when they left). Lucy goes over to Edmund, and oh dear, thinks their mother, now he's going to call her a baby and be horrible to her, but instead he picks her up and puts her on his lap without even taking his eyes off the chessboard; it's simply a matter of course.
"Doesn't the rain sound familiar?" says Lucy in a solemn, wistful way.
Their mother doesn't know what that means, but her siblings must, because Susan says, "Yes, Lu, it does,” and Edmund gives her a little hug with his free arm as she tucks herself under his chin to watch the chess match.
(Five minutes later there is a crash from the next room as Peter falls off a counter. Their mother does not understand the words he must have picked up from the Professor, but he's grounded for them anyway. His siblings have no respect for their High King, because they refuse to stop laughing.)
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poetskings · 10 days
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@jegulus-microfic | April 18: sock | 1.6k
James is sexiled and decides to spend time with Regulus.
There’s a sock on the door knob.
It’s been a long day and James is tired and there’s a fucking sock on the door knob and if he listens close enough he can hear soft grunts.
He’s happy for Sirius and Remus, really, he is, he just wishes that they’d fuck at Remus’ every now and then, and at least keep it to the bedroom.
Sirius and James share a college flat with Peter, Marlene and Lily, so there aren’t many options when they’re all out. Today,  James knows that Peter and Lily have chess club, and Marlene’s training for the women’s boat race, so it’s only him who’d be around.
He sighs and turns around, sending Regulus a text as he goes.
Been sexiled – your dorm free?
He’s walking before he’s received a response – he’s almost positive that the answer will be ‘yes’, and he hasn’t seen Regulus in a week, so they’re long overdue a catch up.
Their friendship was one of the more unexpected things to come out of Regulus bucking centuries of Black tradition and instead following in his brother’s footsteps, choosing Cambridge over Oxford. He settled in nicely to Corpus Christi, flying through his first few years as a history undergraduate while Sirius and James chose Trinity instead.
It took a while but slowly and tentatively Sirius and Regulus attempted to heal their relationship, strained by Regulus’ years at Harrow after Sirius packed up and left when he was sixteen, dropping out and enrolling at a local state school instead. They’re much better now; their barbs at each other aren’t quite as jagged. There’s love there, now, rather than just animosity.
As Regulus and Sirius attempted to mend their relationship, James and Remus had been called in early on to mediate, or sometimes it was Regulus’ friends, Evan and Barty, or even Pandora. From those early tentative meetings in neutral territory, new and interesting friendships bloomed, most of all between Regulus and James.
From early study sessions, it evolved into coffee dates and library outings, and when Remus and Sirius sorted their shit out it became even more frequent – the pair never make James feel like a third wheel, but nonetheless they deserve time to themselves, even if James would prefer for them not to fuck on every and any available surface in their dorm.
Regulus is a comforting presence for James; he doesn’t demand anything of him. James is naturally an extrovert; always the centre of a room, but sometimes he needs to recharge, and Regulus lets him do that. He reminds James of calm waters on a spring day, and whenever James needs to quiet his mind, he finds the youngest Black. He only hopes he offers Regulus some of the same comfort in return.
That, and maybe something more. Maybe he hopes that one day there’s a sock on his door knob, and that the reason is Regulus..
James is drawn out of his thoughts as his phone dings.
Sure – text me when you’re here, will come meet you
It’s a five-minute walk but James makes it there in two, calling Regulus to get him to buzz him in. He’s a familiar figure amongst the second years at Corpus, and he’s pretty sure a few of them will have also texted the youngest Black to alert him to James’ presence.
The college door opens and Regulus emerges, dressed in sweatpants and a Trinity rowing sweatshirt that James left last time he was over. He’s so lovely, James thinks, an impulse he doesn’t know how to control; isn’t sure he wants to control it.
“Sexiled, huh?” Regulus holds the door open as James steps through, falling into step with each other and walking up a flight of stairs to reach Regulus’ dorm. It’s empty, although that isn’t uncommon for Regulus. Barty and Evan hold unsociable hours, and Regulus, Pandora and Dorcas have a frankly insane amount of extracurriculars to attend, so they’re rarely together.
“There was a sock on the front door and I’m pretty sure I could hear noises so I didn’t want to risk it,” James says, settling himself in the kitchen, finding Regulus’ mug and a new one with a deer in glasses; a ‘congratulations’ for James’ performance in the inter-college boat races that’s become a permanent fixture in Regulus’ dorm.
He locates the teabags; Yorkshire for James, organic for Regulus, before turning back to the mugs.
“I don’t blame you – those two seem to spend more time fucking than not – it’s a minor miracle they get any work done,” Regulus chuckles, gently bumping James’ hip to get to the fridge, taking out his oat milk and James’ rice milk.
They settle into the routine like it’s second nature; they’re familiar with each other in a way that’s almost intimate. They stand together waiting for the kettle to boil, perhaps a bit too close for it to be entirely platonic, but James isn’t going to move away if Regulus doesn’t.
He always feels like they’re teetering on the edge of something more than what they are, something better, but for all of James’ bravery, he isn’t sure how to make the next move, and he doesn’t want to wreck this peace that Regulus and his brother have been working so hard on.
“So, how was your day?” Regulus asks, tilting his head to better look at James. He looks unbelievably soft in James’ jumper and James thinks that if he just moves his pinkie he can link it with Regulus’.
“Exhausting. I had rowing first thing and a few readings to do for my supervision that I’d completely missed,” James sighs. He loves his degree but he’s never been as organised as Regulus, who seems to have work done almost before it’s set. “Also, I spent a solid ten minutes looking for that jumper.”
A light blush creeps up Regulus’ cheeks at that. “Sorry, you left it here after practice last week so I washed it but completely forgot to text you.”
A smile falls across James’ face. “You’re fine, Reg, and besides, it suits you. I guess I should get myself a Corpus one to match, huh?” He smirks as the red of Regulus’ cheeks becomes more pronounced.
The kettle whistles and Regulus turns away from James to fill their cups. “James Potter, behave yourself.” He hip checks James again, this time with a bit more force. Except he doesn’t move back. He stays there, leaning against James, and James feels like his entire body’s a livewire.
The tightrope they’re walking is getting more taut, and James finds himself eager for the fall.
“But Regulus, dearest, where’s the fun in that?” He leans forward, entirely too close for it to be platonic, and Regulus is turning, turning-
“Ow! Fuck!” James forgot about the fact that Regulus was holding a kettle of boiling water, and he’s paying for that now. Water splashes over the counter as Regulus rushes to put the kettle down, taking James’ hand and leading him over to the tap.
He turns the cold water tap on, letting it flow over their entwined hands. He is too still, too silent, and James wants to go back to where they were. He wants the tightrope back. He wants to fall.
He can be brave, he thinks, if it means he gets to have something with Regulus.
Regulus is staring intently at their entwined hands, like it’s the most fascinating thing in the universe, and James breaks the silence.
“Reg-”
“What are we doing, James? We’ve been tiptoeing around each other for weeks and it’s driving me insane and I want to be around you all the time and I think I’m already half in love with you so I’d love if you can clear up what this is,” he states, false bravado injected into his tone, but James can hear the tremors. He’s so nervous, but so brave. Regulus Black, the Lion Heart.
It takes a while for the words to register in James’ head.
Oh.
Oh.
James removes his hand from the running water, ignoring the slight sting and the inevitable burn that will be left. He cups Regulus’ cheek, forcing the younger boy to look at him. Regulus is terrified, but so hopeful.
“Reg, I- I want-” James runs his hand through his hair in frustration. He can’t get his words out.
“Jamie?” Regulus’ voice is so soft, as though he’s worried he’ll scare James off, and the only thing James can do is kiss him.
Regulus’ lips are rough, a bit chapped from where he nibbles on them when he’s nervous. He tastes of tea and cinnamon and James wants to devour him. There is nothing soft about it. James’ tongue darts out, soothing Regulus’ lips, and the younger boy lets out a moan that’s pure filth and ecstasy and James is falling, falling, fallen.
He wants to do this forever.
His hands find their way to Regulus’ waist, tracing the skin underneath the Trinity sweater that’s been driving James insane since he first saw Regulus wearing it. It’s his, it’s him.
They break apart to breathe and James attaches his lips to Regulus’ neck, marking, claiming. He can’t think beyond this moment, beyond the boy in front of him.
“Jamie, we should- we need to-” he cuts himself off, broken sighs escaping his lips as he tangles his hands in James’ hair.
James reluctantly removes himself from Regulus’ neck, taking the boy’s face in his hands. “Do you want this, Reg? Do you want me?”
Regulus’ eyes trace James’ face, and whatever he sees softens him.
“Always, Jamie.” And James is lost.
They’ll talk about it later, as the sunlight paints the walls of Regulus’ room, but this is enough for now. For ever.
And if Barty finds a sock on the door knob when he comes back from the library, well, that’s between him and Regulus.
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ellecdc · 1 month
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Soooo, I'm not the usual requester of the poly!moonwater x reader, but I fell I love with them and the way you write them!
With that being said, could I request Mia and Monty taking in Regulus and reader, saving them from their cruel families, and the holidays being absolutely hectic with everyone there.
Maybe some Mia and reader bonding?
If not that's fine! All my love,
🦕
*gasps* thank you lovely! I'm so glad you've loved moonwater enough to submit a request!!! sorry this took so long, I had this half finished and couldn't figure out for the life of me how to wrap it up happily, and then I was like "of course! Effie!" - not so much chaos but a lot of hurt/comfort and fluff
~please note: my requests are currently closed as I work through my older ones~
poly!moonwater x fem!reader
CW: toxic/abusive family dynamics, mentions and insinuations of abuse, your parents suck in this - I'm sorry, but just call me Euphemia Potter because you're all my children now
Remus had to admit that he was getting increasingly worried about you and Regulus the closer it got to the summer holidays. It seemed that no matter how much brighter the weather became outside, clouds were determined to follow the two of you around.
Remus only knew why Regulus would perhaps grow tense at the thought of returning to 12 Grimmauld Place on account of Remus’ years’ long friendship with Sirius. But the youngest Black, since reconciling with his older brother, has staunchly refused to discuss family life. Remus could accept that; he understood the gist.
But you, he was at a loss with. Though, he would admit that your occasional flinch at a raised hand or sudden quick movements by either Regulus or Remus spoke volumes on that end.
So here you all were (being Remus, you, Regulus, Sirius, James, Peter, and Lily) sitting by the Black Lake and enjoying the sun on one of the last few days of the school year, and you and Regulus were nearly comatose in your melancholy. 
Lily and Peter were doing their best to pretend they didn’t notice any tension in the group as they busied themselves with a game of wizarding chess, but James and Sirius had no such qualms and were staring hard between Remus and Regulus. 
“I told you that you could come with me, Reggie.” Sirius said surprisingly softly for the oldest Black. Regulus’ jaw twitched as he stole a fleeting glance at James.
“You told me that a year ago. I wasn’t smart enough to go then, I don’t see why I’d deserve that option now.” He muttered, sounding disturbingly more and more like the aristocratic Pureblood he was raised to be.
“It’s not about deserving, Reg.” Sirius said at the same time Remus said, “of course you do.”
“Honestly,” James interjected, “at this point, my mum would be pissed if you didn’t come live with us.”
Regulus’ face appeared to remain impassive, but Remus knew better; there were signs. His jaw tightened, there was a small movement in his left eyebrow and a subtle glossiness in his eyes.
Suddenly his gaze flit to Remus, his eyes almost begging him to understand something he hadn’t yet voiced. Remus held Regulus’ gaze until his eyes turned to something else; to you.
But it didn’t appear that you had heard any of the conversation going on around you; your eyes pointed to some unmarked point in the horizon, your mind far away.
“I can’t leave her.” Regulus whispered once he knew you wouldn’t hear.
“What’s the point of both of you suffering, Regulus? You can’t help her from Grimmauld Place.” Sirius argued. 
Regulus finally groaned, and Remus’ heart clenched knowing how close he was to frustrated tears. Remus felt just as close, feeling completely helpless in this situation. But his parents struggled enough supporting him alone. He knew that if he asked, his mum would have the two of you in a heartbeat, but the Potter’s had the space and funds to do it far more easily. 
“Y/N can come too.” James said plainly.
“Hm?” You hummed quietly, turning your attention back to the group at the sound of your name.
Regulus grimaced slightly but James, either ignorant to body language or choosing to ignore it carried on. “I was just thinking, we’re inviting Regulus to move in with us for the summer. Perhaps you could join us?”
You stared hard at James without breaking eye contact and Remus grew more and more tense the longer you stayed silent.
“It’s good that Regulus is staying with you.” You commented, sounding nearly robotic.
“You could-” Remus began, but you cut him off.
“Don’t, Remus.”
“Amour.” Regulus pleaded quietly.
“Leave it.” You ordered before standing and walking away. 
Regulus sighed and buried his face in his hands. Remus couldn’t stand it anymore and moved to sit beside him, rubbing soothing swipes up and down his spine.
“Your brother is right, love. You’ll be more help to her if you’re safe at Potter Manor. You need to be brave for the both of you right now.”
“She’s never told me either, you know?” Regulus spoke from inside his hands. “I have no idea what happens when she leaves here.”
Remus fought back the tears that threatened to infiltrate his eyes. “You’ll be more help to her from Potter Manor.” He repeated.
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You’d been avoiding the boys, that much was certain. And even if you weren’t avoiding them, it was like you weren’t even there when you were sitting right next to them. Remus hated to think that this was the note you were all leaving on, knowing you’d not see each other again until September first. 
Regulus had agreed to stay with the Potters, though he refused to discuss with anyone what was said to his parents (or, perhaps more importantly, what his parents had said in return). 
So, they stood there in Central Hall with their bags and school trunks; James and Sirius arguing over what they were going to do first when they got to the Manor (in an attempt to hopefully lighten the mood for Reggie's sake) while Remus stared at Regulus’ face without pretending that he wasn’t, as his boyfriend stood painfully rigid.
You appeared then, the strap of your duffle bag thrown over your shoulder and your school trunk trailing behind you. Remus didn’t think he’d ever seen you look so forlorn.
It was like a switch was flipped in Regulus, and he went from a soldier standing at attention to cooing over your shorter frame.
“Let me get this, amour. Did you get everything packed okay?” He asked you softly, pulling your duffle bag gently from your shoulder to throw over his own. You barely nodded in acknowledgment, eyes staring at the ground unseeingly. Remus felt sick to his stomach.
“Okay.” Regulus murmured at you quietly, giving Remus a quick shake of his head as he went to move to you. Remus had this overwhelming urge to pick you up and huddle you under his arm, not letting go until you were all the way to Wales – where your family couldn’t get to you.
But Regulus perhaps understood your mindset better than he did.  
“Can Rem take your trunk for you?” Regulus asked, mostly as a means to invite Remus into the conversation and less trying to get him to be your pack mule.
“No.” You said as firmly as you could manage in this fragile state. “I’ve got it. Thank you, though.” You said, finally looking up to make eye contact with Remus and Regulus. 
Regulus, for his part, managed to smile sadly at you. Remus was sure his discontent was written all over his face.
“Ready to get this show on the road? Look at me, sounding all muggle.” Sirius called. One would think he sounded indifferent to what was going on, but Remus (and Regulus) could see this for what it truly was: distraction.
“No.” You whispered.
“What is it, lovie?” Remus asked, turning his attention quickly back to you.
“I’m not, I-” you took a few quick breaths, face scrunching up painfully as your eyes filled with tears. “I’m not ready, I can’t. I can’t go. I’m not...”
“Okay.” Regulus said softly.
“I can’t go back, I can’t - I’m not ready.”
“That’s alright.” Sirius offered just as softly. 
You were disturbingly close to hyperventilating – surveying your surroundings like you were looking for a place to run, looking for a way out. “I can’t do it anymore, I can’t.” You cried.
“Then don’t, love.” Remus pleaded. And you broke down into sobs. 
Something inside Remus snapped and he made for you, enveloping you in a hug that was probably far too tight, but you nuzzled impossibly further into his chest anyway as if he could perhaps hold your pieces together as you fell apart.
He’d find a way to do it for you if that’s what you truly needed.
As your gasping sobs ceased and your breathing evened into only the occasional hiccup, James let out a theatrical “Phew.”
“What?” Regulus asked, voice somewhat taut from both protectiveness and frayed nerves. 
“I sort of told my mum she was coming to live with us, anyway.”
Remus could have kissed the sod right on the mouth at that moment. He opted to kiss the top of your head instead. 
“I don’t want-”
“-to be in the way. You won’t be, amour.” Regulus interrupted your train of thought, voice far softer than the one he’d used with James.
“Yeah, Regulus is far more inconveniencing than you are, dollface.” Sirius snarked with a wink, earning him a quick stinging jinx from Regulus. 
If Remus had thought that the hard part was over in Central Hall, he was very wrong.
You had settled not too badly as you all rode the wagons to the train station holding onto Remus’ hand like a vice, and Regulus appeared to be far more comfortable now that he was less worried about you. Regulus undeniably had some abandonment issues, and the thought of going to the Potter’s without you left him with the sense that he would somehow be letting you down. Remus supposed that at least before, the two of you could commiserate together knowing that whatever you were going through, so was the other.
But as the group travelled on, some of your own tension returned the closer you got to Kings Cross Station. 
“You don’t have to say anything to them, you can just leave with us.” Sirius said plainly as Remus reached to grab your bags from the overhead compartment.
“That’d be considered kidnapping.” You responded quietly.
You hooked your duffle over your shoulder and stood, looking through the compartment as if you could somehow see your family through the sheets of metal separating you and Platform 9 ¾.
“Would...would you like us to come with you? Stand by your side? How would you like to do this, love?” Remus asked, leaning back slightly so he could see your face directly. 
You seemed to ponder that for a few moments before returning his gaze. “Maybe...maybe you guys could just, stay a little behind me? Not close enough to say anything or for them to say anything to you, just...”
“Close.” Regulus finished for you. You nodded in response.
“Consider it done, dove.” Remus said and pressed a kiss to your forehead. 
James and Sirius spotted the Potter’s quickly after exiting the train and brought your bags and trunks to them so that the Potter’s elves could bring them to the Manor. You watched as your trunk disappeared with a pop; there was no going back now. 
“Y/N.” An indifferent tone called, causing you to stand up straighter, though you didn’t seem ready to turn your gaze towards it yet.
“We’re right here, amour. We’re not leaving without you.” Regulus insisted. Remus wanted to touch you, grab your hand, kiss your cheek, but he knew he’d have to wait until you felt safe.
Safe.
Soon you’d be safe.
True to their words, Regulus and Remus followed you towards your parents who stood poised like models in a Victorian Era portrait, staring down at you over their noses, though the two boys paused a good distance away as you had asked them too.
“I hate this.” Regulus murmured as you said hello to your parents. Your mother turned to leave before you asked them to wait.
“We’ll be able to take her home after this.” Remus placated, but it did nothing to soothe his own nerves either. 
“You’re doing what?” He heard your mother ask derisively. 
You repeated yourself, albeit quieter and more meekly than you had before. Remus wanted to hex her for making you feel so small.
“Absolutely not. Get your things.” Your father barked.
You raised your hand carefully, pointing towards the Potter’s to explain that they’ve already brought your things to their house.
“You insolent little witch. How dare you undermine me like this.” Your father spat and took a menacing step towards you. You stepped back quickly with a full body flinch, and that was it for Remus.
“We’re done. Let’s go.” Remus said authoritatively. “Come on, dove.” 
You needn’t be told twice, allowing Reg to steer you towards the Potter’s as Remus cast a quick muffliato around you to spare you from any trailing remarks your parents made. 
Remus and Regulus exchanged a worried glance over your head as you kept your eyes glued to the floor, letting yourself be guided blindly through the platform.
“Ready to go, dearies?” Euphemia Potter asked kindly, softly, as she beamed at the five students in front of her with Fleamont at her side. Even Remus felt like he had whiplash at the difference of atmosphere on this end of the platform; he couldn’t imagine how you or Reg were managing. 
“Hello, cariad!” Remus heard his mother call before any of you could answer Effie’s question. He turned his gaze to see his parents, Hope and Lyall Lupin, move through the crowds towards them.
“Gangs all here now!” Lyall called, and you tightened your hand currently enclosed safely in Remus’. He gave your three quick squeezes in return: a silent promise of safety. 
“This must be Regulus and Y/N!” His mum cheered, looking awfully close to embracing both of you. However, Regulus’ aristocratic upbringing appeared to save the day as he quickly stepped in front of you and stuck his hand out, bowing politely to her.
“Mrs. Lupin, it’s very nice to finally meet you.” He said, posh accent on full display.
Remus gave a pleading look to his family, knowing his mother was the kind to say “oh, I’m really more of a hugger.”
But apparently, one thing motherly love was very good at was reading the room, and his mum accepted the handshake before his dad, Effie and Monty all got one of their own. You nodded politely and exchanged a quiet ‘hello’ but opted to stay glued to Remus’ side.
He couldn’t say he minded that option entirely. 
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Euphemia Potter was no stranger to troubled children showing up at her doorstep, but she couldn’t help but admit how different this time was.
Last year, Sirius showed up battered, beaten, bloodied, and bruised, not to mention completely scared out of his mind. And underneath all of that was this horrible fear for his younger brother’s safety, as well as an overwhelming sense of guilt for leaving him behind.
Sirius never really recovered from feeling like a burden, not last summer at least. He remained entirely too polite for Effie’s tastes, full of “thank you, Mrs. Potter”’s or “that really isn’t necessary”’s right up until the day she sent them off to Hogwarts.
“Now boys.” She said, giving the two troublemakers as stern a face as one Euphemia Potter could muster. “Though I would certainly prefer no trouble at all, can we at least promise not to get quite as many detentions this year? And for the love of Merlin – no more broken bones! I like that when people ask me how my sons are, I can at least say ‘well, at least they’ve got their health!’”
Effie was certain that the pressure behind Sirius’ eyes from fighting the tears must have been excruciating, but he held out for as long as he could before he launched himself into her chest. 
“Thank you, Effie.” He finally whispered through tears.
“Please, Sirius.” She whispered as she stroked the boy’s hair. “Call me mum.”
If last year was full of guilt, grief, and fear, this summer seemed to be full of caution, hope, and love.
Where James spent last summer trying to keep Sirius in as high spirits as possible, this year he got to simply play the role of host. Where Sirius spent last summer trying to stay out of the way and convince himself and everyone around him that he was completely fine, this year he got to show his brother what real family looked like.
And though he saw a lot of Sirius in Regulus, there was so much that was so distinctly him.
Regulus’ trauma came out in impeccable table manners, speaking in a manner far more suited to a member of parliament than a teenaged boy at a casual meal, and assessing the atmosphere in the room with the efficacy of a social weather man. 
But his personality was completely contradictory. 
He made jokes and comments that he didn’t seem to realize were funny until people around him laughed, which caused him to blush but let out surprised laughter of his own. Where Sirius’ jokes were performative and always for the sake of amusing the people around him, Regulus’ humour came naturally and unbiddenly. Where Sirius showed his love and excitement as loudly as possible in order to make sure everyone around him got to share in it, Regulus dutifully handed out his love and excitement in carefully curated doses. 
She loved them both beyond measure.
And you...well, Effie could certainly see how you managed to win over not one but two of her favourite young men. Your trauma seemed to come out in the form of fading into the background. Everything you did, you did quietly. You never asked for anything, whether it be for seconds at dinner, something to drink during the day, or to go into town to shop for supplies.
But even though you were clearly struggling, Effie could see how much you cared for those boys both actively and passively. Your body language seemed to change the second either of them entered a room, their presence’s easing any discomfort you may have been feeling nearly immediately; you smiled brighter, made more eye contact, and even contributed to conversations when one of them was around. Right now they were your confidence, your safe space. Effie hoped to get the chance to see it for herself one day, but she felt unbelievably lucky to get to see it in this way too. 
You always showed up with bottles of water when the boys were outside playing quidditch, somehow knowing Regulus was the kind to completely miss any cues his body gave him of thirst and predicting his needs. And you always brought sunblock out unprompted when Remus would fall asleep with a book over his face, ensuring he wouldn’t burn in the sun. 
She loved you so much.
It had been about two weeks since summer holidays started, and Hope and Lyall Lupin were going to be leaving their mini holiday at Potter Manor in a few days when Effie felt that you had made enough progress to broach the subject. 
“Y/N, dearie. Do you have a moment?” She asked as you and the boys walked in the back door after spending some time down at the lake.
Effie noticed a flicker of concern cross your features, though you readily agreed nonetheless. Remus smiled while Regulus promptly stood at attention.
“Hope’s going to be leaving in a few days, and I was thinking perhaps we could get a shopping trip in before she does.”
At this Hope looked over with a beaming smile. “Oh! I’d so love to go shopping! The shops are not nearly as posh in Cardiff.” 
You looked between the two women uncertainly but began nodding your head. “Erm, yes, sure. What...what are we shopping for?”
“Well, I thought we could go shopping for some clothes.”
You looked absolutely horrified at this. “I have clothes! I brought everything I had from school.”
Effie smiled encouragingly at you. “Yes, and what you had packed for school was appropriate for a Scottish autumn and winter, not for a summer in London.”
Sirius, never one to leave very well alone, piped up at this. “I want to go shopping! Can I come?”
Hope chuckled and ruffled the boy’s long hair. “I think it’d be better just us ladies, hm?”
Sirius pouted at that, but Regulus took pity on his brother. “You can come with me and Fleamont, Sirius.”
Sirius stood abruptly and planted a smacking kiss to the younger boy’s cheek. “You’re officially my favourite sibling.” He declared, earning him an indignant ‘oi!’ from James. 
“Get off of me, you sod.” Regulus grumbled, leaning further into Remus’ side. 
You looked at your two boys then; Remus was smiling at you with a look so full of love and pride it nearly rivaled Effie’s, and Regulus was smiling encouragingly and so sweetly, Effie was certain her blood sugar levels spiked just at the sight.
“That...that would be very nice. Thank you, ladies.” You agreed quietly. You nodded your head in decision, mostly to encourage yourself but Effie was thankful for the effort.
It was hard to imagine a time nearly eighteen years ago that Effie and Monty were heartbroken and struggling to finally have a child of their own. If only they’d know that seventeen years later, their lovely, lovely boy would bring home four more for them to love.
She was simultaneously sad for you, Regulus, and Sirius that you had to grow up in homes that didn’t love you the way you ought to have been, but she was so beyond grateful she got the honour to love you properly, now and for the rest of her life.
As long as Euphemia Potter lived, none of you would ever spend a moment being anything but loved.
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reggieslocket · 1 year
Text
james: okay guys i'm tired of all these negative feelings, let's all say something we like about ourselves
sirius: fine, i like my hair
peter: i like... chess?
remus: i like sirius
james: that's not what-
sirius: i'd like to change my answer, i like moony as well
marlene: i like james's mom
pandora: i like my shoes!
evan: i like james's mom too
james: can you leave my mom out of this conversation?
barty: he's right guys, it's inappropriate
james: thank you barty
barty: let's talk about how fine his father is
james: ...
dorcas: i like girls in quidditch robes
peter: what's happening here?
regulus: i don't like anything
james: LISTEN HERE, YOU ARE A BEAUTIFUL HUMAN BEING AND I LOVE YOU, THE WORLD IS A BETTER PLACE JUST BECAUSE YOU EXIST AND THERE'S NOTHING I WOULDN'T DO FOR YOU BECAUSE YOU DESERVE EVERYTH-
remus: do you realize this is how this whole thing started five minutes ago right?
james: i- what are you talking about?
*five minutes earlier*
james: i can't believe your parents used to starve you, they are the worst parents in the world
sirius: yeah, luckily me and reg are nothing like them
james: you're right, you have so much to be proud of
regulus: i don't like anything about myself
james: LISTEN HERE, YOU ARE A BEAUTIFUL HUMAN BEING AND I LOVE YOU, THE WORLD IS A BETTER PLACE JUST BECAUSE YOU EXIST AND THERE'S NOTHING I WOULDN'T DO FOR YOU BECAUSE YOU DESERVE EVERYTHING
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slut4prongs · 10 months
Text
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calming
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regulus black x gn!reader
500 words
description: regulus gets anxious in a hectic environment and your presence calms him + sirius finds it baffling
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You and your friends are all sitting around the Gryffindor common room, James and Peter are on the ground in front of the fireplace playing a game of magic chess.
Remus is sitting on the couch across from you reading, Sirius is laying against the arm of the same couch with his legs draped across Remus’ lap while loudly announcing every move Peter and James make in their game. 
Lily is sitting in an armchair working on an upcoming essay, while Mary is sitting on the floor leaning against Lily’s legs drawing in a sketchbook. 
Marlene is passed out in the lap of her girlfriend Dorcas, who after sneaking into the common room took up one of the other armchairs.
Also having been snuck in, is your boyfriend Regulus, who is currently sitting next to you on the couch while you read.
-
You're deeply enthralled in the story completely used to the noisiness of your common room. Unlike you, Regulus is not used to the environment, as he has just recently rekindled his relationship with his brother to be hanging out in there with you all.
You are observant of your boyfriend though and take notice when his breathing begins to get heavier and his body language gets tenser.
Carefully and slowly, as to not draw much attention from your friends around the room, you move your hand closest to Regulus off your book and gently place it on his leg and begin to rub your thumb slowly against it.
You can physically feel the muscles in his thigh relax under your touch which makes you smile softly at the book in front of you.
Out of the corner of your eye you see Regulus glance over at you which makes you look up at him and smile at him.
"What're you doing, love?" He questions you.
You lift your book slightly and wiggle it before you speak. "Reading, obviously. Do we need to borrow James' glasses?"
The corners of Regulus's lips turn up ever so slightly at your comment, before he shakes his head lightly and huffs out a small laugh.
"No, I think my eyesight is just fine,"
He takes your hand on his leg in his own and starts to twist and pull the rings adorning your fingers - most of which are gifts from him.
You smile and lean into his side more before returning to your book allowing him to mess with your rings as much as he likes.
You'd let him do whatever if he asked, if you're being honest.
-
Across the room from you on the other couch sits another couple consisting of one flabbergasted Sirius Black.
"What. The. Fuck. Moony look." Sirius nudges the boy next to him.
Remus looks up at the couple before them before turning to look at his boyfriend.
"What about it Sirius?"
"They just put their hand on his leg and he immediately calmed down!"
Remus continues to just stare at the raven-haired male, unimpressed. So Sirius continues speaking "He hasn't so much as let me poke him since he was 10!"
With a simple roll of his eyes Remus returns to his book after saying "You should just be happy your little brother has someone who makes him feel comfortable, Pads."
Sirius glances back and forth between his brother and his boyfriend for a moment before he huffs dramatically and flops down to rest his head on Remus's lap.
-
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oldshrewsburyian · 1 year
Note
As much as I adore your (highly) interesting takes on medievalism and how it differs from what we actually know (or hypothesize) about the medieval period, I don't think I've ever asked: are there any books set in either the real middle ages or some fantasy approximation of the period that you WOULD recommend? They don't have to be "perfect" representations, obviously, but it would be nice to learn about any books that side-step the usual potholes. Thank you!
Hi, friend! A of all, thank you; B of all, there are and I would. From the following list it will become apparent that my criteria are idiosyncratic. Really, I think, the most important thing for my own enjoyment -- for any historical fiction, but especially for that set in the place/time I know best -- is that the work and its author are exploring the period as a way of opening up a conversation between past and present, rather than looking down on the past from the vantage point of the contemporary. This sententious prolegomenon concluded:
The Book Smuggler, Omaima Al-Khamis (eleventh-century Islamicate world, about knowledge and wisdom and religious intolerance)
Morality Play, Barry Unsworth (fourteenth-century England, about justice and law and vocation and community)
The Name of the Rose, Umberto Eco (doesn't need my introduction, hilarious and deeply poignant meta-meditation on the genre of the detective story, also on theological debates and the love of one's neighbor and the nature of fear)
Sword at Sunset, Rosemary Sutcliff (fifth-century post-Roman Britain, has some clichés, also some magic, but is so richly imagined and full of people I love. Also good dogs.)
Cadfael Chronicles, Ellis Peters (twelfth-century England; I was wondering why I love these so much and I think a lot of it comes back to how much Ellis Peters loved the particular place she lived/set the books in, and watching the changing of the seasons there, so that that close observation of time -- very medieval! -- is also central. Inequality isn't made invisible or grotesque here, either, and it's often one or the other in Fictional Medieval Europe.)
Isaac of Girona mysteries, Caroline Roe (C14 Spain, also whodunits, but I cannot resist including this charming series about a blind Jewish doctor and his beloved wife and his daughters and the orphan he adopts and his chess-playing buddy the bishop and and and....! It's great.)
The History of the Siege of Lisbon, José Saramago (C12/C20 Portugal, called "metafiction about the instability of history and the reality assumed by fiction" by Kirkus Reviews and... yeah!)
She Who Became The Sun, Shelley Parker-Chan (C15 Ming China, with ghosts, definitely fantasy rather than regular historical fiction, and on the cusp of early modernity, also so so interesting)
The Apothecary's Shop, Roberto Tiraboschi (C12 Venice, deeply weird -- affectionate -- and drawing on Calvino and gialli as well as medieval history; some inaccuracies about women and medicine but I still found it compelling and thought-provoking)
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cassiopeiasdaughter · 9 months
Text
gorgeous
Sirius Black x fem!reader
warnings: cursing, underage drinking & smoking, !poorly proofread!
summary: you hate Sirius & he hates you (or tries to but fails miserably)
Sirius Black masterlist
you’re so cool it makes me hate you so much
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Sirius Black didn’t hate many things.
He hated assignments and losing in quidditch; he hated his parents and the rest of his snobby relatives. He hated having to wear formal clothes and brushing his hair. And he hated you.
It wasn’t something he could explain. You weren’t an evil person and you didn’t do bad things. But something about you drove him completely mad. 
And the only reason he had to deal with you was that you were Lily’s best friend and he couldn’t get rid of you. 
Your best friends were dating and you had to tolerate eachother. 
Be civil James always begged him, but then he would see your face; all uptight and frowning and your hands crossed in front of you; in a manner that reminded him of his old piano teacher who would scold him for not practicing enough. 
You didn’t acknowledge him, and when your eyes did land on him your eyebrows would be raised and your mouth slightly turned downwards, as if his face was covered in dirt and he smelled like garbage. 
The first time he actually talked to you, and realized he liked it better when he didn’t, was when Lily and James first started going out together. Their first date was a friendly get-together with the four of you.
It was not a double date. Sirius made sure to let James know; all he would be doing was distracting you so Lily would be free to talk to James. He was outgoing and charismatic when he needed to be, and he loved James like a brother so being a third/fourth wheel for him wasn’t that big of a deal. Plus, he liked Lily so how bad could her friend be? The answer is terrible.
You wouldn’t look at him, and weren’t impressed by his jokes. He tried telling you about his pranks but all you did was frown and criticize them, “if you cared about school half as much as you care about these childish things, you’d have graduated by the age of 14.” 
He didn’t argue with you, though, even if he died to, because one look at Lily and James and how happy they were (giggling at the stupid things James was saying) couldn’t let him ruin this.
So you sat quietly, eating and drinking, and then drinking some more, until Lily and you left together. Leaving an annoyed Sirius with a blushing James. 
What annoyed him most, was how his friends absolutely adored you. You played chess with Peter; and Sirius always heard him gushing about how brilliant you were at it. You studied with Remus in the library and discussed books together. The way you would speak to his friend about your favorite stories, and the way your eyes always gleam drives him completely insane. And don't get him started on how one day you introduced James to the "the proper athlete lifestyle”,which resulted in Sirius losing his drinking and smoking partner because, our bodies are temples and we need to treat them as such.
So; you have stolen his friends, invaded his life and he can't do anything about it.
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One rainy Saturday morning he found Remus, reading a muggle book by the fireplace, about -elves and rings?-.
“Moony.”, he said and earned a quiet “mhm” from his friend, who was still focused on his book.
“I wanted to ask you something.” He said and looked around to make sure no one would hear them.
“Lilys friend, you know, the one in your little book club.”
“Not a book club.”, Remus answered turning a page in his book
“Yeah, whatever. She hates me, I think.”, Sirius said and earned no reaction from his friend “Would you happen to know why?”, he finished and looked at his friend, who closed his book with a sigh.
“Have you ever said anything that would make her hate you?” Remus asked patiently
“No, why, did she tell you anything?”
“Have you done anything to her?”, his friend asked again
“No, I don’t think so.”
“Then she just doesn’t like you" he made a move to resume his reading but Sirius insisted.
“Why does it matter, you can’t be liked by everyone, you know that better than most”
“But I don’t get it, why would she hate me this much. She always looks at me with this f-”
Remus didn’t say anything, but gave his friend an amused look, softly smirking at his words.
“What.” Sirius said annoyed
“Well, instead of worrying about why she hates you, ask yourself why you care so much.”
“But I- I don’t care. In fact I hate her just as much.”
“Right.”
“Its true I don’t care!”
“Obsess then, better choice of words.”
“Sod off”, he said as he got up to walk away, leaving Remus laughing to himself and resuming his book.
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As the year progressed , your interactions with Sirius remained the same, with the addition of an eyeroll here and there along with bickering that resulted in you being the first one to leave from gatherings.
“Good riddance” he always thought to himself, receiving a murderous look from you; as if you were able to read his thoughts.
December came and your friend group planned a Secret Santa gift exchange. It was a muggle thing, explained Lily, where the participants get gifts for eachother, without revealing their identity.
“Everyone, take a sit and pick a card from the bowl infront of you when it is your turn.”, instructed Lily “And remember, don’t let anyone know who you’ve picked, and you can’t switch cards with anyone!”
As he read Remus’s name on the card, he let out a breath of relief. He was worried, that with his luck, he would end up getting you a gift, and he really didn’t want that. Finding a good present for Moony would be a piece of cake, he told himself and then put off actually buying the gift for a couple of weeks.
He realized how big of an idiot he was, when Friday came, the last Friday before the gift exchange (that would be taking place on Sunday). Which meant he had exactly two days to buy something good for his friend.
He begged James for help, but he was too busy finishing up the last few details of his present; poor Peter had no taste and would be no help and Lily was caught up in Head Girl duties. Making you, the only person available, to advise him, which honestly wasn’t that bad of an outcome , since you and Remus were good friends. 
He found you alone, sitting on a couch with your homework on your lap and a cup of coffee in your hands.
“Goodmorning.”, he greeted 
Your eyes shot up and you looked around confused, before realizing he was talking to you, “Morning.”, you said calmly
“How is the Secret Santa shopping going?”, he asked trying to make smalltalk
“Um fine… And you?’
“It is good that you ask, because I actually need your help.”
“Mine? Why?”
“Well, you see, I delayed buying a gift, which means that if I get something that isn’t perfect now, I will be the the biggest idiot on Earth.”
“Because, you aren’t already?”
“I- ” he let out an annoyed laugh at that, not wanting to insult you now that he needed your help. “As I was saying, I need you to help me find a really really good gift. So, Hogsmeade, tomorrow morning? What do you say, love?”
“Ah- us two?”
“Yeah, well everyone else is kind of busy, so you are kind of my last hope.”
“Oh, oh, well, excuse me, but I have better things to do than spend my Saturday buying gifts for you, besides, you aren’t supposed to tell me who you have.”
“Remus.”, he quickly said
“Why would you tell me that?”, you screamed dramatically leaving him completely unbothered
“Now you kind of have to come, don’t you? You already know who it is and I am sure you have nothing better to do tomorrow.” “Ah, excuse you, but I am a busy person, thank you very much.”
“Yeah, ah, okay. Do you want me to beg? Please, just, do me this favor, this once. The holidays are coming soon and you won’t have to see me for two whole weeks, and after summer I will never bother you again. So please?”
You stared at him for a while, thinking over everything he said , he could swear your face turned red for a split second, before you answered “Fine, but we won’t spend the whole day there, I want to try and study before winter break.” “Great, thank you, we will finish early. So, after breakfast tomorrow? At 10:30?”
“9.”. You said
“Right, okay, bye.”, he said enthusiastically and went on his way to the quidditch field while you loudly said behind his back “Don’t be late!”
He was only ten minutes late, the next morning. But it wasn’t really his fault, practice had ended later than expected the previous night and he needed to avoid being caught by Remus on his way out of the common room. 
So he hurried down the stairs, skipped breakfast and coffee hoping he would have time to buy something when you reached the village, and found you, waiting for him impatiently with a frown on your face.
“You are late.”, you said
“Goodmorning to you too.”, Sirius replied with a sarcastic smile
Before he could say anything else, you held out your hands to give him a few cauldron cakes from the breakfast table “You can get coffee on the go, lets get moving.”, you said and passed him the food before heading towards the carriages.
“Ah, thank you.”, he said with his mouth stuffed, running after you.
The ride to Hogsmeade was…quiet at first. But not in the completely unpleasant and awkward way. You had also brought a notebook with you and made a list of all the shops you could visit, and all the presents you could buy for Remus. Sirius, could hardly keep up with you and mostly nodded while trying not to fall asleep.
“I was thinking,” you started saying as you reached your destination “There is this bookshop, that sells a few Muggle books, and Remus had been telling me about a signed copy he desperately wanted to get.”
“Let’s get it then. Lead the way.” 
“Yeah, but it might be too expensive and it might be sold by now, so just know that we need to have backups.”, you said anxiously 
He grabbed the notebook from your hands in a playful manner, tapping at the list you’d made on the way here. “Well, I think you’ve got that covered. Come on, lets go.”
Before walking inside the bookstore, you agreed to split up and look for the book “Don’t hesitate to hex anyone that tries to get it before us, alright?” 
“Oh of course, I will also stop brushing my hair and I’ll start shouting at people on the street. Perhaps by March I’ll have achieved the proper heathen look, and maybe if I try hard enough I’ll catch up to you.” You replied with a smile while batting your eyelashes at him.
“Ah hilarious, let’s go.”, he said dragging the words in irony
The bookstore was overflowed with books, old and new, and millions of maps, everywhere in the shelves. You were right, to be nervous, finding that one book would be a challenge. Thankfully it wasn’t busy this time of day and the only people inside were you two, an old lady organizing the bookcases and the shop owner who was currently feeding his owl by the window. 
You both spent at least thirty minutes searching, before Sirius heard you scream his name surprised “I found it!.”, you celebrate as if you’ve just caught the golden snitch. He ran to you then and without thinking he gave you a spin, causing you to let out a yelp. 
As he let you down, you looked at eachother awkwardly with a hint of warmth coating your cheeks. He took the book from your hands and quickly said, “Uh good job.” to which you replied “Thank you.” while playing with your sweater.
Walking up to the cashier register, the book owner asked “Is this a present?” ,as he wrapped the book, to which you both replied “Yes.” “Good thinking.” The man said, causing Sirius to ask “What do you mean?” with an awkward smile.
“I learned a little too late, that I should take my wife Christmas shopping with me, and make sure I get her something she actually likes.”, he said smiling 
That statement caused you and Sirius to cough and laugh awkwardly once you both realized what the man was implying.
“Oh no, no we aren’t-”
“We are just, friends.” You said red-faced
“Our best friends are together, and we starting hanging out because of that.”
“Yeah but not, not like that.”
The man observed the two of you in silence for a minute; stammering, with wide eyes and blushing cheeks before he let out a heartfelt laugh. “I see.”
“Well, either way, have a wonderful Christmas.”, he wished as you left.
You walked together in silence, for a while, not knowing what to do now that you had completed your task.
“Thank you for helping me today.”
“Remus will love it.”, you replied with a forced smile 
“Yes.”Neither of you said anything for a few seconds before Sirius interrupted the silence, “Hey, since we finished early, do you want to get some coffee or-”, he asked you, wanting to treat you for helping him with the gift.
“Oh I’d better get going, study now that I have more time. I’ll see you tomorrow for the exchange.”, you said and left him standing in the snow, outside of the Three Broomsticks, with the book in his arms and a stunned look on his face.
He was an idiot to think he misjudged you, of course you had helped him because Remus was your friend, and only that. But, would it honestly be that much of a torment for you to get a cup of coffee with him? Did he smell bad? Was there something on his face? Had he said something to you; to insult you without knowing it? Was it that old mans comment that bothered you that much? Was it that big of an insult; to be considered his girlfriend? He wasn’t thrilled about it either, but he obviously wasn’t that affected by it. He really couldn’t understand you. 
“Her loss.” He muttered as he went inside for some hot chocolate to treat himself.
Remus obviously loved his gift and the exchange went well. Sirius still remembers to this day singing and dancing in the common room and drinking a lot of mulled wine. He wanted to thank you, but he was met with the cold wall you had built around you and he really didn’t want to ruin his mood.
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As April arrived, the days were starting to get warmer- as warm as Scotland could get-, and sunnier. And this year, being your last at Hogwarts the Marauders decided it would be a great idea to plan a Lake-picnic-swim-get together, with Lily of course and well you.
Sirius didn’t mind though, he would play in the water with his friends and avoid you, and if he was lucky he could manage splashing you a few times, without meaning to of course.
The boys arrived first, and Sirius took advantage of that and dragged James in the water so all of them could play a new game he invented which was a mix of quidditch and a muggle sport called water-polo.
It was the most fun he remembered having in a while, it brought him back to his early years, when the worries that come with graduation and adulthood had no place on his mind. 
Of course, fun doesn’t last forever, and you showed up. Your hair was loose and dancing gracefully as the soft wind blew at it. It was the first time he had ever seen you look so, free. You greeted everyone as you took off your clothes, staying in your bright blue swimming suit, causing; Peter to stammer like a Third Year, and then Sirius to splash him with water, to come back to his senses.
You placed your things underneath a tree, near the towel the boys had placed down, and then laid down to read your book as everyone swam.
“Let’s play chicken.”, James said childishly 
“That is a children’s game.”, protested Remus making Lily laugh
“Oh come on, just this once! Lets have fun, one last time.” He pleaded dramatically eventually convincing everyone.
“I am teaming with Moony.” Said Peter making Remus look at him sternly “What? You are the tallest, and I like winning.”
“Whatever.” He said and sank down, for Peter to climb on his shoulder.
Lily swam to James and kissed him, before looking around and asking “What about Sirius?”
It was a sensible question Sirius had also thought about, and he knew the only way to solve this problem would be asking you to team up with him, but he had some dignity saved and wouldn’t bring himself to do that.
James however shouted your name and asked you if you would play with them, since his friend was left alone.
“Um no.” you said apologetically, closing your book.
“What did you say?”, screamed Lily, causing you to get closer to the lake for them to hear you better.
“I said n-” you started but were cut off by Lily, who grabbed your hand while smiling and pushed you in the Lake, causing everyone, especially Sirius, to laugh.
“Well you are in now, so you might as well play.” She winked at you and you threw water at her face in reply
“Can we speed this up? Peter is going to drown us both.”, complained Remus whose head was trying to stay out of the water.
“So, what do I need to do?”, you asked 
“You push the other players off, darling, it isn’t that hard.”, replied Sirius with a sarcastic tone, driving you to give him a side eye.
“Just climb on his back and try to stay there.”, said Peter; pointing Sirius to you
Your face turned red as you swam to his side “Alright, okay.”
“I will count to three, I will sink down and you will sit on my shoulders, yeah?”, he asked
“Okay.”
“1, 2-”, he said calmly with his hands raised in front of you two, counting 
“Wait”, you stopped him and held his hands; preventing him from going anywhere “What if I drown you?”
“You won’t”
“What if I drown you and we both die?”
“We won’t”
“What if you slip and then I choke you with my legs.”
His face turned red at that “I- you won’t”
“What if-”
“Alright, 3.”, he said loudly and sank down, gently guiding you on him; coming up for air after making sure you were fully seated.
“There we go, not that bad, was it?”, he joked
“Nno.”, you said, while trying to maintain your balance, without breaking his neck or ripping his hair off.
He held your thighs with his hands, making sure you’d stay up, and then moved towards the others.
Peter was the first one to go down; both because you and Lily teamed up against him and because Remus had began to grow very tired of holding him.
Then it was yours and Lily’s turn to try and throw eachoter in the water; and you were determined to win to get back at her for forcing you into this game in the first place. Which you eventually did.
“Yes!”, you screamed with a laugh as Lily fell backwards dragging James with her, and earned a round of applause from Remus and Peter who were laying on their blankets and watching the game from over there.
Sirius held out his hand to you, to give you a high five, as he celebrated, before gently diving off his back and into the water with a backflip.
You both laughed together and then he teased you “Told you we’d be fine, you could trust me more.”
“I don’t think I will Black, this was a one time thing for both our sakes.”, you replied teasing him back.
Before leaving you alone and returning to his friends he dived in the water, grabbed your legs and sank you down with him; causing you to let out a surprised scream once you realized what he was doing.
You reached the surface together, your bodies close to eachother and your faces a breath away. As you realized how close you were, you splashed his face with water, while he tried to apologize.
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After the day at the Lake, Sirius realized that he didn’t hate you as much. It still annoyed him how you wouldn’t acknowledged his existence when you were together, or how you would talk to everyone but him at parties. And you would better not get him started on quidditch matches and how you cheered for everyone else, but never him.
Bloody Moony had been right, he was obsessing over you, and for what? Why did he care that you didn’t like him. Many people liked him- loved him even.
Come to think of it, he was better off hating you, but now he couldn’t. No, now he had grown to know you. And he had decided you were, likable.
You were smart and funny, he had to give you that.
In charms he would always watch how you would cast the spells, methodically and calm. The way your mouth voiced the words was well, beautiful. And there was one time, when a group of Slytherins had stopped you, Alice and Remus in the corridors. James and him were talking to a group of Hufflepuffs for their upcoming quidditch game and he only saw you from afar. He didn’t like the way your eyebrows furrowed as you listened to the boys talking to you, nor the way your body had taken a defensive stand. He wished he could walk up to them and hex them out of Scotland, but he had no business doing that, he didn’t understand why he even cared that much.
But, why couldn’t he stop glancing over at your form, and loosen the grip on his wand?
Fuck it, he thought and muttered an “excuse me”, to James and the others while walking over you.
Before he could say anything though, and get into any trouble, he heard your voice, strict and irritated “Rosier, I’ve honestly grown tired of the blood purity bullshit, don’t get me wrong, insulting you was fun for the first two years, but we are graduating in a few months, maybe study for NEWTS, get a hobby, remove the stick from your ass?”
He smiled then, as he watched Rosiers face turn purple from trying to come up with an insult, and paid attention to your face, confident and smug.
He watched awestruck as you giggled with your friends, telling himself that this version of you; the relaxed and happy one is his favorite and he really wanted to see it more often.
He watched as you played chess with Peter and tried talking to you, but you were too focused to pay attention to him. He also tried commenting while you discussed with Remus, about the books you were reading, but admittedly he had no clue what he was talking about and you just stared at him, without saying anything back. 
It was hopeless; he couldn’t do anything to get you to talk to him, pay attention to him. He didn’t remember making friends to be that hard. He thought he was likable, and interesting but now he questioned everything.
One morning, during Slughorns potions class he woke up to the sight of you sitting next to him and whispering “James asked me to switch seats so he could sit next to Lily, for the Amortentia potion.”
“Oh, right okay.”, he replied back still half-asleep  “Wait, what potion are we making today?” “Amor-” you began to say
“Amortentia Mister Black,” interrupted professor Slughorn “And thank you for waking up to join us, it truly is an honor.”
“Now, who here can tell me what this potion is?” 
“Yes miss Evans?”, and as Lily started explaining Sirius felt his eyelids growing heavy once again.
The next time he woke up, was to the smell of his favorite pastries, the ones that Euphemia Potter made him every summer. He almost forgot he was in Potions class and thought he was laying in the Potters backyard, being served delicious strawberry muffins, but then he scented something different; less familiar but he could swear he’d smelled it before.
Suddenly the scent of oranges and hibiscus, overflowed his senses and he could clearly remember what it reminded him of. 
He thought back to the day at the Lake and how your body smelled on top of him. Then he was reminded of the way you smell every time he would tower over you in your chess games, or when you would be sat in the couch of his common room; analyzing literature with Remus. 
His Amortentia smells like you. You.
His eyes open fully now, and he can see the cauldron professor Slughorn has placed in front of him, while looking at him disapprovingly. As he turns his head he gets a glimpse of you, trying to gently reach the cauldron and smell the potion. 
Professor Slughorn calls you first and asks what you smelled.
You hesitated at first, and tapped your fingers on the desk nervously, “I smell old books and seasalt.”, he heard you say. He definitely does not smell like seasalt or old books. Brilliant, not embarrassing in the slightest bit. Of course he would fall for a girl, who didn’t give two shits about him, barely acknowledged him and looked at him as if he’d murdered her entire family. He desperately needed to take care of his mommy issues after graduation. 
“What about you, mister Black?”, asked Slughorn
“Strawberry muffins.” He said disappointed and under his breath, and then looked at you, wondering how he ended up in this situation.
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A sunny Saturday morning, he found Remus sitting under a tree reading another muggle book of his, -about a woman who enjoyed walking and a man who loved her but despised her family?-
“Moony.”, he said as he sat beside Remus
“Padfoot.”, his friend replied, eyes glued to the book in his hands
“You remember that conversation we had about Lily’s best friend, you know the one-“
“In my little book club? Yes.”
“Well, complications have arisen.”
Remus shut his book and asked his friend “Complications?” 
“Yes.”
“What kind of complications.”
“I am glad you asked Moony, by the way, here is a chocolate bar I brought for you.”, he said handing out the sweet, which Remus cautiously accepted
“Well, you remember how I thought she hated me?” He waited for his friend to nod before continuing “For one, I haven’t made any progress with that and also I’ve recently come to the conclusion that I like her.”
“You like her.”
“Yes, painfully so.”
“Right, and- the complications?”
“I just told you.”
“No, you told me you like her, I don’t see anything complicated there, in fact I could’ve told you, you liked her months ago.”, Remus replied, chewing on his chocolate
“You are no help”, sighed Sirius dramatically
“Have you considered, I don’t know, talking to her?”
“Are you mental? Absolutely not.”
“Why not?”
“Did you not hear the part where she can’t stand me?”
“Well, what do you want me to do?”
“I don’t know Moony, I thought you would know what I should do, has she told you if she likes anyone? Old books and seasalt, Old books and seasalt, old boo-”
“Wait a minute.”, Sirius muttered to himself and jumped at Remus sniffing him shamelessly.
“What in the bloody hell are you doing?”
“Stand still, I am trying to figure out something, maybe if I turn into Padfoot-”
“She doesn’t like me you git! Stay away.”, his friend shoved him away
“Are you sure?”
“Yes!”
“But how sure-”
“Okay enough, I am leaving and you need to talk to her, because you are ridiculous and insufferable” he said to his best friend as he quickly stood up, taking his book and chocolate with him leaving a confused Sirius behind.
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The next few weeks were a complete torment for Sirius, how could he of all people be pining over a girl; especially a girl he couldn’t stand in the beginning of the school year. Humiliating, that’s what he would call this new…situation.
He would never talk to you about his feelings, and what exactly was there to say. “Hello, I can’t really stand you and want to hex you every time you frown at me but I also want to grab your face and snog you until you forget your name?” No, he couldn’t say that.
Instead, he did everything he could to forget about you. He started going out with girls, but always ended up comparing them to you. Which resulted in; him absolutely shitfaced crying to them about you and the misery of unrequited feelings. He thought then, studying and quidditch would help distract him from his infatuation, but he could never focus and your face and voice infected his mind.
“That is enough” snapped Remus one day “You are being ridiculous.”
“You don’t understand Moony, I feel ill. This is killing me.”
“You are so dramatic.”, sighed Peter “Just confess already, let her reject you and then move on.”
“Sod off.” Sirius replied “Honestly Moony, this was supposed to stay between us. Why did you tell him?”
“Because I cannot deal with you on my own. And Peter is right, you should tell her.”
“Tell who what?” Asked a grinning James who’d just arrived in the dorm room.
“Our dear friend here, is having girl issues.”, an amused Peter said
“Who? Remus? Who is the girl?”
“Not me.” Remus replied and pointed at Sirius 
“Padfoot?” James asked with an open mouth “You, are having girl problems? How the bloody hell did that happen?”
Sirius replied with a deep sigh and buried his head in his pillow.
“Unrequited love.” Peter laughed 
“There is no girl in this castle who isn’t in love with Sirius.” Said James “Well, apart from Pomfrey, Minnie and well your cousins. Even though that last one is up for debate.”
The boy in question, raised his head and gave his friend a disgusted look before saying “Well, Prongs, sorry to shock you but there is.”
“Well who is she? Tell me.”
Sirius stood up dramatically and walked to his friend. He gave him a desperate look and then whispered your name in his ear.
James said nothing, for a few seconds “Prongs? Are you still there?”, his friends asked and then James let out a loud laugh; loud enough for the creatures deep inside the Lake to hear him.
“Are you done?” Sirius said impatiently 
“Yeah, I just need to catch my breath.” Replied James giggling causing Sirius to roll his eyes.
“You should definitely tell her.” He said as he calmed down and sat between Remus and Peter
“So you can laugh some more?” Sirius said annoyed 
“Just tell her mate, school will be over in a month, you’ll never see her again if things go bad.”
“But they will go bad, haven’t you seen how she looks at me? Like she hates me.”
“Yeah, well you weren’t a fan of her either, and now look at you."
“I didn’t like her because of her stupid pouty mouth and the way her eyes are so… so beautiful.”, he said theatrically
That last comment caused the boys to laugh at their friend
“This is such a disaster, Prongs, mate you need to help me. Obliviate me and save me from this- this utter humiliation.”, he said shaking his friend
“Hey. Grow some courage and tell her or stay miserable. Now, I need to see my girlfriend, excuse me, lads.”
With that, the three boys looked at eachother in silence, which Sirius eventually broke as he asked “How would I even tell her?”
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“Just wait for the right moment”, the boys advised him. But the right moment never came. You were never alone, and when you were alone you were either in the library or the common room with your face buried in a book. 
And that is why Sirius Black found himself tonight, on a Friday night, walking around the corridors of the castle alone, whilst thinking about everything and nothing.
He felt nostalgic about graduating and never seeing this place again and he also felt a pain in his chest as he thought of you and how much he wanted to have you, while you wanted nothing to do with him. 
As he reached the common room he prepared himself to quickly flee to his dorm and sleep off the nights melancholia, but soon he heard laughter and loud voices that informed him escaping wouldn’t be that easy.
“Paaadfoot”, exclaimed a drunk James “Join us, come on.”
“Yes, we were about to play truth or dare, come!” Lily said laughing
As he got closer to his group of friends he caught you sitting there, with your drink in your hand looking at him awkwardly. He hadn’t seen you like this, relaxed, in a long time; and he couldn’t blame you, NEWTS were a breath away and everyone was stressed. Your eyes looked tired and your hair was messy, but you still looked beautiful. He was surprised he didn’t notice it sooner; how pretty you actually are.
“I was heading upstairs, wanted to go to sleep early tonight.”, he said as an excuse, wanting to be alone
“Stay.”, he heard your voice as he made his way up the stairs and then froze in place “If Lily forced me to join and not study, you have to play also.”, you quickly said when you noticed his eyes glued at yours
“Alright” he muttered and took a seat between Remus and Peter
After a few rounds of James asking Lily when she first started liking him, and then Lily daring Peter to do his best impersonation of McGonagall it was Peters turn to ask Sirius;
“Out of every prank we’ve done all these years, which one is your favorite?”
He laughed as he remembered all the memories he’d made in this castle, not all of them were good, but they were his and he cherished every single one of them. And what made them even more special was that the people he’d spent his best years with, were sitting next to him, at this moment.
“Ah there are so many, maybe the feathers? Or or the red paint one.”
“Red paint? Asked Lily 
“Ooooh yes, that was a good one, when was it again? Second year?”, asked James
“Third.”, you said
“Yeah thi- wait how do you know?”, Sirius quickly said confused
“Because I was the one covered in red and golden paint you moron!”, you shouted
“What?”
“Girls Bathrooms, in the dungeons. I got in perfectly fine and left drenched in Gryffindors colors, yay for house pride.”, you said amused
“Wait, how?”
“What was the prank?” Asked Lily confused
“We jinxed the bathroom stalls, but in the boys bathroom, thinking Malfoy and his friends would end up with our House colors.”, Remus replied
“How did you end up-”
“Red and Gold? I don’t know Sirius, maybe you jinxed the wrong bathroom.”, you said amused
“What did you do after?”, asked Lily, who was laughing now
“I ran to my dorm, but not before Rosier and his friends saw me. I was called “lion cub” for the rest of the year!”
You exclaimed making everyone laugh; everyone except for Sirius. Is it because of a stupid prank that you hated him? He remembers now how you would look at him with distaste when he mentioned his pranks to you. His eyes were serious and his voice strict as he called out your name.
“We need to talk, outside.” He stood up waiting for you to follow him, but was met with your confused stare “Please”.
You were leaning against the walls with your hands crossed in front of you, as Sirius paced nervously before asking.
“That stupid prank is the reason you hate me?”
“What? I- no”, you said
“It is, isn’t it? You’ve been mad at me all these years for an idiotic mistake I made at 14!”, he said annoyed
“I have not been mad, I was at the start yes, but I got over it that same year when Malfoy ratted on you and you had to clean out the hippogriff stalls.”, you replied with a sincere smile, that caused him to grin before he asked again.
“Then why do you hate me, still?”
“I don’t hate you, why would you think I hate you?”
“Have you seen the way you look at me; like I’ve Avadaed your whole family. And you never talk to me, and when you do you’re sarcastic, as if you hate my whole being, but you talk to everyone else just fine.”, he said finally letting it all out, leaving his stupid crush out of course.
You remained silent for a while, thinking about what he had said to you, and what you would say back, or rather how to say what you wanted to say.
“I, sorry. Sorry about third year and sorry about now, its fine I’ve had a weird week.”, he quickly said, feeling bad for laying it all on you and causing you to be uncomfortable. He made his way back to his dorm, but you were quick enough to catch his arm and stop him.
“No, wait. You are right, I do treat you like that, and I am sorry. I don’t hate you, though.”
“Then what is it?” he asked confused
“I- you can’t laugh at me.”
“Okay.”
“I like you.”, you said at first and then continued “It was a stupid crush at first, but then we talked and you were funny and interesting and I felt like an idiot for liking you because you are you-“
His laugh was what interrupted your speech. And in all honesty, he couldn’t stop himself, everything seemed so ridiculous then. How he pined over you, and how dramatic he was being all his time. And, you, you liked him and that piece of information felt like a huge weight off his chest. Now, everything made sense. Before he could tell you everything and confess his feelings your angry voice stopped him.
“You said you wouldn’t laugh.”, you exclaimed and starting walking away from him
“No wait you don’t understand.” He said running after you
“Sod off, now that I think about it, I do hate you”
“Wait!” He begged
“No, goodni-” you replied without looking at him, but suddenly his hand was wrapped around your wrist and then his lips were on yours.
“What?”, you let out confused as you parted from him
“Sorry I didn’t know how else to-” , he said breathless before you kissed him again, grabbing his tie and wrapping your arms around him this time. He closed his eyes, and let himself bury his fingers in your hair and waist, pulling you impossibly close to him. Not wanting to let go, ever. You both sighed as you stopped, because of your lungs begging for air. You smiled at eachother and he looped his arm around your shoulders as you two walked down the corridors.
“So you don’t hate me.”, he said softly 
“No, and you, I take it, don’t hate me either.”, you replied with a smile and turned your head to rest at his shoulder.
“I tolerate you.” He joked and you raised your head and bumped into him with your shoulder. To which, he replied with a laugh and a soft kiss.
“I like you, incredibly much.”, he whispered to your lips.
You ended up underneath the tree by the lake, with your back to his chest and your hands intertwined.
“So, who smells like seasalt and old books, because I know I don’t.” He whispered in your hair
“It’s a bit early to start getting jealous isn’t it?” You grinned “I’ll tell you, when you tell me who smells like strawberry muffins.” 
“Is it that Hufflepuff girl talking to you at that party last month, because you both should know; I don’t share.”, you joked and turned your head back to look at him. He laughed at that and kissed your forehead before saying.
“Alright darling, I’ll let mrs. Potter know."
“What?” You said and the realization caused you both to laugh.
"Old books, sea salt and your cologne. That’s what I smelled”, you confessed and he looped his arms around you, keeping you close, so close you could feel the beat of his heart.
“Want to go back?”, you whispered after a while
“No, not yet, I want you to myself, for a little bit more.”, he said as he closed his eyes and you hugged his arms before answering with a satisfied smile “You can have me for a lot longer than that.”
fin
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feedback and criticism are welcome and needed 🖤
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myadmiringmind · 1 year
Text
Routine | Remus Lupin
Remus Lupin Masterlist
Summary: When the full moon comes around some things are always the same while some things differ. All you and your friends can do is your best to comfort the werewolf you all love.
Genre: Fluff, angst? (Rem in discomfort)
Pairing(s): Remus Lupin x Fem!Reader
Warning(s): Nightmares, depression, cursing, food, loss of appetite, difficulty sleeping, mentions of blood, and wounds (let me know if I missed anything)
Note(s):
Established Relationship
In the beginning all characters are in their 6th year
Cariad = Love
|PICTURES DO NOT BELONG TO ME|
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No one could truly ever tell how Remus would act around the full moon and to whom. So you could only ever prepare for the constants.
Remus was always physically and mentally drained as his body was preparing him for the transformation. His body would ache. Some months could be much more painful than other months. He was always tired, unable to sleep more than three hours if he was lucky. He was normally restless and tended to bounce his knee, chew on his nails or lip, and fidget with things around him.
Some months he was more angry than anything, others he was more depressed. A week before the full moon was the earliest these side effects occurred. It might start earlier in the week or the middle or at the latest a couple days before.
Walking into the great hall, your eyes immediately searched for your love. Upon seeing him you examined his posture and believed you knew what type of day today would be.
When you got closer you saw James piling some of Remus’ favorite foods on the plate in front of him. Your boyfriend had his hands covering his ears. You believed this to be a subconscious movement to keep out all the noise of the great hall.
James noticed you first, sending you a grateful smile as you sat next to Remus. Far enough to not startle him but close enough so that he could sense your presence.
“Hey, honey.” You said softly to alert him that it was you beside him, but not too quietly that he couldn’t hear you.
You didn’t hear what he mumbled but you took it as a greeting. You gently placed your hand on his back and rubbed it in hope to ease his tension.
Remus was always distant at first, the insecurities plagued his mind. You just needed to be consistent and slowly move towards him.
In the beginning you sat awkwardly next to him. James chatted with Sirius as the black haired boy played wizards chess with Peter. James continued to stuff more food on Remus’ plate, doing his best to encourage him to eat.
Soon enough, Remus allowed himself to find comfort in your presence, and ate a few bites of the food James had given him. It wasn’t enough, but you knew he was trying.
Sirius slammed his hands on the table in frustration from the loss of the chess match. Remus jumped slightly, which earned Sirius a glare from you.
“Sorry, Moons.” He sounded sorry, so you let it go.
Remus just snuggled further into you, taking deeper breaths in an attempt to calm himself. The position the two of you were in was odd to the eye, but it was the best, and most comfortable you could do at the grand tables.
Soon, the owls entered, dropping packages, and hooting loudly. Two packages that were nearly the exact same in size and shape landed in front of James and Sirius.
The two of them grinned and picked their packages up at the same time. If you weren’t so worried about Remus, you would’ve laughed at how similar James and Sirius’ movements were.
“Gifts from Effie.” Sirius grinned at your questioning gaze.
You watched curiously as James and Sirius opened the packages. They both pulled out a delicately wrapped box of sweets and a pouch of coins. 
“For the upcoming Hogsmeade trip.” Sirius said absent-mindedly, he gave Remus a sympathetic look knowing that the full moon was this weekend.
“Come on, let’s go back to our dorm.” James said, after he placed the items back into his own box.
You nodded, and rubbed the back of Remus’ neck before whispering James’ words to Remus.
He nodded and stood up, swaying slightly. You were quick to grab his hand and walk with him out of the great hall. You tried to persuade him into leaning on you but he was still well aware that if he were to fall, he would crush you.
Thankfully, Peter was at Remus’ other side, helping support some of his weight. While Sirius hung behind, and James led.
You saw his shoulders visibly relax when you were far enough away from the noise that was the great hall.
————————————————
“Under the cloak you go.” James said, throwing his invisibility cloak over you and Remus.
If someone were to see you going into the marauders dorms, talk would arise and it wouldn’t be good for any of you.
When in their dorm, Remus subconsciously moved towards his bed and flopped down as if he had worked tirelessly all day long, even though it wasn't even noon.
You sat on the edge of his bed. Remus, sensing your proximity, moved so that his head laid in your lap.
All the marauders kept glancing at Remus in worry. James the most. So it wasn’t a shock when said boy spoke up, “He should stay in the dorm today.”
You nodded in agreement, “I’m gonna stay too.”
“You sure?” It was Sirius
“One of us could stay with him.” Peter offered
You shook your head, sending them off to class with a murmur of thanks.
Looking down, you noticed Remus had fallen asleep. You smiled, knowing around these times he got all his sleep from naps.
———————————
Hours later you were awoken from the firm grip on your thighs. Remus’ head was shaking, eyes scrunched up and he was sweating.
You caressed his face, trying to comfort him. He seemed to relax a little.
“Remus.” You called gently, shaking him awake.
It took him a few minutes to come to terms as to where he was.
“What time is it?” He asked quietly.
You glanced around for a clock, before noticing the muggle kid watch you had bought for James last year as a gag gift. You squinted trying to make out the time.
“About two hours after noon.” You answered, trying to relieve the tension in your back and shoulders without disturbing Remus.
Remus groaned in annoyance. He moved to try and get up, but the hand you placed on his back easily convinced him to give up and continue to lay down.
“You should try to get some more sleep.” You said, pushing the strands of hair that stuck to his sweaty forehead away from his face.
“No use.” He answered and your heart aches for him.
“I should start you a bath.” You moved to gently lift Remus’ head from your lap but he halted you with a grab of your wrist.
“Don’t leave.” He whined, “I don’t want to be alone.”
“I’m just gonna run a bath for you so you don’t have to sleep in your own sweat.” You tried
“I don’t care.” Remus begged
You effectively placed Remus’ head into the bed despite his protests.
You were more concerned when he moved to sit up. Even in pain, he moved fast, so you couldn’t stop him.
He delicately wrapped his arms around your waist and pressed his forehead against your stomach. Despite having his arms around you, you could barely feel him. You knew he was denying the want of tightening his hold on you, afraid of being seen as selfish.
You moved for him, pressing his arms around you tighter and moved closer to him so he could bury his face in your stomach.
“You’re allowed to want things, Rem. All you have to do is ask me.” You said, rubbing up and down the back of his neck.
“I don’t want you to leave me.” You knew he meant more of a break-up sense than a physical sense.
“I’m not going to, my love.” The sound of your endearment caused a small cry from his lips.
“I hate it so much.”
You couldn’t even imagine all the pain and suffering Remus had to constantly go through.
“I know, is there anything more I can do to help?” You asked
“Just be here.” He answered quietly
“I promise.” You assured him.
———————————————
Eight Years later 
“Don’t fuss, Cariad, It’s not that big, I swear.” Remus chuckled painfully, watching you tend to a wound on his stomach.
“It’s bigger than I’d like.” You mumble through the flush on your cheeks.
“It was quite an angry moose, but I rather a wound from him than my own claws.” Remus said
You froze for a moment then picked back up where you left off, not sure if or how you should respond to that.
Remus’ hiss stopped you from a rabbit hole of negative thoughts.
“I’m sorry.” You said absent-mindedly
“That’s enough cleaning, don’t you think, love?” 
“Just a little more.” You promised.
When Remus was all bandaged and done he hummed gratefully. 
“So,” He began, resting his hands on your hips as you disposed of the bloody cloths. “How should I repay you for taking such good care of me?” 
You hummed, acting as if you were in deep thought, “A kiss or two should be enough payment for me.” 
Remus chuckled, “Have I not given you enough kisses today?” 
You shook your head, “You never do.”
The man scoffed teasingly, “I thought I gave you a healthy amount, but it seems I've begun to spoil you.” 
“Your fault.” You said affectionately, leaning down while making not to touch a wound. 
One kiss. Two kisses. Three kisses. 
He hummed, pressing one kiss to your cheek, “I thought my payment was two kisses.” 
“I changed my mind.” You smiled, resting your forehead against his. 
“My silly women.” He caressed your cheek.
“Sorry, Rem. You’re stuck with me.” 
“Then I shall die the happiest man.”
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