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Chapter Text

James is going to be honest. When he agreed to have his ex-girlfriend start living with him, he didn't expect it to be this hard (And not in the way you're thinking).

Lily is just as amazing a roommate as she is a girlfriend: she's sweet and considerate, and she always cleans up after herself. But one thing that never changed, and probably never will, is how loud she can be.

Years ago, when the pair dated back in University, Remus and James had come up with a fun little scale they liked the call “Lily's Volume Chart”, with one being the softest and ten being the loudest.

Since then they had noted that she was usually at a volume 5 on the daily and never really exceeded it. But today, she had broken the mental record James had been taking when she brought that volume to a level 9.

It had started as a peaceful morning for the three roommates of loft 3D. James woke up and robotically made breakfast for Remus and Lily like he does every morning.

He even attempted going for a run but had to forgo that plan after he started getting swarmed by fans of every demographic practically begging and asking for a picture with him to post on their social media, and usually he wouldn't mind, but ever since his team started winning their recent football matches consecutively, they'd been getting more and more known. But James wouldn’t call himself a celebrity or anything, he just happened to be known by the people in their city who supported their home team. And if he had to take a couple of pictures, he was more than happy to.

But unfortunately, that small swarm of fans became a crowd and James practically had to dig his way out and sprint home to avoid any more of it. He had just opened to door to their loft, ready to sit down and relax with a cup of tea when he heard a very, very loud, “OH MY FUCKING GOD!” and what sounded like a crash from inside Lily's bedroom.

James wasted no time as he instantly threw his door open and ran to her own, where he met a dishevelled Remus who looked like he had leapt out of bed if the creases on his face from the bedsheets and his hair that stuck up on one side was any indication and the distressed look he wore on his face that James was sure he mirrored. 

Together, they entered the bedroom and James’ eyes immediately searched for any signs of a break-in, or disaster. A sigh of relief came out of him when he realised there nothing there and that Lily was perfectly fine, well as fine as she could be, seeing as she fell off her bed and took her nightstand with her.

“Are you okay?” James asked, but it seemed like a stupid question when he realised she had her full attention on the phone she somehow managed to maintain her grip on in her tumble and was not at all concerned about the state of her nightstand, but instead just stared at the device in her hands. 

“SLYTHERINISCOMINGTOPERFORMINOURTOWNOHMYGODOHMYGODKILLMERIGHTNOW.” Was the answer that escaped her mouth instead of the decent reply he should’ve known better to expect.

James tried to decipher what she was saying but the task was deemed impossible so as one does, he turned to Remus with a confused look, of which the taller boy responded to by pinching the bridge of his nose and exhaling through his mouth before saying, “It was about that stupid band again, James.”

At this, Lily got up off the floor and held a hand to her heart dramatically. “How dare you, Remus Lupin. How dare you betray my trust like this! I am outraged and feel betrayed. Don't look at me, I can't bear it.” She dramatically placed the back of her palm to her head in the way that a Victorian lady would when she would faint.

This made James laugh a bit and with a roll of his eyes he asked her, “Alright Lils, now that we know you're okay what in the bloody hell are you yelling about?”

“My favourite band, Slytherin, is going to have a concert in our fucking town, James. It's tomorrow and we are going.” She said breathless but finally returning to her regular volume as she explained this information to him in the way one might talk to a child.

Furrowing his eyebrows he glanced at Remus who also seemed confused with this statement and addressed the elephant in the room. “Um, right okay, Lily?”

“Mhm.” she hummed back.
“You just found out about this concert how the fuck did you get, not just one, but three tickets so fast?” He questioned, genuinely worried she might have done something stupid.

“Oh, it's nothing I just, you know...” She said avoiding eye contact. “, I may have had to ask Severus for them–”

“YOU WHAT?” Remus jumped up from his position on the end of her bed. “Lily darling, please don't tell me you had to do anything for them. Oh God, Lily Evans what have you done.”

“No! No no no. Nothing like that! God, Remus. All I did was ask and we know how he’s sweet on me so he just…lowered the price a little. The most he's going to get is the impression that I tolerate him, which I don't.” She rushed to assure them.

James was going to kill Severus one of these days. He really was. But he knows how much Lily doesn't like him and if she went through all this trouble then he ought to just go to this concert out of solidarity for that, I mean truly, how bad could it be?

“All right. Fine. We'll go with you.” He defeatedly told her and she immediately jumped into his arms and started chanting a high-pitched ‘thank you thank you thank you’ and kissing his cheeks with a loud SMACK-ing noise. Looking over her shoulder he caught Remus’ betrayed look but James didn't really care, after all, he knew they would've ended up going anyway.

That night James opened Twitter and saw that Slytherin was already trending what with the release of their tour dates and all, so James harmlessly thought to himself ‘Well, what harm can it do?’ and then he proceeded to snap a picture of him grinning and holding up his own freshly-printed ticket. He captioned the tweet, “Mind if I Slyther-in? #SlytherinOnTour #SeeYouThere.”

Chapter Text

Regulus doesn't want to admit to himself that he's nervous about today's show. He honestly didn't even realise it either, until he noticed Pandora sneaking not-so-subtle worried glances at him from across the dressing room.

Frankly, he knows he has no reason to be nervous at all. He knows he’s a great performer and so does everyone else.

Regulus never used to get nervous when he first started the entire “popstar” thing out as a kid, because his brother, Sirius, was always the one who took the brunt of whatever was thrown at the band. But ever since Sirius had decided to leave the band the year before, Regulus had been left to pick up the pieces he left behind and take up the lead vocal position, even though everyone knew he would and could never fill the gaping hole that Sirius left and with that, Slytherin had changed. For the better or worse… well that's something he doesn't think he’ll never figure out.

Nobody blames Sirius for leaving either, it was a long time coming. Everyone knew he wouldn't be able to handle the pressure for so long and would inevitably crack under it, even their parents reluctantly knew.

The whole band of Slytherin grew up together, and in the same spotlight because their parents had been doing this way before they were even born. They had been placed in the band by their parents when they were teenagers without any say and from then the pressure and the spotlight was turned on to 100 and was never turned off. Their celebrity life had been so embedded into them that they had never known anything else, so therefore nobody had the guts to leave either and to be perfectly honest; nobody wanted to. That is,until Sirius did just that last year.

They had a relatively good life. Money, friends, and found a family in each other. Who would need anything else?

Sirius. He felt their parent's methods were harsh and the spotlight was too bright. He couldn't handle it all that well for a 16-year-old and turned to alcohol and drugs instead of comfort. He left the band and home a year later and all that pressure fell on Regulus.

Regulus didn't want to blame Sirius for what the aftermath of his sudden removal from the band did but he couldn't stop himself from being mad at him the first few years.

Eventually, Sirius came to his senses and resurfaced about three years later. The first thing he did was apologize to Regulus for leaving him alone they had reconciled but the underlying trust issues were still there, whether they like it or not, but they usually just ignored it. And you know what they say, out of sight— out of mind.

Sirius’ disappearance from the band seemed to be short-lived though, because today and today only, he’s returning as a surprise feature for the fans. Why? Just for the drama of it all, of course.

This makes it worse for Regulus, who is thinking about all of this while getting ready in the dressing room backstage. He can hear the volume of the crowd starting to grow in anticipation for the band, and that combined with Sirius’ visit just makes Regulus even more nervous.

This album isn't like the last two and it's because instead of Sirius’ songwriting, which everyone is used to, it's Regulus’. When he left the band that was another burden that fell on Regulus and let him just say; this album was not what the fans expected. And so every new city is a new round of unease because he wants everyone to like their album, STARS. That all is going to be put to the test today because of Sirius’ surprise feature in their set.

When the album was first released, everyone just assumed it was named because of Sirius and Regulus’ names being stars. But in all honesty, the album wasn't about ‘The Black Brothers’. It was about all of them. The whole band. Them being ‘nepotism babies’ as the internet would call it. It's because they were brought up in the light and everyone expected them to shine. But eventually, they will burn out. Like his cousin Andy did. Like Sirius did. Like they're all bound to.

His uneasiness has started to become more evident to Sirius and Pandora because they upgraded from where he could see them whispering about it and looking over every couple of seconds, to walking over to him.

Great, He thinks. Here we go.

As they reach him, Pandora stops in front of him with a dopey smile and Sirius stands just behind her with his arms behind his back.

“You okay, honey?” She asks simply.
“Yeah,” he replies with a smile. Regulus doesn’t even think she realizes it but she can calm him down in a storm with a simple sentence. So when he answers her, he’s telling the truth. And that word of confirmation seemed to be enough for her so she dropped the subject pretty quickly. And instead, move on to more pressing matters.

As their manager, Pandora was in charge of their PR too and she started telling the brothers about how well the band is doing, but of course, there was an issue still. There always is.

“Reggie. You know we love you, and so do your fans. And the whole mysterious persona you have going on is cool! But there is a fine line because people on social media are starting to speculate you don't like your job that much and you'll leave like your brother, ” She sends an apologetic glance in Sirius’ direction before continuing. “And honestly I don't blame them. You don't give them anything to work with to like you! And you're the frontman of this band, they need that to stay interested.”

Adding onto Pandora's lecture, Sirius agrees. “So to fix that silly little mistake of yours, Dora and I have come up with an easy solution. All you need to do is interact a bit with the crowd in between songs during the concert. Simple.”

Pandora looked like she was about to add to that statement when a crash and a shout from the other side of the room were heard. “BARTY.” Pandora snapped in the direction of the noise and walked off to lecture him probably.

Smoothly moving to wear she was standing, Sirius kneels on one leg in front of where Regulus is sitting to be at eye-level with him, he places a hand on his shoulder and looks him sincerely in the eyes.
“Listen, Reg. I know this is already hard for you with the noises and with me being here I know it's worse. And I know I can't make up for that but I did want to at least try, so I got you this.” Sirius said, reaching into his pocket and presenting it to Regulus like a peace offering, on his palm.

Regulus looks down at his open hand to see a box. He takes it and upon opening it he finds two black earpieces that don't look all that special except for his engraved initials on them.

Seeing his confusion with the gift, Sirius told him to put them in and when he did, all the background noises of the dressing room were dulled down significantly. He could barely even hear Pandora's voice while she reprimanded Barty and Evan for breaking things again.

Sirius tapped his leg to get his attention and motioned for him to remove one to hear him talk. “They’re noise-canceling. I got them special ordered for you because I know you don't like dealing with that and I wanted to help. You can wear them on stage too, you can change the settings to only hear our voices!”

Sirius had barely got the last sentence out of his mouth when Regulus threw himself at him in a hug. “Thank you.” He whispered, eyes tight. Wrapping his arms tighter around his brother, Sirius whispered back, “Anything for you, Reggie. You know that.”

They stayed like that for a bit more, emotional and caught up in the moment before Dorcas came over awkwardly to break them up and tell him they needed to start heading towards the stage.

And then they were on. Once again.

Chapter Text

The moment they arrive at the concert, James knows it will be a hard task getting inside. His first mistake was that he didn't realize how truly popular this band was. He probably should've been listening harder whenever Lily would play them in the car.

There are people everywhere from down the street, to the entrance. And James knows there's just no way he could get inside the building without getting swarmed by his fans. When he tries to explain this to Lily she just waves it aside like it's not that big of a deal that James could get attacked by one of his more excited (read: crazy) fans.

“Don't stress, Jamie,” She said nonchalantly, picking up what seemed to be a giant sign from the trunk and tucking it into a tote bag she got at the last concert she went to, “I took the liberty of calling ahead and I chatted to this lovely woman on the phone -I think she's in charge of their schedules because she seemed to know what was going on- and she said we can just meet her at the back entrance and she’ll take us inside the arena. Although unfortunately, she is not permitted to let us go backstage and this is the best she can do given your uh… circumstance.”

“Oh,” said James simply. “She seems lovely.” Lily smiled and replied, “She is!”

James returned her smile and turns to look at Remus who was currently lugging their “snack pack” around. Snack Pack was the name they gave the bag of food that they carried with them the last time they went out, it started because James had a habit of calling their snacks ‘nibbles’ and Remus and Lily thought that it was the funniest thing in the world.

“Guys. No, please I'm starving.” Lily had complained to her two best friends months ago when they were coming back from a club.

Lily was a bit drunk, but to be honest, the girl can't handle her liquor very well, and they were walking back to their loft. Lily was being carried on Remus’ back and James was carrying both of their shoes.

“James my beloved, will you please let our darling Lily-belle know that we have food at home and that we do not need to stop at McDonald's?” Remus turned to say to James in the falsest and poshest accent he could muster.

“Lily-flower. Darling, we are almost home.” James replied in a horrible attempt at the accent. Even though he grew up “posh”, he never really learned the accent or lingo of the area. Lily just groaned in annoyance as the trio made their way home.

Now in their present time, Lily is still hungry but her appetite has changed from food to a need to see this band.

She walks confidently around to the back door while Remus and James bashfully trail behind her.

She reaches the door and lifts a first to knock when the door swings open like it knew they were there. And just went James is about to scream bloody murder because he was 99% sure there was a ghost opening it, a girl -with hair blonde enough to compare with the colour of the sheet of a cartoon ghost- opens the door, peers through, and grins at them.

“Hi. My name is Pandora, I'm the manager of Slytherin, you must be Lily?” The girl asks them but doesn't get an immediate reply as Lily looks at her with confusion after a moment Lily smiles back and nervously replies, “Yep, that's me. I'm sorry but are you the woman I spoke to on the phone? No offence but she sounded... Older.”

But Pandora just chuckled, “Oh! No no that wasn't me. That was Minnie. I am technically the manager but she's more like our ‘mom-ager’. She's the band's vocal coach as well as everyone's mother figure, along with her wife Poppy.” She suddenly paused as if realising that information didn't mean much to a bunch of people she'd never met and doesn't trust. And Pandora couldn't explain it but she felt like she could learn to.

“Sorry,” She continued. “She wasn't me. But she sent me to take you inside since the band is preparing to go on stage.”

James reached out to touch her shoulder lightly in a comforting manner and gave her a soft smile. “Thank you, Pandora. We appreciate it greatly.”

She returned his smile with an enthusiastic grin and clapped her hands together. “Great! Alrighty then, let's go find your seats. You have booked the pit tickets yes?” She said as they started moving into the building and through the halls.

“No, uh we got tickets too late and the only available ones were in section C I think. We still went though because our Lily here is a massive fan.” Remus supplied helpfully.

“Wait you're not fans?” The blonde girl asked, looking affronted.
“Uh yeah I'm sorry we just don't listen to them, that's more Lilys category,” Remus replied almost nervously

Pandora turned to them looking unusually upset about this, she then proceeded to click her tongue and shake her head at them as if it were their fault the stadium they were performing in was packed to the brim. “Yeah no, that just won't do. I'm taking you to the pit, you need the full Slytherin experience since you need to be educated on them.”

The roommates tried to argue with her but she just wasn't hearing it. Literally. And Eventually, after ages of her pretending she suddenly lost her hearing, they caved and she took them to the side entrance of the stadium.

James looked inside and was shocked to see how full it was. People were so closely packed together that they looked like sardines in a can. He wondered how they could all get to the pit, which seemed to be just a bit away.

Pandora turned to face them as she held the door open and pointed, “So as you can see the pit is just down there and well I hope you enjoy the show, guys. Hopefully, I'll see you soon.”

The group thanked her for everything she'd done and she answered back just as enthusiastically.

“You all are too sweet to me. I do hope I see you again.” Pandora said although she seemed to have directed that last bit of her sentence to a now bright-red Lily who smiled and waved like an utter dork as the door closed behind them.

When Lily turned back around from where she was watching the last of Pandora's dress disappear behind the door, Remus and James were staring at her open-mouthed.

“Ok. What was that?” Remus asked, his slacked jaw turning into a grin. A blushing and bashful Lily said, “Hm, what? Pandora? Oh yeah, she's nice.”

“Uh-huh,” James said with a raised eyebrow. Shoving his shoulder, Lily just told him to fuck off.

Putting his hands up in surrender, he agreed to indeed “fuck off” as she so delicately put it.

“Okay. Game plan.” Lily said turning to them when they finally stopped the teasing. “We're in the pit now so as much as I'm trying to keep calm about that, remember that I'm not. Also, this crowd is tight so we're going to have to hold hands to make sure we don't get lost.”

James and Remus immediately agreed and held each other's hands while Lily yanked James’ to get them to start moving.

James doesn’t think he's ever been more embarrassed than this moment because Lily is abusing the people in the crowd as she is pushing past them forcefully to get through, fully shoving them out of the way as Remus and James shout apologises after her.

By the time they get to the front of the pit, right near the stage, the coloured lights are flashing and it looks like the concert is about out to start. Smoke starts spewing out from either side of the stage (a bit dramatic if you ask James) until the whole of it is foggy.

A beat drops and a spotlight shines in the middle of the fog, where a body is posed facing its back to the audience with his mic held ready for use.

“Are you ready for it?” The voice echoes around the stadium and Lily nearly yells as loud as it. James lied earlier because he is sure this is the loudest she has ever yelled, a sure 10. But for the first time, he realises why. This guy can sing.

“Knew he was a killer the first time that I saw him. Wonder how many girls he had loved and left haunted.” He said as he walked down the apron of the stage, towards the crowd.

Lily caught his eye while he was watching this angel-on-earth walk in more of his direction of the stage and yelled over the music. “That's Regulus Black! He’s the lead singer!”

“But if he's a ghost, then I can be a phantom
Holdin' him for ransom.” A girl walks onto the stage playing the guitar and adding a line to Regulus’. Her dark braids are tied in a ponytail with a bandana over her head. They lay long on her back, which is covered in an oversized David Bowie shirt. Incredible taste.

“Some, some boys are tryin' too hard
He doesn't try at all, though” A blonde boy with a chiselled jaw suddenly appears on the other side of the stage and James is finding these surprise appearances so cool because you have to be vigilant to see them right as they come onstage.

“Younger than my exes but he acts like such a man, so” This line was sung by a more rough-looking boy who was multitasking by playing the drums right at the back of the stage, but not so far back that he was obscured by the rest of his bandmates, which is very considerate and seems well planned. Their mom-ager, Minerva, probably did it.

They sang the next verse together, harmonies blurring until it was a symphony. They sang together like it was what they were born to do.
“I see nothing better, I keep him forever
Like a vendetta-ta
I-I-I see how this is gon' go,
Touch me and you'll never be alone
I-Island breeze and lights down low. No one has to know.”

The band paused in the middle of whatever they were doing, not moving an inch as if they had a pause button pressed on them, as Regulus stepped forward.

“In the middle of the night, in my dreams
I know I'm gonna be with you
So I'll take my time.” He hesitated before he sang the next line and even James knew that something big was about to happen.

Regulus took a deep breath and looked like he was gathering himself mentally -which James is sure he only noticed because he was close enough to see his expressions- before singing the next line,
“Are you ready for it?”

All of a sudden every single light in the stadium went off and a few girls in the audience screamed at the shock. Strobe lights started flashing on an empty spot on the stage and James was confused for only a moment before a part of the stage started rising and brought a body with it. It was a man and by the crowd and Lily's reaction– kind of a big deal.

“Ladies and Gentlemen. May I present, Sirius Black…” Regulus’ voice echoed in the semi-darkness.

Wait, Black? Like Regulus’ brother Black? James might not know a lot about the band but he was sure that Sirius had left, so this is a huge deal.

“Knew I was a robber the first time that he saw me
Stealing hearts and running off and never saying sorry.” Wow. Can everyone in this family sing? James thought. Regulus may look like an angel but Sirius’ voice was angelic. It was smooth and rough at the same time, James couldn't explain it.

Looking to his left, James saw Remus gazing at Sirius with a look he just couldn't place. Which was …curious because he’d known Remus his entire life and not once seen this expression. He 100% would need clarification on that later.

The rest of the song was more incredible than James could even realise. And before he knew it he was dancing and jumping with Lily and Remus to lyrics he learnt on the way there.

After a few more songs, the band's vibe with the songs seemed to dull down a bit from the chaotic pop into a more bohemian vibe and for all of James' craziness, he prefered it more.

James was having so much fun he didn’t even realise the concert was nearing a close, and he kind of got upset about it and the rest of the crowd seemed to as well because they started groaning when the pretty guitar player announced that they only had 15 minutes left of the show and they were done with their set.

“I know, I know. We’re going to miss you too. You have been such a lovely audience.” She said comfortingly. “And honestly I would just love to use this time to talk to you, wouldn't y’all?” The crowd screamed in agreement and the girl (Dorcas, Lily would fill him in later) laughed.

“Alright! Reggie, would you like to go first?” She asked, turning to Regulus who was sitting next to Sirius on one of the props at the end of the stage.

“Uh, sure. Yeah of course I’d love to talk to them.” He said into his microphone and then shot the crowd a swoon-worthy smile. And for the record, James didn't swoon. He did not.

Regulus got up from his seat and started reading out some signs that caught his attention. “ ‘Knock Knock’? Are we playing that? Okay, yeah. Who is there?”

James turned to where the person holding the signs was and watched as she picked up another sign that said the words, “WHEN WHERE?” on them.

“When where who?” Regulus asked. The girl flipped the sign over and James watched as Regulus read ‘TONIGHT, MY PLACE, YOU AND ME.’ on it and burst out laughing. “Okay, I can't come over but you win the best pickup line. Let's see what else people want to say to us tonight… Wait what does yours say? ‘Did you know that James Potter is at your concert?’ Sorry, who’s James Potter?”

Now normally, James would take it personally when someone doesn't know who he is but how could he be mad when this beautiful boy was asking that question genuinely looking confused like a little puppy?

His brother Sirius on the other hand, could. He was flabbergasted, to say the least, and shared that with the crowd quite enthusiastically while he made his way over to where Regulus was.

“What do you mean you don't know who James Potter is? Regulus are you sure we're related?” He questioned him on his way to where Regulus was staring at him curiously. “He's the captain of Gryffindor, England's champion football team! Mr Potter on behalf of Regulus and the rest of Slytherin: I am so sorry and so disappointed.”

Whoever is manning the cameras seemed to have spotted James in the crowd because the next second after Sirius finishes his declaration, James’ now red face is being exposed to the world on the big screen. Regulus starts slowly smirking as his eyes search the crowd to find James’ and when they do, that smirk becomes flirtatious. This is super dangerous for James because there is no way he would deny this man anything, ever.

“James. Hello.” Regulus says into his mic while keeping his eyesight on James still. James waves and this shows up on the monitor which makes their audience scream louder.

Watching James become increasingly embarrassed under all the attention, made Regulus smile a bit to himself so he decided to play with him for a bit.

“So James. A big strong football player like you, I have to ask, do you have a girl? Because I don't see a ring on your finger.” He said, looking James up and down.

And James knew the moment Regulus saw Lily's hand in James’, he didn't even realise he was still holding her hand since the beginning of the concert since they'd been dancing together this whole time because his flirty expression dropped as he gestured to her with a nod of his head. “Oh never mind, is this her?”

Before James could do something embarrassing like yelling out that they're not together and proceed to explain why Lily does something arguably worse: She extracts a folded cardboard sign from her Taylor Swift tote bag and unfolds it.

James looks at the screen on the stage instead of turning his head and he's shocked and a bit abashed to see a hand-drawn sign that says in capital letters, ‘NOT DATING’ with a small cartoon drawing of him, Remus and Lily all smiling with a rainbow behind them.

Still watching the monitor, James saw his eyes bulge out in surprise and choke on his spit. The crowd hasn’t stopped screaming.

”Well that's interesting,” Regulus says, his smirk returning as he slowly turns back to face James “Have you ever thought of dating a singer?”

And the crowd. Goes. Wild.

Chapter Text

Regulus was definitely feeling the after-show rush. This has had to be Regulus’ favourite concert he's performed while on tour.

The crowd matched his energy incredibly and it was probably the most interactive he's ever been with an audience. A lot of this was James doing.

After his initial shyness that came with being put in the spotlight when he was exposed to be ‘ The James Potter ‘, he started to get more comfortable talking to Regulus in between his songs. This turned out to be very very bad for Regulus since James turned out to be quite the charmer and turned the tables by making Regulus blush like a thirteen-year-old with his witty comments and quick tongue. (He had to start taking deep breaths to make sure nobody noticed this or else he'd never hear the end of it.)

The two even started pretending they were in a ‘blossoming romance.’ as Barty put it, Regulus started dedicating his most romantic songs to James by pointing at him in the crowd and James reacted by clutching his heart and dramatically swooning on Remus and Lily (Regulus and the rest of his fans present had come to learn their names and that they really were just friends. Regulus cannot explain why and would never admit that this piece of information gave him great satisfaction) which the crowd loved. They also learnt that all three were roommates and single. (Sirius also seemed happy with this information and Regulus just had to pray that it was not because of James.)

By the end of the show, Regulus was reluctant to leave and so were his fans, but he made sure to give them a warm goodbye. Who knew interacting with a crowd could be this much fun?
“Well my loves, it seems our time has come to an end.” The audience made collective noises of displeasure at this and Regulus rushed to soothe them. “I know, I know I'm sad at leaving you as well. But don't worry I'll be back.”

A fan in the mass took this opportunity to yell out, “FOR JAMES.” And everyone in the arena burst out laughing though the loudest laughs, of course, being Regulus’ band who had betrayed him throughout these 2 hours by embarrassing him in front of everyone by cooing every time he and James interacted.

Regulus, of course, refused to let this affect him and turn him red so he turned to where James was standing and winked at him before saying, “Yes well of course for him too.”

But now that it's been an hour after the concert, Regulus was slowly getting down from his rush and he could feel himself slowly crashing which is why he should’ve been excited to go to the tour bus to sleep but his band ruined that excitement to get on the bus by bullying him about his ‘new boyfriend’ and Regulus was close to snapping their necks.

“Barty, I swear to whatever god is out there, if you don't stop right now I will hit you.” he threatened him.

“But Reggie darling,” said Barty who had turned around and started walking backwards to talk face-to-face with Regulus “What would James say about that?”

Rolling his eyes, Regulus feigned a kicked at Barty's legs causing him to trip over himself and onto his arse.

Leaning over him, Regulus pushed his sunglasses down and looked at him over the bridge of his nose. “He wouldn't say anything, because I will never see him again.”

As Evan ran to help Barty up and save him some embarrassment and as Regulus straightened up he felt Dorcas’ arm rest on his shoulder. “Never say never, Reggie baby. You might just see your prince charming sooner than you think.” She said ominously and winking animatedly at him.

“What the hell does that even mean?” He reacted, barking out a laugh which they all ended up joining in.

It was that moment when Pandora joined them at the bus’ main entrance looking very excited about something, which isn't that uncommon seeing as she could get excited about a butterfly, she was jumping up and down..

“You good, Dora?” Evan was the first to ask as they sat down in the common area of the bus. The ‘Common area’ just consisted of two couches across from each other and a small table in the middle of them, situated at the back of the bus. Grinning back at him, she replied: “I’m incredible Rosie. And so is our streams since you’ve all recently gone viral!”

“What? How?” Dorcas said incredulously, pushing herself off Regulus. But Instead of answering her directly, Pandora turned to face Regulus with her award-winning smile. “Why don’t we thank our petite étoilé here and check our socials, hm?”

Confused, Regulus furrowed his eyebrows and simultaneously pulled out his phone with everyone else as they all opened different apps. Opening Twitter, Regulus checked his trending list and was surprised to see most of them were about his and James’ little stunt at the concert.

TRENDING ON TWITTER:

* JAMES POTTER?
* “SLYTHER-IN”
* #JEGULUS
* STREAM STARS ⭐️
* Slytherin Band
* Regulus Black is SO

And Regulus knew it was a bad idea to look through unrevised tweets about himself but he couldn't help himself when he pressed on the tags. I mean, he had to have been trending for a reason right? We just have to hope it's for a good one.

But just to be safe, he pressed the ‘Slytherin Band’ tag and started scrolling through them. They were all positive, which he was grateful for. Mostly talk about how their music is and a few even mention James.

Speaking of James, as Regulus scrolled down he came to his page. Opening his profile he saw his most recent tweet and laughed out loud to himself.

Prongs 🦌
@JamesPotter

💌 FOLLOW

I'm sunshine and waiting for my midnight rain
the ball is life ⚽️
📍London, England 📅 Joined 2017
32M Followers
 6.2k Following

Prongs 🦌
@JamesPotter:
“Do you mind if I Slyther-in?”
(img.jp)

He has had to be the dorkiest person Regulus has ever met and for some reason, he found that incredibly attractive.

Regulus decided he now has to reply to this so after thinking through all he knew about James. Didn't Sirius say he was the captain of some football team? Gryffindor! Wasn't it?

He ended up replying to James’ tweet by snapping a photo of himself on the couch and wrote under it, “Let me just say I griffin-adored seeing you today at my show, @JamesPotter. And i’d love to see you again sometime.”

Clicking on James’ profile he clicked the Follow Back button because really, what harm can that do?

Prongs 🦌 
@JamesPotter

💌 FOLLOWING


Chapter Text

James woke up earlier than usual in the morning to his phone blowing up, groaning as he turned over to grab his phone from his nightstand, he switched it on and notifications flooded his phone. His text messages were mainly from his friends or his football team’s group chat. But the notifications that really wouldn’t stop showing up on his phone were from Twitter.

He opened the app and checked his notifications. He usually had them turned off for accounts he didn’t follow or weren’t verified so when he clicked on it, he saw something a little shocking to him.

👤Regulus Black started following you.
FOLLOWING

Regulus Black. ✔️@regulusarcturus
📍 On Tour 📅 Joined 2021
40.3M Followers 7 Following

James should not have felt as excited to see that notification as he did. Underneath Regulus’ notification were 5 other recent follows.

Sirius Black🐾 ✔️ started following you.
Pandora Lestrange ✔️ started following you.
Dorcas M. ✔️ started following you.
Evan Rosier ✔️ started following you.
BCJ ✔️ started following you.

Initially, James thought it was creepy for a whole friend group to start following him at once but then he realised that these were the rest of the Slytherin band and then proceeded to smirk a little to himself because the only way they’d all follow him in the same hour as if they were talking about him, which therefore means Regulus was talking about him. And I mean, who doesn’t want that?

Still scrolling through his notifications, he saw that Regulus mentioned him in a tweet and so he did what any person in this situation would do. He clicked on Regulus’ profile and started to look through his tweets before he replied to his most recent. (“Stalk, more like.” Lily would say later when he told her what happened. But stalking is such a strong word.)

Regulus Black. @regulusarcturus
Let me just say I griffin-adored seeing you today at my show, @JamesPotter. And I’d love to see you again sometime ;)
|
>> Prongs 🦌 @JamesPotter
Wow, wouldn’t that be a dream? I don’t know I might just have to take you up on that offer

>> Regulus Black. @regulusarcturus
Would be the best day of my life.

>> Prongs🦌 @JamesPotter
Is that sarcasm? I feel like that's sarcasm

>> Sirius Black🐾 @siriusoblack
That is sarcasm.

>> RJL @RemusLupin
James, as someone fluent in sarcasm I can concur that that was it

>> Sirius Black🐾 @siriusoblack
Oh hey, Remus! I didn’t know you had Twitter <3

As Sirius’ notification came through on James’ phone, James heard a loud screeching noise and a crash from down the hall followed by a muffled, “I’m OK!”

Chuckling to himself, James looked back down at his phone to see that Remus had replied much smoother online than his in real-life reaction to Sirius.

>> RJL @RemusLupin
Hello, Sirius. How are you?

and then a quick;

>> RJL @RemusLupin
<3

His phone beeped as a new alert showed up on his phone.

📩 REGULUS BLACK SENT YOU A PRIVATE MESSAGE

Regulus: What a couple of dorks, am I right?

James: Absolutely. Sirius doesn’t know this but Remus definitely fell off his bed when he tweeted him.

Regulus: Ha! Losers
Regulus: Nice to (officially) meet you by the way. Did you guys enjoy the show?

James: We did, yeah! You guys are really good.
Pandora probably already told you but that was Remus and I’s first proper time listening to your music.

Regulus: She did tell us and honestly I was a little offended.

James: I never meant to bring any offence to your majesty, but you guys were always more Lily’s department.

Regulus: Ah. Lily. Your ex girlfriend, no?

James: Emphasis on the ex. We broke up a couple of years ago

Regulus: Am I allowed to ask why?

James: we just fell out of love

That was the simpler way to put it if James was being honest. He didn’t want to reminisce on the whys and hows. Not that it was a messy breakup, but James completely understood her reasoning. It just hurt a bit.

James phone suddenly lit up with his coach, Peter Pettigrews number displayed on the screen.

Shit! James thought. I forgot I have practice today!

Answering the phone James let a small, “Heyyy, Pete.” Slip through.

“Potter.” Came the annoyed reply. “You have five seconds to explain why you’re not on my field right now.”

Running around his room, James was throwing on his uniform without finesse. He placed his phone on his shoulder while he was pulling his trousers on and said back into the phone. “Okay now hear me out: I didn’t forget we have practice. My alarm just didn’t go off! I just woke up.”
Pathetic excuse, Potter, come on!

“Uh-huh.” Peter hummed into the phone amused, “Right. Tell that to your Twitter. Let’s hope you don’t also forget that if you’re not here in the next five minutes, you’re doing twenty laps.” He said and then proceeded to promptly hang up.

James got there in six minutes. He did twenty-five laps.

Chapter Text

“Dorcas, c’mon, he's not interested in me, no matter how many times you instead he is, I swear it!” Regulus said as he and Dorcas were packing away the band's gear after their last practice before the show later that night.The band usually pulls straws to see who would do it but this time after Regulus got unlucky, Dorcas offered to help which honestly was a little unusual for her.

Although 5 minutes in, Regulus found out why.

“So,” She started. “What's going on with you and James?”

Picking up Bartys thrown drumsticks, he walked over to his drumkit to dispose of them there. “I have no idea what you’re talking about, Dorky.” He said with feigned aloofness.

She slammed her guitar case shut and turned to face him. “Oh come off it, Reg. It's so obvious you have a crush on him.”

“What? No. No definitely not.” He turned his back to her and crossed his arms.

“Urgh you’re so annoying, I hate you. You know the sooner you admit it the sooner maybe you’ll get it on with him!” She said over her shoulder as she walked away, slamming her door behind her.Regulus slammed his foot on the floor and let out a noise of frustration. He did not like James Potter, okay? He was just some guy that was at his concert that he just happened to interact with! That could have been anyone!

He repeated these sentences to himself like a mantra as he paced up and down the length of the room.

Because really, how hard could it be to message James? Send a short quick little message to him to just let him know you’re thinking about him. But maybe that would seem desperate because they’d only really known of each other for a few days and he hasn’t heard from him since…

Regulus was two seconds from punching himself in the face when a loud DING! sounded from his phone, he looked down to see a notification from his Twitter before throwing his phone at the wall and squeaking like a mouse.

Tentatively, he walked over to his phone and gingerly picked it up and glanced at the screen with one eye open and the other squeezed shut to inspect the damage; but there it was. Bright on his screen and horrifying:

Prongs🦌 : Hey there!
Prongs🦌: How are you?

‘Oh, my god.’ Regulus thought. Because there is no way in heaven or hell that James Potter just messaged him at the exact time he was thinking about him.

“Witchcraft…” he whispered to himself as he ghosted his fingers over the keyboard, contemplating a reply. Saying a mental ‘Fuck it’ to himself, he replied.

Regulus: Oh stop this nonsense when have we ever been this formal

Prongs🦌: okay okay you’re right. So what’re you up to

Regulus: I’m packing up the equipment from today’s practice
Regulus: You?

Prongs🦌: Yeah not much really, I just came back from the gym though

(And Regulus did not immediately conjure up an image of what that might look like.)

Regulus: cool

Prongs🦌: yeah

‘Look what you've done now, you idiot.’ Regulus thought to himself. ‘You've stunted the conversation and now he doesn't want to talk to you anymore. You've killed the conversation as well as any hope that he'd talk to you again.’ And Regulus was about to switch off his phone and wallow in his self-pity when his phone buzzed unexpectedly and James’ user filled the screen once more.

Prongs🦌: Hey I know this is kind of out of the blue but could I get your number?
Prongs🦌: I just feel it would be easier to not talk on Twitter every day, you know?

Grinning to himself, Regulus slid his fingers across the keyboard and typed a reply.

Sirius was worried about Regulus. Which is not an uncommon experience, he must admit. Though this time is different because instead of him being worried that Regulus is bitter he's confused now because he's not. Like, at all.

For example, the mornings are when Regulus is almost unbearable. He yells and pouts and nobody can cure his misery but Sirius creates a special addictive elixir (also known as coffee) to put a stop to his ‘morning madness’, as Barty coins it.

So when he wakes up, Sirius is already waiting by the small kitchenette in their bus quietly with a coffee which is then cautiously slid to Regulus that he sips gradually until his morning anger slips away.

But this morning was different. Scary different. When he woke up and went to the small mobile kitchen in their bus he was stopped in his tracks because there sat Regulus, an hour earlier than usual. Sipping his coffee and... smiling at his phone.

He looks up and his smile widened while Sirius’ horror deepened.
“Good morning, Sirius.” The clear imposter said.

“Good morning,” Sirius slowly and cautiously replied, taking a seat across from him. “What's...uh going on?”

“Oh, you know nothing much.” He barely replied, still mysteriously typing away on his phone.

“Huh. Okay.”

It was another hour of Sirius sitting and staring at his brother before the rest of the band joined them, each equally as confused.

They all joined Sirius in the small space across from Regulus to watch him. This went on for another hour before he finally looked up and returned their confused stares.

“What are you guys doing? Why are you looking at me like that?” He asked with his eyebrows furrowed.

“Who are you, uh, texting there Reg?” Barty asked, leaning forward.

But Regulus immediately grabbed his phone and pushed it towards his chest. Frowning he said forcefully, “None of your business.”

Dorcas grinned and slid into the seat next to Regulus. “None of our business, hey? No, you see I think this is exactly our business because, my dear friends, our Regulus is talking to none other than THE James Potter.”

Grins were shared all around, sans for Regulus who was still angrily pouting at them all. “You guys are horrible and who even cares if it is him? We’re just friends.”

Tutting and walking towards Regulus, Evan said “Don’t lie, Reggie. It's okay we know you do.”

“I don’t!” Regulus said forcefully

In a swift move, Evan plucked his phone out of his hands and threw it to Sirius who had moved to a corner with Pandora.

Regulus was on his feet in seconds and went to move to Sirius before he was violently tackled by Dorcas to the couch.

The two started wrestling on the floor of the bus, Regulus blissfully unaware of Sirius sending himself James’ number and deleting the evidence.

Returning to the chats, Sirius skimmed the messages and barked out a laugh.

Pausing his tumbles with Dorcas, Regulus turned his head to Sirius and scowled. He used all of his limbs to finally push Dorcas off and walked angrily to Sirius and snatched his phone away, but Sirius just grinned down at him.

“Dolphins?” He asked teasingly, “You’re not flirting, you’re talking about dolphins.”

The kitchenette was filled with loud laughs by the group and an embarrassed blush bloomed on Regulus’ cheeks.

“He said it's his mom's spirit animal…” he mumbled.

Taking pity on his brother, Sirius decided to end his misery for that day. His grin shrunk into a slight smile and he threw his arm around his brother. “It's okay, kid. If your way of seducing him is talking about his mother, then by all means go for it. Who am I to judge?”

“And if yours is tweeting someone who never replies then who are we to judge,” Regulus said, turning his head to face his brother in the eye.

Sirius let out a shocked breath of air and slapped his palm to his heart. “How could you? You try to do something nice!” He threw his arms in the air and walked away.

Chapter Text

Unknown: Hello James, son of Fleamont.

James: Um, hi?
James: Sorry, who is this

Unknown: That information is reserved for people on a need-to-know basis. And you, do not need to know.

James: Uhm… im sorry but I think I’m going to block you now because my manager and mom think i shouldnt talk to strangers so…

Unknown: WAIT WAIT
Unknown: ITS ME SIRIUS BLACK
Unknown: REGULUS’ BROTHER, REMEMBER

James: Oh! Well why did you just say so😄

Sirius: i wanted to use the element of surprise☹️

James: no dont be sad its okay! we can start again!
James: ahem
James: sorry who is this? 🤔🤔

Sirius: none of your business

James: no please tell me oh great mystery man
James: or woman!
James: or other…?

Sirius: …its Sirius, James

James: okay hi sirius😝

Sirius: LMAO okay anyways
Sirius: the reason ive summoned you is to 🤺threaten🤺 you about my itty bitty brother
Sirius: Now, what are your intentions with him?

James: Um
James: I don’t know, Reg’s really cool
James: I would never do anything to hurt him don’t worry

Sirius: love that, will be getting back to it buT
Sirius: HE LETS YOU CALL HIM REG?
Sirius: Okay no i thought i could do this alone but this information is too much for me to handle alone. I’m calling for reinforcements

*SIRIUS CREATED A GROUPCHAT
*SIRIUS NAMED GROUPCHAT “NO. FUCKING. WAY.”

Sirius: guys you’ll never believe what i just found out

Barty: did you grill him yet
Barty: is he horrible for regulus
Barty: do i need to get the shovel

James: UM PLEASE DONT

Barty: hes here with us?!

Sirius: OF COURSE i need proof

Pandora: Proof of what, Sirius? — Pandora

Dorcas: Babe, we’ve told you, you don’t need to sign who you are, we already know xx

Sirius: Can we PLEASE get back to the topic at hand??:&1&8:

Pandora: Of course, Pads.

James: Pads?

Sirius: We do not need to get into that nickname right now
Sirius: But on the topic of nicknames and before we stray again
Sirius: Regulus allows James to call him REG. R E G.

Evan: what did i misOHMYGOD NO FUCKING WAYFJJA

Dorcas: WHAT

Pandora: OH MY GOODNESS

Barty: WHAT THE SHITBALL FUCKITY FUCK
Barty: I DONT BELIEVE THIS
Barty: I NEED MORE PROOF

*BARTY ADDED REGULUS*

Regulus: what is this you scoundrels

Evan: SCOUNDRELS💀

Barty: AINT NO WAY BRO💀

Regulus: shut up right now.

Barty: yes daddy

Regulus: blocked.

James: Hi Reg

Regulus: Hello, James
Regulus: JAMES?
Regulus: why the everloving fuck are you here

James: ouch, Reggie. Ouch.

Regulus: sirius. what. did. you. do.

Sirius: Why do you always blame me
Sirius: It might not even’ve been my fault

Regulus: James who put you here

James: Sirius

Sirius: traitor.
Sirius: ok so it might’ve been a little bit my fault

Pandora: He tried to give james the shovel talk💕

Sirius: DORA
Sirius: shovel talk is not the way i would put it

Regulus: Then how would you so eloquently put it, brother?

Sirius: a fun and exciting brotherly way of calmly expressing all the things we would do to him if he hurt you?😊

Regulus: SIRIUS

Barty: WE who is WE?? Youre on your own, kid

Sirius: BARTY

James: WE DIDNT EVEN GET TO THE TALK PART BUT NOW THAT WE HAVE I FEEL SEVERELY IN DANGER AND ALONE AND I CANT HAVE THAT

James: Now I need reinforcements!!

Sirius: wait wait stop
Sirius: you’re not going to add anyone are you
Sirius: James i dont think you understand
Sirius: please dont do this
Sirius: I CSNT HANDLE THSIDW

*James added 3 numbers to the chat*

Remus: …hello?
Remus: james, darling, what is this?

🎸 SLYTHERIN 🎸

Sirius: DARLING!?!!?!!??? ☹️☹️

Regulus: shut the fuck up

Lily: James?

James: youre my backup moony
James: everyone, if you’ll please introduce yourselves on the chat

Pandora: Hello all, its Pandora! We met a bit ago, I’m Slytherins manager?

Lily: Oh, hi Pandora! Its Lily!

Pandora: It’s so nice to hear from you again, Lily!

Remus: can you two please take your gay elsewhere

Sirius: Hi Remus, Its Sirius!!

Evan: (speaking of gays…)

Sirius: shut the fuck up

Remus: hello

Lily: and what am i, roadkill?

Sirius: O Lily, my sweet flower, how could i ever forget thee? The sky will become overcast with flames and hell will raise into the arctic before your darling presence will leave my mind

Sirius: better?

Lily: much.

Evan: Yeah and I’m Evan

Barty: Barty, at your acquaintance *bows*

Dorcas: You did not just asterix your actions
Dorcas: you did not

Barty: so what if i did dorky
Barty: i want the people to know how expressive i am

Dorcas: You’re an actual idiot, Crouch

Barty: And this lovely lady is Dorcas by the way

Remus: Noted. Thank you

Sirius: HEY OK SO whats everyones fav song rn mines miskis why not me

Regulus: LMFAOOOO

🎸SLYTHERIN🎸

Barty: YOU DID NOT

Regulus: IM PISSING MYSELF

Dorcas: LMAO SIRIUS

Evan: Literally WHAT was that😭

Pandora: I am out of breath from laughing so hard

Sirius: ok SHUT UP all of you
Sirius: I HATE YOURBWHDJW

Regulus: What would you do if i just tell them

Sirius: NO NO STOP RIJGBT NOW

Evan: Ooh we just might, won’t we Reggie?

Regulus: Don’t call me that

Evan: But James does!

Regulus: James is
Regulus: i dont care, stop.

Sirius: Hmm okay. Fishy.

Regulus: Now don’t you start, remember the power I have right now over you

Sirius: my fault

Lily: I’m confused is there something we’re missing

Remus: ?

Evan: No 😙

Lily: Okay…
Lily: Anyways my favourite song is Lover by Taylor Swift🫶🏼

Dorcas: Oh we’re actually doing this? K mines Flowers by Miley

Sirius: QUEEN. BOHEMIAN RHAPSODY
Sirius: Sorry new guys, but if you dont worship our lord and saviour Freddy Mercury, we can’t be friends😕😕😕

Remus: Personally, I listen to more David Bowie. But Queens cool

Sirius: Acceptable.

Pandora: Mines Fade into you by Mazzy Star

Lily: I love Mazzy Star!

Pandora: REALLY? I’ve never met anyone else who listens to her!
Pandora: What’s your favourite song?

The Room💪🏼🛋️

James: You have never listened to a single Mazzy Star song in your life

Lily: well i have now

James: You dont know any of her songs

Lily: but babe, thats what googles for🥺

Remus: Pathetic

Lily: Oh really Mr-Queens-Cool
Lily: You definitely like him

Remus: Who, Queen?
Remus: Yes i believe ive stated that already

Lily: You know exactly who I’m talking about

Remus: literally what gave you the idea that I like Sirius

James: you’re so cold to him
James: you’re only a bitch to people you really want to impress

Remus: …
Remus: I hate that you guys know that

Lily: i cant believe im saying this but can we please tease Rem later? Im in a crisis! HELP

James: fine fine
James: but @Remus dont think youre getting out of this so easily

Lily: Into dust!

Pandora: Oh my gosh YES
Pandora: STTIMS is her best albums

Lily: literally so real

James: ANYWAYS
James: hey reggie?

Regulus: Yes, Potter?

James: Our groups are now like interlinked
James: How cute is that

Regulus: Precious. Though they aren’t fully linked. I noticed you added *three* numbers yet only two are talking? Who is the third?

Dorcas: Jealous, are we?

Regulus: But mere curiosity

James: Oh thats Peter! He’s my footie coach but nonetheless still one of my most cherished friends!

Peter: Wow. Thanks Potty

Barty: POTTY

James: Pete! How long have you been lurking here you weirdo

Peter: Long enough to learn of the vibrant and obvious crushes you all are harbouring

Remus: What crushes

Lily: excuse me what

Regulus: Absolute nonsense Peter, you dont know what you’re talking about

James: HAHAHA ur SO funny peter😁😁

Dorcas: Not me tho yall stay safe💪🏾
Dorcas: #asexual #suckmydick

Peter: SO REAL OF YOU QUEEN

Dorcas: OMG ARE YOU ACE TOO

Peter: i still get bitches dont be mistaken but love is where i be drawin the line😟

Dorcas: real
Dorcas: love is a lie and god is a fraud.

Peter: my new motto

Barty: fuck where have you been all my life Peter, that could’ve been my high school quote

Peter: Sorry
Peter: blame James

Barty: My favourite past time !

James: how can it be your favourite pastime? this is the longest we’ve ever spoken

Barty: i never said i so it to your face

James: …

Regulus: Can we please just move on? You people are so weird

Evan: “You people” WOWWW REG I THOUGHT WE WERE PAST THIS.
Evan: RACISM.

Barty: and in black history month too!

Evan: the month of the POC!! 😕😕

Dorcas: OH the MISERY everybody wants to be my enemy 😔😔

Regulus: Stop.

Pandora: So what is it then, homophobia?
Pandora: GOSH I KNEW IT.

Barty: HOW COULD YOU💔💔 AFTER ALL THOSE LONELY NIGHTS WE SPENT TOGETHER?? WAS IT ALL JUST A LIE😨😨

Sirius: My own BROTHER
Sirius: I am so. disappointed.

Regulus: You know thats not what i meant.

Barty: Oh isn’t it?

Evan: what? scared we’re going to embarrass you

Evan: In front of your botyegqj61?,@1901/!

Lily: What the fuck

Remus: Is he alright?

Dorcas: For the audience in the groupchat: Regulus just fucking tackled Ev

Chapter Text

The last thing Regulus wanted to do on a Thursday morning was an interview with the popular English radio show, Capital FM. But, as the frontman of Slytherin, he unfortunately was forced to be there.

So there he sat in the dimly lit room —which had a tang in the air that made him feel slightly itchy— with an ancient microphone sat in front of him, ready for use. (Though to be honest Regulus had been mentally checked out for the entire time the inexperienced girl who sat in front of him spoke about how excited she was to have them on her show). He glanced up at her and noticed she was at the end of her lengthy introduction.

The girl seemed nice enough, he reasoned. A bit too eager for his taste, but nice enough. Young too. His age. He noted as she tried to pat down her blonde hair which was slightly frizzy from her constant fidgeting with it. This was a very bad habit of hers if she wanted to continue a career working with powerful people. Showing any sign of restlessness or anxiety is a weakness for you and an opportunity for those waiting to tear you down.

“Okay, so Regulus, can I call you Reg?” She started, excitement evident through the wide grin on her face as she eagerly took in each of the members of the band's faces.

“No.” He said plainly. The girl hesitated in her smile and Pandora gave him a look from behind the camera. He forced a fake laugh which his friends followed in with their own scattered laughter.

“I’m only joking, love. Of course, you can.” He said with an easy smile which instantly calmed her nerves and her too-bright smile returned.

“Alrighty then, Reg. I'm Rita and my first question is for all of you. There has been a lot of tension between Slytherin and the band Death Eaters after you apparently ‘stole’ their bassist, our own Evan Rosier. Is there anything you’d like to say to them in response?”

Evan rolled his eyes and leans forward, “Yeah,” he starts. “Nobody stole me. I left because I realised I couldn’t be a part of a band as embarrassing as theirs.”

The girl hums, looking interested as she mimics Evan and leans forward. “Their lead vocalist, Voldemort AKA Tom Riddle, commented in an interview of his own earlier this year that you two had a bit of a rivalry; he even mentioned that he couldn’t wait for this years Grammys as he knows he’ll, verbatim: ‘best you all yet again’.”

“Please, ‘yet again’ ?” Regulus scoffed, “Tom created that rivalry in his head. And you know, people are going to believe what they want to believe but at this point its just become a bit disrespectful to us for him to assume he’s anything better than we are.”

She laughed as if he let her in on an inside joke and leant back as she contiued to carry on with the interview. “Theres that signature Black confidence we know and love, it is surely a wonder you are still single.”

“A wonder indeed…” Evan loudly said out of the corner of his mouth which caused Dorcas, who was sitting next to him, to choke on her silent laughter.

Rita raised an eyebrow so high it nearly hit her hairline. She looked more interested in that one comment than she had been the entire time. (Which until then seemed almost impossible) “Now now, what ever do you mean?”

“Nothing.” Regulus said quickly. Too quickly. And unfortunately, she picked up on it.

A sly smile slid onto her makeup-caked face. “Does this have anything to do with a certain James Potter we’ve seen you’ve recently been aquainted with?”

And it was as if his bandmates hated him by the way they immediately burst into a fit of giggles and roaring laughter. He glared at them and at least Pandora had the decency to put her hand over her mouth in an attempt to hide her laughter.

“No.” He insisted, his glare sharp and focused on his so-called ‘friends’. “It is not. James is nothing more than a friend.”

“Try telling James that!” Dorcas said behind him. She adjusted in her seat, leaning towards the camera to make sure she is heard.

“Shut up, Meadowes. You’re no longer my favourite.” Regulus said angerly, crossing his arms and turning his back to her.

This did not get the reaction he hoped and instead caused the group to laugh louder. Barty gasped dramatically and held his hand to his heart. “How dare you! And here I thought we had something.”

‘I just cannot win.’ Regulus thought  to himself as he threw his head into his hands exasperatedly.

“Oh.” Dorcas said in faux sympathy, leaning foward to smack his arm lightly. “Don’t pout, dearest Reginald. I’m sure he feels the same!”

And there was three things wrong with what came out of her mouth.
One: Regulus Black does not pout. At most it was nothing more than an expressive frown.
Two: his name was Regulus not Reginald. Though, no matter how hard he tried to tell her so, she insisted on calling him everything but his actual name.
And three: there was no way in heaven and hell that James Potter would ever feel anything even slightly romantically inclined towards someone like him.

NO. FUCKING. WAY

Sirius: so.
Sirius: that interview was… interesting

Regulus: Shut up, Sirius

Sirius: i didnt even do anything!!!!

Regulus: I can *hear* you laughing from here

James: Oh come on, Reggie. It wasn’t that bad

Regulus: You weren’t even there.

James: Yeah but it was funny nonetheless!
James: besides, its not even that big of a deal. everyone knows we’re friends

James: Right?

Regulus: Yeah sure. We’re friends.

Dorcas: Right, sure. Now while we all ignore that embarrassing moment… can we talk about the real issue???

Evan: which is…?

Dorcas: That Reg has hoes he doesn’t even want and *I* am here, single and ready to mingle, with NO hoes😔

Sirius: SO REAL QUEEN😩

Lily: lol
Lily: that could be fixheiwidtwjkdkof

Sirius: what?

Lily: nothing. wrong gc.

Sirius: oh okay.

PRIVATE CHAT

Remus: WHY.

Lily: I thought it didnt matter what I said to him? Because you “dont like him”

Remus: I don’t.
Remus: but that doesn’t mean I want you going around saying i want to date him
Remus: yk how EMBARRASSING that is???

Lily: Okay okay. Im sorry

Lily: but that doesnt give you the right to TACKLE ME??!!! DO I LOOK LIKE EVAN TO YOU

Remus: Its fine. Don’t worry about it.

NO. FUCKING. WAY

Sirius: anyways i had a question to ask yall

Remus: “yall”? What are you, an american cowboy?

James: YEEHAW😍

Barty: im not gon’ answa any questions asked by them godforsaken queers👿🇺🇸

Remus: no.
Remus: but while we’re on the topic, can we talk about why they abbreviate everything?

Sirius: I haven’t asked my question yet!!
Sirius: but wait why r u right tho

Peter: y’all’d’ve

Remus: what.

Peter: it’dn’t’ve

James: is he speaking russian

Sirius: no! Its southern😁

Evan: @Barty your time to shine, baby

Barty: (you all wouldve) known what this is if you lived in the south
Barty: though, i guess you did come from england and (it didnt have) what we do down south🤠

Sirius: teach me your ways

Regulus: Do not.

James: reggie!

Regulus: James.

Barty: ‘reggie’, huh?

Regulus: die.

Sirius: MY QUESTION. PLEASE.

Remus: Go ahead, idk why you’re taking so long to ask

Sirius: I hate you

Dorcas: (he doesnt)

Sirius: OKAY whats everyone’s favourite colour?

Remus: this was the “big question”?

Lily: Black. Its the colour of my soul.

James: so like, hot pink then?

Lily: Yes.

James: sick. Mine’s red

Regulus: I like red

🎸 THE SLYTHERINS  🎸 

Regulus: do u think i was too obvious

Dorcas: WITH WHAT?? LMAOOO

Sirius: SAME OMG

James: omg we’re soooo destined to be bffs😊🩷

Sirius: we’re alr locked in babe😙😙

Peter: Mines orange!!!!!

Barty: literally get the fuck out of this chat what is wrong with you

Evan: be nice, Crouch

Barty: Ev, its ORANGE
Barty: that is literally the worst. Colour. Ever.

Peter: its so pretty tho! Like the sunset!

Dorcas: ok peeta

Peter: its spelt Peter?

Barty: or like the prison jumpsuit you’ll be wearing when i tell the cOPSnduqozk!&$381

Pandora: did he just glitch??

Dorcas: how long have you been here???

Pandora: A while🌸
Pandora: I was lurking

Dorcas: valid

Evan: Bartys phone privileges have been taken away

Peter: karma lmao
Peter: anyways guys did you know that orange is the only fruit named after a colour?!

Sirius: ur an idiot.
Sirius: helloo? Starfruit??

Pandora: so close!! Thats a shape🩷

Sirius: I’ll get it next time fo sure

Lily: dw it was a hard question

Barty: IM BACK dont tell evan

Remus: hes on this chat???
Remus: you guys are idiots

Lily: yeah but we’re your idiots🥺

Sirius: yeah 🥺🥺🥺

Remus: fuck off

James: damn i would die for a good bite to eat rn iwl

Sirius: oooohhh theres this really yummy cafe in town called Fortescues and its run by my friend from school, Alice
Sirius: anygays they have the BESTTTT ice cream and soups ever

Lily: weird combo but ok

Regulus: ok now usually i would disagree with everything sirius says
Regulus: but unfortunately Alice is a very good chef

James: Oh my god we should like totally meet up for lunch rn!!!

Sirius: YES YES YES

Regulus: No.

James: OH PLEASEEEE
James: @Remus CAN WE CAN WE CAN WE

Barty: what is he, your keeper?

James: yea

Lily: yes

Remus: Yes.
Remus: And only if Regulus goes too

Regulus: What no why me

Remus: I can barely handle my own golden retriever boy. There is no way i can handle two. Take some responsibility, man

Regulus: whatever

Sirius: YAY SO WE’RE GOING
Sirius: okok who else is coming???

Lily: Me!

Sirius: was that a taylor swift reference

Lily: always.

*PANDORA CREATED A GROUPCHAT*
*PANDORA ADDED DORCAS, LILY, PETER, EVAN AND BARTY*
*PANDORA NAMED GROUPCHAT “Operation: Meddle About”*

Dorcas: babe what is this

Lily: ooo chase atlantic. Very classy.

Pandora: Thank you😊
Pandora: Now, for the reason you’ve all been summoned here…

Peter: yeah i like rlly wanna know why im here

Pandora: well if you give me a second to explain you would know

Evan: wow ok rude continue

Pandora: Thank you. Ok so; I’m sure we’ve all noticed the tension~ between the black bros and remus and james???

Lily: OH MY GOD YES
Lily: i cannot even handle being in our apartment anymore
Lily: alllll i hear is “regulus this” “sirius that”
Lily: im sick of it, guys

Dorcas: ok now take that. and add the dramatics of the Blacks to it.

Barty: We’ve been suffering 😟

Evan: So I’m guessing Dora, you have a solution?

Pandora: I do!!!
Pandora: ok so they want to go out rigjt?
Pandora: we just make ourselves ‘unavailable’ and let the close proximity trope do its magic

Lily: ur evil
Lily: i love it

NO. FUCKING. WAY

Lily: yk guys i actually just realised I cant go anymore

James: what no lils why not

Lily: im busy

Remus: with what? you dont have a life

Lily: literally fuck off i do
Lily: i forgot im hanging out w a friend

Remus: again, what friends? Me and James are your only ones

Pandora: with me!

James: is that so😏

The Room💪🏼🛋️

James: OOOOOOOOOO

Remus: LALA!
Remus: WHEN were you going to fill us in on this????!!!!!

Lily: i hate u both and it j slipped my mind shut up go away

NO. FUCKING WAY

Lily: yes. we are.
Lily: enjoy fortescues

Remus: we will

James: enjoy… whatever you’re doing

Lily: we will

Chapter Text

Although Alice Foretescue was a few years ahead of Sirius when they met at their primary school, Salazar Prep, she had always been one of the friendliest and smartest people he had ever known.

So a couple years ago when she told him she was opening a cafe with her dad, he was estatic for her. The cafe itself is located smack-dab in the middle of Hogsmeade, a shopping village in central London. And the exact location Sirius intended of dragging Remus Lupin down to that afternoon. But first…

“REGULUS FUCKING BLACK.” Sirius yelled as he slammed open the door to his brothers hotel room, causing him to literally jump in his place on his bed and clutch his phone to his chest in shock.

“What the fuck do you want, Sirius? Don’t you know how to knock?!” The younger exclaimed the moment he regained his posture.

Shrugging, Sirius replied “I do. I just dont care enough to.” He strolled over and flopped on Regulus’ bed. Regulus groaned but obligingly scootched over to make room for him.

“So.”
“So..?”
“So what did you want, Brother O’ Mine?” Regulus said rolling his eyes at his brothers stupidity as he got up off the bed.

“Oh yeah. Do you have my top?”
“Which one?” Regulus said making his way over to his suitcase and flicking through the considerable amount of clothes.

Which I mean, c’mon. Sirius thought. How many tops of his does has he stolen?

“Y’know... the one with the yellow?” Sirius said picking at a loose thread on the duvet as nonchalantly as such an energetic person could.

Unfortunately his faux nonchalance was in vain as this got quite the reaction out of his brother; who froze his movements, and slowly turned around to face him, a smile growing on his face.

“Your… yellow top?” Regulus echoed, stepping foward slowly as if to not frighten off a scared dog.

“Yes my yellow top, and what of it?” He replied defensively.

Putting his hands up in surrender, Regulus backed away. “Nothing! Nothing… its just. You hate wearing yellow and have not worn that top in years. Why the sudden urge to wear it again?”

Sirius returned to his absentminded pulling of the loose threads. “No reason.” He said lifting his eyes to meet the stare of a person who definitely did not believe him.

After a whole two minutes of silence as Regulus watched him clearly judgmental.

“Okay, fine!” Sirius said exasperatedly and defeated, giving in to te pressure. “After the group was created and started texting, Remus and I got to talking privately too. And I just happened to learn that his favourite colour was yellow which was such a coincidence because I love yellow—”

“—But you hate yellow.” Regulus pointed out.

“AND I was already planning on wearing that top today.” He finished, slightly out of breath.

Regulus leaned against the door of the wardrobe. “You done with your soliloquy, Romeo? Good. Listen you obviously like this guy and I’m no one to judge. Fortunately for me though I am not so love-struck as to reach the rock bottom that is wearing his favourite colour. But you do you.”

“Fuck off I want my top back Reggie.”

“Okay but are you sure my hair is okay Moony? Like pinky promise sure?” James said worridly as the pair walked down the street towards what they hoped was the direction of Fortescue’s, the café the Black brothers suggested they meet at.

Remus stopped walking and spun James around to face him as he plucked the comb out of his friend’s hands that were furiously attempting (and failing) to calm his wild hair.

He started combing James’ hair down for him (although he knew it was hopeless) and spoke in a soothing tone, much like one you would use to calm a tempered child.

“James?” Remus said slowly and calmly.
“Mmm?” He hummed back, completely soothed at his best friend’s touch.

“You’re gonna be okay. He doesn’t care what your hair looks like and neither should you! Don’t change yourself for someone else, trust me its not worth it.” Remus said as he finished doing as much as he could for the rats nest he was battling.

James smiled up at him as he tucked the comb away in the front pocket of his denim jacket and grabbed Remus’ hand as they started walking again, swinging their interlocked fingers between them. Blissfully ignoring the looks they got from passers-by who assumed they were a homosexual couple. They were absolutely homosexual but definitely not a couple. “You’re right, Rem. We’re gonna do great! This is barely even a date, right?”

They walked a few paces before James turned to him worriedly once more and said, “Right?”

The bell atop the door rang as two figures entered the shop, looking closer Regulus realised that he recognised those figures. Oh boy. Yes he knew them very well. One slightly better than the other…

“James!” Sirius exclaimed, having seeing him first. And then, softer. “Hi Remus.”

A smirk appeared on Remus’ face. “Hello Sirius. Good day so far?” He said, moving to sit down. Sirius scrambled to move up in the booth for him, pushing Regulus onto James in the process, who seemed to have quietly gotten in while Sirius loudly made a fool of himself. Man, did Regulus hate gay people.

“Hey there, Reggie.” James said, smiling down at his lap which happened to unfortunately be where Regulus had fallen. “Falling for me already?”

Now Regulus was the one scrambling to move. However, unlike Sirius, he went to put as much distance as possible between him and James. Unfortunately this deemed to be near impossible what between James’ atheltic figure and Sirius lounging on the booth’s couch as if he wanted Remus to paint him like one of his french girls; but a guy could try.

“Hi, everyone. Welcome to Fortescues! I'll be your waitress, Alice. Is there anything I can do for you?”

Thank God for small miracles.

“Alice!” Regulus exclaimed, smiling at her.

Alice’s eyes brightened with recognition as she looked at him, her face immediately broke out into a smile matching Regulus’. “Oh my god. Baby Black! It's been so long, I've missed you.” He saw James raise his eyebrow and mouth ‘Baby Black?’ to Remus from across the table but he decided to ignore it. Alice's eyes shifted over a bit and caught sight of Sirius sitting next to him and she let out a little shout of excitement.

Grinning, Sirius got out the booth as fast as he could, climbing his way over a confused Remus. Regulus followed in suite to meet Alice who looked ready to jump over the table to hug them.

The trio spent the next five minutes doing a quick catch up and swearing to make proper plans to see each other soon before Alice remembered she was supposed to be their waitress and forced them to go back to their seats so she could take their orders.

“I am so sorry,” Alice addressed the other two boys at the table who were becoming increasingly uncomfortable and confused with being left out of the social loop. “That was so unprofessional of me. I'm Alice, I went to school with them.”

James smiled at her and said, “No its okay, I completely understand Alice. I'm James and this is Remus.” He gestured toward the boy opposite him who was trying to pretend he didn't care (he obviously did).

Alice’s eyes lit up. “Oh! Are you their boyfriends?”

The table of four instantly started talking over each other and spewing denials and every other equivalent of ‘no’s’ to that question.

“Okay.” Alice said slowly, eyes darting between them. “So friends then. Well any friend of theirs, is a friend of mine. What can I get for you today?”

Lunch went surprisingly well after that, albeit for a few flirtatious comments from James, and Sirius tripping over himself to act as cool as possible in front of Remus.

They spoke idle chit-chat of simple things like their food, and friends and the latest television shows they’ve watched, (“What do you mean you haven't watched Miraculous Ladybug tales of Ladybug and Chat Noir?” “Why are you saying its full government name!?”) and argued about the shows the watched, ( “I didn't say I didn't watch it— I said I’d rather die than watch it.” “YOU MOTHER FU—”)

All in all it ended up being a very pleasant lunch date (that was definitely not a date) and when they’d finished, James offered to pay the bill and Regulus naturally took this as an insult for god knows why and fought him on it for a good ten minutes before he gave in.

But as James reached for the bill, Regulus snatched it out his hand and quickly signed it and threw the money on the table, leaving James looking bewilded and with another expression on his face Regulus couldn’t decipher. So he did the next best thing and, like a child, stuck his tongue out in victory. Which James unfortunately just laughed at, his eyes crinkling as the melodic sound filled the air. Regulus decided he hated him.

“Hey, why don’t we talk a walk down to the park? It’s just around the corner here. Unless of course, you two need to leave. Which then we totally understand! Its no biggy.” Sirius said stumbling over his words like an infant as they existed the shop with one last wave to Alice and a promise they’ll be back.

And who was this we Sirius kept referring to? Regulus wouldve been totally okay going home right now and leaving James and his stupid pretty face behind. Wait no. Pretty stupid face. Yeah that's totally what he meant.

Remus turned his head to look Sirius in the face and brushed the fringe of his forehead away as a small smile slowly grew on his face. “We can spare a few more hours.” He said. Sirius grinned. Regulus died a little inside.

As they reached the park, the group concluded that they would have to sit on the ground since none of them expected to be here and hence noone brought a blanket.

James, ever the hero, took off his jacket and laid it on the group. He then stepped a way and opened his hands jazz-hand style to present it to Regulus proudly.

Regulus decided he would not take this as a romantic gesture and instead interpret it as a challange to see if he would actually sit. And Regulus does not like to lose a challenge so he plonked himself defiantly on the jacket and crossed his arms.

“Guys guys guys guys.” Sirius said as he sat down on the bare grass criss-cross apple sauce style.

“What what what what.” Regulus replied mockingly.

Ignoring him, Sirius continued, “We should make a tiktok.” He got the immediate and expected replies of a joyous and loud “YES” from James and a “Hell fucking no” from Regulus and Remus who've silently come to an agreement throughout the day to not entertain Sirius’ idiotic ideas ever.

“Oh come on .” Sirius pouted. “You never do anything fun, Reggie.”

“Sure, I do! I'm in a band!” Regulus responded, too afronted to even respond to the nickname. He was fun, he did fun things.

“Oh yeah? Like what?” Sirius said with a raised eyebrow.

“Like... Uh. Wait. I read. That's fun.” That has to have been the weakest answer he had ever given, and Sirius seemed to think so too.

“Boringgg. I'm actually yawning right now.” And true to his word, Sirius followed this statement with a faux yawn.

“I read.” Remus commented, eyebrows furrowed and offended. Regulus had to hold back a laugh at Sirius’ deer-caught-in-headlights expression as he tried to redeem himself.

“No! Reading is so cool its just like, Reg reads boring books like Anna Karenina or The Catcher in The Rye and,”

“I've read Anna Karenina.”

Poor thing. Regulus mused. He was going nowhere but down and Regulus was thoroughly enjoying it.

Turning to his right to see if James was also enjoying this (not that he cared or whatever) he was disappointed to find he was instead sporting a frown on his face and that just won't do.

He groaned internally. He was going to have to save his stupid brother now wasn't he? “Nah, Remus. He’s right. We are boring. Literate, unlike him. But boring.”

Remus’ jaw dropped in faux offense, “Me? Boring? Do not group me with you, Black. I am anything but.” He crossed his arms with a hmph of finality.

“You literally fold your socks, Remus.” James interjected, and Regulus absolutely did not note or care that his frown had disappeared and was replaced with a growing smirk.

“I am excitement in itself!” Remus insisted. “I am scary!”

“Scary?” Sirius mused softly. Remus turned his head so quickly to face him it nearly snapped off.

“My god, you're divine.” He all but purred, as he swung his legs around, allowing him to lay with his tummy on the ground, his palm on his cheek as if he was evaluating all of Remus.

Remus’ mouth parted and Regulus almost got up and left them alone there and then, if it weren't for James to make a squeaking noise and slap his hand over his mouth in a sad attempt to muffle it. It snapped Remus out of whatever trance Sirius put him in and hurriedly looked away.

Sirius got up and moved closer to him, and thats when Remus said the worst possible thing ever:
“You uh… want to play Candy Crush with me?” Remus said, scratching his neck awkwardly as he pulled out his phone. And honestly what the fuck. But Sirius just smiled and nodded, resting his chin on Remus’ shoulder as he took his phone from him to open the app.

Remus ended up letting Sirius do a TikTok with him.

The Room💪🏼🛋️

Lily: : SOOO how’d it go😏

Remus: HORRID

James: Amazing

Lily: (me an empath) i think i am getting very mixed signals from this date

Remus: it was NOT a date

Lily: whatever you say big guy

Lily: lets start with jamsie, shall we? how was your day darling

James: lily lily it was GREAT
James: well, a bit awkward at first when we met up and then met alice and lunch was ok ig but he kept fighting me
James: and i know technically thats supposed to make me not want to date him but OH THE CHEMISTRY BETWEEN US

Remus: can confirm it was electrifying
Remus: and oh my god oh my god
Remus: I have to tell you the funniest and worst thing ever

James: LMAO HELP lily i died

Lily: WHATWHATWHAT

Remus: ok so I think Sirius was flirting w me?? and like tryna get w me?? Idkidk

Lily: oh i wasnt even there and ik he was

Remus: WHATEVER SO THEN
Remus: i got like scared
Remus: so i just whipped out my phone and i started playing candy crush with him

Remus: He was surprisingly good

Lily: I AM DYING YOU DID WHAT

James: Lily it was SO FUNNY i could not
James: b r e a t h e

Remus: I HATE YOU BOTH SHUT UP

Chapter Text

NO. FUCKING WAY.

Pandora: Hello everyone!

Dorcas: Hi Dora!!

Sirius: Gooood morning Vietnam!

Pandora: Sirius! You’re here! Perfect now where is Remus

Barty: I am eating the bestttt asian food rn


Barty: pad thai is my SHIT


Barty: Also I'm literally obsessed with the lucky
crackers or whatever tf they're called

Evan: FORTUNE COOKIES??

Barty: yeah that

Remus: I'm not even gonna address whatever that is rn


Remus: But hi? present?

Pandora: REMUS!! Perfect

Pandora: Have either of you been on tiktok today?

Sirius: No why

Pandora: LMAO well it turns out that little tiktok you made yesterday went a bit… viral

Lily: viral? how so

Barty: LMAOO YES I SAW THIS MORNING

Evan: HDJJWOS YOU SAW IT TOO???

Peter: THERES ALR FAN EDITS OF THEM HELP

Remus: I am literally begging for context right now

Dorcas: me too me too I don't have tiktok

Lily: what the what

Lily: why not

Dorcas: i refuse to give into the societal norms that we as a world are conforming to

Regulus: she doesnt have storage on her phone.

Dorcas: its an everyday struggle 😞

Pandora: that tiktok you guys made yesterday in the park, the one where you're lipsyncing to lanas song?? I think it was trash magic but idk

Lily: you guys being on first name basis with Lana Del Fricking Ray will never not boggle my mind

Sirius: yeah but i make videos with my friends all the time whats the dealio

Regulus: please never say ‘dealio’ ever again.

Remus : ALSO can i just say: Sirius was lipsyncing. I, Remus J. Lupin, was just watching him make a fool out of himself .

Pandora: thats exactly my point!!

Sirius: dolphins?

Pandora: shut up no

Pandora: PEOPLE SHIP YOU GUYS

Pandora: THEY THOUGHT YOUR STARING WAS… CUTE? I GUESS?

Peter: and after a quick look at the fanedits i have now discovered that you have a shipname as well

James: LMAOOJAJAHHA

Lily: ten bucks u started it

Pandora: i would not be laugjing Potter. They also ship you and Regulus together

Regulus: What.

James: excuse me

Pandora: Yes. You two were in the background of said TikTok

Barty: sitting AWFULLY close i must say

Regulus: kys

Remus: whats a shipname

Lily: knock knock

Remus: whos there

Lily: oh nothing im just knocking on the rock youve been LIVING UNDER

Lily: get with the times old man!

Remus: oh fuck off just tell me

Peter: a shipname is when a fandom come together after seeing potential in two people who ciuld be rlly cute together and they mush their names together to ‘couple’ them up

Pandora: yeah so say goodbye to RemusxSirius and JamesxRegulus and say HELLO to ✨ Simus ✨ and ✨ Jegulus ✨

Remus: well thats just…

Sirius: ITS HORRID OH MY GOD

Sirius: ew im actually like?? How could they do this to me

Sirius: ruin my rep like this

Sirius: you agree dont you remus

Remus: oh

Remus: yeah

Sirius: gosh i got to address this madness rn. brb.

The Room 💪🏼 🛋️

Lily: Remus

Remus: No lily stop im literally fine

Remus: I do not care in the sliiightest

James: Rem
James: Are you okay

Remus: im FINE for christs sake stop asking

Lily: Okay okay!

James: I’m sorry

Remus: why am i even upset like i literally dont care at all hes just a stupid boy
Remus: stupid boy who is not worth any of my time!!

James: Yeah, screw him!

Remus: guys im literally obsessed with him
Remus: im admitting it
Remus: uhurghh this is so not good for my cool dude appearance
Remus: just like IM not good enough for his STUPID REPUTATION
Remus: WHAT IS WRONG WITH HIM

Lily: geniune question

Remus: I am literally SOOO cool and hot and amazing
Remus: how could he not want all of this?
Remus: whatever
Remus: im literally so over him

His phone buzzed and swiping up to the notification centre, Remus caught sight of an alert that Sirius had just posted a new tweet. Although he know he shouldn’t, and should rather keep on his streak of 10 minutes of getting over the same boy, he clicked on it. Progress only goes so far, okay?

Sirius 🐾  @siriusoblack
You lot should be embarrassed with yourselves, i mean ‘Simus’? Really?

Remus felt his heart sink, but he decided it could not get worse, and he scrolled even further on the thread.

Sirius 🐾  @siriusoblack
You lot should be embarrassed with yourselves, i mean ‘Simus’? Really?

|
That hurts me deeply
|
I think Remus deserves better than that embarrassing ship name youve come up with
|
so ‘simus’ is here-forth CANCELLED, so say goodbye to that and say hello to ✨ WOLFSTAR ✨ (remus=wolf) (me=star) 😁🙌💪🏼 whoop whoop!

Remus felt a grin start to grow on his face because attatched to that thread, was a picture. A picture of Sirius kissing Remus’ cheek from the day before. And well… Remus did not expect this outcome.

Private Chat

Regulus: James.

James: Hi Reggie!!

Regulus: Don’t call me that.

Regulus: Will you be playing in Manchester this weekend?

James: Why you wanna come watch me?

James: Yes, I will be playing there

Regulus: Alright

James: Alright what?

Regulus: I’ll see if I can come watch you play

James: That wiudl be so grwat

Regulus: What?

James: cOOL I’ll SE E YOU THRRE 💞💘💖

Regulus: Okay.

Regulus: 🩷

Well that was settled then. Regulus thought. His idea of an exciting Saturday was not watching a bunch of grown men argue over kicking a ball around a field of grass, but if James asked him he couldn’t say no could he? No, to snub an offer is… forbidden in a friendship.

Which is what they were: friends.

“Regulus.” Barty nagged, dragging the last syllable of his name (in a way that was so grating, Regulus was a second away from ripping his tongue out) from down the hall in their hotel room.

“What,” Regulus replied, completely disinterested.

“Will you watch Gossip Girl with me? Evan’s sleeping.”

Regulus opened his mouth to spit out an icy ‘No’ but when his eyes locked with Barty's puppy facial expression, he couldn’t control the yes that slipped out. He’d always been weak to Barty's stupid face.

Grinning, Barty dragged him into their living room where the TV was paused on an episode.

(Listen— Regulus didn’t usually watch Gossip Girl but he couldn’t help but get sucked into the plot of the ‘Queen Serena’ and the unfortunate tragedies of the Upper East Side. He felt like the Slytherins related a little bit to the show, and wondered if that was why Barty was so attached to it— because this show has happy endings, and the one that is his life, doesn’t.)

After a while, one episode turned into three and Regulus was fully invested and Barty was shifting to get a better view of the TV when out of nowhere the channel changed onto the news channel.

“Barty!” Regulus all but whined, scrambling to grab the remote to turn it back when something on the screen caught his eye and he froze his movements and instead turned up the volume, much to Bartys complaints.

“James Potter,” The woman who interviewed him just a week before, Rita Skeeta, was saying. “Famed footballer and recent celebrity that’s caught the publics eye after his romantic encounter with pop singer, Regulus Black, and his team the Gryffindors will be playing the Hufflepuffs at the city stadium this afternoon, this much is usual for the athlete.

What’s unusual is that Potters rumoured ex-girlfriend Marlene McKinnon, was spotted not five hours ago at Heathrow Airport getting into a car headed in the direction for Potters hotel. Coincidence? You tell me. This is Rita Skeeter—“

Regulus switched the TV off, all remaints of his previous joy gone and instead what remained was pure unfiltered jealousy flowing through his chest. Jealousy he couldn’t really explain or justify.

Blocking out Bartys comments of concern, he did the only thing he could— he resorted to Google.

He typed her name into the Google search bar and, surprise surprise, there sat James’ name right next to hers in the first result.

GRYFFINDOR FOOTBALL CAPTAIN, JAMES POTTER, SPOTTED WITH MODEL MARLENE MCKINNON JUST 24 HOURS BEFORE HIS MATCH AGAINST HUFFLEPUFF!

The two have been photographed in various places over the course of the last week and fans have already begun to speculate the nature of their relationship…

After a few more minutes (Read: an hour) of research on Marlene and James’ history, he realised that:

1. They had been friends since they were kids due to their parents being close friends as well as neighbours.

2. They have also been presumed dating since their simultaneous rise to fame (James’ in football and Marlenes in modelling) at the ages of 16 until now.

and 3. Regulus will definitely be going to that match.

Chapter Text

James didn’t expect Regulus to show up to his game (although he did hope he would), but James was aware that he was an actual famous person who probably had very-famous-person-y things to do. So he instead resigned himself to expecting disappointment as was the usual case when it came to the matters of his heart.

It wasn't at all Lily's fault that she didn't know she was a lesbian and subsequently led James on for years in the hopes that she would (to no avail) feel the same for him. It wasn't her fault, but damn did it hurt.

And he still loved her, and always would, because how could he not? Over time that love became platonic and they'd both manage to heal from their breakup to the point where they even moved in together again.

But if everything was at peace between them then why didn't everything feel peaceful in James’ heart? He wasn't able to feel that love he once did fully for Lily—and Lord did he try. That was until he met Regulus and somehow that short, attitude-filled boy had managed to unknowingly fill the hole that James wasn't even aware was gaping. So if he had to pretend that he wasn't slightly disappointed that he didn't see him in the crowd when he walked out onto the field, or at halftime, he would do so without complaint.

And besides, at least his dearest friend Marlene had come! The two had known each other for what seemed like their entire lives. “From nappies to nuptials” is what Marlene liked to joke about, insinuating that they'd be together forever from the start of each other's lives until the start of their own.

James catches her eye while jogging back onto the field and winks at her while she playfully swoons and sends him a blown kiss that he dramatically clutches to his chest and laughs fully.

To the outsider, James and Marlene’s relationship would look somewhat romantic with the way they behave but it couldn't be anything further. But the two still shared some similarities; an example could be how they both preferred woman in their lives. The two were inseparable until she moved to France to continue her work as a model and the two lost touch, until recently when she reached out that she was flying back to town and bringing her roommate Mary with her, and she demanded to see him.

So when James shot the last goal of the match in the last second, throwing his jersey to her in the crowd in the midst of his celebration, it didn’t seem like a huge thing.

But as James retreats back to his team after the kick, he's laughing and happy and cannot wait to text Regulus about it when he gets back into the change rooms. Except he doesn't have to because Regulus is already there, with a blank look on his face of no emotion— no elation for seeing James or pride for the goal he just scored.

He catches Reg's eye and his smile slips away as the boy sneers and stands up abruptly to walk off, still adorned in an outfit that must be his attempt to ‘disguise’ himself (A fan jersey with the number 17 and ‘POTTER’ written on it, sunglasses and a snapback cap on.) James watches Regulus leave and can't help but think robotically to himself: “It's okay, who wouldn't?”

“Mary.” The name which felt foreign on her lips after so long tumbled out so easily as Lily came to an abrupt halt at the sight of the girl who’d plagued her mind for years on end. Lily had spotted her on her way home from dropping James off for his match. 

The girl took out one AirPod as she turned to address the one would call her, confusion written all over her beautiful face and sewn into her dark eyes which shined golden in this lighting, the same shade tinged on her coiled hair on the head she held so high until that confusion turned to recognition and her eyes widened as a smile overtook those same features.

“Lily!” She exclaimed as she leapt on her in a hug. Pulling back she peered deep into Lily's own boring, green eyes which could never compare with hers, and asked: “How are you mon amore? It's really been too long.”

The girls had known each other briefly for a semester when Lily had studied abroad in France and met Mary at the university she attended. They were quite close until Lily's last night when they got drunk and kissed, safe to say they both freaked out and Mary ended up running out. Leaving Lily to return home without an air of a goodbye, and yet here they were years later…

“I’ve… I've been good, yeah, and it has been long my god it's been ages hasn't it? How are you, why are you here? how are… things.” Nice, Lily. Very relaxed.

Mary didn't seem to notice the internal battle Lily had going on inside though, because she smiled and responded enthusiastically. “I’m doing so great thank you for asking. I still live in France but now with my lover, Marlene. You may have heard of her actually, she's quite popular in Britain's magazines seeing as she is one of your own, and we model for the same companies.”

Lovers. The word echoes in Lily's head.

In the 2 years since they'd been apart, Lily had convinced herself that the reason Mary ran away that night was because she wasn't into girls. But no, she just wasn't into Lily.

“Lovers,” Lily echoes with a forced smile. “How great for you. I think it's time I go home but it was nice seeing you, Mary.” She says as she turns to rush away in the opposite direction to which she intended to go in the first place.

A hand grabs her and she stops as she turns to face Mary who has a conflicted and hurt look on her face, and opens her mouth as if she is about to say something when Lily cuts her off with a “No. No no no.”

Mary lets go and exasperatedly throws her hands up. “It's no use, Lils. We have got to have it out. This is horrible for both of us to continue to play this little game like we don't know what the other is thinking.”

Lily stares back at her, shocked and starting to get upset. “That's unfair.” She states. “I've loved you ever since I've known you, Mare, I couldn't help it. And I tried to show you, that last day, and you were the one that left— not me. Which is fine. But, I must make you hear me now and give me an answer because I cannot go on like this any longer.”

Mary takes a step back and it's her turn to look shocked at Lily now as she starts to continuously say no like a stuck record, in hopes of getting out of the conversation she started. But the truth was harsh and they both needed to face it.

Stepping towards her, Lily grabbed her face in her hands in order for them to keep eye contact as she asked the worst question known to man: “Did you love me? Do you love me, or was I a game to you?” When no answer came but the cold silence between them, still Lily continued, “I loved you, and I'm happy I did.”

Lily was telling the truth, when she returned home Lily finally ended the on-and-off relationship she had with James, as she broke down in his arms. She asked to stay the night and he let her, and she never left and eventually Remus joined too, so yes, being with Mary for even a brief moment caused her to gain the most wonderful relationships of her life.

“I love Marlene.” Came Mary's hesitant reply.

“But did you love me?” Came Lily's immediate response. And without even hearing Mary's answer, by just looking into her eyes Lily knew she did. But her love would always be overshadowed by Marlene and Lily accepted that, she understood it.

She let go of Mary physically and emotionally, she felt those ties she had around her heart loosen as she hugged her old friend and gave her a smile that communicated everything that was left unsaid, which Mary returned as the two finally parted ways with the comfort they both needed to move on.

Chapter Text

It had now officially been two weeks since Regulus last saw James at that faithful match, two weeks since he’d stopped responding to his messages of false apologies, and two weeks since he had been wholly consumed by missing him.

It didnt make any logical sense to him either since he had sone nothing but deny deny deny ever liking James in that way; ever liking anyone in that way in fact.  But for some reason hes been totally unable to think about anything else but James.

Oh James. James and his stupid smile, and his horrible curly hair that is too long for him to manage, and his terrible grin that can blind a man—

“Reg.” Dorcas calls out while gently resting her hand on his shoulder, causing him to jump but effectively snapping him out of whatever daze he was in as his cloudy eyes clear and focus on his friend in front of him.

Right. Dorcas. Slytherin. Show. A show where he needs to lead his team in which means he needs to focus and focus immediately.

Regulus physically shakes his head to shake the thought of James away. He put on his best smile and squinted at Dorcas, as if he was just noticing her presence. “Hey Meadowes, how you doing?” 

Her eyebrows crease together and she smiles cautiously at him and responds, “Im doing good baby, are you?”

“Golden. Perfect.” A lie.

Her tentative smile drops as she sees through his fickle attempt to lie to her and gives him a blank stare. (And this is on Regulus because, I mean, what was he thinking trying to lie to THE Dorcas Meadowes? That women has a radar specifically designed to torture Regulus into spilling his guts with a 98% affective rate.) 

“Its okay not to be okay, Reggie.” She pats his shoulder once more before walking off to prepare her own self as they only had 5 minutes until showtime.  How exciting Regulus thought bitterly, he did not have the energy for this now.

But like the showman he is, he went on anyway. Regulus watched himself in his phone’s reflection as he plastered on the most plastic smile he could and tapped the bottom of his eyes lightly, hoping the concealer would stay on and hide the rest of his imperfections.

The band ran on stage to their full-capacity stadium of fans, their enthusiasm warming his touch-starved heart even for a moment and his plastic smile became real as he remembered his why.

“Whats your why?” A fifteen year old Sirius had asked him on their very first tour. They were sitting on the edge of that nights hotel pool with their legs dangling in the warmed water. 

Regulus had turned back to him with a quizzical look on his face, his 14 year old self unable to understand the depth of the question Sirius, who had always been a philosophical thinker. Sirius turned his face 3/4 back to his own and his eyes flickered back to the swishing water below them as he took a minute to gather his train of thought and reply. “Your why. Why you do this— perform. Do you like it?”

The question had taken Regulus by surprise and he hesitated to respond, almost ashamed as he couldn’t think of a genuine response. Did he like it? He didnt know. It was all he had ever known. He was thrown into the deep end of the spotlight since birth, grateful that Sirius had taken the brunt of the shine that came off of the focused lights for him.

Sirius gave him a small, sad smile and patted his brother back. “Thats okay Reggie, you dont have to respond. Sometimes our whys are the same as our hows. We just do it.”

But now 3 years later, Regulus had finally found his why.

He did it for them. His supporters, his friends, and his brother. And nothing made him happier than being with them all. A grin found its way onto his face and he grabbed the centre mic, threw one of his arms up with his index finger pointing into the crowd and yelled: “How are we feeling tonight London!?”

An absolute roar of screaming was their response and Regulus turned 90 degrees to face Dorcas who grinned back at him and she started absolutely shredding on her electric guitar and then it was off from there and Regulus was finally starting to feel like himself again, choosing not to remember James He-Who-Shall-Not-Be-Named. 

That was until the electricity went out all around the stadium leaving them in complete and utter darkness. A few seconds later it switched back on, thanks to the stadiums generator, but they were told through their earpieces that their entire system had to be reset. And as Barty was calming the crowd and explaining the situation an idea was forming in Regulus’ head. 

He excited turned towards Dorcas, a crazed look in his eyes. “Pitch Perfect.” He said.

Dorcas looked at him like he’d gone mad but she just wasn’t understanding him properly, it was going over her head. He grabbed her from the shoulders (and, you know what, maybe he was going crazy. But thats not his fault.) 

He tried again, the excitment bubbling up inside him as his grin widened. “We can just do an acapella song while we wait, like in Pitch Perfect. The mics are working.”

Dorcas eyes widen and she starts nodding frantically, as she turns to tell Pandora and Sirius in the wings and they nod their agreements and giving them a thumbs up.

Regulus walked up to the center of a stage to grab the microphone off the stand and fully plopped down onto the floor and waves at his audience. “Hi everyone, I apologise greatly for this inconvenience in your show. I hope this doesnt upset you too much as I know we were having so much fun earlier. But I had an idea. Why dont we all sing a song together while we wait for our system to set back up?”

“Because we are having technical difficulties!” Evan sung into his mic as a humorous off-key explanation, causing Barty to shove him to the floor and then sit down himself, Dorcas following them in suit.

“What should we sing?” Dorcas questioned the crowd. And immediately there were suggestions of songs all the way from Taylor Swift to the Steven Universe soundtrack (for some reason?? But go off i guess, Regulus lowkey fucked with Steven Universe soundtrack.) 

But none seemed to stick out to Regulus. He leant into the microphone and hesitantly addressed the loud crowd, “Would it be okay with you guys if I do something Ive only just began working on in the depths of my mind? A little unrealeased moment?”

The crowd immediately erupted in cheers of aggrement at his suggestion but he was still unsure, so he looked to the others for confirmation. Evan was nodding so excitedly he was basically jumping up and down with his bass guitar bopping along with him; similar to Bartys ba-boom-clash on the drums to show his obvious agreement but all it took was Dorcas’ smile of encouragement for him to grin back just as hard and say loudly into the mic, “Right then. A little warning to all: I have never sang this to anyone ever, so my friends here are basically just going to be making their own tunes on the fly and it is very Pop, so be prepared for that drastic change in theme lol.” (And yes. He did infact say ‘LOL’ as a word. He mightve picked up that strange habit from James)

A stagehand hurried onto stage to hand him his acoustic guitar after he signalled to her to bring it over for him to play. Regulus didnt usually play the guitar, or any instrument other than his voice really, but something was calling him from the depths of his soul to play tonight and he was only just as happy to conply if it gave him something to do with his hands rather than fidget and let his brain wander off back to him again, and so, he started strumming a basic A… then an Bm… then a D and so on he went… 

He leant forward, mouth so close it was basically touching the mic, his eyes down at his own fingers strumming the strings of his guitar. “I used to think one day we'd tell the story of us. How we met and the sparks flew instantly.

He looked up to see that some people had taken their phones out and were waving them with the flashlight on, and he smiled. “And people would say, "They're the lucky ones". He turned his head to peer at his friends and thank the stars his bandmates basically popped out the womb knowing music and having perfect pitch because one by one they all started catching on to the general notes and even starting to play their own individual solo parts that were separated but still somehow seemed to work together.

“I used to know my place was a spot next to you. Now I'm searching the room for an empty seat. Cause lately I don't even know what page you're on” He sang this part a bit louder as his strumming became harder and thoughts of a certain brown-skinned boy filled his mind.  

He continued, frustration and desperate want seeping out of his very pores, “Now I'm standing alone in a crowded room And we're not speaking and I'm dying to know— Is it killing you like it's killing me? I don't know what to say since the twist of fate, when it all broke down.” emotion flowed through him as he grabbed the mic and basically pressed his lips to it in a kiss to get his passionate point across, eventually getting to what he considered to be the pettiest point of the song and even dared to look straight at the camera filming him knowing full well that this would most likely end up across all platforms. 

“And the story of us looks a lot like a tragedy now…” He paused, his gaze sweeping over the crowd as they waited in anticipation he then smiled at them, huffed a little laugh as he shrugged and said: “Next chapter!” 

Sirius & Regulus private chat

Sirius: Im coming over

Regulus: Sirius, no. You were at the show, Im soo seriously over it. 

Sirius: You cant stop me hoe

Regulus: girl??

True to his word, Sirius did indeed show up at Regulus’ flat not even 10 seconds later. Was that bitch waiting outside my door while messaging me? What a weirdo, he thought.

“Were you outside?” He voiced, incredulously. 

Sirius gave him a flat look as he looked uo from his phone that was in his one hand and held up a bag of takeout in the other. “I brought Asian.” “You are Asian.” “Shut the fuck up” Sirius responded as he pushed past Regulus (into his OWN flat?) like he owned the place and unceremoniously plopped down on his couch, took off his shoes and sat cross-legged while he immediately started digging in to his own container. He looked up, “What?”

Regulus shook his head with silent laughter as he shut the door and went to sit down next to his brother. They sat in silence for a minute as they watched the sun slowly go down through the glass windows opposite the couch— Regulus preferred to watch the sky to the TV that was diagonally positioned to the couch and next to the window, Sirius complained that his ‘feng shui’ was off everytime he visited but Regulus didnt care. He loved watching the sun. 

After a while, Regulus broke their comfortable silence. “How’s Remus?” The obvious underlying intent of silently asking hows James? lingered in the air but Sirius was clearly very excited to speak about a certain brown-haired boy and launched into a fully detailed explanation on how they’ve been talking more recently and even went out to watch the new marvel movie a bit ago, which Remus hated and critiqued to entire walk back to Sirius’ flat. (which he had insisted on walking Sirius back to, the man refused to stop talking about how ‘gentlemanny’ he was or whatever.) 

By the end of the rant, Regulus could probably describe to you exactly what shades of green Remus’ eyes were and how his hands were calloussed but yet oh so gentle, and tell you exactly what type of deodorant he wears and most definitely he could tell you his mothers name, despite having only a few conversations with the man. But he was happy for his brother nonetheless so he smiled genuinely and listened intently until it inevitably died down to just a small smile lingering on Sirius’ face as they lapsed into a contempt silence once more. The sun had gone down by then and the mood seemed to drop with it, turning soft. Maybe thats why Sirius whispered his next words, afraid to break the delicacy of the air around them, “Oh and Minnie called today”.

Regulus pulled his knees up to his face and wrapped his arms around him as he hummed in response, a quiet acknowledgment to continue. But Sirius placed his hand on his arm, his small smile turning impossibly wide as he grinned at his younger brother. Regulus’ eyebrows furrowed, he quiered, “Is this about the Grammys? We already know we are invited and up for a few awards, thats not really news Siri.” 

Sirius shook his head, grin never faltering. “Reg, you are not just going to the Grammys. You’re going to be opening the Grammys.”

Chapter Text

Regulus Black stood at the front of the stage in all his glory, clutching the microphone as the lights flickered to life, casting long, jagged shadows over the crowd. His usually sharp, aristocratic features were set in a cool mask, but beneath that mask he wore on his face was a tension—raw, unspoken, and pointed directly at someone who wasn’t even there. And tonight, he was performing like every lyric of this song was a dagger he wanted to hurl across the distance between them. It had been a month since James. A month since he saw her and him together. God, how stupid could he have been to think that he of all people would ever be with someone like him? And even though he tried to convince himself he was above it all, he couldn't help but think about her. 

The crowd was roaring, the energy pulsating through the room, but Regulus wasn’t focused on them. He barely even noticed them. His gaze was distant, lost in his head, his mind somewhere back with James—angry, and bitter but also desperate to act like none of it mattered. His voice, however, was anything but indifferent as he began to sing. He made sure of that. He was a performer after all, and not just that but a Black. So he did what Blacks did best and put on a show. 

Evan’s bass thrummed steadily beside him, the low notes grounding the chaos of emotion in the room. Barty was hammering on the drums, sending ripples of sound through the venue like thunder, while Dorcas shredded on guitar with sharp, vicious precision. But it was Regulus who commanded all the attention in the room as he opened his mouth in a short gasp to emphasise the lyrics he was about to sing.

The song started slow, a soft taunt in the verses, as if he was speaking directly to the happy couple, a smirk twisting on his lips as he sang:

“If I told you how much I think about her
You'd think I was in love 
And if you knew how much I looked at her pictures
You would think we're best friends”

His voice oozed sarcasm, dripping with venom, and the way he sneered those words told the audience that this wasn’t just any performance. This was personal. His hand gripped the mic stand tightly, knuckles white, as though holding himself together was the only thing keeping him from falling apart. The audience cheered louder, but Regulus only stared straight ahead, his eyes glazed with frustration.

“I'm so obsessed with your ex” He growled into the mic as Dorcas sang lilted: “Uh-huh”s echoes in the background. “I know she's been asleep on my side of your bed
And I can feel it”

“And I know you love me, and I know it's crazy. 
But every time you call my name, I think you mistake me for her!” He belted it with so much force it was almost like he wanted James to hear it from wherever he was in the world. 

The petty satisfaction that fueled his performance masked the hurt underneath, the part of him still trying to convince himself he didn’t care. But it wasn’t working, not entirely. The crowd might’ve seen a confident rock star sneering and spitting venom into the mic, but Regulus felt every bit as fragile as the words he hurled.

Evan joined in for the chorus with his deeper, gruff voice, harmonizing while playing his bass, adding fuel to the fire of Regulus’ emotional unravelling. Barty’s drumming got louder, more aggressive, as if he could sense the anger bleeding from Regulus’ performance and was translating it into raw power. Dorcas’ guitar riffs cut through the tension, sharp and defiant, reflecting the tumultuous feelings swirling around on stage.

As the song neared its end, Regulus leaned into the mic, voice lowering to a near whisper, dripping with faux indifference.

“Oh god, she makes me so upset
I'm so obsessed with your ex…”

He felt as if everyone in the audience could see through him and deduce that he wasn't fine at all, or at least Pandora could as he caught her worried glance when he shifted his gaze to the wings. The facade was thin. It was all for show—he wasn’t over it, and everyone knew it. Especially Regulus.

The song came to an explosive end, his final shout of the lyrics tearing through the air, echoing around the room as the guitars crashed behind him. His chest heaved, sweat pouring down his brow, and for a moment, Regulus stood there, glaring at nothing, lips pulled into a defiant smirk that didn’t quite reach his eyes.

But then he tossed his head back, flicking his dark hair out of his face, and shot a cocky grin toward the crowd as if the whole performance hadn’t meant a thing. “I’m sorry,” he muttered into the mic, as if the words could find their way to James somehow. “Every single song is about you”

The crowd roared in response, but Regulus? He just plastered on the fakest smile he could manage, heart still racing, pretending like he wasn’t feeling any of it at all.

And James? James immediately shuts the top of his laptop close, cannot bear to see Regulus smile in any way that wasn't directed at him. 

That video of their performance had gone viral across social media so as much as James tried to avoid Regulus to save his bleeding heart, he couldn’t.

James wasn't even sure why they were fighting at all and why Regulus wouldn't return his calls or messages. It's only thanks to Remus confiscating his laptop the week before, that he hadn't emailed the poor boy either— to which he would no doubt get any reply there either.

It's been nothing but agonising trying to figure out why the boy he thought naively capable of being “the one” or at least, someone he could potentially grow to…

Whatever. It was never that deep anyway.

BBZZZ, James' phone vibrated from next to him on the bed and he immediately leapt for it, hoping to blare in his chest for a message from a specific someone (who shall not be named for James' little remaining sanity). But alas, all that popped up was a couple of notifications from Twitter, which he opened first that read:

The Daily Prophet @NewsDAILY

As the SLYTHERIN tour reaches a close, lead singer Regulus Black riskily releases hot new singles including his most recent song ‘Obsessed’ being accompanied by a dedication for a secret someone to all of his songs— leaving fans to wonder: Who broke his heart?

— Rita Skeeter 

… which after reading it, left James running a hand over his face as he swiped to dismiss it from his notification centre. Leaving the next most recent to be a text message from Marlene.

James liked Marlene. They’d been friends for ages, since childhood. She was the closest his only child ass had ever gotten to a sibling and he was quite sure the feeling was mutual to her. He was overjoyed to find out she’d be in town for a bit and would attend his games to support him. God, James loved Marlene.

Marlene: Jamie I am SO sorry oh my god i swear i never meant for this 

James' eyebrows furrowed at the message, because literally what could she be talking about; this girl was so insane she built her plot lines in her head and convinced herself they were real.

James: Marls what the everloving fuck are you talking about
James: this isn't another delusion is it
James: nurse! She's out again

Marlene: fuck u I don't care anymore u can keep ur ruined love life

James: no wdym love life Justin Bieber

Marlene: your whole breakup is my fault

James: what are u talking about girl
James: what love life

Marlene: with… regulus black? Who else, whore

James: die
James: how could he deciding he was too good for me be ur fault

Marlene: well im like 70% sure it is and he thinks we are secretly in love bc I just saw a Twitter thread on how we are like totally in love and dating and u throwing ur jerseys at me is an act of love and not to ruin my beautiful good looks with ur sweat

James: oh my god
James: wair bc this makes sense

Marlene: James i could be wrong don't do anything insane

James does something insane. 

He reaches for his discarded phone and immediately tries dialling the number he hasn't reached out to in weeks, and as expected, nobody picks up.

Time for plan B.

Private chat

James: Siriussss
James: hahaha ur so sexy pls pls answer 

Sirius: omg babe our illicit affair must come to a stop for i am destined to be with another (ur roommate)🙈

James: sigh i shall have to accept i will be alone forever
James: unless…
James: give me regs address

Sirius: ok first off; thats sooo stalkerish

Sirius: second, james yk ily and we were destined for a more beautiful relationship 
Sirius: but i wont do that

James: Sirius i am begging you I need to talk to regulus i think theres been a major misunderstanding between us

Sirius: james its been a MONTH what kind of fucked up conclusion have you come to about u and my brother

James: he definitely thinks I (gay for him) am in love with marlene (a lesbian)

Sirius: oh shit yea sounds like something he would do
Sirius: [location pin drop]
Sirius: make me a bridesmaid

James: ofc

Half an hour after Sirius sent the location to him, James was stood in front of the door to Regulus flat, his heart hammering in his chest. The cool evening air flowing out the window at the end of the hall brushed against his skin, but he barely noticed it, too focused on the door in front of him. He had to make things right. He needed to.

He knocked three times, each sound echoing through the empty hallway.

After a few moments, the door creaked open, revealing Regulus, dressed in casual, loose fitting clothing— a stark contrast to his everyday sharp and carefully chosen outfits, the light blue shirt and joggers hung off his frame. Regulus looked soft like this and James decided he liked this version of Regulus alot more than he should. Unfortunately for him, as soon as Regulus realised who was standing in front of him his relaxed expression closed off, eyes shadowed with something unreadable.

“What do you want?” Regulus asked, his voice colder than James had ever heard it. James stayed silent for a second, slightly regretting coming here. Regulus obviously noticed his hesitation and scoffed as he went to close the door, but James stepped forward, his hand resting on the wood, preventing it from shutting.

“I need to talk to you, Regulus,” James said, his voice steady despite the nerves twisting in his stomach. “Please, just let me explain.”

Regulus’ lips curled into a thin line, his eyes narrowing. “I don’t want to hear it. I don’t want to hear another lie, James. I saw you with her”

James’ heart clenched. “It’s not like that,” he said, a hint of desperation creeping into his voice. “Please, just listen. You’ve got it all wrong. There was never anyone else. I would never—”

“Then why did you—” Regulus started, but James cut him off, stepping closer.

“Because I’m an idiot. Marlene was never in the picture at all, shes an old friend and her girlfriend would kill me if she was anything but. I didn’t even know thats why you were upset until like, today. I just thought you’d realised you’d never want someone like… me,” James admitted, swallowing hard. “And I’m sorry I hurt you because I didn’t know how to fix it.”

Regulus looked away, his jaw tightening as if the words were too painful to hear so he just didn’t respond, didnt know how to. 

“I never wanted to hurt you,” James whispered, stepping forward again. His hand reached out, hesitating before brushing against Regulus’ arm. “I care about you, Reg. I really do.”

Regulus’ eyes flickered, vulnerability flashing in them before he masked it again. He turned his back, running a hand through his dark hair. “I don’t know if I can keep doing this,” he muttered. “This… whatever this is. I don’t know how to trust it. How to trust you. Ive never really… been with anyone before. Not alot of opportunities in ‘stardom’”.

James felt a lump form in his throat. His hand dropped to his side, but he refused to back down. “Then let’s work through it,” he said firmly. “I know it’s new, and it’s messy, and neither of us knows what we’re doing—but I want to try. I want us to figure it out.”

Regulus turned around slowly, eyes glistening. “What if it’s too late?” His voice cracked, and for a brief moment, James saw the fear he was hiding.

“It’s not too late,” James said softly, his own eyes filling with emotion. “It’s just… it’s just going to take time. I’m not going anywhere, okay? I’m here. With you.”

Regulus looked at him, his breath shaking, and for a long moment, neither of them spoke. Then, with a shaky exhale, Regulus whispered, “I don’t want to lose you, James. But I don’t know how to do this.”

James reached for him, cupping Regulus’ face gently. “You don’t have to do it alone,” he said, his voice thick with feeling. “We’ll figure it out together. I promise.”

Regulus closed his eyes for a moment, as if considering the words, and when he opened them again, the walls he’d built between them seemed to crack, just a little. He stepped forward, closing the space between them.

“I… I really like you,” Regulus said quietly, the words almost a whisper. “I’m just scared. I don’t know what to do with all this.”

James smiled softly, leaning in closer. “We’ll figure it out. Together.”

Before Regulus could respond, James kissed him—tentatively at first, but when Regulus melted into it, the kiss deepened, passionate and desperate, as if they both needed it more than they cared to admit. James pulled him closer, hands threading into Regulus’ hair, the kiss growing more urgent as their feelings swirled around them, too big to be contained.

Regulus responded with equal fervor, his hands gripping James’ waist, the two of them lost in the kiss, finally letting go of the confusion and the doubt.

When they finally pulled apart, breathless and a little shaken, James rested his forehead against Regulus’, a soft smile curving his lips.

“Alright?” James whispered.

Regulus nodded, his fingers tracing the line of James’ jaw. “Alright.” Unsure what he was agreeing to, and finding he honestly did not really care.

James face lit up in a bright smile and he reached up to grab Regulus hand that was tracing his jaw and bring it down to interlock their fingers between them. “Come on then.” He said, turning and pulling Regulus down the hallway.

“What— What the fuck? Where are we going… James!” Regulus spluttered as he scrambled to slip on his vans shoes and just managed to close his door before James was pulling him down the hall towards the stair before he abruptly stopped and turned to face Regulus, cupping his hands on his face and delicately cradling him as he placed a soft kiss on his forehead and leant down just a bit to place another kiss on his nose before leaning back a bit and whispered into the air between them, smile never leaving his face: “We are going on an adventure, Regulus Black.”

Chapter Text

When Regulus decided to run off into the unknown with James in the middle of the night, he would never have envisioned himself standing before a very locked and very closed football field. But then again, Regulus also woke up this morning thinking he would never speak to James again so really, what does he even know?

“It's locked.” Regulus supplied unhelpfully.

“I can see that.” 

“Why did you steal me away to a closed field, James?”

“Steal? Darling, I hardly stole you. You came of your own free will.” James scoffed.

“Hm, that's not what the detectives will say when they get my autopsy results back…”

“Ominous, how fun,” James said, huffing out a soft laugh under his breath and turning to shoot a quick smile at the man next to him (WHO WAS STILL HOLDING HIS HAND MIGHT REGULUS ADD; DREAMS DO COME TRUE!) 

James continued to tug at his hand as a signal for him to move closer to the gate, which he did so very warily. As they neared it, James let go of his hand whipped out a set of keys of all things and quickly focused on trying trial and error to find the one that fits the lock as quickly as possible. 

Regulus' jaw dropped open at the sight and he whisper-yelled to his…lover? “James, what the fuck do you think you are doing?!”

James hummed and simply responded, “Breaking in.” And his casualty about the whole ordeal had Regulus in shocked silence. James eventually got the key he had been looking for in and grabbed the other man’s hand once more to shove him through the gate before Regulus could try to convince him this was a bad idea.

Oh lord, they were trespassing! Pandora would flip the fuck out if she found out about this! And not to mention what having a criminal record would do to his fanbase…

“Stop spiralling.” James' voice broke through Regulus’ so-not-spiral and sent a blanket of warmth around him that grounded him once more, much to his dismay. “I was joking, by the way, we aren't breaking in. My parents own the field, why do you think I have the keys?”

And Regulus… did not think that through. So he just stayed silent.
 
When James eventually got the door open, the couple slipped through and walked hand in hand through and down the stands until they got to the bottom seats that separated the viewers from the players; and James proceeded to fully try and launch himself over it with no regard for his safety. Regulus, however, was more cautious as he took his time assessing it and slowly putting one leg over the ledge and then the other. James stood below him, arms up and ready to reach the other if he were to fall. 

Inching closer to dropping over, Regulus hesitated and called out in a strained voice: “Promise not to drop me?”

James just shook his head as a low laugh rippled through the silent space between them, only filled with their simultaneous breathing, and then looked up through his unruly curls to look at Regulus with an expression that would put Vanity’s ‘Hottest Man Alive’ to shame. “Only a fool would drop someone like you.”  

Regulus might’ve gone over the ledge safe and soundly, dropping into his love’s arms. But boy, was he falling dangerously hard.

James had always lived a relatively happy life. He had amazing parents, friends had always surrounded him and he was grateful to be well-off and self-aware to recognise he was too. James was used to always being surrounded by loved ones and noise and activity never seemed to cease in the Potter household. But James would trade all of that in to stay forever in the quiet moment he is sharing with Regulus right now because it could never compare.

James honestly had no idea how he had gotten so lucky in his life to have the privilege to know the man beside him lying on the grass. James supposed that the stars they were currently watching probably somewhere had this moment written in them because there was no way that Regulus wasn't divinely connected to him, and James would pray to whatever deity to keep him there. 

“And that one’s Canis Major, Sirius’ one,”  Regulus was explaining to James. “ ‘The dog star’ which checks out as Sirius is a massive bitch.” 

James barked out a laugh at the other's completely emotionless tone as he delivered that line, save for the ghost of a smile that lingered on his lips at his joke. Regulus continued to tell James about his namesake, which was part of the constellation Leo and… wait.

“No wait say that again.” James interrupted with a grin.

Regulus paused and turned to side-eye James as a light pink dusted across his cheeks. “No, nope. Go away.” His rushed response prompted another laugh from James, who was incandescently happy. Irrationally so, for someone who’d only known Regulus for like 4 months and hadn't spoken to him for one and a half of them. 

James' laughter slowly faded out as he started thinking about what this meant for them, whatever this was. Would they have to ‘come out’ to their fans? Their friends already knew they (James at least) were obsessed with each other. But how would their lovely fans react? 

James assumed it would most likely be a positive response if their ship name “Jegulus” was anything to go by— their joined fanbases somehow seemed to like them together even though they came from completely different worlds. I mean really, a pop star and an athlete? One would think they were characters in a fanfiction. 

And even if James separated the fans and his friends from the equation, Hollywood was not a place for homosexuals, no matter how much they’d like to convince the general public that they believe “love is love”, everyone who had a taste of fame knew it was a rigid system. James started to imagine what the headlines would undoubtedly be; would it be: “James Potter seduces singer Regulus Black, watch as this is not a match written in the stars” or would someone dare to theorise their love what a publicity stunt?

Because that was what it was, James realised. Love.

He loved Regulus Black.

A finger poking his cheek successfully got his attention and he turned his head to view the beautiful man beside him. Regulus’ soft curls framed his face and were so symmetrical and soft that James wanted to pinch his cheeks and kiss every square inch that he could until his kisses covered his face, and even that would not be enough. 

“Are you okay, darling? You seem like you left me for a second there.” Regulus gently asked with his eyebrows furrowed and a cautious but caring smile present.

And James was pretty sure that Regulus Black loved him too.

James didn't respond to his question and instead, he replied:  “Hollywood has no idea,” 
…which in hindsight he should have realised Regulus would have no idea what he was talking about as the entire context for that sentence happened entirely in James’ head.

“…What are you talking about? Did you bump your head?”

“Hollywood has no idea that I love you.” He felt the other go as still as a statue next to him, but James just laced their fingers together and ploughed on with a newfound sense of determination. “I've heard about this feeling from everyone I know. My parents raved on about it and I always thought I knew what it was but now I know that I was never truly in love, not even with Lily. She's my best friend and I genuinely thought that it was the end of the world when we broke up but now if I ever imagine us parting— it would be a graceful event only that if you ever decided you no longer wanted me, I would leave without arguing. Not because I don't love you, because I very much do, no it would be because I fear that if I do not leave when I am asked I never will be able to heal from it. Unlike Lily, where I felt my world was ending, if this were to end I would feel as if the entire universe— the stars, the planets, and the people and aliens alike— would not be able to handle the damage my imploding heart with cause.”

Regulus had been silent throughout James confession but when James had stopped to gather his thoughts linearly, Regulus took the opportunity to give his own softly spoken hesitant opinion. “James we are merely players on the world’s stage, or field if you will considering our surroundings, everything we do or say is documented and under scrutiny.” He paused in his speech and James swore his heart stop. Curse him and his constant need to wear his heart on his sleeve, it never ends up well—

“But I’m not sure I could handle it if we were to ever part either. Conventionally, I know this is the part where I am to tell you I love you too,” and James’ heart skipped a beat. “but I’m positive nothing I say could do the whirlwind of emotions I feel for you justice. I don't require some stupid paper from the city hall or any word in the Oxford dictionary to tell you that I love you; because if I can confess it right now in front of the universe and its stars and before God themself, it can forever be taken into fates cruel hand where they can view upon my heart, read it, and grant us mercy.” 

And to James, that was better than any other measly “I love you” he could've gotten.

Chapter Text

“Who's there?” A rough voice sounded from across the field, causing Regulus to shoot up into a sitting position and break the calm atmosphere between the two boys and filling him with anxiety at being caught, though James did not seem as bothered as he continued to lie down with his hands calmly behind his head as he stared at the stars above.

Regulus shook the crazy man beside him in an attempt to get them to escape as the shadowed couple of people walked closer to them. “James let's go, for fucks sake, we’ve been caught!” 

James grabbed his hands in response and tugged him onto his chest, causing Regulus’ cheeks to bloom red as he leaned in and said, “It's okay, that's just my parents, they own the field.”

Which was like, fuck you what?? to Regulus because “You mean we broke into your own fucking property.”

“My parents' property.”

“I fucking hate you. I am so not prepared to meet your parents…”

“Hello!” A woman's voice called out to them as they got closer, a smile on her beautifylly aged face. James’ mom.

“…Hi.” Came Regulus’ idiotic reply. Cursing James and his talent for impromptu plans, Regulus cleared his throat as he walked towards them in order to meet them in the middle.

Regulus recognised James father immediately due to the fact that the two looked eerily similar, in fact if this is what James would age to look like one day then Regulus did not mind growing old with that.

 “I’m Fleamont, James’ dad!” The man before him happily exclaimed waving.

Rolling her eyes at her husbands golden retriever-like energy, the woman stepped forward to encase Regulus’ hand in her own; not shaking them but simply holding it comfortably. She gave him a warm smile as she introduced herself as Effie (“Not Euphemia please, I have a feeling we will see each other more frequently if my son gets a hint.” “Mom!”).

If James had stolen his looks from Fleamont, Regulus is sure his mother gave him the sun that made his smile. Effie, like her son, wore her heart on her sleeve and her face remained bright and true as if she really did like Regulus without even fully knowing him, trusting her son’s judgment of him entirely.

“So sorry for interrupting your date boys, you understand that we had gotten the alert of a break-in and obviously has to come check it out.” Fleamont apologised with a slight frown.

Regulus’ eyes widened in fear of somehow ruining his boyfriend’s (?) parents opinion of him already and rushed to explain himself when James cut him off.

“Yes dad you’ve completely ruined me ans my boyfriend’s evening.” James pouted playfully at his parents, as his mom went to swat his head.

The three were completely unaware of Regulus’ internal battle. James had called him his boyfriend.

Boyfriend (!)

Boy. Friend.

As in boy, who is actually more than a friend actually!

Oh god and this was him meeting the parents oh lord theyve only been back together for a few hours!

Regulus was so caught up in his mental war with himself that he forgot to listen to the conversation around him, only tuning back in to catch the end of Effie’s sentence as she walked down memory.

“…remember how James would come here after school everyday to try teach himself to cartwheel? Oh the poor thing.” She laughed.

Unable to control his shock, Regulus blurted out: “You cant do a cartwheel?!” To which James flushed at and ducked hia head down as he scratched the nape of his neck, embarrassed, as he nodded— which was unacceptable in Regulus’ books.

Taking his hand, Regulus guided James a few meters away from his parents and demonstrated a cartwheel. “Its all in the momentum, baby.”

James gaped at him, amusement and fondness in his eyes. “How did you do that?” He asked, genuinely shocked at the display.

“Sirius and I took gymnastics when we were little.” Regulus said simply with a smile.

James spent the next half an hour trying his absolute best at attempting and failing at gymnastics that six year olds could do, while Euphemia and Fleamont chatted nearby, their laughter drifting up into the dark sky. Regulus stood slightly apart, hands buried in his pockets, and a faint smile tugging at his lips as he watched them.

“You’ve got terrible form, Jamie,” Euphemia teased.

“Oh, don’t encourage him, darling,” Fleamont added with mock severity. “His ego’s already towering.”

James grinned, walking towards his boyfriend and nudging him lightly with his elbow. “Back me up here, Reg. You’ve seen worse, right?”

Regulus gave a half-smile, nodding slightly. But then his gaze drifted downward, his expression clouding over. Silence crept in around him, and the energy on the field shifted—softened.

James noticed first, his smile fading. “Hey, Reg? You okay?”

Regulus didn’t answer right away. “It’s… strange,” he said finally, his voice quiet but steady. “Being here. Like this. It feels—safe. But it doesn’t feel… real.”

Euphemia stepped closer, her tone gentle but light. “It’s real, love. Sometimes good things just are. You don’t have to earn them.”

Fleamont chimed in, his voice warm. “You’re allowed to stand here, son. To laugh, to exist without waiting for something to break.”

Regulus glanced up, his sharp features briefly illuminated by the lights. “But what if I ruin it? What if I can’t—”

James cut him off softly. “You won’t. And if you stumble, we’re here. That’s the deal, Reg. You’re not alone in this.”

Regulus let out a quiet breath, his shoulders loosening slightly. The night settled back into its gentle rhythm—the distant hum of the lights, the faint rustle of wind through the grass.

“Come on,” James said, nudging him again with a crooked grin. “Let’s see if you can show my mum just how bad my form really is.”

Regulus hesitated, then nodded, a ghost of a smile crossing his face. The Potters resumed their easy warmth, their light conversation filling the spaces between them. And for a little while longer, the world felt steady.

NO. FUCKING. WAY

Regulus: Hello all, I have returned 

Lily: thank GOOOD i could nawwt deal with james emo ass anymore 😭🙏

Dorcas: you and me both mamas😣😣 

Evan: we’ve BEEEENNNNN suffering twin

Regulus: okay now, reel it in

Lily: “reel it in” 💀💀💀

James: Leave my boyfriend alone guys bullying isnt funny when its him

Sirius: PAUSE WHAT

James: 😇

Lily: BITCH I LIVE WITH YOU?? CALL ME RN WHAT IS THIS NEW DEVELOPMENT WHEN DID THIS HAPPEN

Remus: AND WHY THE FUCK ARENT YOU IN YOUR ROOM!?;$/&@;/-!!

Regulus: Yeah its been like a few hours now… he kidnapped me

Sirius: HE WHAT

Remus: calm down

Sirius: im calm

Marlene: get this homotron 3000 off my feed rn

Barty: who is this why is she here when did she arrive

Evan: seconded??

Marlene: oh hello! Im marlene, reg thought james was cheating on him with me but im a lesbian xxxx james added me

Regulus: Did he now?

Marlene: calm down edgelord may I reiterate ✨ LESBIAN✨ 

Barty: a shame

Evan: youre taken??

Pandora: truly a shame

Lily: ??? You too

Sirius: literally WHAT how much have I missed??

Peter: while you were consoling your brother on his deluded breakup, everyone else was getting down

Lily: pls dont ever say that again
Lily: but yes
Lily: we got down 😎 

Dorcas: sirius wants me to tell you he’s processing this
Dorcas: in the meanwhile can we talk about the actual grammys?? That are literally tomorrow??
Dorcas: i am NOT okay nor prepared for them

Remus: oh are you attending them?

Dorcas: BITCH WE OPENING THEM

Lily: WHAT
Lily: @James get the glitter glue. We are making more posters.

James: Okay!

Regulus: Do not.

James: Nevermind, Lily! Something actually came up we cant make them anymore 💜

Regulus: I actually am prepared. I have no idea why the rest of my band is so disorganised in comparison
Regulus: Get yourselves together

Barty: whatever you want🤤

James: Watch it.

Evan: yes sir🙏🙏

James: FUCK NO???? 

Private Chat

Regulus: Hello James

James: hi darling💕💞💘💖💝

Regulus: Is this how youre going to be all the time now?

James: does it bother you?💕

Regulus: No.
Regulus: ❤️

James: Kdjwisiijdjwiyd$2@7yuqiz

Regulus: ?

James: Nothing 😆

Regulus: Okay. 
Regulus: I had a question for you, Jamie

James: The answer is yes to whatever you want

Regulus: But I havent even asked yet

James: doesnt matter

rab @notreg 🔒 
FUCK MY LIFE
|
>> dora @theboxisopen 🔒 

????

Regulus: Okya
Regulus: Okay**
Regulus: Anyway. Would you like to go to the Grammys with me?
Regulus: As my date, to clarify

James: WOULD I

Regulus: Yes, would you?

James: Absolutely baby. Thank you for asking me 😍😘🤪❤️‍🔥❤️‍🔥❤️‍🔥

Regulus: Of course. We are dating, are we not?

Jamsie @jamandjelly 🔒 
I WONNNNNN
|
>> lilypad @EvansAndInk 🔒 
???

James: of course we are
James: dating
James: youre my boyfriend😁

Regulus: Are you okay

James: GOLDEN
James: see you tomorrow my love i will miss you

Regulus: Goodbye James. I will miss you too. 

-

Prongs 🦌 @JamesPotter
Grammy Ready!

[jamesinasuit.img]

|
> Regulus Black. @regulusarcturus
BOOM SHAKALAKA YES GAWWWWDDD
|
>> Regulus Black. @regulusarcturus
Oh. this is not the private account I thought it was.

The Daily Prophet  @NewsDAILY

THIS JUST IN! Global sensation Regulus Black responded to football star James Potter’s latest tweet quite curiously. Could the twos relationship be more than the friendship they revealed to the public months prior? Our sources say more will be revealed TONIGHT at this years Grammy’s, where Black’s band will be opening…

— Rita Skeeter

The room was electric, buzzing with anticipation as the lights dimmed and the stage was swallowed by shadows. A single spotlight pierced through the darkness, illuminating four figures as the opening chords of Dorcas’s guitar sliced clean through the silence. The Slytherins were here, and the world was watching them.

And there James Potter sat in the front row, leaning forward in his seat, elbows balanced on his knees, eyes locked onto the figure at the center of the stage. Regulus Black stood under the harsh white light, his silhouette sharp against the glowing backdrop. Dressed in a sleek black suit with silver accents catching faint glimmers from the spotlight, he looked effortlessly composed, but James knew better. He could see the slight twitch of Regulus’s fingers around the microphone, the way his jaw tightened just before he began to sing. James loved that he knew these details of the man he adored and could spot them so easily in a crowded room; it felt like a secret only he was in with.

“Our secret moments in your crowded room
They got no idea about me and you…”

The sound of Regulus’s voice filled the space—smooth, haunting, and painfully intimate. There was something about the way he sang, as if every lyric was carved from some secret part of himself. Around him, the band fell into sync—Dorcas with her sharp, almost aggressive strumming, Evan’s bassline humming steadily beneath the melody, and Barty’s drumbeats thrumming like a heartbeat, wild but precise.

James barely registered the thousands of people around him. The screams, the flashing lights, the way the crowd moved like a single living entity—all of it faded. All he could see was Regulus.

“There is an indentation in the shape of you
Made your mark on me, a golden tattoo…”

The camera swept across the audience, pausing briefly on James. He had a suspicion the academy would want to profit over their supposed affair with one another, but he didn’t flinch under the lens; his focus remained on the stage, on Regulus’s sharp cheekbones and the way his dark hair curled slightly against his neck under the heat of the lights.

As the chorus neared, the tension in the air tightened like a bowstring being pulled taut.

“Say my name and everything just stops…”

The music cut out as the members of Slytherin froze with it, taking in the attention of their audience and leaving only silence—a silence so heavy it felt like it might crack under the weight of what was unsaid. So of course, James felt that the only necessary thing to do was to break it. 

“REGGIE!”

James’s voice rang clear through the stillness, sharp and certain. For a moment, everything froze for him too. Regulus’s head snapped up, his lips parting slightly as if he’d been caught off guard. The corner of his mouth twitched—not quite a smile, but enough for James to know he’d been heard.

Then the band launched back into the chorus, the sound crashing over the audience in a tidal wave of raw emotion and unfiltered energy.

“Only bought this dress so you could take it off…”

Regulus’s voice was sharp and yearning, carrying something vulnerable beneath the polished delivery. Dorcas’s guitar wailed, Evan’s backing vocals wove seamlessly into the mix, and Barty’s drumming became a furious heartbeat driving the song forward.

James felt his chest tighten as the song neared its end. The lyrics lingered in the air like smoke, haunting and beautiful. The final notes faded into silence, and the arena erupted into deafening applause and cheers.

Regulus let his gaze sweep over the crowd before his eyes settled on James. The moment was fleeting—a brief lock of eyes across the chaos of flashing lights and roaring voices—but it was enough.

With a final smirk, Regulus turned and disappeared into the shadows of the stage, leaving James breathless and utterly, irreversibly gone for him.

The champagne had definitely been a mistake. Or maybe it hadn’t. Regulus wasn’t entirely sure anymore as he swirled the golden liquid in his glass, his sharp cheekbones flushed a faint pink, his smirk permanently etched into place. Around him, the table buzzed with energy—Barty was halfway through his third drink and aggressively recounting some outrageous story to Dorcas, who nodded along with her signature unimpressed expression. Evan leaned back in his chair, polished and unbothered, occasionally throwing in a deadpan remark that left Pandora clutching her stomach with laughter.

On the other side of the table, Sirius was reclined in his chair, legs crossed with his boots kicked up onto the table’s edge despite Remus’s quiet protests. Across from them sat Lily, effortlessly elegant, and James—golden, grinning, and entirely focused on Regulus, who was currently holding his champagne flute like it was some kind of ancient artifact.

The night felt unbearably long. Every category dragged on, every acceptance speech stretched into eternity, and every glimmer of golden light reflecting off a Grammy statue felt like a cruel tease. Regulus sat stiffly at their table, his glass of champagne trembling slightly in his hand despite his best efforts to look composed.

Around him, his bandmates were caught in their own nervous rituals. Dorcas sat upright, her sharp jaw clenched, her fingers tracing invisible patterns along the stem of her glass. Barty bounced his knee under the table, eyes darting to the stage every time the host so much as shifted toward the microphone. Evan, ever the image of calm, had his arms crossed over his chest, his brows furrowed just enough to betray how hard he was trying not to care.

Sirius and Remus, seated across the table, were watching them carefully. Sirius offered occasional winks and thumbs-ups—poor attempts to lighten the tension—while Remus shot James an amused, if slightly sympathetic, glance.

James, for his part, hadn’t stopped watching Regulus. He leaned in close, voice low and steady. “You’re going to win. You know that, right?”

Regulus didn’t respond. He just exhaled shakily, his pale fingers curling tighter around the delicate glass stem.

When the host finally returned to the stage and smiled out at the sea of artists and celebrities, Regulus felt the world go muffled around him.

“And now, the award for Best Album…”

Regulus’s stomach twisted so hard he thought he might actually be sick. The table had gone silent. Dorcas had stopped fidgeting entirely, her gaze locked on the envelope in the host’s hand. Barty’s knee froze mid-bounce, and even Evan had uncrossed his arms, his lips pressed into a thin line.

James’s hand found Regulus’s knee under the table and squeezed gently, grounding him just enough to stop his spiraling thoughts.

“The nominees are… The Death Eaters for their album ‘Rule The World’, One Direction with their reunion album ‘Green and Blue’, and The Slytherins with their album ‘Stars’.”

Regulus barely heard their album title when it was announced. He could feel the cameras panning to their table, the crowd watching them, analyzing every twitch, every blink. He forced himself to exhale slowly through his nose, but his chest still felt tight.

The host smiled, fingers delicately opening the golden envelope. Time seemed to slow.

“And the Grammy goes to…”

Regulus couldn’t breathe. His ears were ringing, his vision tunneling as he stared unblinking at the stage.

“The Slytherins!”

The table exploded into chaos. Dorcas let out a sharp gasp, her hands flying to her mouth as her eyes went wide. Barty slammed his hands down on the table, shouting something incomprehensible. Evan simply let out a low laugh, a rare smile cracking his usually stoic face.

Regulus, however, sat frozen. His breath hitched in his throat, his body refusing to move even as the cameras zoomed in on him, waiting for his reaction.

“Come on rockstar, up, up, up!” James’s voice was urgent but fond as he stood, grabbing Regulus’s arm and guiding him to his feet before he broke into a wild applause, pride evident on his face.

The walk to the stage felt impossibly long. Regulus wasn’t entirely sure how he made it up there—Barty’s hand on his shoulder, Dorcas subtly adjusting his jacket, Evan walking like a shadow just behind him. When the Grammy statue was placed in his hands, it felt both impossibly heavy and entirely unreal.

The applause swelled and swirled around them, bright lights and camera flashes blending into a kaleidoscope of gold and white. Regulus stepped up to the microphone, staring out at the crowd, at the endless faces waiting for him to speak.

The statue in his hand felt warm. James’s face stood out among the audience, his smile so proud it nearly split his face.

Regulus swallowed hard, his free hand trembling slightly as he gripped the podium.

“Uh… wow. Okay,” he started, blinking into the sea of faces staring back at him. “This is… this is mad. Completely mad. I’m—um—I’m supposed to be more articulate right now, aren’t I?”

A ripple of laughter rolled through the crowd. Behind him, Barty clapped a hand on his shoulder, whispering something Regulus couldn’t hear but was probably deeply unhelpful.

“Right. Okay. This album… this album was a lot. A lot of sleepless nights, a lot of late studio sessions, and probably way too many arguments about whether a drum solo was really necessary—looking at you, Barty.”

Barty raised his arms like he was being accused of a crime, grinning shamelessly.

“But we did it. And I’m proud of every single one of you. Dorcas, Evan, Barty—you lot are… God, you’re annoying, but you’re brilliant.”

The crowd laughed again, and Regulus swayed slightly on his feet before steadying himself against the podium.

“To everyone who believed in us, to our team, our fans—thank you. Really. And, um…”

He hesitated, squinting slightly as if he could physically pull the right words from thin air.

“Oh! Right. Shoutout to Donatella Versace for custom-making this outfit for me.” He gestured vaguely at his sharp, black-and-silver ensemble, which shimmered under the stage lights. “And shoutout… and shoutout to James F. Potter because he’s gonna be taking it off of me tonight.”

The room erupted.

The crowd screamed, the cameras flashed, Sirius doubled over with laughter while Remus buried his face in his hands. Lily smirked behind her champagne glass, and Dorcas gave a single slow clap as Barty and Evan cackled behind Regulus.

James, in the audience, had gone bright red, his hands covering his face in mock embarrassment while grinning wide enough to split his face.

Regulus, however, seemed entirely unbothered. With one last dazed smile and a sharp bow of his head, he stepped back from the microphone, clutching the Grammy like it might float away if he let go.

As the band began to shuffle offstage, Barty threw an arm around Regulus’s shoulders, still laughing.

“You’re an absolute menace, Black.”

Regulus just smirked, his eyes catching James’s across the crowd, and shrugged one shoulder.

“Yeah. But I’m his menace.”

The door to James’s flat slammed shut behind them, the sound reverberating through the quiet space. Neither of them bothered to turn on the lights; the faint glow of the city outside was enough to illuminate their path. Regulus stumbled slightly over the edge of the rug, still half-drunk on champagne and adrenaline, but James was there in an instant, his hands firm on Regulus’s waist, steadying him.

“Well, Mr. Grammy Winner,” James drawled, his voice low and warm, a teasing smile tugging at his lips. “How does it feel knowing the world is absolutely feral over you right now?”

Regulus tilted his head, sharp gray eyes glinting in the dim light as he stepped closer, the tips of their noses nearly brushing. “I think you’re the one who went feral back there, Potter. Reggie!” he mocked, mimicking James’s earlier shout during the performance.

James barked out a laugh before his smile softened. His thumb traced over Regulus’s cheekbone, brushing against the faint smudge of eyeliner still clinging to his skin. “You were brilliant tonight. You know that, yeah?”

Regulus’s breath hitched slightly, and for a moment, the sharp edge he usually carried around him softened. But then his lips curled into that signature smirk, sharp enough to cut glass.

“And you,” Regulus said, his voice dropping to a near whisper, “still owe me for interrupting the most dramatic pause in music history.”

Before James could respond, Regulus’s hands fisted into the lapels of James’s suit jacket, pulling him down into a kiss. It wasn’t gentle. It was messy, desperate, and edged with the raw emotion that had been building between them all night.

James groaned into the kiss, his hands finding their way to Regulus’s hips, pulling him flush against his chest. The Versace jacket crinkled slightly under James’s grip, but neither of them cared. Regulus’s fingers tangled in James’s unruly hair, tugging sharply as he deepened the kiss.

They broke apart just long enough for James to rasp, “Bedroom. Now.”

Regulus smirked again, but this time it was softer, almost fond. “Lead the way, Potter.”

James didn’t need to be told twice. His hand slipped down to entwine with Regulus’s, pulling him through the darkened flat and into his bedroom. The door shut behind them with a quiet click, and the city lights outside painted faint golden lines across their tangled shadows on the wall.

The Grammy statue sat forgotten on the entryway table, gleaming under the faint light—an untouchable reminder of the night they had just shared. But here, in this moment, none of that mattered.

It was just James and Regulus, tangled in golden light and laughter, hands grasping, lips seeking, and words whispered softly into the dark.

When they were finished they rested together on James’ bed, with Regulus lying on the other’s chest and phantom drawing shapes with his finger tip across it. They were tired, and tipsy but oh so happy and content to just be in each other’s company. After all the drama and miscommunication, it was truly a dream that they were here together at last.

“James,” Regulus voice tentatively called in the calm silence between them. 

James turned to look at him, and was paused for a second to take in his beautiful face that was face illuminated by the lights from the street outside, making him look younger and calmer than he had looked in years. 

“Yes, my darling?” James replied, shifting his arms to hold onto the man on him even more securely than before. 

Regulus lifted his hand off James’ chest briefly in order to grab one of his and interlace them as he asked, “Do you have a girl? I dont see a ring on your finger.”

James barked out a loud laugh as he fondly remembered their first encounter but played along to the question. “No, I do not have a girl.”

Regulus hummed in response, but his eyes remained glued to their joint hands. Then he slowly lifted his eyes as he quietly said,
“Well, thats interesting… have you ever thought of marrying a singer?”