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Regulus Black started acting when he was merely six years old, following his brother’s footsteps in making a name in Hollywood as a child star and now a veteran actor.
Both Black brothers were recognized by multiple awarding bodies and continued to gain stardom and attention even after eighteen years. Now that he's twenty-four, Regulus started to slow down with the amount of roles he had been taking.
Every year or so we would start in a major motion picture, dip for a while, and return. Unlike his brother Sirius, who was rather enjoying his time in broadway. Nonetheless the media continued to follow every news story about the brothers.
Being under the spotlight at a young age, Regulus grew accustomed to the fact that his privacy was a luxury. When Sirius got married, he was rather upset that the paparazzi found their way to get snaps of the event. Although Remus convinced Sirius it was alright that nothing was lost, Sirius still felt that privacy was the one thing he wanted for his wedding.
Regulus felt for his brother at that moment. When Regulus started dating actor James Potter when he was twenty, the other being twenty-two, there wasn't a date between the two that wasn't snapped by the media. When he and James broke up, his post-crying face became front page of most magazines. He was lucky enough to see that his face was still looking good otherwise his handler would throw a fit.
That thing happened five months ago, if Regulus knew he and James weren't going to last, he wouldn't accept making a movie with the other two years prior. Just a few months after they finished filming the two had a bad break up, and now the movie is finally premiering.
And when there's a movie premiere, there's also the press tour. Press tour where he’ll have to pretend to be cordial with James. Press tour where they'll still have to sell their chemistry to the general public or else the movie's reception won't be that high.
“Reg, you know you can just schedule your press dates, do it alternately so you won't be with him all throughout.” Sirius’ voice echoes around the room as Regulus puts his phone on speaker mode during his treadmill session.
A bark can be heard in the background, probably Sirius and Remus’ dog, Cashew.
“It's not that simple, Si. Uncle Alphard will have my head if I don't be there for all of the press tour, he's the executive producer of the film, remember?” Alphard Black is their uncle and a well-known filmmaker for years, even before the brothers started their career. Sirius doesn't deny the fact that he got nepotism from his uncle who may have put in a few good words to his acquaintances about a certain potential young actor.
Remus takes the phone from Sirius which the other didn't let go without a fight, “Don't avoid the tour, Reg. The media will think you're avoiding James, and then they'll put you in a bad light.”
He turns off the machine before reaching for his towel, “As if they didn't already put pictures of me and Barty everywhere and called me a cheater and a two-faced whore. Can you imagine Evan’s face when he showed me the magazine?”
“You can't deny, Reg. You and Barty do have some chemistry, please don't tell Evan, but everybody knows you grew up together and it's purely platonic, whoever believes those rumours are probably stupid.”
Regulus was well aware that he and Barty do look together when they're acting and on screen, when they did a movie at age eighteen, a rom-com called “About Time” which was an absolute hit in the box office, the public started to anticipate that the two would date, which the two adamantly corrected the press that they're only friends now and forever but they do appreciate the good responses for the movie.
The thing is, Regulus knew the world was waiting for him to do something wrong. He understood that when paparazzis waited for him and took every picture possible, they were also waiting for a groundbreaking hiccup from the actor. He thinks Sirius’ big hiccup as an actor was when he had been caught purchasing in a sex toy shop, which Regulus still thinks was avoidable considering online shopping exists, but all Sirius told him was that physical shopping makes sure you get the products right.
So the media took his breakup with James as a chance to paint the other in a bad light. James never addressed any questions by the paps hoarding around him, he only answered once when the cheating rumours with Barty got out and said, “Leave him alone and keep his name out of your mouth,” and drove away.
Still the media became persistent in finding why the two broke up. Just two days before the start of the premiere and press, there’s already thousands of posts anticipating what the two exes would do as they reunite in front of cameras.
“I don't have any choice. I’ll finish this idiotic press tour and never see him again.” Regulus announces to the two on the phone, “Are you sure Reg?” he hears Sirius’ ask solemnly.
I don’t know, he thinks.
Live at the Cannes Film Festival, we are anticipating the wonderful designer pieces our actors and crew will walk out the red carpet in! In just a few minutes, the two main stars of the rising movie “La La Land” the crowd is surely burning in excitement as they witness the two offscreen former couple make their way to stun the carpet at their reun-
The voice of the reporter fades as Pandora lowers the volume sensing Regulus’ irritation. “Oh love, please don't frown, you're ruining my work.”
Pandora has been Regulus’ overall stylist since they were eighteen, the two met at Yale when Regulus was majoring in Fine Arts while Pandora majored in Arts in general. Having common classes, the two hit it off and Regulus became a solid fan of his friend’s work that he begged her to become his stylist from then on.
“It's just ridiculous! Who cares if I'm gonna walk with James on the red carpet? Can they just move on and leave us alone, we broke up boo-fucking-hoo! It's not the end of the world.” The thing about Regulus is once he starts his rant, he never stops and never picks up on the subtle hints from the people around him.
Right now, Pandora was signalling her eyes towards something, trying to make Regulus stop and look behind him but the other was very passionate with his rant.
“These people really think the world is gonna end when James Motherfucking Potter breaks his heart, and somehow I'm responsible for everything! It's ridiculous! Now they want me to make heart eyes at him again as if they weren't cursing me just a few weeks ago for cheating on him with Barty! Of all people, Barty! Do they hear themse-” This time Regulus notices how the room got and decided to look at Pandora.
“Fuck, he's here isn't he?” And before he can react, James waves his hand, already styled and carpet ready.
“Lovely to see you too,” was all he says as he sits at the sofa, gesturing to Pandora to proceed with styling Regulus. The air immediately got thick and awkward. All three are now silent. Only the machines’ noises help in filtering out the silence.
If anyone had superhearing, they could probably hear James’ heartbeat as if his heart was trying to leap out his chest. Just a few weeks ago he was crying his heart out to Peter and Sirius over Regulus, it wasn't even his pretty crying mode, it was snot all over and eyes swollen shut crying. Now, he’s in the same room as his ex-lover again. Looking pretty as the day they broke each other's hearts.
It took Pandora five more minutes before she scrambled to leave, James noticed Regulus pulling on her sleeve before the other forcefully tugged it and said sorry to him. Great, Regulus doesn't even want to be alone with him.
He hears Regulus sigh as he stands up, fixing his suit. Their suits were matching in a way that he can't help but feel giddy over it. The small feeling of delight was washed over when Regulus turns to look at him with nothing but cold eyes. “Are you ready then?”
That's it? They don't talk for months and Regulus goes all North Pole on him?
In a different setting James would probably start an argument but right now the two of them should be on their way to the red carpet.
The ride was eerily silent, an awful space between the two. Uncle Alphard, who was in the front seat, and was also walking the carpet, eyed the two. “Are you both aware that you cannot fight or even show disdain on the other while in front of the cameras?”
Regulus grunts in annoyance. Maybe if James didn't look too good he wouldn't be this pissed.
“I'm well aware. I'm on my best behaviour right now. Can't say the same for him.” James snarks pointing at Regulus with his thumb.
The sheer audacity, Regulus exasperates to himself.
“You can fuck yourself with your best behavior. You and I both know you're pretentious as fuck. Don't you worry, I will start kissing the ground you walk on once we're on the carpet, you wanna know why? Because I'm a good actor, and you can only wish to be the same!” It was James’ turn to be offended.
He was quite a great actor himself. He came from a family of actors and directors. He may be the face of nepotism but he sure did redeem himself when he worked hard to be recognized for his talents instead of his family name.
Before he could reply, Uncle Alphard sushes them, “We're here. Take deep breaths both of you. You'll get out of this car, all smiles. I'll go first.”
They watch Alphard greet the crowd with his camera smile and wave. Charming as always.
It was Regulus’ turn to break the silence, “Go out first, open my door.”
As if I didn't do that even before, James says to himself.
“No need to tell me,” he says instead before going out. Greeting the much more rowdy crowd now. The flashes were intense but understandably so, it was his first event right after the breakup news, people are desperate.
He runs to the opposite side of the car, and opens it for Regulus, who immediately switches to his actor mode. The angry Regulus inside the car was nowhere visible in his face.
They both hear the crowd cheer louder. They both smile at the cameras. It wasn't even the main red carpet yet but it was already overwhelming. By habit, James reaches out to hole Regulus’ hand, intertwining them with his as they start to walk.
He can feel Regulus clench his hand at the gesture. Maybe James’ heart clenched too.
They greet a few reporters scattered on the walkway. They didn't bother to stop, not wanting to address any personal questions yet. James’ spots the interviewer with the tiny mic waving over them.
He absolutely adored the tiny mic interview. Regulus hasn't been interviewed by them yet so he tugs Regulus to be in the main focus of the camera.
“Hi! James, you are an absolute treasure, we’ve been wanting to interview Regulus for such a long time,” the interviewer beams behind the camera
“I know, I know! He's here! Ask him the same things you asked me before.”
The thing James liked about this interview style is that they don't ask personal questions, they ask about interest and opinions. He dragged Regulus here knowing the other was safe.
“So, Regulus! How does it feel to be back on the red carpet?”
Regulus eyes the tiny mic being extended to him, looking at James in bewilderment, the other only nodding at him encouragingly, “My God! This is a tiny mic,” he says as he puts his thumb and pointer finger to hold it.
“Well being dressed to be pretty is fun, so I like red carpets because of that. I hope everyone likes our looks because my good friend, Pandora, will be upset otherwise.”
The interviewer laughs at his answer before asking a few more questions such as whether he knows what a tiktok is, what french food would he eat after the event and other superficial stuff he didn't mind answering.
“As our last question, can you name your top four movies right now?”
Regulus was stunned, he's an actor of course he watches movies but picking only four? That's cruel. “Oh my, only four? Uhm okay, I recently watched The Holdovers and everyone was brilliant in it, so that's one. I also did watch Stand By Me a few times, one of the movies you can replay for a lifetime. Oh I'm stumped, I can't think of another!”
While Regulus was thinking and scrambling to mention the third movie, James already had an answer for him. He tries to whisper the answer but the tiny mic had different plans, “About Time by Richard Curtis”
Regulus bounces on his heel before giving James’ arm a squeeze, “Yes! That movie, you guys have to see it!”
“Wow James! You seemed to remember his favourite movie, did you guys watch it together?” The question seems to get to the both of them as they show a quick fall of facades when their eyes meet each other's. James clears his throat in fear of his voice failing him, “Yeah, we did watch it a few times together.”
“Last one, Regulus!” The interviewer says reminding Regulus to finish the answer.
“Of course, the fourth movie would be La La Land. Go watch it people as soon as it hits your cinemas!” They quickly say their goodbyes before walking to the main carpet.
Regulus tries to calm himself down. The main carpet is where the vultures are at. He already knows they won't get out of it unscathed.
Once they arrived. The herd of cameramen turned to their directions, the blinding flashes never stopping. Still they walk with their smiles on.
This is an actor’s best performance if you ask James. Pretending everything isn't crumbling down while your life gets reported on the front page is the true stage one can never leave easily.
“Regulus! Is it true that you cheated on James?” Someone shouts from somewhere, they couldn't see who it was when all of the cameras covered their faces.
James clenches his jaw, turning his head rapidly looking for the culprit. He felt a hand on his, Regulus was looking at him, Don’t pay attention to them, eyes only on me. That's what Regulus’ silent eye contact meant.
The rest of the walk went by, Regulus was the one in control of the two as James was still quite stuck up on the person who shouted that stupid statement earlier. Regulus would never do that. How dare they disrespect Regulus.
Just before the two of them knew it, the premiere was over.
The cast and production q&a set up was quickly done. A row of chairs lined up on the small stage that is directly beneath the movie screen.
Typical forum stuff, most questions by the viewers were directed to the showrunners. The director gets most of the questions, more often it was about the vision and the direction of the film. Regulus already answered how he prepared for the role. James answered the question if he did learn an instrument for the role which he then revealed he did back up vocals for a song by The 1975 and did some guitar and piano lessons as a kid.
He didn't reveal which song he featured in though, he argues that the fans would obsess over it too much and his voice wasn't really that clear as it got layered to other elements in the sound.
Both actors thought they’d leave the theatre without having to answer a question they didn't feel like answering but the last person deemed otherwise.
“How did it feel watching yourselves act as a couple on the big screen now that the two of you are no longer romantically involved?” There were a few gasps in the audience while the producers and staff looked at them in anticipation.
Regulus curses to himself, well no watching me kiss my ex-lover passionately on the big screen as we say I love you to each other tenderly did not definitely hurt, in fact it was delightful, like pouring salt over an open wound. He doesn't say that but he screams the thought inside his pretty head.
Instead he says, “First and foremost, as actors we were taught to separate our feelings from our work and our personal lives. In a way, I can say that what our characters did, what my character did, in no way should affect me. I think that helped me not relate the characters to me or James who has been a delightful workmate.”
Workmate, sure, like I didn't passionately make out with you all over different countries, James thought to himself. It was upsetting him with how great Regulus was handling this whole PR thing.
“Well for me, I always say love is never lost. As you said, we may not be romantically involved but there is love between our craft, when I saw ourselves in the movie I think I felt love for the performance we shared in it. Love will always find itself back, even in different forms,” it was James turn to answer, while he was saying the last parts of his statement he couldn't help but turn his gaze to Regulus, who slowly turned to look at him too.
He notices how Regulus shifts his gaze, unable to hold eye contact for too long. He notices how Regulus swallows tightly. He notices Regulus fiddle with the mic.
James can feel himself losing it, Regulus this, Regulus that. His mind and body can't stop revolving around Regulus that even when the other dismissed him and labelled him as his workmate, he couldn't stop himself from basically admitting to everyone that he still holds love for the other. He even added the “even in different forms” bullshit to stray people away.
The night ended with the two never speaking to each other after the forum. James can only hope the press tour wouldn't be so bad.
A howling laughter can be heard inside Regulus’ penthouse. Barty was absolutely having a blast flaming Regulus and James’ moments in the premiere.
“Look at them! They say they're broken up but they look at each other stupidly.” Evan swats at his head, “We both know they're too in their heads to figure things out.”
Regulus was getting annoyed. What would they know? It wasn't their relationship. It wasn't their argument. It was definitely not them who argued with James for a solid hour before yelling at each other that they should break up. “Yeah laugh all you want when the two of you break up I’ll be the first to spill the tea on newspapers.”
The room breaks out in laughter again, “As if those two would break up.” Dorcas says by the fact.
“Ugh! You're right. God created two idiots perfectly fit for each other. It's like Adam and Eve in a Dumb and Dumber universe! You two are exhausting.” Regulus proceeds to bury his head on a pillow.
“There there, Reg. You sure you don't want to talk things through with James? You can do it today, after the shoot,” Pandora suggests as she rubs Regulus’ arm in a comforting manner.
It's not like Regulus enjoyed walking around eggshells with James. He just wants everything to be smooth sailing and he knows once he gets a heart to heart with the other, it's just gonna be another round of argument. He doesn't want to be angry at him anymore.
“Probably not a good time, we have another shoot tomorrow and with puppies of all things. I can't look the worst and arguing with James withers me away.”
“Speaking of interviews, you should get going. You don't want to be late for that spicy interviewer,” Barty informs him.
He was scheduled to go on Hot Ones Versus with James. He really didn't want to do the segment for personal reasons but it's one of the most popular media coverage they could get.
So here he was now, sitting on a table face to face with James, a row of chicken presented to each of them.
The camera director was just informing them which angles to take note of just in case they want to avoid getting bad shots.
1, 2, 3! Showtime.
“Hello everyone! I’m James-”
“and I’m Regulus Black-”
“and we've been chosen to do today's edition of Hot Ones Versus.”
The introduction goes on, Regulus explains what they should do, James had a spiel about how many chickens got butchered for this video. Some small talk before going into it.
Regulus was the first one to quiz James, “Sirius and I became actors at the same time when we booked a role for identical twins. True or False”
James shakes his head with a grin, “Never happened, you and Sirius never looked like twins. Definitely false.”
There's a buzzing sound that indicated he was correct so he didn't have to eat the Level I chicken. It was his turn now. “What was my first acting role?”
Regulus quickly answered, “Simon in Nanny McPhee, everybody keeps on copying your ‘I Never Say Please’ line nonstop.” Another correct answer ding was heard.
“To be fair, my line delivery was exaggerated because I was a kid. I was excited. I like the fact people are obsessed with the line anyway.” James clarifies, it was more than a decade already but he still sees clips of him in Nanny McPhee.
“When I joined Shameless as a guest star, what age was I?” Regulus asks this time.
James tilts his head, thinking. He knew Regulus’ role in Shameless. He was Ian Gallagher’s short love fling for just two episodes. Regulus got the role because he was really a big fan of the show. He couldn't remember the age though.
“16?” Regulus gasps at him, a ding sounds as it says he was wrong. “I was 19! I had to kiss Ian, or Cameron Monaghan, you know!”
“I forgot! You were in two episodes and we met when you're about to be twenty.” Regulus only laughs at him before telling him to go eat the chicken.
The spice was nothing, so the director told them to skip two levels. James now has a Level 4 chicken in line while Regulus has a Level 3 chicken.
“Who was my first celebrity crush?” James reads the cue card.
He wasn't sure if he mentioned this to Regulus even before. He feels quite silly now that he has to reveal it.
“Fuck, I don't know. Hugh Jackman?” Regulus says in panic as he hears the timer tick. The buzz indicated he's wrong.
James laughs at him as he palms his forehead, “It's Audrey Hepburn.”
“What? You never mentioned her! I guessed Hugh Jackman because you kept watching the X-Men movies.” Well great, Regulus just exposed his Wolverine addiction.
“Well a first's a first. Audrey Hepburn was a blessing to Hollywood.” He says seriously to the camera before turning to look at Regulus who was eyeing the chicken, the younger takes a bite, lifting his head as he chews.
James was quite worried for Regulus for this segment. He never handled his spices well. It was evident now considering Regulus already had a tiny flush of pink on his face just after a Level 3 chicken.
With a signal that he's okay, they continue the game. “What was the first thing I got with my money from my acting jobs?” Regulus says for his turn.
Regulus did start at a young age, James thought. He wondered what the other could possibly be interested in buying at that age. “You got Sirius candy.”
The crew laughs at the answer with how innocent it is and how it was a reminder of the fact Regulus was a child star. “Nope, I was gonna buy him a toy but he was being annoying. Instead, I bought a postcard with a photoshopped Elf on it because I thought it was funny.”
“How was that funny?” James genuinely inquires, eyebrows furrowed and hands spread out. “Just say you don't get my humour and go, eat the wing.”
He nods lightheartedly before taking the bite. The spice was definitely there but not enough to make James react. “You absolute monster. How could you sit there and not have a reaction?”
“Growing up with seasoned meals does that to a person, Reg. No offense by the way.” The staff laughs once more.
The two continued asking each other which landed them to Regulus being one level behind the spiciest wing while James was two levels below.
Regulus wasn't even pink anymore, he was tear stained and red. But he refused to end the game, wanting to win.
“I just need a minute, I can do this. I'm not quitting. Hooh, it's fucking hot. My tongue is gonna fall off.” Regulus was aggressively fanning himself while puffing his cheeks.
He swears his tongue is numb but the spice is still getting to him. Before he could do it himself, James wipes his tears with a napkin all while laughing.
Stupid stupid James. He keeps doing things that make Regulus regret that night they fought.
“Yeah tap out, Reg. No more spice for you in a while.” Regulus immediately shakes his head even as he drinks water. “Nuh uh. I'm winning this. Go hit me with the next question.”
James laughs more before turning to the crew, “If someone taps out, the other wins?” They nod at him. “I'm tapping out.” He says with no hesitation, holding both hands up.
“What? No! Why are you quitting? We have to finish the challenge.” Regulus can't deny that he was born competitive.
“No more, love. Your face is red and your tongue is swollen. You win by winning this game, I win because I don't like seeing you hurt. Win-win situation.” James replies absentmindedly as he makes his way towards the trophy. There was a short silence after he spoke, he didn't just call his ex, love, didn't he?
He's fucked. Absolutely fucked. There's no coming back from this.
Regulus was stunned in his place. Eyes on James while James stood still one hand carrying the trophy. The director sensed the awkwardness and announced the winner.
The segment ended quickly. Both actors chatted shortly with the crew taking pictures here and there.
Before Regulus could leave the place. James catches him by the arm, “Can we talk?”
“Not this time,” the younger replies but he tiptoes to kiss James on the cheek. “See you tomorrow.”
Regulus cannot explain why he kissed James on the cheeks. He cannot explain why he acted cordially with the guy after. Maybe he felt vulnerable when he heard James call him their endearment after months of not hearing it. Maybe it was the way James was taking care of him all throughout. He doesn't know. He doesn't want to make sense of it.
All he wants is for the next interview with James to be over. Another bummer was that he was gonna be in a small space with so many puppies and he was afraid of dogs.
“Seriously this one I’d rather skip,” he says to his phone speaking to Sirius.
“Well Siriusly, according to your brother….” his older brother pauses waiting for Regulus’ response to his overused joke, “you know…Siriusly, according to me, Sirius…”
“Yes Sirius I got the joke, can you continue what you're saying?” Regulus exasperated.
“Okay so you don't have to worry. The puppies are well-behaved, when I did the puppy interview I had so much fun. You're doing this with James too, you're in safe hands. Which reminds me we’ll have to talk about what happened yesterday! You kissed him? You're getting back-”
No, I don't know! I don't even know if he wants me after everything that has happened.
“And I’m ending the call now, you're being nosy. Bye!”
The journey to the buzzfeed studio didn't take too long. James was already there with a few stylists hanging around him. As if he needs extreme makeovers just to look good, Regulus saw what James looked like when he just got out of bed, he's certain James can qualify for a runway even at that state.
They exchange short greetings as they prepare with the crew for the interview, “The best thing to do is not panic around the puppies. They can sense when you're in distress so just play with them in good spirits,” a man with a clipboard says, obviously a little star struck as he was sporting a red face.
Just before he braced himself for the puppies, the crew began filming. Luckily, James took the lead for the spiel. “Hey everyone! I’m James-”
“- and I’m Regulus Black.”
“And we are supposed to be playing with the puppies by this time, where are the little rascals?”
Oh no, oh no. Regulus can see the crate of pups. They're so alive. Regulus is dead by the end of this.
The person tilts the crate so that the pups would run to the both of them. The puppies eagerly got off the box, two puppies already made their way to James who was welcoming them with two arms open while Regulus sat still eyeing them carefully.
Two puppies were sniffing the ground as they walked so they're taking their time to reach Regulus and James whereas a lone puppy was running around them with enthusiasm.
“Hello you! you're so cute, you too! Oh you all are cute.” James boops the puppies’ noses as he talks to them in a baby voice. In another set up Regulus would probably appreciate his energy but he was surrounded by puppies.
The director behind the camera gestures to Regulus to engage with the puppies, which he slowly tries to encourage a pup with black fur to come to him.
James already started the spiel which will start the interview officially, in no time a question was already asked. “What was the hardest role you played?”
“Probably Beautiful Boy, it took a lot of energy both physically and mentally for me to get into character and perfect it because I really wanted it to be raw and authentic.” Regulus can remember the role very well as it was merely just three years ago. He also can't help but remember how James came to the set to comfort him after he cried during their facetime call.
“For me it was Aftersun, I was twenty-two, filling in the shoes of a father in his late thirties. The entire film wasn't dialogue heavy so I had to make sure I showed the audience what I was thinking or what I felt.” People have loved James in Aftersun, he remembers being praised even by the Academy members for his performance, it made the whole ordeal worth it.
The puppy with the black fur has made its way to Regulus’ lap which made the other freeze in fear but once he realised the pup just wants to take a nap. Regulus visibly relaxed and started brushing the pup’s fur lightly. “Oh my God! I remember crying so much after watching that film, I kept thinking to myself I’m gonna kill James for not warning me!”
They laugh at each other as they bicker over the films they just mentioned before the next question was served. “If you could play a marvel character, who would you play?”
Somehow, James already had an answer in mind. “People always compare me to Spiderman! I’ve seen my edits you guys, how you make me look like spiderman is beyond me. But yeah, I’d probably play Spiderman because the character itself is fun. How about you, Reg?”
He turns to Regulus who was smiling down at the puppy in his lap. “I want to be an x-men or maybe someone in the Fantastic four? I like Susie’s powers.”
When's the last time you argued?
They look at each other. Why was this question approved?
“I.. well the question is too broad, we argue over the tiniest things,” Regulus says laughing by the end of the statement to clear his nervousness.
James catches his attempt and adds, “Yeah, we’d probably argue on our lunch order later.”
The question still didn't feel right for Reg who was still painfully tensed. The puppy sitting on him stood on its legs and pawed at Regulus, seemingly wanting to be carried. He did carry it hesitantly.
Who’s most likely to apologise first over a fight?
Seriously? Why are the questions like this? Regulus wants to go home.
“Probably me, they say I wear my heart on my sleeve so I wouldn't hesitate to say sorry if I mean it,” the glance James throws at Regulus’ way didn't go unnoticed as he answered the question.
“I only apologise when I finally cool down and reason things out so I don't think I'd be the first to clear any air,” Regulus states. He didn't look at James when he said his answer instead he kissed the pup on the head.
The other puppies were becoming more and more rowdy. Two puppies were playfully biting each other which James had to break them up.
What's your favourite role or movie that the other played or starred in?
This was an easy one for James but Regulus beat him to it, “I liked James’ character in Scream. I never expected him to fit the role of ghost face so well. I also kinda enjoyed seeing him bloody but let's not boost his ego more,” Regulus playfully whispers the last bit pretending to signal the audience to James.
James barks a laugh before nudging Regulus by the shoulders, “I knew you were enjoying the film too hard. You should've told me the bloody get up did it, I would've worn it again for halloween.”
“Yes well you also played the role of a psychopath too good so please excuse me for being a tiny bit scared.”
“For me, my favourite Regulus role is probably the one in the Percy Jackson franchise, he looked so tiny playing baby Nico, when he used his sad eyes I know everyone who was watching had their hearts breaking! To think he was around nine at that time.” James failed to mention how he would rewatch Regulus’ scenes and imagine if that's what their child would look like. He always hoped their children would be like tiny Regulus, the world needs more of Regulus he says to himself.
And for the last question, What character did the other play that was exactly like their real personality?
“Oh, I think Regulus is close to his character in our new film La La Land, he's hardworking and ambitious, in a good way. He's the type of person who would stop at nothing just to achieve his dreams,” James answers with a fond smile while Regulus only nods at him.
“James is also like his character in our new film, he's a very passionate artist while possessing faithfulness and stubbornness . Once he gets going he will finish it until the end.”
The director says, “Didn't the two characters break up in the film?”
The two freeze at the statement, James being the first to laugh, “Yeah, that was a trick question right? Not gonna answer that, you'll have to watch to know.”
And the interview ends.
Regulus wants to punch the director in the face, adding that follow up wasn't approved. He's sure that it'll make the final cut.
He wants to go home now but apparently he and James were supposed to go to another interview after lunch.
When lunch came by, the two were forced to eat at their own table since the crew were too shy to be around them and they really didn't want to bring awkwardness to the table. “Can we finally talk?”
Regulus shakes his head, “Later. I don't want to go to another interview with interruption.”
“Okay, so are we chewing on this miserable salad with pure dread and silence?”
They both laugh at each other. James broke the ice successfully.
If Regulus knew he was gonna be in a Lie Detector Test by Vanity Fair with James, he would've copied Zayn Malik with the broken leg act just before the Met to avoid it.
The questions for lie detectors are meant to invoke reactions from them and he’s quite had enough.
But he's an actor with a contract that states he'll finish this press tour from start to end. So here he was being strapped with the equipment.
If Regulus is lucky enough the power will go out during the interview.
“You’re sure this is accurate?” James asks the man in charge of the contraption. The man clarified that it’s only a polygraph which was the same as used for crime admissions but never determining the truth.
Examiner: What's your name?
Regulus: Regulus Arcturus Black
Examiner: Truth
James laughs, he knows it was standard for them to check if the machine was working with simple questions but it would be hilarious if the machine said Regulus was lying.
Examiner: Do you miss your brother who is now currently focusing on broadway?
Regulus: I’m happy Sirius found his happiness in the industry, I miss him but I’m happy he's there.
Examiner: Truth.
James nods happily at this. The two really came a long way. Few years back the two had a big falling out which made the front page on every news outlet. It took months for the two to reconcile with Uncle Alphard intervening and their own parents telling them off.
Examiner: Do you want to act in a movie with your brother again?
Regulus: If he wants to, I’m down.
Examiner: Truth.
Examiner: There's a rumour you fought with a co-star, was this co-star Gilderoy Lockhart?
Both Regulus and James couldn't help but snicker a laugh. They looked at each other in secret communication.
Regulus: No.
Examiner: False. He's lying.
Regulus: To be fair I lied on purpose, I was checking if this thing is working.
Examiner: Was the fight about James?
Regulus: No. Not really.
Examiner: False.
James protests in the background, it was definitely not about him. As far as he could recall Lockhart was bothering Reg to a date which the other bluntly told him he wouldn't, considering he was dating James at that time.
Regulus: Okay, the fight was because he didn't respect my relationship with James. That's all I’m gonna say. Water under the bridge.
Examiner: Last question, Do you regret dating a fellow actor?
Absolutely no fucking way, Regulus thinks. Of course they’d ask this while he's in front of James. He can't help but see the flash of hurt in James’ eyes. The other looked down for a second before returning to smile ahead. Waiting for Regulus’ answer.
Regulus: No.
Examiner: Truth.
He exhales visibly as they help him out of the wirings. He couldn't look at James at all.
The director behind the set asked James if he's good to go. James only gestures a thumbs up with a smile.
Examiner: Is your name James Potter?
James: Yes. James would be fine.
Examiner: Truth.
Regulus grins at James’ adamant insistence that he should be called James only, not wanting to mention his last name frequently.
Examiner: Did you wish for another movie in the scream franchise?
James: No, I didn't want to be boxed into one role.
Examiner: Truth.
Much to Regulus’ disappointment, he wouldn't be able to see Ghostface James on the big screen again.
Examiner: Were you in a relationship with your former co-star Emmeline Vance?
Oh this again? Regulus thinks, he's had enough of those rumours.
James: Nope.
Examiner: Truth.
It should be, Regulus says in his head. Emmeline has been a big topic for the couple, the paparazzi was grasping for straws to create pieces of theories.
Examiner: Did you punch Lucius during Paris Fashion Week?
James: I did. No regrets.
Regulus laughs. “Elaborate please.”
James: When someone is being a wannabe mean-girl. Sometimes a punch is deserved.
Examiner: Truth.
The entire crew couldn't help but laugh as well. It wasn't unknown that Lucius could be a diva when he wanted to be. It so happened that he acted bratty towards Regulus which James didn't appreciate.
Examiner: Do you want to act in another movie with your former partner, Regulus Black?
James: Yes.
Regulus was surprised with how James answered without wasting a second. He thought James was done with him after all this.
Examiner: Truth.
James: It's Regulus we're talking about here people. Who am I to deny Hollywood’s sweetheart?
The crew agreed in unison.
Examiner: Are you angry with Sirius for siding with his brother during the breakup?
Regulus was quite appalled with the question; he almost stood up in protest but James spoke before him.
James: Never, there's no taking sides because we're not enemies. They are brothers, what do you expect?
Examiner: Truth.
After a few nonsensical questions the interview finished swiftly much to their delight. James immediately pulled Regulus to a private room. “We're talking. I can't do this anymore.”
“Okay, what do you want to talk about?” Regulus inquires, as James sits on the sofa gesturing for the other to the same.
Regulus shakes his head, folding his arms standing still. “Can you please sit down?” James asks verbally this time.
“No.”
“Sit down, Regulus.” James pushes one last time.
Regulus huffs and sits across James, “Fine!”
“I’m sorry,” James starts, “I'm sorry for all the things I’ve said that night. There's no excuse whether I meant it or not. I regret it. It wasn't what I wanted. I’m sorry for disrespecting you and what you wanted.”
During that night, James was laying in bed with Regulus, his chest sticking to the other’s backside, he was littering the younger with tender kisses, occasionally making Reg giggle. “We should be a family.”
“What?” Regulus turns his body in surprise, “I mean, we could get married, have kids you know?”
Regulus pushes himself to sit up peering at James, “We're so young, James.”
James moves to copy Regulus’ position, “Well not right now. Maybe in a few years, five years give or take?”
“I- you know I still want to act James? Even in five years time. I’d be only twenty-one, you're gonna be thirty-one, that's still young.” It was the truth, Regulus always knew James was it for him, but he didn't understand why settling down would be too soon. They both had careers ahead of them.
“My parents had me when they were twenty eight and twenty seven. Life has no timeline, you know? I'm not forcing you, Reg. I’m just proposing the idea, do you not want that life with me?” James asks with a hint of insecurity laced in his voice.
Regulus stands up, wearing a sweatshirt over his head. He has yet to realise the clothing wasn't his but was James’ pullover. “When I got with you, what did I tell you?”
“That you want to take things slow.” James answers.
“Does this mean slow for you, James?” Regulus breathes out.
James stands up to put his hands on Regulus’ shoulders, “We are doing it slow. We've been together for four years now. In five years that would be almost a decade.”
“In five years, I want to be still acting. I want to make more films. If we settle down, do you think we’d be able to do that?” Regulus never expected James to wish to settle down this fast. They were both so ambitious and career oriented.
“Just because we're building a family doesn't mean we have to stop our careers. We can do it at the same time.” James holds Regulus’ hands. “Come on, Reg? Don't you want a family with me?”
Regulus never thought about it that far. He wants to be with James, he's sure about it. But he doesn't know if he can picture doing domestic responsibilities while in the limelight.
“I don't know what I want, James. I want you and I love my work.” Regulus says instead.
“You can have me and your work. I never made you choose. I just want to know if we're on the same page.” James didn't mean to push Regulus. He didn't want to force Regulus to anything but he can't deny not having a family with Reg would hurt. He doesn't understand it.
Regulus seemed to be annoyed at the question. “On the same page? We're not even on that page yet. You're thinking too far ahead!”
“I’m just suggesting Reg! I don't know why you're making it seem like I’m asking for it now.”
“Well I don't know! Why are you bringing it up now?”
“I was just wondering okay? I was wondering if you wanted that life with me!”
“Did you ever think about what I wanted, James?”
“I know what you want! It's clear to me that whatever it is you want, I'm not in it!”
“Is that what you think? Me not wanting to settle down means I don't want you? Did I ever make you feel that? I don't understand! James, we're going in circles here!” Regulus shouts as tears fall down his eyes. James’ back was turned to him, he can see James brush a palm by his face out of frustration.
James faces him, cheeks wet from his tears “I just wanted to see if you wanted to have something with me. I thought we were serious about each other. For once in my life, I wanted more than my career, and I wanted you Reg. I wanted it all with you. But I see it now, you would still pick your career over me. I don't blame you. But I can't say that I’m not hurt.”
“That's not… James, you know that's not true.”
“Is it?” James asks almost like a whisper.
“I think we should break up.” Regulus says instead. He was scared. He didn't want to hurt James. He never meant for this to happen.
So here they are now, flash forward to present time. Regulus appreciates James’ apology so much. No one was in the wrong, he sees it now. They just miscommunicated. They were too intense with how they dealt with the situation, if he could turn back time to react differently he would do it.
He stands up from where he sat, kneels in front of James’s sitting form before clasping their hands together.
“When I said I wanted slow, It's because you're the first thing in my life that I could have behind the spotlight. I wanted to take things slow because I felt like we would have all the time with each other. I always knew you were it for me. You and I are meant for each other, I always knew that. When you mentioned having a family, I got scared. Sirius and I, our parents exploited us, made us work at a young age, used our name for their gain. Having kids while maintaining my career meant the children would know what it's like to not have peace and privacy, and I couldn't do that to them. When Sirius married Remus, despite their attempts, their wedding was still plastered all over, I didn't want that for us. I thought I would have the chance to separate you from my career. The moment you asked me if I saw myself having a family with you, my fear got the best of me. Our life in the spotlight puts a target on the family we want to build. I got scared James, I am still so scared but losing you wasn't worth all that fear, I want to be brave because I want you.”
The both of them were teary eyed by the time Regulus finished his statement, with strong arms, James pulled him up for a hug. “I'm sorry, Reg. I’m really sorry for putting you on the spot. It was awful for me to turn it against you. When you hesitated the whole family thing, I thought it was the end of us, I got scared and thought that was it for us. We’ll compromise, we have to start thinking as a team. I know we have our careers but we have to make us work. I can't lose you, Reg.”
“Okay, compromise. I want you to know, I'm not gonna be scared when we settle down. I thought about it, whatever it is, I want to do it with you. The past few months have been the worst for me. I need you, James.”
James was so elated with their resolution. Reg still wants him, no, according to the other, he needs James. Oh and James doesn't know what to do with that.
“You love me?” James asks as he kisses Regulus’ head. “I love you, Reg. I’m so in love with you. With or without a family, you're all I need. I know that now. Do you love me, my love?”
Regulus lifts his head to kiss James tenderly on the lips, “I love you. You're my heart and soul. You're all I ever need too.”
That's all it takes for them to become lost in each other that night. Making up for the time they lost during the few months they were broken up. The break was all they needed to see what was good for them.
In time, the two young actors will manage to compromise what the both of them wanted. If you ever see a young child walk with them during a red carpet, please don't hesitate to point out that the little girl looks exactly like Regulus, it will absolutely make James happy.