Chapter Text
The first time Regulus met Peter was at a Death Eater meeting, of course he had seen him around at school, especially around his idiot of a brother but this, this was the first time he really met his brother’s friend. He was pissed at his brother for abandoning him, for having to be in this stupid meeting listening to this evil man rave about blood politics, but the thing that pissed the young men especially off was Peter betraying his brother. Regulus felt rage rise as he stared the rat down sitting opposite him. Seeing Peter cling to himself in clear uncomfort made the Black heir smirk while leaning back into his chair. Aware of the dark lords rambling, regulus turned his sight back to him. He kept his eyes on the Dark Lord but not without shooting glances at Peter every now and then. Voldemort was talking about killing muggles including women and children, muggle lovers and bringing back the traditional ways. The muggle lovers' part worried Regulus the most, because it meant his brother was in danger. Even though his brother betrayed him in leaving him to fend for himself, he still loved his older brother with all his hearts. He just wished his brother loved him the same. But he knew James Potter was more of a brother to Sirius, then Regulus ever was. It was quite depressing, but it was the truth. Sadly. Focusing back to the Lord’s demented yapping, Regulus knew he had to do something. He could tell his brother, but would he believe him? Probably not. So he had to make a decision, he had to bring Voldemort down and expose Peter for his traitorous ways. After the meeting he followed Peter, who made his way through the Malfoy Manor as if he was at home. As if sensing Regulus, Peter turned around facing him. They stood in the empty corridor staring each other down. Each trying to seem strong and confident. Although both knew deep down they were neither.
„Why?“ Regulus began as he stepped closer to the smaller male. He just couldn’t understand how Peter could do this. Peter always seemed so docile and shy. But he guessed he was wrong in thinking that.
„What do you mean why?“ Peter asked. He had a confused look on his face as if he truly didn’t know what the younger meant.
„You're my brother’s friend. Why would you betray him like this? Sirius trusts you.“ Regulus spoke with a clear frown on his face.
„I.., Regulus..,it’s..it’s complicated. You wouldn’t understand and even if you would. I couldn’t even tell you. I'm sorry..“ Peter mumbled while playing with the hem of his shirt.
Regulus chuckled. How ridiculous. This was ridiculous.
„You can't even look me in the eyes. You’re a pussy and a traitor.“ the black heir said before storming off.
„Regulus,“Peter whispered as he watched the slytherin leave.
He knew what he did was wrong, but he didn’t have a choice. He had to.
Or Malfoy was going to hurt him. Again.
Meanwhile back at the Black Estate, Regulus roamed around his brother’s abandoned room. Searching for something that could help him in this fucked up situation, but nada there was nothing. What was he going to do? He felt helpless and alone. As if he was the last person on an empty planet. He needed to help his brother, to warn him. But Sirius wouldn’t listen, he would probably think Regulus was just trying to ruin his friendship. Regulus had to think of something. Proof of Peter's betrayal would definitely earn Sirius trust. Regulus packed his bags for his 5th year at Hogwarts knowing tomorrow he would get to go back to school.
The next day Regulus awoke in the early morning to get ready for the train. He wore a black shirt and black ripped jeans. Regulus matched his outfit with black and white sneakers, a silver necklace and one earring. His style was inspired by his older brother, although downtoned you could still see that Regulus adored his elder brother. At the train station Regulus waited till he could see Peter in the masses of students. He had to keep Peter around to keep an eye on the gryffindor.
After twenty minutes of waiting he finally made out the face of the traitor, he wore a red oversized hoodie and blue jeans. He grabbed Peter with a firm grip and pulled him into the train and then into an empty cabin.
„What are you doing?“ Peter pleaded while looking everywhere but Regulus.
„Making sure you don’t hurt my brother. I promise you, you will regret betraying him. I’m going to follow you everywhere. You won’t have a second of privacy. I’ll watch your every move and if you mess up. I will know.“ declared Regulus with a deep hatred in his voice. He was going to make Peter’s life a living hell.
„Please, Regulus. Please don’t do this.“ Peter begged. But Regulus was not going to let this go.
„Sit down. I want to watch you.“ Regulus affirmed with a slightly more gentle tone.
The gryffindor nodded meekly as he sat down opposite Regulus.
During the trainride Regulus observed Peter, he took notice of every single detail no matter the size. The first thing he saw was the deathmark hidden by the hoodie’s sleeve, it had clear marks of self harm covering the mark. Regulus didn’t question it. Why would he care in the first place? This was a guy who betrayed his dear brother, but still he couldn’t ignore the slight sting in his chest. He focused away from the scars and instead on his green eyes, they reminded him of the promise of spring and they sparkled like emeralds when they filled with tears. Regulus was mesmerized. How could someone so traitorous look so breathtaking. A loud noise brought Regulus back to Reality. He had been staring at Peter the whole train ride and didn’t even notice they arrived. Peter, clearly uncomfortable by the staring, snatched his bags and ran out of the cabin. Regulus felt like an idiot in that moment.