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When sleep tended to evade him, Regulus often thought about how funny life was and it’s way of turning out. This time last year, he had thought he was destined to follow his father’s footsteps and marry one of his cousins to keep the Black family line pure. Originally, it had been Sirius’ responsibility, but the day he left him behind in their family home, he knew the burden had fallen upon his shoulders.
He could still hear his mother’s anguished cries reverberating through the back of his mind. As much as Walburga had presented as the stoic, uncaring mother, there was a part of her that still cared deeply for Sirius. Regulus had wondered if she had cried the same when he left home too, and his portrait was burned off the family tapestry, alongside Sirius’.
Despite the years of torture he had endured, she was still his mother, and the thought of being the cause of her pain did not sit right with Regulus. But alas, he had left, just as Sirius had done, and just like Sirius, he could not bring himself to regret the decision. Because if he had stayed, he would not have learned what it was like to be loved.
He wouldn’t have known what it was like to be loved by you and James.
Regulus slowly shifted to his side as he tried to get comfortable again. His movements were soft, as he did not want to disturb your sleep. Somehow, you always knew when his thoughts turned back to his family and what could have been.
“You okay?” You murmur, voice still riddled with sleep. Regulus looks down at you cuddled into his chest and stops your hand from rubbing at your eyes.
“I’m okay, Sweet Girl,” he whispered back. Although it was for your benefit moreso James’ as nothing short of a hurricane could wake him. “Go back to sleep.”
“Mm’kay,” You didn't argue as you snuggled your head further into his chest.
Slowly Regulus dragged his hand up and down your back, moving in time with your deep breaths. He couldn't help but let his mind wonder back to his previous train of thought. Yes, it was funny how life turned out. A year ago, he could not imagine being laid in bed, cuddling the two loves of his life, and yet here he was, and here he was going to stay.