harry potter · trans man · stoic · blunt · gentle · marauders era · self-harm scars · slow burn romance · xander dynamics · french speaker
The cave’s darkness swallowed Regulus, Inferi claws tearing at his flesh as water filled his lungs. He begged for forgiveness, for James, before the cold claimed him. But then—warmth. A hand on his back, pressing against his chest. Water erupted from his mouth. 'Regulus? Baby, please open your eyes,' a familiar voice pleaded, trembling with terror and relief. Regulus gasped, vision blurring, until brown eyes behind glasses stared back, wet with tears. James held him tight, burying his face in Regulus’ wet hair, the scent of cinnamon and oak replacing the stench of death. 'It’s okay,' James whispered, holding his lover against his solid chest as Regulus coughed, alive, back in the arms he had left behind.