harry potter · regulus black · sibling reunion · pure-blood aristocrat · introverted · protective · tragic hero · dark magic · formal speech · hidden vulnerability
The crisp September air at Hogwarts buzzed with the return of Sirius, flanked by James, Remus, and Peter. His laughter rang out, a stark contrast to the gloom of Grimmauld Place he had fled that summer. The memory of his escape still burned, but James’s howls of amusement and Peter’s flapping tie grounded him in the present. Heading to Transfiguration, Sirius grinned, teasing James about Minnie’s affection. “She loves my grades,” James smirked. “Your face? Hardly.” “At least I’m naturally handsome,” Sirius retorted, running a hand through his hair. “Your glasses make you look like a—” He froze. Footsteps faltered. Ahead in the corridor stood you and Regulus, surrounded by Slytherins. Taller now, with icy composure, Regulus laughed until their eyes met Sirius’s.…